LEARNING ABOUTT RECYCLING
HELPING HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS IN NEED
JAGUARS TO HOST JEWISH COMMUNITY TAILGATE Fun, food and football to be had on Dec. 20 before kick-off Page 13
What JFCS is doing and how you can offer support Page 14
Students at DuBow Preschool get hands on experience Page 15 A publication of the
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River Garden Gala to have Cuban flair
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Society of Healers to host guest speaker on Jewish genetics
BY KATHY OSTERER The biggest and most exciting event of 2015 is right around the corner as the River Garden Foundation is hosting its annual Gala, ‘Meet Me in Havana’, Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Marriott at Sawgrass Golf Resort & Spa. SunTrust Bank will return as the premier gala Sponsor and River Garden is proud to have the Honorable John and Gena Delaney as the evening’s honorary chairs. This unique and elegant event will open up the world of Cuba right before your very eyes, as you enter the world of vintage Havana. Those in attendance will be enthralled throughout the evening by the fabulous world-renowned Chez-zam Entertainment Group. The event begins at 7 p.m., with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and an enticing silent auction, then will continue with dinner, dancing and entertainment. More than 600 guests are expected at this fun filled event which the community looks forward to each year. For those not familiar, the gala directly benefits the residents of the River Garden Hebrew Home and helps to ensure that the frail elderly of the community are taken care of in the manner they so deserve. River Garden relies upon philanthropic support and deeply appreciates the generosity of the Jacksonville community. For more information about the event, please contact Kathy Osterer at 904-886-8430 or kosterer@rivergarden.org.
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John Entine
BY ERIN COHEN
Society of Healers Director
On Sunday, Dec. 6 at 10:30 a.m., the Federation’s Society of Healers division will host, Jon Entine, television news producer and pioneering author on the DNA of Jewish history and identity. Recent DNA research and genetic studies offer extraordinary insight into the origins of the Jewish people and its impact on all of us. His talk, ‘Abraham’s Children: The DNA of the Jewish People,’ digs into his fascinating research and will explain, among other things, how the study of Jewish genetics is making major inroads in medicine. “It’s literally saving thousands of lives around the world,” Entine said. “There are
some 40 known Jewish diseases, disorders that originated in single Jews and then spread throughout Jewish communities,” he added. “You can inherit some genetic disorders from either a mother or father— the breast cancer mutations are examples, but many diseases, such as Tay-Sachs, result from the virulent combination of mutations carried by both.” ‘Abraham’s Children’, was featured on the cover of Reform Judaism magazine and profiled on a Jewish Life Television report viewed on YouTube more than 500,000 times. “With recent advances in genetics, we now know that grouping people by race, making distinctions by such superficial characteristics as skin color, is a very simplistic and misleading way of describing human diversity,” he went onto say. “Today, geneticists use the terms ‘ancestry’ or ‘populations’ when describing how groups of people have evolved. Scientists today allow for a much more complex understanding of human differences, studying distinctive ‘populations’, which have different body types, disease proclivities, and even behaviors. Because of
See JEWISH GENETICS, p. 13
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rGEN’s Huts, Hula, and Havdalah parties long into the night
BY JEANINE HOFF rGEN Director
Palm trees, leis, and the now infamous Mitzmacher Maui Mojito were all the rage at the third annual rGEN Sukkot event, ‘Huts, Hula and Havdalah’. Hosts Jaimee and Jon Mitzmacher helped set the tone with tropical drinks and festive Hawaiian music, while
Rabbi Howard Tilman of the Jacksonville Jewish Center led a pool-side Havdalah service. The evening also helped welcome many new individuals and couples in the community, who along with the regulars all celebrated in the beautiful Mitzmacher Sukkah.
See rGEN PARTY, p. 12
Remembering former Jacksonville Jewish Center executive director Don Kriss BY RABBI JONATHAN LUBLINER Jacksonville Jewish Center
On Shabbat morning, Sept. 19th, just about the time that Don Kriss’ soul departed his body, we read the words spoken to Moses at the end of his God-given mission to shepherd the Israelites to the very threshold of the Promised Land. “This day I am 120 years old; I can no longer come and go, and the Lord has told me that I shall not cross the Jordan. Be strong and resolute, be not fearful or in dread because the Lord your God Himself will walk with you; God will neither fail nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:2, 6). Moses was granted the blessing of 120 years, which, even if not understood literally, has become the traditional way to express the thought that one has attained fullness of years. At the age of 61, Don lived but half of Moses’ lifespan; we are keenly aware that he has been taken from us far too soon. It may be said that he too, stood at the threshold of a Promised Land -- one that
beckoned with the hope of watching his grandson Finley grow up; sharing the journey to old-age with Janet, his beloved soulmate of 37 years; taking satisfaction from watching the synagogue he served continue to grow and thrive with his help until the age of retirement. It is hard, perhaps impossible, not to think about the many experiences Don might have had were it not for his untimely passing. Yet I cannot help but hear an echo of Don in the words of Moses to the Israelites: His insistence that those who would live on after him be strong and resolute; the reassurance that God will give us the strength to do what we need to. We draw on that memory for solace because Don spoke to us as a community in so many ways: with his deeds, his smile, his compassion, his uncompromising insistence on accountability; his willingness to admit when he was off-base, his expectation that others be ready to do the same when they were wrong.
See DON KRISS, p. 7
Jacksonville Jewish Center president Alyse Nathans with executive director Don Kriss
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community news
Fla Hospital Association names Richard Sisisky 2015 trustee of the year
Photo by Larry Tallis
BY BETH STAMBAUGH Baptist Health
Richard Sisisky, a trustee for Baptist Health and former Jewish Federation of Jacksonville president, was honored as a 2015 Trustee of the Year at the annual Florida Hospital Association (FHA) Celebration of Achievement in Quality and Service Awards dinner in Orlando, Oct. 8. The program recognized a total of 14 hospitals and individuals across the state who have achieved notable accomplishments and had significant impacts on their local communities. Sisisky was recognized as a passionate leader who is focused on the delivery of better healthcare in north Florida. Through his work, Sisisky helped define the recently announced affiliation between Baptist Health, Flagler Hospital and Southeast Georgia Health System, a highly integrated network of locally governed, not-for-profit hospitals serving contiguous markets called Coastal Community Health. “I am truly honored to be selected as a Trustee of the Year by
the FHA,” Sisisky said. “Knowing that I am playing a role in helping Baptist Health improve the health of the greater Jacksonville community is extremely rewarding.” Additonally, he was recognized for his role in creating the Baptist-JCA Wellness Connexion, which offers members of the Jewish Community Alliance and patients of Baptist Primary Care free health coaching and wellness services. He also was honored for his generosity in creating the Sisisky-Kleppinger Lecture Series to raise community awareness of the unique health care issues facing women. Sisisky has been a highly involved member of governance at Baptist Health since 2002. “Richard is an extraordinarily engaged and visionary leader who is involved in every aspect of governance at Baptist Health,” said Baptist Health President and CEO Hugh Greene. “In addition to his many board leadership roles, Richard is chairing our health system’s comprehensive campaign with a focus on securing our future for generations to come.”
JCF unveils brand new logo and brand identity
New primary insignia
New logo accompanied by organizational wordmark
BY KEVIN ROGERS
Jewish Community Foundation
The Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, Inc. is proud to release its new Logo design to the public. The new logo is part of a broader rebranding campaign taking place at the JCF. “During the past twelve months, the JCF has hired Jeff Klein as its new Executive Director, Kevin Rogers as the new Project Coordinator, selected SEI as the new investment management firm and created a new strategic plan,” said JCF President, Dr. Sue Nussbaum. “We felt that one way to communicate our excitement
about these changes was through a new logo.” In the coming months, a new website will be launched along with new informational and educational pieces that help explain and clarify the JCF’s role in creating and managing financial resources that will sustain our community for many years to come. “We had two goals in creating a new logo, the first was to make sure the design was modern and clean,” Nussbaum added. The second was that it needed to reflect a strong Jewish identity and we are thrilled that the new design achieves both of these goals.”
Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
community news JJN Ad Directory - Nov. 2015 At the Jacksonville Jewish News, our advertisers are precious to us. It is with their support that the Jacksonville Jewish community has a newspaper. Advertising revenue also offsets the cost of production, so Federation dollars can be dedicated to helping Jews locally and overseas. Please continue to live generously and support our advertisers: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
B&C Financial (p. 26) Beachview Rentals (p. 7) Beirut Restaurant (p. 10) Bob Ham Eyewear (p. 4) The Bolles School (p. 17) Borland Groover (p. 26) Brandon Pest Cntrol (p. 9) Dottie Shafer Wilson Realty (p. 5) Etz Chaim Gala (p. 17) Erica Jolles Realty (p. 24) Florida Hadassah (p. 28) Impressions (p. 23) Innovative Financial Solutions (p. 16) Jacksonville Children’s Choir (p. 26) Jax Hadassah (p. 18) Jacksonville Jaguars (p. 13) Jacksonville Jewish News (p. 25) Jewish Federation of Jacksonville (p. 12) Jewish Museum Fla (p. 11) JJC Sisterhood (p. 3)
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Jerry Seebol (p. 23) Judi Garwood Axa Advisors (P. 7) Larry Tallis Photo (p. 25) Margo’s Catering (p. 6) Nancy Rubenstein Realty (p. 23) NE Fla Conservatory (p. 8) Paige Wajsman Realty (p. 8) The Palazzo (p. 27) Pediatric Dentistry (p. 23) River Garden (p. 15) Shalom Jacksonville (p. 25) Spivak’s Institute (p. 9) Stein Mart (p. 6) Terk Oncology (p. 2) TRC Solutions (P. 16) The Tax Man (p. 23) Tumbling Kids ( p. 24) Vandroff Insurance (p. 10) Villages of San Jose (p. 14) Winn Dixie (p. 27) The Women’s Board (p. 3)
JCA Baptist Wellness Connexion offers a trio of programs for month of November By Jewish Community Alliance
The JCA Baptist Wellness Connexion offers ongoing wellness programs at the JCA as part of a commitment to improving the well-being of the entire community. For the month of November, the JCA Baptist Wellness Connexion has programs led by JCA Baptist Wellness Coaches and other wellness educators covering a wide range of wellness topics. Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m., the Wellness Connexion’s Women’s Wellness Circle will address sleep hygiene with wellness coach Amaris Chrispell, RN, and certified personal trainer Karen
Appelbaum. In this program, participants will get a better understanding of the role sleep plays in overall heath and learn strategies, as well as techniques for getting the rest your body deserves but most of all needs. Monday, Nov. 9, from 9-10:30 a.m., diabetes clinical educator Janice Apter will offer guidance and education about the disease.
Apter, who is a certified instructor and Baptist Health nurse will teach more about the prevention and management of this chronic disease. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 6:30 p.m., join ‘Don’t Worry’ with holistic medicine and cardiology board certified doctor Mona Shah, to discuss how stress directly affects your health. This program will teach participants techniques to promote natural healing through increased relaxation. All of these programs are free and open to the community, however advance registration is required by contacting the JCA registrar at 904-730-2100, ext. 228.
Douglas Anderson School of the Arts names theater in Laurie DuBow’s honor
For your advertising needs, please contact advertising sales representative Barbara Nykerk at 904-733-4179 or Eta Perras at 904-629-0466.
what's inside Business Directory.......... p. 23 Community News..................... .....................p. 3-4, 6-8, 25-26 Education ........p. 9-11, 15-18 Federation News ........p. 12-14 Foundation ..................... p. 21
JCA ................................. p. 19 JCFS ................................ p. 20 Lifecycles ......................... p. 23 Opinion & Cartoons ........... P. 5 River Garden ................... p. 22 Synagogue News .......... 11, 24
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Jax Jewish Singles to sample Greek cuisine BY FRANCINE SMITH Jax Jewish Singles
Join the Jax Jewish Singles as we return to one of our favorite locations for Greek and European cuisine, Athens Cafe. Please call 904-221-8061 for the exact date and time or email francine. smith@comcast.net. Opa!
Laurie DuBow (right) and family members watch as his granddaughter Shira removes the drape and reveals the newly named theatre in his honor at the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville
BY SUSAN EDELMAN
had introduced opera to about
On Saturday, October 3, Laurie DuBow was joined by his family, friends and a host of well-wishers as the Lawrence J. DuBow Theatre at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts was named in his honor. The event marked a yearlong journey that was sparked by his innate curiosity and his desire to provide new opportunities for children. It evolved into a collaboration which will benefit Northeast Florida students for many years to come, and culminated in a breathtaking, high-definition live broadcast of Verdi’s Il Trovatore from New York City’s Metropolitan Opera in the newlynamed, state-of-the-art Lawrence J. DuBow theater. This all began because DuBow loves opera and while attending a ‘Live from the Met’ broadcast at a local movie theatre, he met Jillian Leigh, the executive director of Opera Jacksonville who was there with some of her students. Her small, volunteer-run organization
year since 2008, using broadcasts of The Met: HD Live and having teachers trained to use The Metropolitan Opera curriculum to promote learning and understanding of arts education for students. DuBow wanted many more students to have the opportunity to experience the magic of The Metropolitan Opera broadcasts, but he soon learned the program was limited because of the expense and logistics of viewing the broadcasts at a local movie theater. So a wonderful collaboration was formed between himself, Opera Jacksonville, Duval County Public Schools, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, the Metropolitan Opera and The Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. The end result was Duval County becoming only the third school system in the nation where ‘The Met: HD Live in Schools’ could actually be beamed into a local school. Douglas Anderson’s performance theatre was selected to receive the necessary technical upgrades, and
Community Foundation for NE Florida 300 Duval County students each
its transformation was funded by the DuBow Family Foundation. It was an exceptional gift from a quiet philanthropist who has shared so much with the Jewish community and so many others, because as he is so fond of saying, ‘It’s all about the children.’ “What a magnificent opportunity to be able to open the eyes and ears of so many students to the incomparable world of the New York Metropolitan Opera,” DuBow said. “Our children deserve a world class experience, and the ability to increase that exposure by tenfold with this program was the inspiration for my family and for The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.” The generosity of Laurie and the DuBow family, along with the Baker Family Advised Fund, the Jay and Deanie Stein Unrestricted Fund and others who have supported this effort, will allow Opera Jacksonville to expose more than 3,000 children each year to high definition broadcasts of the New York Metropolitan Opera.
Jacksonville Hadassah plans a pair of events for month of November BY HELEN HILL Jacksonville Hadassah
Godparent Luncheon Hadassah’s annual Godparent Luncheon will be held Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 12 p.m. at the St. John’s Town Center’s Maggiano’s Restaurant. The guest speaker will be Debbie Regent, major gifts officer from the national office in New York. For additional information, contact Tricia Bettman at 904-737-3764 or triciabettman@gmail.com.
Panel Discussion for Parents Join us for an interactive program on the special challenges and opportunities of raising Jewish children when one parent is not Jewish. This talk is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 19th at 7 p.m. There is no charge to attend and refreshments will be served. RSVP to Liat at 904-372-7996, walkers. beach@gmail.com or see the event’s official ad on page no. 24 in this month’s issue of the Jacksonville Jewish News.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
opinion
JJN’s Rabbinically Speaking: The Deafening Silence BY RABBI MATT COHEN Congregation Ahavath Chesed
As I write this column, Jews all over the world are reading parshat Noah, from the book of Genesis. Most of us know the story of Noah: the one with the ark and animals, a flood, a dove and a rainbow. There is a problem well before we delve into the story - a problem that many sages and commentators have struggled with throughout the centuries. The parsha opens, “Noah was a righteous man; in his generation, he was above reproach; Noah walked with God” (Genesis 6:9). Our sages question the meaning of this text and furthermore, question the extent of Noah’s righteousness. Our tradition attempts to answer this uncertainty by comparing Noah to our biblical forefather, Abraham. When God informed Noah about the impending destruction of all living flesh from the Earth, Noah did not intercede, he was silent. When Abraham was told about the imminent fate of Sodom and Gomorrah, he argued with God and interceded on behalf of the righteous people living in the city. As loud as Abraham’s voice was, Noah’s silence was deafening.
Silence is prevalent in Jewish history, especially now, as much of the world, once again, sits silently watching the terror in Israel. Once again, Israel is left in the wilderness alone. In the deafening silence, our Israeli brothers and sisters are being attacked, but there are no warning sirens. People are at risk while living their everyday lives - walking in the street, waiting at a bus stop, riding a bicycle, praying in synagogues, and yet, silence surrounds Israel. Social media and news headlines are filled with words of condemnation and blame against Israel for doing all she can do to ensure safety and peace for her citizens. There is nothing that reflects Israel’s attempts to make peace with her neighbors. Now, more than ever, we must break the silence. Now more than ever, we must put our political and religious differences aside and stand together as one people. Now more than ever we must make our voices heard by those who lead our country. Now more than ever, we must stand up against the baseless hatred and ignorance that runs rampant on social media feeds and news headlines. Now, more than ever, we must reach out to those beyond our Jewish com-
RABBINICALLY SPEAKING munity and teach people that we are a faith that values all life. Our Jewish faith teaches us to pursue peace and freedom for all humanity. We may not be able to change the situation in the Middle East from Jacksonville, but we can certainly ensure a promising and peaceful future for us here in our own city. It will happen when we seize opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue with those who judge us and Israel based on what they see in the news, not based on personal encounters with members of our Jewish community. Only then, will people be able to look beyond the headlines
and see the reality of the situation. Only then will people see us and value us for who we truly are. I hope and pray that by the time this reaches your eyes, our Israeli brothers and sisters will once again be able to carry on with their everyday lives with joy. I hope and pray that God will spread a shelter of peace over Jerusalem, Israel and all the world. I pray that God will bring healing to the broken hearts and wounded people, strength to those in mourning, courage to those who live in fear, and fortitude and wisdom to those who lead. May God’s light shine down upon us all, so that, Bayom Hahu, On that day, God’s name will be one and we will be one. With God’s help and our hard work, may that day come soon. Rabbi Matt Cohen, is the associate rabbi at Congregation Ahavath Chesed. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He was ordained a Rabbi from The Hebrew Union College, in Cincinnati, Ohio in 2012. During his rabbinic studies, Rabbi Cohen served as rabbinic intern at Temple Adath Israel in Lexington, Ky., and as student rabbi for congregations in Texarkana, Texas, Terre Haute, Ind. Prior to his rabbinic studies, he began his
congregational career as membership coordinator for Fairmount Temple in Beachwood, Ohio, where he also created and coordinated a group for young adults in their 20s and 30s and directed the synagogue religious school music program. At the Temple, Rabbi Cohen oversees the B’nei Mitzvah Program and the Temple Youth Programming, teaches the 11th and 12th grade Mechina class, and assists Rabbi Lief with all rabbinic duties. As an accomplished musician, Rabbi Cohen often leads congregational worship services with music, heading the teen-band known as ‘The Jew Crew’, in addition to the synagogue’s newly formed adult band, called ‘The Friday Night Live Band’. Rabbinically speaking is a monthly column written by clergy members in the Jacksonville Jewish community. If you are a Rabbi, chazzan or religious leader in the Northeast Florida region and would like to contribute your inspirational thoughts for a monthly column, please e-mail jjn@jewishjacksonville.org with your name, organization, congregation and which month you are interested in writing for and what topic, specifically you would like to write about.
acksonville
JEWISH NEWS Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 Editor & Communications Director Matt Franzblau • mattf@jewishjacksonville.org Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock Federation President Sandy Zimmerman Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies 8505 San Jose Blvd. • Jacksonville, FL 32217 The Jacksonville Jewish News is published monthly. All submitted content becomes the property of the Jacksonville Jewish News. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of the Jacksonville Jewish News or its publisher, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Jewish News is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product advertised. Copy deadlines: All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 6th of each month, and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. Ad deadlines: All ads must be received by the 15th of each month and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org in .pdf format.
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community news Sherry Chait is quick to meet any cause, person in need or opportunity to give back with an enthusiastic can do attitude and an open heart. Whether it has to do with supporting Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue, Hadassah, a Kenyan orphanage or a newly arrived Congolese family, even a newly forming family adopting foster children right here in Jacksonville, Sherry has an energized action plan to make sure they have what they need to feel safe, secure and cared for. Her philosophy is that no deed is too small to have a positive impact in someone’s life and that she has a responsibility and legitimate desire to be someone who reaches out to make that difference. If you have someone in mind you would like to nominate for Mensch of the Month, who volunteers both their time and efforts to the Jacksonville Jewish community, simply submit their name, photo and a short write up about them to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org
Sherry Chait Dedicated community volunteer
BY RHODA GOLDSTEIN
Jewish Community Mitzvah Project
Motm
November N b ~ 2015
River Garden Auxiliary in need of items and volunteers for upcoming garage sale BY EVELYN PECK River Garden Auxiliary
River Garden Auxiliary is having a garage sale, Sunday, Nov. 8th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 4578 San Jose Blvd. Lots of items are needed but please note we will not be taking adult clothes and books. All accessories that are in good condition will be welcomed, including men’s and women’s shoes, hats, jewelry and scarves. Baby’s and children’s shoes and clothes are also needed, as are all kinds of household items such
as small appliances, florist vases and flowerpots. The garage sale will be easy to find as there is a dry cleaners near the intersection where San Jose Blvd. turns left at Hendricks Ave. Items will be accepted from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. starting Monday, Nov. 2 and lasting through Friday, Nov. 6 at the above location. For more information or to volunteer, please call River Garden Auxiliary will be Evelyn Peck at 904-268-0597 or having a garage sale Sunday, Nov. Mimi Kaufman at 904-626-2472. 8th at 4578 San Jose Blvd., from Volunteers are desperately needed 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. to work in shifts, so call today.
acksonville
JEWISH NEWS JaxJewish
Synagogues team up for fourth annual Jewish community mitzvah project
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Congregation Ahavath Chesed and The Jacksonville Jewish Center, are for the fourth time, teaming up for the Jewish Community Christmas Day Mitzvah Project, so that members of the Jewish community, can perform mitzvot. This year there will be more opportunities for volunteers to be a part of the giving as we will be providing Meal on Wheels for approximately 500 people through the Aging True program. Donations of cookies are also needed as they will be packaged and delivered to First Responders in the Jacksonville area. Last year there were more than 4,000 cookies that were donated but your support will be needed again either buy baking or buying this time around. Dinner will again be cooked for the Ronald McDonald House on Christmas Day and in addition, this year we will also provide a meal for those who will be at the Gabriel House of Care on the campus of Mayo Clinic. Volunteers will also get the chance to help out with an art project on a visit to River Garden. Plenty of people will be needed for Mitzvah Day, including those who can fill the role of cooks, packagers, drivers, bakers and runners. Cooking and packaging for the Meals on Wheels and cookies will be done Thursday, Dec. 24, at the Temple and the delivery of both the dinners and the cookies will be done Friday, Dec. The meals at both Ronald McDonald House and at Gabriel House will be taken care of at each location on Christmas day. The delivery of both meals and cookies are a perfect time for families to do mitzvot together but the meal preparation at
Ronald McDonald House is for older teens and adults only. Gabriel House will allow children to be involved in helping with the preparation of their Christmas dinner with adult supervision. For more information or to put your name on the list to help, please contact Wiatt Bowers at Wiatt.bowers@atkinsglobal.com for the delivery of meals or cookies, Mike Elkin at mike9384@ aol.com, for packaging of meals and being a runner on delivery day or Rhoda London at rholon@ aol.com for baking and packaging of the cookies. For cooking for Meals on Wheels, cooking for Ronald McDonald House or Gabriel House and visiting River Garden, contact Rhoda Goldstein at rhodagoldstein@hotmail.com. Approximately 20 volunteers will be needed to cook in the Temple kitchen, 30 to package meals, another 30 to package cookies and 10 apiece to cook and serve at Ronald McDonald House as well as to do the same at the Gabriel House. There will be about 60 routes for delivering Meals on Wheels and to deliver cookies. River Garden will welcome seven to 10 families from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Friday the 25th to help residents and to visit with them. Volunteers will be placed in a position of their choosing as it is first come first served.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
community news Don Kriss Continued from p. 1 Don Kriss was a great poker player, though I never saw him with a deck of cards. He could cultivate an incredible poker face so that you weren’t quite sure what he was thinking or if his words were serious or not. This gift could make adults uneasy at times, but it was downright unnerving to kids -- especially those talented at mischief making around the building, and who believed that Don was prepared to personally escort them to a SibeKriss was the Center’s executive director for four and a half years rian gulag. But beyond the frown was the broad smile of a man who so. Don was an impartial listener taught and exemplified.” Others had grown up as, to use his term, who worked hard to make each who have shared their sadness ‘a shul brat,’ or a kid who spent a person feel that he was heard. at Don’s passing include several lot of time with his grandfather at If ever an individual left Don’s rabbis from the St. Louis Jewthe Hebrew Educational Alliance, office without feeling he or she ish community, including Jeffrey the synagogue in Denver that had been taken seriously, I am not Stiffman, the Rabbi Emeritus was part and parcel of his earliest aware of it. That isn’t to say he of Congregation Shaare Emeth, years. He could tell you about was always able to give people which Don served before comclimbing up to the catwalks and whatever they desired; but he ing to Jacksonville. As Rabbi dropping bits of ceiling plaster on certainly made them feel like they Stiffman wrote me, “He was the to the rabbi’s head during sermattered, which was a core belief best administrator with whom vices. While as the synagogue’s for him. I had worked in my over forty Executive Director he had to It should surprise no one that years with our congregation. His protect the building from youthful Don Kriss was recognized and warmth, smile and joy of being mischief makers, secretly he had respected among his professional Jewish made him beloved by so a soft spot in his heart for them, peers. Because he was not one to many. Our almost 2,000-family because their hutzpah reminded toot his own horn, many might not congregation was so enriched by him fondly of his own childhood. realize he served on the Board of his dedication and creativity.” Being the Executive Director Governors of the North American It is hard to believe that Don of a synagogue is an incredibly Association of Synagogue Execu- Kriss’ tenure at the Jacksonville challenging job. Imagine complet- tives (NAASE). In recent years he Jewish Center was only four and ing a jigsaw puzzle in multiple completed an additional level of a half years. Indeed, I thought I dimensions simultaneously, inprofessional certification as a Fel- was mistaken; it seemed that he teracting with staff, members, lay low in Synagogue Administration, had been here much longer, and I leaders and community leaders all and lovingly recreated NAASE’s had to double-check this to make at the same time. On the best of Administrative Resource Center sure I was correct. This is surely a days when there are no surprises as a gift to the Executive Directestament to the indelible mark he it can be daunting. Of course, the tors of congregations within the has made on all of us. We wonder days when there are no surprises Conservative movement. In a how in the world we will manage are few and far between; you can beautiful tribute to him, Harry without him but we will go on almost anticipate that the unanHauser, the Executive Director of because Don has left us a better ticipated will happen on any given NAASE, expressed appreciation and stronger institution capable day. Yet Don went to work on for, “His mentoring and counselof dealing with these challenges; the knots of synagogue life with ing of colleagues over the last we will go on because Don would dedication, skill and patience. He two decades, which will most have wanted that. We will go on also had an incredible talent of certainly pay dividends in the because the values that animated transforming confrontations into years ahead, to our profession and the depth of his character and conversations, and conversations the communities we all serve, as life suffuse this synagogue, and into new understandings. Executhose students-turned-teachers in they are eternal and imperishable. tive Directors deal at times with succession assert influence and Today we are sadder, but better angry individuals -- some with impact in their own right, guided off because Don Kriss lived and justifiable complaints, others less by the principles and values he worked among us.
JCA Mini Cultural Arts Fest continues with film, books, music and more By Jewish Community Alliance
The JCA Mini Cultural Arts Festival opened on Oct. 29, with a wonderful event featuring U.S. Ambassador Dennis Ross, who discussed his book, ‘Doomed to Succeed’. The arts fest, which includes the 19th Annual Jewish Book Festival, continues with more literary, music and performance events for the entire community. On Sunday, Nov. 1, the festival will feature a musical performance by violinist Sergiu Schwartz and pianist Tao Lin at 3 p.m. This concert will take place at the JCA and is free to the entire community, thanks to the generosity of Henson Markham. The festival continues with several literary presentations by acclaimed authors Dan Ephron (Killing a King, Nov. 2), and Steve Katz (Blood, Sweat, and My Rock and Roll Years, Nov. 4), as well as a theatrical performance, on Nov. 8 by the JCA Theatre Department of the children’s book, Picked on Poindexter, written by local authors Denise Trager and Mary Ellen Panaccione. More literary presentations include authors B.A. Shapiro (The Muralist, Nov. 10);
Lee Mandel (Unlikely Warrior, Nov. 11) and David Bernstein (I’ve Got Some Good News and Some Bad News: You’re Old, Nov. 12). These writers will present selections from their work and participate in audience discussion. Books will also be available for signing and sale at these events which all start at 7 p.m. On Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m., the festival will feature a showing of the film The Green Prince, followed by a discussion lead by a local psychologist. These events are free and open to the entire community, so for more information, contact Thelma Nied at 904-730-2100, ext. 227 or thelma. nied@jcajax.org.
Beth El - The Beaches Sisterhood to hold wine tasting event, Nov. 12th By Beth El - The Beaches Sisterhood
There will be plenty of fine wine for folks to taste, Thursday, Nov. 12 as Beth El – The Beaches’ Sisterhood will host a special wine tasting event. The tasting will take place at the synagogue (288 N, Roscoe Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach) and will begin at 6:30 p.m. The cost is just $10 and dessert and coffee will be provided. Spouses and significant others are welcome, so please send RSVP’s to Bobby Adler at b.adler4315@ gmail.com.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
Community news J Institute offers athletic, innovative, St. Augustine Jewish and exploratory programming for Nov. Historical Society to host talk on Jesuit documents
By Jewish Community Alliance
This month’s programming at the JCA’s J Institute is sure to have something for everyone. Get fit, get cultured and participate in the following informative and engaging programs. For a fun take on yoga, try ‘Acro Yoga’, Wednesdays, Nov. 4th , 11th and 18th from 7–8:30p.m. This exciting new class combines the breath work and flexibility of yoga with the strength and balance of acrobatics. If you have been sidelined by an injury, and want to continue building strength and flexibility after physical therapy, or simply just want to get back into the swing of exercise, ‘Back on Track’ with personal trainer Patrice Dickman will get you on the road to full functionality and well
BY MERRILL SHAPIRO St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society
being. Those interested are also encouraged to join holistic health provider, Dr. Jon Repole for ‘Breaking the Sugar Addiction’ and learn how to manage sugar intake, feel healthier and have more energy throughout the day. Exercise your creative side with two introductory writing workshops, ‘Intro to Fiction Writing’ with journalist and author Ron Whittington on Nov. 3 and ‘Creative Writing Basics’ with freelance writer and short story author Stephanie Natale Frus, scheduled for Nov. 9. Another exciting and inspirational J Institute
offering is LEAN IN 2.0, the next generation of women’s programming. In a lecturing session scheduled for Monday, Nov. 16, from 7 – 8:30 p.m., participants will learn how to ‘How to Multiply Your Time’, by discovering truly effective means of juggling daily tasks and responsibilities with author Rory Vaden. Registration on all these programs is available online at jcajax.org/ji or for more information, call the JCA registrar at 904-730-2100, ext. 228.
Cornerstone of old Jacksonville Jewish Center building to be placed in park By Springfield Improvement Assoc.
The Springfield Improvement Association and Archives is proud and pleased to announce that it has arranged for the cornerstone from the burned Jacksonville Jewish Center to be placed in Klutho Park. The stone represents a very important period in Springfield history as well as an incredible contribution made by the Jewish Congregation, which dominated the Southwest quadrant for almost 50 years, which is why it was such a terrible tragedy when the building was lost.
The cornerstone of the old Jacksonville Jewish Center building was preserved, despite a fire which ruined the majority of it.
The official dedication of the cornerstone took place Sunday, Oct. 11, as Center Rabbi, Jonathan Lubliner was on hand as were quite of few of those who went to Hebrew School, attended services, and were married there. It was a special journey for this group in order to get permission to place the stone in the park. SIAA sees this project as a chance to give back to the community all while enhancing the parks, which has been the aim of the organization since its founding in 1904.
Beth El - The Beaches to show movie about Jewish comedic humor, Nov. 15 BY GAIL GREENFIELD
Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue
Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue will show the documentary, ‘When Jews Were Funny’ at its next member and guest mixer scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. This insightful and often hilarious film surveys the history of Jewish comedy from the early days of Borsht belt to the present. It ultimately explores not just ethnicity in the entertainment industry, but also the
question of what it means to be Jewish. Popular comedians from the past and present provide an abundance of surprising opinions and witty humor as they explore areas that influenced their humor; some denying that their comedy reflected anything of Jewish culture. A wine and cheese social will be held prior to the viewing. For more information, contact Gail Greenfield at gailsgreenfield@hotmail.com or call her at 904-534-7381.
Most of what is known about colonial St. Augustine comes to us through the Archives General of the Indies in Seville, Spain where very rare Jesuit documents relating to the founding of the nation’s oldest European City became available from the Vatican Archives, Seminole State College Professor Diana Reigelsperger Ph.D., jumped at the opportunity to read, study and translate some very revealing records. Reigelsperger, a specialist in the study of interethnic relations and settlement on the Spanish Florida frontier, will report her findings at the Monday, Nov. 16 meeting of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society, to be held in the Flagler Room of the old Ponce de Leon Hotel, 74 King Street, St. Augustine, on the Flagler College Campus. The researchers of the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society are eager to learn if the documents shed light on the Limpieza de Sangre laws that forbid anyone with Jewish blood from travel to the New World. Society members also are looking for clues that the early settlers of our region saw the natives they found as the so-called Ten Lost Tribes of Israel. Limpieza de Sangre laws were common in Spain in the 16th
Diana Reigelsperger century and important to such Catholic orders as the Franciscans. However, the founder of the Jesuits, Ignacious of Loyola shunned the rules, saying “Jesus himself would have thus been forbidden to travel to the New World!” If the early Jesuits saw the natives as the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel, then their efforts to convert them were clearly part of an effort to hasten the return of Jesus, who would return when the Jews accepted him as divine. If the Jesuits saw the natives as the Ten Lost Tribes, this would also explain some of the colonial burial practices of natives, uncovered during archaeological excavations at Mission Nombre de Dios in St. Augustine. This captivating talk is free and open to the public and no advance reservations are necessary. Call 804-914-4460 with questions or for more information.
Have some news that you want to share with the JJN? Whether it’s a milestone achievment accomplished by a friend or family member associated with the Jacksonville Jewish community or simply a story, event or announcement to be shared, drop us a line at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. You can also contact newspaper editor Matt Franzblau at mattf@ jewishjacksonville.org or 904448-5000, extension 212.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
education
Reading brings one kindergarten mom back to the future from 1985 to 2015 BY EMILY CARPENTER
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School parent
This year my daughter started Kindergarten at Martin J Gottlieb Day School. Starting Kindergarten is one of those milestones that feels big, because somehow, the first day of Kindergarten seems to mark a leap ahead in the growing up process. I can even remember going off to Kindergarten at Cohen Hillel Academy in Massachusetts in 1985... I wore mismatched socks to be like Punky Brewster and one of those Carpenter’s daughter Carpenter plastic charm necklaces where (2015) (1985) the charms clipped on and off and you could trade with friends. this year. Ms. Lewis has tons And jelly shoes... Of course jelly of energy and is getting them shoes. My teacher was Mrs. passionate about reading. A few Reiss Baker and I remember she weeks into the year, our monthly talked to us with a very kind PJ Library book arrived. My voice and I loved listening to her kindergartener opened it, looked read us stories. at the pictures and handed it to My daughter loves her teacher me, “Read it, mommy!”
I opened my mouth to read the title, and staring back at me, right there on the cover... “by Sharon Reiss Baker”. What?! I did what anyone would do in 2015... I Googled her! Yep, she wrote it! I read the book to my daughter and got a little teary-eyed. I explained to her, “Do you know who wrote this book? My kindergarten teacher! And here you are, my little kindergartener, reading a book written by your mommy’s kindergarten teacher!” That night, I used the email Google found on her writer’s website and wrote to Mrs. Reiss Baker. She replied the very next day and within her lovely letter said, “I loved seeing the picture of your daughter. You do know that she looks incredibly like you as a kindergartener, right? In other words, adorable.” Oh, also? She told me I could call her “Sharon” now. I guess I’m all grown up.
Torah Academy of Jacksonville obtains federal grant for its staff to receive professional development By Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Torah Academy of Jacksonville is the proud recipient of Title II Federal Grant monies. Title II funds are used to provide highquality professional development for teachers in core subject areas. Core academic subjects include English, reading or language arts, math, science, foreign languages, civics and government, economics, arts, history, and geography. Title II funds may also be used to improve the knowledge and skills of teachers and principals concerning effective instructional practices. These can be used to provide training in how to teach and address needs of students with different learning styles as well as methods of improving student behavior in the classroom and identifying early and ap-
propriate interventions to help students that have different learning styles. Training is also available for teachers and principals to better involve parents in their child’s education, in addition to better understanding and use of data and assessments to improve classroom practice and student learning. After conducting an initial needs assessment, based on
No dull moments at DuBow Preschool in the afternoon BY SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
Every afternoon, learning and fun continue at the DuBow Preschool. One of the fabulous advantages of being part of the Galinsky Academy and the Jacksonville Jewish Center is that the children and faculty benefit from fantastic specialty teachers, clergy, and amazing facilities. After lunch, older preschoolers enjoy a daily class at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, where the children explore a variety of medium in Mrs. Gutterman’s art studio, try out instruments, in addition to dancing and singing in Mr. Bavington’s music class, as well as enjoying story and puppet time with Mrs. Hallett in the library. They also play ball games in the big gym with Mr. Tolisano, and last but not least, Fridays end with Judaic Adventures with Rabbi Lubliner, Rabbi Tilman, and movin’ and groovin’ with Hazzan Holzer. A fine array of specialty
classes are also offered each week, including Sports Fun with Coach Marla twice a week, Fairy Tales In Motion and Tumbling, Gymnastics & Games by Mark Spivak’s Dance Studio as well as Color Splash with Natalie Dayan. As one can see, there is never a dull moment in the afternoons at the DuBow Preschool, so stay tuned to learn more about what those who stay for Kids Club end up taking part in. This year’s Kids Club theme is favorite children’s authors, including Eric Carle, Dr. Seuss, and many more.
student data as well as a teacher survey, Torah Academy of Jacksonville will be spending the majority of the monies allocated toward general studies teachers participating in online professional learning classes provided through the ASCD (Association and Supervision of Curriculum). The school will also be creating Professional Learning Communities or PLC’s within the Academy, fostering collaborative learning during its planning workdays.
Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s bountiful basket bidding opens BY MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
The JCA is looking quite cheerful lately as the shine of cellophane glimmers from the enormous, gift-laded baskets on display in the lobby. These lavish baskets are part of the annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Bountiful Basket silent auction taking place from Nov. 2-18 to benefit school-wide gardening, composting and recycling curriculum and related activities. This fundraiser is unique in that all school families and local business may participate at the level of their comfort. All items in the bountiful baskets are donated and parent volunteers assemble the items into beautiful themed baskets which appeal to people of all ages. “There really is something for everyone as we analyze results from previous years and plan with volunteers for what makes the most sense,” said basket committee chair person Shoshana Woessner. “We always have a Shabbat or a Jewish holiday offering, and new this year we have added something called ‘Brain Games’ because our parents are interested in providing play opportunities
The annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim bountiful basket silent auction will take place Nov. 2-18 with an educational intention.” Volunteers worked tirelessly to create the clever, fun and luxuriously themed baskets, so stop by and make a bid. Proceeds reinforce the concept of tikkun olam and support children learning about repairing the world through gardening and recycling.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
EDUCATION
DuBow Preschool offers fall Block Gan educators take part in classes of fun for everyone Sheva learning communities
BY SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
Stroller Workout - Enjoying fall weather with specialty classes Cooler weather means more motivation to exercise outside. Did you know taking your workout outdoors has shown many bonuses as opposed to exercising inside? A recent New York Times article reported on studies done comparing outside activity to inside. “In virtually all of the studies, the volunteers reported enjoying the outside activity more and on subsequent psychological tests, scored significantly higher on measures of vitality, enthusiasm, pleasure and self-esteem and lower on tension, depression and fatigue after they walked outside,” the article was quoted as saying. In October, new specialty classes began, including a ‘Fun & Games’, which was 100-percent old school outdoor games. For November and December specialty classes include Partner Class, Bust Your Turkey Gut, Holiday Boot Camp, Circuits of Mommyhood and more. Stroller Workout offers a five class pass (good for 3 months) for just $20, or pay a la carte at $5 per class, so be sure to join us before it’s Latke Season! Classes are held outside the DuBow Preschool at The Jacksonville Jewish Center on Mondays at 9 a.m. More information and pictures are available at facebook.com/strollerworkout Music – A baby’s First Language Did you know that babies can remember melodies as early as two months old? That’s why music is a wonderful way for a
parent and their baby to bond. Family Music & Movement has been offering classes since 2013 and is a wonderful first class for a little one. “My 16-month-old got the hang of the schedule and songs after the first class and has been participating more and more each time we attend,” one mom said of the benefits of the class. “He loves listening to the songs in the car, especially right before class,” she added. Sessions are all four weeks long and cost $38 and every family will receive a class CD to take home. Find out more at facebook.com/familymusicandmovement. Shalom Baby - Your child’s first playgroup If you’re new to the area, or to parenthood, Shalom Baby is for you. Open to the entire Jewish community (affiliated or not), Shalom Baby is a relaxed playgroup which meets at the DuBow Preschool twice a month on Fridays at 11 a.m., and is geared for parents with babies and toddlers. Some of the upcoming dates and activities are: Nov. 6 - Family Music and Movement: Jewish Edition Nov. 20 - Thanksgiving Craft Dec. 4 - Chanukah Fun at the Bartram Trail library in Julington Creek (special location) Dec. 18 - Toy and Clothes Swap (bring gently used clothes and toys to swap or donate) Shalom Baby is always free, and is a great place to meet old and new friends as we end each playgroup with Shabbat songs, challah and juice. For more information, call 904-268-4200, ext. 143 or email jewishmothers@ groups.facebook.com.
The seventh annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten Early Childhood Symposium, entitled ‘Creating Wonder’, brought together many from Northeast Florida’s teaching community
BY MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim
Last month, the seventh annual Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten Early Childhood Symposium, Creating Wonder, brought together Northeast Florida’s teaching community for a stimulating evening to celebrate early childhood education. Now, faculty members are creating their own wonder in a newly adopted JCC initiative aimed at developing peer groups called Sheva Learning Communities. In Sheva Learning Communities, teachers have the opportunity to support each other through peer mentoring, teaching observation and group study sessions as well as discussions about the everyday challenges they confront in their classrooms. In the Sheva learning framework, there
are seven core values which help guide educators in their studies and give roles to all aspects of the educational narrative. Children are constructivist learners, directors are visionaries, educators are professionals and families are engaged partners. Environments are inspiration for inquiry, while physical education represents Sh’mirat HaGuf, the act of taking care of our bodies, and the study of Israel tells the story of Jewish people. These values are fodder for readings and group discussions both large and small. “We meet to study articles and research books and presentations together, while visiting each other’s classrooms and providing feedback to each other about our observations,” said Rachael Ledesma, lead teacher of fouryear-olds for over a decade at the JCA. “It’s so valuable to have guidance and reflection from col-
leagues,” she added. In addition to the smaller Sheva peer groups, Block Gan teachers also meet in larger formats to participate in discussions with expert consultants. In September, JCC Vice-President of Early Childhood Education and Family Engagement, Mark Horowitz visited the school during its monthly faculty meeting. Horowitz shared his valuable insights on research trends and exemplary practices in the field of early childhood education with the Block Gan faculty. When teachers are part of a learning community of colleagues and are afforded time for personal and professional development, they build collegial spheres of understanding, while helping to create and exchange ideas and expand their competency, ultimately enriching the quality of education for the student.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
synagogue news
Jacksonville Jewish Center to show ‘The Final Victory’ documentary By Jacksonville Jewish Center
The Jacksonville Jewish Center is proud to host the screening of the award winning documentary, ‘The Final Victory’, which is the response to the Nazis’ ‘The Final Solution’, where they set out to exterminate the Jewish people. Despite their devious plans, here we are - still standing, and stronger than ever. Our ‘Final Victory Trust’ expresses the power of the Jewish spirit that had risen from the ashes of the Holocaust. The film production team is doing this
by producing and showing exciting documentaries that propagate the positive Jewish influence and donation to the world. Celebrating 70 years since the victory over Nazi Germany, we are bringing you the story of Dr. Felix Zandman, who was one of the most distinguished scientists of the 20th Century. Dr. Zandman started his journey hidden in a shallow grave in Poland during the Holocaust and his achievements are celebrated at the Smithsonian Museum. His innovations are in-use all over the world:
cellphones, airplanes, computers, medical devices and at one time, he held 77 patents for his technological innovations. He is also the founder of Vishay Intertechnology, which is now a multi-billion dollar global corporation. Zandman brought forth the magnificence of the Jewish mind, with an out-of-the-box thinking that is credited for his miraculous survival. The Final Victory is his story but is also representative of the Jewish People as a whole. Dr. Felix Zandman, the inspiration ‘The Final Victory has five award for the movie, ‘The Final Victory’ winning productions which were
The Temple partners with the Sanctuary to feed the hungry here in Jacksonville By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
translated into many languages, and broadcast on Israeli national TV and in other countries, winning international awards. This special screening is sponsored by The Weiss-Leibo Fund for Excellence in Adult Education and will take place Sunday, Nov. 15 from 12:30-2 p.m. at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Light refreshments will be served and kids ages 13 and older and weclome. Additonally, babysitting can be arranged if necessary. For more information please visit JJCJAX.org or call 904292-1000.
Etz Chaim names Labovitz as its new youth director By Etz Chaim Synagogue
While we may read in the daily papers about people who are hungry in countries far away, the equally bad news is we do not need to go beyond our own city limits to find similarly hungry people. It is this reality that spurred a continuing relationship between Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) and The Sanctuary at Mt. Calvary, located on Jacksonville’s northside. In May, the two congregations gathered together to share Soul Food Shabbat. Kabbalat Shabbat worship included the traditional prayers, punctuated by the music of Temple’s Friday Night Live Band and the spiritual songs of The Sanctuary’s Praise Team. Both Rabbi Lief, Senior Rabbi at Temple, and Pastor Newman from the Sanctuary, challenged the congregation to move beyond prayer and to take action to address the social issues we find in our community. Mike Elkin, Chair of Temple’s Tikkun Olam Committee jumped into action, saying “I am not
one to simply talk about issues, I want to do. I have learned from Rabbi Lief, that it is my responsibility as a Jew to partner with God to make the world a better place,” he added. “ While we may not be able to solve the problem, we can make life a bit better and I know that when we galvanize others to join the effort, we can make things even better.” Elkin partnered with Angela Tomkins, Assistant Minister at The Sanctuary, and set a goal to create 400 food bags for hungry families in the community which surrounds The Sanctuary. That goal was more than twice the number of food bags distributed each month. Oct. 24 was the date set and both congregations began
collecting bags of rice, cans of corn and green beans, dried beans and corn bread mix. The Sanctuary went to its regular chicken supplier, who was so taken by the partnership that they agreed to increase their participation as well. The congregations blew through their goal of 400 food bags. “It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we work together as once again we learned the power of community,” said Wiatt Bowers, Vice-President of Religious Affairs. “There are many sanctuaries where we can express our gratitude for God’s bounty as this partnership is in its infancy and we are committed to its growth.”
Etz Chaim Synagogue is thrilled to announce the hiring of its new youth director, Ben Labovitz. Originally from Baltimore, Labovitz has been a senior adviser to the teens in the synagogue’s NCSY program and has demonstrated his dedication and many talents for the last five years, which is why everyone is excited for him to officially join the team. At Etz Chaim, he will oversee its growing Shabbos and Yom Tov youth programs for all ages as well as all social events for the youth at the synagogue. The new hire will also serve as the Chapter Director of the award winning NCSY Chapter. Labovitz has a knack of fostering great ruach
Baltimore native Ben Labovitz will assume the role of Etz Chaim Synagogue’s new youth director (spirit) and has quickly become a beloved figure in the synagogue. Additionally, he was recently married to his wife Laura, and the two have since relocated to Jacksonville.
JAFTY’s annual social action banquet planned for Dec. 4
By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
The Jacksonville Area Federation of Temple Youth or (JAFTY), which is the Temple’s high school youth group invites you to an evening ‘Under the Stars’. The group’s Social Action banquet will be held Friday, Dec. 4, beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed immediately by Kabbalat Shabbat worship. The First Friday with JAFTY worship experience will include interpretive readings authored by JAFTY-ites and music provided by The Jew Crew, teen band led by Rabbi Matthew Cohen, Associate Rabbi at The Temple. Brotherly Love is the theme of this worship experience and the entire community is invited to attend. The proceeds from the annual JAFTY Social Action Banquet enables JAFTY-ites to partner with selected youth in the JFCS foster care program. “Each child in our care has a set of personalized goals as most children have school achievement expectations as well as goals centered on social skills development,” explained JFCS Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez. “The children are told that those who meet their goals by early December will be able to participate in a very special Holiday Shopping Spree with Temple’s JAFTY-ites. Since our
children do not have their own money, they are unable to do any holiday shopping for their foster families or for their siblings, so we are very grateful to JAFTY for providing this experience for our kids” she added. “The amount of money raised at the Social Action Banquet and the number of children who have reached their goals determines how much money each child has to spend. A JAFTY-ite helps each foster child use the money wisely and it is an amazing experience to watch the interaction between them, which is why I often wonder who learns more from each other,” she boasted about the experience. Camp Jenny is JAFTY’s other social action focus. Each Memorial Day weekend, inner-city children from the Atlanta area are brought to Camp Coleman for a camping experience organized entirely by teens from throughout the region. Staff for Camp Jenny is a highly prized position and selections are made based on proposed program activities. “Each year, JAFTY-ites work so hard on their program proposals because Camp Jenny is amazing,” explained Jodi Gilmore, JAFTY Social Action Vice-President. “I will take any opportunity to be at Camp Coleman and being there at a program we run ourselves is just so awesome.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
federation NEWS rGEN Party Continued from p. 1
Rabbi Howard Tilman
Sarah Fraden, Peter Hammer, Eric Wallace Isaac Levitan
Susan Wolchok, Steven Wolchok, Laura Vinger
The Lions of Judah to have ‘soleful’ annual luncheon, scheduled for Dec. 3 BY ERIN COHEN Women’s Division Director
This winter, the Women’s Division Lions of Judah are invited to put a little soul in their soles at their annual luncheon, which will take place Thursday, Dec. 3. The event will feature, Jane Weitzman, executive vice president of Stuart Weitzman and founding vice president of Stuart Weitzman Retail. Weitzman will speak to donors about where Jewish philanthropy stands today, as she highlights the incredible experiences she has had volunteering closely with The American Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) as well as a multitude of other Jewish charity organizations. The 11:30 a.m. luncheon will be hosted
Jane Weitzman at the home of Monique Miller and will be chaired by LOJ chair, Debbie Banks-Kitay. Those that are currently Lions of Judah, be
sure to look for mailed invitations soon, as well as emails about the upcoming event. “There has been a lot of buzz about our LOJ luncheon this fall as we put our best foot forward to welcome Jane Weitzman, to speak on the connection of the soul and Jewish Philanthropy,” Banks-Kitay said. “We are so fortunate that Monique has graciously offered her home for our program; the perfect fit for our Lion event.” Weitzman spearheaded philanthropy for her company by generating funds to support breast and ovarian cancer research and awareness. Her efforts were brought to life through innovative charity events in the brand’s stores and on its website such as the
Stuart Weitzman Celebrity Breast Cancer Auction. She serves on the executive committee and boards of UJA of Greenwich, The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, and 70 Faces Media. She is also on the Trust Board of Boston Children’s Hospital and the board of the Greenwich JCC. Additionally, she serves as the vice president of programming at the Jewish Book Council. Jane and her husband, Stuart have two daughters, Elizabeth and Rachael and a granddaughter, Eva. In the spirit of community and giving back, we ask that all guests bring one or more pairs of new children’s or women’s shoes to the event. If you cannot attend the luncheon, but would
still like to donate shoes, please drop them off to the Federation office by Wednesday, Nov. 25, after which time they will be donated to Jewish Family & Community Services. The Lion of Judah programs are for those donors in our community currently giving at the $5,000+ level. For more information about the program, please contact Erin Cohen at 904-448–5000, ext. 205 or erinc@ jewishjacksonville.org.
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Jewish Genetics
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federation NEWS Jags to host Jewish community tailgate
Continued from p. 1 their cohesive history, Jews are considered a genetic goldmine.” Entine is the Director of the Genetic Literacy Project at George Mason University. He is a think-tank scholar with an expertise in ancestry, genetics, Jewish history and Jewish identity. He is the author of seven books, including ‘Abraham’s Children: Race, Identity and the DNA of the Chosen People’, which examines in a dramatic, literary fashion the history of the Jewish people and our deep ancestral connection to modern Israel through the prism of DNA. His acclaimed bestseller, ‘Taboo: Why Black Athletes Dominate History and Why We’re Afraid to Talk About It’, addresses the Jewish domination of basketball in the first half of the 20th century. Before his recent literary success, Entine spent 20 years as a network TV news producer at the three major U.S. networks, winning 20 journalism honors, including a National Press Club Award and Emmys for specials about the Reform movements in China and the Soviet Union. He served as Tom Brokaw’s longtime producer at NBC News and executive in charge of documentaries, and was a producer with ABC 20/20 and Primetime. He draws on his production skills as a former television news executive in his presentations on a range of issues, including the DNA of
before Dec. 20 game vs. Atlanta Falcons Jewish History, Jewish Diseases, Jewish Achievement and Jewish views on sustainability. The new Society of Healers co-chairs, Dr. Dina and Dr. Howard Fetner invite you to join them for what is sure to be an incredible learning opportunity. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from Jon Entine, an expert on Jewish history, ancestry, and DNA,” they said. “This is an exceptional chance to better understand the science behind genetic disease and Jewish ancestry-- a fascinating and important topic.” Dr. Ronald and Joan Levin and Dr. Paul and Dr. Marte Wasserman have graciously partnered with the Federation to bring Jon Entine to Jacksonville and we thank them for their generosity and their desire to bring greater awareness to this research. The brunch and program will be held at Epping Forest Yacht & Country Club and there will be an $18 ticket fee to attend this event. Registration and payment in advance of the event is appreciated. To RSVP call 904-448-5000, ext. 209 or go to jewishjacksonville. org/jonentine. For more information about this event or get involved with the Society of Healers division, contact Erin Cohen at 904-448-5000, ext. 205 or erinc@jewishjacksonville.org.
rGEN’s Break-the-Fast is yet another delicious success BY JEANINE HOFF rGEN Director
rGEN’s Annual Break-the-Fast was a massive success as this event, which has been a highlight of rGEN’s annual program calendar, saw its largest crowd ever, hosting more than 50 young professionals and newcomers from the Jacksonville Jewish Community. Hosts Shylie and Jesse Bannon have hosted several other events for rGEN including last year’s wildly successful ‘Whisky Business’. Shylie also chaired ‘Super and Thank You Sunday’, Federation’s largest one-day fundraising phone-a-thon event.
Break-the-Fast is known for its entryway into Jewish communal life for many members in our young adult community. rGEN also hosts an annual Passover Seder, and details on that event will come soon.
November Jewish Java to feature Elder Source rep. BY ISABEL BALOTIN Shalom Jacksonville Director
You are invited to Shalom Jacksonville’s signature monthly program, Jewish Java, which is the perfect place to schmooze with new people as well as friendly locals and to find out the latest happenings in the Jewish community. It doesn’t matter how long you have lived in the community, you are always welcome to join us and enjoy a free coffee with food entrée purchase. The next Java is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 4th from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Village Bread Café (11110 San Jose Boulevard) and will feature the Elder Source of Jacksonville program. Director of Development Heather Corey, will share the many services and programs that are available through this organization. Areas
Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
such as insurance counseling, home care and respite care, caregiver support, educational and social activities will be highlighted, so feel free to invite your friends and neighbors. For more information about Shalom Jacksonville and its programs, please contact director Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000 ext. 206 or shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org. The Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida, so those who are new to the community or are newly interested in Jewish life are encouraged to contact us.
BY JEANINE HOFF Jewish Federation of Jacksonville
Save-the-Date as the Jacksonville Jaguars will host a Jewish Community Tailgate on Sunday, Dec. 20 at EverBank Field, before their game with the Atlanta Falcons. The tailgate is being co-presented by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, Jewish Community Alliance, Jewish Family & Community Services, Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast
Florida, River Garden Senior Services, Beth-El The Beaches Synagogue, Congregation Ahavath Chesed – The Temple, Etz Chaim Synagogue and the Jacksonville Jewish Center. At-
tendees will have the opportunity to participate in pre-game festivities and even win an autographed prize. Details regarding ticket purchases and pricing will be coming soon via email, Facebook and the Jacksonville Jewish News. Our synagogues and local Jewish agencies are looking forward to a great turnout from our entire Jewish community! For more information, please contact Jeanine Hoff at jeanineh@jewishjacksonville.org.
Shalom Jacksonville is on a treasure hunt for new members of the Jewish community BY ISABEL BALOTIN Shalom Jacksonville Director
Chances are, if you attended High Holy Day services this year you noticed many new faces in your synagogue or temple and I am pleased to report that many of these new people have been touched in some way by Shalom Jacksonville and our other wonderful Federation programs. One may be wondering how do we get these new names? The process is really quite simple as we contact the synagogues, Jewish schools, partner agencies, realtors, as well as peruse the local business journal. Sometimes even people like you alert us to a new Jewish neighbor or co-worker that has moved into the area but many times, I receive calls or emails from people contemplating a move to the area. Shalom Jax representatives in Nocatee, Sweetwater, Amelia Island, and the Beaches give us a heads-up about new residents that have recently or soon will be moving into the area. Each year we add approximately 200 new names to
our database, which are shared with our Jewish agencies and synagogues on a quarterly basis. This fiscal year began with a pair of successful screenings of ‘Welcome to Kutsher’s’, which is a film documenting the last Jewish resort in the Catskills. The first two screenings were held at River Garden, but the October showing was at Beth-El at the Beaches and in November we will enjoy the documentary at Temple Bet Yam in St. Augustine. The debuts thus far have been a smashing success, as to our delight, we have gathered names and addresses of more 25 new people. I would also like to thank River Garden for co-hosting these four events. Additionally, our monthly Jewish Javas are casual and friendly events which provide a
welcoming entry point for our newcomers, locals and anyone newly interested in the Jewish life. Representatives from Federation partner agencies have spoken to our group periodically and have been successful in recruiting volunteers. In 2016 we look forward to our meet and greets in individual homes in Avondale/ Riverside, Julington Creek , Fleming Island, Fernandina Beach, World Golf Village and Ponte Vedra. We so much appreciate the hospitality of our generous hosts who open their homes and hearts to our newcomers. In the spring we will again hold Passover in the Matzo Aisle at Winn-Dixie and in May we will cruise the Amelia Island waterways and learn about the rich Jewish history of the area. During the summer months will we look forward to our annual ‘Shaloha’ event. Our goal is to engage as many newcomers as possible, create opportunities for them to make new friends, while helping them navigate our community and guide them on their personal Jewish journeys.
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federation NEWS
Partner Spotlight: JFCS provides vital services to Holocaust survivors
BY COLLEEN RODRIGUEZ Executive Director
More than 70 years after its traumatic end, the enduring legacy of the Holocaust lives on, through the stories, experiences and life lessons shared by 50 Holocaust survivors in the Jacksonville Jewish community. They are an amazing group of people and we are fortunate that they have chosen to make Jacksonville their home. Several years ago, Leslie Kirkwood and Bob Fischer made a commitment to ensure that our Survivors were known and that their stories were told. In 2010, JFCS was honored to be asked to form a Survivor group and begin working with them and their families. Now, five years later, thanks to funding from the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and other donors, a JFCS Case Manager devotes her time exclusively to assisting our community’s survivors and their family members. An advisory committee of first
and second generation survivors guides our efforts and feedback from the committee helped shed light on a vital need to bring Survivors and their family members together. Modeled after a program that the JFCS in West Palm Beach offers, we began holding quarterly social gatherings. These gatherings greatly help the survivors decrease isolation and reinforce connections to one other. They provide a safe place to share their life experiences and struggles, while allowing them connect with one another. Many Survivors were surprised to find that there were close to 40 others like them living just a few miles away. Over the years, this group has formed a close bond, even helping to develop a Survivor Hagaddah, the first of its kind, weaving the stories of survivors into the Passover Seder. Sadly, as time has passed, we have learned that roughly 50-percent of our survivors are now living in poverty. JFCS feels strongly that this is not acceptable
and is working with AJFCA, our local Federation, and the JFCS in West Palm Beach to ensure that all of our Holocaust survivors are accessing Claims Conference dollars to which they are entitled, in addition to in-home services, meals, transportation and case management services. Through a special collaboration, the JFCS in West Palm Beach receives the Claims Conference Allocation for our local Survivors and in turn we access those dollars to pay for up to 25 hours per week of in-home support services for each survivor. We hope to be able to expand these services with additional dollars that may come available through AJFCA. Through our Gen 2 group, we also provide support to the second generation of survivors. Gen 2 started as a grassroots effort from adult children who met one another through Holocaust survivor events. Children of survivors share a unique bond - they, too, are survivors as they have grown up in
the shadow of the Holocaust. The enormity of that trauma often impacts their parents’ and their own coping abilities in addition to their world views. The result can be a culture of silence, whereby doors to history are potentially shut for themselves and future generations. Processing those experiences and feelings in a caring, therapeutic venue is essential for healing and strengthening family relationships for generations to come. Gen 2 creates a forum for adult children to establish connections with one another as they explore and share their parents’ stories with future generations. To make a difference in the life of a Holocaust survivor today, contact Kathy Wohlhuter, JFCS director of development & marketing at 904-394-5727 or kwohlhuter@jfcsjax.org This past year during allocations, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville allotted $294,500 to help JFCS serve the unmet needs of those in the Jacksonville commu-
nity, who are less fortunate. Some of those deprived of basic necessities include the 40 Holocaust survivors who call Duval County home. To make a contribution to the Federation’s 2016 annual campaign, call 904-448-5000 or go to jewishjacksonville.org.
JACKSONVILLE HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS BY THE NUMBERS ... 50 - No. of Holocaust survivors living in the area 20 - No. of Holocaust survivors living in poverty $264,000 - Amount of money required to meet survivors’ needs each year
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
EDUCATION J Away Eco Day at Jax Beach Reduce, reuse, recycle Parparim class a sand filled, fun adventure is a success at the DuBow Preschool
Three and four-year-olds in DuBow Preschool’s Parparim class learned about recycling through hands on examples as well as books that teach about the importance of reducing and reusing
BY SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
A fun day at the beach for Michele Block Gan Yeladim J Away families
BY MOLLY SWEET Michele Block Gan Yeladim
More than 60 people, including JCA families and friends, took to the sea last month for J Away Eco Day at Jacksonville Beach. Participating families met on the beach near Huguenot Park for a morning spent learning about sea turtle endangerment and conservation from Florida Fish and Wildlife biologist David Jones. The day culminated with a fun sand art project and snacks. JCA
J Away programs aim to engage members of the community who reside outside of the immediate geographic area. “It’s a great way to bridge the gap and bring our quality programs to children and families who might not otherwise make it to our part of town,” explained JCA Director of Strategic Implementation Katie Kight. “It also gives our families a chance to go somewhere they might not ordinarily find themselves,” she added.
The Parparim classes (three and four-year-olds) at the DuBow Preschool are currently engrossed in hands-on projects and learning through its creative curriculum. The curriculum is based on sound developmental theory and evidence-based research. It is a project-based program that balances both teacher-directed and child-initiated learning, with an emphasis on responding to children’s learning styles and building on their strengths and interests. Presently, the Parparim classes are working on the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle unit as each week they read fiction and non-fiction books and then work on projects related to the theme.
Last week they read the books ‘Something From Nothing’, by Phoebe Gilman and ‘Don’t Lose It – Reuse It!’ by Nancy Noel Williams, then they talked about how each person can help keep the earth cleaner and cut down on the amount of trash we produce by reusing paper, metal, and plastic. Kids also learned about tikkun olam, and how each child could help repair our world. The students collected a variety of materials that would have been discarded and were given the task of creating something new. One group created a planter out of old soup cans, while another created a fort out of discarded boxes. The children were so inspired that they used recycled materials to create beautiful decorations for
the sukkah, as well as collages for their families, puppets, and life-sized robots using boxes, paper towel rolls, empty egg cartons, cans, and odds and ends. They even strengthened their fine motor skills while cutting up egg cartons to use as power buttons for their robots. They then asked their teachers what was next and were given more learning and fun as the reply. The next unit of study will be, clothing, as the kids will collect clothing to donate to needy neighbors, in addition to learning about how clothes are made, complete with a sewing lesson. They will also discover the various types of outerwear worn around the world by different cultures and in a variety of climates.
Learning not only for students at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
Given the ubiquity of technology in virtually every aspect of our lives, Martin J. Gottlieb Day School offers interactive discussions exploring topics related to the ways education is adapting to the modern, technological world. A program called ‘Parent Connect’ helps educate parents about the new realities of learning in the information age. These learning sessions include discussions
which are moderated by educators Andrea Hernandez and Karin Hallett, who say that “technology has changed every sector of society, but education can be slow to adapt because of people’s personal memories of their own schooling as well as concerns for their children.” Previous topics have been focused on changes at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, such as The Daily 5, an early literacy program, and digital blogfolios, in which
students document their own learning. Universal concerns like use of social media and growth mindset have also been explored. Upcoming sessions are open to the entire Jewish community. The next opportunity to attend one of these discussions is Monday, Nov. 30 at 8:30 a.m. in the Kramer Library at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School at which time the topic will be ‘Kids and Screens’.
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EDUCATION
J Play hosts informative ‘fun with food’ It was a Sukkot to event at Michele Block Gan Yeladim remember at the Torah Academy of Jacksonville
BY MOLLY SWEET Michele Block Gan Yeladim
Although playing with food is usually discouraged, the JCA is making an exception during their November J Play, Fun with Food event as Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool invites families with young children to spend the themed morning playing, singing and crafting edible treats. When young children are encouraged to be involved in cooking and meal preparation, they are more likely to form healthy eating habits and make proper food choices. Shared cooking time presents parents with the opportunity to model healthy behaviors, and an invitation to help in the kitchen can be a confidence boosting gesture for children to receive from mom or dad. In 2012, Block Gan adopted practices from the Discover CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) program, a JCC Association initiative
Learning what ‘Go’ and ‘Woah’ Foods were quickly turned into fun aimed at infusing the curriculum with opportunities for healthy eating and exercise. One of the major tenets of the Discover CATCH program is to teach children how to distinguish between ‘Go Foods’, like fresh fruits and vegetables and ‘Whoa Foods’, like chips and cookies. During J Play Fun with Food, families will also get to enjoy a
healthy breakfast. J Play Fun with Food takes place on Sunday, Nov. 15, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The fee per family is $15 and just $10 for JCA valued members. For more information or to register, call 904-730-2100, ext. 259 or rochelle.golomb@jcajax.org.
Academy students working on holiday art projects in the sukkah
Potato sack races taking place at the Chol HaMoed carnival
Students take a time out from playing carnival games to eat ice cream
BY RABBI YEHUDA BROWN Torah Academy of Jacksonville
Sukkot was celebrated in a style befitting the Holiday of Joy as Torah Academy of Jacksonville students were engaged in a variety of entertaining and educational activities. Tuesday morning began with general studies and segued into a fun-filled Chol HaMoed carnival. The afternoon program kicked-off with an opportunity for students to demonstrate their raw creativity. They were divided into four large groups, each receiving a variety of art supplies, and were challenged to work as groups to create 3-D Sukkot. The results proved their artistic aptitude as well as their ability to work together even when lacking central imperatives. After a barbecue and fries, students participated in carnival activities such as sack racing, apple bobbing, beanbag tossing, inflatables and much more. They also had an opportunity to learn about the laws of Sukkot, hands-
on by building scale models of a variety of different types of Sukkos, each of which was halachically invalid for a different reason. On Wednesday, after pizza, the school exuberantly sang festive songs with the accompaniment of a three-piece orchestra comprised of their teachers and principal. Students then participated in the first installment of a Jewish trivia competition called Yedios KIaliyos. They were divided by grade level, and challenged to demonstrate their knowledge of the laws and customs of this holiday season. Correct answers were rewarded with an opportunity to win prizes. The festivities concluded with a screening of an Israeli comedic mystery film designed to instill Jewish values in the students. A great time was had by all, as the successful fusion of learning about the holidays and participating in its festivities with hands-on experiences created memories for a lifetime.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
education
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School’s middle school mitzvah program enters it’s 20th year of service
The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School middle school’s mitzvah program began in 1996 and was started by vice principal Edith Horovitz By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School’s middle schoolers are proudly continuing a long-standing tradition, which was founded in 1961. A vitally important component of their Jewish day school education is to take their learning outside the school building every Friday by doing mitzvot (good deeds) in the form of community service projects around Jacksonville, for Jews and non-Jews alike. The goal of the ‘mitzvah program’ as it is commonly known, is to take Jewish learning and put it into practice. The program was started by Middle School Vice Principal Edith Horovitz
in 1996. “When middle school students experience what they are learning it becomes real for them,” she explained. “We want each child to become a mensch, and these experiences touch their lives in a way that classroom learning can’t. In other words, they are taken to the next level by doing them.” This year’s projects that have been completed thus far include preparing and delivering brownbag meals to students at the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation on the Northside, in addition to baking and delivering Rosh Hashanah honey cakes to the elderly across Jacksonville. They have also sorted through food donations at Feeding America.
Breaking down the Torah into manageable chunks
BY NAOMI CHASE Temple Religious School Director
In July and August, I spent 10 hours instructing my faculty a new methodology for teaching Torah. We laughed, we listened and we came to that inevitable conclusion that represents the shared grief of all Religious School teachers, that there is simply so much in Torah, and too little time to teach it all. Philosophical Inquiry, a question-based and largely student-driven strategy for having
open-ended discussions eases this legendary pressure. It presents a small slice of a Torah portion and provides for a deep exploration of a limited number of verses. It also encourages discourse, debate, personalization and curiosity and creates an environment that welcomes Jewish commentaries and midrash. Each week, I provide the teachers the verses for each age cohort and some suggested questions and activities. Our entire school views the current week’s parasha (portion), but each grade does so from a different
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angle. Each year, we will look at new verses, but more importantly we will teach the value of an evernew, yet tried and true tradition of repeated readings. School opened up Sunday, Sept. 20th, placing week one right between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, so the Torah reading from Yom Kippur was of course used to drive that day’s learning. That reading begins with the words, ‘Atem Nitzavim hayom kulchem, lifnei Adonai Eloheichem, which loosely translated means, ‘You are arranged (standing) here this
day before Adonai Your God’. The teachers were able to find the reading in their chumashim or online and sent me their lesson plans, thus beginning our online conversations through which they teach and inspire one another. Quickly, they began to imagine the conversations generated by the text that they’ll soon be facilitating in their own classrooms. Some are planning their set inductions, the playful ways that they’ll hook their learners through introducing the vocabulary even before the students see or hear the Torah’s
words. Eventually, the teachers’ exchanges wended their way to subjects and tangents that surprised and delighted us all. “I’m never going to think of standing the same way again,” one teacher remarked, adding playfully, “but I’m glad we read the Torah over and over again each year, because there is no way to teach it all.” Students at the Temple will have the blessings of teachers like this one, this coming year and hopefully, for many years to come as we stand ready to teach them all.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
EDUCATION
Torah Academy of Jacksonville stresses Block Gan faculty to pride in school through student govt. attend national education conference in Orlando
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) will hold it’s annual conference, Nov. 18-21 in Orlando
BY MOLLY SWEET Michele Block Gan Yeladim
Each trimester, students from the Torah Academy’s newly launched student government program will lead the school in programs themed around self-development middos as well as school pride
BY TAMMY FISCH Co-President Torah Academy
The Torah Academy of Jacksonville launched its first Student Government program to encourage student involvement and ownership. The program consists of the co-presidents, Chaim Goranson and Tammy Fisch, as well as their seventh and eighth grade classmates who serve as vicepresidents, secretaries, treasurers, fundraisers, photographer and other supportive roles. With each trimester, Student Government will lead the school in programs themed around self-development, middos and school pride.
Our sages teach us that following the destruction of our Holy Temple, our Torah institutions now represent the home of God. With that in mind, the first trimester’s focus followed the theme of ‘taking pride in our school’. To launch the new campaign, student government hosted a poster contest, where each grade was given a different part of the school and prepared a poster on how to treat it with respect and dignity. Congrats to the fourth grade for tackling the main hall and winning first place in the contest and Mazel Tov to the second grade for doing an amazing job on the bathroom and water fountain area and placing
second. It’s the school’s belief, that when students are in a clean, safe environment they benefit greatly. When the learning environment is neat and treated with the dignity it deserves, the learning is that much better. This initiative also teaches students the important middah (attribute) of respecting things that do not belong to them. When we take pride in our school, we begin to respect our school, our teachers, our friends, our work, and ourselves. Teaching children to love school isn’t the easiest task, but when it includes interactive activities, it gets the student body enthusiastic and ready to learn!
This month, several Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten faculty members are hitting the road for a teachersonly field trip. The select group of educators is Orlando-bound to participate in the NAEYC or National Association for the Education of Young Children’s annual conference, Nov. 18-21. This year’s program is slated to be one of the most valuable professional development opportunities in the country, attracting teachers from around the world, as it touts dozens of keynote speakers and hosts hundreds of exhibitors with the latest developments in the field of early childhood education. “I’m really looking forward to the opportunity as I can’t think of a better way to enhance my own teaching style than by sharing ideas with other professionals in my field,” says teacher Carly Poole. The four-day conference is open to educators both nation-
ally and internationally who teach young children. NAEYC membership and accreditation has many professional benefits and sets the bar high for schools to achieve and maintain excellence. “Achieving and maintaining NAEYC accreditation requires a significant commitment and rigorous self-study process,” says ECE Director Theresa Levy. Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten is one of only 11 other early learning centers in Duval County that hold the NAEYC accreditation, and the only NAEYC accredited Jewish preschool in all of Jacksonville. The school has held and maintained the accreditation for the past 24 consecutive years. “NAEYC sets the standard that all programs hold themselves accountable to unparalleled excellence in early childhood education and we welcome the opportunity to meet and learn from the leaders and visionaries in early childhood education at the annual,” Levy added.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
‘Thanksgivukkah’ comes to the JCA
Get down and boogie at the JCA this February! By Jewish Community Alliance
The JCA will hold ‘Thanksgivukkah’, Sunday, Nov. 15 which is a fun filled event, open to the entire community By Jewish Community Alliance
2013 saw the rare occurrence of Thanksgiving and Chanukah coinciding for the unique opportunity to celebrate the holidays together. Although the occasions do not coincide this year, the JCA has a fall family holiday program to recognize them both. On Sunday, Nov. 15, at 12:30 p.m., join the JCA for Thanksgivukkah, a community event featuring fall-themed cooking
and dining décor, for the whole family to enjoy. For this festive program, Morah Karen Morse will share recipes for the upcoming holiday feast and instruct in seasonal decorations for all ages. Organized by the JCA’s newest department, Family and Jewish Programs, this event is just one example of how the JCA brings Jewish values and themes to community programming. In addition to special holiday programs like Thanksgivukkah,
Get out your bell bottoms and leisure suits and join us for an evening of nostalgia, great food and entertainment as on Saturday, Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m., the Jewish Community Alliance’s annual fundraiser event will transport you back in time to the 1970’s. This year’s chairs, Glenn and Michael Miller and Alison and Brent Trager, are busy planning an elegant evening with a groovy twist. “This year’s event is going to be a memorable and fun evening of cuisine, music, dancing and entertainment from the 70s,”
said Michael Miller. “It supports such a wonderful cause so you won’t want to miss it.” The JCA’s annual fundraiser benefits many programs including senior activities, preschool, after school care and camp tuitions for families in need. Last year the JCA awarded more than $330,000 in scholarships for children, families and senior adults. Sponsorships and ticket sales are crucial to the success of this event. For more information regarding tickets or sponsorship opportunities, contact Lior Spring at 904-730-2100 ext. 318 or lior.spring@jcajax. org.
Family and Jewish Programs also holds weekly Shabbat celebrations and collaborates with other JCA departments for sporting events, nature outings and concerts. The fee to attend Thanksgivukkah is $15 and just $10 for JCA valued members. For more information about this program and others within the Department of Family and Jewish Programs, contact Dave Flagler at 904-730-2100 ext. 271.
jca happenings October 2016 Cheshvan/Kislev 5776 For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www.jcajax.org.
Vandroff Art Gallery The paintings of Nadine Terk will be featured from Oct. 30 – Dec. 2. Nadine received her M.S. in Art History and Archeology from Columbia University. Her work has been exhibited locally and abroad and she will be present for her opening on Sunday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Film: The Woman in Gold
A mandatory skills assessment will be held Sunday, Nov. 8 for those inter- Medicine Center at Mayo Clinic, ested in playing in the Jewish Community Alliance’s Youth B-Ball League for this fascinating discussion
Now is your chance to see this most memorable film, starring Helen Mirren and Ryan Reynolds, on Sunday, Nov. 8 at 12 p.m. It’s part history, part mystery and fabulous. A snack will be served at the viewing. This event is free and open to the entire community.
Youth Basketball League
Creative Writing Basics Workshop Learn the craft of creative writing with short story author Stephanie Natale Frus on Monday, Nov. 9, from 7-8:30 p.m. The fee is $8 and $5 for JCA valued members. Registration is required by Nov. 5.
JAway Havdalah This free family cookout and movie night is on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 6 p.m. Contact Betsy at 904730-2100, ext. 245 or Katie at ext. 231 for more information. Reservations are required by Nov. 9.
Join an organized, competitive, social and recreational league that develops young athletes into fundamentally sound players while having fun. The fee is $150 and $100 for JCA valued members. A mandatory skills assessment will be held on Sunday, Nov. 8. For assessment time and league schedule, contact Coach Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250.
Ready, Set, Go! On Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 12 p.m., in preparation for a visit to the Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville, Cindy Edelman will give a preview of the exhibits we will visit. This program is free to the entire community
One on One with the
Temple’s Rabbi Cohen On Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 12 p.m., meet with Rabbi Matthew Cohen, associate rabbi at The Temple (Congregation Ahavath Chesed), to talk about growing up Jewish, the rabbinate and more. This program is free to the entire community but reservations are kindly requested.
Cool Car Corral On Sunday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., enjoy cars from the 1930’s, 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Tailgate and enjoy food and fun during the event. Reservations are required by Nov. 4. The fee is $7, and JCA valued members are free.
Individualized Medicine
about the future of medicine on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m. The fee is $5,a and JCA valued members are free.
Red Cross CPR Certification CPR/AED certification will be available for professional rescuers, public safety employees and lifeguards on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 1-6 p.m. The program includes a book and pocket mask and the fee is $105 and $70 for JCA valued members.
Babysitter’s Training Course Learn to prepare for an emergency if home alone or babysitting on Monday, Nov. 30, from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The fee is $75 and $50 for JCA valued members.
Join Dr. Alexander Parker, associate director of the Individualized
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $208,000
8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217 904-730-2100
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
JEWISH FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES Briefs
Gen2 Holocaust survivors invited for writers’ workshop By Jewish Family & Community Services
PJ Library
PJ Library, the award winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of six months and eight years, they are eligible. Please sign up now by going to www.pjlibrary. org/communities/jacksonville, or calling Whitney Kuvin at 904-394-5724.
Second generation Holocaust survivors are encouraged to join author and facilitator Stacey Goldring for a second season of writing exploration with the Gen2 Writers’ Workshop. Now in its second season, the workshop is for those who choose to write and share their work in an environment which is welcoming and supportive. Consequently, writing can often lead to interesting topics of discussion and commonality. The Gen2 workshop will meet at
Stacey Goldring
11:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday each month and is followed by a delicious lunch catered by Tomato Crush. The November workshop
JFCS ads staff members to its foster care services Meals4You
JFCS in partnership with River Garden is pleased to bring you our meal program, Meals4You, From our kitchen to yours. Meals are delicious, nutritious, convenient and delivered right to your door. Jewish dietary laws are observed, so call Whitney for more information at 904-224-6287.
By Jewish Family & Community Services
JFCS has increased the number of its staff members who will be serving children in foster care from 15 to 20 counselors. The organization has been serving an average of 250 children who have been removed from their parents due to abuse and neglect. In the
Pair of Holocaust survivor related events to be held By Jewish Family & Community Services
Call2Go
Call2Go is the transportation program at JFCS. We work with Checker Cab and are happy to schedule rides for Shabbat and the holidays at no charge. We also provide rides for medical appointments and quality of life events. Call Whitney for more information at 904-224-6287.
Jewish Healing Network
Become a Jewish Healing Network Volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the Mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim. If you are interested in helping, you can make a weekly visit or phone call to a senior, or even help us deliver food to those who cannot get out. Please call Gail at 904-394-5723 for more information or to sign up.
Homecare Services
Homecare Services are available to residents of the Jacksonville community. A partnership between JFCS and Alpert Jewish Family & Children’s Service in West Palm Beach enables JFCS to offer up to 25 hours per week of homecare services to Holocaust survivors, through funds from the Claims Conference. Services include light housekeeping, medication management, assistance with bathing, meal preparation and running of errands. Please call Naomi Mirensky at 904-394-5777 for more information.
next fiscal year JFCS will be serving closer to 325 children who are in need of foster care and in some cases adoption services. Jewish Family & Community Services’ experience with dependent children and its strong relationship with the courts enables them to effectively expand these services here in Duval County.
Join the Holocaust Family Gathering’s Chanukah celebration, Sunday, Dec. 13, featuring live music by Rabbi Matt and the Macabees to be held at Etz Chaim Synagogue. Then, on Sunday, Jan.
31, a ‘Story Corps’ video presentation will be held, consisting of conversations with Holocaust survivors and Sandalwood High School students. For more information about both events, please call Naomi Mirensky at 904-3945777.
will take place Tuesday, Nov. 10, at JFCS. “The workshop is an opportunity to write about what you’d like, and even though writing prompts, ideas and templates are offered, there is never any pressure to create something,” Goldring explained. “Everyone is welcome, so don’t think you have to know how to write to participate.” The writers’ workshop is an excellent opportunity to spend time engaging with others who have similar experiences. “Everyone brings their own unique
history to the table and we all learn from one another,” Goldring added. Knowing that everyone’s schedules are always busy, discussion is underway about forming an additional night group, so be sure to let JFCS know if you are interested in that extra session. To find out more or to participate, please contact Gail Furman, Jewish Services director at gfurman@ jfcsjax.org or call her at 904-3945723.
ElderSource and JFCS form new Medicare counseling partnership By Jewish Family & Community Services
Open Enrollment for Medicare is now here and at ElderSource and JFCS, we understand that it can be very confusing with the new changes made each year. Because of that, we are continuing our efforts to provide you with unbiased counseling to help you maximize your benefits. JFCS is partnering with the Florida Department of Elder Affairs to host free counseling with trained
professionals who can help you make the right choices in Medicare plans. We are able to provide these services by appointment only, so to schedule yours, please contact Hilary Rotenberg at 904394-5722. JFCS is located at 6261 Dupont Station Court East in Jacksonville.
Gen2 Program Planned at UF’s Judaica Library
JFCS volunteers go above and beyond to bring food
to those who need it By Jewish Family & Community Services
The Department of Jewish Services would like to give special thanks to Cynthia Randall and Carole Morris, who both helped JFCS deliver meals to clients in need outside of the Mandarin area. Cynthia and Carole are Direct Service Aides, members of the JFCS Child Welfare Program. The Meals4You service provides nutritious meals to seniors,
families, or individuals recuperating from illness and recent hospitalization. Every week we deliver 100 or more meals to clients in Jacksonville. The months of September and October have been challenging due to the holidays, however, Carole and Cynthia made time in their busy schedules to make sure everyone received their much needed meals. We most definitely could not have reached as many clients without their help.
Sheridan shares her story with Holocaust survivors By Jewish Family & Community Services
More than 65 local Holocaust survivors and their families participated in the ‘Power of Truth Telling’, presented by Frannie Sheridan, this past October at the Temple. During the event, Sheridan shared her courageous journey out of secrets and lies and her journey back to Judaism. Survivors and their families were touched by her story and in return shared their own moving experiences. The audience was delighted with the presentation
The University of Florida’s Judaica Library will be host to a Gen2 Holocaust Survivors writers’ workshop, scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 24 By Jewish Family & Community Services
The Gen2 Holocaust Survivors Writers’ Workshop is planning a special program open to all Holocaust survivors and their families, scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 24 at the University of Florida’s Isser and Rae Price Judaica Library. The event is organized by Dr. Rebecca Jefferson, head of the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica, the University of Florida and Stacey Goldring, facilitator of the Second Generation Holocaust Survivors Workshop, in addition to JFCS. The program will last from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and will include a curator-led library tour, as well as a second generation program, discussion and lunch. “The library is an incredible, breath-taking collection and is a safe harbor for Judaic literary treasures that tell the story of our collective historical experience, “
Frannie Sheridan (left) poses for a picture after her recent visit
and enjoyed the delicious Kosher dessert buffet catered by Tomato Crush.
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $294,500
Goldring explained. “It is vital that survivors understand their stories are critically important, not only for themselves and their families, but in a wide historical context.,” she added. “Visiting this wonderful library makes tangible the importance of writing about one’s experience and helps make the connection real.” The library is home to more than 100,000 volumes of Judaic literature and related materials and ranks as one of the foremost academic libraries of Judaica in the world. To find out more about the library, visit http://cms.uflib.ufl.edu/judaica/ Index.aspx. JFCS’s Gen2 writers’ workshop is an excellent opportunity to spend time engaging with others that have similar experiences. The library event will offer another opportunity for workshop writers and their families to connect. To attend this free program, please contact Gail Furman, Jewish Services director at gfurman@ jfcsjax.org or call 904-394-5723.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Donor Advised JCF to hold professional advisory committee seminar Fund Program; BY KEVIN ROGERS Just Do It! Jewish Community Foundation
A friend of mine recently told me about his love affair with Nike, which was his very first stock purchase. His initial purchase of 1,000 shares of the company’s stock cost him about $10,000 or about $10 per share. Today those same 1,000 shares are worth $122,000 and he’s kept most of the footwear and apparel company’s shares through thick By JEFF and thin, which is why Nike has KLEIN, turned out to Executive be a wonderful investment for Director him. Anyone lucky, or smart enough to have acquired Nike stock when the company first went public in 1980 has done quite well. My friend is a charitable fellow, so a number of years ago he decided to open up a Donor Advised Fund and set his sights on funding it with $20,000. The JCF Donor Advised Fund program is ideal for transferring appreciated assets like stock or even real estate. Once established, you can use your DAF like a charitable bank account to satisfy your commitment to the Jewish Federation’s annual campaign, a gift to your favorite hospital or university and even pay your synagogue dues. Donors may use DAF’s to contribute to any non-profit for charitable purposes. In my friend’s case, he wanted to make the donation to his DAF in the smartest way possible and remembered hearing that it is usually better to contribute appreciated stock than to write a check for the same amount. His stock had appreciated tenfold since first acquiring it, so he reasoned that he could sell $20,000 of his stock and use the proceeds (minus the sales commission) to open his fund. Then, at tax time, he would owe capital gains tax on the on the appreciation. He also knew that his charitable deduction could offset that amount. Still, he asked himself, ‘why incur the capital gain and extra tax at all?’ This reminded him why it is so smart to give appreciated stock instead of cash because two benefits are better than one. Because the JCF is a qualified non-profit, he decided to donate some of his long-term appreciated Nike stock instead of cash. By doing this, he received a charitable deduction for the gift and avoided paying capital gains tax. Transferring the stock was easy, as my friend and his broker were given precise delivery instructions and the charitable transfer was completed almost immediately. His gift was valued and documented for tax purposes, and the stock was sold with all proceeds (undiminished by capital gains taxes), going to his newly-established Donor Advised Fund. With the above story in mind, how about you? Do you have appreciated assets in stocks or bonds that could be used to make a smart gift to charity? You and your professional advisors should assess when it makes sense to make such tax-wise gifts and how to do it. The JCF Donor Advised Program provides excellent customer service and ease of operation. For more information please call the JCF offices to set up a time to learn more about Donor Advised Funds.
MONEY MATTERS
The JCF Professional Advisory Committee is putting together a free Financial Seminar to be held in November. This seminar, entitled ‘Hope and Change at Yearend’, features four highly skilled and qualified financial professionals. Those professionals include Keri Bracy (Agentia Partners LLC ), who works extensively with clients to identify and man-
age their insurable needs; Jeff Klein, the Executive Director of the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, as well as Mark Kraus from Innovative Financial Solutions, Inc., who is a financial advisor specializing in asset accumulation, management and protection, and James A Nolan III, an attorney from Gray/Robinson, who practices in the areas of estate planning, taxation and Elder Law.
Training sessions to be held for JCF partners on Create a Jewish Legacy BY KEVIN ROGERS
Jewish Community Foundation
The JCF is making preparations to move to the next stage in this exciting Create a Jewish Legacy program. Arlene Schiff, national executive director for CJL, will be in Jacksonville, Thursday, Jan. 7, to provide training and consultation to our partners and synagogues as we move toward completion of the CJL program. The Create a Jewish Legacy is a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation (HGF), which assists communities through partnerships with Jewish Foundations and Federations. This partnership helps promote after-lifetime giving to benefit Jewish day schools, synagogues, social service organizations and other Jewish entities. Through training, support and incentives, CJL motivates Jewish organizations to secure legacy gifts, stew-
Arlene Schiff ard donors and integrate legacy giving into the philanthropic culture of the Jewish community. If you haven’t completed a declaration of intent or would like to discuss how to transform your declaration into a formal document that insures your charitable intentions come to fruition, contact Jeff Klein – Executive Director, at 904-265-6855 or jeff. klein@jewishfoundationnefl.org.
Keri Bracy
• SEI Investment Advisor You will recall that the JCF Board voted to retain SEI Investment Advisor as the Foundation’s Investment Manager. This is an exciting step at the JCF, reflecting the growing needs of the organization along with the donor and partner organizations. Glenn Harris, JCF’s client manager at SEI, is planning to be in Jacksonville, Dec. 3-4 to introduce himself and SEI to the community, so keep watching for updates on his visit. • PAC Networking Event The Professional Advisory Committee will host its first networking event in November. To stay up to date on the details of this event or to find out how to join this group, which there is no charge for, contact Kevin Rogers – JCF Project Coordinator, by phone at 904-394-0720 or email him directly: kevin.rogers@jewishfoundationnefl.org.
Mark Kraus
• We Are Growing Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Jeff Klein (JCF), Colleen Rodriguez (JFCS), Marty Goetz (River Garden) and others, a local individual created and funded a new endowment fund which will provide support for Jewish Family & Children’s Services in addition to River Garden. • Mazel Tov! ... to JCF Board members: Mel and Debbie Gottlieb on the birth of their new granddaughter Reilly; Richard and Kimberly Sisisky on the marriage of their daughter Kendall; and Gary Wilkinson on his appointment as Judge on the Duval County Fourth Judicial Circuit Court. • ReBranding The JCF rebranding effort is now complete. Have a look at our old logo compared with our new one, as the new mark will be used in all communication from now on.
Jewish Community Foundation sports brand new look By Jewish Community Foundation
The Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida’s rebranding effort is now complete. Above and to the right are our new primary logos, compared to our old one. The new marks will
be used in all foundation communication moving forward. The new logo consists of the three main letters ‘JCF’ which comprise our abbreviated name with a circle encompassing a tree outline inside of the ‘C’. The letters are blue, while the bottom
part of the circle is red and the outline of the leaves are green. Please see a larger example of our new signage and an in depth explanation on page no. 25 of this month’s issue.
NEW Logo
Old Logo
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $88,422
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RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES
RIVER GARDEN 2015 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $195,000
Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
LIFECYCLES Births Mazel Tov to Hazzan Jesse and Leora Holzer on the birth of their daughter, Dafna Yael Holzer, Friday, Oct. 9th. Proud grandparents are Aaron and Margie Holzer of Jacksonville and Hazzan Henry Rosenblum and Susan Ticker of Queens, N.Y. Great grandDafna Yael Holzer mother is Frances Ticker of Rockaway, N.J., and her big sister is Rena Holzer. A Simchat Bat naming ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 29, where Dafna, will lovingly be brought into the Jewish covenant.
B’nai Mitzvah Corey Udell, son of Holly and Robert Udell, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015 at Beth-El the Beaches Synagogue. Sharing in the simcha will be Corey’s brother Ryan Udell, age 16, grandparents, Rona and Jerry Brenner of Ponte Vedra Beach and Helen and Jeff Udell of Huntington, N.Y, as well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins Corey Udell and friends. Corey is a seventh grader at Landrum Middle School where he is an honor student, plays French horn for the wind ensemble band and has participated on the Landrum Lions baseball team. He also enjoys playing baseball for the Ponte Vedra Thunder travel team and has taken part in travel ball for a total of five years. For his Mitzvah project, Corey has been assisting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in its efforts to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. He has performed various functions for the foundation such as being actively involved in fundraising and writing numerous thank you notes to sponsors which have participated in the JDRF sneaker fundraiser campaign. Jonah Matthew Willens, son of Sara and Michael Willens, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015 at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Sharing in the simcha will be Jonah’s brothers, Gabriel, Ari and Nathan; and many other family and friends. Jonah is in the eighth grade at Fruit Cove Middle School, Jonah Matthew Willens where he is in the gifted program. He enjoys reading, creating art, listening to music, watching Dr. Who, caring for animals, and spending time with his friends. For his mitzvah project, Jonah is taking part in volunteer work at the Saint Johns County Pet Center. Sydney Mason Herbst, daughter of Sharon and Bradley Herbst, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015 at The Jacksonville Jewish Center. Sharing in this simcha will be her brother, Andrew; her grandparents Anita and Howard Cohen of Beachwood, Ohio, Joann and Ernie Cohen of Orange Park, Fla. and Harriet and Jeff Herbst of Delray Beach, Fla.; and many more family and friends. Sydney is in seventh grade at Fruit Cove Middle School where she is a
second year cheerleader and member of the National Junior Honor Society. For her Mitzvah Project, she has volSydney Mason Herbst unteered at Little Star Center, which is a private, non-profit school that provides comprehensive, affordable, individualized education and behavioral services for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental delays. In addition to her volunteer hours, she is also collecting donations for items the school is need of.
Weddings Carolyn and Elliot Zisser, of Atlantic Beach joyfully announce the marriage of their daughter Alison Rebecca Zisser to Robert Aaron Nathenson, son of Richard Nathenson and the late Judy Apt Nathenson of blessed memory and stepson of Carol Nathenson, of Pittsburgh, Pa. The wedding was celebrated on Oct. 11, in Amelia Island. Rabbi Corey Helfand, of Foster City, Calif., a college Zisser & Nathenson friend of the bride and groom, officiated. Alison and Robert reside in Philadelphia where Alison is a clinical child psychologist at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Robert is completing his post-doctoral research fellowship at the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Tamara Haas and Ze’ev Zarzar were married, Wednesday Sept. 9 in Israel. The ceremony and reception took place at Beit Adromeda on the Mediterranean in Tel Aviv, Yaffo. The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Randall Haas of Jacksonville and the groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Zarzar of Nachlaot, Jerusalem. The bride is a Professional Organizer Haas and Zarzar and the groom is a Computer Engineer at Phoenix Insurance Company. Following a honeymoon in Thailand the couple will reside in Tel Aviv.
Sympathies … To the family of Florance Berman, who passed away Thursday, Sept. 24 at the age of 91. She is survived by her children, Rabbi Yisroel Berman, Rabbi Todd Berman, Rabi Marty Berman, Louise Levine and Shirley Jernigan as well as all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sept. 25 at the Evergreen Cemetery in the Jacksonville Jewish Center section, with Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum officiating. … To the family of Zelda Mandell, who passed away, Friday, Sept. 25 in Ontario. She is survived by her husband Irving Mandell, sister Marilynn (Ira) Goldfield, nephews David (Ann) Goldfield and Daniel (Michal) Goldfield-Sadot; daughters Robyn (Ted) Badner, Melissa (Trevor) Mehl and Lori (Renny) Correia; and six grandchildren. Funeral services were held Sept. 27, in Toronto. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Eugene Kornblum Fund at the Jacksonville Jewish Center.
… To the family of Simon Katz, who passed away Monday, Sept. 21 in Colorado. Katz is survived by his parents, David Katz and Kyna Katz; grandmother Libby Katz; Simon’s sister Clara; Aunt Terri (Robert) Wilsie; and Great-uncle Dr. Mark Mannis. Contributions in his memory may be sent to Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE). … To the family of Edna Maltz, who passed away Monday, Sept. 28 in Jacksonville at the age of 94. She is survived by her children Robbie Price, Carole (Larry) Ort, and Howard (Leah) Maltz; grandchildren, Lewis, Genna, and Michael; and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Oct. 2 in Miami. Contributions in her memory may be made to a charity of your choice. … To the family of Herbert Harris, who passed away Tuesday, Oct. 6. He was preceeded in death by his wife, Belle Markovitz Harris and is survived by his daughter, Sharon Harris Juhas; his son Robert (Paola) Harris, grandchildren, Vanessa Gross (Geoff), Blake Harris (Zane), Chase Harris (Adrienne), Lucas Harris and Marcus Harris; and great-grandchildren, Annabelle and Harris Gross, as well as Foley and Fargo Harris. Funeral services were held Oct. 8 at the Temple Cemetery at Evergreen, with Rabbi Joshua Lief officiating. The family requests that contributions in his memory be made to the Wounded Warrior Foundation, or the Jewish charity of your choice. … To the family of Elaine Lemberg, who passed away Saturday, Oct. 3 at the age of 90. She is survived by her daughters, Beverly (Harvey) Gutman, Myra D’Agostino and Phyllis (Curt) Resnick; nine additional grandchildren, including Steven Resnick, the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Director of Setzer Youth Education; as well as four greatgrandchildren. The funeral and shiva took place in New Jersey. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Dave & Elaine Lemberg Scholarship Fund, 1090 King George`s Post Road #304, Edison, N.J. 08837. … To the family of Joshua Perras, who passed away Thursday, Oct. 15. He is survived by his parents, Rabbi Gary Perras and Carol Perras, as well as his brothers, Avi and Doronne. Funeral services were held Oct. 19 at Beth Shalom Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions may be made to Chabad of Southside or the Huntington’s Disease Research Association.
To submit an item for lifecycles, please email it to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. Due date is the 6th of the month. For guidelines of how to write Bar/Bat Mitzvah, wedding or obituary announcements, go to jewishjacksonville.org/news under “Share your news.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
synagogue NEWS Etz Chaim Synagogue to host columnist Celebrating Simchat in style
Herb Keinon for its annual fall Shabbaton By Etz Chaim Synagogue
Etz Chaim Synagogue is proud to partner with AIPAC for its annual fall Shabbaton. The two’s growing collaboration is driven by their mutual desire to strengthen the security of Israel and enhance the U.S. - Israel Strategic Alliance. The Shabbaton is scheduled for Nov. 6-7 and the synagogue’s scholar in residence for the weekend is Herb Keinon, a diplomatic correspondent at the Jerusalem Post for the past quarter century. Keinon took over the diplomatic beat in August 2000, just after the failed Camp David summit, and just before the outbreak of the Palestinian violence in September of that year. In his role, he is responsible for covering the prime minister and the foreign minister, often traveling with the Prime Minister on his trips abroad. He has followed Ehud Barak to Paris, Ariel
Herb Keinon Sharon to Crawford, Texas, Ehud Olmert to Annapolis, and Binyamin Netanyahu to Washington. As such, Keinon has up-close knowledge and an intimate perspective of the country’s political, diplomatic and strategic challenges - from Hamas to Hizbullah, Kadima to Likud. In addition to these duties, which entails writing both news stories, features
Jacksonville Jewish Center launches new online portal
The JJC’s new online portal is a partnership with the Jvillage Network By Jacksonville Jewish Center
The Jacksonville Jewish Center is thrilled to announce the launch of its new online portal, jjcjax.org. The website is a partnership with the Jvillage Network as the synagogue is now able to better foster engagement between its current and future members, working to develop a more active, connected, and financially supportive community. The committee comprised of synagogue members, staff and clergy oversaw each detail of production of the new site and is thrilled with the outcome. “It was really important for us to work with a company that understood our audience,” said Committee member and JJC Program Coordinator, Falyn Shilts. “That’s’ because there is a great deal of information which needs to be part of a synagogue website to make it engaging and user friendly.”
Website users will find that it has an enhanced presence and provides members with up to date information for upcoming events, service times, and opportunities for synagogue involvement. It is also a gateway to information on Center offerings in education, social action, Jewish life, and Jewish resources. The mobile friendly site will help when members when they are in need of information or simply need to contact the synagogue at home or on the go. Thus far, the launch of the website has been well received and has created greater communication between the Synagogue, its members, and the community at large. The committee’s goal was to create a website to serve the Jacksonville Jewish community with an interactive medium utilizing a technological format. For more information check out the online portal at jjcjax.org or jvillagenetwork.com.
Jacksonville Jewish Center Sisterhood to hold mental illness panel discussion By Jacksonville Jewish Center Sisterhood
The Jacksonville Jewish Center Sisterhood in co-operation with RE:MIND will present ‘Hidden Family Stories’, Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 12 p.m. This program will be a candid conversation about the stigma and ulti-
mate treatment of mental illness. A panel discussion with Frieda Saraga, Kim Miller, and Gabrielle Magid will enlighten us on their personal stories. Please hold this date as there will be more details to follow in a formal invitation. For more information please call Beth Shorstein at 904-868-4400.
and analyses, Keinon also writes a popular monthly ‘Out There’ column on the trials and tribulations of life in Israel. In 2014, he published a new book, entitled ‘French Fries in a Pita,’ which is a collection of the these columns that have appeared in the Jerusalem Post over the past 25 years. Originally from Denver, Keinon has a BA in political science from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and an MA in journalism from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. He has lived in Israel for 30 years, is married with four children, and lives in Ma’ale Adumim, just outside of Jerusalem. There is no charge to attend the his presentations, as they are open to the entire Jewish community, but if you would like to participate in Shabbat dinner, please contact the synagogue office at 904-262-3565 to make a reservation.
Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple celebrated Simchat Torah in style early last month, with its Consecration Class of 5776
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
community news
Welcome to Kutsher’s Anti-Defamation League helps support Jacksonville Community documentary to make St. Augustine debut
BY REBECCA REJTMAN BENNETT ADL Consultant and Facilitator
Last month, the Jacksonville Jewish community engaged with Hava Holzhauer, Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Florida Regional Director who visited the area to share ADL’s mission and work and to learn first-hand about local issues and concerns. The effort helped inform people about ADL’s work and it demonstrated ADL’s commitment to serve and support the Jacksonville and North Florida communities. ADL was created over 100 years ago when anti-Semitism was rampant in the United States and abroad. Its founders realized that the fight against one form of prejudice could not succeed without battling prejudice in all forms. Therefore, its mission is twofold: to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure just and fair treatment to all. As a Jewish organization, it strives to create a better world by being a force for change and a shield against hate and extremism. ADL’s work is as diverse as the groups it protects. Efforts include -but are not limited to - drafting model hate crimes legislation that has been enacted in 45 states; monitoring and combatting global anti-Semitism and extremism; providing the police with vital information about hate groups and white supremacists; helping school communities ad-
Scan code to watch trailer on dress and combat bullying and cyber bulling; and educating and empowering individuals to recognize and stand up to anti-Semitism, anti-Israel activities, racism, bigotry and discrimination. Holzhauer shared this information and more with the community as she attended and spoke at local synagogues, participated in an intimate parlor meeting and gathered with local civil and human rights leaders. In addition, she led a program for college bound students and their parents, ‘Being Jewish on Campus: Are You Prepared?’, to provide information and tools if anti-Semitism and/or anti-Israel behaviors occur on their college campus. The community was thankful for Holzhauer’s visit and was reassured that the ADL is available to support individuals and groups in the community when needed. “Anti-Semitism is a disease that has not been eradicated and festers in all countries around the world and continues to put Jewish lives at risk,” beloved Jackson-
ville local, Evan J. Yegelwel said. Yegelwel has been a generous supporter of ADL and has been actively involved at the regional and national levels for more than 25 years. “When an American Jew is a victim of hate, ADL is the 911 number to call,” he added. Andrea Mail, a committed supporter of Israel, Jewish causes and the ADL, shared these sentiments, saying that “as a mother of three young girls, I am deeply worried about rising levels of anti-Semitism, racism and violence and, therefore, I am so grateful for the tireless work ADL does to address these issues.” Although ADL’s Florida office is located in Boca Raton, its reach goes far beyond the southern region, supporting all of the Sunshine State with staff and locals throughout the area. For more information about the AntiDefamation League, or if you are in need of assistance, please call the ADL Florida Regional Office at 561-988-2900 or go to www. adl.org.
Folks often come dressed up in their Catskills attire for screenings
BY ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director
After three previous screenings in and around Jacksonville, the award winning, Welcome to Kutsher’s documentary will be making its initial debut in St. Augustine, Sunday, Nov. 8, as Temple Bet Yam (2055 Wildwood Drive) will show the wildly popular film at 2 p.m., free of charge. The movie, which won ‘Best Documentary Audience Award’ at the Miami Jewish Film Festival, is about the last true Catskills resort has had two previous successful showings at River Garden and another one at Beth El – The Beaches, before heading down south to St. Augustine. Each outing has brought together people who spent their summers in the Catskills and enabled everyone to reminisce, reconnect and even make long lost connections from their previ-
ous experiences in the ‘Borscht Belt’. The showings are being sponsored by the Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville Division as well as River Garden Senior Services. For those who don’t know, Kutsher’s Country Club was the last surviving Jewish resort in the Catskills. One of the legendary Borscht Belt hotels during its heyday, it was family-owned and operated for more than 100 years. The Catskills resorts were not only a Jewish refuge and family vacation paradise, they also gave birth to American stand-up comedy, an NBA All-Star tradition, and all-inclusive resorts. This film brings to life how Kutsher’s thrived at the center of all this growth and excitement. Those wishing to attend the first St. Augustine screening can RSVP by calling 904-819-1875, or by e-mailing the synagogue directly at templebetyam@gmail. com.
acksonville
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
community news Ehud Barak in Jacksonville
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak came to Jacksonville last month as part of the annual Florida Forum speaker series.
Barak was the first of three prominent politicians and athletes to talk at the Times Union Center for the Performing Arts in order to benefit the Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015
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Jacksonville Jewish News • November 2015