LION HONORED Eunice Zisser to receive award at International Lion of Judah Conference.
SHALOM JAX Recent Meet and Greet events depicted page 9 in photos.
SUPER Super Sunday attracts more than 50 volunteers.
JEWISH NEWS Jacksonville
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River Garden Federation introduces new logos celebrates 68 years By SKIP WILLBACH River Garden
River Garden’s 68th Anniversary Day celebration will be held Sunday, March 23, from 3 to 6 p.m. Randy Kammer, River Garden Home board member, will chair the day, which has become a wonderful intergenerational community event. The afternoon will include musical entertainment by Beach Street Boogie, aka Dan and Viv; a barbecue; kiddie train rides; a bounce house; pony rides; clowns; face painting and wonderful desserts provided by the River Garden Auxiliary. Sharon Smith and Alice Sherman will serve as the auxiliary’s co-hostesses for the afternoon. In addition to the outdoor festivi-
FEDERATION
JEWISH
OF JACKSONVILLE
Women’s D I V I S I O N
See RIVER GARDEN, p. 13
JFCS holds annual event By Jewish Family & Community Services
More than 15,000 people a year receive services from Jewish Family & Community Services through one of our six core programs. Many people are surprised to know the range and depth of services that JFCS provides. JFCS’s work is dedicated to helping people help themselves by strengthening the ties in our community and building strong families.
rGEN O U R
G E N E R AT I O N
In collaboration with the Federation Communications Committee and with approval from the Federation Board, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville recently unveiled a new Federation logo and new subdivision logos. The Federation freshened up its logo
and created vibrant, eye-catching logos for Women’s Division, rGEN (formerly Young Leadership Division) and Shalom Jacksonville. Also included above is Israel Partnership’s logo, adopted with the new name a couple years ago. “We think this new look reflects the
extraordinary work that is happening every day of our staff and volunteers,” Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies said. “It is our hope that you will begin to identify with the new logos and graphics, and support this rebranding effort.”
8505 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32217
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See JFCS, p. 13
Spotlight: JCA brings Israel to Jacksonville By Jewish Community Alliance
The Jewish Community Alliance yearlong study seminar and directors’ trip to Israel marked the beginning of a new JCA initiative to enhance Jewish programming. After returning from Israel in December 2012, each director committed to create and implement a series of programs, activities and experiences relating to Israel and Jewish peoplehood. The goal was to harness their learning and bring their experience to members in a meaningful way, regardless demographic or interest. The result was JCA’s Discover Israel program series. “The motivation was to build bridges with Israel and allow our longtime department directors to become ambassadors, organically connecting our members to
See JCA, p. 13
page 2
Jacksonville Jewish News • March
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FEDERATION NEWS
Zisser honored at Lion of Judah Conference By ERIN COHEN
Women’s Division Director
I recently had the opportunity to interview Eunice Zisser for an award she is receiving in September at the International Lion of Judah Conference. Each community is encouraged to name one woman who exemplifies the spirit of the Lion of Judah by her proven commitment and dedication to her community to receive the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, named after Norma Wilson and Toby Friedland, the founders of the Lion of Judah program. For more information about registering for the ILOJC, please call 448-5000 x205. We would love to have a large Jacksonville contingency to honor and support Eunice. Q. How and when did you begin your involvement in the Jewish community? A. I have been active in the Jacksonville Jewish community for over 50 years. It all started when a group of women took me in and gave me five calls to make for the campaign. We raised $25,000 when it was unheard of to bring in that much money. The next thing I knew, we were at $50,000. The year we we received $1 million, it was mind-boggling! Q. You are an incredible role model for women in our community when it comes to showing the importance of philanthropy
Mark H. Kraus, CLU®, ChFC®, CASL® Financial Advisor, Registered Representative Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®) Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL®)
Focusing On:
Wealth Accumulation Strategies Investments & Annuities Retirement & Executive Benefit Planning Estate Conservation & Planning Strategies Life, Long-Term Care & Disability Care & Disability Insurance Life, Long-Term Business Succession Planning Charitable Giving & Legacy Planning
Eunice Zisser
“I can help you achieve your lifetime and legacy goals.”
and volunteerism. Did you have a mentor or role model for whom you credit your engagement? A. My mother, Rae Price. She always believed in tzedakah. She was very active in Hadassah and she volunteered at River Garden. She set a wonderful example for me and she always said “In some small way, we are all here to repair the world.” Q. What compels you to continue your charitable support and maintain continuous involvement and commitment to this community? A. You just can’t beat the work that is done by Federation. They truly take care of all the agencies. One step at a time, you begin to see good things come
See LION, p. 3
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2014
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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FEDERATION/COMMUNITY NEWS
Java: where new and old friends meet By ISABEL BALOTIN
Shalom Jacksonville Director
It would be so nice if you could join us for coffee and schmoozing in the pleasant and relaxed atmosphere of Village Bread Café, 1011 San Jose Blvd., Wednesday, March 5, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Meet newcomers and other friendly people and find out the latest happenings in the community. It doesn’t matter if you are a new to Jacksonville or if you are
newly interested in the Jewish community, everyone is invited to attend. As always, many newcomers attend our events along with long-time residents. Periodically a representative from one of our local Jewish agencies joins us, and we learn more about the wonderful work they do for our community. In addition, Shalom Jacksonville committee members are there to greet and engage new people in conversation and introduce them to others attend-
Partnership penpals
ing. Flyers and brochures for Jewish agencies and synagogues are always displayed for all to take home. For more information contact Isabel Balotin, 448-5000 ext. 206, or shalomjacksonville@ jewishjacksonville.org. Shalom Jacksonville is a program of the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville and is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida. Mark your calendars now for the first Wednesday of every month.
Community U 2014 says ‘L’Chaim’ By JEANINE HOFF rGEN Division Director
On March 9 the Jewish community will come together for what promises to be another fabulous morning of learning, socialization and celebration at Community University. The theme of this year’s program is “L’Chaim: To Life, Learning and Laughter – Celebrating 18 Years of Community University.” For the first time, Community
University “crowdsourced” presenter slots for the adult program allowing the opportunity for someone who’s never presented at Community University before or anyone who had a new and innovative idea to present it. Those interested in presenting submitted their idea to the Community University committee, which consisted of Jewish community lay leaders and professionals. In addition to the crowdsourced presenters, Community
University will again feature adult learning sessions presented by such favorites as Rabbi Lubliner, Rabbi Lief, Rabbi Fisch, Rabbi Matuson, Rabbi Olitzky, Rabbi Cohen and Hazzan Holzer. The morning, which is free and open to the Jewish community, will again have free babysitting with advanced online registration. Following the adult and children sessions, there will be a light Kiddush. Registration for the program is open through March 5.
Students from the JCA after-school program have become pen pals with some students from Hadera – our Israel Partnership Region in Israel. These students have sent their letters and are anxiously awaiting letters from their friends overseas.
Jax Jewish Singles
Scout Shabbat celebrates 104 years By HARRISON ANDREW Boy Scout Troop 14
On Feb. 8 Jewish Boy Scouts all across the United States celebrated Scout Shabbat, marking the 104th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. This year also marks the 95th anniversary of Troop 14 at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Scouts and troop leaders participated in services at the Center recognizing this special Shabbat. Troop 14 is particularly proud of Scout Corey Kreisel for winning the national design competition for this year’s Scout Shabbat patch. Over time Troop
14 has awarded 81 boys the highest Scout rank of Eagle, with the first being Aleazer Spevak in September 1927 and the most recent being Charles Pett in Au-
gust 2013. Each of these Eagle Scouts was required to complete a rigorous set of requirements culminating with an Eagle Scout Service project. Some examples of Eagle projects that have benefited our community are the fire pit in the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Beth Shalom Park, improvements to River Garden’s outdoor Memory Care unit and renovation of the basketball court at Daniel House. If you are interested in getting involved or learning more about Troop 14, contact troop leader, Allan Andrew, at aandrew@ alum.mit.edu or (904) 563-5261.
‘The Story of the Jews’ airs on WJCT By WJCT
Join WJCT for “The Story of the Jews with Simon Schama,” a five-part look at 3,000 years of Jewish history and the impact
LION
Continued from p. 2 of the contributions. Then, you take the next step. The gifts go far and your money is well taken care of at Federation. Q. What inspired you to create a LOJ Endowment? A. Looking into the future,
the Jews have made on the world. The series follows the noted historian, author and critic from Russia and the Ukraine to Egypt, Israel and Spain, exploring the
Jewish experience from ancient times to the present day. The critically acclaimed series airs on two nights, March 25 and April 1 at 8 p.m. on WJCT-TV (Comcast 8, 440).
I won’t be here, but Federation will live on because I made a decision to plan ahead. Like I always say, “You have to make plans while you can still laugh about it!” If more women endow their Lion pins, it helps to build a stronger community. Q. What words of advice do you have for other women who want to make a difference in
the Jewish community through philanthropic support, but may not know how to get started? A. Involve yourself with women who are doers – and bring along your friends! Offer to make some phone calls for the campaign. There are no words to describe the feeling you will have once you get involved.
Join the Jax Jewish Singles this month at Pattaya Thai, one of the oldest Thai restaurants in Jacksonville. Chef Soh keeps to traditional family recipes but has also adds a modern Thai twist to specialties learned from his many visits to Thailand. Contact Francine for date and time: 221-8061 or email francine. smith@comcast.net.
Artist Series presents Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons By Artist Series
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons bring their show to Jacksonville’s Times-Union Center’s Moran Theater on Wednesday, March 5, at 7:30 p.m. for one performance. Oh, what a story. Frankie Valli, who came to fame in 1962 as the lead singer of the Four Seasons, is hotter than ever in the 21st century. Thanks to the volcanic success of the Tony-winning musical Jersey Boys, which chronicles the life and times of
Thank you ... thank you ... thank you At the Jacksonville Jewish News, our advertisers are precious to us. It is with their support that the Jacksonville Jewish community has a newspaper. Advertising revenue also offsets the cost of production, so Federation dollars can be dedicated to helping Jews locally and overseas. Please continue to live generously and support our adverisers: • • • • •
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For your advertising needs, please contact advertising sales representative Barbara Nykerk at 904.733.4179 or Eta Perras at 904.629.0466.
Frankie and his legendary group, such classic songs as “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Rag Doll,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” are all the rage all over again. The real Frankie Valli is also packing venues around the world and has toured almost continuously since 1962. Tickets for Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons start at $42 and are available at the Artist Series Box Office between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, at (904) 442-BWAY (2929) and online 24/7 at www.artistseriesjax.org.
What’s inside Community................................. p. 3 Education.................................... p. 6 Federation ................................ p. 2 Jewish Family & Community Services.................................... p. 15 Jewish Community Alliance .... p. 14 Jewish Foundation................... p. 17 Lifecycles.................................. p. 18 Obituaries................................. p. 18 Perspectives............................... p. 4 River Garden............................. p. 16 Synagogues ............................. p. 12 Women’s..................................... p. 5
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PERSPECTIVES
Jacksonville
JEWISH NEWS Diane Rodgers, Communications Director 904.448.5000, ext. 212 Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock Federation President Hal Resnick Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies
8505 San Jose Blvd. • Jacksonville, FL 32217 The Jacksonville Jewish News is published monthly. All submitted content becomes the property of the Jacksonville Jewish News. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of the Jacksonville Jewish News or its publisher, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Jewish News is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product advertised. Copy deadlines: All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 6th of each month, and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org. Ad deadlines: All ads must be received by the 15th of each month, and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org in PDF format.
Give the Purim gift of self-worth By RABBI JOSHUA LIEF Congregation Ahavath Chesed
P
urim is coming and with it fun and revelry, graggers and hamentaschen, carnivals and costumes. As we dress up as our favorite Purim characters, we allow ourselves the freedom to be silly, daring, crazy and even risqué. After all, it’s Purim: a joyous time of celebration at our salvation from potential annihilation, for which some sages suggest we should be so taken in by the party as to forget ourselves and our troubles, be they the past troubles of Mordecai and Esther, or the troubles of our modern daily lives. As whom will you dress up this year? As whom will you dress your children? Mordecai and Ahasueras, Esther and Vashti, Bigthan, and Teresh, Haman and Zeresh: All provide an opportunity to be someone we’re not: heroes or villains, kings and queens, dressed up and acting the part. Would that it were only on Purim when we put on a costume. How many of us wear a costume each and every day? How many of us hide part of who we are in order to color another person’s perception of ourselves? How many of us refrain from speaking out against injustice for fear of causing trouble? How many of us downplay our commitment to an important cause in order to fit in to a larger crowd? How many of us go along to get along, going and going and going until we’ve lost sight of where we began, and unsure of whom we’ve become?
As Jews, we are obligated to be true to ourselves and to our God. Each of us is made in the Divine image, regardless of race, religion, age or orientation, and each of us should be proud of who we are. Loving our neighbors as ourselves demands that we love ourselves, as well. Is the you who you portray each day who you really are? Are you honest with yourself and those around you about your needs, wants, hopes and dreams? Can you define for yourself who you are and who you hope to be? Are you on your way to becoming that person? If so, congratulations on an impressive accomplishment. If not, don’t wait until Yom Kippur to take time for reflection and change. At Purim we celebrate deliverance from destruction and celebrate the joy of life. Joy shouldn’t be reserved for a party, or require a disguise for its actualization. Celebrate the joy of living, the joy of making a difference in the lives of others, the joy of transforming the world by your very presence in it each and every day. This Purim, don’t just send gifts of food to your friends; give yourself, and those you love, the gift of selfworth. Then, and only then, will the triumph of Esther be fulfilled; when we need not hide who we are on the inside, when we can speak up and speak out, when we can live in freedom and in peace, and can share such joy with others. Becca, Leah, Ellie and I wish you and your family a happy and joyous Purim, and happiness and joy on all other days, as well.
Dzialynski family arrives in Jacksonville By HAZEL MACK
Special to the Jewish News
H
e was 13 years of age when he left his home in Posen, Prussia, and came to America. An educated young man, speaking eight languages, young Philip Dzialynski found his way to Jacksonville. Starting out as a peddler, he soon opened a business. By 1854 Philip had saved enough money to send for his family. Arriving first in New York, Philip’s mother was too ill to travel and died from an illness she contracted onboard ship. Father Abram; four brothers, Morris, John, Henry and Jacob; and three sisters, Johanna, Dora and Augusta left New York to start their new life in Jacksonville. Helena stayed on in New York, and wed Robert Williams in 1855. Shortly after, they moved to Hamilton County, Fla., where Baby Rachelle, the first Jewish girl in the state was born. They later moved to Savannah during the time Sherman’s army occupied the city. In Jacksonville the younger Dzialynski children, including Morris, attended the town’s common schools, while Philip and his father supported the family, likely by peddling. Philip married Ida Erlich in 1856 and, in 1857 George was born, the first Jewish boy born in Florida. A daughter, Regina or “Jennie”, followed within two years. Sisters Hannah, Helena and Dora also married during the family’s early years in Jacksonville. The year 1857 was a grim year for Jacksonville. A yellow fever epidemic swept the city and many lives were lost, including Abram Dzialynski and two sons, Henry and Jacob. As there was no Jewish cemetery, the city gave a portion of the city cemetery to the Hebrew Benevolent Society.
JACKSONVILLE’S JEWISH HISTORY
RABBINICALLY SPEAKING
Philip Dzialynski
George and Regina, first children of Philip Dzialynski This cemetery became the first Jewish cemetery in Florida. By 1860 Philip Dzialynski had amassed a considerable fortune, and with the opening of the long-awaited rail connection in the interior of the state, he moved his family to Madison, which was part of middle Florida’s plantation belt. By the time the first train arrived there on July 4, 1860, Philip had opened a general merchandise store. After the 1860 presidential election, secessions sentiments raged in the South. The people of Madison quickly set about organizing Confederate volunteer companies. One was Company G of the Third Florida Infantry known as the Madison Grey Eagles. Among the first to enlist in its ranks was 20-year-old Morris Dzialynski. In his first battle as a Confederate soldier at Perryville, Ky., he was wounded severely. After his convalescence, he fought at Murphreesboro, Tenn., but his wounds prevented his continuing to remain in the field, and he was detailed in the blockade running between Indian River and Nassau. Philip remained in Madison, but when his wife Ida died in childbirth, he moved his family to Savannah where he went into business with Julius Slager. He later married Mary Cohen. As brother Philip established himself at Savannah, Morris returned to a war-devastated Jacksonville. Shortly after, he married Rosa Slager. Within a year their only child, Rosalie, was born, and the family settled into an increasingly prosperous life in the place that quickly became Florida’s most dynamic and important city. Much has been written about the Dyzialinski men, but there’s much to be said about the Dzyalinski women. Next month we will explore this side of the family.
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WOMEN’S NEWS
River Garden Auxiliary hosts two events
Temple Sisterhood’s women’s seder helps Hubbard House By Temple Sisterhood
Lou and Evelyn want you to win By River Garden Auxiliary
Spring is almost here, and that means two big events are around the corner for the River Garden Auxiliary. Mark your calendars for the Special Event, co-chaired by Rhoda Goldstein and Ilana Manasse, on May 8 at the Jacksonville Marriott Hotel. This will be the 18th year for the Special Event, and this year’s theme, “A Taste of the Caribbean,” is sure to make the day one of the most memorable. A live Latin band will keep you moving to the beat while you enjoy lunch, a fashion show with auxiliary members as the models, and a fabulous silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind items and gift certificates from local restaurants
and businesses. Call Rhoda at 2688124 for additional information. Don’t miss your opportunity to win the annual Tombola Raffle. The drawing for the big prize will be Sunday, March 23, at the River Garden Anniversary Day. Lou and Evelyn Meisel are again chairs of this annual fundraiser, and they want this year to be the biggest ever, so be sure to buy your tickets. Contact them at 288-7051 so that you don’t miss out. The River Garden Auxiliary members work to financially support River Garden Senior Services and its programs, and volunteer thousands of hours to help provide for the needs of the residents. All monies raised by the auxiliary are returned to River Garden to enhance the lives of the residents.
Hadassah honors past presidents By Jacksonville Hadassah
Jacksonville Hadassah hosted a Chai Tribute Luncheon on Jan. 13 that celebrated almost 90 years of Jacksonville history and honored past presidents of the Jacksonville Chapter of Hadassah. The event was held at Enza’s Restaurant. Liat Walker, Chapter PRAZE Vice President, chaired the event and provided a program that gave an overview of Jacksonville Hadassah’s history from its original charter in 1925
to today. Current President Leah Ben-Yehuda presented pins and congratulated the 20 past chapter and group presidents in attendance. The chapter has collected a great deal of photographs and other memorabilia, which has been archived at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Jacksonville Hadassah raised over $1,500 for the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem. Thank you to all who generously donated their time and money to make this event a success.
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Come help us celebrate the life of Rabbi Julie Spitzer through song, dance and food at Temple’s Women of Reform Judaism’s Annual Women’s Seder. The 21st Annual Women’s Seder will take place on Thursday, April 3, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $18. Girls between the ages of 8 and 12 are $9. Additional contribution levels are: $36 (patron), $54 (angel), $72 (Rachel) and $108 (Miriam). When Rabbi Julie Ringold Spitzer published her groundbreaking book, “When Love Is Not Enough: Spousal Abuse in Rabbinic and Contemporary Judaism,” in 1995, she exposed the myth that domestic abuse does not happen among Jews. Spitzer was born in Jacksonville, and graduated from Wolfson High School and University of Florida. She received her Masters of Hebrew letters, Masters of Jewish education and her ordination from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute
Laurie Simmons in Cincinnati. “Because of her passion for ending domestic violence, WRJ Temple Sisterhood chose to dedicate its annual women’s seder in her memory,” said Celeste Danos, past-president of WRJ Temple Sisterhood. “The proceeds from our women’s seder are donated to Hubbard House. To date, those donations total over $60,000.” Hubbard House, a comprehensive domestic violence
center was the first domestic violence center in Florida, established in 1975. “As a social worker, I understand the devastating effects that domestic violence has on women, families and society,” said Goldie Lansky, executive director of Congregation Ahavath Chesed. “I am heartened that through this seder, we can help realize Rabbi Spitzer’s dream of ending domestic violence in our community.” A light vegetarian fare will be served. Bring yourself, your mothers, daughters and any other special women in your life to help us honor l’dor v’dor – from generation to generation. Seating is limited. RSVP by March 27. Mail or drop your check payable to Temple Sisterhood at the Temple office, 8727 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32217. Contact Event Chair Ellen Wheeler at egwheeler@ bellsouth.net or Laurie Simmons at legsimmons@gmail.com for more information.
Hadassah attends comedy performance By Jacksonville Hadassah
The members and associates of Jacksonville Hadassah invite you to attend a benefit performance of Neil Simon’s classic comedy, “I Ought to be in Pictures,” starring Richard Karn of TV’s Home Improvement. Join us on Thursday, March 13, at the Alhambra Dinner Theatre, 12000 Beach Blvd., for a fun and fabulous evening
of cocktails, dinner and theatre. The reception and silent auction begin at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Payment in advance is preferred, as seating is limited and tickets may not be available at the door. Tickets are $65 each ($125 for two) and include gratuities. Contact Susan Sidle at (904) 221-4632 for additional information. Your donation to Jacksonville
Hadassah will help further the vision and mission of Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization, through its crucial medical research, healing and education. Hadassah also provides at-risk Israeli youth with the opportunity to become productive and proud citizens, and enables Jewish American youth the opportunity to establish lifelong connections to Israel (see more at www.hadassah.org).
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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EDUCATION
Michele Block Gan Yeladim celebrates 40 years with Trout Fishing By MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool celebrates 40 years of operation this year. Last month, to celebrate the special occasion, the school hosted a kick-off party with guest musical act Trout Fishing in America. The JCA auditorium was packed with people that came out to celebrate the school’s milestone birthday. Guests included current students and families as well as school alumni. For some guests Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool has been a part of their
family for generations. Several former students now have children enrolled in the preschool. Trout Fishing in America, a musical duo that performs folk rock and children’s music, includes musician Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet. The two have been performing and recording together since 1979. “It was a perfect fit because Trout Fishing in America has been around for about as long as Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool,” said Early Childhood Education Director Theresa Levy. “Some of these parents grew up listening to their music, and their children are now listening to it.
They’ve maintained their status with listeners across generations.” Trout Fishing in America has been nationally recognized and awarded for its family friendly music. Honors include three national Indie Awards, several Parents Choice awards and four Grammy Award nominations for Best Musical Album for Children. As the year presses on, stay tuned for more events to celebrate Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool’s 40th birthday. If you are an alumnus and interested in helping out, contact Theresa Levy at 730-2100 ext. 237 or Rochelle Golomb at ext. 259.
Treating others with kindness
Enjoying a busy, noisy month
By RONNI TICKER
Congregation Ahavath Chesed
G’milut Chasadim, treating others with acts of loving kindness, is a very important value at Temple Institute of Religion. On a Sunday morning in February, Temple partnered with Rachel Weinstein of Jewish Family & Community Services on a program for our third- and fourth-grade students on how to recognize and combat bullying. The students learned the characteristics of the types of people involved in bullying as well as steps to become an upstander, someone who rallies around the victim, tells a bully to stop, and when necessary, gains the help of an adult. After sharing their stories of being bullied or witnessing bullying, the students did role playing on some of the common places bullying occurs such as the school bus and the playground. A Temple Institute of Religion fifth-grade student, Courtney Oko, has taken the lead at Julington Creek Elementary by starting a Bully Busters Club. Courtney was inspired by Lee Kaplan’s play, “Bully,” and approached the principal of her school, Mike Story. “I saw a logical connection to our program Character Counts! I deputized Courtney and her friends to take this step forward
By DuBow Preschool
From left: Courtney Oko, Rachel Weinstein from JFCS, Johanna Abrams and Hannah Swota and talk about anti-meanness measures in the school,” Story said. Courtney and her friends researched what a bully looks like, the different types of bullies and gave the students tools to use when someone is mean and makes you feel uncomfortable. Courtney and a friend worked with a firstgrade class in the school coaching the younger ones. Story plans to have the girls coach other classes, too. Scott and Lynn Oko, Courtney’s parents, shared that they are “so proud of their daughter
MJGDS students partner with South African company to create Purim app By HANNAH G.
MJGDS Eighth Grader
The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School has partnered with South African company, Jewish Interactive, to create video games all about the Jewish holiday, Purim. The Middle School created several interactive video games over the past five months. One was recently selected to be coded by Jewish Interactive and can now be downloaded from the iTunes store. The game, “Whack A Haman,” was created to make learning about Purim fun. Every Middle School student learned the steps on how to create a video game from start to finish. Students were assigned jobs including art director, audio engineer, quality control and project manager. Before the game was built, there were many steps the students had to accomplish. They had to first research Purim
and find out more facts than they already knew. They had to come up with game concepts and create a storyboard. The students had to write scripts to explain the steps and rules of the game, record sounds, and design the graphics. All the steps were prepared on a Google Doc that was shared with Jewish Interactive so that the company could be a part of the process. Students are working on the final step: marketing their app. They are calling local news stations, tweeting about it on Twitter, creating flyers to advertise the game and brainstorming on additional ways to market the “Whack A Haman” app. For more information, visit the Jewish Interactive school blog here: http://mjgds.org/classrooms/ jewishinteractive/ or contact Martin J. Gottlieb Day School at 904.268.4200 (ext. 148).
and all of her efforts toward starting the Bully Buster Program. She has put in countless hours of work and research after being inspired by Lee Kaplan’s production of ‘Bully.’” We are proud of Courtney, too.
The celebration of Purim at the Dubow Preschool is noisy, colorful and delicious. We shout (rash, rash, rash!) and shake homemade groggers whenever we hear Haman’s name during the creative Megillah reading. We wear costumes as varied as our favorite princess to our favorite bad guy. And we bake yummy hamentashen shaped just like Haman’s three-cornered hat with straw-
berry and/or chocolate filling. Our theme of the month is gemilut hasadim or acts of loving kindness. Annually, our Parparim classes perform this mitzvah when we visit residents at River Garden and bring them a freilich, joyful, taste of Purim. We put a smile on everyone’s face as we march through the halls in our Purim costumes, shaking our groggers and sharing creative (paper) hamentashen with our older friends.
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
page 7
www.jewishjacksonville.org
EDUCATION
Temple supports FANN By RONNI TICKER
Congregation Ahavath Chesed
When Terryl Lewis Speer enrolled Faith and Dawn in Temple Institute of Religion, the religious school of Congregation Ahavath Chesed, she sent them with tzedakah money and a can of food, as she had done when she was a child. “Temple was a second home for my sisters and me growing up,” says Terryl. “Every time we came, we brought in change for tzedakah and a can of food. It is good for my daughters to participate in caring for others,” continued Terryl. “My parents did and gave, it was just what we did, too.” Sara Branly, a seventh-grade student at TIR, feels the same way. Sara made weekly contributions
to Feed a Needy Neighbor, her tzedek (righteousness) project and part of her B’nei Mitzvah requirements at Temple. “I want to support FANN because I know how important it is to ‘feel full’ and I want to encourage my fellow students to help those less fortunate.” When Sara learned that the first grade was studying hunger as part of its G’milut Chasadim (acts of loving kindness) curriculum, she asked to get involved. “I felt good that I wouldn’t have to do this alone,” said Sara. On a recent Sunday, Sara visited the first-grade class and helped them make posters to raise awareness about hunger throughout the school and the Temple. First-grade teacher Rochelle Miller welcomed Sara’s participation. “Sara is really helping the students understand
that there are people who need help, and they can help them. Sara is great in the classroom. She is closer to their age and they look up to her.” The students visited Winn-Dixie in Lakewood to shop for food with their class Tzedakah money and learned how WinnDixie helps feed the hungry in Jacksonville. Sara said, “We have made a lot of progress. The first graders have made it their responsibility to keep the food collection box full. And their actions have reminded their older sisters and brothers that they should help, too. As Jews, we know the value of giving, especially when people are less fortunate and we can help to keep them alive.” Sara, Terryl and the first graders at TIR are working hard to do just that.
Feed a Needy Neighbor is the Jewish Family & Community Services’ program that provides food for the hungry year-round. Since no one succeeds on an empty stomach, JFCS collects nonperishable food for the Winn-Dixie
Food Pantry, open to all our needy neighbors in Jacksonville. Everyone can help. Whenever you come to Temple, bring some canned food. Temple is always working to help keep the JFCS Winn-Dixie Food Pantry shelves full.
MJGDS students take first place Block Gan partners with symphony By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
The Daughters of American Revolution National Society holds a contest each year open to students in public, private and parochial schools, and registered home-study programs. The American History Essay Contest was established to encourage young people to think creatively
about our nation’s great history and learn about history in a new light. Students in grades 5 through 8 are encouraged to participate. Essays are judged for historical accuracy, adherence to the topic, organization of materials, interest, originality, spelling, grammar, punctuation and neatness. Martin J. Gottlieb Day School is thrilled to announce that MJGDS students took first place in grades 6, 7 and 8. Congratulations to Jamie Bielski, first place winner in sixth grade; Jake Gould and Lily Hernandez, tied for first place winners in seventh grade; and Sabrina Mail, first place winner in eighth grade.
Purim Festival set at the Center By Galinsky Academy
The Galinsky Academy PTA at the Jacksonville Jewish Center announces plans for this year’s Purim festival. The festivities will take place at the Center on Sunday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This year entertainment will include games and bounce houses for all ages, raffles, an art
auction, horse and pony rides, live band entertainment and a costume contest for kids and adults. Cost per family is $18 presale and $25 at the door. Wristbands will be required for entry and will go on sale March 3. In addition, Margo’s Catering will be selling pizza lunch and other treats. The Purim Festival is a fundraiser benefiting the Galinsky Academy PTA.
By MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool
Students are learning about the orchestra this season at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool. For two weeks in January chamber ensembles from Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra performed educational in-house concerts. These concerts are a part of an ongoing partnership between Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Prior to the concerts students spend time preparing by studying music and instruments. The halls outside the classrooms are donned with full-sized diagrams of trombones and double basses, and each classroom is decorated with colorful pictures of oboes and violins. This winter, when
the musicians arrived to perform, students were delighted to see live versions of all the instruments they had studied. The first concert, by the Jacksonville Symphony String Quartet, included a musical setting to the story, “Mole Music,” by David McPhail. The following week students learned about the most colorful section of the orchestra with the Symphony Woodwind Quintet. Finally, the
Symphony Brass Quintet performed a repertoire to showcase their powerful sound. “Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool’s partnership with the Jacksonville Symphony provides students with a rare opportunity to have up-close exposure to worldclass musicians. Their understanding of the art form solidifies when, instead of just hearing recordings, they are seeing the music performed live, only feet away from them,” said Rochelle Golomb, Michele Block Gan Yeladim assistant director. “It’s a unique experience and perhaps will inspire some of our students to pursue further music studies.”
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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EDUCATION
Souper Bowl
DuBow PS plans social, learning classes days. We will meet March 9 and March 30 at 11:15 a.m. Family Music & Movement Class: This is a fun, interactive music and movement class, led by Emily Carpenter, and held each Wednesday at the DuBow Preschool. Class is comprised mainly of ages 6 months to 2 year olds but is open for birth to 5 years old. More information is available at www.familymusicandmovement.com or on Facebook. Sundays at the Playground: This is a playgroup for Shalom Baby, Doobonim and Kofim children and their families at the DuBow Preschool playground. Please RSVP to the office at rsvp@dubowpreschool.org to ensure we have enough food. Next meeting is March 16, 9:30-
By SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
Michele Block Gan Yeladim kindergarten students participated in the Souper Bowl of Caring in January. This event was run in partnership with Jewish Family & Community Services’ Feed a Needy Neighbor program. Students visited the food bank and helped sort the canned items they collected. Michele Block Gan Yeladim kindergarten students collected nearly 500 canned goods and fed about 75 families as a result of their efforts.
What is there to do for families with babies and toddlers? Lots! At the DuBow Preschool, we have several activities planned each month, open to all families in the community. A family does not need to be enrolled at the preschool or be a member of the Center. These activities are meant to bring families together to socialize, play and build friendships. So, what do we have going on? Shalom Baby: This is our free playgroup that meets at the preschool twice a month. Come join us for music, storytime, play, crafts, parent chats and to celebrate Shabbat and the holi-
11 a.m. Gan Shabbat: This is a fun, interactive Shabbat program for families and their 1- to 5-yearolds every Saturday at 11 a.m. Monthly special activities: Every month we have special activities. In February many of our families enjoyed a Royal Shabbat Dinner. All the princesses and pirates of the land were in attendance. In March, all are invited to come to Community University on March 9 and Purim Carnival on March 16. For details about all these programs and what to expect in the coming months, visit the Parent Portal on our website at www.dubowpreschool.org or call Shereen Canady at 2684200 ext. 143.
Preschool and MJGDS share an afternoon By SHEREEN CANADY
man in the big gym or outdoors for a structured P.E. class. On Tuesdays the children put on their aprons for cooking class. On Wednesdays they are off to the library for a great story time with librarian Mrs. Halit. Some of our VPK students have begun the Accelerated Reader program in the library, and we will be adding more to the reader’s
DuBow Preschool
A favorite part of the afternoon for our 3– to 5-year-olds is attending classes at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School. Each afternoon, they learn and enjoy a resource class led by the day school specialty teachers. On Mondays they meet Coach Gold-
group as the year progresses. On Thursdays, they explore all types of art media in Mrs. Gutterman’s art studio. On Fridays, Mr. Susman takes out his guitar and leads them in song and dance. These programs, along with an additional playground time, story time, center play time and small group instruction, makes for a busy, enriching experience.
Berman family brings world-class musicians to Michele Block Gan Yeladim By MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool
Purim sparks fun with PJ Library By SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
Students always look forward to storytime with Ms. Ilene Schinasi of PJ Library. In March, Henny Fisch’s class from the Torah Academy and Janet Kriss’ Parparim class from the DuBow Preschool will meet to listen to “Cakes & Miracles,” a Purim story by Barbara Diamond Goldin. Purim is approaching and Hershel, the only blind boy in the village, wishes he could help his mother prepare hamantashen for the holiday. If only I could see, he thinks, I could help my mother more. That night, Hershel dreams of a winged angel descending a sparkling ladder. She says, “Make what you see. You see when you close your eyes. You see in your
dreams.” With new courage, Hershel learns to trust his dream and creates something more beautiful than anyone in the whole village can imagine. After reading the story, the children will talk about the lesson Hershel learned and share how they help their own families. They will make noisy tambourines, in time for Purim. The Parparim will say todah (thank you) to Morah Henny’s class, their gracious hosts. And the visit will end with a delicious snack, smiles and Shalom. The children and teachers look forward to their next visit with Ms. Ilene and each other, scheduled for Lag B’Omer. To learn more about PJ Library, contact Ilene Schinasi at ischinasi@jfcsjax.org, or visit http://pjlibrary.org.
Why choose a Jewish early childhood program By DuBow Preschool
You and your child will be inspired by an environment where: • intellectual development and curiosity are highly valued • your child will be ready to enter any learning environment with a love of learning and readiness to discover • your child will develop a strong Jewish identity while flourishing in a safe, healthy, and educationally enriched environment • the school’s staff, as well as
the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s clergy and other professionals, will be responsive to your family’s concerns and questions • your family will build friendships and celebrate together with other families Each child brings a unique blessing into the world. The warm, caring environment at the DuBow Preschool nurtures that blessing and helps it flourish. Teach children in the way they should go, and they will not stray from it even when they get older. Proverbs 22:6
In January Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool students had a special opportunity to meet world-class musician Cicely Parnas. Thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family, each year the JCA Cultural Arts Department hosts musicians from Young Concert Artists, a nonprofit organization that discovers and launches the careers of exceptionally talented young musicians. From January to March the JCA hosts three different concerts by winners of the Young Concert Artists International Auditions. The performers play a free concert that is open to the community, as well as a concert exclusively for Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool students
the next morning. Cellist Cicely Parnas was the first in this year’s series. Parnas won the Young Concert Artists International Auditions in 2012. She and her accompanist Noreen Cassidy-Polera presented
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www.jewishjacksonville.org
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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EDUCATION
JPlay Clay Day at Block Gan set By MOLLY SWEET
Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool
Mark your calendars for the next Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool JPlay Clay Day with local award-winning potter Tim Bullard. Families will spend the morning enjoying a hands-on introduction
to clay with opportunities to see, feel and experience the tactile benefits of this natural material. Research shows that several developmental benefits emerge from playing with clay. The tactile and visual feedback of handling clay generates new neurons and synapses in the brain of a young child. The kneading action involved with clay also develops small and large muscles in the hand and arm, and promotes hand-eye coordination. On a philosophical level, clay is a unique material that allows for immediate realization and materialization of objects from the imagination. Clay gives a child the freedom to create a tangible object from the vision of something that was once intangible. Join us on Sunday, March 23, at 10:30 a.m. for this morning of creative play, which will include a family breakfast. The fee per family is $10 for JCA members and $15 for nonmembers. For more information call Rochelle Golomb at 730-2100 ext. 259.
UNF includes MJGDS program on the College of Education syllabus By Martin J. Gottlieb Day School
MJGDS Middle School students have been invited to the University of North Florida to showcase their speed geeking skills with the students in the College of Education. After the success of the speed geeking session at edJEWcon, the 21st Century Learning Conference hosted by the Day School for the past two years, UNF saw the value in bringing in MJGDS students to “teach” UNF education students. Speed geeking is based on the idea of speed dating, in which people get to know/learn about many different people in a short amount of time. Each student, aka geek, has five minutes to share their chosen tool, program or framework that they, as students, use at school to create and demonstrate evidence of their learning. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions before the five minutes are up, and they then move to the next table to learn from another
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MJGDS student. The Day School students interested in participating in the geek team were asked to submit a proposal/outline to demonstrate knowledge and teaching skills of a tool, app, program or device. Once the proposal was accepted, the geek was asked to prepare a flyer and guide (tutorial) to support his/her presentation
during the speed geeking session. The presentation will be handed out to the college students during their five minutes. Students will practice with their teacher and each other to prepare for the speed geeking debut at UNF on April 2. MJGDS is so proud of these students who will be representing our Jewish Day School at UNF.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
page 11
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EDUCATION
DuBow Preschool offers a peek at our week in VPK By SHEREEN CANADY DuBow Preschool
What does a week in the DuBow Preschool VPK look like? Here is a behind the scenes look at one week in Ms. Lisa Zavon and Ms. Gabrie Margol’s classroom: The book of the week was “Why Write.”. The children explored a variety of reasons why one writes including: making lists for the grocery store; writing letters to say thank you or a greeting on a card to say hello; and signing their signature on the daily sign-in chart. They talked about some of their favorite authors, and then authored their own class story. They continued word work, matching lowercase letters to uppercase letters, sorting words that all begin with the same beginning sounds and brainstorming words that rhyme. Tuesday marked the 100th day of school, and they celebrated in grand style. The children came dressed like they were 100 years old. There were some very creative costumes. The students also brought in great collections that they carefully counted out, each bag contained 100 items: fruit loops, M&Ms, stickers,
shells and more. They all made a 100th day hat and wore it as the class took a video of everyone jumping 100 times, whew, that was hard! Everyone loves the math center. Sorting and classifying items like pennies, quarters, fruits and shapes is one of their favorite tasks. Using markers and stickers to create bar graphs is one of the visual ways they shared their data this week. On Thursday they visited Mrs. Yegelwel’s kindergarten class at MJGDS. Soon they will be moving up, and their visits to the big school help make the transition a smooth one. Everyday our VPK kids love attending their special morning resources. On Monday they went to the Discovery Studio, where they have been learning about electricity. They used play dough, a battery and a light bulb to create a circuit. The kids were excited when the lights came on. In Jewish studies, Morah Rachel and Morah Miriam introduced the story of David and Goliath. The children created stick puppets and retold the story to their buddies. They sang with Ms. Zina and danced with Coach Rebecca. On Friday, they
JELF loan applications available March 1 Jewish Educational Loan Fund, in partnership with Jewish Family & Community Services, provides interest-free loans for students in the Southeast who wish to begin post-secondary education (college, graduate school, vocational and professional courses). These applications will be available to Jewish students for the 2013-2014 school year from the Jewish Educational Loan Fund. The loan application will be available March 1 – April 15 on JELF’s website at www.jelf.org. JELF loans are need-based and offer last-dollar financing, meaning that JELF provides the final dollars that bridge the gap between a student’s total financial resources and the cost of attending school. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a program leading to a degree or certificate at an accredited institution that is located in the United States, be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and be able to demonstrate financial need (FAFSA application required). For more information, contact Renie Levin, local JELF administrator at Jewish Family & Community Services at rlevin@ jfcsjax.org or visit www.jelf.org.
marched with their teachers and Hazzan Holzer to the chapel for their weekly Shabbat celebration. This class is the Full Day Preschool group, so after lunch the learning and fun continues. Their favorite time of the afternoon is going to MJGDS for their
second resource class of the day. This week Coach Goldman took the group outside to play on the basketball courts. Ms. Karin read “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” Music class with Mr. Susman lately has been spent learning patriotic songs, and they painted
in the art studio. This is just a mini glimpse of what this group did last week. To learn more, visit the Tzeeporim blog in the Parent Portal on our website at www.dubowpreschool. org or call Shereen Canady to set up a tour at 268-4200 ext. 143.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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SYNAGOGUE NEWS
Series: Meeting with God By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
Matthew Cohen, before he was ordained Rabbi Matthew Cohen, was searching for a thesis topic. He met with the professor he had selected as his thesis adviser with no particular subject in mind. He told him he wanted to focus his thesis on Rabbi Cohen liturgy because he had acquired two shelves worth of books on the subject, yet he had never found the time to study them. And thus a
thesis topic was borne. Cohen spent the next year reading, learning and developing new understandings of the daily Amidah. “While it is not common practice for reform Jews to pray on a daily basis, this project sheds light on the Jewish prayer experience and gives one a good place to start. As a result of my work,” Cohen explains, “I have found my own prayer experiences to be more meaningful and relevant to my spiritual and everyday life.” Cohen will lead a three-part learning series: Making the Most of our Meeting with God – Explorations of Prayer and the Daily Amidah on three consecutive Tuesday evenings in March
(March 4, 11 and 18) at 7 p.m. at The Temple. Cohen will explore the themes, development and engagements of the prayers that comprise the Amidah. In the third and final session, class participants will be encouraged to craft their own prayers, which will be used as part of Temple’s Shabbat worship on March 21. Cohen explains that his purpose while writing his thesis, “was to help make prayer more accessible and meaningful to the pray-ers. I am hopeful that learning together is one more step in realizing that vision.” No prior knowledge is expected and the community is welcome to participate.
Mental health top priority at interfaith assembly
By NAN KAVANAUGH Jacksonville Jewish Center
The Jacksonville Jewish Center and its Rodef Tzedek committee recently joined ICARE, an interfaith coalition dedicated to pursuing social justice within our community. This will be the first time in ICARE history that the Jewish faith is represented. On April 7 we need your presence as a member of the Jewish community to represent our faith at the Nehemiah Assembly. At
the assembly thousands of people of faith will gather to present to our mayor and other officials ICARE’s research and solutions on our next social justice issue, mental health. We all know someone who suffers from mental illness, and yet public resources for treatment and education are scarce at best. Please join us as we ask the mayor to partner with ICARE to identify mental health needs in Jacksonville. Several other issues will be addressed: jobs, juvenile
justice and education equality. Last year’s assembly drew over 2,000 people, who put pressure on the mayor, the superintendent of schools, the Sheriff’s Office, and the State Attorney’s Office. This year will be even larger. The Nehemiah Assembly will be hosted at The Potter’s House International Ministries at 5119 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205. Doors open at 6:15. Please contact Kim Glasgal or Rabbi Olitzky at 268-4200 for more information about this event.
Center opens adult education library By Jacksonville Jewish Center
Have you ever wondered what to do with the Jewish newspapers and magazines you’ve already read? The Center Adult Education Committee has an answer. You can bring them to the borrowone-return-one section of our Adult Library, located in the Jaffe Conference Room in Jacksonville
Jewish Center. Leave them in the new Adult Library, and we’ll do the rest. And don’t forget to borrow books or look for newspapers and magazines that you’d like to read.
Center missing Schottenstein Talmud When we were putting our set of the Schottenstein Talmud back
on the shelves, we discovered that several volumes were missing. A call to the donor, whose book plate is in each book, confirmed that he did not have them. If you have any Schottenstein Talmud books, check in the front or back for a book plate that doesn’t have your name. You can just leave it at the reception desk or on the table in the library.
Sharing time
Students in the Temple Bet Yam Religious School recently buried a time capsule that was filled with photos, a list of each child’s favorite things, and their wishes for the future. Joan Guglielmo, director of the religious school, explained that the purpose of the project was to give the children a marker in time so they could see how they’ve changed over a period of 10 years. The time capsule will be opened in February 2024.
Passover 2014 – 5774 Celebrating Traditions
Let us be a part of your Family Tradition. We offer Seder Meals to Go, Private Seders and a Congregational Seder at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Sample Menu Selections:
Herb Crusted Chicken ~ Marinated Brisket Matzo Ball Soup ~ Chopped Liver ~ Charoset Carrot Tzimmes ~ Matzo Kugel Flourless Chocolate Torte
268-4200, Ext. 142
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Celebrate
with Temple
March 14 & 15 Friday, March 14
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE BAND SHABBAT WORSHIP 7 p.m. “Sing unto God a new song, all the earth!” Psalm 96:1
Saturday, March 15 8 p.m.
PURIM PARTY
Save the Date! for the
Great Fun Great Food Great Friends CONGREGATION AHAVATH CHESED www.TheTempleJacksonville.org 904.733.7078
Women’s D I V I S I O N
Girlfriend Connection Thursday, May 1, 2014 6:30 pm at Deerwood Country Club
Special guest: Lori Palatnik, Founder and Director of Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project
(Adults Only)
Join us for a delectable dessert reception, beer and wine, live music by SunJammer and special Purim spiels. Costumes are optional but encouraged! $18 per person Please RSVP by March 7 to the Temple Office.
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Lori Palatnik
Lori will share her thoughts on “Discovering the Real You Understanding Yourself and Appreciating Others”
Event Chairs: Andrea Mail & Jeanine Rogozinski Committee: Arlene Adelson, Lauren Block, Wendy Efron, Karen Gare, Laurie Gelman, Amy Kaminsky, Judy Lewis, Debra Setzer, Stacie Wilf & Talie Zaifert
Invitations to Follow. FEDERATION For more information, JEWISH OF JACKSONVILLE contact Erin Cohen, 448-5000 x205 or erinc@jewishjacksonville.org.
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
page 13
www.jewishjacksonville.org
SYNAGOGUE/EDUCATION NEWS Temple Bet Yam holds rock ‘n’ roll party RIVER GARDEN Continued from p. 1
By Temple Bet Yam
Temple Bet Yam of St Augustine will hold a Family Rock n’ Roll Party on Sunday, March 9, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The popular band Smokin Mirrors will play favorites from the 60s, 70s and 80s, including selections by The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Linda Ronstadt, Tom Petty, Isley Brothers, Van Morrison, Aretha Franklin, CCR, The Doors, Otis Redding, Fleetwood Mac, Ike and Tina, and more. Light refreshments will be served. Great fun, prizes, great
music. RSVP to Carol Gladstone, grambini1@comcast.net, to have your name entered in a drawing for a gift certificate to Ned’s Southside Kitchen in St. Augustine. You must be present to win.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students over 10 and free for children under 10. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Temple Bet Yam is located at 2055 Wildwood Drive in St. Augustine.
Temple offers Learning Service By Congregation Ahavath Chesed
Has this ever happened to you during Friday night worship? You are following along with the congregation and then you get lost? You cannot find the place. You wonder why this particular prayer follows the one just completed. You ask yourself, “Is there a relationship between these two prayers and, if so, what is it?” On Friday, March 28, begin-
ning at 7 p.m., Rabbi Joshua Lief, Temple’s senior rabbi will lead a Learning Service. We will pray and learn together. Lief will explain the liturgy and rituals of worship. His explanations are designed to help the uninitiated and the more experienced worshippers understand what is going on during the service. He will answer the nagging questions, “Why do we do what we do when we do it? Why do we say what we say? And how
Congregation Ahavath Chesed
The Henry B. Masin/Isaac Freedman Cultural Activities Fund was established by Rae Masin to honor her family members, who were lovers of music. The 2nd Annual “Music from the Heart of the Jewish people” concert will be held on Saturday, March 29, beginning at 7 p.m. at Temple. This free concert is open to the community. The concert will feature performances by Bella Vocé Caba-
ret and the Temple Chorale. Jim Goodell, music director at the Temple and Bella Vocé founder, is planning a fun night of show tunes and other works created by Jewish composers. “We have a rich history and abundance of material from which to draw,” said Goodell.“We are very much looking forward to performing again at this year’s spring concert.” Rae Masin traces Jewish music back to Miriam and her singing and dancing on the shores
does each of us, as different as we are, connect with God at the same time in a shared experience?” He promises a special cheat sheet handout to help everyone follow along. For those with limited worship experience, this service will be a safe and comfortable opportunity to build a sense of belonging. And long-time worshippers may discover something new. The entire community is welcome to participate in this unique worship experience.
the Red Sea. “But that was only the beginning,” said Rae. “From then to today, there is so much music conducted, composed and performed by Jewish people. The purpose of the fund is to promote Jewish music! I want you all to come and enjoy it with me. My family established the fund to bring Jewish culture and especially music to a wider audience. But please, call Temple at (904) 7337078 and let us know so that we have seats and refreshments for everybody!”
First Congregation Sons of Israel celebrates 90 years By First Congregation Sons of Israel
First Congregation Sons of Israel takes pleasure in announcing the celebration of the 90th anniversary of our sanctuary with a weekend of festive and religious events. First Congregation Sons of Israel began meeting in St. Augustine in the 1800s and was chartered in 1908. The sanctuary standing today at 161 Cordova St. was opened for its first worship service on March 30, 1924, and is the oldest continuously
operated Jewish synagogue in Florida. You are cordially invited to help us celebrate our 90th anniversary: Friday, March 28, 7:30 p.m.: Shabbat service, Oneg to follow Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.: Shabbat service, light Kiddish luncheon to follow 6:30 p.m.: Havdalah service, at which time we will honor and commemorate all the individuals and families who have helped found and strengthen First Congregation Sons of Israel. Follow-
ing the service will be musical entertainment by RocDoc. Heavy hors-d’oeuvres and wine will be served following the entertainment. Sunday, March 30, 10 a.m.: Gathering of present and past members, families and friends to commemorate the anniversary of the first service held in the sanctuary. Services will be lead by Dr. Steve Eskin. For more information, you may call 904-829-9532, or email fcsi1924@gmail.com.
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Continued from p. 1
Temple hosts ‘Music from the Heart’ concert By ANDREW OCEAN
ties, the annual business meeting of River Garden Senior Services will begin at 4:30 p.m. New officers and board members will be installed. River Garden hopes the community will attend this meeting as this important moment in River Garden’s history is celebrated. River Garden has served thousands of families in this community over these past 68 years. Come and celebrate what River
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Join us on Thursday, March 6, for You Can Count On Us, an evening dedicated to raising awareness for the charitable work that JFCS provides to the community. Honorary chairs for the evening include Linda and Laurie DuBow, and J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver. Donna Orender will MC, and guests will have an
Orange Park 272-1920
Beaches 285-6362
St. Augustine 826-4362
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opportunity to learn and experience the impact JFCS makes on North Florida. JFCS has three goals for the evening: to teach the community more about its programs; to get everyone excited about the road leading to its 100th year of work in Jacksonville; and to provide an atmosphere for the community to engage, connect, and share their enthusiasm for JFCS. For more information, contact Ilene Schinasi at (904) 394-5724 or ischinasi@jfcsjax.org.
JCA
Continued from p. 1 Israel and Jewish peoplehood,” said Myron Flagler, executive director. This is exactly what happened. Through new programs and informal conversations, directors parlayed their experiences into meaningful connections to the agency’s mission. New Discover Israel programs included a fitness challenge through Israel that retraced the steps of the directors’ trip, Michele Block Gan Yeladim students “traveling” to Israel to celebrate Yom HaAtzMaut (Israel Independence Day), the annual Sukkot family celebration being transformed into a Family Fun Run highlighting Moses’ journey to the Promise Land, and the implementation of an ongoing J Institute lecture series on topics relating to
Israel and politics. Discover Israel continues to provide inspiration throughout the JCA and acts as a conduit to bring Israel- related programming to the community. The JCA’s Discover Israel initiative was recently awarded a Kol Ha’kavod award by JCC Association. A Zahav award was given to the JCA for the staff study seminar and Israel trip. Look for our Discover Israel logo on JCA print materials to indicate that this program is part of the JCA Discover Israel series.
A New Generation Pledges...
We Will Never Forget Holocaust Remembrance Day
Sunday, April 27 4 PM
Congregation Ahavath Chesed, The Temple 8727 San Jose Blvd.
Hosted by Congregation Ahavath Chesed Sponsored Federationwish Federation Sponsoredby byJewish Jacksonvderation of Jacksonville
An intergenerational program… A Holocaust survivor will share a personal story of endurance and miraculous survival with us.
Program includes… Bob Fisher, Holocaust survivor, will share his story Jacksonville Children’s Chorus will sing selections from “I Never Saw Another Butterfly” For more information call
WWW.PESTFREE.COM • CALL TODAY FOR A FREE INSPECTION Jacksonville 739-9916
Garden – with support from the entire community -- has accomplished. “Each year more and more people come out and join the River Garden family in celebrating this wonderful home and campus that our Jewish community has built,” said CEO Martin Goetz. “All of us can be truly proud.” The community is invited to attend. For more information, contact Skip Willbach at 904288-7855 or email swillbach@ rivergarden.org. River Garden residents, families and staff look forward to celebrating with you.
JEWISH
FEDERATION
OF JACKSONVILLE
Leslie Lewis Kirkwood 246-0457
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
JCA welcomes former MLB pitcher Jim Rooker
Berman family brings renowned violist Hertenstein to Jacksonville
By Jewish Community Alliance
By Jewish Community Alliance
The J Institute welcomes former Pittsburgh Pirate pitcher and ESPN broadcaster Jim Rooker for Opening Day at the J. Jim will discuss his baseball career, including playing among legends and sitting in the front row in the broadcast booth. If you love America’s favorite pastime and the stories that go along with it, join us on Thursday, March 27, at 7 p.m. for an evening of fun with Jim Rooker. Registration is required. You must be 21 years or older to attend. For more information visit www.jcajax.org/ji or contact the
The JCA will close its Young Concert Artists Series with a free performance by violist Veit Hertenstein Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. First prize winner of the 2011 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, German violist Veit Hertenstein is one of the most exciting musicians to emerge in years. He made his New York debut at Merkin Hall and his Washington, D.C., debut at the Kennedy Center’s Terrace Theater. Born in Augsburg, Germany, Veit Hertenstein began studying
Jim Rooker JCA registrar at 904-730-2100 ext. 228. The J Institute, experience it.
Veit Hertenstein the violin and piano at the age of 5 and switched to the viola
when he was 15. At 19 he went to Zurich to study with Nicolas Corti, violist of the Amati Quartet. In 2009 he graduated from the Haute Ecole de Musique in Geneva, where he worked with Young Concert Artist alumna, violist Nobuko Imai and Miguel da Silva, violist of the Ysaye Quartet. Hertenstein plays a 1701 David Tecchler viola. The JCA’s Young Concert Artists Series brings young world-renowned musicians to Jacksonville. Thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family, these concerts are free and open to the community. For more information, visit www.jcajax.org.
JCA happenings For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 730-2100 or visit www.jcajax. org.
Vandroff Art Gallery
The paintings of Marlene Scheer will continue until March 5. In 2009 Marlene and her husband Stuart moved to Ponte Vedra Beach to paint the natural beauty of Northern Florida. Marlene’s love of art began in her childhood while taking classes and experimenting with cubism, expressionism, abstraction and collage. This show, Vision in Color, is the expression of her love of the use of color in painting. The Vandroff Art Gallery will show “The Worlds of Water Color” from March 7 to April 2. This show features the work of students of award-winning watercolorist Hercel Stallard.
JCA Film Series
The JCA Film Series continues Sunday, March 23, at 2 p.m. with “The Flat.” In this gripping documentary, filmmaker Arnon Goldfinger travels to Tel Aviv to clean out the apartment of his recently deceased German-born Jewish grandmother. “The Flat” is a reallife suspense story about how the past can return to haunt the present and how discovering the truth can be a terrible burden. This film is free for the community.
Culture mavens
Join us Friday, March 21, at 9:30 a.m. for a visit to Florida Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, where the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra will delight us with renditions of celebratory music you all know and love. We’ll enjoy Symphonic Celebration with Michael Krajewski conducting. The fee is $30 for members, $45 for nonmembers. Transportation will be provided; we’ll meet in the JCA lobby. Advance reservations required by March 15.
Spring break camp and break-away days
When school is out, children grades K to 6 can come to the J for a day of fun. Each day is filled with exciting activities such as sports, swimming, arts and crafts, and cooking. Parents, no need to worry, your children will be in a safe, nurturing environ-
ment supervised by our capable, mature staff. Registration is for each individual day, even during spring break. This spring break join us on an eco-adventure. We will create recycled art and learn more about how we can live green and protect our environment. For dates and fees, please call the JCA registrar at 904-730-2100 ext. 228.
Broadway on the Big Screen
Come experience the magic of Broadway on the JCA big screen Saturday, March 8, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. The filmed Broadway performance of “Shrek the Musical” starring Tony award winners Sutton Foster as Fiona and Brian d’Arcy James as Shrek, as well as Jacksonville’s Daniel Breaker as Donkey, will be the first feature in our new Broadway on the Big Screen series. Children grades 1 to 8 are sure to love this hysterical Tony award-winning play. Parents: Drop your children off at the J and have a date night of your own. Snacks will be served. The fee for this program is $20 for members and $30 for nonmembers.
JCA Playhouse
The JCA Playhouse presents its production of “Annie.” Shows will be Saturdays, March 29 and April 4, at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays, March 30 and April 4, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $7 and will be sold at the door.
Magnifient musiciens
Learn about rhythm, melody, harmony, and more in this fun and interactive music class with local clarinetist/pianist and music teacher, Molly Sweet. Molly will lead the class in hands-on percussion lessons, musical stories and puppet shows, music history and world music lessons. Students will learn and re-hearse a piece of music to perform in a music video to take home at the end of the session. Classes will be held Wednesdays from 3 to 3:30 p.m. from March 19 to May 14. The fee is $50 for members and $75 for nonmembers.
Youth flag football league
This league for ages 4 - 16 develops young athletes into
fundamentally sound football players, while having fun in organized, competitive and social atmosphere. Practices occur one hour before the game. Games are held at Bolles High School Stadium Field. Games occur Sundays from March 30 to June 1 between 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. with a twohour commitment. The fee is $100 for members and $150 for nonmembers. For more information or to volunteer to coach, contact Rio at ext. 250 or rio.robinson@ jcajax.org. A mandatory skills evaluation will be held March 9 at Bolles High School. Ages 4 to 5 at 1 p.m.; ages 6 to 7 at 2:15 p.m.; ages 8 to 10 at 3:30 p.m.; and ages 11 to 16 at 4:30 p.m. Age groups are determined after evaluations. If you cannot attend, please call ext. 254 to schedule a ma-keup.
Adult flag football league
This league is for ages 18-plus and takes place Sunday afternoons from March 30 to June 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Bolles Stadium Field. Form your own teams of six to eight players for 5-on-5 flag football, or register individually or with a friend and be placed on a team. Team rosters must be submitted by March 23. The fee is $70 for members and $105 for nonmembers. For more information or to register a team, contact Geoff at ext. 254 or pespecialist@ jcajax.org.
Men and women’s tennis
The JCA offers a variety of programs for men and women’s tennis at all levels, including our Men’s 3.0 – 3.5 clinic, Ladies’ A, B, and C teams, and Working Women’s Tennis. For more information about the JCA’s tennis programming, please contact Reggie at 904-730-2100 ext. 317.
JCA Year-Round Makos Swim Team
Year Round Swim Team is a way to provide an introduction to competitive swimming and help get children prepared for the competitive Summer Swim League. We provide a safe and fun swimming environment with age appropriate training. Register for two times a week (Mon, Wed), four times a week (Mon-Wed), or a new one-day-a-week option on
Sundays. The fee for the one-day option is $40 for members and $60 for nonmembers, the twoday option is $55 for members and $82 for nonmembers, and the four-day option is $70 for members and $105 for nonmembers.
you how to start your own Tuesday, March 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. You’ll even get to take one home. The fee is $5 for members and $8 for nonmembers. Registration required by March 6.
Train your child’s brain
Join us Sunday, March 23, at 12:30 p.m. as we travel to Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre. Here we come for a dramatic Sunday matinee. Red is the story of Mark Rothko, one of the greatest and most compelling artists of the 20th century whose struggle to accept his growing riches and praise became his ultimate undoing. The fee is $35 for members and $53 for nonmembers. Registration required by March 12.
Matthew Barrett of Brain Trainers will demonstrate brain games, share the latest techniques, and explain why computer-aided brain training programs are not all created equal Thursday, March 6, from 6 to 7 p.m. Learn why some kinds of praise undermine achievement, how your kids can memorize volumes of information in record time, and how to incorporate mental exercises into your existing lifestyle. This program is free for members and $5 for nonmembers. Registration required by March 3.
Straighten up
Good posture is more than just a matter of the spine. In this small group training, personal trainer Eiffel Gilyana will show ways to improve spinal health and teach exercises to help attain postural excellence Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. from March 4 to 25. The fee is $60 for members and $90 for nonmembers. Registration required by Feb 26.
Oh, my aching back
Join chiropractor Dr. Christopher Land Monday, March 3, at 7 p.m. as he discusses prevention, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic back pain. This program is free for members and $5 for nonmembers. Advance registration appreciated.
Beat the belly with belly dancing
Belly dancing is a great way to tighten up the abdominal area and have some fun in the process. Join Anais of Anais Belly Dance & Fusions Wednesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. from March 5 to 26 and dance that muffin top away. The fee is $40 for members and $60 for nonmembers. Registration required by Feb 27.
Red at ABET
Swim lessons
Learn to swim or learn to swim more efficiently at the JCA. The JCA Swim School was developed for participants who seek a fun and safe environment to learn the art of swimming. Children will experience a group lesson structure in small groups, building on skills and learning new techniques in a comfortable heated pool. If more personal instruction is needed, our one-on-one private instruction for children, adults and seniors will lead you closer to your individual goal. A minimum of four 30-minute lessons is required for private lessons.
Cooking around the world
The cooking journey continues with Ms. Renee Tuesdays from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. beginning March 18. Young children can make and taste treats from many different countries and bring home a special keepsake cookbook at the end of the session. The fee for this class is $80 for members and $120 for nonmembers.
Veggies go to pot
Master gardener Mary Puckett will discuss the ins and outs of growing delicious healthy vegetables in containers and show
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2013 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $205,000
904.730.2100 wwwjcajax.org
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
www.jewishjacksonville.org
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JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Alexandra & Mark Miller Speaker Series begins By Jewish Family & Community Services
448-1933 www.jfcsjax.org
Briefs FANN foods of the month
Help us stock our food pantry for February. Requested foods include tuna, chili, rice, tomato sauce and beans.
Attention kids
Don’t forget to sign up for the PJ Library. Free books for Jewish children ages 6 months to 8 years are available. It’s fun to receive your own book in the mail. Tell your parents to go to the PJ website at www. pjlibrary.org or call Ilene Schinasi at (904) 394-5724.
Rabbi Rex D. Perlmeter, founder of The Jewish Wellness Center of Montclair, New Jersey, will be this year’s presenter at the Jewish Healing Network’s 7th annual Alexandra & Mark Miller Speaker Series. The program, titled, “Letting Go, Seeking Oneness in Body, Heart, Mind and Spirit,” will be offered twice on Tuesday, April 8: ● for clinicians at 11:45 a.m. at Baptist Hospital Downtown, 800 Prudential Drive in the auditorium. ● for the general public at Congregation Ahavath Chesed, 8727 San Jose Blvd., at 7 p.m. The Jewish Wellness Center of Montclair was established to work with institutions and individuals in pursuit of sh’leimut
– an experience of wholeness grounded in the belief that wellness can best be achieved when addressed holistically in the four realms of human experience – the physical, psychological, intellectual and spiritual – as framed by the teachings of Jewish tradition. Perlmeter will share his personal journey of loss, and through the focus of renewal and healing, how it is possible to let go. Perlmeter will discuss tools and techniques we can draw upon such as blessings, prayers, mindfulness practices and meditation. The Jewish Healing Network, a program of Jewish Family & Community Services, is committed to fulfilling the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim (visiting the sick). Following Jewish tradition,
Holocaust survivors attend Kahana exhibit at Cummer Museum
Rabbi Rex Perlmeter Bikkur Cholim is an expression of responsibility and kindness. For further information
about the Speaker Series, please contact Karen Susman at (904) 394-5737.
Men’s event viewed a huge success
CALL2GO
Rides to synagogue for Shabbat and holidays are free. Other rides to medical appointments, the grocery store, etc. are offered at a reduced rate. Need a ride? Call the transportation line at (904) 224-6287.
Laurie DuBow, David Lamm, Colleen Rodriguez, David Robbins, David Stein By Jewish Family & Community Services A7761, and A7762.
Taking Meals4You orders for Passover
Passover will be here before you know it. Our delicious ready-to-heat meals come five to a pack and are delivered right to your door. All meals are prepared at River Garden in accordance with Jewish dietary laws. Please contact Ilene Schinasi at (904) 3915724 for details and to place orders.
Save the date: Holocaust survivors model seder
A model seder for Holocaust survivors and their families will be hosted Sunday, April 6, by the Temple, and will be conducted by the Temple’s TIR sixth graders and JAFTY youth group. JFCS will publish the second edition of the Holocaust Haggadah. The Haggadah will include liturgical writings by Rabbi Lief narrating the Passover story, various Holocaust survivor stories and selections, and artwork by the Temple’s TIR students. For more information, call: Naomi Mirensky at 904-394-5777 or email at nmirensky@jfcsjax.org.
Holocaust Services had a spectacular event at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens on Feb. 9. Sixty survivors and their families came to the presentation of the Vardi Kahana exhibit, “One Family.” The photos graphically depict the story of the artist’s family beginning with a photograph of mother, Rivka, and her two sisters, Leah and Esther. Consecutive serial numbers are scorched on their left arms: A7760,
Thus, in this order, they lined up in Auschwitz in the spring of 1944 to be tattooed. They didn’t know then whether they would live to see the next day. Today, all three live in Israel. They have 31 grandchildren; two of them have 50 great-grandchildren. We are grateful to our presenting sponsor, Regions Bank, and to our other generous sponsors: the Pollan Family, Robert Morgan and Associates Law Firm, and the Furman Family.
By Jewish Family & Community Services
JFCS’s annual men’s event, “Scotch, Cigars, & Football,” at Epping Forest Yacht Club was a huge success. The men came for dinner, hand-rolled cigars, and sampled high-end scotches.
David Lamm, sports commentator and our celebrity host, talked football and sparked feisty discussion. Much gratitude goes out to our sponsors for the event: David Robbins, David Stein, and Harris Guidi Rosner Dunlap Rudolph, PA.
JFCS launches inclusion program
TD foundation donates $2,000 for food pantry By Jewish Family & Community Services Rodriguez. “Children can’t
The TD Charitable Foundation recently donated $2,000 to Jewish Family & Community Services as part of the bank’s commitment to giving back to the community. “The $2,000 grant funding from TD Charitable Foundation will help families in crisis meet the basic human need of nutrition. The JFCS Emergency Food Pantry is a lifeline for nearly 7,500 people a year in crisis situations, helping to nourish and stabilize them,” says JFCS Executive Director Colleen
begin to focus on education and behavior when they are hungry. Families can’t begin to focus on meeting higher level needs such as communication, parenting, housing, stability safety, and self-sufficiency, when they are experiencing extreme hunger and malnutrition. The pantry serves as a central service that we wrap around at-risk families. Last year, our pantry provided over 67,000 meals, and we are humbled by TD Charitable Foundation’s support in our mission to help people help themselves.”
By Jewish Family & Community Services
On Jan. 16, JFCS’s new inclusion program, managed by Cindy Land, hosted a program for all teachers, “Everything You Wanted to Know About Behavior Management in Your Classroom.” More than 25 teachers attended Hope Haven’s presentation, hosted by Amy Flood and Stephanie Burgin, on behavior basics. Flood is the director of Discovery
JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2013 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $288,000
Preschool at Hope Haven and is the program director for Behavior Buddies. Burgin is a certified behavior analyst who trains teachers and works with parents on replacing maladaptive behaviors with positive ones. We’d like to thank Hope Haven for their support with this program. All the teachers walked away with a fantastic packet of information and new skills to use in their classroom.
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RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES
RIVER GARDEN 2013 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $192,000
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
page 17
www.jewishjacksonville.org
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Meet Dr. Sue Nussbaum, new board member By Jewish Community Foundation
“What I find compelling about the Create a Jewish Legacy program is that it invites everyone to participate, every gift is important and every donor is applauded for their contributions,” says new board member, Dr. Sue Nussbaum. When asked why she chose to join the Foundation Board Sue said, “It’s the legacy concept that drew me in. I was honored that Michael Korn invited me to participate. I had attended the Jan. 30, 2013, Create a Jewish Legacy event. It was a very moving program. That night I learned
that Mark Green was continuing as Foundation president. To me, his continuation as president was a testament to the importance of Foundation’s work, and I am excited to volunteer under his leadership. “My husband Michael and I have found a welcoming, engaging Jewish community in Jacksonville since we moved here over five years ago. We feel at home. My mother was from a small town in Ohio where she experienced significant anti-Semitism. It shaped her. It became all the more important to her to provide a safe and active Jewish environment for her children –
and she did. “When I contrast my mother’s experiences with mine, it is why Jewish heritage and community is so important to me. We are never alone when we are part of a vibrant Jewish community. Michael and I created for our own girls what my mom didn’t have. Our daughters were immersed in Jewish life. They didn’t have to think twice about wearing Jewish stars to their community school. It was expanded through their trip to Israel with March of the Living and with Hillel programs at college. “I feel it is a blessing to be born Jewish - our heritage is
so rich with tradition. It is our responsibility to ensure that Judaism survives. For a long time there have been attempts at the extinction of our people. Anti-Semitism persists, yet we survive. It’s through our own efforts – the efforts of our people – that we are survivors. “A Jewish community is a wonderful gift – a gift our parents and grandparents gave to us. We have to keep contributing. We have to create Jewish legacies and do our part. We have to plan to secure a Jewish future for the next generations. It’s a gift from us to our children and their children.”
Dr. Sue Nussbaum
Ruth and Joe P. Safer: celebrating our past, securing our future By Jewish Community Foundation
Ruth and Joe P. Safer are no longer living, but they support Israel, camp programs for children, and Jewish social and educational experiences, here and abroad. Ruth and Joe P. Safer are remembered as two special people who cared deeply about the future of the Jewish community. They were among the first to create their Jewish legacy. Their story is one of a vibrant Jewish life, success and a deep devotion to one another, family, and Jewish causes. May their memories be a blessing to all whose lives they touched and to those who are benefiting from
their largesse. Find the full story at www. jewishfoundationnefl.org and click “News.” In 1982 Joe used company stock to create The Joe P. Safer Endowment Fund for the benefit of the Jacksonville Jewish Federation. After Joe’s passing Ruth and her sons donated additional stock to the fund and added beneficiaries. Joe was Federation’s first recipient of a plaque to their most active volunteer during the year. The Joe P. Safer award continues to be presented, and Federation continues to receive an annual grant from the Joe P. Safer Endowment Fund at our Jewish
Community Foundation. Folks lauded Joe as a man with a vision who encouraged others to get involved to turn visions into reality. When Beauclerc Country Club was closing Joe worked with David Stein persuading the community to build the Jewish Community Alliance. Thanks to the generosity of the Safers the JCA continues to receive an annual grant to support its mission. Through The Joe P. Safer Endowment Fund, administered by our Jewish Community Foundation, annual grants are distributed to the causes meaningful to the Safers during their lifetimes. This is their living legacy and gift to the Jewish community.
Joe P. and Ruth B. Safer: their legacy gift to the generations
Ten Jewish causes unite: What will your legacy be? By Jewish Community Foundation
Will you help provide Jewish education and camp experiences for our children, preserve our heritage and traditions, protect our frail elderly and those in need, and provide Jewish social and spiritual experiences for our community? By including the Jewish community in your will and estate plans, you will share in the vision of preserving our Jewish
JEWISH
community for generations to come. Please remember these causes and the Jewish community in your estate planning: Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue, Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple), Etz Chaim Synagogue, Galinsky Academy, Jacksonville Jewish Center, Jewish Community Alliance, Jewish Family & Community Services, Jewish Federation of Jacksonville, River Garden Senior Ser-
vices, and Torah Academy. Complete your declaration of intent indicating your desire to help secure a vibrant Jewish future for the generations that will follow us. Contact these participants or call our Jewish Community Foundation at 394-0720 or email info@jewishfoundationnefl.org for additional details. The Create a Jewish Legacy — LIFE & LEGACY initiative represents the newest phase of the Jewish Community Foundation’s ongoing work to secure the financial future of our Jewish community. LIFE & LEGACY is a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation.
JCA Theatre Camp. Photo is care of the Jewish Community Alliance, Jennie Chamberlin.
FEDERATION
OF JACKSONVILLE
To create your Personalized Legacy Agreement including which causes will be your beneficiaries, contact the Foundation. Then, use the following language in your will and to change a beneficiary designation on other assets such as IRAs or life Insurance: “I give and bequeath to the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast FL Inc., its successors and or assigns X %, (whatever % or dollar amount that is comfortable for you) of my residual estate or/asset.” Contact the Foundation with additional questions. The Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida, Inc., does not provide legal or tax advice. This information is not intended, nor may it be relied upon, as legal, accounting or other professional advice. Before making any financial decisions, always consult your own professional adviser.
JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2013 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $88,422
page 18
Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
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LIFECYCLES/COMMUNITY B’nai Mitzvah
Harrison Schwartz, son of Sondra and Martin Schwartz, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah on March 22, 2014, at Congregation Ahavath Chesed. Sharing in the simcha will be his brothers Steven, 19, and Daniel, 17; grandparents Jerome and Beverly Shapiro of Boca Raton; along with other family and friends. He is also the grandson of Marilyn and Sheldon Schwartz of Lauderhil and the late Arline Rome Shapiro. Harrison is a seventh grade student at Switzerland Point Middle School. He plays clarinet in his school’s Concert Band, is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, and a Student Council representative. Harrison excels in all his subjects, but particularly likes math and science. He would like to pursue a career in aerospace engineering or physics. Harrison enjoys computers. He is an avid gamer, be it Wii, XBox, or online with Steam. He has participated in youth soccer, flag football and Cub Scouts. He spends his summers at URJ’s Crane Lake Camp in West Stockbridge, Mass., attending performances at Shakespeare & Company, and visiting his grandparents in the Berkshires. For his Bar Mitzvah project, Harrison is participating in the Support Our Troops Troopons Program by collecting, clipping and sorting manufacturers’ coupons. This program enhances the well-being of overseas and domestic military families by sending them food, non-food, baby and pet manufacturer coupons to make their hard-earned dollars go farther at the commissaries on U.S. bases.
Accomplishments
Congregation Ahavath Chesed congregants Marcy Appelbaum and Susan Gibbs Natale have been accepted into Celebrating Our Cultures, a mixed-media
visual arts exhibition at The Bank of America Tower Premier Gallery, 50 North Laura St. in downtown Jacksonville. The exhibition is sponsored by The Arts Center Cooperative. Gallery hours are Tuesdays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rachel Alexandria Reindl, a junior at Paxon School for Advanced Studies, was inducted into the National Honor Society in January and the French Honor Society in November. Rachel is the daughter of Jeff and Marcy Appelbaum Reindl. WJCT Board of Trustees member Gail Mendelson Sterman has been elected to the Board of Trustees of the Association of Public Television Stations. Gail is a member of WJCT’s Board of Trustees and chairs the Board’s Advancement Committee. She has worked for more than 30 years in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors in public relations, marketing and development. Gail began her career in West Virginia as host of a local television talk show and went on to become a reporter/anchor for WWVA, a 50,000-watt radio station. While working with private schools, colleges and health care institutions, Gail developed and implemented local, regional and national media and public relations programs. She coordinated events honoring regional, national and international dignitaries; organized and led national media advisory boards; edited and produced promotional brochures and videos; conducted public relations audits; and directed feasibility studies as prelude to capital campaigns. While working in higher education, Gail was a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. She served on the CASE/Europe Task Force, helping establish a CASE presence in Europe. Gail also helped coordinate district meetings and, in 1990, was invited to be a par-
Temple seeks new TIR Director The Temple is seeking a full-time Director for TIR (Temple Institute of Religion) eff ective June 1, 2014. The selected candidate will be a member of the senior team at Temple, working cooperatively with the clergy and the executive director. The position reports to the Rabbi. The Director is responsible for managing and expanding the experiential learning based curriculum for students Pre-K through high school; for recruiting, developing, evaluating and retaining teachers; and for working cooperatively with youth group advisers whose programming reinforces what is taught in the Religious School. The successful candidate will recognize the important role parents and congregants play in the students’ learning. S/ he will provide opportunities for family learning to garner their cooperation in instilling a love of Jewish learning as a lifelong pursuit. Religious School meets each Sunday, September –May, 9:30 a.m. – noon and Hebrew School meets Wednesdays, 5-6 p.m. Resumes should be sent to President@TheTempleJacksonville.org or can be delivered to the Temple offi ce, 8727 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville 32217. Alternatively, applicants can apply electronically at jewishjobs.com.
ticipant in the CASE Leadership Conference. Gail holds a B.S. from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, and was the first U.S. woman to receive the Fulbright Fellowship, Academic Administrators Award to the United Kingdom (1990).
Sympathy
… to the family of Doris “Barbara” Carney, mother of Steven (Markella) Carney. Doris died Jan. 29, 2014. Contributions may be made to the Community Hospice of Northeast Florida and/ or The Alzheimer’s Association, 4237 Salisbury Road, Suite 310, 32216. … to the family of Irving Essrig Jr., brother of Adele Stewart and uncle of Marti Stewart and Brinly Stewart Standridge. Irving died Feb. 14, 2014. He is also survived by his mother Louise Essrig; brothers Paul and Matthew Essrig; wife Susan; daugher Ashley; step-sons Derek and Travis Borges (of New Hampshire); and cousins Katherine and Lee Essrig, Patricia Finman Wolfe, Sandy and Sheldon Finman. Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the charity of your choice. … to the family of Dr. Alan J. Honig on Thursday, February 13. He is survived by son David (Miriam) Honig; wife Nancy; children Lisa (Michael) Puder, Susan (Hugh) Coleman, Karen (Phil) Ladman; grandchildren Steven, Sammy, Rachel, Laina, Max, Emily, Jake, Eli, Chase, Lindsay, Adam; sister Phyllis (Milton) Gevertz; and many nieces and nephews, including Linda (Michael) Abramson, and Sarah and Daniel Abramson. Contributions may be made to We Care Jacksonville. … to the family of Lillian Oberlander who died Jan. 21, 2014. She is survived by daughter Jeryl Bodack (Kenneth); son Lewis Oberlander (Beverly); daughter Andrea Falk (Bernard); grandchildren Stephen (Michelle), Robby, Sara (Sie), Eli, and Danny (Kaysa); and four great-grandchildren. Contributions in memory of Lillian Oberlander may be made to River Garden.
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
page 19
www.jewishjacksonville.org
SUPER SUNDAY
Super Sunday is a super success By JEANINE HOFF rGEN Division Director
Super Sunday 2014 was a huge success. Over 50 volunteers called on behalf of their favorite Jewish agencies, raising over $150,000. The morning began with a video showing highlights from our local Jewish agencies and Federation over the last 12 months.
We’d like to thank our sponsors for helping to make the morning a success: Ameris Bank, Bartram Park Family ENT – Dr. Jeffrey Sandler, Bob Ham Eyewear, Brandon Pest Control, Brightlink, Carbux Carwash, Dr. Ron Elinoff, Erica and Jamie Jolles, Mark Jolles, Modular Document Solutions, and Irene Sloat. The annual phone-a-thon was chaired by the rGEN Steering Committee as part of its re-launch initiative.
Jacksonville Hadassah Our Members and Associates invite You and Your Guests
Ne
n’s o m il Si
to Cocktails, Dinner and ComedyTheatre
Alhambra Dinner Theatre 12000 Beach Boulevard
Thursday, March 13, 2013 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Reception & Silent Auction Dinner, followed by the play
RSVP Susan Sidle (904) 221-4632 shsidle@att.net Tickets $65 / $125 for two Your payment in advance is your reservation
Prepare for an evening of laughter when Herb, a Hollywood screen writer played by Richard Karn of TV’s Home Improvement, has to deal with a teenage daughter, who shows up out of the blue with big dreams of becoming a movie star, and a girlfriend who is ready for a commitment. Herb must come to terms with aging, fatherhood, commitment phobias and life.
page 20
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Jacksonville Jewish News • March 2014
MAJOR GIFTS BRUNCH
Stephen Goldman views Vardi’s ‘Three Sisters’ piece. Scot and Alex Ackerman view Vardi’s exhibit.
Kate Robbins and David Robbins
Caren and Larry Appel, Eunice Zisser and Sue Elinoff
Mark and Iris Kraemer view Vardi’s exhibit.
Gary Perlman, Richard Sisisky and Zach Sherman
Photos by Larry Tallis The Major Gifts Brunch was held Jan. 26 in partnership with The Cummer Museum. Almost 90 people attended this Jewish Federation of Jacksonville program at the museum, which was graciously hosted by Dan and Cindy Edelman. The event included a presentation by Israeli artist and photographer, Vardi Kahana, as well as a private viewing of her ‘One Family’ photography exhibit. Vardi’s exhibition will be at The Cummer Museum through April 27. Jacksonville is the only city in the United States scheduled to exhibit her work. Thank you to everyone who made this wonderful program possible.
Ÿ Have trouble remembering what happened yesterday? Ÿ Repeat questions, stories, or ideas within minutes? Ÿ Forget appointments or important tasks?
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If this sounds like you or someone you know, call the office of Dr. Mark Joyce to learn about a clinical trial for Alzheimer’s. There is no cost and no need for health insurance.
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