JewishLife: Fall 2023

JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA

PARTNERING TOGETHER FOR A FALL 2023

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER/NOVEMBER SIVAN - TAMMUZ - AV 5783 JEWISHJACKSONVILLE.ORG

ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE

FALL 2023

issue

CONTENTS

September 2023 | October 2023 | November 2023

NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

4

From the Desk of Mariam Shpeen Feist, CEO

16

Interim Foundation Director, Joanne E. Cohen JD

6

National Young Leadership Cabinet: The pathway to leadership.

17

7-15

A GLOBAL IMPACT: at home to overseas

COMMUNITY 19 Fall Marks a New Beginning at UNF 20 Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in Our Community 22 River Garden Auxiliary Begins a New Century of Service 22 Welcome New Hires at Etz Chaim Synagogue 23 My Summer with The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) 24 We Could Not Be Silent 25 Mazel Tov, Nancy Green 27 Of Love and Loss 28 Terrace Dedication Ceremony 29 River Garden Blends Tradition & Fresh Starts for the New Year 30 Announcing the 2023 JCA Cultural Arts Festival

31-40 WORTH THE SCHLEP

42-44

EDITOR, ART DIRECTION, PRODUCTION, & PUBLISHER Zahni Thuzar Marketing Manager

zahnit@jewishjacksonville.org

Meet Charles Miller: New YPF Manager

SEE & BE SCENE

STAFF

ADVERTISEMENT COORDINATOR Amara San Agustin Marketing Assistant amaras@jewishjacksonville.org

Sara Bass Executive Assistant sarab@jewishjacksonville.org

Pat Burke Director, Finance

patb@jewishjacksonville.org

Joanne E. Cohen JD Interim Director, Foundation patb@jewishjacksonville.org

Mariam Shpeen Feist CEO

mariamf@jewishjacksonville.org

Jill Metlin Israel and Overseas Coordinator

jillm@jewishjacksonville.org

Charles Miller Young Professionals & Families Manager charlesm@jewishjacksonville.org

Tal Mola Israeli Community Shlicha jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org

Lauren Rickoff Director, Campaign and Women’s Philanthropy laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org

Alex Silverstein Director, Community Security alexs@jewishjacksonville.org

FROM THE DESK OF MARIAM SHPEEN FEIST, CEO As we approach the end of summer, we close a chapter and Now We Go Forward. Our success is exemplified by the numerous initiatives and work that was accomplished during this last campaign year. Our Annual Meeting on August 17th served as the official launch of our 2024 Annual Campaign - It’s Moments Like This - where we united in celebration of our community and its leaders. Moments such as investing in the future leaders of our community, and in education for our community to keep each other safe.

Moments where we connect our local community to our community overseas. In the coming year, we will be creating countless more moments, and I look forward to your involvement with us.

individuals from our synagogues, partner agencies, newcomers, first-timers, and those who have joined us before - spanning from young adults to those young at heart. Be sure to stay on the look out for more information and additional details in the months ahead. We were privileged to welcome Israel to Northeast Florida this summer, and now it’s our turn. In February 2025, Northeast Florida is coming home!

These moments, which shape our collective journey, are only made possible through the unwavering support of each and every one of you.

For those who really want to create a special moment, I’m thrilled to announce the realization of a Community Trip to Israel. In February 2025, it is our goal to journey to Eretz Yisrael with a group of over 150 members of our community. We envision this group to encompass

Mariam

B’Shalom,

Make a gift today at jewishjacksonville.org

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NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

NATIONAL YOUNG LEADERSHIP CABINET :

The pathway to leadership.

By Adam Gitlin, MD NYLC 1st-Year Member Hello Federation Family!

My name is Adam and I’m a relatively new addition to Northeast Florida. I made the trek from the Hudson Valley of New York in early 2020. I’ve been fortunate to find my way to the Jewish community here through the JCA and Federation; I even completed the Young Professionals & Families’ leadership development inititative, BRIDGES, this year. I wanted to find more ways to give back to our community and when I learned of the Jewish Federations of North America’s (JFNA) National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC) it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

NYLC is the leadership training pathway for young professionals within the Jewish community. Every summer, a retreat is held for members to come together and learn about leadership and philanthropy from renowned leaders in the field. Our first-year 6

class (myself included) totaled 90 members and was part of over 300 Jewish lay and professionals from across North America. This year’s Retreat was held in Detroit, where our cohort heard from JFNA President and CEO, Eric Fingerhut, and Chair of the Board of Trustees, Julie Platt. They spoke of how our leadership and philanthropic efforts help the Jewish community at the local, national and international levels - including Ukraine.

We also heard from Northeast Florida’s own Iris Kraemer, Past Board President and Chair of National Women’s Philanthropy, and Haley Trager, our new Northeast Florida Board President. We were

privileged to hear from Gretchen Witmer, Governor of Michigan, about ongoing collaborative efforts to strengthen security for the Jewish community and from Former Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, John Rakolta, about US involvement in the Abraham Accords. We also had the opportunity to attend multiple breakout sessions that focused on leadership, networking, community growth, and how Judaism allows us to be a part in making the world a better place.

nity, leadership and philanthropy. I feel very fortunate to be a part of this community and look forward to our continued mission of Tikkun Olam and helping our community grow, within Northeast Florida and at the national and international levels. We look forward to sharing our knowledge and experiences with all of you!

Cabinet has allowed us to learn and bring back valuable skills and relationships that will continue to aid our growth in commu-

NYLC NORTHEAST FLORIDA COHORT Adam Gitlin (1st Year) Sophie Rothstein (3rd Year) Dan Schwartz (1st Year) Sarah Schwartz (3rd Year) Haley Trager (7th Year)

A Global IMPACT

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Allison Jacobs Jill Metlin Israel & Overseas Chair Coordinator I am honored and humbled to be Israel & On July 16,the an amazing Overseas (I&O) Volunteer post-Covid event hapChair the Jewish - we penedfor in Jacksonville Federation Foundation finally were &able to bring of Northeast Florida. The back the Partnershipfirst year(P2G) of thisTeen newly 2Gether formed was a Summercommittee program and huge success! once again greet Israeli teens and chaperones We are about 20 memfrom our partnership bers strong and each Six region Hadera-Eiron. individual brings a unique months of planning on our Jill Metlin part of their family, met understanding about end and a year of planIsrael & Overseas the teens’ families online Israel and overseas ning on theirs led to to anthe Coordinator prior to their arrival in table.

We have fostered incredible week of meetJacksonville, schlepped this withgreeting, our threelearning main ing and On July 16, an amazing them all over Northeast partner agencies The and laughter, relationship post-Covid event hapFlorida, made sure they Jewish for Israel, buildingAgency and culture pened in Jacksonville - we were fed and taken care the American Jewish Joint exchange. finally were able to bring of, and participated in the Distribution Committee back the Partnershipmany events all week. Our (JDC), and World ORT,our Seven families hosted 2Gether (P2G) Teen Community Shlicha, Tal along with our Partnernine guests – Manya and Summer program and Mola, was a big part of ship2Gether community Tal Osher, Whitney and once again greet Israeli our week together as and our Shlicha, Grant Kuvin, Tmima and teens and chaperones were Allison Jacobs, Israel programs Tal. We did our first ever Steve Neihaus, Alyse and from our partnership & Overseas Chair (and I&O Committee AllocaAlan Nathans, Lorene and region in Israel, Hadeseasoned P2Ger), and Tal tions process for the Daniel Bessmer, Kari and ra-Eiron. Six months of and Manya Osher, who elective dollars thatand we Dan Jaffa, Melanie planning on our end and a have also been involved have to grant on behalf of Ben Setzer, and Allison year of planning on theirs for years. A big thank you the Federation’s Annual and Ken Jacobs.

They did led to an incredible week to Iris Kraemer and Kim Campaign - thanks to an incredible job opening of meeting and greeting, and David Robbins, as donors like you! their hearts and homes to learning and laughter, well as our community our Israeli brothers and relationship building, and partners. This couldn’t Since was our firstthem yeara sisters.it They made culture exchange. have succeeded without doing this important work, you all! each committee member Eight families hosted our learned so much about all nine guests – Manya and This is an exciting time to of our partner agencies Tal Osher, Whitney and be a part of the P2G and the programs we Grant Kuvin, Tmima and initiative. You, too, can Steve Neihaus, Alyse and participate (even from the fund. One such program is Alan Nathans, Lorene and comfort of your home) via Birthright. Birthright’s mission is to provide all Daniel Bessmer, Kari and the One2One English Dan Jaffa, Melanie and program and the Leader- young Jewish adults with opportunities for transBen Setzer, and Allison ship2Gether (L2G) proand Ken Jacobs. They did gram. Please reach out to formative and immersive an incredible job opening me at jillm@jewishjackson- shared experiences in Israel and a foundation their hearts and homes to ville.org, or call me at for ongoing Jewish conour Israeli brothers and 904-224-1445, to learn nection. Unfortunately, sisters. They made them a more about these prothis year the funding for grams.

8

this amazing program was decreased and the Florida universities and colleges had a huge wait list of students that wanted to go on the trip. The Florida Federations were asked to provide emergency funding so that more students could be taken off the wait list and explore Israel.

I also had the privilege to co-chair an incredible mission to Morocco and Israel with my husband, Ken, and Judy and Stephen Silverman. Along with new and old friends, we discovered Jewish Morocco and celebrated Israel’s 75th Birthday on the most amazing trip of a lifetime. I encourage you to join in any mission that the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida sponsors!

I am thrilled to say that the Partnership2Gether Teen Exchange was back again this summer after Covid had postponed it for a couple years. We were so lucky to have a delegation of seven teens and two chaperones from our partner region of Hadera-Eiron, Israel. The teens had a wonderful week in Northeast Florida.

They stayed with host families and participated in many activities with our partner agencies around the city to learn about Judaism in our area. They worked at our camps, talked with residents from The Coves, explored the Holocaust Memorial, and heard directly from a

second-gen Holocaust survivor at the LJD Jewish Family & Community Services - just to name a few. The American and Israeli teens learned about the similarities and differences between the cultures and built a forever bond between them. Truly, there is nothing like our exchange programs to build living bridges between our people and countries.

As we head into the second year for our committee, our wonderful members will be out and about in the community as ambassadors at all I&O events.

Please join us in any I&O program that interests you.

I invite you to reach out to me anytime at allisonjacobs3@gmail.com.

Your Home for Jewish Life in Jacksonville The Jacksonville Jewish Center is a warm, welcoming, inclusive, egalitarian community affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism with a membership from the young to the young at heart and households that include interfaith, same-sex, traditional and singles.

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9

A TRIP TO Remember

By Sydney Herbst Birthright Participant

As a Jewish child growing up, I had always hoped to travel to Israel one day.

Thanks to the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, who helps to fund the Birthright program, this past June I had the special opportunity to finally see the Holy Land through the eyes of a 20-year-old Conservative Jew, at no cost to me, or my family.

bond with everyone - one that I don’t think will diminish anytime soon.

I got to see many cities and historic sites that I When I reflect on my have heard and learned Birthright experience, I think about how lucky I am about since Religious School. For me, my that a trip this special is favorite city was Jerusafunded and available for lem. Specifically, when we young Jewish adults visited the Old City and between the ages of 18 went to the Western Wall. and 26. Birthright will To my surprise, the Westforever be a memory of mine of a positive, engag- ern Wall was very emotional for me. As soon as I ing, valuable, life changplaced my hand on the ing, and meaningful Wall, I was overcome with experience. such strong emotion that it brought tears to my Embarking on the trip, I eyes. I never would have was anxious and scared that it wouldn’t be every- thought that touching a wall would do that to me, thing that I had dreamed but it did. of, but it was that and so much more! This trip Without the Federation brought me 45 new friends that I have contin- helping to fund Birthright, I would have never been ued to keep in touch with able to experience the since returning home. I best ten days in Israel. I never really expected to am forever grateful for become so close to all of the opportunity, and I look these people in ten short forward to hopefully being days, but I was lucky able to return to Israel in enough to grow a strong the future.

10

Shana tova.

Celebrate the High Holidays with recipes you’ll love at publix.com/highholidays.

Partnership2Gether’s

By Ava Jaffa Exchange Host Teen

had a tour of The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), The first week in July, my Monday was our first day where we learned about mom texted our family of activities with the their important work. group chat, “We are group. We started our day Then the whole group got hosting Shahar!” - along at the Jewish Community to meet my amazing with an attached picture Alliance (JCA) where we Bubbie and Zayde, Irene and a snippet underneath. did ice breakers and a and Jimmy Jaffa. My In a week we would be guided meditation, played Bubbie was there to share hosting an Israeli teen some basketball, and had our family’s Holocaust from Hadera-Eiron, a tour of the building and story, which was powerful Shahar, as part of the facilities. My favorite part and meaningful for Partnership2Gether Teen of the day was Adventure everyone as always.

Summer Exchange. Both Landing. We had a blast my sister, Kyra, and I were going on the slides at the We got to tour the JFCS able to participate and we water park over and over Gallery to learn about the were so excited. again. Even though it was current Holocaust art our first day together, exhibit. At River Garden Before Shahar and the having fun and just being we had lunch and then other six teens arrived, my kids was a great way to toured the community. family and I had a video get to know each other. It After our tour, we headed call with Shahar and her didn’t matter that we were over to The Coves at River family. It was great to not from the same counGarden where we intermeet them even before try, or even the fact that acted with the residents. her arrival and to see her we don’t have the same We separated into pairs of family. Upon her arrival, first language, we became one Israeli and one Ameriwe wanted Shahar to a close-knit group right can teen. We then spent experience some of our away. That night, Shahar time speaking to different everyday activities. got the greatest Florida Coves residents. We were Straight from the airport experience - a Publix given cards with questions we took her to St. Johns birthday cake as she to ask, but we all pretty Town Center, where we helped us celebrate my much just had our own went to M Shack for mom on her birthday. conversations with the dinner, and then to On Tuesday morning we residents. They asked us 12

Target - an American staple.

questions, and it was an informative experience.

After that, we had the good fortune of going to the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club where we got to enjoy the beach and the pool (with a water slide).

At the beach, we taught the Israelis how to play spike ball and football and we played a little scrimmage.

That night, the multiple host families in St. Johns County met up for dinner and had Mexican food.

The Israelis were in shock that the chips and salsa were complimentary (sometimes it’s the little things.) On Wednesday, the Israelis spent their morning at the Jacksonville Jewish Center (JJC) leading activities for the JCA campers. In the afternoon, all the teens decided it would be fun to spend our free time together and the Setzer Family hosted a pool party for us. We then headed to JFCS for

TEEN Summer EXCHANGE

dinner, where Iris Kraemer led a very revealing activity comparing life in Israel to life in America.

We then participated in an event with the community which was fun, and the Israelis got to meet more people and have good conversations.

This was my favorite part of the day. We baked challah and cooked a traditional Israeli meal from scratch that consisted of baklava, falafel, hummus, and an Israeli salad. The food was delicious - although we learned that the Israelis prefer shwarma over falafel.

That night everyone headed to Jill Metlin’s house for a final group dinner, as the Israelis would be leaving us on Sunday. However, we didn’t stop there. After dinner, we headed to Top Golf where most of the Israelis swung a golf club for the first time. We had After JFCS, but before an absolute blast and going home, Shahar, Kyra, laughed a ton. With it and I made a third trip to On Friday, the Israelis being our last night, my Target and met up with went back to the JJC and family decided to make some of the other teens in were camp counselors for one more stop before our group. Shahar realthe day. In the evening, we going home and gave ized what we all know all headed back to the JJC Shahar an essential every time you go to for Friday night Shabbat southern experience by Target you want to buy services. After services, all going to Buccee’s. Accordmore things! It only took the host families and ing to Shahar, Buccees is three trips for her to truly teens headed to the the most American thing understand the infamous Kuvin’s house for a pool ever. In addition to getting Target. party and pizza, which fudge, Kyra, Shahar, and I was a blast. got matching Buccees Thursday morning, we sweatshirts. went to St. George Street Saturday was a scheduled in St. Augustine and then free day for the Israelis to On Sunday, we headed to went to Sons of Israel have fun with their host the airport and said goodsynagogue to learn about families. My family decid- bye to Michael and Aviits 100-year history. That ed to go to a paint splatter ram, the Israeli chapernight we headed to the room, where we suited up ones, and the teens, Neta, Temple (Congregation and got to paint splatter Alon, Yoav, Adi, Gali, Ofri, Ahavath Chesed), where each other and canvases and of course, Shahar, as we cooked with Chef Ali. that we got to take home. they were off to meet new

families in Greensboro.

Hosting an Israeli teen was definitely the best decision my family made this summer. Shahar is now like family to us and hopefully soon we can go visit her and some of the other Israeli teens, too, in Israel. The P2G Teen Summer Exchange experience was so much more than I expected, and I highly recommend it to all Jewish families with teens in Jax if they ever have the chance!

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FRIENDS & FAMILY OF JFNA

By Debra Setzer Mission Participant

Mission to Morocco

funny - although some of their jokes are not safe to print in this magazine.

What would it be like to Besides our being continuhave the most magical ously entertained, we also experience come true? I witnessed actual miracles actually learned my on this trip... Believe it or personal answer to that not, 25 people were question on the recent always on time, agreed on Friends & Family of JFNA’s everything, were very Mission to Morocco. Who respectful of each other, could have imagined that and had more fun than a trip would be so remark- you can imagine. able? Everyday was filled with endless behind-theAs we began our journey, scenes adventures and it was much to our surcountless immersive prise that the famous city experiences. Above of Casablanca was notheverything else, my ing like the original movie. husband, Leonard, and I This was indeed a city developed such lasting filled with significant bonds of friendship with Jewish history. It was my 25 incredible new and eye-opening for me to old friends who came learn that this part of the together for this Morocworld had such a rich and can experience. vibrant Jewish legacy. In each city, we could feel This magical carpet ride that every holy site had a came true because of four vivid story to tell. At each people who put so much destination we were compassion into creating enlightened with exquisite a perfect trip. Thank you details as we walked to Judy and Steve Silverthrough breathtaking man and Allison and Ken synagogues and mosques.

Jacobs for your vision and Meeting local artisans execution. These are enabled us to see firstpeople who know how to hand the art of weaving have fun, always have a and throwing on a potter’s watchful eye for each of wheel. It was a unique the travelers, and treated privilege to visit the King’s us like family. residence where we discovered that previous The perfect way to begin generations of Moroccan each day was with Ken rulers harbored such Jacobs sharing his “joke of positive feelings for the the day.” Many of the trip Jewish people. participants are extremely 14

Perhaps nothing could have prepared us for the special evening we spent together in the desert. As we congregated deep in the middle of the cool Moroccan desert, we were taken to an oasis with elaborate tents, camels, dancers, musicians, and chefs. It truly looked like the setting for a major motion picture.

There were endless tables of delicious local foods and we were entertained by otherworldly acrobats and fire eaters. Yes, we felt very special.

A picture is truly worth a thousand words. To that end, you must have someone show you pictures from this trip.

Can you guess who was belly dancing from our group ? Don’t miss the pictures of the people who insisted on riding camel.

You can tell that each of us had been touched by this trip. Long after our journey concluded, we are still connecting with each other through our Morocco text thread. I am so grateful for this amazing Jewish experience and I hope that you will consider joining a mission at some point in the future!

& Post-Mission to Israel

By Dave Pentel Mission Participant

at Domone Du Castel, Masada, the Dead Sea, the Old City, the Church of Let me start by saying my the Nativity, the West wife and I have traveled Bank, Golgotha, a kibbutz, all over the world. We ammunition hill, Galilea, the Jordan River, and Yad have done so with tour companies, ocean cruises, Vashem. However, on this river cruises, and private trip, we had access to sites guides. I’ve been to Israel and people a “regular” before for work and travel group could not experience. These includpleasure. However, our ed the Siloam tunnels, the post-mission to Israel in F16 simulators, visiting the June may top the list of our travel experiences for Knesset and meeting with an MK, a tour of the so many reasons.

Global Aliyah Center, and a discussion with a leading First: the group we went Israeli political journalist. with from Northeast Of course, the accommoFlorida was outstanding.

A real fun group; some of dations were over-the-top hotels and restaurants which I knew before we left, but by the end of the that were among the best I have experienced. We trip, I felt like I had a new even had our own security group of lifelong friends. team that not only kept us safe but also acted as Second: our guides were simply incredible. We had guides, historians, translators, and eventually different guides depending upon which part of the friends. country we were in, but it Needless to say, I am did not seem to matter.

Each guide was incredibly grateful for everyone who fluent in Israeli history and dedicated their time to all of the extensive planning culture, had the right set of interpersonal skills that involved in making this a made the trip fun for each trip of a lifetime. I have a person, and had the time strong suspicion this will management and logistics not be my last trip with this organization. knowledge to make full use of each day.

Third: the places we went.

Yes, we saw many of the traditional sights - including the Western Wall, the City of David, wine tasting 15

BEING AN OPTIMIST

By Joanne E. Cohen JD Interim Director, Foundation I have always been an optimist.

For me, connecting people to causes they care about, engaging in lifelong learning and embracing Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, are the values that make up the cornerstones of my personal and professional life.

discusses optimism as a Jewish Professional - “to work for and to lead any of our extraordinary institutions of Jewish learning and culture is fundamentally an act of hope, a leap of faith, and an exercise of the deep belief in our core values, and in the necessity of enriching Jewish life in America, and infusing those values toward the making of a more meaningful world for our children.”

agencies providing service to our Jewish community as well as our greater community, and in experiencing our Jewish organizations working to keep us informed on the causes we care about. Your Jewish Federation & Foundation is working to help sustain our synagogues, our agencies, our Jewish organizations, and our way of Jewish life forever.

If you believe as I do - that tending to our community Recently, I read a blog Our Northeast Florida is sacred work, that our from Dr. Bruce Powell, Jewish community is synagogues, agencies, President of Jewish School pulsing with energy. You and organizations are Management and concan feel it when you important to a robust tributor to eJewish Philan- participate in activities in Jewish life, - then isn’t the thropy, and was struck by our area synagogues, visit survival of our rich way of this paragraph where he our award-winning Jewish life a value we all

share? A cornerstone for our community? Join me in creating a vehicle to permanently ensure that our Jewish community is here for generations to come, thereby creating solid financial foundations to our future. How will you live your values to ensure our thriving community continues to do so?

At the Jewish Federation & Foundation, our glass remains half full.

Get to know Joanne in a few fast facts:

In her career, Joanne has worked for two Jewish Federations: Dayton, OH & Jacksonville, FL. This is her second time working at the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida.

She loves to travel and has visited Israel 18 times.

Joanne enjoys mentoring professionals that are new to the field of philanthropy.

She has chaired the National Center for Family Philanthropy Community Foundation Advisory Committee & was a member of the National Advancement Network (AdNet) Board of Directors.

Joanne has participated as a Task Force member of the Florida Philanthropic Network Transfer of Wealth study.

16

Meet Charles Miller

NEW YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & FAMILIES MANAGER

By Charles Miller Young Professionals & Families Manager As a Jacksonville native, I am deeply rooted in the vibrant tapestry of our city and Jewish community. I’m thrilled to share my journey as I step into a role that holds personal significance and a profound commitment to the community that shaped me. I am truly honored to be the new Young Professionals & Families Manager for the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida.

My journey has led me to a role that aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations. I am proud of my Jewish faith and identity, which have been nurtured by a supportive community and cherished traditions. This pride has fueled my determination to contribute to growth and vibrancy within Northeast Florida. The significance of this community to my life is immeasurable, and my goal is to give back and ensure its flourishing continuity. The opportunity to serve as a conduit for growth, connection, and empowerment is a responsibility I embrace wholeheartedly.

Recently, I had the privilege of attending the National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC) Retreat in Detroit – an experience that left an indelible mark on my approach to leadership.

The retreat was not just a gathering of minds but a platform where colleagues from across the United States, Canada, and Israel converged to share insights, experiences, and solutions. The retreat was truly inspirational and edifying, igniting a fire within me to address shared challenges faced by communities like our own.

Networking with professionals and lay leaders from diverse backgrounds was enlightening. The collective wisdom and proven strategies shared during the retreat have given me fresh perspectives to address complex challenges that are often shared between communities. As the newly appointed manager of Young Professionals & Families, I am dedicated to implementing these solutions.

My vision extends beyond the retreat, as I am excited to collaborate

with past and present Cabinet members to cultivate the next generation of young philanthropists. The goal is to create an environment where passion, commitment, and innovation intersect to bring about transformative change.

Together, we can inspire young leaders, nurture their philanthropic spirit, and ensure a lasting impact on our community.

As I embark on this new chapter of my professional life, I invite individuals, lay leaders, and professionals within our community to connect and collaborate. If our paths have yet to cross, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your perspectives are invaluable to me and I am eager to forge new connections, learn from your experiences, and work together to amplify the vibrancy of Jewish Northeast Florida.

Charles Miller, Young Professionals & Families Manager Email: charlesm@ jewishjacksonville.org Direct line: (904) 512-3797 17

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COMMUNITY

FALL MARKS A NEW BEGINNING AT UNF

UNF President, Moez Limayem, and senior members of his administration meet with Co-Directors of UNF Chabad, Rabbi Shmuli and Chana Novack

By Rabbi Shmuli Novack Chabad of Southside Along with celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, fall marks the start of a new semester at the University of North Florida (UNF).

Chabad at UNF - “the heart of Jewish Life at UNF” - welcomes the incoming class of Jewish students. Preparations began months in advance, with prospective parents often visiting Chabad at UNF when touring the university. Programming is scheduled starting in early summer to provide Jewish students with all of their

needs. Programs include vibrant Shabbat dinners, Israel advocacy opportunities, social and educational programs, and much more.

This is also the first fall semester for Dr. Moez Limayem, the incoming University President.

Chabad at UNF Co-Directors, Chana and Rabbi Shmuli Novack, recently hosted President Limayem along with senior members of his administration.

They came for a tour of the Center and discussed a wide-range of issues pertaining to Jewish students in particular.

“It was a distinct honor to host President Limayem,” said Chana. His concern for the wellbeing of our Jewish student population is vividly apparent and we agreed to meet regularly to remain proactive in this

regard. We look forward to working closely with his office moving forward.”

19

Together Against Hate:

PROMOTING UNITY IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance

Luther King Jr. and local 3030 N. Laura Street.

As a visual representation black activists working to • The Together Against of our partnership and the desegregate St. Augustine, Hate partnership will efforts made to unify our Florida. culminate in a communicommunity, our series will • On Tuesday, October 10, ty-wide Racing Against culminate with the 2023, at 7 pm, Timothy Hate 5K Run/Walk at the first-ever Racing Against Jefferson will lead a panel Winston Family YMCA at 1 Hate 5K Run/Walk at the discussion with JASMYN to pm on Sunday, February Winston Family YMCA on share information about 25, 2024.

Sunday, February 25, LGBTQ+ rights and 2024, at 1 pm. advocacy at Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street

in Jacksonville.

Please reference our • The Anti-Defamation Together Against Hate The Jewish Community League (ADL) Florida speaker schedule and Alliance (JCA) and First Regional Director Sarah mark your community Emmons will be at the JCA, Coast YMCA are proud to calendars to join us as we 8505 San Jose Boulevard, share in a new partnership inspire our neighbors to on Tuesday, November 7, created to take an active create a safe and wel2023, at 7 pm to discuss role in educating and coming community. Our the rise of antisemitism inspiring our neighbors to educational speaker series and what is being done to build a more inclusive initiate change. Also begins on Thursday, Northeast Florida. Toaddressing our audiences September 14, 2023, and gether Against Hate: at the JCA on Nov 7, Rabbi continues through JanuPromoting Unity in our Diana Fersko, author of ary 18, 2024.

Community is envisioned ‘We Need to Talk about Antisemitism,’ will share to address topics impact- • 904Ward will commence her exploration of why ing our area including our speaker series with people are reluctant to disprejudices in faith, race, JFCS’s Resisting Hate, cuss antisemitism and antisemitism, ethnicity, Repairing the World panel what empowers us to fight LGBTQ+, gender, and discussion moderated by against it.

Hope McMath, curator of diverse abilities. Starting • Promoting and protecting the Frisch Family Holoin September with a the human rights of people caust Memorial Gallery at monthly educational with diverse abilities, The 7 pm on Thursday, Sepseries led by influential Arc Jacksonville will host tember 14, 2023, at The speakers from 904Ward, an evening of advocacy LJD Jewish Family & and education at 7 pm on JASMYN, the Anti-DefaCommunity Services Tuesday, December 5, mation League (ADL), The (JFCS), 8540 Baycenter 2023, at the Jessie Ball Arc Jacksonville, The LJD Road. At our initial TogethduPont Center, 40 East Jewish Family & Commuer Against Hate event, Adams Street. nity Services (JFCS), JFCS will also feature ‘We • As the finale of our speakCould Not Be Silent’ – a OneJax, and Interfaith er series, local faith gallery exhibit that comCenter, this initiative is leaders, OneJax and the memorates the remarkdesigned to give our Interfaith Center of Northable act of solidarity at a neighbors the knowledge east Florida will host a critical moment of civil needed to have a voice in panel discussion at 7 pm rights history when a group on Thursday, January 18, taking a stance against of rabbis were jailed for 2024, in the Main Library bias. supporting Dr. Martin in Downtown Jacksonville, 20

Our thanks to the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida and the 2023 Next Gen Fundholders for awarding the JCA with the Next Gen B’nai Tzedek Grant Award in the amount of $10,000 to support this partnership as we join together against hate. We would also like to thank CSX for supporting this campaign with an additional $5,000.

For more information about the Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in our Community speaker series and the Racing Against Hate 5K Run/Walk please visit jcajax.org/together-against-hate.

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River Garden Auxiliary Begins a New

Century of Service to benefit the lives of the residents of the River Garden community through financial contributions and hundreds of volunteer hours.

Fundraising activities include the River Garden Gift Shop, Tombola, the Donor Luncheon, and other special initiatives throughout the year. All Ladies Hebrew Aid Shelproceeds are used to tering Society, has been enhance the quality of life an integral part of the for the residents. The River Garden and greater Auxiliary sponsors the Jacksonville area commu- residents’ holiday parties nities. The River Garden and also funds enhanceAuxiliary provides support ments and improvements

Pictured are River Garden Auxiliary Past Presidents. Bottom Row: Betty Abisch (2007-2009), Joan Waitz (1991-1993), Ruth Nachman (1996-1997), Judy Paul (1991-1993), Karen Backilman (2011-2013), Mimi Kaufman (2019-2023) Top Row: Shirley Bielski (2017-2019), Barbara Safer (20092011), Ellen Rubens (2023-2025)

By Ellen Rubens Auxiliary President, River Garden Senior Services Since its inception in 1922, the River Garden Auxiliary, then known as the

that help supplement the River Garden exceptional experience.

For more information on how you can become part of the River Garden Auxiliary’s mission, contact Ellen Rubens at (904) 651-6607.

WELCOME! NEW HIRES AT ETZ CHAIM

By Rabbi Yaakov Fisch Etz Chaim Synagogue

Rabbi Green will be overseeing Adult Education and Programming, as well as assisting Rabbi Fisch in providing Rabbinic resources to our membership and community. He will also serve as a parttime Rabbinic Fellow at the Jacksonville Kollel.

Rabbi Green and his wife,

We are pleased to announce the hiring of Rabbi Aharon Yosef Green who will be joining the Etz Chaim Family. Rabbi Green currently resides in Yerushalayim where he is studying in the famed Mir Yeshiva. He previously received his Semicha from RIETS (Yeshiva University Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theology Seminary). He also received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and completed the RIETS-Ferkauf Joint Graduate Program in Pastoral Sarah have three adorCounseling. able children. They moved here in mid August. Please 22

join us in giving Rabbi Green and his family a very warm welcome.

We also are pleased to announce the hiring of our new Executive Director, Scott Fletcher. Scott has much experience working in the not-for-profit world, where he served as COO of a Community College in Minnesota and as CEO of the Fargo Air Museum.

He spent years managing and leading these organizations, specifically overseeing fundraising, financial management, and public relations. He has also worked as the Director of Maintenance and Operations for Mesa

Airlines. He managed over 120 employees and negotiated all vendor contracts for the airline.

We look forward to adding Scott to our team as Executive Director as we continue our commitment to excellence here at Etz Chaim Synagogue.

Please join us in welcoming Scott Fletcher to our mishpacha.

MY SUMMER with

THE ANNE SAMSON JERUSALEM JOURNEY (TJJ)

By Aryeh Jaison Vice President, Jacksonville NCSY This summer, six other teens from Jacksonville and I had the opportunity to travel to Israel for a month with TJJ, an NCSY Summer trip.

We embarked on a journey across the country starting in Kiryat Shmona right at the north tip of Israel, working our way down south to Eilat. While in the north we visited the Lebanon border, and it was really shocking to see how close the Hezbollah operations were to where Israeli families were living.

Although we did a lot of physical activities in the north, I can’t leave out the inspiration we felt when we visited Meron and went to the grave of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai.

In the south, we visited the beautiful vacation destination, Eilat, and had a lot of fun riding Banana Boats and doing other water activities in the Red Sea. We also had the opportunity to visit Sderot, while we were in the south, and learn how people live in constant fear of rocket attacks, and how they incorporate bomb shelters into everyday things such as playgrounds. It was amazing to see how dedicated Jews are to living in the state of Israel

even under duress.

Our last week was spent at the center of the world - Jerusalem. During the final week we visited the Kotel, the tunnels under the Kotel, Chevron, and other biblical sites. In the city of David, we were able to better understand the history as we went through the water tunnels.

This experience helped us understand what we were mourning and fasting for on Tisha B’Av. We also got the opportunity to hear from representatives of Zionist organizations like Stand With Us and Nefesh B’Nefesh, about what we can do at home to combat antisemitism and Anti-Zionism.

The seven teens from Jax with Jacksonville NCSY advisors, Eli Schloss and Sarah Leiderman

The ancient city of Katzrin

I am grateful to many organizations for continued support of important Jewish programming like this: JSU Jax, Southern NCSY, Rootone, and the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. And most importantly, I would like to thank Rabbi Joey Hamaoui, the director of Northeast JSU and NCSY, for inspiring myself and the other six teens to go on this important trip and for convincing my mom to let me go. I know that our shared experiences will inspire us to become future leaders in the Jewish community.

Chance meeting with a Jacksonville friend at Machane Yehuda

Riding donkeys in Kfar Kedem

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WE COULD NOT BE SILENT

By Caryl Butterley The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) has a new exhibit in The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery.

WE COULD NOT BE SILENT is an exhibit that commemorates a remarkable act of solidarity at a critical moment in history. ed by traveling to tive we recognize the St. Augustine to stand with power of community and the Black community. solidarity, and let history remind us of who we can The rabbis were arrested be. and, from their jail cell, wrote a letter to their A phrase written by the communities as a witness rabbis almost sixty years to what they were experi- ago echoes through the encing and the reasons years and speaks to us they had come. They today: expressed how history had informed their deci“Silence has become the sion: unpardonable sin of our time.”

“We came as Jews who remember the millions of faceless people who stood HOURS: The exhibit will be quietly, watching the open to the public every smoke rise from Hitler’s Monday through Friday, crematoria. We came 8:30am-5:00pm. For because we know that, those not able to visit second only to silence, the during regular work hours, greatest danger to man is on the second Sunday of Recognizing the need to each month the gallery shine a larger spotlight on loss of faith in man’s capacity to act.” will be open from 12:00pm what was happening in through 2:00pm. If you the city, Dr. King sent a Many of the forces during are part of a group who letter to Rabbi Israel that turbulent time are still would like to view the Dresner, a former freewith us today. As certain exhibit, contact dom rider, calling for his groups have become mgwilliams@jfcsjax.org to support. Rabbi Dresner, along with 15 other rabbis more active and embold- arrange a tour at a convenient time. and a layperson, respond- ened in their public displays of hate, it is impera24 Over the course of three days in June of 1964, events transpired that changed our nation’s history and were a significant factor in the passage of the Civil Rights Act. This was an era when Black citizens and their allies in St. Augustine were striving to desegregate private and public properties – from hotels, to lunch counters, to pools, to public beaches. When Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. arrived in St. Augustine to work with local movement leaders, the environment he encountered was one of incredible hostility and violence.

LOCATION: The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery, The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services, 8540 Baycenter Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

WE COULD NOT BE SILENT is curated by Hope McMath, Curator and Facilitator for JFCS, and represents decades of work by historians, journalists, activists, and leaders in the Black and Jewish communities in Northeast Florida. We wish to thank our generous supporters: The Frisch Family, Florida Blue, The Dr. Larry & Kathy Kanter Art Fund, The Theodore and Pauline Cohen Charitable Trust, and Anonymous.

Mazel Tov, Nancy Green

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance

private homes to support the concept of the JCA in our community. Mark and I participated as volunL’dor v’dor has come to teers and hosted a group mean the transmission of in our home,” explains our Jewish culture, values, Nancy, whose husband, rituals, traditions, and Mark, served as our Board history from one genera- Chair. “It was an exciting tion to the next. With the time because prior to our literal meaning of the JCA there was no comHebrew phrase being, mon space for the com“from generation to munity to join and socialgeneration,” even more so ize that wasn’t a than sharing songs or synagogue.” recipes, L’dor v’dor is the belief that the wisdom of After community meetings family members or influand fundraising, our ential mentors in our lives founders’ vision came to instill character while fruition, and Nancy was continuing important proud to be among those values and traditions to who gathered to break create a better future. ground for the JCA campus. At the time, A powerful phrase, L’dor serving as the director of v’dor is what our founders Gan Yeladim preschool, planned for the Jewish Nancy - along with Margie Community Alliance (JCA) Rogozinski - co-chaired and what our community the JCA’s Early Childhood now embodies for families Task Force until the throughout Northeast preschool officially beFlorida. The importance came JCA Gan Yeladim in of the value became even 1994. After a few years as more evident through the the JCA’s Early Childhood halls of our JCA campus Director, Nancy served as this August. In the most the Assistant Executive bittersweet way, we Director of Programming listened, learned, and for Children and Families, absorbed all we could as where she supervised the our beloved Assistant JCA’s Youth and Teen Executive Director, and departments before being founding JCA member, promoted to her current Nancy Green, shared 34 role in 1999. years of knowledge, memories, and JCA “If I had to pick one traditions in preparation program as my favorite for her retirement. through the years, it would be the preschool since “Before the JCA was built, that is where I feel I had we had focus groups in the most direct impact

during the time I was there,” explains Nancy. “It really is impossible to choose just one favorite.

Theatre, Youth, Fitness, Cultural Arts, Jewish Education, Summer Camp, Sports and Rec they are all programs I can relate to and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with these departments through the years.”

In addition to mentoring our JCA staff members, Nancy works directly to make a difference in the lives of families who come to the JCA. Through scholarships for school, sports, summer camp, swimming lessons, and so much more, Nancy’s efforts to share all our JCA does for the community reach far and wide.

“My work results in programming we offer which is extremely fulfilling in terms of the number of people in the community we reach to add more quality experiences to their lives,” says Nancy.

“We’ve grown into an institution where people want to participate in a multitude of programs and to develop relationships with others. I hope we continue to thrive with membership and program growth at the same level of excellence we’ve prided ourselves through the last three decades.”

While her spirit and knowledge will be sorely missed as a guiding light throughout our agency, Nancy and her husband, Mark, will still be active with the JCA as co-chairs of the Building Our Future Together capital campaign. Nancy will continue to serve on the JCA’s Cultural Arts Festival committee and as a founding member of this beautiful community, she will always be part of our JCA family.

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Of Love and Loss...

ONE PERSON’S STORY & THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR JEWISH COMMUNITY

By Jill Metlin Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida

In January, I lost my mother. She was 96 years old. For several years, I’d been driving back and forth to see her and manage her affairs. My Mom, Adele Wekstein Shamban, was a fiercely independent woman, always ahead of her time.

She wanted to stay in her home until she died – which is what she did. I don’t regret a minute of my time going back and forth on I-95. The family sacrifices, the loss of income, the frustration and worry of changing caregivers, keeping her house up, and paying the bills for a club she could no longer use did not change

how I felt about making sure everything was as good as could be for her. I would’ve kept doing it had she lived to 120. It takes a village - and I had support. First, my husband without him, where would I be? He kept the bills straight, paid everything for my mother on time, and kept the home fires burning on my many trips south. My siblings are truly the best. My synagogue, Rabbi, the congregation, my Sisterhood sisters, my Hadassah friends, and my ‘Jew Crew’ – thanks to Isabel Balotin and Federation’s program for newcomers. When I look back - and even now - my support mostly was, and remains, from my Jewish life.

Florida ever since my time in the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County’s Young Leadership Division, and my Jewish brethren in Northeast Florida. I even had friends and family from all over the state help me get her house ready for sale (now that’s really a tough and thankless job). I could not have done it on my own.

Her house down south was filled for Shiva there and my house was filled here. I could not have asked for more support. To this day, people ask how I am doing, how my family is, and they thank me for the little things I have been able to give away that were hers. She was always generous – never letting a friend of mine pay for When my mother passed, themselves, even if she my Jewish world rushed in hadn’t met them before. to help. Her Rabbi, from She was a Lion of Judah Temple Judea in Palm – she loved and worked Beach Gardens, my hard for the Federation Rabbi, Maya Glasser, my for years. Like a lion, she mother’s Jewish friends, was fiercely proud of my Jewish friends in South being Jewish, supporting

the community locally, in Israel, and in the Diaspora. She made me a National Young Leadership Cabinet member many years ago, and we went to Israel together, too. She started me on my Jewish journey and imparted her love of Israel, the importance of tzedakah, and of tikkun olam.

Now I am rearranging my life. Motherless after all these years, I am trying to take the lessons she taught me and emulate the better person she was.

I am now the one waving good-bye to family after a visit and saying, “Make sure you call me when you get home.” I can’t imagine a better person to imitate, and I only hope to be half the woman, wife, friend, aunt, and grandma that she was. I am truly blessed.

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TERRACE DEDICATION CEREMONY

By Rabbi Shmuli Novack Chabad of Southside

truly a “Beit Knesset,” or a “place of gathering” in Hebrew. The center offers a prayer sanctuary, Chabad of Southside celebrated the dedication student lounge/ game of the “Model Family room, premier Jewish Terrace by the Lake” on preschool Ganeinu, Ahava Kosher café, and the June 4th. The event captivating Malnik Gallery showcased captivating music, prestigious awards, featuring Judaic art. and award-winning kosher BBQ. It fostered a At the heart of the art strong sense of together- gallery stands Robert Indiness, warmth, and joy, ana’s iconic “Ahava” defining the growing sculpture, a Hebrew Chabad community near version of his famous the St. Johns Town Center. LOVE statue. The sculpture embodies the fun and The state-of-the-art Fink- creative atmosphere er-Frenkel Chabad Center nurtured by Chabad and is more than just a synaextended to the communigogue, serving as a ty. The presence of cultural and social hub. It’s acclaimed artist Romero

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Britto added to the artistic blend of camaraderie, allure of the dedication. culture, and celebration were just the tonic we In addition to Mr. Britto, needed, highlighting the celebration welcomed Chabad’s role as a catanotable figures like David lyst for community and “Papi” Einhorn, known as positive change. Gratithe “King of Miami night- tude filled the air as life,” Congressman John attendees stood on the Rutherford of Florida’s 5th picturesque terrace, District, and Yair Netgazing at the lake, appreanyahu, son of the Israeli ciating the unwavering prime minister. Drs. support from dedicated Dmitriy and Elena Model, friends. The Model Family Dr. Lazar Finker, Mr. Ryan Terrace by the Lake will Shapiro, and Bruce Kaye serve as an exceptional received special accogathering space for years lades, showcasing the to come. thriving and vibrant nature of this event.

Amidst challenging times we face as a country – the

Guests at the Dedication of the Model Family Terrace by the Lake included (from left to right): Chana Novack, Romero Britto, Yair Netanyahu, Dr. Lazar Finker, Rabbi Shmuli Novack, Dr. Dmitriy Model, David “Papi” Einhorn, and Ryan Schapiro

RIVER GARDEN BLENDS TRADITION & FRESH STARTS FOR THE NEW YEAR

By Nancy Davis Director of Jewish Life, River Garden Hebrew Home What a difference a year can make! I’m living proof.

Around this time last year, I was happily a stay-athome mom, organizing my days around my family’s schedules and needs. A few months later, I found out about an extraordinary opportunity to work at River Garden and jumped at the chance. This will be my first High Holiday season as Director of Jewish Life for the River Garden campus. I’m happy to tell you, it’s making this already special time of year even more meaningful to me.

If you ever needed role models on how to do the High Holidays right, you won’t find any better mentors than the incredible seniors living at River Garden. Want to celebrate the sweetness of life, strive to improve, let grievances go, and even atone for your mistakes?

Who better to guide you than those who have done so successfully so many times before?

We can all draw from their wisdom, learn from their examples, and even gain a deeper understanding of our traditions. But as

much as you’d think they’d focus on the past, what’s most inspiring to me is how they’re looking ahead to what’s next. It’s my honor to be a part of that planning - along with the other amazing professionals here. As a resident said to me recently, “The number of years you have aren’t as important as what you do in those years.”

There’s a special sense of hopefulness that is unique to the High Holidays. It’s a wonderful time of year to be at River Garden, where each shofar blast heralds in opportuniTalking with those who call ties to River Garden home also reflect, learn, serves as a reminder of and connect. how strong our local A lot about the world has community is. The found- changed over the years, ers of River Garden but the High Holidays at understood and worked River Garden remain a hard to foster kehillah – unique and wonderful community, both internally experience for residents and in the larger Jewish and their families to community in Jacksonville. savor… almost as much as River Garden creates an apples and honey. environment that allows each resident to celebrate and participate in their own way. As you gather with your loved ones over matzo ball soup, brisket, raisin challah, and all the tasty offerings of the season, I encourage you to find ways to honor the precious individuality of each member of your family, across the generations. I am seeing first hand that, as we age, the holidays don’t become routine, they can become even sweeter with increased optimism, joy and meaning.

May you find increased peace and fulfillment in the new year. Shana tov umetukah!

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Cultural Arts Festival

ANNOUNCING THE 2023 JCA

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance

culture. With free programming available to people of all faiths and beliefs, our visiting auMark your calendars; your thors, speakers, and film entire family is invited to screenings will provide our the JCA to explore the neighbors an opportunity original work of local to experience the beauty Jewish artists and design- and diversity of Judaism. ers, as well as community artisans inspired by Jewish Additionally, through their tradition (at the JCA) on creative expressions, Sunday, October 29 at 11 artists from Northeast am. This year, the JCA Florida will address topics Cultural Arts Festival and impacting our area our annual celebration of including prejudices in Jewish art, films, music, faith, ethnicity, diverse and literature begins with abilities, and gender in the our first-ever Jewish Vandroff Art Gallery, inspired Pop-Up Market!

November 2 – 29. In We hope you will join us connection with the JCA for food, music, and and First Coast YMCA family fun! partnership Together Against Hate: Promoting Through the power of the Unity in our Community, cultural arts, we are the exhibit’s opening planning several unique reception starts at 6 pm events that are centered on Thursday, November 2. on the rich heritage and traditions found in Jewish We are pleased to share a few highlights of our 30

visiting authors, speakers and films at the 2023 JCA Cultural Arts Festival! Visit jcajax.org/cafest for more details and be on the lookout; our full schedule of events is coming soon.

Ladies’ Night Out | Mon, Oct 30 at 7 pm Cyndie Spiegel: Microjoys Finding Hope (Especially) When Life is Not Okay Film and Discussion | Sun, Nov 5 at 3 pm The Narrow Bridge 2022, Drama, 1h 20m Together Against Hate Speaker Series | Tue, Nov 7 at 7 pm Rabbi Diane Fersko: We Need to Talk About Antisemitism, featured with Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Florida Regional Director Sarah Emmons

In Honor of our Veterans | Thu, Nov 9 at 7 pm Steven Hartov: The Last of the Seven Festival Finale | Thu, Nov 16 at 7 pm New York Times Best Selling Author of Go The F*** to Sleep, Adam Mansbach, presents his new novel, The Golem of Brooklyn, about an art teacher, a bodega clerk, and a five-thousandyear-old clay crisis monster.

SEE & BE SCENE

JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA INAUGURAL BUSINESS & PROFESSIONALS EVENT The Inaugural Business & Professionals (B&P) Event was held in May. Over 100 professionals attended to hear from the featured guest speaker, Ari Ackerman - a successful serial entrepreneur, strategic investor, and proud philanthropist. His entrepreneurial history includes being the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bunk1.com, the enormously popular technology company that allows parents to see online pictures and send emails/ Bunk Notes to their kids at summer camp. Ben Becker, anchor and investigative reporter for CBS 47/ Fox 30 Action News Jax, was the moderator. Daniel Miller is the B&P Chair. Photo Credit: Marcel Lecours (marcellecours.com)

Guest speaker, Ari Ackerman, being interviewed by Ben Becker

Jason Trager, Diana Bauer, Herschel Bettman, Grant Kuvin, Wendy Barlin

Claudia Margolis and Robyn Kay

David Jaison, Adam Gitlin, and Adam Holtzman

Jennifer Plotkin, Daniel Miller, and Haley Trager

Marcy Reindl, Ellen Cottrill, and Bruce Werner

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WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CONNECTIONS Women’s Philanthropy held their finale of the 2022-2023 Connections year with a visit to Flamboyance! A Topiary Menagerie at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Led by docents, Marjie Rogozinski and Sherrie Saag, the group learned the history and details of the special exhibit. Patrick MacRae, Doolittle Family Director of Gardens and Horticulture, made a special appearance to share inside stories of how the exhibit made its way to Northeast Florida.

Meryl Rittenberg and Joan Rosenberg

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The tour was led by docents, Sherrie Saag and Marjie Rogozinski, seen here with Patrick MacRae, Doolittle Family Director of Gardens and Horticulture

INFANTS THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE Innovative Education Elevated by Tradition Bilingual education is proven to contribute to greater social understanding and increased brain development.

Our students: receive enhanced, personalized instruction with our low teacher-to-student ratio. accrue high school credits in algebra, geometry, biology and foreign language. attend accelerated high school programs, including IB and AICE. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT ADMISSIONS@DUBOWGOTTLIEB.ORG (904) 268-4200

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CHABAD OF SOUTHSIDE CHALLAH BAKE AT GANEINU PRESCHOOL The teachers and staff at Ganeinu Preschool put a premium on parental and family involvement. As educators, we view our role as being in a partnership with the student’s families. One example of our unique programming is the family challah bake. Parents and special friends join the children for a Friday afternoon Shabbat party and collaborate to make the challah as our students do every Friday. This trust and connection allows us to work together with parents to provide a high quality early childhood education for the children.

To learn more about Jacksonville’s Premier Jewish preschool, visit Ganeinu.com.

Teachers at Ganeinu preschool bake challahs with the students during a weekly Friday Challah bake.

CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS COUNTY GROW AFTER-SCHOOL AWARDS CEREMONY

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CAMP GAN ISRAEL

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ETZ CHAIM SYNAGOGUE CAMP SHEVES ACHIM

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YOM HASHOAH Etz Chaim Synagogue was honored to host the Communal Yom Hashoah ceremony this year. We were honored to have many guests and presenters participate in this meaningful event. Special thanks to Morris Bendit for sharing his meaningful Shoah-themed exhibits for the event.

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THE LJD JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES WHAT WOMEN WANT From NYC to the Hamptons to Right Here in Jax: The lovely ladies of The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services gathered for our second “What Women Want” event, featuring Seri Kertzner, Chief Party Planner of Little Miss Party. With a keen eye for design and passion for turning ordinary occasions into extraordinary experiences, Little Miss Party showed us “What Women Want” by sharing her tips and tricks for entertaining and table-setting. “What Women Want” events are inspired by the fact that the best way to start your week is with friends and helping an organization you love. A special thank you to our hosts and committee chairs – Suzie Becker, Cecilia Cristol, Monique Miller, Ellen Rosner, Debra Setzer, and Kimberly Sisisky.

Little Miss Party can be reached through her contact information: Little Miss Party | (212) 433-0672 | seri@littlemisspartyplanner.com | www.littlemisspartyplanner.com

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JACKSONVILLE JEWISH CENTER JUMBO SHRIMP GAME

REJEWVINATE ReJEWvinate at the Jacksonville Jewish Center hosted their inaugural 20s/30s get together on June 29.

We had a taco bar dinner and drinks. We had a fun icebreaker activity and Jewish trivia, as well.

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MARTIN J. GOTTLIEB DAY SCHOOL WELCOMING THE JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Karin Hallett, Head of School, welcomes Jaguar legend, Adam Podlesh, and Sr. Vice President of the Jaguars Foundation, Peter Racine, to the school.

Students had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Podlesh and have their Jaguars gear autographed.

Mr. Podlesh spoke to students about his journey as a Jewish player in the NFL, and the importance of perserverance and sportsmanship in life.

Congratulations to the Martin J. Gottlieb graduating class of 2023!

PICK UP JEWISHLIFE MAGAZINE AT THESE LOCATIONS:

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As Israelis rejoice in the sound of the shofar, we’re also preparing for the wail of the siren.

With the growing threat of a war with Hezbollah, we can’t ensure this Rosh HaShanah will usher in a peaceful year. But with a new campaign to add 300 urgently needed ambulances to MDA’s fleet, we can save lives no matter what 5784 brings.

Make a donation today or contact us about how you, your family, or synagogue can provide the ambulances MDA will need.

Visit afmda.org/give or call 866.632.2763.

WORTH THE SCHLEP SEPTEMBER 7, 2023 Parent Night at the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services 8540 Baycenter Rd. Jacksonville, FL More details to come

Loaves of Love - The St. Johns Challah Bake

Join the Jewish Women’s Circle as we discover the secrets to a beautiful Challah. Explore the beauty of this tradition, unique to women & girls. Create your own Challah & share the warmth and great taste with others. The Jewish Women’s Circle (JWC) is a place to connect with Jewish women from diverse backgrounds and affiliations in a warm, lighthearted atmosphere. Join us and bring a friend! JewishSJohnsCounty. com/JWC Email dini@JewishSJohnscounty. com Call (904) 701-4422

SEPTEMBER 9, 2023 Selihot Program & Service @ 8:30 p.m.

Jacksonville Jewish Center 3662 Crown Point Rd Jacksonville, FL 6:30 p.m. - Minhah; 7:15 p.m.

- Seudah Shlishith, discussion and dessert; 8:15 p.m. - Ma’ariv and Havdalah; 8:30 p.m. - “Plan A”: In the months following the end of the Second World War a group of Jewish survivors formed a secret organization called Nakam, the Hebrew word for “vengeance”. Their goal was to wreak havoc on the German population for empowering the extermination of the Jewish people during the Third Reich.

Join us for a discussion of the thin line between justice and revenge as we screen the 2021 film “Plan A”, a true event of a disturbing story; 10:15 p.m. - Selihot service Contact: Danielle Berke

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(904) 292-1000 dberke@jaxjewishcenter.org http://www.jaxjewishcenter.org

SEPTEMBER 10, 2023 6th Annual Reverse Tashlich @ 9:30 a.m.

Jacksonville Beach Pier 303 N 1st Street Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 Parking at the pier ($3 fee on the weekend); What to bring: Light clothing, sunscreen, hat, water; Contact Congregation Ahavath Chesed to register!

(904) 733-7078; After the clean up, we will be meeting at Mellow Mushroom at the beach for lunch. We will have the reservation for our party, your tab is on you!

SEPTEMBER 11-14, 2023 Virtual Mission to Israel @ 12 p.m.

Zoom Take a break for lunch and join Israeli Community Shlicha, Tal Mola, virtually each day from Israel. She will explore Israel and have interviews to share. Free to the community.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 Teacher Night at the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services 8540 Baycenter Rd. Jacksonville, FL Details to come

Together Against Hate Speaker Series with Special Guests 904Ward and The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services @ 7 p.m.

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services 8540 Baycenter Rd. Jacksonville, FL 904Ward in partnership with JFCS’ Resisting Hate, Repairing the World, hosts a panel discussion moderated by Hope McMath. In addition, JFCS will

feature, ‘We Could Not Be Silent’, a gallery exhibit that commemorates the remarkable act of solidarity at a critical moment of civil rights history.

Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in Our Community is a speaker series and initiative presented by the Jewish Community Alliance and First Coast YMCA to address topics impacting our area including prejudices in faith, race, antisemitsm, ethnicity, LGBTQ+, gender, and diverse abilities. The Jewish Community Alliance and First Coast YMCA are proud to take an active role in educating and inspiring our neighbors to build a more inclusive Northeast Florida.

SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 Rosh Hashanah Dinner: 5 Course Delicious Meal @ 8 p.m.

Aaron and Blanche Scharf Chabad Center Enjoy a delicious Rosh Hashanah dinner with all of the traditional High Holiday foods, great company, wonderful atmosphere, with friends and family.

Services: 7:00 p.m.; Dinner: 8:00 p.m.; PRICES: Child $18, Military or Student $18, Adult $36, Family $180, Sponsor $250; To place your reservations, visit ChabadBeaches. com/HHolidays or call (904) 643-9301

SEPTEMBER 17, 2023 Mystical Shofar at the Park @ 6 p.m.

875 Davis Pond Blvd. 32259 At the Pier Hear the Shofar sounds aws we usher in a new year. Recite the mystical Tashlich prayer with Kabbalistic teachings & applied mindfulness. Join the Jewish community for a Rosh Hashanah experience for the whole family + Rosh Hashanah treats for the kids

SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 Israel Time with Alex Silverstein @ 6:30 p.m.

Join our Community Security Director, Alex Silverstein, as he talks about his experience as an FBI Agent with the Israeli security authorities. Free to the community.

SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 Sukkot Under the Stars @ 7 p.m.

Chabad at the Beaches Join us for a Festive Sukkot Dinner in the Beaches’ Largest Sukkah. Services begin at 7 p.m. followed by a Sukkot Dinner.

RSVP is required $18 PP. $15 kids. For more information, www.chabadbeaches.com or call (904) 543-9301

OCTOBER 2, 2023 Samba in the Sukkah: Girls Night Out with a Latin Flair @ 7 p.m.

Chabad at the Beaches Come enjoy a girls night out with a Latin flair. Latin inspired appetizers, Samba dancing, and sangria rating. RSVP required $18 PP. Info: www.chabadbeaches.com or call (904-5439301

OCTOBER 3, 2023 Steak & Cigars in the Sukkah @ 7:30 p.m.

Chabad at the Beaches Men’s Event. RSVP required by Sept. 26. $54. Limited to first 40 reservations. Info: www. chabadbeaches.com or call (904) 543-9301

OCTOBER 4, 2023 Sukkot for Kids @ 3:45 p.m.

Chabad at the Beaches A fast-paced kids event full of Sukkot fun! RSVP required. Info: www.chabadbeaches.com or call (904) 543-9301

Celerate Sukkot with CommUnity @ 5 p.m.

400 Nocatee Center Way Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 Join the community for a fun-filled Sukkot celebration!

Pasta Bar, Foam Fun, Music, Shake the Lulav & Etrog,

Refreshments for all. At Nocatee (In the large field next to the spray park) RSVP at JewishSJohnsCounty.com/ Sukkah

OCTOBER 5, 2023 Cteen on a Roll @ 5:30 p.m.

Chabad at the Beaches Roll from one surprise to the next on the Cteen Sukkah Mobile. Info: www.chabadbeaches.com or call (904) 543-9301

OCTOBER 7, 2023 Simchat Torah Block Party @ 6:45 p.m.

Chabad of St. Johns County Mouthwatering Sushi, Rockin Hakafot, Hot L’chaims & Holy Torahs, Children’s program, treats and dance with the Torah. Come celebrate Simchat Torah with community - the party of a lifetime!!

Simchat Torah: A New Experience

Chabad at the Beaches Saturday Eve 10/7 & Sunday 10/8. Join us for a completely reimagined and redesigned Simchat Torah. Dance with the Torah-dance coaches who will take you through a fast-paced hour of joyous dancing; In-house Rotisseur chef - an upscale culinary event; Professional bartender; Special Kids Hour. Info: www.chabadbeaches.com or call (904) 543-9301

OCTOBER 10, 2023 Together Against Hate Speaker Series with Special Guest JASMYN @ 7 p.m.

Friday Musicale 645 Oak Street Director of Teen and Family Initiatives at JASMYN, Timothy Jefferson leads a panel discussion about LGBTQIA+ rights and advocacy.

OCTOBER 11, 2023 Discover Israel Film Series Adjami @ 6:30 p.m.

Ajami is a multi-narrative drama set in Jaffa’s titular neighborhood, where Jews, Muslims, and Christians live in close quarters, and follows the

intertwined stories of several characters as their lives intersect and collide. The film explores the complex relationships and tensions between these characters, revealing the intricate web of interconnectedness that exists in this diverse community.

OCTOBER 15, 2023 EPIC Campaign Luncheon @ 12 p.m.

Jacksonville Jewish Center 3662 Crown Point Rd Jacksonville, FL October 15 & November 5 at Noon

OCTOBER 24, 2023 Women’s Philanthropy Connections: Passport to Morocco and Israel! @ 10:30 a.m.

Join us to learn about the Jewish Community in Morocco and Israel. For more information, please visit www.jewishjacksonville.org or email laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org

River Garden Auxiliary Opening Meeting & Luncheon @ 11:30 a.m.

Visit the River Garden website - look for Auxiliary - or call Ellen Rubens.

Discover The World of Kabbalah

Here’s your unique chance to learn Kabbalah’s core ideas and why they continue to stimulate, fascinate, and inspire real-life growth. I invite you to join us for a transformative journey of knowledge with our new course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute: The World of Kabbalah. We’ll get a comprehensive look at Kabbalah’s core teachings and unearth deep insights into the human condition to inspire real-life growth and self-understanding. Join a group of thoughtful Jews like yourself, stimulate your curiosity, and get the tools to bring Kabbalah’s wisdom into your everyday life - all while connecting more deeply with an underexplored side of your Jewish heritage. The World of

Kabbalah is a six-week course revealing How Its Mystical Secrets Relate to You. Beginning on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

Join our vibrant community of learners at The World of Kabbalah by visiting www.

JewishSJohnsCounty.com/Study or email Rabbi@JewishSJohnsCounty. com

OCTOBER 29, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Jewish Inspired Pop-Up Market @ 11 a.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard Peruse a variety of handmade Jewish goods while you enjoy food, music, and family fun!

11am-2pm

2021 | Documentary, Art | 1h 7m Q&A with director, Andy Kirschner. Streaming at the JCA

NOVEMBER 3, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Special Book Club Event Featuring Author Peter Blauner @ 12 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard ‘Picture in the Sand’ Streaming at the JCA and River Garden

NOVEMBER 5, 2023 EPIC Campaign Luncheon @ 12 p.m.

OCTOBER 30, 2023

Jacksonville Jewish Center 3662 Crown Point Rd Jacksonville, FL October 15 & November 5 @ Noon

The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents Ladies’ Night Out Featuring Author Cyndie Spiegal @ 7 p.m.

The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Screening of ‘Narrow Bridge’ @ 3 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard ‘Microjoys: Finding Hope (Especially) When Life is Not Okay’

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard 2022 | Drama | 1h 20m With a moderated discussion to follow the film.

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

NOVEMBER 7, 2023

Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida Joshua Society Event

The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents Sarah Emmons and Author, Rabbi Diana Fersko @ 7 p.m.

Details to follow. For more information, contact laurenr@ jewishjacksonville.org

The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents The Together Against Hate Opening Reception in the Vandroff Art Gallery @ 6 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard In connection with Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in Our Community. Exhibit open: Nov. 2-29

The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Screening of ‘10 Questions for Henry Ford @ 7 p.m’.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Florida Regional Director, Sarah Emmons, will address the rise of antisemitism and what is being done to initiate change. Plus, streaming live at the JCA, Rabbi Diana Fersko will address our audience and share her new book, ‘We Need to Talk About Antisemitism’.

NOVEMBER 8, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Screening of ‘One More Story’ @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard 2021 | Comedy, Romance |

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1hr 30m

NOVEMBER 9, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Special Night in Honor of Our Veterans Featuring Author Steven Hartov @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard ‘The Last of the Seven’

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Screening of ‘10 Questions for Henry Ford’ @ 10 a.m.

Streaming at River Garden with a discussion to follow the film.

NOVEMBER 13, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Screening of ‘The Story of Annette Zelman’ @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard 2022 | Drama, History | 1h 33m

NOVEMBER 14, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents a Special Book Club Event Featuring Author Sara Confino @ 12 p.m.

‘Shes Up to No Good’ Streaming at the Ponte Vedra Library, the JCA, and River Garden

NOVEMBER 15, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents Authors Richard Hurowitz and Larry Loftis @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard Richard Hurowitz joins us in person at the JCA to share his book, ‘In the Garden of the Righteous’. Plus, streaming live at the JCA, Larry Loftis will discuss his novel, ‘The Watchmaker’s Daughter’.

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NOVEMBER 16, 2023 The JCA Cultural Arts Festival Presents Author Adam Mansbach @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance 8505 San Jose Boulevard As the grand finale of the 2023 JCA Cultural Arts Festival, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, ‘Go the F*** to Sleep’, Adam Mansbach joins us at the JCA to share his new book, ‘The Golem of Brooklyn’.

NOVEMBER 18, 2023 River Garden Foundation Gala (2023)

River Garden Senior Services 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Jacksonville, FL Annual Gala Contact Christina Levine or Michelle Branly (904) 260-1818 @ River Garden Foundation

NOVEMBER 30, 2023 Sigd @ 6:30 p.m.

Join our Community Shlicha, Tal, to learn about Sigd - which is an Ethiopian Jewish holiday celebrated in Israel. Come sample traditional foods and enjoy traditional Ethiopian dancing! Free to the community.

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8505 San Jose Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32217

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