JewishLife: Fall 2023

STAFF

EDITOR, ART DIRECTION, PRODUCTION, & PUBLISHER

Zahni Thuzar Marketing Manager zahnit@jewishjacksonville.org

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.

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

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.

B’Shalom, Mariam

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

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.

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

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!

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

Jill Metlin Israel & Overseas Coordinator

On July 16, an amazing post-Covid event happened in Jacksonville - we finally were able to bring back the Partnership2Gether (P2G) Teen Summer program and once again greet Israeli teens and chaperones from our partnership region in Israel, Hadera-Eiron. Six months of planning on our end and a year of planning on theirs led to an incredible week of meeting and greeting, learning and laughter, relationship building, and culture exchange.

Eight families hosted our nine guests – Manya and Tal Osher, Whitney and Grant Kuvin, Tmima and Steve Neihaus, Alyse and Alan Nathans, Lorene and Daniel Bessmer, Kari and Dan Jaffa, Melanie and Ben Setzer, and Allison and Ken Jacobs. They did an incredible job opening their hearts and homes to our Israeli brothers and sisters. They made them a

part of their family, met the teens’ families online prior to their arrival in Jacksonville, schlepped them all over Northeast Florida, made sure they were fed and taken care of, and participated in the many events all week. Our Community Shlicha, Tal Mola, was a big part of our week together as were Allison Jacobs, Israel & Overseas Chair (and seasoned P2Ger), and Tal and Manya Osher, who have also been involved for years. A big thank you to Iris Kraemer and Kim and David Robbins, as well as our community partners. This couldn’t have succeeded without you all!

This is an exciting time to be a part of the P2G initiative. You, too, can participate (even from the comfort of your home) via the One2One English program and the Leadership2Gether (L2G) program. Please reach out to me at jillm@jewishjacksonville.org, or call me at 904-224-1445, to learn more about these programs.

Jill Metlin Israel &

Overseas Coordinator

I am honored and humbled to be the Israel & Overseas (I&O) Volunteer Chair for the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. The first year of this newly formed committee was a huge success!

On July 16, an amazing post-Covid event happened in Jacksonville - we finally were able to bring back the Partnership2Gether (P2G) Teen Summer program and once again greet Israeli teens and chaperones from our partnership region Hadera-Eiron. Six months of planning on our end and a year of planning on theirs led to an incredible week of meeting and greeting, learning and laughter, relationship building and culture exchange.

We are about 20 members strong and each individual brings a unique understanding about Israel and overseas to the table. We have fostered this with our three main partner agencies - The Jewish Agency for Israel, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), and World ORT, along with our Partnership2Gether community programs and our Shlicha, Tal. We did our first ever I&O Committee Allocations process for the elective dollars that we have to grant on behalf of the Federation’s Annual Campaign - thanks to donors like you!

Seven families hosted our nine guests – Manya and Tal Osher, Whitney and Grant Kuvin, Tmima and Steve Neihaus, Alyse and Alan Nathans, Lorene and Daniel Bessmer, Kari and Dan Jaffa, Melanie and Ben Setzer, and Allison and Ken Jacobs. They did an incredible job opening their hearts and homes to our Israeli brothers and sisters. They made them a

Since it was our first year doing this important work, each committee member learned so much about all of our partner agencies and the programs we fund. One such program is Birthright. Birthright’s mission is to provide all young Jewish adults with opportunities for transformative and immersive shared experiences in Israel and a foundation for ongoing Jewish connection. Unfortunately, this year the funding for

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

Allison Jacobs Chair

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.

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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.

When I reflect on my Birthright experience, I think about how lucky I am that a trip this special is funded and available for young Jewish adults between the ages of 18 and 26. Birthright will forever be a memory of mine of a positive, engaging, valuable, life changing, and meaningful experience.

Embarking on the trip, I was anxious and scared that it wouldn’t be everything that I had dreamed of, but it was that and so much more! This trip brought me 45 new friends that I have continued to keep in touch with since returning home. I never really expected to become so close to all of these people in ten short days, but I was lucky enough to grow a strong

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

I got to see many cities and historic sites that I have heard and learned about since Religious School. For me, my favorite city was Jerusalem. Specifically, when we visited the Old City and went to the Western Wall. To my surprise, the Western Wall was very emotional for me. As soon as I placed my hand on the Wall, I was overcome with such strong emotion that it brought tears to my eyes. I never would have thought that touching a wall would do that to me, but it did.

Without the Federation helping to fund Birthright, I would have never been able to experience the best ten days in Israel. I am forever grateful for the opportunity, and I look forward to hopefully being able to return to Israel in the future.

Partnership2Gether’s

By Ava Jaffa Exchange Host Teen

The first week in July, my mom texted our family group chat, “We are hosting Shahar!” - along with an attached picture and a snippet underneath. In a week we would be hosting an Israeli teen from Hadera-Eiron, Shahar, as part of the Partnership2Gether Teen Summer Exchange. Both my sister, Kyra, and I were able to participate and we were so excited.

Before Shahar and the other six teens arrived, my family and I had a video call with Shahar and her family. It was great to meet them even before her arrival and to see her family. Upon her arrival, we wanted Shahar to experience some of our everyday activities. Straight from the airport we took her to St. Johns Town Center, where we went to M Shack for dinner, and then to

Target - an American staple.

Monday was our first day of activities with the group. We started our day at the Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) where we did ice breakers and a guided meditation, played some basketball, and had a tour of the building and facilities. My favorite part of the day was Adventure Landing. We had a blast going on the slides at the water park over and over again. Even though it was our first day together, having fun and just being kids was a great way to get to know each other. It didn’t matter that we were not from the same country, or even the fact that we don’t have the same first language, we became a close-knit group right away. That night, Shahar got the greatest Florida experience - a Publix birthday cake as she helped us celebrate my mom on her birthday. On Tuesday morning we

had a tour of The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), where we learned about their important work. Then the whole group got to meet my amazing Bubbie and Zayde, Irene and Jimmy Jaffa. My Bubbie was there to share our family’s Holocaust story, which was powerful and meaningful for everyone as always.

We got to tour the JFCS Gallery to learn about the current Holocaust art exhibit. At River Garden we had lunch and then toured the community. After our tour, we headed over to The Coves at River Garden where we interacted with the residents. We separated into pairs of one Israeli and one American teen. We then spent time speaking to different Coves residents. We were given cards with questions to ask, but we all pretty much just had our own conversations with the residents. They asked us

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.

After JFCS, but before going home, Shahar, Kyra, and I made a third trip to Target and met up with some of the other teens in our group. Shahar realized what we all knowevery time you go to Target you want to buy more things! It only took three trips for her to truly understand the infamous Target.

Thursday morning, we went to St. George Street in St. Augustine and then went to Sons of Israel synagogue to learn about its 100-year history. That night we headed to the Temple (Congregation Ahavath Chesed), where we cooked with Chef Ali.

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.

On Friday, the Israelis went back to the JJC and were camp counselors for the day. In the evening, we all headed back to the JJC for Friday night Shabbat services. After services, all the host families and teens headed to the Kuvin’s house for a pool party and pizza, which was a blast.

Saturday was a scheduled free day for the Israelis to have fun with their host families. My family decided to go to a paint splatter room, where we suited up and got to paint splatter each other and canvases that we got to take home.

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 an absolute blast and laughed a ton. With it being our last night, my family decided to make one more stop before going home and gave Shahar an essential southern experience by going to Buccee’s. According to Shahar, Buccees is the most American thing ever. In addition to getting fudge, Kyra, Shahar, and I got matching Buccees sweatshirts.

On Sunday, we headed to the airport and said goodbye to Michael and Aviram, the Israeli chaperones, and the teens, Neta, Alon, Yoav, Adi, Gali, Ofri, and of course, Shahar, as they were off to meet new

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!

families in Greensboro.

FRIENDS & FAMILY OF JFNAMission to Morocco

By Debra Setzer Mission Participant

What would it be like to have the most magical experience come true? I actually learned my personal answer to that question on the recent Friends & Family of JFNA’s Mission to Morocco. Who could have imagined that a trip would be so remarkable? Everyday was filled with endless behind-thescenes adventures and countless immersive experiences. Above everything else, my husband, Leonard, and I developed such lasting bonds of friendship with my 25 incredible new and old friends who came together for this Moroccan experience.

This magical carpet ride came true because of four people who put so much compassion into creating a perfect trip. Thank you to Judy and Steve Silverman and Allison and Ken Jacobs for your vision and execution. These are people who know how to have fun, always have a watchful eye for each of the travelers, and treated us like family.

The perfect way to begin each day was with Ken Jacobs sharing his “joke of the day.” Many of the trip participants are extremely

funny - although some of their jokes are not safe to print in this magazine. Besides our being continuously entertained, we also witnessed actual miracles on this trip... Believe it or not, 25 people were always on time, agreed on everything, were very respectful of each other, and had more fun than you can imagine.

As we began our journey, it was much to our surprise that the famous city of Casablanca was nothing like the original movie. This was indeed a city filled with significant Jewish history. It was eye-opening for me to learn that this part of the world had such a rich and vibrant Jewish legacy. In each city, we could feel that every holy site had a vivid story to tell. At each destination we were enlightened with exquisite details as we walked through breathtaking synagogues and mosques. Meeting local artisans enabled us to see firsthand the art of weaving and throwing on a potter’s wheel. It was a unique privilege to visit the King’s residence where we discovered that previous generations of Moroccan rulers harbored such positive feelings for the Jewish people.

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

Let me start by saying my wife and I have traveled all over the world. We have done so with tour companies, ocean cruises, river cruises, and private guides. I’ve been to Israel before for work and pleasure. However, our post-mission to Israel in June may top the list of our travel experiences for so many reasons.

First: the group we went with from Northeast Florida was outstanding. A real fun group; some of which I knew before we left, but by the end of the trip, I felt like I had a new group of lifelong friends.

Second: our guides were simply incredible. We had different guides depending upon which part of the country we were in, but it did not seem to matter. Each guide was incredibly fluent in Israeli history and culture, had the right set of interpersonal skills that made the trip fun for each person, and had the time management and logistics 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

at Domone Du Castel, Masada, the Dead Sea, the Old City, the Church of the Nativity, the West Bank, Golgotha, a kibbutz, ammunition hill, Galilea, the Jordan River, and Yad Vashem. However, on this trip, we had access to sites and people a “regular” travel group could not experience. These included the Siloam tunnels, the F16 simulators, visiting the Knesset and meeting with an MK, a tour of the Global Aliyah Center, and a discussion with a leading Israeli political journalist. Of course, the accommodations were over-the-top hotels and restaurants that were among the best I have experienced. We even had our own security team that not only kept us safe but also acted as guides, historians, translators, and eventually friends.

Needless to say, I am grateful for everyone who dedicated their time to all of the extensive planning involved in making this a trip of a lifetime. I have a strong suspicion this will not be my last trip with this organization.

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.

Recently, I read a blog from Dr. Bruce Powell, President of Jewish School Management and contributor to eJewish Philanthropy, and was struck by this paragraph where he

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.”

Our Northeast Florida Jewish community is pulsing with energy. You can feel it when you participate in activities in our area synagogues, visit our award-winning

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 is sacred work, that our synagogues, agencies, and organizations are important to a robust Jewish life, - then isn’t the survival of our rich way of 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.

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

An Even Brighter Future

Throughout 77 years of continuous excellence, we’ve learned many things. Importantly, that by working together, with an unwavering commitment to our mission, we’ll ensure an even brighter future for our community’s seniors.

Request River Garden RiverGarden.org | (904) 260.1818

A not-for-profit agency sponsored by the organized Jacksonville Jewish community.

FALL MARKS A NEW BEGINNING AT UNF

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.”

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

Together Against Hate:

PROMOTING UNITY IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance

The Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) and First Coast YMCA are proud to share in a new partnership created to take an active role in educating and inspiring our neighbors to build a more inclusive Northeast Florida. Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in our Community is envisioned to address topics impacting our area including prejudices in faith, race, antisemitism, ethnicity, LGBTQ+, gender, and diverse abilities. Starting in September with a monthly educational series led by influential speakers from 904Ward, JASMYN, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), The Arc Jacksonville, The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), OneJax, and Interfaith Center, this initiative is designed to give our neighbors the knowledge needed to have a voice in taking a stance against bias.

As a visual representation of our partnership and the efforts made to unify our community, our series will culminate with the first-ever Racing Against Hate 5K Run/Walk at the Winston Family YMCA on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at 1 pm.

Please reference our Together Against Hate speaker schedule and mark your community calendars to join us as we inspire our neighbors to create a safe and welcoming community. Our educational speaker series begins on Thursday, September 14, 2023, and continues through January 18, 2024

• 904Ward will commence our speaker series with JFCS’s Resisting Hate, Repairing the World panel discussion moderated by Hope McMath, curator of the Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery at 7 pm on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), 8540 Baycenter Road. At our initial Together Against Hate event, JFCS will also feature ‘We Could Not Be Silent’ – a gallery exhibit that commemorates the remarkable act of solidarity at a critical moment of civil rights history when a group of rabbis were jailed for supporting Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr. and local black activists working to desegregate St. Augustine, Florida.

• On Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 7 pm, Timothy Jefferson will lead a panel discussion with JASMYN to share information about LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy at Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street in Jacksonville.

• The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Florida Regional Director Sarah Emmons will be at the JCA, 8505 San Jose Boulevard, on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at 7 pm to discuss the rise of antisemitism and what is being done to initiate change. Also addressing our audiences at the JCA on Nov 7, Rabbi Diana Fersko, author of ‘We Need to Talk about Antisemitism,’ will share her exploration of why people are reluctant to discuss antisemitism and what empowers us to fight against it.

• Promoting and protecting the human rights of people with diverse abilities, The Arc Jacksonville will host an evening of advocacy and education at 7 pm on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at the Jessie Ball duPont Center, 40 East Adams Street.

• As the finale of our speaker series, local faith leaders, OneJax and the Interfaith Center of Northeast Florida will host a panel discussion at 7 pm on Thursday, January 18, 2024, in the Main Library in Downtown Jacksonville,

3030 N. Laura Street.

• The Together Against Hate partnership will culminate in a community-wide Racing Against Hate 5K Run/Walk at the Winston Family YMCA at 1 pm on Sunday, February 25, 2024.

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.

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.

that help supplement the River Garden exceptional experience.

By Ellen Rubens Auxiliary President, River Garden Senior Services

Since its inception in 1922, the River Garden Auxiliary, then known as the

Ladies Hebrew Aid Sheltering Society, has been an integral part of the River Garden and greater Jacksonville area communities. The River Garden Auxiliary provides support

Fundraising activities include the River Garden Gift Shop, Tombola, the Donor Luncheon, and other special initiatives throughout the year. All proceeds are used to enhance the quality of life for the residents. The Auxiliary sponsors the residents’ holiday parties and also funds enhancements and improvements

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

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 Counseling.

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,

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

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

Sarah have three adorable children. They moved here in mid August. Please

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

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.

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)

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.

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.

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

The ancient city of Katzrin

Chance meeting with a Jacksonville friend at Machane Yehuda

Riding donkeys in Kfar Kedem

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.

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.

Recognizing the need to shine a larger spotlight on what was happening in the city, Dr. King sent a letter to Rabbi Israel Dresner, a former freedom rider, calling for his support. Rabbi Dresner, along with 15 other rabbis and a layperson, respond-

ed by traveling to St. Augustine to stand with the Black community.

The rabbis were arrested and, from their jail cell, wrote a letter to their communities as a witness to what they were experiencing and the reasons they had come. They expressed how history had informed their decision:

“We came as Jews who remember the millions of faceless people who stood quietly, watching the smoke rise from Hitler’s crematoria. We came because we know that, second only to silence, the greatest danger to man is loss of faith in man’s capacity to act.”

Many of the forces during that turbulent time are still with us today. As certain groups have become more active and emboldened in their public displays of hate, it is impera-

tive we recognize the power of community and solidarity, and let history remind us of who we can be.

A phrase written by the rabbis almost sixty years ago echoes through the years and speaks to us today:

“Silence has become the unpardonable sin of our time.”

HOURS: The exhibit will be open to the public every Monday through Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm. For those not able to visit during regular work hours, on the second Sunday of each month the gallery will be open from 12:00pm through 2:00pm. If you are part of a group who would like to view the exhibit, contact mgwilliams@jfcsjax.org to arrange a tour at a convenient time.

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

L’dor v’dor has come to mean the transmission of our Jewish culture, values, rituals, traditions, and history from one generation to the next. With the literal meaning of the Hebrew phrase being, “from generation to generation,” even more so than sharing songs or recipes, L’dor v’dor is the belief that the wisdom of family members or influential mentors in our lives instill character while continuing important values and traditions to create a better future.

A powerful phrase, L’dor v’dor is what our founders planned for the Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) and what our community now embodies for families throughout Northeast Florida. The importance of the value became even more evident through the halls of our JCA campus this August. In the most bittersweet way, we listened, learned, and absorbed all we could as our beloved Assistant Executive Director, and founding JCA member, Nancy Green, shared 34 years of knowledge, memories, and JCA traditions in preparation for her retirement.

“Before the JCA was built, we had focus groups in

private homes to support the concept of the JCA in our community. Mark and I participated as volunteers and hosted a group in our home,” explains Nancy, whose husband, Mark, served as our Board Chair. “It was an exciting time because prior to our JCA there was no common space for the community to join and socialize that wasn’t a synagogue.”

After community meetings and fundraising, our founders’ vision came to fruition, and Nancy was proud to be among those who gathered to break ground for the JCA campus. At the time, serving as the director of Gan Yeladim preschool, Nancy - along with Margie Rogozinski - co-chaired the JCA’s Early Childhood Task Force until the preschool officially became JCA Gan Yeladim in 1994. After a few years as the JCA’s Early Childhood Director, Nancy served as the Assistant Executive Director of Programming for Children and Families, where she supervised the JCA’s Youth and Teen departments before being promoted to her current role in 1999.

“If I had to pick one program as my favorite through the years, it would be the preschool since that is where I feel I had 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 Recthey 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.

Of Love and Loss...

O NE 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 husbandwithout 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.

When my mother passed, my Jewish world rushed in to help. Her Rabbi, from Temple Judea in Palm Beach Gardens, my Rabbi, Maya Glasser, my mother’s Jewish friends, my Jewish friends in South

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 themselves, even if she hadn’t met them before. She was a Lion of Judah – she loved and worked hard for the Federation for years. Like a lion, she was fiercely proud of 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.

TERRACE DEDICATION CEREMONY

By Rabbi Shmuli Novack Chabad of Southside

Chabad of Southside celebrated the dedication of the “Model Family Terrace by the Lake” on June 4th. The event showcased captivating music, prestigious awards, and award-winning kosher BBQ. It fostered a strong sense of togetherness, warmth, and joy, defining the growing Chabad community near the St. Johns Town Center.

The state-of-the-art Finker-Frenkel Chabad Center is more than just a synagogue, serving as a cultural and social hub. It’s

truly a “Beit Knesset,” or a “place of gathering” in Hebrew. The center offers a prayer sanctuary, student lounge/ game room, premier Jewish preschool Ganeinu, Ahava Kosher café, and the captivating Malnik Gallery featuring Judaic art.

At the heart of the art gallery stands Robert Indiana’s iconic “Ahava” sculpture, a Hebrew version of his famous LOVE statue. The sculpture embodies the fun and creative atmosphere nurtured by Chabad and extended to the community. The presence of acclaimed artist Romero

Britto added to the artistic allure of the dedication.

In addition to Mr. Britto, the celebration welcomed notable figures like David “Papi” Einhorn, known as the “King of Miami nightlife,” Congressman John Rutherford of Florida’s 5th District, and Yair Netanyahu, son of the Israeli prime minister. Drs. Dmitriy and Elena Model, Dr. Lazar Finker, Mr. Ryan Shapiro, and Bruce Kaye received special accolades, showcasing the thriving and vibrant nature of this event.

Amidst challenging times we face as a country – the

blend of camaraderie, culture, and celebration were just the tonic we needed, highlighting Chabad’s role as a catalyst for community and positive change. Gratitude filled the air as attendees stood on the picturesque terrace, gazing at the lake, appreciating the unwavering support from dedicated friends. The Model Family Terrace by the Lake will serve as an exceptional gathering space for years to come.

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

R IVER 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.”

Talking with those who call River Garden home also serves as a reminder of how strong our local community is. The founders of River Garden understood and worked hard to foster kehillah –community, both internally and in the larger Jewish community in Jacksonville. River Garden creates an 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.

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 opportunities to reflect, learn, and connect. A lot about the world has changed over the years, but the High Holidays at River Garden remain a unique and wonderful experience for residents and their families to savor… almost as much as apples and honey.

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

tov umetukah!

ANNOUNCING THE 2023 JCACultural Arts Festival

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance

Mark your calendars; your entire family is invited to the JCA to explore the original work of local Jewish artists and designers, as well as community artisans inspired by Jewish tradition (at the JCA) on Sunday, October 29 at 11 am. This year, the JCA Cultural Arts Festival and our annual celebration of Jewish art, films, music, and literature begins with our first-ever Jewish inspired Pop-Up Market! We hope you will join us for food, music, and family fun!

Through the power of the cultural arts, we are planning several unique events that are centered on the rich heritage and traditions found in Jewish

culture. With free programming available to people of all faiths and beliefs, our visiting authors, speakers, and film screenings will provide our neighbors an opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of Judaism. Additionally, through their creative expressions, artists from Northeast Florida will address topics impacting our areaincluding prejudices in faith, ethnicity, diverse abilities, and gender in the Vandroff Art Gallery, November 2 – 29. In connection with the JCA and First Coast YMCA partnership Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in our Community, the exhibit’s opening reception starts at 6 pm on Thursday, November 2.

We are pleased to share a few highlights of our

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.

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

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

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

I N F A N T S

T H R O U G H

E I G H T H G R A D E

I n n o v a t i v e E d u c a t i o n E l e v a t e d b y T r a d i t i o n

B i l i n g u a l e d u c a t i o n i s

p r o v e n t o

c o n t r i b u t e t o

g r e a t e r s o c i a l

u n d e r s t a n d i n g

a n d i n c r e a s e d

b r a i n

d e v e l o p m e n t .

Our students:

r e c e i v e e n h a n c e d , p e r s o n a l i z e d

i n s t r u c t i o n w i t h o u r l o w t e a c h e r - t o - s t u d e n t r a t i o .

a c c r u e h i g h s c h o o l c r e d i t s i n a l g e b r a , g e o m e t r y , b i o l o g y a n d f o r e i g n l a n g u a g e .

a t t e n d a c c e l e r a t e d h i g h s c h o o l p r o g r a m s , i n c l u d i n g I B a n d A I C E .

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.

CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS COUNTY

GROW AFTER-SCHOOL AWARDS CEREMONY

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

ETZ CHAIM SYNAGOGUE

CAMP SHEVES ACHIM

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.

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

JACKSONVILLE JEWISH CENTER

JUMBO SHRIMP GAME

RE JEW VINATE

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.

MARTIN J. GOTTLIEB DAY SCHOOL WELCOMING

THE JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

PICK UP JEWISHLIFE MAGAZINE AT THESE LOCATIONS:

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

(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 SeriesAdjami @ 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

OCTOBER 30, 2023

The JCA Cultural Arts

Festival Presents Ladies’ Night Out Featuring Author Cyndie Spiegal @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance

8505 San Jose Boulevard

‘Microjoys: Finding Hope (Especially) When Life is Not Okay’

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida Joshua Society Event

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

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.

Jacksonville Jewish Center

3662 Crown Point Rd

Jacksonville, FL October 15 & November 5 @ Noon

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

Jewish Community Alliance

8505 San Jose Boulevard

2022 | Drama | 1h 20m

With a moderated discussion to follow the film.

NOVEMBER 7, 2023

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

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 |

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’.

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.