Jacksonville Jewish News - January 2017

THE MANY SPELLINGS OF ...

The holiday known as ‘The Festival of Lights’.

Which one is correct?

Depends to whom you are talking about it Page 8

VIOLINS OF HOPE

Jax symphony to hold concert with violins saved from the Halocaust Page 18

YOUNG SCIENTISTS

Michele Block Gan Yeladim students explore science with all five senses Page 22 A publication

January 2017

• Tevet/Sh’vat 5777 • www.jewishjacksonville.org

You can be the super (Sunday) hero Jacksonville needs on Feb. 5th Jacksonville, are you ready for a super new, super fun, super huge Sunday? Join us Sunday, Feb. 5th for the community’s first ever Super Hero Sunday, as we make the call our Jewish community needs with a revamped Super Sunday.

Volunteers are needed beginning at 10 a.m. and breakfast, babysitting and prizes will be provided.

In addition to last year’s new cash prize contest for the organization who brings the most volunteers, a special bonus will be awarded a prize to the group who comes up with the best new super hero name for their organization. In addition, for every week in advance you sign up to volunteer, Federation will add in an extra raffle ticket toward some awesome giveaways. Don’t wait as a community in need deserves volunteers indeed, so make the call to Ariel ASAP at 904-448-5000, ext. 1208 or arielf@jewishjacksonville.org. We can’t wait to see you for the most Super, Super Sunday Jacksonville has ever seen.

•

JaxJewish

@jaxjewish

JaxJewishTV • Volume 29, Number 7 • 36 pages

Inside the Eruv: A glimpse into Mandarin’s not so noticeable pedestrian highway

BY ARIEL FRECHTMAN rGEN Director arielf@jewishjacksonville.org

Eruv co-founder and current supervisor Jimmy Jaffa along with Etz Chaim senior Rabbi Yaakov Fisch who check to see if Jacksonville’s Eruv is Kosher on a weekly basis

BY MATT FRANZBLAU

Federation Communications Director mattf@jewishjacksonville.org

Driving through Mandarin down one of its main thoroughfares such as San Jose Blvd. or Scott Mill Rd., it may be easy not to notice one of the Jacksonville Jewish community’s most important and valuable components. At first glance, a simple string or rather mundane slice of 2x4 lumber fixed alongside a telephone pole is just that, unnoticeable and seemingly unimportant, but

many passersby would be rather surprised to find out that these small components transform large pieces of electrical equipment into a complex and vast grid, known as the Eruv of Jacksonville.

“One of the laws of Shabbat is that you are not supposed to transfer items or objects from one domain to another,” said Etz Chaim senior Rabbi Yaakov Fisch. “There are public domains and private domains but the idea of an Eruv is to make the entire community a private domain through a structure such as fences and posts.”

Jacksonville’s Eruv is a 10-sqaure mile stretch which goes all the way from Beauclerc to I-295

The notion of not carrying on Shabbat wasn’t born out of modern times, instead the law finds its roots from a historically biblical perspective.

“The biblical source for this is in the book of Exodus in the Torah when the Jewish people were bringing raw materials for the construction of the tabernacle,” Fisch explained. “So Moses said on the Sabbath, you should not go ahead and bring the objects inside.”

See INSIDE THE ERUV, p. 7

Society of Healers teams up with Duval County Medical Society for Holocaust focused medical ethics program

BY ERIN COHEN

Society of Healers Director erinc@jewishjacksonville.org

8505 San Jose Blvd.

Jacksonville, FL 32217

Jewish Federation of Jacksonville

Monthly Periodical POSTMASTER PLEASE DELIVER BY JAN. 1ST

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Jacksonville, FL Permit No. 146

The Federation’s Society of Healers is proud to share details about an upcoming winter event.

In collaboration with the Duval County Medical Society Foun-

dation, the Society of Healers presents, “Medical Ethics Today: Lessons Learned from Anne Frank and the Holocaust.” This event will be held Tuesday, Jan. 17 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., at the Museum of Science and History (MOSH). It is happening in conjunction with the traveling exhibition that will be on display at MOSH, ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today.’ The program will include a one-hour reception with drinks and heavy hors d’ oeuvres, followed by a panel discussion.

Featured panelists are: Dr. Guy Benrubi, Professor, University of Florida College of

Medicine, Jacksonville; Dr. Yank Coble, Past-President, American Medical Association & World Medical Association and Dr. Theo Prousis, UNF Professor. The program will be moderated by Dr. Todd Sack, President, Duval County Medical Society Foundation.

The Federation is excited to hold an educational program in conjunction with the DCMS, as it creates a wonderful opportunity for the Jewish doctors in the community to participate and benefit from this partnership. Drs. Dina and Howard Fetner co-chair the Society of Healers, along with an engaged and involved committee.

“We are always looking for creative and educational program-

ming for our healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Dina Fetner. “This event gives us the chance to not only take advantage of a very special art exhibition in Jacksonville, but also spend time with our esteemed colleagues, discussing a relevant and incredibly important topic,” she added.

“We especially look forward to hearing from Federation Board member and past-president, Guy Benrubi, who will be a part of this panel discussion. The Society of Healers committee includes: Dr. Scot Ackerman, Dr. Guy Benrubi, Dr. Robert Bryskin, Dr. Suzanne Bryskin, Dr. Joseph Dayan, Dr. Eli Lerner, Jill Metlin, Dr. Michael Nussbaum, Dr. Sue Nussbaum,

Cheryl Plotkin, Dr. Inbal Cohen Rasner, Dr. Todd Rasner, Dr. Marte Wasserman and Dr. Paul Wasserman.

Tickets are $40 to attend and space is limited, so kindly RSVP

by Jan. 10 to 904-448-5000, ext.

209 or jewishjacksonville.org/ sohjan. For more information about how to get involved with the Federation’s Society of Healers, contact Director, Erin Cohen at 904-448-5000, ext. 1205 or erinc@ jewishjacksonville.org.

Etz Chaim Gala’s sure to be a memorable evening with ‘A Night in New Orleans’ It’s that time of year again, so mark your calendars for the Etz Chaim Gala, scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 15th at 7 p.m. This year’s theme promises to be full of fun and surprises with ‘Jazz It Up - A Night in New Orleans’. Last year, I attended my first ever gala at Etz Chaim and I went into the evening a little unsure of what to expect.

I had only ever been to services there and this was definitely not services. Dressing up in western wear and driving to the gala felt really strange, but what an amazing evening

BY JILL ABEL Gala attendant

it turned out to be as everyone was dressed in awesome outfits and an amazingly warm and friendly crowd greeted us for the night.

There was a super fun picture photo booth and that picture is still on our family picture board one year later. The food was also great and the door prizes were awesome even though we didn’t win one.

We enjoyed the fun atmosphere and awesome decorations while meeting so many really nice people. It was a special night

See ETZ CHAIM GALA, p. 10

Scan QR code for paper online at .com

page 2

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 3

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

opinion and cartoons

JJN’s Rabbinically Speaking Column: ‘Praying with our Feet’

BY RABBI MATT COHEN

Congregation Ahavath Chesed

My wife and I are die-hard Ohio State Buckeye fans and rightfully so, we have taught our six–year old son, Ayden, to despise Michigan. Just recently Ayden was assigned to his JCA Basketball league team and as luck would have it, he is now a Wolverine with a coach who signs his emails “Go Blue!” I was joking with him about it and after a while he said, “It really doesn’t matter, it’s just silly.” I said, “Of course. There is no reason to judge someone just because they like Michigan. It is all about who we are on the inside, not by a blue and yellow shirt.” The conversation then turned into how some people are judged by the color of their skin, their religion, their sex, and even with whom they choose to fall in love. Ayden’s response was simply, “That doesn’t make any sense.” It was a proud parenting moment for me.

In his monumental “I Have a Dream” speech, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their

skin but by the content of their character.” Jan. 16th marks our national commemoration of his life, legacy, and work and one of the most prolific photographs of King is of him walking side-by-side with Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel on the famous March from Selma to Montgomery. Heschel’s comments afterward were: “I felt my feet were praying.”

That particular photo represented the essence of Jewish involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. Jewish support for the Civil Rights movement was disproportionately larger than any other religious or cultural group.

Jews from all across America joined African-Americans on the front-lines in the fight for equality and justice. Countless Jews, including many Rabbis and Jewish communal leaders risked their lives to stand up for what was right and just and some lost their lives doing it. So what was the impetus for such a Jewish response to the Civil Rights Movement?

Isaiah 58:5-7 reads, “Is this the fast I desire? A day for me to starve their bodies? Is it bowing the head like a bulrush and lying sackcloth and ashes? No, this is the fast I desire: To unlock the

RABBINICALLY SPEAKING fetters of wickedness, and untie the cords of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free; to break off every yoke. It is to share your bread with the hungry, and to take the wretched poor into your home; When you see the naked, to clothe him, And not to ignore your own kin.” In other words, “Pray with your feet!” Judaism is an actionbased religion. We show our Jewish faith by actively partnering

with God in bringing justice and peace to the world around us. Jews were on the front-lines of the Civil Rights movement because that is the way to live out what the Torah demands us to do. It is how the words of our lips in prayer and the ink on the pages of our sacred texts translate into the work of our hands and our feet.

There are many opportunities that we can honor the legacy King during the month of January and I hope each of us do so in a way that is fitting and proper. On Jan. 13th at 7 p.m., The Mount Calvary Baptist Church will be guests at The Temple for a Shabbat evening worship service full of uplifting and soulful music by The Temple Friday Night live Band, Temple Chorale, and the Mt. Calvary Praise Team. The service will feature teachings from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and inspiring words delivered by the clergy of both faiths. On Jan. 18th at 7 p.m. at the JCA, I will lead a more in-depth discussion on the Jewish involvement in the Civil Rights movement.

I hope you will join me to help commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is my deep hope and prayer that

we are strengthened and inspired to pray with our feet in the never ending quest to bring equality, justice, and peace for every citizen of America. Much work has yet to be done. We can do everything from standing on the front-lines and fighting for equality and justice to teaching our children to see people for who they are on the inside as opposed to what we may perceive them to be on the outside, even if they are wearing a big yellow ‘M’ on their shirt.

Rabbinically speaking is a monthly column written by clergy members in the Jacksonville Jewish community. If you are a Rabbi, hazzan or religious leader in NE Florida and would like to contribute your inspirational thoughts for a monthly column, please e-mail jjn@jewishjacksonville.org with your name, organization, congregation and which month you are interested in writing for and what topic, specifically you would like to write about.

UF Hillel Rabbi urges those to try and not be silent in the face of hate

BY RABBI ADAM GROSSMAN and definitive actions of President UF Hillel

Several weeks ago pro-white fliers were distributed throughout the University of Florida campus.

The flier listed a website that was not only anti-Semitic, but also housed a list of Jewish online users’ information to target for abuse. Just recently swastikas were painted on a fence in front of a fraternity house. UF President Ken Fuchs addressed the issue with a personal note denouncing statements and symbols that hurt or disparage others. The University Police Department has increased its presence and asked the UF community to report any incidence of harassment.

While we applaud the swift

Fuchs and the campus police, we, at UF Hillel, are deeply troubled by the increased use of anti-Semitic symbols and hate mongering.

Our history has taught us that we cannot stand by silently and wait for the next incident to occur. Hatred like this, when unchecked, is a cancer that will continue to grow and spread. Rabbi Joachim Prinz, at the March on Washington in 1963, expressed, “When I was the rabbi of the Jewish community in Berlin under the Hitler regime, I learned many things. The most important thing that I learned under those tragic circumstances was that bigotry and hatred are not the most urgent problem. The most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful and the most tragic problem is silence.”

UF Hillel Rabbi Adam Grossman

The UF Hillel community and the Jewish people have always been advocates for the dignity and

Dry Bones Cartoons by Yaakov Kirschen

humanity of all people. Regardless of political persuasions, all rights must be protected. We are determined to fight against the malignancy of anti-Semitism, racism, misogyny, bigotry and xenophobia. We must not be silent in the face of these injustices and allow these malignancies to continue to expand into our community.

We ask the UF family - faculty, staff and students - to join us in strength and courage to stand to-

gether and no longer be silent.

We implore the Gator Nation to raise our voices to a deafening pitch that will echo throughout the halls of our university and the Gainesville community to denounce these acts of evil. It is our responsibility to be the light for each other so that never again shall hatred be allowed to touch the hearts and minds of those in our communities.

Advertising Representatives Barbara Nykerk • 904.733.4179 • 904.923-3205 Eta Perras • 904.629.0466 Editor & Communications Director Matt Franzblau • mattf@jewishjacksonville.org Communications Committee Jon Israel, Chair Shirley Bielski Helen Hill Michele Katz Joan Levin Andrea Mail Rachel Morgenthal Andrew Ocean Marsha Pollock Federation President Sandy Zimmerman Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies 8505 San Jose Blvd. • Jacksonville, FL 32217 The Jacksonville Jewish News is published monthly. All submitted content becomes the property of the Jacksonville Jewish News. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of the Jacksonville Jewish News or its publisher, the Jewish Federation of Jacksonville.

The Jacksonville Jewish News is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product advertised.

Copy due dates: All news, photographs, etc., must be received by the 6th of each month, and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org.

Ad deadlines: All ads must be received by the 15th of each month and sent to jjn@jewishjacksonville.org in .pdf format.

Editorial support: Donna O’Steen, Erin Cohen, Ariel Frechtman, Val Battini, Emma Pulley, Alan Margolies, Andrew Ocean

Pick up the locations:

at these three

page 4

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

community news

Shlicha Corner: The correlation between Martin Luther King’s message and the Ethiopian Olim

BY DANA MARMARI

At the Jacksonville Jewish News, our advertisers are precious to us.

It is with their support that the Jacksonville Jewish community has a newspaper. Advertising revenue also offsets the cost of production, so Federation dollars can be dedicated to helping Jews locally and overseas. Please continue to live generously and support our advertisers: • All About Ballroom (p. 4) • Jewish Java (p. 23) • All Pro Painting and • JFCS (p. 5 & 13) Restoration (p. 24) • Memorial Emergency • B&C Financial (p. 4) ( p. 35) • Beachview Rentals (p. 29) • Metro Diner ( p. 17) • Bob Ham Eyewear (p. 9) • Margo’s Catering (p. 11) • Brandon Pest (p. 6) • Native Sun (p. 17) • Cocktails & Clergy (p. 2) • Wajsman Home Team • DuBow Preschool (p. 16) Realty (p. 8) • Erica Jolles Realty (p. 31) • Pediatric Dentistry (p. 24) • FIU - Jewish Museum of • River Garden (p. 23) Florida (p. 12) • rGEN Jax (p. 20 ) • Galinsky Academy (p. 16) • San Jose Beauclerc Animal • Impressions (p. 24) Hospital (p. 11) • Innovative Financial • Stein Mart (p. 10) Solutions (p. 29) • Society of Healers (p. 21) • Jacksonville Country Day • Super Sunday (p. 2) School (p. 15) • The Tax Man (p. 24) • Jax Hadassah (p. 14) • Vito’s Italian Restaurant • Jacksonville Jewish Center (p. 30) (p. 33) • Voices of Hope (p. 8) • Jewish Federation of • Violins of Hope (p. 36) Jacksonville (p. 32) • Women’s Division (p. 19) For your advertising needs, please contact advertising sales representative Barbara Nykerk at 904-733-4179 or Eta Perras at 904-629-0466.

Community Shlicha jaxshlicha@jewishjacksonville.org

This month we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day in which we commemorate and emphasize the importance of equality and civil rights for all citizens.

Although this day has no direct connection to Israel, a relationship is revealed when we examine its universal values.

The Proclamation of Independence of the State of Israel declares that Israel “will ensure complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race or sex; it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education and culture”.

The democratic value of equality alongside the Jewish value of “Ve’ahavtaLe’reachaKamocha” set ground for these declarations as the vision of the Jewish state.

Vision and reality apart, the task of creating an equal and just society out of diverse immigrants from around the world wasn’t easy. Much criticism was, and still is, heard about the absorption of Olim (immigrants) and the inequality that characterized it. I would like to focus on one specific group of Olim who have a warm place in my heart- the Ethiopian Jews.

Ethiopian Jews arrived in Israel through two main operations. For many Olim, the first contact with Israeli and Western culture led to a huge culture shock, especially for those coming from remote villages. For many Israelis, the first contact with the Ethiopian culture was shocking and hard to grasp as well. Enormous cultural differences led to many difficulties in the absorption of the Olim, and the promise of ‘ensuring complete equality’ seemed hard to reach.

For many years, a large proportion of Ethiopian Olim had a diffi-

JJN Advertising Directory

January 2017 - Tevet/Sh’vat 5777

cult time fully integrating into the labor market, school systems and adjusting to the Western cultural codes. The state of Israel had an equally difficult time understanding the culture and creating policies that would enable integration, however the younger Ethiopian generation, caught between the two cultures, started raising tough questions about their absorption in Israeli society.

“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, live out to the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” - Dr. King Understanding that changes had to be made, policies have

amended in order to suit the Ethiopian community’s culture. Many programs were developed to help create equal chances for success for the Olim in Israeli society. Today, many young Ethiopians reach high positions in the IDF and the labor market. The Ethiopian Sigd holiday became a national holiday in Israel and the community’s unique culture has a special place in Israeli society.

Although these changes have had a great impact on the Ethiopian community in Israel, we still have more that we can do. As a social worker who has worked with Ethiopian olim, it seems as though in order to reach true social equality there has to be an acceptance of our diversity. We were all created equal, but only the balance of maintaining our uniqueness alongside blending into society will allow us to guarantee our freedom to fulfill ourselves. Martin Luther King Jr. said in his famous speech- “Even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream,” and so do I.

Anne Frank News ........... p. 18 Adult Education .............. p. 34 Business Directory ..........p. 24 Chabad News.................. p. 15 Chanukah Recipes ......... p. 23 Community News .......... p. 4-9 Education ...........p. 22, 29-33 Federation News ........p. 19-21

Foundation ..................... p. 27 JCA ................................. p. 25 JFCS ................................ p. 26 Lifecycles ..........................p. 24 Opinion & Cartoons ........... P. 3 River Garden ................... p. 28 Synagogue News ........... 10-14 Top Stories..........................p. 1

page 5

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

community news

Joanne Davis Professional Educator, Amateur Puppeteer

Jan.

2017

In the Jacksonville community, Joanne Davis, is known for the volunteer puppet shows she performs every month, for more than a decade and a half at the Wolfson Childrens Hospital. Professionally, Dr. Davis is the Supervisor of World Languages for the Duval County School System, as well as, a professor at the University of North Florida.

In addition to performing her puppet shows at the children’s hospital she has also puts them on for the Jewish community at Shalom Jacksonville’s Chanukah Storytime event. The Martin J. Gottlieb Day School and Pre-School have also enjoyed her creativity and puppet shows. Davis was instrumental in getting the Hebrew language courses at the Martin J.

m ot m

Gottlieb Day School to become accredited, so the students, may now receive high school credit.

She has also developed a Spanish language video for pre-school in order to teach the language.

River Garden and the Coves also laud her for the beautiful book reviews and numerous programs she has presented. Dr. Davis’ volunteer activities include Sisterhood, Women’s Division of Federation and several others.

Professionally, Davis has received a Florida Lifetime Achievement Award in teaching, and recently was given the state’s highest educational honor, the Dr. Irving Wershow Award for Excellence.

She also organized the first group of Jacksonville students to visit China on a sister city program.

If you would like to nominate someone special for Mensch of the Month, who volunteers both their time and efforts to the Jacksonville Jewish community, simply submit their name, photo and a short write-up about them to jjn@jewishjacksonville. org.

Lots of talented musicians on tap to perform at JCA’s young concert artists series

BY IMAN BYFIELD

Jewish Community Alliance

The 2017 JCA Young Concert Artists Series kicks off with a performance by pianist Tomer Gewirtzman, Sunday, Jan. 22nd at 3 p.m. at the Jewish Community Alliance. Gewirtzman is the First Prize winner of the 2015 Young Concert Artists International Auditions.Hailing from Haifa, Israel, he has performed in Israel and abroad, and since 2006, has received a biennial excellence

scholarship from the AmericaIsrael Cultural Foundation.

On Feb. 12th at 3 p.m., the se-

ries continues with a recital by the Zorá String Quartet. Zorá, which means ‘sunrise’ in Bulgarian, con-

sists of violinists Dechopol Kowintaweewat and Seula Lee, violist Pablo Muñoz Salido and cellist Zizai Ning. The Zorá are winners of the 2015 Young Concert Artists International Auditions and have earned prestigious Chamber Music Performer’s diplomas from the

Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. They are also Quartet in Residence at the Curtis Institute of Music for the 2016 – 17 season.

Young Concert Artists is a non-profit organization that discovers and promotes the careers of exceptional, emerging young concert musicians. The Jewish Community Alliance is happy to receive these brilliant newcomers as they launch their careers.

Thanks to the generosity of the Berman Family, the JCA Young Concert Artists Series is free to the community. For information, contact Thelma Nied at thelma. nied@jcajax.org.

page 6

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

Community news

JFCS quietly surpasses original campaign How to distribute your goals, now eyes new target estate and avoid probate while complying with Jewish Law

Frisch Family

David Stein

BY ROBERT MORGAN

Bowers, Morgan & Associates, P.A.

DuBow Family

Ina Taffet and Family

By Jewish Family &

Three years ago capital campaign feasibility experts studied the area’s philanthropic landscape and told Jewish Family & Community Services that an ambitious goal for its planned fundraising initiative would be around $4 million. Campaign leaders heeded that advice when they quietly launched their efforts last June with the goal of raising $4.5 million for a much-needed new headquarters building. Having nearly hit their original target in just the first six months of the campaign’s quiet phase, organizers met in late November to announce a revised ‘stretch’ goal.

“Due to the incredible success in this initial phase, we are delighted to announce that we have established a new campaign goal of $5.5 million,” said JFCS Board Chair Jodie Leach. Reaching the revised campaign goal will allow JFCS to add The Frisch Family Holocaust Memorial Gallery at its new headquarters building on Baycenter Road. It will also mean that the agency can avoid carrying a long-term mortgage on the new building, that, in turn, will allow JFCS to serve more community members in need.

“Although the Jewish community is only one percent of the total population of Northeast

Florida, we continue to make a large impact for all those who find themselves in need, regardless of religious affiliation,” Leach said.

“This would not be possible without the generosity of many of you, your families and friends.”

The incredible success the campaign experienced during its quiet phase was due in large part to Michael and Laurie DuBow and a lead gift from the DuBow Family Foundation. Leach also recognized a team of leaders who have been invaluable in managing the purchase and renovations of the new 30,000-square-foot Alan J. Taffet Building that is expected to open next year as JFCS celebrates its 100th year of serving Northeast Florida.

The project’s so called ‘Dream Team’ includes Marc Angelo who is providing construction advice and management, Lanny Felder who advised on real estate and facility issues, Sid Ansbacher who donated legal services and Dick Browdy who has provided advice and guidance on financial issues.

As JFCS moves into its new building, the successful campaign will also allow the agency to convert its existing building into the new Allison Stein Robbins Building which will serve as a home to the new Max Block Food Pantry with greatly enhanced capabilities and

capacity.

Community support for the fundraising campaign has surprised even the most optimistic JFCS board members. The case for its necessity has been obvious for those who have seen how JFCS rapidly grew from the 51-member staff that moved into its current building in 2001 to its current staff of 187. During that same time period JFCS went from serving about 1,000 meals per year, to last year serving more than 80,000.

The new headquarters will provide space for the agency’s staff activities as well as a range of social services to be provided onsite.

Among those services to be provided at the center will be mental counseling, financial advice and assistance, children’s services and adoption services. There will also be a children’s garden, a library/ resource center and a Jewish services center. The Holocaust Memorial Gallery at the new JFCS building will be the only such exhibit between Atlanta and Miami.

It’s being dedicated in honor of the family of community leader Harry Frisch who came to America at a young age. JFCS board members and campaign leaders are optimistic about completing the fundraising campaign in 2017.

“We’ve been very intentional and have followed the example of our founders,” Leach explained.

“No one ever walks through our doors with just one challenge, and due to our unique structure, we are able to meet their needs and assist them in getting to a place of independence in an efficient and respectful manner,” she added.

“Efficiency and respect were the two words in the forefront of our minds as we designed both our new building and the renovation of our existing building.”

If you, or someone you know, might be interested in creating a lasting positive impact in the community, please contact Kathy Wohlhuter at 904-394-5727 or kwohlhuter@jfcsjax.org.

As the New Year approaches, it is common for a person to take stock of their property and accumulated assets and to determine if they have established a plan for taking care of their family. This is consistent with the dictates of Jewish Law and common sense.

Jewish Law is governed by the Halakha. This law places certain restrictions on how a person may dispose of their property at their passing. The Jewish Law, the American common law and the laws of Florida are not consistent in how property may or should be distributed, however, as with all things in life there is an exception to every rule. This article discusses how to comply with Jewish law, avoid the time, delay and cost of probate, and make your affairs simpler for your family.

The typical estate plan includes a person making a will, which is the simplest of estate planning tools to provide for your family. However, under the Halakha, leaving property to your family in this manner could cause you to violate the dictates of Jewish Law. There are strict rules on how a will can leave property under Jewish Law. Although this article is not intended to discuss the complex subject of Jewish inheritance law, take it for granted spouses and children would likely want more options than just following the strict dictates of Jewish Law. A big issue in following Jewish Law and using a will is that this could cause a probate at your death.

Probate is the orderly process of disposing of your property under the terms of your will when you own assets and property in your name at death. The fees for probate are typically determined by a fee schedule under Florida law. Typically, a probate runs 3-percent of the value of your estate. For example, a person with an estate of $300,000 would have a probate/legal fee of in excess of $9,000. Also, the probate process can run as long as a year; this means it could take that long before your assets are distributed to your family. The more complex your estate and affairs, the

Jacksonville Atty. Robert Morgan

more the legal fees and, typically, the length of the probate process runs. However, you can still be in compliance with Jewish Law and avoid probate.

Under Jewish and Florida Law, the use of a revocable trust avoids the cost and expense of probate and the strict dictates of how property is to be divided under Jewish law at a person’s death. Trusts come in only two types: revocable or irrevocable.

Although either type of trust can work, this article discusses only revocable trusts as they provide the most flexibility and control over your assets and property during your lifetime. A revocable trust is a contract and this type of trust allows the maker (called the Settlor or Grantor) to leave property to a trustee for the benefit of the heirs (called the Beneficiaries). The reason this type of trust works so well is the maker of the trust can also be the trustee of the property placed in the trust.

This means there is total control by the maker throughout their lives. You lose no control using a revocable trust; in fact, you gain substantial economic and legal benefits and the best part is that it complies with Jewish Law. Revocable trusts can be used to help ensure a surviving spouse is protected throughout their life, it can help children with managing the family assets, and, if you have a disabled or troubled heir, the trust can provide for that person without causing that person to lose any governmental benefits they may be entitled to receive. This means you do not have to disinherit or leave assets to another to protect a loved one.

Trusts cost less than the typical probate, they are not difficult to administer if properly prepared and make your final affairs easier for your family to handle.

Trusts can provide for management, tax planning benefits, especially if your assets consist of substantial retirement assets, and it complies with the dictates of Jewish law. Contacting an estate planning or elder law attorney is your best bet in determining if a trust is your best option for your estate planning.

Come nosh and be social at Gilbert’s with the Jax Jewish Singles

BY FRANCINE SMITH Jax Jewish Singles

Celebrity Chef Kenny Gilbert opened a pair of restaurants in the local area, and as a result, the Jax Jewish Singles group will be enjoying Sunday lunch at Gilbert’s Social, which features seasonal and creative modern Southern fare with international influences. Contact Francine for details at 904-221-8061 or

email her at francine.smith@ comcast.net.

page 7

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

community news Inside the Eruv Continued from pg. 1

Scan QR code to watch video of Eruv on JaxJewishTV via

In Jacksonville’s case, the community’s Eruv transforms an approximate 10-square mile stretch of Mandarin into private quarters through rather inconspicuous means of string, wires, posts and fences, which enable the more observant members of the Jewish community to complete tasks such as pushing baby strollers and carrying their kids to shul on Shabbat. It also makes it possible to take other items such as religious paraphernalia or food from their homes to others in the neighborhood on the Sabbath.

“The Eruv is also really a symbol of unity because we are all members of this community,” Fisch explained. “So basically what the Eruv does is enhance the quality of life for the Sabbath observant Jew because otherwise people who have young kids would be stuck at home and unable to push or carry their children to synagogue.”

But it hasn’t always been this way for the Shomer Shabbos Jew in Jacksonville, as the Eruv as it is known today did not exist in its current form a mere two decades ago. In the late 20th century, more specifically, 1998, former Etz Chaim senior rabbi Aaron Goldscheider and some of his congregants began to discuss the idea of implementing an Eruv right in the heart of synagogue central, Mandarin, where three houses of worship, Etz Chaim, the Jacksonville Jewish Center and Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) were separated by just two and a half miles.

“Rabbi Goldscheider got a group of about four or five guys together and we went down to

Jimmy Jaffa checks out one of the wires that is affixed on a telephone pole. A close up of the wire can be seen in the photo on the right

south Florida to see how they did it there,” remembered founding exploratory Eruv member Jimmy Jaffa. “We had a couple of manuals and books and I used my prior experience with construction, knowing what type of wires we could use.”

After getting permission from JEA to use their poles and from Comcast to use their wires, the group, headed up by Jaffa, whose family joined the synagogue around the same time, began to lay out plans and piece together the city’s first attempt at transforming the public domain into a private one.

“We went around working on it and it took us about two to three months to do,” recalled Jaffa of his groups’ efforts. “I just remember we had a teenager named Sammy Kadish helping us at the time and if we ever needed anything, he had it in his pockets, whether it was a lighter to seal the end of a rope, a knife to cut something or a screw driver to tighten something, he had what we wanted.”

Ultimately what Jaffa and his crew wanted was in a sense a fully functioning, walled off portion of the city, through a complicated means of electrical wires and thick rope.

“Modern construction has a number of things, but what we are replicating is a historic post and beam construction,” Jaffa told of the skeletal makeup of the Eruv.

“Basically it’s a walled city and what we have is a wall with a lot of openings in them in the form of big windows which are telephone poles and a wire running across it.”

Even though the construction of the structure is rather simple, the specifications of what constitutes an Eruv can be very detailed,

right down to the very inch.

“To be considered a wall, the slope has to be in seven feet and it has to go up 40-inches,” Jaffa explained. “It could be a wall or a fence, but it has to be 40-inches high and a gate cannot be more than 16-feet wide, with nothing on top of it, so those are some of the parameters you have to work with.”

Because of these strict guidelines and specifications, the Eruv requires constant supervision and care to make sure each beam, post and significant stretch falls in line with halachic standards.

“The Eruv has to be inspected on a weekly basis to confirm it’s still valid and the structure is still up, meaning nothing fell or collapsed because of the weather or work on the power lines,” Fisch explained. “So one week I do both the east side and the west side of the Eruv and the other week Rabbi (Avi) Feigenbaum inspects the east side, while Steve Shapiro does the west side.”

For those not as familiar with the geographical layout of Mandarin, the east side of the Eruv denotes anything east of San Jose Blvd., such as Sunbeam and Old St. Augustine Roads in addition to Crown Pointe and Hartley Roads, while the west side consists of Scott Mill and Haley Roads as well as the Beauclerc area. The southernmost point of the Eruv is I-295 off of San Jose Blvd., and the northern most point north is Beauclerc Road, also off San Jose.

Since the Eruv became first fully functional in the fall of 1999, it has not been kosher close to a half dozen times, and one of those occasions occurred most recently, only a few months ago following Hurricane Matthew.

The Eruv was down on the

JCA’s Jewish book festival invites author Josh Aronson to Jacksonville

By Jewish Community Alliance

This past fall, the JCA presented the 20th Annual Jewish Book Festival, chaired by Nan Rothstein, which included five days of Jewish-themed literary programming. Book lovers from across Jacksonville came to meet and listen to renowned authors speak on a variety of topics. While the main festival is over, the JCA’s celebration of the literary arts continues with an extension event featuring author Josh Aronson on Thursday, Jan. 19th from 7 – 9 p.m.

The JCA, in partnership with The Museum of Science and His

tory’s Voices of Hope Initiative, welcomes Aronson, an author and Academy Award-nominated writer, producer and director to present his novel, ‘Orchestra of Exiles’. This book brings to light the story of Bronisław Huberman,

acksonville

JEWISH NEWS JaxJewish

@jaxjewish

JaxJewishTV

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORY

a Polish born violinist who founded the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and consequently saved nearly 1,000 Jews from Nazi persecution.

‘Orchestra of Exiles’ follows Huberman’s persistent efforts to see his dream of the orchestra come to life and the nearly impossible struggle to realize one of the twentieth century’s greatest cultural achievements. This event is free and open to the community, however registration is required

by Jan. 18th.

A wire going from one post in the Eruv to another telephone pole off of Scott Mill Road and Ridgefield Drive in Mandarin

Shabbat during the storm and the synagogues were closed as well, but the next week it was repaired,” Jaffa remembered. “Another tree fell down on Hartley and St. Augustine Road, but really bigger problems occur during road construction.”

When instances like these occur, much of these repairs to the Eruv falls on the shoulders of Jaffa, who sometimes can get emergency phone calls at all hours of the day and night.

“98-percent of the time its fine after inspection but if there is a problem, I call Jimmy and with the assistance of sometimes Art Rosenthal, they go ahead repair the Eruv,” said Rabbi Fisch.

“I am trying to teach the next generation, so Art has in his truck, rope, a pole and string,” explained Jaffa of his right hand man. “A late Friday afternoon call to fix the Eruv can be problematic, especially if the repair requires more that one person or I am out of town.”

But if that’s the case, Jaffa and Rosenthal will quickly head out to make sure the Eruv is kosher before the sun goes down and the Sabbath begins.

“Jimmy donates his time and labor and other cities I’m told spend thousands of dollars on hiring a whole crew to make sure their Eruv is up and running, so that’s very significant,” Rabbi Fisch conveyed.

But what’s more significant the Rabbi went on to explain is what the nearly 5,000 feet of rope means to the Jacksonville Jewish community as a whole.

“Besides helping people walk to synagogue on the Sabbath by carrying something, it has really helped the community grow,” he explained. “People now invite each other over for Shabbat lunches

and dinners and they can bring food in addition to their young children, but without and Eruv in place it’s a lot more restrictive.”

But the Eruv’s significance doesn’t just stop at the doorsteps of the many observant Jewish families who call Jacksonville home.

“One of the reasons people consider when relocating to a community is quality of life and for an observant Jew that means an Eruv,” Rabbi Fisch stated. “So this has really helped be a catalyst for the growth of the Jewish community here and that’s immeasurable.”

What can’t be counted in feet and inches or the number of poles can be tallied by spotting the amount of baby strollers lining the entryway at Etz Chaim Synagogue each and every Shabbat. While this number along with the length of the Eruv continues to grow in the coming years, so will the smile on Jaffa’s face, knowing he played a pivotal part in the helping the Jewish community here in Jacksonville survive and thrive.

While the Jacksonville Eruv is just one of many throughout the nation and even the world, those wanting to see if Mandarin’s is up and running each Shabbos can easily do so, by calling the official Eruv Hotline at 904-262-3565, ext. 6. More information can also be obtained by logging onto etzchaim.org/eruv-of-jacksonville, where a detailed map of the structure can also be found.

Donations for the Eruv are always gladly accepted, in the form of funds by writing a check to the Etz Chaim with a note that it be used for the ‘Eruv Fund’ or via volunteer hours by inquiring with either Rabbi Fisch or Jaffa.

River Garden’s 24th annual Foundation Gala takes place in November

Gala Chairs Stephen and Jackie Goldman with sons Alec and Andrew

BY SKIP WILLBACH

River Garden Senior Services

It was a night that went far beyond anyone’s imagination as the crowd of almost 600 attendees were treated to chocolate

dipped strawberries, piano music and bubbling champagne as they entered ‘Pure Imagination’, River Garden Foundation’s 24th Annual Gala, on Saturday night, Nov 12th at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra.

page 8

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

What exactly is the correct spelling for the Legal historian to speak about Jewish lawyers holiday known as the festival of lights? of December one might have seen other variations of spelling, such as Hanukkah or Chanukkah.

With at least three different ways to spell this cherish holiday, the JJN reached out to local clergy and event some native Israelis to see what is the preferred spelling and if it is even possible to know, the correct one. See below for the results.

Hanukkah

By

As with many words that are transliterated from Hebrew to English there is an array of ways to spell certain words but possibly none are more widely varied in spelling than the holiday known as the festival of lights, or Chanukah as it is spelled in the Jacksonville Jewish News. While out in the community during the month

“I am strongly in favor of Hanukkah. My preference is to write the H for the “het” sound with an underline “H”. But even if not I’d rather people pronounce it Hanukkah (with H as in “hat) than with the Ch (as in cheerios) sound.

That’s just not a Hebrew sound, so I avoid CH whenever possible. As for the double K, when a kaf has a dot in it, that actually means the letter is being doubled, so there should be two of those in English. Also, any time a word in Hebrew ends in “hey” that should be reflected with a letter at the end in English as well. Hence, Hanukkah.”

– Jacksonville Jewish Center

Rabbi Howard Tilman “Hanukkah and that is according to accepted convention for transliteration.”

– Congregation Ahavath Chesed Rabbi Rick Shapiro “The correct transliteration is ‘Hanukkah’. When transliterating Hebrew into English, the Hebrew letter het is represented as an ‘h’ with a dot or an underline indicating its guttural pronunciation. A bunch of years ago driven by the crazy inconsistency of how Hebrew is transliterated, I decided I’d go with the official method of transliteration. Even so, I still remain somewhat inconsistent. Maybe it takes some hutzpah, but I continue to spell the word in English as chutzpah, only because it looks strange to spell it correctly.”

– Jacksonville Jewish Center Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner

Chanukah

“I would go with Chanukah, although it’s a Hebrew word so you have plenty of poetic license in English.”

– Chabad at the Beaches Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky “Chanukah would be most correct because Chanukah with a Chet means ‘dedication’. Following the victory over the Greeks, the Maccabees rededicated the Holy Temple, which had been desecrated by the pagan invaders.”

- Chabad of S. Johns Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein “The roots of the word in Hebrew are the three letters, which are the base for many other words connected to the holiday. For me, writing the word in Hebrew reminds me of the true meaning behind the holiday’s name through its roots. If I had to choose an option in English, I would’ve chosen Chanukah since its pronunciation is the closest to the Hebrew word as we say it.

When my family and I lived in the USA, we spoke native Hebrish and said ‘Hannukah’ to fit in, but we all knew in our hearts that Chanukah felt more like home.”

– Jacksonville Community Shlicha Dana Marmari

who worked in the face of Nazism in the 1940s

The talk will coincide with the ABA’s traveling exhibit entitled ‘Lawyers without rights - Jewish lawyers in Germany under the Third Reich’

By Federal Bar Association Jacksonville Chapter

The Jacksonville Chapter of the Federal Bar Association looks forward to presenting a very special CLE program and luncheon, entitled ‘Discrimination, Degradation and Defiance - Jewish Lawyers Under Naziism’, on Thursday, Feb. 2nd at 12:15 p.m. This program is open to chapter members and the entire legal community and is timed to coincide with the American Bar Association’s traveling exhibit, ‘Lawyers Without Rights - Jewish Lawyers in Germany Under the Third Reich,’ which will be on display at the Jacksonville Public Library from Jan. 7th through Feb. 4th.

The event’s keynote speaker

will be Douglas Morris, a legal historian and practicing criminal defense attorney, who has spoken and written on this topic to great acclaim. Not simply a discussion of historical events, the program will highlight how the Nazis disabled the legal system and the constitutional framework as an early part of establishing totalitarian rule, and it will provide important lessons for lawyers to guard against any threat to a fair and just legal system and an independent judiciary. The program has been approved by The Florida Bar for 2 CLE ethics credits and there is no charge to attend the event. To secure a reservation, please contact Michael A. Abel, Immediate Past President of the Jacksonville Chapter at 904-7987252 or michael.abel@hklaw.com.

River Garden Auxiliary to hold its annual rummage sale in Jan.

BY MIMI KAUFFMAN River Garden Auxiliary

The Auxiliary of the River Garden Hebrew Home will hold its second giant rummage sale, Sunday, Jan. 29th from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Monday, Jan. 30th, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at 3428 Beach Undecided “From a purely traditional Jew- Blvd. in the Southgate Plaza. On sale will include all household ish perspective, the Sephardic dialect leans more toward the guttural items, ladies’ and mens’ accessories such as hats, shoes, gloves and “h” sound while the Ashkenazik dialect lends itself to the “ch” sound, handbags, in addition children’s clothing, toys, and books, garden otherwise, I think it’s just spelling and yard items, jewelry and arts preference.” and crafts. All sales will be cash – Torah Academy head of only, so for more information or school, Rabbi Shaya Hauptman

to donate items for the sale, please call Jennie at 904-770-7117. All proceeds from the sale will go directly to benefit the residents of River Garden.

www.jewishjacksonville.org

page 9

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

community NEWS

Chabad at the Beaches’ Crypto Judaic scholar to talk to Jewish Historical Society of St. Augustine in Jan. Jewish book club for

By St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society

Debbie Wohl Isard, a member of the Board of Directors of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies and the editor of La Granada, SCJS’s on-line news connection will discuss ‘Recent Trends in Crypto-Judaic Studies’, at a special program sponsored by the St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society.

The event will be held, Wednesday, Jan. 25th from 4:15 - 5:45 p.m. at the St. Johns County Public Library, Main Branch, located

Debbie Wohl Isard

at 1960 North Ponce De Leon Blvd. in St. Augustine. Wohl Isard is a nationally known student of historical fiction, Jewish pioneers of the Southwest and the history of Christopher Columbus. She is the sister of Jacksonville’s Daniel Wohl, MD, Pediatric Otolaryngology Associates, LLC, which is a division of North Florida Surgeons. This event is free and open to the public and no advance arrangements are necessary. Call 904-827-6940 for directions or more information.

Renowned pop art Rabbi leads recent silkscreen workshop on the Southside

By Southside Chabad

In late Nov., a diverse crowd gathered at Southside Chabad for a unique art workshop, led

by Yitzchok Moully, who is also known as the Hasidic Warhol.

Moully took participants step-bystep through the process, with impressive results, while explaining the significance of Jewish art and his journey to becoming known as the pop art Rabbi’.

Silkscreen participants hard at work creating their canvas backgrounds

Local Rabbi to explain St. Augustine Jewish experience for Florida Jewish History month

BY MERRILL SHAPIRO St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society

Friends of the Main Library in St. Augustine will recognize Florida Jewish History Month with a brown bag luncheon at the Main branch of the St. Johns County Public Library (1960 North Ponce De Leon Blvd.)at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11th.

Rabbi Merrill Shapiro of the St.

Augustine Jewish Historical Society will lead those present through a one-hour synopsis of the Jewish experience in St. Augustine, from the city’s founding on Sept. 8, 1565 through the present day.

This event is free and open to the public, however seating is limited.

Patrons are welcome to bring their own lunch but light refreshments will be provided. Doors open at 11 a.m. For additional information and directions, call 904-827-6940.

women to examine Elie Weisel’s book, ‘Night’

By Chabad at the Beaches

Chabad at the Beaches presents a Jewish book club for women, where every month the club meets and discusses a new book.

The books cover a wide variety of topics that meet various interests as this is a great opportunity to meet new people, share your thoughts and opinions, and hear other people’s insights as well.

The next meeting will take place Tuesday, Jan. 10th at 7:30 p.m., and the club is free of charge to interested participants. Meetings are hosted at private homes and address information is given with reservations.

The next book club meeting will discuss ‘Night’, by NobelPrize winning writer Elie Weisel, After his recent passing, Elie Wisel’s renowned book will be discussed at who sadly passed away in July. the group’s next book club meeting Weisel was a writer, professor, political activist, Nobel Laureate businesswoman in early 20th and probably the world’s most century New York. The book is famous Holocaust survivor and about Malka Treynovsky, who as advocate. ‘Night’ was Wiesel’s masterpiece, as a candid, horrific, a child in 1913, flees Russia for New York with her family, only and deeply poignant autobioto be crippled and abandoned graphical account of his survival in the streets. Taken in by a as a teenager in the Nazi death tough-loving Italian ices peddler, camps. The well-renowned Treynovsky survives. When she author and humanitarian had a falls in love with Albert, they set passionate dedication to ensuroff together across America in an ing that the world never forgets ice cream truck to seek their forman’s capacity for inhumanity to man. His book offers much more tune and slowly, she transforms herself into Lillian Dunkle, ‘The than a litany of the daily terrors, Ice Cream Queen of America’, everyday perversions, and ramwho is the doyenne of an empire pant sadism at Auschwitz and Buchenwald, as it also eloquently of ice cream franchises and a addresses many of the philosoph- celebrated television personalical as well as personal questions. ity. Spanning 70 Dunkle’s rise, fraught with setbacks, triumphs, The group will meet again and tragedies is inextricably on Tuesday, Feb. 7th to discuss linked to the course of American bestselling author Susan Jane history itself, but when her past Gilman’s IndieNext Pick novel starts catching up with her, her about an immigrant girl’s transworld implodes spectacularly. formation into an indomitable

Chassdic Art Installation St. Johns Jewish Women’s Circle to test their skills at Great Escape Room

By Chabad of S. Johns

Join the St. Johns Women’s Circle Wednesday, Jan. 11th at 7 p.m. at The Great Escape Room in Jacksonville, where the ladies will discover how to escape their

Chassidic Pop Artist, Rabbi Yitzchok Moully, explains the meaning and inspiration behind his work to the audience in St Augustine during Nov.

personal limitations and challenge themselves, locked in a room with only one way out.

Participants will have to search for hidden compartments, secret passageways and clues in order to plot their ‘great escape’.

page 10

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Jacksonville Jewish Center to hold RE:MIND event for women, Feb. 6

Etz Chaim Gala Continued from pg. 1 all-around and one not to be missed in the future.

This year, prizes will be awarded to couples or individuals who best capture the ‘Nawlins theme so be sure and get creative.

The evening will be filled with great food and fun, awesome door prizes and terrific entertainment from The Chris Thomas Orchestra. Etz Chaim looks forward to seeing you all there for a terrific evening down on the Bayou!

Last year’s gala took on a western theme with denim and cowboy hats

Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue to screen the film ‘Dough’ in January

By Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

Beth El - the Beaches Synagogue will show the film ‘Dough’ at its next member and guest mixer Sunday, Jan. 15 at 5 p.m., and a wine and cheese social will be held prior to the screening. For those who don’t know, ‘Dough’ is a film about an old Jewish baker, who takes on a young Muslim apprentice to save his failing kosher bakery. When his apprentice’s marijuana stash accidently falls in the mixing dough, the challah starts flying off the shelves. The film is a warmhearted and humorous story about overcoming prejudice and finding redemption in unexpected places. This program is open to all in the community.

For more information contact Gail Greenfield at gailsgreenfield@

hotmail.com or call her at 904534-7381.

By Jacksonville Jewish Center

RE:MIND, the Jacksonville Jewish Center’s community initiative to improve mental health and reduce stigma, is thrilled to announce its upcoming event for women, Monday, Feb. 6th at the synagogue Jacksonville Jewish Center at 7pm. Starting at 7 p.m., that night, ‘Live & Love to the Fullest’ will serve as an interactive program designed to relax, indulge and inspire women of all ages.

The event is free and features community mental health nonprofits ‘I Still Matter’ and ‘Where is the Sunshine?’ led by founders Carmen Joyce and Jeanine Hoff, respectively. Joyce is a professional artist and former social worker who founded ‘I Still Matter’ as a way to bring women and teen

girls together to create art and discuss mental wellness. She is the creator of ‘I Still Color’, an adult coloring book featuring works by artists from around the world.

‘Where is the Sunshine?’ founder Jeanine Hoff is a 2016 TEDx Jacksonville presenter, public speaker, and writer for The Mightyand Jacksonville Mom’s Blog. She has been featured on The Chat, River City Live and First Coast Connect. Both women, along with meditation expert Gail Greenfield will bring together art therapy, aromatherapy, positivity and mental wellness as well as guided meditation, coupled with refreshments and wine therapy.

‘Live & Love to the Fullest’ is not to be missed as it will be a night of relaxation and fun so dress comfortably and bring your friends. For more details, visit jjcjax.org/communities/remindmental-health-initiative/ and be sure to RSVP by Feb. 3rd to 904503-1784 or remindjax@aol.com.

Temple Hosts Saturday Night at the Movies with ‘A Gentleman’s Agreement’

By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

The Community is invited to the movies at The Temple, Saturday, Jan. 14th at 7 p.m., to view the

1947 film, ‘A Gentleman’s Agreement’, which was directed by Elia Kazan. This monthly film series is preceded by Havdalah and closes with a discussion of the film led by Rabbi Shapiro.

When journalist Phil Green (Gregory Peck) moves to New York City, he takes on a high-pro-

file magazine assignment about anti-Semitism. To experience life from an empathetic perspective, he pretends to be a Jew and begins to experience many forms of bigotry, both firsthand and through a Jewish friend, Dave Goldman (John Garfield). Phil soon falls in love with beautiful Kathy Lacy

(Dorothy McGuire), but their relationship is complicated by his unusual endeavor.

Bosley Crowther, the 1947 movie critic for the New York Times wrote at the release of the film, “The shabby cruelties of anti-Semitism which were sharply and effectively revealed within the observation of Laura Z. Hobson’s ‘Gentleman’s Agreement’ have now been exposed with equal candor and even greater dramatic forcefulness in the motion-picture version of the novel. In fact, every point about prejudice which Miss Hobson had to make in her book has been made with superior illustration and more graphic demonstration in the film, so that the sweep of her moral indignation is not only widened but intensified thereby.”

This monthly film series is preceded by Havdalah and closes

with a discussion of the film led

by Rabbi Shapiro. Mark your calendar for Feb. 4th when ‘The Pawnbroker’ starring Rod Steiger will be shown.

Temple Bet Yam to hold its annual card party in Palm Coast on Jan. 25th

BY JACKIE WITTE Temple Bet Yam

St. Augustine’s Temple Bet Yam will be holding its wildly popular annual card party at beautiful Hammock Dunes Club (30 Avenue Royale) in Palm Coast, Wednesday, Jan. 25th. Be sure to join your favorite game, whether it is mahJongg, Bridge, Scrabble, Rummy Q, Poker or Canasta.

Coffee and pastries will be served

starting at 10 a.m., followed by a buffet luncheon at noon. Be sure and buy a ticket for yourself and treat your spouse or a friend to a fun day as tickets are just $30 per person. For more information and reservations, please call Shelly Cohen at 904-471-8891 or Carol Levy at 954-895-7332 and wandmtby@gmail.com. All RSVP’s should be submitted by Jan. 11th.

page 11

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

SYNAGOGUE NEWS

Temple Brotherhood to hold talk on how Learn the seven habits of anti-Semitism dissipated in the Mid-20th highly effective people with Rabbi Yaakov Fisch Century USA

BY RABBI YAAKOV FISCH

By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

The Temple Brotherhood invites the entire community to join them on Sunday, Jan. 22nd at 10 a.m. at The Temple for the ‘best breakfast in town’, while hearing a fascinating presentation by UNF Professor David Courtwright, who has a unique perspective on antiSemitism in mid-20th century America.

Dr. Courtwright is the Presidential and Distinguished Professor in the History Department at the University of North Florida.

He offers courses in American medical, social, and legal history and his newest course focuses on

Etz Chaim Synagogue

Professor David Courtwright is the president of the UNF history dept.

the culture war that has roiled American politics since the 1960s.

His most recent book, ‘No Right Turn’, chronicles the tumultuous politics and surprising outcome of the culture war that engulfed

America in the four decades after Nixon’s 1968 election. He is currently working on a book about pleasure and capitalism in the modern world.

Beth El - The Beaches sisterhood hosts fun filled evening of Family Feud in Nov.

By Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

In early Nov., at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue, Sisterhood members and their significant others, family members, and friends came together for a wonderful evening of Family Feud. Wine as well as cheese and crackers were served and everyone laughed the night away. Those who attended had a great time playing this family favorite game with their Beth El family!

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is a best seller that has revolutionized theories about personal change and leadership.

This book has sold more than 25 million copies in 40 languages worldwide, and remains one of the best selling non-fiction business books. The ‘Seven Habits’ have been known to people in all walks of life from the corporate world to family life. Although Dr. Covey doesn’t quote Jewish sources, every one of his seven habits are based on principles articulated thousands of years earlier in Jewish sources such as the Tanach and Talmud. From the first habit of being proactive to the last habit of sharpening your saw, there is much to apply to our emotional and spiritual well being as well. Please join Rabbi Yaakov Fisch for a most informative

discussion on the convergence of ancient and modern wisdom to help us be more effective in all of our interactions. Sessions will be held at the Synagogue, Jan. 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th, all starting at 7:30 p.m.

Temple Bet Yam’s annual deli night to be held Feb. 16 Several of the attendees of Family Feud night having a great time

WRJ Sisterhood to hold ‘not your bubbe’s bingo’ night at Hamburger Mary’s

By Congregation Ahavath Chesed

Join the WRJ Temple Sisterhood for drag queen charity bingo at Hamburger Mary’s (3333 Beach Blvd.), Monday, Jan. 9th, from 7-9:30 p.m. Bingo cards for the night are $10 and prizes will be awarded for the winners. This event will be hosted by the hilarious Karrissa Wade and those younger than 18 who are in the audience need to be accompanied by parents. A full menu of dinner and drinks will be available for the night.

Proceeds generated from the event go to JASMYN, a nonprofit youth services organization working to create a safer, more affirming community for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-23, in

BY JACKIE WITTE Temple Bet Yam

St. Augustine’s Temple Bet Yam will host its annual deli night, Thursday, Feb. 16 and on the menu this year is your choice of corned beef, pastrami, or turkey sandwiches along with typical deli sides, a dessert, and a beverage. Magician Bill Rosenthal will provide the entertainment, so get your reservation in

Jacksonville. JASMYN provides a safe space, health and wholeness services, and offers youth development opportunities, while bringing people and resources

together to promote equality and human rights. Send an RSVP for this event to board.s3304@gmail. com or 904-744-1256.

now as tickets go fast. The cost is $30 per person and an RSVP is required by Feb. 7.

Checks can be made payable to Temple Bet Yam with Deli Night indicated in the check memo and sent to Temple Bet Yam, P.O. Box 860098, St. Augustine, FL 32086. For more information, contact Barbara Carman at 904-826-3676 or email wandmtby@gmail.com.

page 12

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

synagogue news

Jacksonville Jewish Center to host Dr. Joel Etz Chaim to host one of Hoffman for its annual Shabbaton in Feb. the most influential Jews

By Jacksonville Jewish Center

Save the date now for the annual Jacksonville Jewish Center’s Marilyn and Louis Safer Shabbaton, Feb. 24 – 26 as this year features Scholar-in-Residence, Joel M. Hoffman, an energetic, engaging, funny, and insightful linguist, biblical scholar and author known for his fresh insights about religious life in the 21st century. A complete schedule and rundown of topics he will be speaking about are as follows: Friday, Feb. 24: ‘Four Exiles and Four Spiritual Revolutions’, A whirlwind tour of 3,000 years of Judaism, focusing on three spiritual revolutions and the exiles that led to each. Then the most recent revolution: modern Judaism. How are we, today, like the prophets and like the authors of the Talmud? How is 21st-century Florida like the Golden Age of Spain? And what will we build for future generations?

Saturday, Feb. 25: Sermon, plus a lunch and learn event following services: ‘The Bible Doesn’t Say That!’ What does the Bible really say about subjects such as violence

and marriage? The Bible has been reinterpreted and misinterpreted almost from the day it was written. We’ll peel back 2,000 years of revisionism and take a look at the Bible as it originally was.

Sunday Feb. 26: ‘Ancient Answers to Good and Evil That Were Cut From the Bible’. A discussion of the second half of the Adam and Eve story missing from the Bible, Abraham’s formative child-

hood, and the mysterious Enoch.

Additionally, Dr. Hoffman will delight special Shabbaton Supporters at a donor event with a series of vignettes from his personal experiences in Israel as a writer for the Jerusalem Post, and on Sunday morning he will interact with children with the surprising story of where our food comes from and why we should care so much.

Marilyn and Lou Safer, may their names be for a blessing, loved by all who knew them, were committed to keeping the synagogue as the center of Jewish life and learning. This philosophy is shared by their children, who generously established the fund in their parents’ memory to provide underwriting for the Center’s annual Shabbaton weekend, allowing for professional educators and superior lecturers such as Dr. Hoffman.

Thanks to this generous donation, all of the speaking events are free and open to the public.

Menus and fees for optional weekend meals are now available and pre-paid reservations for meals can be made by calling the Jacksonville Jewish Center at 904292-1000.

WRJ Temple Sisterhood invites ladies to reconnect at its upcoming wine and Temple member to attend. Please cheese social make plans to attend the sisterhood’s first event which is a wine

By WRJ Temple Sisterhood

Often times, we get so busy and we mean to stay in touch but, then we don’t. With this in mind, the Temple’s Sisterhood is calling all women in the 40-50 age range and let’s reconnect as four events are planned throughout the year.

Everyone is welcome to attend and you do not need to be a WRJ Temple Sisterhood member or a

and cheese get-together, scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 12, beginning at 7 p.m. at the home of Robin Mendelson. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine to share and enjoy making new friends and reconnecting with old ones. RSVP to Laurie Simmons at 904-2871766 and legsimmons@gmail. com or to Rebekah Barkowitz at 781-366-7613 and rbarkowitz@ gmail.com.

for Yom Limmud event

Last year’s Yom Limmud was well attended by those in the community

By Etz Chaim Synagogue

On Sunday, Feb. 12th, Etz Chaim Synagogue will be proud to bring back its annual Yom Limmud event, which is a day of studying and learning, designed to offer its participants the opportunity to develop a deeper connection to the fundamental concepts in Judaism, in an intellectually challenging atmosphere.

Presented by world famous lecturer Rabbi Benjamin Blech, this year’s Yom Limmud will touch on the topic of ‘If God Is Good, Why is the World So Bad?’ The class will explore how Judaism has many ways to deal with the universal challenge to belief that stems from the seeming injustice of the world.

As Ari Goldman, former religion editor of the New York Times put it this way: “Benjamin Blech puts God back where He belongs—in the driver’s seat of human events.

This raises all sorts of fascinating questions that Rabbi Blech answers with clarity and wisdom,” he added. “Drawing on centuries of Jewish learning, Rabbi Blech has given us a book that both comforts and inspires.” As a result, listeners will no doubt be rewarded by a lecture that informs, inspires and comforts.

Etz Chaim is honored to have Rabbi Blech as the lecturer for its Yom Limmud, as he is an internationally recognized educator, religious leader, author, and lecturer.

Blech is the author of 12 highly acclaimed and best-selling books, with combined sales of close to half a million copies, including three as part of the highly popular

Idiot’s Guide series. His book, ‘Understanding Judaism: The Basics of Deed and Creed’, was chosen by the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations as “the single best book on Judaism in our generation.” Together with an accompanying six-hour video, filmed by the producers of 20/20, featuring Rabbi Blech, it is presently being used as the basis for study groups in numerous synagogues and universities around the country.

Another one of his books, ‘Taking Stock: A spiritual Guide To Rising Above Life’s Financial Ups and Downs’, was featured in a full page article in the Sunday New York Times and one of his recent works, ‘If God is Good, Why Is The World So Bad?’, has been translated into Indonesian where it has had a powerful reception in the wake of the country’s tsunami, as well as into Portuguese. He is a frequent lecturer in Jewish communities as far-flung as Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Israel. Closer to home, he has served as Scholar-in-Residence at hundreds of synagogues throughout the United States and Canada and been active on behalf of countless Jewish causes. In a national survey conducted by jewsweek.com, Rabbi Bleich was ranked no. 16 in a listing of the 50 most influential Jews in America.

This event is sponsored by Lawrence and Kathy Kantor family. For more information or to register please visit etzchaim.org, contact Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum at rabbifeigenbaum@etzchaim.org or call at 904-262-3565 ext. 5.

Center Sisterhood strives to keep city’s homeless warm with their knitting efforts

By Jacksonville Jewish Center

The Jacksonville Jewish Center Sisterhood is breaking out their crochet hoods and knitting needles in an effort to help keep Jacksonville’s homeless warm this winter.

Members from the Center’s Sisterhood gathered to make scarves, hats and mittens for men, women and children that will be donated to the Sulzbacher Center for distribution throughout their shelter.

However, it’s not just homemade goods they are looking for as handmade or new winter hats,

scarves, mittens or hand warmers for adults and children can be dropped off at the Jacksonville Jewish Center during weekday business hours through the end of January.

page 13

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 14

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

synagogue news

Temple Sisterhood to host an evening of Jewish composers from the great American songbook

By WRJ Temple Sisterhood

WRJ Temple Sisterhood proudly presents ‘Jewish Composers from the Great American Songbook: It’s All About the Music’, Sunday, Jan. 22nd beginning at 4 p.m. This event will be held at the Temple and attendees will enjoy lilting lyrics and memorable melodies created by Jewish composers, performed by world-class musicians from UNF and Douglas Anderson.

The proceeds from this remarkable program will support WRJ-Temple Sisterhood’s

International YES Fund (Youth, Education and Special Projects).

The YES Fund contributes to the PJ Library; camps such as Camp Coleman, NFTY, the nation organization of Temple’s JAFTY group, projects in Israel, and scholarships to train Reform rabbis and cantors, just to mention a few. Adult tickets are $18 ($20 at the door) and tickets for children 13 and younger are $9 a piece. So make out your check to ‘WRJ Temple Sisterhood’ which will act as your RSVP and experience the sounds of George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin and many of your other favorites.

Danny Gottlieb is an American

freelance drummer and a full-time Professor of Jazz Studies at UNF. He has performed on more than 400 CD’s, earning nine Grammy nominations and four wins. Gottlieb is the author of the textbook

‘The Evolution of Jazz Drumming’.

A versatile performer, he has appeared with numerous performers as varied as Sting, Branford Marsalis, Stan Getz, Bobby Rydell and Lew Soloff Food Group. The Temple’s own Dina Barone is a professional musician and performer who, for the past five years, has been a member of the voice faculty of the Grammy Awardwinning music program at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. A sought-after private voice teacher for 20 years, she has performed in concert, opera and musical theatre for more than 30-years throughout North America, South America and Europe.

Pianist Lynne Arriale is currently a professor of jazz studies and director of small ensembles at the University of North Florida.

She has performed on multiple continents and has been featured on the PBS program ‘Profile of a Recording Artist’. Dennis Marks, one of the most in-demand players on the jazz scene, has played with Arthur Sandoval, Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Liebman, Bob Mintzer, Maynard Ferguson and Pat Metheny. A composer of critical acclaim, he has appeared at many major jazz festivals, including New York, Los Angeles and North Sea in Holland. Marks also teaches Jazz Studies at UNF. This event is put on with special thanks to Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter who are sponsoring this event through the Dr. Larry and Kathy Kanter Fund for Jewish Preservation. Refreshments will be served.

Galinsky Academy PTA once again to Jax Hadassah to host a hold its ‘biggest ever’ Purim carnival luncheon and Anne Frank exhibit tour sonville Jewish Center.

BY EMILY SPECTOR Last year’s event was literally & SIMON SCHUSTER

bigger than ever, with the introduction of life size games such as Connect 4, so attendees will have to see for themselves what surprises are in store this year, with perhaps a game especially for ‘doctors’. Mark your calendars now as it’s an event you and your family will not want to miss because it’s fun for all ages including bounce houses, multiple game booths, costume contests, delicious food and much more. A live petting zoo will also be available with animals such as sheep, turkeys and rabbits.

Purim Carnival Co-Chairs

Purim, one of the most fun filled holidays, tells the story of how the Jewish people were saved from death by Queen Esther and her uncle Mordechai and is celebrated annually by reading from the Megillah (the Book of Esther), masquerading in costumes, Purim Spiels (a comic play dramatizing the story), and of course Carnivals. With that in mind, the Galinsky Academy PTA is pleased to announce it will once again be hosting the ‘biggest ever’ Purim Carnival, Sunday, March 5th at the Jack-

The 2017 Purim carnival looks to be even bigger than last year’s

BY HELEN HILL

Jacksonville Hadassah

The Jacksonville Hadassah is planning a privately guided tour at the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) of the Anne Frank exhibit following its Chai Luncheon, Thursday, Jan. 19th.

The Chai Luncheon will begin at 12 p.m., with registration and schmoozing at 11:30 a.m. It will be held at the River City Brewing Company (835 Museum Circle) and the cost of lunch is $40 per person, which includes an $18 Chai donation to Hadassah.

The Anne Frank exhibit is an international traveling exhibition

curated by the Anne Frank Center in New York, which portrays the moving story of Anne Frank, a young, courageous Jewish girl who gained international fame after the posthumous publication of her diary written while she and her family were in hiding during World War II. It has been 60 years since her diary was first published and yet Anne Frank continues to serve as a powerful symbol and role model today.

Hadassah members, associates and friends of Hadassah are urged to join us for the luncheon and the tour, led by a special docent.

For more information or to RSVP contact Tiffany Davis at 904-7423389, tiffanybdavis@comcast.net , or Ilana Manasse at 904-733-7765, ilanaman@yahoo.com.

page 15

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

www.jewishjacksonville.org

chabad news

Chabad to offer a special program on the aura and mystique of mikvah

By Chabad Lubavitch of NE. Fla.

Chabad on the First Coast invites all women on to attend an afternoon together exploring the beauty of Mikvah, Sunday, Jan. 29th at 2 p.m. The primary function of a mikvah covers many elements of Jewish life, but the most significant use of mikvah today is by brides and married women practicing Taharat Hamishpacha, or the Jewish laws of family purity. The word ‘mikvah’ means ‘a gathering of water’, natural water. The Mikvah offers women the opportunity for a deeply moving, spiritual experience, in other words, a spa for the body as well as the soul. Join renowned lecturer, Miriam Lipskier as she discusses the Mystique of Mikvah; A deeper look at relationships and intimacy.

Lipskier is the co-founder and director of the Chabad Student Center at Emory University, and together with her husband and eight children, they have created a vibrant community of Jewish life and learning. She is a staff member at Bais Chana Women International, a teacher of Jewish thought and spirituality and lectures around the country. After the lecture a delectable salad bar will be available for all to enjoy and Mikvah tours will also be conducted.

The event will take place at the Chabad Mandarin Headquarters (10129 Haley Rd.), also home to the magnificent Jacksonville Community Mikvah. The cost of the program is $12 for those who register by Jan. 23rd, and $18 after at the door. For more information or to register, call 904-469-8770, or

Jewish residents of Neptune and Atlantic Beaches will now have the Shabbat Service and dinner they have been waiting for as on Friday, Feb. 24th, a 25-minute Shabbat service will be held, followed by a full Shabbat dinner, which will take place at the Adele Grage Community Center (716 Ocean Blvd.) in Atlantic Beach.

Dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m., and will include Kiddush, a full four-course meal, singing and Shabbat fun led by Rabbi Nochum and Leah Kurinsky of Chabad at the Beaches. As with all Chabad events, there is no membership or affiliation necessary to join, how-

ever reservations are required and can be made via ChabadBeaches. com.

For nearly 14 years now Chabad at the Beaches has offered a Shabbat Service and legendary full dinners to residents of the Beaches area. Hundreds of Beaches residents and travelers have participated and enjoyed a spectacular Shabbat experience, complete with singing, a jovial atmosphere and most of all spirituality.

“After two joyful and warm Shabbat dinners in Atlantic Beach, we are thrilled to host a third,” said Leah Kurinsky, Co-Director of Chabad at the Beaches, “We are so excited to spend Shabbat with

Chabad of S. Augustine to host IDF paratrooper who was involved in Operation Thunderbolt, the miracle in Entebbe

By Chabad of S. Augustine

On Monday, Jan. 23rd, Chabad of S. Augustine will be hosting Sassy Reuven, a veteran of the Israel Defense Special Operation Forces. During the terror-filled years of 1973-76 Reuven served in the IDF’s elite ‘Red Beret’ paratrooper unit, participating in several covert operations in Israel’s mighty struggle against Arab terrorism. In July of ‘76, he participated in the famed Entebbe counter-terrorist hostage-rescue mission code named ‘Operation Thunderbolt’, flying thousands of miles over enemy territory to rescue Jewish hostages being held by terrorists in Uganda.

A week earlier, on the 27th of June, an Air France plane was hijacked, by members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine and the German Revolutionary Cells, and flown to Entebbe, the main airport of Uganda.

95 Israeli and Jewish passengers as well as 11 Air France crew members remained as hostages and were threatened with death.

Israeli transport planes carried 130 commandos more than 2,700 miles (4,000 km) to Uganda for the rescue operation, which took place at night. The operation lasted

Sassy Reuven

90 minutes and 106 hostages were rescued, while five Israeli commandos were wounded and one, Lt. Col. Yonatan Netanyahu, was killed. All the hijackers, three hostages and 20-45 Ugandan soldiers were killed.

Reuven will share his personal experience, step-by-step from the moment he was called to duty, including the preparation for the mission, landing in Uganda and completing the mission behind enemy lines. His story is Israel’s story of courage, endurance, defiance and a willingness to sacrifice it all for the right to live in your homeland in freedom. For more information, please call 904-5218664, or visit ChabadSAugustine. com.

Mandarin/HQ Daily Chassidic Philosophy Held weekday mornings, Monday – Friday, 6:40 a.m., Sundays 8:15 a.m., with instructor Rabbi Yossie Kahanov.

Insights on the Torah Portion Shabbos Mornings, 8:30 a.m., with instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd.

Exploring The Talmud Tuesday evenings after Maariv with instructor Rabbi Mendy Browd.

Guest speaker Mirian Lipskier

email mikvahjax@gmail.com. This program is a project of The First Coast Chabad Centers, which include Mandarin/Headquarters, Beaches, Southside, S. Augustine, Clay County & S. Johns, in addition to Mikvah USA.

Chabad at the Beaches to hold Friday night services and dinner in Atlantic Beach during February

By Chabad at the Beaches

upcoming and ongoing events

old friends and welcome the opportunity to make new ones”.

Rabbi Eli and Esther Wilansky will lead Chabad’s regular Shabbat service and dinner, which will be held at the Aaron and Blanche Scharf Chabad at the Beaches’ Center for Jewish life in Ponte Vedra. There is no set cost, however donations are appreciated and can be made via ChabadBeaches. com or by mail. Sponsorships are available for $100 and $180 and $360. For information, please call 904-543 9301, or email info@ chabadbeaches.com.

Women’s Study Group Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with instructor Rebbetzin Rivkie Kahanov.

Shabbos Live - Join us for a memorable Shabbat dinner and monthly oneg, Nov. 25th. The dinner is free and open to all to experience the feeling of holiness that only Shabbat can bring. Great food, insightful discussion, Chassidic melodies and a warm ‘Heimish’ atmosphere is to be had. Call 904-262-6641 for more information or to reserve a spot.

Southside CHS - Chabad Hebrew School on the Southside - Mid Year enrollment is now open. At CHS Jewish learning is meaningful and fun.

The school enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trendsetter in creative Jewish education for children ages 5-13. From lively interactive classroom discussions to exciting hands on learning programs, it’s unique learning experience will engage, excite, involve, and inspire young minds and hearts. School is held Sundays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Visit SouthsideChabad.com for more information.

Yoga and Torah for Women: Unleash Your Inner Strength Invigorating Yoga exercise followed by delicious and healthy refreshments and a thought provoking discussion of Jewish wisdom. No prior Jewish Education or Yoga Experience necessary. Class meets every other Wednesday evenings by the St. Johns Town Center. To RSVP visit SouthsideChabad.com or call 904-646-4434.

Saturday Morning Shabbat Services Join us for services with Rabbi Shmuli Novack in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Our nonjudgmental philosophy embraces everyone, regardless of commitment or religious background. Services are held at 10:30 a.m., in a traditional setting, with a contemporary message. A traditional cholent luncheon follows services. Visit SouthsideChabad.com for more information.

S. Augustine Kabbalah and Coffee - Sunday mornings from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Torah Studies – Examining the weekly torah portion, Wednesday evenings from 7:30 -- 8:30 p.m.

Beginners Shabbat Services and Kiddush – Held Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

S. Johns Torah & Tea Series – Join Jewish women Mondays at 7:30 p.m., for inspiring Torah discussions, Jewish meditation, camaraderie, hot tea, and delicious refreshments for the feminine Spirituali-Tea! For more information Email: Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com.

GROW MyPalette Series - Grow After-School Enrichment Program begins a new six-week course entitled ‘MyPalette’. The GROW After-School Enrichment Program takes place every Tuesday at Durbin Creek Elementary School.

For more info visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/GROW. Hebrew School for Grownups - Is your informal space to refresh your knowledge of Judaism. You’ll gain a basic knowledge of Jewish practice and an understanding of why we ‘Jew-it’, while delving into the deeper, more mystical aspects of Jewish life. Contact info@ JewishSJohnsCounty.com for more information.

www.chabadjacksonville.org

page 16

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 17

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News January 2017

page 18

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

anne frank exhibit news and notes

Anne Frank exhibit and anti-bigotry initiative coming to Jax sented by more than 40 northeast Florida organizations aiming to generate conversation among Jacksonville communities on the theme of universal acceptance.

Information on the History for Today exhibit and the Voices of Hope initiative can be found at AnneFrankJax.com and TheMOSH.org. Visitors should confirm individual event details as the date approaches by checking the websites or contacting the individuals or organizations listed. For programs taking place at MOSH during the museum’s hours of operation, they are encouraged

By Museum of Science & History

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is bringing to Jacksonville the ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today international exhibition’, which has been shown in hundreds of cities in the U.S and more than 40 other countries.

The exhibit will be presented at MOSH from Jan. 13 – Feb. 12th.

A companion community initiative guided by MOSH, ‘Voices of Hope’, will incorporate programs, exhibits and performances pre-

arrive early to see the exhibit prior to the event.

More than 100 volunteer docents are needed to help visitors appreciate the exhibit’s messages about prejudice and discrimination during the Holocaust and today. Three hour docent trainings will be held at MOSH Jan. 11 from 6-9 p.m., and a pair on Jan. 12, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., and 1-4 p.m. For information on becoming a volunteer docent, call Eddie Santos at 904-396-6674, ext. 234.

Docent application forms are available at TheMOSH.org and AnneFrankJax.com.

Jacksonville Symphony to hold concert with violins recovered and then restored from the Holocaust

By Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra

The Jacksonville Symphony will present ‘Violins of Hope’, Saturday, Jan. 28, which is a powerful concert featuring 16 violins recovered and restored from The Holocaust.

The concert will take place at 8 p.m. in the Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts.

This special event is presented in collaboration with the ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today’ exhibit at the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) in Jan. and Feb. The Anne Frank exhibit at MOSH is the centerpiece of a community initiative, ‘Voices of Hope’, a variety of programs in northeast

Florida designed to give voice to the millions that were silenced.

The ‘Violins of Hope’ international series of concerts was started by Israeli luthier Amnon Weinstein when he was approached in 1996 to restore a violin that had been played by a man interred in one of World War II’s concentration camps. Weinstein, whose parents fled Europe in 1938 only to learn later of the death of more than 400 relatives, felt a connection to bring the violin back to life. After restoring the first violin, he actively sought out other violins that had been played in the concentration camps orchestras and there are now 30 violins that have been restored.

The Jacksonville Symphony will be conducted by its Associ-

ate Conductor, Nathan Aspinall.

Guest artists are violinist Alexi Kenney and the Symphony principal cello Alexei Romanenko.

The program will include Bach’s Sarabande from Partita No. 2 in D minor, Mendelssohn’s Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage, Bruch’s Kol Nidre and Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor, Wieniawski’s Polonaise brillante No. 2 in A major and Maher’s Symphony No. 5 in C-sharp minor.

There will be a special pre-

concert reception starting at 6 p.m. with plans to include Amnon Weinstein and Symphony musicians in a musical/historical presentation. VIP Ticket Pricing which will include a ticket to the reception and premium seating at the concert is priced at $100 for Symphony members and $125 for non-members. Tickets to the pre-concert reception and performance are available by calling the box office at 904-354-5547. Non premium seating tickets range

from $22 to $46 and are available on jaxsymphony.org or by calling 904-354-5547.

“We are honored to participate in this community initiative that gives voice to the many who were silenced,” said Robert Massey, President and CEO of the Jacksonville Symphony.

The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s leading music nonprofit offering live performances at Jacoby Hall in the Times-Union Center for Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit jaxsymphony.org, like them at Facebook. com/JaxSymphony, follow them on Twitter @jaxsymphony, on Instagram @JaxSymphony and on YouTube at JacksonvilleSymphony.

complete exhibit and event schedule for january 2017 - ONGOING EVENTS Saturdays (1 p.m.) (3 p.m.)

I Am From - A poetry workshop for participants 13 years and older to help process and connect with what they learned from the Anne Frank exhibit while exploring their own experiences with injustice or discrimination. Location: MOSH. Free admission. For more information, contact 904-868-4673.

Sponsored by Hope at Hand & the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs.

Sessions will be held Jan. 14th, 21st, 28th, Feb 4th and 11th.

January 8 – February 4 Lawyers Without Rights: Jewish Lawyers in Germany Under the Third Reich - An exhibit that shows how the Nazis purged Jewish lawyers in Germany as one of the early steps to attack the rule of law in their country. Location: Jacksonville Main Public Library. Free admission. For more information, contact lbuggs@coj.net or call 904-630-2665.

Sponsored by the Jacksonville Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, the American Bar Association and the Jacksonville Public Library.

January 13 - February 12 Anne Frank: A History for Today - The exhibit is open to the public during these dates. Location: MOSH. Free admission to the Museum and exhibit. For more information, go to themosh.org or call 904-396-6674.

January 13 – February 12 Remembering the Holocaust in Art: From the Collection of Dan and Cindy Edelman - An exhibition of photographs, woodcuts, and other visual art to inspire visitors to help create a more inclusive community.

Location: MOSH. January 13 – February 12 Witnesses to the Shoah - A video of interviews with Jacksonville Holocaust survivors. Location: MOSH. Produced by Dan Kossoff and WJCT. January 17 - February 24 Parallel Journeys: World War II and the Holocaust Through the Eyes of Teens - Travelling exhibit about 40 teenagers who were witnesses, participants or victims of WWII and the Holocaust. Location: Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ).

Free admission. For more information, contact Beth Harvey at 904646-2349.Sponsored by FSCJ and Kennesaw State University.

January 31 – February 11 Searching for Identity: Memorial Through the Lens of the Second Generation Holocaust Survivor This multi-media exhibit highlights essays authored by Jacksonville second generation. Location: Cummer Museum & Gardens.

- SPECIAL EVENTS January 11 - (6-9 p.m.)

Anne Frank Exhibit Docent Training - Location: MOSH. For more information, call Eddie Santos at 904-396-6674, ext. 234. Docent application forms are available at themosh.org .

January 12 - (9 a.m -12 p.m) (1-4 p.m.) Anne Frank Exhibit Docent Training - Location: MOSH. For more information, call Eddie Santos at 904-396-6674, ext.234. Docent application forms are available at themosh.org.

(4 p.m.) Readings from ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’- Location: San Marco Bookstore. Free admission. For more information, contact 904-396-7597 or Sanmarcobooks@ aol.com.

January 14 - (8 p.m.)

Letters from Anne and Martin An inspiring play that brings to life the written words of Anne Frank and Martin Luther King and their shared hopes and dreams of a world free of discrimination and hatred. The facilitated discussion that will follow between the actors and the audience is intended for adults. Location: Ritz Theatre & Museum. Free admission. For reservations visit eventbrite.com/e/ letters-from-anne-and-martin-tickets-29250911263. For more information, contact saubrey@smgjax.com or call 904-807-2010.

January 15 - (3 p.m.)

Letters from Anne and Martin See program description above for more information. Location: Ritz Theatre &Museum. Free admission.

For reservations visit eventbrite. com/e/letters-from-anne-andmartin-tickets-29250911263.

January 18 - (7 p.m.)

Anne Frank: Beyond the Diary An Exploration of Her Influence on the Visual Arts - A discussion led by art teacher and historian, Cindy Edelman, who will share her personal art collection pertaining to the Holocaust with music from the Ritz Chamber Players. Location: MOSH. Free admission. For more information, contact jgreenlee@themosh.org

or 904-396-6674, ext. 238.

January 19 - (4 p.m.)

Readings from ‘Night’ by Elie Wiesel - Location: San Marco Bookstore. Free admission. For more information, contact 904-396-7597 or Sanmarcobooks@aol.com.

January 22 - (12:30 p.m.)

Loving Henri - A documentary film followed by Q&A with the Director about the journey of Holocaust survivor, Henri Landwirth, and his quest to be liberated from his harrowing past while creating extraordinary organizations to help others. Location: San Marco Movie Theatre. Free admission with a donation of new children’s underwearand/or socks. Reservations at DignityUWear.org. For more information,call 904-636-9455.

Sponsored by Dignity U Wear.

January 24 - (7 p.m.)

Violins of Hope: Understanding the Vision - Author, James Grymes,will interview Amnon Weinstein, a violin restorer from Tel Aviv, who will discuss his efforts to restore violins played during the Holocaust to honor those who perished. Location: MOSH. Free admission. For more information, contact Arlene Wolfson at 904396-7062, ext. 214 or go to themosh. org. Sponsored by the Jacksonville Symphony and MOSH. January 25 - (6:45 p.m.)

The Nazi Hunters - Award-winning journalist, editor and author, Andy Nagorski, will discuss his recent book highlighting the saga of those who sought to bring Nazi perpetrators to justice. Location: MOSH. Free admission but registration is required. To register and print tickets, go tonazihunters. eventbrite.com/. For more information, go to themosh.org, contact jgreenlee@themosh.org or call 904396-6674, ext. 238. Sponsored by the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville and MOSH. January 26 - (4 p.m.)

Readings from’Hana’s Suitcase’

by Karen Levine - Location: San Marco Bookstore. Free admission.

For more information, contact 904396-7597 or Sanmarcobooks@aol. com.

January 27 - (7 p.m.)

Never Fight a Shark in Water: The Wrongful Conviction of Gregory Bright - One Man’s Struggle to Find His Voice - A one-man show about the wrongful murder conviction of Gregory Bright, who

overcame poverty, prejudice and oppression to fight for freedom.

Location: The Munnerlyn Center for Worship and Fine Arts at the Episcopal School of Jacksonville.

Tickets: $15 adults, $12 students.

For more information and to purchase tickets, contact Julia Daze 904-396-5751 or dazej@esj.org.

(8 p.m.) Seven Sixty-One: The Works of Anne Frank - A performance by Jacksonville University Theatre students that focuses on the 761 days Anne Frank, her family and friends spent hiding from the Nazis. Anne’s own journal entries from ‘The Diary of a Young Girl’ and short stories and fables she wrote during this time will be presented to give life to her words and her personal story. Location: MOSH. Free admission. For reservations visit edecicc@ju.edu.

January 28 - (2 p.m.)

Seven Sixty-One: ‘The Works of Anne Frank’ - See program description above for more information.

Location: The Jacksonville Public Library/Mandarin Branch. Free admission. For reservations go to edecicc@ju.edu.

January 29 - (1 p.m.) (4 p.m.)

Seven Sixty-One: The Works of Anne Frank - See program description above for more information.

Location: MOSH. Free admission.

For reservations go to edecicc@ ju.edu.

January 30 - (6 – 8 p.m.)

Discrimination in Our Community: A Call to Action - A private tour of the exhibit followed by a discussion facilitated by OneJaxExecutive Director, Nancy Broner, about the Holocaust victims, modern-day discrimination in our community and what actions individuals and organizations can take today to address these challenges.

Location: MOSH Wells Fargo Room. Private event for WGA, JLJ and their guests .For more information and to RSVP, contact WGA, Teri Calinao at 904-356-4483 or wganefl.org to register by Jan. 25th.

Sponsored by the WGA and the Junior League of Jacksonville.

January 31 - (6:30 p.m.)

Enemy of the Reich: A Muslim Woman Defies the Nazis in WWII A documentary about a courageous Muslim woman who risked her life to fight against the brutal Nazi regime followed by a panel discussion to explore xenophobia and the challenges and opportunities to fight oppression today. Location:

The Atlantic Institute. Free admission. For more information, go to atlanticinstitutejax.org/, contact ysivar@theatlanticinstitute.org or call 904-379-2915. Sponsored by the Atlantic Institute.

Please confirm individual event details as the date approaches by checking the MOSH website (themosh.org) and contacting the individuals/organizations listed. For programs taking place at MOSH, please arrive early to see the exhibit prior to the event and during the Museum’s hours of operation.

Exhibit Sponsors (As of Nov. 16) Liberators: Florida Blue Bridgebuilders: Interline Brands, The Delores Barr Weaver Fund, WJCT Ellipse Peacemakers: DuBow Family Foundation, Fanny Landwirth Foundation, Spark, Inc., Stein Mart, Jay and Deanie Stein Foundation Trust, The Gottlieb Family, Times Union Media Heroes: Community Foundation For Northeast Florida, Dan and Cindy Edelman, PGA TOUR, Mr. Ryan A. Schwartz, WJXT Channel 4 Friends: Beaver Street Foundation, Inc., bestbet, Reed and Katie Colley,Jacksonville Human Rights Commission, Jacksonville Public Library, Jacksonville Urban League, Jewish Community Foundation of NE FL, Inc., Jewish Family & Community Services, Main Street America Group, Ritz Theatre and La Villa Museum, RSC Consulting The inspiring and optimistic words of Anne Frank penned while hiding from the Nazis led the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) to bring the exhibit, ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today’ to Jacksonville and to create the ‘Voices of Hope Initiative’ with the greater Jacksonville community.

More than 40 local organizations responded with programs, exhibits and performances that promote productive discussions that address prejudice and discrimination during the Holocaust and today. The thoughtful and inspiring community efforts are outlined above.

page 19

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

www.jewishjacksonville.org

federation news

Women’s Division annual Champagne Brunch to take on important Anne Frank theme at MOSH

BY ERIN COHEN

Women’s Division Director erinc@jewishjacksonville.org

The Federation Women’s Division invites the women in the Jacksonville Jewish community to attend its annual Champagne Brunch. Sunday, Jan. 22. The event will begin at 9:45 a.m., at the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) and will coincide with the traveling art exhibition on display at the museum, ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today.’

Anne Frank was once quoted as saying “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” And it is in that spirit, the world-renowned exhibit produced by the Anne Frank House, brings to life Frank’s amazing story which is as relevant and important now as ever. This extraordinary interactive exhibition has inspired, informed and mesmerized visitors across the word.

Additionally, another very special part of the program will

include a tour of, ‘Remembering the Holocaust in Art: From the Collections of Cindy and Dan Edelman. The Edelman’s collection of art consists of primarily of work that reflects their strong commitment to their Jewish faith, heritage and culture, in particular, to art focused on 1938-45, which encompasses the period known as the Holocaust.

“These kinds of images stimulate us, challenge us, and force us to think about a time when, but by the grace of God, our family could have been destroyed,” the Edelmans said. “Some of the art is concerned with stories of incredible survival and heroism; some ask the question: what happens to memories when entire families and communities are wiped out, while others deal with expressing the madness and anger over inhumanity perpetrated on a single group of people just because of their religious beliefs,” they added.

“Some even offer messages of redemption.”

In the continued spirit of giving back and improving the world,

this year’s Brunch mitzvah project is a very special one. The women’s division will collect items for the Jewish Family & Community Services Holocaust Survivors Program. JFCS has requested special items to ‘pamper’ these members of our community. Items such as, lotions, body wash, (full size, not travel size) perfume, aftershave, slippers, soft towels are all special feel-good items that they cannot buy for themselves. Please bring NEW items to the event or drop off to the Federation office before Jan. 22.

A big thanks goes out to this year’s brunch chairs, Debra Pataky

and Ilene Schinasi. Along with their passion and excitement to make this event a success, they are joined by committee members: Arlene Adelson, Beth Angelo, Caren Appel, Lauren Block, Holly Emas, Jackie Goldman, Nancy Latinberg, Lynn Maiman, Mauri Mizrahi, Jeanine Rogozinski, Christy Rosen and Chase Zimmerman.

“We hope that you will find a story in one of the works that resonates with you, and that you take the lesson and help create a more inclusive, forgiving community as a result,” The Edelmans said. “And that like us, you forgive

but not forget this dark period in human history.”

Tickets to attend the Champagne Brunch are $36 per person and includes brunch and the program. A minimum pledge of $52 to the 2017 Federation Annual Campaign is required to attend, if you have not already made a contribution by the time of the event. (Pledge payment is not due until Dec. 2017.) Kindly RSVP by Jan. 16 to 904-448-5000, ext. 1209 or jewishjacksonville.og/cb2017.

For more information, contact Women’s Division Director, Erin Cohen at (904) 448-5000 x1205 or erinc@jewishjacksonville.org.

Schwartz dazzles guests at annual Lion of Judah event with informative talk on ethnic diversity among Jews in diaspora their annual event at the home of LOJ chair Debbie Banks Kitay to welcome in civil rights attorney and founder of Scattered Among the Nations, Bryan Schwartz. The Oakland, Calif., native started Scattered Among the Nations (SAN) which is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the Jewish and non-Jewish world about the beauty and diversity of our people. The organization assists geographically and politically isolated Jewish or Judaism-practicing communi¬ties to continue embracing the Jewish religion and

BY ERIN COHEN

Women’s Division Director

In late November, the Jacksonville Lions of Judah gathered for

culture, while documenting these communities as they are today before they disappear through immigration or assimilation.

Schwartz conceived Scattered Among the Nations in the spring of 1999 as a book project, compiling stories and photographs of the world’s most isolated Jewish communities. These communities inspired him with new enthusiasm for Jewish practice through their unshakable devotion and unbounded warmth and kindness.

Schwartz led the effort to create SAN and has since spoken to au-

diences in four languages on five continents. His articles have been published in magazines and newspapers worldwide and his talk in Jacksonville proved to be captivating and informative with numerous visual aids and a PowerPoint presentation. For more information on his non-profit organization, log onto scatteredamongthenations.org. This event was held in support of the Federation’s 2017 annual campaign.

Photography by Larry Tallis

page 20

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

federation news

rGEN bridges gap between yesterday and today to ensure ‘never again’ with Holocaust programming

BY ARIEL FRECHTMAN rGEN Director arielf@jewishjacksonville.org

Time and time again we’ve heard the words ‘never again’, but what does that really mean?

This year, rGEN will provide two unique opportunities to the Jewish young adults in our community to determine just that as the Federation’s young professionals division will be partnering with MOSH and the traveling exhibit ‘Anne Frank: A History for Today, to create a program that will challenge the millennial generation to

reflect on our obligation to retell the story of the Holocaust, a task that will truly be our own quite soon, in order to ensure history will not repeat itself. Jacksonville is incredibly fortunate to have access to this extraordinary exhibit, as after a private tour ‘rGEN and Anne’, participants will meet with Molly Kushner, a Second Generation Survivor in the community, to discuss where we go from here, knowing that relatively soon, we will be the only ones left to tell the story. Kushner is skilled at teaching Holocaust studies in all different ways, including through forms of art, making her the per-

fect facilitator to help participants put their feelings into words and those words into action after this experience.

As a follow up to its initial Holocaust-related program, rGEN will partner with JFCS’s Holocaust Survivors Community Engagement Committee to bring ‘Supper with Survivors’, to life in the spring. This program will provide

the opportunity for young adults and first generation survivors to share both a meal and stories and potentially expose many millennials who have not yet had the opportunity to meet a survivor in person, the opportunity to do so.

For many of us, the survivors’ stories are just that – stories. We’ve seen them on TV and in the movies, we’ve read them in books and

when we’ve visited museums – but how many of us have actually gotten to hear the voice or touch the hand of someone to who these stories are an actual reality? rGEN will help facilitate that opportunity, Wednesday, May 24th at River Garden Senior Services.

These programs are not only just about education alone as they are about providing new and important experiences which will help shape the mold of all attendees’ Jewish identities. Please contact rGEN director Ariel Frechtman at 904-448-5000, ext. 1208 or arieldf@jewishjacksonville.org with questions or inquires on how to volunteer for these great events.

Community Shlicha Dana Marmari February Jewish Java to to talk about modern Israel at Jan. feature ‘love languages’ with community builder Jewish Java Andrea Mail

BY ISABEL BALOTIN Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org

From the Galilee mountains to Be’er Sheva, Waze and the Ethiopian Jews, join Shalom Jacksonville as it embarks on a remarkable journey to modern Israel in the 21st century at the January Jewish Java. Alongside the traditional landscapes, attendees will get a glimpse and learn about modern Israeli culture, society, innovations and sights from community Shlicha Dana Marmari.

Federation and River Garden Senior Services are delighted to present Marmari, who will share her vast knowledge of Israel with everyone, Wednesday, Jan. 4th at 9 a.m., inside River Garden’s Cohen Auditorium. Like always, every Java begins with a delicious bagel breakfast followed by an

Dana Marmari

interesting speaker. This program is designed for Jewish newcomers and locals to meet, schmooze and forge friendships while learning more about our vibrant Jacksonville Jewish community. There is no charge for this program, however, reservations are a must Jan. 1st. Please call Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000, ext. 1206 or shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org.

Marmari is originally from Kfar Saba, Israel, and has been Jacksonville’s community Shlicha (Israeli Emissary), since August 2016. She arrived this summer as part of a broader program led by the Jewish Agency of Israel, which sends out 250-300 young Israelis each year to various Jewish communities, youth movements and Hillel on campuses throughout the world. The main goal of the program is to engage all age groups in a range of Jewish cultural, educational and social activities, and by implementing these programs and making connections, the Emissaries work toward promoting an understanding of Israel through different themes and lenses.

In Jacksonville, Marmari is the first Israeli Emissary in the last 26 years. Thanks to a private donor, this program was brought to life again. She works with all Jewish agencies around the community, including the different Synagogues.

BY ISABEL BALOTIN

Shalom Jacksonville Director shalomjax@jewishjacksonville.org

Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville and River Garden Senior Services invite you to Jewish Java, Wednesday, Feb. 1st from 9-10:30 a.m. at River Garden’s Cohen Auditorium which will feature Andrea Mail, social anthropologist and extraordinary community builder. Back by popular demand, Mail will discuss the languages of love described in ‘Five Love Languages’ written by Gary Chapman which became a best-seller purely by word of mouth. The main take-away from the book is, how we give love is how we receive love. Mail’s interactive discussion will focus on how ‘love languages’ impact and ultimately improve our interactions with family, friends and colleagues discover your dominant love language and learn what the others are so you can understand yourself and other people as well.

Mail believes in serving as a connecter and to champion inspiring people and causes. A native of Irving, Texas, she graduated Harvard University with an honors degree in Social Anthropology, then lived in Israel for three years as a Rotary and Wexner scholar.

Mail has been married for 23 years to Steven Mail of Glasgow, Scotland. The couple initially lived in Paris, then in England for a dozen years before coming back to the States. Their three daughters, Sabrina (17), Zoe (15) and Jasmine (13) were born in London where Andrea served as Executive Director for the British Friends of the Hebrew University. Since moving to Jacksonville in 2004, Mail has focused her time and energy on community building, volunteering extensively for non-profit organizations. She serves on many

Andrea Mail

local boards including WJCT (PBS affiliate), Galinsky Academy, Generation W, the Jewish Foundation and the international board of JWRP (Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project.) She has also chaired events for the Jewish Federation, AIPAC, and The Jacksonville Jewish Center. As a certified life coach, Mail speaks regularly on the impact of social media in modern life and helped bring ‘Lean In’ to the JCA. Shalom Jacksonville and River Garden welcome newcomers, anyone newly-interested in our Jewish community and locals of all ages to join us for Jewish Java, our popular monthly bagel brunch and schmoozing program. You can always count on meeting friendly people, learning from an inspiring speaker and discovering the latest happenings in the Jewish community. Java meets the first Wednesday of each month so mark your calendars now as there is no charge for this program, however, reservations are a must by Dec. 29th. Please contact Isabel Balotin at 904-448-5000, ext. 1206 or at shalomjax@jewishacksonville.org.

The Jewish Federation’s Shalom Jacksonville is the official Jewish welcome wagon of Northeast Florida. Our partner agency, River Garden Senior Services (11401 Old St. Augustine Rd.), is a fivestar rated senior care community serving Northeast Florida with excellence for 70 years.

Honored Guests at the GA

Jewish Agency chairman Natan Sharansky, Federation Executive Director Alan Margolies, Pres. Sandy Zimmerman, Community Shlicha Dana Marmari, former JFNA treasurer Steve Silverman, Federation board member Judy Silverman, JFCS Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez and rGEN Jax steering committee member Haley Trager.

page 21

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

www.jewishjacksonville.org

federation news

The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville thanks you for your support!

We appreciate our donors and want to express this each month in the Jacksonville Jewish News. Thank you to the following donors who have made a commitment to support our 2016-17 Federation Annual Campaign as of December 15, 2016.

Names in BOLD & BLACK denote a gift that was made since Nov. 1, 2016.

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abel Dr. and Mrs. Mark Abramson Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Ackerman Dr. and Mrs. Philip Adler Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Alterman Ms. Barbara Ames Mr. and Mrs. Allan Andrew Mr. and Mrs. Marc Angelo Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Appelbaum Mr. and Mrs. Henry Arnold Mr. and Mrs. William Arnold Ms. Sara August Mr. and Mrs. David Bailys Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Bannon Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Barkowitz Dr. and Mrs. Harold Baumgarten Mr. and Mrs. Jean Benjamin Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Odell Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Berger Mr. Martin Berger Mr. and Mrs. Greg Berger Mr. and Mrs. Larry Bernard Mrs. Adrienne Biber Mr. and Mrs. Larry Blaustein Ms. Stacey Blum Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Board Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bossen Mr. Wiatt Bowers Dr. Joy and Mr. Steven Boyne Mr. and Mrs. James Brady Ms. Michelle Branly Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Breault Mrs. Ruchel Broadman Dr. and Mrs. Andy Brown Drs. Robert and Suzanne Bryskin Mr. and Mrs. Howard Buss Cantor and Ms. Henry Butensky Mrs. Felice Caliestro Mr. and Mrs. Steven Cantor Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Chait Ms. Miriam Chefer Mr. and Mrs. Barry Chefer Mr. and Mrs. Allan Cheiken Mr. and Mrs. Alan Chepenik Dr. Colleen Bell and Mr. Craig Cherrin Ms. Susan Cherry Ms. Carol Cohane Mr. and Mrs. Melvyn Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Meir Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Perry Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Cohen Ms. Joanne Cohen Rabbi and Mrs. Matt Cohen Dr. and Mrs. Donald Cohen Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Coplan Ms. Cheryl Covitz Mr. and Mrs. Walter Crowder Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Datz Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Datz Drs. Leo and Joanne Davis Mr. and Mrs. Jim De Arman Ms. Angela Deese-Theobald Mr. and Mrs. Moti Demri DuBow Family Mr. and Mrs. Alexius Dyer Mr. and Mrs. Martin Edwards Ms. Gloria Einstein Mr. and Mrs. Jack Eisenberg Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Elinoff Mr. and Mrs. Michael Elkin Dr. and Mrs. Mark Emas Ms. Arlene Faracchio Rabbi and Mrs. Avi Feigenbaum Ms. Harriet Feinglass Dr. and Mrs. Neil Feinglass Mr. and Mrs. Brian Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Feldman Mr. and Mrs. Alan Feldman Ms. Etta Fialkow Mr. and Mrs. Neal Finkelstein Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Fischer Mr. Matt Flagler Mr. Dave Flagler Mr. and Mrs. Martin Flamm Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fleet Ms. Kaitlin Flynn Ms. Deborah Foust Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Fox Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Fox Ms. Ariel Frechtman Mrs. Marilyn Freedman Dr. and Mrs. Michael Freeman Dr. and Mrs. Marc Freeman Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Friedman Judge Jerry Funk Mr. and Mrs. Paul Furman Ms. Elaine Furman Mr. and Mrs. Henry Gare Mr. and Mrs. Simon Garwood Mr. Victor Gaukhman Mr. and Mrs. Larry Geller Judge and Mrs. Marvin Gillman Mr. Peter Levy and Ms. Kim Glasgal Mr. and Mrs. Martin Goetz Dr. and Mrs. Lawrence Goldberg Mr. David Golding and Ms. Leslie Carmel Mr. Alan Goldman Mr. and Mrs. Marty Goldmintz Ms. Janet Goldstein Mr. Harvey Goldstein Mr. and Mrs. David Goodman Mrs. Gloria Goodman Mr. Alan Gordon Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Goshen Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Jarzyna

Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Gottlieb Mr. and Mrs. Chris Gould Dr. and Mrs. Alvin Green Dr. Mickey Greenfield Ms. Gari Greenwald Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Arnold Mrs. Dolly Grunthal Dr. and Mrs. Jesse Halpern Mrs. Cynthia Handmaker Mr. and Mrs. Alan Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hayflick Mrs. Sonie Hecht Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hedrick Mrs. Leslie Held Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Herman Ms. Dena Heyman Mr. and Mrs. Howard Hodor Mr. and Mrs. Jay Holiday Hazzan and Mrs. Jesse Holzer Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Holzer Mrs. Nancy Honig Mrs. Wendy Honigman Ms. Sheila Horowitz Ms. Helene Isolica Mr. and Mrs. Ted Jackrel Mr. Marc Jackson and Ms. Ann Tiefenthaler Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Jacobs Ms. Gail Jarrett Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Jolles Dr. Edward Joseph Ms. Sharon Juhasz Mr. and Mrs. Alan Kagan Mr. Jeffry Wollitz and Ms. Randy Kammer Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kanner Dr. and Mrs. Larry Kanter Mr. and Mrs. Manfred Katz Ms. Libby Katz Dr. and Mrs. David Katz Mr. Robert Kaye Mrs. Barbara Kazin Ms. Sharon Kesler Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kessler Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Kigel Mr. and Mrs. David Kight Mr. and Mrs. Gil Kleiner Ms. Janice Knack Mr. and Mrs. Myron Kodner Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kopp Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kornhauser Mr. and Mrs. Eric Korzyniowski Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kraemer Mrs. Sylvia Kraemer Dr. and Mrs. Alan Krantz Mr. and Mrs. Leo Kreisel Mrs. Carolyn Krestul Mr. and Mrs. Martin Kulchin Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Kurtz Dr. and Mrs. Ron Kushner Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Lafer Mr. and Mrs. Eric Land Mr. Howard Laner Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Langer Mr. and Mrs. James Lawson Mrs. Naomi Lazar Mr. and Mrs. Richard Leavitt Ms. Jean Lebowitz and Ms. Thelma Lebowitz Mrs. Dorothy Legum Ms. Sybil Lehr Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Leif Mr. and Mrs. Stephan Leimberg Ms. Stefanie Levine Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Levine Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Sam Lewis Mr. Tyler Curl and Ms. Jessica Ligator Dr. Leonard Lipkin Mr. and Mrs. Michael Lissner Mr. and Mrs. Herman Lodinger Dr. David Loeb Ms. Sherri Louer Ms. Maigret Loureiro Ms. Joanne Lowell Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner and Mrs. Susan Lubliner Ms. Marcia Luettchau Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Maiman Ms. Stephanie Majeskey Mrs. Ilana Manasse Mr. and Mrs. Alan Margolies Dr. and Mrs. Alan Marks Ms. Caroline Marks Mr. and Mrs. Adam Marmelstein Mr Howard Capland and Ms Jeanne Maron Dr. Ronald Mars Mr. Ben Marsh Mrs. Deinya Mautz Mrs. Hilda Mazo Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Meisel Mr. and Mrs. Paul Metlin Mr. and Mrs. Yosef Meyer Alexandra Miller Bequest Mr. Daniel Miller and Ms. Lior Spring Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Mintzer Mr. and Mrs. Ruben Mirensky Dr. and Mrs. Jon Mitzmacher Mr. and Mrs. Alan Mizrahi Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Montagna Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Morris Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Nadler Dr. and Mrs. Peter Natale Mr. and Mrs. Lon Neuman Mr. and Mrs. William Newman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Newman

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nied Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Nykerk Mr. Andrew Ocean Mr. and Mrs. Jais Ohayon Mr. and Mrs. Moshe Ohayon Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Olesker Mrs. Donne Ordile Mr. and Ms. Albert Osborne Ms. Marilyn Pagano Mr. Michael Pallen Mr. and Mrs. Brian Pargman Mr. and Mrs. Richard Passink Mr. and Mrs. Mark Penson Mrs. Sophia Pentel Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Perin Mr. and Mrs. Donald Perlin Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Persky Mr. and Mrs. Eric Pinnar Ms. Laura Platzer Mr. and Mrs. Michael Platzer Mr. and Mrs. Jay Plotkin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Plotkin Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Plotkin Dr. Judy and Mr. Ronel Poppell Mr. and Mrs. Steven Porter Mrs. Phyllis Portnoy Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Portnoy Mr. and Mrs. Fred Pozin Mrs. Anne Presser Mr. and Mrs. Ron Price Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Priddle Ms. Terri Quint Dr. and Mrs. Marco Rand Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Raudt William and Joan Rein Family Dr. Harry Reinstine Jr Mr. Edward Witlen and Ms. Marie Reitzes Mr. and Mrs. Harold Reiz Mrs. Barbara Resnick Ms. Sondra Resnikoff Mrs. Marian Rice Mrs. Ina Richter Mr. and Mrs. Matt Rickoff Dr. and Mrs. Harris Rittenberg Mr. Howard Roey Dr. and Mrs. Chaim Rogozinski Mr. and Mrs. Sam Rogozinski Mr. Jeff Rood Mr. William Rose Ms. Margaret Rose Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Rosen Mr. Jerome Rosenbaum Mr. and Mrs. Alan Rosner Ms. Hilary Rotenberg Mrs. Sandi Roth Ms. Nan Rothstein Mr. and Mrs. Paul Rothstein Ms. Nancy Rubenstein

Mr. and Mrs. David Saag Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Sachs Mrs. Carol Sack Ms. Daryl Sadowsky Ms. Jill Sadowsky Ms. Eleanor Safer Mr. and Mrs. Eliot Safer Ms. Bess Saliman Mr. and Mrs. Neil Sandler Mr. and Mrs. Mark Saye Dr. and Mrs. Howard Schare Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Schemer Mrs. Shirley Schemer Ms. Amy Schemer Mr. and Mrs. William Schemer Mrs. Frances Schemer Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schiller Ms. Ilene Schinasi Judy and Robert Schnitzer Mrs. Laura Schulman Mr. Zachary Schwartz Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Seebol Ms. Stephanie Seebol Selevan Family Mrs. Mimi Selig Mr. Alan Selmanoff Dr. and Mrs. Robert Selwitz Setzer Family Mr. and Mrs. Alan Setzer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Shacter Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shafer Rabbi and Mrs. Rick Shapiro Mr. and Mrs. Joel Shapiro Mr. Harry Shmunes Mr. and Mrs. David Shuman Mr. and Mrs. Leon Silke Ms. Elaine Silver Mrs. Cynthia Silverberg Mr. and Mrs. Gary Silverfield Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Silverman Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Simms Mrs. Julie Simon Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sisisky Mr. and Mrs. Zachary Sherman Mr. and Mrs. Alan Smiley Ms. Laurie Smirl Ms. Dianna Smith Mr. and Mrs. Eric Smith Drs. Todd and Catherine Snowden Mr. and Mrs. Eugolio Soliven Mrs. Carole Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Solomon Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Spill Mrs. Marilyn Stein Ms. Ruth Stein Mr. and Mrs. David Stein Mr. and Mrs. Murray Stern

Ms. Adele Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Leon Stone Mrs. Bernice Stone Dr. and Mrs. Richard Stromberg Mr. George Strumlauf Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Tannenbaum Mrs. Marilyn Tanney Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Tavill Rabbi and Mrs. Howard Tilman Mr. and Mrs. Marty Trachtenberg Trager Family Mr. and Mrs. Brent Trager Mr. and Mrs. Fred Tromberg Mr. and Mrs. Izrail Turovskiy Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Ullmann Mr. and Mrs. Sean Valliere Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Van Mrs. Dot Verstandig Ms. Sharon Voiron Mr. and Mrs. Vladimir Voloshin Mr. and Mrs. Jules Wagman Mr. and Mrs. Ilan Wajsman Mr. Michael Waskew and Ms. Elsa Mitschele Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Weihnacht Mr. and Mrs. Lowell Weiner Mrs. Margie Weinstein Mrs. Renee Weinstein Ms. Rachel Weinstein Mrs. Linda Weinstein Mr. Daniel Weinstock Mr. Mitchell Weiss and Mrs. Gale Cohen-Weiss Dr. and Mrs. Jerome Weitzen Dr. and Mrs. Gary Weltman Mrs. June Weltman Mr. Jeff Wiener Mrs. Linda Wilkinson Mr. and Mrs. Skip Willbach Mrs. Hylda Wilson Mr. and Mrs. James Wiss Mr. and Mrs. Irwin Witt Mrs. Jacqueline Witte Ms. Carole Witten Dr. and Mrs. Eugene Wolchok Mr. and Mrs. Judah Wolf Mrs. Carole Wolpin Mr. and Mrs. Frank Woodard Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Yahre Mrs. Elsie Yellin Mr. Leon Yergin and Ms. Caryn Kenny Dr. and Mrs. Larry Young Mr. and Mrs. Donald Young Mrs. Barbara Zimmerman Mr. Sandy Zimmerman

page 22

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

education

Sensory science at Michele Block Gan Yeladim gives students a hands on experience

BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten believes that children are born curious and should be provided as many opportunities as possible to learn the basics of science.

Scientific principles such as hypothesizing and predicting are of extreme importance in the development of critical thinking skills and help promote a love of

Michele Block Gan Yeladim students will enjoy a full sensory experience through J Play’s sensory science program, Sunday, Jan. 22nd

learning and inquiry.

To help Michele Block Gan Yeladim children learn these principles, the JCA’s early childhood education department is offering the J Play Sensory Science program, a fun interactive family morning event on scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 22nd from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Children and their parents come for a morning of discovering, exploring, creating and experiencing. They test hypotheses, make predictions and increase language and fine motor skills using a variety of materials and experiments.

This is a valuable experience for children who participate in the

course and allows them to get an early start on learning concepts that most children do not learn until elementary school.

To register, visit the JCA’s online registration website and search ‘sensory science’. Registration is required by Jan. 20th. The per-family fee of $15 includes breakfast and JCA valued members receive a discounted rate of $10 per family. Contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100, ext.

259 or via email at rochelle. golomb@jcajax.org for further information about this special interactive morning.

Students at Martin J. Gottleib Day Torah Academy holds a well-attended Middos Fair School participate in a national Jewish history program

By Martin J. Gottleib Day School

Eighth Graders at Martin J. Gottlieb Day School are excited to be taking part in the Jewish Court of All Time, an innovative national Jewish history program created by RAVSAK, The Jewish Community Day School Network as well as programs from University of Michigan, Jewish Theological Seminary, University of Cincinnati and others.

The JCAT project guides students to answer today’s problems through the lens of history. This year’s problem being addressed is what, if any, responsibility the State of Israel has to care for refugees from Africa who seek haven in its borders. The students are asked to adopt a historical or current public personality to determine what wisdom that person can bring to bear on the issue presented. The students

must communicate as their chosen personality throughout the project, which requires detailed research into the historical figure, as well as the creative writing skills necessary to speak in a different voice.

“This is such an amazing project for our students, because not only is the project interdisciplinary and a great learning opportunity, it also allows them to express their creativity and really dig deep into those skills,” said Middle School Vice Principal Edith Horovitz. Martin J. Gottlieb Day School is one of only few schools across the U.S. accepted to participate in the program, and several of its students have been Eighth grade students at Martin J. selected for leadership positions as the project moves forward. For Gottleib Day School make Jewish history come to life with the help more information on Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, a Solomon of a program aimed at addressing Schechter K – 8, contact Nancy today’s problems through the lens Davis at nancy.davis@mjgds.org. of important past history lessons

Important early screenings offered for Michele Block Gan Yeladim students

BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

It is extremely important for parents to be able to identify concerns about their child’s vision or hearing at an early age. With this in mind, Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten seeks to make this an easier process for parents by offering screenings for both vision and hearing to students. In January, Michele Block Gan Yeladim students three and older, with parental consent, are screened for early vision issues. These screenings are provided through a partnership with Vision Is Priceless, a Jacksonville-based nonprofit dedicated to community vision screenings.

Students will also be screened for hearing concerns through a partnership with the Jacksonville Speech and Hearing Center, another local nonprofit. Thanks

Both hearing and vision screenings are available for students three and up at Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten

to these unique partnerships, Michele Block Gan Yeladim can provide parents the opportunity for free screenings that may otherwise not be conducted until elementary school. Michele Block Gan Yeladim is able to make these programs happen with the

help of grant money and dedicated local nonprofits. For more information about the vision and hearing screening programs or to find out if your child is eligible, please contact Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100, ext. 259.

Social Media Directory

After the fair, third and fourth graders at Torah Academy of Jacksonville pose in front of their poster board about judging others favorably

BY SHAYA HAUPTMAN

Torah Academy Head of School

In late November, Torah Academy of Jacksonville hosted a Middos Fair, in which students celebrated refined character traits and Torah values. While the elementary and preschool worked together with their Judaic Studies teachers to learn about the interpersonal qualities related to character development, the middle school focused on Jewish organizations and the vital role they play in our communities across the globe. Students studied the sources for these mitzvos and prepared practical applications and scenarios to present to Middos Fair participants.

Morah Henny Fisch taught the preschool all about getting along with others while Morah Devora Feigenbaum, along with her Kindergarten and first graders, focused in on the qualities of not standing on ceremony, yielding to another and the pitfalls of jealousy.

Rabbi Ephraim Weiss worked with his second-grade students on the importance of honesty and

integrity, in addition to learning the value of taking responsibility for one’s actions. Finally, Rabbi Mayer Rabinowitz taught his third and fourth graders about the art of judging others favorably.

The fifth through eighth grade students broke up into pairs with each team researching a Jewish organization benefitting the masses.

Everything from Chai Lifeline to Tomchei Shabbos and the Chevra Kadisha was open to exploration, and students left no stone unturned in their objective to study these institutions, which excel at caring for our brethren locally and abroad. Each pair spent weeks studying its organization’s budget, touches and reach. Students also formulated projections for what it would take to establish these institutions in the Jacksonville Jewish community.

The fair was well-attended by parents and members of the community and it was truly moving to see how invested these students were in learning about and developing the wonderful character traits so fundamental to the Jewish people.

Mitzvah Day, the DuBow Preschool way will be held, February 5th

By DuBow Preschool

The DuBow Preschool is excited to participate in a delightful day of community building, and real building at its annual Mitzvah Day, The DuBow Preschool Way, Sunday, Feb. 5th, beginning at 9:30 a.m., where preschool families will gather together for a fun day giving of their time and talents.

The DuBow Preschool Treehouse will be on hand with playful sensory activities, instilling the idea of Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World) and offering opportunities for even the youngest helpers to participate. Organized mitzvah project centers for the big kids will give them the chance to not only help the school, but also to model ‘Mitzvah Star’ behavior. The ‘biggest kids’ or moms and dads are encouraged to bring their work clothes as they will have a variety

of projects to choose from.

Are you a gardener? If so, there will be opportunities to work on the tasting garden and garden beds. Are you handy with tools?

If so you’re help could be utilized fixing tricycles and sprucing up the school’s playground. PJ Library will also be at the event for a special DuBow Preschool Mitzvah Day Event. Those interested in joining the DuBow Preschool community can call 904-268-4200, ext. 143 to learn more.

page 23

www.jewishjacksonville.org

chanukah recipies

Savory sweet potato Latkes INGRIDIENTS 400 gr’ cooked sweet potatoes 50 gr’ white flour 1 egg ½ tsp sugar 1 tsp salt ½ tsp grounded white pepper Butter for frying

COOKING DIRECTIONS 1. Place the cooked sweet potatoes over a strainer for two hours, until no liquids are visable.

2. Mix all the ingredients together. If the batter is still too sticky, add some flour and mix only until the all the ingredients are blended evenly.

3. Grease a non-stick pan with butter and heat it on medium.

ABOUT THE CHEF

Atalia Ein Mor was born and raised in the picturesque village of Ein Kerem, Israel. Following her work in renowned restaurants and years of preparing food from a simple need to create, she decided to combine exquisite food, breathtaking views and a unique atmosphere in her beautiful home in Ein Kerem, opposite the Judean hills. Atalia’s culinary D.N.A came from different sources as her maternal grandparents were born in Libya and came to Israel in 1948, hosting guests for gourmet meals. Her paternal set of grandparents escaped from Berlin in 1936 and cooked mostly simple chicken soup and gefilte fish. Today, Atalia continues her family’s rich history of hosting, by welcoming in guests from all over the world for an elite chef meal, cooking and baking workshops and culinary tours to the tasty hidden secrets of Jerusale Connect with Atalya: Online: www.atalya.co.il Facebook: facebook.com/atalya.co.il email: info@atalya.co.il.

With wet hands, take a bit of the mixture and make one ball at the time and place it on the hot pan.

You can use a pastry bag, and distribute directly to the pan. This will help create a perfect circle.

Then fry it from both sides, but don’t worry because the first three never work! It’s a very soft mixture, so a bit hard to handle at the beginning, but it’s absolutely worth the effort.

I recommend serving it with sour cream and chopped chives.

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 24

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

lifecycles Births

Nathan Elliot Setzer was born in Jacksonville on Friday, Oct. 25,, 2016 to parents Lauren and Michael Setzer and big brother Jeremy. Proud paternal grandparents are Leonard and Debra Setzer and equally proud maternal grandparents are Carol Madow of Baltimore, Md., and David and Yoko Madow, also of Baltimore.

Nathan Setzer

Mitzvah

B’nai

Ariel Gil Sauer, son of Dr. and Dr. Shiree and Andrew Sauer, will be called to the Torah on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah, Saturday, Jan. 28th at Chabad of Mandarin. Sharing in the simcha will be his sister, Talia Rivka Sauer, age 17, grandparents Heidi and David Samouha from Northridge, Calif. and Esther and George Sauer Ariel Sauer from South Orange, N.J., in addition to many other friends and family. Ariel is in seventh grade at St. Johns Country Day School where he has served as the copresident of his class and was voted best all-around Lower School Boy. He enjoys crew, band and building things and he has been to Israel several times, developing a great love for the nation and its people, especially those who risk their lives to protect Israel every day. Ariel’s Bar Mitzvah project will be supporting the Friends of the IDF, a charitable organization devoted to providing scholarships and support for men and women in the Israel Defense Forces.

Engagements

Mazel tov to Nicole Miller and Fred Marks, who officially became engaged, Sunday, Nov. 19. The couple met and became close through their involvement with the Temple 20s and 30s young professionals group. Miller, is the daughter of Kim and Marc Miller of Jacksonville and the sister of Josh Miller.

She is currently employed as a tech recruiter at the CSI compaMarks and Miller nies and is a board member of the UF Hillel in Gainesville. Marks is the son of Penny and Jeff Marks, also of Jacksonville and the brother of Sherry Goldberg. He works as senior financial analyst for Martin J. Gottleib and Associates and is an active volunteer for the local Ronald McDonald House. A spring 2018 wedding is planned.

Accomplishments

Marilyn A. Feldstein is a contributing author and wrote the chapter ‘Should I Stay or Go: Managing a Successful Ca-

reer Transition’, in the new book ‘Find Your Fit: A Practical Guide to Landing a Job You’ll Love’.

Feldstein is Marilyn Feldstein President and Certified Career Coach of Career Choices Unlimited, Inc.

Sympathies

… To the family of Jacksonville Jewish Center member Charles Haimowitz, who passed away Thursday, Oct. 27th at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife, Ellen, children, Mark (Trudy) Haimowitz, Lori (Kirk) Halpern, grandchildren, Erica and Ben Halpern, siblings, Albert (Edie) Haimes, Joy Haimowitz Jarchower, in addition to many nieces, nephews and friends.

A graveside funeral service took place Oct. 30th at the Old Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Charles Haimowitz’s memory may be directed to a charity of your choice. … To the family of David Miller, who passed away Saturday, Nov. 26th. He is survived by his children, Megan Miller and Leah (Anne) Barron, his partner of many years Rebecca Miller, his mother Betty Miller, sister Stephanie (David) Lasbossiere and their children Joshua and Jacob, brother Scott Miller and his children Sarah and Benjamin Miller, in addition to a granddaughter Thando Amana.

Services were conducted at congregation Or Atid in Henrico, Va., and shiva was observed in Richmond, Va. Contributions in David Miller’s memory can be made to the First Tee. … To the family of Leah L. Duhan, who passed away Monday, Nov. 28th at the age of 96. She is survived by her many nieces and nephews, including Maxine (Daniel) Cooper. A graveside service was held Nov. 30th at the Temple Cemetery at Evergreen Cemetery. The family requests that donations in memory of Leah Duhan be made to River Garden or The Temple. … To the family of Hilda Warfield, who passed away, Sunday, Dec. 4th at the age of 88. She is survived by her sons Dr. Steven (Risa) Warfield and Allen Warfield, grandchildren Sam (Rachel) Warfield, Shea Williams (Eric Matthews) and Rachael Warfield, in addition to her great-grandchild Kiley Matthews. Funeral services were held in Detroit, Mich., Dec. 6th.

Contributions in Hilda Warfield’s memory can be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center, Hadassah, JFCS’s Holocaust Survivor Services, or River Garden Hebrew Home and Senior Services. … To the family of Elaine Tenenbaum, who passed away Wednesday, Dec.14th at the age of 81. She is survived by her husband Stanley, son Phillip (Donna) Tenenbaum, grandchildren Robyn and Alan (Lisa) Tenenbaum and great-grandchildren James and Hazel. A graveside service was held Dec. 19th at King David Gardens at Greenlawn Cemetery. The family requests that donations in memory of Elaine Tenenbaum be made to the Seth Tenenbaum Scholarship Fund at Pine Castle, 4911 Spring Park Road, Jacksonville, 32207 or pinecastle.

org. … To the family of long-time Jacksonville Jewish Center member, Dr. Harold Baumgarten, Sunday, Dec. 25th at the age of 91. He is survived by his Rita, children Karen (Leopold) Sher, Bonnie (Ken) Friedman, and Hal (Brenda) Baumgarten, grandchildren Michael Zabrek, Rose Sher (Jeremy Soso), Samatha Sher, Matthew and Katy Rose Friedman and Rachel Baumgarten, and his sister Beatrice Yates. A graveside service was held Dec. 28th, at the New Center Cemetery in Jacksonville. Contributions in Harold Baumgarten’s memory can be made to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue, or the Jacksonville Jewish Center.

business card directory

Classified Ads

Maid Services Available Housecleaning, laundry and cooking with reasonable rates.

By appointment only. Call 904387-9293 or leave a message.

Ask for Lidia.

Companion/Driver Wanted If interested call Rabbi Joseph Hirsch at 904-374-4963, terms are flexible.

Cemetery Plot for Sale One gravesite lot H19 Riverside Memorial appraised at $2,000, but will sell for $1,100. Please contact Roy at 904-300-3248.

To submit an item for life cycles, please email it to jjn@ jewishjacksonville.org. Due date is the 6th of the month.

For guidelines of how to write Bar/Bat Mitzvah, wedding or obituary announcements, go to jewishjacksonville.org/

New JLI course to explore modern conundrums with a Talmudic twist

By Chabad of Clay County

It happens every so often that you read a news story, observe a case, or hear of a dilemma, and it grips you, forcing you to consider right versus wrong, and justice versus injustice. As people with an internal moral compass and an inner sense of fairness, we are well equipped to delve into these matters intelligently. The opportunity to discuss and debate these issues with those who have differing viewpoints is often stimulating and deeply meaningful.

Beginning this winter Rabbi Shmuly Feldman of Clay County Chabad and Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky of Chabad at the Beaches will offer a new sixsession course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) called ‘The Dilemma: Modern Conundrums. Talmudic Debates. Your Solutions’. The Beaches course will start-up Wednesday, Feb. 1st from 7-8:30 p.m., and the Clay County session will begin Sunday, Jan. 29th in Ponte Vedra from 10-11:30 a.m. Scenarios that will be discussed are based on current and sometimes controversial events.

Fascinatingly, the Talmud offers incredibly deep refreshingly new ideas.

“This course presents intellectually stimulating ideas, a fresh

modern perspective based on ancient yet surprisingly relevant ideas,” said Rabbi Shmuly Feldman, one of two local JLI Instructors in the Jacksonville area.

“In the course, participants will have a chance to debate current ideas based on some fascinating scenarios.”

The Talmud is a compilation of Jewish legal and moral scholarship, transmitted, debated, and preserved through the ages.

It is the foundation of Judaism’s principled jurisprudence in constructing a just and loving world. The Talmud positions itself to help us solve the dilemmas that arise from conflicting legal and moral claims. This is because the Talmud seeks not only the right answers, but also

the right questions, rejecting the incoherent and embracing the coherent, while still standing humbly in the presence of mystery. It is willing to suppose, imagine, and test the boundaries of the intellect.

The Dilemma is accredited for continuing legal education.

Like all JLI programs, this course is designed to appeal to people at all levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship. Interested students may call 904290-1017 for Clay County and 904-543-9301 for the Beaches, or visit myJLI.com for registration and for other course-related information. JLI courses are presented in Ponte Vedra and Clay County in conjunction with Chabad at the Beaches and Chabad of Clay County.

Members of the local media are invited to observe a class and/or conduct an advance interview with the local course facilitator. Interviews with national facilitators and course creators also may be scheduled, upon request. Contact Rabbi Kurinsky for additional mediarelated information.

page 25

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017 2016

JEWISH COMMUNITY alliance

A new year brings new member programs at the JCA

BY IMAN BYFIELD

Jewish Community Alliance

The Jewish Community Alliance has several programs for valued members to help them get fit and improve their wellbeing in the New Year. Beginning in January, JCA valued members can enjoy a range of group fitness programs for adults and youth.

The JCA fitness and wellness department is offering a new youth fitness class on Thursdays, starting Jan. 19th and lasting through Feb. 9th. If you want your kids to reduce screen time this winter, sign them up for this fun clinic where they can jump, run and lift their way to improved fitness.

This class is for kids ages 10 – 16.

The fee is $60 for JCA valued members.

Learn self-defense basics with certified personal trainer Clint Neale on Sundays, Feb. 5th through the 26th from 11:15 a.m.

– 12:30 p.m. The fee for this class is $75 for JCA valued members.

Former gymnast and tai chi instructor Elizabeth Liu leads morning and afternoon classes on Yang Tai Chi to strengthen your body, enhance your qi and promote peace of mind on Fridays, Jan. 13th through Feb. 17th.

For those new to tai chi, a JCA certified personal trainer leads a Tai Chi Demo Thursday, Jan. 26th from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

JCA members who are thinking of competing in a triathlon should join Introduction to Triathlon, a new class that provides sport-specific training and resistance exercises, plus tips on pre-race planning, nutrition and

transitions. Novice swimmers, bikers and runners can get the preparation needed to complete their first triathlon on Tuesdays, March 7th through the 28th from 6 – 7 p.m.

Boredom is one of the leading causes of workout burnout, so keep things interesting with your workout in Everything Go!, a new small group training class for JCA valued members that uses various equipment to keep your body guessing and help you reach new goals. This class will take place Sundays, Jan. 15th through Feb. 5th, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Also, learn to safely exercise in Managing Lower Back Pain on Wednesdays, Jan. 11th through Feb. 1st from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

These progressive sessions introduce exercises specific to lower back pain and core stabilization.

For those planning to travel in the New Year, don’t sacrifice

JCA valued members will have new programs from which to choose from in 2017

your fitness lifestyle while you’re away for fun or business. Join certified personal trainer and JCA Assistant Wellness Director Zhada Eaves in Travel Pass to Fitness to learn simple, effective workouts for on the go. Advance registration required by Feb. 1st.

Classes are held Fridays, Feb. 3rd

through the 24th from 10 – 11 a.m. For additional JCA Wellness programs for JCA members and the community, visit jcajax.org or contact Eiffel Gilyana at 904-7302100, ext. 324 or eiffel.gilyana@ jcajax.org.

Save the date for the JCA’s annual fundraiser, Bright Lights, Big City

The sights and sensations from last year’s JCA annual fundraiser, entitled ‘Boogie Nights’, a 1970s celebration

By Jewish Community Alliance

The JCA’s annual fundraiser benefits many JCA programs, including senior activities, preschool, after-school care and

camp tuitions for families in need. Last year, the JCA awarded more than $330,000 in scholarships for children, families and senior adults. Sponsorships and ticket sales are crucial to the suc-

cess of this event. Visit jcajax.org to purchase tickets or become a sponsor and contact Lior Spring at 904-730-2100 ext. 318 or lior. spring@jcajax.org for additional information.

Jewish community alliance HAPPENINGS January 2017 Tevet/Sh’vat 5777

Traveling Dinner Club

For more information or to register for programs at the JCA, call 904-730-2100 or visit our official website at www.jcajax.org.

On Wednesday, Jan. 25, enjoy great company and experience a world of flavor in one of Jacksonville’s best ethnic restaurants. The fee is $5 and JCA valued members are free. Dinners are Dutch treat.

Vandroff Art Gallery

2017 Maccabi Games

The artwork of Diane Fraser is featured from Jan. 5 to Feb. 1.

Fraser’s paintings are meant as affirmations of the joy she finds in the real world.

Sunday Film Series: Dough

On Jan. 29 at 2 p.m., see ‘Dough’, the story of a Jewish baker whose struggling business is revived with the help of his young, Muslim apprentice. This is free and open to the community.

A Vision of Hope: The Diary of Anne Frank

On Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 12 p.m., view this film of a young girl and her hopes and dreams for the future. This event is in partnership with MOSH’s Voices of Hope Initiative and free to the community.

The JCA is organizing a delegation for the 2017 JCC Maccabi Games to be held in Birmingham, Ala., from July 30 through Aug. 4. Jewish teens ages 13 – 16 are invited to tryout. Contact Coach Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250 for more information.

Armada Soccer Clinic

The JCA has partnered with the Jacksonville Armada Football Club to offer a unique soccer clinic for players, ages 5 – 13, on Sundays, Jan. 22 to Mar. 12.

The fee is $150 and $100 for JCA valued members. For more information, contact Coach Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250.

Youth Martial Arts

This fun, structured class focuses on self-defense, discipline and respect for youth, ages 5 – 12, on Mondays, Jan. 9 to Feb. 13 from

5:15 – 6:05 p.m. The fee is $105 and $75 for JCA valued members.

Lacrosse 101

Kids ages 7 – 12 can learn lacrosse basics in this clinic on Mondays, Jan. 9 to Feb. 13, from 5 – 6 p.m.

The fee is $75 and $50 for JCA valued members.

JPlay Sensory Science Enjoy a morning of discovering, exploring, creating, experiencing and real hands-on fun, Sunday, Jan. 22 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

The fee is $15 and $10 for JCA valued members. Registration is required by Jan. 20th.

Preschool and Youth Sports Clinics

For children ages 3 – 14,the JCA offers clinics in baseball, soccer, gymnastics, golf, running, basketball, flag football and volleyball.

The next session begins Jan. 10th For information, contact Coach Rio at 904-730-2100, ext. 250.

Wild at HeART: Teen Paint Party

On Saturday, Jan. 28, join the JCA Youth Services Department for a three hour paint party with music,

snacks and more. Registration is required by Jan. 25th and the fee is $45 and $30 for JCA valued members.

Pottery Pizza Party

This open wheel night on Tuesday, Jan. 3 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. includes dinner, supplies and instruction on how to use the pottery wheel.

The fee is $180 and $120 for JCA valued members.

Young at Art Potters

Receive introductory instruction in hand building and wheel throwing in this fun class on Wednesdays, from Jan. 11th through Feb. 22nd, from 5:30 – 7 p.m. The fee is $180 and $120 for JCA valued members.

JCA Aquatics Lessons The JCA offersLearn-to-Swim programs and JCA School Year and JV swim teams for youth.

JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $196,000

Contact JCA Aquatics Manager Josie Martin at 904-730-2100, ext.

240 for more details.

JCA Tennis

The JCA has tennis clinics and private lessons for youth and adults. For more information, contact Reggie at 904-730-2100, ext. 317.

Fun and Games, Israeli Style

Join us on Wednesday, Jan. 11th at 12 p.m. for an Israeli style lunch and the popular card game Yaniv.

Reservations are required by Jan. 5th and the fee is $12 and $8 for JCA valued members.

Fencing

The JCA offers fencing lessons for youth and adults beginning in January/February. For more information, contact Mike at 904730-2100, ext. 254.

page 26

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

JEWISH FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES Briefs

Renovations begin on JFCS’ new home on Baycenter Rd.

By Jewish Family & Community Services

PJ Library

PJ Library, the award winning free program for books and music is open to all families with Jewish children in Jacksonville. If your children are between the ages of six months and eight years, they are eligible.

Please sign up now by going to pjlibrary.org/communities/jacksonville, or calling Whitney Kuvin at 904-3945724.

Meals4You

JFCS in partnership with River Garden is pleased to bring you our meal program, Meals4You, from our kitchen to yours. Meals are delicious, nutritious, convenient and delivered right to your door. Jewish dietary laws are observed. Call Whitney for more information at 904-394-5724.

JFCS is thrilled to announce that renovations are underway on its new building, located at 8540 Baycenter Rd. The agency has partnered with The Angelo Group and Tom Duke Architecture to complete its new home. JFCS Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez projects that renovations should be complete in time for the building to open its doors to the public sometime in the fall 2017.

JFCS should be all moved in to its brand new building on 8540 Baycenter Road by the Fall of 2017

JFCS Past president’s brunch held at home of Ellen and Alan Rosner

Call2Go JFCS is now using a Lyft product called Concierge, which allows JFCS to arrange rides on behalf of its clients, including the ability to schedule rides up to a week in advance. Lyft has also partnered with GreatCall, a senior focused cell phone company, which will help seniors use Lyft without having to navigate the smart phone app. Anyone using a Jitterbug phone can now simply press ‘0’ and arrange a ride with the company. To learn more or schedule rides, please call Whitney Kuvin at 904-6609268.

Jewish Healing Network

Become a Jewish Healing Network Volunteer at JFCS and help us fulfill the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim.

Volunteers are needed to make weekly visits or phone calls to a senior or deliver food to those who cannot get out. For more information, please call Gail at 904394-5723.

Registration for the 2017 JFCS men’s event ‘Scotch and Poker’ is now open

This year’s annual men’s event will be held at BestBest Jacksonville Jim and Francine Kempner, Dr. Denny Lafer, Ellen Rosner, Cathy Winterfield, Judge Gary Wilkinson. Bottom row: Jodie Leach, Al Datz.

By Jewish Family & Community Services

Ellen and Alan Rosner graciously opened their home and their kitchen to host the first ever

JFCS Past Presidents’ Brunch in late Nov. The group enjoyed a delicious kosher style brunch prepared by both Ellen and Alan and a brief update on JFCS’s capital campaign, ‘The Place We Make… The Place That Makes Us’.

By Jewish Family & Community Services

Be sure to bring your poker face to the sixth annual JFCS Men’s Fundraising Event, Feb. 9th at Bestbet Jacksonville. This year’s event is titled ‘Scotch & Poker’ as attendees will sample a variety of high-end scotches and enjoy a lively dinner. In addition, bestbet will provide an informative

15-minute poker class prior to the start of a rousing no-limit Texas Holdem’ tournament. Rebuys will be available for those that drop out of the tournament early. Through the generosity of bestbet Jacksonville, all proceeds will benefit JFCS. For more information or to register for this fun community event, visit jfcsjax.org and click on the banner or call Donna O’Steen at 904-394-5714.

Holiday gift giving program is a tremendous success JFCS to introduce new

By Jewish Family & Community Services

This year 75 individuals and organizations contributed to provide holiday gifts to 1,100 needy children and isolated seniors. Without your support these individuals would likely not receive gifts over the holiday season, which is why we are so thankful that together, we can prevent this from happening. Thank you to everyone that participated in JFCS’s Holiday Gift Giving Program.

Jewish meditation with Gail Greenfield in 2017

By Jewish Family & Community Services

Please join JFCS, Tuesday, Jan. 24th at 12 p.m., to learn how meditation can help you relax your body, mind and soul. This event is part the Jewish Healing Network’s Alexandra and Mark Miller Speaker Series and will take place in the JFCS Board Room at 6261 Dupont Station Ct., East. Box lunches will be provided.

Instructor Gail Greenfield has more than 20 years of meditation experience as she is a holistic nurse with experience at hospitals in Georgia and Florida. Greenfield started a program in Jacksonville to help staff better understand the needs of Jewish patients called the Jewish Connection. She was the catalyst in creating the Jewish Healing Network and currently leads three Jewish Meditation and

Spirituality groups. The holistic guru has been a featured speaker at several Jacksonville community events. Please RSVP to Gail Furman at 904-393-5723 or gfurman@ jfcsjax.org for those wanting to attend. This event is free, however space is limited.

JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $279,000

page 27

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA Happy Chanukah! What JCF to undergo transition in Leadership wonderful memories those highest degree of expertise. The JCF back office operations were also revamped, now that donors two words conjure up Jeff Klein, Executive Director and partners have direct online of the Jewish Community FounBy Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida

MONEY MATTERS Jewish Community Foundantion of NE. Fla.

I remember the wonderful latkes my grandma used to make; bathed in so much oil that Grandma Sophie set the hot latkes on sheets torn from brown paper bags to drain off some of it. Then we would layer them with apple sauce and sour cream which were simply delicious. Of course the happiest parts of Chanukah for me were the presents, including trains, trucks, coloring books and even PJ’s. Yes, those are indeed great memories but this is also the time of year that feature articles and news stories make us aware of those families and children that are faced with a less than happy Chanukah or holiday season. It’s possible that some families are facing true hardships including the loss of their homes or reduced incomes.

Tough choices may have to be made by these families, such as if they purchase presents for their loved ones, will they have enough to pay their utility bills? Or what about the tuition for Jewish day school, or JCA summer camp? And will anybody from their family need counseling services from the JFCS because of these difficult times? There are many issues to be considered. I happened to Google the definition of the word ‘happy’, and the search returned 2.9 trillion results. That’s a lot of happiness as its nearly triple the results for the word ‘sad’ which appears 759 million times.

Clearly, happiness has been written about a lot more, but what makes us happy? Does getting married make us happy? What about having children, friends or going on trips and being spiritual? Believe it or not, Arthur Brooks completed a study, entitled ‘Gross National Happiness: Why Happiness Matters for America—And How We Can Get More of It,” which talks about

this state of mind.

Gross cites that, “People who give money to charity are 43-percent more likely than non-givers to say they are very happy. Volunteers are 42-percent more likely to be happy than non-volunteers.” I guess these statistics are not that surprising because we have all experienced those ‘helper’s highs’. Whether we have volunteered at the local animal shelter, fed meals to the poor, or volunteered on a committee or board, these experiences have enriched our lives and we have left with that warm glow knowing that we have helped make the world a better place to live in.

Philanthropy at the Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida can not only give you that warm feeling of changing the world but also the knowledge that your gift will do so for years and generations to come. Because we know that while we may walk away from a volunteer experience with a ‘helper’s high’, the real objective is to alleviate suffering, provide services for those less fortunate, or work in a way to make our world a better place to live.

I encourage you to consider trying to be happier this year, so let’s sit down and discuss how you can carve out your piece of happiness. Through a personal endowment fund at the JCF, for example, you may be able to endow a program at your synagogue that provides services for kids with special needs. Additionally, you may be able to enrich the lives of seniors through a fund that will help subsidize trips to cultural events, or could even provide scholarship assistance so that needy Jewish children can have a summer camping experience. This Chanukah you have the power to both make yourself happy while also assuring that others in our community will be happy in years to come. On behalf of all of our JCF board of trustees and our staff, I wish all of our readers a Happy Chanukah.

dation of Northeast Florida, Inc. has recently announced that he will be assuming a position at the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach, beginning in January 2017.

During Klein’s tenure at the JCF, a strategic plan was developed which engaged the board and committee members in a process that will address the future needs of the JCF and the community.

Additionally, a new Investment Manager was secured, SEI Investments located in Oaks, Pa. SEI is the investment manager for the Baptist Health Foundation and

Immediate board Past President Mark Green will lead the new JCF transition committee

this move insured that the dollars entrusted to the JCF would be invested and overseen with the

access to their accounts. This feature will insure that the JCF has all the advantages of the most sophisticated endowment funds and foundations.

The JCF Board of Trustees has appointed Mark Green, Esq, immediate past JCF president to head a transition committee. The transition committee will oversee and plan for the future developments of the JCF, working in partnership with the JCF board to make sure that the investments, the fund operations and staff needs are met to insure the continued growth of the Foundation.

Foundation grant awardee spotlight: Avant Arts

By Jewish Community Foundation of Northeast Florida

Do you know the definition of ‘Radical Jewish Culture?’ Avant Arts founder, Keith Marks, wants to ensure that you do. A recipient of a JCF grant during the fall 2016 cycle, Avant Arts is a non-profit organization focused on bringing Jewish music and culture to the Jacksonville area. Avant’s series of concerts are dedicated to exploring music outside of genre and expectation. The goal of the organization is to create a new community of adventurous listeners.

Radical Jewish Culture is a movement founded by composer John Zorn in New York City in the early 1990s. Essentially, his mission was to ask other artists vital questions including: ‘What is Jewish music?’ and ‘What is its future?’

Comparing it to the evolution of Jazz, Zorn sought to see Jewish music evolve from the centuries old klezmer tradition by fusing traditional Jewish music elements and themes with modern genres such as Jazz, Rock, Classical, World Music, and Blues.

In order to develop an adventurous listening community, Avant applied for and received a JCF grant that will assist the organization with bringing the New York-based ensemble, ‘Pharaoh’s Daughter’ to Jacksonville in spring 2017. This concert is one in a series of musical events that Avant has sponsored in the Jacksonville area. Though a large part of the organization’s work involves bringing live music to the community, Marks emphasizes that Avant’s mission isn’t just to implement a music series, but the mission is to bring an understanding of Radical Jewish Culture to the area. Avant sees its music series as a way to introduce listeners’ to a genre that might not otherwise be discovered. While streaming music sites such as Pandora and Spotify have exploded in recent years, their

There are many ways to donate to your favorite cause. The JCF is here to help you determine what type of donation best suits the needs of you and your family.

Bequest: A bequest is a sum of money or other property (such as stocks or bonds) left to an individual or organization through the provisions of a will or estate plan.

Charitable bequests made by you are managed by the JCF which ensures that the funds support the designated nonprofit, educational institution, or religious organization of your choice.

Donor-Advised Fund: A donor-advised fund, or DAF, is a

Avant Arts is a non-profit organization and was founded by Keith Marks (left) and centers around the notion of ‘Radical Jewish Culture’

catalogues generally do not include a range of modern Jewish music.

After raising more than $4,000 in funding from individual donors, Avant sought to give Jacksonville residents the ability to listen to modern Jewish music and learn about Radical Jewish Culture without having to purchase an entire catalogue of material. In May, 2016, Avant donated a collection writings, DVDs, and more than 280 CDs which have officially become the Radical Jewish Culture collection at the Jacksonville Public Library. Materials in the collection are now available to the public, and Avant invites you to explore the collection, listen to the music, and decide what Radical Jewish Culture means to you.

Like all nonprofit organizations, Avant will continue to need funding to grow the library collection, bring additional musicians and speakers to the area and further the Radical Jewish Culture movement in Jacksonville. Avant has established an endowment fund with the JCF to sustain funding for the organization. Should you wish to donate to Avant’s cause, please notate ‘Avant Endowment’ on your donation to the JCF. About the JCF Grants program The JCF grants program helps a variety of local arts, culture, community development, social welfare, and religious programs obtain valuable funding. Grant

philanthropic vehicle established at a public charity. It allows donors to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax benefit and then recommend grants from the fund over time. An easy way to think about a donor-advised fund is like a charitable savings account as a donor contributes to the fund as frequently as they like and then recommends grants to their favorite charity when they are ready. The JCF manages the fund and ensures that the assigned charity receives the funding.

Endowment Fund: An endowment fund is an investment fund established at a foundation that

applicants include non-profits, schools, and religious organizations in the Jacksonville and St. Johns County areas. Each grant is intended to assist an organization with securing financial support so they may create new programs and activities, provide for capital needs and equipment, or to support any other like purpose within their organization. Awards of JCF grants are completed in the spring and fall of each year.

In determining which applicants receive grant awards, the JCF grants committee gives priority to applications for programs related to: • Jewish education for all ages • Jewish leadership develop ment • Programs and initiatives focused on a particular seg ment group • Community-wide cultural and arts programs for an extended time period • Inter-generational programs.

By assisting these programs financially, the JCF serves a vital role in meeting the social, cultural, health and educational needs of the Jacksonville Jewish community.

Stay tuned for information on the JCF’s upcoming Grant Workshop for applicants, information on events sponsored by grant recipients and the release of the application for the spring 2017 grants cycle.

makes consistent withdrawals from invested capital. Endowments are designed to keep the principal amount intact while using the investment income from dividends for charitable efforts. The JCF then manages and invests the capital to ensure the fund continues to grow.

Endowment funds are typically funded entirely by donations that are deductible for the donors.

Restricted endowment funds allow donors to specify a specific purpose for the revenue generated by the fund.

Sources: Investopedia; the National Philanthropic Trust

JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $83,560

page 28

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES

RIVER GARDEN 2016-17 FEDERATION ALLOCATION: $184,000

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 29

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

education

Galisnky Academy PTA members work hard to ensure a vibrant Jewish education for Jacksonville Jewish Center

By Jacksonville Jewish Center

At the Galinsky Academy of the Jacksonville Jewish Center, there is a wonderful saying, ‘We are a family of families’, and that is never truer than when it comes to the Galinsky Academy PTA. Not only does the PTA plan social events for parents and students, but they also provide many different services and funding for programs that might otherwise not have been able to be provided. It’s only half way through the school year and the Galinsky Academy PTA has already accomplished so much, with much more to come.

The first day of school can be hard on children, but it can be even tougher for parents. Each year the PTA provides a wonderful breakfast event for parents that allow all in attendance to catch up with old friends and welcome new ones right after

that first morning drop-off. It’s right there at that breakfast that you can feel the sense of family reemerging after a summer slumber. Next up was the annual ‘All School Shabbat’ dinner in September that saw more than 170 people enjoy a lovely evening filled with prayer, song and delicious food.

PTA volunteer’s help throughout the year with many programs run and solely funded by the PTA that benefit all the children in the Galinsky Academy schools.

This includes vision screenings, weekly Shabbat boxes and Challah fundraisers, in addition to assembling and providing holiday treats, such as apples and honey or Chanukah treat bags. These could not happen without the PTA’s amazing volunteers.

One of their bigger ventures during the year is the annual Scholastic Book Fair. This year’s fair took on the theme of ‘Boo-

kaneers, Where Books are the Treasure’, and was held in December, just in time for Chanukah gift giving. This annual fundraiser helps stock the school’s library shelves with books that are routinely devoured by young voracious readers.

Building relationships is what the Galinsky Academy PTA does best, even within the Jacksonville Jewish Center. This past December, the PTA teamed up with the Center Sisterhood for a fun ladies night out with a little bit of wine and paint for Painting with a Twist! Building on the success of last year’s Family Campout with the Center’s Men’s Club, families once again pitched their tents on the grounds of the Jacksonville Jewish Center and enjoyed a night filled with games, friends and of course s’mores.

It’s not just the giving of their time that makes the Galinsky Academy PTA and its members

Galinsky Academy PTA volunteers lend a helping hand with the challah

wonderful, as they have also donated more than $1,600.00 for the Makerspace, STEAM space for the Galinsky Academy.

Purchased with this donation have been littleBits, and 3D pens.

Also donated by PTA to the Makerspace was a LEGO wall constructed by members of the group. With all this accomplished in just the first half of the school year, it’s hard to imagine what

will come next from the Galinsky Academy’s PTA. Want to learn more about the Galinsky Academy PTA or become involved? Please check them out on Facebook at facebook.com/galinskyacademypta/ or on their website at galinskyacademy.org/pta to help support their wonderful work with our children.

Torah Academy students study cells PJ Library to hold another Shema bedtime, Jan 26th through the lens of a microscope

By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

Students in fifth and sixth grade at Torah Academy of Jacksonville are enjoying learning about living things, from the cell to organ systems. Sixth grade also focused on bacteria, protists, and fungi, while the seventh and eighth grade science students learned about forms of energy, energy transformations, and the law of conservation of energy. They are now learning about sound waves and light waves. Both classes are excited to learn about microscopes as they use them to examine plant and animal slides.

With these tools and programs, students are seeing the beauty and Torah Academy students learn about living things by using a microscope organization of nature up close.

Jewish Kids Club adds fire and spice to its Saturday night both learned so much as well.”

The Havdallah Ceremony is an ancient ritual that was performed by our ancestors for thousands of years at the end of Shabbat. To this day, it is the way we mark the conclusion of shabbat and welcome a new week of personal development, community growth and global accomplishments.

“I’ve never experienced such a powerful way of ending the Shab-

Chabad Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein leads the Havdallah services

By Chabad of S. Johns

Saturday Night truly came alive at Chabad of S. Johns this past fall as what is usually a typical evening, instead turned into a dramatic, sensational and crafty family experience. At The Jewish Kids Club, children partook in a mystical and musical celebration of ancient tradition. They braided Havdallah candles, crafted individual spice boxes, and were captivated by the Rabbis’ storytelling.

“We keep Shabbat and do havdallah every week at home, but I was completely blown away,” said D. who came with his wife and kids. “I had no idea why we smell the spices or why we light the candle, so it was incredibly eye-opening and inspiring to learn about the symbolism and the deeper meaning of it all, he added. “The kids loved it, but we

bat before,” said one mom. “My kids are so excited to do it again at home next week.” The flame, the spices, and the wine make for a memorable experience and the children each went home with a full set of “Havdallah Ingredients,” so they could recreate the Magic of Havadallah at home. Visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com to find out what’s next on the JKC agenda.

Kids will don their PJ’s for a special PJ Library event, Thursday, Jan. 26th

By Martin J. Gottleib Day School

The community’s pre-kindergarteners and their families are cordially invited to come in pajamas for Shema Bedtime in the Kramer Library at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, Thursday,

Jan. 26 at 6:30 p.m. In conjunction with PJ Library, Shema Bedtime is a fun way for families to meet new friends and enjoy a craft and story time. Space is limited, so call 904268-4200, ext. 147 to reserve a spot for your child today.

page 30

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

education

Snow days return to the DuBow Preschool Kids cook up a Kosher

BY MELISSA VANHOOF storm at Chabad of S. Johns GROW program DuBow Preschool Kofim Teacher

While the last leaves of autumn fall to the ground, leaving bare trees, it is a reminder that Old Man Winter is right around the corner.

As many people across the country prepare for the first snow of winter, we lucky families of Northeast Florida can only expect a cool and crisp cold front. This weather gets us excited to pull out our warm coats, scarves and yes, sometimes even mittens.Growing up in Upstate New York as a child,I remember, the excitement of the ‘first snow’. Looking DuBow preschool students prove that it can snow in Jacksonville with the out the window as far as you could see, it was covered in what looked school’s annual snow days, held each year during the month of January like a big fluffy white blanket. The of the students, Kids come to school up with a winter themed storybook very next day we would wake up like ‘The Snowy Day’ or ‘The Mitten’. dressed in their P.J.’s and have fun early to get bundled up in warm After all the fun, each child works trying on winter themed clothing clothes ready to explore. up quite an appetite and DuBow’s like hats, scarves, and mittens from As a preschool teacher, I often Snow Days would not be complete struggled with how to teach my stu- the winter dress up box. This helps without warm cocoa and a graham them with their fine motor and self dents about cold weather, snow and crackers snack. These special few help skills while also learning how the season of winter while living days in such a unique environment to dress for cold weather. in a warmer weather climate. With are some of the favorites of students Interactive stations are set up the help of some very crafty and and teachers at the Preschool and for exploring the wintery theme imaginative teachers at the DuBow their families whole-heartedly agree.

Preschool we have found the perfect that includesbuilding a snowman out of snow dough, playing with If you are interested in learnway of doing just that. For a few arctic animals on ice and exploring ing more about what the DuBow days in January, one of the school’s cold ‘snow’ which are all wonderPreschool and the Jacksonville Jewclassrooms is transformed into a ful sensory experiences.

To work ish Center can offer your child and Winter Wonderland called ‘Snow family please contact the DuBow Days’ with sparkly snowflakes hang- their gross motor skills a snowball toss was set up and for those who Preschool Office at 904-268-4200, ing from the ceiling, and the floor wanted to take a quiet moment to ext. 143 to set up a tour of the facilicovered in fluffy white snow (made enjoy the winter scenery, could cozy ties. of cotton balls) donated by parents

By Chabad of S. Johns

We all want our children to make healthy eating choices and a new course from GROW titled ‘MyPalette: The Torah Edition’, will help kids do just that, starting in January. Based on the USDA’s visual concept called ‘MyPlate’, students will learn how to choose a balanced diet of colorful whole foods. They will also develop a sense of appreciation for their food and its purpose as they create and prepare their own original recipes that are both healthy and kosher.

The GROW program has been thoughtfully designed by experts in nutrition and Jewish education, as it combines modern food science with the timeless guidance of Torah to offer kids a well-rounded perspective on healthy, kosher eatin Jacksonville, 4Rivers Smokeing that will benefit them for years house, Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa, HOBNOB Food and to come.

Instead of the ‘don’t eat junk Social Exchange, Home Depot, Jackfood!’ , approach, this program sonville Sharks, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, JCA Tennis, Aquatics teaches kids how to stop, think and ask themselves, ‘Is this food good and Sports, Kenra Hair Products,

Another successful year for Block Gan’s bountiful baskets program

BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

This past November marked another successful year for Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten’s primary fundraiser, the Bountiful Baskets silent auction.

The auction took place in the lobby of the Jewish Community Alliance during the month of November, coinciding with the agency’s book and film festivals. Patrons and JCA members could enter bids on several baskets with themes ranging from kids’ toys to couples’ dinner packages. Michele Block Gan Yeladim raised $7,000 during the fundraiser and these funds will be used to enhance the new outdoor children’s kitchen with a working sink, a Trex deck and an awning installed over the new playground equipment.

The Bountiful Baskets silent auction would not have been possible without the volunteer efforts of parents and friends and the local and national businesses that generously donated funds and items for the baskets. Sub-committee chairs Mayumi Hernandez and Jena Nelson worked tirelessly, accompanied by Blake Barkoskie, Nicole Brown, Lori Eisenberg Castro, Michelle Kaiser, Rosie Lee, Brian and Shana London,

GROW Enrichment’s course, Dream Building: The Magic of Israel took students back in time to discover the first Jew, Abraham, living in Israel.

These bountiful baskets ended up raising $7,000 during November Amy Meyer, Gisela Morgan, Luke, Monica and Shalom Romer, Leepi Shah, Catarina Soares, Vanessa White, Jennifer Wills and Shoshana Woessner.

The businesses that donated include Autobahn Indoor Speedway, Alhambra Theatre and Dining, Barnes and Noble, Black Sheep Restaurant, Carmike Cinemas 12, Carrabba’s Italian Grill (Mandarin and Orange Park), Cinemark Tinseltown Movie Theatre, Coastal Kicks Soccer, Cold Stone Creamery, The Comedy Zone, Walt Disney World, FSCJ Artist Series: Broadway

Kilwins, Lasa Construction, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Metro Diner, Betsy Miller Pet Portraits, Melanie Miller Photography, Mind Bender Escape Rooms, Mission BBQ, Nelson Air Conditioning and Heating, Olive Garden (Avenues and Orange Park), P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Painting with a Twist, Peterbrooke Chocolatiers, Petco, PetSmart, Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery, Publix, Pump it Up, Rebounderz, Reddi-Arts, Setzer, Cochran, Soares and Hubbard Pediatric Dentistry, The Shala Yoga Studio, Starbucks, Sun-Ray Cinema, Sweet Pete’s, Sweets by Holly, Target, Ted’s Montana Grill, The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Café, Viv and Olive Jewelry, West Coast Hair Design, Wicked Barley Brewing Company, Winn-Dixie, and World Golf Hall of Fame and IMAX Theatre.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim thanks these volunteers and businesses for their help in making Bountiful Baskets a successful fundraising event and encouraging even more creative play in the outdoor environment.

for me?’, ‘Is this a Superfood that will power up my mitzvot?’ and ‘Will it give me the energy I need to do more good in the world?’

With this approach, kids become conscious, mindful eaters who are able to make intentional choices rather than relying on impulse or habit.

Through their learning, children will be introduced to the Jewish concepts of mindfulness and gratitude as they learn and practice the blessings said before eating.

The climax of their culinary journey will be when they will treat their parents to a special dinner cooked just for them. MyPalette, GROW’s second course, continues Chabad of S. Johns County’s mission to provide effective, hands-on learning experiences that promote a message of self-growth based on Torah. For more information about GROW, visit its official website at JewishSJohnsCounty. com/Grow or contact Mrs. Dini Sharfstein at 904-701-4422 and Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com.

Extended Learning in Israel

Employees from the JCA, JFCS and Federation pose with teachers and students at TechNoda in Jacksonville’s sister city of Hadera following a morning of experiments, exploration, instruction but most of all fun.

page 31

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

education

Michele Block Gan Yeladim’s partnerships contribute to early childhood experience

BY NATHAN WOODS Michele Block Gan Yeladim

A good preschool is about more than just sitting in a classroom, as providing stimulating and enriching activities that expose children to the arts, culture and community creates unique opportunities for skillbased learning to occur naturally.

Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten attains its unparalleled excelVisits from the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and the Cummer Museum are just some of the benefits of the school’s many community partnerships lence by providing this enriching programming with the help of ing to incorporate math, language, with Cummer Museum of Art and Family Day in March is another leave a lasting imprint on their amazing and unique partnerships arts, music, movement and more.

Gardens. Through the Cummer favorite interactive Sunday activity young minds. For more informawith local organizations.

Last year, the Symphony also ofpartnership, Michele Block Gan that is open to families with young tion about Michele Block Gan Children at Michele Block Gan fered the chance for Michele Block Yeladim children participate in children in the community.

Yeladim partnerships with the Yeladim experience three sepaGan Yeladim families to attend a extraordinary events such as the Through these programs, Symphony, Cummer Museum and rate classroom concerts by the Family Series Sunday Concert to Junior Kindergarten Art Show, Michele Block Gan Yeladim aims other organizations, please contact Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra deepen the family connections where children experience every to extend the learning experience Rochelle Golomb at 904-730-2100 featuring brass, string and woodand music appreciation exposure. facet of an art museum and even of students past the classroom and ext. 259. wind instruments. Block Gan Another key partnership is display their own art. Cummer into weekend family activities that teachers facilitate in-depth learn-

Up, up and away at the Two area Chabads to make history with their first international children’s DuBow Preschool’s Shabbat dinner VPK

BY SUZIE POLLAK BECKER

Early Childhood Co-Director

As the halfway mark of the school year approaches, it’s time to reflect on the experiences that have been shared at the DuBow Preschool’s VPK classes which Students learn the importance of Jewish and secular are enriched holidays, like Veteran’s Day by painting patriotic posters by a curriculum filled with academic growth as well as personal achievement. Students have participated in activities to develop their gross motor development, like physical education, along with resources that heighten their world knowledge which helps expand their vocabulary and language abilities.

They also learned about classical composers in music class, renowned artists in art class and the world as a whole through a highly developed science and garden curriculum that provides sensory and hands on education.

This year, the school’s VPK classes are not only learning about the Torah in Jewish Studies, but students have the pleasure of putting their lessons into practice, as they learned about the story of creation and expanded on the DuBow students learn the benefit of concept of Tikun Olam, repairing the world that God created for all giving to those who are hungry of us. It is our responsibility to see ourselves as Jewish people, who in celebration of the Festival of are part of a Jewish community, Lights. This mitzvah was extended and the world as a whole, so on to all DuBow Preschool students Veterans Day, cards were made by by taking cards from all the classes the kids for Veterans right here in to distribute to the residents at Jacksonville that were distributed River Garden. by the students of the Martin J. It’s the goal of DuBow PreGottlieb Day School. Thank you school to actively facilitate cards were also written to Israeli students’ engagement in activities soldiers to reinforce all of our deep and lessons to encourage particiconnections to Israel and its’ pation and expanded involvement. people.

By providing opportunities for Students had the privilege of students to be more creative and practicing the mitzvah of Hachnagenerate their own ideas, concepts sat Orchim, welcoming guests, and activities are linked to one when students of Torah Academy another and to previous lessons. were invited to share a ThanksgivMost importantly, concepts are ing activity. Together they shared consistently related to the students’ a snack, story, and joined in a actual lives because the DuBow Tzedakah, charity, project where Preschool is seen as a place to food was donated for Thankshelp children learn through an giving for families in need. On interactive educational approach, Chanukah, students participated and with critical creative thinking. in the mitzvah of Bikur Cholim, Those interested in a tour of the visiting the sick, and bringing joy school can call 904-292-1000, ext. to the residents of River Garden 143 to schedule one.

Hebrew Home with a performance

By Chabad of S. Johns

You and your kids can make history, Friday evening, Jan. 20th as thousands of children at Chabad centers worldwide will be gathering for an International CKids Shabbat Dinner. This event will be fantastically entertaining and inspiring as plenty of family games, interactive performances, songs and decadent food will be on hand in addition to the delightful company, making for a heartwarming family-centered Shabbat experience.

Chabad of S. Johns and Chabad at the Beaches are proud to be participating in this historic and kid-centric Shabbat,

which will be held at Chabad at the Beaches (521 A1A N.) in Ponte Vedra. Chabad of S. Johns can be reached at 904-701-4422 or at JewishSJohnsCounty.com. and Chabad at the Beaches can be reached at 904-543-9301 or chabadbeaches.com. Reservations are required for this event.

page 32

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 33

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

education

Temple religious school students learn lesson of saying what we mean and meaning what we say

BY NAOMI CHASE

Religious School Director

We value ‘short’ when it comes to reading as we’ve become a culture of sound bites, 140-character tweets and abbreviated messages, however there might be a terrible price to pay for brevity when it comes to conveying Jewish educational goals. Maybe we should slow down, say more, and worry less about the time it takes to really understand.

A case in point as a student balked at having to learn a text he claimed his Bar Mitzvah tutor had told him he, ‘didn’t need to do it’.

His class was learning a text that

was not one he’d need to lead at his Bar Mitzvah ceremony. The teacher explained that while his tutor focuses on those parts of the service he will lead as he becomes a Bar Mitzvah, his classes prior to and after that ceremony collectively equip him to participate in the rest of his Jewish life. Somewhere along the way, at least for that student, the shorter term goal had trumped the longer term one.

Parents who worry that their child won’t be ready for Bar/Bat Mitzvah often think in terms of finite skills. Yet, there is nothing finite about Bar/Bat Mitzvah. At the Temple this year, the B’nai Mitzvah families will have the opportunity to gather on four

Sunday mornings with their sixth graders for a series of interactive workshops intended to more fully explain Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

The series will involve clergy and teachers, and the Temple’s Executive Director. They’ll encourage whole families to know and connect with one another and to link themselves to the history and the privilege that are Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

Southside Chabad’s new center for Jewish life to be built with a special learning approach in mind

By Southside Chabad

As Ganeinu students on the Southside excel with Reggio inspired study they look forward to the construction of the organization’s new center for Jewish life, which is engineered to facilitate the unique educational approach.

The Reggio Emilia approach is child-centered and directed, embracing the philosophy that learning must make sense to the student in order to be effective and meaningful. At Ganeinu, a child’s point of view is completely respected and the student is encouraged to follow his or her

own educational path. As topics are discussed, teachers take cues from the natural curiosity of each student to ‘run-with-it.

As a result of the outstanding results and feedback to this new approach and construction for the new Chabad Center commences, School Director Chana Novack toured four leading Reggio-inspired centers across the country and charged the architect, civil engineers and interior designers to develop a design based on the Reggio-Emilia approach.

“The openness of the design, natural organic feel of the finishes and unique focus on a child’s

experience makes this project challenging as well as fun,” said architect Craig Sommers, principal at DSAE who is heading-up the design team for Chabad’s new facility. “The final product will be something truly unique and impressive,’ he added.

Hopefully, the participants will stay connected to the timeline on which this ceremony marks one special place.

Bar Mitzvah is a benchmark for students and families and it is witnessed by many. The material gifts to the child can mean validation and reward but do students and their families know how many positive Jewish experiences are synthesized in that ceremony?

Students who have been friends at Temple for years celebrate together and non-Jewish guests at these occasions learn with and from them. Traditions are transmitted and preserved in the ceremony’s rituals, and sometimes new ones are added. The service is over in a relatively short amount of time that is not commensurate with the total amount of learning

it represents. It is the antithesis of Bar/Bat Mitzvah if this pivotal rite of passage is reduced in the child’s mind to tasks performed in a matter of minutes.

After years of study and interaction with other Jewish learners, we’d hope that our children begin their Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutoring knowing that this milestone is but one of many moments that contribute to their cumulative learning. Celebratory and representative of all that’s been learned to date, Bar and Bat Mitzvah is not an end achieved in a fixed amount of time. It is but a moment that heralds a new phase of Jewish development, one that marks the child’s readiness to commit the student, the family, the synagogue, and the community to the rest of their shared Jewish lives.

Torah Academy students take part in mock election

By Torah Academy of Jacksonville

Like around the community and the country, Election Day was an exciting one for students at Torah Academy of Jacksonville, as they unable to vote in the actual presidential election, provided their own ballots to be tallied. The candidates, their pictures, their running mates, and their political parties were included on the ballot, which only included those men and women running for President.

The students were then asked to make their choices and immediately turn in their ballots. After an initial count, the Torah Academy student body correctly predicted Donald Trump carried the vote for the winner of the presidential elec- the students at Torah Academy tion, Donald Trump. This exercise of Jacksonville with 34 of 50 or was a great opportunity to see the 68-percent of the votes cast election process in action.

page 34

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

adult education January 2017 Tevet/Sh’vat 5777 To include your adult education event in this listing please e-mail the Jacksonville Jewish News at jjn@jewishjacksonville.org, with the time/date or frequency of the event from your specific organization or synagogue, along with a short description of each program or event.

Special Events

January 4th

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (7:30 a.m.)

PIRKEI AVOT - Learn and then head to work! Join Rabbi Cohen and your Temple friends to explore and discuss these Jewish wisdom texts in ways that will help add meaning and fulfillment to the experiences of our lives in the past, present and future.

January 8th

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (10 a.m.)

HEBREW LETTER REFRESHER This 90-minute refresher on the Hebrew letters and decoding words is designed for those who have taken Hebrew classes but have forgotten some of what they knew.

Read Hebrew America, Part 2 begins Sunday, Jan. 22nd and focuses on developing competency and confidence in reading prayers from Shabbat service.

Jacksonville Jewish Center YIDDISH CLUB - This is an informal group of all ages with varying levels of ability. Meet other local speakers to practice the language, or to just shmooze a bisl! We’ll listen to Klezmer music, watch videos and films, read and speak in Yiddish, so please join us.

Jewish Community Alliance (2 – 3 p.m.)

ART TALK WITH COURTNEY LEWIS - Meet the new Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra Music Director/Conductor and learn what drives this talented young maestro.

Advance registration is appreciated.

This event is free and open to the community.

January 10th

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8:30 p.m.)

BOOMERCISE: EXCERCISE AS YOU AGE – Learn why exercise

is the key to mind-body longevity with author, American College of Sports Medicine fellow and professor emeritus at FSU David Pargman, PhD. Advance registration is appreciated. The fee is $5, however JCA valued members are free.

January 11th

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (5 p.m.)

INTERMEDIATE HEBREW FOR ADULTS – This 45-minute intermediate class will be taught by Education Director Beth Brenner and is designed for those students who want to improve upon their basic knowledge of the Hebrew language.

This class meets the second and fourth Wednesday of every month.

Jewish Community Alliance (6:30 p.m.)

TREATMENT FOR THUMB ARTHRITIS AND SHOULDER PAIN - Join Bruce Steinberg, MD, from the Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute to discuss causes of injury and non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments. This is free and open to the community.

January 12th

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8:30 p.m.)

INSIDE ISRAEL FILM AND DISCUSSION - Join us for a fascinating short film and discussion of Israeli society. The fee is $5 and JCA valued members are free.

January 14th

Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15 a.m.)

SHALOM MEDITATION - Please join us for 25 minutes of meditation in a Jewish environment. Some basic instruction of meditation technique and approach will be offered.

January 15th

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (5 p.m.)

WINE & CHEESE SOCIAL – Will be held prior to the screening of the movie ‘Dough’, which is about an old Jewish baker that takes on a young Muslim apprentice to save his failing kosher bakery. When his apprentice’s marijuana stash accidentally falls in the mixing dough, the challah starts flying off the shelves!

‘Dough’, is a warmhearted and humorous story about overcoming prejudice and finding redemption in unexpected places.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (7:30 p.m.)

BOOK CLUB - Open to all interested adults and meets at Barnes & Noble on San Jose Blvd.

Literary Ladies Enjoying Sisterhood Book Club will meet again and discuss the novel, ‘City of God’ by Beverly Swerling.

crisis in tractate Ta’anit. These classes are open to all and are held immediately following Minyan. Jan. 16th, 23rd, 30th.

January 17th

January 21st

Jacksonville Jewish Center (8 -9 a.m.)

COFFEE & TORAH - Come enjoy a strong cup of brew, a tasty breakfast treat and thought-provoking insights into the weekly Torah portion in the intimate setting of Rabbi Lubliner’s office.

Jewish Community Alliance (6:15 – 7:15 p.m.)

ADULT MARTIAL ARTS - Increase your cardio and muscular endurance in this quick paced workout.

The fee is $105 and $75 for JCA valued members. Held from Jan. 9th – Feb. 13th.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (12 p.m.)

LUNCH AND LEARN – Held at Picasso’s Italian Restaurant on San Jose Blvd., the community is invited to this monthly discussion with Rabbi Rick Shapiro, Interim Senior Rabbi at Congregation Ahavath Chesed. Engage in a conversation of current events in the United States, Israel and around the world through the lens of Jewish values and tradition. For further information and to let us know to expect you, RSVP at theTempleJacksonville.org.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed JEWISH LITERTAURE GROUP This monthly Book Group, led by Kelsi Hasden has selected ‘Black, White & Jewish: Autobiography of a Shifting Self ’ by Rebecca Walker as their next book. Everyone is welcome and you can to join the group at any time. For meeting time information, contact Kelsi directly at khasden@gmail.com.

January 18th

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (7:30 a.m.)

PIRKEI AVOT - Learn and then head to work! Join Rabbi Cohen and your Temple friends to explore and discuss these Jewish wisdom texts in ways that will help add meaning and fulfillment to the experiences of our lives in the past, present and future.

Jewish Community Alliance (6:30 – 9 p.m.)

STRING ME ALONG STRING ART WORKSHOP - In this twopart workshop, create your own piece of string art. Registration is required by Jan. 11th. The fee is $27 and $18 for JCA valued members.

Jewish Community Alliance (7 p.m.)

JEWS AND THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT - Rabbi Matthew Cohen will discuss the role of the Jewish community in this movement. This is free and open to the community.

January 19th

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (7 p.m.)

BELLES BOOK CLUB - The Beth El

January 24th

Jewish Community Alliance (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)

SMART DRIVER COURSE - Pack a brown bag dairy lunch and join an AARP trained instructor in this class for licensed drivers 50 and older. Attendance will qualify you for a discount on your insurance.

The fee is $20 and $15 for AARP members, made payable to AARP.

January 25th

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (5 p.m.)

INTERMEDIATE HEBREW FOR ADULTS – This 45-minute intermediate class will be taught by Education Director Beth Brenner and is designed for those students who want to improve upon their basic knowledge of the Hebrew language.

This class meets the second and fourth Wednesday of every month.

January 26th

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 10 p.m.)

DEFIANCE - In partnership with MOSH’s Voices of Hope Initiative, see this inspiring film with guest speaker Assaela Weinstein, daughter of Asael Bielski. This event is free and open to the community.

January 31st

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8:30 p.m.)

HONOR THY FATHER AND MOTHER: A MORAL DILEMMA - Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum discusses the contemporary moral issues of this fundamental commandment.

Advance registration appreciated.

This event is free and open to the community.

Regular Events

Sundays

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (10 a.m.)

READ HEBREW AMERICA - If you can decode small words, you are ready for Read Hebrew America, Part 2 where you will improve your reading skills, build competence and confidence.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (9:15 – 10 a.m.)

ALEF BET HEBREW CLASS Taught by Lois Tompkins and will be held weekly at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. Jan. 8, 22, 29.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m.)

FOUNDATIONS OF JUDIASM CLASS - Classes are held at the Jacksonville Jewish Center and are open to all, whether you are considering conversion, seeking to understand a friend or relative’s religious choices, or simply trying to go beyond your childhood Jewish education. Classes are ongoing so you can join us at any time. This month: Contemporary American Judaism, taught by Rabbi Merrill Shapiro Jan. 8th, 22nd, 29th.

Jewish Community Alliance (12:30 – 1:15 p.m.)

YOGA FOR SURVIVORS - Baptist Anderson Cancer Center and the Christina Phipps Foundation have joined to provide cancer patients, survivors and caregivers a yoga adapted to fit their individual needs.

Advance registration required and this class is free and open to the community. Held from Jan. 11th – May 31st.

Mondays

Jacksonville Jewish Center (Morning following Minyan) MONDAY MINYAN MAPQUEST - Rabbi Lubliner takes us on a tour of Jewish cities, explaining history and current statistics of some well-known and not-so-well-known Jewish communities in our country.

Jan. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th.

Jacksonville Jewish Center (7:15 p.m.)

TALMUD CLASS - Rabbi Lubliner explores communal responses to

Tuesdays

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (10:30 a.m.)

WISDOM YEARS - The Wisdom group meets every week to discuss contemporary issues viewed through a Jewish lens.

Jewish Community Alliance (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)

POTTERY SIX WEEK - Learn fundamental methods of clay forming, hand building and wheel throwing as well as glaze and firing techniques. Clay is provided and the fee is $162 and $108 for JCA valued members. Registration required by Jan. 7th and classes are held from Jan. 10th – Feb. 21st.

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 8 p.m.)

BOOMERCISE SMALL GROUP TRAINING - Put into action what you learn in the JCABoomercise lecture and get on track to better health and longevity. Registration required by Jan. 16 and the fee is $90 and $60 for JCA valued members. Classes are held from Jan. 17th – Feb. 7th.

Wednesdays

Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue (10:30 a.m.)

YOGA SHALOM, MEDITATION AND SPIRITUALITY - Yoga Shalom meets every Wednesday at Beth El. Using a DVD with Cantor Lisa Levine and Carol Kurgoff, you will learn to relax your body, calm your mind, and nurture your spirit.

We learn to use advanced, gentle chair modifications for each posture sequence, so bring your mat and we will see you at the next session!

Immediately following Yoga Shalom is an hour of Jewish Meditation and Spirituality for you to study and grow spiritually within a Jewish framework.

Jewish Community Alliance (12:30 – 1:15 p.m.)

YOGA FOR SURVIVORS - Baptist Anderson Cancer Center and the Christina Phipps Foundation have joined to provide cancer patients, survivors and caregivers a yoga adapted to fit their individual needs.

Advance registration required and this class is free and open to the community. Classes held from Jan. 8th – May 28th.

Thursdays

Jewish Community Alliance (6:30 – 8:30 p.m.)

POTTERY EIGHT WEEK - Learn fundamental methods of clay forming, hand building and wheel throwing as well as glaze and firing techniques. Clay is provided and the fee is $216 and $144 for JCA valued members. Registration is required

by Jan. 10th and classes are held from Jan. 12th – Mar. 9th.

Jewish Community Alliance (7 – 9 p.m.)

OIL PAINTING - Explore basic painting techniques, mixing and color combination through a variety of subjects. Registration is required

by Jan. 10th and the fee is $153 and $102 for JCA valued members.

Classes are held from Jan. 12th – Feb. 16th.

Jewish Community Alliance (6:15 – 7 p.m.)

BEGINNER GUITAR LESSONS This class teaches an introduction to singing, guitar, music theory and relevant techniques. You must bring your own instrument and the fee is $40 and $25 for JCA valued members. Classes are held from Jan, 19th – Feb. 9th.

Saturdays

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (9 a.m.)

TORAH STUDY - Join the Temple clergy to explore and discuss the Torah portion of the week each Saturday morning from 9-10 a.m.

A light breakfast is served starting at 8:45 a.m., and shabbat morning services begin at 10:30 a.m.

page 35

www.jewishjacksonville.org

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017

page 36

Like us on Facebook: JaxJewish

Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @jaxjewish

Jacksonville Jewish News • January 2017