JewishLife: Summer 2023

FROM THE DESK OF MARIAM FEIST, CEO

So many exciting things have happened in and for our Jewish community in the last few months since our Spring JewishLife magazine.

As you can see from the cover, Iris Kraemer was nominated to serve as Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)’s National Women’s Philanthropy Board Chair. This is a highly sought after position, and Iris’ appointment catapults the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida into the national spotlight. She’s not the only volunteer leader getting national recognition - Haley Trager, our incoming Board President and member of JFNA’s National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC), was recently selected to be on NYLC’s Executive Committee as the Israel & Overseas Chair. We have four additional members of NYLC from our community and five women who are on the National Women’s Philanthropy Board along with Iris. We are so proud of how valued and respected our community and its leaders are at the national level.

All of them started out by being involved in our local community. They took on leadership roles and traveled to Israel and around the world - seeing firsthand the impact of dollars granted to our overseas partners. Please read the stories on pages 12 and 13 about the recent NYLC Study-Mission to Latvia and Hungary, as an example of one of these transformational leadership experiences. One doesn’t have to get a passport to travel on a mission with the Jewish Federation & Foundation - our Women’s Philanthropy sponsored a Civil Rights Mission to Georgia and Alabama in April, which had its own life-changing impact that you can read about on page 10.

Missions are not the only way to be impacted and have an impact. We just launched our Business & Professional’s Division, offering local Jewish professionals to grow their business, broaden their networks, hear from accomplished speakers, and do good in the world by helping others. The flaps on our Federation & Foundation’s tent are open for you to enter when and where you feel most comfortable. Whether through our Young Professionals & Families Division, Women’s

Philanthropy, our Foundation’s Advisory Committee, Israel & Overseas - there is a place for you to get involved. We look forward to welcoming you into the tent and working with you to strengthen, support, and sustain Jewish life in our local community, Israel, and around the world.

Have a wonderful summer, stay cool, and stay hydrated!

Mariam

EDITOR, ART DIRECTION, PRODUCTION, & PUBLISHER

Zahni Thuzar Marketing Manager zahnit@jewishjacksonville.org

ADVERTISEMENT COORDINATOR

Amara San Agustin Marketing Assistant amaras@jewishjacksonville.org

Sara Bass Executive Assistant sarab@jewishjacksonville.org

Pat Burke Director, Finance patb@jewishjacksonville.org

Mariam Feist CEO mariamf@jewishjacksonville.org

Rachel Heiser Campaign and Donor Relations Coordinator rachelh@jewishjacksonville.org

Jill Metlin Israel and Overseas Coordinator jillm@jewishjacksonville.org

Tal Mola Israeli Community Shlicha jaxshlichut@jewishjacksonville.org

Jennifer Rensch Foundation Manager jenniferr@jewishjacksonville.org

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

Alex Silverstein Director, Community Security kelliek@jewishjacksonville.org

Kellie Smith Director, Foundation kelliek@jewishjacksonville.org

Proudly announcing the National Women’s Philanthropy new Chair-Designate, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)

It is with great pride that we announce that the new chair-designate of National Women’s Philanthropy for the 2023-2025 term is Iris Kraemer, Immediate Past President of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida.

Iris brings incredible experience to her new position. Not only as a Past President, but also as a Campaign Chair, a longtime Board Member and Member of the Executive Committee, Iris brings much knowledge to this new role.

On National Women’s Philanthropy (NWP), Iris is a fourth-year NWP Board Member, the Co-Chair of the Our Shared Shelf Book and Author Series, and a past Class Chair. At the Jewish Federations of North America, Iris is a member of the Board of Trustees. She is also a Jewish Agency for Israel North America Advisory

Board Member, and holds many more roles. Iris’ involvement with Jewish Federations has also taken her around the world to countless International Lion of Judah Conferences, General Assemblies, and missions. Iris will officially start her position as NWP Chair in June 2023, and her term will conclude in June 2025. Mazel Tov to Iris. We wish her much love and success as she leads the National Women’s Philanthropy Board over the next two years.

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”

- ANNE FRANK

IRIS, ALONG WITH 70 PROFESSIONAL & LAY LEADERS, ACCOMPANIED 180 ETHIOPIAN OLIM TO ISRAEL IN SUMMER

CELEBRATING ISRAEL with our community

By Tal Mola Israeli Community Shlicha

The past three months have been amazing, with so many wonderful programs happening in our community and schools. But let me tell you, April was definitely the busiest month of them all! The month was jam-packed with exciting programs and events to celebrate the culture and heritage of Israel.

people to hear the stories of Holocaust survivors, or second-generation survivors, in an intimate setting. We met at the home of

There were several Israeli National Days programs that took place throughout the month. These events provided an opportunity for community members to learn more about the history and traditions of Israel, as well to connect with one another and celebrate their shared cultural heritage.

For Yom Ha’Shoah, I partnered with The LJD Jewish Family and Community Services. We organized a program called “Zikaron Basalon” (Remembrance in the Living Room) - an Israeli initiative that allows

Irene and Jimmy Jaffa, and we were privileged to hear the incredible story of Helen Meatte, a second-generation survivor. It was truly amazing to be able to hear her story and to learn more about the impact that the Holocaust had on her family and their lives. I think programs like this are so important - not only for remembering the past, but also for understanding the impact of the Holocaust on generations to come.

One of the most popular programs was the Yom HaZikaron ceremony, which took place on April 24th. This solemn event provided an opportunity for community members to remember and honor the Israeli fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism.

The ceremony featured moving speeches, music, and songs. It was attended by a large crowd of community members. The highlight was undoubtedly the 75th Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israeli anni-

community to reflect on the many accomplishments and milestones of Israel’s first 75 years. The festivities included booths by organizations, synagogues, and agencies in the community. They did an amazing job of bringing Israel to Northeast Florida. We also had Israeli food, music, and games for kids. Overall, the past three

versary) Community Celebration, which brought together members of the community from all walks of life to commemorate this important milestone. The celebration was held on April 30th at Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple.

This day marks the anniversary of Israel’s independence and was celebrated with a range of fun and festive activities for community members of all ages. The event was the culmination of more than three months of planning and was a chance for the

months have been an amazing time for me. During this period, I have had the opportunity to interact with and get to know more people from the community. I was able to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones.

These experiences have been invaluable and I look forward to more opportunities to connect with and learn from the people in the community.

THE ARON ZIMMERMAN CAMP RAMAH SCHOLARSHIP FUND

By Jennifer Rensch Foundation Manager

Aron Zimmerman, of blessed memory, was a kind and exuberant young man who easily made friends with people from all walks of life. He freely offered time to anyone in need. Aron was also very proud of his Jewish heritage and loved being in nature. All these qualities found expression in the summers he spent at Camp Ramah Darom, a place where Aron nurtured his Jewish identity, made many friends, and enjoyed the outdoors. The Aron Zimmerman Camp Ramah Scholarship was established to honor his memory by ensuring a young person in need has an opportunity to enjoy summer at Camp Ramah Darom as he once did.

In Aron’s eulogy, Rabbi Lubliner shared the following memory, of one specific summer he had spent with him at Camp Ramah Darom:

“He had taken up archery and really loved it. I watched him enjoy target practice, so I told them a story about two types of archers: the one kind who becomes an expert

marksman, always hitting the target, and the second kind, who also always hits the target, but for a different reason - that he’d shoot the arrow first, and then draw a bullseye around it. I went on to share that success for the second type of archer is actually harder to achieve, because to shoot at a target defined by someone else, requires discipline and practice - and those are important - but it requires very little creativity, very little originality. The person who’s capable of thinking outside the box, of having the chutzpah and the nerve to take chances and dream dreams, sometimes discovers amazing things about oneself by daring to draw a new target around the place where the arrow lands and turning that into a bullseye. Aron was always the second type of archer. There were times when he missed the mark, plenty of them, but he would take a deep breath, he would pick himself up and get back on track... Yes, he took chancesreckless ones - but he was always true to himself and one of the most authentic human beings you’d ever meet. He lived with an

openness and eagerness to learn, a willingness to fail, and always the courage to learn from his mistakes... To know Aron, even casually, was to know a human being with a big heart...”

Preceded in death by his father, Scott Zimmerman, of blessed memory, Aron’s life was permeated by his love of Judaism. In the words of his long-time friend, Josh Gordon:

“Aron lived the principle ‘Ahavat Yisrael’ by loving every single Jewish person he met. In fact, Aron would always tell me that he wasn’t the best Jew, but that he was the proudest Jew... I’d always receive a call from him once a week excitedly telling me [about someone he met], whether it be from Etz Chaim, the Center, the Temple, or unaffiliated - he didn’t care what denomination you were, he cared that you were a fellow Jew... Aron lived one of our most sacred principles of ‘Tikkun Olam’, repairing the world, but he did this both in a figurative and literal manner through his endless love of people, through acts great and small... Aron changed the world by making every

ARON ZIMMERMAN, of blessed memory

single person he knew - no matter their situation in life, no matter their wealth, no matter their classknow that they were important and that he loved them. In a literal sense, Aron repaired the world with his own hands - no matter if it was a broken pipe, a piece of furniture, or an empty propane tank on a cold night - Aron was there for you.”

Aron will be greatly missed by the many circles of family, friends, and community who knew him. May Aron’s memory be for a blessing and may all who mourn him be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. The Aron Zimmerman Camp Ramah Scholarship Fund

has been established in honor and beloved memory of Aron Zimmerman by the DuBow Family upon his passing in 2023. The Fund is managed by the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida and will be used to provide financial aid for teens attending Camp Ramah Darom. The 2023 inaugural winner, Joshua Solomon, will be attending Camp Ramah Darom this summer.

To give to the fund, please visit jewishjacksonville.org/ aronzimmerman.

TURNING OUR EYES BACK ON history: A Civil

Rights Mission to GA & AL

By Kelsi Hasden Women’s Philanthropy Mission Participant & BRIDGES Class Member

I recently participated in the Women’s Philanthropy Civil Rights Mission to Georgia & Alabama. In Montgomery, AL, we visited the Equal Justice Initiative’s (EJI) National Memorial for Peace and Justice and The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration, as well as the Rosa Parks Museum. In Selma, we walked over the Edmund Pettus Bridge and listened to Lynda Blackmon-Lowery speak about marching with Dr. Martin Luther King. We visited the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and heard from Reverend Calvin Woods, who helped organize protests there.

As a Jew of Color (JOC), it was an engaging, but sobering trip. The most moving moments for me were speaking with women who had marched with Dr. King. It took using their bodies to force the government to recognize the humanity it refused to see.

In The Legacy Museum, I met Corean, a docent who uses her time now to educate the hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Never forget, a

phrase we use at Yom HaShoah, is her lived experience. Corean was 15 when she marched. I was astonished. What was I doing at 15? No, what am I doing today to ensure the rights that others fought for with their bodies and their lives still exist when my girls grow up? I asked Corean what made her decide to march. Her response was another surprise. She said it was exciting and new; they didn’t know how dangerous it was at the time. We only know now from turning our eyes back at history.

Lynda was 14 when she marched from Selma to Montgomery. She kneeled and prayed at the Edmund Pettus Bridge just before Alabama state troopers attacked the marchers. She always thought she had fallen and passed out. It wasn’t until 2020, when she was interviewed on BET’s ‘Boiling Point’, that she saw old footage of Alabama State Troopers kicking and hitting her. For 55 years, when Lynda spoke about her experience, she never knew what actually happened.

And while these women lived to speak about their experiences, Frederick Shannon did not. I only know this because I saw

his name at the EJI National Memorial for Peace and Justice. Fred “Kid” Shannon was lynched in 1924 at the age of 28 in Wayland, KY. He was a coal worker accused of killing a white man. While in jail, a mob broke in and lynched him. The break-in was so silent, and the night was so dark, according to newspapers, that no one could be identified.

My maiden name is Shannon, and my family hails from many cities in Kentucky. The significance isn’t lost on me.

At the end of our trip, with our eyes turned back in time, we only had one unanswered question: what do we do with this knowledge when we return home to Jacksonville? For me, that answer lies in my two little girls who need to know who and where they come from - so they can go on to do great things, pushing us all, ever forward.

Pictures, from top to bottom: Kelsi Hasden with the mission guide, Scott Fried; Haley Trager & Faye Hedrick speaking with Reverend Calvin Woods; Jennifer Plotkin, Christy Rosen, Nancy Davis, and Teresa Rand in front of the Ebenezer Baptist Church; Jennifer Plotkin and Erica Jolles at the Equal Justice Initiative’s National Memorial for Peace and Justice; the mission group with Lynda Blackmon-Lowery; Goldie Lansky and Helen Hill getting ready to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge

“LIVE”: from Hadera-Eiron

By Jill Metlin Israel & Overseas Coordinator

I am writing this from our partnership-region of Hadera-Eiron, Israel.

What was once a place on a map for me between Haifa and Tel Aviv has become a new home - a family of Israelis, and my US Southeast Federation Consortium colleagues.

This trip is the annual meeting of the Partnership2gether (P2G) Steering Committee. Each year, the annual meeting takes place either stateside or abroad.

P2G falls under our Israel & Overseas umbrella, and is similar to a ‘sister city’ program. For Northeast Florida, it’s a region re-

ferred to as Hadera-Eiron

This region consists of the cities of Hadera and Pardes-Hanna Karkur and two municipalities - Menashe and Alona. The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida ‘shares’ this region with several other Federations in what is referred to as the Southeast Consortium. This consortium is made up of Federations from the following cities and areas: Charlotte, Charleston, Chattanooga, the Florida Gulf Coast, Greensboro, Lee & Pinellas Counties, Nashville, Richmond, and Prague in the Czech Republic.

Together with our Israeli lay leaders and professional staff, we plan and implement programs that benefit many groups - including teen summer

exchanges, professional and affinity exchanges, English lessons, leadership education, and program funding. This year, Israel’s 75th, marks 20 years of partnership. The strength and depth of the relationship has blossomed over time, creating lifelong friendships and trips back and forth. I knew that P2G was an important program but I didn’t realized the number of people who were touched by it until this trip. At a celebration event, I looked onto a sea of people who have participated in one or more P2G programs and exchanges over the years. There were also P2G photos surrounding the perimeter of the room. There were many faces from Jacksonville.

Most Federations have a partnership with areas of Israel. You can imagine the

impact this is having on a national scale - people forging ‘forever connections’ with our Israeli brothers and sisters.

As involved as I have been over the years as a volunteer in two different Federations, and now on staff, I didn’t realize the power and strength of the P2G program. Someone at the meeting called P2G “the best kept secret.” Well, let’s not keep it a secret anymore. Let’s shout it from the rooftops so all participate.

If you are planning a trip to Israel now or in the future, let us connect you with our partnership region. Our Israeli brothers and sisters will welcome you with open arms and you, too, will feel right at home. There is no substitute for being there in person - I hope you can make it!

NATIONAL YOUNG LEADERSHIP

By Sophie Rothstein National Young Leadership Cabinet Member

World War II and the Holocaust has been on my mind a lot lately. It was a heartbreaking time, and out of that heartbreak came an incredible streak of inspiration for our people. We survived. We thrive. My recent Cabinet Study-Mission underscored how close we are to that time and how close we remain to the dichotomy of oppression, intolerance, tenacity, and the strength of the human spirit.

Ahead of the trip, I excitedly told my coworker my upcoming travel plans and she shared that her grandparents worked with the Dutch Resistance. Her ancestors put their lives on the line for those victimized by the Nazis. Their bravery and strength in the most difficult of circumstances saved lives.

In Budapest, our final stop

on the trip, we visited the Jewish Community Center (JCC), where Director Marcell Kenesei shared the groundbreaking work that the JCC is doing with the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary, reintroducing Hungarian Jews to their religion (many only recently found out about their Jewish heritage, a long-standing effect from the Holocaust), and welcoming Ukrainian refugees with open arms. The JCC’s acceptance and fortitude in meeting and engaging with the Hungarian community strengthens not only the Jewish population in Hungary, but the connection with the Hungarian community as a whole.

Outside Budapest, Camp Szarvas provides a tenday respite for Ukrainian families that continue to live in a warzone. This endeavor is supported with Federation’s help. In Ukraine, playgrounds have been closed for over a year and these families have not heard birds in the same amount of time. At

Camp Szarvas, they enjoy a break - their children can play outside and with each other. They hear birds sing again.

Back home, while basking in the motivational glow of a transformative trip and reading a wonderful book recommendation from another Cabinet classmate (where the Holocaust is its own character, of sorts - Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin), I logged in to a national Zoom-orientation for a separate, secular volunteer opportunity. On this random Tuesday afternoon - I was on an unrelated, optional, voluntary, virtual call with participants all over the United States. From our tiny little virtual boxes, a Cabinet classmate from New Hampshire recognized me in my tiny little virtual box. We talked about and connected over the heartbreaking and incredibly inspiring stories we might encounter on this new volunteer adventure.

This Cabinet Study-Mission has given me so much more than a wonderful trip with friends. Because of this trip, I learned about the heroic genealogy of a coworker, I witnessed the impact of a welcoming community center, I saw first-hand the difference that our support makes overseas, and I found inspiration in peers that not only care about the impact they make on the world - but they activate it.

Our community is made up of tenacious, brave survivors, and I’m so lucky to be in our midst.

CABINET STUDY-MISSION ABROAD

By Sarah Schwartz National Young Leadership Cabinet Member

From the time I was young, I always learned about Judaism and what it meant to be Jewish. I always learned of and was reminded about the horrors of the Holocaust and to never forget what happened. When going on the most recent Cabinet Study-Mission trip to Latvia, Estonia, and Hungary, we were able to see with our own eyes how these communities that were once torn apart have been coming back together and are thriving because of our philanthropic efforts. The trip was meaningful, to say the least, and to be able to spend it with close friends - and a new-found cousin - made it even more impactful and memorable.

Prior to the trip, I didn’t really know what to expect as this was my first mission trip with Cabinet. I was excited to see all of my classmates, to see different parts of the world, and

was ready to make some memories!

During our trip, we toured ORT Schools, the JCC in Budapest, Aviv Spring Camp, Jewish Agencies, and more.

One of the most impactful moments during our trip was in Riga, Latvia. We took a trip to Rumbula Forest, where on November 30 and December 8, 1941, more than 25,000 Jews were murdered. Before entering the grounds, we all said prayers and paid our respects. We walked the same grounds where they once walked but unlike those before us, we were able to leave.

Budapest, which was my favorite city of them all, is so beautiful and filled with history. We toured the Dohany Street Synagogue, which is the largest synagogue in Europe - seating almost 3,000. We ate dinner in a 150-year-old basement at an amazing restaurant, Deryne, and

went on a river cruise where we got to see the beautiful architecture throughout the city. Budapest had multiple Holocaust memorials to see, including the Shoes on the Danube Bank - where we all left roses, the Holocaust Memorial Center, Memorial Tree behind the Dohany Street Synagogue, the Carl Lutz Memorial, and others that can be found while touring the city. While in Budapest, we also had the honor of meeting a Holocaust survivor who showed us her yellow star that she was forced to wear.

What is normally two hours away from Budapest, Camp Szarvas, took our bus five hours due to traffic. During this extremely long road trip, the second-year class was able to bond in a way that no one expected - including hours of carpool karaoke, eating sweets, sharing laughter and song. Upon our arrival at Camp Szarvas, we met with Ukranian families from the

war and were able to have candid conversations with them about what their lives are currently like, their fears, and how we can help. Camp Szarvas is typically the largest Jewish summer camp. However, this off-season, because of a very generous donation from a Cabinet member in another state, they were able to winterize it and have the support they need to help the families from Ukraine.

With our help and support through Federation, we are able to support the Jewish Federations of North America, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Joint Distribution Committee, and World ORT, and help make an impact in these communities and on others throughout the world!

DONOR

OTHER ASSETS

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ADDED BENEFIT: DONOR RECEIVES A TAX DEDUCTION

OPPORTUNITY FOR MONEY TO GROW

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Customize your DAF by naming the fund, tailoring a gifting schedule, & involving family or friends as advisors or successors.

GROW

Have your contributions professionally invested with SEI according to your risk tolerance with the potential for growth.

GRANT

Make grants to any 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is meaningful to you and establish a lasting legacy according to your wishes.

UNLOCK greater giving WITH A DONOR-ADVISED FUND

By Kellie Smith, CAP® Director, Foundation

How does a donor-advised fund work?

A donor-advised fund, or DAF, is a charitable investment account where you can deposit cash, securities, and other assets. These accounts come with a multitude of advantages and allow donors to grow the amount of money they have to give away by investing their contributions, while simultaneously receiving immediate tax benefits from them.

Giving through a donor-advised fund rather than contributing directly to charity has become more popular than ever, with the number of individual DAF accounts reaching 1 million in 2020 according to the National Philanthropic Trust. One presumable reason for the recent rise in DAFs is the 2017 federal income tax law change which substantially increased the standard deduction. With this change, the donor-advised fund makes even more sense. Typically, taking the standard deduction when itemizing deductions (including charitable donations) would amount to less; however, with a donor-advised fund, you have the tax advantage of being able to “bundle” multiple years’ worth of donations in one year and then choose to allocate those funds over multiple years.

What are the other benefits to giving through a donor-advised fund?

Simplifying your record-keeping: One of the most obvious perks of a DAF account is the ability to organize and streamline your giving through one source and consolidate all your donation records into one tax receipt at the end

of the year.

Increasing your generosity: A DAF maximizes your giving power by utilizing a tax-free, long-term investment strategy. Like any investment, the money has the potential to grow while in the fund.

Reducing your capital gains and estate taxes: By using a donor-advised fund, you’ll avoid paying capital gains tax on the assets you allocate toward it, which may increase the amount available for charity by up to 20 percent. Plus, your deductions could increase; if you bought an asset for less than it’s worth today, you can deduct its current market value instead of the original price. Designating successors to perpetuate your legacy: You can name your children, grandchildren, or others as successor advisors to your fund. Successor advisors have the privilege of managing your fund after your death and continue the mitzvah of giving!

How do I get started?

Donor-advised funds are a flexible, efficient, donor-centric form of philanthropy and this opportunity isn’t just reserved for the wealthy. You can open a donor-advised fund with the Jewish Foundation at

any time. Most importantly, by creating your DAF with the Jewish Foundation you are supporting the growth of our Jewish community through the small, shared fees that we derive from the management of your fund. Your partnership enables us to provide philanthropic education programs to help inform current donors about critical issues within the community and develop the next generation of givers. Opening a fund and creating a legacy within the Jewish Foundation helps to preserve a thriving Jewish Life in Northeast Florida for generations to come.

Contact Kellie Smith, Foundation Director and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy, at KellieK@ jewishjacksonville.org or 904-512-3796 to open a donor-advised fund and unlock greater giving today!

This article is only intended to be a general overview of some donation considerations and is not intended to provide tax or legal guidance. In addition, all gifts to donor-advised funds are irrevocable. Please consult with your tax or legal advisor.

I N F A N T S T H R O U G H

E I G H T H G R A D E

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

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

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

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

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

b r a i n d e v e l o p m e n t .

Our students:

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

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

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

a l g e b r a , g e o m e t r y , b i o l o g y a n d

f o r e i g n l a n g u a g e .

a t t e n d a c c e l e r a t e d h i g h s c h o o l

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

A TRIP OF A LIFETIME: Martin J. Gottlieb Day School 8th Grade Inaugural Trip to Israel

By Liat Walker Martin J. Gottlieb Day School & Laurie Preschool

During Purim, 8th grade students at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School embarked on a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to travel to Israel with the students and faculty of Tucson Hebrew Academy and Tampa Bay Hillel Academy. This capstone experiential learning adventure is one of the many programs that have been created, or strengthened, under the new leadership of Karin Hallet, Head of School.

Chaperoned by Liat Walker, the Director of Jewish Education, and Chai Gross, a Jewish Studies educator, the students had the opportunity to foster bonds with other 8th grade day school students. This trip brought to life everything they have learned about Israel and Jewish history throughout their day

school education. Student Joey Morgenthal expressed, “Throughout my whole life, I learned about places and people in Israel. After nine years at this school learning about Israel, it was amazing to be at those places and learn more about the things I was taught my whole life.”

Beyond bringing Jewish history and Torah to life through trips to Jerusalem, Tzfat, Tel Aviv, and the Dead Sea, students also gained an appreciation for the topography and natural beauty of the country. Student Brennan Zaner articulated that his “favorite part of the trip was the Jilabun hike. Located in the Golan Heights in the north, it is Israel’s second-largest waterfall.” A highlight for him was jumping in the waterfall with his friends, both old and new. He explained, “I have been on many hikes in my life, but this partic-

ular hike will remain with me for a lifetime because the view was amazing and all the wildlife was delightful.”

One truly special aspect of the trip was celebrating Purim in Eretz Yisrael, and it was the highlight of the trip for students Hank Shapiro and Ariadna Castano. Hank noted the excitement of shopping in Shuk Hacarmel, “There were a lot of nice things to buy, and people seemed really ecstatic especially because it was Purim.” Ariadna shared that in addition to hearing Megillat Esther and having a costume party at the hotel, they also made “Mishloach Manot for lone soldiers and Israelis in need.” An integral part of the middle school experience at the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School is the Mitzvah Program, established by Vice Principal Emeritus, Edith Horovitz. Participating in

mitzvot in Israel allowed them to connect with the Israeli people and truly understand that tikkun olam is not just a schoolbased activity but one they will carry with them throughout their lives and wherever they go.

When asked about the impact of this trip on himself and his peers, Joey Morgenthal explained, “On this trip, I made friendships for a lifetime. We laughed, sang, cried, and learned together. At the beginning of this trip, we were strangers, and at the end we were family.” This authentic, enriching experience has left a profound, positive, and lasting impression on all of the 8th grade students, and we cannot wait to take the next group of 8th graders on this enriching capstone trip to learn, make memories, and forge enduring bonds with other Jewish teens.

B’hatzlacha!

lifetime.”

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance

Our Jacksonville JCA Maccabi Games Team is Fort Lauderdale-bound this summer and our athletes are ready for competition! With just weeks until the trip to South Florida, we have some kvelling to do about the 15 Jewish athletes headed to the 2023 JCC Maccabi Games® hosted by the David Posnack JCC.

Join us in congratulating these local athletes for representing our JCA and the City of Jacksonville at the largest annual gathering of Jewish teens in the world:

Talia Algee, Taylor Finklehoffe, Micah Hirsch, DJ Kempner, Eli Kuvin, Juliet Leonard, Ben Levinson, Joey Morgenthal, Gabe Morris, Noah Niehaus, Chase Rathet, Zev Shapiro, Zach Trest, Avner Tzbari, and Brennan Zaner!

Our Jacksonville JCA Team will compete in three

sports led by our Sports & Recreation Director, Coach Rio Robinson, and longtime JCA Coaches, Andrew Jaffa and Benjay Kempner. Noah, Ben, Avner, Micah, Zach, Brennan, and Zev will compete on the 16U Flag Football team at the games. Eli, Taylor, Talia, and Juliet will be in the pool, swimming in a variety of individual and team races. Gabe, DJ, Joey, and Chase will team up on the court, playing on our JCA’s 3-v-3 basketball team.

“I am stoked for these teens to attend their first set of Maccabi Games this summer. Words cannot accurately paint the picture of what they will experience,” explains Coach Rio. “The athletes get so hyper-focused about the sports competition; they do not fully embrace what the games are until they are immersed in the energy and camaraderie of being in Fort Lauderdale. It is an eye-opening experience. This event brings so many Jewish teens into one venue and they all make memories that will last a

The Maccabi Games® take place at the Fort Lauderdale JCC, August 6-11, with more than 2,000 athletes competing from more than 70 Jewish Community Centers from around the world. This summer, teens will travel from Canada, Israel, Argentina, Great Britain, Mexico, South Africa, and Ukraine to compete at the games. The 2023 JCC Maccabi experience includes Olympic-style opening and closing ceremonies, medal ceremonies, and a community service day of caring. Aimed to bring our young Jewish community together, the Maccabi experience promises our athletes a week of inspiration, friendship, and celebration.

The Jewish community in Northeast Florida can support our athletes traveling to Fort Lauderdale this summer with a donation to the JCA’s Send a Kid campaign. Make a pledge to support our Maccabi team today; visit bit. ly/JCASendAKid to learn more details about our efforts to help local families afford summer experiences at the JCA.

GOOD LUCK JACKSONVILLE JCA!

St. Johns County Student Wins Gold Medal at International Competition

By Devorah Hamford Chabad of St. Johns County

Three students from St. Johns County have been awarded medals at the International JewQ Competition, which took place in Stamford, CT. Fourth grader, Samantha Rossi, and fifth graders, DJ Becker and Luca Rossi, were the three winners proudly representing Jacksonville. They showcased an impressive mastery of Jewish knowledge.

around the world, Samantha shined as she took home Gold.

Samantha’s success is a testament to the high-quality education that the Grow after-school program provides to its students. GROW focuses on Jewish studies, Hebrew reading, and Jewish culture, and has helped Samantha develop a deep understanding of her heritage.

Expressing his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to participate

after-school program, praised her students’ achievements.

“We are extremely proud of Samantha, DJ, and Luca and their outstanding performance at JewQ,” Sharfstein said. “Their dedication and hard work have paid off, and they are a shining example of what our students can achieve.”

Chabad of St. Johns’ GROW after-school program is where kids dive deep into their Jewishness, get creative and

locations - St. Johns and Nocatee, Ponte Vedra.

After excelling in the regional rounds at the GROW after-school program at Chabad of St. Johns, Samantha, DJ, and Luca advanced to the international level. Giving it their all as they competed against other students from around the world, they were finally announced as the recipients of their respective medals. In a knowledge competition with minds from

in the competition, DJ couldn’t have been happier.

“I am so happy to have won a medal at JewQ,” DJ said.

“It was a great experience, and I learned so much. I want to thank my parents and Morah Dini at GROW for believing in me and helping me along the way.”

Mrs. Dini Sharfstein, Director of the GROW

discover their Jewish pride. GROW is about how much kids love their Jewish holidays and learn about their strong heritage using STEM skills, art mediums, and Kosher cooking. GROW is where kids enthusiastically fly through the motivational Aleph Champ Hebrew reading program. GROW is where kids are proud and love being Jewish. GROW is conveniently located in

Nancy Davis joins River Garden as Director of Jewish Life

By Kari Bell River Garden Senior Services

River Garden Senior Services is excited to announce that Nancy Davis has joined our team as Director of Jewish Life. In this role, Nancy will enhance Jewish culture throughout our campus, including education, community outreach, and the coordination of programming at both River

Garden and The Coves. When asked what inspires her about her new position, Nancy said, “Being Jewish, and having Jewish experiences, has brought so much meaning to me and my family, so I am thrilled to be in a place where I can facilitate Jewish joy and learning for others.”

Nancy is a Jacksonville native and makes her home in Mandarin. She

and her husband, Rich, are proud parents to Benjamin, a college sophomore, and Lily, a rising high school senior.

If you would like to suggest a Jewish program idea for River Garden, please reach out to Nancy Davis at ndavis@rivergarden.org

C ELEBRATING 140 YEARS OF Congregation Ahavath Chesed

By Rabbi Maya Glasser

Congregation Ahavath

Chesed (The Temple)

Congregation Ahavath

Chesed (The Temple) is celebrating! For 140 years, the Temple has been at the center of Jewish life for Reform Jews in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida. It has seen a lot of change over the years and has a rich history with major milestones. The first Temple president, Morris A. Dzialynski, was Jacksonville’s only Jewish mayor (1881-1883.) The original Temple at Laura and Union streets was dedicated in 1882, destroyed in the Great Fire of 1901, and was the first house of worship in the city to be rebuilt. Temple Rabbi Sidney Lefkowitz made history as a young Army chaplain in 1944 when he held the first Jewish service on German soil following the years of Nazi persecution.

Today, Temple’s location on San Jose Boulevard draws individuals and families from all of Northeast Florida, offering worship, Temple Institute of Religion, lifelong learning,

JAFTY and other youth groups, Boy Scout troop 12, Sisterhood and Brotherhood, and a host of activities, programs, and events that engage the several hundred member families and many others. Temple continues as a beacon of interfaith understanding in our community, a tradition that started with the community’s annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service in 1917 and continues today.

Most importantly, Temple continues to welcome Jews who are searching for a sweeter Shabbat, a closer connection to God, a deeper understanding of our responsibility to repair the world, a warmer embrace when we are hurt or grieving, and a window into the future when we see our youth claim their place in our 5,000 year chain of history.

Temple is led by Rabbi Maya Glasser, who represents a new generation of leaders that are re-energizing their communities to embrace the joys of Reform Judaism.

“While the world has changed greatly during the last 140 years, the idea of being a community that lives up to our name, loving kindness, justice, and mercy, has not,” noted

Rabbi Glasser, referring to the translation of Temple’s name: Ahavath Chesed.

“With this celebration, we keep dreaming about what can be. With this celebration, we express our gratitude for this holy congregation and one another, and renew our dedication to our Mission: To foster purpose and belonging within an inclusive community for those who want to experience the profound joys of Reform Judaism; and our Vision: To deepen our connections with ourselves, one another, and God as part of our quest for Tikkun Olam- repairing the world.

Temple President Miriam Greenhut believes the 140th Anniversary, which was being celebrated with a gala on May 20th, provides a perfect moment to consider the long arc of Temple’s place in our lives.

“Our 140th Anniversary is an opportunity not only to honor our past, but also to celebrate who we are today, and who we dream of being in the future,” she noted. “Our past reminds us that in every generation we have embraced an ever changing world with dedication, love, and compassion. We celebrate this milestone in gratitude for these prior genera-

tions, to rededicate ourselves to living up to their example. We will evolve and we will grow from strength to strength.”

A MUSIC EVENT AT THE TEMPLE WHEN IT WAS LOCATED ON MALLORY STREET & ST. JOHNS AVENUE IN AVONDALE (1950-1979)

JAFTY, TEMPLE’S YOUTH GROUP, PARTICIPATES IN A PRIDE PARADE

RABBI MAYA GLASSER WITH SOME YOUNG LEARNERS

RABBI MAYA GLASSER (CENTER), CANTOR CARRIE BARRIE (RIGHT), AND DAVE FLAGLER (LEFT)

Beth El hosts 3rd Generation Holocaust Survivor on Yom HaShoah

By Ilyse Greene Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

On Erev Yom HaShoah, Daniel Ostfeld shared the moving and heroic story of his grandfather, Hillo Ostfeld, with his Beth El family and friends. Hillo Ostfeld was born in 1926, in what was then Romania and is now a part of Ukraine. In 1941, he endured horrific passage by cattle-car to Transnistriawhere life was “a hell of torment and suffering”, and where tens of thousands were murdered. In 1942, Hillo was moved to another forced labor camp where “there was no reason to hold on longer to life in such a state of horror, deprivation, and

abandonment.” But he did hold on, and in 1944 he returned to his hometown and was faced with the question of how to resume his life. Hillo married another survivor in 1948, and lived for a while in Israel before moving to Caracas, Venezuela. He had three children and met eight great-grandchildren before his death in 2018 at 92 years old. Daniel ended his story with the assertion that his grandfather always said that “Russians saved his life, Israel gave him back his dignity, and Venezuela gave him back faith in the human race.”

After sharing his grandfather’s story, Matthew Levenson conducted a Q&A with Daniel and members of the captivated audience.

The importance of Yom HaShoah lies not only in its commemoration of the past, but also in its relevance to the present and future. As the number of survivors dwindle, it becomes increasingly important to remember stories like Hillo’s and to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten.

Daniel ended his talk with this observation, “You know, what is the opposite of good? It’s not bad, it is the indifference, apathy, and blindness the world had during this horrifying

time.” At a time when antisemitism and other forms of bigotry are on the rise around the world, the message of Yom HaShoah is more important than ever. By remembering the victims of the Holocaust and committing ourselves to creating a more just and inclusive world, we honor their memory and help ensure that such atrocities are never allowed to happen again.

This Summer is a Great Time to Consider Volunteering at River Garden: An interview with Esther Yegelwel Raffol, Volunteer Coordinator

By Kari Bell River Garden Senior Services

Although River Garden has been a part of your life since childhood, has anything surprised you since you started?

E: Yes! I did not know volunteers truly founded River Garden! Volunteers were the boots on the ground for two decades. What a legendary accomplishment and I love that each new volunteer becomes part of our founders’ legacy of service!

What is something that may surprise our community members? Perhaps, the acronym RGT?

E: Thank you for bringing this up because it appears to be one of our community’s hidden gems! RGT stands for River Garden Teens. It’s our summer volunteer program and it’s one of the most unique teen programs in Jacksonville. Teens ages 13-17 can participate. The program lasts about 6 weeks - between June 12th to July 20thand each student can arrange a personalized schedule. It is a wonderful way to build friendships and to engage in a variety of activities. There are still a couple of spaces available for this summer - I am just a phone call or email away.

I was recently asked if someone needed to be a “people person” to volunteer here - do they?

E: A potential volunteer’s desire to support River Garden and our residents is way more relevant than any skill set. Our friendly visitors, activity escorts, and furry friends may be more visible to some guests but we have amazing men and women creating new resident packets for admissions, sorting resident USPS mail, performing data entry, utilizing organizational skills, stuffing envelopes, repairing a resident’s seam or button, and more. We support whatever supports the mission. Is there a meaningful way to participate with a limited time or irregular schedule?

E: There are three key blocks of time for volunteer participation each day - morning (9:30-12), afternoon (1-3), and early evening (4-7), with countless ways to arrange that time. There are volunteers that donate an hour of their time and others who serve several days each week. Some people assist in monthly events or offer to be on a “backup” list and will help when available. I really enjoy identifying and coordinating opportunities that make sense for each person.

How is someone accepted into the program?

E: In order to ensure the protection and safety of our residents and organization, there are a few simple steps to become a volunteer at River Garden: visit for a tour, complete paperwork, and attend volunteer orientation. What if you are not sure when you can start?

E: I recommend anyone interested in the program to fill out the paperwork and attend the short orientation now. This process establishes your volunteer status with zero obligation of volunteering afterward. However, it allows you to jump in when you are ready or be eligible to participate in a one-off event or activity of your interest whenever they arise.

Is being Jewish a requirement for volunteering at River Garden?

E: Absolutely not. Just like our resident population, our volunteer program is not exclusively Jewish and applicants of all faiths are most welcome.

Is there anything else you want to share? E: River Garden now has a volunteer app that enables volunteers to see opportunities and modify their schedules. I’m excited to show everyone how it works!

Introducing Rabbi Ashley Englander, Director of Lifelong Engagement

will also be available to perform life-cycle events, collaborate on worship, and provide pastoral care - giving the Temple additional capacity to serve congregants.

develop a deep relationship with Judaism and the community at large.”

By Rabbi Maya Glasser

Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple)

Congregation Ahavath

Chesed (The Temple) is delighted to announce that Rabbi Ashley Englander is joining the Temple leadership in the new position of Director of Lifelong Engagement. A lifelong Floridian, Rabbi Englander was just ordained through the Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati. She and her family are moving from their home on the west coast of Florida so that she can begin her position in Jacksonville on July 1. She will work directly with Temple Senior Rabbi Maya Glasser.

As Director of Lifelong Engagement, Rabbi Englander will serve as the leader of the Temple Institute of Religion (TIR), as well as focus on youth engagement, adult education, and opportunities to interact with the unaffiliated Jewish community. She

Rabbi Englander is from the Tampa area, where she currently lives with her husband and young son. During her rabbinic training, she served in the Reform congregation in St. Petersburg, among other pulpits and internships, and she has experience at Camp Coleman as well. During her Zoom and on-site interviews, she met extensively with the Search Committee, as well as the Board of Trustees and with established Temple groups such as Parent-and Me, Youth Group, Wisdom learners, etc. Throughout the process, Rabbi Englander was very enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve the Temple’s congregation. “Reform Judaism allows the Jewish people to engage with their religion, tradition, and history through a progressive lens,” Rabbi Englander noted. “I am passionate about responsibly facilitating the space for people to learn more about Judaism while growing their own personal Jewish identity. It is my hope to continue to facilitate these spaces of meaningful learning, while the congregants I serve have the opportunity to

Rabbi Englander was recommended to the full board by its Search Committee, co-chaired by Wiatt Bowers and Edie Porter. An excerpt from the Search Committee’s report included this: “Rabbi Englander was selected…. because of her background and interest in working with young people, a primary role of this position. She also exhibited enthusiasm and authenticity that impressed the search committee. The committee cited her ability to connect with children as an important factor, but noted that her skills would also allow her to connect with members of all ages. She stated that music is an important part of her Rabbinical process -she is a capable singer and plays the guitar. Committee members, representing various demographics, were particularly impressed with a D’var Torah conversation she led …..”

Rabbi Glasser was very involved in the search process and is looking forward to Rabbi Englander’s arrival. “I am thrilled that Rabbi Englander will be joining us at Temple to complete our professional team. I am inspired by her energy and passion, and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her through watching her

interviews and engaging in meaningful conversation with her. I am looking forward to seeing her engage with our Youth and our congregation as a whole. Rabbi Englander has much to teach and to contribute, and I can’t wait to be colleagues beginning this summer!”

Rabbi Englander is eagerly anticipating getting to know everything about her new community. “When my husband and I first visited Jacksonville, we were smitten by the city’s beauty, culture, and friendly people,” she remembers. “We are looking forward to relaxing on the beach, seeing a Jaguars game, and enjoying the different food venues the city has to offer. “And of course, we are so excited to join the Jewish community where our whole family has the opportunity to make meaningful relationships and find sacred moments that nourish our souls.”

Temple’s hardworking Search Committee included: Wiatt Bowers and Edie Porter, Co-Chairs; Lori Eisenberg Castro; Brett Gratz; Liana Hood; Kenneth Horn; Deb Kuhr; Ed Mallow; Ruth Nachman; Rachel Sandler; and Kendall Sisisky Valliere.

HIGHLIGHTING TORAH ACADEMY’S HIGH SCHOOL

By Breindy Lazor Torah Academy High School

The end of the school year means an opportunity to reflect on the entire year’s achievements. It is with great pride that I look back on my second year at Torah Academy’s High School and can point to amazing things that our students have accomplished. Our bulletin board is filled with pictures and fliers showcasing the extra-curricular fun, events, and community services that occurred: baked goods and Chinese

food sales; girls’ pajama party & movie night; Shabbatons to Rochester, NY, and St. Louis, MO; 10th of Teves and Taanis Esther programming; and of course, our year-long Jewish history project: a Holocaust documentary film with the “Names, Not Numbers” program that we were privileged to participate in for the second year in a row.

However, those were the events that happened outside of our classroom. Inside the walls of Torah Academy High School, days were filled with

rigorous learning in both Judaics and General Studies classes. Our Kodesh department consists of a multitude of Torah courses including Dinim of Shabbos, textbased Chumash learning, interactive Navi, project-based Hashkafa classes, not to mention Jewish History, Tehilim, and Biur Tefilah courses. Our secular studies department, comprised of former and current college lecturers, encompassed courses in World History, Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Engineering, and ELA. The best part of our high school having a small number of students is our ability to enrich our more advanced students with more challenging courses that are one to two years above grade level, while ensuring that remediation is available for students needing more support, whether in Kriah or math.

Of course, extracurricular opportunities and fun are so important for our young ladies and so we continued with student-guided electives like art, yoga, and baking - run by community volunteers. This year, we also launched our high school student government organization, G.O., headed by 9th graders Noa Rosenbaum, Simma Rabinowitz, and Eva Smith. The G.O. heads poured their enthusiasm and creativity into every

initiative created, fostering an atmosphere of excitement in the rest of the school which participated in the fun! Some of their accomplishments this year included writing and teaching students in younger grades a schoolwide spirit song and dance, planning Rosh Chodesh and yom tov events and activities, running yummy food sales, brainstorming and executing trip ideas, and creating a Chessed initiative - all with the help of Tammy Fisch. From Adopt a Bubby, to volunteering at River Garden, to V is for Victory, to making food at kiddush for Etz Chaim and the Kollel, our girls found so much fulfillment in giving their time and energy to help others in the Jacksonville community.

We look forward to our high school continuing to grow while adhering to our values and mission: offering strong academic programs in Judaic and General Studies which prepare our students to be successful, Jewish professionals and givers; student government activities and initiatives to foster leadership skills; and extra-curricular opportunities, all of which come together to create a warm, supportive and student-centered Torah environment for the next generation of Jewish leaders.

NO CHILD OR FAMILY SHOULD GO HUNGRY IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Stephanie Majeskey

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services

Hunger hurts! Unfortunately, many children and families in our community go without consistent access to affordable, nutritious food. For 35 years, The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) has been working to alleviate hunger for food-insecure families. The Max Block Food Pantry, our main food pantry, serves over 135,000 meals each year.

We have taken an active stand to combat hunger by increasing our food supply at the Max Block Food Pantry, and in 2020, we established Satellite Pantries at George Washington Carver Elementary and Inspire to Rise Community Center. A short time later, Beauclerc Elementary reached out to us. Teachers had been voluntarily stocking a food closet with take-home snacks in an effort to feed 40 students each week. Demand far exceeded their capabilities and when that number reached 60, JFCS stepped in and quickly set up a pantry on-site. Soon after, Andrew Jackson High School requested that JFCS open

a satellite food pantry on its campus. Since 53% of their students utilize the free and reduced lunch program, school may have been the only place these children were guaranteed to eat. Thanks to our satellite pantries, students and families can now bring meals home.

It is crucial that food is not only accessible but nourishing as well. JFCS ensures that all pantries

are stocked with nutritious, non-perishable, high-protein meals. Bags given to clients also include educational inserts on healthy, low-cost recipes, smart grocery shopping, and the impact of nutrition on academics to help families live healthier.

The rising cost of living has made it difficult for many to afford necessities such as food, rent/mortgage, and medical care.

Many – for the first time ever – have had to rely on our food pantry to meet their grocery needs.

Thankfully, we are able to provide a lifeline to struggling families. Through July 31, The Block Family will generously match all gifts made to the Max Block Food Pantry, doubling your impact.

To make a donation, visit www.JFCSJax.org/donate

If we work together, we can make a difference in the thousands of lives JFCS serves every year.

JFCS is a beneficiary of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. Their funding helps support several of the programs and opportunities we provide for the Jewish community.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue Co-Presidents Make Their Mark for the Future of Our Congregation

By Joy Shultz Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

In 2006, Karen Freedman, and in 2008, Tammy Shumer, and their families joined Beth El the Beaches Synagogue. Little did we know that they would make such a mark on our congregation’s future as they have since July 2021 thru June 2023 as Co-Presidents. They came in with goals that were established to see our Synagogue grow and be the best it could be. Their energy and enthusiasm touched our whole congre-

gation and our Jewish Community building bridges along the way.

Beth El’s history started out in spaces provided by churches, garden centers and auditoriums in 1990. The congregation changed names as we became more rooted in the Beaches area from our initial Beaches Hebrew Association to our current name, Beth El the Beaches Synagogue. The generosity of many made it possible to obtain the mortgage to build our beautiful home in Ponte Vedra Beach that was dedicated in 2004.

Eventually, we converted our Conservative congregation to a Reform congregation.

In 2021, Karen and Tammy took a leap of faith and became co-Presidents. Their vision and goals of growth, kindness amongst our congregation, technological advances that have helped us enormously and the fulfillment of Rabbi Michael Matuson’s Legacy Fund which started in 2020 to pay off our mortgage was achieved. Now free of mortgage payments, with updated technology, unprecedented growth,

happy, kind, and active people enjoying programs bubbling from our walls and other accomplishments such as: our biggest enrollment ever in our Sunday school and Bar/ Bat Mitzvah programs and a new Rabbi, Benjamin Dyme; Tammy and Karen will hand the baton over at the end of this June. As Past Presidents they will continue to set the examples we need and advise our new Board. We are not letting them go but giving them a huge THANK YOU for all they have done.

Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida

MAJOR GIFTS BRIEFING

The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida hosted its Major Donors for a special briefing from the Chair of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), Julie Platt. She shared with the group an update on aid to Ukraine through our partners, the Joint Distribution Committee and the Jewish Agency for Israel. Julie also shared the importance of security for the Jewish community as our local community launched a Community Security Initiative with the hire of a full-time security director. In addition, she spoke on the advocacy work being done in Israel and in Washington D.C. For more information on Major Gifts, contact Lauren Rickoff, Director, Campaign, at laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org. ||

and Richard Sisisky || 2. Andrea Mail, Julie Platt, and Jeanine

1.

WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY LEAD

The Women’s Philanthropy LEAD Program finalized the inaugural class with meaningful, fun, and interesting sessions. They included one on telling your Jewish story; a luncheon with Jewish Federations of North America Chair, Julie Platt; a teambuilding activity; and a session on where the dollars raised for the Federation are distributed. LEAD culminated with a special luncheon in May, when 16 women were celebrated for completing the program. If you’re interested in joining the next LEAD class, which begins in August 2023, contact Lauren Rickoff, Director, Women’s Philanthropy, at laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org.

Steve Silverman, Gene Wolchok,

Rogozinski || 3. Risa Herman and Sue Eaglstein || 4. Jennifer Plotkin, Allison Jacobs, and Rick Plotkin

1. JFNA Chair, Julie Platt, with LEAD Co-chair, Rachel Morgenthal || 2. LEAD participants during their teambuilding activity, a Go Tuk’n scavenger hunt || 3. LEAD Co-chair, Nicole Brown, with guest speaker, Linda Hurwitz || 4. Guest speaker, Campaign Chair Haley Trager, LEAD participant Robin Wolf, and Hostess Risa Herman

WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CONNECTIONS!

Women’s Philanthropy recently hosted two Connections programs. Women gathered at the beautiful home of Risa Herman to learn the history of mahjong and why Jewish women love to play from Marjie Rogozinski, as well as a short tutorial from Lynn Maiman. Just last month, thirty women met in St. Augustine for a Jewish historical tour. Rabbi Merrill Shapiro provided excellent content on some of the most visible locations in the historical areas, including the Hilton Garden Inn where there was a mass arrest of rabbis supporting the Civil Rights Movement. Connections is a fun and interactive program for women to connect with other women throughout Northeast Florida. For more information, contact Lauren Rickoff at laurenr@ jewishjacksonville.org. || 1. Attendees enjoyed a fun morning learning the history of mahjong, which included a short tutorial of the game. || 2. Jeanine Rogozinski, Lauren Setzer, and Danielle Leder || 3. Eunice Zisser, Lauren Block, and Marcy Sandler || 4. The tour included 30 women from throughout NEFL || 5. Connections Chair, Joan Rosenberg, with guide, Rabbi Merrill Shapiro || 6. Marjie Rogozinski, Sherrie Saag, and Marcy Sandler

NIGHT OF GENEROSITY

The next generation of Jewish philanthropists gathered at the beautiful home of Haley and Jason Trager for Young Professionals & Families’ Annual Night of Generosity event. It was a fun evening with mentalist David Jaison. His show was outstanding, surprising the group with each “trick” he presented. The event co-chairs, Samantha Holtzman and Erin Weintraub, were thrilled with the success of the evening. To find out more about Young Professionals & Families, contact Lauren Rickoff at laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org. ||

1. Night of Generosity Hosts, Haley and Jason Trager || 2. Gabby Ashbrook, YPF Chair Sophie Rothstein, Sarah Bloom, Sarah Schwartz, and Rebecca Rosenberg || 3. Co-chairs Erin Weintraub and Samantha Holtzman with guest speaker, Mentalist David Jaison || 4. Gabrielle and Yahay

Levi enjoying the show

MITZVAH DAY RABBI DYME’S INSTALLATION

Chabad of St. Johns County

BLT - BAGELS, LOX, & TEFILLIN

Sunday morning at BLT is where men & boys ages 13-120 feed their MIND with a Jewish Schmooze, feed their BODY with an awesome bagels & lox breakfast, and feed their SOULS with Tefillin! Tefillin and instructions are always available. No experience necessary. Rabbi@JewishSJohnsCounty.com

CHARCUTERIE AND CHAMPAGNE - JEWISH WOMEN’S CIRCLE

Charcuterie and Champagne is where women made friendships and connections, created beautiful Hamantashen Charcuterie boards in honor of Purim, and explored how women are the Queen Esthers of today ensuring a Jewish future. The Jewish Women’s Circle (JWC) is a place to connect with Jewish women from diverse backgrounds and affiliations in a warm, lighthearted atmosphere. Join us and bring a friend! Learn more at JewishSJohnsCounty.com/JWC

MODEL MATZAH BAKERY

Children got to grind wheat kernels into wheat, make dough, and roll out their very own matzah, while they learned the story of Passover at Chabad of St. Johns Model Matzah Bakery.

GROW AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

Chabad of S. Johns’ GROW After-School Program is where kids dive deep into their Jewishness, get creative, and discover their Jewish pride. GROW is where kids are proud and love being Jewish. GROW is conveniently located in TWO locationsSt. Johns and Nocatee, Ponte Vedra. To find out more visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty/GROW || 1. GROW kids make gorgeous paint pouring Seder Plates for Passover || 2. GROW kids create decorative masks for Purim

PURIM IN THE JUNGLE

1. The St. Johns community hears the Megilllah at Chabad of St. Johns Purim party

2. Children and adults alike enjoy a live monkey show at Chabad of St. Johns

CTEEN INTERNATIONAL SHABBATON

Teens from St. Johns County join 3000+ Jewish teens from around the world for an incredible weekend at the International Cteen Conference in New York. There’s the French teens, the Aussies, the Israelis, the British, all with a common thread uniting them all: Jewish Pride. Contact us to have your teens join our local Cteen events here in St. Johns County.

1. Teens pose at the Times Square Jewish Concert || 2. Teens tour NYC || 3. Chabad of St. Johns local Cteen chapter lights up on the large screens in Times Square

Jewish National Fund

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services

WRAPPING OURSELVES AROUND THE COMMUNITY

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services’ 2023 Annual Event was held March 30 at Venue 841. We were joined by 400 friends and community partners for an evening celebrating the invaluable work JFCS does in the community, hearing poignant and powerful stories of how our services have impacted clients, followed by a surprise announcement by Florida Blue’s Darnell Smith, of the creation of a $25,000 match for the CEO Impact Fund. A sincere thank you to all our sponsors.

1. Collen Rodriguez, JFCS CEO, with the Annual Event Chairs: Nancy Lantinberg, Fran Selevan, and Rebekah Selevan ||

2. Colleen Rodriguez, Darnell Smith, Florida Blue’s Market President for the North Florida Region, and Christen Luikart, JFCS Board President || 3. Client stories presented by actors Zonnetta Marie, Karen Konzen, Holly Gutshall, Antoinette Johnson, and Scott Broughton || 4. Chase Zimmerman, Decorations Chair, and Cecilia Cristol, last year’s Event Chair || 5. Christen Luikart with Colleen Rodriguez || 6. Megan Block, Christine Block, Beverly Block, and Madeline Wiener || 7. Jim and Francine Kempner || 8. Stephen and Jackie Goldman || 9. Richard Sisisky with Mary and Jeff Edwards

Temple Bet Yam

SHABBAT DINNER & SERVICE

March 24

2ND ANNUAL SPIRIT DAY

Second annual Spirit Day at Treaty Park in St. Augustine as Temple members enjoy lunch before activities on April 2

PASSOVER SEDER

The Sisterhood of Temple Bet Yam and the Sisters of Sarah of St. Paul’s Ame Church in St. Augustine join together at Temple Bet Yam to share the Passover Seder on April 11

River Garden

PASSOVER

Look who’s cooking matzo brei for Passover at River Garden! Thank you Bobbie Jo Mentz, Mauri Mizrahi, Lisa Poremba, Cheryl Fisch, and Jim Richman for helping to make our holidays tasty.

YOM HASHOAH

Torah Academy High School girls are encouraged to find meaningful ways to contribute to the greater Jewish community. River Garden was pleased to have this lovely group participate in our special Yom HaShoah program.

YOM HA’ATZMAUT

Sheldon Gendzier and Charles Darabos enjoy “A Taste of Israel” on Yom Ha’Atzmaut. This festive affair has become an annual favorite for River Garden residents, staff, and families.

27TH ANNUAL RIVER GARDEN CLASSIC

1. David Robbins and Mark Lodinger || 2. Michael Price, Lauren Becker, Larry Gendzier, and Steven Warfield || 3. Tournament Chair, Tom Harris, with Ed Grenadier and Paul Healy || 4. Trager foursome: Kevin Potter, Brandon Trager, Christy Sandborn, and Jon Passen || 5. Setzer Family foursome: Allen Morris, Ben Setzer, Clay Kromberg, and Benjay Kempner || 6. DuBow Family Foundation foursome: Michael DuBow, Eric Leach, David Honig, and Jeff Leach ||

7. Title Sponsor, Jody Brandenburg, surrounded by tournament volunteers at the Margarita Stand

RIVER

GARDEN 77TH ANNIVERSARY DAY

In late March, River Garden hosted its 77th Anniversary Day. Nearly 600 guests joined the festivities.

1. Board Member, Michael Lissner, is ready to enjoy some delicious food, thanks to our grill masters and MMI, our Dining Services team || 2. Special thanks to Nathan Goldman for serving as Chair of the Day || 3. During the Annual Meeting, River Garden Hebrew Home President Larry Goldberg was presented with the tenth Gold Seal award from Kim Smoak, Deputy Secretary of Health Quality Assurance at the Agency for Health Care Administration || 4. Leslie Held (center left) receives a service award || 5. Auxiliary members Fran Liebowitz and Rachel Brodsky host the favorite Tombola drawing || 6. Volunteers make the event extra special. Thank you for your help!

Jacksonville Jewish Center 7TH ANNUAL INTERFAITH DINNER & PROGRAM

The Interfaith Center of Northeast Florida and the Jacksonville Jewish Center hosted their 7th annual joint program where Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and interfaith communities joined together for a discussion embracing various religious holidays, rituals, and traditions. This year was the first-ever Kosher-for-Passover Iftar dinner. Thank you to all our volunteers from both organizations! || 1. Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner and community leaders discussing thoughts on the afterlife || 2. Community members sharing food, faith, and friendship || 3. Volunteers working together to prepare the meal ||

4. Garry Andriesse chopping peppers in preparation for the dinner

60TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION

The Jacksonville Jewish Center welcomed more than thirty members of the 1963 B’nai Mitzvah/ Sunday School Class on Saturday, May 6 during Shabbat morning services. They came from Jacksonville & across the country to help lead services as they renewed friendships and celebrated this milestone. A fun time was had by all at their dinner on Saurday evening. Attendees: Linda

Aronovitz Schuster, Susan Axelberg Lazurus, Brian Benwick*, Phil Berdit, Marty Berman, Jack Bettman*, Harvey Eber, Fran Forman Greenes, Saul Freiden, Susan Gendzier Sternstein*, Rick Goldstein, Barbara Goodman Zimmerman, Carol Gross, Alan Harris, Linda Hilsenrad, Jan Lerner Beaudreau, Mark Lodinger, Holly Lodinger Mandelkern*, Rodney Margol, Jeff Marks*, Debbie Morris Simkin, Shelley Newman Linsey, Ivan Peltz, Sandi Reich Fletcher*, Lynelle Resnick Antoff, Arnold (AJ) Rosenberg Michaels, Eliot Safer*, Irvin Weinstein, Mike Weiss, Gary Wolfson, Michele Yergin Rosenthal*, Mike Zadoff

*Reunion Committee Members

JEWISH TEEN LEADERSHIP TRIP TO SELMA & MONTGOMERY

The Center’s Jewish Teen Leadership Initiative received a grant from the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, enabling us to travel to Selma and Montgomery. Led by Rabbi Lubliner, teens visited congregants of Mishkan Israel in Selma to learn about their experiences, walked over the Edmund Pettus Bridge, visited the Rosa Parks Museum, the Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum: from Enslavement to Mass Incarceration.

1. Teens visiting the site of a lynching victim in Live Oak, FL ||

2. Teens at the base of the Edmund Pettus Bridge ||

3. Visiting the Rosa Parks Museum || 4. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice

CONVENTION

Twenty-one members of Setzer’s Youth Education Kadima and USY at the Center attended Mercaz Sub-Regional Convention at Congregation Ohev Shalom in Orlando. Many of our teens participated in planning programs and services, including Madelyn Millrood who co-chaired the convention. The theme was Out of This World. While most of the convention was at the synagogue, our Saturday night program was at Top Golf. For many, this was their first convention, but it certainly won’t be their last. || 1. The Planning Committee || 2. JJCUSY Chapter 1 2

Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

SPRING HIGHLIGHTS

1. Former teacher and current Grandma, Marjie Rogozinski, surprises the 1st grade class as the weekly “Mystery Reader”

2. 7th grader, Noah N., won the Florida Museum of Natural History Award, as well as Honorable Mention in his category, for demonstrating outstanding research in biological sciences at the State Science & Engineering Fair

3. Israeli Community Shlicha, Tal Mola, celebrates Yom Ha’Atzmaut with the students

4. Sisters Sara Werner and Dena Mizrahi, along with cousins Tali W. and Stella F., enjoy a Seder experience

5. River Garden Hebrew Home residents recieved a visit from the middle school students during their weekly Mitzvah trip. Zohar A. spent time playing Bingo with a new friend

Galinksky Academy PTA PURIM CARNIVAL

The Galinsky Academy PTA Purim Carnival drew in hundreds of people to celebrate at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. This year we had a caricature artist, carnival games, outdoor inflatables, petting zoo, pony rides, and more. A lot of lasting memories were created for years to come. We had a record-breaking year with support from our sponsors! Thank you to all our sponsors and volunteers, we couldn’t do it without you. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.

Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School CHOCOLATE

SEDER

Just before the Passover break, Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School students and families enjoyed their 2nd Annual Chocolate Seder. Participants read parts of the haggadah and tried various special foods. They even got to search for the Chocolate Afikoman! It was such a hit with our students last year and we were thrilled to be able to share the experience with our families this year. || 1. Moreh Matityahu York helps Lily S., Ellen H., Milly H., Vivienne S., & Ellie H-L with the ritual handwashing || 2.

YOM HA’ATZMAUT

On Sunday, April 30, students learned about Israel in honor of Yom Ha’Atzma’ut (Israel Independence Day); grades K-2 learned more about the holiday through craft, song, and tefillah (prayer) in their own classrooms and grades 3-7 began with tefillah and then rotated through several interactive learning stations. In the “Israel Cafe” students shared crudites, hummus, Israeli pretzels, pita chips, and Israeli wafer cookies while learning about some traditional Israeli foods. Students learned the history of Hatikvah, Israel’s national anthem, and practiced reading and singing it together. Finally, they explored the geography of Israel by building a topographical map out of candies and other treats on a sheet cake. To close out our Yom Ha’Atzma’ut Celebration all students came together for All-School Havdalah and to enjoy our Israel cake! || 1. Students help Rabbi

Yoohoo, Chocolate Matzah, and Religious School make us happy! || 3. Tzevet (teachers) Moreh Marty Goldmintz & Morah Karen Morse || 4. Marc Rotenberg and daughter, Mara, enjoying our Chocolate Seder

Rosenblum lead tefillah (prayers) || 2. Moreh Boaz Levy explains details of the map to students in Kitah Aleph-Bet (K-2) || 3. Delicious Map of Israel Cake! || 4. All-School Havdalah led by Rabbi Shira Rosenblum

WORTH THE SCHLEP

JUNE 6, 2023

JCA Kosher Market Sweep

@ 6 p.m.

Publix

10500 San Jose Blvd

Join us to have fun, learn about Kosher rules and symbols, and donate food to our community! Play this classic, fun game for all ages to help others! Families, teams of 2-4 people, and single players are welcome. Kosher Market Sweep is in partnership with The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services and Etz Chaim Synagogue.

$18 per team (fee will be used to purchase food for donation to the JFCS - Max Block Food Pantry

Registration required by June 1 at jcajax.org or (904)

June 14, 2023

Israel Time

@ 7 p.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

288 Roscoe Blvd N

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Join Israeli Community

Shlicha, Tal Mola, for her new interactive program to learn more about the diversity of Israel! Join us for a light snack, a little taste of Israel! Advance registration appreciated.

June 15, 2023

Women’s Philanthropy Connections @ 11 a.m.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

829 Riverside Ave Jacksonville, FL 32204

Join us for the final Women’s Philanthropy Connections event for the 2022-2023 year! Visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens to see the Flamboyance Exhibit: A Topiary Menagerie, with a special tour by Marji Rogozinski, Museum Docent.

$10 admission fee at the door RSVP at events.idonate.com/ Juneconnections by June 12

June 26-July 14, 2023

Camp Gan Israel of St. Johns County

A 3-WEEK SPECIALTY CAMP in the heart of St. Johns County. Jewish kids will enjoy friends, fun, field trips, the best staff, and more. A Gan Israel summer is like no other - jam packed with awesome activities and overflowing with Jewish pride! For more about St. Johns County’s Jewish Summer Camp, visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/ Camp

July 30, 2023

Jumbo Shrimp Game with the Jacksonville Jewish Center

@ 3:05 p.m.

Hazzan Holzer will be singing the National Anthem. For more info to purchase tickets, please visit www.jaxjewishcenter.org

August 17, 2023

Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida: 2023

Annual Meeting

@ 6 p.m.

Ritz Theatre & Museum

829 N Davis St Jacksonville, FL 32202

Come celebrate an amazing 2022-2023, kick-off the 2023-2024 Annual Campaign, bid farewell to outgoing Board President, Jennifer Plotkin, welcome our new Board President, Haley Trager, celebrate our transitioning Board of Directors, and hand honor the winners of the Joe P. Safer Community Service Award and the Ilene Sari Selevan Young Leadership Award. Kosher Appetizers and wine will be served. Register now at events.idonate.com/ annualmeeting2023

August 22-23, 2023

GROW After-Schol Enrichment Program Begins - 2 Locations

Chabad of S. Johns’ GROW After-School Program is where kids dive deep into their Jewishness, get creative, and discover their Jewish pride. GROW is about how much kids love their Jewish holidays and learn about their strong heritage using STEM skills, art mediums, and Kosher cooking. GROW is where kids enthusiastically fly through the motivational Aleph Champ Hebrew reading program. GROW is where kids are proud and love being Jewish. GROW is conveniently

located in 2 locations - St. Johns and Nocatee, Ponte Vedra. To find out more, visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty/ GROW email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call (904) 701-4422

August 25, 2023

The Jewish Meet & Greet

Join your Jewish neighbors and friends for music and cocktails. In a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Children’s magic show and games. And exquisite Shabbat refreshments. Whether you are retired, an empty nester, or have kids at home, this is for you! Bring the whole family and meet new friends. To sign up and find out more, visit JewishSJohnsCounty. com/Meet or call (904) 701-4422

August 27, 2023

Shofar Factory & Honey Cake Bake

Join us as we craft our very own shofar from a genuine horn & bake honey cakes. To RSVP visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/JKC

August 27, 2023

Rosh Hashanah Program with the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida’s Young Professionals & Families Division and Jewish Community Alliance @ 3 p.m.

Congregation Ahavath

Chesed (The Temple)

More details to come!