JewishLife: Spring 2023

JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA

SPRING 2023 MARCH/APRIL/MAY ADAR - NISAN - IYAR 5783 JEWISHJACKSONVILLE.ORG

Chag Pesach Sameach!

Find the perfect dishes for your family’s holiday feast at publix.com/passover.

CONTENTS

Spring 2023

March 2023 | April 2023 | May 2023

NEWS & NOTEWORTHY 6-7 Local Lions Roar at the International Lion of Judah Conference 8 Six Months: A Letter to the Community 9 Hate Ends Now - The Cattle Car Experience 11-12 Federations Allocate $5.4M in Grants for Survivor Care 12 Jewish Changemakers Fellowship 13 Jewish Federations Launch Earthquake Relief Fund 14-15 The Len and Judy Elikan Young Leadership Scholarship 16 What’s the Plan?

19 Israel at 75

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20 Israel Style at the JCA 22 Remembering Our Destiny 23 Of Blessed Memory 24-25 Super Sunday: Refueling Ourselves. Refueling Our Community.

26 CEO Collen Rodriguez Celebrates 25 Years at JFCS 27 Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue Gets a New Rabbi: Rabbinical Installation 29 Israel’s Tallest Buildings 30 LiterARTure: Art & Literature Series

SEE & BE SCENE

31-43 WORTH THE SCHLEP

44-46 3

FROM THE DESK OF MARIAM FEIST, CEO I feel like a proud mama.

Israel is turning 75! Older than I am, but I still marvel at the development and growth of this state like a mother who studies her child. Though parents are not supposed to have a favorite, Israel is like a golden child. Bragging rights on all its accomplishments and a bandwidth of tolerance and forgiveness for any of its growing pains and mistakes.

the Middle East. It cares for those who seek much needed medical attention from the Gaza strip to Syria - many times clandestinely. It opens its arms to the tens of thousands who make Aliyah from war-torn regions, like Russia and Ukraine. It absorbs those who come with the dream of living in the land of milk and honey like those coming from Ethiopia and all around the world.

It’s certainly not perfect, no one or country is, but in its brief existence as a recognized country, it has astonished even the most skeptical. From its David vs. Goliath battles in 1948 and 1967 to its lush green landscape in the middle of a desert, Israel is a country of which to be proud.

Our Jewish Federation & Foundation acknowledges and honors Israel on its 75th birthday. Join our community on April 30th for a Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration at Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple. And, look for more information as we announce our plans for a Mega Community Mission to Israel in 2024!

Think about what our lives would be like without Waze, Firewall, the USB flashB’shalom, drive, and, for some of us, Epi Lady. What would our Mariam kids be playing at camp instead of Gaga? Think of our world without drip irrigation, the Iron Dome, and ReWalk, which enables paraplegics to ambulate.

There are more medical, agricultural, and tech inventions coming out of Israel than this column could hold. Many refer to Israel as the “start-up nation”.

Not to mention, it is the only democratic country in 4

STAFF Sara Bass Executive Assistant sarab@jewishjacksonville.org Pat Burke Director, Finance patb@jewishjacksonville.org Mariam Feist CEO mariamf@jewishjacksonville.org Faye Hedrick Director, Young Professionals & Families fayeh@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 Kellie Smith Director, Foundation kelliek@jewishjacksonville.org Zahni Thuzar Marketing Manager zahnit@jewishjacksonville.org

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NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

LOCAL LIONS ROAR at the International Lion of Judah Conference

By Diane Rothstein Women’s Philanthropy Chair

Michael Masters (National Director & CEO, Secure Community Network), Deborah Lipstadt (historiThis year’s International an, author, and US Special Lion of Judah Conference Envoy for Monitoring and was one of the best yet.

Combating Antisemitism), The programming, which Marlee Matlin (Academy included speakers that Award winner, actor, focused on current issues, producer, director, activist, such as the war in Ukraine, and motivational speaker), security, antisemitism, and many other notable mental health, equity and and influential Rabbis, inclusion, the Israeli business owners, commugovernment, the continua- nity leaders, and innovation of our Jewish Commu- tors - all of whom work very nities, and so much more. hard and remain commitSeventeen of the most ted to finding solutions for compassionate, strong, the complicated issues committed, engaged that face all of us and our philanthropists from our Jewish community both Northeast Florida commu- here and abroad. They nity gathered in Phoenix were inspirational, interest(along with 1,200 other ing, and informative.

Lions) to learn about what is happening Jewishly and Every two years at the Lion to ensure our collective of Judah Conference, mission to secure our women of valor are honJewish people and our ored with the Kipnis-Wilson Jewish communities Friedland award for their wherever they are. As one commitment, vision, of the presenters menphilanthropy, inspiration, tioned, “one woman makes and leadership. Northeast a difference, 18,000 Lions Florida’s very own Iris change the world!”

Kraemer was recognized at this year’s gathering, During the large Plenary and we were so proud to gatherings, we heard from honor her on what was the Eric Fingerhut (President & 50th Anniversary of the CEO of Jewish FederaLion of Judah. Iris is the tions of North America), quintessential leader and Katie Couric (award-wina proud platinum Lion of ning journalist, author, and Judah. She leads quietly, Lion of Judah), Gabby with dignity and strength, Giffords (former US with honor, and with a Representative), Kathy tremendous commitment Manning (Congresswoman to Jews and the Jewish from North Carolina), community both locally and globally. She led us 6

MEMBERS OF THE NORTHEAST FLORIDA DELEGATION

NE FLORIDA’S KIPNIS-WILSON FRIEDLAND HONOREE, IRIS KRAEMER, WAS JOINED AT THE CONFERENCE BY HER DAUGHTER, ELISSA KRAEMER.

through the pandemic with grace, resolve, intellect, and strength. She has traveled the globe - Israel, Ukraine, Poland, Ethiopia, and elsewhere, representing Federation and overseeing our commitment to Jewish communities worldwide.

Iris effectively communicates her passion for Federation by her deeds

and her actions. She is a great example for all of us and is a valued mentor to many. Todah Rabah Iris!

Mazel Tov! In 1972, when two dear friends, Norma Kipnis-Wilson z”l and Toby Friedland z”l, had a revolutionary idea for Jewish women to make a personal statement to demonstrate their values and commitment to

Jewish lives, they had no idea the impact they would make.

I left the conference feeling energized, engaged, and inspired. I am incredibly encouraged by the work that so many are doing to make our world better and to secure the present and future of our Jewish communities.

Federation understands the challenges that we face and is working to move us forward. Federation can continue to do all of the above because of everyone who participates and donates, and I’m proud to be a part of it!

FIRST-TIME LION CONFERENCE ATTENDEES, SARAH SCHWARTZ & SOPHIE ROTHSTEIN, BOTH REPRESENTING NE FLORIDA AND NATIONAL YOUNG LEADERSHIP CABINET.

RISA HERMAN, ALLISON JACOBS, ROBIN WOLF, AND ERICA JOLLES ENJOYING TIME TOGETHER AT THE LION CONFERENCE.

Lions of Judah proudly donate a minimum of $5,000 to the annual campaign. The gold Lion of Judah pin is an internationally recognized symbol of philanthropy, commitment, Jewish values, and sisterhood around the world.

ELLEN WISS, DEBBIE BANKS, AND JENNIFER PLOTKIN ENJOYING THE OPENING RECEPTION IN THE SHADOWS OF THE BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAINS OF PHOENIX.

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SIX MONTHS: A LETTER to the COMMUNITY 8

A letter from Tal Mola Israeli Community Shlicha Shalom Community, I can’t believe that half a year has passed since I landed at the airport in Jacksonville - in shock and very excited to start the wonderful journey called Shlichut.

I have had an amazing six months full of working with the community through all age groups. Hanukkah was an interesting experience here in Jacksonville, and the popularity of latkes, especially surprised me!

It’s not that there aren’t any latkes in Israel, but it comes secondary to the sufganiya (donut). The sufganiya has a place of honor in Israeli kitchens during the Hanukkah holiday, so much so that just one can cost $5 (which is considered a fortune in Israeli terms).

A month ago, I took part in

one of the biggest events I’ve ever been to - the Israeli American Council (IAC) Summit in Austin, TX. Beyond the exciting meeting with my fellow Shlichim, I met inspiring leaders such as Doron Almog, Chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel, and Mark Wilf, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency for Israel. These people made it their goal to promote the inseparable connection between Israel and Diaspora Jewry. They shared with us their personal stories, which led them to promote this goal and also opened our minds to new ways of thinking about our work in the communities.

In February, I started the group “Medabrim Ivrit,” which is intended for people with an intermediate or higher level of

Hebrew. Anyone interested, please email me at jaxshlichut@ jewishjacksonville.org and I’ll add you to the list.

I can’t wait for the next quarter and all the programs I have for our amazing community.

Please mark your calendars for April 30, 2023, from 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. for our Yom Ha’atzmaut Community Celebration at Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple. This will be a community-wide event where we will celebrate the uniqueness of this year as Israel’s 75th anniversary.

I’m looking forward to seeing you at programs and sitting down for coffee and at Shabbat dinners.

Love, Tal

HATE ENDS NOW - THE CATTLE CAR EXPERIENCE

By Jennifer Rensch Foundation Manager

behind us and the interior darkened even in the daytime, with only tiny slivers of light making their way through the cracks.

ty Services campus touring with the exhibit, in her 90s, willing to be loud and brave in sharing her horrific experiences for the sake of making sure that history is never repeated.

for the past four years, I’ve become much more acquainted with Jewish life than I was prior; I’ve been very lucky to be invited to many Shabbat dinners and As the video started, I I now make it a point to try began to understand why to do my daily mitzvah. it’s described as a “fully However, in order to be the immersive” experience.

At that moment, I reflected kind of ally that I hope to The images are projected honestly on times in my be, I believe it’s of far more all around you, covering life, as someone who importance what I teach and moving life-like along attended both a Protestant my daughter as she grows As my colleague and I every wall of the car. It felt grade school and a public up. While she is still a bit drove up to The LJD Jewish as if we were right in the university, when I knew I young to learn about the Family & Community middle of these men, was witnessing antisemiatrocities of the HoloServices parking lot, my women, children, and tism right in front of me. I caust, I teach her about stomach churned as I saw babies, and right in the remember the time I acceptance and tolerance the cattle car from a middle of the fear and shrugged off that “joke” and try to introduce her to distance. I wasn’t sure violence and pain that they involving Jewish tropes by different beliefs and exactly what to expect suffered. If a picture is a high school friend, and traditions in the little ways only an innate feeling that worth a thousand words, the time that I once listhat she can grasp thus it would be something I this experience was worth tened to a college profesfar. This past winter, our would never forget. Stepan entire history book. sor passively propagate family lit the menorah, ping inside, the very first an anti-Jewish conspiracy taking the opportunity to thing I noticed was the The film itself follows the theory and wondered if teach the kids that Hanukblack footprints painted stories of two Holocaust anyone was going to say kah is not “Jewish Christonto the wood beneath survivors, Hedy and Nate. anything. At that moment, I mas,” but actually a comme. They were a variety of “The boxcar plays heavily felt ashamed. Ashamed pletely unrelated sizes - ones that matched in my mind because that’s that I hadn’t always been celebration involving the mine and ones that would the transition from being a loud and brave in the face Maccabees and the have matched my fivehuman being to becoming of bigotry and ashamed miracle of oil that never year-old daughter’s. The a number which they could that I hadn’t always realran out. But as she gets Shadowlight representadispose of at their own ized that this is my fight, older, I can promise that tive gave us a short will,” a now-elderly Nate too. The greatest value she will be taught the exact introduction explaining shared in his interview. I that I have gained from my truth about what hapthat we were in an exact found it impossible not to education and career in pened to Nate and Hedy, replica of the cattle cars cry for Hedy as she renonprofit and social and how it is imperative which were used by Nazis counted being separated justice is that standing up that she be part of a better to shuttle Jews to concen- from her mother upon to hatred and bias in any future that takes part in tration camps, at 100 reaching Auschwitz, form is everyone’s fight never forgetting so that it people per car. I looked looking into her eyes for even more so for those can never happen again. around and counted the what would be the final who enjoy the privilege of mere 20-something of us time. None of her family being the majority. That is To learn where The Cattle that were currently survived the concentrahow we can ensure that Car Experience is traveling cramped into the space tion camps, but she did. In Hedy’s mission is honored. next, please visit myshadand shuddered at the fact, we learned that she owlight.org/tour-schedule thought. The representawas with us at the LJD Working for the Jewish tive closed the door Jewish Family & Communi- Federation & Foundation

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FEDERATIONS ALLOCATE $5.4M IN GRANTS FOR SURVIVOR CARE

By Jewish Federations of North America Published in FedBeat January 23, 2023

and Institute on Aging and Trauma at Jewish Federations of North America.

“Widespread trauma means we need a better Jewish Federations of approach to care, and with North America’s Center on these grants, Jewish Holocaust Survivor Care Federations are revolutionand Institute on Aging and izing aging services.”

Trauma is proud to award grants totaling $5.4 million This allocation for the over two years to support Center’s Expanded Critical Holocaust survivors and Supports Program and older adults with a history National Network Program of trauma. Grants will is part of the Center’s support the work of larger initiative, which dozens of Jewish and includes supporting non-Jewish agencies that dozens of agencies to deliver social services to develop person-centered, tens of thousands of trauma-informed (PCTI) Holocaust survivors, programs. Spearheaded diverse older adults with a by the Center, PCTI care history of trauma, and their promotes trust, dignity, family caregivers. strength, and empowerment of all individuals by “Caring for our survivors is incorporating knowledge not only a privilege but a about trauma into agency duty, and is a core value programs, policies, and and deep commitment of procedures. our Jewish Federations,” said Jewish Federations of Expanded Critical SupNorth America board chair ports Program grants will Julie Platt. “It is thanks to be distributed over two the generosity of so many years to a selection of in our communities, Jewish Federations (see together with our governlist below). Through this ment partners, that we are program, Jewish Federaable to provide our survitions convene local and vors with these critical diverse Leadership Counservices to help them live cils of aging services in comfort and dignity.” providers to assess, prioritize, and fund the “Holocaust survivors are critical support needs of our teachers and our Holocaust survivors, older heroes,” added Shelley adults with a history of Rood Wernick, grandtrauma, and their family daughter of Holocaust caregivers. survivors and Managing Director of the Center on The National Network Holocaust Survivor Care Program grant will be

distributed over two years to the Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) to provide innovative technologies for older adults with a history of trauma who are socially isolated and/or experiencing memory loss. Additionally, as the Center aims to make PCTI care the universal strategy for serving all older adults, NJHSA will receive an additional one-year grant to partner with Jewish Federations to develop an online training curriculum on PCTI care for social service providers.

Funds are provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living and

are subject to increased risk of depression, social isolation, and extremely poor outcomes if they don’t receive the proper care. The challenges have become even more acute with social distancing and the threats posed by COVID-19.

Acknowledging Jewish Federations’ profound impact, the federal government has empowered Jewish Federations to be the national resource center on aging and trauma and has highlighted our approach as a model for serving all older adults and family caregivers. Last year, the federal government budgeted a record $8.5 million for its Holocaust Survivor

INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY IS JANUARY 27, 2023

dedicated philanthropists.

Assistance Program, an increase Jewish Federations advocated for.

Approximately one third of the Holocaust survivors in the U.S. are estimated to (continued on page 12) be living in poverty. As a group, Holocaust survivors

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[Federations allocate $5.4M continued] Jewish Federations launched its Holocaust Survivor Care initiative in 2015. Since inception of the program, Jewish Federations have supported approximately 35,000 Holocaust survivors, 16,000 professional caregivers, 6,000 family caregivers, and 5,000 older adults with a history of trauma.

advance care for Holocaust survivors and other • older adults, visit www. holocaustsurvivorcare.org. • *This year’s grantees are: • • • • •

To learn more about how Jewish Federations

•

Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta Jewish Federation of Broward County The Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles Jewish Federation of

•

Greater MetroWest NJ Greater Miami Jewish Federation UJA-Federation of New York Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies

views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Read the original post at jewishfederations.org

This work is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $5,922,000 with 75% funded by ACL/HHS and $1,974,000 and 25% funded by non-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official

JEWISH CHANGEMAKERS Fellowship Mazel Tov to our local participants in this year’s Changemakers cohort: Rachel Rosenblum and Ethan Plotkin.

The Jewish Changemakers Fellowship is an online experience for Jewish young adults launching their careers.

Kicking off with a nineweek fellowship, the Changemakers program focuses on networking, community engagement, and leadership training.

The current session began However, there are new fellowships throughout the on February 6, 2023, and year. will go through April 3, 2023.

Fellowships are open to any Jewish leader be12

tween the ages of 20-25 living in North America.

To learn more, visit jewishchangemakers.com

Questions? Contact Faye Hedrick, Director, Young Professionals & Families at fayeh@ jewishjacksonville.org

JEWISH FEDERATIONS LAUNCH EARTHQUAKE RELIEF FUND February 8, 2023

an aid. Funds have supported hundreds of relief efforts in the aftermath of We are heartbroken by the In response to the devastating earthquakes that hit major disasters, from news of the devastating California wildfires to Turkey and Syria early earthquake and aftertsunamis in Asia, to hurrishocks that hit Turkey and Monday, February 6, canes and flooding in the Syria overnight. Right now, Jewish Federations of Gulf to tornadoes in the the death toll is already in North America have Midwest. the thousands and rapidly launched an earthquake rising. While thousands of relief fund to provide Jewish Federations of humanitarian aid and to homes and businesses North America Board have been destroyed, support recovery efforts.

Chair Julie Platt added, rescuers are racing to pull Jewish Federations’ “We mourn the tragic loss survivors from beneath overseas partners are on of life brought by this the rubble. the ground in Turkey to disaster and send our assess the needs and hopes and prayers for all 150,000 people have been determine how to best be those who have been positioned to help. made homeless by the injured. We remain in close earthquakes and need to cope with the bitter cold in Jewish Federations have a contact with our disaster long and proud history of relief partners on the the region. Our focus, alongside our partners, will response to global crises, ground and are mobilizing our communities to raise be on helping this popula- aiding vulnerable Jewish funds to support their populations and individution cope with living life-giving work. Our als of all faiths and backoutside in the difficult grounds in the hardest-hit Jewish values of tikkun conditions by supplying olam guide us day-in and thousands of tents, heatplaces, providing food, day-out to extend our ers, thermal clothing, shelter, medicine, and ready to eat meals, and other forms of humanitari- hands to those in need, first aid kits.

and Jewish Federations pledge to carry out this mandate with pride and dignity.”

Jewish Federations power the emergency response on the ground through our core dollars.

We are able to respond so quickly because of the work we do all day, every day.

Federation needs your help. To donate to the Earthquake relief fund, visit jfeds.org/earthquakerelief

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THE LEN AND JUDY ELIKAN “It is important that we raise up the next generation of potential leaders for our future Jewish community and I believe the Jewish summer camp experience is an integral part of that process. A Jewish overnight camp is a place to learn new skills, have fun, and meet new friends with whom you share your ideas about Judaism and life. Jewish summer camp was a place that taught me to become a proud and com-

Essay by Avigail Barak The Len and Judy Elikan Young Leadership Scholarship Recipient 2022

my friends on another level. I strengthened my relationships with people who are like my extended family, started friendships with those I hadn’t interactThere truly aren’t enough ed with much in the past, words to describe my and made memories with camp experience, which new friends. It was really seems unlikely considerspecial hanging out with ing the amount of words people throughout the day that have been created.

However, if I had to deand to just become closer.

Yet the best part of this scribe my time at Camp was the fact that next year Ramah Darom in as few we will be in Gesher. It will words as possible, they would consist of: adventur- be our last year as campous, life-changing, and full ers and every day will be a new adventure with of love. hundreds of moments that will be ingrained in us This year was the year I forever. was able to connect with

reached new heights.

Now, this year was not During the summer, I hiked without its challenges. This up multiple mountains year, half of my aidah through my Nivo U of (camp group) tested Machnaut (camping). I positive for COVID. I had to have always loved the watch friends go home for outdoors and I have loved a little while, or be isolated to go camping and hiking from everyone else. It since I was little. However, would just remind me that this year I was able to do not everyone who was things I had never done supposed to be there before and was also able actually was there to make to improve on the skills I memories with. However, already had. Sometimes when they returned, it our activities were a made our time together as struggle but it was overan aidah even more coming these struggles special. that made this time even better.

In addition to all the experiences with my friends, I Fundamentally, even with was able to use this time to all of the ups and downs, I connect with my Jewish am so incredibly thankful identity. Throughout the to have been able to go to month, I read from the Camp Ramah Darom this Torah seven times and I year. It was one of the best learned how to lead summers of my life and it Mincha and Ma’ariv would not have been services. I loved having a possible without The Len more active role in my and Judy Elikan Young camp community and it Leadership Scholarship. helped me build my confi- So, from the bottom of my dence as a leader, yet it heart, thank you. also allowed me to give back to my kehillah.

As another addition to both of these things, I also

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YOUNG LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP mitted Jew and that is my hope for recipients of our scholarship fund. This year I will be expanding my program to include two new, special scholarships; one specifically in honor of my wife, Judy, of blessed memory, who passed last year, and one reserved for a teen that wants to attend Camp Tel Yehudah, which is the summer camp I attended in my youth.” - Len Elikan 2023 winners to be announced soon!

Essay by Madelyn Millrood The Len and Judy Elikan Young Leadership Scholarship Recipient 2022 This summer I had the privilege to go on USY on Wheels Classic. In short, this journey is a six-and-ahalf-week-long road trip around the entire US and it was the most incredible experience I’ve ever had.

Looking back, signing up to go around the country with 27 strangers seemed like something I would have never done but I stepped out of my comfort zone. I had never spent a summer away from home until now, and it was amazing.

While it’s hard to pick a favorite, waking up at 4 am to watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon was one of the most memorable. The breathtaking view was 100 percent worth the early wake-up.

Shabbat on Wheels was also something that stayed with me. Saturday was the one day we were able to sleep late and reflect on a busy week.

While I loved Shabbat, my absolute favorite part of the week was always the way we ended Shabbat.

Before Havdalah, sitting in a circle singing slow songs together with our arms wrapped around each other was so meaningful, We started in New Jersey, and I looked forward to it and began making our way every week. Getting to south, west, then back experience Shabbat in a east. While we went to so setting like that was many beautiful and fun incredible. places, some of the best parts of Wheels were on One of the best parts of the bus. Even though a the summer was the good amount of time was amazing friendships I spent sleeping after our made. It’s crazy to think we early mornings, the long were all complete strangbus rides allowed us to ers, but after spending six become closer. There are weeks together 24/7, it so many incredible memo- seemed like we knew each ries I made that I will other forever. I know these cherish for years to come. friendships will last a

lifetime and I am so grateful for Wheels giving me the ability to meet these people. Wheels was a life-changing experience and I am so glad I had the opportunity to participate.

For my mitzvah project, I have been volunteering each week at a religious school as one of the Madrichim at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. I plan to continue doing that throughout the year. It is so fun to get to help as a teacher. I also volunteered for family mitzvah day, which was a great way to

help at the Center.

Whenever more volunteer opportunities arise, I will participate as much as possible. On Christmas, I assisted at the community-wide meals on wheels program at the Temple. I enjoy being able to help give back to people all across Jacksonville.

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WHAT’S THE PLAN?

Remember that your decisions will likely fluctuate over time. If you get married, have a child, buy a

By Kellie Smith house, or have a falling out Director, Foundation with a family member, Talking about death makes advice, the Jewish Founda- update your will as soon as possible to provide for many of us uncomfortable, tion has a list of advisors these changes. and as a result, many of us that we can recommend. don’t plan for it. This is a 3. Think about healthcare 2. Take inventory. big mistake. If you don’t decisions.

List everything you own, have an end-of-life plan, Your will takes care of what not just things that are your state’s laws could happens after you die. An financially valuable (bank decide who gets everyadvance directive is a accounts, retirement thing you own, a doctor savings, cars, etc), but also legal document that you’ve never met could covers healthcare and determine how you spend those things that have sentimental value, such as protects your wishes your last moments, and a music or book collection, during end of life. There are your loved ones could be two parts to an advance saddled with untangling an jewelry, and furniture directive, both of which will pieces. Then write out expensive legal mess. specific instructions about help avoid loved ones from Planning for the end of having to make difficult your life helps define your whom you would like to and emotional decisions receive them when it’s legacy but it isn’t just around a hospital bed time to wrap up your about you; writing a will about the best course of estate. and planning for your care. death is a lifetime gift to If you have young children, loved ones. name a guardian for them. The first part is giving Carefully choose someone someone your medical 1. Name an executor. power of attorney (somewho reflects your own If you’re an adult - even a value system, because this times called a medical young adult - you should person will be responsible proxy), so that this person have a will, and an execucan legally make healthfor all of your child’s tor to oversee that will care decisions for you if upon your passing. Estate educational and healthyou are physically or planning is not just for the care decisions. Pets are rich. It’s not just about the considered property under mentally unable. Think value of what you own but the law, so be sure to name about the person in your life who not only underit’s also about the feelings a new owner for them as stands you and your goals well. Digital accounts are that you and your loved also part of your property. and priorities, but that you ones have that are atknow will be able to set This could include social tached to what you own. aside their own wishes to That being said, if you own media accounts, online be a voice for you. You a lot of monetarily valuable photos in your Google want someone you trust Drive or iCloud, online things - real estate, trust who can handle stress, in subscriptions, dating site funds, yachts - you case your loved ones profiles, credit card reprobably need a lawyer. disagree on what to do.

For most of us, however, a wards, etc. Keep a secure list of all of these with login Part two of the advance simple document will and password details, and directive is called a living suffice. You can find will. That’s a document let your executor know templates of these docuwhere you can put into ments online but if you are where it is. writing specific instruclooking for professional tions on how you should be 16

cared for by health professionals. For some, it means trying every treatment possible, such as a ventilator, for as long as possible; For others, it might be the exact opposite. There’s no right or wrong - it’s a very personal decision.

4. Don’t forget the emotional and spiritual aspects of death.

There’s so much more to consider about how we want to die than the medical aspect. For some, it’s about being at peace with God; for others, it’s not wanting to be left alone, keeping family or pets close by. Some of the questions to consider around this topic are “What do I want to be remembered for?” and “Do I have any emotional or spiritual unfinished business?”

If you have been placing these plans and conversations on the back burner, I urge you to make them a priority. As the saying goes, “the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” Most importantly, remember that planning for death doesn’t have to be dark or morbid. Reflecting on death forces us to think about life. This action narrows down what matters most, giving actionable steps forward to living our best lives.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Please consult with your own professional advisors prior to making any decisions.

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www.bethelbeaches.org

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J E W I S H NAT I O NA L F U ND I NV I T ES YO U TO O U R

LEGACY LUNCHEON Preserving The Past, Ensuring The Present & Securing Our Future Tuesday, March 21, 2023 ∙ 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront 225 East Coastline Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32202 FEATURING

Ambassador Dennis Ross American Diplomat & Author

Robin Dermer, Esq.

Director of Planned Giving, Florida

RSVP required by March 13, 2023 at

JNF.ORG/LEGACYJACKSONVILLE NO COST TO ATTEND

DIETARY LAWS OBSERVED

For more information contact, Suzie Bassoff at sbassoff@jnf.org • 407.804.5568 x877

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ISRAEL AT 75

By Jill Metlin Israel and Overseas Coordinator

have been to Independence Hall in Tel Aviv, or watched the video of David Ben-Gurion declaring the establishment of Israel as an independent nation, you can’t help but be in awe that this country was created and thrives today. Even just knowing anything about the founding of the State of Israel can leave you speechless.

On April 26th, the 5th of Iyar, Israel will celebrate her 75th Independence Day - the miracle that is her Diamond Jubilee. Also known as Yom Ha’atzmaut, this day recognizes the blood, sweat, and tears of our people who paved the way to the Declaration of Independence in 1948. If you lived through that time,

What would the world be like if Israel were not born?

Seventy-five years ago, Israel was a fledgling nation, plagued by warring neighbors, water shortages and infertile land.

Providing a homeland for the Jewish people, rescuing Holocaust survivors, continually taking in immigrants from across

the globe, and providing rescue to countries experiencing natural disasters and war has changed Israel and has saved lives all over the world. Supporting Jews in the diaspora, Israel and the agencies with whom we work allow our brethren to remain in their country of origin, learn workforce skills to support themselves, and help them to keep their precious Jewish traditions.

Israel has had too many agricultural, medical and technological achievements to mention in this column, but I am sure many of you are familiar with these accomplishments that have helped the world.

Much of the successes mentioned here, have been supported by you through your trips to Israel and to other Jewish communities here and abroad and through your donations to the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida.

These dollars fund many of the above efforts and more via allocations to World ORT, the Jewish Agency for Israel, and the Joint Distribution Committee.

You can celebrate Israel’s 75th on Sunday, April 30th at 12 (noon) at Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple. This community-wide event will showcase all of our local Jewish agencies and will focus on Israel at 75. Join us!

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COMMUNITY

ISRAEL STYLE at the JCA about one program that we guarantee you won’t find anywhere else in Jacksonville - Israel Style with our Israeli Community Shlicha, Tal Mola.

or kayit is known as the Hebrew phrase for “beach season.” In modern Hebrew, kaytana is the word used for the place where children retreat at any time of the year, like a daycare or “camp.”

“I truly enjoy working with the younger generation and am looking forward to sharing some of what I had as a young child growing up in Israel,” says Tal. “For “As we are preparing for example, every morning for

By Beth Milograno Berry this summer at the JCA, it breakfast at camp in Israel we had choco (chocolate is very nostalgic for me. I Jewish Community worked at a summer camp milk) served in a bag and Alliance (JCA) lachmaniot (bread/bun). in Israel a long time ago But I think the best part and went to camp as a Spring is in the air throughabout camp was not going child,” explains Tal, who out Northeast Florida but to school and having fun says she is very much all we can think about at looking forward to her first with all my friends.” the JCA is summertime summer in Jacksonville as Tal’s Israel Style camp and the many incredible our community Shlicha. “I happens in Week 2 (June experiences we have 19-23) and Week 4 (July am looking forward to planned for your children.

3-7) of JCA Summer Camp. making new friends and Our JCA’s fun and engagmeeting many new chiling summer camp prodren through my summer grams offer art, music, culture, concerts, science, camp. I think it will be very rewarding to share more and sports programs to about Israel, sing songs children of all ages. with them and tell stories like what I had at camp as With two great locations, a child.” the Jewish Community Alliance and the JacksonTal’s unique Israel-themed ville Jewish Center, our camp is being offered in JCA Summer Camp is two one-week sessions for more than just a safe children in grades 1-6 place to spend summer through our JCA’s Camp days; it is a place where Kaytana, where each weekyour children can learn and grow. While we offer a long program is designed variety of summer camps with the goal of teaching children new skills and designed to enrich your children’s summertime fun, knowledge. Kaytana, we are specifically excited based on the Aramaic word for “summer,” kayta 20

Tal is planning to keep kids busy, learning, and having fun through Israeli song, dance, and cooking! For more details about Summer Camp at the JCA, to register your children (entering grades 1-6) for Israel Style, or if you have questions about JCA Summer Camp, please visit jcajax.org/camp.

Israeli Community Shlicha programs at the JCA are fully funded by the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. We are thankful for this important partnership that allows our Shlicha, Tal, to share her knowledge of Israel and experiences with a variety of Jewish agencies throughout our community, including our local synagogues and schools.

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Remembering OUR DESTINY black and white issue. It becomes easy to classify and label, and remove ourselves emotionally. In a polarized world, Israel can become just another on a long list of issues that divide us.

Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Vice President of Israel and Reform Zionism for the

By Rabbi Maya Y. Glasser Union for Reform Judaism and Executive Director of Congregation Ahavath ARZA (The Association of Chesed (The Temple) Reform Zionists of America), writes: “As a people we As Jewish people, and humans, we know that life share ties to one another is complex. There is usually that bridge distances and cross borders. To be part more than one side to a of a people means that we story; being aware of have a shared fate and a nuance is key to underjoint destiny.” standing and growth.

fate, we remain connected by engaging. When we are in strong relationships, sharing holy moments with those we care about the most, we love every part of them. We recognize the imperfection that exists in everything in our world, but that doesn’t mean that we pull away or resist. Instead, we continue to love and with our love, elevate one another.

At this tumultuous time, I believe that it is that much more important for us to love Israel. It is that much more important for those of us who disagree with whichever administration is in power to remain engaged with the Jewish State. It is that much more In the story of our faith, our As modern American destiny has always been important for us to strugJews, we now see this complexity more than ever related to Israel. Israel was gle to fight for our values, to explore, learn, and the promised land, the in our relationship with continue searching for beacon of light for our Israel. Though we live ancestors who wandered nuance. If we disengage, across the world, we are in the wilderness.

Today, we risk letting others tied to this ancient homedefine our Jewish homeIsrael is the one place in land and modern nation land for us. We risk not the world that runs on Jewstate. Israel is in our Torah ish time, where you see raising our voices to and in our prayers - after entire aisles of the grocery express our values. We risk all, we are the people of store blocked off for an Israel that is something Israel. But, how do we Passover, Sukkot are we don’t want it to be. relate to a country we do present on every balcony, not live in, whose decisions and the buses wish you a Even when we can’t agree, we might not agree with? chag sameach - a happy we are engaged in a holiday in bright neon shared endeavor: rememBecause of the partisan bering our rich history and letters. nature of Israel, it beliving out the values of our comes easy to point fingers. It becomes easy to Though we are connected people. with Israel by our shared forget that Israel is not a 22

This year, as Israel celebrates its 75th birthday, Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple) celebrates its 140th anniversary. As we mark these milestones, the importance of remembering the past so that it is not forgotten, and so we can learn from it, is extremely evident. Moving towards a successful future means that we use the past as important building blocks, remembering the foundation that they have created. As we celebrate how far we have come, we strive to navigate how to apply our age-old values and to best be Jewish in a constantly changing world.

We embrace the complexity of what is and, like Hillel when he founded the World Zionist Congress, dream of what could be.

Israel is not perfect and neither are we. Yet, we are tied to one another and to the Holy Land. The complexity of the Jewish State halfway around the world may be challenging and frustrating at times but if we do not engage with love, how can we expect the change we wish to see? May we continue to love Israel and one another, and as we do so, always remember our shared fate and joint destiny.

Of Blessed Memory SEPTEMBER 19, 1932 - JANUARY 28, 2023

Lawrence “Larry” Jaffe Devoted member of the

Silver Circle “The Crown of a good name is a man’s legacy, and Larry sure had it.” - Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner

A LEGACY OF LOVE FOR THE JEWISH FAITH Lawrence (Larry) Leonard Jaffe passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, January 28, 2023.

Larry was cared for by his loving and devoted wife, Barbara, while battling illness for the past two years. He was born on September 19, 1932, in St. Augustine, FL, where he excelled in sports, eventually playing baseball for the University of Florida, and graduating with a degree in accounting.

effort to bring an NFL team to our city. Once we were awarded the Jaguars, Larry was a loyal fan, attending every game possible until his health prevented him. Larry also loved his Florida Gators, and was a football season ticket holder since he graduated in the 1950’s. On UF game days, he would often visit the Pi Lamda Phi house, where he was a proud member since college.

He served as an officer of the Jacksonville Jewish Center. This past September, on Larry’s 90th birthday, he gave a gift to the First Sons of Israel Congregation to ensure that the funding was in place to keep a rabbi on staff. Larry grew up living steps away from the congregation in St. Augustine and held it close to his heart all of his life. He was a longtime member of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida’s Larry was a devoted Larry’s love for life and Silver Circle, and was patriot and served in the commitment to his Jewish deeply committed to US Air Force during the faith were reflected in Jewish life in Northeast Korean conflict. After his everything he did. There Florida through philanthroservice, Larry moved to were many organizations py. Larry was a Past Grand Jacksonville and began a that benefited from Larry’s Master of the Grand Lodge distinguished career as a generosity. While Larry of Free & Accepted MaCPA. He continued practic- was a loyal member of the sons of Florida, where he ing accounting until the Jacksonville Jewish attained the supreme very end. Larry’s love for Center for his entire adult honor as a 33rd degree sports was legendary. As life, he never forgot ConMason.

Chairman of the Jackson- gregation Sons of Israel in ville Sports and Entertain- St. Augustine, where Family came first for Larry. ment Commission in the Larry’s father, Max, served He was preceded in death 1980’s, Larry led the initial as a lay rabbi for decades. by his parents, Max &

Libbie Jaffe; his sister, Diana Bailey; and his granddaughter, Lauren. He is survived by his faithful wife of 43 years, Barbara; his children, Andrea, Daren (Jamie), Bradley, & Sandy (Lynn); grandchildren, Garrett (Jennifer), Joshua, Brooke, Samantha, Leah & Sophia.

A graveside service was officiated by Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner on January 31, 2023. Donations in memory of Larry can be made to the Jacksonville Jewish Center, Congregation Sons of Israel (St. Augustine, FL), or River Garden Hebrew Home.

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REFUELING OURSELVES. REFUELING OUR COMMUNITY.

By Faye Hedrick Director, Young Professionals & Families, Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida

Your gift to the Jewish Federation & Foundation allows us to continue assessing and addressing the needs of the entire Jewish community.

On Super Sunday, the community is asked to answer the call and provide financial support to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. Far more than just a fundraiser, Super Sunday is a day when the community is provided the opportunity to give tzedakah. Tzedakah that will reach and change the lives of so many. Tzedakah that, for some, will ensure Jewish education and for others that their prescription will not run out.

Super Sunday co-chair, Michael Rudowitz, summed up his involvement, “for me, giving to others provides the opportunity to give back to a community that I care so much about. This is inspiring and important to me and my family. Talking with volunteers and donors on Super Sunday and hearing their personal stories about how the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida has impacted their lives and their loved ones’ lives inspired me to continue doing my part to ensure our Jewish community will always thrive.” Not unlike her co-chair, Leah Palestrant’s enthusiasm and passion for Jewish Federation, Jewish community, and Jewish values rings true in all that she embodies. This year, Leah had her son in tow, leading by example and modeling what it means to give back and give to a community you are such a proud

Thank you to those who answered the call on Sunday, February 5th, and to those who followed up during the week after.

Because of you, $101,403 from 134 donors (as of 2/8/2023) was raised to go towards refueling our Jewish community locally and abroad through the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida’s 2023 Annual Campaign.

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SUPER SUNDAY CO-CHAIRS, LEAH PALESTRANT & MICHAEL RUDOWITZ

SUZIE BECKER, WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER

member of.

day! A few special thank yous are necessary this Congratulations and thank year. Thank you to Suzie you to all of the volunteers, Becker for MCing on our sponsors, donors, and social media, Sarah Bloom event co-chairs for their and Rebecca Cooper for support, help, and exciteensuring the little ones ment in preparation for the were busy and happy, and

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services team for providing us a beautiful space to make the call.

While Super Sunday is an important day for our fundraising efforts, our campaign is active throughout the entire year.

If you have already made your pledge, we thank you.

If we haven’t yet had an opportunity to reach you, make your gift today at jewishjacksonville.org

LEAH PALESTRANT AND NICOLE MARKS, YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & FAMILIES STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS

MOTHER-DAUGHTER DUO, DIANE ROTHSTEIN, WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CHAIR, AND SOPHIE ROTHSTEIN, YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & FAMILIES CHAIR

MINI MENSCHES

BRANDON AND ALYSSA SUGG, YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & FAMILIES STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS

JENNIFER PLOTKIN, BOARD PRESIDENT, JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA

ERIK ROSTHOLDER, MAJOR GIFTS CHAIR AND PAT BURKE, DIRECTOR, FINANCE, JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA TAMMY FISCH AND RENA FISCH

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CEO Collen Rodriguez Celebrates 25 YEARS at JFCS

By Caryl Butterley & Tawny Fortitudo The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services

working with kids in the juvenile justice system.

Two years later, she moved into a new counseling position where she worked When Colleen Rodriguez with sexually abused looks back on her 25-year children. During her time career with The LJD interacting directly with Jewish Family & Communi- children and families, ty Services, she is most Colleen saw firsthand the proud of her work growing difficult challenges these the agency’s reach of children faced. helping and advocating for those in need.

“When I realized I could jump in and be part of Under Colleen’s leadermaking a change - I did,” ship, JFCS has expanded she said. from 80 employees and a budget of $5.6 million in Colleen’s experiences 2011 to 200 employees and motivated her to take on a $17 million budget today. more responsibilities and Perhaps more importantly, move into roles that could her integrity and deepcreate wider change in the ly-rooted compassion for community. She became the families who come to the first community-based JFCS serve as a model for supervisor for child the day-to-day workings of welfare that wasn’t under the agency. She leads by the Florida Department of example and is a fierce Children and Families and advocate for spotlighting after working in a variety issues that the community of departments, she was often finds tough to talk selected as the first Chief about: the stigmatization Programs Officer of the of mental health, child organization. Today, abuse, tolerance and Colleen has served 12 inclusion, food insecurity, years in the lead role of and homelessness. To Chief Executive Officer. solve a problem, it first needs to be acknowledged “It’s been a privilege to as existing. grow up here at JFCS,” she said. “I feel very fortunate From the beginning of her because that’s unusual. time at JFCS, Colleen has When you see people who considered herself a have worked as long as I “boots-on-the-ground” kind have in this field, they’ve of person. She started her usually been with several career as a licensed different agencies.” clinical social worker at Stilwell Middle School, What’s even more unusual is that Collen isn’t Jewish.

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She is the first non-Jewish CEO the agency has had in its 105-year history. However, she embraces the guiding principle of serving the entire community in the Jewish tradition of Tikkun Olam (to repair and improve the world).

Most recently, this led Colleen to think about how JFCS could help bring local attention to the animosity and bias facing the Jewish, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities. The agency initiated the “Resisting Hate, Repairing the World” panel in December 2022 - a community conversation about the work being done to address hate through education, mutual respect, and truth. The feedback was so positive that additional panels are being planned for 2023.

While much of Colleen’s can-do attitude is simply who she is, she credits many mentors along the way, as well as the JFCS leadership that came before her.

“Iris Young was the CEO before me and hired me.

Her take was you have to be the first out of the gate,” she said. “You can’t be afraid to take chances and really put yourself out there.”

Colleen says she’s also thankful for the support from her staff and current “We’re here to educate and and past board presidents create a safe nonpolitical and members, all of whom space for those types of she says have been conversations,” she said. critical to her success.

JFCS also continues its advocacy for mental health counseling. Colleen has observed a worsening mental health crisis throughout her career and is committed to having the agency play an active role in being part of the solution. JFCS is committed to making counseling available to those who need it and maintains a full counseling department.

The combination of hardearned experience, a spirited personality, and the guidance of other community leaders has empowered Colleen to boldly spark change something she has done exceedingly well and with powerful results for the past 25 years.

JFCS is a beneficiary of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida.

BETH EL - THE BEACHES SYNAGOGUE Gets a New Rabbi RABBINICAL INSTALLATION

By Joy Shultz Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

introduced to his first B’nai Mitzvah, as well as other life cycle events. It was obvious that even though There is a new Rabbi in he had not much time town in Ponte Vedra Beach working with these awesome kids, Rabbi Dyme at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue. July 1, 2022, managed to build a terrific rapport with these stumarked the first day for Rabbi Benjamin Dyme to dents and honored them as they displayed their begin his work at Beth El. After an intense vetting services. Rabbi Dyme also process - which he passed felt that being involved in Sunday School and brilliantly - Beth El invited developing a warm relaRabbi Dyme to move to tionship with each of the Florida and become Beth El’s rabbi. Beth El’s beloved students was of utmost and respected rabbi of 13 importance. To say the least, he has made a years, Rabbi Michael wonderful connection and Matuson, retired on June bond with all who attend 30, 2022. We were tearful and sad to see him go, but Beth El. our congregation opened their arms to Rabbi Dyme. As a child, Rabbi Dyme Immediately, People found thought about becoming a Rabbi. After college, he him to be extremely easy worked several jobs - into talk to as he captured cluding a job at Hillel, a our congregation’s heart barista in a coffee shop, completely. and in administration at He was immediately the University of Pennsyl-

vania in the Chemistry Department. During this time, he studied for and earned his Master’s in Creative Writing. After being asked to officiate weddings of some of his friends, Rabbi Dyme decided it was time to do what he dreamed of and become a rabbi. In 2015, he applied to Rabbinical school and was accepted.

He received his ordination in 2022. Midrash classes proved to be some of his favorites. Some of Rabbi Dyme’s hobbies inlude reading, writing, movies, and playing Dungeons & Dragons. Additionally, he created a game for students to learn from called “Saving the Second Temple.” It is a role-playing game which is used in other Jewish educational elements.

We are beyond elated to announce and invite

everyone in the Jacksonville area to Rabbi Benjamin Dyme’s Rabbinical Installation. It will be held at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue, beginning with Shabbat Services, on Friday April 28, 2023.

Following Shabbat Services, there will be a Saturday morning service, including installation, a presentation by Rabbi Dyme’s mentors, a Kiddush luncheon, and on Saturday night, there will be a Celebration with a Havdalah service, dinner, and cocktails. Please save the date! For more information, please contact Joy Shultz at (904) 534-3926, or email elissa@bethelbeaches.org We look forward to sharing this time with you and hope to have many people from our wonderful community join us in helping celebrate our new Rabbi.

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Join Jacksonville Jewish Center's Exploring Israel Adventure Led by Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner December 20, 2023 – January 1, 2024 Optional Eilat–Petra Extension December 31, 2023 – January 4, 2024

“One does not travel to Jerusalem, one returns.”

Tour Package Includes: • Hotels: Dan Panorama, Tel Aviv; Ruth–Rimonim Hotel, Tzfat; and Dan Panorama, Jerusalem • All Breakfasts, 2 Friday night “Shabbat” Dinners and Shabbat Lunches, 3 Weekday dinners and lunches as per itinerary • Touring with Rabbi Lubliner and one of Israel’s Top Tour Guide educators in a WiFi enabled deluxe touring Motor Coach

A Few Tour Highlights: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Guided tour of the Ayalon Institute – An underground bullet factory in Rehovot.

Tour the alleys of Old Jaffa, the ancient port city.

Guided tour of The New Anu – Museum of the Jewish People on the campus of Tel Aviv University.

Shabbat services at unusual synagogues in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Discover the quaint Neve Tzedek neighborhood of Tel Aviv.

Tour the ruins of Caesarea, including its Roman Theater, Promontory Palace, Hippodrome and Amphitheater.

Guided tour of the ornate Bahai Gardens in Haifa from the top of Mt. Carmel to the Bahai Shrine.

Tour mystical Tzfat's old synagogues and picturesque alleyways. Tzfat was the cradle of Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism).

Walk in the lush Tel Dan Nature Reserve, one of the sources of the Jordan River.

Jeep tour of the Golan Heights for a special perspective on Israel's complex geopolitics.

Chocolate making workshop at the De Karina Chocolate Factory on nearby Kibbutz Ein Zivan.

Shehekhiyanu-Welcome Ceremony on Mt. Scopus overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem and Temple Mount.

B'nai Mitzvah Ceremony at the Egalitarian Kotel (near Robinson's Arch) to connect a Jewish past with a Jewish future.

Travel to Kiryat Gat to visit the Neve Hannah Youth Village to interact with children and staff.

Ascend Masada by cable car to tour the ruins of King Herod's palace and float on the Dead Sea. Experience Ethiopian Jewish Culture at the Germachin Center in Beth Shean.

Engage in hands-on-hesed preparing food packages for Jerusalem's neediest at Pantry Packers.

For Trip Packages and Pricing, Please Visit our Website at bit.ly/2023jjcisraeltrip

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View and download complete itinerary and application at bit.ly/2023jjcisraeltrip For additional information please contact Rabbi Lubliner at jlubliner@jaxjewishcenter.org or 904-292-1000 Tour arranged by ITW Tours • Tour manager: Staceyr@israeltour.com • 800-247-7235

Israel’s Tallest Buildings

By Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner Jacksonville Jewish Center When I lead a group to Israel (BTW, you’re invited to join us for our next trip in December 2023), a visit to Tel Aviv always begins at the port of Old Jaffa. Gaze out to the Mediterranean and you will see the waters upon which Jonah sailed when he sought to escape God’s command to prophesy in Nineveh, the subject of the haftorah for Yom Kippur afternoon. Turn your gaze to the right and you’ll take in the skyline of modern Tel Aviv capped by the 61-story Azrieli Sarona Tower, Israel’s tallest building at 782 feet (122 feet higher than Jacksonville’s Bank of America building).

AZRIELI SARONA TOWER, TEL AVIV

The silhouettes of Tel Aviv’s skyscrapers are impressive, especially if you consider that a little more than a century ago, the land north of Jaffa consisted of nothing more

than sand dunes. It is said that in contemporary Israel, the bird one sees most is the crane - not the kind that flies but the one necessary to construct new buildings.

But the state of Israel’s tallest structure is invisible to the eye, although palpable to the mind and heart. 75 years ago, facing an existential threat and a future clouded with uncertainty, Israel declared to the world that she would be a Jewish state, yet one pledged to “complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race or sex [and] guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education and culture, safeguarding the Holy Places of all religions.” That towering statement, along with its commitment to open elections, an independent press, and an autonomous judiciary free from political coercion have all served as a superstructure for Israel’s growth as a prosperous democracy.

have wondered why the word “justice” appears twice.

DAVID BEN GURION READING ISRAEL’S DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

raison d’etre.

The great theologian, Abraham Joshua Heschel, once observed in his work, Israel: An Echo of Eternity: Well-meaning people used to say that a Jewish state would be an answer to all Jewish questions. In truth, however, the State of Israel is a challenge to many of our answers.

What is the meaning of the State of Israel? Its sheer being is the message. [Its] ultimate meaning must be seen in terms of the vision of the prophets: the redemtion of all. The religious duty of the Jew is to participate in the process of continuous redemtion, in seeing that justice prevails over power, that awareness of God penetrates human understanding.

Among the numerous answers to the question, my favorite is that of the medieval Torah commentator, Abraham Ibn Ezra (1089-1167), who suggests that the word appears twice because we are obligated to pursue justice - not only when a ruling will benefit us, but even when it is to our disadvantage.

This is how Midrash understands the verse, “You shall not revile a judge” (Exodus 22:27): to respect the decisions of the court, whether favorable to you or not (Exodus THE SUPREME COURT OF ISRAEL Rabbah 31:8). This is the very essence of an independent judiciary.

Israel’s achievements over the past 75 years have It may seem paradoxical been enourmous; her for Israel to be a democra- accomplishments as lofty cy and a Jewish state. This as the towers she has polarity has given rise to built, as enduring as the many challenges, yet archaelogical digs which No skyscraper can exist Israel’s character and reveal the ancient Jewish without a firm foundation, future depend on both. To past buried deeply in her one anchored firmly in the fulfill her mission as a earth. Yet even as her bedrock. Israel’s bedrock “light unto the nations,” skyscrapers increase in is rooted in the values of safeguard the rights of all number and grow even our sacred tradition. The her residents, and maintaller, may Israel’s highest Torah states, “Justice, tain her role as the fulcrum ideals and noblest aspirajustice shall you pursue” upon which Jewish life the tions forever soar above (Deuteronomy 16:20). Given world over rests, she must her soil and dwell in the the Torah’s economy of steward her democratic hearts of all who love her. words and its avoidance of institutions while embracrepetition without intening Klal Yisrael as her tion, many commentators 29

LiterARTure: Art & Literature Series

By Cindy Edelman & Stacey Goldring Searching For Identity

Northeast Florida Building, 245 Riverside Ave., in the beautiful Riverfront Room overlooking the St. Explore how the visual arts Johns. and literature influence and reflect universal To learn more and registhemes with our LiterARter, visit us at www.

Ture Series, packed with searchingforidentity.org/ information and peppered calendar-literature with a healthy dose of wit!

April 19, 2023 LiterARTure was born in Revenge!

2016, when we were sitting Served cold, painted on outside the San Marco canvas, or revealed Starbucks, bemoaning the page-by-page, CIndy and lack of civil discourse in Stacey reveal how paintour world. ers and authors execute the power of revenge.

Not the type to bemoan too much, we came up with May 24, 2023 an idea. “What if we marHer Voice ried books and art, showIn recognition of Yom ing what we, as Americans, HaShoah, Holocaust have in common?” Since Remembrance Day, Cindy then, using that template, and Stacey expore the we’ve presented numerfascinating lives of writer ous examples based on Hannah Arendt and artist different themes in our Vardi Kahana. annual LiterARTure series.

See you soon!

We’re delighted to open the 2023 series with Girls -Cindy Edelman & Stacey Gone Rogue at The ComGoldring munity Foundation of

CINDY & STACEY DISCUSS ART & LITERATURE

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WHERE YOU’LL GET YOUR DOSE OF CULTURE, VALUES, AND IDENTITY…

CHUTZPAH! Tune in every Friday for the latest episode on iHeart, Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts!

SEE & BE SCENE JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA HANUKKAH & HOCKEY NIGHT 2022 Partnering with the Jacksonville Icemen to “Shine A Light” on antisemitism were the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, Jewish Community Alliance, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Members of the community cheered on the Icemen as they defeated the Savannah Ghost Pirates.

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HANUKKAH & HAVDALAH

Partnering with Jewish Community Alliance and PJ Library at the Jacksonville Jewish Center

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & FAMILIES DISTRIBUTE HANDMADE TRIVETS AT RIVER GARDEN for HANUKKAH

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TU B’SHEVAT FAMILY PROGRAM

Partnering with Jewish Community Alliance at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue

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Women’s Philanthropy CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH 2023 Thank you to Champagne Brunch Co-chairs Suzie Becker and Monique Miller for putting together a fabulous event! Thank you to the committee for your time and creativity: Jill Altman, Shylie Bannon, Rachel Brodsky, Nicole Brown, Ellen Cottrill, Cecilia Cristol, Sue Eaglstein, Karen Gare, Miriam Greenhut, Natalie Halpern, Risa Herman, Samantha Holtzman, Erica Jolles, Glori Katz, Seri Kertzner, Sue Kornhauser, Betsy Korzyniowski, Rachel Lasry, Danielle Leder, Rachel Morgenthal, Vanessa Morris, Jenn Neuman, Nicole Resnick, Marjie Rogozinski, Jeanine Rogozinski, Joan Rosenberg, Diane Rothstein, Sherrie Saag, Irit Salzman, Jennifer Sandler-Steinshouer, Lauren Setzer, Sandy Shapiro, Falyn Shilts, Alyson Sommers, Lior Spring, Madison Woodall, and Eunice Zisser.

Thank you to the local businesses who generously supported the Champagne Brunch raffle: 1st Place Sports, Allen’s Jewelers, A’propos Boutique, Art Bikes Jax, BodyBrite, Carla Shoes & Accessories, Cline’s Custom Meats, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Diamonds Direct, Drs. Levin & Fetner, Ephron Yoga, Espling Jewelers, Fore Score Golf Tavern, I & C Cleaners, J. Turner & Co., Jakobella, Jewish Community Alliance, Lakewood Jewelers, Le Petit Paris, Linda Cunningham Designer Boutique, Mac Hair Studio, Mesa, Mom Strength Fitness, Mon Amie Boutique, Noura’s Café, Pet Supplies Plus, Pink Salt, Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery, River City Aesthetics, Romano Hair Studio, San Marco Books and More, Sherrie and David Saag, Stellers Gallery, Taverna, Ten Salon, The Local, The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, The UPS Store, The Wardroom Ltd., and VanessaDesigns4U.

LION OF JUDAH CHAIR, ERICA JOLLES; EVENT CO-CHAIR, SUZIE BECKER; COMMANDER ALEXA JENKINS; CEO, MARIAM FEIST; WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CHAIR, DIANE ROTHSTEIN; EVENT CO-CHAIR, MONIQUE MILLER

NICOLE BROWN AND LIOR SPRING

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DANIELLE LEDER, DEBRA SETZER, KATE SAGER, AND MELANIE SETZER

REBEKAH RICHMOND AND ANNE BERNSTEIN

SAMANTHA HOLTZMAN AND SHERRY WEISLER

EVENT CO-CHAIR, SUZIE BECKER, SERI KERTZNER, AND NICOLE RESNICK

MIRIAM GREENHUT AND CHRISTY ROSEN

BETH WOLPOFF AND CLAUDIA MARGOLIS

ILENE LEVENSON, SUSAN LUBLINER, CHRISTINA LEVINE, MAURI MIZRAHI, AND JENNIFER SMITH

TUESDAYS TOGETHER

Tuesdays Together aims to help those new to the community, recently moved back, or thinking about making a move to Northeast Florida, to develop new connections and friendships with those connected to our Jewish community.

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Women’s Philanthropy CONNECTIONS Women’s Philanthropy (WP) recently hosted two Connections programs. A group of women traveled to Gainesville to visit the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica at the University of Florida. Rebecca Jefferson, library Curator, gave a private tour, highlighting a few special books in the collection, as well as the beautiful architecture within the library. Following the tour, the group enjoyed lunch at UF Hillel and heard from Executive Director, Rabbi Jonah Zinn, on how UF Hillel is working to combat antisemitism and anti-Israel hate on campus.

Most recently, Suzie Becker hosted a Zoom discussion with Ruchi Koval, author of Soul Construction: Shape Your Character Using 8 Steps from the Timeless Jewish Practice of Mussar. Suzie shared how the book helped her through a difficult time. Both she and Ruchi shared a few things that resonated with the group, “if you’re not going to be a helper, then don’t be a hurter.” And, “outer work transforms the world, inner work transforms yourself.”

IRENE JAFFA AND JUDY SILVERMAN ENJOY TIME IN A SPECIAL READING ALCOVE IN THE LIBRARY

WP CHAIR, DIANE ROTHSTEIN, WAS AMAZED AT THE BOOKS WITHIN THE SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

MARJIE ROGOZINSKI, RISA HERMAN, JOAN LEVIN, AND TAL MOLA ENJOYED THEIR TIME VISITNG GAINESVILLE, ESPECIALLY THE STOP AT UF HILLEL

Soul Construction, Book Discussion

EUNICE ZISSER AND SHERRIE SAAG, CO-CHAIRS OF THE GAINESVILLE VISIT; THE ISSER AND RAE PRICE LIBRARY OF JUDAICA IS NAMED FOR EUNICE’S PARENTS

WP CHAIR, DIANE ROTHSTEIN, WITH PROGRAM HOST, SUZIE BECKER; SUZIE LED A DISCUSSION WITH AUTHOR RUCHI KOVAL ON HER BOOK, SOUL CONSTRUCTION PARTICIPANTS OF THE WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CONNECTIONS TRIP TO GAINESVILLE

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PARTICIPANTS, KIM GLASGAL, CLAUDIA MARGOLIS, AND HALEY TRAGER ENJOYED HEARING FROM RUCHI AND ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO APPLYING HER TECHNIQUES FROM THE TIMELESS JEWISH PRACTICE OF MUSSAR

BETH EL - THE BEACHES SYNAGOGUE FLANNEL & FRIENDS Burn the Mortgage Event

ILENE THRASHER, ILYSE GREENE

TAMMY SHUMER, VICKIE KENNEDY

BETH EL MEMBERS & FRIENDS

PJ LIBRARY at The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services JEWEL SOCIETY Luncheon PJ Library Jacksonville’s JEWEL Society members joined together at the LJD Jewish Family & Community Services’ Chartrand Tolerance Center for their first ever Jewel Society luncheon. We visited with Winnie Grinspoon, president of the Harold Grinspoon Foundatioh, and learned all about PJ Library from beginning to present to dreams for the future. JEWEL stands for “Jewish Women Emerging Leaders” and was formed to encourage support for activities of PJ Library. To learn more about becoming a member of the JEWEL Society or to register your child or grandchild to become a PJ Library subscriber, contact Melissa Williams at mgwilliams@jfcsjax.org.

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JACKSONVILLE JEWISH CENTER THE BIBLE PLAYERS The Jacksonville Jewish Center hosted The Bible Players (a Jewish improv duo) as artists-in-residence on January 20-22. Students participated in playshops both during school and throughout Shabbat. The “mitz-prov” games explored Jewish values & mitzvot through improv.

The Bible Players led our Mini/Mighty Minyan Youth Services on Shabbat morning and entertained the adults at an “Unkosher” Comedy Show on Saturday night. Students and families came together for a Chesed Family Comedy Show where a fun time was had by all. Thank you to The Bible Players for a fantastic weekend of Jewish Improv at the Center!

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL STUDENTS IN GRADES 6-7 EXPERIENCED “MITZPROV” GAMES FIRST-HAND

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL STUDENTS IN GRADES K-2 REALLY GOT INTO THE FUN WITH THE BIBLE PLAYERS

STUDENTS BRAVELY VOLUNTEERED TO BE PART OF THE SHOW AT THE CHESED FAMILY COMEDY SHOW

OUR FAMILIES HAD A BLAST AT THE CHESED FAMILY COMEDY SHOW!

THE BIBLE PLAYERS LED AN ENGAGING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSION WITH OUR TEACHERS FROM THE MARTIN J. GOTTLIEB DAY SCHOOL AND THE BERNARD & ALICE SELEVAN RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

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LATKES & VODKAS 2022 The Jacksonville Jewish Center Hosted their Annual Latkes & Vodkas event. There was a lot of casino games, drinks, food, and fun throughout the evening.

SPECIAL GUEST DEALER, JACOB RUBY, AT THE BLACKJACK TABLE

DR. ADAM HOLTZMAN, SAMANTHA HOLTZMAN, DANIELLE LEDER, & DR. ALEX LEDER

JENNIFER SMITH, MICHELLE PENSON, AND SARAH BLOOM

MITZVAH DAY The Jacksonville Jewish Center and Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple partnered together to help the larger community by serving meals as well as cooked & delivered meals for Aging True, and packaged & delivered baked goods to local fire stations. Special thanks to Michelle Branly, Rhoda Goldstein, and Wiatt Bowers for coordinating.

SARAH BLOOM AND ANNA STONE CUT BAKED GOODS TO BE INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGES

FOOD PREPERATION FOR MEALS ON WHEELS

GABRIEL HOUSE AT MAYO CLINIC

HANUKKAH HAPPENING The Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School celebrated Hanukkah with school families at the Hanukkah Happening at Jacksonville Jewish Center.

VOLUNTEERS COOKED, PACKAGED, & DELIVERED OVER 400 MEALS FOR AGING TRUE

COOKING FOR RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE FAMILIES

MAZEL TOV TO HAYDEN FUNK (RIGHT), WINNER, AND ELIJAH SEREBOFF (LEFT), 2ND PLACE IN THE MAJOR LEAGUE DREIDEL TOURNAMENT, THE WINNER OF OUR MAJOR LEAGUE DREIDEL.

SUFGANIYOT! STUDENTS SHARE A SWEET ENDING TO THIS FUN NIGHT.

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30th RIVER GARDEN FOUNDATION GALA: A Time to Shine

A night of spectacular celebration on December 10, 2022 at the Sawgrass Marriott.

DEBBIE PARKER, DEBRA SETZER, KATHY OSTERER, SUE EAGLSTEIN, JEANINE ROGOZINSKI, AND STACIE WILF

ADAM & REGINA CHASKIN AND SUSAN & MARTY GOETZ

ALAN & MAURI MIZRAHI, BUNNY WITTEN, AND LAURA & MATT GITTLESON

KELLIE ANN & JASON SMITH

RICK & JENNIFER PLOTKIN

SARAH, KEN & ALLISON JACOBS

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OLEG & STACI FORTUN, FRED & STACI MARKS, DAVID MILLER, RABBI MAYA GLASSER, JEFF PARKER, AND RICHARD SISISKY

HAZZAN JESSE HOLZER, DR. STEVE PORTER, AND ROBIN ALLERDING

RABBI YAAKOV & HENNY FISCH

BOB & MARIAM FEIST

MICHAEL PAUL, SHAWN COARSEY, TOM HARRIS, SHERIFF T.K. WATERS

MERYL & HARRIS RITTENBERG

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CHABAD OF St. JOHNS 9th Annual MENORAH BUILDING WORKSHOP at Home Depot Dozens of children from around St. Johns County prepare for Chanukah by building their very own Menorahs at Chabad of St. Johns 9th Annual Menorah Building Workshop this year at Home Depot. Kids built their own menorahs, sampled festive foods like sufganiyot/doughnots, as Mrs. Dini Sharfstein enthusiastically shared the Chanukah story, history and traditions, and what it means in these contemporary times. Chabad of St. Johns children’s workshops have become a mainstay for many families, who appreciate the chance to engage Jewishly around the Jewish holidays. For all our Chanukah programs and events, visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call (904) 701-4422 or email info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com

DOZENS OF CHILDREN LISTEN AS DINI SHARFSTEIN FROM CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS SHARES THE CHANUKAH STWORY AND ITS LESSONS

CHILDREN BUILD BEAUTIFUL MENORAHS

JUDAH MACCABEE VISITS CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS MENORAH BUILDING WORKSHOP

HELICOPTER GELT DROP Hundreds of families joined Chabad of St. Johns Chanukah celebration and Helicopter Gelt Drop in Nocatee, Ponte Vedra. 11,000 shiny chocolate Chanukah coins rained down as the kids rushed in to collect their chocolate. The evening opened with a special performance by the Grow After School children, which takes place in two locations - St. Johns and Nocatee. Our bright giant Menorah and the Chanukah light show surely sweetened, brightened, and warmed up our hearts this Chanukah! Participants sang, dance and enjoyed Chanukah foods. For more info, visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com, phone: (904) 701-4422, email info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com

THE GROW AFTER SCHOOL CHILDREN SING AT CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS HELICOPTER GELT DROP IN NOCATEE, PONTE VEDRA

HUNDREDS OF FAMILIES ENJOY A FABULOUS MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY

RABBI MENDEL SHARFSTEIN LIGHTS UP A GIANT MENORAH

GROW After School Program Chabad of S. John’s 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 are proud and love being Jewish. Grow is conveniently located in TWO locations - St. Johns and Nocatee, Ponte Vedra. To find out more, visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty/GROW, email Dini@JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call (904) 701-4422.

CHILDREN AT GROW AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM BUILD A MODEL OF ABRAHAM & SARAH’S 42 WELCOMING TENT

CHILDREN AT GROW AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM MAKE SLIME SOUP AS THEY LEARN THE STORY OF JACOB AND HIS BROTHER EISAV

CHILDREN AT CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS GROW AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM CRAFTED CHOCOLATE TREE BARK IN HONOR OF TU B’SHVAT

Kids MEGA CHALLAH BAKE & BUBBLE SHOW 2023 So much cuteness, flour, and bubbles at the Kids Mega Challah Bake & Bubble Show 2023! There’s nothing like seeing the joyful faces of 75 children celebrating Judaism and the tradition of challah. Thank you PartyHarddy.com for the magnificent& magical bubbles! Chabad of St. Johns Children’s workshops have become a mainstay for many families, who appreciate the chance to engage Jewishly in a fun and creative atmosphere. For more info, visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com or call (904) 701-4422, or email info@ChabadSJohnsCounty.com

CHILDREN MAKING DELICIOUS CHALLAH

FAMILY PHOTOS WITH BEAUTIFUL CHALLAHS

SO MUCH FUN AS KIDS GOT TO MAKE SOME OF THE LARGEST BUBBLES YOU’VE EVER SEEN

KOSHER FOOD CLUB

MENORAH LIGHTING at the World of Golf Hall of Fame

Each month, Chabad of St. Johns sponsors a Kosher Food Club at local High Schools. This month, it was Fresh Matzoh Ball soup. We delved into Shabbat, and how it helps us live a healthy lifestyle. We all need time to stop, unwind, and focus inward. Shabbat is our anchor. A time to calm our frenzied minds and refocus on our meaning and purpose here in this world. For more information about Kosher Food Club & our Jewish Teen events, visit www.

JewishSJohnsCounty.com, or www.facebook.com/JewishStJohnsCounty, phone: (904) 701-4422, or email info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com

Dozens of families joined Chabad of St. Johns fabulous Menorah lighting & Chanukah celebration at World Golf Village. Mendel Sharfstein, Rabbi at Chabad of St. Johns, sang the blessings and lit the 9 foot Menorah. Once the Menorah was lit, everyone sang & danced to Chanukah music & enjoyed a delectable buffet of Chanukah treats: latkes, donuts, & plenty of chocolate gelt. For more information about Kosher Food Club & our Jewish Teen events, visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com, or www.facebook.com/JewishStJohnsCounty, phone: (904) 701-4422, or email info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com

STUDENTS AT CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL ENJOY MATZOH BALL SOUP

STUDENTS AT CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL HAVING FUN BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS TOGETHER

FAMILIES POSE IN FRONT OF THE SHINING MENORAH

YOUNG & OLD ENJOY CHANUKAH DELECTABLES

MENORAH & MARTINIS Menorah & Martinis is where women made new friendships and connections, created the most gorgeous granite Menorahs to light with their families on Chanukah, discovered their inner flame and the connection between women and Chanukah. To join the upcoming Womens Circle event, visit JewishSJohnsCounty.com/JWC. For more information visit www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com or www.facebook.com/JewishStJohnsCounty, phone: (904) 701-4422, or email Info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com. The Jewish Women’s Circle (JWC) is a place to connect with Jewish women from diverse backgrounds and affiliations in a warm and lighthearted atmosphere. Join us and bring a friend!

LADIES ENJOYING MENORAH & MARTINIS WITH CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS JEWISH WOMENS CIRCLE LADIES CRAFTING GRANITE MENORAHS WITH CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS JEWISH WOMENS CIRCLE

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WORTH THE SCHLEP March 1, 2023 Discover Israel Film Series @ 6:30 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Jacksonville, FL For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@jcajax.org.

March 3, 2023 Congregation Ahavath Chesed Shabbat Shireinu @ 5:45 p.m.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple 8727 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32217 5:45 p.m. - Tot Shabbat (in-person inside), 6:15 p.m. - Community Dinner, 7 p.m. - Services $6/child, $12/Member Adult, $15/ Non-Member (Venmo/Cash/ Check at the door) http://thetemplejax.org

March 4, 2023 Congregation Ahavath Cehsed Adult Purim Extravaganza @ 7 p.m.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple 8727 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32217 http://thetemplejax.org

March 5, 2023 Jacksonville Jewish Center Purim Carnival Jacksonville Jewish Center 3662 Crown Point Road Come enjoy the games, inflatables, petting zoo, pony rides, dunk tank, cotton candy, popcorn, and more. Individual wristband - $18; Family wristband pack - $54; Food available for purchase from Margo’s Catering www.jaxjewishcenter.org/ purimcarnival

March 6, 2023 Purim in the Wild Safari @6:30 p.m.

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Chabad of St. Johns Join us for Purim in the WIld Safari: Animal Show, Hear the Megilah, Great food & drinks, Come dressed up and win a prize, Loads of fun for the whole family info@JewishSJohnsCounty.com Kollel Purim Party @ 8:30 p.m.

March 8, 2023 River Garden Auxiliary Donor Lunch @ 11:30 a.m.

River Garden Senior Services 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Annual donor appreciation event for the River Garden Auxiliary.

Celebrating 100 years! Contact Ellen Rubens (904) 651-6007 or Barb Safer (904) 268-1329

March 9, 2023 Women’s Philanthropy Connections! @ 10 a.m.

Home of Risa Herman Join us for an introduction to mahjong. Learn the history, why it’s popular among Jewish women, and receive a brief lesson. No previous experience required. For more information, please contact Lauren Rickoff at laurenr@jewishjacksonville.org

March 19, 2023 The Berman Family JCA Concert Series @ 3 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd

March 21, 2023 Jewish National Fund’s Legacy Luncheon @ 11:30 a.m.

Jewish National Fund invites you to our Legacy Luncheon: Preserving the Past, Ensuring the Present & Securing our Future. Featuring: Ambassador Dennis Ross, American Diplomat and Author; Robin Dermer, Esq. Director of Planned Giving, Florida; No cost to attend; Dietary laws observed. RSVP Required by March 13, 2023 at jnf. org/LegacyJacksonville For more information contact Suzie Bassoff: sbassoff@jnf.org

March 22, 2023

rachel.sandler@jcajax.org

JCA - Israeli Technology @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Israel is considered one of the leading countries in the field of high-tech. Come and hear from Tal about the growing development of Israeli hi-tech and the special partnership with the Jewish Agency and Israeli hi-tech companies. Free to the community. For more information please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org

River Garden 77th Anniversary Day @ 3 p.m.

River Garden Senior Services 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Annual community BBQ & afternoon of fun! Annual meeting for RIver Garden Senior Services at 4:30 p.m.

March 25, 2023 Night of Generosity @ 8:30 p.m.

Home of Haley & Jason Trager A signature evening for young leaders & philanthropists featuring Mentalist David Jaison.

A minimum gift of $118 to the 2023 Annual Campaign is required to attend. For more information, please contact Faye Hedrick at fayeh@jewishjacksonville.org

March 26, 2023 JCA - Model Matzah Bakery @ 1:30 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Learn first-hand how to make home-made Shmurah Matzah!

Kids will go all the way from a grain of wheat to finished matzah. They will take stalks of grain, they “thresh” it to break off the wheat berries, then they winnow, separate the chaff from the grain, and finally collect the grain into a hand-driven wheat mill and grind it into flour. Then like an actual matzah bakery, kids will get to knead the dough, roll it out, and then bake it into their very own matzah. This is in partnership with Chabad of Jacksonville. Free to the community. Advanced registration is required by March 19. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at

Not Your Grandmother’s Passover Seder @ 5 p.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue For more information, please contact Beth El - The Beaches.

March 28, 2023 JCA - Israel Time @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Come hang out with our Shlicha Tal, drink coffee, eat Israeli snacks, and talk about Israel.

Free to the community. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel. sandler@jcajax.org

March 26, 2023 JCA - History of the Haggadah @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Get ready for Passover by hearing all about the Haggadah!

Dr. Rebecca J. W. Jefferson, curator of the University of Florida Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica, will join us to share the history of this guide to the Passover seder. Free to the community. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org

March 30, 2023 JFCS Annual Event 2023: Wrapping Ourselves Around the Communinity @ 6 p.m.

VENUE 841 841 Prudential Drive More details coming soon Contact Susie Menaged at smenaged@JFCSJax.org

Beth El Sisterhood Miriam’s Seder @ 6 p.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue For more information, please contact Beth El - The Beaches.

April 6, 2023 Beth El’s Congregational Seder @ 5:30 p.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue For more information, please contact Beth El - The Beaches.

YPF 2nd Night Seder: Brisket-Off For details, email fayeh@ jewishjacksonville.org

April 17, 2023 COMMUNITY-WIDE Yom HaShoah Event Join the entire Jewish Community for this important event of memory. For more information, please contact Jill Metlin at jillm@jewishjacksonville.org

April 18, 2023 JCA - Mah Jongg Workshop 2023 @ 10 a.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Get familiar with the new 2023 card during this interactive program with MahjCon’s, Debbie Barnett. Join us for this informational talk about the new card followed by fun activities and time to play with coaching, as requested! The entire community of beginners and veterans are invited to come. A light lunch will be included. Please register by Apr 11. Cost: $68, Valued Member: $45. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org JCA - Israel National Days: Zikaron Basalon @ 6 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Zikaron Basalon in Hebrew means “Remembrances in the Living Room.” This grassroots initiative, based in Israel since 2011, brings together more than 1.5 million people in more than 60

countries to talk with Holocaust survivors or their descendants in intimate, home-based gatherings. This spring, you are invited to join us in Jacksonville at a local home to hear an evening of testimony from a Holocaust survivor. Free to the community. Please register by Apr 14 to receive the address for the program. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Whether you look forward to the Passover Seder all year or avoid it like the plague, add “It’s a Date” to your calendars. In this Melton class, we will gain new insight to days that mark profound moments in history, and those that tell us when to harvest the grain or pop open the wine. In this six-week course, we will explore how the Jewish calendar works while learning about our holidays and rituals. We will also share personal experiences and collective memories. $179 - open to the community. Advance registration is required by April 11. To register visit: meltonschool. org/jacksonville. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel. sandler@jcajax.org

April 19, 2023 River Garden Golf Classic @ 12 p.m.

River Garden Senior Services 11401 Old St. Augustine Rd. Registration online LiterARTure: Art & Literature Series @ 12 p.m.

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida Building 245 Riverside Ave 2023 series - Girls Gone Rogue.

Revenge! Served Cold, painted on canvas or revealed page-bypage, Cindy and Stacey reveal how painters and authors execute the power of revenge. To learn more and register, visit www.searchingforidentity.org/ calendar-literarture

See you soon! Cindy Edelman & Stacey Goldring, Searching for Identity

April 23, 2023 Day of Wisdom with Ruchi Koval @ 11 a.m.

April 24, 2023 COMMUNITY-WIDE Yom Hazikaron @ 6 p.m.

Join us to remember Israel’s fallen soldiers in defense of their country and democracy. For more information, please contact Jill Metlin at jillm@ jewishjacksonville.org

April 25, 2023 JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd See April 18, 2023 for details.

April 27, 2023 Women’s Philanthropy Connections! @ 10 a.m.

St. Augustine, FL Join us for a Jewish historical walking tour of St. Augustine.

Time: 10 a.m. - Noon. Starting point: Mission Nombre. Distance: 1.5 miles. Optional no-host lunch immediately following. Registration required by April 21. For more information, please contact Lauren Rickoff at laurenr@ jewishjacksonville.org

April 28-29, 2023 Rabbi Dyme’s Installation Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue For more information, please contact Beth El - The Beaches.

April 30, 2023 Mitzvah Day @ 9 a.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue 9 a.m. - Noon. For more information, please contact Beth El - The Beaches.

“Names not Numbers” Screening Time and Location TBD

COMMUNITY-WIDE Yom Ha’amatzmut Join us to celebrate Israel’s Independence Day! For more information, please contact Jill Metlin at jillm@jewishjacksonville.org

May 1, 2023 JCA - Spin through Israel @ 5 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd In honor of Israel’s Independence Day, join an Israel-themed special spin class. Free to JCA valued members. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel. sandler@jcajax.org

May 2, 2023 JCA - Jessica Shorstein “And Again, It’s You” @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@jcajax.org JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd See April 18, 2023 for details.

May 3, 2023 JCA - Israeli Dancing @ 6:30 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd All are welcome to join together to experience a variety of simple Jewish line and circle dances.

We will learn about their history and tradition while expressing our joy and sharing our connection. No experience is necessary.

Free to the community. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel. sandler@jcajax.org Israel Time with Tal @ 7 p.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue For more information, please 45

contact Beth El - The Beaches.

May 4, 2023 JCA - Discover Israel Film Series: Ushpizin @ 6:30 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd PROGRAMS WITH OUR COMMUNITY SHLICHA TAL MOLA. Discover Israel Film Series Ushpizin 2004, 1h 30min, Drama An Orthodox Jewish couple’s faith is tested after praying for a child on the Succoth holiday.

Free to the entire community. All Community Shlicha programs are fully funded by the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel. sandler@jcajax.org

May 5, 2023 Congregation Ahavath Chesed Shabbat Shireinu @ 5:45 p.m.

Congregation Ahavath Chesed - The Temple 8727 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32217 5:45 p.m. - Tot Shabbat (in-person inside), 6:15 p.m. - Community Dinner, 7 p.m. - Services $6/child, $12/Member Adult, $15/ Non-Member (Venmo/Cash/ Check at the door) http://thetemplejax.org

May 9, 2023 Sisterhood Lunch & Learn in the Vestibule @ 11 a.m.

Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue For more information, please contact Beth El - The Beaches.

JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd See April 18, 2023 for details.

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May 11, 2023 JFCS PJ Library JEWEL Society Event @ 7:30 pm.

Location TBD Save the date for this year’s Annual PJ Library JEWEL Society Event. For more information please contact Melissa Williams at mgwilliams@jfcs.org or visit www.jfcsjax.org

May 12, 2023 JCA - Kugel Tasting and Making @ 11:45 a.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd There’s nothing better than the explosion of fruit, custard and noodles in grandma’s kugel. Let’s make and taste kugel, and learn what made our grandma’s kugels the best. Registration is required by May 8. Free to the community. For more information, please contact Rachel Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org

May 16, 2023 JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd See April 18, 2023 for details.

May 17, 2023 JCA - Jewish Film: 100 Voices: A Journey Home @ 12 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd Jewish Film: 100 Voices: A Journey Home 2010, Documentary, 1h 31m In June 2009, an assembly of the world’s finest cantors returned to Warsaw, Poland. Chronicling the musical voyage, including performances at the Polish National Opera Chorus the film features old footage of cantors from the Golden Age. Light lunch will be served by host Sandy Oasis. Advance registration is required by May 12. Free to the community. For more information, please contact Rachel

Sandler at rachel.sandler@ jcajax.org

May 20, 2023 Congregation Ahavath Chesed 140th Anniversary Gala @ 6:30 p.m.

May 21, 2023 Family Shavuot Program @ 3 p.m.

Etz Chaim Synagogue 10167 San Jose Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32257 Family Shavuot Celebration: Come together to celebrate the festival of Shavuot! Join us for activities, crafts, and a takeaway surprise that honor the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai to Moses. This is a partnership program with the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida and ALL of your local synagogues. Free to the community. RSVP info coming soon. Advance registration required by May 17

May 23, 2023 JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd See April 18, 2023 for details.

May 24, 2023 LiterARTure: Art & Literature Series @ 12 p.m.

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida Building 245 Riverside Ave 2023 series: Girls Gone Rogue.

Her Voice: In recognition of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, Cindy and Stacey explore the fascinating lives of writer Hannah Arendt and artist Vardi Kahana. To learn more and register, visit www.searchingforidentity.org/calendar-literarture See you soon! Cindy Edelman & Stacey Goldring, Searching for Identity

May 23, 2023 JCA - Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning: It’s a Date @ 7 p.m.

Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) 8500 San Jose Blvd See April 18, 2023 for details.

8505 San Jose Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32217

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