JewishLife: Spring 2023

MARCH/APRIL/MAY

JEWISHJACKSONVILLE.ORG

JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA

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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.

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.

Think about what our lives would be like without Waze, Firewall, the USB flashdrive, and, for some of us, Epi Lady. What would our 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

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.

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!

B’shalom, Mariam

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

LOCAL LIONS ROAR at the International Lion of Judah Conference

By Diane Rothstein Women’s Philanthropy Chair

This year’s International Lion of Judah Conference was one of the best yet. The programming, which included speakers that focused on current issues, such as the war in Ukraine, security, antisemitism, mental health, equity and inclusion, the Israeli government, the continuation of our Jewish Communities, and so much more. Seventeen of the most compassionate, strong, committed, engaged philanthropists from our Northeast Florida community gathered in Phoenix (along with 1,200 other Lions) to learn about what is happening Jewishly and to ensure our collective mission to secure our Jewish people and our Jewish communities wherever they are. As one of the presenters mentioned, “one woman makes a difference, 18,000 Lions change the world!”

During the large Plenary gatherings, we heard from Eric Fingerhut (President & CEO of Jewish Federations of North America), Katie Couric (award-winning journalist, author, and Lion of Judah), Gabby Giffords (former US Representative), Kathy Manning (Congresswoman from North Carolina),

Michael Masters (National Director & CEO, Secure Community Network), Deborah Lipstadt (historian, author, and US Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Antisemitism), Marlee Matlin (Academy Award winner, actor, producer, director, activist, and motivational speaker), and many other notable and influential Rabbis, business owners, community leaders, and innovators - all of whom work very hard and remain committed to finding solutions for the complicated issues that face all of us and our Jewish community both here and abroad. They were inspirational, interesting, and informative.

Every two years at the Lion of Judah Conference, women of valor are honored with the Kipnis-Wilson Friedland award for their commitment, vision, philanthropy, inspiration, and leadership. Northeast Florida’s very own Iris Kraemer was recognized at this year’s gathering, and we were so proud to honor her on what was the 50th Anniversary of the Lion of Judah. Iris is the quintessential leader and a proud platinum Lion of Judah. She leads quietly, with dignity and strength, with honor, and with a tremendous commitment to Jews and the Jewish community both locally and globally. She led us

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

SIX MONTHS: A LETTER to the COMMUNITY

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.

A letter from Tal Mola Israeli Community Shlicha

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.

As my colleague and I drove up to The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services parking lot, my stomach churned as I saw the cattle car from a distance. I wasn’t sure exactly what to expectonly an innate feeling that it would be something I would never forget. Stepping inside, the very first thing I noticed was the black footprints painted onto the wood beneath me. They were a variety of sizes - ones that matched mine and ones that would have matched my fiveyear-old daughter’s. The Shadowlight representative gave us a short introduction explaining that we were in an exact replica of the cattle cars which were used by Nazis to shuttle Jews to concentration camps, at 100 people per car. I looked around and counted the mere 20-something of us that were currently cramped into the space and shuddered at the thought. The representative closed the door

As the video started, I began to understand why it’s described as a “fully immersive” experience. The images are projected all around you, covering and moving life-like along every wall of the car. It felt as if we were right in the middle of these men, women, children, and babies, and right in the middle of the fear and violence and pain that they suffered. If a picture is worth a thousand words, this experience was worth an entire history book.

The film itself follows the stories of two Holocaust survivors, Hedy and Nate. “The boxcar plays heavily in my mind because that’s the transition from being a human being to becoming a number which they could dispose of at their own will,” a now-elderly Nate shared in his interview. I found it impossible not to cry for Hedy as she recounted being separated from her mother upon reaching Auschwitz, looking into her eyes for what would be the final time. None of her family survived the concentration camps, but she did. In fact, we learned that she was with us at the LJD Jewish Family & Communi-

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.

At that moment, I reflected honestly on times in my life, as someone who attended both a Protestant grade school and a public university, when I knew I was witnessing antisemitism right in front of me. I remember the time I shrugged off that “joke” involving Jewish tropes by a high school friend, and the time that I once listened to a college professor passively propagate an anti-Jewish conspiracy theory and wondered if anyone was going to say anything. At that moment, I felt ashamed. Ashamed that I hadn’t always been loud and brave in the face of bigotry and ashamed that I hadn’t always realized that this is my fight, too. The greatest value that I have gained from my education and career in nonprofit and social justice is that standing up to hatred and bias in any form is everyone’s fighteven more so for those who enjoy the privilege of being the majority. That is how we can ensure that Hedy’s mission is honored.

Working for the Jewish Federation & Foundation

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 I now make it a point to try to do my daily mitzvah. However, in order to be the kind of ally that I hope to be, I believe it’s of far more importance what I teach my daughter as she grows up. While she is still a bit young to learn about the atrocities of the Holocaust, I teach her about acceptance and tolerance and try to introduce her to different beliefs and traditions in the little ways that she can grasp thus far. This past winter, our family lit the menorah, taking the opportunity to teach the kids that Hanukkah is not “Jewish Christmas,” but actually a completely unrelated celebration involving the Maccabees and the miracle of oil that never ran out. But as she gets older, I can promise that she will be taught the exact truth about what happened to Nate and Hedy, and how it is imperative that she be part of a better future that takes part in never forgetting so that it can never happen again.

To learn where The Cattle Car Experience is traveling next, please visit myshadowlight.org/tour-schedule

An Even Brighter Future

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

FEDERATIONS ALLOCATE $5.4M IN GRANTS FOR SURVIVOR CARE

By Jewish Federations of North America

Published in FedBeat

January 23, 2023

Jewish Federations of North America’s Center on Holocaust Survivor Care and Institute on Aging and Trauma is proud to award grants totaling $5.4 million over two years to support Holocaust survivors and older adults with a history of trauma. Grants will support the work of dozens of Jewish and non-Jewish agencies that deliver social services to tens of thousands of Holocaust survivors, diverse older adults with a history of trauma, and their family caregivers.

“Caring for our survivors is not only a privilege but a duty, and is a core value and deep commitment of our Jewish Federations,” said Jewish Federations of North America board chair Julie Platt. “It is thanks to the generosity of so many in our communities, together with our government partners, that we are able to provide our survivors with these critical services to help them live in comfort and dignity.”

“Holocaust survivors are our teachers and our heroes,” added Shelley Rood Wernick, granddaughter of Holocaust survivors and Managing Director of the Center on Holocaust Survivor Care

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

“Widespread trauma means we need a better approach to care, and with these grants, Jewish Federations are revolutionizing aging services.”

This allocation for the Center’s Expanded Critical Supports Program and National Network Program is part of the Center’s larger initiative, which includes supporting dozens of agencies to develop person-centered, trauma-informed (PCTI) programs. Spearheaded by the Center, PCTI care promotes trust, dignity, strength, and empowerment of all individuals by incorporating knowledge about trauma into agency programs, policies, and procedures.

Expanded Critical Supports Program grants will be distributed over two years to a selection of Jewish Federations (see list below). Through this program, Jewish Federations convene local and diverse Leadership Councils of aging services providers to assess, prioritize, and fund the critical support needs of Holocaust survivors, older adults with a history of trauma, and their family caregivers.

The National Network 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 dedicated philanthropists.

Approximately one third of the Holocaust survivors in the U.S. are estimated to be living in poverty. As a group, Holocaust survivors

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 Assistance Program, an increase Jewish Federations advocated for.

(continued on page 12)

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.

To learn more about how Jewish Federations

advance care for Holocaust survivors and other older adults, visit www. holocaustsurvivorcare.org.

*This year’s grantees are:

• 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

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 on February 6, 2023, and will go through April 3, 2023.

However, there are new fellowships throughout the year.

Fellowships are open to any Jewish leader be-

tween the ages of 20-25 living in North America. To learn more, visit jewishchangemakers.com

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

Read the original post at jewishfederations.org

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

[Federations allocate $5.4M continued]

JEWISH FEDERATIONS LAUNCH EARTHQUAKE RELIEF FUND

February 8, 2023

We are heartbroken by the news of the devastating earthquake and aftershocks that hit Turkey and Syria overnight. Right now, the death toll is already in the thousands and rapidly rising. While thousands of homes and businesses have been destroyed, rescuers are racing to pull survivors from beneath the rubble.

150,000 people have been made homeless by the earthquakes and need to cope with the bitter cold in the region. Our focus, alongside our partners, will be on helping this population cope with living outside in the difficult conditions by supplying thousands of tents, heaters, thermal clothing, ready to eat meals, and

first aid kits.

In response to the devastating earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria early Monday, February 6, Jewish Federations of North America have launched an earthquake relief fund to provide humanitarian aid and to support recovery efforts. Jewish Federations’ overseas partners are on the ground in Turkey to assess the needs and determine how to best be positioned to help.

Jewish Federations have a long and proud history of response to global crises, aiding vulnerable Jewish populations and individuals of all faiths and backgrounds in the hardest-hit places, providing food, shelter, medicine, and other forms of humanitari-

an aid. Funds have supported hundreds of relief efforts in the aftermath of major disasters, from California wildfires to tsunamis in Asia, to hurricanes and flooding in the Gulf to tornadoes in the Midwest.

Jewish Federations of North America Board Chair Julie Platt added, “We mourn the tragic loss of life brought by this disaster and send our hopes and prayers for all those who have been injured. We remain in close contact with our disaster relief partners on the ground and are mobilizing our communities to raise funds to support their life-giving work. Our Jewish values of tikkun olam guide us day-in and day-out to extend our hands to those in need,

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

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

There truly aren’t enough words to describe my camp experience, which seems unlikely considering the amount of words that have been created. However, if I had to describe my time at Camp Ramah Darom in as few words as possible, they would consist of: adventurous, life-changing, and full of love.

This year was the year I was able to connect with

my friends on another level. I strengthened my relationships with people who are like my extended family, started friendships with those I hadn’t interacted with much in the past, and made memories with new friends. It was really special hanging out with people throughout the day and to just become closer. Yet the best part of this was the fact that next year we will be in Gesher. It will be our last year as campers and every day will be a new adventure with hundreds of moments that will be ingrained in us forever.

Now, this year was not without its challenges. This year, half of my aidah (camp group) tested positive for COVID. I had to watch friends go home for a little while, or be isolated from everyone else. It would just remind me that not everyone who was supposed to be there actually was there to make memories with. However, when they returned, it made our time together as an aidah even more special.

In addition to all the experiences with my friends, I was able to use this time to connect with my Jewish identity. Throughout the month, I read from the Torah seven times and I learned how to lead Mincha and Ma’ariv services. I loved having a more active role in my camp community and it helped me build my confidence as a leader, yet it also allowed me to give back to my kehillah.

As another addition to both of these things, I also

reached new heights. During the summer, I hiked up multiple mountains through my Nivo U of Machnaut (camping). I have always loved the outdoors and I have loved to go camping and hiking since I was little. However, this year I was able to do things I had never done before and was also able to improve on the skills I already had. Sometimes our activities were a struggle but it was overcoming these struggles that made this time even better.

Fundamentally, even with all of the ups and downs, I am so incredibly thankful to have been able to go to Camp Ramah Darom this year. It was one of the best summers of my life and it would not have been possible without The Len and Judy Elikan Young Leadership Scholarship. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

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

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.

We started in New Jersey, and began making our way south, west, then back east. While we went to so many beautiful and fun places, some of the best parts of Wheels were on the bus. Even though a good amount of time was spent sleeping after our early mornings, the long bus rides allowed us to become closer. There are so many incredible memories I made that I will cherish for years to come.

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, and I looked forward to it every week. Getting to experience Shabbat in a setting like that was incredible.

One of the best parts of the summer was the amazing friendships I made. It’s crazy to think we were all complete strangers, but after spending six weeks together 24/7, it seemed like we knew each other forever. I know these 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.

The Len and Judy Elikan Young Leadership Scholarship Recipient 2022

WHAT’S THE PLAN ?

By Kellie Smith Director, Foundation

Talking about death makes many of us uncomfortable, and as a result, many of us don’t plan for it. This is a big mistake. If you don’t have an end-of-life plan, your state’s laws could decide who gets everything you own, a doctor you’ve never met could determine how you spend your last moments, and your loved ones could be saddled with untangling an expensive legal mess. Planning for the end of your life helps define your legacy but it isn’t just about you; writing a will and planning for your death is a lifetime gift to loved ones.

1. Name an executor.

If you’re an adult - even a young adult - you should have a will, and an executor to oversee that will upon your passing. Estate planning is not just for the rich. It’s not just about the value of what you own but it’s also about the feelings that you and your loved ones have that are attached to what you own. That being said, if you own a lot of monetarily valuable things - real estate, trust funds, yachts - you probably need a lawyer. For most of us, however, a simple document will suffice. You can find templates of these documents online but if you are looking for professional

advice, the Jewish Foundation has a list of advisors that we can recommend.

2. Take inventory. List everything you own, not just things that are financially valuable (bank accounts, retirement savings, cars, etc), but also those things that have sentimental value, such as a music or book collection, jewelry, and furniture pieces. Then write out specific instructions about whom you would like to receive them when it’s time to wrap up your estate.

If you have young children, name a guardian for them. Carefully choose someone who reflects your own value system, because this person will be responsible for all of your child’s educational and healthcare decisions. Pets are considered property under the law, so be sure to name a new owner for them as well. Digital accounts are also part of your property. This could include social media accounts, online photos in your Google Drive or iCloud, online subscriptions, dating site profiles, credit card rewards, etc. Keep a secure list of all of these with login and password details, and let your executor know where it is.

Remember that your decisions will likely fluctuate over time. If you get married, have a child, buy a house, or have a falling out with a family member, update your will as soon as possible to provide for these changes.

3. Think about healthcare decisions. Your will takes care of what happens after you die. An advance directive is a legal document that covers healthcare and protects your wishes during end of life. There are two parts to an advance directive, both of which will help avoid loved ones from having to make difficult and emotional decisions around a hospital bed about the best course of care.

The first part is giving someone your medical power of attorney (sometimes called a medical proxy), so that this person can legally make healthcare decisions for you if you are physically or mentally unable. Think about the person in your life who not only understands you and your goals and priorities, but that you know will be able to set aside their own wishes to be a voice for you. You want someone you trust who can handle stress, in case your loved ones disagree on what to do. Part two of the advance directive is called a living will. That’s a document where you can put into writing specific instructions on how you should be

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.

ISRAEL AT 75

By Jill Metlin Israel and Overseas Coordinator

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,

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.

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 youthrough 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!

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.

By Beth Milograno Berry Jewish Community Alliance (JCA)

Spring is in the air throughout Northeast Florida but all we can think about at the JCA is summertime and the many incredible experiences we have planned for your children. Our JCA’s fun and engaging summer camp programs offer art, music, culture, concerts, science, and sports programs to children of all ages.

With two great locations, the Jewish Community Alliance and the Jacksonville Jewish Center, our JCA Summer Camp is more than just a safe place to spend summer days; it is a place where your children can learn and grow. While we offer a variety of summer camps designed to enrich your children’s summertime fun, we are specifically excited

“As we are preparing for this summer at the JCA, it is very nostalgic for me. I worked at a summer camp in Israel a long time ago and went to camp as a child,” explains Tal, who says she is very much looking forward to her first summer in Jacksonville as our community Shlicha. “I am looking forward to making new friends and meeting many new children through my summer camp. I think it will be very rewarding to share more about Israel, sing songs with them and tell stories like what I had at camp as a child.”

Tal’s unique Israel-themed camp is being offered in two one-week sessions for children in grades 1-6 through our JCA’s Camp Kaytana, where each weeklong program is designed with the goal of teaching children new skills and knowledge. Kaytana, based on the Aramaic word for “summer,” kayta

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 example, every morning for breakfast at camp in Israel we had choco (chocolate milk) served in a bag and lachmaniot (bread/bun). But I think the best part about camp was not going to school and having fun with all my friends.”

Tal’s Israel Style camp happens in Week 2 (June 19-23) and Week 4 (July 3-7) of JCA Summer Camp.

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.

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.

By Rabbi Maya Y. Glasser Congregation Ahavath Chesed (The Temple)

As Jewish people, and humans, we know that life is complex. There is usually more than one side to a story; being aware of nuance is key to understanding and growth.

As modern American Jews, we now see this complexity more than ever in our relationship with Israel. Though we live across the world, we are tied to this ancient homeland and modern nation state. Israel is in our Torah and in our prayers - after all, we are the people of Israel. But, how do we relate to a country we do not live in, whose decisions we might not agree with?

Because of the partisan nature of Israel, it becomes easy to point fingers. It becomes easy to forget that Israel is not a

Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Vice President of Israel and Reform Zionism for the Union for Reform Judaism and Executive Director of ARZA (The Association of Reform Zionists of America), writes: “As a people we share ties to one another that bridge distances and cross borders. To be part of a people means that we have a shared fate and a joint destiny.”

In the story of our faith, our destiny has always been related to Israel. Israel was the promised land, the beacon of light for our ancestors who wandered in the wilderness. Today, Israel is the one place in the world that runs on Jewish time, where you see entire aisles of the grocery store blocked off for Passover, Sukkot are present on every balcony, and the buses wish you a chag sameach - a happy holiday - in bright neon letters.

Though we are connected with Israel by our shared

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 important for us to struggle to fight for our values, to explore, learn, and continue searching for nuance. If we disengage, we risk letting others define our Jewish homeland for us. We risk not raising our voices to express our values. We risk an Israel that is something we don’t want it to be.

Even when we can’t agree, we are engaged in a shared endeavor: remembering our rich history and living out the values of our people.

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

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.

Larry was a devoted patriot and served in the US Air Force during the Korean conflict. After his service, Larry moved to Jacksonville and began a distinguished career as a CPA. He continued practicing accounting until the very end. Larry’s love for sports was legendary. As Chairman of the Jacksonville Sports and Entertainment Commission in the 1980’s, Larry led the initial

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.

Larry’s love for life and commitment to his Jewish faith were reflected in everything he did. There were many organizations that benefited from Larry’s generosity. While Larry was a loyal member of the Jacksonville Jewish Center for his entire adult life, he never forgot Congregation Sons of Israel in St. Augustine, where Larry’s father, Max, served as a lay rabbi for decades.

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 Silver Circle, and was deeply committed to Jewish life in Northeast Florida through philanthropy. Larry was a Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of Florida, where he attained the supreme honor as a 33rd degree Mason.

Family came first for Larry. He was preceded in death 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.

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

REFUELING OURSELVES. REFUELING OUR COMMUNITY.

By Faye Hedrick Director, Young Professionals & Families,

Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida

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.

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.

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

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

member of.

Congratulations and thank you to all of the volunteers, sponsors, donors, and event co-chairs for their support, help, and excitement in preparation for the

day! A few special thank yous are necessary this year. Thank you to Suzie Becker for MCing on our social media, Sarah Bloom and Rebecca Cooper for ensuring the little ones were busy and happy, and

SUPER SUNDAY CO-CHAIRS, LEAH PALESTRANT & MICHAEL RUDOWITZ

SUZIE BECKER, WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER

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

TAMMY FISCH AND RENA FISCH

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

CEO Collen Rodriguez Celebrates 25 YEARS at JFCS

By Caryl Butterley & Tawny Fortitudo

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services

When Colleen Rodriguez looks back on her 25-year career with The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services, she is most proud of her work growing the agency’s reach of helping and advocating for those in need.

Under Colleen’s leadership, JFCS has expanded from 80 employees and a budget of $5.6 million in 2011 to 200 employees and a $17 million budget today. Perhaps more importantly, her integrity and deeply-rooted compassion for the families who come to JFCS serve as a model for the day-to-day workings of the agency. She leads by example and is a fierce advocate for spotlighting issues that the community often finds tough to talk about: the stigmatization of mental health, child abuse, tolerance and inclusion, food insecurity, and homelessness. To solve a problem, it first needs to be acknowledged as existing.

From the beginning of her time at JFCS, Colleen has considered herself a “boots-on-the-ground” kind of person. She started her career as a licensed clinical social worker at Stilwell Middle School,

working with kids in the juvenile justice system. Two years later, she moved into a new counseling position where she worked with sexually abused children. During her time interacting directly with children and families, Colleen saw firsthand the difficult challenges these children faced.

“When I realized I could jump in and be part of making a change - I did,” she said.

Colleen’s experiences motivated her to take on more responsibilities and move into roles that could create wider change in the community. She became the first community-based supervisor for child welfare that wasn’t under the Florida Department of Children and Families and after working in a variety of departments, she was selected as the first Chief Programs Officer of the organization. Today, Colleen has served 12 years in the lead role of Chief Executive Officer.

“It’s been a privilege to grow up here at JFCS,” she said. “I feel very fortunate because that’s unusual. When you see people who have worked as long as I have in this field, they’ve usually been with several different agencies.”

What’s even more unusual is that Collen isn’t Jewish.

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.

“We’re here to educate and create a safe nonpolitical space for those types of conversations,” she said.

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.

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 and past board presidents and members, all of whom she says have been critical to her success.

The combination of hardearned experience, a spirited personality, and the guidance of other community leaders has empowered Colleen to boldly spark changesomething 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

There is a new Rabbi in town in Ponte Vedra Beach at Beth El - The Beaches Synagogue. July 1, 2022, marked the first day for Rabbi Benjamin Dyme to begin his work at Beth El. After an intense vetting process - which he passed brilliantly - Beth El invited Rabbi Dyme to move to Florida and become Beth El’s rabbi. Beth El’s beloved and respected rabbi of 13 years, Rabbi Michael Matuson, retired on June 30, 2022. We were tearful and sad to see him go, but our congregation opened their arms to Rabbi Dyme. Immediately, People found him to be extremely easy to talk to as he captured our congregation’s heart completely.

He was immediately

introduced to his first B’nai Mitzvah, as well as other life cycle events. It was obvious that even though he had not much time working with these awesome kids, Rabbi Dyme managed to build a terrific rapport with these students and honored them as they displayed their services. Rabbi Dyme also felt that being involved in Sunday School and developing a warm relationship with each of the students was of utmost importance. To say the least, he has made a wonderful connection and bond with all who attend Beth El.

As a child, Rabbi Dyme thought about becoming a Rabbi. After college, he worked several jobs - including a job at Hillel, a barista in a coffee shop, and in administration at 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.

Exploring Israel Adventure Join Jacksonville Jewish Center's

Led by Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner

December 20, 2023 – January 1, 2024

Optional Eilat–Petra Extension December 31, 2023–January 4, 2024

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

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

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).

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.

raison d’etre

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

No skyscraper can exist without a firm foundation, one anchored firmly in the bedrock. Israel’s bedrock is rooted in the values of our sacred tradition. The Torah states, “Justice, justice shall you pursue” (Deuteronomy 16:20). Given the Torah’s economy of words and its avoidance of repetition without intention, many commentators

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 Rabbah 31:8). This is the very essence of an independent judiciary.

It may seem paradoxical for Israel to be a democracy and a Jewish state. This polarity has given rise to many challenges, yet Israel’s character and future depend on both. To fulfill her mission as a “light unto the nations,” safeguard the rights of all her residents, and maintain her role as the fulcrum upon which Jewish life the world over rests, she must steward her democratic institutions while embracing Klal Yisrael as her

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.

Israel’s achievements over the past 75 years have been enourmous; her accomplishments as lofty as the towers she has built, as enduring as the archaelogical digs which reveal the ancient Jewish past buried deeply in her earth. Yet even as her skyscrapers increase in number and grow even taller, may Israel’s highest ideals and noblest aspirations forever soar above her soil and dwell in the hearts of all who love her.

AZRIELI SARONA TOWER, TEL AVIV

DAVID BEN GURION READING ISRAEL’S DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

THE SUPREME COURT OF ISRAEL

Liter ART ure: Art & Literature Series

By Cindy Edelman & Stacey Goldring Searching For Identity

Explore how the visual arts and literature influence and reflect universal themes with our LiterARTure Series, packed with information and peppered with a healthy dose of wit!

LiterARTure was born in 2016, when we were sitting outside the San Marco Starbucks, bemoaning the lack of civil discourse in our world.

Not the type to bemoan too much, we came up with an idea. “What if we married books and art, showing what we, as Americans, have in common?” Since then, using that template, we’ve presented numerous examples based on different themes in our annual LiterARTure series.

We’re delighted to open the 2023 series with Girls

Gone Rogue at The Community Foundation of

Northeast Florida Building, 245 Riverside Ave., in the beautiful Riverfront Room overlooking the St. Johns.

To learn more and register, visit us at www. searchingforidentity.org/ calendar-literature

April 19, 2023

Revenge!

Served cold, painted on canvas, or revealed page-by-page, CIndy and Stacey reveal how painters and authors execute the power of revenge.

May 24, 2023

Her Voice

In recognition of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, Cindy and Stacey expore the fascinating lives of writer Hannah Arendt and artist Vardi Kahana.

See you soon!

Edelman & Stacey Goldring

-Cindy

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.

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

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

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

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

NICOLE BROWN AND LIOR SPRING REBEKAH RICHMOND AND ANNE BERNSTEIN

SAMANTHA HOLTZMAN AND SHERRY WEISLER

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.

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

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.”

Soul Construction , Book Discussion

PARTICIPANTS,

FORWARD TO APPLYING HER TECHNIQUES FROM THE TIMELESS JEWISH PRACTICE OF MUSSAR

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

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

KIM GLASGAL, CLAUDIA MARGOLIS, AND HALEY TRAGER ENJOYED HEARING FROM RUCHI AND ARE LOOKING

PARTICIPANTS OF THE WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY CONNECTIONS TRIP TO GAINESVILLE

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

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.

ILENE THRASHER, ILYSE GREENE TAMMY SHUMER, VICKIE KENNEDY BETH EL MEMBERS & FRIENDS

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

FOOD PREPERATION FOR MEALS ON WHEELS

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

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

GABRIEL HOUSE AT MAYO CLINIC

COOKING FOR RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE FAMILIES

HANUKKAH HAPPENING

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

30th RIVER GARDEN FOUNDATION GALA: A Time to Shine

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

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

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

MERYL & HARRIS RITTENBERG

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

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

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

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 CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS GROW AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

CRAFTED

CHOCOLATE TREE BARK IN HONOR OF TU B’SHVAT

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

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

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

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

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

KOSHER FOOD CLUB

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

MENORAH LIGHTING at the World of Golf Hall of Fame

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

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!

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

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

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

LADIES CRAFTING GRANITE MENORAHS WITH CHABAD OF ST. JOHNS JEWISH WOMENS CIRCLE

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.