A Bissel Yiddish

While mensch is the ideal term to describe Joan Pohl, you could also use words like baleboste, Maven or forsher. Pohl has been teaching a monthly Yiddish class for the Jewish Pavilion for several years. The class meets monthly at Chambrel in Longwood. While some of the participants are Chambrel residents, many others come from the general community. They grew up in a household where Yiddish was spoken by parents or grandparents. Many students understand the language but do not speak it fluently. Pohl is a speech therapist with dramatic flair who knows how to bring Yiddish to life. She tells and pantomines vibrant stories that involve class participation and lots of humor. At the end of each lesson, students gather around Mimi Shader at the piano and sing Yiddish songs. Everyone in the community is welcome to join the fun including those who do not speak Yiddish. Classes are held the third Thursday of the month at 10:30 a.m. For more information contact Jewish Pavilion at 407-678-9363.