April 2015 | Nissan-Iyyar 5775, Vol. LXX, No. 3 Anti-Semitism Prevalent on Campuses A national survey of American Jew- ademic year (note – six months prior ceptions that anti-Semitism might ish college students released in late to Israel’s conflict with Gaza in the be localized to certain campuses or February showed that more than summer of 2014). restricted to students who are po- half of those participating report- The survey was conducted by a litically active or religious, the prob- ed being subjected to or witnessing team of researchers from Trinity lem is widespread. In fact, among anti-Semitism on their college cam- College (Hartford, CT) and report- the group of students who reported puses. The Na- ed jointly with having been subjected to or having Candle Lighting Times tional Demo- the Louis D. witnessed anti-Semitism, the most graphic Survey Brandeis Cen- occurrences, 70%, were at public Friday, April 3 7:27pm of American ter for Human schools in the South. Public schools Saturday, April 4 8:24pm Jewish College Rights Under in the Midwest were the next most Thursday, April 9 7:32pm Students was Law (Wash- problematic area at 65%. Privacy Friday, April 10 7:32pm conducted in ington, DC). laws precluded students in Califor- Friday, April 17 7:37pm the spring of The report nia’s state university system from 2014 with 1,157 of the survey being included in the survey; only Friday, April 24 7:42pm self-identified puts to rest, private universities there were sam- Jewish stu- often sadly, pled and private schools in the West In this Issue dents at 55 campuses nationwide, many historic notions of anti-Semi- had the lowest number of students Federation President’s message, p3 54% of whom reported instances of tism, at least as they apply to college reporting victimization of anti-Sem- Executive Director’s message, p3 anti-Semitism on campus during the campuses. On the Personal Side, p4 first six months of the 2013-2014 ac- The survey found that despite per- continued on page 5 Letters to the Editor, p4 Four Questions, p9 I on Israel, p10 JEA Centerpiece Two Special Yom HaShoah Events Planned “My father was a Nazi.” ther’s role had been. where he met and befriended a Ho- Condolences, p13 Thus begins the life story of Dr. When Palestinian terrorists mur- locaust survivor who began to teach Lasting Legacies, p13 Bernd Wollschlaeger, whose father dered Israel’s Olympic athletes in him about the Jewish faith. Increas- Movie Spiel, p14 was a former tank commander and 1972, the German press noted that ingly rejected by his own family, It’s a Funny Thing, p17 member of one of the elite units of again Jews had been killed in Ger- these mostly elderly Jews became the Wehrmacht, the Germany army, for many. Bernd wanted to know what Bernd’s new family. Also Featured which he was awarded the Knight’s that again meant. However, he could One day he read about a peace Cross personally by Hitler. Bernd not get a straight answer from his conference being held in a nearby Renovated Museum Open loved his parents and admired his parents. What he learned about the German town for Israeli Jewish and — Jane Kahn writes about father, but growing up he gradually Third Reich at school horrified him. Arab youth. He decided to attend, the beautiful renovation and became eager to When he asked his father about Ger- and from then on wanted to visit Is- modernization of the museum at learn what his man crimes his father told him that rael. The visit changed his life – he Congregation Mickve Israel; p6 father refused Bernd’s “teachers were all commu- met the Jewish woman he would one to discuss with nists and liars and that a Holocaust day marry. Bernd returned to Ger- Art as a Tool for Remembering him, namely: never actually existed.” many, completed his medical degree, — As we prepare to observe Yom what Germany Besides curiosity about the German converted to Judaism, and made HaShoah, SCAD instructor Marcia and the Nazis side of the war, Bernd was interest- aliyah. These acts severed whatever Neblett reminds us that art can be a did to Europe ed in learning about Jews and Juda- bond was left with his father and powerful way to document history; and to the Jews, ism. He sought out a small Orthodox p8 Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger and what his fa- Jewish community in his hometown continued on page 7 SJF Community Campaign Update
The Jewish Community exists for you and because of you!
The JewishAs of May Community 9th from 709 donors exists for you A Publication of Savannah Jewish Federation 5111 Abercorn Street and because of you! Savannah, Georgia 31405 www.savj.org As of$1,000,990 March 11th, 2015 from 791 donors 5111 Abercorn Street | Savannah,GA Address Service Requested 912-355-8111 | www.savj.org $1,026,943
SJF Board Member Jack Levine (l) with 5111 Abercorn Street | Savannah, GA Moon River Studios CEO Jake Shapiro at FedX1, Campaign Dollars at Work 912-355-8111 | www.savj.org Savannah Page 2 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org
Have a joyous Passover. And share what it means to you. #PassoverPublix Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 3 Freedom Able to Relax As family and to be part of an identity that we all Just as the body enjoyed a day sail (well, Sarah did), friends gather share. I submit to you that it is the becomes exhausted imbibed in some tropical drinks around the Sed- “freedom” to want to be part of our by hard labor and and delicious meals, and did a lot of er table, each of united history. It is innately part of is reinvigorated by reading on the beach, I was ready to us has our indi- our DNA. rest, so the mind come home. vidual thoughts The simple fact is a challenge to needs its weariness As we were making our way back Steve Greenberg. and memories. any one of us is a challenge to all of Adam Solender relieved by rest – to Savannah (the reverse of the crazy President, It might be of us. We are here today because count- Executive Director of Maimonides trip down), I started thinking about Savannah Jewish JEA/SJF loved ones not less generations have been strong, Last month coming back “to reality” over the 18 Federation present. It might have rejected fear and have stood up Sarah and I took the opportunity to hour trip: be the face of a child who is experi- for the right to practice our religion, celebrate our 25th Anniversary and a “How many phone messages would be in encing Pesach for the first time. It history and culture in the manner we special birthday by taking some time my voice mail?” might be the comfort of our history, want, to freely express ourselves and away with a trip to the British Virgin “How many emails would I have on my traditions and inspirations that are to have freedom of association. Those Islands. Sarah had been before, but computer?” always present as we read the Hagga- acts of courage are the yardsticks that I had never been and was looking “What issues would have to be resolved?” dah. I submit that this year we should we must measure ourselves by today. forward to the time. When I asked Friday morning, after a very sound pause and direct our thoughts to a The forces may be different, they may my wife what there was to do she night’s sleep in my own bed, I drove theme that permeates what Pesach seem far away, but they are just as told me that it is beautiful, lush, and to the JEA, part with dread and part has stood for over the centuries up real. It is a given that in a time of trag- warm. What more did I need to with excitement and got ready for a to-freedom. Freedom from oppres- edy or war or public ant-Semitism, know? very difficult day. sion. Freedom of religion. Freedom to we would all pull together. Howev- Getting to the island was not quite I shouldn’t have been surprised be Jewish. Freedom to identify who er, the key is not for us to be as one the image I had of relaxation: a drive that when I came into the JEA, and what we are. on a periodic basis, but all the time. to Jacksonville, flight to Atlanta, “things” were running well. There We have always sought freedom…. Yes, there are and always will be dif- flight to St. Thomas, an evening at were no messages in my voice mail, from holocausts, persecution, fear ferences of opinion between us. But a hotel, and a ferry to the island. It less than thirty emails (none from my and those who seek to build up them- that should be considered a source of took an hour to get through Customs leadership), a small pile of mail, and a selves while tearing us down. Many strength, not weakness. And the be- and then a 20 minute drive across the group of smiling faces welcoming me of our ancestors came to this country lief in each other should be the over- island through a few harrowing turns back. I’m not saying that there were in search of freedom. Today, we live riding factor that transcends those and we were deposited at the Sugar not a few “hiccoughs” and a couple of in a nation of dem- differences. Mill Inn. issues to resolve, but no “911s.” ocratic principles “We are here today because The words of The rum punch drink I received Staff meetings were held, programs based upon free- countless generations have the Haggadah do upon arrival went a long way to provided, and member needs were doms in our Con- been strong, have rejected send a message. helping me begin to relax. We were met. The fact is that we have a great stitution. But, as we The question is escorted up the hill to our room and group of people working for the have seen since Pe- fear and have stood up for whether we just in just a few short minutes we were community. They each know their sach a year ago, the the right to practice our re- read the words unpacked, changed and on the way to responsibilities, each are good at freedom of Jewish ligion, history and culture in or do we take the beach. their jobs, and each have a wonderful people throughout the words and The week went by in a flash. While work ethic. the world is increas- the manner we want, to freely make them mean we did have wireless internet, we When Friday was over, I was ingly challenged by express ourselves and to have something. Do did not have a TV in the room (that happy to go home and celebrate those who believe freedom of association.” we simply accept was part of my wife’s “master plan”). Shabbat, I kind of needed a vacation that we should not freedom or do we No evening news, no newspapers, from my vacation. But I went home exist. To those who would do us invest in it, to insure it for the next and very few emails. I didn’t with a great feeling of satisfaction harm, freedom is an anathema. generation? Do we look on events totally disengage, but I did cut the in knowing what a great group of We live in a complex society. The that threaten our people as someone connection for the most part. people I am surrounded by. same tools that offer us greater abil- else’s problem or our united problem While the trip was wonderful, we ity to express ourselves and to seek to deal with? sources of information, also allow It is critical for us to have knowl- evil to travel faster and to be shaped edge and understanding of our world, as a narrative. We see the increasing for both empower us. They make us tension between freedom and secu- pay attention. It is vital for us not to rity. For our ancestors, freedom was fear for fear only diminishes our core achieved by arriving in the Promised Jewish values. And, it is important for Land. Freedom was easily defined. us to stand tall and celebrate our re- Yes, for us, freedom may be more ligion, our history and our contribu- complicated, but it is increasingly tions to the world. We have much to A Community Celebration of more important for us to stand ready be proud of, both as a Savannah Jew- to defend it. ish community and as a people. Dark Israel’s 67th Birthday The Jewish people have survived forces have always sought to take because we value being Jewish. We these attributes away from us. They know it is the lifeblood of everything have never succeeded and they never th else. We know, both intuitively and will. But it is up to all of us to remind Sunday, April 26 intellectually, that the line between ourselves each day the individual role freedom and persecution is danger- we play in the survival of our people. 5-7pm at the JEA ously thin. One of the unique aspects May we all meet that challenge with of Pesach is that the Seder table at- determination and perseverance. Israeli food, music, dancing tracts Jews who might not partici- From the Board of Governors and pate in any other observance during staff of the Savannah Jewish Federa- arts & crafts, and more! the year. There is simply a connection tion, may this Pesach be one of joy for that goes to the soul. There is a desire each of you, your families and friends. $5/person; $15/family Savannah Page 4 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org
On the Personal Side To the Editor: Savannah Jewish News Dear Savannah Jewish Federation: Published by the Savannah Jewish Federation On behalf of the people that Chimes 5111 Abercorn Street serves, I would like to acknowledge Savannah, GA 31405 and thank you for your very kind gift (912) 355-8111 www.savj.org to Chimes Israel’s 2014-2015 Annual Fund. SJF President: Steve Greenberg SJF President-elect: Sherry Dolgoff Chimes efforts and accomplish- SJF Vice President: Allan Ratner ments this past year would not have SJF Secretary/Treasurer: Margie Levy
been possible without your con- SJF Executive Director: Adam Solender
tinued resources. Your unyielding SJN Editor: Lynn Levine support has renewed our strength in making progress throughout the The objectives of the Savannah Jewish News are to foster a sense of community Chimes organization. among the Jewish people of Savannah by Since 1947, Chimes has been help- sharing ideas, information, experiences and ing people with disabilities fulfill opinions, and to promote the agencies, projects and mission of the Savannah Jewish their potential; creating a better life Federation. for over 18,000 people we serve every The Savannah Jewish News is published day. Your energy has allowed us the monthly ten times per year, with a deadline Michelle Krebs Levy was recognized at BBYO’s recent International Con- capacity to do work, and the power for submissions of the 3rd of the month be- to change lives. Thank you for help- fore publication. There are no February vention in Atlanta with the David Bitker Unsung Hero BBG Advisor of the Year or August issues. All articles for the Winter Award. Michelle is the daughter-in-law of Dayle and Aaron Levy, married to ing us to continue our legacy. and Summer issues should be submitted by December 8th or June 8th, respectively. their son Rich. She is pictured here with the members of B’yachad BBG #2495 of Atlanta, the chapter she advises, who attended the convention. The woman Sincerely, All submissions must be in MS Word format Monica T. Jackson, Asst. Chief (articles) or pdf format with fonts embedded to her left is her co-advisor. Michelle is the founder and CEO (chief everything (advertisements). All color must be in the officer) of The Sixth Point, a non-profit Jewish engagement organization for Development Officer CMYK color format; all type in true black; Chimes Foundation photos in .jpg format. young professionals in the Atlanta area. Please send all SJN materials to: Dear Savannah Jewish Federation: [email protected]
Please send eNews submissions to: [email protected] We are deeply grateful to have re- ceived your allocation to JTA, the Neither the publisher nor the editor can assume any responsibility for the kashrut of global news service of the Jewish the services or merchandise advertised in this people. paper. If you have questions regarding Mazel Tov to all High School & kashrut, please consult your rabbi. JTA remains committed to creat- College Graduates and Your Families! ing and reinforcing Jewish commu- All materials published in the Savannah nity and Jewish identity through our Jewish News are Copyright © 2015 Savannah Jewish Federation, all rights You are invited to submit your pictures and records of quality news product. JTA is also reserved, unless noted otherwise. achievement for publication in our special graduation working to promote a new brand of section of the June issue of the Savannah Jewish News. Internet-based journalism weaving Savannah Jewish Federation Mission Statement together news, information, advice, analysis and user participation. Your Charged with raising, collecting and distrib- To be included, please download the submission form support is critical to the success of uting funds, the SJF seeks to "advance the from www.savj.org or pick one up at the JEA. welfare of the total Jewish community." The the mission. Federation strongly supports Israel and world Thank you so much for your con- Jewry. Additionally, the organization strives All submissions must be received by the tinued recognition of the vital work to "preserve the civil, political, economic and absolute deadline of May 3rd, 2015. religious rights of all Jews" to develop an JTA does each day to keep the global articulate, intelligent and constructive Jewish Listings will be published only in the June issue. Jewish community informed. community and to promote mutual under- standing with the community at-large. Return forms & pictures to: [email protected] or With warmest wishes, Savannah Jewish News Ami Eden 5111 Abercorn St. | Savannah, GA 31405 CEO and Editor in Chief JTA, The Global Jewish News Source
You may notice that the Savannah Jewish News has a slightly different look and feel. Beginning this month, we’re making some changes that we hope will result in cost savings and improved home delivery. We welcome Don’t forget… your feedback! Please write to us at [email protected] The Savannah Jewish News is online at www.savj.org. with your thoughts and ideas.
Tell your out-of-town family & friends! Back issues through December 2007. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 5 The report also offers suggestions responsible.” Anti-Semitism...... from pg 1 to Jewish organizations for working In general, the schools made the itism at 44%. ests impartially in light of her Jewish with members of the community and list because they “played host to nu- In general, Orthodox Jewish males identity and affiliation with the Jew- college students to deal with the is- merous incidents of anti-Jewish acts, have been the most likely targets ish community. According to reports, sue of anti-Semitism on campuses such as Israeli Apartheid Week; in- of anti-Semitism, probably because four of the nine-member Council vot- and proposes that more attention be terrupt[ed] university activities by they are easily identified by dress and ed against Beyda believing she had a paid to the perpetrators, as well. staging mock ‘checkpoints’ on cam- appearance. But the survey revealed conflict of interest because she was ______pus; [hosted] campus speakers that that on campuses, the reporting vic- Jewish. It was only after the school call for the destruction of the Jewish tims were 59% female and gave their administrator who oversaw the pro- On the same day the student sur- state; and [had incidents of] verbal synagogue denominations as 69% ceedings stepped in and explained vey was released, the David Horowitz or physical harassment and violence Conservative, 62% Reform, Freedom Center, a conservative against Jewish and pro-Israel stu- 52% Orthodox (male and fe- think tank, released a list of dents. These anti-Semitic incidents male combined). 73% of stu- what it considers to be the ten occur on university property, often dents active with AIPAC said campuses with the worst an- with the support of university funds, they were a victim or witness ti-Semitic activity in the coun- despite the fact that such behavior is of anti-Semitism compared to try. They are: Columbia U. (NY, explicitly forbidden under campus 49% of students active with J NY), Cornell U. (Ithaca, NY), codes of conduct.” Street. George Mason U. (Fairfax, VA), But Jewish leaders at some of the Membership in a Jewish Loyola U. (Chicago, IL), Port- schools on the list took exception. campus organization such as land State U. (OR), San Diego Brian Cohen, executive director of Chabad, Hillel or a Jewish fra- State U., San Francisco State Columbia Barnard’s Kraft Center for ternity/sorority raises the like- U., Temple U. (Philadelphia, Jewish Life, told JTA: “I think the re- lihood of reporting anti-Semi- PA), U. of California, Los An- ality on the ground is very different tism. Students who reported geles, Vassar College (Pough- than what is represented on the list. membership in any of these A student exiting the defiled AEPi house at keepsie, NY). If you go to any college campus any- had some of the highest rates Emory University last October The list was released in al- where, in the United States or Israel, of reporting anti-Semitism. But 59% the difference between a conflict phabetical order, though many media you will come across voices you dis- of the students surveyed who said of interest and a ‘perceived conflict outlets mistook it to be listed with agree with. Jewish life on this campus they are “never open” about being of interest’ that they reversed their the worst offender at the top. The list has never been stronger.” Jewish (a minority of the survey) also votes and Beyda was approved unani- is one of the first initiatives of “Jew Michael Rabkin, executive direc- reported being victims of or witness- mously. By all accounts, the proceed- Hatred on Campus,” the Center’s tor of the San Diego chapter of Hillel, ing anti-Semitism, virtually the same ings were tainted by anti-Semitism, new campaign to educate the public told the San Diego Union-Tribune, “I can as the 58% of those who said they are though the four who voted against about anti-Semitic acts on U.S. col- tell you the kind of activities we’re “always open” about being Jewish. her apologized later. lege campuses and a call for universi- seeing at San Diego State are not put- Since this survey was conducted, Also in May 2014, Accuracy in Aca- ty administrators to withdraw cam- ting it in a top-10 list of anti-Semitic the problem of campus anti-Semitism demia published an article by Tammi pus privileges from “the hate groups campuses.” only has been escalating. Sometime Rossman-Benjamin, a lecturer at the on the night of October 4, 2014, at the University of California, Santa Cruz, conclusion of Yom Kippur, swasti- and co-founder of a non-profit initia- kas and other offensive graffiti were tive to combat campus anti-Semitism. Wishing you and your spray painted on the Alpha Epsilon Pi She highlighted a number of recent house at Emory University in Atlan- anti-Semitic incidents on campuses loved ones a joyous ta. This followed an incident of swas- that received no response or inves- tikas being painted in the school’s tigation by their university adminis- and healthy Pesach. library the previous month. trations and also identified a number In May of 2014, students at DePaul of professors pursuing anti-Israel and University in Chicago told The Jewish sometimes anti-Semitic activities on Press that they no longer felt safe on various campuses. She called for uni- campus. The school was caught up versity administrators to take action. in a “DePaul Divest” campaign where The authors of the National De- students were being asked to vote on mographic Survey of American Jew- a non-binding resolution asking the ish College Students also identify university to divest from companies university administrators as a prob- that do business with Israel. One lem. They point out that 62% of the young woman said: “I do kind of feel students they surveyed have been to as a Jewish student that I am being Israel, creating “a situation where- targeted on campus… I have to defend by Jewish students have a histori- myself, my Judaism, my pride in Israel cal awareness and sensitivity that is every day and it’s getting a little bit lacking in general American society exhausting. I’d like to live and go to a and more sadly among university university where everybody can have administrators.” They note that one their own opinions and have a diverse of the principal beachheads that an- community and feel safe.” ti-Semitism is finding in America is In February of this year, Rachel in academia. The study suggests a Beyda went before the UCLA Un- number of ways for college authori- dergraduate Students Association ties to implement policies that would Council to be questioned about her ensure and reinforce effective inves- qualifications to serve on the school’s tigation of anti-Semitism on campus. From the Boards and Staff of the Judicial Board. She found herself be- The authors suggest that otherwise, ing asked if she thought she would Jewish students “will feel increasing- Savannah Jewish Federation be able to represent students’ inter- ly uncomfortable.” Jewish Educational Alliance Savannah Page 6 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org sphere the museum committee want- Renovated CMI Museum Open ed—it offers greater protection for by Jane Kahn the documents and highlights them better,” Victor said. The all-new Mickve Israel Museum tually, displayed in the center of “It’s special,” says John Kohn, is open! It’s brand new, but it tells a the space—are Mickve Israel’s two parnas (president) of Congregation compelling story that is 282 years in prized Torah scrolls—documented Mickve Israel. The new museum the making, the story of the third old- to be the oldest in the United States. “reinforces for Mickve Israel congre- est synagogue in America. One arrived here in 1733 with the ear- gants the history of what we are part Savannah’s Jewish history started of…the continua- just five months after General James tion of what started Edward Oglethorpe landed, on a bluff with the landing of that is now Bull Street near Bay, to es- the William and Sarah tablish the colony of Georgia. through our Sab- With ceremonial accoutrements bath services every brought to Savannah in 1733 by the weekend. This is original Jewish settlers and collected a living, continual, through the years, with a penchant vibrant congrega- The congregation’s original book of minutes for preserving records and history, tion.” And, he add- and records, on display in the new museum. with photographs of life cycle events ed, “It’s for us…We (Photo by Ken Chanin) and families through the ages, the welcome tourists Lawrence and Nancy Gutstein Mu- Inside the renovated Lawrence and Nancy Gutstein Museum. to share our history, 10am – 3:30pm (closed at lunch time seum details the religious, social and Mickve Israel’s 1733 Torah is shown in the center. but this is for us.” from 1-2pm), except on Jewish and community involvement of the Jew- (Photo by Bill Raffel) Docent-led tours secular holidays. For group tours, ish people and events in Savannah. of the Mickve Israel contact Debbie Owen at 912 233- “From the beginning, we were ly Jewish settlers and the other, in Sanctuary and the museum are avail- 1547, or visit www.mickveisrael.org. here,” proclaims the opening words 1737 as a gift from a member of Lon- able Mondays through Fridays, from on the timeline introducing the ex- don’s Bevis Marks. Both scrolls are hibit. “Since the birth of the colony believed to have been handwritten in of Georgia and through today, the the 1400s on deerskin. Your Campaign Dollars at Work Jewish community and Congregation Enclosed in acrylic and mounted Mickve Israel have held a place in the back-to-back at low, easy-to-read Ein Prat – Academy for Leadership economic, cultural, social, political, angles, the two scrolls are rolled to and religious life of this region. We display four and five columns at a proudly share our story…” time and will be rotated periodically The entire history of the congrega- to protect them from light. The To- tion is synopsized on the introduc- rah scrolls were recently conserved, tory timeline that references the pre- cleaned and patched by a profession- ceding Spanish Inquisition and the al document conservator, but much expulsion of the Jews in 1492 from of the clear bright ink is thought to Spain; the 34 Jews fleeing Portugal in be the original, now in their 7th centu- 1726, settling in England. Seven years ry of existence. later, that connection with London’s And there’s more—primary sources Bevis Marks Synagogue would lead including the Sheftall diaries, person- to the trip to the New World. Just al records of one of the first families five months after the colony of Geor- (descendants are still here in Savan- gia was established! nah today), the congregational seal Ein Prat’s music group, The Fountainheads, in their Passover music video, Breakin’ Free The timeline weaves Mickve Is- and its charter of incorporation and rael’s place in history with events a beautifully hand-scribed first min- As part of the 2014 Campaign and Allo- one of the first jointmechina programs occurring in the country and the utes book of congregational records. cations process, the Savannah Jewish Feder- for religious and secular youth in Is- world—(1790, Mickve Israel receives The 1876 cornerstone from the cur- ation reapproved the Overseas Investment rael, and is a model for similar pro- its charter from the Georgia Legis- rent sanctuary is on the right at the Grant program whereby community mem- grams throughout the country. It is a lature—it was just two years earlier museum’s entrance. It’s a mere 100 bers recommend overseas agencies to receive springboard for dedicated social en- that Georgia had become the fourth years younger than the nation’s Dec- $500 Overseas Investment Grants, with up trepreneurship. state; 1820, Mickve Israel erects the laration of Independence. to 20 being approved. Eighteen submissions A small group of students (who se- first synagogue building in Georgia; Additionally, the museum has en- were made this year and this continues our cure a six-month draft deferral), may 1861, Civil War begins (just 15 years tered the digital age, with two touch introduction to you of the grant recipients. enroll in the seven-month second before construction starts on the cur- screen displays expanding on the year program, which dives deeper rent sanctuary) ; 1904, official adop- items in the cases. The Ein Prat Academy for Lead- into biblical texts, Jewish and Zion- tion of Reform practice, (10 years be- The museum’s custom designed ership offers a small group of Israeli ist philosophy, and the Arab-Israel fore the beginning of World War I.) displays are organized into five sec- teens an opportunity to spend a gap conflict. Housed in the 550-square foot area tions with their own histories, stories year between high school and mil- Ein Prat maintains a strong alumni that has been the Mickve Israel Mu- and ceremonial objects, including: itary service in intensive study of network and also offers Jewish iden- seum since Mordecai Sheftall Hall Building for a Congregation, Colonial Jewish texts, volunteer service, com- tity, Zionism and leadership semi- was built in 2003, it is now more Congregation, American Congrega- munity living, army preparation and nars for educational and leadership open and spacious, professionally tion, Congregation for Generations, connecting to the land. The vision groups from Israel and abroad at its designed, with warm cherry-wood and a Modern Congregation. of the ‘Mechina’ is “to develop deep Rina Morr Zionist Midrasha. tones, lots of glass and Plexiglas and “It’s what we wanted,” said Muse- qualities of personal and national re- To nominate one of your favor- adjustable lighting. In 1974, in a now um Committee co-chairman Herbert sponsibility, sensitivity, social atten- ite overseas organizations for a 2015 demolished building, the original mu- Victor. “A fresh look with a historic tiveness and a commitment to influ- Overseas Investment Grant, go to seum opened on a small scale. welcoming atmosphere. It’s power- ence and improve Israeli society and www.savj.org. Nominations are due Centerpiece of the museum—ac- ful. It’s all in keeping with the atmo- the Jewish people.” by May 15, 2015. Established in 2001, Ein Prat was Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 7 Yom HaShoah Events...... from pg 1 Local Teens Asked to Join family. In Israel, Bernd joined the Israeli Hitler’s Children is a film about the Camp Chavaya Defense Forces as a medical officer, descendants of the most powerful fig- served for two years in the West Bank ures in the Nazi regime — Himmler, For the past fifteen years, Camp held as part of their orientation to be during the first Intifada, married and Frank, Goering, Hess. The descen- Chavaya, a group of Jewish teens counselors at Camp Lighthouse. He had a son. He and his American-born dants who were left a legacy that per- from Israel and New York, has joined recently was honored by Savannah wife relocated to Florida after the manently associates them with one of a diverse group of Savannah teens to Youth City as one of “the visionaries, First Gulf War. the greatest crimes in history. What run a camp for one week for children entrepreneurs, and community lead- Today he is a practicing family phy- is it like for them to have grown up in Savannah who otherwise would ers within the Savannah-Chatham sician and an addiction specialist. Dr. with names that immediately raise not be able to attend camp due to community,” not only for his partic- Wollschlaeger is the author of three images of murder and genocide? How financial limitations. The Camp ipation in Camp Chavaya, but also books. do they cope with the fact that they Chavaya experience also includes a for his vision and tireless work that This is a rare opportunity to hear a are the children of Nazis, literally, week in Israel and a week in the New helped shaped the program. Nazi’s son speak out. not just metaphorically? For more York area. For the first time, this year For more information about Camp than sixty years, they have lived in Camp Chavaya is inviting Jewish Chavaya, please contact Rabbi Bar- Yom HaShoah Commemoration: the shadows, trying to rebuild their teens from the Savannah area to join kan at [email protected]. Thursday, April 16th, 7pm, JEA lives without constant reminders of them for this unique and rewarding Note: Local participants in this pro- Lighting of memorial candles, ad- what their fathers and grandfathers experience. gram may qualify for a Savannah Jew- dresses by community leaders, fea- once did. In Hitler’s Children they dis- The Jewish teens from Israel, New ish Federation Teen Experience Schol- tured speaker Dr. Bernd Wollschlae- cuss the delicate balance they have York and Savannah will be togeth- arship. Applications for scholarships rd ger reached as they negotiate between er for three weeks that will include must be submitted by April 3 and are Preceded by day-long reading of the natural admiration that children a week in Israel, a week in the New available at www.savj.org. names of the victims of Nazi extermi- have toward their parents and their York area, and a week here nation and Community Student Ho- innate revulsion of their parents’ in Savannah where they locaust Art Exhibit before and after crimes. will work with other local the evening program The film brings to light important teens to fully program Camp questions: How can they protect Lighthouse for the younger Yom HaShoah Educational their families, even as they pass their children. Teens may partici- Program: Sunday, April 20th, JEA names down to future generations? pate in Camp Chavaya at the Brunch at 10am And how do they relate to the other subsidized price of $3,500. Brunch will be followed by the side, the victims for whom their very As part of the Savannah screening of the film, Hitler’s Children, names stir memories of terror that leg of the Camp Chavaya followed by a discussion and Q&A. cannot be repressed? program, for the past three years Rabbi Ruven Barkan of Congregation Agudath Achim has led dialogue pro- Preferred Hotel Partners of grams to build bridges of racial and religious under- standing between the Jew- Rabbi Ruven Barkan receives recognition from ish, Israeli and Savannah Savannah Youth City for his contributions to the teens. The discussions were Camp Chavaya/Camp Lighthouse program. ● Located in the heart of midtown near the corner of DeRenne and Abercorn
● Book your block of rooms today for Bar and Bat Mitzvah’s
● Banquet Space accommodating up to 300 people
● Contact Melaina Jaudon at 912-721-5173/[email protected]
Refinance NOW while rates are at historic lows Fixed Rates Up To 30 Years Free Good Faith Estimate 1/2 point origination No intangible tax Contact Chris or Jessica (912) 356-9225 Or Apply Online at workmenscirclecu.com 527 Stephenson Avenue, Suite 2 Savannah, Georgia 31405 Discover the Credit Union difference... Savannah Page 8 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org stroke is unique Art and Remembrance to the visual arts. by Marcia Neblett There’s immedi- acy, directness Marcia Neblett is a professor of Founda- history. and urgency tions, Drawing & Design at Savannah Col- As an art teacher, this exhibition to the graphic lege of Art and Design. She recently lectured made me realize how visual art can mark that con- in India on a U.S. Fulbright Scholar Grant. be a powerful tool for remembering veys the spirit In commemoration of Yom HaShoah this the Holocaust. Art has the power to and emotion of month, she writes about her recent visit to convey human horror in a single im- the creator at the Florida Holocaust Museum. age. Look at Picasso’s painting Guer- the time. In the nica depicting the atrocities of war, or works by Mur- Recently I traveled to the Florida Kathe Kollwitz’s lithograph, Woman ray Zimiles that Aktion, Poland, 1939 Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg with Dead Child. A painting can make were on view at Murray Zimiles, graphite on paper, 1987 to see an art exhibition by Murray an impression in an instant with vi- the Florida Ho- Zimiles, a painter and printmaker sual symbols that words would take locaust Museum, most beautiful and symbolic struc- from New York. The exhibit fea- longer to convey. When they say a one sees this powerful and physical tures by the Nazi regime. His artist tured about 30 works by Zimiles picture is worth a thousand words, mark-making that works well to con- book is about these synagogues, and on the theme of the Holocaust that it’s true. Art has the ability to capture vey the events of the Holocaust. it is accordion format in style, a book were recently acquired by the muse- in a split moment, both the good and When I entered the exhibition, that runs the entire length of the gal- um. These works were created over a the bad, and in this particular case the large scale drawings drew me in lery. Each page is nearly 4x5 feet in period of 14 years and vividly reflect capture and reflect the horrors of this immediately for their size. Drawings size, the height of an adult human. Its the meaning of the Holocaust to the most heinous event in human history. and mixed media works, like Aktion, stories of heroism and destruction are artist and his own personal loss from The Holocaust was an event that Poland, 1939 and Fear, Panic and Surren- compelling and touching. this most poignant event in human is unparalleled in human history for der, interpreted the Holocaust in a The journey through this exhibit for its utter dismissal of the value of hu- relatively literal manner compared me, though painful, was rewarding. man life. Just as it may seem hard to to works made later on. Like black After I shed my own tears I came to grasp how a human being could treat and white film stills, their visual em- a sobering point of seeing each work another without any trace of em- phasis was on dramatic lighting and of art as a testament to the power of pathy or humanity, it was an event stark contrast, creating a powerful the human will to survive; and each of in history that was so well planned graphic impact. Smudging and blur- the pictures led me to a new level of and executed that it needs to be told ring of the pencil medium suggested understanding and sympathy. again and again, lest we forget that the effects of memory and time, while Murray Zimiles recently retired as something like this can ever happen also adding a sense of movement. Professor of Art & Design at SUNY again. The visual medium serves this Most astonishing of all in this ex- Purchase College in Westchester, purpose well. hibition was The Book of Fire. Murray NY, where he taught printmaking Art of the Holocaust must therefore Zimiles created this book to tell the for 35 years. As a disclaimer, he was take on this same lasting necessity. story of the burning of the wooden my Professor at Purchase. Though he The visual arts have unique compo- Polish synagogues. He learned of their was my instructor, I still would have nents distinguishing them from other beauty and craft, the remarkable ge- reviewed this show. Murray Zimiles creative art forms like dance, music ometry and mythic spirituality they now makes art full time and has had or writing. A “dash of expression” for embodied, from a book published in several solo art shows since his retir- instance, made via charcoal or pen- Poland after the war. And along with ment. His works at the Florida Holo- from The Book of Fire cil can be recorded and remembered that he came to know of the total caust Museum in St. Petersburg can Murray Zimiles, large format, circa 1992 forever. This physical and visible and swift destruction by fire of these be viewed by appointment.
Presenting the broad and deep Thursday, May 21st, 2015 Post-screening discussion with 7pm, JEA connections between the Jewish the film’s producer/director people and the Land of Israel. $10 public; $8 JEA members Gloria Z. Greenfield Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 9 North America would not be one whit different even if not a single Jew had come to North America, so to blame slavery on Jews has nothing to do with history and ev- erything to with anti-Semit- Dr. Jona- anti-slavery. ic propaganda. than Sarna But it’s very difficult to is the Joseph There are a number of truisms or paint Jews as being deeply H. & Belle R. perhaps myths, about Jews and slavery anti-slavery in the way that Braun Profes- in the South. Which of these are true? we might say Quakers, from sor of Amer- their religious background, ican Jewish —Slaves held by Jews practiced Judaism. have a deep antipathy to History at You could maybe find an individ- slavery. We don’t find that Brandeis Uni- ual case or two, especially where the in the Jewish community. versity, Chief slave was the child of a Jewish father There are individual Jews Historian of and a slave mother – wherever there who oppose it and you Dr. Jonathan Sarna the National was slavery, you had those kinds of might argue one of the rea- Museum of dalliances. But this would be more sons that central European American Jewish History in Phila- common in the Caribbean, not so Jewish immigrants didn’t delphia and President of the Associ- much in the U.S. And there was no move to slave states was their dis- The surrender at Appomattox ation for Jewish Studies. Dubbed by patrilineal descent then, so according comfort with slavery. But Jewish Courthouse took place one day be- the Forward in 2004 as one of Amer- to halacha, those children would not clothing dealers and manufacturers fore Jews sat down to observe the ica›s fifty most influential American have been Jewish. There was a case in the North certainly had trade with Passover Seder in 1865 and folks Jews, he is a leading commentator in Charleston and a famous case in the South. linked those events. on American Jewish history, religion Boston, but for the most part it’s not The New York Herald reported, “The and life. Sarna attended Brandeis clear that they were brought up as We are seeing a frightening resur- forefathers of the Jews passed over University, the Boston Hebrew Col- Jews. Household slaves got used to gence of anti-Semitism, both in the the Red Sea at the time of which this lege, Merkaz HaRav Kook in Jerusa- the rhythms of a Jewish household, U.S. and throughout the world. What festival is the anniversary, also the lem, and Yale University, where he to the Jewish calendar and learned was anti-Semitism like at the time of American people seem to have passed obtained his doctorate. He has writ- to cook Jewish foods but not many of the Civil War? over and beyond the red sea of blood ten, edited, or co-edited more than them converted nor were they wel- which has been spilt so freely during thirty books. His latest, co-authored comed to convert in Southern con- You had a significant amount of ha- the last four years.” Similarly, anoth- with Benjamin Shapell, is Lincoln and gregations. tred of Jews, even at the highest levels, er paper, the Boston Daily Advertiser, the Jews: A History. Sarna is best known —Most slaves owned by Jews were ‘house’ but the word anti-Semitism hadn’t pointed to the “coincidence that the for the acclaimed American Judaism: A slaves; Jews did not own plantations. been invented. What distinguishes modern people of bondage (meaning History, praised as being “the single best Judah Benjamin had a plantation Abraham Lincoln is he has Jewish the Southern slaves) had seen their description of American Judaism during its for a time as did a few others. You friends and associates and holds Jews deliverance confirmed and nearly 350 years on American soil.” could count on your fingers and toes in high regard. But the generals who consummated about the same season We spoke with Jonathan Sarna just the number of Jews who owned plan- surrounded him – Grant, Sherman, of the year as Passover and… they are prior to the 150th anniversary of what tations. The bulk of Jews weren’t in Butler – they all make deeply anti-Se- not unlikely to regard its anniversary he calls the “most remarkable Passover the South. Of the 150,000 Jews in the mitic comments. You can find an- with equal reverence.” celebrated in the United States,” the one U.S. at that time, there were probably ti-Semitic comments in the speeches So, at the end of the Civil War, in observed at the conclusion of the Civ- 25,000-30,000 in the Confederacy. of James Buchanan and even more so the popular mind, with the freeing of il War. Many of them had significant roles in the speeches of Andrew Johnson the Israelite slaves commemorated in the Confederacy, but it’s not a big (the presidents before and after Lin- on Passover, the links continue. Two Is there any indication that Jewish number. The vast majority were fairly coln). Lincoln is distinctive in his re- days later, on April 11th, Lincoln gives slave owners experienced any sense of recent immigrants and couldn’t af- markable effort to make Jews equals his last public address on reconstruc- irony when celebrating Passover? ford plantations. in America. When the law restricts tion on the second night of Passover, —Jews treated slaves better than did oth- the military chaplaincy to Christians, and John Wilkes Booth [a Confeder- We’d love to believe they did. I er Southern whites. he works to change it; when Ulysses ate sympathizer] heard it and under- only found one case — a man named Bertram Korn wrote the best in S. Grant expels Jews as a class from stood exactly what Lincoln meant Abraham Dittenhoefer who grew up depth account on Jews and Southern his war zone, Lincoln overturns it. by his timely discussion of freedom. in the South then moves to New York slavery [Jews and Negro Slavery in the Old Lincoln’s very language shifts out Booth resolved, of course, on the and becomes a significant lawyer. In South, 1789-1865] and he certainly did of respect for Jewish sensitivities. In assassination which took place on college he becomes anti-slavery and not conclude this. I find it hard to his first inaugural address, he uses Shabbat chol hamoed, the Friday night also persuades his father to become draw that conclusion. The normative Christological language. Later on he’s of the intermediate Sabbath during a Republican. He learns that Senator conclusion was that Jews resembled much more sensitive. He knew that Passover. Lincoln goes to Ford’s The- Ben Wade once characterized Judah their neighbors. If their neighbors Jews fell at Gettysburg; there is noth- ater as Jews are sitting down to the Benjamin as “an Israelite with Egyp- had house slaves, they had house ing in the Gettysburg Address that fifth day of Passover. tian principals.” Dittenhoefer writes slaves. Some were very good to their Jews could be offended by. He has Lincoln is shot, and one of the that struck him with great force — slaves; some were very bad to their created a new vocabulary that makes most important attending physi- that the Israelite, whose ancestors slaves. Jews took their cue from their Jews insiders. Same story with his cians is a Jew, Charles Liebermann. were enslaved in Egypt, ought not to neighbors and followed the custom of second inaugural address; it’s deeply He is included in the famous paint- uphold slavery in free America and the land, even though in many ways religious, it could be a sermon, but it’s ing, The Last Hours of Abraham Lincoln could not do so without bringing dis- that local custom was pernicious. not Christological. by Alonzo Chappell. Lincoln died grace upon himself. I would add that it’s a wicked falla- the next morning, April 15th, and the There we have the most explic- cy to assume that Jews were somehow By the time this is published, your news spread quickly. Because it was it statement I know of a Jew who responsible for the slave trade. That new book, Lincoln and the Jews, will Saturday morning, the earliest eulo- couldn’t reconcile the Exodus story is nonsense. It was a tiny community be on bookstands. Can you share some- gies for Lincoln were uttered in syn- with slave holding and actually con- in the 18th and early 19th centuries and thing from it? agogues. verted from pro-slavery as a child to the truth is the history of slavery in Savannah Page 10 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org
I on Israel
the staff of Edith Wolfson Medical ar Shapira related this story to IS- Repairing the World Center in Holon (about 4 miles south RAEL21c: of Tel Aviv), became “In the bed next to her in the pedi- Perhaps one of the single most un- head of pediatric car- atric intensive care unit is little Ru- derreported stories about Israel is diac surgery and had maisa, a two-week-old baby girl from that of Israelis’ worldwide humani- the idea to start SACH Gaza who had an extremely complex tarian efforts. after having participat- heart surgery last week. Rumaisa ar- College campuses are awash in a ed in something sim- rived in an ambulance from Gaza in sea of anti-Israel protests and major ilar while serving as a one of the most difficult days of the media outlets provide a constant bar- doctor with the U.S. fighting in Gaza. She arrived in a very rage of coverage that at best seems Armed Forces in Korea. bad condition and the doctors need- lop-sided and at worst, down-right SACH is active in ed a few days to stabilize her condi- biased against Israel. Only rarely, in Africa, the Middle tion before operating. She is now re- the immediacy of a terrible earth- East and parts of Asia, covering nicely and her grandmother, quake or conflict, might we see a where hundreds of who doesn’t leave her bedside, is feature on an Israeli medical team An IsraAID healthcare worker treats a victim of the Haiti thousands of children finally smiling.” Fajar’s older sister, deployed to the disaster or a Palestin- earthquake. Five years later, IsraAID is still on the ground in Haiti. are born each year now two, also has cardiac issues, but ian child taken to an Israeli hospital. with surgically treat- luckily also is a SACH patient. Occasionally, an unexpected media nificant parties where they operate, able heart problems source such as Vice News or even Al- including government, international but often face certain death by age Israeli Flying Aid jazeera will report on a story such as and national organizations, and the 20 because they do not receive prop- As you would expect in a country that of the IDF field hospitals in the local communities themselves. er treatment. Based out of Wolfson, born from the pluck of the Irgun and Golan Heights quietly treating the In addition to providing immedi- their medical team now includes Haganah, even when it comes to hu- victims of the Syrian civil war. ate, short-term response to disasters more than 70 doctors, nurses and manitarian aid, Israel has its rebels. But these acts of chesed (loving such as Hurricanes Katrina and San- paramedics. All children, regardless Israeli Flying Aid (IFA) was founded kindness) actually go on day after day dy, the Oklahoma tornadoes, a cy- of race, creed, color, sex or religion in 2005 by Gal Lusky, a former flight — long after the waters recede, the clone in Myanmar, an earthquake in are treated free of charge with the fin- attendant, with the motto, nobody asks shelling stops and the camera crews Peru and many other natural or refu- est cutting-edge technology available permission to take a life; we don’t ask per- leave. Israeli humanitarian organiza- gee crises, IsraAID has established lo- at Wolfson Medical Center. SACH mission to save one. tions stay in place, often for years, to cal, long-term programs to aid in the has operated on hundreds and treat- IFA aims to provide food, medical help rebuild communities ravaged, recovery efforts from the earthquakes ed thousands of children and boasts assistance and other post-trauma/ whether by natural disasters or by vi- in Haiti in 2010 and Japan in 2011, the an astounding success rate of 96%. life-saving relief to communities in olent regimes. Israeli doctors are pro- Syrian refugee crisis in Jordan, the de- Last summer, just before the cease- areas stricken by natural disaster viding life-saving care and training to velopment of South Sudan, and much fire with Gaza that ended Opera- or territorial conflicts. They are not some of the most desperate people in more. Their staff and volunteers are tion Protective Edge, an officer from afraid to operate in places where lo- the world. Here are some of their sto- deployed in more than a half-dozen the Palestinian Authority in Gaza cal regimes prevent entry from formal ries: countries around the world work- brought his young daughter to SACH international humanitarian organi- ing with local groups to rebuild in- for a lifesaving operation. Dr. Lior zations or to focus on countries that IsraAID frastructure, provide drought and Sasson, the lead surgeon for SACH, lack diplomatic relations with Israel, IsraAID was founded in 2001 as famine relief, trauma assistance and performed open-heart surgery on “transcending differences, prejudices, a non-profit, non-governmental - or other services to meet the humani- 10-month old Fajar, assisted by the race, nationality, religion and creed.” ganization committed to providing tarian needs of the populations being Palestinian and Ethiopian doctors IFA performed search and rescue life-saving disaster relief and long served. training with him. missions during Hurricane Katrina, term support. Its teams of profession- A look at the list of IsraAID’s do- delivered food and other al medics, search & rescue squads, nors and partners shows a variety of supplies for tsunami and post-trauma experts and community North American Jewish Federations cyclone relief in the Pa- mobilizers have been first on the front and other Jewish organizations, foun- cific, has helped locate lines of nearly every major human- dations, international relief groups, missing travelers and itarian crisis in the 21st century. In the State of Israel Ministry of For- backpackers, and has as- addition to providing immediate re- eign Affairs and the Mormon Church, sisted in delivering am- sponse, its mission is to efficiently among others. bulances and hundreds support and meet the changing needs of thousands of meals of populations as they strive to move Save a Child’s Heart to Syrian rebels oppos- from crisis to reconstruction/rehabil- Save a Child’s Heart (SACH) was ing the regime of Bashar itation, and eventually, to sustainable established with the mission to both al-Assad. living. provide critical pediatric cardiac care A recovering SACH patient and mother Lusky told the (Los IsraAID believes that the local pop- to children and to train medical per- Angeles) Jewish Journal ulation must be involved at every sonnel from developing countries in Fajar recovered at Wolfson along that she got in trouble with one of stage of a project – from planning the specialty. It was founded in 1995 with children from around the re- the Syrian rebel commanders when to implementation, all the way to fi- by Dr. Ami Cohen, who immigrated gion and the world — Syria, Iraq, he found out she was an Israeli Jew. nal monitoring and evaluation. They to Israel in 1992 from the U.S. (and Tanzania, Ethiopia and Romania. At died suddenly in 2001). Cohen joined build strong connections with all sig- the time, SACH spokeswoman Tam- continued on page 18 The Jewish Educational Alliance presents a monthly program guide: CENTERPIECE Jewish Educational Alliance April 2015
Children’s Programming
JEA Camp Savannah Jewish Educational Alliance’s Spring Days @ the JEA June 1 - July 31, 2015 The JEA offers year-round vacation programming for children pre K-8th grade. Your child will enjoy Week Holiday Bonanza Highlights: LIT/CIT Sleepover & Wildlife Presentation Days @ the JEA as each are packed with activities 1 June 1st – June 5th Dress-Up Days: Go Green! such as field trips, swimming, cooking, sports and Shabbat: Disney Purim Breakfast Celebration arts and crafts! Week Siesta Fiesta Highlights: All-Camp Sleepover Upcoming Days @ the JEA: 2 June 8th – June 12th Dress-Up Days: Crazy Sombrero, Onesie PJ’s April 3rd-9th - Spring Break Shabbat: Mexican Fiesta Taco Celebration May 26th-29th Week Cowabunga Corral Highlights: On-site Carnival, Israeli Scouts Friendship 3 June 15th – June 19th Caravan Member Prices: $30.00 per day Dress-Up Days: Bandana Bonanza, Cowboys and Aliens Non-Member Prices: $40.00 per day Shabbat: Hoedown Throwdown Celebration Please call 355-8111 or email DJ Horton at Week Color War Highlights: Olympic Day, Magic Marc Performance [email protected] for more information. 4 June 22nd – June 26th Dress-Up Days: Crazy Hair, Crazy Socks Shabbat: Hogwarts Chanukah Feast Celebration Week Gameboy Remix Highlights: Clubhouse Field Trip JEA CAMP SAVANNAH 5 June 29th – July 3rd Dress-Up Days: So Geek, So Chic; Nintendo Bazaar Shabbat: Minecraft Build Your Own Burger/Hotdog IS NOW HIRING Celebration Week Arctic Blast Highlights: On-site Water Park, SUMMER CAMP STAFF! 6 July 6th – July 10th Dress-Up Days: Tacky Tie Dye, Beach Bum We are currently accepting applications for the Shabbat: Polar Pizza Party Celebration following positions: Week Into The Woods Highlights: Movie Theater Field Trip • Lead Group Counselors: College Freshmen 7 July 13th – July 17th Dress-Up Days: Villain Vogue Off, Prince Charming’s and up, Early Childhood Education Majors Soireé and Teachers preferred. Shabbat: Medieval Times Banquet Celebration • Junior Group Counselors: High School Week Camp Ruach Highlights: LIT/CIT Sleepover & On-site Extreme Juniors & Seniors 8 July 20th – July 24th Obstacle Course, Black Out Pep Rally • C.I.T. (Counselors in Training): High School Dress-Up Days: Ultimate Sports Fan, Neon Tutus and Ties Freshmen & Sophomores Shabbat: Camp Fire Cook-Out Celebration • Specialty Counselors: WSI-Certified Swimming Instructors, Middle School Week Glee Highlights: All-Camp Sleepover, Glee Performance Counselors (Counselors who specialize in 9 July 27th – July 31st Dress-Up Days: I Love the 80’s, Celebrity Look-Alike working with middle school children) Shabbat: Drive-in Diner and Movie Celebration Counselor Application available online at Visit www.SavannahJEA.org to download camp brochure and registration paperwork. www.SavannahJEA.org. Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! Adult Programming Bridge - Wednesdays 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Scrabble - Wednesdays 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Mah Jongg - Mondays 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Thursdays 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Community Garden Love to garden, but don’t have the space? Be part of the JEA Garden Club and help work one of the 18 garden boxes at the Midtown Miracle Community Garden, three blocks north of the JEA. Excess pro- duce and herbs will be donated to Second Harvest to aid them in their mission to feed up to 6000 chil- dren daily. For more details, “like” Midtown Miracle Community Garden on Facebook or email Carol Greenberg [email protected]. Lunch Bunch - Every Thursday 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm Join us for Thursday Lunch Bunch! Visit with old friends and meet new ones, enjoy lunch followed by an educational speaker or performer. April 2nd - Preschool Savannah celebrates Passover with Lunch Bunch. April 9th - Passover Break - No Lunch Bunch . April 16th - Commemorate Yom HaShoah with a collection of heroic short films. April 23rd - Yom Ha’atzma’ut (Israel Independence Day) talk with Motti Locker. April 30th - “Remembering the 60’s” Trivia Day hosted by Bob Schwartz and Mike Strear.
April 2015 Centerpiece Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! Winter Health & Wellness Fitness Classes Spring Clean Your Fitness Routine Sunday 9:15 am - Power Pilates It’s that time of year again Team Up 10:30 am - Total Body Blast -- the clouds are starting to You’re more likely to stick with your plan if you’ve 1:00 pm - Extreme Toning lift, the sun’s shining and those got a partner in crime. Choose someone who has thick sweaters in the closet are similar goals and whose schedule fits with your Monday about to go into storage. It’s own. Your best bet: Get together at the same time 5:00 am - Master Swim the perfect time to re-ignite four days a week, whether it’s before work or just 8:30 am - Firm It Up your motivation by breaking before dinner. 10:00 am - Aquasize away from your boring gym 10:00 am - Vinyasa Yoga Stephanie Johnson Health & Wellness routine and embracing the Buy New Running Shoes 10:30 am - SilverSneakers Classic Director great outdoors. Kick off spring If you’ve been hitting the gym (and the tread- 6:00 pm - Evening Water Aerobics with a healthy start by getting mill) all winter, chances are, you’re due for a new the right gear, revamping your routine and doing pair. Most running shoes last somewhere between Tuesday some “spring cleaning” in your pantry. Here are 300 and 400 miles -- but if you use them to walk 9:15 am - Power Pilates some simple tips to get you started. around or do other parts of your gym routine, 10:00 am - SilverSneakers Splash that wear and tear counts, too. Go to a running 10:30 am - SilverSneakers Circuit Book a Physical specialty store to get fitted, and have them look at 5:45 pm - Zumba Only about 20 percent of Americans get an annual your gait/pronation to find the best shoe for you. 6:00 pm - Savannah Kenpo check-up. Be one of them! While you might 7:00 pm - Savannah Fencing Club look and feel just fine, it’s important to keep Clean Out Your Pantry tabs on things like blood pressure, cholesterol, Still have that tin of popcorn from the holidays or Wednesday and vitamin deficiencies before designing your a box of chocolates from Valentine’s Day? Get rid 5:00 am - Master Swim workout program. of them. And while you’re at it, throw away other 8:30 am - Firm It Up foods low in nutritional value like chips, pretzels, 10:00 am - Sun Flow Yoga Set a Schedule... But Be Realistic 10:30 am - SilverSneakers Classic If you haven’t been working out much this winter, sugary cereals, white bread and, yes, even those 100 calorie snack packs (a cookie is still a cookie, 6:00 pm - Billy’s Boot Camp don’t write down that you’ll do outdoor cardio 6:00 pm - Evening Water Aerobics exercises for 30 minutes a day, six days a week. even if you flatten it and drop five in a bag). You’ll only find yourself getting frustrated and Thursday These are just 5 suggestions. I have fifteen (15) will be more likely to give up on your workout 9:30 am - Barre Blend more ideas that will help you re-ignite your fitness program. Post your exercise plan in places you’ll 10:00 am - Aquasize routine. Check back here next month! look frequently, like the calendar app on your 10:30 am - SilverSneakers Circuit smartphone or on your desk at work. 6:00 pm - Savannah Kenpo 6:30 pm - Yoga Flow 7:00 pm - Savannah Fencing Club
Friday 5:00 am - Master Swim 8:30 am - Firm It Up 10:00 am - Yoga 10:00 am - Aquasize
Young Jewish Savannah is about creating relationships and getting to know the Join Young Jewish Savannah for PB&J (Pizza, Beer and Judaism)! On the community. third Monday of each month, 7-8:30 pm, you are invited to hang out at the JEA and talk about Jewish topics with a modern twist! Of course, pizza and We want to get to know you! beer will be provided! New to Savannah and want to get connected? Are you young (22-40), Jewish and living in the Savannah area? We hope Want to help plan events? Have ideas you want to you’ll participate in one of Young Jewish Savannah’s Judaic, social or commu- share? Just want to hang out? nity service programs. Contact Jamie Cahn, (912) 355-8111 or [email protected] for more information. Join Jamie for coffee! [email protected].
Centerpiece April 2015 Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details!
JEA Art Gallery
JEA Preschool Savannah News April Artist: Robert Segall Enroll Now Robert Segall is a Savannah native. In the past 10 years, he has devoted his artistic efforts to oil painting. He is largely self-taught, but has studied with Telfair and Jepson art instructor Carl Fugerousse, Savannah artist Zola for 2015-16 Delburn, and Charlotte Segall, his niece and an honor graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design. His subject matter varies widely, from Savannah land and seascapes to portraits, still life and famous • 16-months through 4-years old jazz musicians. He has also been commissioned for architectural renderings. His love of Savannah and its • Half-day and full-day options surrounding waterways is evident in many of his works, as are the images he’s created of the jazz music and • 2, 3 and 5-day options for the toddlers musicians to whom he owes so much of his inspiration. and two-year-olds His work has been displayed at the Telfair Art Fair, as well as the Horizon Gallery, Soho Gallery and many • For full details, visit our website at www. others. He has had several solo shows, a number of Savannah Art Association group exhibitions, and has had a savannahjea.org number of his jazz portraits featured at the 18th Annual Black Heritage Festival. For Robert, art is that joyous marriage of one’s visualization and one’s imagination, and for the artist, there can be no greater union. Contact Jodi Sadler, Director, at Artwork available for viewing April 1-30, 2015 [email protected] or 912-355-8111 Art Gallery Reception April 16th, 5:00-6:30 pm Summer Program New JEA Members Marlowe Fox Ryan Holloway & Maxine Florio • June 1st-July 31st The JEA would like to thank our members. With- • Open to children ages 16 months to 4 Malinda Gwyn-Thornton out your membership and support, we would not Gonzalo Hurtado years be able to offer all the services that we do. Our • Weekly Shabbat celebrations Gary & Buffie Lee members are our most important asset! Arthur & Nancy Mackler • Swimming lessons for children age 4 (New Members as of 2/1/15-3/6/15) Gerald Orlikowski& Barbara Harris • Hands-on experiences and activities Jane Alpert Judith Parker • Special guests Matthew Price • Half-day and full-day options Wayne Anderson Michael Butler Joan Silver Kirk & Bartlette DeWitt Shawn & Kristi Smith See www.SavannahJEA.org for more Tim & Emily Doherty Laura Summerlin information and registration form Michael Elston Richard & Jutta Zaplinski In honor of Marcy & Jerry Konter Arlene & Allan Ratner JEA Donations Lynn & Dick Berkowitz (February 4-March 4, 2015) JEA GENERAL DONATIONS In honor of Jane Winter ARKIN-CLARK GARDEN FUND Arlene & Allan Ratner In memory of Ralph Dolgoff Nancie & Fred Clark JACK M. & MIRIAM S. LEVY CONCERT FUND In honor of Dayle & Aaron Levy JEA BUILDING FUND Merry & Richard Bodziner In honor of Renee & Russell Bridges Arlene & Allan Ratner BERTHA & HYMIE KANTER YOUNG AT Jodi’s Trip to Israel Carole & Jerald Cohen HEART FUND Lynn & Dick Berkowitz In memory of Larry Wagger In memory of Pearl Baker Recently, our Director, Jodi Sadler, took a In honor of Suzanne & Michael Konter Arlene & Allan Ratner In memory of Henry Kaplan trip to Israel. See her at the train station in Sally & Steve Greenberg Jerusalem in photo 1. She even met up with Carole & Jerald Cohen Maia Koiller, our former Shlicha (photo 2). Lynn & Dick Berkowitz HARVEY RUBIN MEMORIAL FUND Jodi has lots of interesting stories about her In honor of Sally & Steve Greenberg In memory of Isie Rubin Arlene & Allan Ratner trip! See them in her column elsewhere in this In honor of Brett Levine Carole & Jerald Cohen Elise & Victor Shernoff issue. Lynn & Dick Berkowitz In memory of Ralph Dolgoff HENRY W. CENTER COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP Providing for the social, emotional In memory of Larry Wagger FUND and cognitive growth of young In memory of Henry Kaplan In memory of Candace Peagler In honor of Staci Robbins In memory of Larry Wagger children in a Judaic setting. Arlene & Allan Ratner Tony Center
April 2015 Centerpiece Savannah Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 11
JEA Art Gallery Accepting New Patients! Where A Trip to the Dentist JEA Preschool is a Day at the Beach Savannah News April Artist: # ,( ( # )# # - Robert Segall !" #! + & % ## # # #"#" $ *#"#!""$ JEA CAMP #! % ( # !$( $! Enroll Now '#"(!# & !# Robert Segall is a Savannah native. In the past 10 years, he has devoted his artistic efforts to oil painting. He is largely self-taught, but has studied with Telfair and Jepson art instructor Carl Fugerousse, Savannah artist Zola ! ' %! #& "# %! Delburn, and Charlotte Segall, his niece and an honor graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design. SAVANNAH for 2015-16 ! "% ! "" # ! His subject matter varies widely, from Savannah land and seascapes to portraits, still life and famous • 16-months through 4-years old jazz musicians. He has also been commissioned for architectural renderings. His love of Savannah and its • !% ##% # ! ! ! • Half-day and full-day options surrounding waterways is evident in many of his works, as are the images he’s created of the jazz music and • 2, 3 and 5-day options for the toddlers musicians to whom he owes so much of his inspiration. $ #" and two-year-olds His work has been displayed at the Telfair Art Fair, as well as the Horizon Gallery, Soho Gallery and many • $! &# " # IS NOW HIRING • For full details, visit our website at www. others. He has had several solo shows, a number of Savannah Art Association group exhibitions, and has had a savannahjea.org number of his jazz portraits featured at the 18th Annual Black Heritage Festival. #"#!( For Robert, art is that joyous marriage of one’s visualization and one’s imagination, and for the artist, there can be no greater union. • # $! &# $! Contact Jodi Sadler, Director, at Artwork available for viewing April 1-30, 2015 # [email protected] or 912-355-8111 Art Gallery Reception April 16th, 5:00-6:30 pm SUMMER CAMP STAFF! • "# !( $! &# "#! & " We are currently accepting applications for the following positions: • #!# $! &#. %" ! Summer Program !" Lead Group Counselors College Freshmen and up, Early Childhood New JEA Members Marlowe Fox • June 1st-July 31st Ryan Holloway & Maxine Florio • #" ! ! $ #" Education Majors and Teachers preferred. The JEA would like to thank our members. With- Malinda Gwyn-Thornton • Open to children ages 16 months to 4 out your membership and support, we would not Junior Group Counselors High School Juniors & Seniors years Gonzalo Hurtado be able to offer all the services that we do. Our Gary & Buffie Lee • Weekly Shabbat celebrations members are our most important asset! Arthur & Nancy Mackler It is almost spring time, time to whiten your C.I.T. (Counselors in Training) High School Freshmen & Sophomores • Swimming lessons for children age 4 (New Members as of 2/1/15-3/6/15) Gerald Orlikowski& Barbara Harris A great way to fulfill your public service • Hands-on experiences and activities Judith Parker teeth! For a limited time we are offering • Special guests Jane Alpert requirement and have fun at the same time. Wayne Anderson Matthew Price • Half-day and full-day options Joan Silver Michael Butler for only $49 when you complete a standard Specialty Counselors: WSI-Certified Swimming Instructors Kirk & Bartlette DeWitt Shawn & Kristi Smith See www.SavannahJEA.org for more Tim & Emily Doherty Laura Summerlin new patient exam and necessary x-rays Middle School Counselors (counselors who Richard & Jutta Zaplinski information and registration form Michael Elston and cleaning! A value of $200. specilize in working with middle school In honor of Marcy & Jerry Konter children) Arlene & Allan Ratner JEA Donations Lynn & Dick Berkowitz Those applying should possess the following qualities: (February 4-March 4, 2015) JEA GENERAL DONATIONS • Knowledge and experience working in a camp setting or with children. In honor of Jane Winter ARKIN-CLARK GARDEN FUND Arlene & Allan Ratner • Ability to be an excellent role model, exuding maturity while still In memory of Ralph Dolgoff remaining youthful. Nancie & Fred Clark JACK M. & MIRIAM S. LEVY CONCERT FUND Family & Cosmetic Dentist In honor of Dayle & Aaron Levy 912-387-0249 • Must be responsible, creative, motivated and professional. JEA BUILDING FUND Merry & Richard Bodziner In honor of Renee & Russell Bridges $## • Flexibility with regard to tasks, work hours and changes in program. Arlene & Allan Ratner BERTHA & HYMIE KANTER YOUNG AT """ $## HEART FUND • Ability to positively relate to children, coworkers and parents alike. Jodi’s Trip to Israel Carole & Jerald Cohen "# Lynn & Dick Berkowitz In memory of Larry Wagger In memory of Pearl Baker Recently, our Director, Jodi Sadler, took a In honor of Suzanne & Michael Konter ! Counselor Application available online at www.SavannahJEA.org. Arlene & Allan Ratner In memory of Henry Kaplan trip to Israel. See her at the train station in Sally & Steve Greenberg Jerusalem in photo 1. She even met up with Carole & Jerald Cohen Maia Koiller, our former Shlicha (photo 2). Lynn & Dick Berkowitz HARVEY RUBIN MEMORIAL FUND For more information, please contact Jodi has lots of interesting stories about her In honor of Sally & Steve Greenberg In memory of Isie Rubin Arlene & Allan Ratner JEA Camp Director trip! See them in her column elsewhere in this In honor of Brett Levine Carole & Jerald Cohen Elise & Victor Shernoff DJ Horton at 355-8111 x225 or issue. Lynn & Dick Berkowitz In memory of Ralph Dolgoff HENRY W. CENTER COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP JEA Camp Registrar Providing for the social, emotional In memory of Larry Wagger FUND Anna Berwitz at 355-8111 x211 and cognitive growth of young In memory of Henry Kaplan In memory of Candace Peagler In honor of Staci Robbins In memory of Larry Wagger children in a Judaic setting. Arlene & Allan Ratner Tony Center SANDFLY FAMILY DENTAL
April 2015 Centerpiece Savannah Page 12 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org The Savannah Jewish Federation Gratefully Thanks Our Contributors
SJF ANNUAL CAMPAIGN WILLIAM & MILDRED In honor of Sam Jospin WEICHSELBAUM CAMPAIGN FUND In honor of Sarah Kovensky In memory of Ralph Dolgoff In honor of Martin Karp Peggy & Stanley Harris Doris & Martin Greenberg AM & JOHN W. GOLDKRAND SJF GENERAL FUND SAVANNAH HEALTHCARE FUND In memory of Ralph Dolgoff In honor of AM Goldkrand In memory of Larry Wagger Arlene & Allan Ratner Muriel Bono OVERSEAS NEEDS FUND TIKVAH FUND A donation was made by In memory of Larry Wagger Ellen Busch Eva Odrezin Marilyn Seeman JULIUS RUDIKOFF HEALTH CLUB & Arlene & Michel Steinfeldt ATHLETIC FUND In honor of AM Goldkrand In honor of Lynn & Dick Berkowitz In honor of Sharon Galin Connie & Tom Glaser Toby Hollenberg
Contributions to the Savannah Jewish Federation may be made on our secure website at www.savj.org or by calling 912-355-8111.
SAVE THE DATE
Jewish Educational Alliance 2015 Annual Meeting
Wednesday, May 20th 7pm
Installation of New Board Members Presentation of Awards & Honors Update on the State of the Organization Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 13 Condolences We express our sympathy to the families of: Lasting Legacies Ronald E. “Ronnie” Haysman Gertrude Scheer Barr Who died March 10, 2015 Who died February 22, 2015 One of the very first endowed funds zis and perished. Some of the family He is survived by his wife, Mar- She is survived by her daughters, created after the establishment of the remained in Switzerland; some made sha Faye Finkelstein Haysman; two Eta (Stephen) Longwater and Syril Jewish Community Foundation of Sa- their way to the United States, in- sons, Arnold J. (Janelle) Haysman (Mark) Barnes; her son, Dr. Joey Barr, vannah was the Charles and Josephine cluding Charles and Josephine, who and Alan Michael (Petra) Haysman; all of Savannah; one brother, Samuel Lorant Glauber Fund for Senior Needs. settled in Savannah soon after. Later, two daughters, Cheryl Haysman Col- (Marianne) Scheer of Savannah; five The fund was created in December of Josephine would bring her mother lins and Sheila Haysman Bracewell; grandchildren; and five great-grand- 1995 by Josephine’s nephew, Charles here to live, too. five grandchildren; two brothers, Dr. children. She was preceded in death Lorant, a little more than a year after Despite the fact that their fami- Melvin (Roberta Kamine-) Haysman, by her husband, Irving Robert Barr, her death. Charles Glauber had died ly spent many of their earlier years and Neil Haysman, and a number of Remembrances: Congregation Bnai in January of 1986. on the run, Charles Glauber lived to nieces and nephews. He was preced- Brith Jacob, 5444 Abercorn St., Sa- Charles and Josephine Glauber just shy of his 87th birthday and Jo- ed in death by two brothers, Dr. Phil- vannah 31405 or Rambam Day School, were Holocaust survivors who ar- sephine lived to be 96. Their nephew ip Haysman and Steven Haysman. 111 Atlas St., Savannah 31405-5461. rived in Savannah after being forced chose to perpetuate their memories Remembrances: The Florence to leave Nazi-occupied Slovenia, first by establishing the Charles and Jose- Haysman Silver Fund, c/o Congrega- for Italy. Their nephew Charles tells phine Lorant Glauber Fund for Senior tion Agudath Achim, 9 Lee Blvd., Sa- the story of the family’s experiences Needs, whose income will be used as vannah 31405. in a compelling oral history that may long as the Jewish community exists be viewed on the website of the Unit- to help see that the senior population ed States Holocaust Memorial Muse- is cared for with whatever assistance Sonia Robbins Greenfield um. they may require. Various members of the Lorant Sonia Robbins Greenfield died March 12 at age 78. She family had settled in Italy in a hushed was cherished by her family and friends for her generous and but hopeful existence until 1943, Create a Fund grace-filled nature, compassion for all, love of life, and playful, when the Italians signed the armi- gentle sense of humor. She is survived by her husband of 57 stice and the Germans occupied Italy A designated fund can benefit a spe- years, Dr. Mickey Greenfield and their three daughters, Sharon cific purpose dear to your family or as they had much of the rest of Eu- the community at large. Funds can Mueller, Lori Greenfield, and Tina Ronder, five grandchildren, rope. Jews in Italy then were forced and five great-grandchildren. be created and activated now or to flee or go underground. It seems established with a bequest or oth- Born in 1937 in Savannah, GA to Anne and Norman that Charles and Josephine and sever- er financial instrument. To discuss Robbins, Sonia is survived by her three siblings, Harry Robbins, al other members of Josephine’s fam- establishing a Lasting Legacy for Shirley Ghingold, and Deanna Allswang. She graduated from ily, including her parents, headed for your family with a fund at the Jewish the University of Georgia in 1958 and did graduate studies Community Foundation of Savan- Switzerland. Most made it, though at nah, contact Adam Solender at (912) at Georgia Southern. Sonia married Dr. Mickey Greenfield in least one of Josephine’s siblings and 1957 in Savannah where they lived and raised their family 355-8111 or [email protected]. until 1989. At that time they moved to Jacksonville, FL and their family were captured by the Na- founded Greenfield Center, an addiction treatment facility. The center has been in continuous operation ever since. Sonia enjoyed being healthy, active and outdoors her entire life. She was an avid tennis player, loved taking walks, and being at the beach. Described as beautiful person inside and out, she was the most fun, caring, loving wife, mother, Nana, and friend anyone could have. A life well lived cannot be diminished by death. The beauty and guidance she provided will shine on as brightly as ever.
Graveside services were held Friday, March 13, 2015 at Greenlawn Cemetery (King David), Jacksonville.
Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin Jewish Camp Scholarships Available Studies show that Jewish camping is a powerful way to build strong Jewish identity and commitment in young people.
ALHAMBRA EDGEWATER TRACE KESSLER POINT THE ARBORS Thanks to the generosity of the Annual Campaign, the SAVANNAH JEWISH 2200 East Victory Dr. 10714 Abercorn Ext. 901 Kessler Ct. 4035 Kessler Ave. FEDERATION is offering scholarships for Jewish resi dent summer camps such as Savannah, GA 31401 Savannah, GA 31419 Garden City, GA 31408 Garden City, GA 31408 Camp Coleman, Barney Medintz, Ramah Darom, Judea, Blue Star and others. 912.354.1968 912.925.5519 912.964.4452 912.964.8787
TIMBERLAND RIDGEWOOD WINDSOR ARMS WYNDMERE 10612 Abercorn Ext. 12008 Middleground Rd. 12409 Largo Dr. 1326 Highway 80 West LIMITED FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE Savannah, GA 31419 Savannah, GA 31419 Savannah, GA 31419 Garden City, GA 31408 Download a “Summer Experience Scholarship” 912.925.5475 912.925.9108 912.925.4811 912.964.9211 application at www.savj.org
DEADLINE: APRIL 3, 2015 Savannah Page 14 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org
Leonard Nimoy Active in the Jewish community, 1931-2015 Nimoy engaged in a number of artis- tic endeavors to support Judaism and Born to immi- the documentation of the Holocaust. grant Ukrainian Among them was a movie for TNT, Orthodox Jew- Never Forget, which protested orga- Leonard Nimoy as the iconic Mr. Spock ish parents, nizations refuting the existence of Leonard Simon the Holocaust. Trek, both TV series and film. Voted emotion. Bonnie Strongin Nimoy was laid He portrayed Golda Meir’s husband by TV Guide as one of the fifty most The aliens were metaphors for to rest in ear- opposite Ingrid Bergman in A Woman memorable TV characters, he is half humans; their situations paralleled ly March. His death was caused Called Golda, for which he received an Vulcan/half human, filled with logic foreign policy and contemporary by chronic obstructive pulmonary Emmy nomination. On stage, he ap- and rational thinking, unaffected by current events: genocide, pollution, disorder [COPD], the deadly div- peared in other shows with Jewish emotion. war; their private problems reflected idend from decades of excessive themes: Fiddler on the Roof (as Tevye) Rotten Tomatoes said, “Spock was our humanity. It was entertainment smoking. and The Man in the Glass Booth. used as a device to examine humanity that made you think! A Renaissance man, he was re- Nimoy went on to narrate the docu- and what it meant to be human.” On Leonard Nimoy, celebrated actor nowned as an actor, film director, mentary, A Life Apart: Hasidism in Amer- the bridge of the Starship Enterprise, and man of letters, created an icon- photographer, singer and songwriter. ica and published The Shekhina Project, he was part of a system of checks and ic character that shaped pop culture He began acting in children’s theaters his original photography inspired by balances. A tripod of reaction, Spock and left us with these words: at the age of eight and took drama the Kabbalah. symbolized logic and rational think- Live Long and Prosper classes in addition to later studying All this against the backdrop of ing; Captain Kirk, passion and spirit; Mr. Spock-1966 photography. dozens of other artistic successes Dr. McCoy (better known as Bones), Graduating with an MA in Educa- spanning the years. tion, he also received two honorary But nothing, nothing comes as close We couldn’t do it without them! doctorates for activism in Holocaust to putting him front and center be- Help us thank our advertisers. Remembrance, studies in the envi- fore an enduring, adoring public ronment, the arts and humanities. as did his role of Mr. Spock in Star Please support their businesses.
Do you love to write? e JEA presents the Jack Malitz and Miriam Slotin If so we’re looking for you! The Savannah Jewish News is seeking VOLUNTEER WRITERS Levy Memorial Concert to cover stories of interest to the Savannah Jewish community. If interested, send an e-mail to [email protected].
Sunday May 17th, 2015
More details coming soon!
Sponsored by the Jack Malitz and Miriam Slotin Levy Memorial Fund
Visit www.SavannahJEA.org for more information. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 15
Sunday, May 3rd, 2015 2:00—4:00pm
$15 per person
Send your check, made out to 20th Anniversary Savannah Jewish Archives, to Sharon Galin, 426 Abercorn St. Savannah, GA 31401 Tour of SCAD Limited to the first 30 people to RSVP BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND Archives members only
The Savannah Jewish Archives, in recognition of its 20th anniversary, is offering a tour of some of the SCAD buildings with direct connections to Savannah’s Jewish community. The tour will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2:00-4:00pm. This tour is for members only, with a charge of $15 per person for bus rental. Meet at ShopSCAD (the old Armory) at 340 Bull Street promptly at 1:45pm. This tour is limited to only 30 people, so send your check as soon as possible, no later than April 19. The SCAD Student Center, once Congregation Bnai Brith Jacob’s synagogue
The Savannah Jewish Federation JEWISH is eXcited to present TEENS: Experience/Education Scholarships available Scholarships will be awarded to individuals for Jewish teen education experiences that will enrich the recipients, enhance the community, and increase the likelihood of future engagement with Jew- eXplore New Opportunities ● eXchange Ideas ish life. eXpand Your Network ● Learn from eXperts TEENS MAY REQUEST SCHOLARSHIPS FOR: • Conventions Thursday, June 18, 2015 • Jewish youth group Scholarships are provided by the 5:30 - 7pm summer programs SAVANNAH JEWISH FEDERATION Jewish Educational Alliance • Leadership development ANNUAL CAMPAIGN on a non-needs programs basis Networking Happy Hour with David Herskovits DEADLINE: APRIL 3, 2015 LIMITED FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE CEO of Energiya USA And don’t forget to apply for the
Energiya USA is the U.S. affiliate of Israel’s Energiya Global Henry W. Center College Scholarship Capital, an international solar development firm. They are Jacob & Ida Ulman Scholarship constructing a $30 million, 17.68 megawatt solar field in south- Kay Becker Israel Scholarship eastern Georgia, the first utility scale solar project in the region. Harvey Rubin Memorial Award
To RSVP or for more information, call Jamie Cahn at All applications available at 912-355-8111 or email [email protected]. www.savj.org
Savannah Page 16 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org
The Savannah Jewish Federation proudly provides space for a half-page ad to each local congregation in each issue of the Savannah Jewish News.
Congregation Agudath Achim 9 Lee Blvd, Savannah, GA 31405 / 912-352-4737 Agudath-Achim.com / [email protected] Rabbi Ruven Barkan
For further information contact us at 912-352-4737, or email us at [email protected] Happy and Joyful Passover Israel Independence Day Wednesday, April 22nd
Mincha and Memorial service for חג פסח כשר ושמח fallen Israeli Soldiers 6 pm
Maariv and Celebration, Falafel, Music, Movie and lots of fun 7 pm
SHABBAT SERVICES: DAILY SERVICES: Friday 6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Sunday 9:00 am & 6:00 pm, Monday & Thursday 7:00 am & 6:00 pm Saturday 9:15 am Shabbat Service & Kiddush Luncheon Tuesday 7:30 am & 6:00 pm, Wednesday 8:00 am & 6:00 pm Saturday Evenings Mincha/Maariv & Havdalah Friday Shacharit 7:00 am & Kabbalat Shabbat 5:30 pm Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 17 “Well,” Zadie replied, “Statistics show that very few people die between the The Savannah Jewish Federation proudly provides space for a half-page ad to It’s a Funny Thing ages of 103 and 104.” ______each local congregation in each issue of the Savannah Jewish News. Rabbi Friedman asked one of his congregants, Esther, how things were going with her mother. A new forestry graduate received his first posting way out in the wilderness, “Well, she’s a difficult person, Rabbi,” Esther said. She miles from civilization (known in Yiddish as yenem velt). Included in his survival then went on to relay all of the problems that she was hav- gear was a recipe for matzoh balls. ing with her mom, but ended with, “Well, I suppose we all “What on earth is this for?” he questioned his boss. Melinda Stein have issues.” “Trust me, you’ll need it,” came the answer. “A few years down the road, the “Issues?” said Rabbi Friedman. “Sounds like your moth- solitude will get to you and you’ll pull out the recipe and start to mix it togeth- er’s got a year’s subscription.” er.” ______“And that will help me how?” “Within minutes you’ll have half a dozen Jewish women hovering over you, “Oy, am I getting worried about my memory!” says 75-year-old Rachel to her telling you what you’re doing wrong!” best friend Sarah. “Nu, so why is that?” asks Sarah. “Because every time I want to do online banking, I just can’t remember my password. I have to try many times before I enter the right code. Do you have such a problem?” says Rachel. “No I don’t,” replies Sarah. “I’ve found a way around that.” “So what do you do?” asks Rachel. “I changed my password to ‘INCORRECT’,” replies Sarah. “Then, if I enter a different code, my computer tells me, ‘Your password is incorrect.’” ______
Two of Jerusalem’s most eccentric characters are standing by the side of the road holding up a sign that reads, “The End is Near! Turn yourself around now before it’s too late!” “Go away, you religious fanatics!” yells a driver as he speeds by. Suddenly, from around the curve they hear screeching tires and a huge splash. “Do you think,” says one eccentric to the other, “we should have just put up a sign that says ‘Bridge Out Ahead’?” ______
At his 103rd birthday party, the Rubenstein family gathered around Zadie Hy- mie for cake and words of wisdom. “So, Zadie,” asked little Stevie, “Are you going to be around for your 104th birthday party”? “I certainly will,” Zadie replied. “How can you be so sure?” Stevie asked. Congregation BBJ’S FABULOUS SOUP & SALAD BAR B’nai B’rith Jacob TUESDAYS IN THE SOCIAL HALL Morning, Afternoon and Evening Services Daily. Contact the Shul office for menu and times 365 Days a year for over 150 years.
BBJ FOOD SERVICES IS NOW ONLINE !!! WWW.KOSHERFOODSAVANNAH.COM NCSY SKI TRIP
Come Join The BBJ Family!
-200 participants on average Shabbos -Active Brotherhood & -Weekly Kiddush following Services Sisterhood -Monthly Rosh Chodesh Dinners -Plenty of Youth Action
Visit our website to subscribe to our popular weekly newsletter 5444 Abercorn Street, Savannah GA 31405 912-354-7721 www.bbjsynagogue.com [email protected] Savannah Page 18 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org by the children, fruits, And So the Stories Go… breads, and drinks. In JECELI (Jewish Then came tears of my own. I had addition, the children Early Childhood no idea how long the military man had prepared an ador- Education Lead- would be away or what his mission able special dance for ership Institute) would entail. What I did know was us. At the conclusion, Israel Experience that he was going to serve our coun- three precious five-year- 2015 was a ten try and leaving his family behind. olds stood in the middle Jodi Sadler, day journey to Is- At that moment I thanked him in of the circle and held a JEA Director of rael that was an my heart for his service. I tried to find big Israeli flag. We all Early Childhood amazing learning him to personally thank him when began to sing the Ha- Education experience for me I went through security but had no tikvah. I was all ferklempt personally and as an early childhood success. What a scene for me to expe- (that feeling you get professional. The group was made rience to begin my journey to Israel. It when something makes The paper mache birthday throne created by the children and up of sixteen early childhood teach- made me reflect on how lucky I am to you well up inside and teachers at Gan Ner. Shira Ackerman Simchovitch is on the left. ers and directors, four mentors, one live in America and to have all kinds you’re on the verge of JECELI director, and two Israeli ed- of freedoms this soldier protects. I tears) and could bare- ucators/guides for a total of twenty also was excited to embark on this ly sing. It was just the three people traveling and learning in adventure of learning more about Is- first of many emotional the land of Israel. We learned about rael and to meet the people who make moments for me during the history of the land, the people, up the fabric of this special place. these ten days! and the early childhood education- I also was looking forward to re- We toured the class- al system there. This journey will be connecting with my colleagues rooms and met the told through the experiential stories. whom I had bonded with in New children and teachers. Sunday, February 15th — I arrive York last summer. Most of the group Two of the boys really early at the airport with Kenneth, the met in Philadelphia for the flight to enjoyed playing with birthday man. Excitement, appre- Israel and you could see and hear the Tzfardi, my stuffed frog hension, and a bit of sadness were in excitement and anticipation when who was my travel- my thoughts as we waited for me to we all met up together. ing companion – a sort board the plane. I was excited about Upon arriving in Israel, we met our of ambassador from Tzfardi leaps into a little mischief while visiting Israel. the long-awaited trip to Israel; it had ECE guide for the trip, Shira Acker- JEA Preschool Savan- been fifteen years since my last visit. man Simchovitch. Shira is the director nah! We saw the beautiful birthday I came away with some new ideas I was a bit nervous about the long of early childhood at the TALI School throne made out of paper mache the and activities for our classrooms, so plane ride and leaving my parents Fund where she oversees training and children and teachers had created stay tuned for more news on those who were struggling with some med- materials for more than 120 preschool and how each child’s art work was and more about my trip! ical issues. I was feeling sad because I classes in Israel. She also is the direc- displayed in their own designated Wishing everyone a Chag Pesach was leaving my husband on his birth- tor of educational content and out- picture frame. Sameach. day. But as we waited in the airport reach for Shalom Sesame, the Israeli square, I saw what real sadness was. version of Sesame Street. Who better Across the way, Kenneth and I to guide us on this experience? saw a military man, his wife and el- Our first experience was atBeit She- ementary-age son standing together an, a Moshav in the north. We were Celebrating a simcha? and talking. Then it happened, the warmly welcomed by the director moment they were all dreading; the of Gan Ner, a cluster preschool that (Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, engagements, time they needed to say goodbye. We houses secular, religious, and special watched the hugs, kisses, touching needs children. I was deeply moved weddings, births.) of each other’s faces, more hugs and by the hospitality shown to us. The then the tears from the wife and son. table was set with delicious jam made We want to know! Share your good news with the Savannah Jewish News Repairing the World...... from pg 10 Send the vital statistics to [email protected] Although Lusky had provided critical hu- manitarian assistance to his group, the com- mander could not stomach that she was the ‘Zionist enemy.’ “‘Let me finish with them [the Syrian gov- ernment], and then I’m coming for you,’ he told her. The problem for the commander, though, was that there was no Gal Lusky, CEO and founder of Israeli Flying Aid, consensus in his ‘par- with Syrian children ty’ to get rid of Lusky’s group because they saw how these group. As Lusky explained it to [the Jews were risking their lives to help Jewish Journal], many Syrians in the them.” Eventually the rebel group rebel party were sympathetic to her splintered over the issue. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news April 2015 | Page 19 Better Together Baking, Farming…Learning In the story of one of us counts. Each one of us is I love Jewish tra- who planted seeds during Tu Be’shvat. Purim when the part of making the WHOLE of Klal ditions. And Jewish Many have been earnestly tending evil Haman ap- Yisroel. The law further states that if tradition generally their crops and regularly sending in proaches King one letter overlaps onto another the acknowledges that photos to update us on their “farm- Achashavairosh Torah scroll is invalid. We are not when the Jewish ing” progress! The same parsley that to destroy the all perfect; we complement one an- month of Adar we planted weeks ago has now seri- Ester Rabhan, Jews, he was other. Each one of us has our unique Eva Locker, commences, joy ously sprouted and promises to make Principal of Principal of speaking to some- strengths and talents and again, to- increases! Why? it to the Seder plate of many Shalom Rambam Day School Shalom School one who hated gether we make the whole of our peo- Well, the simplest School families. the Jews as much as he did; however, ple. Overshadowing each other, not answer is that the holiday of Purim And speaking of Seders, plans are Achashvairosh was not a complete acknowledging each other doesn’t occurs during the month of Adar, and underway for our school-wide mock fool. He showed Haman that all those create harmony or unity. Purim is associated with rejoicing Seder, scheduled for March 29. Hav- before him who had tried to destroy And upon us is Passover and in and celebrating. So that’s what we ing mastered the Four Questions, our the Jews found themselves being the Hagaddah it states that in every did last month at Shalom School. 5th and 6th graders have been learning eradicated. Haman, also not being generation there are those who wish To prepare for the celebration of how to lead the Seder and should be a complete fool very wisely pointed to destroy us. How sad if we destroy Purim, our students learned about ready to run the show for us! out to Achashvairosh the reason for ourselves through baseless hatred. the story of Purim. For some children There has been a lot going on in all the other’s downfall was due to Interesting point of information: it was the first time and for others March and April promises to be even the unity of the Jewish people. Hitler checked us out thoroughly to it was a refresher course on a favor- busier. We look forward to all of the Even in the time of King David, make sure we were Jewish. He didn’t ite tale. They also learned about the upcoming activities and events be- many lives were lost in battle and check to see what sect of Judaism we mitzvot associated with this holiday; cause we know, you know…There’s King David was a tremendously righ- were. like going to hear the Megillah read, or something about this place! teous individual. Yet when Achav, Enjoy the pictures of our eighth making gifts of food. We finished the Wishing you Chag Pesach Sameach! also a king of the Jewish people at graders with seniors from Bucking- study unit with students getting a one time led the Jews into battle, not ham South. They are involved in a chance to bake and eat Hamentaschen. one life was lost. Achav was a terri- program specific to bringing seniors The cookies were delicious, even if ble king for the Jews; he brought idol together with the younger genera- some were quite weirdly shaped! worship and other concepts that di- tion. Both the seniors of Buckingham While the ovens were filled, our ametrically oppose our heritage into and our eighth graders look forward youngest students continued what the fold of our people. Why was he to each visit and when the visit is has become an annual Shalom School successful and not David Hamelech? over, both the seniors and the eighth tradition by paying the residents Because in Achav’s time, the Jewish grade students are different because of Buckingham South a lively visit. people were united as one. Through- of their time together. Tolerance, pa- Decked out in their costumes, the out our history no matter what the tience, friendship and love are feel- little ones sang songs, danced and Jewish people were doing, G-d fa- ings that have taken on a whole new handed out the Mishloah Manot (Purim vored them if they were UNIFIED. meaning. baskets) that they had prepared. Haman convinced With Purim behind us, we look Achashvairosh to destroy forward to Pesach which is quick- the Jews because he de- ly approaching. Our “Parsley Con- scribed them as separat- test” continues to be a great source ed from one another, dis- of excitement among our students Shalom School students preparing hamentaschen persed throughout the country. What was Ha- man portraying? A lack of unity and therefore an assurance of success. Purim has just passed and Passover is upon us. Where do we fall? Are we united or are we dis- persed? Are we tolerant and respectful of others or judgmental? Dispersed Rambam eighth graders at Buckingham South for Purim means more than physi- cally miles apart. Are we separated by intolerance, by discrimination? The Torah has 600,000 words found within it. 600,000 Jews left Mitz- rayim. This is no coinci- dence. Jewish law states that if one letter in a To- rah scroll is scratched out, the scroll is invalid and cannot be used until While visiting Israel in February, Susan Timna presented Liron Ackerstain, it is fixed. We are each Educational Coordinator at the Atlit Ma’apalim Detention Camp historical site, descendants from one with a check for an Overseas Investment Grant from the Savannah Jewish Federation. of those 600,000 Jews Tens of thousands of Jewish immigrants were interred at Atlit trying to immigrate to RDS student Caroline Garfunkel baking hamenstaschen who left Egypt. Every with Bertha Freedman the British-occupied Palestine after WWII. The site now is a museum. Savannah Page 20 | April 2015 jewish news www.savj.org
On Passover, kids rarely stick to asking just the four questions. This year we’re asking an extra question, too. Will you help us make a difference in the lives of Jewish children, here at home and around the world? By giving to Federation you feed hungry children. You connect children to Judaism — through Jewish education, BBYO, summer camp and Birthright. You provide counseling to troubled teens. You help children with special needs. And more. So this Passover, our fifth question is, “Will you help make a difference in the lives of Jewish children?” Please answer “yes” and give as generously as you can. Visit www.savj.org and donate today.
The Strength of a People The Power of Community