September 1998 The Shofar 1

A PUBLICATION OF THE JEWISH COMMUNITY FEDERATION OF GREATER CHATTANOOGA Tfcu? SHOFAR Comia*^

VOLUME 12 NUMBER 1 SEPTEMBER 1998 Federation Announces Cohn to Head BJE •HK ing Tziporah's maternity leave Staff Changes from October 1997 to February by B. Rachel Schulson 1998. "Amy's past experience as The Federation has announced the Interim Director, her love of Juda­ hiring of four new staff members this ism and obvious rapport with chil­ summer. Michael Dzik is the new dren of all ages made her the clear Program Director, Darrin Bronfman choice for Director," said Karen has taken over Social Services, Stone, BJE President. Carole McNabb has been hired as Ad­ Amy was born in Chattanooga ministrative Assistant, and Sam Bur­ and attended school here until her gess now drives the van. senior year in high school when "In the past, the Federation has had Amy Cohn she studied in Israel. She then at­ several part-time positions filled by tended the University of Michigan members of the community that you by B. Rachel Schulson in Ann Arbor, where she received have come to know and appreciate. I Amy Cohn became the Direc­ her BA in Political Science. After it hope to build on their work with an tor of Chattanooga's Bureau of graduation, Amy returned to the Michael Dak, Program Director office that consists of primarily full- Jewish Education (BJE) on July 1. southeast to attend the University time staffers," said Deborah Levine, She replaces Tziporah Altman- of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Executive Director. " I hope you will Shafer, who moved this summer for postgraduate work. She earned welcome Michael, Darrin, Carole and to Phoenix, Arizona. Amy was the her MS in Health Policy and Ad- Sam to the Federation family." Interim Director of the BJE dur­ See BJE, page 22 A profile of the new employees fol­ lows. Please see Sam's entry on page 18. Darrin Bronfman Carole McNabb Darrin Bronfman gave up a Carole McNabb joins the Federa­ Michael Dzik month of boating, tennis and camp- tion as Administrative Assistant. Michael Dzik is the new full-time fires to begin his job as Federation Carole has a Certified Professional Program Director for the Jewish Fed­ Social Services Director in early Secretary rating and for the past four­ Darrin Bronfman, Social Services eration. Michael is a Chattanooga August. For the fourth consecutive teen years has been the Administra­ native who has been actively involved summer, Darrin was a counselor at tive Assistant to the Vice President, with the Jewish community all his Camp Barney Medintz, a camp in General Manager of Five Star Food life. He started his schooling at the Cleveland, Georgia which is affili­ Service, Chattanooga Division. The Jewish Day School and this year will ated with the Atlanta JCC. During See CAROLE, page 6 receive a B.S. in Secondary Social each of those summers, Darrin V Sciences with a concentration in His­ worked with special needs children. tory from UTC. Among his campers were children Save the Date! Growing up, Michael was a mem­ with Down Syndrome and Autism. Orli Shaham, Israeli pianist ber of the local AZA chapter, the boys This year, he spent only part of the will perform with the Chatta­ division of B'nai Brith Youth Orga­ summer at Camp Barney Medintz. nooga Symphony October 22 nization (BBYO). Since 1995, he has The rest was spent apartment hunt­ and 23. Also on the program Carole McNabb been the advisor for the local BBYO ing, packing and settling into Chat- is: Fanfare to Israel, composed Administrative Assistant See MICHAEL, page 20 See DARRIN, page 18 by Israeli Paul Ben-Haim. IN THIS ISSUE Facility Update Federation News Pages 2-9 by Stuart Bush, Facilities Committee Chair Census Results Page 2 Fed. Community Relations Comm... Page 10 The Facilities Committee recently He felt that we should see what they Jewish News Page 10-11 met and would like to report our have done well and learn what they Rabbinic Thoughts... Pages 12-13 progress to the community. wish they had done differently. Barry Candlelighting Times Page 12 This summer, the Committee met was extremely helpful and is eager Missions to Israel Page 15 with consultant Barry Swartz with to continue in the process with us as Community Voices Page 16 CJF in Atlanta. He stressed that the we move down the road toward the ShalomY'All Page 17 facility should be multi-functional to ultimate move into a new facility. Senior Programs Pages 18-19 maximize the use of space. He sug­ The process that the Committee Singling and Mingling Page 20 gested, and the Committee strongly has decided on includes the organiz­ Mazel Tovs and Condolences Page 20 agreed, that we visit other communi­ ing of focus groups composed of Bureau of Jewish Education Pages 22-23 ties who have already gone through people representing different inter- Hadassah News Page 25 the process and ask them to share Congregation News Pages 26-30 their experiences, both good and bad. See FACILITIES, page 2 Calendar of Events Page 32 The Shofar September 1998

FEDERATION NEWS

FACILITIES, from page 1 ests of groups within our community, the process of voicing our opinions Census Results specifically seniors, teens and par­ as possible. ents of children of various ages. Each The process will cluminate in a These results are from census data submitted to the Federation. focus group will have the opportunity Focus Week during the last week of Information will be used to design programs and in the planning to outline the needs they see being October when you are encouraged to served by a new facility. attend and express your opinion. Each of a new facility. In addition to seniros and parents focus group will have a scheduled 1544 — Total number of respondents to 1998 and previous census groups, there will be two focus meeting and you are invited to attend 120 —Non Jews groups based on location. Moderators any or all of them and voice your 1424 — Total number of Jews of each group will compile a sum­ views pertaining to the facility. A mary of the information gathered detailed schedule of focus group 272 — Children 18 or under ... - • •• from their focus group. Needs which meetings will appear in the October 1152 —Total number of adults have been identified will then be dis­ Shofar. cussed at a Town Hall meeting. The Facilities Committee is very 42 — Number of families that have 1 non-Jewis h spouse and have Based on this community input, the enthusiastic and is looking forward to children. Out of the 42 families, there are 76 children Facilities Committee will make rec­ the challenge of determining the in­ ommendations pertaining to the size, terests of the community so that we # of children location, layout, and financing of a can match the size of a facility with Non-Jewish men (spouse) w/ children 21 36 new facility. our needs. It has not been, nor will it The success of the Facility Com­ be, an easy process but with diligent Non-Jewish women (spouse) w/ children 21 40 mittee depends on the level of par­ efforts we feel that our ultimate goal ticipation by the community in the will be met and we will have a new process of giving input via focus facility which we can be proud of. Adults Children Total groups. Without the input of the com­ Please note that we would also be Zone 1 (Ooltewah) 51 24 75 munity, the Committee is left to guess interested in hearing about any the needs, the desires, and the wishes exisiting facility you feel would meet Zone 2 (E. Brainerd) 234 64 298 of the community. It is imperative our community's needs. Please con­ that as many of us participate in tact the Federation with any leads. Zone 3 (Brainerd, E.R.) 268 ^1^^^ 86 ? S^^«H Zone 4 (Missionary Ridge) 51 9 60 Facilities Focus Week is the Zone 5 (Cleveland) 23 3 26 last week of October. Check

Zone 6 (North GA-no Dalton) 43 12 55 The Shofar in October for

Zone 7 (Hixson) 77 28 105 exact dates and times. Plan to attend and be heard! Zone 8 (Hwy 58, Harrison) 38 16 54

Zone 9 (Red Bank, Soddy) 177 20 197 Geographic Focus Group #1 = Census Zones 1-6

Zone 10 (Signal Mtn.) 103 61 164 Geographic Focus Group #2 = Census Zones 7-13 Zone 11 (Other TN) 27 6 33 Interest Group #1 = Seniors Zone 12 (Downtown) 47 6 53

Zone 13 (Lookout TN & GA) 13_ _5_ 18 Interest Group #2 = Parents Totals: 1152 272 1424

Children bv ages (Birthdate) Approx. # of children School Year Campaign Calendar November 1, 1993 - October 31, 1998 40 below kindergarten September 10 Campaign Cabinet Workers Briefing 7:00pm at Jerry Bogo Co. November 1, 1987 - October 31,1993 94 elementary school October 16 & 17 Federation Shabbat Friday evening-Mizpah November 1, 1984 - October 31,1987 61 middle school Saturday morning- B'nai Zion Havdalah- Beth Shalom November 1, 1980 - October 31, 1984 77 high school November 9 Major Gifts Reception 7:30pm Renaissance Commons Total: 272 Speaker: Sharon Faulkner-Photography of Soviet Jewry November 10 Chai Steppers, Noon Speaker: Sharon Faulkner November 10 Young Leadership, 6:00pm The census data for congregational affiliation was not sent to us and Speaker: Sharon Faulkner, at Trent Center's home therefore is incomplete. November 10 Community, 8:00pm Results have approximately a 5% margin of error. - Jerusalem Trio, UTC Fine Arts Center November 18 Men's/Women's Telethon September 1998 The Shofar 3 FEDERATION NEWS

Message Message From from the the Executive President Director • by Claire Binder by Deborah Levine

It seems as though I just wished this summer making plans for excit­ Rosh HaShanah is upon us. The Dead Sea Scrolls project. I wish I everyone a pleasant summer, and now ing programs for the community. We Days of Awe shape our conscious­ knew, then what I know today about summer is almost over, school is back are delighted to have him on board. ness with the celebration of life and the intense politics surrounding that in session, and we are busy making Carole McNabb, our Administrative the acknowledgement of life's fra­ project. I was a sophomore, the only plans for fall programs, campaign and Assistant has replaced Tammy gility with Yom Kippur. Having sur­ Jewish undergraduate in my classes the High Holidays. I hope everyone Carlisle Patterson who is leaving to vived another year, we are reminded and I was in way over my head. Yet, had an enjoyable summer, was able to start her family. of the beauty and responsibility of time is a wonderful thing and twenty- stay cool and took some time, either The tree program has been re­ living in covenant with G-d. At this five years later I published an article at home or on vacation, to "stop and ceived with unqualified success, both joyous and solemn time, we are in the Harvard Divinity School Bul­ smell the flowers." I hope you feel re­ thanks to the hard work of Dr. Bill asked as individuals and as a com­ letin. In the interim, I haven't always freshed in mind and body and are Cordell and his committee. munity to renew this covenant. been in Jewish work but I mulled over looking forward to the upcoming sea­ Coolidge Park is well underway, and For those who choose to make what I had seen and experienced. In son with renewed vigor. we look forward to the dedication service to the Jewish community our the end, all roads seemed to lead back Fortunately the work of Federation within the next several months. profession, this time has special to the Jewish community. never takes a vacation. There are al­ We welcomed the Israeli Consul meaning. We live and breath Jew­ My Jewish travels include work­ ways needs to be met, whether locally, for the Southeast, Arye Mekel and ish communal work, wake up in the ing in the Reform movement as reli­ /*** nationally or around the world. In Is­ his wife, Ruth, to Chattanooga in middle of the night thinking about it gious school teacher (1st grade), rael, with the help of the UJA/Federa­ July. Arye addressed the Downtown and see life through the filter of Jew­ teaching Israeli dance, being a reli­ tion Campaign, immigrants are be­ Kiwanis Club over lunch and met ish issues, past, present, and future. gious school secretary, augmenting coming absorbed into the mainstream, with members of the Federation At Rosh Hashana I give thanks for my MA in Urban Planning with a MA through Ulpan classes, being taught Board for dinner. Both groups were being part of the "Jewish Civil Ser­ in Jewish Studies at Spertus Institute job skills, and are being educated given an update on the latest events vice" where I am privileged to see a (Conservative movement), being staff about life in Israel. The Joint Distri­ in Israel. Ruth Mekel, the Cultural panoramic view of the Jewish com­ of the American Jewish Committee/ bution Committee continues its criti­ Attache, had the opportunity to meet munity. Midwest office, establishing my own cal services of life-giving medical care with several art gallery representa­ I feel fortunate that I have had the interfaith organization, serving as and food packages to those in the tives concerning future exhibits of chance to see so many different as­ consultant on the liturgy project of the Former Soviet Union. While here in work by Israeli artists. pects of Judaism. Growing up in Central Conference of American Chattanooga, our social services pro­ Barry Swartz, Regional Direc­ Bermuda there was no synagogue or Rabbis (CCAR, the Reform rabbin­ gram continues to reach out to mem­ tor, UJA/CJF for the Southeast met center and my family were among ate), and once overseeing the mikvah bers of the community. Our new So­ with the Executive Committee and the few Jews on the island. We fre­ at a Chabad House. cial Services Director, Darrin the Facilities Committee. quently hosted Jews passing through I have had the privilege of seeing Bronfman, has been busy getting ac­ Rosalee Bogo and Michael whether they were refugees from many different expressions of Juda­ quainted with the community. I hope Lebovitz have been working over the Europe, military personnel stationed ism and have enjoyed the unique everyone will take the opportunity to summer on plans for the 1999 cam­ on the newly built American bases beauty of them all. Quite naturally, make him feel welcome. paign. They have formed a hard or just tourists. Our childhood train­ my travels led me to work for the The Israel at 50 programs have con­ working committee and have some ing included the assumption that we Federation family where we work on tinued over the summer with Ballet exciting programs planned. would represent the Jewish commu­ behalf of all the Jews in the commu­ Tennessee's tribute to Israel. A mov­ We look forward to the holiday nity in Bermuda because there was nity. I am dedicated to the concept ing performance of an original ballet, season, when it is customary to take no one else to do so and because it of the Federation being a place where "Gahelet" ("Embers") played to a full stock of what we have accomplished, mattered that we existed. One of the all Jews can come together for the house. The Association for Visual Art­ and what else needs to be accom­ reasons that my mother became a common good of the entire Jewish ists Center Gallery presented "For plished, where we have made mis­ religious school principal, my father community both local and oversees. God's Eyes: Plates and Vases," a ce­ takes, and how we can improve not became chief financial officer of The Federations are an amazing ex­ ramic exhibit, and "An Israeli Per­ only our lives, but the lives of oth­ Hebrew Union College and I have periment; a Jewish United Nations. become a Federation director was spective," a collection of photos by Irv ers. As we join family and friends I welcome all of our new staff to the ingrained attitude, "If not us, than Ginsburg. The gallery was filled to in the synagogues, and around the their role in this great adventure and whom?" capacity when Irv gave a talk about dinner table, let us resolve to prac­ hope that the entire community will the photos. tice and expand the tenants of At college, I considered jettison­ participate in the endeavor in the We have welcomed Michael Dzik "TikkumOlam." ing Jewish activities for the allure of coming year. Each of you has some­ as Program Director. Michael needs Sam joins me in the wish that you the secular culture. But somehow I thing to add to the common good and no introduction, as he is a "hometown may be inscribed in the "Book Of ended up studying Ancient Near something to receive from it. L'Shana boy." Michael and members of the Life," for a happy, healthy and peace­ Eastern Folklore and Mythology and Tova to all of you and I look forward Program Committee have been busy ful year. taking part of my undergraduate to meeting you if I have not done so studies at Harvard Divinity School. already and sharing in this great ad­ I studied under Dr. Frank Cross who venture. UShana Tova was one of the major players in the The Shofar September 1998 FEDERATION NEWS

Each summer, grants from the Federation help fund both summer camp and visits to Israel for young people in our community. If you are interested in participating next summer, please call the Federation. The following articles were written by those who took advantage of this opportunity this summer. Alexandra Rose Mychal Bowling I just got home from my month at Camp Coleman. This was my first time My name is Mychal Bowling. I am 11 years old and I am going into the away from home and it was a great experience. It was probably a great expe­ 6* grade. This was my first time to go to camp. I spent four weeks at Camp rience for my friends too. I would love to go back next year to see all my Coleman in Cleveland, Georgia. counselors and have a blast with all the new friends I made, especially with The best part of camp was meeting so many Jewish kids that really don't my Chattanooga buddies. live all that far away from Chattanooga. We also had counselors from all Let me tell you what we did! Each day we all participated in Etgar, which over the world. are personal challenge electives, and Tarbut classes, which were cultural arts There was always something going on like swimming in the lake, swim­ electives. I loved kickboxing because of the wonderful things we learned ming in the pool, arts and crafts, kick boxing, all kinds of sports, and horse­ about defending ourselves. Our teacher, Lauren Edelstein, was also my bunk back riding. The food wasn't bad either. Shabbat services were great be­ counselor, and she was really neat. Our nature instructor, Noam, who lives in cause we all met outside and everyone dressed in white. Israel, taught us all about outside nature tips. Our arts and crafts leader, Grace, I can't wait for next year! was a lovely, creative and really nice person. We made a jewelry case, a hemp A necklace, hand-dipped candles, and a picture frame. I really got into the har­ liilliiiilil.\.; < monica lessons with Sarah. I am really good at "Taps" and "The Dreidel Song!" It was really great driving there and seeing a building named after me! The "Eleshieva," which is my name in Hebrew, was the first building we saw as we drove past the dining hall. I guess they knew I was coming! Another big I .' building with a basketball court was called "the Brody." That's where we played games, had evening programs, and where they hung our "MAC" Art War Posters. And you know what? My counselor, Lauren, who had been go­ ing to Camp Coleman for nine years, showed us all of the posters she had helped make. The food was good, but not as good as home! And the salad bar was horrible! I really liked having Jewish Services after each meal. But, I also missed home at night. After a while, I got ovel my homesickness and really got into it. You wouldn't believe the "Blob!" It was so much fun. One person jumps ifeHA off the platform onto the Blob and crawls to the end to sit and WAIT! When they put their hands up in the air to say that they are ready, the next person 1 mm jumps on the Blob and the first person flies into the air and into the lake! ill I HI It wouldn't have been the same if I hadn't had my friends, Mychal Bowl­ ing, Jessica Stone, and Rachel Waxier. We had great camp talks and cabin secrets. But the best part was that we were there together. I recommend Camp Coleman to everyone! If there was a scale of 1-10, £ Camp Coleman would definitely rate a BIG 10. I love being Jewish! Alex Rose, Mychal Bowling, Jessica Stone and Rachel Waxier

Traci Young not believe that I was touching the would definitely do it again and look ming pool) and very poor ones (with I was asked to write an essay about same wall that my ancestors had once forward to sending my kids through one room, communal bathrooms, my trip to Israel over the summer. The touched. That was an unbelievable Hadassah and Young Judea on the and no air-conditioning). We got to only problem is, I have no idea where experience for me. same trip. see life not just from the tourist point to begin since there were so many un­ Also, there was Masada, which we The Federation encourages travel of view, but from the view of the believable happenings. hiked at 3:30 in the morning so we to Israel and was pleased to help people that lived there every day. We I remember my first day, I was so could watch the sun rise. That was fund Traci's travels. got to talk to a variety of people, in­ unhappy and did not want to go at all. amazing and I can not even begin to cluding the Druze. (The Druze are Then I met some nice people who I explain how that made me feel. An­ people who believe in a secret reli­ grew very close to over the summer. other amazing, yet sad, experience gion that they cannot share with out­ We were kept incredibly busy from was "Yad Vashem", the Holocaust Laura Szapiro siders.) day one. How could we not stay busy Memorial. That was very emotional Israel is a land of contrasts. The The first day in Israel was a busy when there were so many wonderful for me to see, especially the children's contrasts range from war and religion one. Soon after we arrived at the air­ and historical sites to see? memorial. I had never really under­ to the Dead Sea and the Sea of Gali­ port, we loaded a bus and took a sce­ What I liked most about the tours stood what destruction was actually lee. (Whose opposites show the con­ nic tour of Jerusalem. I was fasci­ were the hands on activities. This trip done by the Holocaust until I saw the trast between tears and sadness with nated by the fact that Jerusalem was was everything but boring. We got to memorial. That is something that I rejoice and sweetness.) But unlike such a holy city (represented by the actually hike to our own destinations will remember for the rest Of my life. most, I did not see Israel for the con­ white buildings (as required by law)) rather than stay on the bus and listen What can I say about this trip other trasts. I saw Israel for the beautiful, yet people where just walking to boring lectures for hours. One ex­ than it was amazing? This trip taught fun, and safe country that it is. (Safe around on the streets, living their ample and perhaps my favorite, was me so much about Judaism and how because it is very cautious and pro­ lives as any other would anywhere the Kotel. Everybody knows at least Judaism takes place in my life, per­ tective of threats and bombs.) else in the world. After our tour, we something about the Wailing Wall. sonally. The sites were unbelievable, Throughout the trip, we stayed in went to the Western Wall. And al­ But when I was before it praying and it definitely made me feel like I was a variety of kibbutzim. We stayed at though many were crying and touching it, I felt something that I had in my homeland. The friendships I very rich ones (with multiple bed­ grieved, I felt rejoice as I walked to never felt before. I felt so incredibly made will last a lifetime as well as rooms, a living room, a private bath­ close to God and my ancestors. I could the memories that were made. I room, air-conditioning, and a swim­ See SZAPIRO, next page September 1998 The Shofar 5 FEDERATION NEWS

SZAPIRO, from previous page

the wall, prayed, and left my mes­ grass. It was worth the work because hiking, camping, and to the Dead Sea. them off was that they believe that sage. it felt good to help beautify Israel. Our hikes ranged anywhere from two education begins at age forty with the A couple of days later (the 14th to After planting, we went to Israel's hours to eight hours. Also, we went idea of numerology. be exact), we went on an archaeologi­ Holocaust museum. The museum to a Reform community that was simi­ The last couple of days we stayed cal dig. It was very interesting be­ was different than the one in Wash­ lar to a kibbutz, but it did not have in Kibbutz Gezer (which means Kib­ cause we had to hike down into an ington because the Israelis felt the the "communist" idea that most kib­ butz Carrot.) There, we did manual ancient tomb to do the dig. And al­ need to portray only the heroic part butzim have. In the Reform commu­ labor. We made and outdoor syna­ though no one found any bones, I of the tragedy instead of the whole nity, the Jews all lived together, and gogue, a big well, and cement ani­ m laged to find fragments of two story. (They felt this need because the children all played and went to mals. It was hard work, but fun at the plrtes, a wine cup, and a pitcher. they did not want to feel as though school together, but people worked for same time. This Kibbutz was the The next day we woke up before the Jews just gave in without a fight.) their own money. Instead of the tra­ poorest Kibbutz we stayed at; in fact sunrise (at about five o'clock) so we Not one person left the museum with ditional kibbutz idea that all the they couldn't even afford air-condi­ could help plant trees for the Jewish a dry eye. money a person earns goes to the kib­ tioning. National Fund. We all thought that it The next day was my birthday! butz, in the Reform community, all of I would like to thank the Federa­ was going to be easy work compared And as a special treat, I got to wake the money a person earned goes back tion for giving me the scholarship to to the day before, but little did we up at four o'clock to hike up Masada to that person. have the opportunity to go to Israel, know. When we arrived, four people and see the sunrise. The sun peeking On the 21st, we went to Zfat (the make new friends, and come home in their early twenties greeted us and over the Dead Sea was the most beau­ fourth holy city in Israel). In Zfat, the with memories that will last a life­ they said that we were going to have tiful sight of the whole trip. After Jews are considered "different" be­ time. to make two trails and a clearing so Masada, we went on a 3- hour desert cause they had different rules than the that all of us could plant our trees. hike to find an oasis. It was amazing Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox Everyone's mouths dropped when we to see green and yellow plants in the Jews. The men had very long were told that we were going to hoe middle of the desert. unbrushed hair, and they wore old, down bushes, weeds, and tall, prickly For the next few days, we went ratted clothes. But what really set

• - * ? '< aiat

^•ISM :i»iii^^^^B Laura Szapiro at the Western Wall Laura and friend, after completing work on the mosaics for"Miriam's Well."

the faces began to have names, and grams about the real Exodus voyage, Temple of Jerusalem. We were shop­ Rebecca Levine we started our new friendships eas­ and members of the original Exodus ping and eating falafel on Ben Yehuda My name is Rebecca Levine. I am ily. We landed in Greece, and 300 of crew talked to us about their experi­ Street in the new city one day, and sixteen years old and going into my us disembarked. Instead of flying di­ ence. Our arrival in Haifa was a joy­ weeping on the stones of the Wail­ junior year of high school. This sum­ rectly into the Tel Aviv airport, the ous one. We were greeted by Israeli ing Wall the next. From Jerusalem, mer I had the unique opportunity to group was going to recreate the Exo­ soldiers that gave each of us a rose — we went to float in the Dead Sea, and spend five and a half weeks in the dus voyage of 1947, and take a ship a warm welcome to our homeland. climb Mt. Masada at 5:00 in the Jewish homeland of Israel. It was a from Athens, Greece to the Haifa port My group headed off to the Negev. morning to watch the most breath­ trip that no words could possibly ex­ in Eretz Yisrael. We stepped into the We spent one night in the beautiful taking sunrise ever. The next weeks press, but maybe reading this will Grecian sunlight and loaded busses Nof Arad hotel to recover from the were filled with a whirlwind of tour­ give a glimpse of the unbelievable that took us to the Acropolis, ship, and then it was off to a 3-day ing and shopping and experiencing. journey I embarked upon. I went to Parthenon, and the villages of Greece camping experience in the desert. We We visited the Dead Sea scrolls and Israel on a NFTY (National Federa­ before taking us to our ship. We were climbed the same mountains climbed countless old synagogues. We went tion of Temple Youth) affiliated pro­ split into groups of 40 at this point, by our forefathers, reaching peaks that to the square where Yitzak Rabin was gram. NFTY sent approximately 500 and my eighteen friends and I were looked over Israel, the Red Sea, Jor­ murdered. We went to the Diaspora North American teens to Israel this put with 22 kids that would become dan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia all in Museum which contains thousands summer. Eighteen of my closest more special to us then any of us one. We rode camels supplied by of years of Jewish history. We went friends and I were lucky enough to would have imagined. Bedouins, Israeli nomads that wander to shooks, open markets where many be part of this group. I have gone to Athens was beautiful, but it was the desert. There were both educa­ Israelis buy their fresh foods rather camp with these eighteen people soon time to load our ship, the MIR. tional talks and physical exertions then going to a grocery store. We since I was six years old; we are fam- The voyage was a 3-day simulation. while we camped out under the stars. went to an Arab city in Israel where ily. With the sparkling blue waters of the This was a bonding experience, and a we were taken on a tour by an Ara­ We stood hand-in-hand at JFK Mediterranean Sea as our backdrop, motivating way to start our journey. bic teen. We shopped in Tel Aviv, Airport, viewing hundreds of new we pretended we were Jewish Euro­ After the Negev, we were off to the most modern of the Israeli cities. faces, and we felt frightened and pean refugees trying to make it to our Jerusalem. We observed our firstSab ­ We saw Independence Hall and the alone. However, after an eight-hour homeland without being caught or. bath there. I went to the most beauti­ plane ride with 500 15-18 year olds, killed by the British. We had pro­ ful orthodox synagogue, the Great see ISRAEL, page 17 The, Shofar September 1998 FEDERATION NEWS

CAROLE, from page 1 company was formerly Classic Food ago, raised their son Wade in South was on the board of Executive walking and reading. & Vending, Food Division of Chat­ Pittsburg and she lives there still. Women International, a professional Carole is the first person you see tanooga Coca-Cola. Her son and daughter-in-law, Dara organization. She is also active in the when you visit the Federation so you Carole was born in Chattanooga now live in Charlotte, North Carolina Staggerwing Museum Foundation. will have the opportunity to welcome and moved to South Pittsburg when along with Carole's seven-month-old The Staggerwing is a World War II her personally. She may even be per­ she was six months old. She and her grandson, Ethan Michael. aircraft and was one of her husband's suaded to show you a picture of her husband, Glen, who died six years Carole is a charter member and passions. Carole's hobbies include new grandson!

Farewell from Gayle Shavin Johnson The time has come when a decision had to be made: do I work part-time Outgoing Staff and be a mom or do I accept the job with Federation full-time? I must admit it was a truly tough decision. I love being a part of the Jewish com­ Susan DiStefano munity in which I was raised. Since I started at the Federation as Interim Program Director two and a half years ago, I have put my heart and soul It is always difficult to say goodbye; I do so with a mixture of sadness and into making sure everything I did was done to the best of my ability. But, I sense of accomplishment. Five years ago, then Federation director, Lou have made the decision to move on and find another part-time job in order Solomon hired me to start a Jewish Social Service program in Chattanooga. to have mom time for the kids. This was an exciting prospect for me since I had previously worked for reli­ So, thank you to every person who participated in any program or vol­ gious organizations that were not of my faith. When we started, we knew unteered whenever called upon. It has truly been a pleasure to work with there were needs. What we didn't know was how great the need was for a each and every one of you. It is now time for the Chattanooga Federation to Jewish Social Service Program. restructure and have a new full-time crew. Good luck to all of the new In five years we have grown from zero to sixty-five active cases. We have employees. Sadly, I will say goodbye but I will still be a part of the Jewish served well over 200 individuals. The workload has become more than one community in Chattanooga part-time person can handle. As a result, the Federation has hired a full-time social worker. I consider this a huge compliment to the work my predeces­ Tammy Carlisle Patterson sor, Amy and I have done over the past five years. Unfortunately, due to I started out at the Federation as a temporary employee and now I've been Jfamily obligations (three children keep you busy), I am unable to accept a here for almost two and a half years. I have gained a lot of good experience. full-time position. The good news is Darrin Bronfman has been hired full- I have enjoyed meeting all the different people, especially the Golden Agers time to meet the needs and concerns of the Jewish community. I know you and Chai Steppers. I'm now leaving my position at the Federation to a very all will join me in welcoming him. Please feel free to call him at the Federa­ capable arid wonderful person, Carole McNabb, so I can stay home with my tion office. He is looking forward to hearing from you. As for me, I am sure new baby boy when he arrives. Thank you to everyone who has made my job I will see you at future Federation events. more enjoyable. |"| J 50th ANNIVERSARY OF ISRAEL

Tree Drive Meets Goal Thanks to the generosity and support of the Jewish community of greater Chattanooga, 50 trees will be planted at Coolidge Park in recognition of Israel's Israel's 50th Anniversary 50* birthday. Calendar of Events At the July 15 meeting, Dr. Billy Cordell, Chairman of the Trees for Israel project reported to the Federation's Israel at 50 Committee that the goal of October 22 The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera Association raising $10,000 had been met. and 23 presents "Israel Turns 50!" The park, now under construction, will be completed in June 1999. Lo­ with pianist Orli Shaham. cated on the north shore of the Tennessee River, between the Walnut Street Robert Bernhardt will conduct. and Market Street bridges, Coolidge Park will feature a carousel, pavilion, river walk and beautiful gardens. A walkway running the length of the park November 10 Jerusalem Trio will be lined on both sides by the 50 trees donated by the Jewish community. Roland Hayes Concert Hall, The city of Chattanooga will erect a plaque at the entrance to the park recog­ Fine Arts Center, UTC nizing that the trees were donated by our community in honor of Israel's 50th birthday. The Israel at 50 Committee wishes to thank all those who donated to this project.

This photo appeared in the Chattanooga Free Press after the Jewish Community donated $10,00 for trees for Coolidge Park. From left are Jim Boweden of RiverValley Partners, City Councilwoman Mai Bell Hurley, Federation President Claire Binder, Mayor Jon Kinsey, Hamilton County Executive Claude Ramsey, Dr. Billy Cordell who led the drive to raise money for the trees, Israel at 50 Committee co-chair Barbara Prigohzy, former Program Director Gayle Shavin Johnson and Federation Executive Director Deborah Levine (photo by Bob Nichols) September 1998 The Shofar 7

Internet Politics

by Irven M. Resnick, Ph.D. Professor and Chair of Excellence in Judaic Studies, UTC

A report from The Jerusalem Post tion also repudiates all "UN projects, notes that the Internet website of Pal­ accords and resolutions ...which Dr. Oded Eran will be lecturing at UTC on September 16, 2:00pm estinian Authority Chairman Yasser undermine the Palestinian people's (Raccoon Mountain Room in the University Center). Dr. Eran is the Arafat's Fatah movement has re­ right in their homeland." (Chapter 1, Visiting Professor at the Harriman Institute and the School of Interna­ leased a constitution that calls for article 6)k %c% v*'v:-V tional and Public Affairs at Columbia Uhiversityl iBfeiihTsrael, Dr. Israel's destruction. The website, The constitution does not mention Eran received BA and MA degrees at Hebrew University and a PhD |n www.fateh.org, calls the Zionist the Oslo Accords, supported by Political Science from Indiana University. In addition to acajiemic po­ 1 movement "racial, colonial and ag­ Fatah, but says it Opposes any "po­ sitions here and in Israel, Dr. Eran has held diplomatic posts as well— gressive in ideology, goals, organiza­ litical solution offered as an alterna­ most recently as Israeli Consul (New York; 1992-93) and Minister Coun­ tion and method." The site continues tive to demolishing the Zionist occu­ selor at Israel's embassy in Washington, D.C. (1993-97): "His public by labeling Israel as "a Zionist inva­ pation in Palestine." lecture on September 16th will examine Jewish Emigration from the sion with a colonial expansive base," •A further examination of the Former Soviet Union. and "a natural ally to colonialism and website turns up fascinating secrets, international imperialism." (Chapter including a reference to the "Zion­ 1, articles 7-8) ist-fabricated sex scandals" plaguing Chapter 1, article 12 calls for a Bill Clinton (and thereby weakening "complete liberation of Palestine and his role in the peace process), while It is the policy of The Shofar to encourage letters to the editor. For a eradication of Zionist economic, po­ Martin Indyk and Dennis Ross are letter to be published, it must be signed; the writer's name will be printed. litical, military and cultural exist­ both identified as State Department Letters may be edited for length and are selected for publication at the ence," and the document also asserts Zionists. discretion of the editor and the Communications Committee. that "armed public revolution is the Surfing this website is likely to inevitable method for liberating Pal­ cause indigestion. estine." Conveniently, the constitu­ Approved by the Communications Committee March 5,1998

Conference on Deaf People in Hitler's Europe

by Sylvia Saloshin speaker, an interpreter and simultaneous captioning! This monumental achievement was mind-boggling. In 1991 at the dedication of the Holocaust Memorial for Deaf Jews at the Though space is limited, I must introduce to you some of these eminent Helen Keller Center in Tel Aviv, Chaim Herzog wrote of the importance of conference participants. honoring the memory of the six thousand deaf Jews who perished in the PETER BLACK, senior historian at the United States Holocaust Memo­ Holocaust, "whose noise they did not hear, but whose blood streamed in the rial Museum, was special investigator in our country's Department of Jus­ river of blood in their communities." tice, charged with bringing into litigation alleged Nazis at large in the United In June I attended an International Conference on Deaf People in Hitler's States. Europe. It was held at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C, the only HENRY FRIEDLANDER, the keynote speaker, survivor of several camps, liberal arts university in the world for the deaf. The Conference was co- is Professor of History in the Department of Judaic Studies at Brooklyn ColS- sponsored by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. lege. Friedlander gave vivid accounts of Nazi eugenics and has written sevj- Why did I attend? Some readers of The Shofar may not know that my eral books on the subject. beloved son, Jeff, who died in 1983, was born profoundly deaf and had gradu­ JOCHEN MUHS, Vice President of the Deaf Federation of Berlin, told us ated from Gallaudet in 1979. that deaf people in Europe believed the propaganda about the Jews; they did As a Jew, I have attended two remarkable, world-class conferences on the not "hear" the rumors; Jews "just disappeared"; deaf people were forced to \-r Holocaust at UTC, organized by Dr. Irv Resnick. I had watched Schindler's join the Nazi party and to become storm troopers. List, at times unable to breathe because of its impact on me. In Hungary there were deaf people in Arrow Cross, a right-wing fascist And yet, as a hearing parent of a deaf son, even knowing about the Nazis' group. They did nothing to help save their fellow deaf people. "Safe houses," euthanasia, sterilization programs for the congenitally disabled, the mentally some of which were schools for the deaf, were "safe" only until the inhabitr ill and other groups deemed "useless eaters, life unworthy of life, a drain on ants were sent to the camps. Muhs told of writing his own name in the sand the German economy," it had never occurred to me to imagine deaf people during roll call in the camp so that a fellow prisoner could answer when in this context. It shook me to the core. Muhs' name was called. In 1993, twelve honor students at Gallaudet began studying the Holo­ SIMON CARMEL, born deaf of hearing parents, Professor at the Na* caust and found there was no mention of deaf people in Holocaust literature. tional Technical School for the Deaf in Rochester, New York, is credited with However at this Conference we learned that internationally renowned schol­ encouraging what is believed to be the first public dialogue between deaf ars and historians in the fields of Holocaust history and deaf history and concentration camp survivors at the 1982 National Congress for the Jewish culture had, since the 1960's, been doing research on the special conditions deaf. Deaf survivors were ashamed to tell why they had no children because under which deaf people lived, died or survived Hitler's Europe. The schol­ they had been sterilized. ars were from the United States, England, Germany and Hungary and some HORST BIESOLD, deaf professor and teacher of the deaf in Germany of the authorities were themselves survivors. has written perhaps the first definitive work on the deaf experience in the The scope and logistics of the Conference were, at times, overwhelming. Holocaust in his book, Crying Hands, which will be available in English in Imagine, if you can, simultaneously interpreting: spoken English; American 1999. Biesold borrowed the title from one of the works of DAVID L. BLOCH, Sign Language; spoken German; signed German; spoken Magyar (Hungar­ ian); signed Magyar. There was also a huge screen, which projected the See CONFERENCE, on page 24 :i& 8 The Shofar September 1998

FEDERATION COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE Although the majority of the costs are included in aspects of the train­ Diversity Training ing for the magnet school plan for the coming year (1998-1999) there was by Robert H. Siskin still $29,100 needed to cover stipends, food and study guides. The bulk of During the summer you have been, no doubt, reading about and hearing this funding is being provided by local foundations. Because of our initial about the arguments surrounding the County Council's reluctance to approve interest in the project, the Hamilton County School System asked our Chat­ the budget of the Hamilton County School System unless there were some sub­ tanooga Jewish Federation to allocate $2,500 to take care of meals for the stantial cuts. At times, I read with great interest and at times with despair, as train-the-trainer program and the board approved this. many council members seemed to reflect such short-term thinking. This summer, central office staff members, principals and assistant prin­ One of the bits of good news is that the diversity training currently occurring cipals received one-day diversity training. The ADL cadre trainers went within the Hamilton County School System, and spearheaded by the CRC in through refresher training for three days and the new group of train-the- partnership with the Urban League, is alive and well. Through the first two trainer volunteers went through a comprehensive 5-day program. years, approximately 70 teachers/principals have gone through a weeklong train- During the school year and during in-service training, guidance coun­ the-trainer program and are prepared to train others. As the school system did selors, bus drivers, high, middle and elementary school teachers will have not have the funds to proceed, the ADL cadre (so called because they went one full day of training. There are also plans developing to do peer group through the ADL World of Difference training) volunteered to provide, on a training for students. once-a-month basis, a half-day training for all those interested. The program The topics generally covered are Cultural Sharing, Stereotypes and Isms, was conducted one Saturday a month and had 20-30 participants each time. A Cultural Etiquette, Guidelines for Achieving Communication Free of Ra­ review of the diversity training evaluation reports indicated that the training cial and Ethnic Bias, and Promoting Cultural Understanding. was excellent — even life changing — but a half day is not enough. What is most important about this diversity training is the recognition As the Hamilton County School System voluntarily pursues a re-integration from the school system that ISMS can be prevented (whether it be racism plan through the use of magnet schools, the Southeastern Equity Center — an or anti-Semitism) through understanding and that in our increasingly more agency that works with the federal government on desegregation plans — will culturally diverse society this type of understanding is crucial. And, it's be working with the school system to plan and implement the re-integration. the Jewish community of Chattanooga, working in coalition with the Ur­ They will provide at no cost, diversity training for the schools, primarily through ban League, that gets a lot of credit from the school system and those who in-service training days. have gone through the training for making it happen. SPACE II Consultant's Report do so in a cost-effective manner. The essence of his findings is that we all X by Robert H. Siskin have accomplished a great deal, especially in the area of building Jewish At the June Federation board meeting, consultant, Steve Chervin, charged to community and that the Federation should be encouraged to continue its assist us in evaluating the success of our commitment to education delivered commitment to education through the BJE. Excerpts from his executive his report to the Federation board, invited guests, the board of the BJE and the summary follows this article. executive committees of the three partner congregations. His role was to evalu­ A joint SPACE II/B JE Future Planning committee meeting has reviewed ate to what extent the Federation's goals had been met in the four years since the report and have suggested a review process to evaluate the recommen­ the Federation made the commitment to fund the position of education director dations of the report. There are some recommendations that should be the for the community. In addition, he was to help the SPACE II committee develop responsibility of the BJE and some that the Federation should evaluate. and recommend to the board a proposal for the Federation's future commitment There are several recommendations that both organizations should jointly to the BJE over the next three to five years. consider and for that purpose, the joint SPACE II/BJE Planning commit­ Steve conducted focus group sessions during the Sunday Religious School tee will continue to work together with the goal of having recommenda­ sessions on May 10. Those who were asked to participate did so enthusiasti­ tions for consideration by this fall. cally and were of great help to Steve. In turn, there were many compliments This process of evaluation has been very productive and will help all from the participants as to his thoroughness, effectiveness and professionalism. the partners — the BJE, JCF and the three congregations — plan and bud­ The initial goals of the Federation's commitment to Jewish education were get for a future of continuous improvement of Jewish education for our to significantly improve the quality of Jewish education; to develop a more community. unified Jewish community; to strengthen the individual congregations; and to

Excerpts from report commissioned by the SPACE II Committee SPACE II Goal: To significantly improve the quality of Jewish education for the entire Jewish community. Recommendations: l)The Federation should continue its vital support of the BJE 2)The BJE should develop a comprehensive plan of staff development for its teachers 3)The BJE should establish an educational resource center 4)The community should sponsor a youth group SPACE II Goal: To develop a more unified Jewish community, by creating a collaborative relationship among the Federation, synagogues and temple. The competition between B'nai Zion and Mizpah Congregation leadership has resulted in significant divisiveness at the BJE Board level. There is also ambiguity about the relationship between the BJE and the Federation. Recommendations: l)Schedule a Board orientation/retreat 2)The BJE should establish a Nominating Committee for selecting its congregational members, to replace the system of synagogue presidential appointees. 3)The presidency of the BJE Board should alternate each terjn between B'nai Zion and Mizpah Congregation, with the president-elect serving as vice president for one term. SPACE II Goal: To strengthen the individual congregations Recommendation: The BJE should conduct a survey of attitudes regarding a possible merger of congregational Hebrew Schools. There are strong concerns about loss of congregational identity due to the BJE. SPACE II Goal: To accomplish the above in a cost efficient manner, avoiding duplication of resources. Recommendation: The BJE should explore alternative means of gaining professional bookkeeping services. Additional Recommendations: l)The Federation's SPACE II Committee should initiate a survey to determine why more Chattanooga youths are not attending a Jewish summer camp or visiting Israel. 2) The SPACE II Committee should investigate alternatives to the Sunday Religious School format, drawing on the emerging body of experimental initiatives in congregational education. September 1998 The Shofar 9

SUMMER HAPPENINGS

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REMODELING

Cabinetry * Repairs Custom Cabinets * Kitchens * Baths * Exterior Wood Painting * Electrical * Tile * Basements _ WISHmGmUA^PPYNEWYEAR!_ $30 OFF WITH THIS AD! 10 The Shofar September 1998

JEWISH NEWS

"Opening Hearts, Minds Early endorsements for this historic campaign have been secured from and Doors" 58 national and regional organizations, denominations and ministries. Among those leaders are the National Council of Churches Committee on National Campaign Challenges America's Con- Disabilities; Paralyzed Veterans of America; Board of Church Extension of Disciples of Christ; Health and Welfare Ministries, General Board of gregations to Welcome People with Disabilities Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church; Children's Defense Fund; and Council for Jews with Special Needs Inc. (WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Will 2,000 American religious congregations com­ "Installing ramps, increasing the number of accessible parking spaces, mit to welcoming people with disabilities as full and active participants by the providing sign language interpreters and enlarging print materials are only year 2000? some of the steps congregations can take to widen their hospitality," re­ That's the national goal announced by the National Organization on Dis­ marked Reverend Harold Wilke, Director, The Healing Community. "We ability (NOD) as they launched an unprecedented campaign to enhance greater are encouraging congregations to move toward greater inclusion by in­ religious opportunity for Americans with disabilities. Known as the Acces­ volving people with disabilities in all levels of leadership and service," he sible Congregations Campaign, NOD's Religion and Disability Program seeks added. the commitment of 2,000 congregations of all faiths to welcome people with The campaign is the newest initiative of NOD's Religion and Disabil­ disabilities as full and active participants by the Millennium. ity Program, an interfaith effort since 1989, urging local congregations, Initiative 2000, an Atlanta-based non-profit organization formed to celebrate national denominational groups and seminaries to identify and remove the the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, joined NOD in obstacles to worship that alienate people with disabilities. Tools available launching the campaign. from the program include training conferences and publications such as Ginny Thornburgh, spearheading the campaign, remarked, "This is the only the popular handbook That All May Worship, a step-by-step coaching disability program in the United States addressing interfaith issues. True reli­ manual written to enable congregations to break down existing barriers. gious access is about opening hearts, minds and doors to millions of Ameri­ Ginny Thornburgh, wife of former U.S. Attorney General Dick Thornburgh cans with disabilities who seek a full life of faith." She added, "We are encour­ and co-author of That All MayWorship, has directed the Religion and Dis­ aging commitment, not perfection, from congregations. " Thornburgh serves ability Program at NOD for the past nine years. as the Director of NOD's Religion and Disability Program. The Accessible Congregations Campaign was funded by a $25,000 grant According to a NOD-commissibned Harris survey* in 1994 on the attitudes from theW.K. Kellogg Foundationt)f Battle Creek, Michigan. The W.K. of people with disabilities, seven out of ten consider their religious faith to be Kellogg Foundation was established in 1930 to "help people help them­ "very important." selves through the practical application of knowledge and resources to The goal of the Accessible Congregations Campaign is to increase the level improve their quality of life and that of future generations." Its program­ of religious participation of children and adults with disabilities. To qualify as ming activities center around the common visions of a world in which an Accessible Congregation and to receive a certificate, a house of worship each person has a sense of worth. must commit to the following three principles: The National Organization on Disability promotes the acceptance and • In our congregation, people with disabilities are valued as individuals, having full participation in all aspects of life for America's 54 million men, women been created in the image of God; Our congregation is endeavoring to remove and children with physical, sensory or mental disabilities. Founded in barriers of architecture, communications and attitudes that exclude people with 1982, NOD is the only national disability network organization concerned disabilities from full and active participation; and people, with and without with all disabilities, all age groups and all disability issues. Through its disabilities, are encouraged to practice their faith and use their gifts in worship, network of 4,500 Community Partners in towns, cities and counties na­ service, study and leadership. tionwide, NOD promotes through voluntary action, expanded opportuni­ By joining the campaign, an Accessible Congregation acknowledges that it ties for people with disabilities. has barriers to the full participation of people with disabilities and commits For more information, .please contact NOD at (202) 293-5960, TDD itself to begin the process of removing them. (202) 293-5968 or e-mail [email protected].

Several types of chuppot were year. The Museum of Jewish Heri­ Historic Chuppah produced for JDC between the end tage in Manhattan also has a copy. of the war and 1949, when the DP The chuppah is blue and white Discovered at camps began closing as a result of with gold fringe, and features a mass emigration. One example was large Star of David with the Hebrew New York Auction recently discovered in an antique word "Zion" at its center. An ex­ by Merri Ukraincik, of The American Joint Distribution Committee publication by JDC Board member cerpt from the wedding blessings Jane Weitzman of Greenwich, Con­ are also embroidered in Hebrew In the painful years immediately In fact, weddings became such an necticut. She read about the chuppah around the border. Identifying it as following World War II, field staff of essential part of life in the DP camps in the magazine by chance, and the JDC chuppah are the words the American Jewish Joint Distribution in 1945 through 1949 that JDC had its promptly purchased it sight-unseen "Joint -Product of the Land of Is­ Committee (JDC) worked tirelessly in own chuppah, or wedding canopy, by telephone from a New Year's Day rael" in Hebrew and "AJJDC" in Europe's DP camps to help clothe, feed manufactured in what was then Pales­ auction in Duchess County, New English. A faint wine stain is a tes­ and care for thousands of survivors of tine to help those brides and grooms York. "I immediately knew it had an tament to its use. the Holocaust. But their life-saving who wanted a traditional Jewish cer­ incredible history and wanted it back Providing the basic necessities efforts didn't stop with material assis­ emony. Given JDC's goal of revitaliz­ for JDC," Weitzman explains. to sustain life was JDC's obvious tance —they also made weddings, thus ing Jewish life after the devastation of Although the chuppah is already priority in Europe after the war. But pairing physical assistance with life- the Holocaust, the chuppah, symbolic prominently displayed in the JDC JDC quickly learned that it had to affirming spiritual initiatives in a rush of the new Jewish home being created offices, Jane and Stuart Weitzman address all the needs of survivors to rebuild the soul of the Jewish com­ through the marriage ceremony, be­ will formally present their gift to munity. came a fitting symbol. JDC at a special ceremony later this see CHUPPAH, next page September 1998 The Shofar 11

JEWISH NEWS

National Jewish Outreach literacy in North America, experts agree that, at an absolute minimum, 80% of all North American Jews do not know how to read Hebrew. The basis for Program Aims to teach this statistic is derived from a report documenting the growing rate of Jewish assimilation in North America. Of the 5.6 million North American Jews, two 35,000 to Read Hebrew million no longer identify themselves as Jews, two million are unaffiliated with any Jewish organization, and 1.2 million are marginally affiliated, meaning The National Jewish Outreach Program (NJOP) has announced plans to they rarely attend synagogue and have little to do with any aspect of Jewish sponsor the first ever continent-wide program aimed at teaching North Ameri­ life. (1990 National Jewish Population Survey, Council of Jewish Federa­ can Jews to read the Hebrew language. In a step towards its goal of reaching tions) 500,000 unaffiliated Jews by the year 2000, NJOP will launch a nationwide The READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA program READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA campaign. follows a successful one-night NJOP-sponsored program, Shabbat Across Scheduled for the entire month of November 1998, NJOP estimates that the America which took place last spring. On that night, 60,000 Jews who READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA campaign will normally do hot celebrate Shabbat, gathered at 600 synagogues across North attract 35,000 Jews at 2,000 locations in the United States and Canada and America to rejoice in a traditional Shabbat service and festive meal. Both teach them to read Hebrew. READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA and Shabbat READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA is the first Across America reflect NJOP's over-arching mission to expose 500,000 un­ continent-wide program designed to introduce a generation of Jews to the affiliated Jews to the various practices and customs of Judaism by the year Hebrew language — a skill that will enable them to participate in Jewish 2000. services and customs in the original language of their family and ancestors. "Based upon the success of Shabbat Across America, we are confident Since an estimated 80% of North American Jews are unable to read Hebrew, that READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA will dra­ NJOP hopes that Hebrew literacy will serve as an entree for many unaffili­ matically increase Hebrew literacy and strengthen individuals' overall com­ ated or marginally affiliated Jews to renew their interest in the Jewish faith. mitment to Judaism," stated Melanie Notkin, marketing director of NJOP. "Ten years of experience in teaching over 105,000 North American Jews "As with Shabbat Across America, NJOP will employ an all out, continent- to read Hebrew has taught us that for most unaffiliated Jews, Hebrew lit­ wide marketing campaign designed to interest as many Jews as possible in eracy is a crucial first step towards personal Jewish empowerment and en­ the unique opportunity to learn a language that will tie them to 5,000 years of thusiastic communal involvement. Without the ability to read Hebrew, many history and tradition." Jews feel alienated from religious services and shy away from involvement The READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW CANADA program in Jewish ritualistic observances and traditions," commented Rabbi Ephraim will be based on NJOP's popular and enjoyable Hebrew Reading Crash Course, Buchwald, founder and director of NJOP. "NJOP strongly believes that the which, since 1987, has taught over 105,000 North American Jews to read the mass outreach approach of READ HEBREW AMERICA/ READ HEBREW Hebrew language. Designed for Jews with little or no background in Hebrew, CANADA will be an opportunity to touch, inspire, and engage tens of thou­ the program concentrates on teaching the Hebrew alphabet and basic reading sands of seeking Jews, thus insuring a flourishing and vibrant future for skills. Additionally, a level-two program is available to those who are inter­ them as part of an enriched North American Jewish community. ested in further advancing their Hebrew reading and comprehension skills. Throughout the month of November, READ HEBREW AMERICA / As they do with their year-round Hebrew Reading Crash Courses, NJOP will READ HEBREW CANADA will be offered at Synagogues, Hillels on col­ provide free Hebrew primers for each student, as well as a free instruction lege campuses, Hebrew Day Schools, Jewish Community Centers, and other manual and flash-cards to each READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HE­ major Jewish organizations across the United States and Canada. Addition­ BREW CANADA volunteer instructor. ally, NJOP is enlisting the support of private organizations such as busi­ The National Jewish Outreach Program was established in 1987 by Rabbi nesses, social clubs, and associations, to promote the program internally and Ephraim Buchwald, and has become one of the world's largest and most suc­ to actively secure community involvement. In an effort to reach as many cessful Jewish outreach organizations. NJOP offers free programs at more North American Jews as possible, NJOP has also allocated a marketing bud­ than 2,100 locations across North America and in 27 countries worldwide. get of $600,000 to be used for extensive print and outdoor advertising, radio Through programs such as READ HEBREW AMERICA / READ HEBREW spots, and public relations activities. CANADA and Shabbat Across America, NJOP has successfully reached more While no surveys or studies specifically report on the state of Hebrew than 300,000 North American Jews, and engaged them in Jewish life.

CHUPPAH, from previous page in the American Zone, 10 in the Brit­ ative ways to use army supplies, JDC had difficulty meeting the demand — not just their physical ones. ish Zone in Germany, 20 in Austria, such as fashioning old parachute silk for layettes and baby food by the fall "JDC, in its own thoughtful way, 10 in Czechoslovakia, and 6 in into yarmulkes. of 1947. went about providing what the sur­ Greece. Other articles were often im­ The newly-found chuppah thus vivors would have had in a normal Since chuppot were not the only ported, often under interesting cir­ serves as a reminder of the dual nature Jewish community," said Ted Feder, items required to make a Jewish wed­ cumstances. Feder recalls when a of JDC's work after the Holocaust, and then JDC Deputy Zone Director for ding, JDC supply lists also included JDC representative was sent by jeep a symbol of the organization's commit­ Germany. "We were involved from wedding rings.JD C tried to manufac­ on a mission to Milan to buy up all ment to build strong Jewish commu­ the cradle to the grave." ture as much as possible near the the gold-plated rings at bulk dis­ nities. In order to maintain Jewish life camps in order to fulfill ritual needs count. This commitment continues and provide ritual items, JDC cre­ locally. Matzah factories were set up, Yet JDC's involvement in reli­ through today, when JDC brings to­ ated religious departments for the for example, and JDC discovered cre- gious life did not stop there. JDC gether young Jews at camps, commu­ U.S. Zone. On Feb.27,1946, Rabbi succeeded in supplying all the DP nity centers, schools and leadership Alexander S. Rosenberg, director of ".. .weddings became camps with mikvaot (ritual baths), training seminars taking place in 59 JDC's Religion Department for the although it was reported that digging countries worldwide. And as a result, US Zone, reported that he had al­ such an essential part began even before the proper tools the JDC is still making a good number ready officiated at 55 of approxi­ of life in the DP camps arrived. Wigs were purchased and of marriages along the way. mately 1,200 marriages which had in 1945 through 1949 presented as gifts to religious brides, Activities of the JDC are funded by taken place by that time. It is, there­ that JDC had its own and soon after, JDC mohelim (ritual the regular campaigns of the United fore, no surprise that 80 chuppot circumcisers) performed at least Jewish Appeal and Federations were distributed in 1948 alone—34 Chuppah." 5,000 britim (ritual circumcisions). throughout the United States mr 12 The Shofar September 1998 RABBINIC THOUGHTS

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What is To My New Your Position? A Good Year Community by Rabbi Maynard Hyman by Rabbi Josef Davidson by Rabbi Philip Posner Beth Sholom Congregation B'nai Zion Mizpah Congregation The story is told of a man who was on a sink­ The traditional greeting for the High Holy Day This time last year I was typing a High Holiday ing yacht. As the radio system was still in use, he season is leshannah tovah umetukah tikatevu, message for the Jewish Chronicle of Auckland New shouted in a trembling voice: "help, help, save me, which means "May you be inscribed for a good, Zealand Now, a year later I have the honor on my yacht is sinking!" The United States Coast sweet year." It is with these warm sentiments that behalf of myself and Mizpah Congregation to ex­ Guard in nearby waters responded immediately we greet one another when we speak to each other tend to the Jews of Chattanooga, my new com­ shouting: "yes, yes, yes, we hear you, what is your and when we correspond by letter (fax or e-mail, munity, a Shanah tovah um-tukah - a good and position?" Whereupon the man shouted back: "I too!). Did you ever consider what this greeting sweet year. To give body to such hopes our tradi­ am the President of the First National Bank— hurry, means? tion encourages us at our erev Rosh Hashanah meal hurry, save me!" Its origins, no doubt, stem from the traditional to enjoy a round chalah and dip sliced apple in Instead of stating his exact location and posi­ belief that each Rosh Hashanah the Book of Life honey. It is a beautiful tradition to literally inter­ tion within the waters, the man was obviously more is opened. In that book are recorded each nalize, with blessings, our hope that friends and concerned with his professional position in the individual's deeds for the past year. Those deeds family will enjoy a whole, and a sweet year. But world of finance, even at the risk of drowning in which are "good" are balanced against those deeds that good taste blessing cannot be separated from a sense of pride in who we are. the waters. which are "bad." Should the "good" deeds out­ Jjifr The High Holyday period which will soon be weigh the "bad" ones, then one is inscribed for Thus, as we enter a new year I also hope that upon us most emphatically demands that we should another "good" year. However, should the "bad" however we describe our Jewishness— Orthodox, j> each ask ourselves, "what is our position?" Most deeds outweigh the "good" ones, then one needs Reform, Reconstructionist, Secular, Zionist - that of us take a complete physical examination at least to resort to the traditional formula of "tzedakah, the definition of our identity will encompass the once or twice a year and we eagerly await the physi­ prayer and repentance" to avert the sternness of feelings of self-esteem and pride, as expressed in cal results of our EKG, blood sugar, and choles­ the decree. the beautiful Ashreynu prayer: "How greatly we terol including hypertension measurements. So A "good" year, according to this ancient tradi­ are blessed! How good is our portion! How pleas­ why shouldn't we at least once a year take a spiri­ tion, then, is a year in which our good deeds out­ ant our lot! How beautiful our heritage! tual evaluation of ourselves? weigh our bad ones. It is not a year in which we Consider the fact that again this year every one Well, the High Holyday season is truly one of make the Forbes' 500, the dean's list, or even en­ of us will be given (with G-d's help, our mazal the appointed times. On Rosh Hashana and Yom joy a year free of disease or suffering. It is not a and sechel) the identical amount of fresh new time: Kippur each and every member of the House of year free of grief and loss. It is a year in which our 24 hours of 60 minutes each. The great Abraham Israel has a regularly scheduled appointment with the Al ty to take our spiritual examination. see DAVIDSON, next page see POSNER, next page One of the basic concepts of Judaism is that we are all endowed with "freedom of will." All is in the hands of G-d, except the fear of G-d," is an Candlelighting Times for Shabbat undisputed maxim of the Rabbis. With our alert rational and mental faculties, we can choose to practice goodness and subdue the evil inclination by a return to the beautiful and meaningful tradi­ September 4 6:46 tions of our faith. During this High Holyday spiritual evaluation September 11 6:36 period, let us discover our position in life. The question is not always where we stand now, but September 18 6:26 rather in what direction we intend to go. To make mistakes is human, but to repeat our mistakes is September 25 6:16 morally immature and foolish. A Sunday School teacher in a young class of six year olds in preparing them for the High Holydays asked the children to define the word "repentance." A bright young boy jumped up and I3« Hiffj HjSl - - said, "it's being sorry for your sins." But a brighter young boy in the class said, "repentance is being sorry enough to quit your sins." A famous Hasidic Rebbe was fond of saying, "that every person should always carry two notes see HYMAN, next page w

September 1998 The Shofar 13 RABBINIC THOUGHTS

HYMAN, from previous page DAVIDSON, from previous page around with them. On one note there ourselves down. On the contrary, at deeds, our responses to the situations mitted. A sweet year is one in which should be written these words: "be­ that moment we should assume a in which we find ourselves and our we have sweetened life with the deeds cause of me, G-d created the whole feeling of self-pride, self-esteem and preemptive acts, are good. A good we have done. The Jewish new year world." On the other note it should self-confidence, saying to ourselves, year is one in which our deeds, on is not a time of magic in which we sit be written: "I am but dust and ashes." "The whole world was created just balance, are good. in a synagogue for the High Holy However, explained the Rebbe, it is for me." There is a midrash which speaks Days and magically change God's most important that we do not mix Maimonides states a basic truth to this. It says that there are a few mind about us. It is a time when we up or confuse the message of these about the credability of a baal individuals in which the "good" far examine the direction in which our two notes." teshuvah, a "true penitent." Here are outweighs the "bad," and a few indi­ life is headed and transform ourselves For example, when the opportu­ his exact words: "A person who be­ viduals in which the "bad" far out­ to act better in the new year than in nity presents itself for us to fulfill a comes a true penitent must never weighs the "good." The majority, years past. Torah Commandment, one should not think that he is totally isolated from however, find themselves with an May you all be inscribed in the say; "who am I, I am nothing." On the righteousbecaus e of his past sins. equal amount of "good" and "bad." Book of Life for a good, sweet year! the contrary, at that moment one This is not so, as he is beloved by It is for the majority of us that the On behalf of B'nai Zion Congrega­ should rise to the occasion with faith G-d as if he had not sinned, because High Holy Day season was insti­ tion, its officers, boardandmembers, and confidence and say, "this com­ he had tasted from the vices of sin, tuted. It provides us with an oppor­ and on behalf of my family, Barbara, mandment was created especially for and he had subdued his faults and tunity to push the scale more towards Michaela, Elana and Jacob, I wish you me, I have a Torah obligation and this temptations and completely separated the "good" than the "bad" in order all the best for the coming year. May is why I was born. If I do not take it himself from them." to merit another "good" year. it be a good year for us all. upon myself to fulfill this mitzvah, So therefore the "true penitent" is We also wish one another a sweet all will fall apart. Everything depends to be respected and honored in KLAL year. However, here again, we do POSNER, from previous page upon me. Yisroel, in the community of the Jew­ not leave this to the realm of speech Joshua Heschel left us Jews an im­ The Rebbe then continues to say, ish people. alone. With the beginning of each portant clue as to what we can do with "a person should not be self-depre­ As we observe the High Holydays, new year, we take apples and dip our time when he wrote: "Judaism is cating, constantly saying, "I am but this year, let us take the time to re­ them into honey. In this manner, we a religion of time, aiming at the sanc- dust and ashes, should I perform a evaluate ourselves with a moral and actualize the wish of a sweet year by tification of time." In that sense Rosh mitzvah"? This is a terrible mistake mental inventory. Let each one ask doing something concrete to make Hashanah is more than just a year. It and a misreading of the messages he the other, "what is your position?" it so. By sharing apples and honey is "sanctified time" that equals: 24 x carries. The Rebbe then concluded Congregation Beth Sholom joins with our family and friends, we ac­ 60 x I am a Jew. by saying, "in general a person should me in wishing the entire Jewish tually make the prayer come true as May we thus sanctify our Jewish be humble, modest and unassuming Community a SHANA TOVA a result of our actions. time during the year 5758 with the joy, like the note which says, "I am but U'MESUKA- "A G06D AND In Judaism actions do, indeed, and the sweetness that is always dust and ashes, however, when it SWEET YEAR." speak much louder than words. A present when we are proud of being comes to fulfilling a mitzvah, when May the year 5759 bring glad tid­ good year is one in which we can re­ who we are. we have the opportunity to serve both ings of peace, salvation and comfort view with a sense of satisfaction and Proud of being a Chattanooga G-d and humanity, we should not put for Israel and for all humankind. fulfillment the actions we have com­ Rabbi....Sincerely, Philip M. Posner

The Israel at 50 Scrapbook Committee is looking for pictures Young Leadership —Save these dates! from any local Israel at 50 event. The Committee is also interested Thursday, October 22 in pictures taken while on Federa­ Pre-symphony dinner tion missions of events celebrat­ 6:00pm, Big River Grille ing Israel's 50th birthday. Tuesday, November 10 If you can help, please send your Sharon Faulkner (photographer) program photos to Michael Dzik at the 6:00pm, at the home of Trent Center Federation office. Thank you!

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family records and interviews, public records hold considerable research po­ The Jews of Bermuda tential. In 1974, the Bermuda government established official archives. Be­ by Deborah Levine fore that time, records were kept by volunteer groups, the church, the library, Executive Director, Chattanooga Federation and other institutions. There were, for example, military archives at the U. S. military bases established during World War II. Times are changing rapidly, This article first appeared in AVOTAYNU, The International Review of Jew­ however, and materials such as the military archives are increasingly found ish Geneaology (Volume XIV, Number 2, Summer 1998). Reprinted with in government hands. While the Bermuda Archives are still in the develop­ permission ment process, its growing collection is useful. The Archives have a substantial number of newspapers on microfilm dat­ Bermuda is a group of islands famous for its pink beaches, Bermuda shorts, ing back to the early years as a colony. The newspapers note activities of the and the onions it once exported. A former British colony, Bermuda is now a Malloy family, but also cover the Jewish activities on the World War II mili­ member of the British Commonwealth. Located off the coast of the United tary bases. Photographs are rare, but researchers will find mention of ships States at the same latitude as Atlanta, Georgia, the island is a famous tourist carrying refugees and the names of rabbis who came to Bermuda to officiate. haven. Bermuda is also known for its strategic military location and a mili­ More recently, advertisements for the communal seder and High Holy Day tary history that stretches back to the American Revolution. Today, the is­ services appear regularly in The Royal Gazette, giving specific times and land is a growing player in international banking. locations. Recent events can be pursued with the Jewish Community of Ber­ History books made no mention of a Jewish community in Bermuda, al­ muda, whose telephone number is listed in the telephone directory. though Jewish guidebooks make references to Bermuda. The British Com­ . Tracing Jews in Bermuda through life-cycle events is another avenue of monwealth guide notes that 70 Jews live on the island with a history that research, though somewhat limited. The number of Jewish marriages on the dates from the 1600's (1997 estimates are closer to 150). This information island has never been high, but Jewish marriages are memorable. Clergy would seem substantial enough to have merited a historical footnote beyond members must be licensed by the government to officiate. At present, there the guidebook. A more accurate picture was given by Rabbi Malcolm H. are two clergymen able to marry Jews, one on an ad hoc basis only (Chief Stern in the 1971 Jewish Guide to the Caribbean in which he says: Rabbi, Herb Tobin, who commutes from his stateside job). The other is Arch­ deacon Dyson of the Anglican Cathedral in Hamilton, Bermuda's capitol. Only nine Jewish residents, all living in the capital city of Hamilton, Archdeacon Dyson upholds the tradition of hospitality and friendship that were listed in a 1917 Pan American report: one family of four, Bermuda's Anglican Church has had with the Jewish community. The An­ and five Americans representing American and British firms.. .In glican Cathedral opened its doors for High Holy Day services to Jewish refu­ 1946, when Bermuda had only four Jewish residents, one, the late gees liberated from the camps and still in quarantine. Archdeacon Dyson Meyer M. Malloy who devoted himself to greeting Jewish tour­ also gave the eulogy at my grandmother's memorial service; they were great ists, the legislative council took the bizarre step of debating a Jew- friends. . ''- ish Marriage Bill which would for the first time have legalized Birth certificates are available through government records located in the Jewish marriages. But no Jewish marriages are known to have same building as the Archives. No Jewish births are known to have occurred been solemnized here before or since. on Bermuda until this century. The first, apparently, was my cousin Howard Malloy in the 1920s. I also know of a few others in the first half of this Rabbi Stern told me that he had never actually visited Bermuda, so it is century; a child born to a refugee family named Tzinski who lived with my not surprising that he underestimated the Jewish presence there. Yet, it is Uncle Barney Malloy's family before moving on. Also, my brother Joseph true that the history of Jews in Bermuda is scanty. The Bermuda government Levine wis born in 1944, while my father was with U. S. military intelli­ proposed legislation in 1694 to tax any Jews trading ojmerchandising on the gence in Nazi Germany. .. , island. This legislation was not repealed until 1760 when the government Death certificates are kept and cemetery records are available in the Ar­ acknowledged that: chives. Bermuda's cemeteries were connected to either the parish or to spe­ cific churches. The parish traditionally took care of burials for nonmembers as much as our Neighboring Islands who have permitted Jews to of the church. Increasingly, the parish system is declining in favor of govern­ trade there have reaped great advantage therefrom, the said Act so ment services, and parish records recording the bill for my brother's grave in laying an Imposition on all Jews trading here must have been very St. John's Cemetery were just moved to the Archives in 1997. David Peter prejudicial to the inhabitants of these islands and particularly to the Levine is buried in the "nonconformist section". seamen of the same, as scarce a Jew hath traded to these Islands While the possibility of tracing family members who passed through Ber­ since the passing of the same Act... muda is tantalizing, it is also difficult. Few Jews on the island were Bermu­ dian citizens, and records of their presence are limited. Beginning the 1920s, The damage was done, however, and the Jewish presence remained mar­ however, the government stipulated that all non-citizens working on the is­ ginal until modern times. land must have work permits approved yearly. Researchers may want to My family lived in Bermuda for four generations. This is not necessarily view these permits, but they are open to the public only after 50 years. a long period of time, but we were the only Jewish family of this longevity in Today, the Jewish community of Bermuda still conducts the communal Bermudian history. My great-grandfather, Alter Malloy, acquired his Irish seder that my family began on the military bases during World War II. In surname "at Ellis Island." Around the turn of the century, after several years 1997, about 100 people attended the seder. At this time, I took the opportu­ in the United States, he answered an advertisement for a tailor in Bermuda. nity to administer a survey of basic information about nationality, occupa­ Alter, also known as David, brought his family to Bermuda, where Barney, tion, and length of residency on the island. The results showed a mixed one of his sons, established The Bermuda Trading Company. Marriages crowd from many different countries, including Australia, Britain, Canada, brought spouses from the States, including Ida Swig from an affluent Boston Hungary, Israel, South Africa, and the U. S. Among them were American family, who slowly increased the Jewish population. Four family members college students interning at the marine biology station, tourists on holiday, were born in Bermuda and one is buried there. retirees, young Bermuda-born children, and residencies that ranged from one In the spring of 1997, the American Jewish Archives awarded me a re­ to forty years. search fellowship. Given my unique perspective on Jews on this island, I am One of the participants at the seder illustrates the appeal of Bermuda to dedicated to piecing together the development of the Jewish community of researchers of a wide variety of topics. He was a young Israeli sailing around Bermuda. While many people looking for their roots feel the same, I feel a" the world researching the history of Jewish sailors. While the history of Jews responsibility that extends beyond family. There is no written history of the at sea is not particularly substantial where Bermuda is concerned, there were Jews in Bermuda, and current Jewish residents are too recent to have full Jewish merchants whose ships came in contact with the island. The March access to that history. I have collected letters, photographs, interviews, and 1978 issue of the American Jewish Historical Society Quarterly has an ar­ memorabilia for a decade. My work places the Malloys in the larger context ticle by Robert Cohen on the dealings of Sampson and Jacob Mears with of Bermudian, Jewish, and American history. Bermuda in the late 1600s. The article details the confiscation of one of the The Jewish presence on Bermuda has generally been a transient one with Mears' ships by the Bermudian governor who jailed the captain for not pay­ people passing through on their way elsewhere or staying only for a short ing the "imposition." This incident may account for the modest Jewish pres­ time. These encounters may be particularly fruitful for researchers pursuing ence on the island for years to follow. relatives of the World War II period. A record number of Jews lived on the Research into the Jews of Bermuda reveals many twists and turns. One island during the War; American soldiers, American civilians working with off-beat historical link concerns actor Michael Douglas, who recently be­ the military, Jewish refugees, businessmen dealing with the contraband auc­ came a partner with his family in a cottage colony, Ariel Sands. His Jewish tioned in the courts, British military attached to their censorship operations, father, Kirk Douglas, married into a prominent Bermudian family during World and British Jews escaping the threat of Hitler invading British soil. War II. While the coinings and goings of Jews in Bermuda emerge primarily in September 1998 The Shofar 15

MISSIONS TO ISRAEL

Join the Greensboro Young Leadership UJA Mission to Israel Mission

Our community has a special invitation from Greensboro to join them on Announcing a National Young Leadership Mission to Prague and Israel the Greensboro UJA Mission to Israel November 3-13. There will be a pre- November 12-22. Join the first-ever National Young Leadership Cabinet's mission trip to the former Soviet Union, and the trip participants will finish Ben Gurion Society on this fabulous trip. A generous subsidy from National the mission in time to attend the GA in Jerusalem. This is a once-in-a- UJA is available. There is an Israel-only component to this mission Novem­ lifetime opportunity, and there is a generous subsidy policy. For those pledg­ ber 15-22. Call Bertha Miller 892-7919 for more information. ing $1000, the cost is $2900 from New York minus a $750 subsidy. Call Bertha Miller, 892-7919 for more information. Did you know? UJA Missions offer a "Singles over 40" Mission to Israel? Don't miss it! What a Country! Call Bertha Miller for details, 892-7919 by Trent Center

Upon returning from Israel on United Jewish Appeal (UJA) Singles II went tubing on the Jordan River, took jeep rides through the Golan Heights, Mission I've continuously been asked by friends "What did you think of and visited Safed. We stayed in the Kibbutz Kfar Giladi and at nighttime you Israel?" My reply is simply to quote a favorite comedian of mine Yakov could hear artillery shelling Smirnoff, "What a Country." off in the distance. Going to Israel on the 50th anniversary was a very exciting time. When­ •HUP Our trip ended in Jerusa­ ever I travel I always set 'Trent's agenda" aside from the trip itinerary. For lem where we stayed for five this my first of hopefully many trips to Israel, I had two. The first task on my mum ~ days. We traveled on buses II 1 agenda was pretty self-explanatory; it's a Jewish Singles Mission. I'm Jew­ •p ' r^:!:Um in and out of the city going ish, I'm single. 1 + 1=2 and a few happy parents. The second reason was to to Masada, the Dead Sea, Yad experience, view, and learn about Israel from religious, economic, social, Vashem Holocaust Memo­ and histori­ rial, and many other sites. cal points of Our trip culminated in a fabu­ view. I'm «% lous Shabbat service at the very happy Southern Wall and for me V\ 1 and sad to •MB two reunions with friends at say mission J*l* the Wailing Wall. I ran into half accom­ a friend that I knew from <* » plished. So, Kutz Camp in New York and my parents IP hadn't seen since 1988. He fitlil will have to ** is from Detroit and was with •• 1 *m»* wait. Even­ ill his wife on a UJA couples tually I'll •HH r>i mission, and I ran into Rabbi iii an find the right Siblings Trent and Celeste Center at the airport Joe Klein who was leading a woman. group of 40 high school kids. My sister The only negative point Celeste and I joined 260 other Jewish singles from as far away as London, about the whole trip was that :::o: f&WfyZo '•••:: S^wS-!?:•':•' •'^fl-fi^"':-:••-•-•:-:-%£?&•' England and Alaska (where my roommate was from) to Jews as close as Trent and Celeste at Yad Vashem it was only ten days. But Atlanta. The trip consisted of 10 days of touring starting in Tel Aviv where that's why you go back and I we joined the UJA Singles I Mission in two events which enabled us to mix look forward to my next visit. with another 500 young Jewish singles from all over the United States. We toured the Beit Hatefutsot Museum, which gives you a great understanding of the his­ Hi*- \.# t tory and heritage of our Jewish people. We gath­ ered at two different ab- | sorption centers for Rus­ sian and Ethiopian Jews. I^^H These absorption centers | help these immigrants in- > %|i,Wlii, | tegrate into mainstream •HH Israeli life. The Ethiopian liSiiiyilfi En route to the Golan Heights absorption center was one of my favorite places to igfX-il— i ,*.„ • in kS / go, seeing how happy these Jews were just to be in Israel living a life with the Trent Center and Celeste Center with Bill Pollack bare necessities that we daily take for granted. , • of Memphis. Jerusalem is in background As we left Tel Aviv we headed to the Northeastern part of the country. We 16 The Shofar September 1998

Duke Koch: A Gentleman Remembered his late wife and how proud he was of their home. Duke's wife had created beautifully expressive pictures and art, many of which included flowers and by Joel Altman-Shafer natural beauty. A self-portrait also graced the home. She clearly still lived I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Duke Koch. My last contact in this house. In my estimation, the home's beauty was only matched by with him was a telephone call during which I promised to write. It is with the gentle nature of Duke's heart. regret that this article is submitted in his memory. Many of you knew Duke much longer than did I. I can tell you how I met Duke via the Jewish Community Federation of Greater Chattanooga much he looked forward to Chai Steppers and Golden Agers meetings. through Interfaith Elderly Assistance. Many of this program's clients have Tziporah saw him Alzheimers or are debilitated/bedridden. Program volunteers give relief to at a few of these meetings. Although I never saw him there, I know the primary caregivers. I didn't know what to expect during the program's ori­ reason he looked forward to them so much was to see his friends (he also entation. How well would we match? What if this arrangement didn't work? loved the food). People were very important to Duke. I was to find out that Duke's easy-going nature and sense of humanity made I am grateful that Duke had the opportunity to spend time with my entire it impossible for things not to work well. family. He enjoyed seeing Tziporah when she had the opportunity to visit. We first met on August 4, 1996. I went to his home and spent about an When my daughter Shoshanah was born, it added a vital element to our hour and a half there. I quickly learned that Duke was far from debilitated. relationship. He attended her naming, where our parents and siblings met As our arrangement progressed, I spent about four hours a month with Duke, him. He loved watching and holding Shoshanah. When she fell asleep at his usually on a weekend morning or afternoon. Duke loved listening to classi­ house, he would not want to say a word while she rested. He constantly cal or "church" music, as he called it. He also enjoyed watching sports on remarked he thought Shoshanah was beautiful. television. Since both of us were men who would, as my mother-in-law says, The last time I saw Duke was at a picnic. As usual, he remarked that he "run out of words," we spent a considerable amount of our time engaged in was "feeling stronger." I spent much of this day in silence because I knew these two activities. how much I would miss him. I didn't really know how much until I re­ Duke was a retired podiatrist, and we used to talk about his business. He ceived the news of his death. was also a World War II veteran who, when I first got to know him, anxiously I already miss my friend Duke very much. He was a gentleman with awaited a reunion with his surviving buddies during the summer of 1997. whom I had the honor and privilege to meet and spend time. Fortunately, These activities and discussions allowed me to see glimpses of a quiet, yet my family will be able to remember him through pictures and videotapes. It proud and accomplished person. will be my lasting mitzvah to tell my daughter that she did have a great­ What was immediately evident when I met Duke was how much he loved grandfather figure in her life. Rachael Miller Receives Jasenovacand Stara Gradiska Awards from Baylor School Camp Survivors Sought Rachael D. Miller has been honored by a number of awards at Baylor The US Department of Justice's Office of Special Investigations is trying School Awards Day, 1998. She was inducted into Cum Laude, an honorary to locate survivors of the Jasenovac Concentration Camp, which operated in society recognizing high academic achievement. Croatia from January 1942 until May 1945. They are also seeking survivors Rachael was presented with a plaque from the National Council of of the Stara Gradiska camp (also known as Alt Gradiska camp), which oper­ Teachers of English in recognition of her being one of eighteen Tennessee ated in Croatia from January 1942 to November 1942. The testimony of students to win the National Writing Achievement award for 1998. these survivors is needed in connection with a pending criminal case against In addition, Rachael won the Fine Arts award for her tremendous contri­ an alleged war criminal. bution to all of the arts at Baylor. Her fine arts involvement included writ­ Camp survivors willing to speak to government attorneys should contact ing, for which she received a Creative Writing award for excellence in Susan Adams at the Office of Special Investigations, (202) 616-2533. These writing prose, poetry and screen plays. calls may be placed collect. While both English-speaking and non-English speaking witnesses are welcome, please be advised that the OSI currently Jim and Jill Levine does not have anyone on staff who speaks Serbo-Croatian. Married August 8

Jim Levine, son of Howard and M.J. Levine was married on August 8 in Boston. Jim is an attorney with Baker, Donelson, Bearman & Caldwell. His Shofar Submissions new wife Jill is the daughter of James and Brenda Keegan of Milton, Massachusetts. Jill is a teacher The deadline for Shofar articles, announcements, photos and at White Oak Elementary School. The couple resides advertising is the 10th of the preceding month. in North Chattanooga. When making submissions, please note that The Shofar is composed using PageMaker, a desktop publishing software. If you are using a computer to compose your articles, please submit your article on a disk. If that is not feasible, e-mailing your text would be the second best option. The e-mail address SEND US YOUR DRAWINGS! for Shofar editor Rachel Schulson is: [email protected]. Please do not mail or fax articles that you have composed on We would like to print children's artwork in The Shofar. Please your computer. We are working on a deadline, and without the submit Jewish-themed drawings (no paintings please) and we will disk, we have to take the time to type them into our computer. print as many as possible. Submissions will not be mailed back but, We will accept typewritten copy if you do not have access to if requested, they may be picked up at the Federation office. Please a computer. send to the attention of Rachel Schulson. Include your name, age and school. September 1998 The Shofar 17

by Barbara Oxenhandler Chair, Federation Newcomers Committee

The summer season has been enhanced by the addition of the following newcomers to our community. Please extend to these fine people your "Southern Hospitality" by welcoming them to your homes, synagogues, and/or social events. If you know of people who are considering relocating or have already moved to our area, please call me at 886-6936 and provide as much information as possible to make my initial contact easier. Thanks for the great tips!

Mindi Shinberg, born and raised in Rabbi Philip and Eliza­ fejSillili New Jersey, relocated to Wildwood, beth Posner (pronounced Georgia, from North Carolina. She "Poze-ner") moved to is a graduate student at Washington Chattanooga from University School of Medicine, De­ Hanover, New Hampshire. partment of Physical Therapy, intern­ Rabbi Posner, a Tucson illlil ing for eight weeks at North River native, was raised in Physical Therapy in Hixson. She Southern California. He studied biomedical and electrical en­ brings to Mizpah Congre­ gineering and worked at Duke Uni­ gation much experience ,1 versity in orthopedic research. Mindi and enthusiasm, as he has •B held pulpits in California, : enjoys spectator sports, reading, ... • f if crafts, volleyball, rollerblading, hik­ New Zealand, and New ing and bicycling. (820-9569) Hampshire. His hobbies *i*«*w r I" include biking, baking, 1•'••••• • V >^;-i cooking and classical mu­ sic. He also plays the French horn. Elizabeth was born in Gadsden and raised in Birmingham. She is a marriage and family counselor and was involved with a rehabilitation program for chemically dependent teenagers. She enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, swimming, walking and yoga. The Scott Israel, nephew of Charles Posners have six grown children in West Virginia, Wash­ Lebovitz, was born in Memphis and ington State, and California. (267-9771) raised in Marietta. He recently moved to East Brainerd from Marietta. Scott is a research consult­ ant for CBL & Associates. His hob­ bies are outdoor activities, music, theatre, movies, computers, tennis, basketball, and walking. He looks Laurel (pronounced "Lor-elle") forward to getting involved in our Neels, a New York native, attended community. (499-8995) high school in Hawaii. She recently moved from Atlanta to North Chat­ tanooga. She is an aesthetician at Natural Body Day Spa on Broad SUPPORT SHOFAR Street (near the Aquarium). Her hob­ bies are music, dancing, photogra­ ADVERTISERS phy, theatre, arts, outdoor activities They support the Jewish Community. (especially hiking), and board games. (266-6288)

ISRAEL, from page 15 sundown on Friday until sundown on they differ from ours. It was a very JNF (Jewish National Fund) anc room where the announcement to Saturday in honor of the Sabbath. We enlightening experience, but every­ planted trees in memory of lovec make Israel a state was made. all made overseas friendships that one came back from each program ones, deeply planting our roots intc Then came what I considered week that will surely last for a long swearing that their choice was the the Israeli soil, literally. the best part of the trip. We spent time. The next week we were given a best. Our madrichim (counselors) tolc a week with an Israeli family. Each variety of activities to chose from for Being separated from our group us over and over that our goal shoulc family had a teenager just my age, the entire week. We could go to the had actually become difficult. We be to be in Israel not as tourists whc sixteen years old. Living with a army, on an archaeological dig, or were incredibly close by this point in see Israel only on the surface, but to family allowed us to experience choose from many other exciting pro­ the trip, and we were ecstatic to come be in Israel, our homeland, as explor­ grams. I chose to live on a kibbutz. back together for a final week in Israel in a most intimate way. We ers who feel Israel in their hearts. As - got to learn the political views of The kibbutz was wonderful. We Jerusalem. Besides returning to Ben I watched the sun set before going tc our host family. We experienced a picked avocados in the orchard, Yehuda Street and the Western Wall, the airport, as I stood clutching ontc normal day in the life of an Israeli. helped with the children of the kib­ we also made it to Yad Vashem, the 50 new brothers and sisters, not want­ - We had an authentic Jewish mother butz, heard members and founders of country's Holocaust museum. There ing to leave, I realized that Israel truly who couldn't stop feeding us. We the kibbutz talk about the kibbutz now we heard a moving speech by Hannah was and forever more will be in m> felt the full effects that Shabbat has and as it was firstdeveloping , and we Pick, a Holocaust survivor and Ann heart. | over the country when we found talked to teens on the kibbutz to find Frank's best friend. On our final day Thanks so much to the Jewish that it shuts down completely from out what their lives are like and how in Israel, we went to the forest of the Federation; it was a wonderful trip. 18 The Shofar September 1998

SENIOR PROGRAMS

Chai Stepper very able Host Team. We enjoyed spirational speaker par excellence! ^C Happenings picnic goodies - Kosher hot dogs, She is so good that some of the cor­ baked beans, potato salad, slaw, porations around town are sending her brownies and frozen fruit squares. all over the country to give her talk. by Joy Adams Dalton Roberts, Hamilton County's And it's not about religion—she former chief executive, gave a de­ makes you feel good about yourself. Hi, all you Chai Steppers out In July, we had a husband/wife lightful program, "Philosophizing She calls herself, and the title of the there! After an absence of two sum­ team, Helen and Ray Solomon, who and Politicizing." talk, "God's Clown." You'll love her! mer months, the Shofar is back in presented a very informative slide And now for the fall program! On Since I have been hearing from a business and we are here to tell you show and talk on their trip to Mos­ September 15, Jo Ann and Maish number of you that you want us to of the fall plans for upcoming events. cow. They presented each of those Richelson will preside as the Host travel again, I am going to plan a trip But first let's review what we have attending a gift—a case to hold busi­ Team. The menu includes spaghetti with our new Chai Steppers' Program been doing this summer. ness cards and credit cards. They've with meat sauce, green beans, tossed Director, Darrin Bronfman. You'll be Chai Steppers have been meeting promised to return to show us their salad with tomatoes, garlic bread, and hearing more about this just as soon all summer. In June, Dr. Richard slides about St. Petersburg, Russia! spice cake. The program is very spe­ as it cools off a bit—we certainly Metzger was our guest speaker and Many thanks to Millie & Al Rose, cial this time. Eloise Litz, a friend don't want to go if the weather is too did a fine job of giving us the results Bernice & Larry Witten, Barney of mine who taught choral music at hot. I hope you'll go with us. of the olfactory tests that his psychol­ Allen and me, who were the Host one of the schools where I used to Incidentally, Darrin is coming to ogy classes conducted. Millie and Team. teach, is to be the speaker. Since re­ our September luncheon to meet us Harold Shapiro served as the Host In August, Sara Dinberg, Rose tiring, she has created for herself a all, so you be there, too. Team. Dubrow, and Fred Fields were the new avocation— she is now an in­

Sam Burgess Sam Burgess, the new Federation van driver, grew up in Sparta, Ten­ nessee and now lives in Ringgold. Sam retired in 1985 from DuPont, where he was a craftsman and insulator for many years. Winer ' Sam and his wife Barbara, who is retired from the Power Board, & have two children, Samuel III, who is a software specialist in Texas, and Lea Ann, an elementary school teacher who lives two miles from her Crownover, P.C parents. Sam and Barbara have seven grandchildren—five girls and two boys, one of whom is named Sam Burgess IV. CERTIFIED PUBLIC Sam has been at the Federation since the end of June and has been a very welcome addition to the staff. ACCOUNTANTS

DARRIN, from page 1 First Tennessee Bank Bldg. Sanford T. Winer, C.P.A. Benjamin C Crownover, C.P.A. tanooga. Darrin and his dog Pete Prior to earning his MA in So­ Suite 1120. Chattanooga, TN 37402 Susan E. Polcari, C.P.A. have chosen a downtown apartment cial Work, Darrin received his BA Joel D. Susman, C.P.A. to call home. in Psychology from Connecticut 265-0047 Since completing his Masters College in New London. Damn's degree in Social Work at the Uni­ training in social work took place versity of Central Florida in Or­ in a variety of settings. In Connecti­ cut, he interned at a geriatric center IICKROOM lando, Darrin has been visiting his SERVICE parents in Boca Raton and his two and was a tutor for first and second siblings in Atlanta. It was his sister graders. In Orlando, Darrin worked who spotted the job listing in the in the juvenile justice system do­ Atlanta Jewish Times for Social ing juvenile assessment. He also Services Director of the Chatta­ worked at Orange County Family nooga Federation. Services, as an in-home counselor Darrin grew up in Prairie Vil­ for truant adolescents. S&J lage, a suburb of Kansas City. He Darrin will be working with "Discount" Drugs & was very active in B'nai Brith Golden Agers and Chai Steppers at Youth Organization (BBYO) and the Federation. He is also interested Sickroom Supplies was the Kansas City Council Vice in working with families and ado­ President during his senior year in lescents and children with special high school. That same year, Darrin needs and hopes to reach those in STANLEY NUSBAUM 629-7283 planned the regional convention. the community who could benefit Registered Pharmacist Calls Answered 24 Hours Daily Darrin first visited Israel when he from his experience in these areas. City-Wide Delivery Service was 13 where he had a second Bar "I am very happy to be here," said Mitzvah at the Western Wall. He Darrin. "I love the area I'm living was very moved by the experience in and the community has been very of Israel and returned when he was warm and friendly." 15 with an educational tour group. September 1998 The Shofar 19

SENIOR PROGRAMS

Golden Agers

"What do you most enjoy about your participation in Golden Agers?"

fesvaJL:':? <>:• > ; Hill

Thelma Coltan Getting together with •••J people I know...and the food is real good.

•s

m ill Anita Lamport The company, the people, David Garvis The food, number one; the the food and the atmosphere are nice. people, number two and the things they do to Sometimes we have arguments about improve my health and my future with the bingo, but that's part of Jewish community. the charm.

Ethel Berger I love the nice people. It's nice. They try their best.

JEWISH COMMUNITY FEDERATION OF GREATER CHATTANOOGA Phyllis Bell I come to PHONE NUMBER: 493-0270 help serve and do FAX: 493-9997 whatever is needed. I like the satisfaction of Deborah Levine (Executive Director), ext. 11 helping. e-mail: [email protected]

Carole McNabb (Administrative Assistant), ext. 10 e-mail: [email protected]

Rachel Schulson (Communications Din/Shofar Editor), ext. 12 Duke Koch e-mail: [email protected] The people on this page ••ra^ were interviewed and Mildred Stallings (Bookkeeper), ext.14 photographed in July. e-mail: [email protected] Dr. Duke Koch was j \ •••* hm among those at the July Michael Dzik (Program Director), ext.15 meeting and noted the e-mail: [email protected] important role Golden Agers played in his life. ^^FJ[H| ***T*B'» •• • ••--MBI - * * ^«ira Darrin Bronfman (Social Services Director), ext.16 Duke Koch passed away e-mail: [email protected] in August. A remem­ fc'ijSQf Hif brance of Duke appears SBf ffk& Sam Burgess (Van Driver), contact through Carole at ext. 10 on page 16.

Claire Binder, Federation President 698-1459 e-mail: [email protected] . 20 The Shofar September 1998 SINGLING AND MINGLING

Michael Dzik is the new Program Director for the MICHAEL, from page 1 Federation. Please contact him at 493-0270, extension 15 with any information or questions pertaining to group, which includes both boys and ther Joseph Dzik, an optometrist. singles events. girls. He serves as the link between Joseph is married to Fran Dzik, who the local chapter and the national is chair of the Hamilton County organization,overseeing chapter Democratic Party. Michael is an ac­ events, attending meetings and mak­ tive member of the Young Demo­ The JCC of St. Louis announces the 3rd annual nationwide Jewish ing himself available to those in­ crats. singles "Middle Years" cruise. This year's cruise leaves from Honolulu, volved. Michael's mother, Gail Susman, Hawaii on October 30 and visits ports such as Kona, Hilo, and Lahaina. In addition, Michael has taught works at the office of Gynecologist You will arrive back in Honolulu on November 9. The cost ranges from Hebrew on Sundays at the Religious Dr. Phyllis Miller. She is married $2,649 for inside twin to $3,549 for ocean view single. Airfare is included School, where he has been very to Joel Susman, a CPA at Winer and from most major cities. For more information, call Michael Dzik. popular with students. In addition Crownover. to the Hebrew he learned at the Jew­ Michael and his wife, the former Sarasota Scintillations: Sponsored by the Flanzer JCC. November 12-15. ish Day School, Michael studied He­ Jennifer Ulin, have known each Weekend for singles in their 40's, 50's, and 60's at an all inclusive brew for two years at Arizona State, other since they were very young beach resort. Two and three night packages available. Register before which he attended before transfer­ children. When asked about their September 17 for early bird special. For more information call Michael ring to UTC. Michael's interest in meeting, Michael takes out a picture Dzik. studying Hebrew results in part from from his wallet that shows the two a family trip to Israel for his cousin's playing together as toddlers. Their Cruise '98 National Jewish Singles Cruise (for singles in their 20's, Bar Mitzvah when Michael was 14. lives took them on different paths, 30's, and 40's) Sponsored by the Pittsburgh Jewish Community Center. The family spent two weeks there but included a one-year overlap at December 12-19. The Royal Caribbean's Rhapsody of the Seas will set traveling and exploring. Ooltewah High School and things sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and port stops will include Aruba, Michael is very enthusiastic really clicked for.them when they Curacao, Venezuela, St. Marten, and St. Thomas. For information, call about being in charge of Federation met again in September 1995. They Barb LeWinter at 412-521-8011 ext. 371. For questions about travel Programs. His responsibilities will have been married since December arrangements, contact the Cruise Dept. at Forbes Travel 800-345-2984. include Israel at 50 programs, Young 1996 and live with a dog and two Leadership and all special programs. cats. a-,—!,,^ National UJA Singles Missions to Israel "I want to be available to people, Michael has many ideas for pro­ (212) 880-1391 even when I am home. If someone grams that he can't wait to imple­ December 27,1998 - January 7,1999 (ages 25-40) has an idea or concern, I am avail­ ment. "I'm really excited about Locally, contact Bertha Miller, 892-7919 for itinerary and/or application able 24 hours a day, seven days a working for the Chattanooga Jew­ week," Michael emphasizes. ish community. I grew up here and Single in Cyberspace! Before starting his job at the Fed­ I look forward to working in a place 1. AOL users—use keyword "Jewish" to access a host of valuable and eration, Michael worked for his fa­ that I love," said Michael. interesting information. Singles can chat, post messages on specific boards, or use their Matchmaker service. 2. More detailed profiles, and often photos, can be found at the site http://www.JDate.com. It is free to post your information; however, after your first five responses, there is a cost to contact or respond to Please call Rachel Schulson at 493-0270, ext. 12 members. with information regarding Mazel Tovs and Condolences. 3. Free access to 5,000+ Jewish singles personals listings and homepages, Jewish single travel opportunities, and Jewish singles groups can be found at http://www.thejewishpeople.org. 4. The Jewish Single Matchmaker with 150,000 active callers on the Mazel Tov DATE-A-BASE and 500,000 visitors can be found at http://www.yenta.email.net. After a one-month free trial period, there are fees for posting, responding and chatting. ...to Jonathan Sachsman, son of Dr. David and Judy Sachsman, who in May received his BA from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Jonathan majored in Earth and Planetary Science

...to Anne Miller on her August 17 graduation from UTC with an MBA in Finance. Anne is employed by Nations Bank in Commercial Condolences Banking. ...to Dr. and Mrs. Marvin Nathan on their granddaughter Anna Stern's ...to Mildred Stallings, Federation Bookkeeper, on the loss of her inclusion in Who's Who Among American High School Students. mother, Bernice Jefferey. ...to Edward Brodsky, son of David and Jenny Brodsky, on receiving ...to Irvin Koch on the loss his father, Duke Koch his MBA from UTC on May 16.

...to Sherry Padgett on the loss of her father, Milton Thisman. ...to Andy Berke and Monique Prado on their August 23 marriage at B'nai Zion. ...to Floyd Kaplan on the loss of his wife Bea. ...to David Pearlman and Dr. Deborah White on their wedding, ...the family of Ann Poss scheduled for September 6 in Rochester, Minnesota. The groom is the son of Nathan Pearlman and Pennie R. Pearlman. His grandpar­ ...to Bernie Rubin on the loss of his brother, Aaron. ents are Sadye and the late I.E. Pearlman and Anne and Isadore Our heartfelt sympathies are extended to the bereaved families. Richelson. September 1998 The Shofar 21 ft I

This year, the 67th Annual General Assembly will be held in Jerusalem.

November 16-19 For all your outdoor living needs... Where Great Plants! and Great Prices! are just the beginning For more information, call (212) 284-6591 22 The Shofar September 1998

BUREAU OF JEWISH EDUCATION

Creating a Community of Derech Eretz by Amy Cohn Director, Chattanooga Bureau of Jewish Education riiiiM mbmmfm wjliiii

Many first days are just around the (good manners, or literally "by the and each other about derech eretz. I BJE Dates You'll corner. The first day of the 1998-99 way of the land"), and how to have hope that we will all choose this "way Want to Know! school year is approaching. Rosh fun! What shining role models we of the land." Every hand that held a Hashana, the joyous first day of the have right here in our own commu­ marker or a paintbrush on August 12 Religious School/High School Jewish year, will follow soon. nity for our very young students (and shined a bright light for Jewish edu­ Registration: Send your registration Chattanooga's Jewish children will for us adults too)! cation in our community this year. I form and check in now! Early regis­ attend their first day of Religious These students are creating Jew­ trust that this giving spirit is the first tration allows teachers time to make School this year on Sunday, Septem­ ish community rightbefor e our eyes. of many "firsts" at our Bureau of Jew­ special plans for your child's first day. ber 13th at 9:30. High school begins I marvel at their creative talents, even ish Education this year. Say a Call Amy at 894-8900 if you need on September 13th at 12:30. How do as I remember how it is not always "shehecheyanu" as a family when registration materials. All classes we as Jews celebrate these "firsts?" so easy to grow up Jewish in Chatta­ secular school, and then religious meet at B'nai Zion this school year. Several young, Jews in our com­ nooga. Each of our students, in ev­ school begins. Celebrate education, Calendars: 1998-99 calendars and munity have already commenced our ery school in the area, will be in the one of the highest values of Judaism. school handbooks will be distributed. celebration of first days. On Wednes­ minority this year. In the firstmont h Celebrate the Jewish community that The calendar includes dates for reli­ day, August 12, my volunteer staff of school, they will be reminded once we are creating as we welcome the gious school, high school, holiday swelled in numbers (and in animated again that they are different from the New Year ahead. programs and special family pro­ conversation!) as the halls of the majority as they prepare their teach­ grams. The handbook tells you ev­ B'nai Zion education wing filled with ers and classmates for their absence erything else! young voices and artistic talents! A at Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. special todah rabah (thank you) to Our Jewish students will have to Beginning Dates these gracious students who gave complete their schoolwork on their, Education is Religious School begins Sunday, their time and energy to decorate the own time. They will make sacrifices September 13.Classes meet from walls and bulletin boards of our in academics and activities in order not the filling 9:30-12:00. school: Mychal Bowling, Sarah to worship as Jews at our most holy High School begins Sunday, Septem­ Brook, Alex Rose, Jessica Stone, and time of the year. And they will, from of a pail, but ber 13. Classes meet from 12:30 - Kelsey Stone. There is no greater joy youngest to oldest, be constantly 3:00 (two Sundays per month). than watching one's students grow teaching their own teachers, prin­ the lighting of Adult Education begins in October. into young teachers. These student ciples and classmates about why Classes will be available on Sunday taught me a few things about art and these days are so sacred to them and afire. mornings from 9:30-11:00 and Tues­ interpretation, what education and to their families. day evenings from 7:00-8:30(with Judaism mean to us in our everyday I challenge each of us, in the com­ William Butler Yeats coffee and dessert from 6:45-7:00). lives, how to live with derech eretz ing year, to learn from our children Watch for course listings soon!

BJE, from page 1 ministration, and began to work in a business partner. Amy, Jon and son mornings teaching in Ann Arbor, welcome that in the future." the health field, researching health Geoffrey, then a toddler, moved back Chapel Hill, Madison and Chatta­ Amy, the mother of Geoffrey, policies affecting the aging popula­ to Chattanooga in 1989 and she later nooga. She started out teaching mu­ 10, Ethan, 7 and Aliza, 2, is thrilled tion. She also did medical writing became President of the company. sic, but has added other teaching along to have the opportunity to make and editing. Amy was very active in running Vio­ the way. Since her return to Chatta­ Jewish education the best it can be th th Amy met her husband, Jon let Camera as well participating in the nooga, she has taught 5 and 6 for Chattanooga. " I see myself as Cohen in Chapel Hill and they were photography business worldwide as grades, music and high schoolers in the bridge from the old to the new," married there in 1984. Together they a Trustee of the International Photo the Religious School. She will con­ she explains. " I want to take what th moved to Madison, Wisconsin for Marketing Association. The Cohns tinue to teach 6 grade and high we created in the past four years his residency in psychiatry. In Madi­ sold the business in 1997 and Amy school even while serving as the BJE's and push it to grow and blossom son, Amy worked for a large hospi­ worked for several more months to Director. "In addition to the students in the years ahead. I am very ex­ tal as head of their community help the new owners with the transi­ in my classes, I plan to get to know cited about this position!" wellness program. She enjoyed the tion. all of the young people over the course "We feel very fortunate to have work very much and felt that many Soon after leaving Violet, Amy of the year," said Amy. Amy on board and are looking for­ of the skills she acquired would be became the Interim Director of the Amy has spent her summer ready­ ward to a great year," added Karen applicable to a business setting. BJE. The transition was a smooth one ing the program, for fall. "I treasure Stone. At the same time, her father, Herb for Amy, given her extensive experi­ the volunteers who worked with me Cohn, the owner of Violet Camera ence in Religious Schools. For many all through the summer—a variety of here in Chattanooga was looking for years, Amy has spent her Sunday adults and students," said Amy, "I , September 1998 The Shofar 23

BUREAU OF JEWISH EDUCATION

•HB Swimming in a creek called The Pocket Digging for fossils on afield trip to the Creative Discovery Museum lllllliilifb'III:^ flllllMlllllll HBill :*• * -"^•••••gBifagll 1 H 1 »!••• ••jH Bm IP If WSSSSSm • m^§gp Tliiif< fi I*':' HUH B:p' li « : •:.. •Willip j* ••*£ lgfe*^%: BBBBHi Making replicas of the Western Wall Horseback riding was a big hit

Marcia Menuskin teaches campers to make pottery

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' m |h I The Lama Lo staff • III •i.'* s

La/no Lo campers and staff Camp Lama Lo by Wendy Beker, Camp Lama Lo Director Our children had a wonderful time at Lama Lo. From the moment they got on the big yellow bus with Mr. Marshall or arrived on the Dalton van, until the end of the day, their lives were filled with nonstop activity. I could iliifi not have done this without the tremendous support of some wonderful people, my staff and the counselors. Our children's lives were filled with music with Rhonda Seeber, archery with Rabbi Schnee, arts and crafts with Gayle Shavin Johnson and Rachel Sadowitz, pottery with Marsha Menuskin, nature crafts with Susan DiStefano, storytelling with Trudy Trivers and of course, horseback riding. Camp itself could not have been done without my colleagues, Tziporah Altman-Shafer and Matt Saul, who /faoot Elaine Schnee spent a tremendous number of hours and energy working with me so we could bring our children the exciting camp and Sarah DiStefano they deserve. We celebrated Israel's 50th by traveling through time. We had a wonderful day in Chattanooga at Richard Waxler's golfing range and the Creative Discovery Museum, where Henry Schulson did special programming for us. Rabbi Davidson visited us and worked with our children. The highlight was our overnight. I will always be thankful for my friends, Pam and Travis who lend us their farm for two weeks every year so our children can have a camp. Until next year, Doda Wendy. 24 The Shofar September 1998

CONFERENCE, from page 7

a deaf German artist who survived Dachau. David was at the Conference JUDIT KONIG was taken to the Danube River to be shot along with and brought his intensely moving exhibit, "Images of the Holocaust," a one thousand other Jews. Though shot three times, she was among the only deaf view of the Holocaust. four survivors. Judit was unable to continue her testimony. VILMA DAVID JACKSON, current President of the World Congress of the Jew­ DOSTAL, a Hungarian interpreter, and one of the Righteous Gentiles, was ish Deaf wrote a paper called, "Don't go near anything yellow" (an all too overcome with emotion, as we all were, and testimony had to be suspended. familiar symbolism). His wife, Eva, is the deaf child of deaf Holocaust EUGENE BERGMAN, a retired Professor from Gallaudet told of be­ survivors. ing deafened by a blow to the head from a German rifle butt. He watched ISRAEL SELA, a child of deaf adults (CODA), is Director of the Hun­ the burning of the Warsaw ghetto and watched Jews, including his own garian office of the American Joint Distribution Committee. Israel made it father and brother, shot one by one. his mission to bring deaf Hungarian survivors to the conference so that KLARA ERGOSI's life was saved because her sister persuaded guards their stories could come to light. Their individual stories might have been that, although Klara was deaf, she could work. She did - cleaning toilets, ripped from the pages of Ripley's "Believe it or not." They cry out to be digging graves. All survivors spoke not only of the killings, but of the told. constant humiliation and degradation. These are just some of the stories. PETER FARAGO spoke of "angels" that helped him to survive. At age I will leave the reader with this: a plaque at the Israelite Institute for the 10, Peter and his mother were on their way to Auschwitz when the Allies Deaf in East Berlin reads: "From this house 146 deaf Jewish students were bombed their train. They were instead sent to Bergen-Belsen where they dragged by fascist bandits and murdered in 1942. A memorial to the dead. were separated. Confused and hungry, Peter used gestures to indicate his A reminder for the living." hunger. A Polish boy of deaf parents told him never to use his hands to In midsummer 1999, Gallaudet University will sponsor a study tour of speak. At a later date Peter was standing in a line when he saw his mother's "Deaf People and the Holocaust" in Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic back. When his mother saw Peter, she fainted. and Hungary. I really wish I could go!

Jerusalem On Line

Channel 45 (Cable 5) UShana Tova to the Sundays at 6:30pm The Chattanooga Jewish Federation is pleased to bring to the com­ munity the weekly TV program "JERUSALEM ON LINE." The syn­ Jewish Community dicated program is aired every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. on Channel 45 WTCI, Public Television. The program highlights current events and gives in-depth background reports on many of the issues and challenges facing the people of Jerusalem and Israel. It is prepared professionally from the staff of the and comes direct from Jerusalem. Set your VCR or tune in live. You will not want to miss it. Also, tell Federation your non-Jewish friends and neighbors that they will enjoy watching the weekly news magazine and documentary program on Channel 45.

Your contributions to the Annual Federation Campaign make possible the local showing of "Jerusalem on Line."

IP 3 BUCKINGHAM SOUTH The Shofar (pi Published ten times a year by the Jewish Community Federation of Greater Chattanooga An exclusive senior residence & assisted living community Claire Binder, President for those who desire Deborah Levine, Executive Director elegant living in the Irv Ginsburg, Communications Committee Chair Southern tradition B. Rachel Schulson, Editor Three delicious Kosher *® meals served daily Communications Committee BO Monthly health screening BO Personal kitchenette Miriam Levine 89 Emergency call lights Irv Resnick, Ph.D. 89 24 hour security Harold Shapiro SO Courtesy van service Robert Siskin OPEN 89 Weekly housekeeping Dr. Steve Ulin DEC. 98 go Jew*sn holiday festivities, including Oneg Shabbat EllieUlin Perfectly located in Savanah's finest residential Locally Richard Zachary neighborhood, within walking distance of shopping, o^d & The Shofar is mailed at no charge to members of the Jewish synagogues, & the Jewish community center. operated Community Federation of Greater Chattanooga. The views and Find luxury, security, comfort, & friendship at opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those Buckingham South, on the coast in Savannah, Georgia of the Federation or the editorial staff of this newspaper. For priority registration go Phone(912)354-1908 80 Fax(912)354-5272 £ September 1998 The Shqfw 25 rTOSS^H Hadassah News by Dana Waxier

This is going to be a great year for Hadassah! We have many wonderful programs for the upcoming year, but most exciting is that the Chattanooga Chapter will be hosting the Southern Region Spring Conference in April. We will be combining our Donor with this event so mark your calendars now! September will be our first event. We have invited Mira Kinnelman from Oak Ridge to come speak to our group about her book. The meeting date, time and place will be announced later. I also want to announce the 1998-1999 Board. The following women have graciously volunteered and I thank them all for their continued support!

President - Dana Waxier American Affairs - Elizabeth Resnick Treasurer - Theresa Sharp Cards & Certificates - Faith Minnen, Millie Lander,ClaraShoenig Corresponding/Recording Secretary - Lisa Harrison Trees - Rita Speer New Member/Integration Chair - Barbara Oxenhandler Young Women, Young Leaders - TBA Jewish National Fund - Molley Norman Telephone Chair - Nikki Hasden Fund Raising VP/Chair - Fillis Frank Programming VP/Coordinator - Ronni Charin Membership/Life Membership/Outreach VP/CO - Faith Miller Training Wheels Chair - Marsha Menuskin Records Administrator/Renewal/Transfers - Merrill Levine Public Relations - Dinny Duncan Bulletin Editor - Roz Vogel Southern Region Vice President - Judy Sachsman Israel, Zionist and International Affairs - Myrna Abramson

We want to welcome the following New Gifted Members: Amy Cohn, Shelly Simms, Judy Bloom Minnen, Suzanne Cohn, Rachel Schulson, Helen Miles-Cohen and Barbara Kesler We also want to welcome Deborah Levine and our new Annual Members. Janet Perfetti, Nada Ginsburg, and Susanne Sachsman are our new Life Members! Merrill Levine and Faith Miller are now Co-Membership Chairmen. Please contact them for any membership information, forms, or ques­ tions. And just a reminder tojhe Annual Members - You probably have received your first billing from National and all annual dues are to be paid directly to National. Hadassah is running a $200 special price for Life Memberships until May 1999. Become a Life Member and no more annual dues! Speaking of National... I was able to attend the National Convention in New York City last month. It was held July 12-15 at the New York Hilton. : The theme of the convention was, "with a full heart and a willing soul." Three thousand Hadassah Women filled the halls with four days of inspiring seminars, lectures and workshops, which confronted issues of families, communities, women's health, leadership. Of course Israel and the ever so impor­ tant peace process were discussed as well. We were treated to presentations from such dignitaries as Abba Eban, Senator Joe Biden, Dennis Ross, Eli Evans, Alfred Uhry, Linda Ellerbee, and many, many more! Hadassah passed many resolutions dealing with vital issues affecting our National American Affairs/Domestic Policy. Some are as follows: ongoing efforts to defeat the "Religious Freedom" amendment, encouraging Congress and state legislatures to enact child care legislation, urging Congress to enact stronger gun control. We passed other resolutions on tobacco, Women's economic equity and the privacy of medical records. Resolutions that passed on in the international front included Zionist resolutions, a salute to Israel's 50* Anniversary, support of the peace process, religious pluralism and Jewish unity, support for the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act, Ethiopian education in Israel, and a call to the Israeli government and public health organizations to counteract the promotion of tobacco, especially to minors. As you can see, the convention was not only fun but also very educational. Start thinking about next year, in Washington D.C.! Our Chapter won awards for meeting our quotas for new membership, life membership and fund raising. Congrats to us!

Hadassah Open Board Meeting and Pot Luck Dinner, June 8th at the home of Fillis Frank

•« 44 •]• I - ••I HHi

Roz Vogel and Rita Andrews

Myrna Abramson, her mother Betty Glazer From left: Lisa Harrison, Barbara Oxenhandler and Lucile Speal Susan Leininger, Henrietta Elson and Faith Miller

Foreground: Merrill Levine, Theresa Sharp, Sylvia Frumin, Millie Shapiro Background: hostess Fillis Frank and Dana Waxier Trudy Trivers, Bonny Gimple and Janet Perfetti 26 The Shofar September 1998

CONGREGATION NEWS

Beth News Cantor Jared Klein to Conduct High Holyday Services

For the fourth year in a row, Congrega­ Family-Syle Traditional tion Beth Sholom has unanimously voted to engage Cantor Jared Klein to conduct "Rolled Cabbage" Supper the High Holyday Services. For the past three years, Cantor Klein, nas most favor­ Sunday, November 1 at 6:00pm ably impressed and inspired the Congre­ gation with the quality of his voice as well Irv Ginsburg, Chattanooga's highly acclaimed "Rolled Cabbage" expert as with the traditional and sacred liturgi­ will prepare the Supper. In addition, Irv and Nada Ginsburg are generously cal melodies that he incorporates into the providing all the food. Service. In addition, his particular brand Irv Ginsburg will present the Jewish origins of the "Rolled Cabbage" deli­ of officiating, lends itself to congregational cacy as well as personal memorable recollections of the "Jewish Bronx." participation which has become the unique Members and friends are asked to mark their calendars and watch for trademark of the Congregation. more exciting details of this upcoming event. The grandson of a well-known Cleveland, Ohio Cantor, Jared Klein was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio and received his BA from Case Western Adults: $10.00 Children under 12: $6.00 Reserve University and his PhD in linguistics from Yale University. Since 1972, he has taught at the University of Georgia, where he is Professor of For reservations please call: Linguistics, Classics and German and Slovic Languages. In 1987, Dr. Klein Millie Shapiro 629-0761 began serious voice training with Charlotte Reinke, a retired voice professor Gayle Roistacher 855-5439 at the University of Georgia. He specializes in classical, especially German Leah Yagoda 624-5382 Lieder. At the same time, Dr. Klein has pursued a lifelong interest in Jewish cantorial music which he liberally introduces into the High Holyday Ser­ Fall and Winter Jewish vices. Before coming to Beth Sholom Dr. Klein served as High Holyday Cantor for many years at the University of Georgia Hillel. Enrichment Schedule W Mr. Larry Levy, Chairman of the Congregation Religious Committee will again chant the Preliminary Service for the High Holydays. Mr. Levy is no Shabbat Morning Family Service 9:00am. stranger when it comes to conducting services, as he does it on a regular Every Shabbat Morning Service is followed by a Sisterhood Kiddush, basis throughout the year. In addition, he acts as the Torah-fteader whenever Socializing and Family Study Session. The Congregation is currently the Rabbi is out of town. studying the Mishna part of the Oral Tradition of the Tractate With Dr. Klein and Larry Levy chanting the Services and Rabbi Hyman BERACHOT "BLESSINGS." delivering his timely sermons, members and guests are in for a unique reli­ gious experience. Sunday Morning Talis and Tefillen Service and Breakfast... 9:00am

Tuesday Evening Haftorah Study Group - "PROPHETS" ... 7:30pm Beth Sholom's Annual Raffle 1st prize $1000 Cash "Sar Shalom--Gate of Peace" Honored for their Impressive Sign j,.;.: Up to 12 Additional Prizes Awarded At the suggestion of Mr. Larry Levy, Religious Chairman, Congregation Sponsored by Beth Sholom expressed gratitude on behalf of the Jewish Community to the Beth Sholom Congregation "Sar Shalom" Group for the eye-catching sign in Hebrew and English on 20 Pisgah Avenue Brainerd Road. Chattanooga, TN 37411 The sign which expresses a fervent prayer for a lasting peace in Israel in honor of Israel's 50th Anniversary, is also a tribute to the Jewish Community Drawing at Annual Picnic - September 9, 1998 at 5:00pm from some local Christian friends such as "Sar Shalom." Vulcan Picnic Grounds (near Airport Road) Mrs. Lisa Harrison a well-known dedicated friend of Israel represented the Sar Shalom Group at the very touching Sabbath morning Tribute Service. Contact: Stanley Nusbaum at 629-7283 or fax requests to: 698-1038 Mr. Larry Levy participated with Rabbi Hyman in paying this well-deserved tribute. Stan will be glad to deliver or mail your tickets to you. We would appreciate your support for this annual fundraiser. September 1998 The Shofar 27 CONGREGATION NEWS

Pre-Selichos Discussion and Melave Malka (Escorting FIRSTDAYS SUKKOT \ the Sabbath Queen Supper) Sunday 8c Monday Evenings, October 4 and 5 ...1:00pm Saturday night, September 13 at 11:00pm Monday and Tuesday Mornings, October 5 and 6.....9:00am On Saturday Evening, September 13th, members and friends of Beth SHABBAT CHOL HAMOED SUKKOT Sholom are cordially invited to participate in a discussion of our High Holyday Candle Lighting traditions led by Rabbi Hyman. This will be followed by a Sisterhood Friday Evening.October 9 ...... 6:58pm MELAVE MALKA supper. * Saturday Morning/October 10...... 9:00am Selichos (Traditional Midnight Services) will begin at 12:00 midnight in (Each Service will be followed by a Sisterhood Kiddush in the Congrega­ the Main Sanctuary. Mr. Larry Levy, Synagogue Gabbai and Religious Com­ tional Sukkah) mittee Chairman will assist Rabbi Hyman in conducting the Selichos Ser­ vice. HOSHANARABBA Sunday Morning, October 11 8:00am Schedule of High SHEMINIATZERET & SIMCHAT TORAH Candle Lighting Holyday Services Sunday Evening, October 11.. 6:56pm Evening Services 7:00pm ROSH HASHANA 5759 Monday Morning, October 12 9:00am Candle lighting YIZKOR MEMORIAL SERVICE ..10:3flam Sunday night,September 20...... 7:23 pm Candle Lighting Monday night,September 21..;..8:19pm Monday Evening, October 12 7:51pm Evening Services 7:00pm Services Evening services will be followed by a family Simchat Torah Sunday evening, September 20th - Mincha.... 7:00pm. celebration and supper. Monday and Tuesday, September 21 and 22: Shacharis , 8:00am. SIMCHAT TORAH DAY Torah Reading 10:00am ; Tuesday, October 13.?. 9:00am Sermon 10:40am The family Simchat Torah celebration continues at morning services Shofar & Mussaf 11:00am followed by a kiddush luncheon.

Members will meet at 6:00pm First Day Rosh Hashana at Beth Sholom to walk to Chicamauga Creek for Tashlich Service. Monday & Tuesday, September 21 and 22 Additional High Holyday Mincha & Maariv :...7:15pm Traditions at Beth Sholom Rosh Hashana ends 8:16pm Tashlich SABBATH OF REPENTANCE The Tashlich service, which will be conducted on the first day of Rosh Candle lighting Hashana, involves the symbolic casting away of sins into a flowing river, Friday, September 25 7;15pm preferably one that contains fish. A group of Beth Sholom worshippers will Saturday Morning, September 26 ...9:00am meet at the Synagogue at 6:00 pm and walk together toward the Chickamauga Creek which is only 5 minutes away on Brainerd Road. Members as well Kiddush and family study following Services as non-members are invited to join the group. The service will be con­ ducted by both Rabbi Hyman and Cantor Klein and special Tashlich book­ YOM KIPPUR EVENING lets in Hebrew and English will be provided. Following the service the Candle lighting group will return to the synagogue for the evening services which begin at (A special place will be set aside to light candles in the Synagogue) 7:15pm.

Tuesday, September 29 ...7:00pm Candle Lighting Erev Yom Kippur Mincha . 7:00pm Arrangements will be made for Holyday candles to be lit in the Syna­ KolNidre 7:20pm gogue before Kol Nidrei. Please bring your own candles for this purpose. Yahrzeit candles in memory of loved ones can also be lit at the Synagogue YOM KIPPUR DAY and a special place will be made available for this purpose also. The Syna­ Wednesday, September 30th gogue gift shop has a generous supply of both Shabbat and Yahrzeit candles. Shacharis...... 8:00am Arrangements should be made to purchase these candles will in advance of Torah Reading & Sermon. 11:00am the Holyday. Yizkor 12:30pm Mincha 5:00pm Lulav and Essrog Sets can be ordered Neilah 6:15pm Scripture states with regard to the Holyday of Sukkot, "you shall take for yourselves on the first day, the fruit of a citron (essrog) tree, the branches SHOFAR & MAARIV .. .8:05pm Sisterhood Break-the-Fast of date palms (lulav), twigs of a ploited tree (myrtles), and brook willows; and you shall rejoice before Hashem, your G-D for a seven day period." SUKKOT HOLYDAY SERVICE SCHEDULE You have an opportunity to observe this meaningful Biblical Law for the Candle Lighting Holyday of Sukkot by ordering your own Arbah Minim "Four species sets" Sunday Evening, October 4 7:04pm or Lulav and Essrog sets. Orders must be placed with Rabbi Hyman prior Monday Evening, October 5 7:59pm to the Rosh Hashana Holyday. 28 The Shofar September 1998 CONGREGATION NEWS

also remember Duke Koch who passed away in August. September promises to be a busy month as we look forward to the High Holy Days. There will be a Shabbaton on September 12, at 10:00 a.m, B'nai Zion honoring Yetta and Howard Gropper on the occasion of their 50th Wed­ ding Anniversary. A Kiddish luncheon will follow the Shabbat service. On by Marcia Menuskin Saturday evening, September 12, at 9:30 p.m. we will be showing the film Frisco Kid, followed by desserts and coffee and the Selihoit Service. On The summer months at B'nai Zion alternated between being very busy September 18, the Shabbat Experience for Families and Friends will be and very quiet. June saw our Annual Meeting where new officers and board held at 6:00 p.m. Dinner under the stars will follow a Kabbalat Shabbat members were elected. The officers for 1998-99 are: Jerry Bogo and Rob­ service. Please make reservations no later than Tuesday, September 8. ert Siskin, Co-Presidents; Bob Brook, Helen Hanan, Jay Menuskin, and Rosh Hashana will be Monday and Tuesday, September 21 and 22 Ruth Votava, Vice Presidents; Janice Rhodes, Secretary; David Binder, (Schedule of times to follow). Monday afternoon at 6:00 p.m. we will meet Treasurer. We had a lovely Shabbat Experience dinner and service on June at B'nai Zion for Tashlich. We will walk to the pond at Eastgate to "cast 12, and the Keruv Committee (Outreach to the intermarried) hosted a pot away our sins". Minhah will follow at 7:30 p.m. back at B'nai Zion. The luck dinner and interesting discussion on June 14. On that evening we were Kever Avot Service at B'nai Zion Cemetery will take place Sunday, Sep­ also entertained by Jack Cobos and his wonderful violin selections. tember 27, at 12:30 p.m. From September 23-29, we will begin Opera­ In July we hosted around 90 campers and counselors from Camp Ramah tion Isaiah, the food drive for the needy, which will culminate at Kol Nidre Darom for dinner following their visit to the Aquarium and the I-Max the­ which will begin at 7:00 p.m. Please bring your non perishable food items to ater. We were delighted to see Josh Sherwin and Elana Davidson who are B'nai Zion during that time. Let's make this the largest food drive to date. on staff at Ramah and Allison Rhodes, our camper from Chattanooga was Yom Kippur is September 30, followed by a wonderful Break the. Fast also in the group. We then had a little breather from activities, and Rabbi beginning at approximately 8:15 p.m. Davidson took that opportunity to take his vacation. August started out with the wonderful Bar Mitzvah of Daniel Cohen, Upcoming Events son of Gay and Larry Cohen and didn't stop. We celebrated the Aufrufs of Sunday, October 4,12:30 p.m. - Sukkot Decorating Party and Lunch two lovely couples, Monique Prado and Andrew Berke and Deborah Monday and Tuesday, October 5 & 6 - Sukkot White and David Pearlman. The Prado/Berke wedding was held at B'nai Saturday, October 10,10:00 a.m. - Bat Mitzvah of Sydney Jacobson Zion and the White/Pearlman wedding will take place on September 6, in Monday, October 12 - Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor Rochester, New York. We also again welcomed the campers from Ramah 6:00 p.m. Gala Simchat Torah Dinner with the Darom who visited the Aquarium and the Creative Discovery Museum. Oak Ridge Klessmer Band Sadly, we held two unveilings, those of Rose Cohen and Harry Colton. We Simchat Torah Celebration Tuesday, October 13 - Simchat Torah

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The incoming Executive Committee: L-R: Robert Siskin, Ruth Votava, Helen Hanan, Jerry Bogo, David Binder, Jay Menuskin. Not pictured: Boo Brook, Janice Rhodes Jack Cobos entertaining at the Keruv (Outreach to the Intermarried) dinner. B'nai Zion Gift Shop

New Year Pocket Calendars are in

We have new merchandise arriving daily. We have the largest selection of mezuzot and tzedakah boxes in the region, plus kosher and non-kosher parchments. Disney dreidels and menorahs are here as are specialty menorahs and artwork.

Did you ever want to learn how to blow a shofar! Come by and select a shofar so you ft a ' -fi can begin to learn in your own home. Rachel will be happy to give you your first mm lesson.

We now offer a gift registry. Please remember B'nai Zion when you need that special gift for a birth, wedding, bar/bat mitzvah or housewarming. •"fit Please call Rachel Sadowitz (874-0393) for special orders. IlllHlflHF llta %##lli_ Remember, if you saw it in a larger city, Allison Rhodes (front left) at B'nai Zion WE CAN GET IT FOR LESS. with her friends from Ramah. September 1998 The Shofar 29 CONGREGATION NEWS

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES HIGH HOLY DAYS - 5759 (1998-99)

SELIHOIT B'nai Zion Saturday, September 12 - Selihot Service - FILM - The Frisco Kid. Deserts/Coffee, Door Prizes, Dedication of Memorial Plaques - 9:30 p.m. CANTOR ELIZABETH BERKE TO JOIN B'NAI ZION FOR THE HOLIDAYS ROSH HASHANAH Sunday, September 20 - Erev Rosh Hashana B'nai Zion is pleased to announce that Cantor Elizabeth Berke of Hous­ Minhah & Ma'ariv 6:00 p.m. ton, Texas will once again be joining us to lead services for Rosh Hashana Monday, September 21 - First Day Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Cantor Berke's education includes studies at the Jewish Shaharit -Morning Service 9:00 a.m. Theological Seminary, Midreshet Yerushalayim, Cornell University, and the Torah Service 9:45 a.m. University College of London. Her cantorial experience ranges from Beth Sermon & Sound of the Shofar 11:00 a.m. Israel Center, Madison, WI, Beth Shalom Congregation, Kansas City, MO, Musaf -Additional Service 11:45 a.m. Congregation Ohev Shalom, Wallingdord, PA, the Jewish Home and Hospital Tashlich Service 6:00 p.m. for the Aged, New York, NY, to Congregation Beth El,. Norwalk, CT. On a Minhah/Ma 'ariv - Afternoon/Evening Service 7:30 p.m. number of occasions, Elizabeth has been asked to represent the Jewish Theo­ Tuesday, September 22- Second Day Rosh Hashanah logical Seminary of America and Women's League for Conservative Judaism's Shaharit - Morning Service 9:00 a.m. Torah Fund where she led Shabbat services. She has taught Jewish music to a Torah Service 9:45a.m. variety of groups, led song sessions, and/or spoken on a variety of topics to Sermon & Sound of the Shofar 11:00 a.m. educate and excite the congregants. Her concerts include: concert in honor of Musaf- Additional Service 11:45 a.m. the re-establishment of Liberal Judaism in Munich, Germany, Congregation Minhah - Afternoon/Evening Service 6:00p.m. Brith Shalom Cantorial Concert, Bellaire, TX, Annual Houston Cantors Asso­ ciation Concert, Hanukah Concert, Halevi Choral Society, Chicago, IL, Con­ SHABBAT SHUVAH - THE SABBATH OF REPENTANCE gregation Beth Shalom Cantorial Concert, Northbrook, IL, and Adath Jeshurn Shabbat, September 26 Cantorial Concert, Louisville, KY. Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. We are very fortunate that Cantor Berke will be once again joining B'nai Zion for the Holidays and look forward to a moving and meaningful service. KEVER AVOTSERVICE Sunday, September 27 - B'nai Zion Cemetery KeverAvot Service 12:30 p.m.

YOM KIPPUR Tuesday, September 29 - Erev Yom Kippur Minhah - Afternoon Service 7:00p.m. Kol Nidre & Evening Service 7:15p.m. Wednesday, September 30 - Yom Kippur

•*n,mv^*.* • 1 Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. Torah Service 11:45 a.m. Yizkor & Sermon 12:30 p.m. Musaf- Additional Service 1:00 p.m. Minhah - Afternoon Service 5:45 p.m. At the Keruv dinner: Rabbi Josef Davidson, Ne'ilah- Concluding Service 6:45 p.m. David Solovey, Shelton Goldblatt. Ma 'ariv- Evening Service///avdalah 8:00 p.m. Break-the Fast (approximately) 8:15 p.m. :: x M Please bring your own tallit and Kippah

•'•IF SUCCOT/ SIMHAT TORAH Sunday, October 4 - Lunch and Succah Decorating 12:30 p.m. Sunday, October 4 - Erev Succot Minhah/Ma 'ariv - Afternoon/Evening Service 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 5 - First Day Succot Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 6 - Second Day Succot Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. At the Keruv dinner: Susan Goldblatt, Shabbat, October 10 -Bat Mitzvah of Sydney Jacobson Sherri and Les Padgett. Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. Kiddush Luncheon 12:15 p.m. Sunday, October 11 - Erev Shemini Atzeret Minhah/Ma 'ariv -Afternoon/Evening Service 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 12 - Shemini Atzeret/Erev Simchat Torah Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. Yizkor - Memorial Service 11:30 a.m. Simhat Torah Dinner 6:00p.m. Gala Simhat Tora Celebration with Oak Ridge Klezmer Band 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 13 - Simhat Torah Shaharit - Morning Service 10:00 a.m. Allison Rhodes and Elana Davidson at the Ramah Darom dinner. 30 xThe Shofar September 1998

CONGREGATION NEWS

by Richard Zachary Mizpah Installs New Board On May 18, 1998 Mizpah Congregation welcomed and installed a new Board of Directors, including Norman Moore as President. Norman has the distinct honor of leading our Temple as we welcome our new Rabbi and his Mazel Tov.... wife, Philip and Elizabeth Posner.Other executive board members include High School Jonathan Minnen, Ariel Poss, Irv Ginsburg, Jerry Finkle, Henry Stoloff, Flossie Graduates ^T ""* Weill and M. J. Levine. It is Mr. Moore's pleasure to lead Mizpah exactly 25 Scott Abelson years after his last term! Talk about continuity. Rachael Miller Beth Susman IHHHBI Outdoor Garden of Life Marcie Ulin ig§§jw For those of you who are familiar with the outdoor grounds at Mizpah, you are aware of how stark they have become over the years. We are no College Graduates longer sitting in the lush section of town. However, a small but tenacious Paige Ginsberg Blair Abelson on group of members, spearheaded by Susan and Joe Barack, Ruth Zachary and Mindy Minnen the occasion of Bonnie and Henry Stoloff, have created a Garden of Life in the area adjacent Jonathan Sergent her Bat Mitzvah to the Temple. Surrounded by a beautiful fence, ringed with gorgeous plants and trees, the inside area is developing into a truly remarkable multi-use facility. There will be a water feature, a gazebo (already in), a bench for resting/prayer (benching!), a fabulous stone and rock sculpture and more Condolences.... plants and shrubs than you can imagine. Each corner is dedicated to a differ- ent theme, such as "Suffering", "Renewal", "Celebration" or "Welcome.' Floyd Kaplan, on the loss of his dear wife, Bea. YOU MUST SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT! Entire Poss family, on the loss of Ann Poss. Why Belong to a Synagogue? To Bernie Rubin , on the death of his dear brother, Aaron Rubin. Submitted to the Mizpah News and Views by Jonathan Minnen who noted, " I am not its author, but the message spoke to me, and I hope that it speaks to you." The need for belonging to a congregation is not only sound religion but Torah Study Begins sound psychology as well. To put your best foot forward and give your best Mizpah Congregation, and Rabbi Phil Posner are happy to announce to the world, you must identify yourself and share in the life of a community. Shabbat morning Torah study has begun. Each Sabbath morning, at 10:00am, You get a sense of life's enrichment when you become part of something come enjoy Torah and Bagels. What educational endeavor would be com­ larger and more important than your own social circle. We all sense the need plete with fresh bagels and coffee? Regular Shabbat worship services follow for greater resources than our own. Yet some people have said, "Why bother at 11:00am. Everyone is welcome. joining a synagogue? I can be religious without it. I Can live the Ten Com­ mandments and the Golden Rule in my home and business. I can worship G^ d in the hills or by the sea. My religion is complete without the synagogue." That may sound good, but do we really act that way? How often do we High Holy Day Schedule actually go to the mountaintop and think of G-d? How often do we pray when we go fishing? The chances are that G-d is worshipped more fre­ Saturday, September 12th quently in houses built in G-d's name and set worship than any place else. Selichot, 9:00pm One father said to his little girl, "Come on, we can say our prayers on the beach." The little girl replied, "But we won't, will we?" Sunday, September 20th Rare is the person who can maintain their religious outlook alone, with­ Erev Rosh Hashana, 8:00pm out stimulus from those who share the same values. None of us lives unto himself. These days, anyone who genuinely tries to live a life of moral val­ Monday, September, 21st: Rosh Hashana ues needs all the assistance they can get. Children's Service 9:00am The real truth is most clearly revealed when the unaffiliated call for the Adult Service 10:00am assistance of the rabbi in time of joy or sorrow. Yet that person ignores the Tashlich, immediately after at Ross' Landing. institution that makes it possible for the rabbi to minister to the Jewish com­ munity. Without the organized synagogue, there would be no rabbi to pro­ Sunday, September 27th Memorial Service vide that ministry when needed. In a sense, the unaffiliated person becomes Mizpah cemetary, 2:00pm something of a hitchhiker, depending upon others to carry the load. Not everyone who is affiliated with the synagogue automatically becomes Tuesday, September 29th a religious person. But those who do not so identify can be secular Jews, Erev Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre 8:00pm Kaddish Jews, delicatessen Jews, frightened Jews, but never really complete, understanding, fulfilled Jews. Wednesday, September 30th: Yom Kippur We need Jews who will stand up and be counted as such, who want their Children's service, 9:00am families to be part of the Jewish community. We need Jews who want their Adult service 10:00am children taught to feel themselves part of an eternal people. We need the Afternoon Service, 3:00pm, Memorial/Yizkor Service, 4:30pm spirit of those Jews who will add their commitment and their enthusiasm to Break-the-Fast to follow services the joy of being a Jew. September 1998 The Shofar 31 SUMMER HAPPENINGS

At the opening of "For G-d's Eyes: Plates and Vases" at the AVA Center Gallery

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CHATTANOOGA Irv Ginsburg's exhibit of photos of Israel were also displayed at the AVA gallery. He gave a talk METROPOLITAN in conjunction with the photo exhibit. AIRPORT

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JEWISH COMMUNITY FEDERATION OF GREATER CHATTANOOGA The SHOFAR Comm*** Community Calendar of Events 5758 September/Elul/Tishri 1998

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Golden Agers BZ Bd Mtg 11:00am, BZ 7:30pm

10 11 12 Golden Agers 11:00am, BZ Exec Comm Mtg Shabbaton Labor Day 8:00am, JCFGC Honoring Yetta & CBS Picnic Howard Groper < JCFGC office 5:30pm Campaign 10:00am, BZ closed Workers Briefing MIZP BdMtg 7:00pm 7:30pm 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Religious School SPACE H/BJE Golden Agers Shabbat 9:30am BdMtg Chai Steppers 11:00am, BZ JCFGC Noon, BZ Noon, BZ BdMtg Experience 7:00pm 6:00pm, BZ High School BJE Bd Mtg 12:30pm CBS Bd Mtg 7:30pm, BZ 7:45pm

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Religious School 9:30am Rosh Rosh Golden Agers Erev Rosh Hashana Hashana 11:00am, BZ Hashana

27 28 29 30 Octl Religious School 9:30am Kol Nidre Yom Kippur High School 12:3°Pm JCFGC office JCFGC office BZKeverAvot close at 4pm closed Service 12:30pm,Cemetery

The 1998-99 Directory should arrive at your home in September. As we know this is a vital tool for the community, we do have a supply of additional copies. If you would like an extra copy, please call Calendar Abbreviation Key the Federation office. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. BZ B'nai Zion CBS Congregation Beth Sholom MIZP Mizpah Jewish Community Federation Nonprofit Org. BJE Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Chattanooga CAJS Chattanooga Academy of Jewish Studies U.S. Postage (Chattanooga Jewish Welfare Federation) JCFGC Jewish Community Federation of Greater Chattanooga P.O. Box 8947 PAID Chattanooga, TN 37414

Find out what else is happening on the date you target for your next event. The Federation maintains a calendar for the community that includes congregational events, social activities, special services and celebrations. ONLY EVENTS LISTED ON THE FEDERATION'S COMMUNITY CALENDAR WILL APPEAR ON THE SHOFAR CALENDAR.

Call the Federation to get your event on the calendar once the date is set. Call Carole at 493-0270, ext. 10.