Happy Chanukah JewishTHE Georgian Volume 23, Number 1 Atlanta, Georgia NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 FREE What’s Inside The doctor and the visionary By Marvin Botnick Malizia, was the president and clinic director of the recently opened Malizia When I started thinking about writing Clinic, and Billy thought that the story Jewish Cuba this article, it almost felt as if I were writing of this clinic would make an interest- a script for a feel-good play, one that is ing piece for The Jewish Georgian. A humanitarian trip provides insights rated G, and one that begins with journalis- The original main charac- on an often mysterious culture. tic idealism and concludes with a crescen- ters of this story are Anthony By Jeff Bashuk do of joyful music and happy people. A. Malizia, Jr., M.D., an Page 16 That, in fact, was how I felt after a Atlanta-based urologic sur- recent visit I made to the Malizia Clinic and geon, fellow of the American learned the almost fairy-tale story of how a College of Surgeons, and Superstition? doctor-patient relationship evolved into a diplomate of the American $25,000,000, not-for-profit medical facili- Board of Urology; and Or fact? ty. Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, A month or so ago, I received a tele- co-founder of The Home Did Ali’s Cookies break a Braves los- phone call from my friend Billy Bauman, Depot, who, through his ing streak? You decide. who wanted to tell me about a medical personal involvement and By Stephen Black facility that had recently opened. Tony as chairman of The Marcus Page 22 Malizia, a physician and friend whom Billy had met through his father, a patient of See DOCTOR page 7 Bernie Marcus and Dr. Anthony Malizia A Circle of Support Yad L’Yad Interest Free Loan Fund, The Breman Museum, Isidor which in January becomes Jewish Addressing the Interest Free Loan of Atlanta, helps people whose loan repayments then Strauss, and the RMS Titanic help others. water problem Pag 40 By Sandy Berman By Ronnie Porat

You may have first learned of the Life cannot be sustained without Returning to Israel Titanic years ago, watching A Night To water. The availability of water histori- Again and Again Remember, one of those classic movies cally has been one of the dominant con- that used to be on late in the evening. siderations in where people, animals, The reasons to visit Israel include the There were several memorable scenes in and plants have lived, and it has been profound, the fun, and everything in the film about the ill-fated ship, but the and is a major factor in the culture and between. one that always remained with me was history of nations. By Ron Feinberg the poignant moment when an elderly We in Georgia have been made Page 17 woman refused to get into the lifeboat more aware of the limiting factor that and instead decided to stay on board lack of water can bring and the prob- with her husband. “We have been living lems that arise in determining water Bringing Kids to Camp together for many years,” she said. rights with neighbors. Even though the “Where you go, I go.” average rainfall in the southeastern The Marcus Foundation has again What you might not know is that the United States exceeds all other regions awarded a major grant to the scene was depicting the final few of the country, the state of Georgia is in Foundation for Jewish Camping. moments in the lives of Isidor and Ida a legal battle with the neighboring Page 45 Straus. Isidor was the one-time owner of states of Alabama and Florida on the Macy’s Department Store. It may even allocation and use of the water. Atlanta further surprise you to discover that itself has a historical average rainfall of A Fading Memory Isidor Straus was actually a native approximately 50 inches a year; howev- er, we have been subject to curtailment Georgian, who grew up in Talbotton and LaGrange’s shrinking Jewish communi- of its use and, depending on the out- Columbus. ty mirrors others in the South. come of the legal action, could be faced The story of Isidor and Ida Straus By Stuart Rockoff Sandy Berman, archivist at The with dire restrictions, that could pro- and their tragic deaths on the Titanic has Page 28 Breman Museum, and Tom Asher with the newly acquired portrait of See WATER page 6 See BREMAN page 7 Isidor Straus Page 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 The world is a better place because of Israel Through the centuries, Jews have been was barely cut before its neighbors tried to think we fall short on trumpeting the contri- portrayed as pariahs, a non-native people deny it an existence through a barrage of mil- butions to and the benefits received by the abominated by those in whose presences they itary and verbal attacks. As we know, these world in general that have been produced and existed, and an almost sub-human species BY were not successful. Military actions contin- delivered by this small, start-up country that, who plot and scheme against the interest of Marvin ued over the years with the same lack of suc- disproportionately to its population and the majority in whose presence they eked out Botnick cess; however, luckily at the present time resources, has made such major contributions a living. these no longer are being carried out. But the to advancement and wellbeing of the world. Fortunately for those of us who have the the world. verbal attacks and accusations have increased. The character of Archie Bunker, in the good luck to live at the present time in this What is different, however, is that for the Since Israel could not be annihilated mil- sitcom All in the Family, had a frequently great country, the outward restrictions and first time in two thousand years there is now a itarily, the detractors appear to have plotted a used line, “Stifle yourself, Edith.” It almost many of the taboos are no longer evident from Jewish state that was conceived out of love course to discredit it verbally. Using the seems as though this is the mantra that has our non-Jewish neighbors. But both conscious and born out of tragedy. The umbilical cord geopolitical power of oil and the cache of been adopted by the world when considera- and subconscious stereotyping still exists in money generated by this natural resource that tion is given to any discussion of the contri- happened to be located on their land, there has bution of Israel. been a concerted effort and the expenditure of We often refer to the mission of the enormous sums of money to delegitimize the Jewish people to be “A Light Unto the creation and existence of Israel. To the world, Nations” and a challenge to “Repair the there is no differentiation between Israel as a World.” While it is critical that we refute country and Jews as a people, regardless of accusations that are factually incorrect and where we live. Their history of the Jews and advocate in support of the continued existence the historical stereotyping of us have been of Israel, it is time for us to trumpet to the blended together with the establishment and world community the major contributions that existence of Israel to do what could not be are being made by the Jews and Israel. It is done with arms: challenge and compromise time to sound the shofar to awaken the world the legitimacy of the Israel. to what has been done to make the lives of all Israel must remain militarily strong. people healthier and improve their living con- Jews, both in Israel and the Diaspora, must ditions. It is time to focus attention on the light remain vigilant in defending and confronting that has shown forth out of Israel in its fulfill- false allegations and misrepresentations. But I ment of good works for mankind. In any endeavor, there needs to be both a defensive and an offensive strategy. I am sug- THE gesting that there be a more aggressive offen- Jewish Georgian sive game plan. We have been forced into a position of defending and justifying self- The Jewish Georgian is published bimonthly by Eisenbot, Ltd. It is preservation actions. I believe that there written for Atlantans and Georgians by Atlantans and Georgians. should be a greater effort to show the benefits Publisher Marvin Botnick that have inured to all people resulting from Co-Publisher Sam Appel Editor Marvin Botnick the establishment of the state of Israel. Managing Editor Marsha C. LaBeaume It is for this reason that this year we Assignment Editor Carolyn Gold Consulting Editor Gene Asher added to the content of The Jewish Georgian Associate Editor Barbara Schreiber a column “You Need to Know.” In this piece, Copy Editor Ray Tapley in each issue we recount several of the activi- Assistant Copy Editor Arnold Friedman Makeup Editor Terri Christian ties and developments that have come out of Production Coordinator Terri Christian Israel, which have contributed to the better- Designer David Gaudio Medical Editor Morris E. Brown, M.D. ment of world. In addition to the items in the Photographic Staff Allan Scher, Phil Slotin, Phil Shapiro, column in this issue, we have highlighted the Jonathan Paz Graphic Art Consultant Karen Paz activities of the Jewish National Fund’s Columnist Gene Asher, Susan Asher Parsons Water Fund, which is involved in Jonathan Barach, helping develop sources of water. The recy- Janice Rothschild Blumberg, Marvin Botnick, Suzi Brozman, cling of wastewater, the economical use of Shirley Friedman, Carolyn Gold, irrigation, and the work being done on Jonathan Goldstein, R.M. Grossblatt, George Jordan, Marice Katz, Balfoura, desalinization to produce potable water, in all Friend Levine, Marsha Liebowitz, of which efforts Israel is the leader, is technol- Howard Margol, Bubba Meisa, Erin O’Shinsky, Reg Regenstein, ogy that is critical to people in all countries. Susan Robinson, Stuart Rockoff, In the future, we plan to continue our Roberta Scher, Jerry Schwartz, Leon Socol, efforts in this direction. There is the well- Bill Sonenshine, Rabbi Reuven Stein, Cecile Waronker, Evie Wolfe known exercise that deals with how you Special Assignments Lyons Joel respond to the question of “When did you stop Advertising Eileen Gold, Ruby Grossblatt, Francine Lowe beating your wife?” The accusation is made in Michael Pelot, VP OP the question, and the response does not do Bill Sonenshine away with the damage of the question. Editorial Advisory Board Members For our part, we do not wish to concen- Sam Appel Rabbi Alvin Sugarman Sam Massell Jane Axelrod Albert Maslia William Rothschild trate on attempting to justify the array of pub- Gil Bachman Michael H. Mescon Marilyn Shubin lic relation vilifications. We will follow the Asher Benator Paul Muldawer Doug Teper course of airing the many positive contribu- 8495 Dunwoody Place, Suite 100 tions of Israel, its record of governing by the Atlanta, GA 30350 rule of law, its open and free press, and its (404) 236-8911 • FAX (404) 236-8913 democratic form of government that provides [email protected] for the rights of all of its citizens. We choose www.jewishgeorgian.com to highlight the positive. The Jewish Georgian ©2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 signed by the officer’s comrades: one pic- ing prisoner, who “looked about nine feet ture taken by AJC photographer John Spink tall,” was handcuffed to Seymour, and they and the other shot in 1944 in the headed to New York, where they took the What’s Philippines. subway around town, Seymour as Seymour looked may look just for a place to stow a tad bit older, the prisoner for the but we can night. Other passen- assure you gers gave them a HAPPENING that he is just wide berth. as tough and The next morn- SEYMOUR LAVINE WINS BRONZE ornery as ing, Seymour picked STAR 66 YEARS LATE. Our friend ever. up the prisoner, who Seymour Lavine, who will turn 98 on Seymour was now even angri- December 7, Pearl Harbor Day, is a true war also told us er, having been hero, having served in some of the worst BY Reg about an inci- chained to a bench fighting in the Pacific in WWII, as we Regenstein dent before Seymour Lavine in the Philippines in 1944 all night. Seymour let described in an article last year. being sent to him know that if he Well, guess what? Seymour got a call the Pacific “made a move, I’d the last man out. the other day from the Defense Department, that has never before been published: the shoot him.” Seymour succeeded in deliver- He was promised a Silver Star but saying he was being awarded a Bronze Star time he was sent to Boston to pick up an ing his prisoner to a military installation in never got it. But now it looks as if a Bronze for his action on Luzon in 1944, when he American soldier who, imprisoned for hit- Alabama, relieved, of course, but having no Star is on the way. led his infantry squadron on a jungle patrol, ting an officer, had escaped three times idea what danger he would be facing in the The Atlanta Journal-Constitution got with a platoon of Philippine Scouts, and already. When Seymour, a strapping and years to come. wind of the news, and Mark Davis did a they were ambushed by Japanese soldiers. fearless young man back then, arrived, he Seymour is the only person we know huge article on Seymour. The piece has two The Philippine scouts took off, but was asked, “How many men did you bring who got to hang out with cannibals, lived to photos of Seymour holding a captured mil- Seymour grabbed his Browning Automatic with you?” “No one,” he replied. “It’s just tell about it, and actually didn’t mind the itary flag with the rising sun, which he “lib- Rifle (the famous BAR), ordered his men to me.” experience. On patrol in New Guinea, his erated” from a Japanese captain and is withdraw, held off the Japanese, and was The sullen, angry, violent, fiery-look- unit happened upon a tribe of cannibals, with human skulls scattered all around the THE MOST IMPORTANT MARINE “Krulak almost single-handedly saved to graduate from the Naval Academy and village. They gave Seymour and his men EVER. There is a new book out that is the USMC from extinction in the post-war be commissioned in the Marine Corps. food—he is still unsure exactly what it going to create a sensation, especially in unification. Most people have no idea how That was in 1934. was—and a place to sleep for the night. Just the Jewish community. close America came to not having a Marine “To be that small in the macho atmos- to be on the safe side, one of his men stayed It is the story of one of the nation’s Corps. phere of the Marine Corps was very diffi- up all night as a sentry. greatest military heroes, a legendary “He also was a major player in the cult. Plus the Marine Corps was dominated Seymour’s brother Sanford was also a Marine officer who, it turns out, happened development of helicopters and pioneered by Southerners who were bigoted and anti- war hero, in Europe fighting the Germans. to be Jewish. Who knew? their use to insert troops into combat. The Semitic, and the early years of the 20th The Bronze Star and Purple Heart arrived Brute: The life of Victor Krulak, U.S. Army gets the credit for helicopters in century were marked by virulent and open only 50 years late, in 1996, received by his Marine, is being published by Little, Vietnam, but everything they did had been anti-Semitism. widow at a full-dress parade at Fort Brown and done by the USMC in Korea more than a “That Krulak rose beyond the rank of McPherson, honoring Sanford for having Company on decade earlier.” captain is extraordi- attacked German armored units in Holland November 10, the Krulak was the main nary. That he became in 1944 with a bazooka. The Germans fired birthday of the advocate of counterinsur- the youngest general in back, tearing off his arm and wounding him United States gency in Vietnam, Robert the history of the fatally. Marine Corps. told us. “He was a three-star Marine Corps is amaz- We are glad that Seymour, thanks to the Written by Atlantan general and the leading con- ing. That he denied his efforts of Senator Johnny Isakson, is finally Robert Coram, the tender to become comman- Jewish background being recognized, belatedly, for his heroism book argues that dant when he went to and claimed to be an in World War II, one of the last of the Victor Krulak was Washington to confront LBJ Episcopalian is sad.” Greatest Generation who wiped the scourge the single most over how the president was For Robert, the of fascism from the face of the earth. important officer prosecuting the war. He was bottom line is this: “A Author Robert in the history of the thrown out of the Oval little Jewish boy HAPPY 90TH TO ROSE KLEIN AND Coram Marine Corps. Office, did not receive his becomes the most MANY MORE! Anyone who has been As Robert told fourth star, and did not important officer in the involved with Federation knows, appreci- us exclusively at The White House restau- become commandant.” 235-year history of the ates, and loves rant in Buckhead, “Krulak masterminded But the most amazing Marine Corps. He was Rose Klein, who the invasion of Okinawa. He was instru- part was yet to come. a man whose contribu- celebrated her mental in the development of the drop-bow “All that is what he tions accrued not just 50th year of serv- Higgins Boat in WWII, arguably the single did,” Robert told us. “Now to the Marine Corps, ice there in 2008. most important piece of tactical equipment let me tell you who he was: but also to America. But now she has in the war. Every major campaign in a Russian Jew whose father He affected the destiny reached another WWII—the Pacific, North Africa, Sicily, came over to America on a boat. of America. He was a hinge of history. And milestone, her Italy, and D-Day—began with an amphibi- “He was born in Denver, but grew up most Jews have never heard of him.” 90th birthday! ous landing. The boat that put soldiers and in Cheyenne. There he wrangled an Robert was twice nominated for a And it turns out Marines—and their equipment—ashore appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, Pulitzer Prize for his work as a reporter for someone else was the Higgins Boat. primarily because many people in the AJC and is the author of a dozen books. appreciates her “He was awarded the Navy Cross for Wyoming had never heard of the USNA, Now he has written a powerful, gripping, Rose Klein too! She tells us heroism on Choiseul, part of what was then and there was an opening. fascinating story of one of America’s great exclusively that called the British Solomon Islands, in “He was 5’4” tall and weighed 116 military heroes, who hid his past and she has received a World War II. He and his men did a behind- pounds—two inches too short and four denied his Jewish heritage, but accom- “Happy Birthday” letter from President and the-lines diversion and would have been pounds too light—to meet minimum size plished amazing things that, in Robert’s Mrs. Obama on this great occasion. And, wiped out had they not been rescued by a requirements to be commissioned. The words, make him “less a man than a leg- while we are not quite in that league, we PT boat skippered by none other than John story of how he got a waiver is amazing. end.” also want to add our best wishes on a life F. Kennedy. He was the smallest and lightest man ever See HAPPENING, page 4 Page 4 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010

just walk down these aisles, and I nearly We love the baseball season—the smell financial advisor Happening always find everything I need to do an of the pine tar, the sawdust, the resin, the and vice president From page 3 entire house.” grease, the freshly cut grass—and that’s just for investments. As noted on the website, Decorating the hotdogs! His new office is well spent, to say the least, and our hopes Mart is truly is a one-stop shop. The 50,000 located in the Wells for many more birthday celebrations for square foot eclectic store features over ATLANTA BEST CELLARS DINNER. Fargo (formerly Rose. 10,000 different items, including thousands Our friend Mark Goldman and renowned Wachovia) branch of bolts of designer quality fabric, furniture, entertainment lawyer and Don Rickles at 6300 Roswell MYRON DWOSKIN STARRING IN TV drapery and hardware, trim and tassels, an look-alike Joel Katz, of Greenberg Traurig, Road, at Sandy AD. Atlanta native and legend Myron endless array of art and accessories, lamps, co-chaired the 2nd annual T.J. Martell Springs Circle, in Dwoskin, one of Grady High School’s out- mirrors, pictures, and of course, wallpaper, Foundation Atlanta Best Cellars Dinner at Sandy Springs. standing football players, is proving that and special-order blinds and shutters. The the Ritz-Carlton Buckhead. Guests enjoyed Brian will be you don’t have to be that good looking to do discerning and elegant Laura Lee is con- an amazing four-course meal prepared by Financial Planner working with his a successful TV ad! (We kid Myron.) stantly shopping all the shows and marts, guest chefs; rare wines from some of the Bryan Lewis clients on their His TV spot for his Decorating Mart in which accounts for the stream of new and city’s top wine collectors, restaurateurs, and investments, mort- Kennesaw is one of the best we’ve seen. exciting merchandise always featured in the wine store owners; and dancing the night gages, loans, retirement planning, college Myron narrates the ad, conducts a tour of Kennesaw store. away, all the while supporting a great cause. savings accounts, and many other types of the store, and announces the catchy slogan, Myron is almost always there, manag- Presented by Greenberg Traurig law products, while working with a number of created by the Man himself, “At Decorating ing the store, at 1200 Barrett Parkway, firm and Upfront Megatainment, the posh private bankers to assist clients with all of Mart, you never have to wait for a sale—the along with his big staff of friendly, helpful black-tie affair, benefiting cancer research, their financial needs. sale waits for you, every day.” professionals who know and love decorat- raised over $90,000! Bryan generously promises that he will ing. Visit www.decoratingmart.com, or call buy an Henri’s sandwich for anyone who 770-424-3025. comes into his branch in the heart of Sandy Springs and mentions reading this in The TOSH CELEBRATES HIS 65TH BIRTH- Jewish Georgian. He can be reached at 404- DAY WITH THE BRAVES. The lovely and 851-1801 or at delightful Jill VanTosh hit a home run [email protected]. when, for husband Jeff’s 65th birthday, she took him to the 755 Club at Turner Field, ANOTHER HONOR FOR PARADIES. We treating him and grandson Max to a Braves can hardly keep up with the continuing hon- game and all the food and refreshments ors reaped by The Paradies Shops, but we they could eat and drink—even sushi, at a have to mention the latest: The Orlando ball park already! All in all, it was a cham- Business Journal named The Paradies pionship performance. Shops at Gaylord Palms Resort and At the Best Cellars Dinner: (from Convention Center one of the area’s “Best left) Joel Katz, Mayor Kasim Reed, Places to Work” in 2010. Presenting Sponsor and Upfront Of course, this is no surprise, given Megatainment CEO/Founder CEO Gregg Paradies’ emphasis on “the Devyne Stephens, and Mark company’s family culture and mission Goldman statement to exceed the expectations of the Laura Lee and Myron Dwoskin traveling public.” Named Best Airport Retailer for the Mark, a hugely successful, twenty-year past 15 consecutive years by Airport It’s been almost twenty years since the veteran of the advertising industry, has a Revenue News, the family-owned, locally lovely Laura Lee and Myron sold their new start-up company, Amore di Acqua owned and operated Paradies Shops has chain of wallpaper stores. And as he tells it, LLC, which provides water dispensing been growing and thriving since being “About ten minutes later, we had a new services to the hospitality industry. established half a century ago. Read more at dream, and if you ask any of the hundreds Joel has served as chairman of the www.TheParadiesshops.com. of amateur and professional decorators that American Bar Association’s Entertainment visit Decorating Mart daily, it’s a dream and Sports Law Section. His clients include THE DREAM SUPREMES. Two of come true.” As one designer put it: “Before some of the world’s best known entertain- Atlanta’s prettiest and smartest ladies are I discovered Decorating Mart, I’d drive ers, music producers, record companies, Bobi Dimond and Marcia Jaffe, and we’ve from one specialty shop to another and concert promoters, and Fortune 500 compa- long admired them. But as young and ener- often back again with samples, swatches, Jill and Jeff VanTosh nies. getic as they are, we never thought they’d and sketches, and just do one room. Now I The T.J. Martell Foundation is known join a dance troupe to perform at WNBA as the music industry’s largest funder of basketball games. Wishing All Our Family and Friends A innovative medical research focused on The idea came from Marcia, a vice finding cures for leukemia, cancer, and president of the Buckhead Business Happy Hanukah AIDS. It sources and supports early-stage Association and a retired marketing profes- research projects aimed at developing more sional. When she e-mailed the proposal to effective clinical treatments that otherwise Bobi, Atlanta’s renowned family photogra- might not be funded. pher, who was vacationing in Italy, Bobi The Foundation was established thirty- thought she was kidding. five years ago by music industry exec Tony “The Dream Supremes” senior ladies Martell in memory of his son, T.J., who dance team made its debut at Phillips Arena ENTERPRISES, INC. died of leukemia, and has provided over on July 25 and will be performing at Atlanta $240 million dollars for research at institu- Dream home games and events all over Shopping Centers tions throughout the country, including the town. Leasing • Management • Development Winship Cancer Institute at Emory The average age of the dozen dancers University. is 62. They tell us exclusively that between them, they have 26 children and 22 grand- (770) 451-0318 BRYAN LEWIS MOVES TO WELLS children. “The roster includes a profession- Shirley Halpern Jack & Lynn Halpern FARGO. Good news for investors! Bryan al photographer, an Atlanta City school Carolyn & Steve Oppenheimer Lewis has joined Wells Fargo Advisors as a principal, a leading Atlanta caterer, a media November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 5

done, was recently voted one of the 100 best comedians in Atlanta and is said to be almost fluent in English. Barry’s gorgeous and talented daugh- ter and Jerry’s niece, Bibi Farber, is a high- ly accomplished songwriter in New York, and has put out two popular CDs, Firepop and Second Kiss. You have probably heard her music on The Dream Supremes Dance Team TV shows, films, commercials, and the internet—over 300 uses in cable and net- liaison, an image consultant, some real work TV alone. Highlights include an estate professionals, and several retirees. A&E promo for “The Sopranos,” a Kodak All are unified in expressing the powerful commercial, and a Lifetime TV commer- message of women taking center stage and cial, as well as the theme song for the Kids encouraging people of all ages to stay Science Challenge, a science contest for active.” kids (see the video at Marianne Broadbear is the team’s old- youtube.com/watch?v=dr7q5dzR-3Q). She est member at 71. “Life gets more chal- has played guitar, bass, and keyboards with lenging as we age,” she says. “This makes a dozen local bands in New York and cur- me feel like a kid again.” rently plays keyboard in an all-female Blondie cover band, with which she is now BARRY FARBER CELEBRATES 50 recording a new CD. Check her out at YEARS ON RADIO. Barry Farber, known www.bibifarber.com. as “the dean of talk radio” and “one of radio’s living legends,” is being honored THE EDUCATION CONNECTION. Boy, on his 50th anniversary of radio broadcast- my mother sure could have used Barby’s ing. and Fontaine’s help with me. Barbara Levy, M Ed., and former Lovett admis- sions Director for two decades Fontaine Draper have formed Education Connection to offer their more than 50 years of com- bined experience working in education in Atlanta. Their purpose is to serve as a resource to parents in the selection of a school from grades preschool through high school. If you need help in choosing between public and private schools, or if you want to know where to look or what to ask, check out these respected profession- als at educationconnection.us. Talk Show Host Barry Farber

Barry launched his radio career in New York in 1960 and began hosting a national talk show on the ABC Radio Network thirty years later. In 1991, The Education Connectionʼs Fontaine National Draper and Barbara Levy Association of Bibi Farber Radio Talk Show Hosts named him “Talk Show Host of the Year,” and he was recently ranked in the top twelve on the “Heavy Hundred of All Time” list by Talkers magazine. A conservative com- mentator, columnist, and author, Farber is said to speak 26 languages. Besides ratings, of course, the “Heavy Hundred” list reflects “courage, effort, impact, longevity, recognition, revenue, service, talent, and uniqueness,” as well as “historical relevance.” Today, “The Barry Farber Show” airs daily, on CRN Digital Talk Radio, going into 11 million homes nationally. For more information, visit www.CRNTalk.com. To hear The Barry Farber Show, go to http://crntalk.com/barryfarber. Barry’s brother Jerry, not to be out- Page 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 Water From page 1 foundly affect individuals and limit eco- Sea of Galilee nomic activity and growth. It is a real crisis with which we are faced. At a national conference held in Atlanta last month, water was one of the major topics discussed. While the gathering was not directed toward the needs and activities of the Southeast, the reality and understanding of the problem was brought home to those of us from this area by our problem in Georgia. One of the major agenda items at the Jewish National Fund’s National Conference, which was held in Atlanta last month, was the JNF Parsons Water Fund. Satellite photo of the Because of reports in the world press, it is versible salinity and the Kinneret would mote purification and recycling, improve Sea of Galilee important to know and understand what cease to be a viable source of drinking water quality in streams and rivers, and Israel has and is doing to address the water water. encourage conservation through education Administration, a coordinating body for problem, • Israel’s underground water and advocacy. These initiatives will impact To begin with, Israel is in compliance more than 15 governmental ministries, non- reserves are also threatened. In the last Israel’s future and national security – free- profits, and research organizations charged with the provisions of the Israel-Jordan seven years, about half of the wells that ing up drinking water for more than one peace treaty dealing with the water issue with overseeing the restoration of Israel’s supply water to Tel Aviv have been shut million people, providing for the irrigation rivers. This involves reducing pollution, (by supplying 50 Million Cubic Meters of down because of contamination caused by of over six million acres of crops, preserv- water a year to Jordan). In addition, Israel is rehabilitating ecosystems, regulating chan- over-pumping. ing and cultivating open spaces, and allow- nels to conduct floodwaters, and promoting in full compliance with the terms for water • To curb consumption, the Israeli ing for the sustainable development of new usage incorporated in the Oslo II peace river recreation, tourism, education, and government has dramatically cut the fresh communities in Israel’s periphery. research. process and delineated in the Israel- water allocation for agriculture, banned the To this end, the Fund has and is partic- Palestinian Interim Agreement. watering of public parks and private gar- ipating in bringing about a number of ini- ADVOCACY AND EDUCATION. That is the legal picture, but what is the dens, and begun taxing households for tiatives. Included in the list of these projects reality for the people living in this area, The JNF Parsons Water Fund supports edu- excess water usage. are the following. cational programs to raise awareness about both Israelis and its neighbors? By the year 2020, Israel’s population is Israel, as well as the neighboring coun- the water crisis among Israel’s youth, pro- expected to increase by three million peo- RECYCLING. More than 77% of the mote conservation, and help students devel- tries, is facing the most severe water short- ple, and the country will require nearly sewage water in Israel is recycled, the high- age in nearly a century. Five consecutive op skills to address environmental chal- another 80 billion gallons of drinking water. est amount in the world (Spain comes in a lenges. These efforts will foster a new gen- years of drought have deprived its natural As the supply continues to dwindle, where distant second, recycling just 17% of its water sources of sufficient replenishment, eration of responsible citizens and will will this extra water come from? waste water). The JNF Parsons Water Fund result in an estimated savings of more than while a growing population and rising stan- The government has a long-term plan assists local and regional councils in build- dard of living have led to a sharp increase in 10 billion gallons of water. Current project to meet most of Israel’s household water ing and upgrading water treatment systems include the Rainwater Harvesting Program, consumption. There is 75% less water needs through desalination within 10 years, to purify water to the tertiary level, allow- available today than just 20 years ago, but which serves a dual purpose of conserva- but the growing water deficit must be nar- ing it to be used for all types of irrigation, tion and education. Water tanks are an additional two million people share the rowed today. Here are some proactive steps and has committed to increasing the amount diminishing supply. Because Israel annual- installed on school rooftops to collect and that JNF is taking to address the immediate of water recycled in Israel to 84% over the reuse rainwater that would otherwise be ly pumps more water than is replenished by need. next few years. rainfall, its surface water bodies and wasted, reducing each school’s reliance on In order to narrow the growing water other sources of water by 77%. aquifers have dwindled to critical levels, deficit, JNF has pioneered, for more than a NEW AQUIFERS. The Fund partici- threatening irreversible contamination of We, in Jewish National Fund, believe decade, innovative solutions to stretch pates in programs to tap into underground that water knows no borders. The availabil- the water supply and long-term ecological Israel’s water supply, leading to a 12% water reserves that have never before been damage. Add to this the following facts. ity of water as an essential resource is criti- increase in the water economy. In order to utilized. cal to regional stability in the Middle East, • Lake Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), expand and accelerate this vital work, aim- Israel’s largest fresh water reserve, is where water security was, is and will be an ing to dramatically increase the fresh water APPLIED RESEARCH & DEVELOP- integral part of a durable peace settlement. almost at its “black line,” the level at which supply in Israel and, by this, to effect the MENT. The Fund promotes projects in the continued pumping would cause irre- The JNF Parsons Water Fund seeks to regional stability in the Middle East, JNF field of applied research and development share conservation, collection, and recy- established the JNF Parsons Water Fund. that impact the water economy of Israel and cling technologies with Israel’s neighbors The Parsons Water Fund is a $100 mil- the entire Middle East. Areas of interest and countries throughout the world grap- lion initiative to increase Israel’s supply of include dealing with the brine produced by pling with water management issues. By high-quality water by more than 440 billion desalination without causing ecological being part of the State of Israel’s efforts to gallons over the next decade. The Fund damage, reducing evaporation of water provide modern solutions to the Middle invests in a diverse portfolio of projects in from surface reservoirs, and developing East (and the entire world) water issues, Israel to create new sources of water, pro- effective semi-passive and passive tech- JNF helps to add another aspect to Israel as niques for the treatment and reuse of water a Light to the Nations. in small communities located far from the national sewage system. Ronnie Porat is the Israel Special Emissary of the Jewish National Fund for RIVER REHABILITATION AND the Southern and Florida Zones based in RECREATION. With few exceptions, near- Atlanta, Georgia. His article repeats some ly all of the rivers and streams in Israel have of the information that is contained in the either dried up because of the water short- web page for the Parsons Water Fund age, or become severely polluted. In 1993, incorporated in the Jewish National Fund’s JNF and Israel’s Ministry of the website (http://www.jnf.org). He can be Environment established the National River contacted at: [email protected]. November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 7

ance, confidence, and guidance.” The start- Doctor up capital has also permitted the clinic to From page 1 acquire the latest, most modern equipment with which to treat patients. What a great Foundation, is one of the country’s leading formula: top-flight professionals, the most philanthropists. modern equipment, and attention to patient The story begins when Marcus sought care without time constraints. out the professional services of Malizia. At The clinic, which opened in August of that time, Dr. Malizia was in private prac- 2009, presently occupies approximately tice in the Atlanta area and had been treat- 15,000 square feet of space in the new ing patients for over 20 years. What result- Piedmont West Building on Howell Mill ed was a successful medical treatment, Road and is dedicated to the urological administered in a personal and caring man- practice. This is just the beginning, though. ner, and a friendship that was to be the seed There is an option to take another floor with of a vision that germinated into the Malizia approximately the same amount of space to Clinic. expand the services into the gynecological The medical treatment that Marcus field and other related specialties, as fund- received was successful, but, putting health ing becomes available. The hope and plan is considerations aside, what really sparked to grow The Malizia Clinic into a major Marcus’s interest was the way the staff national presence in the health care arena. interacted with him and met his needs. We credits with playing roles of equal impor- that’s not all.” The vision for the clinic was In addition to patients from Atlanta and all know that in the operation of The Home tance as his through their dedication, hard that it was to be more than a urological doc- Georgia, it is envisioned that individuals Depot, Marcus always stressed the impor- work, and financial support—are: tor’s office: it was to be a full-blown med- from the entire U.S. and the world will be tance of the customer and the need for The • Dan T. Cathy, president and COO of ical facility that encompassed “advanced treated. Home Depot employees to be accommodat- Chick-Fil-A; post-graduate training for experienced sur- As I was leaving the clinic, Dr. Malizia ing, concerned, and responsive. He was a • Robert W. Fisher, chairman and CEO of geons that is not currently available in aca- wanted to make the point that one reason major factor in inculcating the staff with an Investors Equity and Wesley International; demic medical centers or limited continuing for the formation of the clinic as a not-for- understanding that it was not just the avail- • Judge G. Conley Ingram, Cobb County medical education programs”; research pro- profit entity was to be able to offer treat- ability of the product that brought the cus- Superior Court judge and former Georgia grams on “advancing surgical techniques ment to people from all economic strata. He tomer back; it also was the treatment that Supreme Court justice; and procedures, surgical instrument design was particularly interested in making sure the customer received from trained, knowl- • Howard M. Jenkins, previous CEO and and development”; and a place to conduct that the Jewish community knew that edgeable personnel. He soon realized that present chairman of Publix Super Markets; trial research. through a committee-based Charity Care Malizia shared this same philosophy in the • Anthony A. Malizia, Jr., M.D., president The physicians work on a salary basis Program, services are available for those dispensing of medical services and that they and clinic director of The Malizia Clinic; so that they can be patient-centered and who are not covered by insurance plans in were kindred spirits in this regard. • Bernie Marcus, founding chairman of The focused on the care and needs of the patient which the clinic participates. Thus, in 2004 began a five-year Malizia Clinic, co-founder of The Home rather than driven by economic necessity to The doctor and the visionary. How for- odyssey that resulted in The Malizia Clinic. Depot, and chairman of The Marcus have a high volume of cases. Because of the tunate for Atlanta’s reputation as a center Marcus, in concert with a group of former Foundation; beginning capital that has been made avail- for medical care; how fortunate for those and current patients of Malizia, put togeth- • Robert S. Martin, chairman and CEO of able, the clinic is able to offer desirable who need these services; and how fortunate er a plan to build and expand on Dr. Boar’s Head Provisions Company; and compensation packages, enabling it to for those individuals whose economic limi- Malizia’s model of extraordinary care with • Frederick S. Slagle, executive director of attract leading professionals in the field. J. tations may have made obtaining this level outstanding service. This resulted in the for- The Marcus Foundation. Gilbert Foster, Jr., MD; Ray Pak, MD, of care remote. There is a commitment not mation of a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit medical Marcus served as the founding chair- Jaime Wong, MD, and Alienor Gilchrist, to compromise the quality of care: the only clinic, similar to Mayo Clinic (where Dr. man of the board, a designation he retains, MD, who soon will join the staff, all share limiting factor is the amount of funding that Malizia trained) and Cleveland Clinic mod- and continues as a director. For the last four the patient-care philosophy of the clinic and is available to help those who need finan- els. More than $25,000,000 was committed years, Howard Jenkins has served as board have been and are a critical element in what cial assistance. It is hoped and anticipated by those involved in the implementation of chair, and he and Marcus together have the clinic stands for. Each brings his or her that continuing donations will enable the the concept. A board of directors, all been the primary financial resource for the own dynamic to the institution, and Dr. clinic to step up its activities for those in patients of Dr. Malizia who shared the same clinic. Malizia pointed out that “Dr. Foster has need, regardless of economic circum- vision for the clinic, was put in place. The What an impressive story. Parroting played a very important role in comple- stances. members of this board—whom Marcus some of the TV infomercials: “But wait, menting my weaknesses, giving me bal-

Isidor, the eldest of the four Straus chil- European manufacturers of china and College of Management at Georgia Tech Breman dren, was sixteen years old. It was during pottery, the family leased a department on the history of Wall Street, and the From page 1 the war, when Southern families were from R.H. Macy. Soon thereafter, Isidor Museum of American Finance was assist- suffering from deprivation due to the Strauss was asked to become one of the ing him with his research. become one of legend, yet few Georgians Federal blockade of goods, that the partners of the entire store. When Mr. On a tour of their archives, Mr. Asher are aware of Isidor’s native roots. Jewish merchants in Talbotton were con- Macy died, Strauss became chief execu- spotted the portrait of Isidor Strauss, who Isidor’s father, Lazarus Straus, immigrat- fronted with their first taste of anti- tive officer. Under the direction of Isidor was a director at the Hanover National ed to the United States from Germany in Jewish feeling. Straus, Macy’s became the first depart- Bank in New York from 1885 until his 1852 and immediately headed South, Because of the blockade, supplies ment store in the United States to make a death on the Titanic in 1912. Knowing of where he heard there were better eco- were limited, and prices rose. All mer- million dollars in sales in one day. Strauss’ Georgia roots, Mr. Asher asked nomic opportunities awaiting retailers. chants were responsible for the increase, Isidor Straus, in fact, was so success- if the portrait might be deaccessioned Originally settling in Oglethorpe, but the Jewish merchants were singled ful that he was able to afford the costly from the collection at the Museum of Georgia, he began his career as a peddler, out in a statement by the grand jury and first-class tickets for his wife and himself American Finance and purchased for The often passing through Talbotton. charged with speculating. After ten years on the Titanic’s maiden voyage, in 1912. Breman. After a year of discussion, the Impressed with the community, he decid- in Talbotton, the Straus family no longer On a visit to New York in April of collections committee of the Museum of ed to move to Talbotton and established felt welcome and moved to Columbus, 2009, Tom Asher, a member of The American Finance decided to allow Mr. three stores in the area. By 1854, Lazarus Georgia, where they stayed for the dura- Breman’s Board of Directors, was visit- Asher to buy the painting. was able to bring his wife, Sarah, and tion of the war. In 1865, they moved ing his long-time friend John Herzog, We can now say that Isidor Strauss their four children, Isidor, Hermine, again, this time to Philadelphia, and chairman and founder of the Museum of has, in part, returned to his Georgia roots. Nathan, and Oscar, to America. finally to New York. American Finance. Mr. Asher was devel- In 1861, when the Civil War began, Using their connections with oping an exhibition and timeline at the Page 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 ATLANTA JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL COMING SOON A long time between cups The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) is February 8-27, 2011. The fes- tival has expanded from 12 to 20 days and has added the GTC Merchants Except for the obvious perking, dripping, Walk 12 Cinema, Marietta, to its list of venues that includes Regal steaming, demi-tassing difference between Cinemas Atlantic Station Stadium 16, Lefont Sandy Springs, and Regal “real” and instant coffee, I probably couldn’t Cinemas Medlock Crossing Stadium 18. Founded in 2000, the AJFF is the pass a taste test devised for identifying one largest film festival in Atlanta and second largest Jewish film festival in popular brand from another. But there is one BY Shirley the United States. It attracts more than 20,000 moviegoers and features grind I’ve had a crush on for a long, long Friedman an international collection of some 50 narrative and documentary films. time—since 1944. It was all one-sided, though, Tickets go on sale December 14. For details, visit www.ajff.org. because after my two years in New York, I did- n’t see it again until a few years ago. Actually, paper. They proudly displayed the highest seal I didn’t even know it was packaged for retail of excellence for sanitary conditions that New sale. I thought it was exclusively for York City could offer. use in the small, perfect-for-stu- Chock full o’Nuts was a dents (and those who used to be) fine example of: keep it clean; restaurant where we used to eat, keep it simple; use the best ingre- called Chock full o’Nuts. The dients; keep it cheerful, depend- coffee has the same label, and I’m able, and inexpensive. surprised that anyone considering Oh, we tried most of the it (who was not familiar with the famous restaurants while we had restaurant) didn’t think the coffee the opportunity, and it was fun— had nuts in it. a veritable banquet for $5, but The restaurant, just across Chock full was the neighborhood the street from the girl’s club place where we all gathered daily where I lived and a block from and the one I think of the most. I Columbia University, was so would like to forget about the day named because of its most popular one of my friends ordered lemon sandwich—a raisin-cinnamon bread filled with meringue pie and asked for it a la mode with cream cheese and nuts. It cost 12 cents, and chocolate ice cream. Even for a Texan, that was they had a delicious soup for 15 cents. Coffee a combination to lasso. I’ve always wondered and tea were a nickel. Of course, today’s prices what it tasted like, but not enough to try it. would be twenty times that, but even then, it Chock full o’Nuts coffee is available AJFF film buffs (photo: Traci Gingold) was truly a bargain. locally; I wonder if anyone else who buys it Everything they served was made with used to go to the restaurant. I’m not a big cof- fine, fresh ingredients, and no food was fee drinker, and I don’t want to live in New touched by human hands. Don’t know about York and be 20 again. But I do enjoy my morn- inhuman ones, because we weren’t into space ing cup, smelling that familiar aroma (always matters then. All of the waiters lifted the food better than the actual taste) and remembering with tongs or two fresh squares of waxed that I was that girl. Center Theatre presents Hairspray December 9-19

Center Theatre at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) will present the hit musical Hairspray, directed by Dina Shadwell, December 9-19, in the Morris & Rae Frank Theatre, at the MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Winner of multiple awards, including the 2003 Tony for Best Musical and the Lawrence Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Hairspray sweeps the audience away to 1960s Baltimore, where the ‘50s Stephanie Ward as Tracy Turnblad are out and change is in the air. Loveable plus-sized heroine Tracy Based on the New Line Cinema film Turnblad has a passion for dancing and written and directed by John Waters, wins a spot on the local TV dance program, Hairspray features a book by Mark “The Corny Collins Show.” Overnight, she O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, music by finds herself transformed from outsider to Marc Shaiman, and lyrics by Scott Wittman teen celebrity. Can a larger-than-life adoles- and Shaiman. Songs include 1960s-style cent manage to vanquish the program’s dance music and downtown rhythm and reigning princess, integrate the television blues. show, and find true love without mussing Performances are December 9, 11, 15, her hair? 16, and 18, at 7:30 p.m.; and December 12 and 19, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $17-$25, with discounts for students, seniors, and MJCCA members. All seating is reserved. Purchase tickets by calling the Box Office at 678-812-4002 or visiting www.CenterTheatreAtlanta.org. November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 9 There’s no place like home…except The Jewish Home This past October, The William Breman Jewish Home celebrated its 60th anniversary with an open house and dedication of its new History Hall. Visitors were treated to a beauti- ful and functional remodeling of The Home’s BY Leon old entrance hall. The renovation was in the Socol planning and construction stages for a year, and the results brought praise and appreciation for all who made it possible. The story of The Jewish Home began back in 1944, when an Atlanta resident, Fannie Boorstin, had a lady friend who lived alone and had no Jewish social or communal life. An alcove display in History Hall A sitting area in the lobby She wondered how many other elderly Jews there were in our city facing the same bleak work in researching The Breman Museum for project was efficiently managed and came in existence. Fannie began a one-woman cam- artifacts and records of The Jewish Home. under budget. paign to fund a Jewish home that would pro- They pored over hundreds of documents to At the October Annual Meeting of The vide basic living needs and a happy social present the history of The Home. Sandy and Home, Sandy and Bob London were presented environment for the elderly. Arlene were aided by exhibit designers Gary with the Frank Garson Founders Award for and Marlene Super in designing alcove dis- their outstanding contributions and leadership Fannie met with little success for a num- Bob and Sandy London pose with plays of The Home’s history that also included over the years. These leaders don’t rest on their ber of years before getting Frank Garson, an Arlene and David Taylor after each a continuous video stream of The Home’s res- laurels, but continue to serve the home in many Atlanta manufacturer, to join in her efforts to received awards for outstanding idents and its staff. ways. raise money and find a suitable location for service to The Jewish Home. The Home. In 1951, Ben Massell donated Dr. David Taylor has donated medical Arlene and her husband, Dr. David services to various units of The Home. He is a Taylor, were recognized for their leadership property he owned on 14h Street to build the have grown to provide for the welfare and care member of the Weinstein Hospice Board and and contributions with the annual President’s city’s first Jewish home for the aged. Frank of senior citizens, The Home’s mission state- serves as back-up medical director for Hospice Award. Arlene continues to serve The Home Garson worked diligently with Massell to raise ment, “Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother,” patients. after a successful term as Auxiliary president, funds from prominent citizens and made has become its manifesto. Commercial realtor Bob London is a very and Dr. Taylor offers his medical expertise to Fannie’s dream come true. Frank Garson was Volunteer services and financial aid have talented interior designer and decorator who the various senior sectors. truly the father of Atlanta’s first Jewish Home. been provided to The Home by The Auxiliary, worked with professional designer Susan At the dedication celebration, it felt as if In 1971, a new and larger facility was a wonderful group of 1,200 women who lend Bryant to transform The Jewish Home lobby Atlanta’s great philanthropists Frank Garson, built in Northwest Atlanta and was known as their talents, volunteerism, and financial sup- from a drab long corridor into a group of taste- Ben Massell, Erwin Zaban, and William The Zaban Tower. It offered assisted living, as port to maintain the fabulous facilities. It was fully decorated and furnished sitting rooms Breman, all of whom contributed so much to well as expanded medical care for the increas- their project to renovate and create the recent- that allow residents and their guests to social- The Home’s 60 years of success, were smiling ing number of residents requiring it. ly dedicated History Hall. The Auxiliary also ize in beautiful surroundings. They also down in approval and were grateful to hun- The demand for more space and care con- raised money to improve The Home’s social designed a glassed-in meeting room that can dreds of volunteers who made it possible. tinued. In 1999, a new Zaban Jewish Home, environment and residents’ quality of life. As accommodate up to 21 people for family Volunteering with The Auxiliary is a most later named The William Breman Jewish staffing demands increased, The Auxiliary also affairs and small group activities. The room rewarding and satisfying experience. Your Home, was built. This 96-bed facility offers funded salaries for additional staff that was looks out over The Home’s beautiful outdoor skills may be in visiting the residents or work- both long-term skilled nursing home care and hired. patio and fountain. No charge is made to resi- ing on projects that advance the creed of The short-term rehabilitative care. The rehab facil- Spearheading the History Hall and lobby dents who wish to use the facility for family Home by honoring our senior residents. To ity is rated among the very best in the Atlanta projects were Sandy and Bob London and affairs. volunteer, contact Cindy Cassano, administra- area. Arlene and David Taylor. Sandy and Arlene, The Auxiliary raised the funds for the tive assistant, at 404-35l-8410. As The Jewish Home and all its affiliates past presidents of The Auxiliary, did yeomen’s lobby renovation and History Hall, and the

of the eastern Caribbean, is reported as say- Motivated by the belief that economic ing that “during the 1960s and 1970s, advancement can result in a more peaceful You need to know... Israel’s international development organi- world, they are advocating the establish- zation, MASHAV, was active in creating ment of an industrial park in the Gaza Strip During the last 60 years, meter for But not with Israel’s commitment. “special farms” in Haiti, and teaching locals in which to establish fish farms. They envi- meter, person for person, no other nation As we know, within four days after the about sustainable agricultural practices, sion that the project, which is called Nets has done more for the betterment of the earthquake in Haiti, Israel had dispatched a such as the use of drip irrigation and green- for Peace, will provide “a healthy protein health, economic, and technological force of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) volun- houses.” And this work continues with supply for Palestinians living in Gaza, advancement of the world population than teers and set up what has been acknowl- plans to work with Haiti’s Ministry of relieve economic stress in the Palestinian Israel. It is a story, although critically edged as the most complete, well-equipped Agriculture to fund and work on a long- community, and connect the region to for- important, that is not heralded and largely field hospital that operated in that country. term agricultural project. eign business investment and trade.” remains unknown. We plan to present some This facility was able to administer medical The continuing effort by the Israelis The project anticipates no Israeli of these unbelievable accomplishments in treatment that was unavailable elsewhere in includes specialists in medicine and health, involvement in ownership. Ownership is to an attempt to disseminate the heart and Haiti, and it was able to save lives and help education, and NGOs that have remained in be either totally Palestinian, or, if necessary, soul of what and who Israel really is. rehabilitate countless individuals who may that ravaged country to help follow through international partnerships, and it is hoped not have recovered without this treatment. on the rebuilding process. A group of 14 that staff will have an equity position. The CONTINUING AID TO HAITI. Israeli organizations have made available Israeli police officers was recently sent to plan is for the industrial park to house a Human nature is such that there is an imme- everything, including search and rescue, assist the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti number of the fish farms, and it is anticipat- diate reaction to a disaster with an outpour- help with the rebuilding of schools and in upholding public order and stabilizing ed that each will provide 200 to 350 jobs. ing of support, concern, and interest. Once communities, and post-psychotrauma care. the situation. And steps have already been A recent study funded by the Israeli the initial thrust to help with the needs has Israel’s commitment to try to uplift the taken to face the cholera outbreak. entrepreneur Stef Wertheimer concluded been made, the awareness of the problem Haitian population did not start there. An NETS OF PEACE. A group of five that societies with a per-capital GDP over tends to reduce geometrically. This appears article in a January 2010 issue of the Israeli graduate students from Tel Aviv $6,600 do not normally breed terrorists. A to be what happened with the human Forward, Amos Radian, Israel’s Dominican University have undertaken a project to project such as Nets for Peace can be a tragedy that took place in Haiti in January. Republic-based ambassador to the nations establish a fish-farming project in the Gaza proving ground for this conclusion. Strip. Page 10 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 11 Page 12 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 13 Page 14 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 15 Page 16 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 Humanitarian trip to Cuba benefits givers and receivers

By Jeff Bashuk world. The primary purpose of our trip was to In June, my daughter and I, along with provide humanitarian aid to the Jews of 27 other members of The Temple, arrived in Cuba. Another bit of irony is the contradic- Cuba. We traveled legally with a special tion of that purpose. Uncle Sam has long license, issued by the State Department, to imposed an embargo on Cuba in order to provide humanitarian aid and visit the Jews influence the people to alter the policies of of Cuba. From the first day and throughout the current government. Yet the State our trip, my previous views about this Department issued us a special license and island community changed. visa solely for the purpose of helping the In a few respects, Mr. Castro’s Cuba Jews of Cuba. shares some similarities with Jews of the We were limited by the Cuban govern- world. Cuba is an island of 11 million peo- ment in the aid we could provide. We were ple that has been dominated by more pow- permitted to bring only humanitarian sup- erful countries for centuries. Jews represent plies, which included, among other things, 14 million people who have been persecut- vitamins, hygiene products, non-prescrip- ed for centuries by virtually every country tion medicines, school supplies, and money. in the world. Both represent, in population, Hundreds of Jews visit the island and an insignificant number compared to the provide similar aid. Because of that, Jews general population. However, in both cases, here and there look very similar. The Jews these two communities have managed to be The Templeʼs 2010 Mission to Cuba we met in Cuba were well-dressed, well among the world players in the forums of fed, and financially stable. Their homes politics and international relations. Cuba now enjoys freedom of religion, In addition to Havana, we visited other were in pleasant neighborhoods and taste- The island is magnificent—lush fruit and there is virtually no anti-Semitism. towns and cities on the south side of the fully furnished. Also, due to the enormous and sugar farms, beautiful beaches, no traf- When we met with the president of the country. Santa Clara was perhaps the most charitable efforts from Jews from all over fic on the highways, and extravagant build- largest synagogue in Havana, she shared a remarkable example of the strong presence the world, the synagogues can share this ings and architecture. There is virtually no remarkable story. of Judaism in Cuba. The Jewish population support with the non-Jewish citizens of the new construction. Buildings are not razed, The first time she met with Castro, she is a mere 25. Yet they have a shul, a country. The humanitarian aid we provided, but are renovated. That, coupled with the shook his hand and said, “You visit with all Holocaust memorial, and a Jewish ceme- and the fact that Jews help one other, is a fact that it is against the law to have a car the other communities of Cuba. Why do tery. The citizens are able to maintain these clear demonstration of how we have sur- newer than 1960, makes it difficult to you never come and visit with the Jews?” treasures through their extraordinary efforts vived for centuries. believe that you have not gone back in time He replied, “Because you have never and the aid provided by the Jews of the and it is not 1955. invited me.” Jews migrated to Cuba over a 200-year “Fair enough,” she answered. “I would period, mainly from Eastern Europe and like to invite you to come and celebrate the Turkey, in order to escape persecution. first night of Hanukkah with us.” Prior to the revolution, the population grew A small victory in the printer wars Totally clueless, he inquired, “What is to 15,000. When Mr. Castro overthrew the Hanukkah?” First of all, I have to say that when I government, in 1959, ninety percent of the She wanted him to come and did not was working lo those many years, as soon Jewish inhabitants fled. Today, only 1,500 have time to explain, so she blurted out, as computers entered the scene, there was remain, and they are primarily located in “It’s the Jewish Revolution!” always a computer guy around to fix Havana. BY Mr. Castro lit up and, with a big smile, problems. Printers? No problem—call the Marice The Jews fled because they were afraid said, “I would love to come.” company that we bought them from. of having their businesses nationalized, Katz Three weeks later, he arrived. He was, Same with copy machines. land seized, and money confiscated. Their as always, gracious and wonderful. What But what is a retired girl to do when hard, but it certainly was hard. And when fears were confirmed when the new regime was so impressive is that three weeks earli- her printer breaks down at 10:30 p.m., and I told a bunch of people what I had did exactly that. The Jews were not alone in er, the man knew nothing about she is in the middle of using Microsoft attempted and that I succeeded, they were this regard; the Communists did it to every- Hanukkah—but when he arrived, he knew Word to type articles for a book she is get- very impressed. So there! (That one. Ironically, the only business that Mr. more about the holiday than did she or any- ting published? I needed my sounds smug, and Castro allowed to stay private and has never one else in attendance. He then proceeded printer. I do realize, to be bothered was the kosher butcher in Havana. with a very brief speech of two hours. I am fairly knowledge- fair, that I have to able about technology, but I give a lot of credit was in the dark in this par- to Hewlett- ticular situation. All of a Packard). sudden, Hewlett- Packard pops P.S. Have to up on my admit I wrote computer, try- the above a ing to tell me while ago, but what I should I am still proud do to fix the about getting problem. It my printer fixed was difficult that night. And now, I want to add trying to understand the instructions. I just that this is October, and on the first sat there looking at the screen, endeavor- day of this month last year, I retired. ing to figure it all out. Wow! A whole year gone by. It went fast, I finally, cautiously, attempted to do and sometimes I would like to say, “Hey, what I interpreted the screen as telling me time, slow down.” But I have always to do. To make a long story short, it known that “when you are having fun, worked. Now, I know that doesn’t sound time flies.” November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 17 35 reasons to visit Israel

In late October, I journeyed to Israel. This was my second trip to the country in just a little over a year and my fourth trip since 2003. To explain my fascination with Israel, I’d probably need to bore you with selected details BY Ron about my childhood and growing up a Jew in the Land of Cotton. I’m sure I’d end up mentioning Feinberg the Holocaust and the miraculous transition of the Jewish people from victims to victors. laughter of friends and family gathered together At some point, I’d need to explore the in nearby flats, enjoying Shabbat dinner with importance of cultural identity and my still one another. developing sense of faith, belief, and wonder, • Because in this vibrant, exotic city, I can feast then tackle the sticky political issues of the on shawarma, hummus, filet mignon, risotto, day—Palestinian statehood and refugee camps, sushi, hot dogs, or hamburgers—tasty, reason- suicide bombers and pistol-packing settlers, ably priced, and kosher. feckless European intellectuals, anti-Semitism, • Because when I order a gin and tonic, the wait- and the “right of return.” er brings me a couple ounces of gin in a tall KODAK MOMENT. This picturesque scene is just one of many pedestrian In short, it would be easy to turn what is glass, a full bottle of tonic water, and a bucket of walkways that twist and turn through the Old City of Jerusalem, a place filled essentially an emotional response into an intel- ice…tov meod! with spiritual energy and ancient secrets. lectual exercise. And still, I would fall short. • Because as I’m sipping that adult beverage, I Instead, I will simply try to answer the question can sit back, wiggle my tootsies in the sand, and from around the world searching for meaning Jersey. a friend asked when I first announced I was watch the sun slowly sink into the sea. and connection to a belief that traces its roots • Because of the cosmopolitan vibe of Tel Aviv, returning to Israel. • Because I can hop on a sherut and for only a back thousands of years. breathtaking beauty of Haifa, and spiritual depth “So, dude, you going to Israel again? few shekels make my way to Jerusalem—a short • Because given the time, I can visit Yad and richness of Jerusalem and Sfat. Why?” Given the time, this is what I would tell 45-minute ride to the East. Vashem, the world-class Holocaust museum that • Because of the Mediterranean, Kinneret, and him: • Because on Shabbat, I can attend services at the details in unique, compelling fashion the pre- Dead Seas. Great Synagogue and listen to a world-class meditated murder of six million Jews during • Because of the Jordan River, the trickling link • Because I love the whole airport adventure— choir, then walk a block to Moreshet Yisrael, a World War II; then turn my attention to Mount between the desolate landscape of the Judean arriving early, checking in, being hassled by synagogue that is part of the Fuchsberg Center Herzl, the national cemetery where many of Desert and lush richness of the Hula Valley. security guards, then being handed a boarding for Conservative Judaism. Israel’s leaders—Herzl, Rabin, Meir—and mili- • Because many of the iconic places I’ve been pass with Tel Aviv stamped across the top. • Because after services, I can then walk right tary heroes are buried. lucky enough to visit around the world are often • Because I’m fascinated by my fellow travel- next door to the Agron Guest House, a youth • Because one of the most extraordinary archae- beautiful and always interesting, but, ultimately, ers—students with backpacks, visiting the hostel that is neat and clean and centrally locat- ological finds of the 20th century, the Dead Sea just places; while the cities, sites, and attractions Jewish homeland for the first time; Orthodox ed, only minutes away from the Old City of Scrolls, is housed at the Shrine of the Book, an in Israel—Masada and Caesarea; Haifa and Sfat; families, modestly dressed, the women in long Jerusalem. architectural masterpiece that fills one wing of the tunnels beneath the Kotel in Jerusalem and skirts, the men all in black, tzitzit dangling from • Because I can safely walk the streets of this the Israel Museum. the Palmach Museum in Tel Aviv—all manage their hips; businessmen in coats and ties, soldiers magical place before the sun rises, find my way • Because even if I tire of visiting museums and in some fashion to touch my soul. in battle fatigues, tourists in Eddie Bauer-chic! to Marzipan in Mahane Yehuda, and buy a few ancient sites, I can simply stroll in any direction, • Because I’ve met people who’ve traveled to • Because halfway across the Atlantic, as the sun pieces of the world’s best rugelach—warm, ooz- knowing that I’m treading the same ground that Israel and had bad moments, but never met any- starts to peek over the distant horizon, a group of ing with chocolate, and delicious! my ancient ancestors walked thousands of years one who had a bad trip. men magically show up in the rear of the plane • Because as I enjoy my snack, I can take a few ago. • Because I’m Jewish and this place, in some wearing tallis and tefillin, offering mumbled minutes—or hours—and wander about the mar- • Because on Friday nights I can visit Mea inexplicable way, is my spiritual home, filled words of prayer to God. ket, a remarkable place filled with kiosks, restau- Shearim, the Jerusalem neighborhood where the with my mispucha and links to my distant past. • Because I’m basically a kid and love futzing rants, stalls, and vendors selling fresh fruits, veg- ultra-Orthodox gather with their rebbes at a fes- around with the plane’s entertainment system— etables, spices, and nuts, the air thick with the tive meal and spiritual happening—a Tisch— TV programs, movies, a variety of music chan- smells of all these goods, harmoniously blended that is at once otherworldly, bizarre, and deeply Ron Feinberg is a veteran journalist who has nels—all at my fingertips. with the sights, sounds, and energy of a city satisfying. worked for daily newspapers across the • Because after 12 hours or so in the air, when I coming alive. • Because I have only a vague sense of the worth Southeastern United States. He most recently reach that toxic point of being way too tired, • Because just a few blocks away, I can sit on a of the shekel, so I spend expansively, think good worked for the Atlanta Constitution. Ron now sore, and bored, the pilot finally announces that bench on Ben Yehuda Street and watch the thoughts, and don’t worry about the tab—until I specializes in topics of Jewish interest and can we will be entering Israeli airspace in 30 min- Jewish world pass by—young soldiers with return home. be reached at [email protected]. His utes. weapons slung casually over their shoulders; • Because I can rent a car or hop on a tour bus blog, This&That, can be found at • Because I love the palpable sense of energy and Orthodox boys, sporting kippot and tzitzit; beau- and, in a day or two (if I’m in a hurry), criss- norgrebnief.blogspot.com. anticipation that fills the plane as the blue waters tiful Sabra women in designer dresses; preppy- cross this tiny country that’s the size of New of the Mediterranean give way to the white looking yeshiva students and tourists in flowery beaches of Tel Aviv, then the soaring skyline of shirts and jeans; shopkeepers, street cleaners, the city. and bus drivers; cabbies, cops, and politicians; • Because people still applaud when the plane musicians and street performers; rabbis, touches down at Ben Gurion International prophets, and beggars. Airport. • Because when I get my fill of people watching, It’s My Party, Inc. • Because when I hop into a taxi, after haggling I can join the crowd of shoppers and purchase with the cabbie over the price and he says tchotchkes and any sort of Judaica imaginable— b’seder (okay), I actually understand what he a hand-decorated tallis or kippot; bejeweled Full Service Event Planning means. menorah, mezuzah, or Shabbat candlesticks; • Because one of my favorite hotels, the Adiv, is golden Magen David or diamond-filled hamsa; weddings • bar/bat mitzvah • corporate cheap, convenient, and centrally located—five pictures, paintings, and enough jewelry to take minutes from both the Mediterranean and care of every friend and relative on my must-buy Dizengoff Street, 10 minutes from Dizengoff list. Center, and 15 minutes from Hacarmel Market. • Because at the heart of this fresh new day is a • Because on Friday evenings, I can walk along colorful old city, filled with cobblestone streets Sharon Fisher Frishman Street in the heart of Tel Aviv, from and serpentine alleys, a place of spiritual energy 275 Spalding Springs Lane tel. 770.395.1094 Rabin Square to my hotel, enjoying a fresh, cool and ancient secrets. breeze blowing in from the Mediterranean. • Because at the center of this place is the Kotel, Atlanta, Georgia 30305 cell 678.637.2030 • Because I’m Jewish and this is a city filled with a soaring, sun-bleached wall of profound histor- Jews, a happening place where I can hear the ical and religious import, a magnet for Jews [email protected] fax 770.396.8844 Page 18 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 Israel Bonds says ‘thank you’ to SunTrust Since its inception in 1950, State of Bonds’ office sponsored its 2010 Business Israel Bonds has been a partner and major and Community Dinner to both recognize resource in the building of the Israeli econ- and thank SunTrust Bank for its leadership, omy. As a much-needed source of funding participation, and partnership in this pro- for the development of the country’s infra- gram. structure, Israel Bonds has been an essential Gary Peacock, Chairman, CEO and element in solidifying Israel’s post-inde- President of the Central Banking Division, pendence economy. Without its contribu- accepted the presentation on behalf of his tion, projects such as the national water car- institution and expressed the bank’s appre- rier, port construction and expansion, and ciation for the relationship that it had estab- road and rail networks would have been lished over the years with the Jewish com- severely hampered. munity. He said that its commitment to the The success of the program has been Israel Bonds program was one that the bank Ambassador Opher Aviran, consul Mort Anderson, general chairman, the result of support it has received in felt was a sound investment, and one that Atlanta State of Israel Bonds Georgia, around the country, and through- was in keeping with its corporate policy. general of Israel for the Southeast out the world. Without an understanding and buttressing of its mission, success would have been muted. Part of the Jewish heritage is the appre- ciation of what has been bestowed upon us. In Hebrew, the expression used for grati- tude is hikarat hatov, recognizing the good, and our value system teaches that grateful- Gary Peacock (center) of ness and thankfulness should not be limited SunTrust receiving the award to attitude, but that we should express this from Doug Hertz (left) and in words and deeds. Cicero is quoted as say- Eliot Arnovitz (right), Tribute ing: “Gratitude is not only the greatest of Dinner co-chairs the virtues but the parent of all others.” Israel Bonds has a long history of acknowledging people and institutions that have participated in its program and helped make it a success. In keeping with this, on October 14, 2010, the Atlanta State of Israel November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 19 Bonnie Arnold’s outstanding career began in Atlanta Bonnie Arnold is one of the most versatile producer. The film would go on to win seven In the early 1990s, Quinn and Arnold feature before it. Full of both emotional depth producers in Hollywood, renowned for a series Oscars, including Best began developing the and 3-D beauty, it won unprecedented critical of landmark animated hits that have forged Picture. project, but after Quinn’s praise. new, creative ground as well as for award-win- In 1990, she moved death in 2001, Arnold was How to Train Your Dragon was released ning live-action features that have earned wide- on to Barry determined to bring the on DVD and Blu-ray on October 15. spread acclaim, numerous Oscars, and more Sonnenfeld’s adaptation film to fruition. Things How to Train Your Dragon and The Last than $2 billion dollars in worldwide box office. of the television classic took a turn when she part- Station were released within months of each This last year, Arnold produced two of the The Addams Family, nered with writer/director other—and, though they took the most diver- most admired films of the season: the block- where she was Michael Hoffman gent paths, each was a major success on its own buster animated family hit How to Train Your immersed in the com- (Restoration, One Fine terms. The Last Station garnered two Oscar Dragon, which won global recognition for its plex world of high-end Day). The result was nominations, as well as nominations from the inventive 3-D effects and heart-stirring story special effects. The film, Hoffman’s stylish and Screen Actors Guild, the Golden Globes, and line; and The Last Station, the independent film starring a comic ensem- witty screenplay, plus the Independent Spirit Awards (including a that drew awards and accolades for its enter- ble cast including complex and juicy roles nomination for Best Picture). How to Train taining and richly emotional tale about love, Anjelica Huston, Raul that attracted major talent, Your Dragon became one of the first major marriage, and Tolstoy. Julia, Christopher including Helen Mirren, box-office hits of 2010 and garnered critical The two films could not be more different Lloyd, and Christina Christopher Plummer, raves, including the Persol 3-D Award for the from a production standpoint—but they share Ricci, became a smash James McAvoy, and Paul Most Creative 3-D Film of 2010 from the the power of imaginative and inspired story- hit, critically praised as a Giamatti. Venice Film Festival. telling that appeals to moviegoers of all ages. visual funhouse of a At the same time, Arnold is currently developing a sequel to Arnold’s production credits comprise an family comedy. Bonnie Arnold Arnold was immersed in a How to Train Your Dragon with writer/director entire roster of films that share this quality— This, in turn, led to very different, four-year Dean DeBlois. DreamWorks Animation SKG from the pioneering digital animation classic an unusual opportunity—to produce the first labor of love: bringing the 3-D animated 3D will bring this 3D sequel to the screen in Toy Story to the epic historical drama Dances feature film from an upstart Northern adventure comedy How to Train Your Dragon 2013. It will again feature the voice talents of with Wolves. Her work in animation includes California animation studio known as Pixar: to the screen for DreamWorks Animation. This Jay Baruchel, Craig Ferguson, America such hits as Over the Hedge and Tarzan, while Toy Story. Although Arnold had never worked was another envelope-pushing project for Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, her live-action credits include the comedy The in animation before, let alone the brave new Arnold, one that would merge thrillingly T.J. Miller, and Kristen Wiig. Addams Family. She has worked with such world of computer-generated characters, she inventive, three-dimensional action with a Despite the contrasting nature of How to top-ranked directors as Peter Weir, Tony Scott, instantly recognized that something special touching tale about a Viking teen who finds his Train Your Dragon and The Last Station, for Stephen Frears, Barry Sonnenfeld, John was happening amid the devoted young team own path to becoming a hero. Arnold oversaw Arnold, they both represent what she wants to Lasseter, Michael Mann, and Dean DeBlois of writers and animators headed by John a creative team numbering more than 500 who achieve in the entertainment business: making and Chris Sanders. Lasseter. breathed new fire into the animation realm, movies with a heartfelt appeal that crosses gen- Arnold’s journey began in Atlanta, where Armed with her knowledge of how to creating a film that felt like no other animated erations. she grew up going to the movies with her make a complex movie on a budget and ready mother, creating memories she still treasures. to learn in a trial-by-fire fashion, she began a From an early age, long before she was even three-and-a-half year odyssey that would result aware of its impact, she forged a belief that in one of the most critically admired and suc- families and movie-going go together. cessful family films of all time, nominated for Inspired in part by Woodward and three Oscars and winner of eight Annie Awards Bernstein’s dogged pursuit of the Watergate (the industry’s animation awards), which has scandal, Arnold first pursued a career in jour- since become part of the fabric of 21st-century nalism, studying at the University of Georgia popular culture. and earning her master’s degree at Boston On the heels of Toy Story’s unprecedented University. appeal, Arnold became the rare woman pro- But when she returned to Atlanta, she ducer known for her ability to shepherd the found herself taking a job as a unit publicist on biggest animated features to the screen. She the PBS series American Playhouse’s debut next produced Disney’s Tarzan, featuring the production of “King of America.” Exposed to integration of traditional and computer anima- the ins and outs of filmmaking for the first tion techniques called “Deep Canvas” that time, she says she instantly caught the produc- pushed the state-of-the-art to the next level. tion bug. At this time, Atlanta was a burgeon- The film received 11 Annie Award nominations ing new hotspot for film and television produc- and an Academy Award and Golden Globe tion, and Arnold quickly rose to serve in a nomination. In 2006, Arnold teamed with diversity of production capacities on films DreamWorks Animation for the first time on including Neil Simon’s The Slugger’s Wife and Over the Hedge, featuring a clan of woodland Peter Weir’s The Mosquito Coast. creatures who unite against a suburban com- On the local scene, she became known for munity encroaching on their wilderness home, cultivating strong relationships, for her calm which garnered eight Annie Awards. charm and creative eye—and she, in turn, Yet even as Arnold was committed to the caught the eye of seasoned film producer painstaking, labor-intensive work of bringing David Picker, who lured Arnold to Hollywood larger-than-life animated stories to the screen, when he became president of Columbia she was also passionately pursuing a live- Pictures in the late 1980s. action story she had been intrigued with for With Picker as her mentor, Arnold went over a decade. This was The Last Station, on to serve as production coordinator on a which she first encountered when actor string of films, including Hero, starring Dustin Anthony Quinn, with whom Arnold worked on Hoffman; The Mighty Quinn, with Denzel Revenge, introduced her to the novel by Jay Washington; and Revenge, with Kevin Costner. Parini about Tolstoy’s tumultuous final year. At This led to her first producing assignment, the heart of the story, Arnold saw a timeless when she was asked by Costner to join his pro- and resonant tale about the ravages and won- duction of Dances with Wolves as associate ders of love and marriage. Page 20 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 Sarabelle Edelstein Miller is beloved for her charm and kindness

Many cute females grew up in Atlanta in the ‘40s, but none was cuter than Sarabelle Edelstein. I was one of the lucky guys who won BY Gene her attention, but my next-door neighbor, Asher Freddie Miller, won her heart. He quickly made her Mrs. Freddie Miller. That Freddie Miller? Yes, that ball from outside the turning out line. He Freddie Miller, the one who had the tele- was highpoint man in the city—not bad vision show “Stars of Tomorrow” and the for a 5’ 6” player. Get the ball to Deadeye, one who did play-by- his coach would say, play of Georgia Tech and Deadeye would and Alabama football score from most any- games. where on the court. I nicknamed With her broth- Sarabelle “Belle,” ers as super players, it because she was then was not surprising that beautiful and she still beautiful Belle was a is—one of the basketball player of knockouts at The note in the girls’ league Jewish Tower. It was at the old Jewish 1943, and she was Educational Alliance. named Sweetheart of She helped lead the AZA chapter 518. B’nai B’rith team to an And if The Jewish Alliance champi- Tower had a onship. Sweetheart, she And it was not would be one of the surprising that she was front-runners. a baseball fan. She was Belle grew up in born and grew up on Atlanta, the baby of Sarabelle Edelstein Capitol Avenue, site of six children. the Atlanta Braves’ first Belle was meant to be a sports fan stadium. and athlete herself. Her oldest brother, Her religion came first, again not sur- Asher Edelstein, was one of the all-time prising because the house she was born great basketball players to come out of and grew up in was halfway between the old Atlanta Boys’ High School, a unani- old Ahavath Achim and Shearith Israel mous all-state pick in both his junior and synagogues. senior years. He was quick, a sure ball- Her dad was the shamas and shochet handler, and one of the leading scorers in of Shearith Israel, so it was only natural the state. that Belle became a member of that syna- Asher’s younger brother, Ben, was gogue. Her dad would kill the chickens nicknamed “Deadeye.” He would look not only for the Atlanta synagogues, but one way and pass the ball another way. He also for the synagogue in Rome, some was the star of the old Atlanta fifty miles away. Commercial High School team, where he Belle never missed a Sabbath at was known for his deadly shooting of the Shearith Israel and was always there for the High Holy Days. But the story about Belle is not about basketball or being a beauty queen. It is about a lady who gave unselfishly of her time to assist another human being. My late, wonderful sister, Hope AMERICA’S Everett, lived across the hall from Lee BEST Miller, Freddie’s mother, at The Jewish Tower. Rarely a week went by, my sister TM CLEANERS told me, that Belle was not visiting her mother-in-law, bringing enough food to feed an army, taking Lee out for dinner, or 4455 Roswell Road both. There were other caregivers at The Atlanta, Georgia 30342 Tower, but none more caring than Belle 404-255-4312 Miller. A star as a teenager and a star now. What a great role model she has been for her children, Simon, 61; Denise, 57; www.presstine.com and Abee, 53. November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 21 Registration continues through the Greenway, and beyond. Campers will learn summer, but families are encouraged to sign bike safety, proper hydration, and nutrition. up January 9 to guarantee free bus trans- • Lego Robotics (rising 3rd-6th-graders, MJCCA NEWS portation, have the best chance of securing Dunwoody and East Cobb). Campers will their top choices of camps, and enter to win learn how to build and program robots using a free week of camp. the LEGO Mindstorms NXT and NXT soft- BOOK FESTIVAL CONTINUES. The 19th Chanukah crafts and treats, and a Children’s Some of the new day camp options are: ware, while learning about mechanical annual Book Shopping Zone. • Space Camp (rising K-6th graders, design, computer science, math, problem Festival of the Families are asked to bring canned Dunwoody and East Cobb), led by the U.S. solving, and teamwork. MJCCA contin- goods, which will be arranged to make a Space & Rocket Center’s Traveling Several popular programs will continue ues through giant menorah during Chanukah and will Classroom (based out of Huntsville, AL). at MJCCA Day Camps, including Noah’s November 21. then be donated to the Atlanta Community Campers will help build and launch a camp- Ark Animal Camp, Around the World, The festival has Food Bank. Participating families will wide space shuttle; create a giant stage set Water World, VIBE Popstar, Cooking, been extended receive a Chanukah goody bag. complete with a space shuttle, space station, Cheerleading, and Clay Dayz. by one day to Additionally, all event guests will receive a and mission control; build and launch per- This summer, MJCCA camp families include an Chanukah booklet with information on the sonal rockets from recycled materials; learn can enjoy a number of benefits: appearance by holiday, recipes, coloring pages, and more. about space exploration; and experience • A multi-week discount of 5% will be Gene Wilder, astronaut training. applied when signing a child up for six or who will talk • Aviation Creation (rising 3rd-6th graders, more weeks. about his new Dunwoody and East Cobb). Campers will • Free bus transportation (a $60 per week book, What is Gene Wilder create and fly their own planes, helicopters, value) from several Metro Atlanta locations This Thing and more; gain an understanding of flight; will be guaranteed on Camp Central Called Love?, November 21, 2:00 p.m., at learn technical terms; and develop the skills Registration Day and provided on a first- Zaban Park. to build their own creations at home. come, first-served basis after January 9, • Built For Speed (rising 3rd-6th-graders, 2011. Dunwoody and East Cobb). Campers will • Families can sign up for pre- and after- build and race soapboxes, boats, remote- camp programming, which will begin at controlled cars, and more. This camp will 7:00 a.m. and run through 6:00 p.m., mak- also include at least one field trip and some ing camp more convenient for working par- electronic games. ents. • Trek & Travel (rising 3rd-6th-graders, For information about the various day Dunwoody). Campers will enjoy outdoor camp offerings or Camp Central Cyndi Sterne lights the Chanukah cooking, canoeing, Geocaching, and tack- Registration Day, visit www.atlantajcc.org. menorah with Noah, Grace Lorenzo ling a ropes course before they head out to and Jason Sherman explore caves, climb high into the trees with COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTU- Sky Hike, and canoe near Dahlonega. NITY. Teens are invited to apply for a schol- In celebration of the eight days of • Mixed Martial Arts (rising 1st-6th-graders, arship award from the Harvey Rubin Chanukah, there will be eight activities for Dunwoody and East Cobb). This camp will Scholarship Fund. This fund was estab- children and families. Each child will be feature a morning of instruction in kickbox- lished in 2001 at the MJCCA by Philip and given a menorah to wear and will get a ing, Mui Tai, boxing, jujitsu, and yoga- Amy Rubin in memory of Philip’s father. “light” on each candle at each activity. themed stretching by a certified instructor in The scholarship recognizes a high Throughout the day, AKC-certified MJCCA’s state-of-the-art gymnastics cen- school senior for outstanding leadership in food will be available at Goodfriend’s Grill. ter. the MJCCA and the Jewish community. In Visit www.atlantajcc.org for a com- • Track & Field (rising 1st-8th-graders, addition, the recipient can direct a portion of plete schedule of activities. For more infor- Dunwoody). Campers will run daily; expe- the scholarship to an MJCCA program or mation, contact Shelly Danz at 678-812- rience field events such as javelin, long department. Last year’s recipient, Megan 3761 or [email protected]. jump, shot put, and indoor sports; and learn Light, was awarded an $1,800 college A highlight of Atlanta’s literary calen- proper stretching and running techniques, as scholarship; she chose to support the Angels dar, the festival presents dozens of the CAMP REGISTRATION KICKS OFF IN well as safety, hydration, and nutrition. The Camp Scholarship Fund at the MJCCA with year’s best authors in a variety of forums. JANUARY. The Marcus Jewish week will culminate in the Harris Jacobs the additional $200 awarded. This year’s lineup features Pulitzer Prize- Community Center of Atlanta’s annual Dream Run at the MJCCA, Sunday, June 5. The scholarship award competition winners, bestselling authors, rising literary Camp Central Registration Day is Sunday, • Tour D’Atlanta Cycling (rising 3rd-8th- requires an application and letters of recom- voices, television and film stars, humorists, January 9, 2011, 8:30-11:30 a.m. The graders, Dunwoody). Travel to a new mendation. For more information, contact journalists, historians, novelists, scholars, MJCCA has added several innovative day cycling-friendly location each day: Stone 678-812-3970 or [email protected]. The and more. camps to the more than 100 different Mountain, Silver Comet Trail, Alpharetta deadline is 6:00 p.m., January 31, 2011. In addition, local book clubs are invit- options. ed to become Book Festival Insiders and Camp registration locations are enjoy discounts on selected titles from MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody; Barnes & Noble, receive complimentary and Shirley Blumenthal Park, 2509 Post tickets to selected events (certain restric- Oak Tritt Road, Marietta/East Cobb. For tions apply), and have their books auto- information, visit www.atlantajcc.org. graphed at the author event. Most Book Festival events are being held at the MJCCA-Zaban Park, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Many programs are free. For a schedule of remaining Book Festival events, tickets, and other informa- tion, visit atlantajcc.org/bookfestival.

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE. The MJCCA will present Community-Wide Chanukah: Light Up Your Life Family Fun Day, December 5, 2:00-5:00 p.m., at Zaban Park, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. This free event Campers Jake Lipsiner and Jacob includes a festive preschool concert, Andelman Page 22 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 The Braves’ lucky charm: Magical cookies help team escape slump, find first place

Everyone knows about Bobby Cox and Aramark, the com- Rosengartens bring an Chipper Jones. Most know about Tim pany in charge of assortment of the com- Hudson and Martin Prado. concessions at pany’s 20 varieties, But very few know the real reason BY Turner Field. Once Braves players have behind the Braves’ playoff run this past sea- Stephen inside the Braves’ their own personal son, which very well might be Ali’s Black home stadium, favorites. Cookies. there was only one “They tell me Jason Alison and Jeff Rosengarten began Not getting the cookies before a home thing keeping Heyward likes the ones providing cookies to the team the night after game may make the team nervous or simply Ali’s cookies out with the M&M’s,” said they lost their ninth game in a row during a jinx them. And that would go against every of the Braves’ Jeff. rough month of April. But after trying cook- rule of baseball superstition. mouths. Since the cookies dis- ies from the East Cobb establishment on “I don’t want to stop [sending cookies] “The only appear so fast, some of April 30, the Braves ended the losing streak just to prove that point,” said Jeff. thing between us the players hide them for and began their ascent to the playoffs. On the other hand, Ali and Jeff don’t and the clubhouse later dates. “We delivered cookies to the players think the Braves will admit how much the was security,” said “Tim Hudson told me that night. They loved the cookies, and they cookies mean to their success. Such an Jeff. “One time, that he likes the cookies won that night,” explained Jeff. “And in admission could mean revealing a weak- we asked the secu- so much that when we fact, they swept that [series].” ness. rity guard how we deliver, he stashes some After the losing skid, Cox’s team was “I don’t think they want to admit to the could get cookies for himself,” said Jeff. 8-14 on the season. Then they started eating superstition of the cookies,” said Jeff with a into the clubhouse. Cox, Jones, Heyward, Ali’s cookies and went 83-57 for the rest of laugh. “Right now, we give [the cookies] to One of the guards Prado, Hudson, and oth- the year. And, since baseball people tend to them as a gift. If the team turned around and was nice enough to Special delivery to the Braves - ers have gotten much of be some of the most superstitious any- said, ‘Hey, we need those lucky cookies,’ make a contact, Aliʼs Cookies the credit for making the where, the Braves continued eating them those cookies could become very expen- and I got a call postseason. But very for good luck. sive.” from the locker few will know the story “At one point, we were thinking, ‘Let’s Getting into the Braves’ clubhouse was room manager. They said they’d be delight- behind how Ali’s Cookies broke a losing see what happens if we don’t send [the not easy for the husband and wife team. ed to have our cookies in the clubhouse.” streak and helped propel the Braves into the cookies],’” said Jeff. “But we didn’t want to After starting the business almost three Once in the clubhouse, the cookies postseason. take that chance.” years ago, the pair began working with became very popular. Though the November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 23 Page 24 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 25 Happy Chanukah JewishTHE Georgian

Holocaust music finds home at Emory Libraries New book heralds Italian musician, composer, and musi- Jewish athletes cologist Francesco Lotoro’s unique library By Scott Janovitz of music written in the concentration and internment camps of World War II has Matzoh Balls and Baseballs found a permanent home at Emory By Dave Cohen University Libraries. Havenhurst Books, 2010 The collection is a personal and profes- $14.95 sional passion Lotoro has pursued since first discovering a piece of Holocaust music on a trip to Prague in 1991. As he continued searching for similar pieces, he found music scribbled in notebooks and diaries and even written on toilet paper. After 20 years of seeking such music, Lotoro has amassed a collection of more than 4,000 manuscripts and nearly 13,000 pieces of microfiche, as well as numerous letters, drawings, and photographs. Paul Root Wolpe, director of the Emory University Center for Ethics, approached the Emory Libraries about the accumulated materials, and the Libraries agreed that the Francesco Lotoro (photo: D. R. Foah, 2008-2010) See MUSIC, page 30

Amy’s Holiday Party grows into a new organization The history of Jews, on this continent and every other, has been studied in Ben at The Breman In 1995, twelve-year-old Amy Sacks Santa, and more. Financial support is sought great detail. From education to politics, wanted to make a difference in other children’s from multiple sources—foundation and corpo- finance, and entertainment, Jews have By R.M. Grossblatt lives. She decided to donate a portion of her rate sponsorships, individual donations of any played many different prominent roles bat mitzvah money to host a holi- amount, toy drives, and in-kind donations of in nearly all forms of society, and their I didn’t learn about the Holocaust day party for Atlanta’s homeless goods and services. stories have been recounted, reviewed, until I was a Sunday school teacher at children. This year, Amy and analyzed throughout. Temple Amy Sacks Zeide is now has created a non-profit Tales concerning the Jewish athlete, Sinai. Ben 27, and what began with twen- organization that will however, have been mostly muted over Walker, the ty-five children, help from fam- expand the scope of the years, whether it’s been the stories director, ily and friends, and a budget of these efforts beyond or the audience that have been difficult asked me to a few hundred dollars has the party itself. to come by. This year, though, local pick up the blossomed into an annual Creating sports personality Dave Cohen took a French docu- event for nearly 600 Connected big step in the effort to fill in this notice- mentary Atlanta homeless, Communities, able void. His new book, Matzoh Balls Night in Fog refugee, and orphaned Inc., was and Baseballs, discusses some of the from the children. This year’s formed with most remarkable—and ordinary—Jews Hebrew party is Sunday, the mission of to have ever played our national pastime Academy December 12, at the providing and also features informative interviews (now Holiday Inn Capitol young adults Center. Amy Sacks Zeide at Amyʼs Holiday Party with tools and with all of the aforementioned athletes. Greenfield Amy’s Holiday resources to For those interested in baseball, the Ben Hirsch Hebrew Party is planned by area teenagers who, guid- assist people in need and to help them become book informs on the impact Jews had on Academy) ed by adult volunteers, fundraise, host all community leaders through partnership, advo- the game throughout the 20th century, and show it to my 7th-graders. For the fol- aspects of the party, and truly learn about the cacy, and mentorship training. Additional while those reading from a Jewish per- lowing week, I couldn’t eat or sleep, but it importance of community involvement. More funding and support is needed to launch these spective will discover the many differ- awakened in me the need to remember the than 300 teens come each year to volunteer new initiatives. ent paths their brethren traveled to gain Holocaust and connect more to Judaism. their time. For more information about Amy’s acceptance and find success in profes- That was decades ago. It takes an operating budget of over Holiday Party & Creating Connected sional athletics. Recently, I was reawakened at The $60,000 to provide this special day for these Communities Inc., or to make a donation, visit The great Hebrew Hammer, Al children. At the event, each child receives two www.amysholidayparty.org, or contact Tara brand-new toys and is treated to a carnival, Kornblum at [email protected] See THE BREMAN, page 27 See BOOK, page 30 lunch, arts and crafts, a memory photo with or 404-532-9515. Page 26 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 27 The Breman From page 25 Breman Jewish Heritage and Holocaust Museum by Benjamin Hirsch, child survivor, who gave a talk there. And I almost didn’t attend. With temperatures in the 70s and a clear blue sky, Sunday, October 3, was the kind of day to roam outside. I really wanted to visit the North Georgia State Fair to watch the ele- phant and tiger acts and enjoy the home- grown attractions. Then I found out that Ben was speaking as part of The Breman’s Ben Hirsch and Jane Leavy, execu- Bearing Witness program, and I felt guilty. tive director at The Breman Museum How does a fair compare to a child sur- leave Germany, Hermann Hirsch stayed, vivor’s eyewitness account of the Holocaust? because he thought that the situation would I decided to skip the fair this year and join improve. “My father had this love for the around 200 others in the auditorium at The Jewish community of Frankfurt,” Ben Selig Center to hear the story of Ben Hirsch, explained. who went on to be the designer of The In September 1935, Dr. Hirsch’s dental Breman Museum and architect of The practice picked up when the Nuremberg laws Ben Hirsch signing his book Memorial to the Six Million in Greenwood forbade Jewish patients to be treated by non- Cemetery, which is on the National Register Jewish doctors. Soon, Asher and Flo came miles to the train station. Years later, Ben When Ben arrived in Atlanta, he was of Historic Places. By the time Ben’s speech home, and two more children were born to found out that a 12-year-old boy on the nine years old and 43 pounds. He lived with and PowerPoint presentation were over, I the Hirsch family: Werner and Roslene. Kindertransport, an “amateur psychologist” many people, including the Bregmans, the knew that I made the right choice. Ben was a By July 1938, FDR was receiving com- as Ben calls him, watched all the mothers Hershbergs, the Ungers, Ida Goncher, and child who fought elephants and tigers not at a munications from people concerned about place their children on the transport. He was then his sister Sara Shartar after she married. fair but in a real-life arena of hatred and fear. emigration for the Jews. He called for a con- curious about so many mothers sending off He attended Georgia Tech before going into And with the help of G-d, his devoted moth- vention at the resort Evian on the Swiss bor- their children, knowing that they might never the Army, which allowed him to travel back er, and many others in France and Atlanta, he der and made a deal that the U.S. would see them again. He decided to focus on Ben’s to Europe and find out more about his fami- survived. match in number any nation that took in mother because she was placing five instead ly. That part of his life is highlighted in his Much of what Ben spoke about appears Jewish refugees. Hitler said that Jews could of one, two, or, at most, three children on the first book, Marching to a Different Drummer. in his book, Home Is Where You Find It, pub- leave for $250 each, but only with the clothes Kindertransport. Much later in America, Ben At the Breman, Ben told several other lished in 2006, but hearing him relate his on their backs. Dr. Heinrich Neumann, a connected with this young man, who told stories, including one about a nurse who story with passion, pain, and even humor Viennese Jew already incarcerated, was him that as the train took off, Ben’s mama wanted to see him right away on visiting day deepened my commitment to keep the mem- elected to give the case for saving the Jews. waved and then fainted on the platform. at his daughter’s camp in the Catskills. The ory of the Holocaust alive—not just for those He spoke eloquently, and when he was fin- In France, Ben was sent to live with the nurse told Ben that he saved her life. When who perished and others, like Ben, who lived ished, every nation wanted him, but no one Samuels family; they were kind to him, but Ben couldn’t go to America with his brothers through it, but for all Jews, because it wasn’t else. Only the Dominican Republic offered to as Jews, they, too, had to flee. Then he lived because of his misdiagnosed appendicitis, just they. It was we, too. take in 1,000 Jews. According to Ben, Hitler in different Oeuvre De Secours Aux Enfants she took his place. She said that was her last From the moment Benjamin Hirsch was used the nations’ lack of interest in saving the (OSE) Jewish children’s homes. At one of the chance, because she was soon turning 16 and born in Frankfurt, Germany, in September Jews in a speech saying, “The nations want to OSE homes, the staff noticed how thin Ben would not be allowed to go. 1932, he knew nothing but fear. The 5th child berate me, but not take them in.” was, so they sent him off to a camp to fatten This past May, Ben and his wife, Jackie, of Hermann and Mathilda Hirsch, he was One of Ben’s most painful memories him up. But the camp turned out to be one of were invited back to Frankfurt to attend a told to never go out alone. Sometimes he did- was Kristallnacht, when, as a six-year-old, he the worst experiences of his young life. stone laying ceremony, part of an effort n’t listen; that’s when he was attacked by saw fire flaring out of the windows of his Those in charge tore off his tzistzis and cut known as the Stolpersteine Initiative, in front boys dressed in soldiers’ uniforms. Often, he synagogue and hoodlums opening up the them up in front of him. They tried to make of his old house. (Stolpersteine is German for ducked into a house, any house, calling out Torah and piercing it on a picket fence. First, him eat ham; he refused. As when his father “stumbling-block.”) Here, a German woman “Mama!” Little did he know that after backing away from the site, he and his 14- was taken away, what happened next was and two couples dedicated stones as they Kristallnacht, Ben, at the age of six, would be year-old cousin ran home. His father had blocked from his memory. (As a grown man, were cemented in front of the house that Ben without his mama, who would send him and already removed the outdoor sign with his he read a book explaining that the counselors and his family lived in before the Holocaust his four older siblings on a Kindertransport to name and a Jewish star on it, which all Jews were trying to save the boys’ lives by taking tore apart their family. The engraved metal save their lives. He never saw his mother were required to place in front of their the Jew out of them, which gave him some plaques on the stones bear the names of his again but has made it his life’s work to find homes. It was too late. A Nazi officer was understanding of their behavior.) parents, sister, and brother; they also tell out what happened to both of his parents and watching the house for several hours. When Back at the OSE, Ben received a when and where they died. Jackie said that his youngest brother and sister. Ben was older, he learned that the officer telegram inviting him to escape to America the couples were honored to support this Ben said the situation in Frankfurt was came that day for his father, but when his along with his older brothers Asher and Jack. effort. “They were horrified by what their bad for his family before Kristallnacht. His mother said he wasn’t in, the Nazi grabbed At the gathering of the children in Marseille, country did,” she said, “and they just want us father, a leader in the Jewish community, was his baby sister from his mother’s arms and Ben had many helpings of hot soup and bread to know it wasn’t them.” a dentist. “Before discrimination, we did threw her to the ground. Then he threatened and awoke in the middle of the night with a Yes, it may not be the Germans of today, well,” said Ben, explaining that the Germans to kill her and each of the children if his terrible stomachache. The attending medic but we are the Jews who survived the paid doctors and dentists for medical care father didn’t come out of hiding. Hearing said it was appendicitis, and Ben couldn’t Holocaust—even those who are thousands of through heavy taxes. “The health care system this, his father immediately appeared. That board the train to Spain with his brothers. As miles away, even those who weren’t born yet. would be the envy of Barak Obama,” he was the last time Ben saw him. soon as Asher and Jack left, Ben’s stomach “Should we be fearful in America?” asked joked. But all that changed when the govern- His mother, realizing the seriousness of was better. A few months later, he was invit- someone during the question-and-answer ment announced that Jewish medical the situation, made arrangements for her five ed to join the last group of children headed session. providers wouldn’t get paid. oldest children to board a Kindertransport to for America. This time, he ate only one help- “We should always be aware,” said Ben. Overnight, Ben’s father’s practice suf- France. Ben remembers that, for each piece ing of soup and bread. Then he smiled, and many people, including fered. “We couldn’t put food on the table for of clothing she packed for him, a tear fell He described how moving through his children and grandchildren, came up from seven,” said Ben, so older brother Asher and from his mother’s eyes. When finished, she Spain, a country that collaborated with the the audience to express their appreciation for sister Flo were sent temporarily to family placed all the bags in a baby carriage and Nazis, was oppressive. Once the train arrived his moving presentation. members in Holland. While others started to with her children, ages 6-13, walked two in Portugal, Ben felt a difference in the air. From there, he took a ship to America. Page 28 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 The Jews of LaGrange On November 11, 1932, in an obituary, The LaGrange Daily News praised the “widely known” Sam Goldstein, “a suc- cessful business man and civic leader.” Goldstein, who fled Russia with his family BY Stuart around the turn of the century to escape Rockoff Edelsonʼs Army Store & Sporting conscription in the Czarist military, went on Goods is still in business today. Congregation Beth-El in LaGrange to become a respected and valued citizen of rienced a rebirth. LaGrange, Georgia. For many years, his these German Jews developed an affinity Many of the new Jewish arrivals came in its rituals, though it never joined the dry goods and shoe business resided in the for their adopted homeland, most emphati- from the Russian Empire. Simon Struletz, Union of American Hebrew Congregations. main town square, marked prominently in cally demonstrated by their military service born in Byelorussia in 1881, LaGrange’s non-Jewish community what was known as “the Goldstein build- for the Confederate cause. While conscrip- moved to New York City in played a vital role in establish- ing.” As is evident from Sam Goldstein’s tion into imperial armies was a major moti- 1910 before permanently ing the temple. Prominent and obituary, LaGrange very much shaped the vation for fleeing Europe, Southern Jews settling in LaGrange shortly wealthy civic leader Cason Jewish immigrants who settled in the city proved loyal soldiers in the Confederate afterward. He operated sev- Callaway offered to pay the and was shaped by them in turn. army. Jacob Freisleben, a German-Jewish eral businesses, such as a difference between the $10,000 LaGrange got its name after Colonel Confederate veteran and resident of retail shoe store and a scrap raised by the congregants and Julius Caesar Alford heard that the French LaGrange, attended many Confederate metal supply company. the $14,500 the building would leader Marquis de Lafayette compared his reunions after the war. Struletz was joined by other cost. Such generosity reveals wife’s estate, the Château de LaGrange in A glimpse into the life of a Jewish Jews, such as the Ketzky the deep bond that existed France, to the lands of West Georgia. While Confederate soldier is provided by the jour- family of Alabama, the between people of different the area was initially settled by Creek nal of LaGrange resident Louis Merz. Delancey family of New faiths in LaGrange. The benev- Indians, European-descended settlers from Before the Civil War, The LaGrange York, and the aforemen- olence was reciprocated: con- Eastern Georgia, the Carolinas, Virginia, Reporter stated that, “Young Louis Merz, tioned Goldstein family, all gregation minutes from and elsewhere pushed westward, encapsu- an Israelite and merchant… was a great arriving in the years leading November 1949 reveal the lating the lands that would become the vil- favorite among his friends. Brave, chival- into World War I. Many of board agreeing to purchase Reverend Forrester a going lage of LaGrange. rous, and patriotic, he had enlisted from a these new Jewish families The program from the away present, because he The town was officially incorporated sense of duty.” The Reporter made him a owned their own businesses 1945 dedication of Beth “was a good friend of the in 1828 and named the seat of Troup war correspondent, and his dispatches, and were crucial actors in Elʼs synagogue. County. LaGrange quickly became a along with his diary, reveal his day-to-day the commercial develop- Jews and has done a lot to wealthy commercial center of Old South life through the war. As in many war mobi- ment of early 20th century promote [a] better relation- Georgia, much of this the product of slav- lizations in history, national conscription LaGrange. ship and good will amongst ery. The construction of mills and a railroad proved a cohesive force for Louis Merz, Not all of the new arrivals were entre- Jews and non-Jews in the community.” between Atlanta and LaGrange in the 1830s who routinely ate bacon and either wit- preneurs. Many provided special services Leading members of Congregation Beth-El and ‘40s furthered development of the nessed or partook of all-night celebrations and skills that benefited the LaGrange com- often participated in town-wide activities town. By 1860, the community could boast involving moonshine. On March 8 and 9 of munity. B.J. Meyer, who came in 1915, and with the LaGrange Ministerial Association, of more than 100 Federal and Greek 1862, Merz witnessed a naval skirmish Bill Rose were Jewish attorneys in such as a blood drive in 1950 and interfaith revival-style mansions, many owned by between the Confederate USS Merrimack LaGrange. Aaron Goldberg was a pediatri- celebrations of Passover and Yom wealthy planters. and the Union USS Minnesota. Also men- cian. These Jews fulfilled vital roles in HaShoah. Shortly after its establishment, By the middle of the 19th century, tioned in his reports are occasional associa- LaGrange, as well as demonstrating the Congregation Beth-El became an integral another group could claim to be contribut- tions with Jews from LaGrange, such as new professional status of many American element of the religious and cultural life of ing to the development of LaGrange: Jacob Freisleben. Sadly, Louis Merz was Jews in the early 20th century. LaGrange. European Jews. Primarily of German never to see his home in West Georgia Born in Minsk, Russia, in 1898, Harry Despite these early successes, descent, Jews settled and established mer- again; he was killed at the Battle of Edelson moved to New York City before Congregation Beth-El was still relatively chant businesses in LaGrange and neigh- Antietam. arriving in Georgia as a traveling salesman. limited in members and resources. In 1945, boring towns through the 1850s and Union troops destroyed much of During World War I, he worked as a taxi the year the temple was established, the onward. These pioneer Jews were generally LaGrange. Most of the town’s factories driver; by 1921, he operated his own ladies’ executive committee of the congregation retailers, such as the Hagedorn, Froshin, were razed, the railroads torn apart, and the garment store. Settling in LaGrange, Harry agreed to a minimum $500 fee for initial Mayer, Freisleben, Heyman, Herzberg, and infrastructure uprooted. The years follow- married Sadya Finkelstein, originally from membership (with the exception of those in Merz families. ing the Civil War required redevelopment Austria, and raised four children. Harry and the armed forces) and annual dues to be set Isaac Hagedorn moved to LaGrange in an industrial economic order, rather than two of his sons, Milton and Marvin, became at $48. In June 1949, a majority of the and later to nearby West Point, Georgia, one built on slave labor. crucial actors in the rise of a thriving Jewish members agreed to pay $250 per year to establishing the West Point Wholesale A generation of entrepreneurs and community in LaGrange. The family still hire a Hebrew teacher for their children. Grocery Company with partners. A genera- business leaders rebuilt LaGrange and owns an Army store that prominently dis- From year to year, board meetings focused tion later, Max and John Hagedorn devel- reclaimed its former wealth. In 1888, the plays “Edelson’s” on the façade of a build- heavily on securing a rabbi for the High oped the LaGrange Grocery Company, a first large-scale cotton manufacturer ing in downtown LaGrange. Holidays. Efforts were made by members distributor that remained active into the appeared in the town; by 1920 there were By World War II, the development of to beautify the temple, with Mr. and Mrs. 1980s. nine. LaGrange witnessed its first modern LaGrange and the subsequent growth of the Jack Maskowitz donating a memorial tablet Herman Heyman and Louis Merz set- textile mill, a telephone exchange, and a Jewish population had reached a critical and Mr. and Mrs. Harry Behr purchasing tled in LaGrange in 1853. Heyman worked brick production company all by the turn of mass. By 1940, weekly Friday night servic- lighting fixtures for the recreation room. for the publishing firm Behringer and the century. This new climate of burgeoning es were being held in the homes of the Even with restricted personnel, Solomon, while Merz peddled goods, often commercial activity and industrial develop- Edelson and Behr families. Soon, the group finances, and hours, Congregation Beth-El bought from Behringer and Solomon, in the ment attracted Jews to the region. launched an effort to establish a permanent successfully sustained Jewish religious and surrounding countryside. Both soon moved Leading into the 20th century, house of worship. Harry Edelson headed cultural life in the decades following World to West Point and established the Heyman LaGrange’s Jews could only superficially the fundraising committee, while Harry War II. However, financial demands were a and Merz retail store. These Jews generally be called a “community.” Without a temple Behr worked to find a suitable property. He recurrent issue for the congregation. carried over practices of German Reform or a Jewish cemetery, LaGrange Jews settled on a former Episcopal Church, Repairs to the old edifice of the synagogue Judaism, which, along with newly founded sought Jewish life in neighboring West located at the intersection of Church and and other costs were often met by individ- business ties with locals, abetted their Point or even as far as Atlanta. However, Battle streets, which became LaGrange’s ual donations by executive board members. assimilation into the LaGrange community. with the industrial reinvention of first Jewish synagogue in 1945. The con- The board eventually decided to sell the By the eve of the Civil War, many of LaGrange, the Jewish population also expe- gregation, now called Beth-El, was Reform building adjoining the synagogue. Despite November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 29 the admirable commitment of the LaGrange for the high holidays. The congregation has Jewish community, Congregation Beth-El recently disbanded its Sunday school, with has never had a full-time rabbi. the small number of remaining children While LaGrange has developed sub- traveling to Columbus or Auburn, Alabama, Got Hometown Pride? stantially since 1945, its Jewish community for religious instruction. has experienced a pattern similar to other The Jewish population of LaGrange is Then how about a little friendly competition? Please tell the small towns in the South. Young congre- only a fraction of what it was just a few Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life where you grew up. Your gants who grew up in these small towns decades ago. In this sense, LaGrange is response will help the ISJL History Department track the demographic changes that have moved to larger cities that offer better emblematic of the major trends that defined have transformed the Jewish South and preserve the legacy of congregations and professional opportunities and a greater Southern Jewish history over the last centu- communities that have disappeared. likelihood of meeting other Jews. ry. To participate, please visit www.ISJL.org and click on the Hometown Pride tab According to Milton and Louisa to complete the brief questionnaire. Edelson, one of the few remaining Jewish Readers are invited to learn more about the couples residing in LaGrange, the Jewish history of Jewish communities in Georgia ISJL will ask for: community has dwindled from a height of by visiting the Encyclopedia of Southern Your name 35 families to currently fewer than 10. Most Jewish Communities, found at Current address have moved to Atlanta or other metropoli- www.isjl.org. The Goldring/Woldenberg E-mail address tan areas. While the Edelsons drove their Institute of Southern Jewish Life considers Phone numbers children from LaGrange to Columbus, the encyclopedia to be a work in progress Spouse’s or significant other’s name Georgia, to attend religious school every and encourages the public to contact Dr. Your childhood hometown week, most younger Jewish couples have Stuart Rockoff at [email protected] with Parents’ childhood hometown(s) and family name(s) opted to move closer to prominent centers additional information related to the histo- Spouse’s or significant other’s childhood hometown and family name of Jewish life. Congregation Beth-El still ry of Jews in Georgia or other communities The following questions will also be asked: brings in a visiting lay rabbi from Atlanta of the South. Where do your children live, currently? Would you or another family member be willing to share more information about the Jewish community in which you were raised? Do you have any photographs/artifacts of your Jewish childhood to share with the History Department? Weber students attend AIPAC Which other members of your Jewish childhood community could enhance the doc- High School Summit umentation the history of Jewish life in your hometown? The ISJL, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, is dedicated to providing From October 3-5, six Weber School educational and rabbinic services to Southern Jewish communities, documenting and students, myself included, attended the preserving the rich history of the Southern Jewish experience, and promoting a AIPAC High School Summit in Jewish cultural presence throughout a 13-state region. For more information, visit Washington, D.C. AIPAC is a pro-Israel www.ISJL.org. lobby group focused on strengthening the BY Jonathan relationship between Israel and America. Friedman This specific event was open only to ambitious high school students, and I was honored to attend. It was incredible to eat our kosher meals in a room filled with more then 500 people with a shared passion for Israel. I found it especially fascinating that there was a wide representation of non- Jewish people who felt that as Americans, Israel was of great importance. On the first two days of the conference, we learned about lobbying techniques, and were further educated on the current situa- tion in Israel. On Tuesday, we put our new knowledge into practice when we lobbied AT THE AIPAC HIGH SCHOOL SUMMIT. with U.S. Representative Tom Price’s staff. (Pictured, from left) Eytan Palte, 11th All of our newly acquired skills and grade; Sara Spanger, associate director knowledge will be used in making sure that of Student Life; Ari Feldstein, 11th Weber, and Atlanta, remain fully aware of grade; Jonathan Friedman, 11th grade; the State of Israel. Gabi Glaser, 10th grade; Adina Beiner, 11th grade; and Max Shafron, 12th grade Jonathan Friedman is a junior at The Weber School. Page 30 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 When shuls were banned in America By Jonathan D. Sarna some today are of all Muslims, he never The New Haven Register viewed the they attempt to build in locations that some allowed them to build a synagogue of their synagogue as a public defeat for would prefer to see devoid of Jewish reli- When New York Mayor Michael own. Christendom. “The Jews…,” the paper gious institutions. In the 1950s, new subur- Bloomberg stood on Governors Island, in In 1685, with the British in control of thundered, “have outflanked us here, and ban synagogues commonly had to face sight of the Statue of Liberty, and forceful- the city, 20 Jewish families petitioned to effected a footing in the very centre of our down angry neighbors and change-averse ly defended the right of Muslims to build a change Stuyvesant’s precedent so that they own fortress. Strange as it may sound, it is zoning boards when they applied for build- community center and mosque two blocks might establish a synagogue and worship in nevertheless true that a Jewish synagogue ing permits. As recently as 1999, opponents from Ground Zero, he expressly made a public. They were curtly refused. “Publique has been established in this city—and their of a new Orthodox synagogue seeking to point of distancing himself from an earlier worship,” New York City’s Common place of worship (in Grand Street, over the build in New Rochelle, New York, warned leader of the city: Peter Stuyvesant, who Council informed them, “is Tolerated… but store of Heller and Mandelbaum) was dedi- residents that the planned structure would understood the relationship between reli- to those that professe faith in Christ.” cated on Friday afternoon. Yale College bring with it “rats,” “traffic,” and “creeping gion and state altogether differently than Eventually, around the turn of the 18th divinity deserves a Court-martial for bad commercialization.” The real fear, one Bloomberg does. century, Jews in New York won the right to generalship.” opponent confessed to The Forward, was As governor of what was then called worship in public, and Congregation Jews continued to “outflank” that “the identity of the neighborhood New Amsterdam, from 1647-1664, Shearith Israel opened America’s first syna- Christians, owing to immigration, and by would change.” Stuyvesant worked to enforce Calvinist gogue. Subsequently, in Rhode Island, what 1856 there were enough of them in the Mayor Bloomberg likely had some of orthodoxy. He objected to public worship is today known as the Touro Synagogue, the nation’s capital to consider opening a syna- this history in mind when he asked “should for Lutherans, fought Catholicism, and oldest synagogue building still extant in gogue close to the very heart of the federal government attempt to deny private citizens threatened those who harbored Quakers North America, was dedicated in Newport government. Questions arose, however, as the right to build a house of worship on pri- with fines and imprisonment. One might in 1763. to whether this was legal under the District vate property based on their particular reli- easily imagine how he would have treated Elsewhere Jews were not so fortunate. of Columbia’s Religious Corporation Act. gion?” In distancing himself from Peter Muslims. In Connecticut, for example, statutes Some contended that only Christian church- Stuyvesant and the many others who have When Jewish refugees arrived in his limited the right of religious incorporation es could acquire real estate in Washington defined American religious liberty in nar- city, in 1654, Stuyvesant was determined to to Christians long after the Bill of Rights for public worship, not Jews. In the end, it rowly restrictive terms, he reminds us that if bar them completely. Jews, he complained, mandated religious liberty for all on the took an act of Congress to resolve the ques- today’s target is the mosque, yesterday’s were “deceitful,” “very repugnant,” and federal level. It took a special act of the tion. Signed by President Franklin Pierce on was most assuredly the synagogue. “hateful enemies and blasphemers of the state legislature, in 1843, to ensure that June 2, 1856, it established the principle name of Christ.” He wanted them sent else- “Jews who may desire to unite and form “that all the rights, privileges and immuni- Jonathan D. Sarna is the Joseph H. & Belle where. religious societies shall have the same ties heretofore granted by law to the R. Braun Professor of American Jewish Stuyvesant’s superiors in Holland rights, powers and privileges as are given to Christian churches in the City of History at Brandeis University and chief overruled him, citing economic and politi- Christians of every denomination.” Thanks Washington be… extended to the Hebrew historian of the National Museum of cal considerations. He continued, however, to this act, Congregation Mishkan Israel Congregation of said City.” American Jewish History. to restrict Jews to the practice of their reli- opened in New Haven that year; it was only Long afterwards, however, and even gion “in all quietness” and “within their the second synagogue in all of New down to our own times, synagogues have Reprinted with permission of The Forward. houses.” Being as suspicious of all Jews as England. frequently faced fierce opposition when

said, “We are excited about this extraordi- decision. “I walk up to [the manager] and I Music nary and unique collection. MARBL has Book tell him that my parents just called me and numerous collections that document differ- From page 25 reminded that it was Yom Kippur, that I ent aspects of the Holocaust and the human From page 25 had forgotten about it, and that I’m going Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book experience, and the materials so carefully Rosen, discusses his powerful, home-run- to have to back out.” Library (MARBL) would become the even- collected by Dr. Lotoro will complement filled career, which spanned the ‘30s, ‘40s, This point is only further driven home tual home for Lotoro’s current collection, those holdings and enrich the work of schol- and ‘50s, and remembers his various when the Jewish priorities of the elder along with other manuscripts of musical ars who look to Emory as a source for study encounters and dealings with anti- Rosen are highlighted later in the book: compositions for which he continues to about the Holocaust.” Semitism during that time. Ken Holtzman, “What I wanted to be was the best,” he search. When the collection comes to the On September 28, selections from the winningest Jewish pitcher of all time, said. “I was quoted one time as saying, ‘I library, it will require special conservation Lotoro’s vast musical collection were pre- recounts his three consecutive champi- want to be a Jew that, when he walks down and cataloging, along with the application of sented at Emory in a concert titled onship seasons in Oakland with one of the street, every other Jew can be proud of digital technology to preserve the materials “Testaments of the Heart,” a multimedia baseball’s greatest teams ever and tells of him’ That’s kind of the way I felt, and I and make them widely accessible. event featuring visual imagery from noted the day in 1972 when he joined Mike feel that today.” While details about the transfer of the author and Holocaust scholar Ann Weiss’ Epstein and Reggie Jackson on the field Finally, Matzoh Balls and Baseball collection remain to be determined, Vice book, The Last Album: Eyes from the Ashes wearing black armbands, in memory of the interestingly hits on a significant, though Provost and Director of Libraries Rick Luce of Auschwitz-Birkenau. eleven Israeli athletes killed in Munich strictly American, theme as well. Reading that year. Cohen’s book in 2010, one simple fact In Matzoh Balls and Baseballs, Cohen becomes plainly obvious: Life got in the tells great stories that have been otherwise way of sports far more often “back then.” ignored, and, in doing so, captures the re- In traversing the history of Jewish occurring Jewish-American themes and baseball players in 20th-century America, emotions that have traversed generations. Cohen illustrates how the lives and events For example, in successive interviews, for- of average Jewish men collided and inter- mer professional baseball players empha- sected with that of American icons such size family and the importance of educa- Sandy Koufax, Cal Ripken, and Hank tion over sports and the game they grew to Aaron. Along the way, readers learn things love. they never knew about America’s favorite The inevitable breakdown of Jewish sport, while the often-overlooked role of values in America, however, is also high- the Jewish baseball player is comprehen- lighted in the book, as Jewish ball players sively detailed throughout. during the late ‘50s and ‘60s like Larry Yellen explain how missing game action on high holidays such as Yom Kippur had become a parental rather than a personal November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 31 mended for people interested in theology, CHANUKAH EXTRAVAGANZA. The archeology, history, and Torah. For the trav- Thought you’d like to know lighting of Atlanta’s tallest menorah is hap- eler to Israel, Modern Hebrew is the best pening during A Taste of Chanukah, choice. The Modern Hebrew class is at 6:30 By Jonathan Barach [email protected], or visit atlanta- Thursday, December 2, 6:30 p.m., at the p.m.; Classical Hebrew is at 8:00 p.m.; the jcc.org/girlsanddolls. Fountains of Old Towne Shopping Center, fee is $150 for each eight-session class. For FIGHTING APARTHEID. “Helen Suzman: 736 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. This even information, visit www.oglethorpe.edu (key Fighter for Human Rights” is on display at CHANUKAH EXPO. The Chanukah features delicious Chanukah foods—latkes, word: noncredit). To register, call Rose the Martin Luther King, Jr. International Family Expo is November 29-30 and borekas, falafel, knishes, and more—from Cunningham at 404-634-8016. Chapel through January 31, 2011. The exhi- December 5. Activities include Chanukah Atlanta’s top caterers. The event is free; bition reveals the animosity and anti- Lego Land, an interactive Chanukah com- there is a nominal charge for food. For JEWISH CUBA HUMANITARIAN MIS- Semitism Suzman faced throughout her puter center, crafts, cooking, olive press details, call 770-565-4412, or visit SION. The MJCCA’s mission to Jewish career, but also highlights her enduring demos, Chanukah theater, Build Your Own www.ChanukahCobb.com. Cuba is April 3-10, 2011. Travelers will friendship with Nelson Mandela. It explores Menorah, treats, and more. Each day will depart from Miami on April 2 and tour nearly four decades of her life and vision have its own special activities. Chanukah LIGHT THE LIGHTS. The Grand Menorah Cuba while distributing aid to the local through photographs, personal letters, quo- Judaica and gifts will be available for pur- Lighting at East Cobb Park is Sunday, Jewish population. Over the past six years, tations from speeches, and news articles. chase from Gifts from the Heart. The Expo December 5, 7:00 p.m. The entire commu- the MJCCA has delivered several millions The exhibition is open 1:00-4:00 p.m., takes place at Woodlawn Square Shopping nity is invited to attend this annual event. in aid, including clothing, toiletries, prayer Tuesdays, Thursday, and Sundays. Groups Center, 1205 Johnson Ferry Rd., Suite 119, Enjoy music, refreshments, and more. books, school supplies, medicines, medical visits can be scheduled by contacting the next to Fresh Market. Admission is free. Admission is free. The menorah lighting is supplies, and money to Jewish Cuba. The chapel at 404-215-2608 or e-mailing screas- The Expo is a project of Chabad of Cobb, in hosted by Shalom Cobb, in conjunction price for this mission is $2,950 per person, [email protected]. For more informa- conjunction with the MJCCA. For informa- with all East Cobb Jewish organizations. double occupancy ($300 single supple- tion, visit www.suzmanexhibit.com. tion, call 770-565-4412, or visit For more information, contact ment); a $500 deposit is due with applica- www.ChanukahCobb.com. [email protected]. tion/reservation. The reservation deadline is DOLL DAY. The Marcus Jewish January 15, 2011. For applications and Community Center of Atlanta’s 4th annual SPEAKING OF CHANUKAH. On BARNEY ALUMNI NIGHT. Camp Barney information, contact Shaindle Schmuckler Girls & Dolls is November 21, 2:00-5:00 December 1, 7:45 p.m., the Mt. Scopus alumni and their families are invited to an at 678-812-3983 or p.m., at Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Group of Greater Atlanta Hadassah will evening of dinner, tapas, fun, and entertain- [email protected]. Ravinia, 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Road. present an installment of its Jewish educa- ment, Monday, December 6, 6:00-9:00 Enjoy a fashion show featuring the latest tion series. Rabbi Hayyim Kassorla, p.m., at FuegoMundo Restaurant, located at SAVE THE DATE. The Atlanta Scholars girls’ apparel; sweets and treats; boutique Congregation Or VeShalom, will speak The Prado in Sandy Springs, 5590 Roswell Kollel (ASK) invites the community to shopping for adult and children; crafts; and about “Hanukah—The Woman’s Holiday.” Road. For more information, call Masha Jewish Unity Live 2011, Sunday, March 6, dolly day care. Children who wish to be RSVP to 404-636-6434. Hleap-Hershkovitz at 770-833-7471. at the Woodruff Arts Center. The event will runway models will be accepted on a first- celebrate Jewish learning and honor Ilene come, first-served registration basis ($25 CONVERSATIONAL HEBREW. On BIBLICAL AND MODERN HEBREW and Jonathan Miller. It will feature enter- modeling fee). Tickets for each December 2, 7:30 p.m., the Mt. Scopus CLASSES. Oglethorpe University will tainment by the Atlanta-born-and-bred mother/daughter pair are $48/non-mem- Group of Greater Atlanta Hadassah will offer classes in Biblical and Modern comedian, magician, hypnotist, and mime bers, $36/members, and $18 for each addi- start a beginner conversational Hebrew Hebrew, beginning January 11. Biblical Avner the Eccentric (a.k.a. Avner tional daughter/grandmother/aunt/best class, Ivrit L’Hadassah. This class is free to Hebrew (Classical Hebrew), the archaic Eisenberg). For more information, call ASK friend/etc. For details, contact Shelly Danz, Hadassah members. For more information form of the Hebrew language, is recom- at 404-321-4085. 678-812-3761 or and to enroll, call 404-325-0340. News of the past My friend, Dr. Ann Lee, loaned me Chronicles—News of the Past—From Abraham to Ezra 1726-444 BCE. Printed in Jerusalem in 1970, it looks like an old Atlanta Constitution, yellowed with age BY Balfoura Friend and type-set in columns with captioned items, as though written by news colum- Levine nists. Item: “In Megiddo, dated 16 Adar, between Barak and Sisera is to take place, Tens of thousands of the city’s residents say they ‘smell rain.’ Should they prove gathered today before the Temple of Baal to right, there could be trouble for Sisera, hear an impassioned plea to the peoples of since a heavy downpour would make the Canaan to unite in a ‘holy war’ against the going very difficult for Sisera’s heavy char- ‘Israelite invader.’” (Perhaps the word iots. The weather prophet at Megiddo fore- “jihad” had not yet been coined.) casts cloudy weather but no rain, but he has Item: “Dothan Menassah, 16 Adar. been known to err.” (Sounds like our local Seven farmers, all of the tribe of Menassah, weatherman to me!) were placed under arrest by the King’s sol- Item: “Bulletin—Hurried military diers, for using iron in the manufacture of preparations are being noted at Sharuhen, the Hyksos fortress on the Egypt-Canaan the IRS around April 15 each year.) certain tools. Four arrests were made, two I could quote many more items that of whom were accomplices. The purpose of border, and they’re also preparing a second front line of defense in case Avaris should would seem to echo today’s news in the the law is to forestall any Israelite uprising modern world. In fact, reports from Israel, by preventing them from acquiring fall.” (Shades of the Gaza problem today!) Item: “Tax Chief Killed by Angry Mob, Iraq, Afghanistan, and even here in Atlanta weapons of war. It is feared that if the peo- parallel the news during Biblical days. ple were permitted the use of metal (even Shechen 15 Ziv. Adoram, veteran Tax Commissioner under King David and King Fascinating to think that not much has for peaceful purposes) they might secretly changed over thousands of years. In the manufacture spears or swords.” (This Solomon, was stoned to death by the enraged mob, when he was sent by King meantime… sounds like Iran’s nuclear plans today.) …God Bless America. Item: “Taanach. Veteran farmers in the Rehoboam to quell the riot which had bro- Kishon River Valley, where the battle ken out.” (Sounds like local folks against Page 32 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010

up, on time, and dressed for league play. So, Schwartz on Sports old-timers from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, don’t be surprised if you’re contacted for the next I love reunions. I don’t care how big or “Basketball Bunch at Lunch” get-together. small, formal or informal. It could be my 50th There are still a lot of stories to tell, even if high-school reunion, the Alta-Cocker Softball they are somewhat embellished. I can’t wait. Game, a family get-together, or lunch with some former DeKalb County principals. I BY Jerry MJCCA INTERIM CEO. It was great news enjoy seeing family and friends and sharing hearing that Howard Hyman, former Marcus memories. Schwartz Jewish Community Center of Atlanta So, when Steve Gruenhut called and told (MJCCA) president, Governance Board mem- me about the lunch he and Stan Sobel were Gruenhut, two North Carolina alums who had- ber, and chairperson of many other commit- THE BASKETBALL BUNCH AT organizing for guys who played in the Atlanta n’t seen each other in 15 years, sat and talked tees, was appointed interim CEO of the LUNCH. (Back, from left) Marty Jewish Community Center (AJCC) Basketball North Carolina basketball. MJCCA. Howie assumed this role after the Berger, Hal Krafchick, Joel League in the mid-‘60s through the mid-‘80s, Steve also holds the record for the longest resignation of Michael Wise. Stepakoff, George Wise, Eddie I was really excited. It was their first attempt, stint as commissioner of the league at 15 I’ve known Howie for about 35 years; we Ullman, and Howie Frushtick; (front, and 11 guys showed up, with a few no-shows. years, replacing Stan Sobel after he served six first met in the AJCC Men’s Softball League. from left) Steve Gruenhut, Leonard Not bad for the first time. We met at the years. Former Athletic Director Hal Krafchick We also played together on a City League Sherman, Jerry Schwartz, Stan Empire Diner in Sandy Springs, and, two sat in on many basketball “drafts” with these team, Pizza Cove, during the ‘70s. He was an Sobel, and Donald Miller hours later, a lot of us were still there, sharing guys. Stan asked me to get Gene Benator’s excellent catcher and helped to make our ace pitcher, Joel Lobel, look good. Good luck to stories about former players and friends from Alta-Cocker e-mail list, so we could contact played with dad Howie. Stan Sobel’s sons, you, Howie. I know you’ll do an excellent job. the AJCC on Peachtree Street. On January 17, more old timers for the next get-together. Peter and Michael, played on the same team 1999, seven of us in the group participated in We’re going to have to get a lot bigger table. with their dad, as did Steve Gruenhut’s sons, PICKLE-BALL. Pickle-ball is still alive and the last basketball game played at the AJCC I’ve seen most of the guys who were in Michael and Jeff. The Gruenhuts even won a well at the MJCCA. The Mendel Gymnasium on Peachtree Street. attendance regularly at the MJCCA or social league championship together. Donny is reserved on Tuesdays and Thursdays from As I looked at the picture of “The functions in recent years, but I hadn’t seen Diamond had Bret and Scott and Mike 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for play. Ken Lester Basketball Players at Lunch,” I estimated that Joel Stepakoff in at least 30 years. I always Nemeroff’s sons, Mark and Joey, playing in and Ed Feldstein have done an excellent job in there was probably a total of 200 years expe- admired Joel’s intensity and tenacity on the the league at the same time. I probably missed promoting the game, setting up the court for rience among guys playing “B Ball at the J.” court. He also had the darkest hair of the some other father-and-two-sons combinations play, and keeping participants updated on Although I’m not too certain about Leonard group. along the way. rules and schedules. They’ve even joined the Sherman. I can’t remember him on the court, I told Howie Frushtick and Eddie Ullman George Wise, Ray Blase, and I are still USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) and but he’s always fun to talk to. Donald that this was the second consecutive time their the only three guys still playing in at least one have e-mailed the latest newsletter to “Moose” Miller, Howie Frushtick, and Stan pictures have appeared in “Schwartz on of the three leagues: 18+ full court, 30+ cross Pickleballers. I’ve been playing the game for Sobel got the honor of being the oldest at 77, Sports.” People are going to start thinking I’m court, and 40+ 4 on 4 half court. It’s been 45 about five months and find it to be a great and Moose told us if we continue to do this for their press agent. Howie’s son, David, showed consecutive years, and I think I’ve about had workout and lots of competitive fun. So, when the next ten years, he’ll pick up the entire up to have lunch with us. It reminded me that it with league play (as long as I can still play it’s too cold outside to play tennis, Pickle-ball check in 2020. there were a number of guys who played in the pick up), but George and Ray are still showing Of course, Marty Berger and Steve league with their two sons. David and Jay is a great alternative. Come join us. MISH MASH

By Erin O’Shinskey National Conference about clean water and pure air, Israel’s Minister of Environmental Protection RABBI KAPENSTEIN HONORED. Rabbi Gilad Erdan spent time comparing initiatives with David Kapenstein, executive director of Torah local green organizations, asking for support from Day School of Atlanta (TDSA), was honored with major corporations, and touring a green communi- Israeli Minister of Environmental the Spetner Memorial ty. The Green Chamber of the South held a lunch Protection Gilad Erdan (2nd from left) Ed and Linda Levitt Avodas Hakodesh meeting with Minister Erdan; he met with Coca- speaks with green business leaders at a Award, at the Agudath Cola’s Vice President of Environment and Water lunch sponsored by the Green Chamber Israel Midwest Jeff Seabright to discuss Coke’s potential involve- of the South. Regional Dinner, ment in Israel’s recycling programs; and he visit- October 31. As execu- ed Serenbe, a 1,000-acre, completely sustainable tive director of TDSA, community located less than 30 minutes from the working with former Atlanta airport. Head of School Rabbi Kalmen Rosenbaum, he helped TDSA expand and relocate, construct its new building, Rabbi David become accredited, and Kapenstein be named a 2008 Blue No More Excuses No More Lung Cancer Ribbon School of Excellence by the U. S. 5K Run/Walk Department of Education. In 2008, he worked Deputy Consul General Sharon Kabalo, with lung cancer annually; 75% of them never closely with Agudath Israel’s regional director, Consul General Opher Aviran, and Israeli smoked or quit smoking decades ago. More Rabbi A. D. Motzen, to advocate for the passage Minister of Environmental Protection Georgians will lose their lives to lung cancer than of the groundbreaking Georgia Scholarship Tax Gilad Erdan at the Green Chamber of the breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. Credit Program. Steve Nygren of Serenbe shows Minister South luncheon Proceeds from the run/walk help the Lung Cancer Erdan a map of the community. Nygren NO MORE EXCUSES. The No More Excuses Alliance (LCA-GA) provide support to Georgians A CLEANER, GREENER ISRAEL. While in gave Erdan a full tour of the grounds. No More Lung Cancer 5K Run/Walk took place Atlanta to speak at the Jewish National Fund’s November 6. Over 6,000 Georgians are diagnosed See MISHMASH, page 45 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 33 Downsizing? Moving? Settling an estate? Here’s help Customers have been known to camp outdoors overnight waiting for the doors to open on her estate sales. “This is true,” Shirley Romm Wender, manager of the BY Carolyn longest continuous estate sales business in Atlanta, modestly verifies. Gold In 1969, she and Frances Kuniansky started their estate and moving sales. Now everything with tags. They may need to the business has a more formal title: Home bring in help for moving big furniture Furnishings Brokerage. Frances bowed out pieces and for setting up tables and some- in 1996, and Shirley was joined in her times clothes racks for special designer endeavor by Litchfield Carpenter in 1999. items. Carpenter was the curator of the house Sale days are Saturday and Sunday, Needlework picture collection (circa 1790 to 1830) of the 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Prices are firm the Travelers Rest Plantation & Museum in first day, but buyers can leave offers for Their funniest story was of the lady Nashville. He is also experienced in doing items that are not sold. Shirley’s daughter, who spent thousands on a set of Royal appraisals. He says he especially enjoys the Sally Berry, often helps with sales. The Crown Derby porcelain with hand-painted research on history of the family connec- company averages about one sale a month pictures of palaces and royal estates, then Shirley Romm Wender prices an tions that they find in the estates of promi- or at least 10 a year. Customers include col- wheeled them home in a grocery cart. They item for the Commerce Club sale. nent Atlantans. These collections often con- lectors, dealers, young couples seeking also found among other treasures a photo- tain antique books, pictures, crystal, porce- their first furnishings, and grandparents graph of the surrender of the Japanese after lains, and family silver, as well as furniture. helping offspring furnish. World War II, autographed to Admiral The schedule goes like this: The week- Nimitz. end date is advertised in the newspaper’s One of Shirley and Litch’s biggest seasonal value sales section and loyal cus- events was the October 23-24 sale of items tomers are notified via e-mail. The Monday from the downtown Commerce Club. Many before the sale, Shirley and Litch price of the pieces were Atlanta history-related: paintings, china, Waterford chandeliers, old silver, Regency furniture, sideboards, and serving carts. Over the years, their sales have includ- ed pianos, antique secretaries, stained glass windows, cars, Oriental rugs, Steuben Litchfield Carpenter shows Commerce Clubʼs beautiful antique Silver teapot with warmer glass, oil paintings, and a collection of con- temporary art. Shirley is still enthusiastic chest. When asked about some memorable about the work. She even jokes about a what will happen next. There’s the break- items, Litch recalled a beautiful 1810 silk recent call from someone who wanted them front that sold for $20,000 and the $50,000 needlework picture of a memorial to to sell a tool collection. Oriental rug that didn’t sell. These treasures George Washington. Then the two men- Perhaps that is not as elegant as some and many more are why customers wait for Dining room on sale day displaying tioned the Princess Diana crystal they sold. of the beautiful homes she has cleared, but hours on sale days to see what they’ll find furniture, china, silver and crystal there’s always the excitement regarding this time.

from the communal kitchen; I ate with the What about life cycle events—brit milah, group, but brought my own sandwiches and bar/bat mitzvah, weddings? What, exactly, You are what you eat yogurt. is a mikvah? And an eruv? And why on I had, in essence, officially outed earth would I ever feel compelled to buy a By Susan Robinson “Mmmm,” she wondered aloud, “are myself as an observant Jew. new fruit? What exactly is the basis for all these hard or soft?” She held the package Weeks later, during the children’s nap- of this? With only seven more minutes left The Publix cashier stopped ringing up closer for inspection. time, we got to talking. The lights were off. to naptime, I kept my talk to my food situa- my groceries to ask me a question about “Hard,” I told her. “You eat them with Soft lullaby music played in the back- tion. It was, after all, a simple beginning. one of my items. “Have you ever eaten this coffee.” ground. Some children slept, others quietly And here I am, thinking about food yet before?” No, I had actually never tried such “read” books while resting on their mats. again. With Chanukah just around the cor- a fruit in my life. It was yellow, oblong and ——- We, the adults, were drinking coffee, finish- ner, my thoughts are drifting towards pota- had spikes, hence it’s name, “horned ing up the last of our lunch, and quietly to latkes and sufganiot, Chanukah dough- melon.” Food is fun. Food is also serious, rep- sharing little bits of casual conversation. nuts. Neither one would ever make the list “So, you’re buying it just to try it?” she resenting our cultures, backgrounds, and The lead teacher was an African-American of healthy foods, yet somehow both are asked. It was an understandable question. histories. Many years ago, I was completing male. The co-teacher’s family was from the necessary. We could talk about the relation- The item had rung up at $5.98, a very hefty a practicum in a small preschool in down- Philippines. The conversation covered poli- ship of the Maccabees to the Chanukah sum for one lone fruit, let alone one I didn’t town Atlanta. A major negotiating point to tics and personal finances—two major no- olive oil. We could also talk about the sig- know if I would enjoy. But Yom Tov was my teaching there was the food issue. The no’s in polite company. Somehow, after nificance of the oil in both the latkes and right around the corner. I needed a new fruit director pointed out that everyone must eat spending all that time together, everyone the sufganiot. But there’s something else so that I could say the bracha, lunch together: the same food, at the same felt comfortable with the discussion. going on here as well. Eating foods that we Shehecheyanu, the blessing said upon table, at the same time. This, she said, was Eventually, we got around to religion. share in common is a social, bonding activ- reaching a special occasion. I had pur- so that the teachers could model appropriate “So, Susan, tell us about your tradi- ity. It’s part of our shared history. The next chased a star fruit as well. dining etiquette. I countered with my, “I tions,” the other teachers asked me after time someone asks about my traditions, I The cashier, her hair in an elegant only eat kosher food” argument. I would sharing their respective beliefs and cus- may just begin with the “shared history” head-wrap, then held up my star fruit. In her not be able to eat the center’s lunch. toms. part, and add the food component later. lilting Caribbean accent she said, “In my “Multiculturalism” was the newest Well, where would you begin? First, Either way, it’s a simple beginning to a country, we call this Five Fingers.” A few buzzword at the time, and so the director there’s Shabbat, then the holidays, then grand story. seconds later, she scanned my package of agreed to make an exception in my case. All Kashrut. What about shul? Day schools? Happy Chanukah, Y’all! egg kichels, crispy bowtie cookies. the teachers, staff, and children ate food Page 34 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 It’s a miracle Celebrating a 95th birthday sur- rounded by thirteen great-grandchildren is a miracle in itself, but for this great- grandfather it was doubly so. No one, least of all Dr. Marvin Sugarman himself, BY Janice Rothschild expected him to survive the stroke that Blumberg laid him low in early February. For weeks his condition appeared to deterio- rate, as if both mind and body were shut- (Front row, from left) Rachel Kirsch, Kate Goldberg (left), Daniel ting down. The fact that he no longer told Molly Goldberg, Matthew Goldberg, and Rosenberg, Marvin Sugarman, jokes or welcomed new ones confirmed Adam Kirsch; (back row) Rose Adam Kirsch, and Anna Goldberg that prognosis. Sugarman, Shannon Sugarman, Ella The birthday party that he had been Sugarman, Kate Goldberg, Sydney ing that he began alone, without any looking forward to, scheduled for mid- Kirsch, Daniel Rosenberg, Marvin built-in prospects because his parents’ August, was no longer a topic of conver- Sugarman, Samuel Rappaport, Anna friends were committed to another, sation. Sugarman and his late wife Rose Goldberg, and Stella Goldberg holding already-established Jewish dentist. His had established the custom of celebrating Liza Goldberg father pointed to a solution, offering to each five-year milestone birthday by tak- so high? pay the neophyte’s first year dues to ing their family to some elegant destina- That discussion had to begin with a Ingleside Country Club, the (long tion for a long weekend. This time grand- “shehechianu,” our Jewish prayer of extinct) elite Jewish establishment in daughters Pam Sugarman Rosenberg, thanks for having been kept alive and Avondale where Atlanta’s version of Susan Sugarman Kirsch and Jennifer enabled to witness the moment. In his “Our Crowd” played golf. It sounded Goldberg Rappaport were put in charge case this had specific relevance. crazy, but Marvin was an obedient son of selection and planning. They made Then Dr. Marvin more deeply and a very good golfer, so he followed reservations but had to cancel when it defined his thoughts about the celebra- his father’s advice and thereby began seemed obvious that the honoree would- tion. “What made me happiest,” he said, building a clientele composed of new n’t make it. “was that I saw myself as the hub of the friends not previously committed to other Then the miracle of miracles wheel, with all the spokes pointing in dif- dentists. occurred. Sugarman came back to life. ferent directions but turning together.” Even so, making a living in private practice didn’t happen all at once, espe- Slowly, but unmistakably, he rallied. In (Front row, from left) Janice After a thoughtful pause, he added, cially during those times in which most June it was still too soon to be sure, but Blumberg and Marvin Sugarman; “If the center portion is strong everything people had to struggle for bare necessi- the family cautiously resumed plans for a (back row) Jeremy, Brenda, and else will be good. Rose and I evidently ties. Sugarman tells of leaving his office party. Even with the best possible sce- Michael Goldberg got it right.” nario, travel was out of the question for Indeed they did. With two sons, Drs. every day at 5 p.m. to go to the clinic at Gramps, having been completely immo- cousins who themselves came from three Edward and Richard, continuing their Techwood, the new housing project built bilized since February, so they settled on different cities–Hendersonville, Durham father’s distinguished practice in peri- through Franklin D. Roosevelt’s National the Sugarman family home in northwest and Atlanta. The two oldest, Sydney and odontics, and daughter Brenda an hon- Recovery Act. There he treated residents Atlanta as the best possible destination. Adam Kirsch, even partnered with their ored philanthropist, parents were justi- for a straight two dollars per sitting, Instead of him taking them to a party, great-grandfather in a game of Bridge fied in being proud of their accomplish- regardless of the procedure. One dollar they brought the party to him. (often spoken of as “the Sugarman fami- ment. Now the three with their own went to the project, one dollar to him. And what a party it was! Imagine ly addiction.”) spouses have done likewise, producing a “But even two dollars was too much for watching thirty-five descendants, thir- Through it all the paterfamilias total of eight successful children who most people in those days,” he recalled. teen of them under the age of ten, scam- smiled proudly, indulging in whatever have also married and begun to form “They’d hand me the money and thank pering (some barely toddling) in and out activities his wheelchair-bound position strong centers for tomorrow’s wheels of me, and then say ‘Good-bye, Doc. I’ll see of the house, garden and swimming pool, allowed, distributing gifts to each partic- progress. It doesn’t get better than that. you next time something goes wrong.’ playing, hugging, and even performing ipant, and showing no sign of fatigue, Asked about factors outside the fam- Preventive hygiene was a luxury that few song-and-dance routines they had created even after all other adults, utterly ily circle that added to his happiness, could afford.” especially for the occasion. The exhausted, retired with their children for Marvin Sugarman had no hesitation in Interestingly, Sugarman notes that Goldberg contingent from Cleveland and a much needed “quiet time.” What was saying that he took great pride in having most of those Techwood clients were New York bonded with their southern he thinking that kept his adrenaline level successfully gone “where no other den- truck drivers for Coca-Cola. “Friends tist cared to go” in combating anti- joked about my ‘Coca-Cola practice,’” Semitism within the profession. When he he said, smiling, “but they stopped laugh- enrolled in the Emory University School ing after the president of Coca-Cola of Dentistry in the 1930s, there were no invited me to lunch in his executive suite. Jewish teachers and a quota of six admis- That was really something. Three waiters sions for Jewish students. He decided to for just the two of us. And a telephone on fight from within, became an assistant every wall.” professor there, and after seventeen years As a native Atlantan, Sugarman retired from a staff consisting of 25% attended Boys High School and in 2004 Jewish teachers with no quota on Jewish received its Distinguished Alumnus admission. He also served as the first award. He has traveled the world, Jewish president both of the Southern addressed dental societies in many coun- Society of Periodontists and the tries, and wherever he went the essence American Society of Periodontists, and of Atlanta went with him. This miracle designed a tool widely used in dental pro- great-grandfather has seen and lived a lot cedures known as the Sugarman file. of history, both in his profession and in “Dr. Marvin” began practicing den- the city he loves. tistry in 1938 and retired last December, Sadly, this miracle man’s magic seventy-one years later. “It was the ended and he left us on November 8. He height of the Depression,” he recalls, not- will be long remembered for his expertise in life as well as in dentistry. November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 35 Kosher Korner

KOSHER LOCALS NEWS

Goodfriend’s Grill at Ray’s Bistro, located at Emory University in the Hillel BY Rabbi Reuven building, 735 Gatewood Road, is now Stein open. Call 404-963-2548, ext. 113, for more information. seaweed with their supervision are not Menchies Frozen Yogurt, 3011 North authorized. Only an RCC with a number or Druid Hills Road, 404-228-6229, is now with the United Kosher Food label is rec- certified kosher under the Atlanta Kashruth ommended. There is seaweed (nori) that is Commission. Check the kosher letter in the certified by other hashgachos, as well. store for details, as not all items are certi- Frozen fruits may be used without fied. kosher certification if: a) the ingredient list OU For You is opening a meat catering indicates that the product is not packed in kitchen at a different location than their grape juice; b) if they are free of colorings, dairy restaurant. Details will follow. natural or artificial flavors, and additives; For All Occasions & More, 770-565- and c) they do not originate from Israel. 8710, is now catering out of Greenfield Hebrew Academy. Ask about their Yom Tov CHECKING FOR INSECTS menus. Pick-up for orders is at Greenfield Hebrew Academy or Torah Day School. The Star-K has recently updated some The Sage Hill Kroger will no longer be of its requirements for checking vegetables cutting fresh kosher meat on site. Pre-pack- for insects. Short videos on how to do this aged kosher meats will be available. are at www.star-k.org. The OU has a fruit Simone’s Bakery has closed. and vegetable checking chart at www.oukosher.org. KOSHER UPDATES & ALERTS According to the Star-K, the following vegetables do not require checking: Walmart brand Great Value White Alfalfa Sprouts Round Top Bread Enriched is kosher when Beets bearing the code TGB. Cucumbers Gum products from Concord Eggplant Confections in Canada (e.g. Double Bubble Garlic gum) are certified OU kosher parve even Green Beans without the OU symbol on the package. Kohlrabi Two mislabeled OUs were discovered Parsnips by alert Atlantans. Suntree Swiss Mix con- Peas tains dairy ingredients as listed on the Peppers ingredient panel, but the dairy designation Potatoes has been inadvertently omitted. B. Golden Potatoes, Sweet Grilled Eggplant, produced by Golden Pumpkins Foods, mistakenly bears an unauthorized Radishes OU symbol and is not kosher; this product Raisins is from Lebanon, an unlikely country to Rutabagas have OU supervision. If you notice some- Squash thing unusual on a label, please call the OU Tomatoes Hotline at 212-613-8241. Turnips Pace Salsas are no longer certified by Zucchini the OU or the KOAOA. The Orthodox Union is no longer certi- The following vegetables require washing fying artichoke hearts. Other than finding only: old certified cans with the OU on them, it Carrots will be very difficult finding certified arti- Endive, Belgian choke hearts. Some American Roland Mushrooms, button canned artichokes mistakenly bear an OU symbol. Artichoke hearts from Peru bearing The following vegetable requires a visual a “K” on them are unacceptable. Artichoke check only: bottoms are acceptable without supervision Corn on the cob if there are no other problematic ingredi- ents. Orangeburg Pecan is not certified by ATLANTA KOSHER the AKC. Any current certification letter is ESTABLISHMENTS a forgery. Please notify the AKC office if you see this product. Contact the individual establishments Seaweed (nori) requires certification below for hours. Please feel free to speak because sometimes seahorses are encrusted with the mashgichim. between the layers of seaweed. The Rabbinical Council of California (RCC) has issued an alert that some packages of See Kosher Korner, page 41 Page 36 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 to good health. For beef to be certified as BACK TO SCHOOL WITH SUSIE FISH- kosher, the animal must have no diseases or BEIN. I am privileged to know Susie physical flaws. “Downers, cows who Fishbein and think Kosher Affairs cannot walk, are not permitted—but do that she is amaz- make it into the non-kosher meat sup- ing. Her newest BOOKS FOR COOKS ply.” book, Kosher by Until 1935, the Orthodox Design: Teens and KOSHER NATION. More and more Union (OU) was the only agency offer- 20-Somethings Americans are buying kosher, seeking BY Roberta ing nationally recognized supervision. (Artscroll), is the kosher, and eating kosher. The new book The OK kosher agency followed shortly seventh in her Kosher Nation by Sue Fishkoff (Schocken Scher after, and then, in 1969, the Kof-K and Kosher by Design Books) traces the Star-K entered the field. These are series. To promote the growth of the country are now kosher certified.” The known as the “big four” and certify the book, Susie kosher certi- book points out that the tipping point likely most of the food in the U.S. However, has begun a road fication in came early in the 1990s, when companies by 2009, there were more than 1,000 indi- America. No such as Nabisco, Entenmann’s, and Godiva vidual rabbis and organizations offering longer is went kosher, which produced a snowball their own heckshers (certification marks). kosher just a effect in the food industry. And then, later in In addition, there have been some consoli- holy way of the 1990s came the pièce de résistance for dations and buyouts in the field. For exam- eating for a kosher eaters, the kosher Oreo. ple, just a few years ago, the OU bought the select group The book points out that nearly 11.2 Half Moon K. of observant million Americans buy kosher purposefully. Fishkoff tackles the issues of bagged Jews, but it is Only 14% of consumers who buy kosher do greens, the monitoring of bug infestation in big busi- so because of kashrut; 86% of buyers are fruits and vegetables, the emergence of ness—boom- not religious Jews. Many are not Jewish at small companies producing more ethical ing big busi- all and include vegetarians, lactose- or and natural kosher meat and poultry, the ness. gluten-intolerant, Muslims, and Seventh- birth of eco-kosher activists, the rivalry Fishkoff provides a detailed history of day Adventists. The growing popularity of among kosher agencies, the spread of glob- kosher in America, where it’s been, and kosher is mainly due to the perception that al kosher production, kosher “scandals,” Susie Fishbein and where it seems to be heading. Most kosher the product is cleaner, safer, and better. and the expansion of availability of fine Rebbitzen Miriam Lipskier certified products are now manufactured Sixty-two percent buy kosher because they kosher wines. The book is fascinating—a not by small Jewish-owned companies but believe it is of higher quality, with an extra page-turner for those interested in kosher— trip to meet her audiences on their own by mainstream multi-national corporations pair of eyes on production. Nearly 50% of a must-read for anyone interested in the his- turf—where else but the college campus? such as Nestlé, Kraft, and General Foods. products on supermarket shelves are now tory, trends, and facts about the business of Her College Road Trip Cooking Demo “Kosher food is big and growing fast, kosher certified. kosher in America. And if you read it, you kickoff was held at the Emory University increasing at twice the rate of non-kosher. According to Fishkoff, many regard will better understand why kosher products Nearly one-third of all new food products in the purchase of kosher meat as a safeguard really do answer to a higher authority. See KOSHER AFFAIRS, page 39 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 37 Page 38 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 39

Kosher by Design Teens and 20- select. Most are kosher. The price—44¢ per time) at Coke’s invitation and took my Kosher Affairs Somethings features 100 easy-to-prepare ounce—sounds so reasonable, doesn’t it? grandson Ian. He especially enjoyed the all- recipes, each accompanied by John Uher’s But the oversized serving cups fill up oh-so- you-can-drink tasting room, where most of From page 36 beautiful pictures and appropriate icons quickly with the delicious yogurts, the the drinks are kosher! Do request to see the Chabad Center and hosted by Rabbi designating whether they are vegetarian, candy toppings, and then the hot fudge, kosher listing. And, of course, don’t forget Zalman and Miriam Lipskier, director and gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free. It’s a marshmallow, and caramel syrups. to search for discount coupons. For more program director, respectively, of Emory great addition to a cookbook library, even if Menchie’s is located at 3011 N. Druid Hills information, visit worldofcoca-cola.com. Chabad. The Lipskiers are seasoned hosts, you are not a teen or 20-something. I can’t Road. Call 404-228-6229. often having 50-150 students for Friday wait to make her pretzel challah! And as I Congratulations to AKC-certified Ali’s What’s cooking? Email kosheraf- night dinner. write, my molten deep-dish chocolate chip Cookies (www.shipacookie.com) for win- [email protected]. cookies are sitting on my kitchen counter, ning in the Best Cookie category in This column is meant to provide the Rebbitzen Lipskier frequently prepares ready for the oven. (Update—they were Accessatlanta.com’s “Best of the Big A” reader with current trends and develop- recipes from Susie’s cookbooks. So Emory scrumptious!) contest. ments in the kosher marketplace. Since was the perfect choice to begin the six- Both of these highly recommended standards of kashruth certification vary, month tour. On this inaugural stop, Susie’s books are available at Judaica GOODFRIEND’S AT HILLEL. check with the AKC or your local kashruth able cooking assistant was her 16-year-old Corner/Chosen Treasures (www.chosenju- Goodfriend’s Grill is now open at Emory authority to confirm reliability. daughter, Kate, who appeared to be very daica.com) or on Amazon.com. University’s Marcus Hillel Center. Both comfortable with food-related tasks. The meat and dairy meals are available. Don’t trip also gave Kate an opportunity to tour SOME SWEET LOCAL NEWS. Many miss the absolutely delicious BBQ brisket the Emory campus, since she is starting to Atlantans know that the Dunwoody and sandwich—with fries and a big, tall Coke, think about college. Toco Hill locations of Bruster’s Ice Cream of course! Call 404-963-2548 Ext. 113. In general, Susie feels that this cooking are kosher certified. However, there is more generation is underserved. Some grew up to the story. Bruster’s can and does cater AND SPEAKING OF COKE.... Need a with easy access to fast food and have no kosher! When supervised by the Atlanta family day trip during winter break? How desire to cook. Some are conscious of Kashruth Commission (AKC), the company about a visit to a museum that everyone will healthy eating and want to learn, and some now can bring their kosher ice cream, top- find to be “in good taste”? Take the whole actually aspire to be gourmet cooks or pings, whipped cream, and all the kosher family to a hometown destination that has cooking professionals, which are both cur- trimmings to events throughout the city. become a global fascination—The World of rently trendy! How cool is that! Interested? Contact Kathy Coca-Cola. The museum offers so much, For the latest in kosher, visit Susie prepared three delicious recipes McCauley at 404-320-7166. including a friendly guided tour focused on www.KosherEye.com for a packed house of over 30 students. She Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, which the history of the company. Everyone will Friend us on Facebook! Follow us on shared some valuable advice for her young opened in Toco Hill in late summer, is now be captivated by the authentic, familiar, and Twitter! audience, including encouraging them to certified kosher by the AKC. The store is a nostalgic souvenirs; the bottling area; and eat healthy snacks, such as chummos self service “yogurteria” with loads of fla- the entertaining 4-D Theater (a 3-D film (homemade, if possible). vors, toppings, and syrups from which to with moving seats). I visited (my very first Recipes

CHANUKAH AND FRIED EVERYTHING. The Southern cook and the traditions of Chanukah are quite a match. It’s all about oil, frying, and delicious food. The follow- ing two Southern recipes are appropriate for Chanukah and certainly for Atlanta tables.

——- cornstarch, and baking powder. Make a well in the center. All at once, add the ice Fried Pickles water, egg yolk, and reserved pickle Serves 6-8 (But truly, I can eat these all juice. Whisk the mixture to make a by myself!) smooth batter. Cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. 1 cup all-purpose flour In a deep fryer or large deep 1/4 cup cornstarch saucepan, heat at least 2 inches of oil to 1 teaspoon baking powder 375 degrees. 1 cup ice water In batches, use tongs to dip pickle 1 egg yolk slices in the batter, evenly coating them. 46-ounce jar drained dill pickle rounds or Without crowding, place pickle slices in ovals (I use OU-certified Vlasic oval hot oil. Fry until golden and crisp, about dills) 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per batch. Drain on 1/8 cup (2 tablespoons) reserved pickle paper towels; serve immediately or as juice from jar soon as possible. If you need to reheat, Vegetable oil for frying place in a 375-degree oven, uncovered, just until hot. In a colander, drain pickles. Set aside Serve with ranch dressing as a dip- 1/8-cup pickle juice. Under the water tap, ping sauce. (Mauzone brand is parve.) rinse pickles well with water and allow to These pickles are fabulous, especial- drain again. ly when served immediately—but still Cover pickles with paper towels or irresistible and almost as fabulous when clean dishcloth, and refrigerate. Pickles reheated. should be used when dry and well chilled. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, See Recipes, page 40 Page 40 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010

Recipes Molten Deep-Dish baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Chocolate Chip Cookies In the bowl of a stand mixer, at medi- Correction From page 39 Adapted from Kosher by Design Teens um-low speed, mix the butter or margarine and 20-Somethings by Susie Fishbein with granulated and brown sugars. Raise In the September-October col- Makes 10-12 the speed to medium-high, and mix until umn, the Apple Kugel recipe included Fried Sweet Potato Latkes creamy, light, and fluffy. Turn the speed incorrect quantities of oil, orange Makes 32 three-inch pancakes These are awesome! You can make the down a little, add the vanilla and eggs, and juice, and graham cracker crumbs. dough in advance, keep it in the fridge, and mix to incorporate. Below is the corrected recipe. 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled enjoy this treat at a moment’s notice. If Add half of the flour mixture. Mix. 1 cup flour serving for Friday night, bake right before Add the remaining flour mixture, and mix Fanny Richter Schneidkraut’s No 4 teaspoons white sugar Shabbos, and keep warm on a blech until just combined. Mix in the chocolate Noodle Apple Kugel 2 teaspoons brown sugar (warming tray). chips. 2 teaspoons baking powder Fill each muffin cup or ramekin a Filling: 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour quarter of the way with a dollop of cookie 3 lbs. peeled, and thinly sliced (1/4”) 3 teaspoons curry powder 1 teaspoon baking soda dough about the apples 2 teaspoons cumin 1 teaspoon fine sea salt size of a ping- 3 eggs Salt/pepper 1 cup (2 sticks) butter pong ball. Flatten 1/2 cup vegetable oil 4 large eggs, beaten or margarine, held at slightly to cover 3/4 cup sugar 1 cup soy milk room temperature for the bottom. Stack 1/2 cup orange juice Oil for frying 15 minutes 2 chocolate pinch of salt 3/4 cup granulated squares in the 1 cup flour Grate potatoes coarsely, and let drain sugar center. Cover in a colander. 3/4 cup light brown with a second Topping: Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl. Add sugar walnut-sized ball 1/2 cup parve graham crackers eggs and soy milk to make a stiff batter. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla of cookie dough, crumbs Add potatoes. The mixture should be extract flattening it to 1 teaspoon cinnamon moist, not runny. If too thick, add more soy 2 large eggs completely cover milk. Molten Deep-Dish 1 (12-ounce) bag best- Chocolate Chip Cookie the chocolate. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat about 1/4” oil. Drop batter into quality chocolate chips Place on a Grease 9” x 13” pan. oil by tablespoons.* Fry until golden. (2 cups) cookie sheet and In a large bowl, beat eggs, then 1 (4-ounce) package good-quality semi- bake until tops are golden brown. Do not with beater on low, add sugar, juice, *Tip: One of my new favorite kitchen tools sweet chocolate bar (such as Schmerling overbake, or the end result will be doughy, salt, and flour. Mix until well com- is a small stainless cookie dough scoop Noblesse for parve), broken into pieces on not gooey. The baking time will vary from bined. Add apples to batter, and mix available at Publix and most housewares the score marks 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the until apples are well coated. Pour mix- stores. These scoops make releasing things tin or ramekin and the amount of dough ture into prepared pan. like latke dough so easy. Note: You can bake these in aluminum needed to fill it. “You are looking for the Mix cinnamon with crumbs. muffins tins or ramekins. If using tins, tops to be golden and not wet-looking,” Sprinkle over apple mixture. (If you ————— spray them with non-stick cooking spray. says Fishbein. want a more generous topping, simply Serve in ramekins or, if using alu- add a bit more crumbs.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. minum tins, turn each cookie out onto a Bake for about 1 hour, until In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, plate. Serve warm. toothpick comes out clean. Enjoy!

Yad L’Yad Interest Free Loan Fund becomes independent entity

The Yad L’Yad Interest Free Loan Yad L’Yad president, “Rebranding and proposed a way to help. It was neighbors to Barr, “Each loan has helped local Fund will soon be changing its name to separation of the Loan Fund is in the best helping neighbors in need. People collect- Jewish families in unique ways: Our first Jewish Interest Free Loan of Atlanta, Inc. interest of both organizations.” ed and prepared different items to eat, and loan helped an unemployed family pay for (JIFLA) as it becomes independent of the According to Steele, “The continued Shani distributed them. Mrs. Malka living expenses until they were able to find Yad L’Yad Charity Fund. The Loan Fund economic crisis is causing financial stress Rosenbaum, z”l, took over leadership in jobs; our second loan, provided as part of was the longtime vision of Malka on additional families and requires the 2008, when Shani moved to Israel. She a grant package from JF&CS and the Yad Rosenbaum, z”l, who championed its cre- Charity Fund to redouble its focus on help- created a more private and dignified way L’Yad Charity Fund, convinced the bor- ation when president of the Yad L’Yad ing these families with kosher food and to help those in need. By obtaining tax- rower’s mortgage bank to approve their Charity Fund. related needs.” exempt status for the organization, she mortgage loan modification, lowering the Each fund offers unique support to the Barr added, “The growth of the Loan enabled community members to make tax- family’s monthly payments by almost Atlanta Jewish community: The Charity Fund requires increased focus on gover- deductible donations. This enables the 50%, pulling them back to financial safety, Fund is the only 501(c)(3) organization in nance, as we are federally regulated as a Charity Fund to provide those in need with and keeping them on sound financial foot- Atlanta that provides strictly kosher food consumer lending institution, and our grocery gift cards, which offer assistance ing. The other loans also helped families assistance on a highly confidential basis to growth has increased our liability expo- while providing privacy and the dignity of deeply affected by the economic crises.” community members. The Loan Fund is sure.” For these reasons, separation into choice. The Charity Fund also has a The Loan Fund is professionally man- the only citywide interest-free loan fund two independent 501(c)(3) charities will resource guide and team of volunteers aged by volunteers with banking and dedicated to providing loans to Jewish enable each organization to better focus on willing to help. They provide clothing financial expertise. It is a member of the individuals, for non-educational purposes, fulfilling its primary mission. Steele and through a clothing gemach and one-time International Association of Hebrew Free enabling them and their families to Barr intend for the separation to be com- emergency grant assistance. Loans, a professional support organization improve their lives and achieve greater plete by January 2011. The two organiza- Since opening its Sandy Springs for over 50 Jewish interest-free loan funds financial stability. Both organizations tions will continue to coordinate with each office March 1, the Interest Free Loan throughout the world. coordinate with other agencies, such as other. Fund has furnished over $15,000 in loans. For more information about the JF&CS, to help families move from The Yad L’Yad Charity Fund, a grass- On behalf of its donors, the Loan Fund Charity Fund, contact Mrs. Cindy Steele at dependence to independence. roots initiative, has helped Atlanta’s reaches out to those in need, provides them 678-466-7640. For more information According to Dr. Mort Barr, Loan Jewish needy since 2006. The group began with interest-free loans, and then recycles about the Loan Fund, contact Dr. Mort Fund chairman, and Mrs. Cindy Steele, when Mrs. Shani Posen saw a need and their repayments to help others. According Barr at 404-452-7800. November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 41

Bagel World Marcus Jewish Community Center 791 Atlanta Street, Roswell, 770-998-0779 Kosher Korner 770-662-8522 of Atlanta Mall of GA Store #56, Buford, 6190 Regency Parkway, Suite 306 678-812-4000 770-831-1174 From page 35 Norcross 30071 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Atlanta 30338 RESTAURANTS Parve baked goods AKC-certified glatt meat and dairy Schakolad Chocolate Factory (dairy division coming soon) kitchens that provide meals for various 1100 Hammond Drive, Ste 430-A, Atlanta Broadway Café programs 30328, 770-730-9770 404-329-0888 Bijan’s and Broadway Catering Mashgichim: Shimon Goldberg and Factory is fully certified under AKC, except 2157 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 30329 770-457-4578 Yaakov Mermelstein for chocolate covered strawberries. All Cholov Yisroel dairy and vegetarian 2191-B Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 30329 items from the factory are kosher and dairy. restaurant Glatt kosher meat, dairy or parve catering Publix Supermarket There are occasional parve production runs, Mashgiach: Yosef Castriota Mashgiach: Yosef Castriota 404-638-6022 and those items have a parve label. 2969 North Druid Hills Road, Atlanta Chai Peking Elegant Essen 30329 TCBY 404-327-7810 770-451-3065 Glatt kosher meat and fish department, Loehmann’s Plaza, 2484 Briarcliff Road, 2205 LaVista Road (inside Kroger Toco 3130 Raymond Drive, Atlanta 30340 deli, sub shop; kosher dairy and kosher Atlanta 30329, 404-325-8736 Hill) Glatt kosher meat & dairy catering parve bakery Kosher flavors, toppings, etc, are posted. Atlanta 30329 Mashgiach: Yosef Goldstein Mashgichim: Stuart Gleicher, Levi Chinese take-out (seating available); glatt Novotne, and Rabbi Lew Weinreich Whole Foods kosher meat For All Occasions & More Catering 2111 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 30329, 404- Mashgiach: Sam Kodesh 770-565-8710 Return to Eden 634-7800 5200 Northland Avenue, Atlanta 30042 404-320-3336 Gelato stand next to the bakery; granita Goodfriend’s Grill Full service kosher catering based out of 2335 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta 30324 frozen drinks; select bins certified. See cer- 678-812-3994 Greenfield Hebrew Academy—glatt meat, Many kosher products, sushi, select bulks tification letter in the store. 5342 Tilly Mill Road (inside the Marcus dairy, or parve are certified Jewish Community Center of Atlanta) Mashgiach: Dovid Cenker HOTELS & HALLS Atlanta 30338 (This list includes facilities with separate Meat Side (glatt) and Dairy Window The Glatt Smokehouse & Barbeque ICE CREAM & SNACKS kosher kitchens. Rabbis David Kayser and Mashgiach: Shimon Goldberg and Yaakov 678-222-3719 (Please note that kosher items are available Shlomo Pinkus are in charge of this division Mermelstein 1440 Spring Street, Atlanta 30309 only at locations specified below.) of the AKC.) All events at this JFGA building are under Goodfriend’s Grill at Ray’s Bistro AKC supervision. Glatt meat. Bruster’s Ice Cream Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center 404-963-2548 ext. 113 Mashgiach: Gedalya Silverstein Kosher flavors, toppings, etc, are posted at 770-394-6500 735 Gatewood Road, Atlanta 30322 each location. 246 Perimeter Center Parkway, Atlanta The Dairy Side and The Grill (glatt meat) Griller’s Pride 2095 LaVista Road, Atlanta 30329, 30346 at Emory University 770-454-8108 404-320-7166 Mashgiacha: Michla Melamed 3939 McElroy Road, Atlanta 30340 226 Johnson Ferry Rd, Atlanta 30328, Crowne Plaza Ravinia Home delivery of glatt kosher meat 404-943-0206 770-395-7700 x 2204 OU For You Café Mashgiach: Johnny Bolnick 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta 770-396-5533 Carvel Ice Cream 30346 1155 Hammond Drive, C2 The Kosher Gourmet 2482 Jett Ferry Road, Ste. 685, Atlanta 30328 404-636-1114 Dunwoody 30338, 770-396-0555 The Georgia Aquarium Cholov Yisroel dairy and vegetarian 2153 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 30329 404-581-4125 restaurant and catering Grocery and deli. Glatt kosher butcher Krispy Kreme Donuts 225 Baker Street, Atlanta 30313 Mashgiach: Phil Silverman shop—grocery, deli, and other depart- Only donuts baked on premises are kosher. ments. Delivery available. The stores have a kosher letter and sticker Grand Hyatt Atlanta Pita Palace Mashgiach: Nathaniel Klein on the door with the AKC kosher symbol. 404-364-3956 404-781-PITA (The AKC also supervises the Atlanta com- 3300 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 30305 1658 LaVista Road Kroger Orchard Park missary that provides donuts for various gas Atlanta 30329 770-391-9035 service stations. The pre-packaged donuts Heritage Hall Glatt kosher meat 2090 Dunwoody Club Drive, Atlanta need to either have the number 149 or the 404-633-0551 Mashgiach: Roi Levy 30350 initials AKC on the inkjet.) 1855 LaVista Road (inside Congregation Kosher fish, meat, and deli (glatt) 295 Ponce De Leon Ave., Atlanta, Beth Jacob), Atlanta 30329 Mashgiach: Joe Melamed 404-876-7307 BUTCHERS, CATERERS, 4129 Highway 78 SW, Lilburn, Intercontinental Buckhead Hotel BAKERIES & GROCERIES Kroger Sandy Springs 770-985-2810 404-946-9000 (Supermarkets: Select departments only, 404-256-3434 299 Cobb Parkway, Marietta, 3315 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 30326 as noted) 227 Sandy Springs Place, Atlanta 30328 770-425-0374 Fresh baked challahs, breads, and baked 6689 Highway 85, Riverdale, Westin Atlanta North at Perimeter Ali’s Cookies items 770-997-6210 770-395-3900 770-971-8566 Mashgichim: Shlomo Moradov and Malka 1500 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, 7 Concourse Parkway, Atlanta 30328 1255-34 Johnson Ferry Road Griffin 770-717-5134 Marietta 30068 Parve and dairy baked goods, candy Kroger Toco Hill 404-633-8694 Avenue K Catering 2205 LaVista Road, Atlanta 30329 770-578-1110 Kosher fish, meat, and deli (glatt), parve 736 Johnson Ferry Road, Building E bakery (separate from the in-store non- Marietta 30068 kosher bakery) Glatt kosher events Mashgichim: Rabbi Avraham Schwartz, Ron Wachman, and Betzalel Johns Bakery Mashgiacha: Judy Kenworthy Page 42 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 pate in the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth Global Talent Search. This number represents 50% of the students who took the standardized test last year. The Talent Search is open to students who have achieved above the 95th per- centile on a national test. By qualifying, they are eligible to take the SATs and ACTs; if scores achieved on those tests are high enough, students are eligible to enroll in summer or online courses offered by Johns Hopkins University.

THANK A SOLDIER. As part of GHA’s By Belle Klavonsky BOOSTER CLUB BUYS AEDS. The observance of 9/11, Patriot Day, students Weber School was recently presented with spoke via Skype with Major Dr. Gary two AEDs (automated external defibrilla- Stolovitz, who is serving in Afghanistan. tors) purchased with funds raised by The Gary is married to Judy, current GHA board Weber School Booster Club. The addition member and former PTSA co-president, and of the defibrillators, which will be placed in is the father of Ben, class of ’09, 7th-grader of you at the grocery store. Sophie suggest- the gym and on the soccer pavilion, Adele, and 4th-grader Ruth. Seventh- ed that sharing and avoiding conflict are enhances the quality of health and safety for graders interviewed Major Stolovitz, and important. children and adults at The Weber School. students heard firsthand about a typical day These devices are a safety measure not just in a soldiers’ life in Afghanistan. The stu- for student athletes, but for everyone. dents sent thank-you letters to Major Stolovitz and all the troops in Afghanistan for their service and get-well cards to sol- diers in Afghanistan who are ill or injured.

YA AT JNF. On October 11, Yeshiva Atlanta students, along with Rabbi Elisha Paul, headmaster, attended the Jewish National Fund’s (JNF) Annual Conference at the InterContinental Hotel. They met Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, after hearing his speech to the Atlanta Jewish community. Pictured: YA students and Rabbi Elisha Paul with ASTRONOMY EDUCATION. GHA 6th- Russell Robinson, chief executive officer, grade science classes are learning about JNF, and Bob Levine, vice president, edu- SOUND SYSTEM. At a recent Hakhel, stu- space science. Recently, they worked on a cation, JNF. dents listened to sophomore Daniel rocket project with special guest Walter Gordon’s moving dedication of The Weber Reeves, conducting experiments with com- CROSS COUNTRY. At the Region 1-AAA School’s Black Box Theater sound system pressed air and water rockets. Reeves, “The Cross Country Championships at Nash to his grandmother, Hessie Gordon. During Georgia Gardener,” who has his own radio Battlefield in McDonough, Weber sopho- tributes from Daniel and his father, Brian, and TV shows and a weekly column in the mores Ben Stolovitz and Michael Hessie’s life was recounted vividly and joy- Atlanta Journal-Constitution, is a longtime Whitesides, 3rd and 4th place respectively, fully. Hessie moved from South Africa to friend of GHA. The students later went to paced the boy’s team to a 2nd-place region Canada, where her belief in the importance the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, finish, which qualified the entire boys’ team of Jewish day school education became a Alabama, for three days and also visited the for the state championship. This is the high- guiding principle for her family. She was a HAVING A DELICIOUS SUKKOT. At Cathedral Cavern. Pictured: Zac Kopelman est finish ever for any Weber cross-country psychologist dedicated to helping others GHA, the first Student Council task of the and Walter Reeves team. On the girl’s side, 9th-grader Sydney and worked tirelessly to help people live year was to plan an edible Sukkah activity Goldstein crossed the finish line with a time life to the fullest. Pictured: Daniel Gordon for all the students. The Sukkahs were built of 22:48, for a 3rd-place finish. Lauren and his father, Brian Gordon in groups of three in homeroom classes. Rein crossed the line in 6th place overall The budget per student was $3, and all stu- with a time of 24:20. Both Goldstein and dents participated. This activity allowed Rein qualified for state. students to work together, while they learned about the process of making a HONING THEIR SKILLS. Ms. Nanci Sukkah and the importance of the holiday. Pearson, associate head of school, and The Student Council is now in the process members of Weber’s Academic Council are of planning more events. Pictured: Zach participating in a four-part professional Maslia, Rachel Duke, and Shira Solomon development program on teacher observa- tion, evaluation, and supervision facilitated PARSHA OF THE WEEK. GHA third- and directed by Dr. Sally J. Zepeda. A for- grader Sophie Steinberg (pictured), did the GETTING ORGANIZED. As part of The mer high school teacher and K-12 adminis- Parsha of the Week, which tells how Epstein School’s Learning Initiative, stu- trator, Dr. Zapeda is a professor in the Avram’s and Lot’s shepherds were arguing dents have received redesigned grade- Department of Lifelong Education, over the land. Sophie learned that although appropriate planners/organizers to help Administration, and Policy in the Program such situations can be bad, there are alter- them develop and improve executive func- of Educational Administration and Policy at native ways to handle them. She agreed tioning skills. Executive function refers to the University of Georgia. Her visit was with Avram’s suggestion that his and Lot’s how one organizes space and time, devel- geared toward helping Weber administra- shepherds be separated. Sophie gave exam- ops and executes a plan, utilizes memory, tors and department chairs hone their ples of how Avram might resolve everyday and advocates for him/herself. Parents can knowledge and expertise in the aforemen- TALENT SEARCH. At Greenfield Hebrew problems, such as taking turns reading a help by reviewing effective organization tioned areas. Academy, 35 of the 7th- and 8th-grade stu- library book that several people want or let- and management strategies with their chil- dents (pictured) have qualified to partici- ting a person with just one item go in front dren. Pictured: 5th-grader Sophie Yagoda November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 43 has been working on developing her execu- documentation report, which the school Pictured: Davis students Adam Rubinger tive functioning skills. produced during a year of intense self- and Evan Berger enjoy a book with a pre- reflection in preparation for reaccreditation. school student.

MIDDLE SCHOOL KNESSET. Epstein Middle School had its annual elections in which students voted to form the 2010-2011 Knesset. This year’s middle school govern- ing body will be involved in organizing and IT’S ELEMENTARY. At The Epstein implementing student fundraising efforts. School, all elementary students now have Knesset members are: Talia Katz, president; CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPS AGAIN. BEYOND THE CLASSROOM. Rachel science classes in one of Epstein’s science Carly Kaplan, 8th-grade vice-president; For the second year in a row, The Davis Fisher and Halle Busby smile for the cam- labs. Having access to this facility is chang- Josh Noormid, 7th-grade vice-president; Academy boys’ cross country team won the era at old Fort Castillo San Marcos in St. ing the face of elementary science educa- David Wachtel, 6th-grade vice-president; Middle School MAAC Championships, Augustine, Florida. Taking learning on the tion at the school, providing more opportu- Jack Schneider, administrative secretary; narrowly defeating other strong schools. road, Davis 6th-graders enjoyed an extend- nities for students to experience science and Melanie Gelernter, recording secretary; This is the boys’ third championship in five ed field trip during October to points south, engage in hands-on activities that bring sci- Yarden Hayut, treasurer; and Jake Bardack, years. In addition, the Davis Lady Lions, including the Okefenokee Swamp, ence to life. Pictured: 1st-graders Jeremy public relations. Pictured (back, from left) which had just six runners on the team, took Cumberland Island, and St. Augustine. Marks, Maddy Gertz, and Ofir Pinhasi Melanie Gelernter, Yarden Hayut, Josh second place in the championships for the observe and study beehives, giant pine Noormid, and Jake Bardack; (front, from fourth year in a row. Pictured: Davis Lions cones, fossils, and skeletal remains in left) Jack Schneider, Carly Kaplan, Talia Emma Sidman, Anna Rosing, Bari Steel, Epstein’s science lab. Katz, and David Wachtel Whitney Barnard, Maddie Wolf, Jacob Cohen, Noah Weiser, Jay Edlin, Steven THAT’S WILD. Ever since The Epstein Boxer, Jacob Karsch, Alec Nathan, Daniel School’s Sustainable Educational Garden Charanis, Kevin Warren, Jake Steel, Jan and Pond was awarded Certified Wildlife Berland, and Alex Moncayo, with Coach Habitat status by the National Wildlife Matt Barry Federation, students have been busier than ever learning about taking care of the envi- ronment. Mrs. Edelman’s Kindergarten class recently studied sunflowers, which are grown in the garden. They read The Sunflower House by Eve Bunting, then dis- DEAR EDWINA. Every year, The Davis cussed planting and watering seeds, com- Academy annual musical is a big produc- posting, the fall harvest, and Sukkot. tion, involving as many as 200 students, as well as parent volunteers and even alumni mentors. Here, faculty members—Visual & Performing Arts Chair Kendrick Phillips, I AM EPSTEIN. Epstein grandparent theater teacher Zachary Bromberg, and Barbara Fellner (pictured) lives in Florida, Lower School Principal Drew Frank— but wanted to volunteer at the school. So engage in some fun and silliness announc- she asked if she could do a quilting project DAVIS GETS FANCY. Fun-loving chil- ing this year’s musical, Dear Edwina, Jr. with her grandchild, Eli, and his fellow dren’s book illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser This is a delightful show about a girl who Kindergarteners. Each year, Kindergarten (pictured) visited The Davis Academy seeks to find her own identity and develop students do a group art project in honor of Lower School on October 21, speaking to her own special gifts. their Hebrew Naming Ceremony, Hagigat students and reading from her very popular Ha Shemot. Thus, the Hebrew Naming Fancy Nancy books. ESTEEMED GUESTS. In October, Chief Ceremony quilt was born. Students’ hands Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and Rabbanit were painted, and they hand-printed the Elaine Sacks visited Torah Day School of Pictured: (front, from left) Miriam Nadler, shape of the priestly blessing on cloth that Atlanta. Students lined the entrance to the Kayla Kornfeld, Matthew Lewis, Yoni will be made into a quilt. It will be used for campus to greet them in royal fashion. Baranan, Ilan Pritzker, and Samantha a chuppah during their milestone event and Rabbi Sacks responded by alighting from Londe; (back) Matthew Neuberger, Noa then will go on display. his car to spontaneously dance with the Young, and Alec Rubin older boys and rebbeyim as they escorted CELEBRATING REACCREDITATION. him to the gym. Speaking to the 5th-8th- Noting in particular The Davis Academy’s grade classes, he recounted the time he was strong programs, values-based culture, and invited to the prime minister’s home, but warm, welcoming community, a team of declined to instead attend the opening of a five from the Southern Association of new Jewish school, citing the Talmudic pas- Colleges and Schools and the Southern sage that the Torah education of children Association of Independent Schools, the maintains the universe. accrediting organizations for the Southeast region, unanimously approved The Davis SHARING A GOOD BOOK. In the spirit of TALENTED STUDENTS. Approximately Academy for reaccreditation. The team friendship and community, Davis Academy 30% of TDSA students in the 2nd-8th spent three days at Davis in October, 3rd-graders are partnering with Jewish grades qualified to participate in the Johns observing and speaking with Davis faculty, preschools through reading. Later in the Hopkins Center for Talented Youth parents, and students, as well as reviewing year, the four-year-olds will visit their new Program. Based on last year’s Iowa Tests of Matthew Lewis and Amelia Heller the school’s self-assessment and standards 3rd-grade friends at The Davis Academy. See CLASSNOTES, page 46 Page 44 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 News and views from Jewish Family & Career Services

PREPARING FOR THE HOLIDAYS. Maryland girl with Down syndrome, replaces tines. The five areas of Dr. Nussbaum’s “Brain and get-well cards created mostly by children. Navigating the coming holiday season can be the terms “mental retardation” and “mentally Health Lifestyle” are: mental stimulation, The program launched in August 2010; since tricky and exhausting—even in the best of eco- retarded” with “intellectual disability” and socialization, nutrition, physical activity, and then, more than 125 seniors have received nomic times. With the country in economic “individual with an intellectual disability” in spirituality. beautiful, heartwarming cards. decline, the holidays pose a double whammy federal health, education, and labor policies. Just as important as it is for adults to take “It’s such a nice way to bring joy to older for those dealing with unemployment. Scarcity This is a huge start. To people with intel- good care of our brains, it’s also important to adults in our JF&CS community, from our of money and increased anxiety about the lectual disabilities and their families, the R- teach brain health to children. When a child active members to some of our frailest and iso- future can make it difficult to enjoy the spirit of word is beyond insulting. According to the understands the benefits—or consequences— lated members,” said Cathy Strmac, Aviv the season. Random House Dictionary, when used as a of something such as food or behavior, he or Celebrations program manager. “We hope it At Jewish Family & Career Services noun, this is a disparaging slang term; as a she usually will choose the healthier option. provides excitement and comfort to those cele- (JF&CS), adults meet each week at the Job verb, some of its synonyms are slow, delay, We cannot underestimate that children want to brating birthdays or brightens the day of some- Seekers Support Group to share their feelings hinder, impede, and clog. However, “intellectu- feel good; sharing brain health education is a one ill.” of anger, anxiety, confusion, and sadness al disability” describes a different ability that powerful tool at any age. Want to be part of Aviv Celebrations? around their economic circumstances. Meeting individuals have—and the focus should be on —Lauren Zimet, chair, Developmental Since late spring, several groups around for the past year, the group has seen some faces the individual’s actual ability and strengths. Disabilities Services-Tools for Independence Atlanta have said “yes,” including Atlanta’s and situations change. Most members have To put things into perspective, approxi- Committee Jewish day schools, Federation Mitzvah Day experienced some depression triggered by job mately 1.7 percent of the total U.S. population groups, and local synagogues. In addition, sev- loss. Unlike chemical or hormonal depression, is Jewish. However, as many as three out of eral groups from women’s Red Hat clubs and situational depression results from living in a every 100 people have an intellectual disabili- kids’ birthday parties are joining in. set of circumstances that are depressing. ty—almost twice the number of Jews. And Making the cards is easy—Aviv Typical symptoms include loss of energy, when you think of that three percent of the pop- Celebrations provides all the instructions. decreased interest in activities that were once ulation, be sure to add in their families, friends, Schools (including synagogue preschools or pleasurable, sleep and appetite changes, and and others who care about them. So, next time religious schools), children having birthday loss of hope that anything will be different. you think about using the R-word, think of how parties or working on mitzvah projects, or kids The members remind each other of ways many people you’re offending—because it’s a just looking for something fun to do are wel- to overcome the depression: exercise, creating lot. come to participate. All you need is construc- structure to the day, eating healthfully, staying Always remember, individuals with intel- tion paper and crayons or markers. connected to social activities, and seeking lectual disabilities are members of our commu- “As I prepare the birthday cards for mail- emotional support. nity. They may be your neighbor, or you may ing each month, I am struck by how the beau- There are some ways for people to reduce see them at synagogue or the grocery store. BRAIN HEALTH. (pictured, from left) Dr. tiful artwork of a young child can be so simple, anxiety and depression and enjoy what the hol- They may be your employee or your child’s Paul Nussbaum, clinical neuropsychol- yet so meaningful, to our older adults,” said iday season offers us. These tips apply to camp friend. So, show them a little more ogist; Lauren Zimet, M.S., CCC/SLP, of Cherie. “I hope more school or kids’ groups are everyone, but especially to those already expe- respect. the Healthy Foundations Program at inspired to participate and join in the celebra- riencing the blues. And as always, if symptoms And one more thing: Even if you don’t use Early Insights; Rick Aranson, JF&CS tion.” persist or worsen, please get professional help. the R-word, you may know people who do. COO; and Connie White, director of To learn more about Aviv Celebrations Don’t spend money you don’t have—even Please take the initiative and correct them. If JF&CSʼ Aviv Older Adult Services-Tools and to get a card-making kit, contact Cathy in times of economic boom, the amount some they are referring to someone with an intellec- for Aging division Strmac at [email protected] people spend on holidays shocks them when tual disability, let them know what’s appropri- or 770-677-9394. the bill arrives in January. Now more than ever, ate. If they are using the word inappropriately, AVIV CELEBRATIONS. “Hi Sweetheart! remember the true spirit of the season. The ask them to use another word. You’ll have Guess what? I got my favorite birthday card most valuable gifts are ones that come from the more respect for yourself and for your friends. today. I feel so special.” heart—not from the wallet. —Eve Bogan, director, Developmental “Every year, my mother shares her excite- Give—not of your bank account, but of Disabilities Services-Tools for Independence ment when she receives a handmade birthday your time and energy. Visit an elderly relative card from her local Jewish agency in New or sick friend, pay a compliment to a teacher, or THE HEALTHY BRAIN. On October 7, York,” said Cherie Aviv, the volunteer commit- introduce yourself to a new neighbor. Lifting JF&CS’ Aviv Older Adult Services-Tools for tee chair for JF&CS’ Aviv Older Adult someone else’s spirits will automatically result Aging division and Healthy Foundations at Services-Tools for Aging. “Hearing her delight in lifting your own. Early Insights presented “Brain Health Across and holding the precious cards created by chil- Spend time with children—their exuber- Your Lifespan” featuring Paul D. Nussbaum, dren touched me so much, I wanted to create ance and innocence can be a needed salve for Ph.D., clinical neuropsychologist and associate that special moment for older adults in our anxiety and depression. If you don’t have your professor of neurological surgery at the Atlanta community.” That spark of enthusiasm own, borrow some. You can give a harried par- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. is all it took for Cherie to engage a team of pro- GIVING GARDEN IS UP AND GROW- ent a needed break during holiday chaos. Dr. Nussbaum, who specializes in aging across fessional staff and lay leaders to initiate Aviv ING. An enthusiastic collection of vol- Rely on your faith—becoming involved the lifespan and brain health, has been caring Celebrations. unteers and staff has helped JF&CS with a religious community or even attending for those suffering from dementia and related Aviv Celebrations acknowledges older launch the Giving Garden. They have one service can remind us of resilience and brain disorders for more than twenty years. His adults involved with JF&CS with unique, turned a barren section of soil near the hope for brighter times. It also can remind us of new book Save Your Brain discusses ways to handmade birthday parking lot into a beautiful new organic being grateful for the smallest blessings: a improve brain performance, increase mental garden, constructed the irrigation sys- warm bed, a hot meal, and the love of our fam- fitness, and learn strategies to keep all minds tem, and planted the first round of veg- ily and friends. young and sharp. His message: Exposure to gies. Farmer D Organics Garden —Betsy Frasier, LCSW, Counseling Services- enriched environments across our lifespan Center, Lee Friend Tree Service, and Tools for Life will lead to new brain cell development. the Jewish Food Alliance are also con- Environments that are passive and routine tributing to the gardenʼs success. The GETTING RID OF THE “R” WORD. The R- do not promote brain health—instead, getting gardenʼs bounty will be shared with word—retarded—while politically incorrect outside, exercising, trying something new, and hungry families in need throughout the and demeaning, is still commonly used in learning new things as frequently as possible community. JF&CS is quickly filling up everyday speech. But finally a step in the right will get the frontal lobe firing. Things as sim- a calendar of volunteer opportunities direction has been made, by stopping the use of ple as wearing your watch on the opposite to tend the garden. Pictured: Staff & this word in various areas of government. On wrist, sitting at a different seat at the dinner volunteers, Sunday, August 22 October 5, President Obama signed Rosa’s table, or sleeping on the other side of the bed A birthday card and a get-well card Law. The law, named for Rosa Marcellino, a promote brain health by disrupting typical rou- from Aviv Celebrations November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 45 A camping three-peat: The Marcus Foundation commits to support Jewish camp director training for a third time

The Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC), in the Jewish community to come together and the only public organization dedicated to non- look inward and outwardly at best practices profit Jewish summer camp, has received a from all fields. I hope the result is committed generous third-time grant from the Marcus Jewish teens and improved leadership. ELI can Foundation to support a new cycle of its facilitate new visions to increase enrollments Executive Leadership Institute (ELI). This and the impact of the summer experience.” grant brings the Marcus Foundation’s total The Executive Leadership Institute is donation to FJC to almost $3 million and pro- viewed by those within the camp field and in vides continued support for an innovative proj- the Jewish communal world more broadly, as a ect with a proven record of success. program that successfully produces profession- The first two cycles of this initiative, al leaders with the vision, presence, and skill to which began in 2006, have graduated 36 direc- Kids enjoying the fun and fellowship at Jewish camps (photos: FJC and create change and excellence. The fellowship tors and had a direct impact on more than Judah S. Harris) consists of six seminars over the course of 14 18,000 campers and thousands of college-aged months, executive coaching, and the use of cus- counselors. raise nearly $2 million in capital funds and wel- “To put it simply, ELI made me a better tomer satisfaction survey instruments, among This pioneering professional development come an additional 100 campers. director,” says Doug Lynn, director of the other vital tools. With two cycles completed, program, characterized as an executive MBA • David Berkman, director of URJ Camp Wilshire Boulevard Temple Camps, Malibu, the program has also created an esprit de corps program, provides intensive training in busi- Kalsman, Arlington, Washington, is using his California. “Throughout the program, we as a among its graduates, generating a vital network ness management, fundraising, and leadership ELI training to create and oversee lay commit- cohort were pushed to examine camp and our- of camp directors who support one another in skills. Camp directors work year-round, con- tees that offer strategic oversight and develop- selves through a new lens and a new paradigm. becoming vision-driven leaders. fronting challenges and dealing with such ment, ensuring his new camp’s success and Many, if not all, of us came up through the FJC has a single goal: to increase the num- issues as overseeing multi-million dollar budg- sustainability. ranks of camp as people who were very good at ber of children in Jewish summer camps. To ets, hiring and supervising a staff of several • Michael Wolf, director of Camp Ramah, working with children and with staff, but none this end, it creates inspiring camp leaders, hundred, managing communications, supervis- Utterson, Ontario, credits ELI with training of us was trained to run multimillion-dollar, expands access to and intensifies demand for ing physical sites, working with a board of him in public speaking, developing a myriad of not-for-profit organizations with major facili- camp, and develops programs to strengthen directors, initiating new programs, and much communications skills and refinements, includ- ties, boards, and fundraising responsibilities. camps across the Jewish spectrum in North more. The program weaves together the best of ing physical stance, eye contact, pacing, and ELI provided me with the tools, skills, and America. Through strategic partnerships on private sector leadership and management intonation. Now, while on recruitment visits, he resources to reexamine how to run and grow a local and national levels, FJC raises the profile training with Jewish values and ethics. can more clearly communicate his camp mis- camp.” of Jewish camp and serves as a central resource Previous ELI participants tout the benefits sion and history, introducing new families to In recognition of the quantitative and qual- for parents and organizations alike. Every sum- of the program: his camp. itative impact of the ELI program to date, the mer, FJC works with more than 155 camps, • As a result of her ELI participation, Michelle Many other camps have benefited from Marcus Foundation promised another 70,000 campers, and 10,000 counselors across Koplan, director of B’nai B’rith Camp, Neotsu, their director’s new fundraising skills, includ- $850,000 for the program’s continuation. North America to further its mission. Oregon, is working with her board on a master ing Camp Young Judaea Texas, Wimberley, “We all must continue to share and learn,” ELI III applications will be available planning process that has resulted in achieving Texas; Camp Ramah New England, Palmer, declares Bernie Marcus, CEO of the Marcus Spring 2011, and the program will begin in Fall independence from the camp’s former sponsor- Massachusetts; and Camp Tawonga, Foundation. “The Executive Leadership 2011. For more information, visit www.jewish- ing organization; it also enabled the camp to Groveland, California. Institute allows some of our best professionals camp.org.

at the first general meeting at the Chamblee ceutical industry, she is now a dedicated volunteer MishMash Library. They told the story of their miraculous for Visiting Nurse | Hospice Atlanta. She volun- From page 32 survival as children in occupied France during teers at the reception desk of The Hospice Atlanta WWII and described how a researcher in France Center and visits patients and families there. She fighting lung cancer, raise awareness and reduce made the connection between the family members also volunteers with the American Cancer Society the stigma of the disease, and secure research dol- who were deported to Auschwitz and their sur- and the William Breman Jewish Home. Her hus- lars. Linda and Ed Levitt are the Atlanta race vivors. To learn about upcoming events of the Mt. band is lawyer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist founders and LCA-GA co-directors; the run/walk Scopus Group of Greater Atlanta Hadassah, con- Sam Chawkin. began as a joint effort with St. Joseph’s Hospital. tact Edie Barr at 404-325-0340. JELF LUNCHEON. The Jewish Educational DURLEY HONORED. Environmental leader Loan Fund (JELF) August 25 luncheon, at 103 Rev. Dr. Gerald Durley is the first Southeastern West, chaired by Miriam Strickman Levitas and recipient of the Peacebuilding and Environmental Sandi Solow, featured author Melissa Fay Greene, Lara Dorfman (from left), Miriam Stewardship Award from the Friends of the Arava who read an excerpt from her upcoming book, No Strickman Levitas, Melissa Fay Greene, Institute for Environmental Studies. Dr. Durley is Biking in the House without a Helmet. The pro- Sandi Solow, and Jeff Alperin senior pastor of Atlanta’s Providence Missionary gram also featured Elysa Sexton, JELF alumna Baptist Church and a longtime civil rights activist. and current director of Jewish Family Services in dents from Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, The Friends of the Arava Institute is the North Columbia, South Carolina, who gave a stirring North Carolina, and Virginia for post-secondary American organization that provides financial testimony of JELF’s role in helping her attend col- education. For information, call 770-396-3080, or support for the Arava Institute, an environmental lege. JELF provides interest-free loans for stu- visit www.jelf.org. educational and research institute in Israel addressing environmental stewardship.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE. Pamela Chawkin was event chair for the 23rd annual Visiting Nurse | CHILD SURVIVORS. On September 15, Lucy Hospice Atlanta fall benefit, In the Moment: A Carson, Heleen Tibor Grossman, Regine Celebration of Life, which took place September Rosenfelder, and Suzan Tibor (pictured) gave a 25, at the Georgian Terrace Hotel. A dynamic presentation to the Mt. Scopus Group of Hadassah woman who had an 18-year career in the pharma- Page 46 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010 toiletries and making lunches for a community locally and overseas. hard hit by the recession and reeling from a 14% “In the war against cancer, it is the oncology Federation news unemployment rate. The group also toured the nurses, social workers, nutritionists, wellness Adelson Educational Campus, a 200,000-square- counselors, and office staff who live on the front Atlanta and has served on the board for Georgians foot K-12 Jewish day school built by Sheldon lines. It’s difficult work, yet they persevere with SHUBIN AND MARKS RETURN AS COM- for Choice. Adelson, chairman of the Sands Corporation and a loving hearts and caring hands,” Dr. and Mrs. MUNITY CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIRS; KURA- Atlanta community leader Cathy Selig major Jewish philanthropist; they also met Feinberg said. “Establishing this fund is a way to NOFF IS VICE CHAIR. Each individual donor Kuranoff joins the Adelson and his wife, Dr. Miri Adelson. continue our commitment to GCS’s phenomenal matters to the success of the Community 2011 Community treatment teams that help so many in our commu- Campaign of the Campaign leader- nity.” Jewish Federation ship team as cam- Proceeds from the initial $100,000 contribu- of Greater Atlanta, paign vice chair. tion will be used to award $20,000 annually for co-chairs Joanie Before continuing medical education and other education Shubin and Joel assuming her role funding for the benefit of GCS non-physician Marks stress as with the staff. they prepare to Community lead the 2011 cam- Campaign, Mrs. ATLANTA FOUNDATION GRANT SUPPORTS paign. Kuranoff held NORC INITIATIVE. Many metro Atlanta seniors Returning to the many roles, will have a better quality of life thanks to a leadership posi- including Major $15,000 grant from the Atlanta Foundation, which tions for a second Gifts chair and is administered by Wells Fargo Bank year, Marks and Cathy Selig Kuranoff Women’s Philanthropic Services. This grant will help Shubin cite the Philanthropy Mission trip participants pose in front of expand and strengthen the Georgia Naturally Joel Marks theme, “The Good campaign chair. Three Square Food Bank, where they Occurring Retirement Communities (NORC) We Do Is Up to Mrs. Kuranoff, who lives in Buckhead with spent several hours sorting toiletries and Initiative, which helps older adults to continue liv- You,” as the essence of the campaign that allows her husband, grew up in Atlanta, where her family making lunches for a community hard hit ing at home, safely and with true quality of life, for Federation to support 17 affiliate agencies and 66 was affiliated with The Temple. She first became by the recession. as long as possible. Outcome partners that impact every aspect of involved in Federation when she moved to Los Since it began in 2003, the Georgia NORC Jewish life in Atlanta and abroad. Funds from the Angeles as a young adult and began looking for a During a special reception at the Venetian Initiative has helped more than 3,180 seniors of all campaign focus on three areas: Jewish identity and community there. Resort, keynote speaker Dennis Prager, a national- faiths in Atlanta and other parts of Georgia to lead continuity, vulnerable populations, and Israel and “I wanted to meet people in Los Angeles, so ly syndicated talk show host and author, chal- safe, independent lives of quality and dignity at overseas. I got involved with the Federation there. My first lenged the group to “repair the world” one indi- home. NORC now serves a total of six communi- “No other gift touches more lives,” Marks gift, when I was 24 or 25, was for $25 and put me vidual at a time. ties, including four in metro Atlanta, one in said. “Our community continues to confront a dif- in the ‘Junior Matrons.’ When I moved back to Savannah’s Ardsley Park neighborhood, and one ficult economy, and we continue to receive more Atlanta in the late ‘80s, I got involved here,” she FEINBERGS ESTABLISH EDUCATIONAL in rural Candler County. requests for services than ever. Our challenge is to said. ENDOWMENT. Leading Atlanta oncologist Dr. The Georgia NORC Initiative addresses an find the resources to meet the overwhelming needs Mrs. Kuranoff credits her first trip to Israel in Bruce A. Feinberg and his wife, Iris Z. Feinberg, urgent need: Atlanta’s older adult population dou- in our community.” 1988 with her passion to support Federation. “My have established an endowment to provide contin- bled between 1970 and 2000 and is projected to Mrs. Shubin added, “In today’s economy, the sons, who were 14 and 17 at the time, had worked uing medical education for nurses and other med- double again by 2015. NORC is provided by a col- need is ‘up close and personal.’” Everyone, she all summer before the trip and were so impressed ical and office support personnel at Georgia laborative community partnership that includes says, knows someone impacted by the economic that they gave all they had earned that summer to Cancer Specialists (GCS). The fund, which the the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. Other downturn and who Federation. It was on that trip that I became a Feinbergs are seeding with an initial contribution NORC partners include but are not limited to the needs assistance. Lion,” she said. Lion of Judah is a group of of $100,000, will be managed through the Jewish Atlanta Regional Commission; Concerted “Our needs are women who give at least $5,400 annually to Federation of Greater Atlanta’s Planned Giving & Services, Inc., Candler County; Jewish Family & overwhelming, and Federation. Endowment division. Career Services; Fulton County Office for Aging; it is our responsi- “Now, I go on a lot of missions throughout Dr. Feinberg has served as president and Senior Citizens, Inc., Savannah; and The William bility to take care the year and have been doing a lot of things in the CEO of GCS, a Top 10 private cancer practice in Breman Jewish Home. of one another. If women’s division,” she said. the U.S. and a leader in advanced cancer treatment In addition to meeting specific community we don’t take care Both of Mrs. Kuranoff’s sons are active in and research, since its inception. He recently needs, the NORC Initiative “also helps conserve of each other, who the Atlanta Jewish community, and three of her announced he will leave his post at the end of community resources,” said Deborah A. Kahan, will?” she said. four grandchildren are students at The Epstein September to accept a position at Cardinal Health, NORC project director. “The average annual cost Marks lives in School. Her son Brian Lewis, 40, and his wife, Inc. of care for a senior living at home is less than half Buckhead and is Amy, were past YLC campaign chairs, and Greg Iris Feinberg served as chair of Federation’s of the cost of custodial care, which is often pro- the vice chairman Lewis, 37, and his wife, Erica, led Federation’s 2008 Community Campaign, leading an effort that vided at public expense.” and chief operating Las Vegas mission trip. raised more than $16 million for Jewish charities Joanie Shubin officer of Federation’s 2011 Community Campaign Advanced Equities began September 1 and ends on June 30, 2011. Financial Corp. The financial services holding Classnotes school visited each exhibit. The Insect Museum company is engaged in the independent contractor, LAS VEGAS MISSION. Members of Atlanta’s was on display the first week of November in the private client service, asset management, and late Jewish community who are major contributors to From page 43 lower school hallway. stage venture capital segments of the financial the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta (JFGA) Basic Skills scores of 97th percentile or higher in services industry. recently returned from a mission to Las Vegas. CIVIC DUTY. In preparation for middle school a core subject, this program identifies students He has served as chair of the Blue Ribbon Why Las Vegas? Because the many serious students’ participation in a nationwide mock elec- with high academic ability and offers them chal- Committee, chair of Domestic Planning and challenges facing the Las Vegas Jewish communi- tion, state Senator Jason Carter spoke to 7th- and lenging educational opportunities to nurture their Partnerships, and as an officer of Federation. ty mirror many issues facing Atlanta, including 8th-grade classes about the importance of civic talents. Shubin, who lives in East Cobb, has served rapid growth, sprawl, large numbers of newcom- responsibility. Senator Carter, who represents the as chair of Women’s Philanthropy, as a Federation ers, high intermarriage, and low affiliation. 42nd Georgia State Senate district, of which the BUGS BUGS BUGS. TDSA 2nd-graders spent a board member, and as co-chair, with Sid Kirshner, Federation President and CEO Steve Rakitt Toco Hill community is a part, explained why he month studying insects, which culminated in an of Federation’s Centennial Year celebrations. noted that the goal of the trip was to build com- became involved in state politics. Sen. Carter Insect Museum. Each student was assigned an In addition to working with Federation, munity, strengthen understanding of Federation’s gave an impromptu lesson on how Georgia gov- insect to research and then create an exhibit that Shubin volunteers with the National Council of work in order to enhance philanthropy, and deep- ernment operates and his role in it as a state sen- included a three-dimensional model of the insect, Jewish Women. She received a national appoint- en relationships among participants. “We succeed- ator. Students asked him questions on issues rang- a diagram of its life cycle, and a summary para- ment to serve as state public affairs chair, where ed in all three areas in Las Vegas,” said Rakitt. ing from Georgia’s water conflicts with neighbor- graph highlighting appearance, habitat, diet, and she worked for three years advocating for women The group of about 80 went to the Three ing states to the state of the public education sys- life cycle. Students presented their exhibits and and health care. She is on the board of Komen Square Food Bank and spent several hours sorting tem. answered questions when members of the lower November-December 2010 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 47 Page 48 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN November-December 2010