December 2019 | 3 Kislev 5780 – 3 Tevet 5780 | Volume 74, Number 9 Illumination on a Serious Issue by Carol Towbin Greenberg Streets Are Quiet

December 2019 | 3 Kislev 5780 – 3 Tevet 5780 | Volume 74, Number 9 Illumination on a Serious Issue By Carol Towbin Greenberg streets are quiet. Where is the out- as those involved in early childhood In this season of light, Rabbi rage? Veterans are 250% more likely and youth programs,” is this enough? Michael Cohen, chaplain at Fort to commit suicide than their civilian Rabbi Cohen stated that “In Stewart, illuminated a serious prob- counterparts. This isn’t a problem; 2017, on average, 17 veterans a day lem within the ranks of the mili- it is a tragedy of epic committed suicide. tary: soldier and veteran suicide. In proportions.” There is something, Candle Lighting Times his Dvar Torah at a recent Shabbat While nationally, we as a nation, is service honoring Veterans held at both the Federation missing... At any Hunter Army Air Base, Rabbi Cohen and the JCC move- given moment in the Friday, December 6 5:02pm honored those assembled with the ments have created past 20 years, there Friday, December 13 5:03pm fact that “Jews have fought in ev- and support many so- are roughly 10,000 Friday, December 20 5:06pm ery American engagement and many cial services includ- Jews serving in our Friday, December 27 5:09pm have laid down their lives to protect ing the Connections military. How many Friday, January 3 5:14pm our freedom. Many of you put on the podcast, produced thousands of Jew- uniform and fought for our country,” through the JCCA’s ish veterans are out but then issued a challenge that “we Jewish Welfare there, right now, can and must do more” based on the Board council of 16 silently suffering, In this Issue following distressing facts: Rabbis (split evenly wishing they could P2 Savannah Jewish Film Festival “In the military and among our between the denomi- catch a break?... P4 Your Campaign Dollars at Work veterans, the fire that ravages this nations), and Project Who checks-in on P9 JEA CenterPiece community is suicide. In the last 10 Welcome Home “to our warriors when P12 Book Review by Lila Allan years, over 60,000 veterans have tak- support returning veterans through we, as American Jews, don’t know P13 The Engagement Ambassador Impact en their own lives. At home and safe a variety of programs, membership how the military works?”…Military from bombs and bullets, more vet- incentives for veterans and their life is hectic, isolated, and can be in- erans have died than those killed in families, reaching out to local vet- credibly lonely.” Also Featured the Vietnam War, when thousands eran service organizations to create Some of the solutions, for what The Engagement Ambassador Impact; p2 took to the streets to protest send- partnerships, and targeted outreach Letters to the Editor; p10 ing troops to Vietnam. Today, the to veteran and military families, such continued on page 7 Hadassah to Honor Janis Javetz Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist quickly held every officer position (HMO), beginning in 1975 as a divi- Organization of America, will present culminating in being elected President sion co-chair for Hadassah Presents its highest honor, The Myrtle Wreath in 1980. At that time she was one of and continuing through serving as

PAID Award, to Janis Javetz in the youngest presidents to Chair of last year’s highly successful

U.S. POSTAGE recognition of her con- have served Hadassah Savan- event honoring Carol and Joel Green- Non-Profit ORG PERMIT NO. 2840 JACKSONVILLE, FL tributions to Hadassah nah. Janis credits many of the berg. She says she has chaired Hadas- and Jewish life. Hadassah women who served before sah Presents more times than she Savannah will bestow her — including Ida Wilen- can remember, including each event the prestigious award at sky, Miriam Levy and others during the years 2011-2018. Hadassah a celebratory luncheon — for mentoring her as she Savannah and Hadassah Medical Or- on Thursday, January 16, successfully led Hadassah ganization are indebted to her for her 2020, 12 o’clock noon, at Janis Javitz Savannah for two years. She service. 45 Bistro. especially remembers the In addition to serving the local Janis, a native of Savannah, has guidance and dedication she received chapter, Janis served on the board of been an active member of Savannah’s from June Arkin, both for the chapter Hadassah’s Southeastern Region as Jewish community ever since return- and for Hadassah Presents, the local treasurer and vice president (working ing here in the early 1970s as a young group’s annual fundraiser. Janis says alongside her close friend Jean Weitz, newlywed. She and her husband Lee she remembers all of these women then regional president). Janis also

A Publication of Savannah Jewish Federation Federation Jewish Savannah of A Publication Street 5111 Abercorn Georgia 31405 Savannah, www.savj.org ServiceAddress Requested were eager to make friends and Janis “not just as mentors, but as friends.” held a number of regional committee joined the boards of several different Janis likes to say “fundraising is chairmanships, including co-chairing Jewish organizations. She soon found not my bag” yet over the years she has the Southeastern Region Conference herself immersed in Hadassah. raised tens of thousands of dollars As a young member of Hadassah, Janis for Hadassah Medical Organization continued on page 12 Savannah Page 2 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org

Savannah Jewish Federation Presents

The Joan and Murray Gefen Memorial 2020 Savannah Jewish Film Festival January 22-January 26

Single Movie Tickets JEA Members: $10 Community: $12

Meal & Movie Tickets Lunch: JEA Members: $15 Wednesday, January 22 Thursday, January 23 Thursday, January 23 Community Member: $17

6:00 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Dinner & Opening Reception: Opening Reception Lunch Dinner JEA Member: $22

7:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Community Member: $26 The Keeper Egg Cream, The Last Resort Refuge & Other Shorts Full Festival Pass Admits one person to all films & Opening Reception JEA Members: $60.00 Community: $72.00

Become a Friend of the Festival

Producer: $650 Friday, January 24 Saturday, January 25 Sunday, January 26 Director: $500 12:30 p.m. 7:00 p .m. 6:00 p .m. Lunch Dessert Reception Dinner Actor: $250

1:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Wendy's Shabbat Fiddler Crescendo & Other Shorts

Savannah Jewish Federation www.savj.org Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 3 President’s Message Executive Director’s Message Jewish Moments Thankful Savan- I am thankful (thanks to the sup- Powered By the nah’s Jews— port of the Slotin family) to be able we are an to provide a the wonderful PJ Library opinionated and PJ Our Way books, tapes and Edwin Byck Federation President bunch. Put programs to over 120 area children; Savannah Jewish On lend Comedy Night, a community- Adam Solender two of us in a I am thankful for the Yesod Lead- Federation Wednesday wide Purim Carnival and Chanukah Executive Director room together ership program where 36 community evening Novem- celebrations just to name a few. JEA/SJF and you’ll members have stepped forward to ber 6, 2019 the Federation kicked In addition, the Federation get three work and learn and to change our off its annual fundraising campaign. through its Annual Community opinions, maybe four. There is one community! This year’s campaign theme asks Campaign allocates money locally to thing about which we can all agree; I am thankful to have such great each of you to remember a Jewish organizations such as the JEA, Sha- our Jewish community needs to be lay leadership: the officers of the JEA activity, person, place or moment lom School, BBYO, Jewish War Vet- united, as one people, regardless of and Federation work tirelessly on all that is or could be memorable and erans, the Savannah Jewish Archives our political beliefs, religious affili- of our behalf; meaningful to your life. In making as well as many others. The Cam- ation, Jewish activities, or level of I am thankful for the Federation’s your pledge to this year’s campaign, paign provides essential support for Jewish activism. newest initiative, YACHAD, a pro- imagine if this “Jewish Moment” had nonprofit organizations outside the We have so many important rea- gram for 6-8 grades that combines not or could not in the future be pos- United States as well. In fact, one sons to work together: raising the Jewish learning with social action in sible due to lack of monetary funds. of the recipients of a grant recom- next generation of Jews, caring for a social atmosphere (the perfect way For me, my Jewish Moment mended by a Federation member last our people in need, and working for to engage teens before BBYO!!); begins with Camp Chaverim at the year was the Krakow Poland Jewish Israel’s continued I am thankful JEA. When I was a child I was a Community Center. The Center had survival. Who will that thus far our camper. When I was a tween I was been visited by 14 Federation mem- care for us if we "Maybe it is my naivety, solicitors are hav- a junior counselor and Stacy Lasky bers last year in conjunction with a don’t care for each my positive outlook, or my ing very positive was my boss and Senior Counselor. “NextGen” March of the Living mis- other? responses for this When I was a teenager, I was a sion to Poland and Israel which was In his book, “A hope for the Savannah Jew- year’s campaign. Senior Counselor. When I gradu- made possible through local support People Divided,” ish community: I believe it is Our community is ated High School, I was a lifeguard at from the Dena Yaschik Bodziner Dr. Jack Wert- possible to have fundamental so very generous. the pool , and as a father and parent, Memorial Fund a part of the Federa- heimer, the former We are asking you both of my sons, Adam and David, tion’s Jewish Community Founda- Provost of the disagreement but that we can to make Jewish attended camp at the JEA. As Presi- tion of Savannah. Jewish Theo- disagree in a civil manner.” giving a priority… dent of the Federation I now under- The executive director of the logical Seminary, if we don’t give to stand that without people giving to Krakow-Poland JCC, Jonathon Orn- wrote about how us, no one will; the Campaign in the past, all these stein was the speaker at the Main “belligerence I am thankful activities would not have been pos- Event campaign kickoff. He spoke and intolerance have become the for the JEA Preschool and the won- sible. about the rebirth of the Jewish com- hallmarks of American Judaism.” derful families that changing the face I do not expect all of the “Jew- munity since the end of World War Wertheimer claims, “it is no longer of our community each and every ish Moments” to be so Savannah- II. I must admit, I had expected him possible or wise to dismiss religious day; centric. However, I do expect that to speak about how the rebirth had polarization as peripheral to Jewish I am thankful for the response each of you will come to the same taken place in the 50’s. As Jonathon life. The divided world of Judaism we get from the Savannah Jewish conclusion. As I have written about explained in his talk, however, due im-perils the unity of the Jewish News, Facebook, Instagram pages, in other articles, the Savannah Jew- to Poland being a communist nation people in America…In addition, and weekly e-mails—hopefully there ish Federation’s involvement with until the 1990s, no religion including name-calling and invective are now is something for everyone; hopefully each of our lives boggles my mind. Judaism flourished in Poland. The routinely injected into Jewish public they make you think. I learn from Jewish Family Services provides over rebirth of the community, therefore, discourse.” you all each and every week. $150,000 annually for local Jews in is in its infancy, only twenty to thirty Unfortunately, gossip, divisive- I am thankful for the cultural and need; The Savannah Jewish News years old. Jonathon told stories of ness, and finger-pointing have identity events that are taking place and the enews tries to keep us all people just finding out that prior to become all too common. Maybe it every day at the JEA. up with current events; PJ Library, the 1940s, their families were Jewish. is my naivety, my positive outlook, I am so very thankful and grateful PJ Our Way, BBYO, support for col- Jonathon appreciated our grant and or my hope for the Savannah Jewish for the colleagues at the Federation legiate Hillels, Young Jewish Savan- that Jews in the Savannah Area cared community: I believe it is possible to and JEA who give so much of them- nah, Shabbat across Savannah, the enough to be a partner in the meta- have fundamental disagreement but selves—all in an attempt to make weekly Food for Thought lunch and morphosis of the Polish Jewry. that we can disagree in a civil man- the Jewish community even more learn, and the Yesod leadership train- The ability to contribute to the ner. vibrant and welcoming. ing all provide Jews in Savannah Jewish experience for all is what the I write this a few weeks before And, I am thankful-Thankful for with Jewish moments. The Federa- Federation’s campaign is all about. I Thanksgiving and am reflective of all your support, your confidence, and tion organizes the Savannah Jewish look forward to hearing about all the the things we have to be thankful for your participation in making the Film Festival, Yom HaShoah Holo- Jewish Moments that are special to in the Savannah Jewish community: I warm and welcoming Savannah Jew- caust Remembrance, Konter-Wei- you. remain very positive. ish community so very special.

We couldn’t do it Help us thank our advertisers. without them! Please support their businesses! Savannah Page 4 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org Your Campaign Dollars At Work Featured Beneficiary: Lone Soldier Center Published by the Savannah Jewish Federation The Lone Soldier Center was their unit would receive, but is still Specially trained volunteers 5111 Abercorn Street Savannah, GA 31405 founded in 2009 in memory of mostly insufficient to pay bills, do of the Lone Soldier Center are (912) 355-8111 Michael Levin by a group of former laundry, pay for furniture and home there to counsel and explain these www.savj.org lone soldiers who were particularly appliances, and buy food for Shab- important aspects of military life SJF President: Edwin Byck aware and concerned with the bat. Rent is subsidized by the army to the lone soldiers. Prior to their SJF Treasurer: Matthew Allan needs and struggles of lone sol- (up to 1048 NIS per month), but it drafts, the lone soldiers are invited SJF Executive Director: Adam Solender diers. is not enough to create a home in to special drafting seminars where A “lone soldier” is an IDF sol- Israel. crucial information such as what The objectives of the Savannah Jewish News are to dier with no family in Israel to By organizing meals and creat- to bring and how to get to the draft foster a sense of community among the Jewish people of Savannah by sharing ideas, information, experiences, support him or her. A lone soldier ing a community, the Lone Soldier office is explained. The volunteers and opinions, and to promote the agencies, projects, may be a new immigrant, a volun- Center helps the soldiers lower continue to help the lone soldiers and mission of the Savannah Jewish Federation. teer from abroad, an orphan, or an their expenses and live a bit freer of during their military life by being a The Savannah Jewish News is published monthly individual from a broken home. “walking encyclopedia” of military 10 times per year, with a deadline for submissions of the 6th of the month before publication. For Every day, tens of thousands of protocols and other useful informa- example, for a March issue, the deadline would be soldiers are defending the state of tion. February 6. January-February and July-August are combined issues. Submission deadlines for these Israel its citizens. These soldiers Loneliness and Homesickness: winter and summer issues are December 15 and June regularly spend weekends and Loneliness is a major problem for 15, respectively. holidays at home where their par- many lone soldiers. In the army, Editorial/articles submissions should be in Microsoft Word format (.docx or .rtf). For best results, photos ents provide for all of their needs: camaraderie is a very essential part should be high resolution (300 dpi) with width and laundry, food, and even a hug. of daily life, but when soldiers height dimensions as large as possible, as .jpg, .tif, or .psd (Adobe Photoshop) files. Artwork, drawings, line For the lone soldiers, there is no come home on weekends, they go art, and other graphics are best sent as “vector” files, immediate family in Israel to sup- to their homes all across Israel and e.g. .eps or .ai (Adobe Illustrator). We will accept .jpg, .tif, or .psd files, if necessary. port them. Though highly moti- enjoy their time with their families vated and proud to serve, when and friends. Lone soldiers are not Advertising submissions must be in a high-resolution, “press” quality PDF format with fonts embedded. on leave, many of them struggle as lucky. They all too often come For best results, photos and other artwork within with basic needs that a family home to an empty apartment with advertisements should also be high resolution (300 dpi), .jpg, .tif, or .psd files. All color must be in the would provide. an empty fridge and must take CMYK color format; “true” black preferred. There are over 7,000 lone unnecessary stress. care of the daily chores of running Please send all Savannah Jewish News materials to: soldiers currently serving in the Lack of Information about the a home- cleaning, doing laundry, [email protected] IDF. About 45% of these soldiers IDF: Having the correct informa- cooking and paying bills. Then, if Please send eNews newsletter submissions to: are new immigrants, coming from tion is crucial when joining the their friends from their units do [email protected] Jewish communities all over the IDF. Israelis grow up being taught not live close by, they are stuck Neither the publisher nor the editor assumes world. Another 50% are Israelis about the army by their parents alone without anyone to talk to or responsibility for the kashrut of the services or who are orphans or that come from and by special programs in school. spend time with. merchandise advertised in this paper. If you have questions regarding kashrut, please consult your rabbi. low socio-economic The Lone Soldier All materials published in the backgrounds. There Center organizes com- Savannah Jewish News are are some that come munity building events © 2019 Savannah Jewish Federation, all rights from ultra orthodox such as movie nights, reserved, unless noted otherwise. neighborhoods who are pub nights, Shabbat Letters to the Editor The Savannah Jewish News is a community paper. shunned by their fami- meals and more in order Letters should be civil and considerate in tone and lies and communities to help lone soldiers not not contain personal attacks, random attacks on businesses, or defamation. All statements of facts because they decided to feel lonely. The Center must be verifiable (state the original source of the go to the army. also helps lone soldiers information).

Most lone soldiers in apartment hunt- Letters should be no more than 250 words and may are placed in combat ing and works hard to be edited for length, clarity, or factual content. The opinions expressed are always the writer’s. units and come highly ensure all lone soldiers motivated to serve in find the right place to All letters must include the author’s full name, address, and phone number (only your name, and if appropriate, the Israeli army. At call home. job title and organization or business name, will be any given time, these The Lone Soldier published). soldiers are awake and Center is one of 16 ben- No more than two letters from the same author will be aware, guarding Israel’s published within 12 consecutive months. eficiaries of the Savan- borders by land, air and nah Jewish Federation Submit letters to [email protected]. The Savannah Jewish News retains full and sole discretion about sea. IDF Soldiers Campaign Overseas which letters to publish. While each is their Investment Grant pro- own amazing story, there are some Lone soldiers generally do not gram to benefit the Jewish experi- Savannah Jewish Federation issues that arise across the board have access to basic IDF informa- ence throughout the world. Each Mission Statement Charged with raising, collecting and distributing and are common between all lone tion, such as: what are the differ- of the beneficiaries was nominated funds, the Savannah Jewish Federation seeks to soldiers. ent units in the army, what are the by a member of the community advance the welfare of the total Jewish community. The Federation strongly supports Israel and world Financial Issues: For lone soldiers, rights and benefits of being a lone who had a personal connection Jewry. Additionally, the organization strives to money becomes a major issue. A soldier and who to turn to for help with the program. preserve the civil, political, economic and religious rights of all Jews to develop an articulate, intelligent, lone soldier’s monthly salary is when they have special requests and constructive Jewish community and to promote twice of what a regular soldier in during their service. mutual understanding with the community at-large. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 5 savannah DE CEMBER MISSION: To create a pluralistic community of Jewish high school teens. More Jewish Teens, More Meaningful Jewish Experiences.

If you are Jewish, in your 20s and 30s and want to Upcoming Events meet new people, connect to the community and make a December 6 difference - YJS is where BBYO Global Shabbat you want to be! December 20-22 Eastern Regional Convention Young Jewish Savannah’s January 12 goal is to provide meaningful Winter Kick-Off Event opportunities for engagement in the Jewish community through social In November we sent 3 new members to the New Member and professional networking, We want to get to know you! Regional Convention in Greensboro. They came back with new community service, Judaic New to Savannah and want to get friends, memories, and a sense of what brotherhood and and leadership programs for connected? sisterhood is really about. Want your teen to experience this? Jewish young adults in their Want to help plan events? Have ideas you want to share? Sign them up today! 20s and 30s. Just want to hang out? Let us take you for coffee! THE BEST PLACE TO BE A SAVANNAH JEWISH TEEN

Young Jewish Savannah is SAVJ.ORG/SAVANNAH-BBYO SAVANNAH BBYO made possible through the Want to get involved? Savannah Jewish Contact Jackie Laban at [email protected] Federation. Savannah Jewish Federation Beneficiary Agency: Your Campaign dollars at work

Wishing Everyone a Joyous and Illuminated Chanukah! Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter to receive the latest updates on all programming!

Don’t Miss Our Annual Gala Event! Experience an Exciting Morning of Sisterhood Chanukah Torah Study and Camaraderie Family Night

th nd December 6 December 15th December 22 Starting 6 PM in the Social Hall – – Please call the office to make reservations

5444 Abercorn Street ■ Savannah, Georgia 31405 ■ 912.354.7721 ■ [email protected] ■ www.bbjsynagogue.com Savannah Page 6 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org The Savannah Jewish JEA Garden Project Federation Gratefully Thanks By Penny Berkman already started to observe the tiny This year, JEA Preschool Savan- seedlings sprout. our Contributors nah has four gardens that have become This huge under taking could an integral part of our school's cur- never have come into play without the JULIUS RUDIKOFF HEALTH SJF ANNUAL CAMPAIGN riculum. Our help of our many com- CLUB In honor of Steve Greenberg gardens teach the mitted parents and all of & ATHLETIC FUND Merry & Richard Bodziner children about the their hard work. I person- In honor of Lynn & Dick many aspects of ally want to thank each Berkowitz JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES nature and how of you and say todah. All Biff & Jerry Montana FRIENDS CAMPAIGN they can become our efforts have received A donation was made by very involved. The recognition through Con- CAROL & JOEL GREENBERG Mary & Joel Homansky HEALTH RESOURCE FUND In honor of Carol & Joel children are so ador- stellation's Community In honor of Carol & Joel Greenberg able when they tell Champions project. They Greenberg Pamela & Marek Lewanda me to look at their rain boots as they were excited to support our JEA Gar- Dawn Kaley quickly line up to go to the Gahn, den Project with a grant of $500.00, Cheryl Ross JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES which is the Hebrew word for gar- and are proud of our dedication and FUND den. Within our gardens, the children efforts to improve our community. TIKVAH FUND A donation was made by are able to indulge in all their senses. We invite everyone in the JEA In memory of Florence Karsman Sandra Seligman They are eager to dig community to enjoy our In memory of Sylvia Dane In honor of Carol & Joel in the dirt to look for gardens, which are the Arlene & Allan Ratner Greenberg worms, identify the beautiful butterfly/hum- In memory of Muriel Maida Joanne & Dick Hochman various insects that mingbird sanctuary, the Sue & John Adler Harriet & Eric Meyerhoff Paula & Mike Bowers Biff & Jerry Montana are helpful for our herb garden, the straw- Sharon & Murray Galin Michael Portman plants, pull weeds, berry patch and the veg- Doris & Arnie Goldstein In honor of Michael Strear help with water- etable garden. Please feel Carol & Joel Greenberg Sara Jospin ing, and sample and free to sample the herbs Peggy & Stanley Harris In memory of Boo Hornstein smell the different and vegetables. Also, Toby Hollenberg & Arlene & Allan Ratner herbs. Together we have planted many come and observe the many changes Michael Bonder In memory of Sylvia Dane cool weather vegetables and have year round. Sally Krissman & Ed Benson Sue & John Adler Harriet & Paul Kulbersh Betsy & Larry Lehner SALLY & STEVE Eva Odrezin GREENBERG LEADERSHIP Judy & Larry Odrezin FUND Sharon & Bill Sand In honor of Steve Greenberg Hadassah Savannah Chapter Gail Wexler Renee & Russell Bridges In memory of Harriet Konter Sharon & Bill Sand In honor of Sue & Ira Ruby Doris & Arnie Goldstein PHILLIPA SHERMAN In memory of Sylvia Dane (BUNNY) MONTAG & JAMES Jane Kahn LEE MONTAG JEWISH May the miracle of the Sally Karpf Krissman EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL In honor of Steve Greenberg FUND AM Goldkrand In honor of Bunny & Jim Montag In honor of Arlene & Allan Ratner Michelle & Rodney Cohen Chanukah lights Merry Bodziner usher in a year of On The Personal Side peace and Mazel Tov to new parents: Casey Anderson and Harley Krinsky on the birth of their daughter, Ryder Ophelia Krinsky on understanding for all. October 3, 2019. Ashley and Josh Yellin on the birth of their son, Levi Standfield Yellin on October 12, 2019. Please join Hadassah Savannah on January 16, 2020 Paige and Brett Levine on the as we present the prestigious Myrtle Wreath Award to birth of their son Elliot Alexander Janis Javetz

Levine on October 16, 2019. 12 o’clock noon · 45 Bistro For more information: Sue Adler ([email protected]) Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 7 Illumination Condolences Continued from page 1 We express our sympathy to the families of: he calls this Invisible Jewish Com- do so by Torah law…The law com- Raymond Schneider made to Hospice Savannah, PO Box munity, he gratefully recounted, are mands us to help restore a lost and Who died Wednesday, October 9, 13190, Savannah, GA 31406-0190 or a already in place in our Savannah com- desperate person” to a better version, 2019. charity of the donor’s choice. munity, but need to be augmented. a more complete version, of himself. He is survived by his beloved “Let’s work to provide welcom- During times of crisis and despair, wife, Rhea Kleinberg Schneider, Harriet Kanter Konter ing inclusivity for our Jewish service it is easy to feel lost, overwhelmed, sister Linda Traunfeld of Delray Who died Sunday, October 13, 2019. members and veterans. Let us be and question everything we thought Beach, FL, brother Carl Schneider She is survived by her children, those friends, let us be those family to be true about ourselves. When and sister-in-law Jo Ann Schneider Stanley and Rose Konter, Sally members, and let us be those advo- confronted by someone experiencing of Ocala, FL, and children Jason (Konter) and Steve Greenberg cates for those who have none.…we this sense of loss and despair, Jew- Samuel Schneider of Atlanta, GA and Jerry and Marcy Konter; six can thank Soldiers for their service ish law commands us to restore her and Julie Cummings of Savannah, grandchildren, Natalie (Konter) by checking in on them and offering sense of self and help her find her GA, son-in-law Michael Cummings and Jon Sarnat, Harris and Elissa them a community they can call their way back home…. So how do we [in of Savannah, GA, and grandchildren Konter, Greg and Susan Greenberg, own…Once they complete their mili- this community] bring visibility to Carter and Isabelle Cummings. Matt and Karina Greenberg, Mark tary service, they would have a built- that which has been invisible for so Remembrance donation may be and Allison Konter and Tess in social network and be surrounded long? …Clinical studies all agree that made to LSU Foundation, indicating (Konter) and Albert Neudeck; nine by people who care…if we find ways the answer [to suicidal thoughts] is "Raymond W. Schneider Memorial" great-grandchildren; her longtime to better integrate them into the Jew- community …feeling connected, a in the memo line, and mailed to LSU friend and special person, Mildred ish community.” part of something larger, and having Foundation, 3796 Nicholson Drive, Jones, and nieces and nephews. Currently locally, but discreetly, a purpose. Community is a powerful Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Remembrance donations may The Savannah Jewish Federation pro- thing and it saves lives every day." be made to The Bertha and Hymie vides funding, advertising, supplies Our Savannah Jewish commu- Sylvia Dane Kanter Young at Heart Fund – c/o Who died Thursday, October 10, and administrative support for our nity at large, has so many wonder- Jewish Educational Alliance – 5111 2019. Abercorn Street, Savannah, Georgia local and distinguished Jewish War ful things to offer service members She is survived by her daughter, 31405-5214 or the Harriet Konter Veterans Post 320 and has sourced and veterans, but we need to review Joan Dane-Kellogg (Larry); her son, Leadership Scholarship fund – c/o speakers for Holocaust remembrance if we can offer more. If you or your Charles Dane; her grandchildren, the Women’s Council of Realtors to local bases. In addition, the Jewish social action committee is inter- Julie Cohen (Adam), Sean Dane- Georgia – 6065 Barfield Road NE, Educational Alliance provides fund- ested in finding out more ways you Kellogg; her great-grandson, Korte Atlanta, Georgia 30328 or a charity ing for flags, holders and transpor- can help Rabbi Cohen make those Cohen, and many dear cousins and of the donor’s choice. tation for parades and grave honors in his charge less isolated, join us at friends. as well as sponsoring some military a meeting Tuesday January 7, 2020 Remembrance donations may be Frances “Fran” Jane Lowery- families for membership, Jewish edu- (7 -8:30pm) to discuss options for made Congregation Mickve Israel, Wilson cation and activities. Synagogues and greater involvement with our Jewish PO Box 816, Savannah, GA 31402- Who died Friday, October 18, 2019. members of the community host ac- military and veterans. 0816, Hospice Savannah, PO Box She is survived by four children, tive service members during the holi- He ended his service with this 13190, Savannah, GA 31406-0190 or a Nicholas E. Seward, Joseph E. days as well. prayer: “In this new year, may we be charity of the donor’s choice. Seward, Donna M. Seward and Rabbi Cohen reminds us that blessed with the good sight to see Chandra M. Seward; five sisters, “The Talmud teaches us, ‘When one the unseen, and the vision to increase Colonel Richard “Dick” Steven Macie Bagley, Annie M. Knox, is lost and in despair, whoever can as- their visibility in our blessed nation.” Kent Zenobia Campbell, Bertha L Lowery sist in helping him find his way must Who died Friday, October 11, and Carrie E. Lowery; one brother, 2019. Nathaniel Lowery (Lena); seven He is survived by his wife, grandchildren, Danielle, Brendon, CELEBRATING A Barbara Oliver Kent; one daughter, Monica, Nigel, Anthony, George and Kimberly Kent of Portland, Oregon; Jonathan; great-grandchildren and one son, Gregory D. Kent and his nieces and nephews. wife, Kimberly, of Bryn Mawr, Remembrance donations may Simcha? Pennsylvania; five grandchildren, be made to Congregation Agudath Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Lindsay Kent, Jahleel Heath, Achim – 9 Lee Boulevard, Savannah, William Kent, NayNay Kent- Georgia 31405-5707 or Congregation Engagements Taylor and Brenna Kent; one sister, Mickve Israel – Post Office Box 816, Marjorie Millman and her husband, Savannah, Georgia 31402-0816 or Weddings Michael, of Short Hills, New Jersey, Park Place Outreach, Inc. – 514 East and nieces and nephews. Henry Street, Savannah, Georgia Births Remembrance donations may be 31401-6927. We Want To Know!

Share your good news with the Savannah Jewish News! Send the vital statistics to [email protected] Savannah Page 8 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org 8 days. Shred the potatoes. Pour the oil. Crispy, crunchy latkes. Almost ready. Just one more. And more and more. A taste for Chanukah. Almost gone. Shred the potatoes. Pour the oil.

Happy Chanukah from all your friends at Publix. The Jewish Educational Alliance presents a monthly program guide CENTERPIECE Jewish Educational Alliance December 2019 Children’s Programming Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! Adult Programming New JEA Members The JEA would like to thank our members. With- out your membership and support, Scrabble Thursdays 6-8pm we would not be able to offer all the services that we do. Our members are our most Mah Jongg Mondays 2-4pm important asset! Thursdays 2-4pm (New members as of October 7, 2019) Sharmaine Browne Etienne & Kendall Du Toit Susan Fitzmaurice Food For Thought Claudia Thomas Join us each Thursday at 12:30pm Join the JEA Dec. 5 Savannah African Dec. 26 Annual Movie and Art Museum Chinese Food Join the JEA, and you will be glad you did Billie Stultz when you take advantage of our special mem- Jan. 2 Bingo ber pricing, FREE classes and events! The JEA Dec. 12 Live Musical Performance provides different types of memberships to Savannah Voice Festival Jan. 9 Rabbis Without Borders accommodate everyone. Rabbi Rachael Bregman Types of Membership include: Dec. 19 Chanukah History Family Plans, Couple Plans, Senior Plans, Tim Slivinski Jan. 16 Libraries for Kids Int. Young Family Plans, Individual Plans Roy Austin Military/Law Enforcement (active duty only)

Visit with old friends and meet new ones while enjoying a delicious lunch for only $5 Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at followed by an educational speaker or performer. Don’t forget to make your reservation at the JEA desk or by calling 912-355-8111 SavannahJEA.org for more information!

JEA Donations (10/7/19-11/7/19) ARKIN-CLARK GARDEN FUND Ellen Busch Jack Robertson In memory of Harriet Konter Harriette Carter Cheryl & David Rubnitz Nancie & Fred Clark Sarah Denmark & Adam Solender Sharon & Bill Sand Sam, Eddie, Liora & Amir Dressler Florence Shayne JEA GENERAL DONATION Rina Freeman Elise & Victor Shernoff In memory of Muriel Maida Sharon & Murray Galin Harriet Simowitz Joanne & Dick Hochman Faye & Gary Glancz South State Bank In honor of the JEA Discussion Group Robbie & Sander Hollander Barbara & Alan Tanenbaum Marty Foxx Toby Hollenberg & Michael Bonder Susan Tessel In memory of Lillian Lowe Sara Jospin Thomas & Hutton Anne & Steven Scheer Jane Kahn Irma Fox Shulman Weiner Dale & Jerry Kaminsky Weiner Shearhouse Weitz ALLAN ULLMAN PLAYGROUND FUND Sandra Katz Greenberg & Shawe In memory of Thelma Rosen Brenda & Brian Kenworthy Beth Vantosh & Kenneth Richards In memory of Harriet Konter LeeAnn & Jeff Kole James Yeckley Arlene & Michel Steinfeldt Sally Krissman JEA FITNESS FUND JEA PRESCHOOL SAVANNAH Sara & Christopher Lane Walter Lewis In memory of Harriet Konter A donation by: Coastal Home Care Sandra Seligman Gary Mankin In honor of AM Goldkrand Nancy & Tony Montford HARVEY RUBIN MEMORIAL FUND Sharon & Bill Sand Mark Nathan In memory of Madeline Rubin Eva Odrezin Elise & Victor Shernoff BERTHA & HYMIE KANTER Jamie & Greg Odrezin YOUNG AT HEART FUND Judy & Larry Odrezin HENRY W. CENTER COLLEGE In memory of Harriet Konter Henrietta & Ira Pearlman SCHOLARSHIP FUND Sheila & David Adelman Regina Platock & Harvey Kanter In memory of Lillian Lowe Sue & John Adler Arlene & Allan Ratner In memory of Joe Virant Renee & Russell Bridges Tony Center

December 2019 CenterPiece Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! Health & Wellness Eight Reasons to Run a 5K this Holiday Season

Chanukah is coming, and as you Participating in 5K’s is an awesome FUNdrasier for your community and your family partake in these eight center! Funds raised from the Oy Vey 5K go right back to the JEA for days of celebration, here are eight rea- scholarships for programs for the Savannah community. sons to join us for the Second Annual 7. You’ll sleep better - No, seriously! Sleep quality is shown to be improved Oy Vey 5K! with regular exercise. 8. It’s just really fun - Themed 5K’s are just a fun opportunity to get your 1. It’s a great way to challenge your family together and spend some time outside being active. fitness level - Hitting the pavement for Kirby Southerland a quick 3.1 miles is a great way to step The Second Annual Oy Vey 5K is scheduled for December 22 at 3:30 at the Health & Wellness Director up your cardio workouts and to move JEA. This event is a fun way to celebrate the first night of Chanukah at the J. your body. Join us for a run (or a walk!) and a refreshing beer and tasty latke at the finish 2. Think of all the calories you’re burning - Running line. You can sign up on our website today! a 5K burns up to 400 calories - which makes room for a delicious beer and a latke at the finish line! 3. It’s a great muscle toner - Toning up trouble spots, like your legs and glutes, is made easier by regular running, so why not kick that off with a 5K? 4. Running keeps you young - Studies show that running regularly can slow the aging process. What are you waiting for? 5. Running improves your mood - There’s no better way to break through the Winter slump than to get your endorphins flowing. Whether you’re running or walking, get outside and move your body! 6. It’s a chance to give back to your community -

Private Swim Lessons - The Time is Now! The summer sun has left Savannah and in its place there’s a chill to the morning air and a promise of colder days ahead. But don’t put those swim- suits away just yet; it’s always warm and balmy on the deck of our indoor pool. The swim lesson waitlist has ended and our certified and professional staff of Lorin Titus stellar swim instructors are ready and Health & Wellness waiting for you! Programming Coordinator Register now for private lessons through our aquatics department and stayed tuned for winter group lessons beginning in the new year. Don’t wait until the summer heat is back upon us before teaching your children the joys of swimming.

CenterPiece December 2019 Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! in the JEA Art Gallery

Edward Jones - December

Edward Richard Jones is a sculpture. He works with wood that he gets from friends and tree services. After a stint in the JEA Preschool Navy, he attended Rhode Island College where he majored in metals and jewelry design. While there, he discovered his love Savannah News for sculpture. While at Rhode Island College, Ed was asked if he could teach an after-hour’s class for sterling silver jewelry making. He was also asked to teach the same course at the University of Rhode Island. He spent three years studying art in Open House college before economics forced him to leave and get a job as a December 19 - 10am & jewelry designer. January 29 - 7pm Said Ed, “The artist in me could not deal with changing my designs to save the department store buyers ten to twenty cents JEA Preschool Savannah will host per piece. I took a job as a stone setter and stopped doing my two Open Houses for prospective own art. After about ten years of looking for what was missing families on Thursday, December 19 in my life I went back to doing art.” This is when he started at 10am and on Wednesday, January carving figures and other sculptures. Two years later, he went 29 at 7pm. Everyone is welcome; see to the Artful Deposit Gallery in New Jersey. They accepted and what wonderful things are happening displayed his work. at Savannah’s premier preschool Ed has been teaching himself about casting and is now sand- program! casting Aluminum. He retired from the workforce in 2013 and Don’t miss out on touring our is now striving every day to make his artwork better. He works beautiful facility and receiving with wood, sterling silver, copper, aluminum and brass. important registration information. Says Ed, “I try to express the beauty of each element that I Call 912-355-8111 or email work with.” [email protected] to make your reservation today! Artwork available for viewing December 1-31, 2019 Join us for the Art Gallery Reception December 4, 6-8pm

Nae’Keisha Jones - January 2020

Nae’Keisha Jones is an illustrator and writer from Colorado, now living in Savannah. She graduated from SCAD with a B.F.A in Illustration and a minor in Creative Writing. She is the author and illustrator of Anonymous as a Hippopotamus: The Tales of Ida. She is involved within her community and has been featured in the A-Town Get Down Festival and the Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies Event. She gives back locally by teaching teens how to share their own stories by volunteering with DEEP’s Young Author’s Program, JEA Preschool Savannah admits students along with serving as an advocate for the HOPE World- of any race, color, national, racial or ethnic wide Savannah Chapter. origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made Artwork available for viewing January 2-31, 2020 available to students at the school. Join us for the Art Gallery Reception Providing for the social, emotional and January 12, 3-5pm cognitive growth of young children in a Judaic setting.

December 2019 CenterPiece Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 9

Almost 400 people from throughout the community filled the JEA Auditorium to sing and dance with Prodezra (Reuben Formey) and Six13. Thank you to Bianca & Steven Hollander for spearheading and chairing this unbelievable community event. Savannah Page 10 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org Eye on education Mah Jongg and More

Or Katan, Or Eitan Thanksgiv- around the room and say one thing A famous “extend her arm” and help that child. ing has always that they were thankful for. The first Hebrew Hanukka Very often in life the reason why been my favorite one would say something like, “I’m song describes we don’t do what is good and posi- Robin Rackoff holiday. When thankful that I have such a wonderful the lights of the tive is not because we don’t care, but we lived up north, family and such good food.” The next Eva Locker, menorah as “each because we think that whatever we it was the one time every year that one would say, “Yeah – what he said.” Principal of one is a small light could do doesn’t make a difference, the entire family would get together. And that would be the end of the giv- Shalom School (Or katan) but all so why bother, why extend our arm? When your family is Jewish, Christian, ing thanks! of them together Because Pharaoh’s daughter did extend Buddhist, Caucasian, Asian, Latina, Ten years ago, we moved down Gay, Straight, and Lesbian, it’s not south, and that was the end of the fam- are a powerful one (Or eitan)”. Like her arm that day, Hashem extended its always easy to find a holiday approved ily Thanksgiving. No one had a house the hanukkiah we are about to light. reach. She saved a child that not only by everyone. Hanukkah? A minor large enough to accommodate the Like Shalom School students who changed Jewish history but the moral holiday. Christmas? Too commercial. group. Until this year! My daughter, often come together as one bright light landscape of all mankind. Halloween? A pagan ritual. Forget who lives in New Jersey, moved into a through the year: Tsedaka, achieve- One of the three core part of Sha- about Columbus Day, which is now perfect Thanksgiving house and said ments, mitzvah projects… At a time lom School curriculum is the notion of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. (I admit I did that with my help (we all know what that world problems are so many and Tikkun Olam, “Repairing the World”: not know!) Groundhog’s Day might that means), we could resurrect our so complex, we are, each of us, only We practice one little mitzvah at a have made the cut, but what would favorite get-together. We’ve lost a few one out of 7.5 billion human beings. time and we learn how each one us, we serve? Thanksgiving, though, is family members since that last one, It feels like a grain of salt in the even the youngest ones, can make our beloved by all. and some had not been born yet, but ocean and it makes it difficult to see word a better place. We learn about The guests, all fifty of them, would 50 still seems to be the magic number. the potential power of our personal Savlanut (patience) and how to prog- start arriving two days in advance and When dinner is ready, all 50 will actions. ress one good deed at a time, one day not leave until two days afterward. gather in the kitchen, but this year, The Jewish concept of “Divine at a time, one person at a time. They took up half the Holiday Inn. there will be no eating until we give Providence” (Hashgacha Pchatit) is God does not ask us to do what They would travel from all over – Cali- thanks. It’s called Thanksgiving for a based on the idea that God gave us we cannot, just do our best, extend our fornia, Oregon, and even Paris (the one reason! When the eating is done and certain capacity, certain gifts and arm. Despite our frailties and seeming in France, not the one in Texas). There the kitchen is clean, we’ll break up put us in a time and place where, if insignificance, it is important never to were turkeys (several), briskets, and into groups – the ping pong players in we maximize those gifts and that forget that when working together we salmon (so the healthy eaters wouldn’t the game room, the young kids in the capacity, we can make a world of dif- can change the world, one mitzvah at a go hungry). There was special food family room to watch a Disney movie, ference. The story of baby Moses is a time. for the vegans, for the gluten-free, the the women to play mah jongg, and the perfect example of that idea: Pharaoh’s Wishing you a Hanukka full of sugar-free, and for the tree-nut-free. men to fall asleep on the couches. And daughter happened to be there when shining lights! When dinner was just about I will look around the room and think Moses’ basket passes by. She heard Eva Locker ready, I’d call everyone into the about how much I have to be thankful his cry and, even so she suspected him kitchen (fortunately it was a big for. kitchen) and ask the guests to go to be an Israelite baby, she decided to Your Campaign Dollars At Work My Camp Story

By Oliver Solomon Ceo do first activity (that you get to choose), TO THE EDITOR For the past two summers I’ve been go to the second activity that you choose, going to Eden Village summer camp in do the third activity that you choose, go Dear Savannah Jewish Federation came to us for help and we matched Putnam, NY. This camp is basically a back to bunk to rest, go to lunch, go back Thank you for your recent gift, him with Pam at the end of last year. non-denominational hip- to bunk to clean it up we are grateful for you support. Yehuda is now well on his way to an pie Jewish summer camp. and have shower time, You are helping us to change lives exciting life with his new four-legged We have a two acre farm have dinner, go back to and you are the main reason for our friend by his side. which has about a ½ acre bunk, read, go to sleep. success. Our expansion last year Yehuda asked us to pass along of vegetables that we use It may sound boring but resulted in a 20% increase in the his gratitude. He said, “You have no in our meals which we eat the activities are really number of puppies born-to a record idea how much a already care about in the mess hall of course. fun. For instance, we 128! It takes two years from birth Pam. We have only been together We have a full kitchen have a lake, in which we until a dog is fully trained, so it will for a short time, but she has already staff and the food there is can boat on the water take time to increase the number of saved my life in many different ways. always homemade. We in kayaks, canoes, row “partnerships” we can create. I want to thank everyone who helped always have chicken on Wednesdays, and boats, and even paddle boards. We have But it is not just about puppies, bring us together and making my life fish on Fridays. My personal favorite meal an apothecary and a greenhouse. We also it’s about helping more people-like easier.” of the day at EVC (Eden Village Camp) is have a pool for some reason. There’s a Yehuda Persi. Yehuda was a young Your support allows people breakfast. We have around three coops of farmer's kitchen (different from the mess IDF soldier when a missile hit his like Yehuda to maintain their chickens each year and 3 - 4 goats. hall kitchen) and an orchard. (differ- jeep near Gaza-causing a traumatic independence. Thank you again! The daily routine at Eden Village ent from the farm) The whole camp is a brain injury and total blindness. It Sincerely goes like this: wake up, go to this morning whopping 248 acres in all. took Yehuda quite a while to regain Norman L. Leventhal wake up thing called Modeh Ani, (like Bottom line, it’s a great camp and I full movement and the confidence President yoga or collecting the eggs from the chick- really love it there. he needed to get on with his life. He Israel Guide Dog Center ens) have breakfast, do bunk activities, Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 11

We have docent-led tours of our museum available from 10:00am - 3:30pm Monday - Friday. Savannah Page 12 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org Book Review: The War I Hadassah Honors Finally Won Continued from page 1 By Lila Allan- Age 9 Ada is very worried about work and in 1997 and 2003. She represented the is hopeful that better treatments or The War I Finally Won money and trusting adults. SE Region on Hadassah’s Prime Lead- even a cure for Parkinson's disease By Kimberly Brubaker Bradley There is also a girl named Ruth, ers Council. can also be a reality in the foreseeable The War who is German and hap- For many of the years that she future. I Finally Won pens to be very scared was dedicating her time to Hadassah, At Janis’s suggestion, the money is a wonderful and worried about what’s Janis worked as a dental hygienist raised at this year's Myrtle Wreath book that is an happening in her home- and was busy raising a growing fam- event will be ear-marked specifically informational yet land. In the course of her ily. She has been active in the Savan- for research in HMO’s neurosciences heartwarming stay, Ada finds out more nah Jewish Federation and in the department. story that I would about Ruth’s history than former Council of Jewish Women and Hadassah Medical Organization recommend. I Ruth intended for her to. B’nai Brith Women. Janis also was was founded by the Woman’s Zionist would recom- They eventually become involved at Savannah Country Day Organization of America more than mend it to chil- friends. while her children attended school 100 years ago, and has defined health dren ages 10 and They only have one there. care in Israel and consequently the up. book, Swiss Family Rob- Today, Janis is focusing her atten- world. It is about compassion, healing In The War inson, which Ada hates. tion on Hadassah’s future rather than and life for the more than one million I Finally Won Susan eventually gains its past. patients it serves each year. Build- there is a girl Ada’s truth, Jamie gets to She is counting on Hadassah ing bridges to peace is at the core of named Ada and take care of the cat named Medical Organization — with its in- HMO’s mission where all who come her brother Jamie, Bovril, and Susan gives tense research in neurosciences — to through their doors are treated, re- they live with a nice older lady named Ada a horse named Buttercup. facilitate progress in the fight against gardless of race, religion or ethnicity. Susan Smith who rescued them in PJ Our Way is the next chapter for PJ Parkinson's disease, which Janis her- HMO is the only medical organiza- London in 1940. Ada has a club foot Library for kids age 8-12 where they can self was diagnosed with in 2003. For tion in Israel to have been nominated and was abused badly by her biologi- select their own book each month. Interested the last 16 years she has continued for the Nobel Peace Prize. cal mother who was pressured with in joining PJ Our Way? Sign up today at her fundraising work for Hadassah Please join us in honoring Janis work. Ada had been made to sleep in pjourway.org. Interested in attending fun but with a much more personal stake. Javetz. Tickets are $60 per person; for a cabinet under the sink and punished programs and having your book review pub- Knowing that HMO — using cut- more information please contact Sue for stumbling, so living with Susan is lished? Contact [email protected]. ting edge research — is making real Adler, susandemberadler@ gmail.com. a major upgrade even if Ada is scared. progress in treating ALS and MS, she Your Campaign Dollars At Work Jewish My Camp Story By Sophie Guthrie man so amazing is the people; friends, Camp Coleman has become my counselors, staff…they are all so spe- Community favorite place ever! I have made life- cial! You might ask why? Well the long friends that I look forward to simple answer is they care and they SAVE THE DATE seeing every sum- listen. It is not easy to Night mer. This was my find people like that third year and the but Camp Coleman best one yet! has them all! Over the past Seeing my friends year, many of my this year at camp was friends, includ- better because many ing myself had our of us saw each other Bat Mitzvah’s. It throughout the year. has been so excit- It was interesting to ing to go through see what they were this meaningful time with my camp like outside of camp. My friends were friends. We all know preparing for just as caring and fun outside of camp a Bat Mitzvah is challenging, but as they are at camp. We were able to knowing my friends were doing spend time this summer reminiscing the same thing made it easier to get about prior years at camp and also through. I have been fortunate to be looking forward to what our future able to attend some of my friend’s Bat holds! One thing we know for sure Mitzvah’s. This never would have is that we will always be Camp Cole- been possible without Camp Cole- man kids! man. Sophie Guthrie’s summer camp Lots of people don’t understand experience at Camp Coleman was June 4 how or why I like to go away to camp made possible in part thanks to a for so long. But to me 25 days isn’t grant from the Savannah Jewish Fed- enough! What makes Camp Cole- eration Annual Campaign. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 13 The Engagement Ambassador Eye on education Impact Which Role Is Mine? Over the past five years, the junior year at the Savannah College What is the ever grateful for the partnership. Savannah Jewish Federation has of Art and Design and is an indus- role of a parent? We can talk about all the made a great investment in outreach trial design major with a minor in To provide an classes our staff and administration and engagement initiatives, one of business management and entrepre- optimal environ- take to strengthen their classroom which is with the Savannah Col- neurship. Jessica loves to travel and Ester Rabhan, ment, protection, presentations; for instance how lege of Art & Design’s Hillel. The spent her Spring semester traveling Principal an education, to push language with pre-school goal has been to throughout Asia. She was inspired Rambam Day guidance, direc- children, how important continu- School connect students to become a student ambassador for tion, assistance, ous interaction is for toddlers, how to one another, to SCAD’s Hillel because of the lack support, encour- crucial positive responses and con- Hillel, and to the of Jewish life on campus. She grew agement and emotional and physi- versations are for toddlers, how to larger Savannah up in a town that had a large Jew- cal protection. make story time come alive, and Jewish community. ish community, so coming to SCAD Does this description sound famil- then there are all the classes about Hillel has been was a hard transition but knowing iar? Isn’t this the exact description physical, mental and emotional an official club at that she has Hillel has helped her of what we expect from our chil- development. We take classes on Jessica Benson SCAD for 18 years, feel like she is back at home. Jessica dren’s teachers? what to expect at various stages of and is overseen by our new Faculty is excited for the upcoming year and I deduce from this that the most growth and how to help children Advisor Kimberly Chonko. Her is looking forward to helping the effective message a school can com- transition into these various stages. enthusiasm and dedication to SCAD freshmen discover Hillel and letting municate to its parent body is: Part- The list goes on and on. Our con- Hillel is evident in her desire to help them know that there is always an ner with us to ensure your child’s tinuous education goes on and on. the club continue to grow and suc- open door. environment is optimal, that they’re It’s a necessity in this ever-changing ceed. Nadav was protected, that they’re educated, world we live in. However, while I Five years ago, with the help of the born in Tel that they’re given guidance, that believe so much is accomplished in Savannah Jewish Federation, that Aviv, Israel and they’re given direction, support, school with great teachers and great SCAD Hillel started the Student attended Ironi encouragement and emotional and programs and ongoing professional Engagement Ambassador program. Dalet Munici- physical support. education; so much more can be Each quarter, SJF hires two students pal as a high Sounds like a partnership that accomplished for each child when to be Engagement Ambassadors. school student. could indeed greatly fortify our parents are partners with their children to withstand the many child’s school. Then, success has a They are tasked with finding, com- While in school Nadav Ben-Haim municating, engaging, and connect- he volunteered challenges that face them. Sounds far stronger chance! ing uninvolved Jewish students to as a tutor and youth mentor at the like a bond that will treasure each Hillel and its members. Ramat Israel Community Center. of its participants and each be for- With the Ambassadors serving After graduating from high school as a bridge between the Hillel mem- he served in the IDF from 2014 to bers and the Executive Board, they 2018 as a non-commissioned officer. help identify and present the wants While serving in the IDF he was and needs of the freshman class. chosen to be a Soldier escort for a Engagement Ambassadors have Taglit Birthright group. He was hon- quickly learned over the years that orably discharged at the rank of Ser- not only are they a resource to new geant First Class. Nadav is currently students, but they can have a signifi- studying Game Design at SCAD. He Aaron M. Tillinger cant impact on a student’s Jewish is excited to take on this role as a experience while at SCAD. Student Engagement Ambassador is proud to support We are excited to introduce our for Hillel and help other students Student Engagement Ambassadors make meaningful connections with The Savannah Jewish of the quarter, Jessica Benson and other Jewish students and the local Nadav Ben-Haim. Jewish community. Federation Jessica is from East Brunswick, New Jersey. She is currently in her

Aaron M. Tillinger Financial Advisor 200 Stephenson Ave Ste 301 Savannah, GA 31405 Direct: (912) 921-3413 [email protected] https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/aaron.tillinger

Investment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. 2011,© 2013, 2016 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. 74127-v4 1703 74127-v4 0718-01772 Savannah Page 14 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org

PJ Library is for Children ages 6 months to 8 years old being raised in a Jewish home, residing in the Savannah area. Parents can register their children for PJ Library at www.savj.org

Families with children ages 9 to 11 years old can register for PJ Our Way at PJOurWay.org A Friendly Reminder The next issue of the Savannah Jewish News will be our combined January/February issue. The deadline for all submissions is December 20th. Please send all materials to Need more information? Email [email protected]. Your campaign dollars at work! [email protected]

Post Dash Chanukah Bash Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2019 | Page 15

CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO SOMETHING DIFFERENT COME RUN WITH US

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 3:00 P.M.

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IT'S TIME TO GIVE BACK #GIVINGTUESDAY Savannah Jewish Federation 2020 Annual Community Campaign Tuesday, December 2 6:00-8:00 p.m. Jewish Educational Alliance

MAKE YOUR SIGN UP TO 2020 CAMPAIGN AND MAKE PLEDGE PHONE CALLS WWW.SAVJ.ORG SAVANNAH JEWISH FEDERATION Savannah Page 16 | December 2019 jewish news www.savj.org

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