Happy Passover JewishTHE Georgian

Volume 23, Number 2 Atlanta, Georgia MARCH-APRIL 2011 FREE Passover in Atlanta What’s Inside 1869-1959 Planning Your Passover By David Geffen Festival.” The writer stated, Check out our special holiday editions Only four years after the Civil War “The Jewish citi- of “Kosher Affairs” and “Kosher ended in 1869, The Atlanta Constitution ran zens of Atlanta Korner.” an article with the headline “Passover To are getting ready By Roberta Scher and Be Observed by Atlanta Hebrews.” Not too for the Feast of Rabbi Reuven Stein many details about the holiday are listed, Passover. Pages 34 & 35 but the members of The Temple, Atlanta’s Unleavened bread will first congregation, probably baked the mat- be eaten. The interesting Moses zoh themselves, since it was difficult to facts about observance will and is in arrange for the shipping of the unleavened be given plus an explanation of commemo- Remembering bread from other cities with larger Jewish the plagues of Egypt.” ration of the Ben Rabinowitz populations. One hundred and twenty five years departure of the chil- In 1886, the first year in which the ago, our ancestors here were quite involved dren of Israel from Egypt.” What followed The Atlanta Jewish community has lost Eastern European immigrants could truly in ensuring that the holiday was observed was a precise rendering of the ancient a loyal friend. be recognized as a separate group in in the precise fashion. “The Jewish citizens chronology, as calculated by that Atlanta Page 33 Atlanta, there was a major story about of Atlanta,” the story noted, “ are busily Constitution reporter. “Three thousand, one Passover on April 14, 1886, in The Atlanta engaged in preparing for the Feast of hundred and fifty years ago, the twentieth Constitution. The main headline read: Unleavened Bread. This is the first of the From words to film “Passover Preparations for Celebrating the three great annual feasts instituted by See PASSOVER page 6 The Breman is spearheading a new effort to make documentaries based on its Holocaust speakers series. By Ron Feinberg This year’s Holocaust Taglit-Birthright Israel Page 30 Remembrance Day is a provides life-changing Beating the Odds significant recollection trip for young adults Thanks to treatments pioneered in By Harold Kirtz Atlanta, ovarian cancer survivors have Taglit-Birthright Israel provides free first-time, reason to hope. What and how will we remember? These central questions for peer-group, educational trips to Israel for Jewish Page 44 the Yom HaShoah commemoration will be posed on Sunday, May 1, young adults ages 18 to 26. The program was cre- at Greenwood Cemetery on Cascade Road in southwest Atlanta. The ated in order to diminish the growing division entire community is invited. Eva Baron, a long-time resident of between Israel and Jewish communities around the A New Era Atlanta and a survivor from Hungary will tell her personal story dur- world; strengthen the sense of solidarity among ing the commemoration service. world Jewry; and strengthen participants’ personal As the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience moves from its original site Jewish identity and connection to the Jewish peo- at Camp Henry S. Jacobs, both institu- ple. Since its launch in 1999, it has provided free tions are poised for change and growth. trips to 220,000 participants. Page 42 Ariele Hershkovitz was a member in one of the groups that participated in a December 2010 trip. Eren Niederhoffer also participated in a December trip with a group of young adults with Asperger’s Walking for Autism syndrome. The Georgia Walk Now for Autism In this issue, we have included both of their sto- Speaks helps fund innovative research. ries. For more information, visit atlanta.birthright- By Janel and Jason Schwartz israel.com. Page 22 Memorial to the Six Million at Greenwood Cemetery See BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL page 18 & 19 See HOLOCAUST page 7 Page 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 It is the bread of affliction: it is the bread of freedom

Remember this day, on which you went scholar and know very few English trans- read, it is more than just a ritualistic activ- free from Egypt, the house of bondage, lations of Hebrew words, it is my under- ity. Now, in addition to following the dic- how the Lord freed you from it with a standing that the word used in the Bible in tum of remembering what was done for mighty hand: no leavened bread shall be the passages dealing with the Hebrew’s me in Egypt some approximately 3,500 eaten . . . And you shall explain to your BY Marvin status in Egypt is eved. In trying to better years ago and telling this to my children, I son on that day, “It is because of what the Botnick understand and make more meaningful the can better identify with the narrative by Lord did for me when I went free from story in the Haggadah, I felt that it would recalling what I have witnessed during my Egypt.” be helpful to try to define in today’s terms lifetime and the conditions under which Exodus 13:3–8 dren the great miracle that took place and the concept embodied in the word eved. my parents lived in Belarus. the message of freedom; hence the name What I have been told and from what I It is important that we understand that Spring is in the air; the trees and flow- Haggadah, which refers to the book that is have been able to research, Biblical we are celebrating more than a single ers are bursting forth with the signs of used at the Seder, that means to tell. Hebrew does not have a word that trans- event, as important as it is. We should read renewed life; the heavy clothing is being The reading of the Haggadah is not lates into slave as we in this country into this story the physical and mental put aside for bright, airy attire; and plans just a course in ancient history. There is would understand this term today. bondage that Jews and non-Jews have are being made to remove the binding more to the telling of the story than the Apparently eved comes from the word endured over the centuries, whether it was confines of the winter and burst forth into recalling of the servitude in Egypt and the meaning “to labor” and refers to a laborer. the limitations that were a part and parcel the freedom of the outdoors. miracle of the exodus from that country. The term can and is used in different of the Jewish ghettos; serfdom under For us, there is also another reason to There is the underlying story of the repug- translations to include bondsman, servant, European rule; the untouchables in India; rejoice. This is the Passover season during nance of the use of power to control and or slave, but in this narrative it is clear that the existence imposed on the Native which we gather around our tables with inflict dehumanizing, demeaning condi- the labor is not voluntary, nor is it freely Americans; the slavery that is still prac- our families and friends to joyously retell tions on others. sold. ticed in parts of Africa; the second-class the story of freedom from Egyptian slav- Different languages and the changing But in a broader sense, actions and status of women in many cultures; inden- ery. As we fulfill the commandment to perspectives in which a person lives can rules – whether official or accepted cus- tured servitude; the exploitation of chil- recount this wondrous gift, we celebrate give a different connotation to the mean- toms that restrict opportunity, job avail- dren for financial reward; or any other with song, food, and merriment in thanks ing of words. The word most commonly ability, mobility, education, legal rights, exploitative condition. and to be reminded of the imperative to used in the English translations describing association, or living conditions – also are The matzo is the bread of affliction; seek justice and freedom for all people. the later-stage status of the Hebrews in the all forms of slavery. Societal limitations so, too, is it the bread of freedom. As we But this celebration is not only about Pharaonic age was “slaves.” Today, when imposed on a person or people are limit- partake and participate in the Seder, we giving thanks, it also is a fulfillment of the we hear that word, we associated it with ing, controlling factors, and these serve as need to remember and give thanks for the injunction to tell and explain to our chil- the status and conditions under which impediments to others’ freedoms. removal of the yoke of bondage and rea- Black Americans lived prior to emancipa- For me, understanding this broadens vow our responsibility to seek freedom for tion. THE the Passover experience. Now when the all people. As Abraham Lincoln said, “As While I am anything but a Hebraic story of the deliverance from Egypt is I would not be a slave, so I would not be a Jewish Georgian master.” The Jewish Georgian is published bimonthly by Eisenbot, Ltd. It is written for Atlantans and Georgians by Atlantans and Georgians. Publisher Marvin Botnick Co-Publisher Sam Appel Editor Marvin Botnick Managing Editor Marsha C. LaBeaume Assignment Editor Carolyn Gold Consulting Editor Gene Asher Associate Editor Barbara Schreiber Copy Editor Ray Tapley Assistant Copy Editor Arnold Friedman Makeup Editor Terri Christian Production Coordinator Terri Christian Designer David Gaudio Medical Editor Morris E. Brown, M.D. Photographic Staff Allan Scher, Phil Slotin, Phil Shapiro, Jonathan Paz Graphic Art Consultant Karen Paz Columnist Gene Asher, Susan Asher Jonathan Barach, Janice Rothschild Blumberg, Marvin Botnick, Shirley Friedman, Carolyn Gold, Jonathan Goldstein, R.M. Grossblatt, George Jordan, Marice Katz, Balfoura, Friend Levine, Marsha Liebowitz, Howard Margol, Bubba Meisa, Erin O’Shinsky, Reg Regenstein, Susan Robinson, Stuart Rockoff, Roberta Scher, Jerry Schwartz, Leon Socol, Bill Sonenshine, Rabbi Reuven Stein, Cecile Waronker, Evie Wolfe Special Assignments Lyons Joel Advertising Andrea J. Feinberg Francine Lowe Michael Pelot Bill Sonenshine

Editorial Advisory Board Members Sam Appel Rabbi Alvin Sugarman Sam Massell Jane Axelrod Albert Maslia William Rothschild Gil Bachman Michael H. Mescon Marilyn Shubin Asher Benator Paul Muldawer Doug Teper 8495 Dunwoody Place, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30350 (404) 236-8911 • FAX (404) 236-8913 [email protected] www.jewishgeorgian.com The Jewish Georgian ©2010 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 great job of relating the heroic role many Federation Alphabet Soup: A Guide to Jews played in the armies of both sides of Federation Terms. It is the inside story of all this tragic conflict. It is scheduled to air on those initials and great groups Federation What’s public television stations around the country works with, plus some jokes, Yiddish terms at the end of 2011 and should stir up a great defined, and lots of other fun stuff. This amount of interest with so much newly great read is now available, free, at revealed information on the Civil War, since Federation headquarters at The Selig Center, it seems to be the first and only documentary 1440 Spring Street NW. Call 404-873-1661. to delve into the controversial subject of HAPPENING anti-Semitism in the Union during the war. CHARLOTTE WILEN’S CAMPAIGN. You read it here first: we think Gruber One of the favorite causes of one of our RAVE REVIEWS FOR ATLANTA JEW- has created a landmark work that will per- favorite people, the elegant and delightful ISH FILM FESTIVAL. Congratulations to manently influence the way people write Charlotte Wilen, is “Embracing Executive Director Kenny Blank, Lauren and think about the Civil War and Jewish Differences,” which fights against igno- McLeod, and all history in America. If you want to buy a rance, prejudice, and bigotry. the fabulous BY Reg DVD of this fascinating film, go to As founder and vice president, sponsors, work- Regenstein www.civilwarjews.com. Charlotte puts it so eloquently, “Fighting ers, and volun- We were honored to see some of our prejudice is no longer a good thing.... It is a teers who made ancestors featured in the film—like the five necessity!” this year’s Atlanta JEWS IN THE CIVIL WAR. Jonathan Moses brothers and Major Raphael Jacob In a special art exhibit at Oglethorpe Jewish Film Gruber’s wonderful film, Jewish Soldiers in Moses, who attended the Last Meeting and University Museum of Art, “Students Draw Festival (AJFF) Blue & Gray, which sold out at both of its carried out the Last Order of the the Line...Against Prejudice,” elementary, such a huge suc- AJFF showings, reveals for the first time in Confederate Government—and to serve on middle, and high cess, the biggest any documentary on the Civil War a subject the panel after the film to discuss all of this. school students and best one yet. that has been largely kept out of the history displayed their Many of the books, movies, AT LAST, NEW FEDERATION BOOK works, which MAKES IT ALL CLEAR. A few years ago, “use artistic Kenny Blank films sold out and television completely, and programs: the Elisa Ezor began volunteering at the Jewish expression to the 11th annual festival as a whole received virulent hatred of Federation of Greater Atlanta, and, as she bridge differ- rave reviews from critics and fans alike. It’s Jews in the puts it, “To be honest with you, I thought I ences among the best-attended Jewish event and the Union govern- had landed on another planet. The acronyms us.” largest film festival in Atlanta and may soon ment and mili- were flying around, and the terminology The Embracing be the largest in the country, according to its tary. was so foreign. For the first time in my life Differences art producer, The American Jewish Committee. The film begins (well almost), I really felt like a dummy.” exhibit, says The opening-night extravaganza fea- with an account Charlotte Wilen Charlotte, “car- tured the amazing documentary Jews and of Union ries a message Baseball, narrated by Dustin Hoffman, the Commander that resonates throughout the community and beyond. That story of the over 160 star Jewish athletes in Filmmaker Ulysses S. message is: diversity enriches our lives. America’s Pastime, such as “Hammerin Jonathan Gruber Grant’s infamous Hank” Greenberg, “The Hebrew Hammer” General Order When we accept others regardless of race, Al Rosen, and Atlantan Ron Blomberg of #11, of December 1862, expelling all Jews religion, and lifestyle choices, it elevates the the New York Yankees. “as a class” from his conquered territories in human experience. Diversity enhances our The film’s co-producers, Linda Selig Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee. He personal growth and creates a more harmo- and Lynda Walker, of the MIH Team con- earlier banned Jews from traveling South on nious, productive community.” sulting group, raised the funds for the film. trains. For more info, check out www.embrac- Linda calls it “the sports version of l’dor The film also describes the open anti- ingdifferences.org. v’dor (from generation to generation). So Semitism of General William T. Sherman, Elisa Ezor with her new book many memories have been made around the who, before burning Atlanta and about THE TASTING EXTRAVAGRAND BEN- game.” Lynda calls it “an inspirational and everything else between it and the South EFIT. Mark your calendars—one of the best motivational film for so many young people, Carolina coast, wrote that “the country will Elisa says that she wouldn’t normally parties for one of the best groups is coming baseball fans, and Jews.” swarm with dishonest Jews” if continued call herself a dummy, since “[I] graduated up on May 24, 7:00-10:00 p.m., at the Grand Everything Linda and Lynda do seems trade in cotton is encouraged. And General college with honors, have a masters degree, Hyatt Buckhead, at 3300 Peachtree Road. to be a huge success, but this time, we think Benjamin “Beast” Butler, who ruled occu- owned my own business for nearly 20 years, You will have a great time and help some they’ve outdone themselves. pied New Orleans with cruelty and bigotry, raised two very bright children, am married great folks. Congratulations on hitting a home run with harshly vilified Jews and was quoted by a to an attorney.... You get the picture.” There will be an endless variety of deli- this superb film. Jewish newspaper as saying that he could But the more she hung around the cious food and the best wines from Atlanta’s “suck the blood of every Jew, and …will Federation, she says, “the more I loved it finest restaurants, wineries, and catering detain every Jew as long as I can.” and what it does to help people every day in chefs, plus a fabulous silent auction, pro- Very few people know about these so many ways. So I made it my personal ceeds from which go to help some extraor- events, because most historians will not dis- mission to crack the secret code.” dinary people at The Zimmerman-Horowitz cuss them. After speaking with the head honchos, Independent Living Program. The program, Meanwhile, Jews held prominent posi- Elisa “discovered that it actually was not the part of Jewish Family & Career Services, tions in the Confederacy, were largely intent of the Federation to confuse us. The helps people with disabilities to become respected and accepted, and thousands Federation really wants us to understand. So more independent, focusing on supporting served in the Confederate military loyally, my mission became to uncover the mean- each person’s individual needs. honorably, and often with great heroism and ings behind all those acronyms and terms Chairs Debra and Mark Brown, Kate valor. and to help people understand the complex- Lipton, and Nancy and Eric Miller invite Many Jewish historians have seemed to ities of this wonderful organization, so that you to one of the best and most attended par- be embarrassed by the hatred of Jews in the we all can fall even more in love with the ties of the year. It is perhaps the best deal in top leadership positions in the government work of the Federation.” town for an evening of such fun, food, fabu- of President Lincoln, whom they so idolize, The result of Elisa’s efforts, with the lous folks, and frolicking. and it has not been considered “politically help of the great writing and editing skills of For more information and tickets, visit correct” to bring up the subject. Federation’s Amanda Abrams and the Lenz www.TheTasting.org, or call 770-677-9300. But Gruber’s film lets the chips fall marketing agency’s Tali Benjamin, is the informative and entertaining booklet, Lynda Walker (left) and Linda Selig where they may, tells it like it is, and does a See HAPPENING, page 4 Page 4 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011

cage-free, free-range, sustainable, shade- efits for shelters, humane societies, and ani- CAROLE KIRSCHNER HONORED. Happening grown, non-GMO, and free-trade certified mal-protection groups. Jewish Healthcare International has just From page 3 veggieburger, served on a toasted bun with You will also enjoy the comedy and honored Carole Kirschner for her “leader- coleslaw, avocado slices, sweet potato fries, music at Jerry’s Side Door, located next to ship and untiring devotion” to JHI, with the JERRY FARBER’S HEALTHY VEG- sliced tomatoes, and anything else the cus- The Landmark Diner in Buckhead, at theme of the evening being “the importance GIEBURGER. New Year’s Eve at Jerry’s tomer wants. Roswell Road across from Piedmont. So of community service and giving back.” Side Door, the legendary Atlanta comic’s Some of the magical ingredients of the come and cruise with us down the highway JHI’s valuable work creates a ripple new nightclub, was sensational. Spotted Farburger include edamame (green soybean of hilarity with Jerry. Or just drop by for the effect by “engaging hundreds of healthcare among the sellout crowd on that and subse- in the pod), green beans, peas, black turtle late-night bar scene, where the people are professionals, who educate thousands of quent evenings were such notables as Lisa beans, garlic, oregano, cornmeal, and other fascinating, the conversation brilliant, the medical care providers worldwide; provid- and Sam Olens, Fran and Robb Pitts, Linda tasty treats. repartee witty. ing improved healthcare to hundreds of and Steve Selig, Jackie and Steve Weinstein, The burger is made fresh every day—as Warning: please do not operate heavy thousands of people around the globe.” Elisa and Bobby Ezor, Debbie and David opposed to Jerry’s jokes, which are usually machinery for at least 24 hours after seeing Over Dermer, Ann Titelman (and her gorgeous old, stale, warmed over, and sometimes rot- Jerry’s act. 200 people mom and brothers), Darryl Cohen, Judy ten. attended the Landey, Jan and Jim Jacoby, Vicky and Paul Farber brags, “My act may kill, but our RENAISSANCE WOMAN ANN TITEL- reception and Freeman, Jody and Michael Feldman, Susan food doesn’t have to.... I love the fact that MAN. She is brilliant, beautiful, beckoning, lavish cocktail and Michael Schoer, Marty and Richard we can feed our fans delicious burgers, and bewitching, and somehow finds time to buffet at The Alterman, and their piano prodigy son, Joe edamame, and green salads, and nothing has work on promotions and sponsorships for Selig Center— Alterman — who performs at the club. to die—including the customer.... And national Emmy events, which her good with the amaz- Jerry’s believe me, I need all the customers I can friend Atlanta attorney Darryl Cohen over- ing and leg- nightclub fea- get.” sees. Cohen is the newly elected chairman endary Sherry tures a great “Besides, I die all the time up on of the National Academy of Television Arts Habif, working menu, starring stage—I don’t want anyone dying at their & Sciences (NATAS) in New York City, with his happy, table of a heart attack. I want my customers which produces the annual Emmy awards Goodfriend healthy, to feel healthier, live longer, and tip better. shows honoring quality television program- Catering, pro- humane Jerry “Seriously, I could never put my name ming. Carole Kirschner viding her usual Farburger, on something unless it’s healthy and doesn’t NATAS just honored Andy Young by incredibly deli- which goes cause suffering to animals. Of course, we giving him a Lifetime Achievement Emmy cious food. It’s the most successful fundrais- great with a have other, non-vegetarian entrees, but we in New York, the highest honor the group ing event JHI has ever held. Moët & want to give our customers the option of can bestow. And Ann found the sponsors for Carole modestly attributes the success Chandon cham- some healthy, humane dishes.” the event, including Coca-Cola, Turner of the evening to the tireless volunteers and pagne. It is a Jerry has long been known as an ardent Broadcasting, and Aaron Rents, to name a staff who worked so hard on the event, delicious, hor- animal lover. He has adopted a dozen dogs few. including Arlene Tauber, Margie Stern, J. Jerry Farber mone-free, and cats over the years and done many ben- Ann is also CEO of The Concorde Wilbur Smith, Margie Greenberg, Michael Group, Inc., which specializes in commer- Leven, Stephanie Abes, Billie Greenberg, cial real estate, marketing and investment, Lisa Greenberg, Sid Kirschner, Diane Levy, restaurant/corporate image consulting and Sandy London, Christine Orleman, Hilly public relations, and meeting/event/travel Panovka, Peggy Roth, Jane Schiff, Janet planning and marketing. Selig, Stephanie Wyatt, Judy Zaban, and JHI’s wonderful staff members, Sylvie Curci, Rosie Saffan Singer, and Julie Kaminsky . For more information on JHI, visit www.jewishhealthcareinternational.org.

SAM LEVY’S NEW TAX PRACTICE. Most people dread the start of tax season. But the always lovely and delightful Jill Lerner tells us, exclusively, how some peo- ple are celebrating it. At rising star CPA Sam Ann Titelman with (l-r) Darryl Cohen, Levy’s late winter tax party, over 200 clients Bill Curry, Dan Rather and Harold and friends popped by to “celebrate” the Crump (Photo: Marc Bryan-Brown) beginning of tax season, knowing they’ll be in good hands with Sam. The rest of the time she has off. And unlike most of us this time of year, Ann has been seen recently hobnobbing Sam has much to celebrate, with the launch with the likes of philanthropists Linda and of Levy Tax and Consulting LLC, the new Steve Selig, New York publishing tycoon business Sam has started after 16 years in Mort Zuckerman, HBO head Richard the business of trying to help his clients keep Plepler, music mogul Russell Simmons, and more of their own money away from the tax Sony Chairman Howard Stringer—and she collectors. His longtime clients include occasionally sees Elton John in the elevator prominent law firms, multiple office physi- at Park Place, where she lives. cian groups, consultants, engineers, promo- But Ann is not just a successful entre- tional products companies, real estate firms, preneur and socialite. Her passion is helping and start-up technology companies. and rescuing animals. She spent three But Sam’s renown as a tax expert is months in New Orleans after Hurricane eclipsed by his real claim to fame, being a Katrina, saving hundreds of trapped, aban- respected and winning soccer coach, as well doned, and starving dogs and cats. Our as vice president of his neighborhood and kinda gal. For information on or to donate to swim tennis club. her organization, Camp Rescue, go to Levy lives in Dunwoody with his wife http://CampRescue.org/wst_page2.html. of 11 years, Andrea, and his three children, Sydney, Jordan, and Molly. March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 5 To everything, there is a season

By Susan Robinson some repair work. Others were, dare I mercy. Out they went, then I swept the peaches were hanging out with the canned admit it, just a tad too small. It’s a mystery floor and put the more practical items back corn once again. Granola bars were here, From start to finish, the holiday lasts how clothing can become too small by in. there, hither, and yon. I closed the door only one week, eight days to be exact—but simply sitting idle in the closet, but it hap- On the morning of Day Five, it was quickly. I would have to plan my return and the preparation is extensive. So, how do pens. Reluctantly, I put these items in the time to dust all the books. I knew this tackle the oven and stove as well. But there we get all the work done in time to cele- give-away pile. would be a fast job, as long as I stayed far was still plenty of time for that. I would brate Pesach? By Day Three of the storm, I was feel- away, very far away, from the photo wait for Purim and the arrival of spring. I This year, we lucked out because of ing brave. It was time to get to work in the albums. These albums fill up several would eat my poppy hamantashen and then the now-legendary Atlanta Snowstorm of hall pantry. Simply looking at my wealth shelves in the bookcase, and they go back get down to the real work. Turns out, January, 2011. Traditionally, Pesach clean- of items was both satisfying and frighten- in time over half a century. I have learned there’s a reason for doing spring cleaning ing in our house doesn’t begin until Purim, ing. I was grateful that the pantry was full, from experience that if I open up just one in the springtime. after we’ve finished the last hamantashen. but I felt overwhelmed by the lack of album, I will be on a trip down mem- But, the snow had confined me to the order. Canned veggies were mixed in with ory lane that will consume house with too much time on my hands, so the canned fruits. Loose granola bars were hours, if not days. So this has I simply had to dive right in. I would stay scattered on three different shelves. Even become my motto for cleaning a far away from the kitchen, where the real worse, unwrapped chocolate chips were bookcase: get in quickly, get out Pesach work lay awaiting, and just do hiding in the corners, gathering dust by the quickly. Do not—repeat—do not some run-of-the-mill cleaning in prepara- hour. This was tedious work, but I was pore over any of the photo albums tion for the big event. It would be spring well rewarded. In the far reaches of the at this time. If I break this basic cleaning while we were in the throes of uppermost shelf, I found a long-forgotten rule, spring cleaning will not be fin- winter: so totally out-of-season, yet so box of Elite peppermint chewing gum. ished until the summer, and we will sensible. By the end of Day Two of the Things were beginning to look good. not be ready for Pesach until Rosh snowstorm, I was ready to sift and sort On Day Four, I was starting to think Hashanah. through my belongings. like an organizing professional. I tackled After the closets were organ- The cleaning process began with the the broom closet. There were some key ized, I felt accomplished, somewhat simple stuff: shoes. Torn or just plain worn decisions to make here. Did I really need smug. Then the snow began to melt. out, they were thrown out. Then I moved to keep that little bit of bronze cleaner that Life as we know it returned. In the on to the more difficult areas of the closet: had been sitting in the closet since 1992? beginning of February, while putting sweaters and skirts. Some were missing What about the three mop heads that did- away some groceries, I took a good buttons or had small holes, so I had to do n’t match my two mop sticks? I showed no hard look at the pantry. The canned Way back when Soon after a group of Jewish families It’s My Party, Inc. would settle in a shtetl, mostly in Eastern Europe, they’d organize into some sort of Full Service Event Planning community. A rebbe would come from a larger town, and he was often the only BY Balfoura Friend weddings • bar/bat mitzvah • corporate teacher in the cheder (a one-room school for boys only—girls were taught at home, Levine learning to cook, sew, and help their moth- ers with the younger children). Jewish Georgian, but a larger publication), Sharon Fisher As we saw in Fiddler on the Roof, Shanghai, dated November 11, 1921, shows 275 Spalding Springs Lane tel. 770.395.1094 there could also be a dairyman, tailor, shoe- “Hebra Kadisha Formed Here,” and among maker, and kosher butcher in that village. the planning committee members was my Atlanta, Georgia 30305 cell 678.637.2030 In due time, the men would start a shtibel papa, J.L. Friend. [email protected] fax 770.396.8844 (one-room place of worship) and perhaps Almost a century later, and without later organize their chevra kadisha (burial any prior advice from my father, I, too, am society). involved with the chevra kadisha of My father, Jacob Friend, of blessed Ahavath Achim Congregation, as well as in memory, was a cheder teacher in the shtetl a city-wide chevra group for unaffiliated of Smargon, Russia, and received his families. Many other communal activities smicha (rabbinical ordination) in Vilna. here have my support as well. I know my Years after he fled the Tsarist regime, to father would be so proud of me! FuegoMundo is hiring: Shanghai, China, my father became Although Atlanta was hardly a shtetl in involved in organizing the various Jewish the 1800s, the Jewish community here grew communal institutions there. from a handful of families, organizing the A Jewish home for the aged was envi- first congregations, social clubs, and civic • Catering Assistant sioned, with room and board for the sick groups. At last count, we’ve passed the and needy. A clipping from the Russian 120,000 mark. Over the years, we’ve • Office/Marketing Assistant newspaper Shanghai Life, September 22, extended warm welcomes to refugees from 1919, notes that Papa was on that planning Europe, Russia, South America, and the committee. Many years later, when I was a Middle and Far East, too. Atlantans have 20-30 hours/week young teen, I visited the Shelter House, as long been known for their Southern hospi- it was named, and actually had my first tality! look at old and sick folks. God Bless America. Email: [email protected] Israel’s Messenger (similar to The Page 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011

large, fat hen, which had been slated for the based in New York and offered “Berliner Atlanta Jews, I am told, recited these with Passover Passover, was the leading character in a Tea Matzoths, Matzoth Meal, and Imported great fervor. very novel dispute which was brought to the Potato Flour” among its wide range of In Atlanta, many people received From page 1 attention of the police last night,” the story baked products. The Goodman matzoh still Yiddish papers on a daily basis in order to of April this year of 1886, Moses began to said. exists, but today it is baked in the make sure that they knew “what was really lead the Israelites on a pilgrimage.” “Leo Fresh, the well-known auction- Manischewitz ovens in New Jersey. going on” in the Jewish world. As many as Amazingly, we all continue that pilgrimage eer, called at the police barracks last night A 1914 report of the Federation of seventy-five papers were delivered in the once again this year. and stated that a fine hen, which he had Jewish charities stated that $15,000 was mail daily. Also in existence was a weekly Another remnant of that era is a copy been fattening for the Jewish Passover, had raised. Almost a third of the money was Hebrew paper, HaDoar, which only a few of the first Haggadah printed in the United been stolen by a woman who lives at 83 allocated to the Montefiore Relief people received. One particular Passover ad States with original American illustrations. Jenkins Street. The hen, he stated, had been Association (headed by Ida Goldstein, who has survived from 1926. The woman is A portion of that Haggadah was located in turned over to a ‘shocket’ [sic], whose busi- became the noted Ida Levitas) and was to shopping and is decked out in the fashion of Atlanta almost 100 years ago. Printed in ness is to kill all animals and fowls for the assist families in need, which included the twenties. All the Manischewitz matzoh Chicago in 1884, it contained a most inter- Passover. Fowls used on such an occasion Passover supplies as well. For the nearby boxes are in Hebrew, as well as the ad itself, esting representation of the four sons. The could not be killed by any other person.” Atlanta Federal Penitentiary, a grant was demonstrating how important it was to the wicked son, dressed in Chicago duds, is These details make it clear that animals made to supply Passover provisions for the company to advertise in all areas of the puffing away on a cigarette and raising his were being killed kosher here in Atlanta. Jewish inmates. Jewish media. hand in a flaunting fashion. That Haggadah Everything had to be fresh. How did the hen When my grandfather, Rabbi Tobias Passover milk was a very important provided the first example of how an reach the Jenkins Street address? It appears Geffen, came to Atlanta in 1910 to be the part of the holiday diet, since quite a num- American artist sought to illustrate the hol- that the “shocket” kept the chickens, which rabbi at Shearith Israel, it was expected that ber of Atlanta Jews were very exacting iday. he had been given, in his yard prior to their he would give a major Halachic address on about this dairy product. From the Passover kosher killing. Leo Fresh’s hen was smart; the laws of Passover on Shabbat HaGadol. milk, Atlantans made cottage cheese and it “escaped and ran to another yard.” The Trained at the Slobodka Yeshiva in sour cream—only in the ‘50s was cream individual, who had possession, claimed Lithuania, he was very exacting in his cheese available. In the 1930s, the lay per- that she had bought the hen for 50 cents speaking and his writing. In one of his note- son in the Jewish community who made from a “countryman.” The police were books, made by the Montag Company, he sure that Passover milk was available was “powerless” to act—no proof to whom the recorded his Shabbat HaGadol Pilpulim, Morris Baum—or as we knew him as kids, hen belonged. Leo Fresh was told that he dated 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916, and 1917. “Moishe Bame.” He has one grandson liv- needed to get a “promissory note for the These addresses are very intricate in their ing in Atlanta, Stanford Firestone, but there chicken.” detail, quoting Maimonides, the Rif, the may be other descendants as well. Frustrated, he complained to the police. Vilna Gaon, and many others. It is signifi- “The purest grade of milk, conforming “But before we can get a warrant tomorrow cant to recall that Rabbi Geffen spoke in with the most exacting Kashruth require- morning, this woman, who has my hen, will 1913, just before the Leo Frank incident ments, will be provided for Atlanta Jewry,” have killed the chicken and we cannot use began, and spoke in 1914 and 1915, while Mr. Baum stated emphatically in a Southern it. The hen must be killed by a ‘shocket.’ Frank was incarcerated in the Fulton Tower. Israelite interview conducted one month We have fattened that hen for the purpose of before Passover. “Scrupulous care is taken the Passover, and I want it before she kills to insure that the cows who provide the it.” milk all come from tested herds. A special There was a lot of give and take report- staff of milkmen will be given the responsi- ed about the various encounters in regard to bility for collecting all the milk to be used. this holiday bird. “The woman refused to Every carton will have a Passover tag surrender the hen, and Fresh notified her signed by Rabbi Harry Epstein and Rabbi that he would take out a warrant, and he Tobias Geffen.” All orders were delivered warned her not to kill it.” One hundred and directly to the home the day before nine years later, we can only hope that Leo Passover. No additional milk was provided, Fresh got that hen for his family’s Seder. so the individual families had to work out a While Manischewitz matzoh continued way to insure that the milk did not run out The four sons from the Chicago to be on the Seder tables in Atlanta, by during the holiday. Annually, the descrip- Haggadah, 1884, a copy of which 1909, another matzoh company made its tion of the “Pesadiche Milk” appeared with was known in Atlanta entry into the city. Known as A. Goodman’s a photograph of Morris Baum, who was and A. Goodman & Son, the company was highly respected for his fervent piety. By 1891, the entire Eastern half of the United States was receiving matzoh from a bakery in Cincinnati, and Atlanta was no A 1926 Manischewitz matzoh ad from exception. On February 8, 1891, a story in HaDoar, received by Rabbi Tobias The Atlanta Constitution began with the Geffen headline, “Unleavened Bread.” Then it con- tinued: “Cincinnati bakers have been busy He continued in 1916 after Frank’s lynch- for three months preparing for Passover.” ing, and then, in 1917, he spoke only a few What is nice to know, in this age in which weeks before the great Atlanta Fire. companies rise and then quickly disappear, When World War I concluded, there is that this matzoh company is still in exis- was hope that conditions would improve for tence today—known to us all as the Jews in Eastern Europe. Large cam- Manischewitz. paigns were conducted to raise the funds to We turn to 1902, a fascinating year in assist these individuals, who had suffered Atlanta Passover history. The man involved so terribly during the conflict. In 1923, the was Leo Fresh, a well-known auctioneer in American Jewish Relief Committee issued the city and a member of Ahavath Achim. an “Addition to the Haggadah” to explain in With nine growing children, he had to make a language all knew well why the modern sure that there was always enough food to tragedies of the Jews were comparable to put on the table. the ancient ones. A page from the 1930 Manischewitz “Controversy Over Hen Fattened For Ten new plagues were provided to cookbook that belonged to Anna Passover” was the headline in the Ad for Goodmanʼs matzoh from a accompany the appeal: exile, pogroms, star- Geffen, the authorʼs mother Constitution on April 2, 1902. This tale cap- 1909 cookbook used by an Atlanta vation, cold, vermin, disease, nakedness, tured the imagination of Atlanta readers. “A family orphanhood, homelessness, and death. See PASSOVER page 7 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 7

by which each individual is judged. steps.” Eichmann trials come at a time when some of Holocaust As the U.S. Holocaust Museum has stat- After Nuremberg, a new understanding the last living Nazis are on trial and perpetra- ed: In the immediate aftermath of the massive of international responsibility for human tors of recent genocides and crimes against From page 1 death and destruction of World War II, rights emerged, as the world began to fully humanity are being prosecuted. Precedents set This year’s overall theme for Yom revenge might have satisfied the shock and understand the events we now call the in trials against Holocaust perpetrators have HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, is anger of the moment. But many believed that Holocaust, spurring on a process to create a guided a new understanding of justice as a Justice and Accountability in the Face of justice under the rule of law rather than new legal vehicle that criminalized attempts to tool for seeking accountability, providing Genocide. Two vengeance would better serve humanity. In destroy any entire group of people—the 1948 affirmation to victims, warning perpetrators, major episodes support of this principle, we are marking the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and reflecting society’s highest ideals about are remembered 65th anniversary of the verdicts at the first and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. truth and justice. These trials are also a harsh as they continue Nuremberg trial, a watershed moment in inter- Fifteen years after the first Nuremberg reminder that while accountability is neces- to transmit their national justice, and the 50th anniversary of convictions, a single individual would come sary in the aftermath of genocide, early inter- lessons: the 65th the trial of Adolf Eichmann, one of the high- to personify these crimes—Adolf Eichmann. vention is vital to saving lives. anniversary of est-profile postwar recountings of the Nazi A midlevel SS officer central to the planning These are the lessons that we must draw the Nuremburg genocide and a landmark in public awareness and implementation of the “Final Solution,” in order to prevent or stop other genocides. By verdicts and the of the Holocaust. Eichmann was captured by Israeli agents the time of this publication, the national 50th anniver- The International Military Tribunal at while hiding in Argentina in 1960 and brought Jewish Council for Public Affairs will have sary of the Adolf Nuremberg, Germany, in 1945 held 22 top to Israel for what would become known then taken up a resolution calling for steps to pre- Eichmann Trial. Nazi leaders accountable for atrocities they as the “trial of the century.” vent or stop future attempts at genocide. The The sig- commanded and perpetrated. Later trials In an event televised around the world, Atlanta Jewish Community Relations Council Eva Baron nificance of between 1946 and 1949 prosecuted another the Eichmann trial refocused attention on the of Atlanta (JCRC) has been the lead sponsor these events can- 183 persons. This total represented only a tiny murder of the Jews of Europe. Unlike the for this resolution, which calls upon the com- not be overstated. As Justice Robert Jackson, fraction of those responsible for the Holocaust Nuremberg trials, which relied heavily on munity relations field to argue and act for the then Chief U.S. Counsel to the International but established important precedents. Who documentary evidence, the Eichmann trial prevention of future genocides. Whether it is Military Tribunal, Nuremberg, Germany, stat- was prosecuted was more telling than how featured eyewitness testimony by Holocaust prevention, response, or accountability, the ed on November 21, 1945: “That four great many stood trial. No one, regardless of official survivors, speaking out in a way they never Holocaust teaches us that inaction can be nations (the US, Britain, France, and the position, was above the law. The argument had before, enabling the world to put a face deadly; actions, even small ones, can make all USSR) flushed with victory and stung with that someone had just been following orders not only on the perpetrators, such as the difference for those whose lives are at risk, injury stay the hand of vengeance and volun- was no longer considered a valid defense. Not Eichmann, but on the millions of victims and now and in the future. tarily submit their captive enemies to the judg- only were the shooters at mass executions and survivors. Please come to Greenwood Cemetery ment of the law is one of the most significant the guards at gas chambers tried, but physi- The Nuremberg and Eichmann trials and help us remember and heal a broken tributes that Power has ever paid to Reason.” cians and business leaders, government offi- strove for justice, but what can justice really world. The appeal to reason over quick cials and civil servants also were required to mean in the face of a crime like genocide? vengeance is a lesson that highlights both the take responsibility for their actions. Historian While the trials were an act of public account- Harold Kirtz is a member of the Yom HaShoah accountability that individuals owe to society Raul Hilberg wrote, “The annihilation of ability owed to the victims, justice to a great Commemoration Committee and President of and to their fellow human beings and the Jewry required the implementation of system- extent was a hope. the Jewish Community Relations Council of transparent and equal treatment before the law atic administrative measures in successive These anniversaries of Nuremberg and Atlanta.

being titillated by the comics. The son who Passover does not know how to ask raises his head to look at the Ten Commandments. Forst first From page 6 illustrated a Haggadah in America in 1940, in which the great tragedy was depicted. His In the 1950s, there were a variety of illustrations for the new State of Israel were free Haggadot that Atlantans used. In one of the first in a Haggadah. He has left us a mul- them is an illustration of the four sons by tifaceted tapestry of Haggadah illustrations. Siegmund Forst. The artist chose to tell the During my growth years, how blessed I tale of world Jewry by creating an image of was to experience the chanting of the the sons around the Ten Commandments. Haggadah with my parents at the home of Deep religiosity and wisdom is seen in the Rabbi and Mrs. Geffen on Washington sainted figure, the wise son, with the talit Street and then Zimmer Drive. It was the over his head as he studies the Talmud culmination of those Sedarim that intensively. The wicked son holds an axe, impressed me the most. Anna Geffen used Barton candy tins with which he is ready to smash the Ten My Bubbie orchestrated the final part of the evening. After “Chad Gadya,” she to pack Passover goodies, which Commandments. The simple son is puffing Two Passover recipes used by initiated the singing of “Hatikvah,” “The she gave her friends away on a cigar and holding a newspaper, in Anna Geffen which he checks the racing form, while Star Spangled Banner,” and “God Bless America.” Deeply aware of the Holocaust tragedy that had decimated her Eastern European family, she knew that the U.S. had provided her, her husband, and their chil- dren and grandchildren with the blessings of freedom. Her feelings touched a personal ANYTHING FOR A PAL. responsive chord, and Pesach, the season of our liberation, became for me — and has Havinagala, which took place January ever been — an American Jewish celebra- 29, at the Defoor Centre, raised tion. $24,000 for JF&CSʼ PAL Program, Atlantaʼs Jewish big brother/big sister program. Serving on the Havinagala committee this year were: (front, from The four sons from a Haggadah used left) Rebekah Kushner, Mimi Hall, in Atlanta in the 1950s. This Amy Prestera, and Daniel Kaufman; Haggadah was sent out by a charity and (back) Daniel Reiser, Jonathan in New York City. (All images are Ginburg, Adam Cohen, and Evan from the collection of Dr. David Remer Geffen, Jerusalem) Page 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 Roof becomes reality for GHA Microsoft Bing recently presented building. The plan includes a white TPO Greenfield Hebrew Academy Head of (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof that will School Rabbi Lee Buckman with a check reflect heat and lower energy use; an ener- for $100,000, the grand prize in Microsoft gy-efficient lighting system; and a program- Bing.com’s “Our School Needs” competi- mable thermostat system that will reduce tion. At that time, Rabbi Buckman energy costs by 30 percent. GHA is com- announced, “The time has come to give new mitted to reducing its carbon footprint and life to our building and begin construction teaching students that energy conservation on our new roof.” Microsoft Bing is docu- is something that can happen on a local as menting GHA’s journey and wants to see well as global scale. the new roof completed in record time. GHA has put part of its winnings On February 23, GHA held a school- toward its Pay it Forward Campaign, which wide ceremony to mark the start of the roof is donating money to another school that installation. Attending were representatives competed in “Our School Needs,” but did of the City of Sandy Springs and Tri-Tech not win. After GHA donated more than 125 Roofing and Coating, along with the entire instruments to the James Singleton Charter GHA family. School, in New Orleans, that school’s The coveted new roof is part of GHA’s marching band participated in the Mardi plan to obtain the Energy Star Label for its Gras Parade for the first time in years.

David Frankel (GHA board of directors vice president), Adam Slutzky (GHA building and grounds committee chair), Jim Kenny, (Tri-Tech Roofing and Coating owner), Don Childs (Tri-Tech sales manager), and Rabbi Lee Buckman, GHA head of school)

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www.presstine.com KʼFAR Infant/Toddler Village, ready for the roof ceremony March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 9 The Blumberg Report: Passover at Tahrir Square

As the deadline for this issue approaches, I Southern Jews, however, after secession and his family throughout the siege and beyond. sit riveted to CNN, unable to think of anything faced the problem of deciding which homeland When Sherman ordered the city to be burned, other than the miracle that is unfolding in Egypt. that was, the state in which they lived or the two buildings remained intact—Masonic Hall Not since I was in downtown Washington on that United States. Both had welcomed them when and the Mayer home. The reason? My favorite blessed August day celebrating the end of World BY Janice Rothschild they arrived as newcomers from Europe. They Passover story update: Mayer took a lesson from War II have I seen anything to compare with the Blumberg were indebted to both, and only an insignificant Exodus and tied a Masonic apron on the door- joyous exuberance of those young masses cheer- few had a vested interest in land or slaves. Some post of those two structures, so the messengers of ing on the streets of Cairo. In 1945, I was fortu- Jews went North or otherwise attempted to arson knew to leave them untorched. nate enough to be on the spot, the only place graphic claustrophobia. That was 1972. Three remain neutral. Others opted to fight for the Both Mayer and Haas played major roles in from which anyone could experience the excite- years earlier, I had Confederacy because they the city’s development and fathered children who ment of the moment. Today, technology trans- been there as part were grateful to their neigh- followed in their footsteps, some to the present ports us to the scene wherever we may be. of an Israel tourism bors, those among whom day. Mayer was widely considered the founder of One of the banners held high by those promotion and they lived and with whom Atlanta’s public school system (schools were shouting for Mubarak to go portrayed his face couldn’t even find they did business. closed the day of his funeral, so all of the children peering out from an ancient Egyptian headdress. a public bathroom. Although the film could attend), and Haas became the city’s first It reminded me of Pesach. This differed in that it There is still a didn’t cite Atlanta’s Aaron mayor pro tempore. At the same time, both was the Egyptians themselves shouting “Let my wilderness in Sinai, Haas or David Mayer, it added immeasurably to the Jewish community. people go” and another Pharaoh turning a deaf but it isn’t on the conveyed the message that They were founders and leaders of The Temple, ear. Like the one in Exodus, he pretended to con- coast. there were equally conflict- the city’s first synagogue. Mayer gave the con- cede only to reveal a hardened heart after each The Atlanta ed heroes on both sides. gregation a silver yad (pointer) for its first Torah. deceit. Finally, after repeated confrontations, Jewish Film Haas ran the blockade to sell Haas conducted a religious school in his bache- hopes shattered momentarily, even plagues—in Festival reminded Southern cotton, the South’s lor quarters above the family store, even before this case, killing the economy as well as peo- me of another only currency, and Georgia the congregation was organized. ple—after all of that, again the slaves won their Passover connec- Governor Joseph E. Brown Whether then or now, ordinary citizens act- freedom. This time, it was the Pharaoh who fled tion with its docu- appointed David Mayer to ing in extraordinary ways for the good of all to the Sinai. mentary “Jewish guard the stores of it hidden establish hope for the future. That, it seems to The pictures of Sharm el-Sheikh, Soldiers in Blue around the major quarter- me, is what Passover is all about. Hope. It isn’t Mubarak’s place of refuge, surprised me. The last and Gray,” an master base in Atlanta. always fulfilled, nor does it always develop as time I was there, few could have imagined a city excellent interpre- Mayer risked his life by we wish, but it does stand as a beacon to guide us with luxury hotels and villas lining the coast. I tation of that tragic refusing to reveal its where- and lead us on. saw Israeli army huts and tents, with one huge conflict that I hope abouts when the Union soldiers ordered him to When we close our Seder saying “Next year tent sheltering a single restaurant for tourists, its will be made available to synagogues, day do so. in Jerusalem,” we think not only of ourselves, but canvas ceiling painted with brilliant psychedelic schools, and other Jewish venues in the near Reportedly, Mayer told the soldiers, “Kill of all people longing for the spiritual Zion where swirls. The waiters were Bedouins who, under future. While dealing openly with the unsettling me if you must, but if I tell you where it is, peo- freedom and peace exist with no dictators to the previous Egyptian rule, had made their living fact that some Jews (North and South) owned ple will blame all Jews.” He succeeded because make them afraid. I, for one, am full of hope as by smuggling, now retrained by Israel for honest slaves, it brought out the salient and often over- of his courage but was helped in no small meas- this issue goes to press and pray that it may be so jobs serving and cleaning up after the swarms of looked fact that Jews in the Confederate States, ure by being a Mason, aware that the command- for a truly happy Passover throughout the world. tourists, the majority of whom were Israelis exu- as elsewhere, were intensely loyal to their new ing Union general, William Tecumseh Sherman, Hag sameach to all. berant in their newly found freedom from geo- homeland. was also a Mason. This bond protected Mayer A theater that comes to you In recent years, the Atlanta cultural scene has grown, with a plethora of theater groups offering plays on a variety of subjects. Many of these groups are housed in former school build- ings, auditoriums, garages, churches, syna- BY Leon gogues, and buildings that were originally other Socol businesses. You didn’t have to go far to find a neighborhood theater. But with the recession, a considerable number have fallen on hard times offer low-budget productions and bring plays to the infirm and aged in the comfort of their retire- Atlanta Theatre-To-Go founder Sondra Evan Weisman, Minnie Tee, and and have closed. The Kudzu Playhouse, found- Jeannie Hinds try to figure out who ed by Jennie Hinds and her husband, Wally, ment or care facilities. In fact, Sondra says they Ilgenfritz is a woman of many talents. will perform for anyone who will pay them. Sheʼs involved in all aspects of the killed Lulu. The solution required closed last Christmas when a mortgage couldn’t audience help. be paid. Jennie is now acting with the Atlanta Each season, the company offers three or theaterʼs operation. Theatre-To-Go. four original plays that involve the audience. play, as it will be presented in the spring at This favorite production is available for Among the number of theaters still operat- Beginning in March, it will offer Vote for ArtSpring, an annual month-long celebration of both daytime and evening performances. The ing, the Atlanta Theatre-To-Go is one of the Rhonda, a musical comedy with a twist of mys- the arts in Sandy Springs now in its fourth year. show was presented at Congregation Shearith most unusual. The company is made up of 33 tery. Seems that Rhonda has been nominated to One of the plays presented in 2010 is being Israel last year, and I had the pleasure of attend- actors, directors, and playwrights, who are dedi- the U.S. Supreme Court, but her mother is more offered again in 2011. Who Killed Lulu? is a ing and participating. It wasn’t an easy murder cated to the theater and are constantly rehearsing focused on getting her daughter a husband and comic mystery enhanced by audience participa- to solve, I can tell you. their presentations. lists her on an Internet dating site. The appear- tion. The plot involves Atlanta society matron Ms. Ilgenfritz says additional plays will be Sondra Ilgenfritz started Theatre-To-Go ance of a potential suitor stirs things up, just as a Magnolia Eubanks, who battles Yankee trans- available beginning in April. Contact her at 404- three years ago. She uses her home in Sandy president’s aide arrives to straighten things out. plant Rose Sherman over cornbread recipes and 256-3310, 404-374-9542, or Springs to hold rehearsals, read scripts submit- The audience is invited to vote on Rhonda’s the affections of recently widowed Dr. Frank. [email protected]. She will be ted by amateur playwrights, and schedule per- nomination. Has the doctor’s wife, Lulu, been murdered, and glad to give you information about the plays and formances. Sondra says that the group took Vote for Rhonda is available to groups for if so, by whom? Private investigator Sasha how you can arrange for a performance for your Shakespeare’s line that “all the world’s a stage” both daytime and evening performances. But Noodle arrives at the solution with the help of group or organization. to heart when forming a company that could you don’t have to belong to a group to see this the audience. Page 10 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 11 Page 12 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 13 Page 14 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 15 A doctor’s professional and spiritual journeys are inseparable

By R.M. Grossblatt What he didn’t expect was that he’d also vant) residency in Ob/Gyn at St. Johns Asked why he chose to be a D.O. (doctor become an observant Jew. Episcopal Hospital, in Far Rockaway, of osteopathy) instead of an M.D. (medical doc- When a person finds out that her friend is Like many Russian immigrant children, Gimpelevich decided to pursue a specialty in tor), he answered, “It’s more holistic...you treat pregnant, she might say, “Mazel tov.” But since Gimpelevich minimally the complete human being, rather than the the baby isn’t born yet, a more traditional greet- was enrolled invasive gyne- symptom or the part.” ing is the Hebrew phrase, “B’sha’ah Tovah,” in a Jewish cological sur- Dr. Gimpelevich lives with his wife, Ilana, which means “in good time.” This is the wish day school— gery. He said and children in the Toco Hill neighborhood, that everything in his case, that he knew where he attends Congregation Beth Jacob. His should go well, Sinai of no Shomer practice, In Good Time Ob/Gyn, is located in enabling the Academy in Shabbos gyne- Roswell. The website is www.ingoodtimeobg- baby to be born Brooklyn. In cological sur- yn.com. at the right Russia, chil- gery residen- time. So in dren were cies in the August, when taught in U.S., but that Dr. Akiva school to didn’t stop Gimpelevich, laugh at reli- him. D.O., opened gion. But at The Gimpelevich Family After an his Ob/Gyn Sinai interview at practice in Academy, Gimpelevich became interested in the Baylor Medical School in Houston, Texas, Atlanta, he his heritage. Later, when he attended Stony he was accepted for a fellowship to work under Dr. Akiva Gimpelevich called it In Brook University, he became even more inter- world-renowned specialist Robert Zurawin, Good Time. ested. By the time he enrolled in Yeshiva B’nai M.D., also an observant Jew. For two years, “In Russian, it’s ‘vdobry chas,’ which Torah in Far Rockaway, New York, he was Gimpelevich studied minimally invasive tech- means ‘in a good hour,’” said Dr. Gimpelevich, committed to a Torah way of life. niques such as robotic surgery. “Minimally who immigrated to America in 1992 from Dr. Gimpelevich considers becoming invasive surgery is vastly beneficial to the Kharkov, Ukraine. Dr. Gimpelevich said that observant the second miracle in his life. He says patient,” he said, “minimizing pain and hospital few Jews lived in his city, and no one actively the first miracle was that he got out of Russia, stay.” practiced Judaism. Still, everyone knew who the third miracle was that he was accepted into Even with his gynecological surgical spe- the Jews were. “It was on the 5th line of our medical school, and the fourth was that he was cialty, Gimpelevich didn’t drop his obstetrical passports,” he said. able to find a wife, a girl who left Russia alone practice. Although he’s on call 24/7, and his It was difficult for Jews to get into a uni- when she was 13 and attended a Jewish girls’ malpractice insurance is high, he considers versity, and they were held back at work. So high school in Richmond, Virginia. obstetrics “one of the happiest medical-related when he arrived in America as a teenager, the But he experienced another miracle also. things we do...probably why I chose it.” young Gimpelevich had a dream to attend col- After finishing four years of medical school and lege and medical school to become a doctor. four years of a Shomer Shabbos (Shabbat obser- The front porch of yore

Back in Durham, North Carolina, when I was 15 years old, we moved to a lovely new house. It was fairly close to Duke University, and I was so very excited about the whole sce- BY nario. Marice But this article is about the front porch. Katz This came to my mind at a Temple-sponsored potluck dinner on the 22nd floor of a stunning nothing could dim the pleasure of coming high rise. We were sitting around in the early home after a movie with said date, strolling part of the evening, drinking wine and remi- onto the front porch, and smelling the delicious niscing about the way things aroma of gardenias planted used to be. around the front of the Now, most people have house. Ahh. It was wonder- a deck in the back of their ful. homes. What we had when I Life seemed so was growing up was a front simple back then, when you porch. There were gliders could take the burdens of on either side of the front the world off your shoul- door. People today don’t ders by just going to the even know what a glider is, front porch and completely and if they once did know, relaxing on a glider. they have forgotten. And it Just one more truly just came to my mind memory: My whole family that night as the conversa- and many of my brother tion got around to the old- Gibby’s friends gathered on time front porches. the front porch to welcome him home from the Memories flood into my mind. I remem- Air Force during World War II. It was a spec- ber the elderly couple next door. I was sure they tacular occasion and one I am so happy to could hear every word my date and I were say- recall. ing and probably saw him kissing me, too. I Now, tell me, do you remember the glider, was very uncomfortable with this situation, but or have you ever heard of it? Page 16 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 made. Jordan was participating in a fashion show, followed by a sumptuous banquet, which capped off the students’ Ancient Greece Social Studies unit.

explored music’s role in society. At the end of the day, students, faculty, and parents enjoyed a rock concert featuring the pros By Belle Klavonsky and Eliot Zerden. Pictured: Julie Kaden and and Davis’ own talented students and facul- Michael West ty. OUT OF THIS WORLD. Davis Academy 4th-graders participated in Cosmic Capers, a special “in-school field trip,” during which they explored the wonders of the solar system. Pictured: High-Touch, High- Tech Scientist Q discusses facts about plan- ets with Jared Solovei and Courtney Rogoff.

WEBER WINS BIG. This year, four Weber students placed 1st or 2nd in their cate- gories in the Georgia Independent School TZEDAKAH FOR TREES. In a special Association (GISA) Literary and Music STAR STUDENT. This year, Weber’s month-long tzedakah project, Davis competition. They now advance to the state STAR student is Leslie Gordon. The Academy Lower School students raised level. Winners were Seth Euster, U.S. Professional Association of Georgia money to help the Jewish National Fund extemporaneous speaking, 2nd place; Educators (PAGE) recognizes seniors from plant trees to replace those lost in Lauren Shapiro, rhetorical essay, 1st place participating high schools who achieve the December’s wildfires in Israel. The gener- (with a perfect score); Laura Snyderman, highest SAT scores on one test date as their ous students far exceeded their goal, raising singing, 1st place; and Aviva Summers, for- schools’ STAR students. Students must ful- over $2,700—enough to plant 150 trees. eign extemporaneous speaking, 2nd place. fill additional requirements, including Not to be outdone, Middle School students Other team members are Eddie Samuels, being in the top 10% of the class. Each brought in $2,142 to help re-build the researcher; Jack Gindi, spelling; Eytan STAR student then names the teacher who Yemin Orde School, in Haifa, which was PICTURE THIS. Davis Academy 8th-grade Palte, argumentative essay; and Allison has been most instrumental in his/her aca- damaged by the fires. Pictured: Mia art students did an outstanding job with a Furhman, personal essay. Pictured: (from demic development. Leslie chose Mr. Schwartz (5th grade), Isaac Goldman (3rd President’s Day-inspired assignment that left) Jack Gindi, Allison Furhman, Eytan Randall Robson as her STAR teacher, citing grade), and Emily Mand (Kindergarten) called for researching the lives and drawing Palte, Eddie Samuels, Seth Euster, and his teaching style, humor, and vast knowl- show off a bulletin board marking contribu- portraits of presidents and other famous Lauren Shapiro edge. Pictured: Leslie Gordon and Mr. tions from each class. Americans. Pictured: students with their Randall Robson portraits—Rachel Much (Hillary Clinton), Madeline Wolf (John F. Kennedy), and Max COLLEGE NEWS. To date, Weber’s class Franco (Andrew Carnegie) of 2011 has received $1,984,614 in offered scholarships. These scholarships exclude HOPE scholarship funds, with the majority awarded by individual colleges looking at standardized test scores, grades, and com- munity service. Of special note are seniors Ben Young and Daniel Feuer. Ben was awarded an Army ROTC scholarship worth $139,314. Daniel was named one of only 13 Ingram Scholars by Vanderbilt University; in addition to a full tuition scholarship, Daniel will have summer service opportuni- PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP. Artist and ties and receive a stipend of up to $5,000 photographer Michael West recently con- each summer. ducted a workshop at The Weber MATH MASTERS. Mrs. Cooper’s math School. Students printed their digital photos THE POWER OF MUSIC. In a day dedi- class at Greenfield Hebrew Academy par- on paper using the Van Dyke process, an cated entirely to music, Davis Academy ticipated in the Metro Atlanta MATH- early photo printing process. Students Middle Schooler Jessica Thompson (pic- COUNTS Competition. Making the list of manipulated their photos in Photoshop and tured) rocks out with Jeff Carlisi (pictured), the top 25% of participants was GHA’s Ilan printed negatives, then moved into the a founding member of the band .38 Special. Palte. Pictured: (from left) Ilan Palte, Davis darkroom and coated paper with the light- Carlisi was one of four world-class, classic Apseloff, Samantha Leff, Harrison Gildar, sensitive Van Dyke solution. Negatives and rock musicians (including Liberty DeVitto, Robyn Cooper, Megan Cohen, Dafna paper were then exposed to ultraviolet light. long-time drummer for Billy Joel; Jeff Kadosh, and Joni Seligson The photographs are now on display at the Adams, singer/bassist for Starship; and GREEK BANQUET. Davis Academy school. Workshop participants were Alex Derek St. Holmes, singer/guitarist for Ted Sixth-grader Jordan Goldstein proudly Estroff, Julie Kaden, Emil Nirkis, Richard Nugent) at the school. Middle School stu- models the chiton garments (typical of Quegan, Adam Shapiro, Sophie Schneider, dents enjoyed music-related activities and those worn in Ancient Greece), which he March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 17 FUTURE? The GHA Players (pictured), dren, Eli and Maci, The Epstein School is high schools and colleges of their choosing. under the direction of Miriam Saul and like a second home. They tried public Pictured: Garon Berenson and Asher Mira Hirsch, lit up the stage during their school for a year, but it was not a good fit, Berman production of Once upon a Mattress. so returning to Epstein was a blessing. Upon returning, though, Julie was con- cerned that Eli, having missed his 1st-grade year of Hebrew language, would struggle academically. But Eli is thriving in the new Hebrew Transition Program, where stu- dents who may not have sufficient experi- ence with Hebrew receive personal atten- tion and support. Pictured: (from left) Julie, Eli, Mark, and Maci Benveniste

SIDDUR PRESENTATION. GHA 1st- graders (pictured) put on a wonderful per- CHAMPIONS AGAIN. The Epstein Eagles formance during their Siddur Presentation. Boys Basketball Team (pictured) are cham- PUPPY PARTY. At GHA, after the comple- pions of the Metro Atlanta Athletic tion of their month-long study of dogs, Anat Conference (MAAC) league for the third Levi and Myra Brill’s 3-year-old class, time in five years (2007, 2009, and 2011), K’Tantanim, held a puppy party and invited with a record of 12-1. Additionally, the all the parents and grandparents. The proj- Girls Basketball Team had a successful sea- ect helped students learn responsibility for son and finished third in its league. others, getting over the fear of animals, patience, and love of animals. Pictured: TOPS IN TECH. Twenty-five Epstein stu- Parents, grandparents, and students listen to dents took 1st-place honors and 37 students a puppy story. placed in the top three at the 2011 North Atlanta Jewish Students’ Technology Fair. They will now go on to compete in the State RAISING THE ROOF. GHA held an offi- Technology Fair. Pictured: (back, from left) cial ceremony to mark the start of its roof Emily Duner, Alexa Rakusin, Becky Arbiv, installation, which, along with other Roei Levi, Jack Schneider, Samantha improvements, is being funded by the Weinberg, and Sloan Wyatt; (middle) Yoel $100,000 the school won in Microsoft Alperin, Jade Nowitz, Isabel Berlin, Robyn Bing’s “Our School Needs” competition. Salzberg, Olivia Fox, Jared Rakusin, Sarah GHA students, faculty, staff, and parents, as Peljovich, and Shaun Regenbaum; (front) well as Sandy Springs community represen- Lily Schneider, Samantha Berke, Shira HEBREW KEYBOARDING. Torah Day tatives, came out for the celebration. Alperin, Sarah Neuberger, Sophie School of Atlanta computer classes for 1st- Pictured: (from left) David Frankel, Adam Schneider, Caroline Schneider, and Aaron 3rd-graders focus on keyboarding efficient- Slutzky, Don Childs, John Kenny holding Taratoot. Not Pictured: Talia Katz ly in Hebrew, using the DavkaWriter word- the Bing $100,000 check with Rabbi Lee processing program. First-graders build Buckman Aleph Bet pyramids, adding one letter at a time to each line they type, until they have memorized the location of every letter. Second-graders review this process and add words and sentences, incorporating current vocabulary. Third-graders are completing a longer project, complete with vowels, which will be bordered and laminated for PILOT PROGRAM. The Epstein School home use. They will also work with graph- has launched a preschool iPod Touch tech- ic organizer programs such as Kidspiration, nology pilot program at its Sandy Springs Timeliner, and Inspiration. Pictured: 2nd- and Intown campuses. For very young stu- HONORS grader Zalman Lew dents, iTouch technology is a dynamic and SCHOLARS. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR. SEUSS. During visually intuitive tool that facilitates learn- Epstein School the month of March, GHA 1st-graders hav- ing and is easier to manipulate than a tradi- 8th-graders ing been celebrating the birthday of Dr. tional keyboard and mouse. Epstein is cur- Garon Seuss by reading and writing Dr. Seuss sto- rently evaluating how great a role iTouch Berenson and ries, working on Dr. Seuss math problems, technology will play in the preschool cur- Asher Berman and learning about foods that Dr. Seuss and riculum. Pictured: Dalia Shaw works on the have been his characters ate. Pictured: 1st-graders cel- iPod Touch to reinforce math skills. selected as ebrate Read Across America with Dr. Seuss American Hebrew Academy Honors Scholars. The FEDERATION PHONATHON. A contin- American Hebrew Academy is a pluralistic gent of TDSA 8th-graders, along with Jewish college preparatory school, modeled Rabbi David Kapenstein, Mrs. Chashy after the best boarding schools in the nation. Alterman, and Rabbi Eliyahu Tendler, par- Epstein’s unique academic bilingual pro- ticipated in the Jewish Federation of gram, combined with integration of Greater Atlanta’s Phone-a-thon to raise advanced technology and the arts, gives stu- funds for local day schools, local service dents like Garon and Asher a competitive agencies, community centers, and Jewish COMING HOME. For Epstein parents edge and is one of the key reasons gradu- IS THERE A TONY AWARD IN THEIR Julie and Mark Benveniste and their chil- ates go on to be so successful in the best See CLASSNOTES, page 20 Page 18 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 Birthright Israel continued from page 1 Taglit-Birthright Israel, day by day By Eren Niederhoffer show that tells the story of Jerusalem. As museum for the deaf, which opened our we walked through the walls to where we eyes to the world in which the deaf live My name is Eren Niederhoffer. I’m would watch the main event, smaller dis- and communicate every day, all through 22. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, but was plays amazed us with their detail and look the movements of hand and face. born in Miami, Florida. I study finance at into Israel’s culture, yet kept us hungry December 23: In our religion, we help Marshall University, which I went to with excitement for the main event. The our people out in many ways. We per- because it has an autism program. My syn- show, a detailed depiction of Israel’s his- formed our service by picking tangerines agogue is Temple Emanu-El, and my tory from beginning to today, seemed end- for the homeless at a tangerine field. This favorite part of being Jewish is the toler- less, yet it was only one hour. The story, helped us know that we were doing our ance of others and emphasis of wisdom which was brought across without any people a good service. We then went out over authority. words, impacted us so strongly with the to the streets to see where the treaty for This is the story of my trip to Israel special effects. Israel was held. Here, we saw just how with Taglit-Birthright. December 19: The Masada Desert. much Israel had to struggle alone, against When we Asperger people first met Performing morning services here, where a divided but powerful enemy, just to sur- before the flight, it had a large impact on there is nothing but desert-land, blinded vive. And yet, here Israel is today, a sign me. I met at least 15 other people who had me to the beauty of it, but it had me think- that people can truly create miracles. But, Asperger’s, like me, but they were so dif- ing of what others went through to survive Eren Niederhoffer with fellow trip at the grave of Prime Minister Rabin, I ferent in their own ways. To know that I in such harsh terrain. The hike up the participant Sarah Sheer, near learned that Christians and Jews really could find so many people like me, who mountain was beautiful; it was so incredi- Jerusalem aren’t so different when it comes to inter- would do things with me, whom I could ble to think there had been a fortress here. nal problems and leadership. stay friends with even after the trip— already, I felt an incredible feeling of hope December 24: This was the day we and delight that I had not felt in a long went to the memorials for soldiers that time. fought to protect Israel. Some of those Exiting the 747 into the airport, we buried here were friends and fellow stu- were greeted by our welcoming commit- dents of our guides. Several times, one of tee; some of them would be our guides, them broke into tears as she told us about and we would become friends with them. each of them as people, as more than just I felt like they were welcoming each of us troops. Hearing it presented to you like personally, like we were considered spe- that, you get this empty feeling in your cial to them, a member of their group heart, wondering what those people buried already, just by arriving. I felt like I had in front of you had to sacrifice so you found a sense of ease; my nervousness could be here today. It was a reminder that began lifting from me with the knowledge a war could come again, and suffering that the next day, our journey into Israel with it. would begin, and I would not be alone in The open-market bazaar we went to my travels, but with good companions. later that day had this feeling you didn’t find in many stores back home…a feeling December 17: Our first day in Israel of life that was constantly active. began with a trip into the Old City of Jerusalem and The Western Wall. Here, Eren Niederhoffer (4th from left) at the Neve Ilan Hotel in Tel Aviv December 25: All good things have to we were awestruck with the difference in come to an end, and this was no exception. architecture, an exotic feel that grips you thanks to those who tried to help those I never had a bar mitzvah, but I considered in amazement at how beautiful it is. On the synagogue at the top of the moun- who had suffered. this pilgrimage a substitute. Performing The Western Wall is beautiful and yet tain, we participated in a ceremony where services one last time, saying goodbye to strange. Animals run through these streets, we could reinvent our Jewish identities— December 21: On a Jeep ride through the soldiers we would never see face-to- yet were so friendly to us strangers. In as I did, becoming Nissim Yakir, a new rocky terrain, I was shocked at the incred- face again, and the thought of saying there, I saw men and women still divided me, that I became on my own terms. ibly lush vegetation and streams that goodbye to Israel…to say the least, it was when they went to mourn, but the emo- beautified the supposedly arid country, for painful. As we flew back home, we agreed tions that were there, the thousands of December 20: Today was the day we we would never see rainfall the whole that not everything was over. We had paper scraps with names, all presented a went to the Holocaust Memorial. Walking time that we were there. Plus, the fun of bonded and would stay in contact for a feeling of mourning for loved ones, as I through it showed me the horrors mankind racing the Jeeps in this terrain delighted long time. We were determined to make mourned for my grandmother there. can inflict on others and what people us. But the Golan Heights, which we something of our lives and be more a part Walking backwards away from the wall, would do if given sufficient motivation to would later visit, was amazing. The beau- of our various communities. as per tradition, the first doves I ever saw hurt someone else. Walking through this ty, the history, the sheer life in this place flying overhead added to the awe of The area, I wondered...for all their cruelty, took our breath away and made us want to Israel changed each of us in different Old City. More importantly, the diversity could the Nazis have indirectly led to the treasure every moment of being there. ways. For each of us, this pilgrimage of blacks, Asians, and so many other eth- creation of Israel through the Holocaust? served as a factor that changed our nic groups in this place brought me to At the end of the exhibit, we looked out December 22: A trip to Ceasaria Asperger’s syndrome significantly. And I believe it is possible for all types of peo- from a balcony that helped us see three amazed us—the view of the sea and coli- write of this experience so others may ple to understand and live with one anoth- things: the past (the memorial we exited), seums, the history of seaports that passed know both wonders and sadness of life er. the present (the balcony we were on now), through the hands of different religions and hope to make living worth it. Let us and the future (overlooking all of Israel several times over, and the thought of all live for today, work towards tomorrow. December 18: It was evening when from the balcony and looking forward to three religions having been able to live God, please give us time, strength, we started out to the wall of Jaffa Gate, tomorrow). Looking back at the memorial peacefully there gave me ideas for hope and life. Baruch ata Adonai. Thank You leading to a spectacular sound and light as I exited, I gave a bow of respect to back home. Afterwards, we went to a God. Amen, and Shalom to all. those who died unjustly…and a bow of March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 19 Birthright Israel continued from page 1 What I learned and experienced in Israel By Ariele Hershkovitz er what life is about. From this trip, I dis- covered that my purpose in life has a lot I have never felt my life turned so more to do with Israel and being Jewish upside down before. At the same time, I than I thought. Even though I don’t know am glowing, and I could not be happier. exactly what my purpose is yet, I find It’s hard to find the words to explain how myself excited to begin this new journey. one trip can change a person’s life forever. I truly believe that I left a piece of my I am not sure where my life will take me heart in Israel, and the only way to get it from here, but I have never been so excit- back is to visit again. I find myself already ed to find out. Is it really possible to meet making plans to return to Israel this sum- 48 new Jewish people that become life- mer. long friends and feel like you have found Ariele Hershkovitz and Ashley I want to give back to Birthright and a new meaning and possibly a new direc- Warshauer help make others aware of this amazing tion for your life in just ten short days? opportunity that I almost passed up. I Before Birthright, I would have said in the Har Herzl Cemetery in Jerusalem. It know that not everyone will have the same “impossible.” really hit home when I saw the ages on the experiences as I did, but I honestly believe I’m currently a junior at Appalachian tombstones: all 18-23, close to my age. Ariele Hershkovitz and Guy Saati, that every student who is eligible for this State University, in Boone, North • experiencing the feeling that Israel is my an Israeli soldier invited on the trip owes it to him/herself to find out what Carolina. I was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, homeland from the moment I arrived and Birthright trip happens when he/she gets to Israel. and at age 16 moved to Greensboro, North If you’re Jewish, between the ages of identifying with that sense of belonging. ate my religion even more. Carolina, with my mom. My father is 18-26, and you don’t think being Jewish is • loving the fact that Israelis are so frank, • finding myself surprised and mystified Israeli and my mother is Jewish American. so important, at least go on Birthright and loving, open, and giving of themselves. in not wanting to return to the States, and Although I did not have a lot of take 10 days out of your life to see if being This enhanced the sense of belonging I not wanting to part from my new Jewish friends growing up, I do have a full Jewish has anything to do with your felt in Israel. Birthright family. life with great friends, good grades, and a intended purpose in life. As the saying • learning about one of Israel’s cutting- Not only was Birthright a wonderful specific goal for my future in mind (so I goes, if you don’t know where you’ve edge technological advances and being trip filled with great people and a fabulous thought). I was hesitant to go on Birthright been, you won’t know where you’re given the opportunity to drive the electric itinerary, but this trip also caused me to and did not see how it would be relevant going. car. take a second look at myself and rediscov- to me, even though I knew that my family • hiking the Golan Heights with the group would be proud to know that I was inter- and taking in its breathtaking views and ested in exploring where my culture and waterfalls. heritage came from. While being inter- • exploring the immensity of the Negev viewed for Birthright, I was asked why Desert and going to the gravesite of our this trip was important to me, and I simply first Israeli Prime Minister, Ben-Gurion, said, “I don’t know.” Turns out, I ended up who also loved the Negev. answering “I don’t know” to more than • feeling the presence of G-d as I touched half of the questions. It then seemed obvi- the Western Wall in the Old City and ous why I needed to go on this trip: I need- being amazed at how easy prayer came to ed answers. Little did I know that this trip me. would take me on a soul-searching jour- • visiting Rabin Square and trying to con- ney and ignite my Jewish soul. template the horrific idea of a Jew assassi- It has been just one week since I have nating another Jew. Being there made me returned from the Birthright Israel realize how important it is for Jews to Outdoors Trip (N.C. Hillel). Here are but stick together. a few things that I learned and enjoyed • being mesmerized and inspired while from my trip: staying at Kibbutz Manara in the Golan • gaining many lifelong friends who are so Heights, overlooking the Lebanon border, close to my heart. and later discovering that one of its found- • rooming with two different girls almost ing members, whom we met, was Yitzhak every night. Rabin’s sister. • watching eight of our new college • witnessing an entire city come to a stop friends having their 1st bar/bat mitzvah while observing Shabbat in Jerusalem. ceremonies in Jerusalem and shedding • discussing Jewish spirituality under the tears of happiness sharing this special moonlit sky in the Negev and realizing moment with the group. that there is no such thing as a good Jew • getting to know all of the eight IDF sol- or a bad Jew; your relationship with G-d diers who joined our group for five days cannot be judged…we are all just Jewish. and learning the differences between • Discussing anti-Semitism led me to real- Israelis and Americans my age. ize how important it is to maintain my • Being with the Israeli soldiers helped religion while living as a minority in bring me closer to my dad by gaining a America, making the concept of sticking better understanding of his experiences together seem stronger and more apparent. while serving in the Army. • Learning the meaning behind some • gaining a perspective of what is and isn’t Jewish traditions, like walking backwards as important in life, as I listened to the sol- at the Western Wall and giving money to diers talk about friends who were buried charity when traveling, made me appreci- Page 20 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 want to be a mascot; I wanted to be in the reg- Saturday afternoons at The Jewish Home. He ular Marine Corps. and Herman Lischkoff are like fixtures there, A friendship for the ages Meanwhile, back at the Briarcliff, David entertaining, serving refreshments, or leading had his eyes on medical school. So, after he prayers. Fifty-year friendships are rare indeed. graduated from Boys’ High School and attend But this is about David, not Herman or Sixty-five-year friendships are incredible. college, he went off to Augusta to the Medical me. David is supposed to be retired after a long What about 78-year friendships? I am College of Georgia. and successful career as an ear, nose, and aware of only one—the friendship of David By the time I graduated from Tech High throat specialist. But when he retired, he Smiley and BY Gene School, World War II was over. David com- retired to Ft. Gillem, a former U.S. Army base, Gene Asher. pleted medical school and joined the Air where he examined inductees and re-enlistees. It started in Asher Force, where he was a captain in the medical Growing up, David did not see much of 1933, when corps. I went to the universities of Miami, his parents. His dad traveled selling reference the two of us diers” five days a week after school and two Michigan State, and Georgia before going to books and his mother sold finer women’s wear began our days on the weekend. Girls had not entered our Marine Corps Officer Candidate School at at the old downtown Davison-Paxon depart- educational lives at that point. That did not come until we Quantico, Virginia. And then to Korea in time ment store. careers at were six. for the tail end of the war. Once out of medical school, David mar- Highland But no one interfered with the game. The Somewhere in between all this, I had a ried Miriam Siskin; they divorced after 13 Elementary soldiers were plastic miniatures. There were brief romance with David’s sister Irene, the years. Then David found Gloria Jacobs, beau- School, a artillery pieces, infantrymen, riflemen, platoon star guard on our TNL basketball team. tiful widow of former Grady High School stone’s throw leaders, and company commanders. There Meanwhile, while I was making like Al football star Lonny Jacobs, and they still share Jolson, David was playing his saxophone in marital bliss. The Smiley children are Brian, David Smiley from what is were bayonets and trench lines. There was now Manuel’s even air support. the AZA band, the Jewish Educational 57, Carl, 55, Janice, 52, Vicki, 34, Elizabeth, Tavern. The game may have been the longest war Alliance band, the O’Keefe Junior High band, 50, and Laura, 48. We didn’t hang out there then, because it on record. We started in ‘33 and called a truce the Boys’ High band, and several dance bands Three years ago, after I moved into the did not exist. It was a drugstore with a soda in ‘41. around the city. He put the sax down only to Jewish Tower, my first visitor was David fountain. We would stop there for an occa- I don’t know what affect the game had on pick up his clarinet, which he played with Smiley. sional Coke or chocolate shake when we could me, but on December 8, 1941, one day after equal expertise. We are still friends, and we will be until afford it. the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, I skipped No one gives more than David on the day we die. Our game of soldiers was calling. The school and hitchhiked downtown to the U.S. battlefield was located at the Smiley residence Marine Corps Recruiting Station. I told the at the Briarcliff Hotel, which was an upscale recruiting sergeant that I wanted to join the residential hotel at the corner of Highland and Marines. He told me I could be a mascot and Ponce de Leon avenues. wear a Marine Corps dress blue uniform. Dali lithographs on exhibit David was five years old. We played “sol- I told him he didn’t understand. I didn’t at Marcus Hillel Center Classnotes Published in 1968 in honor of Israel’s 2548. 20th anniversary, Salvador Dali’s “Aliyah, Visitors can use their iPhone or iPod From page 17 The Rebirth of Israel” portrays the history of Touch to download the commentary and agencies around the world. Because of the Jewish people’s return to their home- audio guide by Professor Blumenthal, a free TDSA’s support and volunteerism, it won land. A complete collection of the 25 color service of Emory’s University Technology the January Phonings Week Day School lithographs, taken from mixed-media paint- Services and iTunes U. The audio guide fea- Golden Phone Award, which includes a ings by Dali, is now on exhibit at the Marcus tures a preface by Elliott King, an introduc- plaque and a $1,000 check. Pictured: 8th- Hillel Center, Emory tion by David graders Shui Fier (left) and Moshe Pransky University, through Blumenthal, and 3-4 June 2011. minutes of commen- by Mrs. Charlie Lewis, has filled the hall- This is the pre- tary for each image. ways with projects that teach techniques miere Atlanta exhibi- Archival quality and history, along with tremendous creativ- tion of the complete commemorative ity. Pictured: a 6th-grader decides to remain collection, which is posters are available mysterious as the “man behind the mask.” on loan to Hillel at for $20 each. Emory from The exhibition Professor David is presented by Hillel Blumenthal. This set at Emory University (No. 150 of 250), and sponsored, in believed to be the part, by The only one in Atlanta, Consulate General of HOLIDAY MUSICAL. TDSA’s 4th-8th has been maintained Israel to the grade girls presented an original musical, in its original box and Southeast, Emory Simchas Torah, written by Mr. Yacov and framed for this exhib- University Office of Mrs. Rachelle Merlis Freedman. Mrs. it. the President, The Freedman, herself a graduate of Torah Day The prints are Emory Center for School, directed the play, which recounts 1ST-GRADERS RECEIVE SIDDURIM. accompanied by a Creativity and the the efforts of a group of diverse townspeo- One of the highlights of 1st grade is learn- large-format book Arts’ David ple collaborating to acquire lulavim and ing to daven (pray) from a real siddur, and with text by Gerson Goldwasser Series in etrogim needed for Sukkot when their TDSA’s first-graders have recently D. Cohen and an introduction written and Religion and the Arts, The Blonder Family expected shipment does not arrive. A stand- achieved that milestone. They celebrated signed by David Ben-Gurion, the first prime Foundation, the Blaine Family Foundation, ing-room-only audience proudly called for the occasion by designing personalized sid- minister of Israel. A full commentary on the and the Cohen Chair of Judaic Studies. an encore as the full-scale production came dur covers, guided by their teacher, Mrs. exhibition has been written by Prof. David Partners are the Emory Jewish Studies to a rousing close. Pictured: Performers Michal Donowitz, with their parents’ assis- Blumenthal. Program, Emory Visual Arts Department, taking a final bow tance. They also presented a program of Classes and groups can view the exhi- Emory Department of Spanish and songs and recitations demonstrating their bition during regular business hours at the Portuguese, and the Michael C. Carlos MASK ART. Sixth-grade art students at understanding of these prayers, which will Marcus Hillel Center, Monday-Thursday, Museum. TDSA created life masks, which they will be part of their daily routines throughout 9:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m., and Friday, 9:30 a.m.- For details on the exhibition, including decorate to reflect their personalities and their lives. Pictured: 1st-grade boys proud- 4:00 p.m. For large groups and classes, call parking information, visit www.emoryhil- interests. The school’s art program, taught ly display their siddurim. ahead for special arrangements at 404-963- lel.org/dali. March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 21 All in the (Alperin) Family Designs At a recent arts & crafts fair held at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, I saw a striking display of beautiful handcrafted jewelry. Behind the counter were three familiar BY Carolyn faces, the artists of this collection, “All in the Family Designs.” Gold What a delightful surprise! I have known them for years in other roles, but shows, and on all their travels. And what here they were as jewelry-makers: Dr. Herb beautiful and intriguing materials make up Alperin; his wife, Ann; and their daughter, their necklaces, bracelets, and earrings! lovingly called Moose. Dr. Alperin, a pedi- There are crystals, silver and gold wire, atrician, is the former medical partner of my brass, abalone shells, green and purple Petite freshwater pearls and peridot Hundreds of tiny rings of niobium late husband; Ann was the longtime director amethyst, jasper, honey jade, star smoked gemstones are wire-wrapped to metal are joined to create a chain of Young Audiences, which brought live quartz, African beads, and even sliced nuts. hang as chandelier earrings. maille bracelet. performances into Atlanta schools; and The name “All in the Family Designs” Moose is director of both Emory came about when niece Elle Melaver began University’s Public Health Training Center contributing delicate “chandelier” wire and and its Career Master of Public Health pearl earrings to the collection. Even the Program. Alperins’ 9-year-old granddaughter, Shira, “How did this new jewelry-making got in on the act. She is the self-appointed adventure begin?” I asked. Ann said the “design consultant” on how to display the three of them have been rock hunting for 40 family’s designs, while her father, the years. “Back then, little Moose was close to Alperins’ son Steve, does the lighting. the ground. She was best at rare finds.” Many of the bracelets show very intri- Some of the stones they have collected are cate work, with tiny colored niobium and now in their creations. antiqued silver rings woven in groups of In addition, both Ann and Herb have threes, linked with other threes in compli- taken classes in silversmithing. About four cated patterns. You get different colors Smoky quartz faceted to form a Star Bracelet crafted from Swarovski years ago, Moose started the work with depending on which way you look at the of David hangs from a necklace of crystals, combined with beads beads, which she is also good at finding and rings. Ann laughs to tell that they sold one freshwater pearls entwined in chain. made from recycled magazines by combining. She says she enjoys the work of the black and silver bracelets off her women in Kenya with her hands. “It’s fun and creative.” wrist at the AA fair. Herb promises to make There are colorful African beads made At first, the Alperins made gifts for her another. why the three Alperins are so enthusiastic of magazine pages, rolled and water- each other and for various charity silent One beautiful necklace is made of crys- when they show their All in the Family proofed. In addition, I’m told the Alperins auctions. They say they “work separately tal and silver wire. The links are silver spi- Designs. have created bracelets in Georgia Tech col- and together—feeding off each other.” They rals coiled and antiqued. Several necklaces To contact them, visit their new web- ors and pink and silver rings for breast can- have made jewelry on special commissions have faceted smoky quartz medallions with site, courtesy of son Jeff (completing “all in cer awareness drives. I saw beads of tiny and for special holiday gifts. a triangle carved on each side, creating a the family”), gold chains wrapped with colored stones on When asked where they find their Jewish star when both sides are seen www.allinthefamilydesigns.com, or e-mail some of the intricate necklaces. The work- materials, they told me at estate sales, bead through the translucent material. [email protected]. manship is amazing, and it is easy to see Local author Jeffrey Stepakoff honored at State Capitol Veteran Hollywood television and film cials. Signed copies of Fireworks over writer and noted Atlanta author Jeffrey Toccoa were placed on legislators’ chamber Stepakoff was honored at the Georgia State desks in both the House and Senate, com- Capitol February 10, when the legislature pliments of St. Martin’s Press. More than passed a resolution officially declaring that 150 political and business leaders, resi- day “Toccoa-Stephens County (T-SC) dents, and students from Toccoa and Fireworks Over Toccoa Day.” Stephens County participated in the cele- Stepakoff’s novel, Fireworks Over bration. Toccoa (St. Martin’s Press), published April “I am so flattered that my work is being 2010 to national critical acclaim, is the recognized by our state legislators,” said inspiration behind the daylong celebration Stepakoff. “It is truly an honor.” coordinated by the Toccoa-Stephens Stepakoff, who worked on such well- County Chamber of Commerce. Governor known series as “The Wonder Years,” Sophie, Elizabeth, Charlotte, and Jeffrey Stepakoff Nathan Deal, Lieutenant Governor Casey “Sisters,” Disney’s “Tarzan, ”Major Dad,” Stepakoff presents Fireworks over Cagle, executive branch officers, and legis- and “Dawson’s Creek” (for which he was Toccoa to Governor Nathan Deal. lators received signed copies of the novel, also co-executive producer), returned to his (all photos: D. Caselli) met the author, and attended photo sessions. hometown roots several years ago and is The House resolution was introduced making a name for himself as the master of March 15. by Rep. Michael Harden of Toccoa. State the “new love story.” Stepakoff’s latest book, The Orchard, Sen. Jim Butterworth of Clarkesville intro- Fireworks over Toccoa is a coming-of- is also a love story that focuses on two duced a similar resolution the Senate. age love story set in the small North prevalent themes in today’s society: organ- The day’s events featured a legislative Georgia town during World War II. The ic foods and sustainability. The novel is set orientation and briefing, proclamations, novel has been translated into four lan- in the small Georgia town of Ellijay and is lunch, and photo sessions with state offi- guages and will be released in paperback on slated for publication July 5. Page 22 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 Why we walk for autism

By Janel and Jason Schwartz her oyster, which is appropriate for a child whose Hebrew name means “pearl.” We Five years ago, we noticed our 2-year- recently asked her what she wanted to be old daughter, Perri, was having challenges when she grew up, and she told us “every- with language development. With a range thing.” of questions and emotions, we took her to This is why we are tireless advocates the Marcus Autism Center, where she was for Autism Speaks and Marcus Autism diagnosed with autism. Center, because she deserves to be “every- After her diagnosis, she was enrolled in thing” and anything she wants to be. She early intervention services, speech therapy, deserves a meaningful life. We deserve to and occupational therapy to improve her have answers about the ways we can help skills in communication, behavior, and her navigate the world with new treatment social interaction. With the help of the advances or therapeutic options. experts at the Marcus Center, Perri, now To celebrate the road we’ve traveled seven-and-a-half, is in 2nd grade at The with our daughter, we are walking in the Amit Gar’inim School, which serves chil- fifth annual Georgia Walk Now for Autism Perriʼs Peeps dren with moderate to severe learning dis- Speaks, scheduled for May 22, at 11:00 abilities and/or developmental disabilities. a.m., at the Georgia World Congress We’ve watched our daughter go Center’s International Plaza. through an amazing journey with autism, We’ve walked and raised money for Janel, Jason and especially last year, when she first said “I this event every year with our special team, Perri Schwartz love you” to us. These types of moments Perri’s Peeps. We garner support from our make us proud of the amazing little girl she family and friends in hopes that there will has become and the bright future she has in continue to be new treatment options and store. therapeutic advances, and so that no one order. So, participating in the We have never met a child who works will ever have to hear “your child has Walk is a great way to show your as hard as Perri does, often at the things that autism” again. support in the fight against it. come naturally to the rest of us. She has Autism is no longer a rare disorder. In Additionally, the event is made miraculous strides and attacks each fact, more children will be diagnosed with great for the entire family. There hurdle in her path with effortless determina- autism in 2011 than with AIDS, pediatric is a 2.2-mile walk, activities for tion. Autism is something that Perri has, but cancer, and juvenile diabetes combined. children, a resource fair for parents, refresh- Autism Speaks was founded in 2005 to it is not who she is. She is a beautiful, Therefore, it’s possible that we all know ments, and entertainment. There are several increase awareness of autism spectrum dis- funny, sincere girl who believes the world is someone that has been affected by the dis- ways to get involved; you can join a team, orders, fund research into the causes, pre- walk with a few friends or family, volunteer vention, treatments, and cure for autism and at the event, or donate online to Georgia advocate for the needs of affected families. Walk Now for Autism Speaks. Like Autism Speaks, Marcus Autism Autism Speaks and Marcus Autism Center is a not-for-profit organization dedi- Center host the Walk and are dedicated to cated to the diagnosis and treatment of chil- supporting research, treatment, and advoca- dren with autism spectrum disorders and cy for autism spectrum disorders and rais- developmental disabilities. The center ing awareness about the prevalence of this recently hired a new leader from Yale complex disorder. University, Ami Klin, Ph.D., who seeks to In just five years, the Walk has quickly make Atlanta the capital of early diagnosis become one of Atlanta’s most successful by bringing new technology and research to grassroots fundraising events, raising more our community. than $3.8 million and garnering great sup- We hope to see you at the Walk this port from the community and local compa- year. Our family and our team, Perri’s nies. Perri’s Peeps has been a top fundrais- Peeps, will definitely be there, because we ing team every year, and we hope to raise want to face this adversity head-on, with the $50,000 in 2011. strength of knowing that autism has not Autism Speaks and Marcus Autism beaten us. Perri may have autism, but we Center hope to utilize the momentum the will not let it define her. Walk has created to improve the services For more information about the and treatment for autism, which has become Georgia Walk Now for Autism Speaks, the fastest growing developmental disabili- to register, or to find out how to volun- ty in the U.S., affecting one in 110 children teer, visit www.walknowforautisms- nationally and one in 98 in Georgia. peaks.org/georgia, or call Lindsay Masters at 770-451-0570. March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 23 Page 24 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 25 JewishTHE Georgian The Jews of Columbus, Part II By Dr. Stuart Rockoff stucco exterior, the building could seat 500 for the congregation, until he left in 1922. Society, which later became the congrega- people, including a balcony designed for Sharis Israel had a great deal of rabbinic tion’s sisterhood. This organization raised By the 1890s, increasing numbers of the women of the congregation. They were turnover during this period, with four dif- money to support the synagogue and Jewish Jews from Eastern Europe began to settle in able to get an ark ferent rabbis lead- charities. Columbus. These Jewish immigrants did from the small ing the congrega- If Sharis Israel became the home of not feel comfortable in the Reform temple Jewish community tion during the Columbus’ Russian Jewish immigrants, of B’nai Israel, and, in 1892, fifteen of them of Eufaula, eight years after B’nai Israel remained the center of the organized their own Orthodox congrega- Alabama, which did Werlin left. Despite city’s native-born and German Jews. Of tion, Chevra Sharis Israel. They first met on not have a syna- this leadership eleven members of the 1904 confirmation the second floor of a downtown building gogue. Most mem- instability, the con- class, nine were born in Georgia. Of their and later in the local Odd Fellows Hall. The bers of the congre- gregation grew parents, 36% were native born, while 55% small congregation did not have a rabbi in gation lived in the quickly after it ded- were born in Germany. its early years. area around the new icated its building, The congregation grew as well, from In 1915, a group of members each paid synagogue. with its member- 48 members in 1905 to 85 in 1925. A big $100 to buy land at the corner of 1st Avenue Soon after dedi- ship doubling. reason for this growth was Rabbi Frank and 7th Street for a permanent synagogue cating the syna- In 1919, Chevra Rosenthal, who came to Columbus from for the congregation. Of the eleven men gogue, Chevra Sharis Israel had Baton Rouge in 1907. Rosenthal led the who pitched in to buy the land, ten were Sharis Israel hired fifty students in its effort to rebuild the synagogue after it was Russian-born immigrants. Nine had come its first rabbi, Joseph In 1914, Chevra Sharis Israel construct- religious school, damaged by a fire at the end of 1907. He to the United States after 1897. Werlin, who had ed this synagogue. which met every became very involved with local civic The 40 members of Chevra Sharis immigrated to the day after school. In organizations, becoming a charter member Israel dedicated their congregation’s first United States from Russia in 1906. Rabbi 1909, seventeen female members of Sharis synagogue in September of 1915. With a Werlin also served as a shochet and mohel Israel founded the Jewish Ladies Relief See JEWS, page 29 The Ahavath Achim Cultural At last, The Weber School Arts Series: Then and now can compete in Mock Trial By Celia Gilner and Sarah Katz

Have you been searching for an enriching and uplifting musical experience as a way to spend your Sunday afternoons? Try the Ahavath Achim (AA) Synagogue’s Cultural Arts Series. Now entering its 30th year, the Cultural Arts Series has attracted music lovers from all walks of life—AA members and non- members, music aficionados and casual listeners, Jews and non-Jews, children,

WEBERʼS MOCK TRIAL TEAM. (Front row, from left) Tova Beeber, Mollie Bowman, Jenna Kaye, and Camellia Heart; (second row) Attorney Coach Debbie Maron, Teacher Coach Melanie Brown, Joseph Brickman, Daniel Gordon, Drew Maron, Attorney Coach Amy Kaye, and Attorney Coach Jeff Brickman; (third row) Teacher Coach Mitch White, Eytan Palte, Frank Spiro, David Nelwan, Adam Schneider, Jake Shapiro, Eddie Samuels, and Shoshanna Siegel (Not pictured: Attorney Coaches Jason Schneider and Jake Schwartz) By Daniel Gordon Weber School’s first-ever Mock Trial team. However, these words mean more to me John Sandfort (saxophone), Ivan Millender (director Ahavath Achim Cultural Arts Actions. There is a saying that actions than just the beginning of a speech. Series), Scott Glazer (bass), Joe Liebman (harmonica and voice), Will Groth (drums), speak louder than words. That cannot be As a Jewish school, The Weber School Reed Doughten (guitar), and Joe Alterman truer or more relevant in this case. These had been unable to compete in the Georgia were the words that began my closing argu- (piano) See THEN AND NOW, page 28 ment that I delivered as a member of The See MOCK TRIAL, page 27 Page 26 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 27

a closing argument. other side. Working sometimes until 10:00 to move onto the next round of the compe- Mock Trial After teams prepared for a couple of at night, our team bonded and became clos- tition, we gave it our all and did extremely weeks, the case itself was distributed from er as a group. With freshmen, sophomores, well for a first-year team. At the awards cer- From page 25 the Georgia Bar. This year’s case involved a juniors, and seniors all working on the same emony at the end of the competition, I had High School Mock Trial Competition previ- police officer who alleged he was fired team, we learned that a team is made up of the honor of receiving two “Best Attorney” ously because the competition had always from his position because of a post he made all types and that each person has some- awards, Jenna Kaye received a “Best taken place on a Saturday, the Jewish on a social networking website that the thing different and important to contribute. Attorney” award, and Drew Maron received Sabbath. People in the Jewish community police chief deemed to be derogatory. This At the competition, both our plaintiff a “Best Witness” award. have long been talking about how it would firing, he says, was unconstitutional team and defense team won one of their tri- Now it’s time to start getting ready for be great if a school like Weber competed. because it would infringe on his First als and lost the other. One of the teams we next year’s competition. The Weber School Instead of just talking, our head of Amendment right to freedom of speech. lost to was Grady High School, the two- is ready, more than ever, to compete in the school, Dr. Sim Pearl, acted. Sim, along The chief of police, however, claimed that time defending state champion. We were courtroom once again. This time, we’re with Weber social studies teacher Mitch the officer was not fired for this post and competitive in all our trials. While we were aiming for the grand prize. White, went to talk to the Georgia Bar instead was removed from the police force not one of the top two teams in our region Association about letting Weber compete because he was not a good officer. on a day other than Saturday. Their actions After receiving the case, we split up the spoke louder than their words when the team into a plaintiff’s squad and a defense Georgia Bar created a new region in the squad. The plaintiff’s squad had to argue high school mock trial competition, one that the case from the terminated officer’s side, would compete on Tuesdays and and the defense squad had to argue the case Thursdays, to accommodate Weber. For the from the chief of police’s side. Over the first time, The Weber School would be able next several weeks, we practiced in our dif- to compete alongside six other schools in ferent squads, trying to find evidence that one of the most competitive regions in the would prove our case and disprove the state. Meeting three days a week, our 14- member team worked alongside Mr. White, drama teacher Melanie Brown, and five practicing attorney coaches to prepare for the competition ahead. Beginning in October, the team learned about the rules of the courtroom, the way in which attorneys should ask questions, and how a witness should respond. Later, we also learned about how to give an opening statement and Page 28 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011

piano performance at Boston University, major orchestras in Dallas, Houston, Millender followed that performance with Then and Now and Joe Alterman, a senior in jazz piano at Atlanta, Cleveland, and Baltimore have On the Orient Express, an extremely pop- New York University. performed on the series. ular thematic performance complete with From page 25 The series continues to draw the finest Over the years, the Cultural Arts train sounds and Maestro Theodore seniors, and music students all flock to the musicians, including Maestro Robert Series has had many exceptional benefac- Cherniovsky of the DeKalb Symphony concerts. The program is run on its own Spano, conductor and music director of the tors. In 1981, the late Annette Srochi, a announcing arrivals in London, Paris, independent operating budget and depends Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO); long-time synagogue member, donated a Vienna, Venice, and Budapest. Appropriate solely upon the financial generosity of its Daniel Laufer, new Steinway- music was played for each city stop. supporters. associate princi- B grand piano The credit for the quality and variety pal cello of the to the syna- of music selected for the concerts goes to THE HISTORY OF THE SERIES ASO; Evgeny The Magic Flute gogue in mem- Millender, whose talent and extensive Rivkin, interna- Sunday, April 10, 2011 ory of her hus- musical knowledge has been evolving In 1979, three members of the tionally band, Morton. since childhood. Millender’s father, a vio- Ahavath Achim Synagogue, Harriett and acclaimed pianist 3:00 p.m. Founding linist, emphasized the importance of music Sam Draluck and Herbert Karp, formed a and piano faculty committee in the household and ensured that committee to establish and promote the head, University Srochi Hall, member Millender practiced piano daily, beginning performance of chamber music in Ahavath of Georgia; Ahavath Achim Synagogue Harriett with his first lesson in 1st grade. Millender Achim’s Ellman Chapel, which is known William Ransom, Draluck was fortunate to have several accom- for its excellent acoustics and has been piano faculty Conducted by Sandra Lutters remembers plished and educated music teachers in used by recording artists. The group raised head, Emory Concerts are open to the public one very spe- Dalton, Georgia, where he was raised. $1,500 as seed money. A recital held that University; cial music In addition to piano, Millender studied season was such a success that then-Rabbi Cecylia $20 requested concert donation lover, Joan violin for five years. He also became inter- Harry Epstein told Sam Draluck, “Sam, Arzewski, inter- For inclusion on mailing lists or for Hoffman, who ested in the pipe organ while at Baylor you’ve got a winner. Keep it up.” nationally asked to meet School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, which Encouraged by its success, the com- acclaimed violin- additional information, including donor her at the syn- he continued in his years at Emory mittee established a yearly recital series. In ist and former sponsorship of programs, contact Ivan agogue. To University in Atlanta. Having sung in keeping with their love of music, members concertmaster, Millender at [email protected]. Harriett’s sur- men’s glee clubs at Baylor and Emory, he of the committee decided that the concerts ASO; and the late prise and grat- later joined the AA choir, then led by would be free of charge, be open to the Zara Nelsova, itude, Mrs. Cantor Isaac Goodfriend and Fletcher public, and engage the finest professional one of the world’s greatest cellists. In addi- Hoffman said she really enjoyed the music Wolfe, director, Atlanta Boy Choir. He has musicians available, with an emphasis on tion, accomplished professionals and gave Harriett a check for $10,000. sung continually in the choir and has also local talent. The series has been a platform Benjamin Karp (cello); Rachel Oliver and Mrs. Hoffman continued her generosity by taught a music appreciation course at for giving recognition and encouragement Virginia Hutchings, well-known local including a bequest in her will, which con- Evening at Emory—for 100 terms. to young accomplished artists at the uni- pianists; the late Maestro Charles Schiff tinues to support the series. The late Al The current season’s opener featured versity level, including Benjamin Warsaw, and his wife, Edith (pianist); and artists Davis also participated with a significant violinist Cecylia Arzewski, performing a pianist currently pursuing a doctorate in who hold first chair and principal chairs in contribution designated specifically for solo works for violin by J.S. Bach, which “creative purposes.” Then-Rabbi Epstein she will record in New York during 2011. allocated the entire contribution to the A special jazz session, featuring Ahavath Cultural Arts Fund. Achim members Joe Alterman (piano), Jon Of special note is the annual appear- Liebman (harmonica and voice), and Scott ance of the Atlanta Chamber Players, Glazer (bass), with John Sandfort (saxo- Atlanta’s oldest continuously performing phone), Reed Doughten (guitar), and Will and premier chamber music group. The Groth (drums), was held Saturday evening, Atlanta Chamber Players consist primarily January 15. Despite the snow outside, a of the first-chair artists from the ASO, clapping, toe-tapping crowd filled Srochi along with Paula Peace (pianist), its music Hall. The Atlanta Chamber Players director. returned February 27, for a concert featur- The series moves into Srochi Hall for ing the thrilling and famous Mozart Piano its larger performances. This space now Quartet in G minor. contains special portable orchestral sound A final performance on Sunday, April baffles to improve the acoustics. Paula 10, will feature The Magic Flute, Mozart’s Peace secured the donation of this equip- immortal classic, specially crafted for the ment from the Kennesaw State University series, directed, and conducted by Sandra Music Department. Lutters, noted musician, opera coach, and former AA choir director, who also pre- CONTINUING A TRADITION sented Tea Time on the QE-2 and On The Orient Express. In keeping with the phi- Ivan Millender, an extremely knowl- losophy of making classical music accessi- edgeable and talented musician in his own ble to everyone, this work will be present- right, heads the Cultural Arts series. His ed in English. 2004 debut as head of the series began As Ivan Millender contemplates with a creative voice and instrumental pro- upcoming performances for the Cultural gram, Tea Time on the QE-2, complete Arts Series, he dreamily looks out the win- with ship pictures and cucumber sand- dow and says that next year, he would like wiches. His inspiration was a CD with the to have a third “All Brahms” concert—but famous ship’s musical repertoire. Ivan the thing Millender wants most is for peo- stated, “The music was light, lush, and ple to leave each performance knowing a beautiful and performed by professionals. little more about music and go home One couldn’t ask for anything better.” singing. March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 29

which aimed to raise $20,000 in Columbus. Isaac Isaiah Moses was a major advocate numbering 124 member households, raised Jews Seeking to solicit contributions from the for Columbus’ public school system, serv- money for a new $150,000 building on gentile community, they asked prominent ing as superintendent and securing funding Wynnton Road. The new sanctuary could From page 25 local businessman J. Homer Dimon to be from the Peabody Foundation for local seat 300 people; the synagogue also includ- of the Kiwanis Club and an active member chairman of the committee. schools. When he died, the local newspaper ed a smaller chapel, a social room, a of the Masons and Woodmen of the World. Several other non-Jews, including wrote that Moses had done “more than any kitchen, and six classrooms. When Shearith Rabbi Rosenthal was also a leader of the Christian ministers, served on neighbor- single individual in this section” for public Israel dedicated its new synagogue in local B’nai B’rith and helped to push for the hood committees for the relief drive. In a education. February of 1951, Columbus Mayor B.F. construction of the B’nai B’rith Hospital in letter published in the local newspaper, the In 1925, Laura Rosenberg created the Register cut the ribbon, and Rabbi Alfred Hot Springs, Arkansas. Rosenthal served as committee stated that while Columbus Jews Milk Fund, which gave free milk to needy Goodman of B’nai Israel gave the opening the spiritual leader of B’nai Israel for 33 would take the lead, “we request every citi- students at nine different schools in prayer. Rabbi Jacob Agus, of Baltimore, years. zen of the county to assist in this crying Columbus. Rosenberg remained the head of gave the keynote address in a ceremony that The Jewish population of Columbus need.” The local newspaper editor endorsed the fund until her death in 1950. Rosenberg included the singing of both “America” and grew from 300 Jews in the late 19th centu- the 1920 Jewish War Relief Campaign, was involved in several other local causes “Hatikvah,” the Israeli national anthem. ry to 735 in 1937. Most concentrated in which was kicked off at a mass meeting related to children. In 1931, she was named As Shearith Israel moved into its new retail trade, although a handful got involved held at the First Baptist Church, by writing the outstanding citizen in Columbus by the building, it also moved away from with Columbus’ bustling industrial econo- that since Columbus Jews had always given Lion’s Club. Orthodox Judaism. Through the 1940s, my. In 1919, Jewish-owned stores dotted to local causes, non-Jews in Columbus Sidney Goldberg Simons served on the Shearith Israel was still Orthodox, with sep- downtown Columbus, including the should support this worthwhile cause. Metro Planning Commission, the board of arate seating for men and women in the Emporium, Ed Cohn’s Store, Loewenherz Local gentiles donated over $1,000 to the the local medical center, and on many other sanctuary and a mikvah. Many members Brothers, and the Leader. Jewish War Relief Fund in 1920. local boards. When he died in 1968, the city still walked to shul. In 1949, the congrega- Abe Straus started with the John Some Columbus Jews saw a Jewish named Simons Plaza after him. tion celebrated its first bat mitzvah ceremo- Archer Mitchell Hosiery Mill as homeland as the solution to the plight of No Columbus Jew has been more ny, in which a 13-year-old girl celebrated secretary/treasurer in 1920. By 1923, Straus Europe’s Jews. Noted Zionist Bella Pevsner involved with children’s issues than Aaron the coming of age ritual traditionally per- had become the president of one of the came to Columbus in 1918, speaking to a Cohn, who has formed by boys. In 1950, the new rabbi, largest manufacturing concerns in capacity crowd at Temple B’nai Israel. served as a juve- Emanuel Bennet, instituted mixed-gender Columbus. Five years later, he bought the Leopold Loewenherz, the former president nile justice seating and introduced some English into company and built a big new factory on of the Reform congregation, introduced judge for over the Shabbat service. Talbotton Road. Pevsner. 45 years. Cohn In 1952, under the leadership of newly Simon Schwob, a Jewish tailor from The following year, another Zionist served as an hired Rabbi Kassel Abelson, Shearith Israel Alsace, moved to Columbus in 1912, open- organizer, Samuel Blitz, came to Columbus officer under officially joined the United Synagogue of ing a downtown clothing store called the and spoke at a mass meeting at a local audi- General Patton Conservative Judaism. That same year, the Standard Tailoring Company. Schwob soon torium. According to The Columbus Daily during World congregation celebrated its first confirma- started to make the suits that he sold in his Enquirer, “a large number of Jews and War II, helping tion ceremony. Although Shearith Israel store. From this modest start, Schwob built Gentiles were present and listened with to liberate the had officially become Conservative, the a large clothing manufacturing business in deep interest to the speaker.” In an effort to Ebensee congregation still maintained some tradi- Columbus. When Simon died in 1954, his signal that Zionism was not incompatible Aaron Cohn has Concentration tional practices, including daily minyans widow, Ruth, took over the company. In with Americanism, the meeting opened been a juvenile Camp. First and a strictly kosher kitchen. Each male 1976, the family sold the business. While with the singing of “The Star-Spangled justice judge for appointed in member was assigned monthly minyan no Schwobs remain in Columbus today, the Banner.” During his speech, Blitz lived up over 45 years. 1964, Cohn has duty, in which he would be responsible for legacy of the family’s philanthropy lives on to his name, excoriating Jewish opponents won multiple getting ten men to attend that day’s prayer with the Schwob Library and Schwob of Zionism as “traitors to the Jewish peo- honors for his service to the community. In meeting. In 1974, under the leadership of School of Music at Columbus State ple.” The day after Blitz’s speech, 2003, he became the longest sitting juvenile Rabbi Theodore Feldman, Shearith Israel University. Columbus Jews founded a local Zionist dis- court judge in the country. In 2011 at age granted full equality to female members, These manufacturing businesses trict affiliated with the Zionist Organization 92, Cohn is still on the bench, helping to allowing them to receive Torah honors and thrived during wartime as the world wars of America. guide the lives of troubled children. count towards the minyan. In the 1980s, helped to transform the city of Columbus. In many other Southern cities, Reform Both of Columbus’ congregations Shearith Israel reached a peak of 150 fami- In 1918, the U.S. War Department created Jews tended to oppose Zionism, but in thrived in the post-World War II years. By lies and continued to hold daily minyans. Camp Benning, just outside of Columbus, Columbus, B’nai Israel’s Rabbi Rosenthal the 1940s, Sharis Israel, soon to be renamed The congregation also had a kosher meat to provide basic training for new soldiers. gave the invocation before Blitz’s speech. Shearith Israel Synagogue, had 100 mem- co-op, in which 30 members banded togeth- Made permanent in 1922, Fort Benning Still, most members of the new Zionist bers and a full-time rabbi and shochet. After er to order kosher meat from Chicago and eventually grew into one of the largest mil- organization were immigrants from Russia the congregation’s post-war growth spurt, it Atlanta several times a year. itary bases in the country. and Poland and members of Sharis Israel. had outgrown its building. The religious B’nai Israel, now known as Temple Rabbi Rosenthal led services for sol- In 1945, Sharis Israel held a special school couldn’t fit into the available class- Israel, also thrived in the years after World diers at Fort Benning and served as presi- service in honor of the 28th anniversary of rooms, and classes started to meet in differ- War II. In 1940, 80 families belonged to the dent of the Jewish Welfare Board during the the Balfour Declaration, which was Great ent corners of the sanctuary. Reform congregation; this figure grew to Great War. Many Columbus Jews hosted Britain’s expression of support for a Jewish Finally, under the leadership of board 119 in 1962 and peaked at 182 in 1982. Jewish soldiers in their homes during the homeland in Palestine. That same year, chairman Sol Singer, Shearith Israel, now Like Shearith Israel, Temple Israel outgrew war. Local Jews would provide various Columbus women formed a chapter of its building. entertainment programs for the soldiers, Hadassah, with the wife of Sharis Israel’s Just as in 1885, the women of the con- including parties at the Harmony Club. Rabbi Aaron Funk serving as president. gregation led the way: in 1952, the Jewish When large numbers of Jewish soldiers Though it was started relatively late, Ladies Aid Society passed a resolution were stationed at Fort Benning in World Columbus’ Hadassah chapter eventually labeling their current temple inadequate and War II, Columbus Jews responded with became the largest Jewish women’s organi- calling for the construction of a new syna- hospitality once again. The local Junior zation in the city, attracting members from gogue. Finally, in 1957, Temple Israel Hadassah Chapter hosted Friday night both congregations. It raised money for the broke ground on a new synagogue on receptions each week at Fort Benning, Hadassah Hospital in Israel, as well as local Wildwood Avenue. When they dedicated while the Harmony Club hosted mid-week causes. The chapter would hold annual the building the following year, congrega- dances for the soldiers. musical theater productions as fundraisers. tion members led a procession with the Columbus Jews also took part in The Columbus Hadassah chapter later fund- Torahs from the old temple to the new one. national fundraising campaigns to help suf- ed the library at the local Ronald McDonald Shearith Israel moved to this new Rabbi William Silverman, from Nashville’s fering Jews in Europe during World War I. House. synagogue in 1951. A declining Ohabai Sholom congregation, was the In 1918, Rabbi Rosenthal, Leopold Hadassah’s local charitable activity is membership led the congregation to keynote speaker during the dedication, Loewenherz, and Morris Loeb headed the part of a long tradition of Jews being active sell it in 2009. (Photo courtesy of See JEWS page 31 local Jewish War Relief Fund campaign, in civic life in Columbus. In the 1880s, Julian Preisler) Page 30 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 Making sure survivor’s stories remain told A wave of emotion sweeps across the detail of her story,” he says. “Now I’m get in discussions with them about the war,” features of Murray Lynn as he describes the looking for what’s between the lines and he says. “There was a woman who worked murder of his family. It’s a momentary blip, produce something that speaks on a deeper for my family, and she recalled seeing Jews a break in his stoic demeanor, as he recalls BY level, so audiences can feel her journey.” vanish in her community, unsure of what the Holocaust and the madness that swept Ron Smith, the driving force behind was happening.” across the world nearly seven decades ago. Feinberg Unconquered, is the president of Untapped Murray Lynn was absolutely certain Unconquered, featuring Murray Lynn, Media Productions, a full-service film and what had happened to his family and the is the first of several films being produced nal.” video production company. For years, he thousands of other Hungarian Jews caught as part of a project spearheaded by volun- Stoner, an independent filmmaker with worked as a reporter in local broadcast mar- up in the Holocaust. When Smith learned teers at The Breman Jewish Heritage and years of experience in Hollywood, has kets, including Atlanta’s NBC affiliate, The Breman was interested in documenting Holocaust Museum. It is an effort to pre- worked on major motion pictures and han- WXIA-TV, before turning his attention and Lynn’s story, he knew he had stumbled onto serve the stories of the Holocaust survivors dled a variety of positions in the industry— offering his considerable talents to corpo- a perfect project—an important story that who speak to visitors at The Breman. director, writer, and editor. He returned rate America. needed to be told and recorded. It is also a unique and compelling way home to Atlanta several years ago and now In recent years, however, the award- Smith spent hours with Lynn at his to connect with the thousands of people— splits his time between here and Los winning journalist started missing the home, at the Marcus Jewish Community especially students from schools in the Angeles. important work he had done as a reporter. “I Center of Atlanta, and at The Breman. He region—visiting The Breman each year. Although he spends a great deal of time began longing for a time when I could do researched the events leading up to the The museum’s Absence of Humanity Holocaust and pulled together archival Gallery exhibits archival photos, video footage detailing the Nazis’ rise to power interviews, mementos, and artifacts that and fall into madness. He managed to get detail the rise of Nazism in Germany and the normally reserved Lynn to open up and across Europe, but it’s the personal stories recount the horror of the times. Smith also offered by The Breman Holocaust survivor arranged to get Andrew Young—former speakers that grab the attention of most vis- U.S. congressman, U.N. ambassador, and itors. The films are an attempt to reproduce mayor of Atlanta—to narrate the film. this very intimate experience when survivor Unconquered is a compelling piece of speakers are no longer able to share their work, a documentary that provides an stories in person. overview of the Holocaust, while capturing “Survivors offer a connection, a way to the very personal account of one man’s life understand what really happened during the and journey. It’s exactly what The Breman’s Holocaust,” says Eve Goldstein who, along From left: Sonia Lynn, wife of Legacy Committee was hoping to create with George Stern, chairs The Breman’s Murray Lynn; Simeon Smith; Murray when they first began discussing their mis- Holocaust Survivors Legacy Committee. Lynn; and Judy Cohen sion. The group was formed when it became “We wanted something that would con- clear the survivor community was aging nect emotionally with the students visiting and it was only a matter of time before their these days teaching the craft of filmmaking, the museum,” says Dr. Liliane Baxter, stories would become fading memories and, he also creates and produces documen- director of The Lillian & A.J. Weinberg sadly, be lost. taries. Fortunately for The Breman, Stoner Center for Holocaust Education at The “We knew it was important to find a was willing to help out when he learned Breman. way to preserve the stories of the about the Legacy Project. Filmmaker Adam Stoner with Penina The personal stories of survivors have Holocaust,” Goldstein says. The committee “I wanted to give something back to Bowman. They are standing in front always been the best way to reach people, also realized it wasn’t enough just to docu- the Jewish community that offered me so of a display that includes her wed- Baxter and others at the museum report. ment the memories, that the testimony much as a youngster and teen,” he says. ding dress, which she made from Now, those stories are being documented, needed to be captured in a way that children Stoner is in the process of pulling parachute material. and the iconic message of survivors— can relate to and remember. together a movie that documents the story “Never Forget” —is being passed on to yet That mission has become the challenge of Penina Bowman, a Holocaust survivor he some solid work that would have an another generation. of a couple of area filmmakers, Simeon thinks is remarkable. “Penny is incredibly impact,” he says. I needed to find a really Smith and Adam Stoner. Both have volun- brave, a very rare and special person,” he special project.” teered their time and talent, spending count- says. Smith has been interested in the Ron Feinberg is a veteran journalist who less hours researching and developing the The research and interviews are com- Holocaust for years. His father was in the has worked for daily newspapers across the stories of The Breman survivor speakers. plete. Now Stoner’s mission is to craft a military, and as a teen he lived in Germany. Southeastern United States. He most recent- “These two men are doing this out of film from 10 hours of interviews, three to At the time, memories of the war remained ly worked for the Atlanta Constitution. Ron the goodness of their hearts,” says Judy four hours of archival footage, and 600 fresh—it was the early 1960s—and now specializes in topics of Jewish interest Cohen, one of the members of The pieces of photographic evidence supporting reminders of the war and Holocaust were all and can be reached at ronfeinberg@bell- Breman’s Legacy committee. “The sacri- the background story. about. south.net. His blog, This&That, can be fices they have made are really phenome- “Penny was willing to share every “I worked with Germans, and I would found at norgrebnief.blogspot.com.

Want to help?

The Breman Jewish Heritage and Holocaust Museum is hoping to produce additional documentaries about their survivor speakers. Filmmakers wanting to take part in this important work and individuals interested in donating funds to the project should contact: Liliane Kshensky Baxter, Ph.D. Director, The Lillian & A.J. Weinberg Center for Holocaust Education William Breman Jewish Heritage and Holocaust Museum [email protected] March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 31 Jews From page 29 which drew 350 people. This move to their new home took place during the long tenure of Rabbi Alfred Goodman, who led Temple Israel from 1950 to 1983.

Children from both Columbus con- gregations attend the Temple Israel religious school, which uses the Institute of Southern Jewish Life curriculum.

gations have suffered declining membership. In 2008, there were 45 children in the com- bined religious school, with most all of them Temple Israel moved to its current from Temple Israel. In 2009, Temple Israel building in 1958. (Photo courtesy of was down to 115 families, while Shearith Julian Preisler.) Israel had started taking out ads in Atlanta’s Jewish newspaper, inviting unaffiliated Jews While Shearith Israel and Temple Israel to spend the high holidays in Columbus and remain separate, viable congregations, they offering them free tickets to services. have often worked together for the better- In 2009, Shearith Israel sold its building ment of local Jews and the larger community. to a local church, since its mostly elderly They both joined the Wynnton membership could not use the handicapped Neighborhood Network, an association in inaccessible building. After the sale, the which they and six area churches work to remaining 80 members met in the chapel at help the needy. In 1984, Temple Israel estab- Temple Israel and began looking for a new lished a food bank with St. Thomas permanent home. Episcopal Church. After a year at Temple The Jewish population of Columbus has Israel, the project moved to the church, which declined from approximately 1,000 people in had more room. 1984 to 750 in 2001. The numbers are likely In 1977, the two Jewish congregations lower today. While Columbus has long been merged their 8th-10th-grade religious school overshadowed by the surging Jewish metrop- classes. Rabbi Goodman of Temple Israel olis of Atlanta, it remains a historic and active and Rabbi Feldman of Shearith Israel worked center of Jewish life in Georgia. together to teach these classes, along with members of both congregations. In the early Readers are invited to learn more about the 1990s, both religious schools were shrinking, history of Jewish communities in Georgia by and they decided to merge them completely. visiting the Encyclopedia of Southern Jewish According to Jean Kiralfy Kent, a member of Communities found at www.isjl.org. The Temple Israel, “the path has not always been Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern smooth, but the school has endured for the Jewish Life considers the encyclopedia to be betterment of our children.” a work in progress and encourages the pub- Initially, this merger was a great success, lic to contact Dr. Stuart Rockoff at as the total enrollment in the school [email protected] with additional information increased. But in recent years, both congre- related to the history of Jews in Georgia or other communities of the South. DEAN’S LIST AT EMORY Atlanta-area students Anna Shapiro, daughter of Dr. Martin M. Shapiro and Donna S. Shapiro; Rachel Leff, daughter of Dr. Steven I. Leff and Karen S. Leff; and Rebecca Nocharli, daughter of Paul H. Nocharli and Marie N. Nocharli, were named to the Dean’s List of Emory College, the undergraduate liberal arts college of Emory University, for the 2010 fall semester. Students must be in the top 20 percent of Emory College or have an approximate 3.86 grade-point average or higher to be named to the Dean’s List. ATLANTAN PARTICIPATES IN JEWISH DAY SCHOOL CONFERENCE Linda Zimmerman, executive director of Amit Gar’inim School, joined more than 600 lead- ers of Jewish day schools at the North American Jewish Day School Conference, February 6-8, in Los Angeles. The conference was a joint initiative of the Solomon Schechter Day School Association, RAVSAK: The Jewish Community Day School Network, the Institute for University-School Partnership at Yeshiva University, and PARDeS: The Progressive Association of Reform Day Schools. The theme of the 2011 conference was “The High Performance, High-Tech Jewish Day School of the Very Near Future.” Page 32 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens to receive JNF’s Tree of Life Award Jewish National Fund (JNF) will pres- The Tree of Life Award is a humani- Goodfriends’ extraordinary and selfless special events. ent Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens tarian award that recognizes outstanding contributions to the betterment of the land Botnick has served as an officer and with the Tree of Life Award at the Jack community involvement, dedication to the and people of Israel. The award is granted board member of a number of not-for- Hirsch Memorial Breakfast on Tuesday, cause of American-Israeli friendship, and to an individual who exemplifies the profit organizations. He was president of May 10, 7:30 a.m., at The Temple. Marvin devotion to peace and the security of Goodfriends’ spirit and has demonstrated a The Temple and the Jewish Educational Botnick, publisher and editor of The human life. prolonged investment in JNF and Israel at Loan Fund; a founding director of the Jewish Georgian, will be honored with the Georgia Attorney General Olens is the the grassroots leadership level. American-Israel Chamber of Commerce, second annual Cantor Isaac and Betty immediate past chairman of the Cobb In addition to being publisher and edi- Southeast; and a director of the Atlanta Goodfriend JNF Community Service County Board of Commissioners and the tor of The Jewish Georgian, Botnick oper- Jewish Community Center. He presently Award. Chaired by Jill Lerner, of Jill Atlanta Regional Commission. He is also ates Botnick serves as vice president and director of the Lerner Communications, and Scott Selig, vice chair of the Metropolitan North Associates, Jewish Interest Free Loan of Atlanta and of Selig Enterprises, the event will feature Georgia Water Planning District. LLC, a busi- on the scholarship committee of Amit. McKenna, Long & Aldridge partner Steve Previously, he served as a District ness and The Jack Hirsch Memorial Breakfast Labovitz as emcee. Commissioner. In 2003, he was appointed financial is free. Attendees will have the opportuni- by Governor Sonny Purdue to represent advisory ty to support JNF’s projects through spon- the 6th congressional district for Georgia’s service spe- sorship and gifts contributed to the Atlanta Department of Community Affairs. A part- cializing in JNF office. Proceeds will benefit JNF’s ner of Olens & Ezor, PC, since 1983, he is working environmental and development projects; rated “AV” by Martindale-Hubbell, the with non- a portion will contribute to the further highest accolade that confirms a highly publicly development of the Be’er Sheva River respected, ethical member of the Bar. owned com- Project, a massive water, environment, and “I am honored to receive JNF’s covet- panies. He is economic development project that is ed Tree of Life Award,” said Olens. “JNF also the co- transforming the riverfront into a 1,700- leads in the care of the land of Israel. Its founder of acre civic paradise, including restaurants, work in the water arena secures Israel’s Score parks, bicycle paths, and shopping. future and enhances the well-being of all Marvin Botnick Publishing, The Temple is located at 1589 people in the Middle East.” LLC, which Peachtree Street. The Cantor Isaac and Betty publishes For more information, contact Beth Sam Olens (from left), Jill Lerner, Goodfriend Jewish National Fund sports-related newspapers, and Score Gluck, Southern Zone director, at 404- Scott Selig Community Service Award, established in Marketing, LLC, which markets sports- 236-8990 or [email protected]. 2010, is given in recognition of the related events, Internet programming, and

affects many parts of the body and causes BONE MARROW DONORS IS severe disability, Dr. Shiloh was recog- LOCATED IN JERUSALEM. In the 22 nized for his major contribution towards Middle Eastern countries, there is an Arab You need to know . . . understanding and combating this debili- population of 325 million people. But it is tating and combating this disease. only in Israel where you will find a reg- During the last 60 years, meter for meter, Israel, were charged with the responsibili- “Professor Shiloh is an international istry for unrelated Arab bone marrow or person for person, no other nation has ty of searching algorithms that help sort leader in his field and an extraordinary sci- stem cell donors. It is located at Israel’s done more for the betterment of the out meaningful information from reams of entist,” AACR director Dr. Margaret Foti Hadassah University Medical Center in health, eco- heterogeneous data. wrote in the explanation for awarding him Jerusalem. nomic, and “We were asked to look for future the prize. “His work has launched a scien- Twenty-two years ago, Prof. Chaim technological directions,” Sheinwald says. “One inter- tific revolution and opened up new hori- Brautbar began Hadassah’s bone marrow advancement esting application is related to AI [artificial zons in the understanding of how the liv- registry, which now lists 75,000 potential of the world intelligence] in machine natural-language ing cell copes with DNA damage, which is Jewish donors and is now headed by Dr. population processing. People are trying to make a among the main factors in cancer.” Shoshana Israel. Unfortunately, however, than Israel. smart machine and gradually build its attempts to persuade Arabs to participate It is a story, knowledge.” This involves putting all data INTEL AMMOUNCES IT WILL produced dismal results: that is, until Dr. although critically important, that is not in the world into proportion and build rela- INVEST $2.7 BILLION IN ISRAELI Amal Bishara joined the program. heralded and largely remains unknown. tionships between words. Sheinwald gave PLANT. In spite of the economic environ- Dr. Bishara, an Israeli Arab immu- We plan to present some of these unbeliev- the following example: “There is a ment in which many companies’ commit- nologist with a Ph.D. in microbiology and able accomplishments in an attempt to dis- woman. She is a reporter. She works for ment to capital investments is tepid, at immunology from Hadassah, has can- seminate the heart and soul of what and the media. She is a daughter. All the rela- best, Intel announced in January that it will vassed 60 communities since 2008 when who Israel really is. tionships between this data must be strung invest $2.7 billion in its Israeli plant in the program to develop an Arab registry together with using connecting words and southern Israel. The expenditures will be was instituted. At that time, only 10 per- IBM’S WATSON SUPERCOMPUTER phrases such as ‘is,’ ‘or,’ ‘part of,’ ‘a designated for upgrading technology cent of Arab patients were able to find IS PARTIALLY JEWISH. It is not [child] of,’ or ‘contains.’ directed towards the production of next- matching unrelated donors in international uncommon for us to take great interest in “We look at two objects and their generation 22-nanometer chips, which is registries, compared to 80 percent for the connection of the Jewish people to relationships, so when you ask something, expected to make computers faster, small- Caucasian patients, because the Arab major events or historical individuals. Not [Watson] will know the answer.” er, and lighter. genome differs from that of other ethnic surprisingly, it turns out that Watson, the Intel Israel’s spokesman Koby Bahar groups. Since the broadening of artificial intelligence supercomputer, ISRAELI WINS TOP CANCER toll ISRAEL21c that Intel has also made Haddassah efforts to build the Arab reg- which bested the Jeopardy champs on RESEARCH AWARD. Tel Aviv new investments in the United States and istry, data from over 9,000 Israeli Arabs national TV, is part sabra. University professor Dr. Yosef Shiloh, has has spent $500 million to re-open a facili- have both been stored in this registry and A team of about a dozen IBM been chosen by the American Association ty in Ireland. Adding Israel to its invest- also been added to the international data- employees from four countries — the for Cancer Research (AACR) as this ment plans just makes business sense. base in Leiden, Holland, so that compati- United States, Israel, China and Japan – year’s winner of the prestigious Clowes “Intel decided to invest here because it’s ble matches for would-be recipients can be joined together to build the machine, Award. He is the first Israeli researcher to worthwhile,” he says. “Because we have a more easily found, regardless of the coun- which could be the world’s smartest ques- win the coveted prize. good record for Israel and Intel.” try in which they reside. tion-and-answer machine. Dafna An acclaimed researcher in the field Life and humanitarianism knows no Sheinwald and her research partner, David of ataxia telangiectasia (A-T), a rare, neu- THE SOLE REGISTRY FOR ARAB geographical or ethnic boundaries. Carmel, from IBM’s Haifa Laboratory in rodegenerative, inherited disease that March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 33 book, $35/individual with book, or gia. $28/individual without book. Purchase tick- Thought You’d Like to Know ets through the Box Office, 678-812-4002, THE TASTING. The Tasting is May 24, or at www.atlantajcc.org. For information, 7:00-10:00 p.m., at the Grand Hyatt By Jonathan Barach Section, at 404-843-9600 or ncjw@ncjwat- contact Amy Schaaf, 678-812-3694 or Buckhead. Each year, this event brings lanta.org. [email protected]. together Atlanta’s finest restaurants and TASTE OF LIMMUD. On March 27, 11:30 wine/liquor distributors to benefit the a.m.-7:00 p.m., at the Marcus Hillel Center CIVIL WAR ART. In commemoration of HEALTH I.T. BUSINESS EXCHANGE. Zimmerman-Horowitz Independent Living at Emory University, Taste of Limmud the sesquicentennial of the Civil War, the Based on the success of its initial match- Program (Z-H ILP), a highly individual- Atlanta + Southeast 2011 will offer an Booth Western Art Museum presents “Mort maker conference last June, the American- ized, person-centered supportive living pro- opportunity to experience a meaningful, Künstler’s Civil War Art: For Us the Israel Chamber of Commerce’s Medical gram that enables people with disabilities to spiritual, and communal Judaism, while Living,” April 2-September 4. The exhibi- Committee will present its 2nd annual U.S.- live as independently as possible. The learning with some of the country’s best tion features 40 major paintings portraying Israel Health IT Business Exchange, April Tasting 2011 co-chairs are Debra and Mark Jewish educators. Hear Jonathan Sarna on the sights, sounds, and drama of the Civil 11-12, hosted by Georgia Tech’s Enterprise Brown, Kate Lipton, and Nancy and Eric Jewish law and American civil liberty, meet War. Visitors to the exhibition will also gain Innovation Institute. The event is expected Miller. For tickets and information, visit the Atlanta Indie Innovators, explore the an inside look into the artist’s creative to attract 15 of Israel’s most innovative http://thetasting.org. “Secret Lives of Teens” with educator Scott process through a display of 80 preliminary companies and national players in this Friend, learn about Moving Traditions from sketches Künstler used to create his master- extremely active field, with an expectation SAVE THE DATE. The 2011 Yeshiva Executive Director Deborah Meyer, enjoy works. For more information about this of up to 200 one-on-one meetings. For Atlanta Tribute Dinner, honoring Jeff and indie rocker Naomi Less and Chassidic rap- exhibition and related programming, visit details on participation and sponsorship, Anita Stein, Dan Appelrouth, and Elisa per Prodezra Beats, and more. For details, www.boothmuseum.org, or call 770-387- visit www.usisraelexchange.com. Iteld, takes place June 5. For more informa- visit www.limmudse.org. 1300. tion, contact Jill Ovadia at 770-451-5299, DONOR EVENT. Ahavath Achim ext. 26, or [email protected]. NEVER LET GO. Temima, the Richard and WARDROBE WONDERS. On April 3, Sisterhood presents its annual Donor Event, Jean Katz High School for Girls, is produc- 9:00 a.m., join the Mt. Scopus Group of an Intergenerational Fashion Show, spon- EAGLE STAR GALA. The 10th Annual ing Never Let Go, an original musical based Greater Atlanta Hadassah at Coldwater sored by Bloomingdale’s, April 11, at 6:00 Eagle Star Awards Gala is June 6, 6:00-9:00 on Memoirs of Glückel of Hemeln, an Creek, Phipps Plaza, to learn how to update p.m. There will be dinner, fashions, make- p.m., at SunTrust Bank headquarters. The extraordinary picture of Jewish life in the what you already have in your closet. Bring up tips, and door prizes. Guests are wel- Gala, the American-Israel Chamber of Renaissance. Never Let Go will be present- an item of clothing that is hard to match, a come with prepayment of $35 dinner cou- Commerce’s annual community flagship ed March 28-29, 7:30 p.m., at Tucker High favorite piece in need of an update, or that vert plus a donor contribution of $25. Send event, recognizes the Israeli Company of School Theatre, 5036 Lavista Road, Tucker. item with the tags still on, and see how to a check in the amount of $60, payable to the Year and Deal of the Year. Additionally, Tickets are $22 in advance, $26 at the door, bring it into the new season. This fashion AA Sisterhood, to: D. Newman, 95 Jerry Zucker (z”l) will receive the Chamber and $14 for students. This production is for workshop includes a continental breakfast. Bransford Road NE, Atlanta GA 30342. Founders Award, and the Technology women only, ages 10 and above. RSVP to The fee is $10 per person. RSVP by March Bloomingdale’s will donate 10% of all Association of Georgia will receive the [email protected] or 404-315-0507 25 to Susan Berkowitz, 404-622-9601. April 7-17 purchases to AA Sisterhood. For Community Partner Award. CNN news by 4:00 p.m., March 24. more information contact: Laurie anchor Nadia Bilchik is this year’s emcee. SEDER TRADITIONS. The Marcus Weinstein, [email protected]. Bill Rogers is host speaker, and Ester ROZ COHEN LUNCHEON. The Eleventh Jewish Community Center of Atlanta’s Levanon is Israeli keynote speaker. For Annual Roz Cohen Interfaith Luncheon is (MJCCA) A Page from the Book Festival LACE UP. In just five years, the Georgia details, visit www.eaglestargala.com. March 29, 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at The welcomes Cokie Roberts and Steve Roberts Walk Now for Autism Speaks has raised Temple. This annual inspirational event, for “A New Perspective on Seder more than $3.8 million for autism aware- SPREAD THE WORD. Five generations of presented by the National Council of Traditions,” based on their book, Our ness, advocacy, research, and family servic- campers will gather for Camp Judaea’s 50th Jewish Women (NCJW), Atlanta Section, Haggadah: Uniting Traditions for es. The 2011 walk, scheduled for May 22, Anniversary Celebration, September 2-4, at features panelists discussing a topic that Interfaith Families, April 10, 3:30-6:00 11:00 a.m., at International Plaza, Georgia Camp Judaea, Hendersonville, North brings together women of all faiths. This p.m. Taste new Passover recipes, shop local World Congress Center, will also include Carolina. Celebration organizers are cur- year’s topic is “Women, Religion & Judaica vendors, and visit the new Jewish activities for children, a resource fair for rently trying to get the word out to anyone Power.” The luncheon is $60 per person; Life and Learning holiday pushcart. The parents, refreshments, and entertainment. who has attended the camp. For registration sponsorships are available. For tickets and book is available on-site. Reservations are Registration is free and can be found at and other information, visit www.campju- information, contact the NCJW, Atlanta recommended. Tickets are $60/couple with www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/geor- daea50th.com.

Ben Rabinowitz was our poster boy. time doing two things, studying his Judaism With his broad, smiling face; gregari- Ben Rabinowitz and enjoying friends and friendships. He ous personality; concern for the well-being once recounted the story of coming home of others; dedication to his family and reli- and finding a young man from Atlanta sit- gion; and total commitment to humanity, September 16,1927 – February 1, 2011 ting on the couch in his house. When Ben Ben was everything that we wanted our approached him, the young man told Ben as though everyone of the munal activities and an paper to be. He was the embodiment of that Ben did not know him, but he wanted to St. Phillip Street gang had a active participant in con- optimism. see the man who so glowingly described the nickname, and Ben was no gregational life. Ben was born and raised in Charleston, beauties of Israel and to have his name exception. Belying the When Ben and Sonya S.C., the child of immigrant parents. Ben, appear in Ben’s column. future, Ben’s nickname was moved to Israel in 1991, like a number of his contemporaries, In the last several years, Ben’s health “Slim.” Sam Appel was able to get including our co-editor, Sam Appel, was a deteriorated, and he was not able to contin- Fortunately for Ben him to become a regular product of the close-knit family and friends ue to write for our paper. He moved back to and the Atlanta Jewish contributor to The Jewish who lived on St. Phillip Street. The band of Atlanta to be closer to his children, but even community, he fell in love Georgian, and thus began families, as in areas all over the U.S., with the limitations imposed by health and married Atlantan Sonya a his column called “A became Americanized; however, they main- problems, when Ben entered the room Abelson, and soon there- Jewish Georgian in tained their Jewish identity with a devotion warmth and energy still radiated from this after the couple moved to Jerusalem,” which contin- developed at the “Little Shul.” The influ- wonderful, warm, committed person. Atlanta. With his voracious ued until Sonya’s health ence of this environment during his forma- Our poster boy is gone, but he helped appetite for all things deteriorated in 2004. tive years shaped his dedication and charac- set the tone for our paper, for which we are Jewish, his involvement in You could not help but ter for the rest of his life, and he sought to thankful. Because of Ben, we will strive to the growth of the Atlanta smile and feel warm when fulfill the commitment to Judaism and his see the beauty in the world and welcome Jewish community, particu- you read Ben’s description fellow humans that was his birthright as a Ben Rabinowitz both friends and strangers. larly in the Orthodox seg- of what he saw, did, ate, Jew and as a Kohain. While not on the par ment, always put him at the center of com- and with whom he visited. He spent his with being given a Hebrew name, it seems Page 34 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 KASHER LIVING BOOKS FOR COOKS A PASSOVER STORY

Dining in Again is what I would call a How I love living in Atlanta—second to Kosher Affairs “heimishe” community cookbook, a helpful Jerusalem, there is no other city in which I resource for traditional recipes, as well as would rather reside. As a bonus, I live in the COMING SOON… recipes appropriate for Shabbos and Jewish Toco Hill neighborhood, which is truly a com- PASSOVER 2011/5771 holidays. What makes this book unique is that munity—a small town in a big city. I know my each of the 550+ recipes is accompanied by the neighbors—often share Shabbos and yom tov As we approach Passover, a time for reliv- BY Roberta appropriate bracha (prayer) to recite before meals with them and join in their simchas and ing and remembering the liberation of the eating the food. What a beautiful and appropri- sadnesses. So, it is not a surprise to me when Jewish people from bondage, we know that Scher my neighbors casually visit. this holiday is all-consuming—both of our For the past 15 years, we have had the time and our budgets. The cleaning process reservations, call 404-963-2548, ext. 113, or e- pleasure of pop-in Seder entertainment or and the preparing for Seders and all the special mail [email protected]. By the street entertainment. One year it was “Moses,” meals of yom tov take days—or shall I say way, Goodfriend’s is planning a kosher-for- another year our neighbors hosted a bullfrog in weeks? And kosher for Passover foods is cost- Passover steak night! their garage, and another year it was a goat in ly. their back yard. But last year was truly unfor- You’re on your own for the cleaning part, gettable. but here are a few tips to help with that budg- At our first Seder, while we were enjoying et: dessert, in came a band of singing “Israelite • Make your own vanilla sugar. Add 1-2 split slaves,” along with a camel. No, not a make- vanilla beans to 6-8 cups of sugar in an airtight, believe camel—a live one! The camel circled sealed container. Keep the container at room our table, along with the singing Israelites. temperature and shake often. Replenish the Needless to say, we are sure that we were like- sugar as you use it. The longer the bean is ly the only Seder in America, or perhaps the buried, the deeper the vanilla flavor. world, with a live visiting camel. We can’t wait • Heinz wine vinegars, both garlic flavored and to see what our neighbors have lined up for this classic varieties, are usually certified OU–P. year. • For an easy homemade strawberry jam, see recipe below. ————— • There are many products that are usually con- sidered kosher for Passover even without Steak Night at Emoryʼs Marcus Hillel ate combination—food and food for thought. “In every generation a person must see Passover certification, such as pure granulated Center was a big success. Dining in Again is a publication benefiting himself as if he has himself come out of sugar, non-iodized salt, most whole spices Yeshiva Masoras Avos, Lakewood, New Egypt.” [The Mishna (Pesachim 116b)] As we (except mustard seed and cumin), Hershey’s I am delighted to report that Atlanta has a Jersey. For some sample recipes or to order, relive our heritage, may Passover and our unflavored cocoa, and many more. Check with new full-service kosher restaurant, Moshe’s visit dininginagain.com, or order on Seders be joyous for each of us…a celebration your rabbinical authority to verify, or contact Mediterranean Cuisine, located in the Mount Amazon.com. of our freedom. We wish our readers a won- the Atlanta Kashruth Commission for a com- Vernon Shopping Center in Dunwoody. derful, delicious, and kosher holiday! plete list. Owner/Chef Moshe Bengigi has developed a Entrée to Judaism by Tina Wasserman • Freeze leftover Seder and Passover wine in Mediterranean-style menu that includes chick- (URJ Press): Tina Wasserman is an award-win- ice cube trays or sealable plastic bags for use in en, fish, meat, and vegetarian entrees, along ning cooking instructor, specializing in con- cooking. with some Israeli specialties. The restaurant is temporary kosher cuisine, who combines an • Make your own Passover powdered sugar in lovely, with an upscale decor, and serves both interest in nutrition with a vast knowledge of a food processor by mixing 1 cup granulated lunch and dinner. On my first visit, which was food and cooking. Through the pages of this sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons potato starch. for lunch, I tasted a grilled vegetable kabob cookbook, she takes the reader on a worldwide Process until desired consistency is reached. with fries and a schwarma on pita. All arrived culinary journey across the ages. Sound good? • Make your own matzoh meal or matzoh far- fresh and hot. By the way, the pita is made in- Well, it is just a wonderful cookbook. The fel in the food processor. Just process matzoh house and is quite exceptional. I plan to return instructions are clear; “Tina’s tidbits,” which to desired consistency. for dinner soon. Phone 770-393-2201. can be found on most pages, provide valuable • Yes, I do have a separate food processor for tips; and the recipes are enticing. It is quite Passover. I find that this appliance is both a AND FOR PASSOVER... obvious that the author has superlative teach- time saver and a budget helper. I process whole ing and culinary skills. This book is available nuts for baking, grind horseradish for charoses, Elegant Essen will feature its classic at Amazon.com. grate chocolate, and much more. menus, including its popular fried chicken and brisket with gravy, along with traditional From Lokshen to Lo Mein by Donald Visit www.KosherEye.com, and “see all LOCAL NEWS kugels and vegetables. It also has a new Siegel (Gefen Publishing): No question, I that’s new in kosher.” Visit often, sign up for Passover signature dessert this year—Tooty enjoy Chinese food. (Just ask Reuvein Robbins our newsletter, and share your thoughts. Tweet What a pleasure and treat to experience Fruity Trifle. Owner Marlene Bercovitch of Chai Peking.) So, when I discovered this with us at twitter.com/koshereye and “Like” us the recent steak dinner at Goodfriend’s Grill, describes it as “layers and layers of cake, fruit, book, I was ready to break out the wok. I did- on Facebook.com/KosherEye. located at Emory’s Marcus Hillel Center. Both and whipped topping.” For more information, n’t even have to convert anything, since the the ambience and service were superb—as was visit elegantessencatering.com or call 770- recipes have kosher ingredients. I am still What’s cooking? E-mail my meal. My dinner choices included a won- 451-3965. working my way through the pages but have [email protected]. This column is derful light butternut squash soup, a house Passover takeout catering will also be already tried the egg drop soup, lo mein with meant to provide the reader with current trends salad, and a one-pound black Angus boneless available from several other local AKC-certi- peanut sauce, double-cooked string beans, and developments in the kosher marketplace. ribeye steak. I am embarrassed to confess that fied caterers and stores, including Kosher broccoli salad, and vegetarian spring rolls. (I Since standards of kashruth certification vary, I ate it all, including the dessert, which was a Gourmet and Goodfriend’s Grill. use the Nasoya kosher wrappers, which are check with the AKC or your local kashruth warm molten chocolate lava cake. This special Check with the AKC for complete local available at local supermarkets.) This book is authority to confirm reliability. dinner is the “hottest” kosher ticket in town, Passover listings. Details about other kosher- available at Amazon.com. since it is held just once a month. Goodfriend’s for-Passover catering services were not is also open for lunch and dinner daily. For received by press time. See KOSHER AFFAIRS, page 39 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 35 Kosher Korner Pesach Guide

SOURCES FOR KOSHER-FOR-PASSOVER FOOD BY Rabbi Reuven Bijan Catering Stein 770-457-4578 [email protected] a few hours to allow the continuous clean Elegant Essen mechanism to deep clean, or remove the spots 770-451-3065 with oven cleaner or steel wool. If the spots are [email protected] dark and can be crumbled if scratched, disre- elegantessencatering.com gard them. In all cases, the oven should then be koshered by turning it to broil for 40 minutes. For All Occasions and More Catering Broiler: Since food is cooked directly on 404-992-5878 the pan or grill, it must be heated to a glow in foralloccasionsandmore.info order to be used on Passover. An alternate method is to replace the pan with a new pan and The Goodfriend Catering Company kasher the empty broiler cavity by cleaning and 678-222-3719 setting it to broil for forty minutes. If one does [email protected] not intend to use the broiler on Passover, one The meat side of Goodfriend’s Grill at the may still use the oven even without kashering Marcus Hillel Center will be open on Chol the broiler, provided the broiler has been thor- Hamoed Passover. Goodfriend’s will host a oughly cleaned. Steak Night on Thursday, April 21. For details Oven hoods and exhaust fan filters: These and reservations, should be cleaned and free of any food residue. call 404-963-2548, ext. 113. Microwave ovens: Microwaves should be tested to see if the walls get hot enough to The Kosher Gourmet absorb chometz. To test, cook an open potato in 404-636-1114 the microwave until it has been steaming for a [email protected]; kgatl.com few minutes. Place your hand on the ceiling of the microwave to see if it has become too hot to Return to Eden has quinoa and touch. If you cannot hold your hand there for 15 gluten-free matzohs. seconds, then it can be assumed that the www.return2eden1.com microwave gets hot enough to absorb chometz. If this is the case, the microwave should not be used for Passover. If you were able to hold your KASHERING FOR PASSOVER hand there for 15 seconds, then the microwave can be kashered. Wait 24 hours after the last When possible, it is preferable to have sep- use. Fill a large paper container with water and arate equipment for Passover. Some people bring to a boil. Move the container to a new even have a special Passover kitchen. If this is spot, and bring to a boil again. The turntable not practical, one can kasher (clean and purge) should be replaced. some types of equipment. Different pieces of Barbeque Grills: A grill cannot be kash- equipment have different methods of kasher- ered by just turning on the gas. Kashering ing. should be done with a blowtorch (only by qual- ified personnel) or by sandwiching the grates OVENS between charcoals and setting them on fire. An Conventional oven: In a conventional alternate method is to replace the grates of the oven, gas or electric, thoroughly clean with an grill. The part of the grill cavity which is level oven cleaner. If a caustic-type cleaner (such as with the grate must also be kashered by heating Easy-Off) is used and some stubborn spots it to a glow. The empty grill cavity must be remain after two applications, the remaining kashered by cleaning, closing the hood, and set- spots may be disregarded. Once the oven and ting it to broil for 40 minutes. racks have been cleaned, kasher the oven by heating it to broil or the highest setting for forty COOKTOPS minutes. On a gas range, the cast iron or metal Self-cleaning oven: The self-cleaning grate(s) on which the pots sit may be thorough- cycle will clean and kasher the oven simultane- ly cleaned, inserted into the oven, and kashered ously. along with the oven. Continuous cleaning oven: Inspect the On an electric cooktop, turn the burners on oven to make sure it is clean. Then bring the the high heat setting for a few minutes, until oven to 450 degrees for one hour, so that the they come to a glow. continuous mechanism can work. If the spots For both types of cooktops, the area do not disappear, the oven should be left on for See Kosher Korner, page 36 Page 36 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011

kashering. Kosher Korner Blechs: These require kashering with a blowtorch. From page 35 Coffeemakers: For coffeemakers that have between the burners should be covered with a brewed only unflavored caffeinated pure coffee, double layer of heavy-duty foil. The knobs clean thoroughly and replace with new or should be cleaned. Passover glass carafe and new filters. For all Glass, Corning, Halogen, or Ceran electric other coffeemakers: Clean thoroughly. Do not smooth top range: To kasher the burner area, use for 24 hours. Pour one cup of water into the clean well, and turn on the elements until they chamber. Heat the water in the unit, and allow it glow. The burner area is now considered kosher to drip over the exposed metal base. Replace the for Passover. The remaining area that does not plastic filter holder and filters with new ones. get red hot is not kosher for Passover, so it SINKS should be covered with foil if it will not damage the cooktop. Another option is to place an China and porcelain sinks should be com- approximately 1/8”-thick metal disc on the pletely lined with contact paper or other appro- burner area to raise the Passover pots above the priate material. In addition, dishes that are to be glass surface. This will help prevent the pots washed in such sinks (china or porcelain) must from coming in contact with the non-kosher- be washed in a Passover dishpan and placed on for-Passover area of the cooktop. This disc a Passover rack. should not extend beyond the designated cook- Stainless steel sinks can be kashered. Clean ing area. the sink thoroughly. The sink should not be used with anything hot for twenty-four hours prior to METAL UTENSILS, SILVERWARE, POTS, kashering. Then, pour boiling water from a KIDDUSH CUPS Passover kettle/pot over the sink, covering every part, including the drain and the spout of Metal utensils that have been used for the water faucet. cooking, serving, or eating chometz may be kashered by cleaning them thoroughly, waiting GLASSWARE twenty-four hours, and then immersing them, one-by-one, into a kosher-for-Passover pot in It is customary to kasher drinking glasses which water is rapidly boiling. One can kasher by immersing them in cold water for three twen- an oversized pot by bringing water to a boil and ty-four-hour periods. The water should be emp- dropping a hot rock into the pot, causing the pot tied and refilled in between. This procedure, to overflow on all sides. The rock needs to be however, does not apply to glass (Pyrex) that is heated in order to make sure the water stays used with heat. boiling. For pots with handles of a different material, one should consult with a rabbi before See KOSHER KORNER, page 39 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 37 Page 38 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 39 Kosher Affairs Kosher Korner From page 34 From page 36 COUNTERTOPS Granite, marble, and stainless steel coun- Recipes: All are Passover friendly! tertops may be kashered by pouring boiling water over them after they have been cleaned Strawberry Jam glass bowl in a microwave for about 1 ovenproof casserole. Pour the chicken and not used for 24 hours. Many countertops Adapted from a recipe provided by my minute on high, until butter is melted and stock into the still-hot browning pan. are made of materials that are not able to be friend Lynne Rabinowitz honey is more fluid. Scrape up any meat particles, add them to kashered; those countertops need to be covered Stir the butter mixture into the farfel the reserved marinade, and pour over with a non-porous material. For further infor- 2 pounds fresh strawberries mixture until all farfel is lightly coated. shanks. Cover with a lid. mation on kashering the many new types of 4 cups white sugar Spread mixture over a large non-stick Put the casserole in the preheated countertop materials, visit www.crcweb.org or 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice pan with 1 inch sides, and bake for 15 min- oven, then immediately reduce the temper- www.star-k.org. utes. Halfway through baking, stir to ature to 350 degrees F. Roast shanks for 45 Remove tops from berries, clean thor- brown evenly. minutes, then baste with juices. Roast for PASSOVER ALERTS oughly (I use a vegetable wash product), Remove from oven. Cool slightly and an additional 1–11⁄2 hours or until the Egg matzohs should not be eaten on and drain. then toss with dried fruit. meat is very tender and easily pulls away Passover, except by sick and elderly people Place strawberries in a heavy When totally cooled, store in a Ziploc from the bone. If the liquid has reduced who cannot digest regular matzoh. Please note saucepan; crush with potato masher. Add bag or airtight storage container. greatly, add 1⁄2 cup of water. that even the sick and elderly cannot fulfill sugar and lemon juice, and bring to boil. Remove meat to a serving platter; their obligation at the Seder with egg matzoh. Simmer uncovered, stirring often, until Chocolate Granola Treats: Melt 8 ounces keep warm. If gravy is too watery, reduce Maror (bitter herbs): Many people use mixture reaches 220 degrees F. of Passover chocolate chips, and mix them by simmering 5–10 minutes. Drizzle sauce romaine lettuce for the mitzvah of maror. Pour mixture into clean jars. Let cool, with 1 1/2 or 2 cups of the prepared gra- on shanks and serve. Small green insects that are hard to see may be then cover. Refrigerate. (It will thicken a nola. Stir to coat well. Drop by the tea- found on the lettuce and are forbidden to be bit in refrigerator.) Freeze if desired, but spoonful onto parchment paper, and allow ————— eaten. One should use only the stalks, or check defrost in refrigerator before using. the mounds to firm up before you devour the leaves very thoroughly. them! Overnight Potato Kugel Even though some produce may have a This is delicious as a spread on mat- Adapted from Dining in Again, Yeshiva wax coating, AKC policy is that it can be used zoh, a topping for sponge cake, or over ice ————— Masoras Avos without peeling. cream or yogurt. Because pectin is not Double-check labels. Many brands have used, the consistency of the jam will be Oven Roasted Lamb Shanks 9 large potatoes similar year-round and kosher-for-Passover somewhat more syrupy than store-bought Adapted from Entrée to Judaism 5 eggs, lightly beaten labels; these products can get mixed up on the shelves. jam, but truly more delicious. by Tina Wasserman 1 tablespoon salt Potato vodka may contain grain and may 1 teaspoon black pepper not be kosher for Passover. Carmel vodka with ————— This recipe serves about four and can be 1/2 cup vegetable oil an OU-P is kosher for Passover. multiplied for a crowd. After Passover, one may not eat chometz Passover Granola Preheat oven to 200 degrees F. that was in the possession of a Jew who did not Adapted from Entrée to Judaism by Tina 2–4 lamb shanks Grate potatoes and combine with sell it according to Jewish Law. Wasserman 2 tablespoons mixed herbs (basil, rose- remaining ingredients. Pour into greased For updated kashruth information, visit mary, oregano), finely minced 9”x13” oven pan. Spoon or brush oil on kosheratlanta.org, crcweb.org, kashrut.com, From Tina: “I haven’t met a Passover 1 cup orange juice or the juice of 2 oranges top of kugel to lightly and evenly coat ou.org, kosherquest.org, or star-k.org. If you cereal that I liked so I decided to create Grated zest of 1 orange entire top. Wrap kugel in heavy-duty foil have kashruth questions, call 404-634-4063. one. This granola is too good! I eat it for 2 1⁄2 cups full-bodied merlot and place in oven overnight. breakfast, munch on it for a snack; I stir it 4 large or 6 medium cloves of garlic, ITEMS THAT CANNOT BE into melted chocolate and make a candy minced Bracha: Ha’adama (Blessed are You, KASHERED FOR PASSOVER that is addictive!” Salt and freshly ground black pepper Hashem, our God, King of the universe, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil Who creates the fruit of the ground.) Bread machine 3 cups matzoh farfel 1 cup low-salt chicken stock or water China 2/3 cup sliced almonds ————— CorningWare 1/2 cup sweetened or unsweetened Rinse the lamb shanks and dry. Make Crock-pot George Foreman Grill coconut marinade by combining herbs, orange Cranberry Waldorf Relish Grater (any) 2/3 cup pecans broken into large pieces juice, zest, merlot, and garlic. Place in a Adapted from Dining in Again, Yeshiva Knives with plastic handles 1/4 teaspoon salt Ziploc bag or plastic-covered glass dish. Masoras Avos Melmac 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon Add shanks, and let marinate for at least 2 Pasta maker 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg hours at room temperature or overnight in 1 green apple Plastic utensils 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (or parve the refrigerator. Massage or turn often to 2 cans whole berry cranberry sauce Porcelain margarine) coat well. Remove the shanks from the 1 8-ounce cup crushed pineapple, drained Porcelain enamel pots 1/3 cup wildflower or clover honey marinade and pat them dry with a paper 1/3 cup chopped walnuts Pyrex 1 1/2 cups chopped dried mixed fruit of towel. Reserve marinade. Sandwich maker your choice, including raisins, or 7 oz. bag Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Dice apples. Combine all ingredients, Silverstone of dried fruits Lightly season shanks with pepper and a and chill. Stoneware pinch of salt. Heat a large pan over high Synthetic rubber Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees F. heat for 20 seconds. Add 2 tablespoons of Bracha Shehakol: (Blessed are You, Teflon Combine the farfel, almonds, coconut, olive oil, reduce heat to medium-high, then Hashem, our God, King of the universe, Toaster oven pecans, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a 2- add shanks. Brown on each side for about through Whose word everything came to Waffle iron quart mixing bowl. 2 minutes. be.) Melt the butter and honey in a small Place shanks in a single layer in an Mark your calendars for the Monday of Memorial Day weekend, May 30, 2011, for Kosher Day at Turner Field. Page 40 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 safety net for the generations of tomorrow. Mrs. Throne, 40, was born in South Silverstein began her career in 1984 at Africa, and her family moved to Atlanta FEDERATION NEWS the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, when she was nine. After graduating from where she spent 14 years as the Women’s the University of Georgia, she lived in Division director. In 1999, she moved to the Israel for nine years, working first in the Jewish Federation of Broward County and hotel industry and later for the American worked for six years as their endowment Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), EMERGENCY RELIEF FOR JAPAN. Jewish Federation of director, campaign director, and co-CEO. one of Federation’s overseas affiliate part- Greater Atlanta has opened an emergency relief fund through its During her upcoming three-year term with ners. overseas affiliate, the American Jewish Joint Distribution JFNA, Silverstein will continue with her Her husband, Adam Throne, teaches responsibilities as vice president of Planned English at North Springs High School. Committee, to provide aid and support to the victims of the 8.9 mag- Giving & Endowment at Federation. They have two children, Hannah, 3, and nitude earthquake and ensuing tsunami that struck Japan on Silverstein is the first Atlantan to hold this Jonah, 10 months. The family lives in March 11 and to help those in other potential disaster zones, such as position of national importance. Peachtree Corners in Gwinnett County. Hawaii and the U.S. mainland’s West Coast. You can donate Silverstein was instrumental in bring- through Federation’s website, www.JewishAtlanta.org. The Atlanta ing Create a Jewish Legacy to Atlanta in BRINGING BUSINESS STRATEGIES TO 2009. A model developed in San Diego, it THE NON-PROFIT WORLD. Frieda L. Jewish community’s thoughts and prayers are with all those who has expanded in Atlanta to include 27 part- Lalli, Jewish Federation of Greater have been affected by this disaster. ner organizations that have worked to Atlanta’s new vice president, Philanthropic secure 258 legacy commitments from 142 Advancement, brings years of professional families in just a year and a half. Combined, experience in both the corporate and small- ARNOVITZ NAMED INTERIM CEO. League. Arnovitz served as the first presi- thus far, these commitments total an esti- business world to her work. She joined Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta dent of the Center for Jewish Education and mated $20,853,232. Federation this fall after consulting with (JFGA) has named Atlanta businessman Experience, the central education planning Create a Jewish Legacy is an initiative small businesses to help them reach their Eliot M. Arnovitz interim chief executive and implementation agency for the Atlanta of Federation to build a strong, vibrant growth potential. Prior to that, she was an officer to lead the organization during the Jewish community. He serves on numerous community, now and in the future, with executive with AT&T for more than 20 search for a permanent CEO. philanthropic foundation boards and is bequests for permanent endowments. It pro- years. Steve Rakitt, CEO of JFGA for ten vice-chair of the Holly Lane Foundation. motes the message that all of us, regardless “We are identifying different groups years, left in Arnovitz is married to Phyllis of age, wealth, or affiliation, have the abili- within Atlanta’s diverse Jewish community January to Kozarsky, a physician specializing in infec- ty to make a difference for future Jewish and determining ways to engage them in the assume the posi- tious diseases and tropical medicine. generations. To learn more about Create a work of Federation,” she said. tion of CEO of Between them they have four children and Jewish Legacy, visit www.atlantajewishle- The Pittsburgh native and current the Jewish one grandchild. He enjoys tennis, golf, bik- gacy.org. Dunwoody resident moved to Atlanta from Federation of ing, and travel. He is an avid enthusiast of Tampa and leads Federation’s team of four Greater anything that rides on roads or rails, floats, A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS. professional fundraisers. She is currently Washington. or flies and holds an FAA Airline Transport With ten years experience both allocating applying the business strategies of the for- Arnovitz has Pilot Certificate. funds and raising money for the Jewish profit world to the non-profit arena. worked on Federation of Greater Atlanta, the new vice Just as she helped small- and medium- behalf of SILVERSTEIN RECEIVES NATIONAL president of size companies expand their base and cap- Federation for APPOINTMENT. Phyllis Silverstein, Community ture a bigger share of their market, she is Eliot M. Arnovitz over 35 years as Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta Campaign developing similar strategies to reach the a volunteer and (JFGA) vice brings a passion Atlanta Jewish community. says he is proud to have been asked to serve president of for service to A major goal is to segment the different as interim CEO until the search committee Planned Giving her job. groups and plan ways to specifically can name a successor. & Endowment, Ronette Bloom address their interests. “We are finding that Federation Board Chair Robert Arogeti has been named Throne knows different groups engage in philanthropy dif- said Arnovitz is an ideal fit for the interim chair of the firsthand the ferently. One example is that younger peo- role because of his involvement in all levels Jewish way dollars ple want more hands-on, grass-roots of the community, as well as his under- Federations of from Federation involvement,” she said. standing of business and management. North America help people in Other groups within the community Arnovitz is a partner in M & P (JFNA) Senior Ronette Throne Atlanta and include newcomers to the metro area, long- Shopping Centers, which owns and man- Advisory around the time donors, and those who are familiar ages shopping centers throughout the Council for world. As vice president of Community with Federation but do not understand how Southeastern states. Phyllis Silverstein Planned Campaign, she intends to translate the the funds it raises are used. In the Jewish community, Arnovitz has Giving & impact of campaign funds into campaign held offices and served on the boards of The Endowment. She assumed this honor at a communications, education, and communi- ATLANTAN TO CO-CHAIR NATIONAL American Jewish Committee; The Ahavath recent national meeting of planned giving ty outreach. YOUNG LEADERSHIP DEPARTMENT. Achim Synagogue; the Jewish Educational and endowment professionals in Palm In her years with Federation, Mrs. Keith Greenwald, a JFGA executive com- Loan Fund; and the Marcus Jewish Beach, Florida. Throne has worked on both the fundraising mittee member, Community Center of Atlanta, where he Silverstein is a career development and funds allocation arms of the organiza- was selected to was named a life trustee; The American director, with 26 years of experience. She tion, including serving as Young Leadership be co-chair of Jewish Joint Distribution Committee; State has been with JFGA for five years and is the director for the campaign. the Young of Israel Bonds; and United Jewish lead professional for the Jewish communi- “My focus right now is to stress to Leadership Communities (now the Jewish Federations ty’s Planned Giving & Endowment pro- donors that we really need to raise more this Department at of North America), along with the Anti- gram at Federation. As VP, she oversees the year than last year, and that increasing the Jewish Defamation League. management and stewardship of Supporting amount of a gift can make a huge impact on Federations of Eliot Arnovitz is a graduate of Tulane Family Foundations, Donor Advised Funds, the lives of so many,” she said. North America University and served as an officer in the Restricted Endowment Funds, and endow- Funds from the 2011 Community (JFNA). His United States Army. He has participated in ment fund investments for agencies, organ- Campaign will support Federation affiliate term will begin the Wexner Heritage Foundation program izations, and synagogues in the Greater agencies in Atlanta, in Israel, and around in June 2012, and Leadership Atlanta. Arnovitz is a past Atlanta area. She develops relationships the world, as well as Outcomes programs Keith Greenwald after he serves president of the Greenfield Hebrew with donors and their professional advisors that impact every aspect of Jewish life in as co-chair des- Academy and past general campaign chair- to enable the creation of permanent endow- Atlanta and abroad. Funding focuses on ignate this year. man and past president of JFGA. He is a ment funds benefiting future generations of three areas: Jewish identity and continuity; recipient of the Abe Goldstein Human the community. Today’s leaders have a vulnerable populations; and Israel and over- Relations Award from the Anti-Defamation responsibility and privilege to provide a seas. See FEDERATION, page 41 March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 41 Yad L’Yad provides Passover “wheat money” to those in need Although the Yad L’Yad Charity Fund that the support of the poor of one’s own given by then, one may always give, even Passover. provides year-round assistance to Jews in city takes precedence over other types of up until the last moments before the onset With Purim over and Passover begin- need, it increases that assistance just before charity. of the holiday. ning sundown, April 18, Yad L’Yad Charity Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Purim, and The opening paragraph of the Yad L’Yad Charity Fund is a 501(c)(3) Fund Is making an appeal to the greater Passover. Haggadah, which we read at the Seder, non-profit organization, established in 2006 Atlanta Jewish community to fulfill the Purim, which we recently celebrated, is declares: “All who are hungry, let them by Mrs. Shani Posen for the purpose of mitzvah of Ma’ot Chitim by making a gen- the day we reach out to embrace our come and eat.” Our nation is one helping Jewish families in distress by dis- erous, tax-deductible donation to the fund. fellow Jews, irrespective of our People, and in order to expe- tributing kosher food and assisting with Donations can be made via the website, religious or social differ- rience freedom our- other needs. Yad L’Yad increased its scope www.yadlyad.com, or mailed to Yad L’Yad ences. Giving gifts to selves, we must also under the tenure of Mrs. Malka Charity Fund, Inc., 2897 North Druid Hills the poor on Purim ensure that our fel- Rosenbaum, z’l, to provide kosher food Road, #205, Atlanta GA 30329. Questions (Matanot low Jews have assistance on a bi-weekly basis and may be directed to Mrs. Cindy Steele, pres- La’evyonim), just the means to increase assistance prior to the holidays of ident, at 678-466-7640. four weeks celebrate free- Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Purim, and before Passover, dom as well. creates a sense In of fellowship. It preparation Greenwald has been a member of also opens our for the Federation Cabinet for five years. As a leader of hearts to con- Passover hol- From page 40 National Young Leadership, he will provide tinue giving for iday, it is an vision, direction, and leadership for the Passover and age-old Jewish The department oversees Next Gen coming year’s initiatives. “It’s important to throughout the tradition to con- programming, both outreach and engage- me that leaders who are young have a seat year to our commu- tribute generous- ment initiatives, as well as leadership at the table to ensure organizations change nity members in ly towards funds development efforts, in support of local to meet the next generation’s needs,” says need. This mitzvah is that ensure that Federation communities throughout North Greenwald. carried out today by organ- everyone who is in need America. This includes National Young Greenwald, a financial advisor with izations that can identify indi- has the necessary provisions Leadership Cabinet, an elite group of top Northwestern Mutual, lives in Sandy viduals or families in need and have for the holiday: kosher food, mat- local Federation leaders, ages 30-45, who Springs with his wife, Keri, and two chil- the ability to distribute tzedakah monies to zoh, wine, and festive clothing. have distinguished themselves by their dren. In addition to his ongoing work with them with discretion and in a dignified The collection of Ma’ot Chitim (wheat civic and financial contributions to Jewish Federation, Greenwald is a member of manner. Many people give to their rabbi’s money) begins thirty days prior to Passover, communal life and their personal leader- AIPAC’s Georgia Leadership Network and discretionary fund, and, in turn, the rabbi and the funds are distributed by the Shabbat ship qualities. Members of Cabinet give is an alumnus of ADL’s Steinberg distributes the tzedakah. Of special note is preceding the holiday. If one has not yet $5,000 or more to their Federation’s annual Leadership Institute and LEAD Atlanta. campaign. Page 42 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience to relocate; Jacobs Camp to expand programming The Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of generous lead gift from the Plough Since becoming camp director in auditorium that will continue to double as a Southern Jewish Life and the Union for Foundation of Memphis, the Museum of February of 2000, Jonathan “J.C.” Cohen worship space for the camp community and Reform Judaism’s Henry S. Jacobs Camp the Southern Jewish Experience opened as has overseen tremendous growth and evolu- the Jewish community of the Deep South. have announced an agreement that will a place where those ritual items could be tion at Jacobs, as it has sought to keep pace The museum plans to complete its move by result in the Museum of the Southern displayed and utilized. Simultaneously, it with trends in the camping industry and the the winter of 2013, after which time the Jewish Experience moving from its original served as a sanctuary and gathering place demands of the marketplace. In recent conversion of the facility will begin, with site on the grounds of the camp in Utica, for the camp community. years, the camp has undertaken an ambi- hopes of it operating as a performing arts Mississippi. In the years that followed, the muse- tious renovation program and has sought to center that summer. For the museum, the move opens the um’s collection grew, and its mission add and improve recreational facilities to Both the Institute of Southern Jewish possibility of increased visibility and access expanded, eventually resulting in the estab- insure a diverse range of top-notch program Life and the Henry S. Jacobs Camp depend for visitors; for the camp, it means the lishment of the Goldring/Woldenberg offerings. In addition to turning its Lake upon donors to support their programming, opening up of space critical to the enhance- Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL). Gary into a recreational venue, work has including the museum relocation and per- ment of the camp’s program. The museum Macy Hart was instrumental in establishing been done on its offerings in sports, outdoor forming arts space redesign. Inquiries to has not determined its new anchor location. the museum and later the ISJL and serves as adventure, creative arts, digital media, and both organizations regarding financial sup- Jacobs Camp opened its gates in 1970 its president. The ISJL is currently celebrat- aquatics. It has also identified a range of port to these endeavors are welcomed and under the leadership of Rabbi Solomon ing its tenth anniversary. Its mission areas in which it aspires to continue needed. Kaplan, who very soon after named Macy includes providing educational and rabbinic improving—with performing arts at the top To learn more about the B. Hart as camp director—a position that he services to Southern Jewish communities, of the list. Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern held until 2000. documenting and preserving the rich histo- After the museum’s relocation, Jacobs Jewish Life, visit www.isjl.org. To learn During the early years of the camp, ry of the Southern Jewish experience, and Camp plans to transition the building into a more about the URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp, fading congregations donated Jewish ritual promoting a Jewish cultural presence performing arts space with multiple visit www.jacobs.urjcamps.org. items for safekeeping. In 1987, thanks to a throughout a thirteen-state region. rehearsal areas, along with the beautiful

pening on the court, field, or mat. Don’t let you’re talking about the other person or your opponent get “into your head.” Keep team’s score. Schwartz on Sports your focus. The second is to visualize, prior • 1 and 1—It means that there’s a lot of NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS. I know to the game or match, what you’ll do in cer- fouling going on in the basketball game, what you’re thinking: It’s the end of March, tain situations. See yourself hitting a certain very common in a 40+ half-court game. It’s and he’s writing about New Year’s resolu- shot or making a wrestling move. Do this in not to be confused with 1 on 1, where many tions. Most of the ones people made at the practice, too. Even today, when I go to prac- guys forget they have teammates. beginning of the year have already been BY Jerry tice foul shots, I am pretending it’s a real • 4—The number of guys in a doubles rac- broken, but I’m going strong with mine, Schwartz game, and the game is on the line. quetball game. Before playing, make cer- and the chances of keeping them are even Lastly, “trust your stuff.” Have confi- tain you have all your medical insurance better if they are included in a column. So dence that all you’ve practiced will pay off paid. here goes. • to complete the book I’m working on for when the time comes. • 7—As in the 7th-inning stretch. In base- I promise: my children and grandchildren, 69 Life ball tradition, it’s the time, at the bottom of • to arrive at the Marcus Jewish Community Lessons from Pop. (I actually completed • Life Lesson number 44: It’s not whether the 7th inning, when everyone stands and Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) by 7:55 on that one recently, so I can check it off my you win or lose, but how you play the sings, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” the Saturday mornings, unless I want to have a list.) game. song whose music was composed in 1908 30-minute wait before playing the next A famous sports writer, Grantland by Albert Von Tilzer, a Jew. pick-up game. LIFE LESSONS FOR THE JEWISH Rice, wrote this many years ago, and it still • 17—The number of Harris Jacobs Dream • to continue to participate in the Les Mills GEORGIAN SPORTS SCENE. Regarding holds true today. Runs, as of June 6, 2010. A race named in Body Attack class on Tuesday mornings. that last New Year’s resolution: I wanted to All people are both a winner and loser honor of a great friend, supporter, and It’s the best full-impact aerobics class I’ve pass something on to my children and many times in their lives. Whether you’re leader in the Atlanta Jewish community. had since leaving Bally’s, even though I’m grandchildren, so I compiled a collection of competing in an athletic contest, for a • 32—The number of the greatest Jewish the only man in the class. (But that’s not 69 life lessons to share with them. Over the school award, or for a job, there is always baseball player of all times, the Dodger’s necessarily a bad thing.) years, I’ve been a collector of sayings, quo- that chance you might lose. Sandy Koufax. He, along with other great • that when somebody tells me about their tations, and inspirational stories that have And what if you do? If you ask your- Jewish baseball players, was highlighted in sports injury, I won’t tell them what to do significant meaning to me. You could call self if you played fair, gave it your best the documentary Jews and Baseball: An for it. them life lessons because each one was a effort, and showed good sportsmanship, American Love Story. This was the opening • not to tell anyone about the new basketball learning experience. A number of the life and if the answers are yes, then you’ve film at the 2011 Atlanta Jewish Film shot I’ve been working on, because he’ll lessons related specifically to sports and won, no matter what the outcome. Festival. probably be the guy guarding me the next living an active and healthy life, so I’d like No one wins all the time. There is no • 50—In Scrabble, if you use all seven let- game. to mention a few of them here. such thing as perfection, and we shouldn’t ters in a word, it’s called a Bingo, and it • to attend a Zumba class with my wife and • Life Lesson number 30: Trust your stuff. strive for it. Instead, we should strive for means you get a bonus of 50 points. It daughters. I enjoy competition, whether it is bas- excellence. We do that by playing like enhances your chance of winning. • when playing racquetball, not to turn ketball, racquetball, or a game of Scrabble. champions and remembering that “It’s not • 200—A number that signifies excellence around and watch the guy behind me taking I like the challenge of trying to win by play- whether you win or lose, but how you play in bowling (but not so good as a batting my shot off the back wall—unless, of ing hard, smart, and fair, and giving a good the game.” average). course, I want to get hit in the face. effort. All of our grandchildren are compet- Look for additional life lessons in • 15,000—Number of members of the • to stop playing any sport after I’ve itive. They get that from their parents and future columns. MJCCA. It’s the premiere Jewish institu- strained something. Walking it off won’t from having had the opportunity to partici- tion that fosters the growth of all its mem- make it better. pate in competitive activities from an early TAKE A NUMBER. This is my third col- bers through cultural, educational, social, • to play touch football with my son, sons- age. umn in which I get to talk about the signif- and total wellness activities. in-law, and grandsons and not care who Here are several suggestions that will icance of numbers in the Jewish Georgian wins. help you find that mental advantage, as well sports scene. After all, in sports, numbers This has been a busy column. It’s cov- • to remember to always keep my eye on the as the physical. The first is focus. In other count, and there are plenty of them to go ered New Year’s resolutions, life lessons, ball, unless, of course, I’m bowling. words, don’t be distracted; keep your mind around, so “take a number.” and numbers. Hope you’ve enjoyed the trip. • to drive for the bucket and score, but on the activity at hand. If it’s a tennis, soc- Until next time, drive for the bucket and remember that sometimes it’s OK to “stop cer, or wrestling match, don’t let what’s • 0—Most of the time, zero is a number you score. and pop.” going on in the stands affect what’s hap- don’t want to see in any game, unless March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 43 MJCCA NEWS

BBYO SOUTHERN REGIONAL CON- Magazine and 2007 recipient of the Spirit of VENTION. More than 200 teens from Suzi Bass Award for its long-term and con- Atlanta, Augusta, Charleston, Columbia, sistent contribution to professionalism in and Savannah came together for the BBYO Atlanta theater, Jerry’s Habima Theatre is a Southern Region Convention, January 14- program of the Marcus Jewish Community 16, in Augusta, Georgia, to share a weekend Center of Atlanta (MJCCA). It is Georgia’s filled with spirit, competition, and fun. only theatrical company featuring actors The convention began with services led with developmental disabilities, directed The Maccabeats performed live in concert at the MJCCA on February 26. by the teens, followed by an introduction and produced by professionals. All produc- This hit a capella group has become a YouTube sensation with its Hanukkah from the weekend’s special guests, Bible tions are held at the MJCCA’s Morris & Rae anthem, “Candlelight” (sung to the tune of Taio Cruzʼs “Dynamite”), which Raps, one of the most highly respected rap Frank Theatre, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, to date has had well over four million views. Since the release of their album teams in the nation, who use rap and hip Dunwoody. Voices from the Heights, The Maccabeats have performed all around the hop to help bring Jewish texts to life. Bible country, from New Yorkʼs Madison Square Garden to Orlando, Florida. This Raps taught the teens a rap song, “I’m Not concert was presented by Congregation Ariel, Yeshiva Atlanta, and the White, I’m Jewish,” which they then video- MJCCA taped and posted to youtube.com. They also worked with the seniors to create a rap selves and come alive on stage, without the rehearsals and performances. This unique about BBYO. fear of not being accepted.” program provides a wonderful opportunity On Saturday, chapters participated in “What better show to showcase the tal- for developing new skills through a mean- runoffs and competed for the best T-shirts, ents of these actors,” says Leslie Rothberg, ingful theater experience. banners, videos, stories, songs, and more. “than with the fun and lively 50’s-style Shadwell says, “We feel so fortunate They participated in the House Cup compe- music that we all know and love?” that Jerry’s Habima Theater has received titions with their respective chapters, which “The best part of this wonderful expe- national visibility in recent years. More and included a game of Quidditch, a scavenger rience, for me,” says Lowell Fine, “is see- more, people from across the country are hunt, Harry Potteropoly, and the magical Michele Martos (from left), Brittany ing the sense of pride and accomplishment publicly recognizing the strengths and abil- wand game. That evening, the Atlanta Bagley, Sam Gross, Bayley Bristow, that the actors have—on opening night, ities of these Habima actors, rather than Council presidents gave their State of the and Kelly Umstead (Photo: Heidi throughout the run of the show, and focusing on their disabilities. They are truly Council address, focusing on their accom- Morton Photography) beyond.” impacting Atlanta’s theater community in plishments during their yearlong term and Staci Brill adds, “Each year, I am so such a positive way.” passing along advice to the incoming Based on the hit Paramount Pictures proud to hear murmurings throughout the Performances are March 31, April 6, Council Boards. television series, Happy Days brings back audience—appreciation of the amount of and April 7, at 7:30 p.m.; April 2 and 9, at The weekend came to a close with the one of America’s best-loved families, the passion and commitment that it takes to be 8:30 p.m., and April 3 and 10, at 3:00 p.m. elections of the 2011 Atlanta Council Cunninghams. Arnold’s, the famed drive-in a part of a Habima show, as well as com- General admission tickets are $32; $15 Boards. Drew Maron, Daniel Kasten, Sam malt shop and number one hangout, is in ments about the dedication that it takes to for children 12 and under. MJCCA Member Getty, Ari Feldstein, Seth Euster, and Jordy danger of demolition. So the gang teams up continue improving upon these sophisticat- tickets are $22; $10 for children 12 and Berne were elected to the 83rd Atlanta to save it with a dance contest and a TV- ed productions.” under. Senior discounts are available. Council AZA Executive Board, while worthy wrestling match. Even Pinky Jerry’s Habima Theatre has expanded Running in conjunction with Jerry’s Alissa Hartnig, Hilit Jacobson, Rachel Tuscadero, Fonzie’s childhood sweetheart, in the number of people involved in its pro- Habima Theatre productions is the Just Whiteman, Elli Bock, Taylor Padawer, and returns to help. ductions. The audience has grown from the Start Artist Market, on the MJCCA’s Ashley Katzenstein were elected to the 63rd With music from Oscar-winner Paul family and friends of the actors to include Mainstreet. The Market features profession- Atlanta Council BBG Executive Board. Williams and book by the TV series creator the broader community. Professionally al artisans’ crafts, including jewelry, house- —Laura Fendrick, MJCCA BBYO associate Garry Marshall, the family-friendly Happy directed by MJCCA Assistant Director of wares, and apparel. Proceeds from the sales program director Days returns audiences to 1959 Milwaukee. Arts & Culture Dina Shadwell, the produc- support Jerry’s Habima Theatre. Lois Blonder, benefactor of Jerry’s tions also feature local theater artists. For additional information or to pur- Habima Theatre in loving memory of her Participants achieve new levels of self-con- chase tickets, call the MJCCA’s Box Office husband, Jerry Blonder, says, “I am thrilled fidence, motivation, and socialization from at 678-812-4002. to say that this is the 18th season of Jerry’s the intensive three-month process of Habima Theatre, and the audience reactions are still the same—moved, awed, touched. It gives me such pleasure to see these extraordinary shows sell out night after YESH SUMMER CAMP night, shows that improve the quality of life Yesh Shabbat overnight camp helps teens develop their talents and skills through for so many year after year—from the ded- schedules they build themselves. Numerous programs, courses, and electives are icated actors to the inspired audiences tak- available in areas including business, music, cooking, art and design, sports, debate ing in the enormous charm of these per- and public speaking, engineering, creative writing, and many other options. Drew Maron (from left), Alissa formances.” Students may also attend the Julian Krinsky School of Tennis, School of Golf, or Hartnig, Daniel Kasten, Hilit Jerry’s Habima Theatre is under the School of Basketball. All programs take place on the campus of Haverford College. Jacobson, Sam Getty, Rachel auspices of the MJCCA’s Blonder Family Yesh offers a family-like atmosphere within a shomer shabbos and glatt kosher Whiteman, Seth Euster, Elli Bock, Ari Department for Developmental Disabilities. environment. For more information, view the camp video at Feldstein, Taylor Padawer, Jordy Each year, together with local professional www.youtube.com/jkyeshshabbat or visit www.yeshshabbat.com. Berne, and Ashley Katzenstein actors from the community, Jerry’s Habima Theatre performers (ages 18+) present a HAPPY DAYS FOR JERRY’S HABIMA full-scale adaptation of a musical theatrical THEATRE. Happy days are here again with production. NEW SPORTS CAMP Richie, Potsie, Ralph Malph, and the unfor- This year, Jerry’s Habima Theatre is Camp Gan Israel/Cobb now has a sports division for boys, ages 7-10. Campers will par- gettable king of cool, Arthur “The Fonz” co-chaired by Lowell Fine, Staci Brill, and ticipate in a variety of sports led by sport instructors. They will do drills, work on skills Fonzarelli. From March 31-April 10, Robert and Leslie Rothberg. and sportsmanship, and play team games. They will also enjoy swimming, trips, and bi- Jerry’s Habima Theatre will present Happy Robert Rothberg says, “Jerry’s Habima weekly Camp Gan Israel electives. Space is limited. Visit www.cgicobb.org for infor- Days: A New Musical (90-Minute Version). Theatre provides a safe place for self- mation and registration. Featured in American Theatre expression, allowing people to be them- Page 44 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011 GSU law librarian credits exercise, yoga, support with recovery from ovarian cancer

Nancy Johnson thrives on yoga and ride, April 16, at the Midtown Athletic exercise, spending up to three days a Club at Windy Hill in Marietta. week in the gym at Georgia State According to the American Cancer University, where, as associate dean, Society, 22,000 women will be diag- she teaches law students about legal nosed with ovarian cancer this year; of research and runs the Law Library. that number, 15,000 will not survive. She credits both yoga and exercise By the time symptoms are present, it’s with her recovery from stage-three usually too late. ovarian cancer, diagnosed in May 2008. Johnson knew something was “Exercise made me strong, so after I got wrong while she was gardening. “I was sick, I was able to get back into the pulling weeds and had a horrible pain in swing of things. The fact that I was in my stomach.” She called her physician good shape really helped me through and went to the ER. A blood test showed the chemo and my illness.” her CA-125 levels were over the top, So it was no surprise when, in the indicating a likelihood of cancer. (CA- midst of chemo, she participated in a 125 measures a cancer protein in the grueling, six-hour, 100-virtual-mile blood.) The excruciating pain may have cycle ride to help fund ovarian cancer been one of the tumors that burst. A CT research. “I was not very strong and I scan showed late-stage ovarian cancer. was bald—I wore a funny hat—but I did The next morning, she began chemo it! It is such a tremendous experience. I treatments and, in July, had surgery. Dr. just kept going.” Benedict Benigno, gynecological Ovarian Cycle participants celebrate after six-hour, 100-mile ride. Professor Johnson is one of many oncologist at Northside Hospital and survivors who have clocked six contin- co-founder of the Ovarian Cancer be diagnosed and treated earlier to until something like this happens.” uous hours on an indoor cycle to show Institute (at Georgia Tech), is her sur- increase survival odds. “Ovarian Cycle is designed to raise their support for ovarian cancer geon. Immediately following surgery, funds for ovarian cancer research, gal- research. Ovarian Cycle (www.ovarian- While the CA-125 test did reveal Johnson was given “hot” chemo to vanize volunteers, and create awareness cycle.org) is an Atlanta-based organiza- cancer for Johnson, it is generally unre- decrease chances of a recurrence. among women,” notes founder and fit- tion whose wellness and training pro- liable because of an inability to detect “We’re all willing guinea pigs with Dr. ness instructor Bethany Diamond. She gram has raised more than $855,000 for early-stage ovarian cancer. “There are Benigno,” laughs Johnson. “Now he founded the organization after losing ovarian cancer research. Ovarian Cycle too many false positives, often produc- administers HIPEC [hyperthermic her best friend, Debbie Flamm, to ovar- 2011 kicked off with a February 16 ing unnecessary anxiety in healthy intraperitoneal chemotherapy] routine- ian cancer in 2003. Since then, Ovarian party and fundraiser at Twisted Taco- women,” says Dr. Benigno. “But con- ly.” Cycle has expanded beyond Atlanta to Perimeter. Training began March 5 and sider the alternative.” Researchers hope Johnson praises Dr. Benigno’s nurs- Birmingham, New York, Seattle, and will culminate in the final, 100-mile to find a reliable marker so women can es and nurse practitioner in the chemo Tallahassee. area. “They really take care of you; they get you through it, and they are there for you. They have a lot of compassion; you walk in the door, and you’re treated like you’re the only one there.” Support from nurses, family, friends, and co-workers speeded her recovery. So did yoga. During her recu- peration, Johnson discovered the bene- fits of yoga through GSU’s Wellness Center. “I love yoga; it makes me more flexible and relaxes me. We have a good support group as well; everyone at the wellness center has had cancer.” Part of her recovery involves vol- unteering: she walked for the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance (GOCA) and participates in “Survivors Teaching Students” at Emory Medical School, sharing her cancer experience with med students. She also plans to work for the Cancer survivor Nancy Johnson American Cancer Society. (left) and Ovarian Cycle Founder A North Atlanta resident, Johnson Bethany Diamond (right) cheer began training for Ovarian Cycle at the riders Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta in Dunwoody: “The JCC team “Ovarian cancer research is looking [for Ovarian Cycle] is very motivating. for a reliable marker,” says Diamond, I wandered into the center two years “so we won’t lose so many women to ago, and they took me under their wing; late-stage cancer.” Funds raised by they kept me going.” Ovarian Cycle participants and donors Meanwhile, she has a new appreci- go to the Ovarian Cancer Research ation of life: “I learned to value life and Fund, the Ovarian Cancer Institute, and live every day the best I can. You never the Norma Livingston Foundation. stop to think about this when you’re To participate in or donate to well. Every cancer patient learns you go Ovarian Cycle, see www.ovariancy- day to day. Nobody says they love you cle.org. March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 45 JF&CS NEWS be a volunteer

For more than a century, Jewish Family they’re blessed in life and understand the volunteer at the BMDC, contact Deborah paying, grocery shopping, and cleaning. & Career Services has provided essential value and reward of donating their time to a Fluker or Barbara Jones at 404-885-7561, “John is a real pleasure to be around, programs and services to roughly 30,000 group of patients, who are so thankful for [email protected], or bjones@jfcs- and it’s nice to actually see the person individuals in the Atlanta community. The their service,” said Dr. David Zelby, BMDC atlanta.org. To join JF&CS’ Legal Panel, you’re doing something for,” said Matt. generosity of its donors is only part of the chief of staff. “These individuals have contact Jeff at 404-814-0000 or “We both get so much out of it. It makes me reason it’s able to do so. Equally important worked all their lives, but have no other www.irslawproblems.com. feel like I’m giving back to society, and it is the generous time put forth by those who place to turn. The doctors often thank me gives him an outlet to be with someone else form the backbone of the agency—volun- for getting them involved.” WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN PACT? Ask and do things he never would have the teers. Perhaps less familiar than the BMDC is Matt Marks. This father of two grown chil- opportunity to do.” Many people know and appreciate JF&CS’ Legal Panel, a group of about 45 dren made a PACT with John Knight a year This isn’t the first mentoring experi- what JF&CS volunteers do. They drive attorneys who offer legal advice pro bono to and a half ago. A resident of East Cobb who ence for Matt, who is 49. He was a big older adults to the doctor, spend time with clients who have no way to pay for it. The owns a legal support services company, brother in graduate school. Matt spends little PALs, and visit patients in the hospital. panel is similar to those of other JF&CS Matt volunteers as much as he can in the about 5-10 hours each month with John, They serve on the Board of Directors, chair organizations around the country. community—tutoring in public schools and who is 45. They have been to NASCAR events, and make phone calls during the “There are certain areas where there is serving on several agency boards. But events, the air show, a comedy club, sports Annual Campaign. more of a need—where people who don’t PACT has been a particularly rewarding events, and other activities. Matt’s 21-year- Volunteers also provide dental care and have the money to pay for legal services are experience. old son, who attends Yeshiva in New Jersey, legal services to those who can’t afford having problems,” said Jeffrey L. Cohen, PACT (Partnering Active Citizens and his daughter, a freshman at Georgia them. the attorney who co-chairs the panel with Together) pairs adults participating in Tech, think it’s a great thing. Thanks to nearly 140 dentists who take JF&CS Chief Operating Officer Rick JF&CS’ disabilities service programs with “I try to be a good role model,” Matt a half a day each month out of their busy Aranson. “The highest demand is for pro- compatible volunteers from the community said. “It’s important to volunteer. I think schedules, the Ben Massell Dental Clinic bate, immigration, landlord-tenant issues, with whom they can enjoy regular activi- others ought to do it because it’s so reward- (BMDC) was able to cover 11,000-plus oral and family law.” ties. ing to see what it does for them.” health procedures this past year. The The Georgia State Bar encourages its John has been a participant in the To volunteer with PACT, contact BMDC, which turns 100 years old in 2011, members to perform pro bono work, he Zimmerman-Horowitz Independent Living Denise Deitchman at 770-677-9448 or vol- is the only resource for free comprehensive, said. “An attorney can fulfill that while also Program for the past 10 years. He owns his [email protected]. quality dental care available to indigent getting a personal reward for doing some- own condominium and has worked at individuals in metro Atlanta. thing for charity.” Publix and The Home Depot. John receives “The doctors at the clinic realize If you are a dentist who would like to help from Z-H ILP with his finances, bill

instant hit. Not only that, but the fervor ing the meaning and letting me keep my attracted attention from members of the fac- own kiddush cup!” ulty and student body. JSU NEWS Teens left their morning club more aware of Shabbat and its blessings, with a deeper appreciation of the meaning that CELEBRATING TU B’SHEVAT. Jewish and chocolate fondue, which were enjoyed they are now inspired to share with others. traditions are on the road and in public by newcomers and old timers alike. “These “I love my new kiddush cup,” said Joseph schools thanks to the Jewish Student Union. are delicious. What an awesome holiday!” Neder, a senior at Centennial High School. Now boasting vibrant clubs in 13 high exclaimed Emily Lauter, of Chattahoochee “I think we’ll use it at our dinner table schools in the greater Atlanta area, JSU is High School. “I’m celebrating this with my Friday night.” the single largest provider of Jewish pro- mom when I get home.” “I’ve heard people mumble some- gramming to unaffiliated youth in the city. thing before we passed around grape juice Activities in JSU clubs are hands-on at my temple but didn’t really know what it and rooted in Jewish tradition, giving teens meant,” commented Rachel from Saint Rachel Bennet adds a creative per- a sense of doing something authentically Francis High School on her way back to sonalized touch to her Kiddush cup “Jewish” with their newly found Jewish class. “Thanks Rabbi Neiditch for explain- friends. JSU clubs across greater Atlanta kicked off the new semester with Tu B’Shevat activities and celebrations. Tu B’Shevat is the Jewish New Year of the Trees, an extremely dynamic, yet little known holi- day among most teens who attended the club meetings. The meeting opened with a portion David, Frankie, Jenna, and Mollie from the Talmud examining the holiday enjoy Tu Bʼshevat festivities. of Tu B’Shevat. Then, teens participated in discussions about the Jewish view of envi- BRINGING BLESSINGS TO ATLANTA ronmentalism, tikkun olam, and the need to TEENS. This winter, courtesy of the JSU, protect the world that they live in. For over 400 teens learned about the mitzvah of many, this was their first time learning reciting the kiddush, the Jewish ritual bless- about these issues. ing over grape juice. While learning about Although discussions were a highlight the significance of this tradition, teens dec- of the activities, nothing compared to the orated and personalized their own glass kid- excitement on the students’ faces as when dush cups with colored markers, paints, Rabbi Chaim Neiditch, director of Southern glitter, and glue. The buzz in the room, cou- Region JSU, brought out blenders and fon- pled with the excitement of owning a per- due pots for making fresh fruit smoothies sonalized ritual object, made the activity an Page 46 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN March-April 2011

DISABILITIES DAY ON THE CAPITOL A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT. Booth STEPS. Governor Nathan Deal was keynote Western Art Museum has added a new document speaker for the 13th annual Disabilities Day, to its collection of presidential history: a one- MISH MASH February 24, at the state capitol. The program was page, signed letter from President Barack Obama sponsored by the Georgia Council on to the Carolyn & James Millar Presidential By Erin O’Shinskey GA 30345. Developmental Disabilities, in partnership with Gallery. Since his inauguration, Booth Museum close to two dozen other organizations, including has been working to secure a letter from President EPSTEIN ADDRESSES CONFERENCE. Jan EDUCATION LOANS. The Jewish Educational Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS). The Obama, to add beneath his portrait, which hangs Epstein, chair at PARDeS: The Progressive Loan Fund (JELF) offers interest-free loans to purpose of the rally was to raise awareness about in the Presidential Gallery. President Obama’s let- Association of Reform Day Schools, board mem- students pursuing post-secondary education (col- the needs of individuals with developmental dis- ter, written on official White House stationery, is ber, and a founder of The Alfred & Adele Davis lege, graduate school, vocational/professional abilities and promote self-advocacy. Close to 20 actually addressed to museum visitors; it com- Academy, Atlanta’s Reform Jewish Day School, courses). Applications for the 2011-2012 school participants and staff members from JF&CS’ mends museums like the Booth and others around was a featured speaker at the North American year are available through April 15. JELF loans Developmental Disabilities – Tools for the nation for their preservation of historical items Jewish Day School Conference in Los Angeles, are need-based and offer “last-dollar” financing, Independence program attended. significant to the United States. which attracted more than 600 leaders of Jewish meaning that JELF provides the final dollars that day schools from across the spectrum of Jewish bridge the gap between a student’s total financial GESHER L’TORAH REACHES MILESTONE. DEALING WITH ADDICTION. Jewish Twelve practice. Davis Academy Head of School Amy resources and the cost of attending school. For On February 26, Congregation Gesher L’Torah Step/JACS meets the second and last Monday of Shafron and Davis Academy Director of Hebrew qualifications and other information, contact commemorated the synagogue’s 13th anniversary each month, 6:30 p.m., at Jewish Family & and Judaic Studies Rabbi Micah Lapidus were JELF at [email protected] or 770-396-3080, or visit with a special bat mitzvah service and celebration. Career Service, 4549 Chamblee-Dunwoody also attendees. www.jelf.org. The number 13 is one of the most important sym- Road, Atlanta. This is a non-denominational bols in Jewish tradition, representing the age a group, open to all Jewish people who want help KOGON HONORED FOR ISRAEL ADVOCA- SEEKING SURVIVORS. Am Yisrael Chai! is a Jewish boy or girl celebrates a bar or bat mitzvah with their own or a loved one’s addiction. CY. Ross Kogon is this year’s recipient of the community-wide Holocaust awareness and edu- and is old enough to take on Jewish responsibili- Meetings will focus on issues of alcoholism, Jonathan R. Barkan Israel Advocacy Award, cation program that emphasizes survival and suc- ties. The day included a morning service and chemical dependency, and co-dependency as they given by the American Israel Public Affairs cess. The next event, May 1, focuses on resistance luncheon. That night, there was a Hollywood- relate to Judaism and spirituality. Anonymity is Committee (AIPAC) Southeast to a community and resilience. Event organizers are seeking sur- themed party, including food, music, and respected. For information, call 770-677-9300. member who has demonstrated outstanding effort vivors and their families who were involved in live/silent auctions. and commitment in the area of pro-Israel advoca- Resistance activities, were involved in saving cy. Kogon is president of Pull-A-Part, LLC, a self- lives during the Holocaust, and who have stories service used auto parts and recycling business. He that exemplify spiritual resistance or vignettes is a member of AIPAC, the AIPAC Atlanta about observance and celebration of traditions BUSINESS BITS Executive Committee, and the AIPAC National and customs under the harshest of conditions. Council and New Leadership Network. Kogon Survivors who can share their stories with 7th serves on the board of the Jewish Federation of grade students participating in the Am Yisrael By Marsha Leibowitz Company, a 140-year-old company, as an agent Greater Atlanta (JFGA) and has held several lead- Chai! Oral Family History Project are also sought. in the state of Georgia for the sale of long term ership positions with JFGA. For details, contact [email protected]. KLIN AT MARCUS. Ami Klin, Ph.D., has been care insurance. Prior to this appointment, Katz appointed the first chief of autism and related was an executive with Experian Marketing BRIGHT LIGHTS. On March 5, Lights of INTEREST-FREE LOANS AVAILABLE TO disorders at the Marcus Autism Center. He and Services and, TKE—Avodah—Evening of Honor recognized COMMUNITY. Jewish Interest Free Loan of his team will use ground-breaking techniques, more recently, Cynthia Bowman and Ellen and Paul Lopez for Atlanta (JIFLA) offer non-educational loans to including eye- owned his own their dedication to Temple Kol Emeth and the Jewish community members in Georgia. These tracking technolo- marketing serv- community. Realtor Cynthia Bowman, of loans fill critical financial needs for individuals gy he developed to ices firm. Georgia Prudential Realty, has served on TKE’s who may not qualify for traditional loans or for visualize and Realizing the Caring Committee for 15+ years and in other whom such loans could create a financial hard- measure infants’ financial chal- capacities. Registered nurse Ellen Demsky Lopez ship. JIFLA, formerly the Yad L’Yad Interest Free social engagement, lenges that can has chaired numerous TKE fundraisers and Loan Fund, has lent nearly $20,000 since opening to diagnose autism be encountered received the JFGA’s Woman of Achievement its offices in March of 2010. To qualify, borrow- in children as because of Award in 2007. Paul Lopez, managing member of ers must be Jewish, demonstrate a need, and young as six health conditions Element Holdings, is board chairman of MUST demonstrate the ability to repay the loan. months old. Dr. or ageing restric- Ministries and serves on the Professional Guarantors are needed. For more information, Klin is the former tions, his goal Dave Katz Advisors Committee to the Community contact Dr. Mort Barr at 404-452-7800 or free- director of the Yale for choosing to Foundation for Northeast Georgia. [email protected]. Autism Program work in this field “is to protect individuals and Ami Klin, Ph.D. at the Child Study their family assets from the burdens that often- Center at Yale A VERY GRAND PRIZE. Elie Livnat and his MAH JONGG TOURNAMENT A BIG HIT. Etz times accompany long-term care. For more University School of Medicine. He received his wife are off to Israel for seven nights this summer, Chaim Preschool hosted its first Mah Jongg information, contact Katz at (404) 293.3533 or bachelor’s degree from Hebrew University, his [email protected]. after winning the grand raffle prize at Chabad of Tournament on January 30. The three-hour tour- doctorate in cognitive psychology at the Georgia/Chaya Mushka Children’s House Main nament drew over 100 people from metro Atlanta, University of London, and his postdoctoral RISING STAR. Abbey Flaum, of Ingwersen & Event, February 27. The event marked the 20th including 13 participants in a beginners’ seminar. training at Yale. Taylor LLP, has been selected for inclusion in anniversary of the school and honored four cou- Registration was only $25; tournament proceeds the 2011 Georgia Super Lawyers list of “Rising ples—Connie and Danny Frankel, Merle and went directly to the preschool for programming CELEBRATING 20 YEARS AT THE BRICK- Stars.” Flaum Anthony Solomon, Kerry and David Greene, and and supplies. Tournament organizer Allison ERY. As The Brickery Grill and Bar, 6125 focuses on estate Bobbi and Oded Livnat—for their service to the Barchichat looks forward to making this an annu- Roswell Road and gift taxation, school. Three hundred people turned out for the al event. (404-843-8002), estate planning, big night, which included live and silent auctions, begins its 20th probate, business plus entertainment by mind-bending (and spoon CAMP ETZ CHAIM NOW CAMP RUACH. year, owners formation, and bending) Israeli mentalist Guy Bavali. Congregation Etz Chaim’s Camp Ruach, former- Bruce and Sally succession plan- ly Camp Etz Chaim, is undergoing a major Alterman, are also ning. She is a IT’S A MATCH. The Marcus Foundation will facelift. This preschool camp features exciting pleased to member of the match donations to Camp Judaea 1:1, up to weekly themes, such as Art Explorers, Jungle announce that American Bar $30,000. The camp is soliciting donations to “A Safari, Wacky Week, and more. Special Monday they have recently Association, the Ticket to Camp,” a project that provides general programming kicks off each weekly theme; renewed their State Bar of scholarships to campers, and its “Hope for Camp” campers can try various sports and games on lease. The Sandy Georgia’s Springs institution campaign, which is raising scholarship funds for Wednesday; and Shabbat Sing wraps up each Abbey Flaum Fiduciary Law children of military families. Any gift, large or week. The camp is now under the leadership of will continue sell- and Taxation Law small, impacts the life of a Jewish child for whom veteran Etz Chaim Preschool teacher Sheri Sally and Bruce ing its legendary sections, the Georgia Association for Women a summer camping experience will otherwise be Frohlich, and many of the college-age counselors Alterman brisket, kugel, Lawyers, and the Atlanta Bar Association. She is out of reach. To donate, visit were once campers at Etz Chaim. For more infor- fried chicken, and a graduate of the Anti-Defamation League’s www.campjudaea.org and click on the “donate” mation, e-mail [email protected], or visit onion rings for years to come. 2009-2010 Glass Leadership Institute and, in button, or send a check to: Camp Judaea www.etzchaimpreschool.com. KATZ FOR THE LONG TERM. Dave Katz has 2011, was nominated to the ADL board of direc- Scholarship, 2700 NE Expressway, C500, Atlanta been appointed by Genworth Life Insurance tors. March-April 2011 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 47

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