JeT Hw E ish Georg i a n

Volume 19, Number 2 , Georgia J A N U A RY / F E B R U A RY 2 0 0 8 F R E E “Jewish Woodstock” coming to Atlanta in March What’s Inside from Atlanta and all over the one of Limmud’s social action teach- Southeast will come together at ers, then board a free bus from Oglethorpe University, March 1-2, for Oglethorpe to the Hunger Walk down- Limmud Atlanta + Southeast. Limmud town. Pre-registration is required. Papa Louie’s Legacy (pronounced lee-MOOD) has been The weekend will feature 50 ses- A brave young man from passed called “a cross between Elderhostel sions, including Moses in a along his resourcefulness to his children. and a Phish Concert,” “a Jewish ver- Megachurch; Digging Your Jewish By Rob Hassett sion of Woodstock,” and “Jewish camp Roots with Farmer D; Joseph, Phone Page 21 for grownups.” Home; What Madonna Doesn’t Know; In Hebrew, limmud means “learn- Gefelted Fish: A Hands-On Workshop; ing.” Using local teachers, artists, Is What’s Ours Really Ours?; The Race thinkers and writers—plus some spe- Beat: Press and Civil Rights; From A Man with a Mission cial out-of-town guests—Limmud is Addis Ababa to Atlanta; Food as blazing a fresh new path to make Sacrament: A Glutton’s Tour; Prayer After 73 years with the Boy Scouts, Jodi Mansbach, co- Eric Robbins, co- Jewish learning informal, inspira- for Jewish Agnostics; Is it a Mitzvah to Josiah Benator has no intention of quit- chair of Limmud chair Limmud South- tional, and unforgettable. Run entirely Get Drunk on Purim?, and more. ting. Southeast and found- east and executive by volunteers, Limmud has an experi- The program begins at sundown By Bill Sonenshine er of Jac A t l a n t a director of Camp Twin mental spirit that explores the vibrancy on Saturday and continues all day Page 11 (Jewish Arts & Lakes of Jewish life through song, text, film, Sunday. Tickets are $36 ($18 for full- Culture) discussion, and hands-on workshops. time students) and provide access to all First launched in England nearly events both days. Early-bird discounts are making their debut. Read more about One Person Can 25 years ago, the Limmud “franchise” has end February 18. Limmud worldwide at www.limmud.org. spread across Europe and , inspiring For further information, a list of con- If you’re planning to attend the Hunger Make a Difference Jews around the world to create their own firmed presenters, and online registration, Walk on Sunday, March 2, you can still Linda Hooper inspired Whitwell Middle local versions. Limmud New York is now in visit www.limmudse.org. come to Limmud. Spend the morning with School students to make a unique its fifth year, and Atlanta and Holocaust memorial. By Caroline Mescon Page 6 Hard Love an intense romantic drama Every Day is Precious Due to a recent change in cast, dates Aviv, Habima National Theatre, and the for Jewish Theatre of the South’s premiere Haifa Municipal Theater, as well as in the Bernie Lovitky approaches the end of his of Hard Love have changed. The play will , the , life with a sense of wonder and apprecia- now run from January 30 – February 24. G e r m a n y, Switzerland, Austria, and tion. (Previous dates were January 23-February . Recent U.S. productions include By Janis Kleinberger 17.) The Murder of Isaac, which had its Page 16 American premiere at ’s Written by Motti Lerner, one of Israel’s Centerstage in February 2006; and Pangs of most important contemporary playwrights the Messiah, produced by Theater J, in Turning Grief to Hope and screenwriters, Hard Love is directed by Washington, D.C., in July 2007. Lerner’s After Bethany Diamond lost friend Susan Reid and stars JTS Artistic Director feature film Spring 1941, starring Joseph Debbie Flamm to ovarian cancer, she Mira Hirsch and Atlanta favorite Chris Fiennes and Claire Higgins, is currently in started a virtual bike ride in her honor. Kayser. production in . Lerner received the Page 8 Preview performances are January 30- Meskin Award for the best play in 1985 and February 1, and opening night is February the Israeli Motion Picture Academy award 2. for the best TV drama in 1995 and in 2004. In this romantic drama, divorcees In 1994, he won the Prime Minister of Orchestras Here Hannah and Zvi find themselves back in Israel’s Award for his body of creative each another’s lives when the two children work. and There from their subsequent marriages become The JTS season concludes with The From Shanghai to Altanta, music has romantically involved. Hard Love ran for Last Schwart z by Deborah Zoe Laufer, been a constant in this writer’s life. over a year at the Haifa Municipal Theatre. April 30-May 25. Nothing remains sacred By Balfoura Friend Levine This will be the play’s second English-lan- as traditions, marriage, and family are scru- Page 28 guage production. tinized and long-held secrets are unearthed Motti Lerner’s plays have been pro- Mira Hirsch and Chris Kayser (Photo: duced in Israel by Cameri Theatre of Tel See JTS, page 5 TWMEYER.com) Page 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 JeT Hw E ish Georg i a n The Ends of Justice and the Means of Justice The Jewish Georgian is published bimonthly by Eisenbot, Ltd. It Justice in the life and conduct of the State is not go up and down as a talebearer among is written for Atlantans and Georgians by Atlantans and Georgians. possible only as first it resides in the hearts thy people; neither shalt thou stand idly by Publisher Marvin Botnick and souls of the citizens the blood of thy neighbor: I am the LORD.” Co-Publisher Sam Appel Plato There are many examples of what Editor Marvin Botnick Managing Editor Marsha C. LaBeaume B Y M a r v i n may be perceived as justice that in reality Assignment Editor Carolyn Gold I propose that Plato’s statement be do not turn out to be so. Opinions are some- Consulting Editor Gene Asher B o t n i c k Associate Editor Barbara Schreiber boldly inscribed on our public buildings; times formed without any attempt to com- Copy Editor Ray Tapley that it be handed to each person who serves port such conclusions with a doctrine of Assistant Copy Editor Arnold Friedman Hebrew Congregations of the Makeup Editor Terri Christian on a jury; that it be furnished to each person fairness. As an alumnus of Duke University Production Coordinator Terri Christian Commonwealth, said it best when he wrote before he or she enters the voting booth; and a four-year member of the Duke Medical Editor Morris E. Brown, M.D. that, without compassion, “law itself can Photographic Staff Allan Scher, Phil Slotin, Phil Shapiro that it be placed on the desk of each elected lacrosse team, I have had a particular inter- Graphic Art Consultant Karen Paz generate inequity. Justice plus compassion official; and that it be part of the presenta- est over the past almost two years in the Columnist Andi Arnovitz (Israel),Gene Asher, equals , the first precondition of a Jonathan Barach, tion of the Lady of Justice holding balanced unfolding story of the now-discredited and Janice Rothschild Blumberg (Washington), decent society.” scales of justice. This should be one of dropped charges of sexual assault by mem- Marvin Botnick, In Deuteronomy 16:20, we are told Shirley Friedman, Carolyn Gold, those “family values.” bers of the team against a female in Jonathan Goldstein, George Jordan, “Justice, justice [Tzedek tzedek] shall you Sadly, though, in this age of sound Durham. Marice Katz, Balfoura Friend Levine, pursue.” The use of justice twice in this pas- Marsha Liebowitz, Howard Margol, bites, attack talk radio, and a public that Here was a case where the govern- Bubba Meisa, Erin O’Shinsky, sage has been widely analyzed, studied, and passively allows individuals and organiza- ment, in the form of a misguided district Ben Rabinowitz (Israel), commented on for centuries, and it is gen- Lew Regenstein, Roberta Scher, tions to creatively craft an image regardless a t t o r n e y, apparently for personal gain, Jerry Schwartz, Leon Socol, erally agreed that the use of the word twice Rabbi Reuven Stein, of the underlying fairness, we are slowly brought forth an indictment against mem- was intentional. The seeking of justice by Hannah Vahaba, Cecile Waronker, seeing the erosion of a cornerstone of this bers of the team, which subsequently turned Evie Wolfe itself is not sufficient; it must be done with Special Assignments Susan Kahn, Lyons Joel country. Justice is not limited to the court out to be without facts to justify the fairness, integrity, and compassion for all Advertising Michael Pelot system; it also involves fairness in all of our charges. The case gained national attention, Marsha C. LaBeaume parties. There is a moral quotient that Bill Sonenshine dealings. and there were those who were quick to use imposes itself on the understanding and The concept of justice is one that per- this as an opportunity to further their own Editorial Advisory Board Members enforcement of laws, and we must strive to Sam Appel Rabbi Alvin Sugarman Sam Massell vades Judaism. I am told that the Hebrew cause. Included in this group was the so- maintain equanimity in the use of just meth- Jane Axelrod Albert Maslia William Rothschild words mishpat and din are used in the Bible called Group of 88, eighty-eight Duke fac- Gil Bachman Michael H. Mescon Marilyn Shubin ods in the pursuit of justice. We must do Asher Benator Paul Muldawer Doug Teper when the text deals strictly with legal jus- ulty members who signed an advertisement right and maintain balance. The fulfillment tice; however, the word tzedek is used when appearing in The Chronicle, the student of this dictum encompasses the prohibition 290 Carpenter Drive, Suite 100 the intent is to import the idea of charity, newspaper of Duke, seizing on the moment against gossip, loshon hora, which is Atlanta, GA 30328 righteousness, integrity, equity, fairness, (404) 236-8911 • FAX (404) 236-8913 derived from Leviticus 19:16: “Thou shalt and innocence into the meaning. Sir See JUSTICE, page 4 [email protected] Jonathan Sacks, Chief Rabbi of the United www.jewishgeorgian.com Atlanta Art Gallery AAA Sandy Springs/Buckhead 14 La Petite Maison 30 Amit - Music with a Message 13 Mad Beavers 12 Atlanta Art Gallery 2 Marcus Jewish Community Center 43 Binders Art Supplies 33 Midas of Sandy Springs 33 The Breman 37 Molly Maids 13 Buckhead Garage 5 North Point Volvo 24 Chow Baby 29 Nothing But Noodles 7 The Cohen Home 42 Oak Grove Market 17 Cold Laser Therapy 17 Options for Senior America 18 Color Tile 35 Oriental Rug Shop 12 The Davis Academy 36 Or Ve Shalom 21 Doc Greens 12 Pak Mail 13 Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care 8 Perimeter Clinic 9 EdenBrook of Dunwoody 19 Peachtree Corners Roofing 11 Ellen’s House of Sweets 14 Personal Touch Lawn Care 14 The Epstein School 12 Pet Nanny 22 Farsi Fine Jewelers 12 Presstine Cleaners 27 Fido Fido 18 Realty First 26 Five Guys 13 Restaurant Eugene 15 Gaucher Disease 10 R S Andrews 32 Grand Hyatt Buckhead 36 Sensible Networks 6 Greenfield Hebrew Academy 28 Southern Sweets 4 Huntington Learning Center 40 Sprong - Shoes for Kids On The Go 26 In The Spirit Spa 26 Stan Milton Oasis 23 It’s My Party 7 The Temple 30 Java U 41 Vein Innovations 34 JF&CS - AVIV - How to Age 35 Video Impact 4 JF&CS - Strive to Thrive 31 The Weber School 29 JF&CS - Tools for Living Website 20 Wish for Wendy 8 Kroger 44 Worthmore Jewelers 41 The Gift, Kirk Richards, oil on canvas, 30”x24” Landmark Diner 26 Young Chefs 39 3005 Peachtree Road, NE . Suite B . Atlanta, Georgia 30305 . Tel: 404.816.7322 Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM www.AtlantaArtGallery.com January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 The beautiful 11 - y e a r-old Caroline another honor for excellence—the Tabib won an incredible three gold medals, InterContinental Hotel’s coveted and presti- one silver, and one bronze, in swimming gious Manager of the Quarter award. and sailing. And the formidable Mate “Manager of the Century” might be more W h a t ’s Mazor, 17, won two gold and one silver in like it. We congratulate and thank MJ for all sailing. she does to help ensure the success of so As ISCD Director Jacob Ben-Arie many charitable events, weddings, bar/bat says, “The achievements of our Israeli team mitzvahs, and other such affairs, which add speak of the high standard of training that so much to our community. our young athletes receive at the center. It H A P P E N I N G speaks also of the competitive spirit that we develop among our athletes, which drives THE AMAZING ALTERMAN FAMILY. them toward excellence—a very important Happy Birthday to the lovely, delightful, factor in advancing their rehabilitation and amazingly youthful Sarah Alterman, process. Thank you for your support, which who just celebrated her 90th birthday, shapes the lives of our disabled children.” though she hardly looks half that age. B Y R e g The ISCD is currently rehabilitating Over the Thanksgiving holiday, Sarah through wheelchair sports over 2,500 young had Friday night dinner at the home of R e g e n s t e i n people, including many victims of terror- Marty and Richard Alterman, with over two ism. For more info on the center’s valuable dozen of her children, grandchildren, great of the famous journalist and blogger Art work, visit www.iscd.com. Donations can grandchildren, and sons-and daughters-in- Harris. According to Farber, “Josh is be sent c/o Marcia and Michael Schwarz, law. Good thing Marty is a great cook, and extremely bright, witty, and handsome, 1134 Swarthmore Drive NW, A t l a n t a is used to feeding Richard and thus prepar- unlike his dad….the Punchline liked him so 30327. Martha Jo Katz accepts the Manager ing big meals. much, they suggested he perform at the of the Quarter Award from Debbie On Saturday night, Sarah celebrated at Funny Farm in Marietta,” the PL’s big rival STAR ATHLETES VISIT ATLANTA. We Grant, hotel manager, and Ronen the Buckhead Club with 175 of her best club. think we know the secret to the ISCD’s Nissenbaum, vice president, friends and family. Marty says, “She had the Josh was just great, and, although he amazing victories in Miami. Just prior to the Southern Region of InterContinental best time and is still talking about it.” may not be appearing all over the South, his games, the team, including coaches Reuven Hotels Group Meanwhile, we caught up with Marty jokes will be—wherever Jerry is entertain- Heller and Slava Lungu, visited Atlanta. and Richard’s son Joseph, the brilliant piano ing. Their support committee here kept them AN EVENING IN BARCELONA, BUT p l a y e r, who was hanging with actress We suggest that if Josh wants continued busy with true Southern Hospitality, includ- EVEN BETTER. We knew that the Night in Natalie Portman at her movie premiere and success, he study Jerry’s techniques—and ing trips to the Georgia Aquarium; a Friday Barcelona gala at the Grand Hyatt would be party for M r. Magorium’s Wo n d e r do just the opposite. night service at The Temple, where a fantastic evening, but it really exceeded Emporium. She’s from Israel and was in the Caroline, Mate, and Jacob all spoke; and all expectations. The invitations promised it recent Star War films and looks like a nice BARRY FARBER HONORED. Jerry’s big dinner at the home of Marcia and Michael would be just like “an evening in match for Joe, if she can keep up with him. brother and lifetime idol, Barry, was just Schwarz. Barcelona,” celebrating the food, the honored at the Waldorf Astoria at the A highlight was a post- service romance, and the music of Spain. But, in George Washington Awards dinner ceremo- vegetarian dinner at the home of Debby and fact, Barcelona has never seen such a cele- ny for his decades of work for a free and D r. Joe Berg e r, featuring delicious and bration. democratic . Past recipients of the healthy dishes such as hummus, pasta with Over 700 people turned out to honor prestigious award include former President eggplant, Asian peanut noodles, salad with Sandy and Fred Halperin, who have Gerald Ford, Holocaust survivor and author the spicy Israeli herb combo zahatar, Israeli long been leading volunteers for and sup- Eli Wiesel, and atom bomb producer Dr. appetizers, fruit, sorbet, and cookies, and porters of the William Breman Jewish Edward Teller. We join Jerry, who himself lots of vegetarian wine and beer. All that Home. Co-Chair Janet Selig called the knows a bit about bombing, in congratulat- nourishment must have given Caroline and evening, which raised an incredible ing Barry for this great honor and for his Mate the energy and drive to win so many $930,000, “our most successful fundraiser. long service in the cause of freedom. medals. We were so thrilled to see the whole Jewish Barry has had a long, fascinating, and community come together to support the Sarah Alterman with family at her distinguished career. He grew up in home and its residents.” Congratulations to 90th birthday party Greensboro, North Carolina, graduated everyone involved in putting on such a fab- from UNC Phi Beta Kappa, was a champi- ulous gala. on wrestler and boxer, and did stints as a steel mill worker in Baltimore and a crew- man on a Norwegian merchant marine ship. During the Korean War, Barry joined the army and served as a Russian translator. He later helped Hungarian freedom fighters escape from Hungary and come to America after the 1956 uprising against the Soviets. Barry has been named Talk Show Host of the Year and is one of Talkers Magazine’s Top Ten talkers of all time. His radio show is heard on some four dozen stations across the country. The Israeli champion athletes and Barry is a great American and says he their supporters: (front, L-R) Mate Fred & Renie Halperin and Sandy & speaks 14 languages. We are proud to know Mazor, Debra Berger, and Caroline Bob London Natalie Portman and Joseph him. Tabib; (standing, L-R) Reuven Heller, Alterman Mrs. Mazor, Ronnie Van Gelder, Joe LATKES FROM THE BRICKERY. The MORE GOLD MEDALS FOR ISRAEL. Berger, Slava Lungu, Tzipi Tabib, and kids in Charlene Baker’s and Marion Congratulations to the Israel Sport Center Jacob Ben-Arie Cohen’s 1st-grade class at Spalding Drive JOSH HARRIS AT THE PUNCHLINE. for the Disabled. ISCD has won yet more Charter Elementary School got a real treat One of the best-received comics appearing medals at the latest World Championships ANOTHER AWARD FOR MARTHA JO for Chanakuh—authentic and delicious in Jerry Farber’s annual, increasingly corny, for Disabled Children and Youth in Maimi, KATZ. Everyone knows that the lovely and potato latkes from one of Sandy Springs’ yet still sellout Thanksgiving show at the which featured 340 athletes from all over talented Martha Jo Katz is the best hotel Punchline was a new talent, Josh Harris, son the world. social director ever, and now she’s won yet See HAPPENING, page 4 Page 4 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008

article also reported that “Brodhead said Happening Justice ‘we could have done more to underscore’ that members of the Duke community who From page 3 From page 2 were ‘quick to speak as if the charges were most popular eateries, The Brickery. The to air grievances on treatment of blacks true’ were not speaking for the university as kids loved the latkes, and Sally and Bruce without any concern for its impact on this a whole.” Alterman’s goodies earned them an A+ issue at hand. While this is correct, I would suggest from the class. The question of wrongs that have that it was incumbent on him to have done Later, Ms. Cohen showed the class the been committed against blacks is certainly more. There is a moral quotient that impos- menorah that her parents brought with them a valid concern and one that should be es itself on the understanding and enforce- from when they, fortunately, got properly addressed; but this was not the ment of laws, and we must strive to main- out in 1938. reason for the advertisement. This Group of tain equanimity in the use of just methods If you’d like to try some of T h e 88 was acting in a judgmental fashion about in the pursuit of justice As the spokesman Brickery’s tasty latkes and many other won- charges of rape against the Duke lacrosse for the university, he should have stood derful dishes, visit them at 6125 Roswell players and the team based on allegations, strong for the doctrine espoused by the term Road, and be prepared not just for a great Ms. Baker’s 1st-grade class at regardless of the truth or the effect such tzedek – fairness, integrity, and compassion meal, but to see and schmooze with many Spalding Elementary actions would have on others. for all parties. He rightly deferred to the people you know. The November-December issue of legal system in the determination of the THE JEWISH AMERICANS. We highly Duke Magazine carried an article reporting charges; he should not have deferred to the recommend Beth Wenger’s great new book, on comments on this matter made by masses in urging tzedek. The Jewish Americans: Three centuries of Richard Brokhead, president of Duke, at a Rabbi Steve Folberg of Temple Beth Jewish Voices in America. This companion legal conference held at the school. In the Israel in Austin, Texas, writes that “A rab- to the major PBS series is published by article, President Brodhead is quoted refer- binic school professor at Hebrew Union Doubleday. ring to “the tides of passionate pre-judg- College told us with delight of a ‘little The beautifully illustrated book fea- ment” to describe the climate that existed. Litvak’ (meaning a stereotypically skepti- tures three hundred years of Jewish schol- As if to paraphrase the passage from cal, rational Lithuanian Jew) who sat on his ars, athletes, celebrities, business and civic Deuteronomy, he made the following time- shoulder and who, whenever he got too sure leaders, and politicians. ly observation: The case highlighted “cru- of himself, whispered in his ear in Yiddish, We particularly enjoyed the chapter cial problems of our culture – problems of ‘Takeh?’ (Really?). Do you really believe describing how our great-great grandfather achieving justice in a media-saturated soci- that? Are you so sure of yourself, your Isaac Harby led the founding of Reform ety, problems of fundamental fairness to opinions, your rightness?” Judaism in 1824 in Charleston at individuals, and problems in the way the Perhaps we all need a “little Litvak” Congregation Beth Elohim. Among the American public is informed and misin- whispering in our ear, especially during this reforms were services mostly in English formed about the world we live in.” The political season. The Brickery’s Bruce and Sally and shorter services—something we can all Alterman be grateful for today!

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ We Make Desserts for Atlanta’s Finest Restaurants Kosher Style Let Us Gourmet Desserts Whole or By The Slice Make Yours Vegan/Parve Desserts Rated #1 by Lunch AOL City Guide 2006 Wedding Cakes Birthday Cakes 404-373-8752 Wholesale Corporate Lunch M-F 9 - 6 Catering Saturday 11 - 5 186 Rio Circle • Decatur (From the DeKalb Farmers Market, go straight out of the driveway, cross Ponce, turn right on Rio Circle, look for the signs) southernsweets.com January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 5 Churchill and the Jews examines a history-making relationship C h u rchill and the Jews: A L i f e l o n g of Palestine. He spoke against anti- General Eisenhower, as commander of Friendship Semitism and the White Paper of 1939, the Allied Forces, telephoned Churchill By Martin Gilbert which limited Jewish immigration and about his troops finding concentration 2007, Henry Holt would ensure an Arab majority in Palestine, camps and urged him to immediately send a 384 pp., $30 B Y C a r o l y n saying it was a betrayal of the Balfour delegation to witness the horror. The volun- G o l d Declaration. teers set out the next day. “They just don’t make statesmen like Gilbert’s research is scholarly and After the war’s end, Britain was slow that anymore,” said the giver of this book. thorough. Churchill’s magnificent English to help the Zionists establish a state. To the As I read, I realized anew what a magnifi- tells his own history. (Leaders in those days J e w s ’ and Churchill’s frustration, much cent man, eloquent orator and writer, and didn’t call or e-mail; they wrote letters or bickering and fighting ensued. Finally, on unique humanitarian Winston Churchill gave speeches.) Churchill’s relationships May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion pro- truly was. with the giants of his time make for inter- claimed Israel’s independence. This book by Martin Gilbert not only esting reading. On October 26, 1951, Churchill, a describes Churchill’s feeling for the Jewish In 1933, Albert Einstein asked month short of age 77, became prime min- people, but it also is a year-by-year history Churchill’s help in bringing Jewish scien- ister for the second time. In many speeches of the establishment of the state of Israel, its tists out of Germany and finding them and letters, he referred to himself as “an old many trials, and Churchill’s involvement all places in British universities. Zionist from the days of the Balfour the way. In 1940, David Ben-Gurion met Declaration” and often extolled the Jewish “Churchill had no Jewish ancestry…” Churchill in London and, years later, at the people’s efforts to make the desert bloom, is how Gilbert starts chapter one. The writer end of World War II, called him “the for bringing electricity to Palestine, and for traces Churchill’s friendship with Jews, like uncompromising conscience of the human their many contributions to science and that of his father Lord Randolph Churchill, race.” humanity. “The Jewish people know well which included the Rothschilds and other Churchill often mentioned in his enough that I am their friend.” distinguished families of the late 1800s. speeches that Chaim Weitzmann’s son, a Israeli Prime Minister David Ben- Winston Churchill lived from 1875 to member of the Royal Air Force, was shot Gurion wrote Churchill in 1957, “Like 1965. His first political involvement with down and lost, fighting for Britain. many others in all parts of the globe, I Jewish concerns was when he ran for Bernard Baruch was a special regard you as the greatest Englishman in Parliament from the highly Jewish district American friend and colleague in the your country’s history and the greatest of Manchester. There, he became impressed Allies’ effort in World War I. statesman of our time, as the man whose with the Jewish emphasis on social respon- Much of the book is concerned with courage, wisdom, and foresight saved his sibility, helping the poor and the sick. Churchill’s endeavors to save Jews, the vic- country and the free world from Nazi servi- Furthermore, “Churchill saw the Jews tims of Nazi methods of extermination, and tude.” as one of the historic peoples.” He valued favored the “establishment in Palestine of a his statements to bring the German offend- their biblical ties to Palestine and admired national home for the Jewish people….” ers to justice after the war. their strengths and enterprise. In 1931, Churchill became a strong supporter of Churchill wrote a newspaper essay on Zionism. Moses, describing him as “one of the great- He said, “I am myself perfectly con- est of human beings.” He called the central vinced that the cause of Zionism is one that theme of Judaism—of one God and a code carries with it much that is good for the of conduct—“an idea of which all the whole world and not only for the Jewish genius of Greece and all the power of Rome people, but that it will also bring with it were incapable.” prosperity and contentment and advance- During World War I, Churchill, as first ment to the Arab population of this coun- lord of the admiralty, needed acetone for try.” making naval explosives. He asked Dr. The book moves, graced by the elo- Chaim Weitzmann, who was working as a quence of Churchill’s writings and opin- research chemist at Manchester University, ions, through all the turmoil of Palestinian for help. Thus began a lifelong friendship. immigration, the Bolshevik Revolution in In 1918, at the end of the war, Churchill was Russia, Arab terrorist attacks on Jewish set- made secretary of state for war, and he tlements, and the rise of Hitler and Nazi wrote a commendation for the part Jewish atrocities in Europe, to later Jewish gang soldiers played in the British fighting. attacks on the British in Palestine. Churchill seemed to have a rare gift for Palestine was then under British Mandate and Churchill’s authority. Chaim sizing up world situations before they erupt- Weitzmann was head of the Zionist organi- ed and so giving warning. He fought to allow Jewish immigration to Palestine and zation in London. Parliament had passed the Balfour Declaration of 1917, which Britain from Germany and against partition

Saturday night; they are preceded by three JTS reduced-price previews, Wednesday and Thursday at 8:00 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 From page 1 a.m. Each opening night is followed by a in this wickedly funny regional premiere. party with the cast and crew at Eclipse de All Jewish Theatre of the South per- Luna at Park Place, featuring complemen- formances take place in the Morris & Rae tary wine, He’Brew beer, and hors d’oeu- Frank Theatre, located at the MJCCA, 5342 vres. Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Performances Single tickets are $18-$30, with dis- are Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday counts for students, seniors, groups, and nights at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 MJCCA members. For ticket information p.m. and purchase, call the JTS Box Office at Mainstage productions open on a 770-395-2654, or visit www.jplay.org. Page 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 Linda Hooper inspired rural students to make a Holocaust memorial By Caroline Mescon with others.” She recalled collecting boxes She believes that “education must encour- so they could prepare food for the poor age thinking. As an educator who grew up The fourth edition of The American and assist neighbors that needed help. Her poor, I can understand the struggles of Heritage Dictionary of the English parents showed her the importance of these children in Whitwell. I was one of Language defines the word noble as “pos- sharing. Her father, who never attended them.” sessing or demonstrating qualities of high school, was a central figure in her life. He In 1998, Mrs. Hooper wanted to ideals and elevated moral character.” This was a very generous man. Even though expand the experiences of the students at source defines the word purpose as “a goal money was limited, he wanted the children Whitwell Middle School. She noted that for which an individual has strong passion in the community to have a place to play “everyone in Whitwell was white,” and and commitment.” baseball, so he built a baseball field that she felt that the children needed a project Linda Hooper, the principal of became the spot where all of the children that “would make them think.” T h e Whitwell Middle School, is an extraordi- in Whitwell played and gathered. And all Holocaust was an important historical nary woman living a noble and purpose- children did play together at this field, event, and the students did not know much filled life. In 1998, Mrs. Hooper realized regardless of race. The color of a person’s about it. Mrs. Hooper felt that if the stu- that the students at her school had not had skin was never an issue. Mrs. Hooper’s dents could learn about and the opportunity to know people from dif- parents and grandparents have always understand its impact on the world, then ferent backgrounds. The town of Whitwell inspired her. “They managed to be suc- they would become aware of the evils of was a white, Protestant community, where cessful and happy in the face of over- prejudice and hate. She felt the Holocaust there were only five African-American whelming odds,” she says. Her parents had would encourage them to think. students and one Hispanic student attend- two simple principles that defined and The Paper Clips Project began as an ing Whitwell Middle School. Mrs. Hooper guided their lives. They truly believed that a f t e r-school program. Children would Carolyn Mescon with Linda Hooper wanted the children to learn how to under- the most important way to live was “to attend a special class after school was dis- Today, Whitwell Middle School hous- stand and respect all people, and she want- treat other people with respect and kind- missed and learn about the horrors that es the Children’s Holocaust Memorial, ed to create a diversity program that would ness” and “to find a way to give back to occurred during the Holocaust. As the which is a moving tribute to the victims of allow students to “become involved and those who have less.” When Mrs. Hooper children learned more and more about the the Holocaust. More than 30 million paper think about how they could make an was deciding on a career for herself, she Holocaust, they wanted to turn their clips have been collected from people all impact on their community.” Her idea “to chose education, because that was all she knowledge into action. They wanted to do over the world, and a documentary film introduce the children to a culture that was knew. She also remembered the example something and make an impact. Mrs. has been produced and shown in theaters completely foreign to them” began as an of her parents and knew she wanted to Hooper realized that the students were all around the country. Also, a book has a f t e r-school Holocaust program, which teach children. “In Whitwell, the people I beginning to realize that they “could make been written about Mrs. Hooper and the eventually evolved into the Paper Clips knew who were educated were teachers. a choice.” They were learning. They were students of Whitwell Middle School. Project and the Children’s Holocaust Education was and continues to be an thinking. They were aware. While the students who started collecting Memorial. Mrs. Hooper’s devotion to edu- important task. It was the best way I knew One day, a student asked the question, paper clips have long graduated, their cating children and expanding their view I could have an impact on children and to “What does six million look like?” The legacy and commitment continue. A new of the world has impacted not only the make the world a better place.” question showed that the students wanted group of students is guiding tours of the people of Whitwell, but people from all Mrs. Hooper began her teaching to find a way to understand what six mil- Children’s Holocaust Memorial and are over the world. Her life, both personally career in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1963, lion actually looked like. Six million was learning about diversity. They are thinking and professionally, is an example of how and she has been an educator for 30 years. such a large number that the students about how they can “make a difference in one person’s noble idea can inspire many. When her first son was born, she decided wanted to find a way to see it and under- the world.” Mrs. Hooper was born in Whitwell in to stay home to raise her family. She stand the number of people who were The students of Whitwell Middle 1941. Her family was extremely poor, and resumed work once her second child killed. The students did some research and School want to learn about other cultures. they were not able to afford indoor plumb- entered school. found out that the paper clip, which was They are interested in understanding about ing until she was a senior in college. Even While educating children to read invented in Norway, was also used by other genocides, and they have become though her family struggled, she remem- books and calculate math problems has Norwegians as a symbol of Nazi resist- involved with an orphanage in South bers her parents helping other people who been her career focus, Mrs. Hooper ance. Norwegians would wear a paper clip Africa. Ms. Hooper believes that “educa- had less than her family. According to emphasizes that education is more than on their collars as an outward symbol of tion is essential to change.” She feels her Mrs. Hooper, “you were expected to share teaching algebra, science, and English. their opposition of the Nazi cruelty. The own life is richer because of the children students decided to begin a project to col- she has “had the privilege to teach.” She is lect six million paper clips, collecting one quick to mention that “the students inspire paper clip for every Jewish person killed me.” She defines noble purpose as “the by the Nazis. They decided to take action desire to love and protect everything.” She and the Paper Clips Project began. continues by saying, “Never be afraid. Mrs. Hooper smiles when she thinks Learn from bad experiences with hope. about the “amazing devotion of the chil- Life is about choices, and anyone can dren to this project.” She feels that the choose to live a life that has purpose and project has given the children a sense of meaning. And always remember that you purpose in themselves and a compassion can make a difference.” for others. She recalls the time when “a superintendent mentioned that the farther Caroline Mescon is a senior at the Baylor you go north in Marion County, the lower School in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She the IQ scores get, and Whitwell is the was selected for the school’s 2007 Harvey northernmost part of Marion County. Our and Jewel Templeton Noble Purpose community has struggled, but we are Scholarship based on this essay. Caroline changed. The Paper Clips Project and the is the daughter of Jed and Phyllis Mescon C h i l d r e n ’s Holocaust Memorial give of Signal Mountain, Tennessee, and the everyone in the community a sense of granddaughter of Mike and Enid Mescon pride and accomplishment.” of Atlanta. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 7 Atlanta Airport U.S.O. revisited If you’ve been to Hartsfield-Jackson for U.S.O. operations. Last year, the Atlanta Atlanta International Airport anytime this Vietnam Business Association staffed the past year, it will come as no surprise that it International Brotherhood of Electrical was named “World’s Busiest” again for the Wo r k e r s ’ parking facilities, across from third straight year. Last year, the airport B Y L e o n Turner Field, during Braves games. At the racked up nearly a million takeoffs and S o c o l end of the season, they turned over a check landings. Also during this time, the Atlanta for $40,000 to the U.S.O. Airport U.S.O. processed over 500,000 mil- ings and hot dogs. General Duquemin’s military service itary personnel on R&R (rest and recreation Mary Lou Austin, the president and took him to Germany, Korea, the Middle leave). The Atlanta U.S.O. is one of only chief professional officer of the U.S.O. East, and a tour at Ft. McPherson. When he two facilities in the United States approved Council of Georgia, earlier invited me to retired, he chose to settle in Atlanta, where to handle R&R personnel processing for the interview Major General Gordon J. he remained active in a number of organi- military services. Duquemin. The retired army general is vice zations. He drives to the Atlanta U.S.O. One of the U.S.O.’s little publicized chairman of the Council of Georgia and has from his home in Horseshoe Bend each services is the Wounded Wa r r i o r been active with the U.S.O. for many years. week to deliver sandwiches and chat with U.S.O. Board Chairman Michael Program/Warrior Transition Unit Visits. A General Duquemin graduated from the the arriving and departing military person- Watson, Atlanta U.S.O. President Warrior Transition Unit [WTU] is where U.S. Military Academy in 1947 and was a nel. and CPO Mary Lou Austin, and U.S. soldiers recover from their injuries. In classmate of Atlantan Bernie A b r a m s . At the conclusion of our interview, Army Maj. Gen. (retired) and U.S.O. December, the Atlanta U.S.O. and the Army Bernie is remembered as an active commu- General Duquemin introduced me to Vice Chairman Gordon J. Duquemin, Reserve hosted special holiday parties at nity worker for many Jewish and secular Michael Watson, who chaired the board of pictured with two serviceman WTUs for 250 soldiers at Fort Benning, 150 o rganizations. Duquemin and A b r a m s directors of the Council of Georgia for the at Fort Gordon, and 450 at Fort Stewart, served together in Korea, and Duquemin past four years. Mr. Watson, who retired be when away from home. who, because of the severity of their recalled that Abrams was a wonderful offi- from Bell South, saluted General Duquemin Last January, Mary Lou spoke at the injuries, could not have holiday leave. cer who distinguished himself on the battle- for his fundraising speeches to civic organ- Atlanta Chapter of the Jewish Wa r These parties, intended to lift morale and field. General Duquemin also said he deliv- izations on behalf of the U.S.O. He also Veterans’ annual luncheon and explained speed the recovery process, were attended ered the eulogy at Abrams’ funeral several said that without Mary Lou Austin, the the current operations and activities of the by the wounded soldiers, family members, years ago. Atlanta operations would never have U.S.O. Her remarks were greeted with and cadre, who enjoyed lunch, entertain- General Duquemin served in the achieved such success. Thousands of mili- appreciation from the veterans and their ment, children’s activities, gifts, door infantry and worked his way up from squad tary personnel are grateful to Mary Lou, her guests. prizes, and entertainment. leader to commander of the First Division staff, and the hundreds of volunteers who Once a month, volunteers from of the U.S. Army Infantry. He said that he make the Atlanta U.S.O. a special place to Congregation Shearith Israel help staff the had always held the U.S.O. in high regard U.S.O.’s airport facility. Recently, my wife, and praised Mary Lou Austin for her 30 Frieda; Jerry and Myrna Abramson; Sara years with the U.S.O. He lauded the organ- and Marshall Duke; Harvey Yaschik; Merle ization for its service to the military. “They Hoch; and I did just that. Volunteers help did the job without a dime of government with a variety of jobs, from greeting incom- money,” he said. The U.S.O. raises money ing service personnel and directing them to from individuals and organizations, as well luggage bays and the U.S.O. facilities to as sponsoring an annual charity golf tourna- preparing food and making guests feel at ment to benefit the Atlanta organization. home before they are processed for return General Duquemin, who has chaired the transportation to their duty stations. Also tournament for the past five years, said last volunteering with us were several women year’s event netted $78,000. from AT&T, who brought sandwich mak- Other organizations have raised money \àËá `ç ctÜàç? \ÇvA YâÄÄ fxÜä|vx XäxÇà cÄtÇÇ|Çz weddings • bar/bat mitzvah • corporate f{tÜÉÇ Y|á{xÜ 275 Spalding Springs Lane tel. 770.395.1094 Atlanta, Georgia 30305 cell 678.637.2030 [email protected] fax 770.396.8844 Page 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 JFGA helps secure federal Homeland Security funds for Atlanta’s Jewish community Fourteen Jewish community organiza- Agency (GEMA)—will provide the Atlanta veteran of the U.S. Secret Service, serves as security improvements, which are a priority tions will receive a combined $443,507 in synagogues, Jewish schools, and communi- security consultant for the entire Jewish for us, without the Federation’s assistance federal Homeland Security grants that will ty centers with security measures such as community and quarterbacked the grant with the security assessment for the allow these non-profits to improve on-site access control, video equipment, and submission process from start to finish. He Homeland Security grant,” said MJCCA security. The Jewish Federation of Greater perimeter security enforcements. was responsible for each agency’s security CEO Mike Wise. Atlanta was instrumental in coordinating “We are proud of JFGA’s role in help- assessments and will oversee the installa- Michael Gutkin, Beth Tikvah’s security the community-wide effort to obtain federal ing our entire Jewish community remain tion of equipment and assist with adminis- committee chair, also recognizes JFGA’s funds through the U.S. Department of safe and secure,” said JFGA p r e s i d e n t tration of the grants. contributions. “The Federation is a great Homeland Security’s Urban Areas Security Steven A. Rakitt. “It is important that these The Marcus Jewish Community Center supporter of our synagogue,” he said. Initiative Nonprofit Security Grant organizations fulfill their missions without of Atlanta (MJCCA) and Temple Beth “Their efforts to enhance our security are a Program. the threat of disturbance.” Tikvah are among the local organizations valuable component of our partnership.” The money—directed locally through Richard Raisler, JFGA’s director of receiving grant money. the Georgia Emergency Management Community-wide Security and a 27-year “We could not afford many important Diamond honored for commitment to ovarian cancer research and education As part of its 75th anniversary celebra- sors an annual indoor bike ride and well- empty. I had to do something.” tion on February 23, the Junior League of ness fundraiser. “Our goal is to fund In Flamm’s memory, Diamond devel- Cobb-Marietta is naming Bethany research for the early diagnosis of this dis- oped Ovarian Cycle. Since 2004, this Diamond “one of Cobb County’s 75 out- ease,” she explains. organization has raised $360,000 for ovari- standing women.” More than 22,000 women will be diag- an cancer research, much of which goes on According to Junior League President nosed with ovarian cancer this year. Of that at Georgia Tech’s Ovarian Cancer Institute. Angie Fowler, “Bethany embodies the number, 15,000 will not survive. Because Every spring, health clubs across metro ideals of an outstanding woman: she’s a symptoms are vague, resembling abdomi- Atlanta open their doors to Ovarian Cycle visionary, a leader, a mover and shaker. Her nal distress, the disease often goes undiag- participants. Training for this year’s 100- organization, though still in its infancy, has nosed—until it’s too late. mile “Ride to Change the Future” begins raised awareness of ovarian cancer while It was too late for 43-year-old Debbie March 15. Ride six hours on an indoor bike raising thousands of dollars every year to Flamm. “Debbie was a fighter; she never April 26 at the Midtown Athletic Club, and find a gene marker.” gave up, she even continued to run and then help fight this silent killer. Diamond, a Marietta fitness instructor, walk the Peachtree Road Race,” says “My dream is simple,” says Diamond. is being honored for developing Ovarian Diamond, her best friend. “But this battle “To find a test for the early diagnosis of Cycle, a non-profit organization that spon- was unwinnable. After her death, I felt so ovarian cancer. The markers will be revealed.” When Bethany’s not raising money to fight ovarian cancer, she teaches fitness classes at Crunch Fitness and Midtown Athletic Club in Marietta; has her own per- Bethany Diamond sonal training practice; and, as a fitness educator, travels around the globe to teach Ovarian Cycle. “Bret was my rock,” she other fitness professionals. recalls. “He knew how much Ovarian Cycle S h e ’s also mother to 22-year- o l d ate up our family time, yet he always sup- Benjamin, who graduates December 15 ported my participation with this worth- from the University of Alabama School of while organization.” Business with a finance degree; and 18- “Bethany created something that has year-old Brooke, a University of Alabama its own momentum,” reports Fowler. “It’s freshman. like a snowball that picks up speed as it Earlier this year, Bethany lost her hus- rolls downhill.” band to heart disease. She asked that, For information, contact www.ovarian- instead of flowers, donations be made to cycle.org. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 9 Remembering Gus Kaufman Gus Bernd Kaufman, 89, retired busi- Kaufman was also formerly very active Simon Kaufmann of Lichtenau, Germany, nessman and civic activist of Macon, with the Macon Little Theatre, serving as which traced the family back to the late Georgia, died January 4. president for a number of years and chairing 1700s in Germany, as well as documenting Born in Columbus, Georgia, he was the the drive to build the theater in its present their proliferation all over the world. Later, son of Simon Mony Kaufman of Columbus location on Forsyth Road; he resigned after he and his wife tracked down and recorded and Elberta Bernd Kaufman of Macon. an extensive, failed attempt to get the board every Jewish grave in Macon. In the After living in Columbus and Miami, to integrate the theater. Later, he was a sup- process, they found a lost Jewish cemetery Florida, for a few years, he moved to porter of Theater Macon. and helped restore the city’s oldest Jewish Macon with his mother and sister, Jane. At M r. Kaufman’s other interests were cemetery, the Hebrew Burial Ground. This Lanier High School for Boys and later in varied—from tennis to recycling to libraries resulted not only in the publication of their life, he was active with the Boy Scouts, to baseball. He volunteered as the chair of second book, The Jewish Burials of Macon, becoming a troop leader and later receiving M a c o n ’s Solid Waste Committee. A t Georgia, 1844-1997, but also in projects to Scouting’s highest honor, the Silver Beaver Carlyle Place, the retirement center to help restore Jewish cemeteries in small Award. Through Scouting, he began his which he and his wife moved, he reorgan- towns in Georgia and Alabama and to his lifelong interest in birdwatching, which he ized the recycling program, making it the becoming a tour guide on cemetery rambles did with his family at home, throughout the weekly, extensive, ongoing activity it is through the seven Jewish cemeteries in U.S., and in several other countries. In today. He and his wife were very active Macon. Their third book, 1490 Listings of 1997, the Macon Museum of Arts and with the Macon Friends of the Library for M a rriages of Macon and Bibb County, Sciences named its bird window “the many years, sorting books and helping with Georgia, with one or both spouses of Jewish Gus Kaufman Kaufman Bird Window” in his and his book sales. At Carlyle Place, where he spent Birth, 1823-1997 (1998), involved going to (Photo: Mr. Charlie Pettis) wife’s honor. the last six years of his life, he watched the courthouse every day for a year or more After high school, Mr. Kaufman every Atlanta Braves baseball game on tel- and reading and recording details of Jewish Aaron B. Kaufman of Albuquerque, New attended the University of Georgia, but had evision. He was active with the Jewish marriages. His last book, The Gre a t Mexico; Dr. Gus B. Kaufman, Jr., of Atlanta to return home after less than two years in Genealogical Society of Georgia and the Migration and the Founding of and partner Reydante Banag; Lise K. Dayan order to work in the family business, G. William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum. Congregation Sherah Israel (now Sha’arei and husband Sig Dayan of Macon; and Bernd Company, of which he was president He also served on the board of the Straus Israel) in Macon, Georgia, 1881-1910, was Marianna Kaufman and partner Diana M. from 1943 to 1980. Until Mr. Kaufman sold Society, descendants of the Straus family published in 2003. Prior to his death, he Aleman of Atlanta; four grandchildren, it in 1980, G. Bernd Company was Macon’s who founded Macy’s Department Store in embarked on a project to collect, read, and Mamie E. Dayan of Macon and Tallahassee, oldest continually operating enterprise. New York. write about all the novels by authors who Florida, and Georgia, Caroline, and Sarah During his lifetime, he also owned and At Carlyle Place, he also participated in lived in Macon. Jane Kaufman of Albuquerque; many operated several other small businesses in the interfaith, library, and programming Mr. Kaufman is survived by his devot- nieces, nephews, and extended family; and Macon, including Joyland Toy Store and committees. When the tsunami hit South ed wife of 63 years, Marian Waxelbaum many friends. Macon Raceway and Hobby Store. After Asia in December 2004, he org a n i z e d Kaufman, of Macon; four children, Dr. retiring, he also worked as a volunteer with fundraising among residents, which led to a number of small businesses owners. Carlyle Place giving the largest donation to From the 1940s on, Mr. Kaufman was the Red Cross for tsunami relief of any Member of Piedmont Healthcare very active with the Macon Council of organization in Macon. Human Relations and other civil rights An avid reader all his life, Mr. Your health can’t wait. organizations that, early on, sought to plan Kaufman and his wife were participants in and implement the transition from segrega- Macon’s Great Books Club in the 1950s. “Yes, We Take Your Insurance.” tion to integration. In the 1940s, he became Later in life, he also became a book collec- a life member of the NAACP. In 2004, he tor, counting among his projects compiling received the James Wimberly Racial Barrier several complete collections of Pulitzer- Walk-ins Welcome, Breaker Award for his pioneering work in Prize-winning books of fiction and reading civil rights. all of them. He also wrote about collecting Mr. Kaufman was a lifetime member these books for Macon Magazine, for which Minimum Wait! and past president of Temple Beth Israel in he was a contributing writer on various sub- Macon, serving most recently on its ceme- jects for many years. tery committee. He chaired the citywide A self-taught man, it was in the fields ALL AGES WELCOME Bonds for Israel program and the Middle of writing and history that Mr. Kaufman Georgia Federation of Jewish Charities. In and his wife did their most extensive work. 2007, Temple Beth Israel honored Mr. and An early member of the Southern Jewish • IMMEDIATE CARE Mrs. Kaufman with the first Keter Torah Historical Society, his first book, published award, for lifelong service to the temple and in 1992, was a family history and genealo- • PRIMARY CARE the entire Middle Georgia community. Mr. gy of his father’s family, The Family of • TRAVEL MEDICINE Open 7 Days 678-904-5611 www.perimeterclinic.com.perimeterclinic.com 3867 Roswell Road 1/2 Mile North of Piedmont Road Just a few minutes from anywhere in Buckhead, Midtown, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs Page 1 0 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 JF&CS News

PROMOTING ABILITIES. “Strive to Bregman Conference to meet, greet, and Thrive” is the appropriately upbeat theme inspire attendees. of the 15th annual Larry Bregman, M.D., The Larry Bregman, M.D., Educational Conference, March 8-9. Educational Conference celebrates abilities Darius Weems, an inspiring young and the remarkable spirit of its namesake, man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy the beloved Atlanta pediatrician who cared (DMD), whose epic cross-country journey for generations of children with disabili- was chronicled in Logan Smiley’s award- ties. The conference is the first of its kind winning documentary , in Georgia to offer programming for people will be the conference’s special guest. with disabilities that addresses their specif- In 2005, a group of Darius’ college-age ic needs. This program provides both the friends decided there was no need for his opportunity to learn about topics that might quality of life to deteriorate along with his not be addressed in other venues and an muscles. They rented a wheelchair-accessi- atmosphere that encourages socializing ble RV and took Darius, who had never left while learning. his hometown of Athens, Georgia, on the This year, the conference moves to a adventure of a lifetime. The ultimate goal new location, the Selig Center, 1440 Spring of their 7,000-mile cross-country journey Street NW, in Midtown Atlanta. Register was to reach Los Angeles and convince by visiting www.bregman.org, e-mailing MTV’s hit show “Pimp My Ride” to cus- c B r e g m a n @ j f c s - a t l a n t a . o rg, or calling tomize Darius’ wheelchair. Along the way, 770-677-9379. they evaluated wheelchair accessibility in America, celebrated the 15th anniversary SPIFFY NEW WEBSITE. Over the past of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and year, JF&CS has redesigned and re-engi- raised awareness of DMD—particularly neering its website to serve friends and among a generation not familiar with Jerry clients better. The new site, Lewis. They also found joy, brotherhood, w w w. Yo u r To o l s F o r L i v i n g . o rg, provides and the knowledge that life, even when complete information on JF&CS programs, imperfect, is always worth the ride. with a crisp graphic look and an easy-to- Darius and his “Band of Brothers” navigate interface. recently appeared on “Today” and “The Among the new features are a com- Ellen DeGeneres Show.” plete listing of volunteer opportunities, Filmmaker Logan Smiley has won 25 easy online donation and tribute fund awards to date for Darius Goes West. In access, and opt-in/opt-out features so that addition to a screening of the film, Darius users receive only the information and noti- and his crew will be on hand at the fications they wish.

DELIVERING THE GOODS. JF&CS’ Kosher Meals on Wheels was one of two local charities selected to receive a donation from the residents of Renaissance on Peachtree this year. At the award ceremony were (from left) Renaissance on Peachtree Director of Community Relations Ruth Matthews; Kosher Meals on Wheels Program Manager Gene Goldberg; Gene Sacks, age 90, a Renaissance resident who has been delivering kosher Meals on Wheels for more than 20 years; and Renaissance on Peachtree Executive Director Dennis Stamey. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 1 1 A man for the ages Josiah Benator has devoted 73 years of his life to the Boy Scouts. Recently, I learned about him and heard he would make a great interview subject. When I called Mr. B (as his Scouts call him) to request an interview, he B Y B i l l graciously said that it would fine for me to S o n e n s h i n e talk with him. Mr. B greeted me at his door dressed very smartly in his Scout uniform. After we talked allowed Josiah to pay for his uniform in week- for a while, he showed me a picture of himself ly installments of 25 cents. with his huge backpack and said that it had The first group Mr. B joined was Troop been taken this year when he was hiking on 52 on Washington Street; it was later com- Pine Mountain. I felt a little guilty as I some- bined with Troop 53, which was located next times huff and puff when I walk a couple of to a Jewish orphan’s home. Josiah still keeps miles. Oh, I neglected to mention that Mr. B is up with some of the Scouts he knew from that 85 years old. troop. (One leader, Leon Bloom, lives in Florida; Mr. B showed me a board that Leon made back in 1936, which displays different kinds of knots. It was really neat.) Troop 53 later combined with Troop 27. In 1937, when Josiah was 15, he started working on becoming an Eagle Scout. His troop did a lot of hiking, catching the trolley to Stone Mountain. He said he really enjoyed hiking. At that time, the Ahavath A c h i m Synagogue also had a troop. 1952 Scouts From 1940-1942, he was an Assistant passion that he felt. love poem that he wrote to her. He let me read Scoutmaster, and in 1942 he became acting I thought of older men who had a passion it, and it almost brought tears to my eyes. Scoutmaster. After his army service, from for what they were doing; men like George Some other facts about Mr. B: He was a 1943-46, he became a Scoutmaster in Troop Burns and Bob Hope, who lived long, full materials manager at Scripto and Rayloc, a 27. For several years, the troop was affiliated lives because they were passionate about their Division of Genuine Parts, for over 40 years. with the Jewish Educational Alliance, the work. I thought of the picture of Josiah and He “retired” in 1991. Presently, he is the pres- forerunner of the Jewish Community Center. that big backpack at Pine Mountain, and it ident of his neighborhood civic club and pres- Josiah Benator in his Scout uniform In 1950, Herb Saul, Al Hershberg, and said to me, “age is only a number.” ident of the DeKalb Grand Jurors Association, Joe Zimmerman wanted to start a troop at Mr. B. taught several generations. He whose members served on previous DeKalb Shearith Israel. Al helped set up the group and said that 12 Or VeShalom presidents, includ- grand juries. wanted Josiah to be the leader, even though he ing the current one, were in his Scout troop. Of course, Mr. B is held in high esteem was not a member of the shul. At first, he was He has also led three sets of fathers and sons. by his former Scouts. I cannot think of a bet- the acting Scoutmaster and then finally Josiah’s wife of 60 years, Birdie, had ter way to close this article other than by quot- became the leader. This troop became very supported him all the years he has been in ing one of them—Rabbi Alvin Sugarman: active in camping and went to Bert Adams Scouting. “I am very proud of the work he “Josiah has always been one of the kindest, Camp. The first Eagle Scout in that troop was does with the boys in Troop 73, and I am very most caring human beings I have ever known. Harvey Charvin. happy to sit back and let him do his thing,” He is a real mensch in the fullest and most Since then, 41 Scouts in Troop 73 have she says. profound meaning of the term. In fact, you earned the Eagle Badge. Josiah has many interests, including could define the word by the way he lives his Josiah showed me some 1952 photos of poetry. He has been writing 3-4 poems annu- life every day of his life. His smile has always 11 Scouts in their early teens. I immediately ally for many years. When he and his wife reflected to me the inner depth and warmth of recognized some of them. In the first row was were celebrating their 60th wedding anniver- his being.” Alvin Sugarman, and next to him was Steve sary with their relatives and friends, he read a To that I say, “Amen.” Sanders; also in the photo were David Geffen and Teddy Britton. All were fraternity broth- For all that he gave to so many, it would be a small gesture of appreciation if Josiah ers of mine at Emory University. When I saw Benator’s former scouts would address him letters of appreciation for all his wonderful the picture of Steve, I felt a lump in my throat; years in scouting. Please send the letters to Mr. Bill Sonenshine, The Jewish Georgian, he was the surgeon who helped my wife when she was suffering with terminal cancer. He 290 Carpenter Drive, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30328 later died of leukemia. I’ll always remember Steve’s wonderful smile. I also have fond memories of David Geffen, as we played together on the fraternity softball team. Josiah showed me other pictures with Alvin and Peachtree Corners Roofing David cooking over a campfire. There was even a picture of David leading a group of David Staley A recent hike in Pine Mountain Scouts in outdoor services. David later became a rabbi, as did Alvin. Teddy Britton Your neighbor in Peachtree Corners Mr. B’s folks came from the Isle of and I had some wonderful fishing trips togeth- Rhodes, which is off the coast of Greece. His er. father came in 1909 and brought his wife over Josiah said most Scout leaders burn out Repair Specialist • All Roof Types in 1916. Josiah was born in 1922. after five years, so I asked him to what he New Gutters/Repairs • Gutter Covers Mr. B started his Scouting days in 1934, attributed his longevity. He said he enjoyed at the age of 12. It was during the Depression, being outdoors and teaching Jewish boys the and he could not afford a uniform. Joe joys of nature, how to make a campfire, and Zimmerman, who worked for the Hirsch how to be independent. I guess I was looking 770-715-9475 Brothers clothing store on Peachtree Street, for some deep, complicated, philosophical answer, but in talking to Josiah, I could see the [email protected] Page 1 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008

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Sandy Springs / Buckhead 4540B Roswell Rd Atlanta, Ga 30342 404 843 4500 Rates based on double occupancy. Other restrictions may apply. Call for details. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 1 5 Philly Coach: 200 Wins, Vidalia Roots By Ray Tapley think that after already being inducted into two halls of fame, Ron Cohen would have You can call him a Vidalian once the induction speech part down pat,” the removed, for even though he has never story began. lived in Vidalia himself, he is removed by (The other halls of fame into which the just one generation from someone who Temple University alumnus earlier was has—his mother. enshrined are the Pennsylvania Sports Hall You also can call him a member of of Fame and the National Football three sports halls of fame and a highly suc- Foundation and College Hall of Fame.) cessful high school football coach who Cohen’s 200th coaching victory in late recently coached his 200th career victory, September was the subject of the second for he is, in fact, both of those. recent story in the Inquirer, one of the And, oh, you also can call him Ron largest and most prestigious newspapers in Cohen, for that just happens to be his name. America. Cohen achieved that lofty mile- Cohen is the son of Ethel Smith Cohen, stone over a period of only a little more than who was born in New York but grew up— 22 years, all at George Washington High from about age four into adulthood—in School in Philadelphia. Vidalia and currently, like her famous son, is a resident of “The City of Brotherly Love.” Mrs. Cohen’s father was the late Coach Ron Cohen and four of his players at George Washington High Scool Max Smith, an immigrant who founded the in Philadelphia Max Smith Department Store, which for the larger part of the last century was a Vidalia called Cohen’s accomplishments and the is just a great person. He cares about all of institution. newspaper stories to the attention of this his ‘kids.’ He wants to see them grow up as column. good men, able to do whatever they “When he and his siblings were young, dream.” trips to the South were regular,” Colleen said. “We always teased him that the South This article by Ray Tapley, a copy editor for is where he got his roots.” this newspaper, originally appeared in his Added his admiring first cousin: “Ron hometown newspaper in Vidalia.

Max Smith Department Store

“He struggled to contain his emotions during the post-game celebration,” the story said. “After a few remarks, Cohen handed the game ball to his 89-year-old mother, Ethel, and led his team in singing the Washington fight song. He later hugged and danced with Ethel, while his wife, Mimi, and one of his daughters, Elyssa, stood beaming nearby.” Illustrating the story, which also was posted on the paper’s website, was a color photo of an exulting Cohen presenting the The Max Smith family of Vi d a l i a , ball to his beaming ex-Vidalian mother, his circa 1930: Mother-in-law Rose players shown in the background. The shot Lipschitz (seated), surrounded by of Cohen was close up enough to reveal a (clockwise from left) daughters noticeable facial resemblance to his late Goldie Smith Mooney and Ethel uncle, beloved Vidalian Ben Smith. Smith Cohen, Max Smith, sister-in- law Molly Lipschitz Siskind, wife ROUGH ON ALMA MATER Fanny Lipschitz Smith, son Ben Smith, and daughter Doris Smith Cohen’s 200th victory, 36-0, was at the Foskey expense of his alma mater, Germantown High, where he was a running back before Word of Ron Cohen’s remarkable graduating in 1961. Ironically, according to sports career and the stunning news of his the newspaper story, two other coaching close connection to Vidalia came after two milestones also were against Germantown: stories about him appeared recently in the his first victory, in 1985, and his 100th. Philadelphia Inquirer. Those stories, as it “With a career record of 200-55-2, turned out, were just the latest in a great Cohen reached the milestone in just 257 number published over the years about games,” the story said. Cohen in his hometown newspapers. “His teams have averaged 8.9 wins a season and captured eight league titles. He’s REASON TO CELEBRATE the winningest coach in Philadelphia’s Public League.” The first of the recent stories ran in Cohen’s nearest relative still living in June and told of Cohen’s induction into the Vidalia is a maternal aunt, Doris Smith Pennsylvania Scholastic Coaches F o s k e y. It was her daughter, Colleen Association Hall of Fame. “You would Foskey, also still a Vidalia resident, who Page 1 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 Welcome to the day By Janis Kleinberger women and a rape crisis hotline, and Bernie became their only male volunteer. Every morning, Bernie Lovitky enters Bernie says his religious journey “has the kitchen and says to his beautiful wife, traveled strange paths,” yet he views Bunny, “Welcome to the day!” He then Judaism as a source of “enlightenment to sings to her, “Have I told you lately that I everyone ready to accept it.” To Bernie, love you?” God is love. He’s been to Israel many times Now, with limited life expectancy, he and even volunteered with the Israeli typically closes his days with reflection and Defense Forces. Bernie has come across in a state of repose, thinking of “all the people and things in an amazing and delightful things—my wife and my chil- serendipitous way: “I didn’t always seek dren—and I am really at peace.” What is his them out; it seemed that they’d come to me source of inner tranquility? for some reason.” The inspiring story of Bernie Lovitky Bernie has led an adventurous life since began on March 6, 1923, in Detroit, where working with Sister Claudia. In his constant he was born to a hardworking Orthodox quest to determine the course of his life, he Jewish family. During the Depression, his left Michigan and briefly settled in father often worked 20 hour days to provide Southern California, where he visited with for his sister and him. inmates in federal prison. In 1978, while Bernie says he was “never that inter- touring Cuba, Bernie was asked by the ested in money.” He was blessed with two president of the dwindling Jewish commu- wonderful marriages and wanted to earn nity to deliver important papers to Bernie Lovitky receiving the Lillian Carter Peace Corps Award from enough to meet his families’ needs and edu- Montreal. At great personal risk, he accom- President Carter cate his two children, both of whom have plished this secret mission. and then established a fully licensed alter- ture of life. It’s a change, an alteration, not Ph.D.s. Bernie is proud of his fine family: However, the highlight for Bernie was native high school at The Temple for 71 stu- really a destruction. I talk to my beautiful his daughter has a doctorate in early child- joining the Peace Corps at the age of 60 and dents, ages 16 to 20. During the Olympics wife, Bunny, about dying, and she’s accept- hood development and has written several being assigned to Tonga. Bernie was by far in Atlanta, they were press attaches and met ing it. My children are accepting it. I don’t books; his son, an attorney in Washington, the oldest volunteer and, at 5’2”, the short- with journalists from throughout the world. look forward to it, of course, but there’s an has devoted hundreds of pro bono hours to est. Bernie has a repertoire of stories about They also secured free uniforms and other excitement to it.” Warmly, and sometimes the American Council of the Blind to com- his meaningful years of service in helping necessities for the Tongans and other small with laughter and tears, Bernie and Bunny pel the courts to put markings on money so develop a cooperative. When he arrived in Pacific island teams. Among Bernie’s many often complete each other’s sentences. the blind can determine its value. Bernie Tonga, the co-op earned about $20,000; at honors, he was the second recipient of the “Bunny’s children are chronicling my life, proudly recognizes that his grandchildren, the end of his term, it earned close to Lillian Carter Peace Corps Award. But all as is my daughter.” Bunny’s son and wife too, are involved in their communities. $4,000,000. that really matters to him is that “those who come because they want their children to Bernie became very close to the really know me, know me.” know Bernie’s background and how he “The quintessence of my Judaism is Tongans. He was the only Jewish person in In addition to their years of community copes with life. tikkun olam, and that isn’t applicable Tonga for almost three years, and he felt activism, Bunny and Bernie have weath- Bunny and Bernie have “everything to just Jewish people; it’s to human- that the people deeply respected his ered multiple health issues, including taken care of,” including completing ity,” says Bernie Lovitky. “These two Judaism. In fact, several families named Bernie’s two open-heart surgeries and car- advanced directives, which are now words describe my whole Judaism their babies after him. Bernie laughs, “So diac arrests. “I witnessed death twice,” required in Georgia in place of living wills, and philosophy.” I’ve had three male children, and I did not Bernie said. “Once was an exhilarating and funeral arrangements. Bernie admitted, beget any of them!” Upon his return, he experience; I was so at peace. Everything “I was trying to think of everything when I Giving of himself is what has always secured a job at the Peace Corps Regional was white, and through my mind’s ear, I wrote a card telling Bunny when to get the mattered most to Bernie. While stationed in Headquarters in Atlanta. heard the doctor say, ‘He’s fighting this.’ It next oil change in the car.” South Burma with the British 7th Army Bernie also met and married Bunny, was so comfortable, I didn’t want to leave. When Bernie was asked what matters during World War II, he assisted Italian and together they have continued to lead by But then Bunny came, and I felt her hand most at this stage of life, he replied, without nuns in downtown Calcutta who cared for example. Now married for more than 21 and came back.” hesitation, “My love for my wife....She’s those with leprosy. Bernie was deeply years, Bernie says, “We’ve spoken millions Bernie’s heart has continued to deterio- such a beautiful woman. She’s so dedicat- moved by their dedication. of words, and we never run out of things to rate, and he now receives care from ed; she sleeps with one eye open, because I Bernie’s life shifted dramatically to a say....In fact, before I got ill, we said we Weinstein Hospice, a home-based program get up so many times. She’s a very strong path of service when, after 32 years of mar- could not talk in bed because we wouldn’t established to serve the Atlanta Jewish woman, a very wonderful woman.” riage, his beloved first wife, Lorraine, go to sleep. I can’t believe that I have community. They began providing care to Bernie is a self-described giver, passed away. Grief-stricken, he sought sol- another great marriage like my first mar- honor Bernie’s expressed desire: “I want to humanitarian, pacifist, and romantic. With ace from a compassionate nun, Sister riage. What a blessing!” die in my home. I don’t want the sterility of ever-present humility, he appreciates that Claudia, who talked with him for hours. Bernie and Bunny served as co-direc- a hospital.” As Bernie’s condition deterio- his miraculous life has been “full of bounti- She managed a program for battered tors of The Temple Shelter for seven years rates, they are accepting more hospice sup- ful gifts—not necessarily money, but other port. Weekly, a volunteer visits with Bernie, gifts.” Bernie is approaching death with the while Bunny goes to the hair salon. Bernie same joy and sense of wonder that he says, “This man who stays with me is a begins each day: “Welcome to the Day!” delight, just a delight! A good conversation- alist. And now, I’m going to get on oxygen, Janis Kleinberger has thirty years of expe - because it’s getting more difficult to rience in the human services, primarily in breathe.” Weinstein Hospice responds to the field of aging and end-of-life care. She the changing needs of the family. is founder and director of Emerg i n g Currently, Bernie and Bunny and their Healthcare, Inc., which is developing a families are having courageous conversa- model outreach program to improve access tions about the meaning of his death and to high-quality integrative medicine for the dying. Bernie’s attitude toward dying eases chronically or terminally ill and their care - these discussions: “I think life is a total givers. mystery.... To me, death is the high adven- January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 1 7 Zucker joins Greater Atlanta Hadassah as director Paula S. Zucker, a 17-year, award-win- help us continue our rapid growth and make ning, veteran marketing executive at the increasingly valuable contributions to Marcus Jewish Community Center of Hadassah’s projects in Israel and here in the A t l a n t a United States.” (MJCCA), is Prior to joining Greater A t l a n t a the new director Hadassah, Zucker was executive director of of Greater the DeKalb County Police Alliance. While A t l a n t a there, she developed the non-profit’s web- Hadassah. site and other marketing materials, its fundraising strategy, and its strategic plan. Z u c k e r, a As marketing director with the Hadassah life MJCCA, Zucker worked with 24 program member, brings departments. Among her myriad responsi- to her position a bilities and achievements, she advised the proven record administration on image building and mes- of accomplish- saging; instituted and expanded the Paula S. Zucker ments in the MJCCA’s first website; created a campaign areas of market- for the transition into the center’s new facil- ing, communications, and strategic plan- ities, increasing membership by 94 percent; ning. and implemented a branding strategy that “We’re so fortunate to have Paula on complemented a national program. board as our director,” said Ruthanne During her tenure with the MJCCA, Warnick, chapter president. “She joins us at Zucker earned several awards, among them a time when we’re beginning preparation of the JCCA Innovation Award, the MJCCA a 19-month plan to take us through 2009. Professional of the Year Award, and the We know that with her leadership, manage- JCCA Marketing Achievement Award. ment, and creative skills, as well as her Zucker attended Boston University, knowledge of the community, Paula will where she earned a bachelor’s degree in provide valuable input and insights that will education with a minor in communications. Dr. Plasker promotes aging with vigor Living a long life is one thing; living it well is another. Our parents and grand- parents may not have understood the dif- ference, but we do. Oak GroveMarket According to Dr. Eric Plasker, many of the world’s centenarians grew up in an Meat Market & Deli era of poor healthcare and were blindsided by their longevity. Now, they are living with physical, financial, emotional, and spiritual difficulties. But we can live lives Best Hamburger in Atlanta! that are both longer and better, if we choose. Dr. Plasker, an Atlanta health and wellness expert and author of international bestseller The 100-Year Lifestyle, is DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS spreading the word that we, more than our genes, are responsible for the way we age. Soups & Stews He will continue his efforts on Sunday, January 27, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., when he Dr. Eric Plasker Salads will present a seminar entitled “If You Knew You’d Live to Be 100, How Would the leading names in the $8.2 billion per Sandwiches You Change Your Life?” year chiropractic industry. He is recog- This program, sponsored by nized as an innovative wellness expert by Hot Items Congregation Or Hadash, is open to the more than 60,000 chiropractors in the general public and will take place at the United States alone. Desserts Weber School on Roswell Road. It Since 2001, he has sold more than a includes a brunch and a choice of an auto- half-million copies of his health and well- graphed copy of the book, an audiocassette ness guides, audiotapes, CDs, DVDs, and of the book, or a DVD. Proceeds from the related material. The 100-Year Lifestyle Monday – Saturday seminar and product sales will be donated includes a signature life plan covering 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM to Or Hadash. everything from health, relationships, “I am doing this for the fun,” says Dr. finances, retirement, passion, and purpose, Plasker, a chiropractor who has shared the giving readers the tools and knowledge 2757 LaVista Road, Decatur, GA stage with such luminaries as Drs. Barbara they need to live better each day. De Angelis, Wayne Dyer, Andrew Weil, For reservations or more information, 404.315.9831 and Deepak Chopra. In just five and one- contact Or Hadash at 404-250-3338 or half years, Dr. Plasker has become one of [email protected]. www.OakGroveMarket.com Page 1 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 Good-bye, sweetie—I’ve had enough This column first appeared in The Jewish way. I am a strong-willed person and not eas- Oh, for the thrill of Snickers bars Georgian in the July-August 1997 issue. ily influenced, but there have been times in And the delight of a Mars your presence when I have used poor judg- The munch and crunch of M&M’s Well, my dear friend—perhaps I should ment. Really has no par. say former friend, as it’s been over a year B Y S h i r l e y You have been maligned and imitated. In truth, there’s none like a Baby Ruth since we’ve had any close contact. Oh, I’ve F r i e d m a n But you are unique and not without guilt. You Forsooth, the Butterfinger will linger seen you—how could I avoid it? You’re very have had numerous clandestine rendezvous, Godiva, Barricini, and Whitman’s are fine popular and turn up everywhere. Children and and you are shameless—trying to be all things And it takes a Houdini to draw the line. adults have always adored you, even though And no party was complete without you. to all people. And succeeding much of the But...good-bye, dear chocolate, you’re break- they know you’re not as innocent as you You’ve come a long way since those time. You’ve certainly made your way to ing my heart appear. You can create difficulties and com- Depression days. You weren’t wrapped in countless pillows in fine hotels, uninvited. You’ve become number one on my “Get Lost” plications and cause pain, albeit inadvertently. such finery then. (And some of your associ- I haven’t completely forgotten you. I chart. We’ve known each other since child- ates had no wrap at all.) But now, you are even dreamed about you one night. But I’m no I retreat, though you’re sweet, and memory hood. I used to love it when you came to our glamorous and, at times, quite sophisticated. longer attracted to you. Good-bye—here’s sings house. All of us did. I can remember how tick- Am I being unfair not to seek your com- looking at you, babe. It was lovely, great fun...but just one of those led I was when we’d get together at recess. pany anymore? You do have appeal. I confess things! that I try to avoid you, because it’s better this And the oil burns on.... As I write this in December, I’m listening There is also the fact that being Jewish, I front door, and I suffered from wearing too to “Rock of Ages,” because Chanukah will be like to remember family and friends on high a heel. here in a few days. I am getting in the mood. Chanukah, but, of course, I also like to It sounds as if I am complaining, but as Pretty soon, though, I may be listening to B Y remember my friends who celebrate I’ve already said, this is a happy time of “Jingle Bells,” as Christmas will also be here M a r i c e Christmas. There are also some nieces and year—I will just grit my teeth and go to the this month. I don’t know what the rabbis K a t z nephews who are married to non-Jewish peo- mall when needed. Oh sure, I could buy things would say, but I have always enjoyed ple, and their children are being brought up in online, but it never worked for me when I Chanukah—from a religious perspective and it gets this time of year. I will declare, it seems both religions. I can’t even address if these bought things from catalogues in the old days. because it is a happy holiday—and Christmas, as if every party to which I get invited occurs kids are confused—it is too early to tell, but Frankly, I will take Valentine’s Day any because it is a happy time of year, too. There in December. All these parties are exciting they seem very well adjusted at this point. time. Whoops—that is really St. Valentine’s are also some recent sad memories—my sis- and fun, but, as Lewis Grizzard used to say, So, I went to the mall yesterday—a Day! What will the rabbis say about that? ter, Dot, died last year on the first night of “Why don’t they start the party season the S a t u r d a y, no less—and drove ‘round and Chanukah. first of November?” ‘round until I finally found a parking spot. But, I really want to talk about how busy However, it was a long way from Macy’s January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 1 9

Jerry’s Habima Theatre has grown into one Department for Developmental Disabilities, of Atlanta’s most anticipated and exciting contact Susie Davidow at 678-812-4000 or live stage productions, playing to sold-out b l o n d e r @ a t l a n t a j c c . o rg, or visit atlanta- MJCCA NEWS houses year after year. jcc.org. J e r r y ’s Habima Theatre is Georgia’s only professionally directed and AND THE WINNER IS.... Jerry’s Habima produced theatrical company featuring THE MIRACLE OF JEWISH CUBA. The Theatre has been honored with the 2007 adult actors with developmental disabili- MJCCA is conducting a humanitarian mis- Suzi Bass “Spirit of Suzi” Award. ties. Each year, the cast presents a full-scale sion to Cuba, March 12-16. The Suzi Bass Awards recognize adaptation of a Broadway musical to enthu- The price for this mission is and foster professional theatrical excellence siastic audiences and much acclaim. The $2,300 per person, double occupancy (add in the Atlanta area. The Spirit of Suzi Award 2007 production of G2K Oklahoma! (an $300 for single occupancy); a $940 deposit is given annually to a person or organization adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s is due with the application. Included are that demonstrates a long-term and consis- original, full-length Oklahoma!), directed roundtrip charter airfare (Miami-Havana- tent contribution to professionalism in by Shadwell, played to sold-out houses and Miami); breakfast daily; dinner (when Atlanta theatre. earned the dedicated cast and crew this cov- included); ground transportation to and eted award. from the airport; participation in a full Davidow said, “There is no theatri- schedule of religious activities, including cal company more deserving of this award those at the Patronato (the Cuban Jewish Susie Davidow (from left) and G2K than the cast and crew of Jerry’s Habima Community Center), synagogues, and the O k l a h o m a ! cast members Ian Theatre. They put their hearts and souls into Jewish cemetery; meetings with Jewish Whitfield, Michelle Horowitz, and every rehearsal, every performance. But to community leaders; dining with members Linda Danzig, proudly accept the them, it’s not about red carpets and gilded of the Jewish community; a professional 2007 Spirit of Suzi Award as Emcee statuettes; it’s about putting on a wonderful, English-speaking guide; hotel taxes; service Deadra Moore looks on. entertaining show for family and friends fees; visa application processing fees; and and the personal pride they walk away with medical insurance. Travelers must be in Under the direction of Blonder after every monumental performance.” Miami on Tuesday evening, March 11. Family Department for Developmental J e r r y ’s Habima T h e a t r e ’s 2008 For applications or more informa- Disabilities Program Director Susie production of Footloose opens March 26 at tion, contact Shaindle Schmuckler at 678- Lois Blonder shares a warm moment D a v i d o w, Assistant Director Sammy the MJCCA’s Morris and Rae Frank 812-3983 or communityservice@atlanta- with Dina Shadwell, director of R o s e n b e rg, and Jerry’s Habima T h e a t r e Theater. jcc.org. Jerry’s Habima Theatre’s 2007 pro- Director and MJCCA Assistant Arts & For more information about Jerry’s duction of G2K Oklahoma! Entertainment Director Dina Shadwell, Habima Theatre or the Blonder Family

"Celebrating the Values of Judaism" Page 2 0 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008

being a perfect game. 11. Who was the first three-brother combi- nation to play in the Men’s Basketball 7. Howard Wertheimer and Jodi Ginsberg Schwartz on Sports League? 8. Jeff Kess. I know, because I’ve played on America is test crazy. It’s not only in 12. What do Freddy Benamy, Larry Frank, his team at one time or another in the last our schools—today, there are tests on Lester Pazol, Herb Slotin, and Jody Blanke three decades. everything in every kind of publication. have in common? There are tests regarding diet, sex, politics, 9. Each served as director of health, well- entertainment, driving, marriage, and more. B Y J e r r y 13. How many racquetball courts did the ness, and recreation at the AJCC. Everyone is asking questions to see how AJCC at Zaban originally have? much we know. And I’m not even including S c h w a r t z 10. Alan Jensen “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” I 14. Who was the All-SEC defensive back defy you to go a day without being chal- Community Center of Atlanta? from the University of Georgia who also 11. Jerry, Bruce, and Milton Finkelstein lenged to take some kind of test in a news- played in the Men’s Basketball League? paper, in a magazine, or on television. 4. What was the most recent year in which 12. All were pitchers in the Men’s Softball With that in mind, I feel it is my duty Atlanta hosted the Maccabi Games? 15. Who was the first woman to play in the League. to devise a test covering the last 50 years of Men’s Softball League? the Jewish Georgia sports scene and see 5. What do Jerry Bashuk, Howie Hyman, 13. There were three, but it’s now down to how well you do. I am going way back on Ralph Amiel, and Bill Klineman have in 16. Who was the coach of the Boy’s Center one, and let’s hope the “powers that be” this one and will try to bring the questions common? Basketball team that won the City leave that one alone. into the 21st century. It won’t take long. I’ll Basketball Championship in 1965 and give you the answers at the end of the col- 6. Who pitched the first no-hitter in the whose members included Bobby Hyman, 14. Buzzy Rosenberg. He was also the first umn, and you can grade yourself. No cheat- AJCC Men’s Softball League? Joel Gross, and Marcus Katz? basketball player to dunk at the center. ing now. The honor code applies. 7. Who were the 2007 coaches of the 17. Who has the record for the most softball 15. Nancy Fox. She was also probably the THE FIRST ANNUAL JEWISH GEOR- MJCCA Girl’s Maccabi Basketball Team? victories as a pitcher in center history? best female athlete ever to play at the cen- GIA SPORTS SCENE TEST (JGSST) ter. 8. Who holds the record for being captain 18. What do Jerry Benda, Stan Sobel, Steve 1. What year did the Jewish Community of a Men’s Basketball League team for the Gruenhut, and Brian Wulz have in com- 16. Ray Taratoot. According to Bobby Center on Peachtree Street open, and how most consecutive years? mon? Hyman, that team plans a reunion in May of many softball fields were located there? 2008, with a basketball game on the agen- 9. What do Hal Krafchick, Moose Miller, 19. Who was the ex-Major League Baseball da. 2. What do Tom Fox, Alvin Verner, Alan Harold Post, and Kenny Klein have in com- player who played in the Men’s A d u l t Silverman, and Donnie Diamond have in mon? Softball League? 17. Gene Benator, who has over 500 common? 10. Who is the director of the tennis pro- 20. What do Sid Roemer, Norman 18. Each served as Men’s Basketball 3. Who is the current health, wellness, and gram of the MJCCA? Wasserman, Al Stein, Willie Green, and League Commissioner. recreation director of the Marcus Jewish Stan Schwartz have in common? 19. Ron Blomberg, who was also the first 21. Name at least two Atlanta area sports- designated hitter in Major League Baseball writers or announcers who have played in any of the center’s sports leagues. 20. All participate in the men’s morning Tennis Program at the MJCCA. 22. What is the name of the MJCCA’s swim team? 21. I. J. Rosenberg, Cory Kessler, Steak Shapiro, Bob Neal, Dave Cohen, Chris 23. What is the name of the statue of three Domino, and Matt Chernoff (Give yourself runners in different postions that is located full credit if you were able to name any in front of the MJCCA building? two.)

24. What do Pilates, Spinning, Step, and 22. Zaban Sharks Silver Sneakers have in common? 23. Winning 25. Who has played in the Men’s Basketball League for the longest period of time? 24. All are exercise programs available at the MJCCA. —————- 25. George Wise. He started in 1965, and Now that you’ve finished the test, I’m no telling how much longer he’ll be going. certain you’re anxious to see the answers and see how well you did. HOW DID YOU RATE?

1. It opened in 1957 with two softball 21–25: Excellent. You are now the Jewish fields. Georgia Sports Scene maven and historian. 16–20: Very Good. Obviously, you’ve been 2. All played third base exceptionally well around the sports scene for quite a while. in the Men’s Softball League. 11–15: Good. You probably played in a few leagues over the years. 3. Howie Rosenberg has held the position 6–10: Average. But then again there’s more for five years. than just sports at the center. 0-5: Remediation classes will start soon. 4. 2001. Eighteen hundred athletes from 26 U.S. cities, Canada, and Israel participated. Test time is over. The good news is that nobody will be held back, even those who 5. All played the position of catcher in the had to take the remediation classes. Hope Men’s Softball League. you had fun. Until next time, drive for the bucket 6. Joel Lobel in 1972. And Jerry Yaeger and score. walked in the last inning to keep it from January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 2 1 From hiding in Ukraine to thriving in rural Virginia: my family’s story By Rob Hassett Louis later moved on with his family to old, Sam and his wife, Agnes, took me fish- laugh. Colonial Heights, Vi r ginia, where he ing in the sound on the back side of North From a young age, Abe liked working In 1905, 20-year-old Lieb Chusid left opened a dry goods store. Louis and Yetta with electronics. At age 13, using parts he his home near Kiev, Ukraine, for a better had four boys, Harry, Sam, Abe (my father), found mostly in junkyards, he built a work- life in America. Sometime during his stay at and Jay. Papa Louie was a wonderful ing ham radio from scratch. In 1941, Abe Ellis Island, his name changed to Louis father—something his sons appreciated was drafted into the army. He was stationed Hassett—later to become “Papa Louie” to more and more as they grew older. at Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey, where he me, my siblings, and my cousins. Around 1928, Louis was riding on a taught radio repair and learned about televi- L o u i s ’ final months in the Russian train from Petersburg to Ocean View, a sion. Empire were harrowing. At age 18, he was beach in Norfolk, Virginia. The train broke In 1945, soon after Abe returned to drafted into the Russian army and sent to down in Franklin, a pleasant little town Franklin, the brothers started selling televi- Manchuria to fight in the Russo-Japanese about 60 miles from the coast. Louis sions. They had a competitive advantage, war—a war over the control of full-year walked around the town and loved it. He because Abe was the only person in seaports in Southern Manchuria. Initially, sent Harry and Sam to open a store there. A Franklin who knew how to fix them. Later, the war was popular in Russia. However, few years later, when Abe turned 18, he Louis and Yetta Hassett, circa 1936 they were the first in town to sell window due to the incompetence and corruption of turned down a scholarship to Virginia Tech air conditioners. the Romanov government, the Russian and followed Sam and Harry to Franklin. Carolina’s Outer Banks. It was a beautiful Around 1947, one of the Sifens set Abe troops received little training and support, When Jay finished high school, he joined day, and we were catching lots of fish. up with Peggy Scher, the daughter of Joe and the Japanese won most, if not every, his three older brothers. Suddenly, a huge water moccasin slid out of and Josie Scher, who lived in Portsmouth, battle. Franklin, which then had a population the reeds and headed toward our little boat. Vi rginia, about an hour’s drive east of Louis told my father that the soldiers of about 5,000, was a rural community I alerted Sam to the snake. He attempted to Franklin. Abe and Peggy were married in did not have enough weapons, warm cloth- where farmers grew peanuts and raised start the engine, but it would not start. The 1948 and had four children, Rob, Ellen, ing, or food. Exhibiting the resourcefulness Virginia hams. The Union Bag Corporation snake, probably attracted by the fish hang- Lewis, and Bruce. and determination that he would later pass (later Union Camp and now International ing off of the boat, was coming at us full There were lots of Hassett cousins in on to his sons, Louis waited until the mili- Paper) operated a paper mill. Prior to 1950, speed. Sam grabbed an oar and waited as Franklin. Harry Hassett and his wife had tary situation was especially confusing, and the only Jewish families in Franklin were the snake approached. two daughters, and Jay and his wife had one he deserted. Riding on trains and with great the Hassetts, the Sifens, the Sobles, and the Just when it was at the side of the boat, son and four daughters. Sam had no chil- care, he managed to travel back from the Hirsches. The Sobles eventually moved Sam, a former semi-professional boxer, hit dren and spent a great deal of time with his warfront through Siberia to his hometown. away. Franklin lured Dr. Hirsch and his the snake on the neck with great force and nephews and nieces. Back home, Louis got word that sol- wife, who were Holocaust survivors, to the killed it. Sam said he had to hit the snake in Papa Louie spent his final years in diers were in town looking for draft dodgers city because it needed a surgeon, which just the right place to avoid flipping it into Franklin with an aura of calmness and gen- and deserters, with a quick death as the worked out very well for everyone. the boat. Years later, when Jimmy Carter erosity. He played cards with his daughter- usual punishment. The soldiers used tactics Louis’ belief that Franklin would be a talked about how he courageously fought such as curfews to make an escape from good place for a second store proved cor- off a rabbit, Sam, Agnes, and I had a good See THRIVING, page 32 town impossible. But young Louis devised rect. Eventually, the Franklin store became a plan. He had his grandmother cut open a much more successful than the one in mattress and sew him up inside. Not know- Colonial Heights. Around 1953, after ing when the soldiers would come by, Louis Grandma Yetta passed away, Papa Louie ended up staying in the mattress for more moved to Franklin to be near his sons and than a day. When the soldiers finally grandchildren. arrived, they searched the house thoroughly, Louis’ resourcefulness carried over to but did not find him. Although he survived his sons. In the late 1940s, Sam and Jay this search, Louis knew the soldiers would shared ownership of an airplane. They kept likely return. He realized that his best it at the little Franklin airport, which had no choice was to move to another nation—a lights and could accommodate only day- nation with a promise of freedom and time landings. One day, Jay flew to opportunity. Thus, he decided to come to Norfolk, about 50 miles away. The plane the United States. had no radar, and the only way Jay could Louis took his modest savings and navigate was by following the roads. On the some money his parents and grandmother return trip, Jay realized that he was follow- gave him, said goodbye to his family, and ing the wrong road. He turned around and left home. He barely escaped arrest by bor- eventually found the Franklin airport. der guards, resorting to bribery on at least However, it was already dark, and he could one occasion. He made his way to not see the runway. Hamburg, Germany, and there boarded a Jay considered his choices. He was ship to the United States. running low on fuel and began buzzing the Louis first settled in Philadelphia, homes around Franklin, hoping someone where he met Yetta Friedman, who had would realize the problem and help him. A come to America from Poland as a young man named Delhi Cotton (who later lived child. Louis and Yetta married in 1908. across the street from us) figured out what Louis first worked as a wallpaper hanger. A was going on. He called about twenty short time after they married, Louis was friends and led them all down to the run- offered a job by Yetta’s sister’s husband, way, where they lined up ten cars on each Hymie Greenstone, who owned a success- side, turned on their headlights, and waited ful store in Staunton, Virginia, in the beau- for the plane to land. When Jay saw the tiful Shenandoah Va l l e y, near headlights, he turned the plane around, Charlottesville. Yetta and her sister were approached the runway, and safely landed. close, and Louis, ever the adventurer, Visibly shaken but relieved, Jay spent the accepted the job. Louis learned how to next hour shaking hands with and thanking operate a business from Hymie and then the rescuers. became a partner with Ye t t a ’s brother, Sam also showed courage and ingenu- Harry, in a store in South Hill, Virginia. ity under pressure. When I was ten years Page 2 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 The paper clip, a symbol of defiance and remembrance Although there are hundreds of memo- topped with a silhouette of a young boy and rials and museums in honor of those who girl playing with a butterfly. Eighteen (chai) perished in the Holocaust, none is more stepping stones embedded with butterflies unusual or poignant than the Children’s surround the boxcar. Holocaust Memorial and Paper Clip Project B Y L e o n in Whitwell, Tennessee, a small town (pop. S o c o l 1,600) located outside Chattanooga, at the base of the Smoky Mountains. perishing at the hands of other people. One In 1998, Whitwell Middle School student suggested in order to grasp the num- Principal Linda Hooper decided the school bers, they could collect something tangible. needed a program to teach its students tol- He suggested paper clips—6,000,000 of erance and respect for others who might be them, one for each slain person. of a different race or religion. She felt that, Why paper clips? The students found A student guide shows tourists the in the sheltered environment of this small, that all Europeans were not against the memorial containing 11 million paper all-white Baptist community, the young- Jews. The Norwegian King showed his clips sters were ill-prepared to deal with the out- defiance of the Nazis by wearing a paper side world. Mrs. Hooper sent A s s i s t a n t clip on his coat lapel, as did thousands of Before leaving, many visitors pur- Principal David Smith to a teacher-training Tourists stroll on butterfly-embed- Norwegian citizens. People showed their chased the Paper Clips DVD and a book course, where, after attending a seminar ded walkway to boxcar solidarity with their Jewish countrymen, about the project. Principal Hooper gra- about the Holocaust, he suggested an after- who were forced to wear a yellow Mogen ciously autographed each book. school course to study the topic. David on their clothing. But why was the Mrs. Hooper was concerned that the paper clip chosen as the symbol? It turns parents might object to the subject matter, out the inventor of the paper clip was so she called a PTA meeting; to her surprise, Johann Valer, a Norwegian Jew. the parents endorsed it, and some attended The students’ project began as a letter- the first classes conducted by teacher writing campaign on the school’s web solic- Sandra Roberts. Word spread, and newspa- iting paper clips. The response was slow at per stories and a documentary film, Paper first, but then a 94-year-old Holocaust sur- Clips, informed the world about the project. vivor, Lena Gitter, learned about the project Frieda Socol, a Congregation Shearith and contacted two German journalists who Israel member, read about the project and were working in Washington, D.C. The saw Paper Clips, and thought that a day trip journalists, Peter Schroeder and Dagmar to Whitwell would be interesting for the A German imported boxcar, once Schroeder-Hildebrand, wrote stories about senior members of her congregation. She used to transport Jews to concentra- the project for German newspapers, and chartered a large tour bus, and, in short tion camps, now contains 11 million Dagmar wrote a book about the Holocaust. Principal Linda Hooper poses with order, all 56 seats were reserved. Eight of paper clips and Holocaust memora- The interest in the project was tremendous, tour leader Frieda Socol the passengers were Holocaust survivors or bilia and letters and paper clips came in droves. children of survivors. Soon the 6,000,000 goal was reached and On the trip back, as the group enjoyed The trip took place on a Friday, surpassed until over 30,000,000 paper clips An additional 11,000,000 paper clips looking at the fall leaves in the mountains, because that is the day that 8th-grade stu- were sent to the school. are stored inside the boxcar, which also has Frieda invited people to take the micro- dents conduct tours. The group gathered at The problem now was what to do with display cases with letters and other memen- phone and reveal their thoughts and feelings the synagogue for a continental breakfast all of the clips. Another student suggested tos. about the visit. Abe Gerson, a camp sur- before boarding the bus, and there was no they obtain a German boxcar, like the ones vivor, said he approached one of the young problem getting back to Atlanta before that transported Jews to the death camps. tour guides and asked him why the students Shabbat. The Schroeders were so impressed they did the Holocaust Project. The young man On the bus, people viewed the Paper pledged to obtain a boxcar for the school. It said it was a revelation to learn about man’s Clips documentary on DVD, so, by the time was purchased with German donations and inhumanity to others and to develop empa- they arrived at the school, all were well- shipped via ship, rail, and truck to thy, tolerance, and respect for others. He informed about the project. Whitwell. The effort was done at no cost to said each 8th-grade class helped teach the The documentary follows the students the school, and volunteers and businesses younger students, so that eventually all of Whitwell as they go through the after- furnished labor and material to repair the would have that mindset for generations to school course and learn about the boxcar, which was placed on a rail founda- come. Holocaust. The students had a hard time tion. A steel monument was erected to hold Herb Kohn, another Holocaust sur- grasping the enormity of 6,000,000 people the initial 11,000,000 paper clips. It is vivor, said the trip had been on one of the most amazing experiences of his life. Tourists pore over some of the 30 Finding a small town in Tennessee that thousand letters and e-mails stored knew nothing about Jews or Judaism, yet in the school library felt compelled to spread goodwill to all peo- ple, was almost unbelievable. Vacation? Business Trip? Weekend Getaways? When the Atlanta group arrived, they Afterwards, Frieda received many e- We are as close as your phone to provide you and were greeted and escorted through the mails and phone calls thanking her for mak- memorial and school library, where they Your pet with needed in-home services ing the trip possible. Perhaps the highest inspected some of the thousands of letters compliment came from several ladies who Reasonable Rates sent to the school. There were also Jewish told her, “It was wonderful; when’s the next References Furnished symbols displayed, including a menorah trip? We want to go.” Preliminary interviews to establish a bonding and a Seder plate. One binder contained hate mail, some of which had obscene car- toons depicting Jews as moneygrubbers and claiming the Jews encouraged the Holocaust museums so they could charge admission and profit from one of the world’s greatest tragedies. 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Pre-flavored Kasha and Stonyfield Farm Greek Yogurt. For more Kosherfest news, or to view a listing of all of the exhibitors, visit kosher- Kosher Affairs fest.com. By Roberta Scher cookery, as well as five creamy, spreadable varieties. For more information, visit BOOKS FOR COOKS A REPORT FROM KOSHERFEST 2007. buteisland.com. Kosherfest founder Menachem Lubinsky Several of Meira’s other top picks are Support Jewish education while you forecasts that the ‘08 kosher market will also Kosherfest product category winners: enjoy a new cookbook. Manna fro m continue to expand in several areas, includ- • Best New Wine or Spirit: Rimon Heaven has recently been published by the ing fresh and organic products that focus on Pomegranate Dessert Wine 2005. This is families and friends of the Rudlin Torah health and well-being and upscale gourmet the only 100% kosher pomegranate wine in Academy of Richmond, Virginia, one of products such as sauces, flavored bever- the world, fermented with no added sugars Virginia’s oldest day schools. The book, ages, and snack items: “The kosher trends or flavors. The father and son winemaking which includes 300 taste-tested recipes, is ula and a saucepan,” has created a book of are pretty closely aligned to the national team of Gaby and Avi Nachmias, a farmer the culmination of a three-year community recipes with a maximum of 15 minutes trends, according to Datamonitor’s and a businessman respectively, were project. The 40th anniversary of the school hands-on time and easy-to-follow instruc- Productscan (www. p r o d u c t s c a n . c o m ) , inspired by a love of their land and wine to inspired the name Manna from Heaven, tions. This is a perfect gift for a new bride which lists fresh and organic, super fruits, create a unique style of wine—made from drawing on the 40 years that the Jews wan- and a great help for more experienced, but bold flavors, and probiotic foods (beyond special pomegranates grown and developed dered the desert, sustained only by manna, time-challenged cooks. The recipes are yogurts) as some of its top trends for 2008.” in their own orchards. Their family pome- the heavenly food. To order a cookbook or simplified versions of much more complex I would like to thank dear friend and granate orchard is located on a mountain at learn more about the school, visit creations, some supplied by friends and fellow foodie Meira Katz for representing the corner of a moshav in Israel’s Upper rudlin.com, or call 804-784-9050. family members, some classics, some from The Jewish Georgian at Kosherfest. Meira, Galilee. The company says this wine has If you would like to spend less time in celebrity chefs. Geller’s accompanying an Atlantan currently residing in New York, 300% more antioxidants than red wine. It is the kitchen, but keep that secret closely comments are worth the price of the book! selected several show highlights that we an especially appealing and healthful wine held, there is a new cookbook from I smiled all the way through, have used hope will soon be appearing on local gro- for the growing population of pomegranate Feldheim Publishers: Quick & Kosher: some of her time-saving tips, and have cery shelves. fans. Visit rimonwines.com. Recipes from the Bride Who Knew Nothing enjoyed the quick and delicious results. Sheese, a 100% vegan parve “cheese” • Best New Snack Food: Zesty Veggie by Jamie Geller. Geller suggests that the This book is available locally at Judaica product from Scotland, is coming to the Baked Latke Crisps by Thou Shall Snack alternate title for her book could be The I Corner/Chosen Treasures and online at U.S. It will be available in nine hard cheese • Best in Show and Best New Sauce or Didn’t Tell Him I Couldn’t Cook Cookbook. Amazon.com. flavors (including mozzarella and cheddar), Condiment: Mikee Shiitake Teriyaki Sauce The author, who “came into her marriage which will add flexibility to creative kosher Other favorite finds include Wolff’s not knowing the difference between a spat- See KOSHER, page 33 Atlanta Jewish Film Festival takes it to a new level By Brian Katzowitz House. According to David Kuniansky, AJFF We’ve just experienced another holi- co-chair, this year’s festival will be the day season in the world of Hollywood cin- largest to date. “Our first year (2000), we ema—a time of year when the latest had about 2,000 people attend; this year, Christmas comedy mingles with the we’re expecting between 9,000-12,000.” inevitable remake of a big-budget disaster The rise in attendance numbers has film, and epic period pieces hoping to capi- brought about an expansion in dates (from talize on the Oscar buzz share the cineplex seven to 12 days) and venues (a third the- with peppy musicals. ater was added in Duluth). Unfortunately, The newly expanded Atlanta Jewish with every growth spurt comes the Film Festival (AJFF), which runs January inevitable growing pains. An army of vol- 16-27, offers under-the-radar films that, unteers is needed to staff the AJFF, and after while they may not receive all the studio the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, hype, provide a glimpse of the broadening finding people to give up their free time can horizon of independent film and Israeli cin- be challenging. ema. Additionally, increasing the number of The line-up features films dealing with films calls for an extensive selection a variety of themes and topics: from an 87- process. year-old surfer in Surfwise; to an animated “We use the Wikipedia model in select- retelling of the riots at the 1968 Democratic ing films for the festival,” said Darren Katz, National Convention in Chicago 10; and an Helen Hunt and Matthew Broderick, Then She Found Me inside look at Middle East prison life, Hot See AJFF, page 29 Page 2 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008

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• Where Traditional Matzo Ball Soup Facials is Made Fresh Everyday Microdermabrasion Body Treatments Open 24/7 Hair Removal 3620 Roswell Road • Atlanta, GA Brazilian Bikini Wax Call for Reservations 404-250-3332 404-816-9090 5975 Roswell Road NE • Suite 355-A Sandy Springs, GA 30328 January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 2 7 Goldman’s greeters welcome new neighbors far and wide

Next time you move to a new home, and the “Greeters Committee” shows up to wel- come you to the ‘hood, don’t be surprised if one of the greeters looks familiar. It could be legendary ad exec Mark Goldman, the new B Y R e g president and CEO of Housewarmers Inc. and R e g e n s t e i n a real hands-on manager. We have the story here exclusively, except for a nearly full-page article in the that under Mark and Joel’s watch, Grey Atlanta became one of Grey Worldwide’s five best-performing offices. Surprised, because we thought, how could there be four offices that equaled or outdid them? Housewarmers’ “greeters” call on new residents of communities and shower them with gift bags full of certificates from spon- sors and other presents from local firms. There are currently 53 franchises run by greeters in local communities; Mark hopes to add 100 more this year and turn the service into a national venture. Check out the compa- ny at Housewarmersusa.com. M a r k ’s vast experience in marketing, media, and advertising should be a big help as Housewarmers expand nationally. Meanwhile, back at Grey Atlanta, the local branch of one of the nation’s largest ad agencies, Joel Babbit and his team continue to do miracles for their clients. Mark Goldman It has been five years since Joel and Atlanta Business Chronicle, lavishing praise Mark’s firm, 360, was sold to Grey. Joel is on Mark for his many accomplishments and now president of GCI Worldwide, Grey’s PR talents. arm, which is one of the world’s ten largest Mark’s move follows a hugely successful PR firms, with over 40 offices in 22 countries. three-decade career in advertising, most We sort of feel like we did when Jerry recently as president of both 360Thinc and Lewis and Dean Martin went their separate Grey Atlanta, and partner of the equally leg- ways. We hate to see a great team break up, e n d a r y, endlessly creative, and still close but we can’t wait to see what the future will friend Joel Babbit. We were surprised to learn bring for them. Kol Echad launches Sunday, December 2, marked a special day for members of Atlanta’s Jewish com- munity. Kol Echad: Making Judaism Matter celebrated its official grand opening and dedication of its headquarters at the Halpern Center in Vinings. Kol Echad, which means “every one” or “every voice,” is a trans-denominational center for adult Jewish learning and out- reach. Kol Echad has been offering classes since August 2007, but the December grand Rabbi Salkin and the Halperns opening offered its students, members of speaking to guests A t l a n t a ’s rabbinical community, Jewish community leaders, and supporters a and the Halpern Center building, stepped chance to officially celebrate the first forward with a location when Kol Echad: Jewish facility in the Vinings area. Making Judaism Matter was looking for a The night’s events included the hang- place to start up. Advisory board members ing of a mezuzah, remarks from board include Barbara and Ron Balser, Carol and 4455 Roswell Road members Howard and Lynne Halpern and Bob Cooper, Ann and Jay Davis, Carole Atlanta, Georgia 30342 Sherry Frank, and a reading by Rabbi and Joel Goldberg, Cathy and Steve 404-255-4312 Jeffrey Salkin from A Dream of Zion, the Kuranoff, Andrea and Michael Leven, Billi new book of essays he has collected and and Bernie Marcus (The Marcus edited. Foundation), Carol and Bob Nemo, Susan www.presstine.com Lynne and Howard Halpern, owners of Arnovitz Plasker, Linda and Stephen Selig, Halperns’ Purveyors of Steak and Seafood Bob Silverman, and Judy and Erwin Zaban. Page 2 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 From Shanghai to Atlanta, with musical accompaniment

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is Arriga Poa, a Sephardic Jew from Italy. Most velous additions to the Atlanta symphony. world-class symphony of 100-plus musicians, of the other musicians were Russian. The Today, China is producing world-class with a fabulous 200-voice chorus. You should orchestra had no Chinese musicians—only musicians and grooming their youngsters to have heard their “Hallelujah” chorus at last “foreigners,” as the non-Chinese were called. excel, teaching music of such masters as month’s Christmas program—it all but raised B Y Balfoura Friend Now fast-forward to Atlanta and me Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart. the roof of the concert hall. Magnificent! L e v i n e “grooving” to the ASO—back from my rever- As I enjoy each concert, I feel my My subscription to the concert series is ie along memory lane. The ASO, in contrast father’s presence. I know he’s so proud that I an annual gift from me to me. At the last con- to the Shanghai orchestra, has a half-dozen finally love his music. cert, I found myself “conducting” with my she’s a midget!” Chinese musicians, including Mei-Ann Chen, Incidentally, I did manage to see many fingers. With eyes closed, I went back 75 End of story. Instead, my father would the new (female) assistant conductor; the Shirley Temple films during my childhood— years to the Shanghai Municipal Orchestra, take me to the symphony. I hated every associate concertmaster; an assistant concert- and no, she was not a midget! which played at the beautiful Ly c e u m minute of it, but didn’t dare protest. I recall master; and other principal chairs. Theater. even now that Papa’s fingers were either con- Interestingly enough, they all play string P.S.—A point of pride for our Jewish com- Each Sunday, I would beg my father, ducting or drumming against his knees. instruments. munity—I kvell that since the ASO began its Jacob L. Friend, to take me to a Shirley I may not recall what I ate for dinner last At a recent concert, the visiting soloist professional existence in 1947, out of four Temple movie, and his reply was always the night, but I do remember that the Shanghai was renowned violinist Cho-Liang Lin, a conductors, two have been Jewish—Henry same: “No, those movies are rubbish. And Municipal Orchestra’s conductor was Mario native of Taiwan. Go figure—there were no Sopkin, the first conductor, and Yoel Levi, the anyway, Shirley Temple is not a little girl, Paci, an Italian, and the concertmaster was Chinese musicians in China, yet they are mar- third. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 2 9 Atlanta’s best-kept secret When I was transferred from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, to the William Breman Jewish Home, I was in for a shock—all for the good. B Y I remember the “Jewish Old Home” as G e n e a drab building on 14th Street, where my A s h e r Uncle Sam and Aunt Rose went for the last stop before Crest Lawn. Doreen, the physical therapy assistant, What my daughter, Susan, and I found was born and raised in Suffolk County, when we checked into the present home Long Island, New York. She moved to was a beautiful, well-equipped, well- Atlanta with her husband, Vincent, and staffed, and well-run organization. their children, Angela and Vincent, in the Although we arrived at 6:00 p.m., after final days of the 1996 Olympics. Doreen working hours, the room where I was to lives in Marietta. She has been with the stay while receiving therapy was both Jewish Home for 1 1/2 years and loves it— ready and spotless. It was a single room and her patients love her. with a beautiful view of the grounds. (My Jaime, the rehab director, hails from room also had a TV, which later enabled me just outside Raleigh, North Carolina. She to watch the Bulldogs beat the Yellow lived in Richmond, Virginia, before mov- Jackets.) ing to her current residence in Kennesaw. Susan, who drove me back to Atlanta Jaime received her occupational therapy after stomach surgery, went to her home in degree from East Carolina University, Sandy Springs, and I was left in my room which is also where she met her husband, with my bed turned down and fresh towels Mark. She says that the thrill of working at in the private bathroom. the Jewish Home is “meeting new people, I was looked after with care and love listening to their stories, and seeing them by Elease in the daytime and Doris in the get strong enough to go home.” evening. I was fed three meals a day and Thank you, Jaime and Doreen and given a bath every other day. I was given your staff, and thank you, Director of my medicine on time by Altha, the nurse. Human Services Eve Levine, for giving me The highlight of my stay—and what I such wonderful treatment. was there for—was after-surgery therapy. I Thank you Dr. Nison Schleifer, who was a near basket case when I came into the examined me and provided me with the home. Thanks to the dedication of thera- right medication. pists Jaime Melito and Doreen Aiuto, I felt Thank you to the board and all its vol- strong enough to leave after nine days, unteer workers. Thank you, Eve Levine rather than the expected three weeks. (again). Doreen and Jaime were on top of the Thank you, all who helped put the therapy sessions, two hours each, six days a William Breman Jewish Home together week. They are not only professional but and keep it fined tune. beautiful as well.

Then She Found Me, which stars Helen AJFF Hunt, Bette Midler, Matthew Broderick, From page 25 and Colin Firth, exudes the kind of charm- ing, snappy dialogue that made Hunt a suc- AJFF co-chair. “A 70-person selection cess on “Mad About You.” While Hunt’s committee collaborates and shares ideas inexperience as a director is evident in the equally in screening over 300 films the cluttering of storylines and themes, her between June and October.” film is an insightful look at a woman who, While the 47 films being shown are by due to being adopted, always feels at arm’s far the most in the festival’s eight-year his- length from her Jewish culture and family. tory, don’t expect a watered-down selec- Similar to the rest of the films being tion. shown, Then She Found Me serves the role According to Katz, a burgeoning film of a bridge builder between the Jewish industry in Israel has opened the door to community and others. new filmmakers and fresh ideas, adding to Katz point outs, “The festival serves up the crop of films the AJFF can choose from. a slice of Jewish life and culture, and serves In fact, the Israel Film Council reports that as a terrific medium for people who may Israel is producing around 20 films a year, not experience that normally.” twice as many as 10 years ago. For more information or to purchase Kicking off this year’s AJFF is Helen tickets, visit www.ajff.org. Hunt’s directorial debut, Then She Found Me. This unassuming story of a middle-age woman dealing with family and faith issues is a puzzling choice for opening night, but it serves as a microcosm of the AJFF’s broad audience appeal. Page 3 0 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 Keeping up with old friends I recently received a telephone call from Maurice Furchgott, pound for pound one of the finest football players Georgia Tech ever had. Maurice is now retired and living in B Y G e n e _t cxà|àx `t|áÉÇ Baltimore, Maryland. At Tech, he was a A s h e r mere mite of a lineman, weighing 155 pounds. But it was 155 pounds of dyna- mite. to the University of Georgia. He was a Against the Naval Academy in 1944 starting tackle for the Bulldogs, not bad at Grant Field, Furchgott blocked 225- for someone with one eye. He and pound All-American Don Whitmire all Maurice played against each other in the afternoon, opening up enough holes to 1945 Tech-Georgia game. I don’t remem- lead to a Tech victory. ber who got the best of whom, but it was Tech received an Orange Bowl bid to probably a standoff. TÄ|Çx 9 Vtà{ç play Tulsa. It was 1944, and my brother Buddy, who was flying off aircraft carriers * * * in the Pacific, came home on leave. He took me to Miami for the game. He and I After all these years, the most coura- went up to visit Maurice, who was staying geous man I know is still Harold (Baby) with the Tech team in the Roberts Hotel in Mizell. It was about 60 years ago that he downtown Miami. I don’t remember much was the victim of an automobile accident about the game. All I remember is that we that left him with brain damage. got to visit with Maurice Furchgott. He never let his injury stop him. He 404.303.6600 Maurice is 82 years old now, but the continued to work at various jobs, the last last time I saw him, he still looked like being a grocery bagger at Publix. I was that young man who starred for the there many times and never once saw him 6510 Roswell Road Jackets. without a smile on his face and a warm Maurice was not the only football star welcome coming from his lips. Sandy Springs, GA 30328 in the family. His older brother, Charles, Happy New Year, Baby, and may you was an All-State tackle at Atlanta Boys’ have 60 more. High and received a football scholarship

Atlanta’s Oldest Synagogue – and Newest

February 1-3 Monday, February 4 Friday, February 22 Brockey-Rothschild Institute 7:00 – 8:30pm Service 6:00pm Scholar-in-Residence: Rabbi Alan Lew Life Cycle Institute 3-Guitar Service Take A Deep Breath – When my elder family member Family Dinner 6:45pm A Weekend of Meditation & Spirituality drives me meshuga! Issues that effect the later stage of life Friday, February 2 Sunday, February 24 for the elder and the family Shabbat Service 10:00am ...... 6:00pm For Our Newest Members Monday, February 25 Sermon by Rabbi Alan Lew Join us for coffee & bagels 7:00 – 8:30pm Be Still and Get Going: The Torah’s Five Step Learn about the educational & programming Necessary Losses: Program for Spiritual Growth opportunities available at The Temple Understanding How Loss Affects Elders Shabbat Dinner • 7:30pm Facilitator: Nancy Kriseman Friday, February 29, 2008 Join Saturday, February 2 6:00pm Service Torah Study with Rabbi Alan Lew A Special Naming Shabbat Thursdays, February 7, 14, 21, 2008 9:00am Our at 12:00 Join us as we celebrate the blessing The Healing Power of Simply Being Present: of our Hebrew names Lunch and Learn With Talmudic Teachings on the Nature of Family Rabbi Frederick Reeves Suffering and How to Meet It The Classic Commentators 4:30pm Sunday, March 2 Havdalah Service 11:00am – 12:00pm Life Cycle Institute Sunday, February 10, 2008 Body Image and 10:00am Sunday, February 3 Eating Disorders in the Family: Men’s Club Bagel Brunch • 9:30am – 11:30am Positive and Preventative Guest Speaker, Brad Lipman, M.D. Meditation Workshop followed by 1589 Peachtree Street, NE Facilitator: Irene Celcer, MA, L.C.S.W. Advanced Lipid Profile Testing Torah Study Atlanta, GA 30309 Take a Deep Breath! Rebbe Nachman on the 404-873-1731 Breath as a Gateway to God www.the-temple.org For Reservations & Costs Call 404-873-1731 January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 1 Thought You’d Like to Know By Jonathan Barach DOCENT TRAINING. The “ in Council at 212-303-8023 or professional- LUNCH AND LEARN. Kol Echad: World” exhibition is now training docents [email protected]. Making Judaism Matter has added Lunch PUTTING THE FUN IN FUNDRAISING. for the coming year. A training session will and Learn sessions to its line-up. Led by Achim/Gate City Lodge of B’nai B’rith will take place February 10, 1:00-3:00 p.m. In GET THOSE BABIES MOVING. Parents Kol Echad Director Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin, hold a fundraising dinner, January 27, 5:30 addition to “Anne Frank in World,” another and children can now enjoy Itsy Bitsy Yoga these discussions address what’s going on p.m., at the Brookwood Grill. Admission is exhibition, “Witness to the Holocaust: WW on Fridays at The Temple. Tots Itsy Bitsy in the Jewish world—politics, religion, $18 per person, plus a wrapped gift worth II Veteran William Alexander Scott III at Yoga (Crawling-21 months) is 9:45 a.m.- Israel, culture, literature, and more. $20 or more per couple. The gift will be Buchenwald,” is also on display. For infor- 10:45 a.m. Babies Itsy Bitsy Yoga (6 weeks- Sessions are the second Thursday of each auctioned and must have attached a clue as mation, call 404-370-3056. Pre-Crawling) is 11:00 a.m.-noon. Classes month, 12:00 noon, at the Selig Center, to what it is and its value ($=$20, $$=sig- take place at The Temple Early Learning 1440 Spring Street. Kol Echad: Making nificantly more than $20). Make checks WELCOME TO THE SIXTIES. Yeshiva Center indoor playground. For information, Judaism Matter provides an innovative payable to B’nai B’rith; mail to Harry Lutz, A t l a n t a ’s annual Chagiga production is contact TELC Director Edye Summerfield, Jewish adult learning experience for a 1748 Corners Cove, Dunwoody GA 30338. March 9-10, 6:30 p.m. Come to YA for din- 404-872-8668 or esummerfield@the-tem- diverse community. Sessions are $12, Your advance check is your reservation. For ner, then enjoy the Girls’ Committee pro- ple.org, or Itsy Bitsy Yoga Facilitator Lori including lunch and drinks. For security more information, contact Harry at 770- duction of HAIRshpritz. Tickets are $15 in Sugarman, 678-778-0707 or itsybitsyo- purposes, you must RSVP to Valerie Reed 393-1175 or Margie Simonoff at 770-512- advance/$20 at the door for gals (up to 18) [email protected]. at 770-438-2926 or 8880. and $20 in advance/$25 at the door for [email protected]. women (over 18). For additional informa- FROM THE HEART. “Melodies of the tion or reservations, e-mail hairsh- Heart” is a concert by Atlanta teenagers that [email protected], or call the business will benefit the street children of Honduras. office at 770-451-5299, ext. 25. This concert, sponsored by the A t l a n t a Supporters of ProNinõ, is February 3, 3:00 THE ART OF CRAFT. Local artist Ricky p.m., at Pace Academy Fine Arts Center, Frank is among more than 200 artists who 966 West Paces Ferry Road. Performing are will exhibit and sell jewelry, furniture, the Buckhead Youth Orchestra, conducted clothing, home accessories, and more at the by Juan Ramirez; pianist and Weber School American Craft Show, Cobb Galleria student Bernard Manela; pianist Shirley Centre, March 14-16. The show will also Irek; and cellist Alex Chumbley. The con- include Craft 4 Kids, featuring items for cert will include selections from Gershwin, newborns and children. The show runs Bloch, Saint Saens, and Bernstein, as well March 14-15, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., and as Sephardic selections. Tickets are $20 and March 16, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Tickets are can be ordered at w w w. m e l o d i e s o f t h e - free for American Craft Council members, heart.net or 678-441-0650. $12 for one day, and $18 for two days; chil- dren 12 and under are admitted free. For EXPLORING YOUR ROOTS. The Jewish information and tickets, visit www.craft- Genealogical Society of Georgia, in con- council.org. For directions, visit www.cob- junction with the William Breman Jewish bgalleria.com. Heritage Museum, offers one-on-one research assistance to aid genealogists in FIGHTING OVARIAN CANCER. Ovarian researching their Jewish family’s history. Cycle was founded in 2004 by local fitness Upcoming sessions are Thursdays, 11:00 expert Bethany Diamond. The goal is to a.m.-1:00 p.m., February 7, March 6, April raise funds and awareness in order to devel- 3, May 1, and June 5; and Sundays, 1:00- op early detection methods and treatment 3:00 p.m., February 10, March 9, April 13, outcomes for ovarian cancer. Each spring, June 8, and July 13. Reservations are registered riders train for six weeks free of required. Sessions are free for Breman charge at participating Atlanta-area health members and $5 for non-members. For clubs. Training for the 2008 Ovarian Cycle more information, leave a message at 404- begins March 15 and culminates in the six- 575-3767 or [email protected]. hour, 100-virtual-mile “Ride to Change the Future,” April 26, at Midtown A t h l e t i c SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE. Professor Club. Visit www.ovariancycle.org for regis- Richard Elliott Friedman will be tration, health club, and other event-related Congregation Or Hadash’s 5768 Scholar-in- information. Residence, February 8-10. The Ann and Jay Davis Professor of Jewish Studies at the MEDICINE IN ISRAEL AND THE MID- University of Georgia, Professor Friedman DLE EAST. The Hadassah Physicians’ is the author of The Bible With Sources Council is sponsoring “From Concept to R e v e a l e d , Who Wrote the Bible? a n d Cure,” a professional education program at C o m m e n t a r y on the To r a h . Professor the Hadassah Medical Organization in Friedman will speak following Friday Jerusalem, March 23-26. The program, evening Servicio de Shabbat; participate in which will provide qualified participants Shabbat morning services and Torah discus- with Continuing Medical Education credits, sion of the weekly parsha, Terumah; lead a is accredited by co-sponsor Emory post-kiddush discussion; speak at the University School of Medicine and is open Saturday evening Havdalah; and lead a spe- to all generalist and specialty physicians. cial Sunday morning session, open to all, on Course Director Dr. Rachel Schonberger is the weekly Torah study and discussion. For chair of the Hadassah Physicians’ Council more information, contact the congregation and an Emory University emerita faculty at 404-250-3338 or [email protected]. member. For additional information or to register, contact the Hadassah Physicians’ Page 3 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 leaders, including prominent investors in his wife, Sheila, own Jerry’s Pawn Shop, the technology and life science industries. which they have run with their daughter, The delegation visited business technology D e n i s e . BUSINESS BITS centers in Yokneam-Megiddo, Caesaria, David is a Beersheba, , and Jerusalem. They past presi- participated in the Prime Minister’s dent of the By Erin O’Shinskey Development, worked in GDEcD’s Atlanta Economic Conference; the WATEC confer- P a w n b r o k - o ffices the ence on water, clean tech, energy, and envi- ers A s s o c i - KEEPING MEMBERS HAPPY. Kenny week of ronmental technologies; and a seminar on ation of Silverboard is the new director of member- October 29 real estate investment. Each delegation Georgia and ship services and customer care for the to facilitate member met with potential partners and a current Marcus Jewish Community Center of the depart- clients. member of A t l a n t a . ment’s first- its board of S i l v e r b o a r d ever buying directors, on has been m i s s i o n which he has with the from the David Adelman served since M J C C A f o r Middle East. its formation in 1988. He has also held lead- three years, B u s i n e s s ership positions on the national board, most recent- r e p r e s e n t a - including membership chairman, national ly in the spe- tives from convention chairman, secretary/treasurer, cial events Sherwin Pomerantz Israel, the and vice president. d e p a r t m e n t , United A r a b where he Emirates, and Jordan held meetings with S M A RT MOVE. Petach Ti k v a h - b a s e d p r o d u c e d companies across Georgia to forge new Agent Video Intelligence is establishing its many suc- business partnerships. Pomerantz is founder Kenny Silverboard U.S. headquarters in Atlanta. Agent Video cessful signa- and president of ATID E.D.I. Ltd., an eco- Business mission participants visit offers the only enterprise-grade solution in ture events, including the Atlanta Senior nomic development consulting firm head- Israel’s IBM facility: (pictured, from video intelligence and video content analy- Olympics. Silverboard is also the JCC quartered in Jerusalem. Before settling per- left) AICC Chairman Laurence sis technology and is the first company to Maccabi Games’ delegate head for Team manently in Israel in 1984, he was president Olivier; Alek Szlam; Firooz Israel; provide embedded and distributed artificial- Atlanta. Prior to the MJCCA, Silverboard of Controls for Industry, Inc., a Chicago Barry Sobel; Mark Weiss; Carol intelligence video analytics software with had a successful 20+-year career in sales data processing service bureau. Henderson, Metro Atlanta Chamber the low bandwidth required by video sur- with Selig Industries. Silverboard lives in of Commerce; and AICC President veillance networks to support extremely Roswell with his wife, Brenda, and their EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES IN Tom Glaser. large numbers of cameras. daughters, Erica and Jamie. ISRAEL. During the American Israel Chamber of Commerce Business Mission ADELMAN AT THE HELM. David BUYING MISSION. Sherwin Pomerantz, to Israel, October 27-November 1, business Adelman has been named president of the Middle East trade representative with the leaders from several Georgia companies National Pawnbrokers Association. He and G e o rgi a Department of Economic met with Israeli governmental and business

and three Sifen children and their children Thriving now live in the Atlanta area. You Like Things Done I do wish to thank my brother Lew; From page 21 cousin Hank; my brother Bruce, who lives a Certain Way. in-law, Peggy, and his grandchildren. He in Vienna, Virginia; cousin Valerie Hassett traveled to Richmond with my mom, my Drazen (daughter of Harry), who lives in And We Do Too. sister, and me. He enjoyed taking walks in Lake Mary, Florida; cousin Ray Hassett, the neighborhood. M.D. (son of Jay Hassett), who lives in As it turned out, the lives of four chil- Rocky Mount, North Carolina; cousin Kim No matter how much technology improves, Hassett Slagle (daughter of Jay), who lives modern convenience can’t take the place of dren, thirteen grandchildren, eighteen great in Richmond, Virginia; and my wife, Lynn, reliable, responsive service from professionals grandchildren, and even a few great-great for their contributions to this article. you trust. grandchildren all resulted from the courage, cleverness, and determination of a At RS Andrews, our goal is to make you comfortable – from the time your call first nineteen-year-old boy hiding in a mattress Rob Hassett practices technology, enter - comes in for plumbing, heating or cooling service all the way through the installa- over 100 years ago. All of us owe a debt of tainment, and corporate law with the law tion of a technologically-advanced, energy-efficient home comfort system. gratitude to him, which I hope we have paid firm of Casey Gilson P.C. He and his wife, in part with this article. Lynn Shier Hassett, have three children, Call us for: My mother, Peggy; my brother Lew, Laura, Elizabeth, and Joe. Rob and his his wife, and two children; my cousin, family are members of Temple Emanuel, • 24-hour service on all makes and models Hank Greenstone (grandson of Hymie); and Lew and his family are members of The • Free estimates on tankless water heaters Temple. • Quality home comfort systems backed by the best warranties • Regular maintenance on your heating and cooling equipment • Free Energy Survey on every visit • Great financing makes owning easy • Same day service for our customers

At RS Andrews, no matter how modern the conveniences become, some things never change. And for the last forty years, one thing you can always count on is our commitment to our customers. Just call 770-454-1800 today and let us know how we can help you!

770-454-1800 rsandrews.com January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 3

flat-screen TVs, phones, and high-speed Kosher internet in each room. If these amenities are important to you, check before reserv- From page 25 ing. The price was reasonable, considering SWEET LOCAL NEWS the current value of the dollar vs. the euro, and included was a kosher breakfast, refrig- Remember the classic Seinfeld “bak- erator, food-warming facilities, and a din- ery” episode, when Elaine and Jerry came ing area for guests to use. The small (about to blows with another customer over the 12 rooms) bed-and-breakfast-style hotel, much coveted last chocolate babka? Well, like most European hotels, is air-condi- now we in Atlanta finally have a babka to tioned in the summer, but the system is covet. Hurry to the new Simcha Bakery at switched over to heat in October; if the Toco Hill for mouthwatering baked goods, weather is unseasonably warm and you pre- including pastries, challahs, breads, and fer to sleep with the windows open, be pre- chocolate and cinnamon babka. Co-owner pared for some outside traffic noise. By the Reuvein Robbins (who just celebrated his way, we are certain that we have now made 10th anniversary as owner of Chai Peking), the Guinness Book of World Record s along with partners Barry Diner and Ron because of our Shabbos dinner menu—it Green, have filled a long empty local niche, included the first Publix fried chicken ever a parve kosher bakery. Call ahead for spe- eaten in Rome, flown all the way from Toco cial orders. For more information, call 404- Hill. 781-BAKE (2253). Future plans include parve candies and frozen desserts. New at Return to Eden are Dr. Oetker’s o rganic parve cake mixes, available in vanilla, lemon, chocolate, and marble—a healthier way to bake. They are great to use when creating cakes from The Cake Mix Doctor cookbook. Also in stock now are parve and gluten-free wafer-style cookies from Israel in various flavors such as chocolate-coated, vanilla, lemon, and strawberry. La Taverna del Ghetto Restaurant in They’re heeeere! Kosher- c e r t i f i e d Rome’s Jewish Ghetto (inset: the Jelly Bellys have been spotted at Target, specialty fried artichoke dish car- Rite Aid, and Wal-Mart. When you see the ciofi alla giudia) new OU certification, be assured that the beans are fresh, delicious, and, of course, Our recommended guides to Jewish kosher! Rome are David Walden (www.romefor- Atlanta artist Tzipi Mann has intro- jews.com) or Michaela Pavoncello duced a unique challah cover collection, (www.jewishroma.com). MIDAS OF SANDY SPRINGS each intended to become a family keep- Delicious Kosher Restaurant: La sake. Her one-of-a-kind creations are avail- Taverna del Ghetto (in the Ghetto).Try the able custom beaded, ribboned, and embroi- carciofi alla giudia—Jewish-style fried arti- dered, and can be viewed at chokes—and, of course, the pasta. judaicabytzipi.com. Expensive, but worth the treat. Bakery: Antico Forno del Ghetto. This WHEN IN ROME. My husband, Allan, and traditional Italian kosher Jewish bakery is I recently had the opportunity for a brief “excellente” and quite a scene on Friday 72-hour sojourn in Rome, Italy, which afternoon! included a Shabbos stay. We did consider- able Internet research before the trip so that What’s cooking? we could optimize our sightseeing time. As we usually do when traveling, in addition to This column is meant to provide the reader the typical tourist landmarks, we made our with current trends and developments in the main focus Jewish history and, of course, kosher marketplace and lifestyle. Since kosher food. standards of kashruth certification vary, Here’s what we found: check with the AKC or your local kashruth We stayed at the Migdal Palace authority to confirm reliability. If you are ( w w w.migdalpalace.it), which is conve- searching for a hard-to-find kosher ingredi - Pictured (back row): Reed Bell, Chris Adams, Patty Conway, niently located on the second floor of an ent, need help with a kosher substitution, or Mark Ritzer, Mike Doherty. (Front row): Jessie Swieter, historic building within walking distance of have a kosher food question, please contact Damien Gordon, George Hall, Les Walker, Mark Hoover the Trevi Fountain, Great Synagogue, and us, and we will do our best to find the the Jewish Ghetto. The new facility (which answer. And we ask that you share your dis - We service all your vehicle needs opened March 2007) was clean, and the coveries with us and look forward to hear - staff quite friendly. At the time of our visit, ing from you! E-mail: Exhaust • Brakes • Tires • Alignment • Air Conditioning the Israeli owner was planning to install [email protected]. All Factory Scheduled Maintenance Programs for All Vehicles 404-255-7272 6560 Roswell Road 100 Yards South of Abernathy - Next to Taco Bell Page 3 4 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008

Place cranberry sauce in bowl; break up Recipes with fork. Add cherries and orange rind. 1 chicken, cut into 8 pieces The Crossroads: Toss gently; chill. 1 1/4 cup Cantonese-style duck sauce Cranberry Relish Jubilee a look back Adapted from Manna from Heaven ————— Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray non- By the families and friends of the stick pan with cooking spray. Rinse chick- Rudlin Torah Academy Duck Sauce Chicken en; pat dry. Pour sauce liberally and even- Adapted from ly over chicken. Bake uncovered for 1 1 can cranberry sauce (I used whole berry) Quick & Kosher by Jamie Geller hour and 15 minutes, until skin is crispy B Y R o b e r t a 1 tablespoon grated orange rind and brown. S c h e r 1 cup pitted Bing cherries, drained This is the author’s famous chicken…her husband’s favorite! Atlantans Allan and Gail Ripans are well known for their community work, their ties to many of Atlanta’s leading insti- tutions, and their wide network of friends and family. However, some do not know that the Ripans were the successful owners and proprietors of the Crossroads, the pop- ular restaurant that was located at the cor- ner of Peachtree and West Peachtree. In the 1950s, Allan, a graduate of the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, gained experience in the food service field with Allied Stores Corporation in Manhattan. After a move to Atlanta to continue his career with ARA Corporation, he tapped his entrepreneurial instincts along with his culinary and man- agement skills when he and Gail purchased the 20-year-old Crossroads restaurant from Sunny Lewis in 1968.

Gail Ripans with a Crossroads menu

For the next 20 years, the Crossroads prospered and grew to be an Atlanta food landmark. Patrons waited patiently in lines to partake of menu items such as the famous signature cinnamon rolls; broiled red snapper, including chef salad and baked potato ($3.50 for the entire meal); or one-half pan-fried chicken with salad, french fries, and rolls ($1.75). How about a sundae for dessert? Fifty cents! The Ripans closed the restaurant in 1988 to make way for the Midtown build- ing boom. Oh, how I would welcome a new kosher Crossroads! How about it, Gail and Allan? January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 5

Crossroads Restaurant Spinach 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder or 2 in pan; add garlic, and gently warm minute. Stir, and cover again until spinach Adapted from the original recipe courtesy crushed bouillon cubes (use parve version if through. Add lemon, bouillon, salt, and is cooked. Turn off heat, and let set about 1 of Allan Ripans using butter) pepper; stir. Add spinach; stir until all minute. Enjoy! leaves are coated. Cover tightly, and sim- Combine butter or margarine and olive oil mer until spinach starts to wilt, about 1

Allan Ripans prepares a Crossroads menu specialty, red snapper

2 pounds fresh spinach leaves, washed and stems removed 1/8 pound butter or margarine 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon fine black pepper 3 peeled medium garlic cloves, crushed or finely diced Page 3 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 Going home is an experience both familiar and strange Recently, I returned to the place where I was raised: the mill town of Ware Shoals, South Carolina, population 2,000. It is located about 30 miles from the South Carolina- Georgia state line, near Lake Hartwell. B Y B i l l I had not been home since 1987, when my father died; my mother died in 1982. They S o n e n s h i n e owned and operated a small dry goods store for over 40 years, but closed it in 1985, a year were not for my dad, he said he would have after the mill closed and the town began to never made it. Marion came to my dad’s deteriorate. funeral in Charleston. I had heard from childhood friends who My friend wanted some decaffeinated still live in Ware Shoals that I would not rec- coffee, so we stopped at something like a con- ognize it. One Sunday, I went home with a venience store. They had no decaf, no hot tea. friend, and as we drew near, I had a certain I stepped outside the store, and a policeman feeling of unease. How would I feel about this drove up. I introduced myself and told him changed place? Would I be sad? Excited? I that my father had owned Marks Department told my friend that it would probably take Store in town for years. A young guy, he did- about 10 seconds—no kidding—to pass n’t recognize the name, but he did say we through the main part of town. could get some coffee at a restaurant at the As we reached the outskirts, the first end of the street. thing I saw was an old house with several On the way, we stopped and looked at my junked cars in the front yard. Was this an indi- dad’s store. The building has remained vacant cation of things to come? We passed the since the store closed. The front windows are Piggly Wiggly grocery store, and I remem- now painted white, so in order to see inside, bered that the owner, Marion Carnell, was one we had to go around the back. The building is of my dad’s old friends. Marion was also in a deep red brick and in surprisingly good the state legislature, where he served one of shape; “Marks Dept. Store” is still painted in the longest tenures ever before retiring. He big letters on the back and sides. Looking once told me that when he was getting started through the windows, all I could see were in business in Ware Shoals, my dad held his piles of junk that looked like electronic equip- checks for weeks until they were good. If it ment. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 7

The Big Friendly and the West End mer- chants always competed with each other to see who could give away the biggest prizes. For every $1 purchase, you received one tick- et. Prizes included a car, refrigerator, TV sets, cash, and various smaller items. After the drawing was held, people would throw their tickets in the air. It was like a blizzard—you could barely see the pavement for the tickets. Near the company store was Catherine Hall, which housed a movie theater, library, meeting rooms, pool hall, lockers, and show- ers. Next to it was a swimming pool. I knew the pool had closed, but didn’t realize it had been filled in with dirt. Now it is just a grassy field. We then drove to the site of the old mill. At one time, it employed about 2,000 people from Ware Shoals and surrounding communi- ties. After it had closed, there were several Hey Dad, I came home unsuccessful efforts to bring other industries into the building. Although there had been a Just looking in the store brought back all big fire, I expected to see remnants of the kinds of memories. I could visualize the place mill, but there were only bushes, small trees, jammed with customers, particularly at and grass. I had images of my friends and me Christmas. During those days, dad told me skating down the big incline on the sidewalk my main job was not to wait on customers, at what seemed like incredible speeds. I went but to circulate around the store and make so fast I thought I would fly away. sure nobody stole anything (which had hap- As we drove up to the high school, my pened on several occasions). The store build- thought was that it had hardly changed. At the ing is only about 100 yards from our old back was the stadium (built during the Great house, so most days, my mom and dad would Depression as part of a federal work pro- walk home for lunch. My friend took my pic- gram), where I played baseball and earned ture at the back of the store. my first sweater and high school letter. This We started down the sidewalk toward the past year, George Clooney used the stadium restaurant. There are only about 10 store- for some scenes for Leatherheads, a 1920s fronts; as we walked, I visualized the busi- football movie that will be released in the nesses that used to be there. One was a Greek spring. café, where the owner made chili so tasty that The last thing I wanted to see was the just thinking about it made my mouth water. house where I was raised. It looked nice and He steamed the hot dog buns, boiled the hot clean, but something was missing. Then I dogs, and put freshly chopped onions and remembered the beautiful oak tree that I used chili on top. I could devour two of those suck- to climb. I wanted to knock on the door and ers in record time. ask if I could come in and look around. On I passed what used to be a drugstore. The my next trip, I definitely want to see the owner’s wife was known for her pimento inside of the house. cheese. I used to have a sandwich with a Our last stop was a visit to a childhood vanilla milkshake mixed in a silver canister. friend. I had not seen John (Peewee) Simpson This part of town was called West End. and his wife, Ellen, for over 40 years. Ellen About a mile away was the company store and I were among the 55 students in our sen- owned by the mill. Called the Big Friendly, it ior class, and John graduated a year ahead of had many different kinds of stores under one us. John was a hardworking, all-around nice roof. guy. I was a football manager one year and As we neared the end of the sidewalk, John played halfback—or, as we used to say, we heard a great deal of commotion—singing he was a scat back. He was short, but power- and clapping and a bunch of amens. We came ful and fast. I remembered Ellen as attractive to a storefront with drawn drapes and a sign and pleasant, and she still is. announcing services for the Freedom World For about 30 minutes, we swapped sto- Outreach Ministries. I can guarantee you that ries and had some good laughs. I enjoyed see- the people at those services were not sitting ing John’s collection of Santa statues and on their hands—the Spirit was definitely hearing about John and Ellen’s grandchildren moving them. It reminded me of the Hallelu and great grandchild. John mentioned that he Atlanta concert held at the Fox Theatre in did not think of me being Jewish, but thought November and Joshua Nelson’s Gospel of me only as a friend. He asked if I had any Jewish singing. trouble because of my Jewishness and was The restaurant was next door. We sat in a surprised when I said that a small group of booth near a wall adjoining the church, so as guys used to call my family names. our bodies were being fed, our spirits were Finally it was time for us to leave, and I uplifted by the singing. We had a delicious realized that my initial uneasiness had gone country meal with an entrée, three vegetables, away. Things did look smaller than I remem- bread, tea, and peach cobbler for $6.50. bered, and it was sad to see how the town Rarely can one find such a bargain other than deteriorated. I plan to go back soon and spend in a small country town. more time looking around and talking to After lunch, we hopped in the car and friends. drove about a mile to the Big Friendly, which My advice to is to go back where you is now the town hall. I remembered how the spent your childhood, then close your eyes place crawled with people during Christmas. and indulge in pleasant memories. Page 3 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2008 13 at the Dinner of Honor. Sheli Feldman and David Frankel (pictured) were honored for their enthusiasm, love, and support of GHA. Hilliard Gastfriend was also recog- nized for his contributions to technology advances at the school.

O RT exchange program. The students, along with their chaperone, arrived on January 16. They will attend Davis By Belle Klavonsky Egyptian subjects during the time of Roman Academy classes and see Atlanta sites dur- expansion. ing their visit, which ends on February 13. Hosts from Davis are Lee Silver, Brent Denys, Jaclyn Turner, Zach Beagle, and Leah Michalove. Pictured: (from left) Adi Ezra, Ori Zodik, Gali Sztern, Vered Naveh (chaperone), Ayelet Gamzou, and Sigal Tzoref (Davis Academy Middle School Hebrew Coordinator)

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS. When Jake Gottlieb came to Greenfield Hebrew Academy, he had no idea how much the M ’silot program would change his life. TELL US A STORY. Toddlers from the WELCOMING THE HOLIDAY. Davis M ’silot (“pathways”) is Greenfield’s community have been enjoying GHA’s Academy Kindergarten student Evan school-within-a-school for children who Story Hour events. The programs include a Berger (pictured) helps decorate his class- learn diff e r e n t l y. In January, Jake came craft activity, a story, and more. GHA’s next room for Chanukah by hanging his stained back to the school to express his thanks and story hour is April 10, at 10 a.m. For more glass window dreidel. donate $1,000 to M’silot in honor of his bar information and to RSVP, call Amy Glass at mitzvah. Jake’s mom said his time in the 678-298-5377. Pictured: Dorothy Ripps M’silot program prepared him for the rest of during a recent story hour event his academic career. A GOOD BOOK. Shawn and Jon Leven AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT. GHA’s present a Siddur to their son, David Leven after-school program, GHAce, kicked off (pictured), one of their three triplets in 2nd with a number of classes. Students of all grade at the Davis Academy. The annual ages could participate in a variety of after Kabbalat HaSiddur program, which took school classes, including photography, art, place on December 14, is a beautiful Davis and choir. More classes could be added in Academy tradition that gives parents of the fall. 2nd- graders the opportunity to personalize the prayer book that their student will use W H AT DID MAIMONIDES SAY ? for daily tefillah and during Kabbalat Rambam Atlanta Day School will present Shabbat services throughout their years at its 1st Annual Lecture on Topics in Modern LIGHT THE CANDLES. Davis Academy the school. Orthodoxy, February 24, 7:00 p.m., when 2nd-graders (from left) Mollie Schwarz, D r. David Blumenthal, Jay and Leslie Talia Spitzler, and David Leven light the Cohen Professor of Judaic Studies, Emory Chanukia (menorah) in celebration of U n i v e r s i t y, speaks on “Maimonides’ Chanukah. Thirteen Principles of Faith.” Co-sponsored by Yeshiva Atlanta High School, the lecture AN EVENING IN NEVERLAND. T h e takes place at YA’s media center. T h e Academy Players (pictured), GHA’s acting evening also features light refreshments, troupe, is preparing for the school’s big pro- socializing, and a tour of Rambam Atlanta duction of Peter Pan. The students will per- Day School. The suggested donation is $18 form in the British version of the well- at the door. For more information, call the known story, March 4-9. This year, more YA business office at 770-451-5299. than 80 students are involved in the produc- tion. For information contact GHA at 404- MACCABI GAMES. Weber School stu- L’DOR V’DOR. Nearly 750 visitors turned 843-9900. dents joined an estimated 3,000 athletes out on November 21 for Grandparents and from more than 20 countries to participate Special Friends Day at the Davis Academy. in the 11th Pan American Maccabi Games The special guests enjoyed performances by held December 26 through January 2. CLEOPATRA SPEAKS. For a lesson on the Davis Middle School Band and 3rd- Congratulations to seniors Jared Kopman, ancient Egypt, Davis Academy 6th-grade grade singers; they then had a chance to player on the Youth Men’s Soccer Team, social studies teacher Joan Blumenfeld (pic- visit their students’ classrooms. Pictured: and Jared Kaye, silver medal winner in tured) portrayed Cleopatra and spoke to her Kindergartener Caroline Goldman enjoys Junior Boys’ Golf; junior Adam Kaye, was students about her life as queen of Egypt. the morning with her grandmother, Margie the 4th-place winner in Juniors Boys’ Golf; During her monologue, “Cleopatra” Holland. former 2006 student, David Tillem, was a explained how modern movies and William gold medal winner in Open Tennis Mixed Shakespeare portray her in a negative light. EXCHANGE STUDENTS. Davis Doubles; and Weber parent Mitchell Kaye, She told the students that everything she did Academy Middle School welcomed four DINNER OF HONOR. GHA paid tribute to Sr., won the silver medal in Masters 50+ during her reign was done to benefit her Israeli students who are participating in the two wonderful family members on January Men’s Golf. January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 9 of the YSAB, she will help give a fresh per- spective on youth needs and help plan Hands On Atlanta service projects. THE FIRST ATLANTA FEDERATION MEN’S MISSION TO ISRAEL

WISE A B O U T THE ENVIRONMENT. We b e r ’s Student Ecology Movement YOUNG JEWISH LEADERSHIP. (SEM) met with Brian Feagans, Atlanta Congratulations to Deborah Hoffman (pic- Journal Constitution staff writer, to discuss tured) who was recently elected vice presi- the push by young people for ecological dent of the Youth (USY) solutions. Specifically, they spoke at length International Israel Affairs board. She plans about SEM’s ambitions, focusing on water to continue Israel advocacy and promote conservation and desalinization. Pictured: USY programs in Israel. International USY (from left) Jonathan Gaynes, A d a m is made up of 17 regions and holds an Augenstein, Julian Gindy, and Brian Front row l-r: Milton Saul, Jim Smulian, Bernie Palay, Walter Cohen, o rganization-wide convention each Feagans Simon Selig, Jr., Max Cuba, Rabbi Jacob Rothschild, Irving Goldstein, December for all of its chapters. Hoffman Alfred Davis. Middle row l-r: Nathan Lipson, unknown, Ben Hyman, also serves as regional vice president for unknown, unknown. Back row l-r: Jon Golden, Larry Frank, Jerry USY. Dubrof, Mike Gettinger, Dave Goldwasser, Rabbi Emmanuel Feldman, and Jack Gelbart. On January 12, 1969, 21 men went to Israel on a fact- finding, historic mission trip. They reported their findings to the com- munity at the annual meeting of the Atlanta Jewish Welfare Federation held on January 26.

CIVIL RIGHTS TOUR LEADS TO STU- DENT ACTION. Weber’s 11th-grade class recently returned from a trip to Montgomery, and Memphis, where they learned about the civil rights movement. While discussing what civil rights means to them, the junior class urged their fellow students to join the Darfur U rgent Action Coalition of Georgia on HELPING OTHERS. Ariella Axler (pic- Sunday, January 27, for a support rally at tured) was recently selected to be on the Central Presbyterian Church. The Student Youth Service Advisory Board (YSAB) of Council also showed their commitment by Hands On Atlanta. She was one of ten stu- announcing that students attending the rally dents selected from the greater metro area. will receive a $2 rebate on the cost of their Hands On Atlanta is a non-profit organiza- school dance ticket. Pictured: Abe Levy, tion that helps individuals, families, corpo- Ben Shartar and Jonathan Gaynes at the rate and community groups find flexible Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, volunteer opportunities at more than 400 Alabama service organizations and schools. As part

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“The One Year Party: How Study in Israel Changed My Life,” a talk by Morris Benveniste; children’s services directed by Mimi Hal and Jeff Allan; and youth activi- MISH MASH ties, including the creation of a tallit under the instruction of Rabbi Analia Boortz, By Erin O’Shinskey November. Starring Cybill Shepherd, the while Rabbi Mario Karpuj serenaded every- show played to sold-out houses throughout one by the campfire. CENKER HONORED. Michael Cenker is its Atlanta run. At the party, Goldman’s one of four new members recently inducted witty remarks about her experiences in the into the Ben Zakkai Honor Society of world of online dating riveted the distin- NCSY, the international youth program of guished audience of theatre patrons and the Orthodox Union. Cenker grew up in board members. Congregation Beth Jacob and was a mem- ber and leader of its Taryag NCSY chapter for years. He served with distinction as vice president for programming and president at Bobby Goldman and Howard both the chapter and Southern Region lev- Feinsand els. He met his wife, Betsy, through NCSY, and they both served the organization for many years. Cenker continues with his Harry Heiman (from left), Sammi involvement at Beth Jacob and Torah Day Berenson, Luna Manela, Danielle School. Berenson, and Hanna Rosenfeld

CURVY WIDOW TELLS ALL. An electric evening reminiscent of Broadway post- show parties was held recently in the Buckhead penthouse of Alliance Theatre Flanking playwright Bobby Goldman Board President-Elect Howard Feinsand are husband-and-wife team Susan and his wife, Ellen. The evening toasted Booth, Alliance Theatre artistic playwright Bobby Goldman, whose autobi- director, and Max Leventhal, Alliance ographical play, C u rvy Wi d o w, had its Theatre general manager. world premiere at the Alliance Theatre in Alliance patrons Jim and Lori Kilberg thank reception host Ellen Feinsand. Naomi Benveniste (from left), NCSY CELEBRATES CHANUKAH. The Stephanie Singer, Tamar Karpuj, Second Annual Festival of Lights Ball saw Steven Fisher, Adam Rosenfeld, and nearly 100 teens pack the NCSY Bernie Manela Community Teen Center in Atlanta. This “black and white party” included a sushi bar THE GREAT OUTDOORS. Teens from staffed by two professional sushi chefs, an around the South gathered at Lake array of hot hors d’oeuvres, sparkling cider Kolomoki in Blakely, Georgia, for the in champagne glasses, and a live concert. N C S Y 2007 Fall Regional Convention. N C S Y Regional Director Rabbi Chaim They stayed in log cabins, enjoyed catered Neiditch lit the menorah and inspired teens meals made and subsidized by Steve Gilmer by speaking about the essence of Chanukah. and Quality Kosher Emporium, walked along nature trails, and participated in team- building and bonding programs. On Saturday night, teens sang songs and told stories around the bonfire; played sports with glow-in-the-dark Frisbees, footballs, and soccer balls; watched movies; and enjoyed an old-fashioned Southern barbe- cue. The convention concluded with a day by the lake, which included boating and kayaking.

Mrs. Chava Neiditch (from left), Maia Hoberman, Sarah Harpaz, Shevi Gartner, and Amanda Cinnamon

FAMILY RETREAT. More than 100 con- gregants and friends of Congregation Or Hadash attended the 4th Annual Family Retreat at Camp Ramah Darom in October. AT THE LAKE. Pictured (from left, The weekend included Shabbat and top row) Adeena Ellison and Yael Havdalah services; Dr. Steve Kutner of Dosetarah (from left, bottom row) Jewish Healthcare International discussing Leah Lubel, Sivan Bachar, and the immigration of Ethiopians to Israel; Rachel Khandadash January-February 2008 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 4 1 A KOSHER CHANUKAH AT KROGER. sales begin March 5. Proceeds from the sale More than 200 people attended the12th directly benefit individual troops, provide annual Chanukah party at the Toco Hills program development and resource materi- You and Your Family Belong at K r o g e r, 2205 LaVista Road, Sunday, als for girls, and support the council’s five December 2. The children sang songs, camps. All Girl Scout cookies, including danced and lit the Chanukia (menorah) in the new Lemon Chalet Cremes and Sugar- celebration of Chanukah. Free Chocolate Chips, have zero grams of trans fat. Each box sells for $3.50. For more information, call 404-527-7500, or visit www.girlscoutsnwga.org.

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