December 2018 | Nisan 5779 | Volume 73, Number 10 Konter-Weiland Comedy Returns It is hard to believe it’s been Opening for Gary Gulman is Erin will be available beginning December almost two years since the last Jackson. Armed with a megawatt 10. The evening includes refreshments Konter-Weiland Comedy Night! On smile and a pocket full of dreams, – open bar and desserts. See the ad in Saturday, January 12, 2019, the Law- Erin Jackson is poised to conquer the this issue for complete details. rence Konter and Bertram Weiland world of stand-up. Since first making Marcy and Jerry Konter, found- Candle Lighting Times Jewish Cultural Arts Fund is pleased a name for herself at colleges and east ers of the sponsoring fund named for to once again sponsor an evening of coast comedy clubs, Erin’s conversa- their fathers, stated: “It is a joy for Friday, November 30, 2018 5:02 p.m. laughter featuring popular comics in a tional style and relatable humor have us to again be able to bring everyone Saturday, December 1, 2018 5:59 p.m. comedy club-like setting at the JEA. helped to propel her onto the national together for an evening of humor and Friday, December 7, 2018 5:02 p.m. The star of the show this year is stage. Erin can be seen nightly in fun, and to have a chance to thank Saturday, December 8, 2018 6:00 p.m. Gary Gulman. Gulman has been a many of New York City’s top comedy everyone who supports the Savannah Friday, December 14, 2018 5:03 p.m. scholarship college football player, an clubs, and has also performed stand- Jewish community by being a member Saturday, December 15, 2018 6:01 p.m. accountant, a barista, a doorman, a up on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” of the JEA, a donor to the Federation, Friday, December 21, 2018 5:06 p.m. waiter and a high school teacher. Now OWN’s “Wanda Sykes Presents or both. Our fathers both loved a good he is one of the most popular tour- Herlarious,” Comedy Central’s “Live Saturday, December 22, 2018 6:05 p.m. laugh and we love that we can remem- ing comics. Gulman has made three at Gotham,” AXS TV’s “Gotham ber them this way.” Friday, December 28, 2018 5:10 p.m. TV specials and marked his 20-year Comedy Live” and TV Guide Net- Saturday, December 29, 2018 6:09 p.m. anniversary in stand-up with the “It’s work’s “Standup in Stilettos.” What: Konter-Weiland Comedy About Time Tour,” selling out the- The Konter-Weiland Comedy Night aters throughout the country. Gary’s Night is free and open to anyone who When: Saturday, January 12, 2019; TV credits include “Last Comic either is a member in good standing 8:00pm Standing,” “Inside Amy Schumer,” of the Jewish Educational Alliance Where: JEA, 5111 Abercorn St. and currently on HBO’s “Crashing” OR has made a minimum contribu- Cost: Free to JEA members or and “2 Dope Queens.” His 3 Stand-up tion of $50 (individually) to the 2018 donors to 2018 SJF Campaign Specials are streaming now on Netflix Savannah Jewish Federation Annual ($50 min.) and Amazon. Campaign. Seating is limited; tickets Your Campaign Dollars at Work Blue Star Experience This summer I spent three weeks at from all over the world. Even one of my Camp Blue Star in the Blue Ridge Moun- counselors was from Liverpool, England. tains of North Carolina. This was the Now I have eleven girls that I call 71st summer for Camp Blue Star and the ‘sisters’ who live all over the world. My Laney Berman and camp friends PAID theme was ‘choose kindness, share peace.’ bunkmates (Go S-5!) are from Florida, U.S. POSTAGE Non-Profit ORG PERMIT NO. 2840 JACKSONVILLE, FL From day one I immediately cliqued North Carolina, Georgia, Massachusetts, and cook our own meal. The food is deli- with the girls in my cabin because of Canada and Israel. I talk to my bunk- cious and the views are spectacular. It our shared Judaism. I have never in my mates as often as my parents let me. This was a highlight of my summer at camp. life been surrounded by so many Jewish summer I made lifelong friends that I can- My time at Camp Blue Star was the people and I loved the experience. not wait to spend next summer with at best summer of my life. I am so grateful I went camping, hiking, horseback Camp Blue Star. to the Savannah Jewish Federation for riding and even white water rafting! I Shabbat at camp is special and the scholarship that provided me with was surprised to learn that I love to amazing. The chapel is up high on a this opportunity. I cannot wait until kayak and I went kayaking every single mountain with beautiful views. Everyone summer 2019 when I can see all of my day. I also learned to ride a horse for the wears blue and white to show ‘Shabbat best friends again. Blue Star is my forever first time. By the end of camp I was even spirit’. My bunk always participated in home. able to jump over crosses. My favorite Friday night services by leading prayers. Laney Berman is the daughter of horses to ride were Balto, Fancy, and I also enjoyed all the songs we sing before Kasey and Daniel Berman. She lives Eddie. I enjoyed spending time with and after dinner and the Birkat Hamazon. in Savannah and attends Hancock A Publication of Savannah Jewish Federation Federation Jewish Savannah of A Publication Street 5111 Abercorn Georgia 31405 Savannah, www.savj.org ServiceAddress Requested the equestrian staff who were all from Every Blue Star camper climbs Day School. Her experience at Camp Australia. Many of the other counselors Mount Pinnacle once every summer. To Blue Star was made possible, in part, and staff were from England and New get up Mount Pinnacle you have to use thanks to your support of the Savan- Zealand, as well as the United States. It a series of ropes to climb to the top. We nah Jewish Federation Annual Com- was so interesting to learn about people camp out overnight on Mount Pinnacle munity Campaign. Savannah Page 2 | December 2018 jewish news www.savj.org

Have a Happy Chanukah. And share what it means to you. #ChanukahPublix Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2018 | Page 3 Executive Director’s Message President’s Message Our Commonality I Give Because I wrote the centuries. We must focus on what At the Fed- Additionally, and in conjunction with this column binds us, not divides us. eration’s last all three synagogues, an Interfaith Vigil eight days A few days after the tragedy, I board meeting was organized and held at Auguduth after the received a note from the member of our we had a lively Achim on Tuesday evening October Edwin Byck tragedy at community that requested we print a discussion 30th at which time the Savannah Adam Solender President Tree of Life letter to the editor and publish in the on this year’s Community stood as one to condemn Executive Director Savannah Jewish Synagogue in Savannah Jewish News. But, the per- campaign, a the violence and mourn together. JEA/SJF Federation Pittsburgh. son requested their name not be used. new genera- This recent example is one of You will be reading these thoughts, at There exists a policy of not printing let- tion of givers, and how to convince many examples that can be cited to the earliest, a few weeks later. Time is ters without attribution of the author, the community of the importance and show the compassion that the Savan- often considered a way to gain perspec- and there was no reason to break prec- meaning to donate and/or increase nah community shows through the tive, to gain a broader view from an edent. However, I gave thought to the thier pledge. From the discussion, we Federation efforts. In the last several immediate reaction. In words in the letter determined that a monetary pledge is a years where natural disasters have this case, time will sim- ....”They died because they and decided to incor- function of personal feelings as to how struck, the Federation has donated ply not dull what we porate the letter in the Federation impacts our lives. Each funds to Jews in South and North Car- saw, what we felt and were Jewish. They were this column. Yes, it is of us, therefore, needs to contemplate olina (Hurricane Florence) Southern what it means, to all of exercising the freedoms one person’s opinion, why it important to be involved with Florida (Hurricane Michael), Puerto us. that make this nation but part of our com- the Federation. Based on these discus- Rico, and Houston. Past natural disas- Emphasizing our munal soul should sions, the “I GIVE BECAUSE” cam- ters have also been the impetus for commonality is both great, and for which so be to listen to each paign was launched. The intent is to giving by the Federation. Simply put, an America ideal and many of our ancestors other, to feel for each allow different people to share their wherever Jews are in need, the Federa- the essence of Juda- other, to support each reasons for giving in hopes that you tion strives to lend its support. ism. The community crossed the ocean.” other and to recognize will contemplate yours. Look at the Last year during the allocation vigil held at Congrega- the continuum of back page of this edition and future process, Paul Kulbersh educated tion Agudath Achim was attended by our history needs us to march forward editions of the Savannah Jewish News the Committee on the plight of the people and religious leaders of every together. That is the only way to face as well as the Federation’s weekly remaining Jews in Venezula. He made denomination. It was attended by those who take issue with our place in eNews and other places for responses a passionate requestfor funds to go many people who were not Jewish but the world. from your freinds and neighbors. to support the Venezuelan Jewish joined with us in mourning the eleven The message is as follows: I want to be one of the first to community who are holding on for souls who lost their lives, as they were To the Editor-Savannah Jewish declare that “I Give Because The survival. The Savannah Jewish Federa- observing Shabbat. They died because News Savannah Jewish Federation supports tion agreed to allocate precious funds they were Jewish. They were exercis- Even before the Pittsburgh trag- Jews in times of crisis locally, nation- to meet their immediate needs. ing the freedoms that make this nation edy, we should all feel ashamed for ally and worldwide.” After the worst Each year, The Federation allo- great, and for which so many of our the divide in our community. We are anti-Semitic attack on American soil cates a portion of the campaign funds ancestors crossed the ocean. Time will all Jewish with much in common: occurred on October 27, 2018, the Fed- to various other international causes not take away from that simple fact. custom, celebrations, history, and all eration kept our community up to date through our Overseas Investment It should not take an unprescendeted have a belief in worshiping one G-d. on the situation via e mails and texts. I Grants program that support Jewry shocking event to bring us all together. That killer in Pittsburgh didn’t spoke with Adam Solender and within in Israel and many other countries My wife always says that we “run to divide and kill by the way we wor- the first twenty four hours after the around the world. Those organiza- go when people are sick or to funer- ship. He killed Jews, not Reform, attack, he had received over four hun- tions are nominated by members of als. We ought to run Conservative or dred texts and e mails from national the Savannah community. Closer faster to celebrate “part of our communal Orthodox. organizations, regional partners, and to home, Jewish Family Services, a and be together.” This Let us move members of our community express- program of the Federation provides is an opportunity soul should be for each on from what has ing their horror as to the events. Many assistance to those in our community to reflect, think and other, to support each divided us and of them asked how our community that are in need. These individuals and act to not only “run other and to recognize live as one com- should and would respond. A fund families usually do not have reliable faster to each other” munity with love to benefit the victims was set up and support networks and cannot afford but consider how we the continuum of our his- and respect for each by Monday morning several people basic services including utilities and look at each other and tory needs us to march other. Let us break had already dropped off checks to food. Jewish Family Services assists in what we do to create bread together, the Federation. Anyone that would many ways and attempts to get them a Jewish future that forward together.” enjoy community like to contribute online can do so by the help that they need. reflects the best of life together and visiting www.jewishpgh.org or drop While I could go on and on in aspirations in all of us. thank G-d we are here as one Jewish a check off at the JEA Front Desk. explaining the other various Federa- In Judaism, the idea that we are community, vibrant and united. 100% of your donation will be sent to tion sponsored programs and how responsible for one another is central We must find ways to create a cul- the Pittsburgh Jewish community to they support the Jewish community, I to how Jews are supposed to think ture that values and respects our differ- support psychological services, sup- hope that my answer will assist each about themselves. “Kol Yisrael areivim ences. We must dedicate ourselves to port for families, additional security in of you in completing the phrase “I zeh bazeh, (Hebrew). All of Israel is the responsibility to care for each other. the community, medical bills, as well GIVE BECAUSE,” I look forward to responsible for one another. That has We are Jews and to strike any one of us as counseling and other services that reading your responses and hope you always been the case, is the case today because of our faith is to strike us all. may prove necesary for victims and will email them to me at sjfpresident@ and must be the case for tomorrow, the And thus, our response must be as one. first responders during their recovery. savj.org. next day and on and on. That is how Time simply cannot dull our memory. we have survived and prevailed through Savannah Page 4 | December 2018 jewish news www.savj.org

achilles pretty badly. I wore a boot for a few months and started swimming and cycling. The rest is history; I got hooked on triathlons. I represented Team USA Published by the in Age Group World Championships Savannah Jewish Federation 5111 Abercorn Street in Budapest, Hungary in 2010 and Savannah, GA 31405 With Dr. Danny Nagelberg We have seen too many issues that qualified for several other world cham- (912) 355-8111 www.savj.org have splintered the community. What pionships since then. This past August, at USA Age Group National SJF President: Edwin Byck You have been a practicing psycholo- we just witnessed in SJF Treasurer: Matthew Allan gist for close to four decades. In your Pittsburgh is unspeak- Championships in Cleveland, many years of practice ‘What have able tragedy but that I qualified for both Sprint and SJF Executive Director: Adam Solender you learned about people that others community is a model Olympic distances at the Age Group World Champion- The objectives of the Savannah Jewish News are to foster a could learn from you? for Jewish communities sense of community among the Jewish people of Savannah throughout the United ships next August in Lusanne, by sharing ideas, information, experiences, and opinions, Switzerland. Cathy and I and to promote the agencies, projects, and mission of the What I have learned from my States and abroad. They Savannah Jewish Federation. patients more than anything else is that came together, rallied hope to make this one. For The Savannah Jewish News is published monthly 10 times reality is based on perception rather as one community, and the next five months, how- per year, with a deadline for submissions of the 6th of the than reality per se. In other words, displayed “the Jew- ever, my training is geared month before publication. For example, for a March issue, the deadline would be February 6. January-February and what a person feels, believes, perceives, ish way” in the face of toward the Boston Marathon July-August are combined issues. Submission deadlines etc. is their reality and it may differ unparalleled adversity which is April 15. Next year for these winter and summer issues are December 20 and June 20, respectively. from your perception of reality. This is in recent years. I know (2019-2020), I will complete both a good thing and a bad thing. In our Savannah Jewish my 50th year of competitive Editorial/articles submissions should be in Microsoft Word format (.docx or .rtf). For best results, photos psychotherapy, we help people under- community would do Dr. Danny Nagelberg running. That’s it in a nut- should be high resolution (300 dpi) with width and stand how their psychological defenses the same. I am not great shell. Other than working and height dimensions as large as possible, as .jpg, .tif, or .psd (Adobe Photoshop) files. Artwork, drawings, line art, and may “bend” or misconstrue reality. This at forecasting the future but I hope our spending time with my fam- other graphics are best sent as “vector” files, e.g. .eps or .ai ily, I swim, bike, run! (Adobe Illustrator). We will accept .jpg, .tif, or .psd files, is most evident in relationships with community will continue to grow and if necessary. those we are closest to. Everyone ratio- foster respect for one another. I am also You have two children who grew Advertising submissions must be in a high-resolution, nalizes their behavior and the behavior hopeful that more “young people” will “press” quality PDF format with fonts embedded. For best of those they love but sometimes it is take the initiative and become leaders up in Savannah, Sophie and Mark. results, photos and other artwork within advertisements Update us on where they are and should also be high resolution (300 dpi), .jpg, .tif, or .psd to the detriment of the individual who in our community. files. All color must be in the CMYK color format; “true” may need to understand that ultimately what they are up to. black preferred. their behavior is self-destructive. Most people know you as Dr. Nagel- Please send all Savannah Jewish News materials to: Breaking through defenses is not an berg, a well-respected psychologist Mark went to Santa Fe College [email protected] easy task but, ultimately, we all make in Savannah; what they don’t know for one year to study music but then Please send eNews newsletter submissions to: choices and we need to be responsible is that you are an elite athlete par- got interested in culinary arts so he [email protected] for these choices. Fortunately, what I ticipating in marathons, triathlons, transferred to Johnson and Wales Uni- Neither the publisher nor the editor assumes responsibility have learned from my patients is that and Iron Man competitions. Tell us versity in Charlotte and completed his for the kashrut of the services or merchandise advertised in this paper. If you have questions regarding kashrut, resiliency and coping with adversity, about your training and experiences B.S. in Food Management. He stayed please consult your rabbi. is alive and well. In particular, it is in the competitive fitness world. in Charlotte for about 11 years and All materials published in the always amazing to see parents, who was Chef de Cuisine at a wonderful Savannah Jewish News are have children with disabilities, move I started running in June of 1970 French restaurant, Lumiere, in Myers © 2018 Savannah Jewish Federation, all rights reserved, unless noted otherwise. forward one step at a time so that their prior to my senior year of high school. It Park. Last December, he moved back to Savannah and helped open Husk where Letters to the Editor children can have a better life. When turned out I was a pretty good runner The Savannah Jewish News is a community paper. people come together and talk about (4:22 mile) and went on to a successful he is currently a sous chef. He and he Letters should be civil and considerate in tone and not and his girlfriend, Lydia, love living in contain personal attacks, random attacks on businesses, their problems, most of us will under- cross-country and track career at Buck- or defamation. All statements of facts must be verifiable stand our problems are not quite as bad nell University (4:11 mile). In graduate Savannah and have a wonderful apart- (state the original source of the information). ment downtown. If you go to Husk, as we think they are. In other words, school, I started running road races Letters should be no more than 250 words and may be count your blessings and try not dwell and ran my first marathon from Bowl- make sure you say hi to Chef Mark. edited for length, clarity, or factual content. The opinions expressed are always the writer’s. on your problems (unless you are in ing Green (Ohio) to Toledo in under problem-solving mode!). three hours. I completed my internship Sophie went to DePaul University All letters must include the author’s full name, address, and phone number (only your name, and if appropriate, in Birmingham and ran the Iron City (Chicago) and earned a B.S. in Litera- job title and organization or business name, will be You and Cathy have been leaders Marathon in 2:41 on a day that reached ture and then completed a Master of published). in the Jewish community having a high of 11°! At Georgia Southern Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing No more than two letters from the same author will be worked on the Federation campaign, University, I taught for five years and at Columbia College. She wrote a great published within 12 consecutive months.

Shalom School, and as President started the Men’s and Women’s Cross novel that will hopefully get published Submit letters to [email protected]. The Savannah Jewish (Parnas) at Congregation Mickve Country Teams. Back then, the Savan- before too long. In the meantime, she News retains full and sole discretion about which letters to publish. Israel. What do you see as the big- nah Marathon was at Hunter Army married in the summer of 2017 and she gest change(s) in the community Airfield and I turned in my best times too is in the foodie world; her husband, Savannah Jewish Federation over the years? What do you see in of 2:36, 2:37, and 2:37 (ages 29, 30, and Andrew Brochu, is the executive chef at Mission Statement Roister, one of four restaurants in Chi- Charged with raising, collecting and distributing funds, the future? 31). After moving to Savannah in 1985, I the Savannah Jewish Federation seeks to advance the continued to run road races but less so cago that is part of the Alinea Group welfare of the total Jewish community. The Federation (spearheaded by Chef Grant Achatz strongly supports Israel and world Jewry. Additionally, When we came to Savannah, the when our children were younger. In my the organization strives to preserve the civil, political, community was relatively small and late 40’s, I ran the Philadelphia Mara- and Nick Kokonas). Currently, Sophie economic and religious rights of all Jews to develop is a copyright editor and social media an articulate, intelligent, and constructive Jewish tight-knit. Through the years, fortu- thon three years in a row with my twin community and to promote mutual understanding with nately, the Jewish community has brother and ran 3:08, 3:09, and 3:09 director for Tock, a software platform the community at-large. grown but, unfortunately, we are no (consistent!). A couple of years later, for restaurants, wineries, and pop-ups longer that small tight-knit community. I got lucky (so to speak) and tore my all over the world. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2018 | Page 5

Ages 6 months to 8 years old Ages 9-11 years old What does PJ stand for? Who is eligible? Calling all Jewish teens... Get involved! Pajamas! Special times of reading, and singing Savannah area families with children Become a leader! together happen when your children are 6 months -11 years with at least one Jewish wearing their pajamas. parent in the home

Make friends for Sign up TODAY at www.savj.org For more information email [email protected] life! PJ Library Savannah families learned about tzedakah with a PJ Library story, and made their own tzedakah boxes!

Meet a PJ Library author! Visit us at https://www.savj.org/savannah-bbyo Hear Debra Darvick share her story,

Find us on Facebook – Savannah BBYO We are Jewish Faces... Thursday, December 13th at 11:00 a.m. Jewish Educational Alliance ...a story more relevant than ever Contact Caitlin Gardner, Community Engagement Coordinator, PJ Library Savannah is made possible through generous support from Savannah Jewish [email protected] Federation, Jane Slotin, Nancy & Leon Slotin, and the Ceceile Richman JEA Fund. Your Campaign Dollars at Work

If you are Jewish, in your 20s and 30s and want to meet new people, connect to the community and make a difference - YJS is where you want to be!

Young Jewish Savannah’s goal is to provide meaningful opportunities for engagement in the Jewish community through social and professional networking, community service, Judaic and leadership programs for Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s. Your Campaign Dollars at Work

Young Jewish Savannah is made possible through the Savannah Jewish Federation.

Beneficiary Agency We want to get to know you! New to Savannah and want to get connected? Want to help plan events? Have ideas you want to share? Just want to hang out? Let us take you for coffee!

We want to hear from you!

For more information about Young Jewish Savannah call Jacqui Drazen at 912-355-8111 or email [email protected]. Savannah Page 6 | December 2018 jewish news www.savj.org The Savannah Jewish Federation Gratefully Thanks our Contributors

MADELINE H. RICHMAN FUND TIKVAH FUND TO THE EDITOR In honor of Jamie & Steven Richman In memory of Bucky Bloom Donnie & Bobbie Logvin In memory of Gary Levy Debbie & Joe Sistino Charlotte & Harold Black Dear Friends in the Jewish and working together makes all the In memory of Alan Rubin community, difference. With your support, our JOAN & MURRAY GEFEN Sally Krissman Your presence in the community is global community is growing in vitality SAVANNAH JEWISH FILM very much valued and appreciated. I am and resilience. FESTIVAL FUND YESOD LEADERSHIP FUND saddened beyoung words for your loss. On behalf of those we serve, please In memory of Frank Wise In memory of Marilyn Seenman May God console you among the accept our heartfelt appreciation. Marla & Morris Geffen & Family In memory of Nancy Sweeney other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem Sincerely, Jamie & Steven Richman With love Stanley A. Rabin DAYLE & AARON LEVY FUND Dominique Elliott JDC President In honor of Dayle & Aaron Levy SJF GENERAL DONATION Linda & David Cohen In memory of Bucky Bloom In memory of Marilyn Seeman Jamie & Steven Richman David M. Schizer Dear Savannah Jewish Sherrie & George Warsaw In memory of Jerald Cohen Federation Executive Vice President & CEO In memory of Paul Feldman On behalf of the American Friends JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES FUND Stacey & Barry Schlafstein Association for the Advancement Dear Savannah Jewish A donation was made by In memory of Jerald Cohen of Community Centers in Israel, we Federation Toby Hollenberg Esther Buchsbaum acknowledge, with gratitude your On behalf of Bnai Israel In honor of Dayle & Aaron Levy Riette Pollack donation. The donation will help to Congregation, Wilmington, NC, we further the building of connections thank you for your generous donation to Contributions to the Savannah Jewish Federation may be made on our throughout the world. This is especially assist with our rebuilding and cleanup secure website at www.savj.org or by calling 912-355-8111. critical work for the Jewish community after Hurricane Florence. We are very during these turbulent times. grateful for your help. Thank you for your generosity and We are now able to use our support of this important work in Israel. sanctuary, but there is still an awful lot TIME TO ORDER MAH JONGG CARDS! Sincerely, to repair and to consider. Our Torahs Susan Bender are safe and most of our equipment is Treasurer usable, but the Bima and ceilings need substantial repair and are the next Dear Savannah Jewish projects on our list. We have a long way Federation to go. Thank you for your kindness and Thank you for your generous generosity, support of our emergency efforts Rabbi Julie Kozlow in supporting the imperiled Jewish Barry Weiss, President community in Venezuela. Attention Mah Jongg Players! It’s time to order your 2019 Mah Jongg cards. As JDC begins its second century Dear Friends of activity, we continue to confront The standard card is $8.00; the large card is $9.00. The deadline for Please know that so many people the evolving challenges facing the placing orders is January 15, 2019. Make checks payable to the are very sad about the terrible shooting. world’s most vulnerable populations. Agudath Achim Sisterhood and send to: You are all in our prayers. Please use Along with our ongoing mission to Judy Todtfeld this small memorial to good use either strengthen the globel Jewish family, 23 Sundew Rd. her or wherever it is need the most. JDC’s ability to provide critical care Savannah, GA 31411 May God Bless You and meaningful assistance where it is No extra cards will be ordered after January 15th; Margaret and Johnny Wyly most needed is the end-goal of all of be sure to place your order on time! our efforts. Our wonderful partnership For additional information, contact Judy at (912) 346-5890 changes countless lives for the better

Community Mitzvah Day January 20 Join us as we participate in a variety of activities and "plant kindness" around the Savannah community

Want to get involved? Have a suggestion for an organization for us to partner with? Contact Orly Henkin at [email protected] The Jewish Educational Alliance presents a monthly program guide CENTERPIECE Jewish Educational Alliance December 2018 Children’s Programming Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! Adult Programming New JEA Members The JEA would like to thank our members. With- out your membership and support, Scrabble Wednesdays 6:30 to 8:30 pm we would not be able to offer all the services that we do. Our members are our most Mah Jongg Mondays 2:00 to 4:00 pm important asset! (New Members as of Oct. 6, 2018) Thursdays 2:00 to 4:00 pm Louis Baker Steve & Kathleen Brenneman Jonathan Cave Shelton Hughes, Jr. Natalie Kinnick Donald & Michele Yanik Joshua & Ashley Yellin JEA Donations (10/5/18-11/6/18) ARKIN-CLARK GARDEN FUND In memory of Marilyn Seeman Sally Krissman Arlene & Allan Ratner

JEA GENERAL DONATIONS FUND In memory of Marilyn Seeman Harriet & Jeffrey Bryan Sheri & Rob Feldman Sydney & Steve Ratnow Susan & Frank Slotin Milly & Harold Solomon In memory of Bucky Bloom Beth & Richard Bosman In honor of Stephen Arkin In memory of Bucky Bloom In memory of Marilyn Seeman Stacy & Jeff Lasky

ALLAN ULLMAN PLAYGROUND FUND In memory of Harold Reed In memory of Marilyn Seeman Harriet Ullman

JEA PRESCHOOL SAVANNAH In memory of Marilyn Seeman Doris Klugman Jamie & Steven Richman In memory of Nancy Sweeney In memory of Marilyn Seeman In honor of Sara Jospin In honor of Jean & Julian Weitz Betty Lasky

JACK M. & MIRIAM S. LEVY CONCERT FUND A gift by: Helene & Norman Levy

JEA FITNESS FUND Types of Membership include: Join the JEA In memory of Harold Reed Family Plans, Couple Plans, Senior Plans, Arlene & Allan Ratner Join the JEA, and you will be glad you did Young Family Plans, Individual Plans Gail Robinson when you take advantage of our special mem- ber pricing, FREE classes and events! The JEA Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at provides different types of memberships to www.SavannahJEA.org for more information! Donations continued on page 4 accommodate everyone.

December 2018 CenterPiece Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details! Health & Wellness Booty Bootcamp!

Let’s face it - we all glutes. Place a mini band around your thighs, want a better looking just above the knees. Lift your hips up off the tuchis! A great side effect floor as high as you comfortably can. Do your of strengthening this area best to keep your thighs lined up with the hip of the body is a healthier joints. Resist the inward pull of the band to lower back. Your gluteus strengthen your gluteus medius, which are muscles help hold your the muscles to the outside of the hip. Bring pelvis in place, which your hips back down to the floor and repeat. Kathy Ackerman can have a huge effect on Perform three sets of 10-15 reps or lift Fitness Director how you feel and wheth- and stay in an isometric hold pressing out er or not you experi- on the mini band for 30 seconds to a minute. ence pain in the lower back. The glutes are You can progress as strength in the glutes comprised of the gluteus maximus, medius builds. and minimus. These muscles allow for hip extension and abduction (lateral movement); Squat with Hip Extension they also stabilize and support the low back and pelvis as we move through activities of into a hip extension without arching your our daily lives. Strengthening and balancing lower back. This movement strengthens the these muscles helps to reduce both pain and gluteus maximus, the biggest of the glute fatigue, which means you’ll most likely feel muscles. Bring your foot back to start and better as well as look better. Most people repeat the squat with hip extension on the experience lower back pain at some point in other leg. their lives. Often, it’s a lack of support and Perform three sets of 10 reps on each leg, strength in the gluteus muscles that creates a total of 20 reps. As strength builds you can an imbalance and creates pain. Clam Shell go to a stronger resistance band. Here are three great exercises to build strength in the glutes, which can help relieve Clam Shell lower-back pain. Always start with a brief Lie on your side on a mat. Place a mini JEA Donations Cont. (10/6/18-11/6/18) warm up. Five to ten minutes on the Tread- band around the legs, just above the knees mill or Elliptical will suffice. with knees bent. From a side-lying position, HARVEY RUBIN MEMORIAL FUND either lying all the way down, which I prefer In memory of Madeline Rubin Elise & Victor Shernoff or propped on your elbow, slowly open and close your knees. To intensify the movement, ALBERT & ROSALINE TENENBAUM YOUTH lift your hips off the floor into a side plank LEADERSHIP FUND and perform the clamshell movement from In honor of Adam Solender Barry Forman there. Kathy & David Forman Perform three sets of 10-15 reps on each side and progress as strength builds. You can HENRY W. CENTER COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP hold the isometric on Clam Shells also. FUND In honor of Frank Randon In honor of Scott Center Squat with Hip Extension In honor of Tatsiana Shakmuts Stand with feet about hip-distance apart. In memory of Marilyn Seeman Place a resistance band under both feet and Miriam Center grasp the ends of the band in each hand. In memory of Hung Ngoc Nguyen Simone Center Hip Bridge Lower down into a squat with your knees tracking over your toes. Squeeze your glutes TREE OF LIFE Hip Bridge with Abduction and rise up out of the squat. Extend one leg In memory of Dena Konter Schultz Lie face up on a mat, with knees bent out to the side and slightly back behind you Arlene & Allan Ratner and feet flat on the floor, directly below the

CenterPiece December 2018 Visit us at 5111 Abercorn Street or online at www.SavannahJEA.org for more details!

December in the JEA Art Gallery

Vanessa Withun Vanessa Withun is a representational artist of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent. She combines elements of traditional realism with a contemporary style. Although her JEA Preschool work is mainly representational, she incorporates elements of Savannah News expressionism which give her work a semi-romantic feel. Her collection is composed mainly of landscape paintings, but she also enjoys painting still-life and portraits. All of her work revolves around the many ways light, movement, Open House textures, and color can be used to tell a story. She holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and enjoys Wednesday, December 12, 10 am, investigating and exploring nature and the movement of Wednesday, January 30, 10 am natural elements. She is also concerned with the environmental impact to coastal areas and has recently exhibited in an & Sunday, February 24, 11 am art show sponsored by Earth Action Initiative to promote ecological awareness. Her goal is to discover the many ways a Prospective Preschool Families - landscape and natural elements can be used to communicate emotions and ideas. Choose the best date for you! She believes representing a landscape is more than just representing its physical state Don’t miss this opportunity to tour our accurately, but involves a sentimental connection that cannot be produced by simple dynamic learning spaces and meet our observation. She is a member of Oil Painters of American and The Savannah Arts Association. wonderful staff! Come and get a peek Artwork available for viewing December 2-31, 2018 at Savannah’s premier early childhood Join us for the Art Gallery Reception December 9, 4-6 pm education program! Urban Jupena - January 2019 Urban Jupena was born in Pennsylvania, and attended Philadelphia College of Art where he received his BA. At school, he was attracted to weaving and fiber art. He then attended Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where he received his MFA. Working under Robert Kidd, he attained the skills of doing commission fiber art for homes and public spaces. Jupena is a full professor at Wayne State University in Detroit. He teaches weaving and fabric printing and dyeing. His goal with his students is to expose them to the fiber arts and to Enroll Now ignite in them a commitment to their work. He has always thought that the people of Detroit were 2018-19 School Year fortunate to have Saarinen’s architectural wonder, the complex Spots available for 3 & 4-yr old classes of schools and museums known as “Cranbrook,” in the area. Please call to set up your tour Those familiar with Cranbrook and its history understand that at the same time these buildings were being built, Saarinen Contact Jodi Sadler, Director, at chose and commissioned artists to design and make the [email protected] or 912-355-8111 furniture, rugs, wall hangings and other art objects that would JEA Preschool Savannah admits students complement the architecture. of any race, color, national, racial or ethnic Jupena has exhibited both nationally and internationally, origin to all the rights, privileges, programs but prefers working on commission with individuals. Showing at and working through and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. galleries and interior designers has also been a way of meeting many new clients His home is an example of how one lives with fiber art and art in general. It is his Providing for the social, emotional and showroom and he enjoys sharing it with people who appreciate a creative environment. cognitive growth of young children in a Judaic setting. Artwork available for viewing January 2-31, 2019 Join us for the Art Gallery Reception January 3, 5-8 pm

December 2018 CenterPiece Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2018 | Page 7

Happy Hannukah from the Savannah Jewish Archives!

The staff at the Breman Museum is wishing everyone in Savannah a Happy Hannukah! May the Festival of Lights illuminate your world while we work to enlighten the world with thousands of images from the Savan- nah Jewish Archives on our online catalog. Brownies #115 celebrating Hannukah. Sitting L-R: Sharon Birnbaum Goldblatt, Marcia Gatlin, and Marsha Elman Bernstein Standing L-R: Ilene Levin Friedman, Carla Kramer, Nancy Asher Bracker, Lynn Rudikoff Berkowitz, Jean Kramer, and Susan Blum- berg (December 17, 1957)

Any questions about the Savannah Jewish Archives? Contact us at [email protected] or [email protected]. There’s history in your home! Please consider reaching out to make an appointment to explore the Archives if you’re in Atlanta, or donating to our collection.

The Savannah Jewish Archives is generously supported by the Savannah Jewish Federation Savannah Page 8 | December 2018 jewish news www.savj.org

We have docent-led tours of our museum available from 10:00am - 3:30pm Monday - Friday.

DAILY SERVICES: SHABBAT SERVICES: Sunday 9:00 am & 6:00 pm, Friday 6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Monday 7:15 am & 6:00 pm Saturday 9:45 am Shabbat Service & Kiddush Luncheon Tuesday & Thursday 7:30 am & 6:00 pm, Mincha following Kiddush Wednesday 8:00 am & 6:00 pm Saturday Evenings Maariv & Havdalah Friday 7:00 am & 6:00 pm

Join us for our Hanukkah Party, Wednesday, December 5th at 6:00 pm, $10 per person, $25 per Family, RSVP to the AA office, 912-352-4737. Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2018 | Page 9 Eye on education Striving to be Helpers It’s been a were shared with the preschool families few weeks since and did provide them with guidance. In the Tree of Life fact, one mom came into the preschool Synagogue tragedy. office the next morning to express her This horrific gratitude and that she shared had it on Jodi Sadler, JEA Director event is still on our her own blog. Another mom sent an Early Childhood minds as we try to email which said “Thank you for your Education move forward with letter. I couldn’t find the words to say our daily routines. to my daughter and the resources were When the tragedy occurred, my helpful.” immediate thoughts turned to the chil- We find strength in community dren and families. and helping one another through the How do teachers and families good and bad times. handle this difficult situation with chil- Here is the introduction to Mark’s dren? What do the educators/parents letter..... say to them? How much do we tell “When I was a boy and I would see them? These are important questions scary things in the news, my mother with a variety of answers. My goal was would say to me, “Look for the helpers. to provide the families with information You will always find people who are and resources to assist them with the helping.” To this day, especially in times children. of “disaster,” I remember my mother’s It was through the support of the words and I am always comforted by JCCA National Vice President, Mark realizing that there are still so many Horowitz, who shared resources and helpers – so many caring people in this information with the list serve of direc- world.” tors just a day after the tragedy. Fred Rogers Websites from the Fred Rogers Our goal should be that we all Foundation and PJ Library provided the strive to be helpers everyday in this verbiage and suggestions on what to changing world. But more importantly, say to children and how to address the that we teach our children this valuable children’s emotions. These resources lesson. Mah Jongg and More Every year for latkes, and my arm is like a timeline of I am in awe of the my oil burns. I can see myself years from folks who go all out now, on the rocking chair, telling my Robin Rackoff for Christmas. I have grandchildren, “this one I received at the a friend who bakes Hanukkah party of 2004”. Any holiday more cookies in one week than I have in that celebrates oil is an accident waiting my entire life. I once opened my mail to to happen! find an invitation to a Christmas cookie The holiday time of year can be so swap, and the price of admission was 6 busy that it’s sometimes hard to get to dozen homemade cookies. I have never your weekly mah jongg game. To be sure torn anything up so quickly! For me, get- that you don’t get rusty, you might want ting all 9 bulbs on my electric menorah to try one of the online games to keep to light up at the same time is tiring you on your toes. There are several differ- enough to send me off for a nap. Another ent ones you can play on your laptop or over-achiever is my neighbor who every tablet, but my two favorites are realmah- December goes into the woods with jongg.com and myjongg.net. On that his ax, cuts down a tree and brings it site, you can play against the likes of Jim home tied to his car. After he sets it up in Nasium and Chuck Stake (not real peo- his living room, he perilously stretches ple, but fine maj players). Both websites across his staircase to place the star on charge a modest fee, but to me, it’s well top of the tree. Of course, celebrating worth it. I know that if I go a few weeks Hanukkah has its dangers as well. I’ve without playing my game will suffer, and shed plenty of blood grating the potatoes I wouldn’t want that to happen! On The Personal Side Kelly Harkavy Gordon was present- and is the President of Skidaway Island May the miracle of the Chanukah lights ed with Chatham Emergency Services First Responders. The award was pre- Fire & EMS 2018 Volunteer of the Year sented to Kelly by The Exchange Club help to usher in a year of as a firefighter in Savannah. Kelly has of Savannah and Vaden Nissan. been a volunteer firefighter for ten years peace and understanding for all. Savannah Page 10 | December 2018 jewish news www.savj.org Eye on education Your Campaign Dollars at Work Throughout the World 8 Hanukkah Messages Jewish Heritage For The Deaf To Our Children And Hearing Impaired Since my chil- a window. Hanukkah is unique in The Jewish Heritage for the Deaf and A large number of participants also come dren were little, our this respect as we have no other com- Hearing Impaired program was designed from nearby smaller communities. to assist the deaf popula- The main locations Eva Locker, family tradition is to mandment in Judaism which requires tion of Israel, to provide where the program operates Principal of gather after we light such public display. It is important to Shalom School the candles to read share with our non-Jewish neighbor a bridge between their include: Tel Aviv, Haifa, Bnei the same book every part of our story and tradition so they world and the world of Barak, Petach Tikvah, Ashdod, night, a chapter a night for 8 chapters. My get the opportunity to know and the hearing population, Jerusalem, Netanya, Rishon children have left for college, and by now appreciate who we are. through Jewish heritage LeZion, Beersheba, Kiryat Gat, they know the book by heart. Whatever • Hanukkah brings lights to darkness: and content that focuses Bat Yam, Dimona, Ashkelon, your own family traditions might be for Literally, since we wait for night- on Jewish heritage. Afula, Tiberias, Kiryat Shmo- Hanukkah, here is a list of 8 short mes- time to light the candles, but also The program primarily supports na, Holon, Herzliyah, Ashdod, Yavneh and sages that are worth instilling in a child’s metaphorically, when so many Jews youth and young adults, and also extends Rehovot. mind: gather in secret to light the Hanuk- a helping hand to senior citizens. The pro- The support provided by the Savan- • Never underestimate the power of kiah in times and places where keep- gram aims to reinforce the Jewish and Zi- nah Jewish Federation through the Jewish a few: Even though the Maccabees ing their faith was forbidden. onist identity of the participants through Agency enables the program to arrange were vastly outnumbered by the • Oil and water don’t mix: Traditional interactive activities that promote open highly enjoyable experiential annual bar Greeks, they won the battle. hanukkiah are lit with oil that is discussion and active participation. mitzvah and bat mitzvah events. These • Anyone can impact history: As did poured over water (so the glass con- The program highlights the mile- activities attract deaf youth and their Yehudit who played a critical role tainer doesn’t over heat and crack). stones of Jewish life, and celebrates the families from all over the country, from in defeating the Greeks when she Be like the oil: don’t dissolve your religious holidays in the Jewish calendar. the north to the south, to Jerusalem to cel- infiltrated the enemy camp and killed best qualities, stay true to who you It also aims to empower deaf youth so ebrate the youth undertaking a commit- their powerful general. We each have are. that they can make the most of their indi- ment to Jewish law. something to contribute to the world. • Step it up: By adding a candle each vidual potential. The program content is In addition to providing support for Find your mission and role in life and day we express greater and greater dynamic, and can be expanded to appeal a performing troupe of deaf youth from do your best to fulfill it. appreciation of the miracles that God to as many members of this population as all over the country, the Jewish Agency • Miracles do exist and they happen did for us. In return, we should aim possible. also allocates “second generation” student every day: Sometimes big, like in the to be a better person, one day at the The activity is mainly aimed at towns grants (for the children of two deaf par- Hanukkah story, and sometimes time. and cities with clubs for the deaf, and ents), and additional youth programs for small. We must train our eyes, our • Be like the Shamash: Light and after-school programs for this population. empowering and advancing deaf youth. mind and our soul to recognize them. inspire others. • Share and publicize: We are com- Wishing you a Hanukkah full of light, manded to display our hanukkiah by Eva Locker Condolences We express our sympathy to the families of: Eye on education Harold Reed Brett Sawyer Who died Friday, October 12, 2018. Who died Monday, October 15, 2018. Did It Really Make A He is survived by his wife, Esther He is survived by his mother, Adele Maltinsky Reed and four children, Stein. Difference? Linda, Ron, Martin, and Rick, and one grandson, Otto. In the after will have zero tolerance for no tolerance; Remembrance donations may be made math of the horrific however, if we don’t live and breathe to Hospice Savannah, PO Box 13190, event in Pittsburgh; this ourselves, then shouldn’t bother Savannah, GA 31416-0190 Ester Rabhan, to what extent are teaching it. To teach and not believe and Principal we still reeling from practice – is only a means to confusing Rambam Day the lives lost and our children. School those injured? To Such atrocity is not wished on any what extent do we individual or community. What can we still feel for the fami- do besides reach out to financially help? lies who lost so much? How much do We must change. Are we truly innocent we still feel for the community and the of hatred, judging others, influencing A FriendlyThe next issue Reminder of the trauma they experienced? our children with our Jewish political If we are no longer feeling the views? Savannah Jewish News will be our disorientation of such ruthless hatred I can’t help but wonder if such and destruction, then we are allowing events really make their point to our combined January/February issue. these 11, precious souls to have died for own. I wonder if within our own com- The deadline for all naught. We don’t have to understand munity judgments have ceased and why these individuals were chosen by brotherly respect prevails? submissions is December 20th. the Almighty. We don’t have to under- We must each look within and do stand why so many innocent had to die. what we need to do personally first, and Please send all materials to We do have to respond. We must only then can we be ambassadors for [email protected]. be vigilant in our schools and in our respect for all mankind. homes to teach our children that we Savannah www.savj.org jewish news December 2018 | Page 11 Savannah Page 12 | December 2018 jewish news www.savj.org

Why do we give? We believe in supporting the Jewish community. With Federation, we know our gift is used wherever it’s needed most. We may be assisting someone in our own city — someone we don’t even know — to get a job so they can take care of their family. Maybe we are helping kids in Eastern Europe reclaim their heritage. The important thing is, we are doing something vital to help every single day. Why do you give? Give today. www.savj.org