JewishTHE Georgian

Volume 21, Number 2 Atlanta, JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2009 FREE Seymour Lavine, a true American hero What’s Inside By Reg Regenstein Imperial Army. BROTHER SANDY KILLED Before his country went to war, IN HOLLAND inety-six-year-old Seymour Lavine, Seymour was a good and productive citi- on Two of Sherwood Forest, has had an zen, leading an ordinary life and trying to Following the sneak attack on Pearl Namazing life, serving his country make a living. Suddenly, confronted with Harbor, Seymour, 29, and his brother and his community in ways few can one of the gravest threats we have Sandy, 27, both married and with jobs, Wheels match. ever faced, he rose to the occa- enlisted in the U.S. Army. The Arava Institute/Hazon Israel Bike Today he stays busy running the sion, performed incredible acts Sandy was working for The Southern Ride supports environmental education Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, of valor—and violence—and Israelite newspaper in Atlanta, selling ads while providing a physical challenge an Emory University program for then, in the best tradition of and doing editorial work. He was sent to and a spiritual experience. retired professionals. One is struck America’s original Europe, with the 104th Infantry Division, By Ron Rosen by his scholarly, kind, gentle, and Minutemen, resumed his nor- and participated in the ill-fated Allied thrust Page 14 modest demeanor. But 65 mal life as if it had never into Holland in late 1944, intended to end years ago, he was been interrupted. the war early by attacking Germany busy fighting Seymour’s through the Netherlands. In Time of Need Japanese troops, never-before- There, on a reconnaissance patrol, his Federation has established an Economic freeing starving published story unit encountered approaching German Crisis Fund to meet immediate critical American prison- is an amazing tanks. Sandy ordered his men to withdraw needs in the community. Page 8 ers, and liberating tale of courage while he gallantly stayed behind to hold off the Philippines and accomplish- the panzers. He fired a bazooka, hitting one from the cruel ment in some of tank, but another fired back at him, tearing In Jewish Mumbai occupation of the toughest bat- his arm off. “He didn’t last the day,” says Emperor tles of World Although targeted in recent terrorist Hirohito’s War II. See LAVINE, page 5 attacks, in have been treated Seymour Lavine well for millennia. By Jay Waronker Page 15 Teens take to the stage in Greenfield Torah dedication Exploring Jewish Center Theatre production of is a joyous event High School Musical Rabbi Pincus with pre-K Culture in Beantown student Datya Voloschin The National Yiddish Book Center and the Vilna Shul are two outstanding attractions in the Boston area. By Leon Socol Page 29 From Small Towns to Big Cities The Institute of Southern Jewish Life‘s ambitious effort to document the Jewish history of Southern towns is now reach- ing Georgia. n Sunday, October 26, singing erupted from Greenfield Page 18 Cast members (from left) Lesley Hauler, Dani Heidt, Hebrew Academy. The crowd of about 300 people clapped Lauren Kolodkin, Devon Rogers, Laura Sacka, and Oand sang “Simin Tov Ooh Mazel Tov” as Greenfield’s new Zach Solomon (Photo: Steve Dinberg) community Sefer Torah was dedicated. Survivors Tell According to the Torah, every Jew should have his or her own enter Theatre continues its inaugural season with an ener- Torah, thus fulfilling the 613th mitzvah. Thanks to some great High School getic Teen Theatre rendition of Disney’s fundraising efforts and community donations, GHA has now com- Their Stories Musical, February 11-22. Directed by Barbara Cole- C pleted mitzvah 613 with its very own community Sefer Torah. The The Breman Museum and Osher Uterhardt, this stage production, based on the Disney Channel money raised from the Torah dedication will be used to purchase Institute have teamed up to present an High School Musical original movie , will be brought to life in SMART Boards for the classrooms. important and moving class. Page 7 See HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, page 6 See TORAH, page 7 Page 2 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 stant battle between yetzer hara, the evil inclination, and yetzer hatov, the good incli- Have You No Sense of Decency? nation. Satan, a Hebrew word which means an adversary or hinderer, is a player in this battle. It is Satan, an angel, who strives to Life is not a game but an opportunity: a gift being reduced and profits have disappeared, divert or hinder our actions with the hope to be used by its recipient to move what or, even worse, when the independent oper- that we will meet his challenge and rise presently exists to a higher level of what ations of the companies have been material- above these evil impediments. The free-will can be for all people – not just for the indi- ly compromised or ruined? choice to follow our yetzer hatov will move vidual’s personal aggrandizement and BY Marvin Society dictates that there must be a us toward our mission of repairing the wealth. framework of principles, a core group of Botnick world. By overcoming our evil inclination values, upon which actions are based. There and striving to raise ourselves to a higher uch has been, is being, and will be is a caveat to such a statement, however. level of doing good, we will build a moral written and reported about of the attraction that the O.J. Simpson mur- There must be integrity. In an article by platform to work for a better world for all. Bernard Madoff and the gigantic der trial had, but the president’s State of the David L. Miller in The Lutheran, he makes M Our writings and teachings are replete Ponzi scheme by which billions of Union speech does not attract anywhere the following distinction: “…living accord- with writings directing us to deal honestly investors’ dollars purportedly have been near this amount of attention and interest. ing to a consistent set of principles [does and fairly with our fellow humans, not to misappropriated. As the story unfolds, no While I join with others in condemn- not] amount to integrity. Hitler and the mur- take what is not ours, and to provide for the doubt there will be books, TV shows, and ing and abhorring the selfishness, greed, ders of Bosnia also strove for their princi- needy. We are not to profit at the expense of movies on the subject. and hurtfulness of Madoff and what he has ples.” others. We are not to keep a worker’s wages All of this will focus primarily on the confessed to doing, I am concerned with the Stephen L. Carter, the William Nelson overnight. We were not to gather excess man, his motivations and methods, and the mores of a society that can produce the Cromwell Professor of Law at Yale Law manna but only to collect according to the amount of money that was lost and by atmosphere of self-indulgence and wanton School, in his book Integrity, defines person’s eating. We are commanded not to whom. We eagerly seem to seek the lurid disregard for one’s actions on others. What integrity as involving “three steps. The first steal, about which the notes appended to details of what is sensationalized by the is the value system that puts a premium on is to discern what is right and wrong. The Pentateuch and Haftorahs edited by media under the guise of objective report- wealth, individualism, and material com- Discernment takes time and emotional J.H.Hertz, includes “the stealing of a good ing, but our interest is closer to viewing a fort? energy. It’s much easier to follow the opinion of others.” Such an action, accord- serial TV drama than a concern for the The Madoff scandal is emblematic of crowd. The second step is to struggle to live ing to this note, is especially reprehensible, underlying malady in our society. In our a rampant thrust towards materialism at the according to the sense of right and wrong whether it be “by any manner of misrepre- world of commercialized touting of stories, cost of integrity. The methods of implemen- you have discerned. The third is to be will- sentation, ‘publicity,’ or flattery deceiving we followed the confirmation hearings of tation may differ, but we see this greed and ing to say what we are doing and why we others into having a better opinion of his or Clarence Thomas in 1991 for a seat on the lack of concern for one’s actions on others are doing it.” In the same book, Carter his doings than he deserves. ‘Let a man earn Supreme Court; however, in what happened at HealthSouth, Enron, bemoans the current state of affairs when he the good opinion of his fellowmen, but let very few of us paid attention to the hearings WorldCom, and Tyco International, just to writes: “We care more about winning than him not steal it.’” In Isaiah 61:8, the use of twelve months earlier during the confirma- mention a few. And what about the uncon- about playing by the rules.” dishonest money for charity or any reli- tion hearings which resulted in the approval scionable compensation and perquisite Judaism believes that we are created gious propose is forbidden by the following of David Souter as an associated justice of packages that have been awarded to corpo- with free will; the ability to choose between directive to His prophet: “For I the Lord United States Supreme Court. We all know rate management when employment is good and evil. In each of us, we have a con- love justice, I hate robbery with a burnt offering.” THE Even if the ultimate use or beneficiary Jewish Georgian of stolen or unjustly acquired assets is a charity or the doer of good works, this in no The Jewish Georgian is published bimonthly by Eisenbot, Ltd. It is way launders the act to make it permissible. written for Atlantans and Georgians by Atlantans and Georgians. In fact, such an action only serves to com- Publisher Marvin Botnick Co-Publisher Sam Appel pound the wrongful deed, for, by receiving Editor Marvin Botnick such a contribution, the recipient is tainted. Managing Editor Marsha C. LaBeaume Assignment Editor Carolyn Gold There is a plague amongst us that Consulting Editor Gene Asher needs to be conquered, not merely masked Associate Editor Barbara Schreiber Copy Editor Ray Tapley by the passage of laws and the commitment Assistant Copy Editor Arnold Friedman to prisons of individuals. What we need is Makeup Editor Terri Christian Production Coordinator Terri Christian integrity, honesty, and concern for others. Medical Editor Morris E. Brown, M.D. We need to take a switch to the behind of a Photographic Staff Allan Scher, Phil Slotin, Phil Shapiro Graphic Art Consultant Karen Paz failed moral system. There are ample socie- Columnist Andi Arnovitz (Israel),Gene Asher, tal guides by which an individual can deter- Jonathan Barach, Janice Rothschild Blumberg (Washington), mine a rightful course for his life, and accu- Marvin Botnick, mulating the most money is not one of Shirley Friedman, Carolyn Gold, Jonathan Goldstein, George Jordan, them. It is way past time when the actions Marice Katz, Balfoura Friend Levine, Marsha Liebowitz, Howard Margol, of the Bernard Madoffs, Richard M. Bubba Meisa, Erin O’Shinsky, Scrushys, Jeffrey Skillings, Bernard Ben Rabinowitz (Israel), Lew Regenstein, Roberta Scher, Ebbers, Dennis Kozlowskis, and the myriad Jerry Schwartz, Leon Socol, of other corporate executives who have sac- Rabbi Reuven Stein, Hannah Vahaba, Cecile Waronker, rificed the earnings and savings of others Evie Wolfe for their own personal gain should not be Special Assignments Susan Kahn, Lyons Joel Advertising Michael Pelot acceptable, and when individuals should Marsha C. LaBeaume personally adopt moral codes that will con- Bill Sonenshine strain such actions. Editorial Advisory Board Members And so, in the words of Joseph Welch, Sam Appel Rabbi Alvin Sugarman Sam Massell Jane Axelrod Albert Maslia William Rothschild the attorney for the Army in the McCarthy Gil Bachman Michael H. Mescon Marilyn Shubin hearings in 1954 I put it to you, you self- Asher Benator Paul Muldawer Doug Teper perceived titans who have so callously 8495 Dunwoody Place, Building 9, Suite 100 inflicted unknown hurt and depravation on Atlanta, GA 30350 those faceless minions who have been so (404) 236-8911 • FAX (404) 236-8913 adversely impacted by your actions, or lack [email protected] thereof: “ Have you no sense of decency?” www.jewishgeorgian.com The Jewish Georgian ©2009 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 3 OUR FIRST TV SHOW AT DULCY’S. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to And speaking of Dulcy—we will never for- Friends of the ISCD c/o Lori Halpern, 110 get the day (it was around 1948, and we North Devereux Ct., Atlanta GA 30327. What’s were about five years old) when our mother dressed us up in a Hopalong Cassidy cow- HOWL-O-WEEN COSTUME PARTY AT boy outfit, and we walked across the street ATLANTA DOG SPA. Sarah Segal’s on Springdale Road to the Davis’ home to Atlanta Dog Spa in Midtown is a great watch television for the first time at place to take your mutt to be pampered and Dulcy’s. Brother Jay had not even been spoiled and fussed over, just like the treat- born yet. We can’t remember much about ment humans get at their spas. You can even HAPPENING the program, except that it was a western, watch your pet, via webcam, have the time but we’ve been hooked on TV ever since. of his or her life. Sarah really loves dogs, so ANUKKAH AT LOVETT. The Especially cartoons. you know your best friend will be in good prestigious Lovett School just had hands there. Hits best Hanukkah celebration ever! ISRAEL’S MOST RESPECTED ATH- For Halloween, Sarah had a “Howl-O- Along with The Temple’s Rabbi LETES. Former U.S. Senator and Vietnam Ween” party, where her many friends and Frederick Reeves, those in attendance BY Reg vet Max Cleland helped host a meeting at clients brought their kids and dogs, in vari- included Linda and Steve Selig (he’s an the home of Greenfield Academy’s Lori ous costumes, to nosh and kibitz and alumnus from the ‘40s and ‘50s), visited Regenstein Halpern and her husband, Kirk, to welcome schmooze. Among the guests were the their granddaughter McKenzie, daughter of to Atlanta a team from the Israel Sport adorable grandchildren of Carla and Arthur Stephanie and Blake Selig. trations by Elinor’s delightful great-grand- Center for the Disabled. The ISCD does a Silver and children of Ryan Silver and The 2nd-grade kids sang Hanukkah daughters Ansley and Peyton, the seven- wonderful job of rehabilitating children, Debra Weidinger, Ansley and Hannah Cate. songs, accompanied by Rabbi Reeves on and ten-year-old grandkids of my good soldiers, and other victims of terrorism, Everyone behaved, there was no fight- the guitar (who knew he was so talented?), friends from childhood, Dulcy (Davis) and war, and birth defects through such sports ing or biting, and a good time was had by sampled some great Hanukkah cookies, and Jerry Rosenberg, who, with Elinor, are co- as swimming and wheelchair basketball. all. took home dreidels. founders of the Davis Academy. The center’s team always seems to win lots We were at Little Lovett with Steve in Elinor, naturally enough, has an adopt- of medals at international competitions and the ‘40s, and the main thing we remember is ed rescue dog, a poodle who is also well is a source of great pride for the state and that in the 3rd grade, he got to kiss one of connected in Atlanta society—his best for all of us. the prettiest girls in the class, Joan friend is a dachshund belonging to Saul Max is honorary head of the Atlanta Kaufman, and we didn’t! Mallen! Friends Committee for the ISCD, which A portion of the proceeds from the depends on donations from the public to book benefits the Atlanta Humane Society carry on its valuable work. Its kids are the (AHS). The book is available at the AHS embodiment of Hemingway’s saying, quot- gift shop, 981 Howell Mill Road NW, and ed in Max’s book Strong at the Broken The Breman Museum, or it can be ordered Places: “Life breaks us all, and afterwards directly from Elinor at queenhoney- many are strong at the broken places.” Max [email protected]. is an ideal role model for the group, which By the way, this past March would includes some of the most “abled” and have been the 100th birthday of Elinor’s accomplished people we know. late husband, Bill Breman, one of our com- As Lori so eloquently describes the munity’s greatest benefactors and most center’s work, “Some children come in with beloved and respected citizens. The institu- disabilities that they were born with, and Rabbi Reeves and Steve & Linda tions he has endowed, such as The William others become disabled as the result of ter- Selig at Lovett Breman Jewish Heritage Museum, The rorist attacks. Either way, the ISCD helps to William Breman Jewish Home, and The give these children a place to call their Breman Family Health and Wellness home away from home, and they are able to Center, are constant reminders of his lead- become more independent and self-confi- ership and generosity. dent, while they learn to live with their dis- abilities.” For more information on the cen- ter, visit www.iscd.com. Howl-O-Ween costumes

Rabbi Reeves entertains 2nd-grade class

AUTHOR, AUTHOR. Community leader, philanthropist, great grandmom, ageless beauty, and now author Elinor Rosenberg Breman has a new children’s book hot off Ansley and Hannah Cate Silver the presses. (Actually, Elinor is the ghost- (Photo: Debra Weidinger) writer of the book, which is by her dog, Angel, and Saul Mallen’s dog, Mutz.) PYRAMID POWER. (bottom, from COVER GIRL. Native Atlantan Alyson It is all about kids overcoming their left) Greenfield Hebrew Academy Hannigan, in her 4th year of the CBS hit differences to become, as the book’s title 7th-grader Ben Halpern, 12-year-old show “How I Met Your Mother,” was indicates, Best Friends. A “must” for any- ISCD student Caroline Tabib, and recently featured on the cover of TV Guide. one who loves pets, it tells the tale (excuse Weber School 10th-grader Erica It doesn’t get much bigger than that. the pun) of two nice dogs who find happi- Breman Museum Co-founder Elinor Halpern; (middle, from left) Alyson, daughter of Prudential Georgia ness from the love of two caring people. It Rosenberg Breman (with Angel), Greenfield Hebrew Academy 7th- Realty agent Emilie Posner, is now expect- also offers valuable tips on choosing and Saul Mallen (with Mutz), and Ansley grader Harrison Brown, Lori ing her first child. Mazel tov, everyone! caring for a pet. and Peyton Rosenberg Halpern, and Mrs. Tabib (Caroline’s Best of all are the lovely original illus- mother); (top) Kirk Halpern See HAPPENING, page 4 Page 4 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009

mainly in the former Soviet Union, Eastern establishing the annual Esther G. Levine Ice Cream’), and many more.” Happening Europe, and Israel. Community Read. This year, the selected Tickets are available from www.14thst- The group’s crucial work depends on author was Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, author playhouse.org or by phone at 404-733- From page 3 contributions from people like us. As you of You Don’t Have to Be Wrong for Me to Be 5000. To obtain discounted group tickets can see from its website, www.jewish- Right. He has his own radio show in (15 or more), call 770-551-9753. healthcareinternational.org, the need is Portland, Oregon, and writes a weekly col- enormous and the volunteers dedicated, but umn for the Washington Post and RECESSION SPECIAL FROM JERRY without adequate funding, this desperately Newsweek. FARBER. Due to the tough economic con- needed work cannot be completed. Maybe Esther can talk her husband into ditions, Comedian Jerry Farber is featuring To make a tax-deductible donation, writing a memoir about caring for our kids a “Recession Special” on his nationally contact JHI at 1440 Spring Street, Atlanta for half a century. It would be a bestseller. acclaimed performances. He has a plan to GA 30309, 678- 222-3722, or [email protected]. We already have a working title for it: The offset the unprecedented and unforeseen Doctor Will Be with You Shortly—He’s financial collapse by offering 50% off on BELOVED PEDIATRICIAN RETIRES. Running Just a Little Late Today. Does that his appearances. Jerry is able to offer this After practicing pediatrics in Sandy Springs sound familiar? discount to his customers because, after for 45 years, the respected, revered, viewing a tape of his last appearance at the renowned, and irreplaceable Dr. Michael K. DARRYL DOES NEW YORK. The hottest Punchline, the U.S. Treasury Department is Levine is finally retiring from one of the attorney in town right now is superlawyer giving him a financial bailout that is expect- city’s busiest and most popular medical Darryl Cohen, who has been appearing on ed to offset his subprime jokes. practices. such top TV programs as “The Today Although some customers have offered The Georgia Chapter of the American Show,” “Nancy Grace,” “On the Record to pay Jerry what he is worth, he won’t Academy of Pediatrics recently honored with Greta van Susteren,” “Inside Edition,” work that cheap. Call his agency at 404- him with its Lifetime Achievement Award. “CBS News,” and “The Fox Report with 874-8602, and mention coupon code JF803 His children, Dr. Joshua Levine of Shepard Smith,” giving the inside skinny on for your discounted recession performance. Manhattan and Shira Levine of San the sad murder of little Caylee Anthony in Warning: Jerry does a lot of adult Francisco, flew in for the luncheon recog- Florida. humor—all his jokes are at least 21 years Alyson Hannigan (top right) on cover nizing their dad’s achievements. Unfortunately, when Darryl flew up to old. of TV Guide Lately, Dr. Levine has been active in New York to do “Today,” Delta lost his lug- the Senior Ensemble of the Academy gage, so he had to talk with Matt Lauer in NEW SANDY SPRINGS EATERY. We JEWISH HEALTHCARE INTERNA- Theatre, whose director is the famous Mira his jeans and a day-old shirt. Which is how can’t wait to try RJ Casual’s new Café TIONAL. As the executive director of Hirsch, founder of Jewish Theatre of the we would probably have dressed anyway in Bakery, located at 8540 Roswell Road in Jewish Healthcare International (JHI), the South. the unlikely event we were ever asked to be Sandy Springs (formerly Café ), tireless and terrific Carole Kirschner is busy Dr. Levine’s lovely and accomplished a guest on one of those shows. (Maybe a which offers classic American fare, plus raising funds for this coalition of volunteer wife is Esther Levine, of BookAtlanta; this two- or three-day-old shirt.) Anyway, we such exotic cuisines as Brazilian, Jewish, healthcare professionals. They work hard to author publicist, coordinator, and escort is hope Delta at least bought him a replace- Italian, and French. help provide medical assistance to impover- also greatly admired in her field. The ment toothbrush. RJ Casual’s extensive menu includes ished communities throughout the world, Jewish Book Festival has honored her by Which reminds us of our pet peeve: soups, salads, huge sandwiches, and various when we go to the lost luggage place and comfort foods such as blue plate specials. the airline guy is wearing our sport coat! The restaurant also features homemade baked goods, ready-to-eat meals, and fruits FOOD FIGHT COMING TO TOWN. PR and nuts, and it boasts a wide variety of exec Marilyn Pearlman tells us exclusively desserts including breads (like ceremonial that Jewish playwright and actor Alan challahs), rolls, pastries, custom pastries, Jacobson will be bringing a fabulous play to and cakes for all occasions. the 14th Street Playhouse, Food Fight: A But if you’re sugar- or calorie-con- Musical Comedy for Waist Watchers! It fea- scious, RJ Casual’s has produced a com- tures unconventional choreography—exer- plete line of sugar-free products that are cise instead of dancing. The show will kick ideal for diabetics and low-carb diets. At RJ off its national tour here with a February 6- Casual’s, there’s something for everyone. March 29 run. Alan had the foremost Jewish theater in the Southeast for several years, has produced over 80 shows, and still produces many Jewish-themed or -connect- ed shows across the country. Food Fight! is great entertainment, Marilyn tells us, “celebrating life in a weight- and beauty-obsessed world, and mocking our neuroses and obsessions with dieting, exercise, plastic surgery, and cook- ing-show gurus. Set in a women’s gym, the show parodies lyrics to popular songs in the style of Menopause the Musical, as four women anguish over their bodies and cele- brate their lives—to tunes of ‘I Heard it The InterContinental Buckhead’s Through the Grapevine’ (‘I Went to the Martha Jo Katz with Senator Saxby Buffet Line’), ‘Dancing Queen’ (‘Botox Chambliss and Governor Mitt Queen’), ‘Crazy’ (‘Lazy’), ‘If I Were A Rich Romney at a recent press confer- Man’ (‘If I Were a Size Two’), ‘The ence and luncheon held at the hotel Impossible Dream’ (‘The World’s Greatest I January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 5

Guadalcanal was Seymour’s best friend, below them. “It was like a circus,” Seymour Lavine Arthur Weiss, a company command- remembers. er with the 1st Marine Division. When one bomber flew over with a From page 1 Seymour was later shipped to bomb hanging precariously from the bomb Seymour. Hollandia, on the northern coast of New bay, Seymour and his buddies ducked for Half a century after the war’s end, in Guinea, a major Japanese air base, the cap- cover in foxholes, but the falling bomb 1996, a ceremony and parade were held in ture of which was crucial to the later crushed the chest of the corporal next to honor of Sandy at Fort McPherson, where American invasion of the Philippines. him, badly wounding the man. Soon after- he was posthumously awarded a Bronze There, as a staff sergeant in charge of intel- wards, a sergeant next to Seymour was Star and a Purple Heart. ligence, he twice led 12-man patrols, killed by a sniper. Finally, General encountering friendly jungle tribesman, as Yamashita surrendered his troops in the JUNGLE FIGHTING IN THE PACIFIC well as cannibals. The natives often provid- Philippines, and the fighting ended. ed valuable intelligence to the Americans, Seymour had been getting ready to be Seymour, meanwhile, ended up on the who had to contend with poisonous snakes, shipped out for his next combat assign- other side of the world, fighting the malaria, disease-carrying mosquitoes, con- ment—perhaps an invasion of the Japanese Japanese in the Pacific Theater. It was quite taminated food and water, and the jungle home islands—when the atomic bombs a switch, going from selling clothes to being itself. The heat and humidity were so over- were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a paratrooper and infantryman, but whelming that uniforms rotted. and Japan unconditionally surrendered. Seymour seems to excel at everything he Seymour realized that he would be going does. LIBERATING THE PHILIPPINES home instead of back to war, and he credits There, he was engaged in the bitter and the atomic bomb with probably saving his protracted combat against the brutal By late 1944, Seymour was heading life and those of many of his men. Japanese Imperial Army, which was notori- toward Luzon to liberate the Philippines, ous for the atrocities it had earlier commit- from which American forces led by General BACK HOME AT LAST ted against soldiers and civilians alike. Douglas MacArthur had fled or been cap- During the 1937 Rape of Nanking, for tured almost three years earlier. A kamikaze Back at last in the states, Seymour, rec- example, between 200,000 and 300,000 pilot flew so low over his ship that Seymour Seymour with liberated U.S. revolver ognizing the lack of haute couture in the Chinese civilians were raped, tortured, and could see the pilot’s face before he plowed taken from Japanese officer POW South, opened showrooms in major cities murdered, many beheaded just for the fun into a nearby carrier. there, selling high-fashion clothes to some of it or used for bayonet practice, and some of the finest retailers all over the South. even buried alive. The Japanese later Later, he led a patrol squad of Seymour now has three children and learned that killing civilians was a lot easi- Americans with a platoon of Filipino two grandkids and lives in Sherwood Forest er and more fun than fighting Seymour and scouts, and once, when they encountered a with his lovely wife, Constance, and their his men. much larger company of Japanese troops, striking art collection. It includes beautiful At the beginning, he underwent the the Filipinos fled, forcing Seymour’s men copies of paintings by Hogarth, Vermeer, notoriously severe paratrooper training with to retreat. Using his BAR (Browning and other famous artists, painted by the 11th Airborne Division; he was one of Automatic Rifle), he held off the Japanese Seymour himself! just three Jews he knew of in the 2,000-man by himself until his men were safely with- He devotes most of his time to the unit. He was first sent to Guadalcanal, a key drawn, an act of heroism that earned him a Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Emory, island on shipping routes near , Silver Star. staffed by retired professors and profession- where some of the fiercest, most brutal “Just missed me!” Seymour points In Baguio, the summer capital in the als in the fields of history, philosophy, fighting of the war took place. out Japanese bullet holes in wall in mountains, U.S. troops watched while U.S. finance, politics, religion, music, travel, and Late in 1943, he was wounded after a Luzon, the Philippines. bombers attacked Japanese troops down other areas so relevant to today’s world. parachute drop with elements of the 11th He’s been doing it for two decades and says Airborne in the Solomon Islands at Landing in the Philippines, Seymour it’s a great way for seniors to continue their Bougainville, in the South Pacific, where fought his way through two towns and education, learn from some of Atlanta’s the Japanese had established important air Clark Field, the former U.S. base, crossed a most brilliant people, and keep their minds and naval bases. After a two-week recuper- ravine over a river on one-foot wide boards, sharp. To enroll, call 404-727-5489. ation, he was transferred to the 37th since the bridge had been destroyed; and He is particularly looking forward to a Infantry Division, where, as a staff sergeant, liberated a brewery, having his first cold January class featuring eight Holocaust sur- he specialized in leading reconnaissance beer—out of his helmet—in years. vivors from Germany, Poland, Romania, patrols and sometimes engaging in ambush- His unit was the first into Manila, free- Hungary, and elsewhere in Europe, who es. ing some 1,400 hungry and brutalized civil- will describe their experiences during and On Bougainville, the 37th was up ian and military prisoners, mainly after the war. Indeed, those who did survive against the Japanese 17th Area Army’s infa- American, being held under horrid condi- the Holocaust and the people of Europe and mous 6th Division, which had been respon- tions by the Japanese in Bilbid prison. The Asia who lived through the brutal occupa- sible for many atrocities in Nanking. But on house-to-house, building-to-building fight- tion by two of the cruelest governments in Bougainville, the 6th Division met its match ing in Manila was incredibly brutal, and history owe their lives to people like Sandy and paid for its crimes against the Chinese. some 100,000 Filipino civilians, often used and Seymour, who helped to win and end Nearly 10,000 of their soldiers were killed as hostages by the Japanese, were killed. that terrible war. and untold numbers wounded in attacks Some of the Japanese were holed up in Seymour and Sandy were two of the along the seven-mile front thinly held by a centuries-old Spanish fortress, whose best of America’s “Greatest Generation,” the 37th, a ratio of 33 Japanese dead for thick walls could only be dented by the who sacrificed much to help defeat fascism every American killed. American 155-mm. howitzers. At night, the and to whom we all owe a debt we can War trophies: Japanese flag and offi- I As author Stanley Frankel describes the Japanese would launch banzai attacks that cer’s saber. never repay. campaign, “Never before had more frightful Seymour’s men fought off with machine or bloody fighting taken place in the guns, rifles, and even bayonets. Pacific. For more than a month the Japanese Finally, the fortress was stormed by the smashed themselves, time after time, Americans, using flamethrowers and hand- against our front… They ran up against a to-hand combat. The Japanese soldiers division of veterans that proved...aggressive would fight to the bitter end, rarely surren- and powerful in the defense. We dering, and, as in the previous fighting, nei- had…above all, men that knew the business ther side took many prisoners, something of jungle fighting from A to Z.” Seymour still won’t talk about. Among the men severely wounded on Page 6 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 High School Musical From page 1 Center Theatre’s Morris & Rae Frank Theatre, located at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. High School Musical is presented with musical direction by Linda Uzelac, choreography by Ricardo Aponte, and set design by Travis George. Disney’s High School Musical is a contemporary musical comedy about a popular high school basketball star and a shy, academically gifted newcomer who discover they share a secret passion for singing. When they sign up together to audition for the lead roles in the school musical, it threatens East High’s rigid social order and sends their peers into an uproar. Children of all ages love to watch lovable schoolmates Troy and Gabriella as they surf the tricky tides of peer pressure and cliques, to follow their dreams and score the leads in the big school show and a place in each other’s hearts. Reserved seating tickets for High School Musical are $12-$25, with discounts for MJCCA members, seniors, students, and children under 12. Performances are Wednesday, February 11, 7:00 p.m.; Thursdays, February 12 and 19, at 7:00 p.m.; Saturdays, February 14 and 21, at 7:00 p.m.; and Sundays, February 15 and 22, at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Center Theatre will conclude its 2008-09 season with Neil Simon’s hit comedy, Brighton Beach Memoirs, April 30-May 24. For ticket information and purchase, call the Center Theatre Box Office at 678-812- 4002, or visit www.CenterTheatreAtlanta.org. I

Cast members (top from left) Dani Heidt, Lesley Hauler, Lauren Kolodkin, Zach Solomon pose with some young HSM fans January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 7 Holocaust survivors to share their stories

eginning Tuesday, January 20, and continuing for the next seven BTuesdays, eight Atlanta survivors of the Holocaust will share their personal sto- ries of resistance, rescue, resourcefulness, and resilience. All classes will be held at Emory University’s Center for Lifelong Learning and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, 1256 Briarcliff Road. An optional 9th session will be held at The Breman Museum on Tuesday, March 17, at 10:00 a.m.; class members will be personally guided through the Holocaust Gallery by trained docents and have lunch as well. These survivors had to rebuild their lives in a new country and a new culture. They have made lasting contributions to the Tosia Schneider (left), a Holocaust survivor who will be featured in community through careers in education, the Osher Institute class, and Donna Hazelwood, a participant in business, medicine, science, and law. last summer’s Teacher’s Institute at the Breman Sessions run from 10:00-11:00 a.m. speaker will include family photographs Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Emory and consist of a 35-40 minute presentation, before and after the Holocaust. Speakers and The Breman. follow by audience questions. A specially who have published books will also have For further information on this class, designed “Survivor Portrait” will be distrib- them available for sale immediately follow- call Carol Wien, 404-842-0648, or Michael uted to class members at the end of each ing each class. Weinroth, 404-870-1630. I session; these detailed biographies of each This program is co-sponsored by the Torah From page 1 The Siyum HaTorah was co-chaired by GHA parents Fred and Elaine Brasch and Nancy Weissmann, who put in nearly two years of hard work to make this event possi- ble. Dedication attendees heard remarks from the Brasches and Executive Director Kevin King, and students Danielle Grinzaid, Gavriella Mendel, and Lior Vainer each deliv- GHA students Adam Cohen and ered a beautiful D’var Torah. After talking a Shimon Horwitz with Rabbi Pincus little bit about his life as a sofer (scribe), Rabbi Zvi Chaim Pincus completed the writ- ing of the Torah with the final letters. GHA was honored to have Rabbi Pincus act as a messenger in the fulfillment of mitz- vah 613. Rabbi Pincus has traveled all over the world as a sofer S’Tam, meaning he’s dis- ciplined in the writing of Sifrei Torah, , and Mezuzot. After Rabbi Pincus finished the last letter (lamed) of the last word (Yisrael), Rabbi Yossi Lew read from the Torah before it was covered with its adornments. The beautiful Torah cover was donated by the 2008 8th- grade graduating class. In the procession, from left The Torah was then carried under a Benjamin Stolovitz (holding pole), chuppah in a boisterous procession of people Rabbi Elisha Paul (holding Torah), singing to musical accompaniment. The and R.J. Engelman (holding pole) chuppah signifies that the Torah is the mar- riage contract between the Jewish People and placed into the Aron Kodesh, along with Hashem, an eternal covenant of love. GHA’s two other Sifrei Torah. The procession ended in the A festive meal and lots of schmoozing Homburger Commons, where the Hakafot ended what was a very spiritual afternoon. was performed amid more joyous singing and I dancing. The new Sefer Torah was then Page 8 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta launches Economic Crisis Fund s metro Atlanta faces the most serious economic downturn in half a century, the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta has established a new Economic Crisis Fund Aand will make an initial seed contribution of $100,000 to help meet immediate and critical needs in the community. The fund will provide essentials, such as food, clothing, and utility payments. “When we saw the increased hardship facing individuals and families in our commu- nity, we decided to step forward with a bold initiative to help our neighbors,” said Federation Board Chair Carol Cooper. Federation’s seed for the Economic Crisis Fund will help bridge the gap between cur- rent critical needs and the everyday needs supported annually by the Community Campaign, which funds Federation’s 19 affiliate agencies and supports Jewish education, social services, and humanitarian relief for Jews in metro Atlanta and around the world. The Economic Crisis Fund is a one-time Federation initiative designed to address increased demand on social-service organizations caused by the recent economic downturn.

“When we saw the increased hardship facing individ- uals and families in our community, we decided to step forward with a bold initiative to help our neigh- bors,” said Federation Board Chair Carol Cooper.

“There is a need to support both the vulnerable people affected by the economy, as well as the infrastructure that provides these programs. If programs don’t get support now, they may no longer be available in six months,” said Federation President Steven Rakitt. “Our role is the same today as it has been for more than 100 years—to support the most vulnerable members of our community.” According to Rakitt, the state of the economy is causing unprecedented demands for humanitarian-aid on social services organizations to meet the immediate needs of the Atlanta community. Community assistance requests will be funneled to Jewish Family & Career Services, which will assess individual needs. Priority Level 1 needs (safety net services such as emergency financial assistance, food, housing, medication/medical crises) will qualify for reimbursement from the Economic Crisis Fund. A Federation task force will work with affiliate agencies and community partners to monitor these requests for assistance and will reimburse groups—beginning with JF&CS—as they provide assistance to individuals and families. “We have seen a 600 percent increase in the amount of people in immediate need in recent months,” said JF&CS Chief Operating Officer Rick Aranson. “The Federation’s Economic Crisis Fund will allow us to provide meaningful support to those individuals and will help them regain self-sufficiency.” Those in need can call JF&CS at 770-677-9300. Federation has established a task force to oversee all fund allocations and will encour- age agencies and synagogues to refer clients to JF&CS. In the coming months, Federation will closely monitor community needs, continue to leverage resources, and partner with additional agencies to help the most vulnerable peo- ple. Individuals and groups can send contributions, marked Economic Crisis Fund, to the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, donate online at ShalomAtlanta.org/ECF, or call 404- 873-1661 for more information. I

BUCKHEAD PLAZA SHOE SERVICE Tradition, Quality & Craftsmanship Shoe repair by skilled artisans 4455 Roswell Road Atlanta, Georgia 30342 One Buckhead Plaza 404-255-4312 3060 Peachtree Road, NW Atlanta, GA 30305 www.presstine.com Awarded In The Spotlight, Best of Citysearch, 2008 404-266-8727 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 9 A world in a white linen square A close friend who knows how much I like handkerchiefs recently gave me a love- ly collection that was her mother’s. I have loved using them and wondering where BY Shirley each one came from and where it might Friedman have traveled. I feel as though I’m sharing a part of her life by using them. Then I thought of a very special little linen square with exquisite handmade lace. hen we saw Gone with the Wind The day I married, our dear neighbor Miss in ‘39, we cried into a handker- Lillian ran over and said, “I have something chief, not a paper tissue. The W for you. You know a year ago when my sis- same with Goodbye, Mr. Chips and The ter Harriett married, she changed into her Corn is Green. As kids, we played “Drop going-away clothes at my house and left the Handkerchief,” not “Drop the her wedding gown and veil hanging there. Kleenex.” And some ladies played their And she dropped this on the steps. It’s the own game of drop the hanky to see if a handkerchief she carried as a bride. I start- handsome gentleman would pick it up and ed to give it back to her, and I thought, ‘No, return it. He would never retrieve a soon one of the other girls will marry, and Kleenex—anyway, it’s called hanky-panky. I’ll give it to her to use.’” In football, they say there’s a handker- I was next. She handed me the lovely chief on the play. When you played blind cloth with its delicate perfumed scent still man’s bluff, there was always a fresh hand- lingering, and a tradition was born. There kerchief available to cover the eyes of the are some places a Kleenex just doesn’t challenger. And all older ladies remember belong. I our dates’ handkerchiefs with the telltale lipstick on them. I’ve heard that’s why Clorox was invented. For centuries, ladies used their hand- kerchiefs delicately, coyly, frantically. They were pure linen-lacy comfort and not any- thing to sneeze at. Then pop-up tissues reared their heads and took the romance out of sniffling. Page 10 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 11 Page 12 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 13 Love Your Neighbor fosters mutual support during tough times

can see what positions are available. LYN • a citywide listserv, jAtlanta, which will will help make those matches. bring people together for bartering, seeking, It is Chesed— • a dedicated calendar of events, posting all referring, and publicizing events and oppor- business networking programs, job fairs, tunities. career-building workshops, and other employment and economizing classes and For more information, visit kindness and love— programs. DoJewish.org. I on a grand scale. May the New Year bring good news

hroughout history, Jews have inclusive and open to all members of the And, yet, I see a silver lining. I have responded to economic difficulty by Jewish community, regardless of affiliation hope and I have faith that 2009 will be a Tstarting loan funds, opening soup (or non), denomination, or marriage. better year. It won’t be perfect. Not every- kitchens, buying from family-owned busi- BY thing will get better immediately. nesses, and, in general, reaching out to help Love Your Neighbor offers: Marice However, having lived through a number one another. It is Chesed—kindness and • discounted and donated services such as Katz of bad times, I honestly believe that we love—on a grand scale. career coaching, résumé building, home will eventually overcome. Creating these kinds of support mecha- economic planning, and more through part- The whole world has been injured, nisms is more than just another organiza- nerships with career and financial assis- s I write this, it is just a few days and everyone wants a fix. I pray that will tional program. It is a mitzvah of the high- tance professionals. before the New Year. What a happen soon. est order, a Jewish imperative. That is why • a free listing of Jewish-owned businesses. weird ’08. My gosh, who could I once had a client say something to LYN will encourage everyone to look to A DoJewish, under the leadership of Rabbi have imagined it? Of course, there was the me years ago that I have never forgotten. Efraim Davidson, has named its new initia- community members first when seeking financial crisis, or I guess I should say Now, keep in mind, she did say this tive Love Your Neighbor (LYN). products and services. crises. Pillars of strength crumbled. The tongue-in-cheek and with a smile in her DoJewish has put together a full range • a free centralized Job Match. Individuals evil of Bernard Madoff was brought to voice, but she said to me, “Marice, if you of services designed to help people prepare who are available and eager to work post light—so many wonderful people, chari- don’t stop being such a Pollyanna, I am for and find work, support Jewish-owned their résumés on the LYN website. Business ties, and institutions were hurt very, very going to slap you in your face.” Well, she businesses, create a community for sharing owners and decision-makers will be encour- badly. So many people lost jobs and their is dead now, but if she were alive, I guess ideas and resources, and teach the impor- aged to look there first to fill their openings. homes. A new old war in Israel? Will I would be getting slapped in the face. I tance of tzedakah in its many forms. The • job-opening listings where businesses list peace never come to this tiny country? Love Your Neighbor project is completely employment opportunities and individuals

Atlanta’s Intown Reform Synagogue

Anti-Semitic BACKLASH! Temple Sages of All Ages Guest speaker Bill Nigut A visit to the King Tut Exhibit South East Regional Director, & 3D IMAX Movie Anti-Defamation League followed by Lunch at The Temple Tuesday, January 27 • 7:00p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2009 ADL Investigates the Global Financial Crisis, Bus will leave Temple at 10:00 a.m. 92nd Y Live Broadcast Cost: $30.00 per person (member) Monday, February 2, 2009 • 8:00 p.m. Election of Barack Obama & Israeli Military $40.00 (non-member) Annual State of Anti-Semitism Lecture: Action in GAZA “Hatred Knows No Boundaries” Includes transportation exhibit, Anna Deavere Smith, movie & lunch Groundbreaking playwright, author & actress Judaism 250: Introduction to Jewish Living Jewish Ethics Mysticism Tuesday, March 17, 2009 • 8:15 p.m. Mondays, February 2, 9, 16 & 23 Dr. Mel Konner, Join Rabbi Joseph Telushkin 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. The Samuel Candler Dobbs, One of today’s premier scholars Professor of Anthropology on Jewish tradition and thought Instructor: Rabbi Frederick Reeves Our Trace the broad strokes of Emory University Tuesday evenings, Why Zionism Has Become a Dirty Word the development of this tradition and February 24 & March 3 • 7:00 p.m. Family Tuesday, March 24 • 7:00 p.m. learn the basics of Kabbalah A discussion with Writing as an anthropologist, Israeli Ambassador Reda Mansour a physician, & a Jew, he creates a Followed by broadcast at 8:00 p.m. mesmerizing & passionate portrait of Oren Rudavsky • Abraham Foxman Talmud 101: Introduction to Talumd THE JEWISH BODY • Bret Stephens Sundays, February 22, March 1, 8 & 15 his most recent book How did Zionism, which originated as the 11:00 a.m. – noon National aspiration of the Jewish people, 1589 Peachtree Street, NE Instructor: Rabbi Frederick Reeves end up being so misunderstood, mischaracterized Atlanta, GA 30309 Introducing the Talmud for the complete novice & lamented throughout the world? 404-873-1731 Co-sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League www.the-temple.org For Reservations & Costs Call 404-873-1731 Page 14 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 Cyclists promote environmental education in Israel By Ron Rosen Boker, site of the grave of David Ben- Ketura, we had a wonderful last day of rid- Eretz Yisrael. By worshipping every day in Gurion and the university named after him. ing to Eilat. We stopped for lunch next to Israel, we felt closer to our heritage. On November 12, at 5:30 a.m., a group The rest of Team Atlanta rode with the the border with Egypt, at a spot where four This annual ride benefits the Arava of 106 bicyclists left Jerusalem for the Chalutzim group to Nitzana. The next day countries—Israel, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Institute (www.friendsofarava.org) and Arava Institute/Hazon Israel Bike Ride, a was spent climbing through the desert Arabia—can be seen on a clear day. What Hazon (www.hazon.org). Hazon’s vision is 345-mile, five-day ride to Eilat. Team mountains along the Egyptian border. followed was a magnificent descent into “to create a healthier and more sustainable Atlanta boasted the most cyclists (19), the All the riders came together in Mitzpe Eilat, a 3,200-foot drop over a nine-mile Jewish community—as a step towards a youngest rider (age 13), and the oldest rider Ramon for Shabbat, providing a welcome stretch. Once in Eilat, a number of us went healthier and more sustainable world for (age 70). and very spiritual rest. into the Red Sea in our biking clothes— all.” This annual event, which began in Mitzpe Ramon is known for its makht- some for the swim, some for the bike Anyone who loves cycling and would 2003, benefits the Arava Institute, a school esh, a giant erosion crater, one of only four salutes. like a different Israel experience should for environmental studies located at in the world. We ended our Shabbos with a This experience was much more than a seriously consider participating. Further Kibbutz Ketura, and Hazon, an organiza- beautiful musical havdalah celebrated at the ride. Each day, we worshipped together, information is available at tion devoted to environmental causes. edge of the makhtesh. The following morn- making this a very spiritual experience. www.Israelride.org or by calling Robert Team Atlanta’s corporate sponsors ing, we resumed the ride after a breathtak- Being on bicycles made us feel closer to Port at 678-775-3550. I were Coca-Cola Enterprises, Delta Airlines, ing shacharit service at the edge of the Grant Thornton, Bigelow Advertising, crater. We did a steep descent into the Ektron, and Brian Cork Human Capital. crater, then rode through it and eventually Through a mix of corporate and individual out. Our next destination was Kibbutz sponsorships, we raised $93,427 (out of a Ketura, home of the Arava Institute. total of $416,767 for all riders combined). The Arava Institute is attended by stu- JNF was another sponsor; most of Team dents from Jordan, the Palestinian territo- Atlanta joined the JNF team, meaning that ries, Israel, Britain, North America, and Team Atlanta dollars were also credited to around the world. The students live togeth- JNF fundraising activities. er for up to one year, studying environmen- The ride went first to Ashkelon on the tal issues affecting the entire Middle East. Mediterranean Sea, which involved a rigor- We spent some time with the students; one ous climb out of the Jerusalem forest. After Jordanian student stated that, while he and spending the night in Ashkelon, the ride the Jewish students had different political turned east to the northern Negev. Part of perspectives, their common interests out- Team Atlanta rode with the Tzofim group, numbered their differences. What a refresh- spending the night at Kibbutz Mashabe ing example of peaceful co-existence! Sade. The next day, they rode through Sde After spending the night at Kibbutz

Team Atlanta: (back row, from left) Mark Spiegel, Bob Marcovitch, Robert Port, Jeffrey Kirsh, David Taylor-Klaus, Alek Szlam, Michael Weinstock, Rabbi Mario Karpuj, and Craig Frankel; (front row, from left) Isaac Antebi, James Lando, Gil Eplan-Frankel, Bob Tucker, JoJo Meyers, Stuart Meyers, Ron Rosen, Sara Meyers, Andrew Dannenberg, and Bruce Cohen

Bike Salute: Robert Port (left) and David Taylor-Klaus in the Mediterranean

Atlanta attorneys (from left) Jeff Kirsh, Bob Marcovitch, Robert Port, Craig Frankel, and Michael Weinstock January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 15 Stepping through Jewish Mumbai, terrorists and all standing today but not always operational, which tended to be large and Western, even church-like. The Baghdadi community was once strong, but today, only 100-200 BY Jay Baghdadi Jews remain in India. Waronker The most famous of the Baghdadi Jews in Bombay were the Sassoons. In 1832, the Prince of the Exilarch, David Sassoon, fled n a land where Jews were accepted and with a large entourage from the pogroms of suffered no true anti-Semitism for cen- Daud Pasha of Baghdad. Within a few turies, if not millennia, and in turn gave I years, the Baghdadis were called the so much back to India, it is an ironic twist “Jewish Merchants of Arabia, Inhabitants that the recent Mumbai terrorists targeted and Residents in Bombay.” The Sassoons and murdered innocent Jews in cold blood. traded in cotton, yarn, and opium with Rabbi and his wife, China and set up cotton mills and other Rivka, along with other Jews who were industries in Bombay. They became the The synagogue at Alibag, in the killed at the House, were not “Rothschilds of the East” and donated con- Konkan region natives of Mumbai. The couple moved to siderable funds for philanthropic causes. India some five years ago to establish a Many of Mumbai’s most prominent Knesseth Eliyahoo (watercolor Jewish center in the sprawling mega-city to landmarks can be attributed to Sir David paintings by Jay Waronker) accommodate the needs of the Jewish trav- Sassoon and his descendants. In the mid- eler searching for a minyan, a kosher meal, 19th century, David Sassoon established or or social contact. Headquartered in constructed the David Sassoon Mechanics Nariman House, near many tourist sites, Institute, the David Sassoon Library, the businesses, and hotels and near the grand David Sassoon Industrial and Reformatory Knesseth Eliyahoo synagogue of 1884, the Institution for Juvenile Offenders, the had become a part of the Clock Tower at the Victoria fabric of Mumbai in the process. Gardens/Veermata Jijamata Udyan in Outside of the Chabad House, howev- Byculla, and the Statue of the Prince er, Mumbai has for years been home to Consort at the Victoria and Sir Albert/Bhau local Jews. Although the exact number is Daji Lad Museum. not known, there are likely some 4,500 Continuing on into the late 18th centu- Jews living throughout India today, the vast ry, David’s son, Albert, contributed to the Two Mumbai synagogues majority in Mumbai and its suburbs of Bombay Elphinstone Technical High Kurla and Thana. For years, they have been School, and he was responsible for the much a part of the workings of the city and Sassoon Docks at , near where rest of India, with long and proud traditions November’s terrorists may have arrived by in business, the civil service, the arts and boat. In 1884, another member of the fami- architecture, various sciences, literature, ly, Sir Jacob Sassoon, built the Knesseth film, the military, education, the judicial Eliyahoo Synagogue in the Fort area of courts, and sports. Mumbai, walking distance from the India is home to three distinct groups attacked Oberoi and Taj Mahal hotels. He of Jews: the Bene Israel, Baghdadi, and was also the largest donor to the Royal Cochin communities. The Bene Israel is, by Institute of Science. Flora Fountain, long a far, the largest of the three today. According Mumbai site, is another Sassoon contribu- to their history, they were traveling from tion. the Kingdom of Israel and shipwrecked off Of significance at this point in history the Konkan Coast of Western India during is that in 1924, Sir Jacob Sassoon was the the 2nd century BCE. They established largest individual donor to the triumphal small coastal communities before moving , which is located a few into nearby Bombay, now Mumbai, begin- steps away from the Taj Mahal Hotel. This ning in the mid-1700s. The first synagogue, harbor landmark was constructed to com- Shaar Harahamim, was built by Samuel memorate the 1911 visit of King George V Ezekiel Divekar in 1796, but by the mid- and Queen Mary to India. According to 19th century, when Bombay was booming, news reports, the terrorists may have dis- other Jewish houses of prayer were built. embarked at this very spot and walked Today, seven stand in and around Mumbai across to the Taj Mahal Hotel and nearby and another ten, many closed, can be visit- sites of attack. ed in the lush Konkan region. Along with the Bene Israel, Baghdadi Jay Waronker, from Ithaca, New York, and Jews settled and thrived in Bombay. At Atlanta, is a professor of architecture and first, the Baghdadis lived in Surat, a more architectural history. He has written exten- northern port city, but by 1730, forecasting sively about the Jewish architecture of Bombay’s economic ascension, they began India, and his watercolors of the syna- to shift there. Other Baghdadis moved to gogues have been exhibited internationally. Pune or across India to Calcutta. In all three I cities, they built synagogues, most still Page 16 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 Your dollars fund Tech’s ovarian cancer screening test

By Jeanie Franco Marx “Ovarian Cycle has been very, very gener- ous,” says OCI founder Dr. Benedict f you ride an indoor bike for six hours Benigno. “They’re always asking for ways Dr. Benigno on protecting yourself and on April 25 at the Midtown Athletic to be of help.” those you love from ovarian cancer IClub, those 100 miles will help fund ovarian cancer research. March 14 kicks off the six-week train- • Be exquisitely aware of your family his- Benigno, “and I never had one patient ing period for Ovarian Cycle, a non-profit tory. with ovarian tumors.” foundation and sports event that can help In the past, many grandmas died, yet the keep you in shape and fund life-saving cause was not reported as cancer. If a fam- • Educate yourself. research. (In Birmingham, the 2009 ily member dies of breast or ovarian can- Visit www.ovarianccancerinstitute.com. Ovarian Cycle kicks off early: February 2.) cer, gynecological oncologist Dr. Lecturers like Benigno are available to Founded in 2004 by exercise instructor Benedict Benigno of the Ovarian Cancer women’s groups. Bethany Diamond, Ovarian Cycle was her Institute recommends gene testing. If you way to cope with losing her best friend, have the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene, • Beware of blood clots. Debbie Green Flamm, to the silent killer. Ovarian Cycle Founder Bethany there’s a 70 percent chance of getting Unless proven otherwise, “a blood clot in “Debbie was a fighter, she never gave Diamond presents a check to Dr. ovarian cancer. the leg of a young woman usually means up; she even continued to run and then walk Benedict Benigno, co-founder of the ovarian cancer,” says Benigno. the Peachtree Road Race. But this battle Ovarian Cancer Institute • Ashkenazi Jewish women are at greatest was unwinnable,” says Diamond, a member risk. • Make donations. of Temple Etz Chaim. “After her death, I A gynecologic oncologist at Northside Researchers don’t know why. Asian Dr. Benigno has already processed hun- felt so empty, so helpless. I had to do some- Hospital, Benigno has practiced in Atlanta women are least likely to develop this dis- dreds of tissue samples. “Each sample thing.” more than 30 years. “It takes about four ease. “I was a surgeon in Vietnam,” recalls costs $1,000 [to process],” he says. An exercise instructor, Diamond decid- months for a woman to reach me, because ed to form Ovarian Cycle to raise aware- typically her symptoms are not referable to this terrible disease.” Cancer Institute at Georgia Tech. Today, ness of and funding for ovarian cancer. This her pelvis,” he says. “First, she’ll see her OCI hopes to lower those numbers as McDonald is chief research scientist at OCI year, about 22,220 women will be diag- internist, then get an upper GI. By then, they accumulate data on tissue samples. and also chairs Tech’s School of Biology. nosed with ovarian cancer, and 16,210 of she’s in at least stage 3 or 4, and it’s too Every time Benigno removes a cancerous Benigno predicts that genetic engineer- those will die. late. ovarian tumor, his assistant takes it and ing will one day make it possible to destroy Over the past five years, Ovarian Cycle “[Ovarian cancer] comes like a thief in flash freezes it. She puts it into a canister of the nuclear protein in a person’s cancer has contributed to the Ovarian Cancer the night,” says Benigno. “You can get your liquid nitrogen and then into a minus 80- cells. Today, his team is looking for mark- Research Fund in New York and Ovarian yearly Pap smear and pelvic exam, do all degree freezer. “At this temperature, the ers to identify ovarian cancer. Meanwhile, Cancer Institute (OCI) at Georgia Tech. the things you’re supposed to, and still get DNA is eternal,” says Benigno. “We put a he encourages women to be aware of their skinny needle into the tumor, retrieve a few bodies and educate themselves. cells, and grow a tissue culture.” To contribute to Ovarian Cycle or par- Before OCI, Benigno was frustrated, ticipate in the 2009 “Ride to Change the removing tumors year after year. “It seemed Future,” visit www.ovariancycle.org. tragic that they were unavailable for study.” “Do it for your daughters, your moth- So in 1999, he and Dr. John McDonald, for- ers, your sisters, your friends,” urges mer head of the University of Georgia’s Diamond. “We don’t want to lose any more genetics department, opened the Ovarian Debbies.” I January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 17 Thoughts for the New Year Laurie convinced me that it was time something less than Pano’s, there is plenty old brain has unintentionally left out. for me to stop driving, and without an auto- of it, served with a smile by Sharon, Al, and I owe each one of you a great deal of mobile, getting to the swimming pool was their assistants. And what makes it all palat- thanks. Thank you, thank you, thank you, going to be difficult. I needed to be some- able are the people at my table, Helen, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, BY Gene where near a pool. Ralph, and Ruben. thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, Asher Enter Myron Golub, USMC (Retired) Getting to the Y swimming pool is thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, and director of the Jewish Tower, the next- easy, thanks to many people who have thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, to-last residence of my wonderful sister, given me rides there; a host of others have thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, Hopey, may her soul rest in peace. returned me to The Jewish Tower front thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, addened by the death of Dr. Mark E. I was concerned about where I would door. I am grateful for rides from Ruby, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, Silverman, my cardiologist and my eat and where I would swim. Howard, Irv, Gerry and Jerry, Franklyn and thank you, thank you. I Sfriend. “You can eat here at the home, but if Stein, Arnie, George, the Golds, Marion, He will long be remembered, not only you are coming for the meals,” he said Neil, Howard, Lally, Charlie, Carl, Captain as a great physician but also as a great truthfully, “...don’t.” John Smith, and others whom my 80-year- human being. “And what about swimming, where ————— could I swim?” Thank you, Myron Golub, for telling “The Moores Mill Y is only two miles me the truth. away, and I’m sure someone will be going No one could have been more skeptical \àËá `ç ctÜàç? \ÇvA from here most every day. You can probably of moving into the Jewish Tower than I was. get a ride back here from some of the Y After all, I lived in a beautiful apart- members,” he said, in what has turned out YâÄÄ fxÜä|vx XäxÇà cÄtÇÇ|Çz ment in Bennington Towers on Peachtree to be a masterpiece of understatement. Y Road. I had many friends there, among members have shown me courtesies above them the Klausmans, the Teslers, Suzie, and and beyond the call. So have Gerry F. and weddings • bar/bat mitzvah • corporate the warm management staff. Ruby. And, best of all, I was within five min- And so I moved and happily so, thanks utes of the Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist to a warm, friendly group of residents and a f{tÜÉÇ Y|á{xÜ Church Family Recreation Center, where I superior staff, led by a retired marine, swam five days a week, the highlight of my Myron Golub. 275 Spalding Springs Lane tel. 770.395.1094 day; and Laurie, Susan, and David, the Although the food in the dining room is highlights of my life. Atlanta, Georgia 30305 cell 678.637.2030 Sentimental Journey [email protected] fax 770.396.8844 and I excelled at the small pins. Saturday nights were for dancing to a bunch of 78s on the Victrola. Who can for- BY get “Apple Blossom Time” by the Andrews Balfoura Friend Sisters, “Sentimental Journey,” “Stardust,” Levine “I’ll Walk Alone,” “It’s Been a Long Time,” “White Cliffs of Dover,” and the y neighbor and friend Caroline voices and sounds of the Glenn Miller sold her car and gave me a bunch Band, Vaughan Monroe, Perry Como, Mof CDs and cassettes that she Charlie Spivak, Artie Shaw, Sammy Kaye, enjoyed playing while driving. They took Margaret Whiting, Jo Stafford, Helen her back to another time, when she danced Forrest, Dick Haymes, and so many more. with her husband during the World War II We rode our bikes to the Y and wore days. bobby socks and saddle oxfords. And how If you are under 50 years of age, this wonderful it was to nestle up to some cute column will probably bore you. As for the guy, who would swing and sway with you. rest of you, settle back and take this I think the only refreshments were lemon- “Sentimental Journey” with me.... ade, but that was OK, too. It was wartime, I was thinking of the days of World and we were teenagers. And who cared War II, when I was a teenager and we about blackouts? Hopefully, the Americans socialized at the YMCA in Shanghai, were bombing us, so we felt that we China. The Japanese had taken over our weren’t forgotten, and there would be an schools, and the Brits, Americans, French, end to war someday. And in the darkness, and Belgians were all put in camps. That we could smooch up a storm! In China, we left the people from neutral countries—the called it necking; was it the same here? Russians, the Chinese, and most of us so- Years later, when I was at the called Russian Jews, many of whom, like University of Georgia, I was thrilled to be myself, were born and raised in Shanghai. dancing to the music of the Dorsey (Our parents had run away from the repres- Brothers, Charlie Spivak, and other big sive czarist regimes to the welcoming and bands at the interfraternity dances. I kind Chinese.) remember dipping and swaying to tangos On the weekends, we congregated at and cha-chas as well, both in Shanghai and the Y and swam in the pool. I have always at the university. been petrified of water, so I just used the The war years were not the “good ol’ showers, because at home the water was days,” except for the dancing. So right now, cold and the pressure was iffy. However, I’ll put on those CDs and go back in time, there was a lot of fun at the bowling alley, on a sentimental journey. I Page 18 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 Documenting the South’s Jewish communities is an ongoing adventure he job of a historian is never done. There’s always another story to Tuncover, another archive to plunder. So when Stuart Rockoff, of the Goldring / /Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life (IJSL), began chronicling the history of every Southern Jewish community, he knew he had a long road ahead. Jewish communities in Georgia will soon be a stop on this journey. The ISJL’s plan is to assemble a Digital Archive, a comprehensive web-based resource covering the Jewish history of Congregation Beth El in LaGrange cities and towns from Texas to Virginia and every state in between. Dr. Rockoff started this ambitious task with Mississippi, where the ISJL is based. He delved into archives, studied old news- papers, and consulted previous works on Mississippi Jewish history. In the summer of 2002, he hired college-aged summer interns, and they traveled throughout the state, following leads and filling in blanks. By fall the following year, the ISJL Mississippi Digital Archive went live Dr. Stuart Rockoff conducting research in Jackson’s Beth Israel Jewish online with 28 entries on the Jewish life in Cemetery Waycross Hebrew Congregation large towns and small rural settlements Every Digital Archive entry tells both a the region.” Along the way, he has uncov- across the state. Dr. Rockoff didn’t linger local and a regional story. As Dr. Rockoff ered fascinating accounts of Confederate November 1, he spoke at the SJHS’s annual for too long on this accomplishment and explains: “Every Southern community has a and Union sympathizers during the Civil conference in Atlanta, with a speech titled quickly went to work on Arkansas and then unique history, its own story to tell...but it War and courageous moral conviction dur- “Looking Away from Dixie—Southern Louisiana. also reveals a broader narrative, as the same ing the civil rights era. He found stories of Jewish Identity in Sunbelt Atlanta.” He will patterns of Jewish life existed throughout astounding business triumphs, heart-rend- serve as a program co-chair for the 2009 ing ruin, and the daily challenges Southern conference in New Orleans and will be Jews faced to preserve their faith and their named SJHS president in 2010. community. Currently, the ISJL Digital Archive The response so far has been over- contains complete histories for 101 commu- whelming. Dr. Rockoff has received acco- nities in Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana, lades from both researchers and casual Alabama, and Tennessee, with South readers. College professors use the Digital Carolina scheduled to be online in early Archive in Jewish history courses and 2009. Next is Georgia. The plans are to assign students to write reports based on the assemble histories of sixteen Georgia com- entries. Individuals interested in their fami- munities: Atlanta, Augusta, Valdosta, ly’s history delve into the origins of rela- Bainbridge, Brunswick, Columbus, tives and the Southern towns where they LaGrange, Savannah, Dalton, Fitzgerald, lived. Academics also utilize the informa- Waycross, Macon, Albany, Athens, tion in their own scholarly works, thereby Thomasville, and Rome. New communities enhancing the entire field of Southern will be added to the list if enough historical Jewish history. Genealogy researchers are documentation is available. excited by postings of detailed Jewish Dr. Rockoff and the staff of the ISJL cemetery lists for towns, which are includ- are excited to add Georgia to the Digital ed in the archive. Archive and are eagerly seeking informa- The Institute of Southern Jewish Life tion on the history of Jewish communities provides Jewish services to thirteen in the state. If you have any information or Southern States. To that end, Stuart spends materials, please contact Dr. Rockoff at a good deal of time on the road, enlighten- [email protected] or 601-362-6357. You can ing audiences on the region’s unique Jewish also contact him for information regarding legacy, maintaining a full schedule of lec- summer college internships. tures and special events. Last month, Dr. The ISJL Digital Archive can be Rockoff also assumed the roles of vice pres- accessed from the front page of the ISJL ident and president-elect for the Southern website, www.isjl.org. I Jewish Historical Society (SJHS). On January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 19 Page 20 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 WinterWinter SpecialsSpecials 2009 VOLVO S40 2.4i 2008 VOLVO XC90 3.2 LEASE LEASE

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my favorite of all, Miracle Maize cornbread The winery and its on-premises Tierra Sur mixes, which come in sweet style or tradi- restaurant welcome visitors. For more tional, both delicious, parve, and simple to information or reservations, visit herzog- Kosher Affairs prepare. For company information and winecellars.com. recipes or to order products, visit littlecrow- By Roberta Scher lection of fine chocolates and truffles made foods.com. KOSHER AND THRIFTY from cream, vanilla, espresso, and pure fruit California’s Herzog Wine Cellars has mericans are still sweet on choco- purees. Order direct from enstrom.com. just been awarded a coveted score of 90 Traditionally, the words “thrifty” and late. According to a report from points by The Wine Enthusiast, one of the “kosher” together form an oxymoron! AGourmet Retailer, it seems that Little Crow Foods, nation’s leading wine mag- Nevertheless, in these days of economic Americans, while scaling back on con- founded in 1903, the azines. Its 2005 Herzog challenges, even the kosher consumer can sumerism, are still permitting themselves same year that the Reserve Alexander save cash by using coupons, shopping sales, indulgence in life’s little pleasures. I found Wright brothers took Valley Cabernet and buying private-label supermarket prod- Enstrom’s chocolate to be one of those! their first flight, offers Sauvignon was noted ucts. Some research is involved. For a help- Jamee Enstrom Simon is the 3rd-generation the consumer some as a “...rich, stream- ful resource listing products that are consid- owner of this almond toffee company, convenient kosher- lined, Cabernet that ered kosher without a printed hechsher, visit which was started by her grandfather over certified products. I should develop well kosherquest.org. Because kosher informa- 60 years ago. Enstrom’s, of Grand Junction, sampled the over the next 10 tion is constantly changing and websites are Colorado, has recently been certified kosher FastShake pourable years.” The Herzog not always up to date, verify a particular dairy—what a sweet decision for kosher pancake mixes Winery, an 8th-gener- item by contacting the Atlanta Kashruth consumers. The original toffee recipe is still (dairy), the ready-to- ation family enter- Commission, 404-634-4063, or your local in use—rich and divine, worth every bite, use Bakin’ Miracle and Fryin’ Miracle prise, is located in Oxnard, kosher authority. every calorie. The toffee is joined by a col- chicken coating mixes (both parve)—and California, just one hour from Los Angeles. See KOSHER page 23 In the shadow of the conflict: an Israeli’s Federation cares narrative of Israeli-Palestinian contact for caregivers By Ronnie Porat, Lt, Colonel Res. (IDF) By Carolyn Gold hile following with tension every piece of information that re you a caregiver? Are you responsible for Wcomes out of the IDF ground the safety, feeding, bathing, dressing, driving, operation in the Gaza Strip, where my 21- Aand medicating of a loved one? Perhaps that loved year-old son, Omri, is fighting now, I can- one—a parent, spouse, or child—is physically handicapped, not delete the many good memories of mentally challenged, suffering from limitations of aging, or personal Israeli-Palestinian human developmentally disabled. This means you take care of all encounters that either I or other family of his or her needs. members experienced. Those episodes Sometimes you fear for your own health, strength, and sanity because you feel iso- might bring you closer to understanding See CAREGIVERS page 26 the complicated Israeli-Palestinian narra- tive. Episode No 1: My father, Avraham Pukatch (83), a Holocaust survivor, came to Israel in April 1947. Every year, during Mike Luckovich to speak at Hadassah fundraiser Israeli Yom Ha’atzmaut (Day of f you’re a fan of Mike Luckovich, editorial cartoonist for Independence), he repeats a story about Ronnie Porat The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and two-time winner of the day David Ben-Gurion declared the Episode No 2: Saturday, June 17, the Pulitzer Prize, Greater Atlanta Hadassah is giving Independent State of Israel, May 15, I 1967, a week after Israel invaded Gaza you a chance to purchase one of his signed 9”x12” cartoon 1948. He could only watch as Abu Daud, and completed the great victory of the sketches at a silent auction or win a Luckovich sketch of an Arab (Palestinian) who lived one-half Six-Day War, our family came to visit my yourself. mile from our home in Ayanot (about 12 father, in Kibutz Erez, at the border cross- On Saturday, February 7, at a special event, Luckovich miles south of ), abandoned his ing point near Gaza. My dad was part of will speak to Hadassah life members and associates about his house, with a fire still burning under a pot the (Reserved) Armored Brigade No. 11, life, work, and the recent presidential election. of stuffed vegetables in the kitchen. “I can which had liberated Gaza. We were flush The event will take place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, still remember the smell,” he says. Abu with victory and relieved at the short Atlanta-Perimeter NW, 6345 Powers Ferry Road. Tickets are Daud left his home with his family and duration of the conflict. The Israelis and $30. Each attendee will receive one free ticket for a drawing became a refugee in the Gaza Strip. He the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip (and in to win a caricature that Luckovich will sketch during his talk; wired the doorway with explosives before he left. See CONFLICT page 25 See FUNDRAISER page 25 Mike Luckovich Page 22 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 23

ping, paring, slicing, wedging, and coring Mixing Juicing Kosher tasks on fruits and vegetables. then and now then and now I tested the Professional Multi- From page 21 Chopper, and how did it work? It was amaz- According to the AKC’s February 2008 ing! Insert the correct blade, then push newsletter, some of the basic products that down firmly on the spring-loaded lid, and it can be purchased without kosher certifica- cuts whole fruits and vegetables and tion are unflavored white or brown rice deposits slices into a removable, closed (including Arborio, basmati, and sushi); container. My favorite operation: slicing for large tasks, but filled the Breville 100% plain pure cocoa; plain coffee; plain whole potatoes into French fries. It worked this compact, light- chute with six tea; sugar; dry beans; edamame; eggs; plain well on everything I tested, including weight, dishwash- whole, unpeeled flour; hearts of palm; unflavored honey; onions, squash, bell peppers, cucumbers— er-safe helper apples. The result: oats; extra virgin olive oil; tofu without it even cores and wedges apples. And it is works so well for one pint of sweet, additives; coconut milk (not from China); dishwasher safe! Watch a video of this smaller kitchen fresh apple juice. various spices (check listing), and many chopper in action, read customer reviews at jobs, such as mak- The quality of the others. williams-sonoma.com, or just visit the ing salad dressings and dips or chopping juice is, of course, store. For a cook-aholic like me, a visit to a herbs and nuts. For more information, visit dependent on the quality of the fruit. Since GADGETS GALORE Williams-Sonoma store is like going to cuisinart.com. we used fresh Florida citrus for these tests, Disneyland. (By the way, my Nicer Dicer is And now, let’s get to the juice of the the citrus juices were especially delicious! Kosher Affairs takes a nostalgic look at still operating “nicely”!) matter. If you really enjoy fresh fruit and The Breville juicer takes up about as old kitchen gadgets, as well as a look at vegetable juices and want the ability to much counter space as a stand mixer and what’s new. As I’ve mentioned before, I make your own with no additives and from works on veggies as well. I am now await- urgently need a sous chef. Since I do not Chopping the freshest available ingredients, try the ing peach season. Go to Breville.usa.com have one under contract, I am constantly then and now Breville Compact Juicer Fountain ($99). for more information. (By the way, I saved searching for timesaving kitchen equipment I tested this juicer with the able assis- the orange pulp and some peel, boiled them and efficient kitchen gadgets. I have recent- tance of three grandchildren. We washed with water, lemon juice, and sugar, and ly tested several and am sharing my find- and peeled 20 oranges and eight grapefruits. made homemade marmalade. Delicious!) ings. The new Then we placed the whole oranges into the Avoid those jar opening traumas with Cuisinart four-cup wide chute of this electric wizard, pressed the Cuisipro Jar Opener. If you often battle In my July 2006 column, I wrote about Mini-Prep Plus the “on” button, and voila—one-half gallon with stubborn jar lids, this is a simple, my love affair with the Nicer Dicer chop- Processor does a of fresh, natural orange juice. We emptied affordable (about $15) solution. The stain- per. Well, I admit to being fickle—it’s been big job in a small the orange pulp from the filter (more about less steel teeth of the Cuisipro Jar Opener almost three years, and technology goes space. It has lots of this below), rinsed the stainless steel pulp can loosen a lid with a gentle twist. It works forward. I have discovered the Professional power, two speeds, a four-cup capacity, and catcher, repeated the process with the well on a variety of jar sizes, stores com- Multi-Chopper ($49.95) sold exclusively at can chop, grind, and puree. I still rely on my grapefruits, and voila—one quart of fresh pactly in a drawer, and is dishwasher safe. Williams-Sonoma. Its four interchangeable trusty 11-cup Cuisinart processor (15 years grapefruit juice. Finally, by popular demand stainless-steel blades perform various chop- old and still running) which is irreplaceable of helpers Samuel, Shira, and Noah, we See KOSHER page 24

beans, reserving the cooking liquid if you chickpeas (reserve cooking liquid, if possi- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt choose to use it. Discard the whole onion, ble) 1/4 teaspoon dried dill and add all the remaining ingredients, 1/2 cup tahini, with some of its oil, if you 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Recipes except the cilantro. Turn the heat to medi- like Nonstick cooking spray um, and bring to a boil. Cover, and turn the 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus some 1/4 cup yellow mustard heat down to low. Cook, stirring occasion- extra oil for garnish 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Chili non Carne ally and adding more liquid if necessary, 2 cloves garlic, peeled 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill Adapted from How to Cook Everything until the beans are very tender and the fla- Juice of 1 lemon, plus more as needed Whole wheat buns 6-8 servings vors have mellowed, about 15 minutes. Salt and freshly ground black pepper Lettuce (mesclun, if available) Taste, adjust seasoning, and garnish with 1 tablespoon ground cumin or paprika, or 1 pound dried pinto beans, washed and cilantro. Serve with rice, crackers, or tor- to taste Slice salmon into 2” strips; place in picked over (and soaked, if you like) tilla chips and bottled hot sauce. Chopped fresh parsley leaves/paprika for food processor fitted with metal blade. 1 whole onion, unpeeled, plus 1 small garnish Using on-off pulse sparingly, chop salmon, onion, minced Variation/Chili con Carne: While the beans but do not grind too finely. Transfer to a Salt and freshly ground black pepper are cooking, put 1 tablespoon oil in a large Combine chickpeas, tahini, oil, garlic, and bowl. 1 cup bean-cooking liquid, vegetable skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound lemon juice in a food processor (or a Mix in garlic and onion powder, celery stock, or water hand-chopped or ground beef, turkey, or blender for even smoother hummus), salt, dill, and cayenne. Form into 6 patties. 1 fresh or dried hot chili, seeded and chicken, and cook, stirring, until the meat sprinkle with salt and pepper, and begin to Spray grill pan with nonstick spray; minced, or to taste (optional) has lost its color, about 10 minutes. Season process; add chickpea-cooking liquid or heat over medium-high heat. Cook the 1 teaspoon ground cumin, or to taste the meat with salt, pepper, and about 2 tea- water as needed to produce a smooth burgers 2-3 minutes per side or until just (optional) spoons chili powder, or to taste. Stir the purée. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding cooked through. 1 teaspoon minced fresh oregano leaves or meat mixture into the beans, along with the more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as need- For the dressing, stir mustard with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional) other ingredients. (Optional: If making this ed. Drizzle with some olive oil, sprinkle vinegar and fresh dill. Serve each burger 1 tablespoon minced garlic recipe with meat, you may substitute 2 with a bit of cumin or paprika and some on a bun, and top with lettuce and dressing. Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish peeled, seeded, and chopped tomatoes parsley, and serve. (canned, undrained is fine) for the liquid. ————— Put the beans in a large pot with water Cook carefully, adding a bit more liquid if ————— to cover and bring to a boil over high heat, needed.) Spanish Chicken Paella skimming the foam if necessary. Add the Salmon Burgers Adapted from Kosher by Design Lightens whole onion. Cover loosely and keep sim- ————— Adapted from Kosher by Design Lightens Up mering and bubbling. Up 6 servings When the beans begin to soften (30-60 Hummus 6 servings minutes), season with salt and pepper. Adapted from How to Cook Everything Most paella pans are round, low-sided, Continue to cook, stirring occasional- 6-8 servings 2 pounds boneless, skinless salmon fillets and 14” or larger. If you don’t have a pael- ly and adding water if necessary, until the 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder beans are tender, but still intact. Drain the 2 cups drained, well-cooked or canned 1/2 teaspoon onion powder See RECIPES page 24 Page 24 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009

Susie, is on “fabulous recipes for a healthi- fresh veggies and spices to put in soups, and been indicted on charges including immi- Kosher er lifestyle.” As in the previous books, lift them right out), flexible cutting boards, gration fraud and employment abuse. This instructions are clear, and each is accompa- disposable crockpot liners.... In my kosher situation has been widely covered in the From page 23 nied by John Uher’s irresistible photos. kitchen, I need at least two of everything. press, and details can be found in newspa- Visit cuisiprousa.com. Take a peek inside the book and buy online Oops! I don’t own a salad spinner. pers such as The New York Times, The Wall at Kosherbydesign.com, or purchase it Street Journal, and The Forward. The Fusion Brands, based in Atlanta, is a locally at Chosen Treasures. If you’re feeling Slow & Easy (Wiley Postville, Iowa, plant closing has had major solution-driven company. Here are two of Paperbacks 2008) in the kitchen, consider ramifications in the distribution, availabili- my favorite new solutions: Fingertongs How to Cook Everything by Mark Natalie Haughton’s fab new book of “fast- ty, and pricing of kosher meat. However, (“Wear it, grip it, flip it, and serve it.”) are Bittman (2nd edition, Wiley 2008) is my fix recipes” for electric slow cookers. It fea- unlike other U.S. cities, Atlanta is fortunate wearable silicone cooking tongs that protect new “go-to” cooking reference and guide tures updated methods and ingredients for to have a diversity of kosher meat retailers fingers while you flip hot foods. The book. Place it on an easy-to-reach shelf in soups, stews, dips, braises, and even ribs. who buy from various sources. Many cuts Tenderpress is a silicone rolling tool that the kitchen, and get 2,000 quick, concise, All of the recipes are formulated to make of meat are still available at Kroger, Publix, flattens and tenderizes meat and poultry basic recipes for just about everything, with ahead, and many are appropriate for long Griller’s Pride, and Quality Kosher without pounding; I used it to flatten bone- clear instructions on simple cooking tech- overnight cooking, perfect for Shabbos Emporium. However, in this economically less breasts for chicken schnitzel, and it niques. This revised 10th-anniversary edi- lunch. By the way, when cookbooks (such challenging time, it is of deep concern that worked well! To view more clever products tion is a great resource for both a new chef as this one) mention pork in a recipe, I sub- meat and poultry prices have escalated. Our from our hometown company, for purchase and a seasoned kitchen professional. For stitute the “other white meats”—veal, hope is that once new suppliers step in to information, or to just say hello to founder more information and loads of recipes, visit chicken, or sometimes parve soy crumbles. fill the void, prices will go down. Anna Stewart, visit fusionbrands.com. howtocookeverything.com. Wanna know Bittman’s picks for the And just one more “little” book…The What’s cooking? BOOKS FOR COOKS top essential kitchen tools? Mixing bowls, Jewish Holidays Cookbook by Jill Colella cutting boards, wooden and stainless Bloomfield (DK Publishing 2008). This column is meant to provide the reader Kosher by Design Lightens Up spoons and spatulas, tongs, pot holders, Recommended for children 7 and up, the with current trends and developments in the (Artscroll 2008) is the 6th entry in this land- kitchen towels, measuring cups, colan- book offers children a taste of the Jewish kosher marketplace and lifestyle. Since mark cooking series. In the past ten years, ders/strainers, grater, timer, instant-read festivals through cooking. The author pres- standards of kashruth certification vary, Susie Fishbein has changed the way the thermometer, salad spinner.... ents 40 easy-to-prepare, classic Jewish check with the AKC or your local kashruth kosher cook views meal preparation. Wanna know some of mine? dishes, explaining their relevancy to Jewish authority to confirm reliability. If you are Fishbein’s use of contemporary ingredients, Parchment paper (cuts down on pan scrub- life, Jewish holidays, and Shabbat. searching for a hard-to-find kosher ingredi- her creative recipes, and her glorious pre- bing), spider (bamboo and stainless steel, ent, need help with a kosher substitution, or sentations have impacted kosher cooking long-handled skimmer/strainer, especially ————— have a kosher food question, please contact worldwide. Kosher by Design Lightens Up good for removing deep fried and boiling us, and we will do our best to find the teaches the reader how to create delicious items), Silpat mat (for non-stick bread mak- A word about the Agri-Rubashkin situ- answer. Also, we ask that you share your recipes with a lighter, smarter approach to ing and baking), silicone spatulas, silicone ation and the kosher meat supply: As most discoveries with us and look forward to ingredient selection, food shopping, and basting brush, disposable plastic gloves kosher consumers are aware, several mem- hearing from you. E-mail kitchen tools. From simple soups to multi- (available at Sam’s, Costco, and dollar bers of the management of the country’s [email protected]. I ingredient entrees, the focus, according to stores), kitchen shears, cheesecloth (tie up largest kosher meat slaughterhouse have

onion to pan, and sauté for 2 minutes. Recipes Add garlic, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add rice, reserved spice mixture, From page 23 and saffron to pan. Add wine, and stir. la pan (check out paellapans.com), sear Spread rice in even layer. Place chicken the chicken in batches and then transfer to on top. Sprinkle with tomatoes and peas. a full-sized roasting pan. Cook 1 minute; add stock. Place in oven, cook uncovered for 45 2 tablespoons olive oil minutes. Edges will be nice and crispy! 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ————— 1 /2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 8 chicken thighs, bone in, skin removed Smoky Beef Short Ribs 1 large Spanish onion, chopped into 1/4” Adapted from Slow & Easy pieces 8 servings 4 cloves fresh garlic, coarsely chopped 1 1/2 cups short grain rice, such as 5 lbs. lean short ribs (boned, if possible) Arborio or Carnaroli 1 cup ketchup 1/2 ounce (large pinch) saffron 1/4 cup yellow mustard 1/2 cup dry white wine 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz.), drained 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup frozen peas 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke 3 cups chicken stock Put ribs in 6-quart electric slow Preheat oven to 350 degrees. cooker. In separate bowl, mix all other In a paella pan or wide bottomed ingredients; spoon over and around ribs. oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours. medium heat. When ready to serve, transfer ribs to plat- Mix turmeric, paprika, and cayenne ter. Serve hot. in a small bowl. Reserve 1 teaspoon. Serve with 1 cup of your favorite bar- Sprinkle remainder of spice mixture over becue sauce, warmed, and mashed pota- chicken. toes. I Add chicken to hot oil, and brown 3- 4 minutes. Remove, and set aside. Add January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 25

while—normal life. Palestinian workers exhibiting post-traumatic stress symptoms. diers are deep inside the Gaza Strip fighting Conflict came early every morning to work in Israel, Israeli military reaction has been, for many to defend the Negev and all of Israel, I am mostly in agriculture and construction. years, very moderate. In the winter of 2008, here in Atlanta (and the Southeast), trying From page 21 They picked our famous Jaffa oranges and the IDF began military operations against to boost the Jewish National Fund (JNF) the West Bank) began a new long way built all the houses for a million Russian Hamas. These activities brought the two campaign, which is aimed to ensure and together. In Gaza, my father again met Abu Jews who made aliyah to Israel during the sides together, at which time they agreed, build the future of our beloved State of Daud. 1990s. We consumed daily their agriculture on June 19, 2008, to six months of a “state Israel. Episode No 3: Around 1984, my fami- production (vegetables) while they enjoyed of calm.” Our campaign is now focused on build- ly visited my father-in-law, the late our high-quality fruits. The annual trade The “calm” was scheduled to end on ing the one and only secured indoor recre- Avraham Benjamin (z”l) between Israel and the Palestinian Authority December 19, 2008. Hamas began, after six ational site in Sderot. This $5 million proj- in Gaza. We came to visit him and had reached billions of shekels. relaxed months, to launch Qassam rockets ect, to benefit all of the children of Sderot, lunch at one of the good Palestinian restau- But, for many reasons, the New Middle into Sderot and extended their attacks inten- is being built by JNF and funded by dona- rants in Omar El Muchtar. It is their Main East dream was crashed by both sides. The sively to Ashkelon (about 25 miles from Tel tions. Street, like the Peachtree Street of Gaza. second Intifada erupted during the year Aviv) as well. We, Israel, failed to under- In order to secure the future of Israel, Episode No 4: A close friend of mine, 2000. Since then, there has been continued stand the Palestinian militant groups’ JNF is realizing David Ben-Gurion’s dream Brigadier General Abu Chaled, deputy chief bloodshed. The Israeli government, led by rationale and goals. Prime Minister Olmert, to develop the Negev through its Blueprint of the Palestinian Civil Police during former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, decid- as well as Foreign Minister Livni, warned Negev vision. The flagship of the operation Arafat’s regime, came to visit me in my ed to implement the Disengagement Plan, Hamas that Israel would respond unless the is the Be’er Sheva River Park project, home at Moshav Beit Oved, Israel, during assuming it would bring an end to the attacks stopped. In response to the warning, which will bring 250,000 new inhabitants to Ramadan in the year 1998, and asked me bloodshed. During the summer of 2005, 21 Hamas extended the range of the rockets, the capital of the Negev and another kindly to pray to his god—facing Mecca— settlements in Gush Katif (South Gaza reaching Ashkelon to the north and Netivot 250,000 to new communities surrounding on the living room carpet at my home. I Strip) were displaced, creating a deep dis- to the East. Israel did not have any other the Negev. agreed. This was just after my daughter, pute within Israel. As a result of the choice but to begin the air incursion on With rockets hitting only 15 miles from Noa, who was five years old (and is now Disengagement Plan, the Israeli- Saturday, December 27, 2008, which has Tel Aviv and only 8% of Israel’s population 16) ran towards him to get a big hug. Palestinian-Egyptian border was no longer been followed by the ground assault. currently residing in the Negev, which com- Episode No 5: On December 31, 2008, controlled by the IDF. Palestinian militant Now, while writing these words, I am prises 60% of the land, this operation is I made a call from Atlanta to wish a happy movements extended their smuggling activ- so bothered and worried about my son, more critical than ever. new year to my friend Mr. Abd El Samia, a ities using the tunnels that were excavated Omri. He is a fighter in one of the IDF Elite The time is now. Palestinian businessman who lives in Gaza. under the Palestinian-Egyptian border. units and is most probably in combat For more details and to make a dona- This was five days after the IDF opened the In January 2006, Hamas won the dem- against Hamas militants east of the Gebalia tion, contact the JNF office at 6065 Roswell air incursion. It was a long phone call, since ocratic general elections in Gaza, and Israel refugee camp on the southeast edge of the Rd Suite 214, Atlanta GA 30338, 404-236- all of his family insisted on greeting me per- began to deal with a very extreme city of Gaza. Many families in Israel suffer 8990, [email protected], or [email protected]. sonally for the new year. While speaking Palestinian partner that does not know the now from “red eyes” from lack of sleep due with them, I could easily hear through the meaning of the word “compromise.” Since to worry. The thoughts, the feelings, are Ronnie Porat is Jewish National Fund phone the blast noise of Israeli aircraft then, the military arm of Hamas equipped beyond our control, and there is nothing we Israel Special Emissary for the Southern bombing Hamas offices near their home. itself with upgraded weapons, including can do, but to pray. and Florida zones. I These human episodes, described anti-tank missiles, long-range (25 miles) While Omri and thousands of other sol- above, are an integral part of the day-to-day Grad rockets, and more. life that we face and experience with our During the year 2001, the first Qassam “cousins” the Palestinians. The 1994 Oslo rocket was launched from Gaza into the city Agreement, which was signed by our late of Sderot. Since then, thousands of these Prime Minister Rabin and Yasser Arafat, Palestinian homemade rockets have been initially established good economic rela- launched into the Western Negev. The city tions between Israel and the Palestinian of Sderot has been under attack for eight Authority. Within this frame agreement, the straight years. Israeli social workers esti- two nations maintained—for a little mate that 94% of all school-age children are

enable Hadassah’s outstanding health-care Fundraiser team to expand its trailblazing work, with dedicated space for individualized medical From page 21 treatment and world-class research. additional tickets are $5 each, or three for The festivities begin at 7:30 p.m., $10. February 7, with the silent auction and sales Greater Atlanta Hadassah is giving two of tickets for the drawing, and the program free tickets to anyone who joins as a life begins at 8:00 p.m. The winner of the silent member or associate before February 1. If auction will be announced at the end of the you’re already a life member or associate, program, which will be followed by a you can still receive two free tickets by gift- dessert reception. ing someone else to that status before Luckovich won the Pulitzer Prize in February 1. (Associates are men, who, in 1995 and 2006, the Robert F. Kennedy and partnership with Hadassah women, help Overseas Press Club awards in 1994, a raise funds to support the organization’s National Headliner award in 1992, and many worthwhile projects.) three 1st-place Cox Newspapers awards. “The best part about the drawing and For more information, visit silent auction is that the money raised will www.atlanta.hadassah.org or call 678-443- go to a great cause, Hadassah’s Tower 2961. I Campaign,” said Toby Parker, Greater Atlanta Hadassah president. “The Tower Campaign is raising funds for Hadassah Medical Organization’s Sarah Wetsman Davidson Tower, which is Hadassah’s gift to Israel.” Parker added that when the tower is completed and dedicated in 2012, it will Page 26 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009

ple who have had personal experience in provides a volunteer transportation pro- daughter, Leona, who has multiple sclero- Caregivers caregiving, and its partners. These commu- gram to take seniors to doctors’ appoint- sis. nity partners are The William Breman ments. Lifespan has received a grant from “Frances requested assistance from From page 21 Jewish Home, Lifespan Resources, Jewish Federation due to the fact that so many of JF&CS when Leona’s condition worsened lated and stressed, and you no longer have Family & Career Services, the Cohen its rides are given to residents of The and her care requirements increased. any time for yourself. You may feel that Home, and One Good Deed. A description Jewish Home and The Jewish Tower. Although Leona was receiving state-funded your friends have deserted you. If you are of how they work together also explains the The Cohen Home runs services, her mother performed much of her not in this position of caregiver, do you comprehensive plan. www.CaregiverCAREAtlanta.org, the web- care. Leona is wheelchair-bound and know someone who is? Jewish Family & Career Services site for the overall program and an informa- requires a special apparatus to move from Caregivers have not been forgotten. administers the hotline. You can call 770- tion source for those who need assistance. chair to bed and back, so helping her Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta real- 677-9432 to find out about respite help and One Good Deed sponsors a transporta- requires a good deal of physical strength. ized the needs of these devoted family voucher assistance. If a family is income tion program that utilizes a cab during day- “The increasing intensity of her care- members three years ago and set up a com- eligible, it may receive two books of $500 time hours in the Toco Hill area. These giving role compounded health problems mittee called the Caregiver Outcome in vouchers, costing only $50. These rides are free and are paid for by Federation that Frances experienced, especially when Strategy Team. The first year was spent in vouchers can be used for transportation or and a major donor. she required surgery, and she realized she planning and research. It was determined to pay for respite assistants, helpers who Caregiver CARE has heartwarming needed help to acquire additional services. that respite care (giving a short break) and have been screened and trained by the success stories that illustrate the bench- She enrolled in the Caregiver CARE transportation were the most urgent unmet agency. marks or goals that have been met. The fol- Atlanta Voucher Program and quickly mas- needs of caregivers. The second year was The William Breman Jewish Home lowing is one of the happy examples, writ- tered the task of directing the voucher pro- devoted to implementation, and now the runs a program of trained volunteers who ten by a caseworker, of help for those help- gram to assist her with Leona’s care. program is really up and running. spend a few hours twice a month to give ing others: “Frances uses her vouchers to augment Community volunteers Marilynn Jewish caregivers some free time. They the in-home care that her daughter receives, Winston and David Sachs co-chair this provide companionship and support. The “Frances is a 78-year-old native which relieves her of a portion of her care- committee. Deborah Kahan is the phone number for this program is 404-538- Atlantan and a widowed mother of four. giving duties. She continues to be Leona’s Federation’s liaison between the commit- 7619. Although she describes herself as ‘a life- primary support, but now she has more time tee, made up of professionals from the col- Lifespan Resources, a consortium of long caregiver,’ for the past 24 years, she to take care of her own healthcare needs laborating community groups and lay peo- Buckhead churches and the AA Synagogue, has been the primary caregiver for her and to enjoy her daughter’s company.” I Davis and Weber to provide a seamless educational experience he Alfred & Adele Davis Academy schools conducted the ceremonial signing Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta lishes a new level of cooperation. Davis and and The Doris & Alex Weber Jewish of a newly forged cooperative agreement (JFGA), was attended by Steve Rakitt, pres- Weber staff and faculty will work closely TCommunity High School are making that gives Davis Academy students the ident, JFGA; Carol Cooper, board chair, together to ensure that academic and plans that will bring the two schools closer option of a continuous Jewish educational JFGA; Sim Pearl, head of school, The enrichment curricula are aligned, that stu- together. experience through grade 12. Weber School; Sid Kirschner head of dents of various ages share learning experi- On November 25, 2008, the two The signing, which took place at the school, The Davis Academy; Harold Kirtz ences, and that certain resources are shared president, The Weber School; Tonia Sellers, in order to enhance the overall K-12 pro- president, The Davis Academy; Felicia and gram. In addition, the agreement creates a Joe Weber, naming benefactors, The Weber unique preferential process for the admis- School; Ann and Jay Davis, naming bene- sion of graduating Davis students, allowing Oak GroveMarket factors, The Davis Academy; Dulcy and them to benefit from a seamless transition Jerry Rosenberg, naming benefactors, The to Weber as their preferred high school of Meat Market & Deli Davis Academy; and Richard Davis, son of choice. Ann and Jay Davis. Established in 1992, The Davis In an effort to mutually benefit the two Academy enrolls 700 students in its Lower schools and promote the continuity of and Middle schools on campuses located in Best Hamburger in Atlanta! Jewish Sandy Springs. education, The Weber the boards School seeks to of trustees prepare stu- DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS of The dents to Davis become knowl- Academy edgeable, Soups & Stews (grades thinking, Salads K-8) and responsible The Jewish adults. Sandwiches Weber Founded as School New Atlanta Hot Items (grades 9- Jewish 12) have Davis, Weber, and Federation officials gather for Community Desserts approved ceremonial signing. Pictured: (front, from left) High School in a coopera- Harold Kirtz, Sim Pearl, Sid Kirschner, Tonia 1995, The tiveSellers; (middle, from left) Felicia Weber, Carol Weber School agree- Cooper, Dulcy Rosenberg, Ann Davis; (back, from school built and Monday – Saturday ment giv- left) Joe Weber, Steve Rakitt, Jerry Rosenberg, Jay moved into its 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM ing stu- Davis, and Richard Davis new Sandy dents the Springs campus 2757 LaVista Road, Decatur, GA option of at the corner of a continuous Jewish educational experi- Roswell and Abernathy Roads in ence. September 2006; it has a current enrollment 404.315.9831 While the two schools will continue to of 218. I www.OakGroveMarket.com operate independently, the agreement estab- January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 27 • Adam Lipman was born in 1973 with cys- names like Pazol’s Cads, Appel’s Rebels, tic fibrosis and not expected to live past age Leb’s Lions, Green’s Blintzes, and 25. When he reached that birthday, he sat Manning’s Marauders. Who can ever forget Schwartz on Sports down and wrote the book Alive at 25: How the crazy rules when the league first started I’m Beating Cystic Fibrosis. At age 34, that prohibited a team from fast-breaking Adam’s living an active life as a husband, until the last minute of the first half and end 49 COLUMNS AND COUNTING. Eight father, son, and brother. His story is remark- of the game? We looked like the Keystone years ago, on a Sunday morning, Sam able and inspiring. Cops when that time came. Now, there are Appel called and asked if I’d be interested • Sid Maurer is a man of many stories. He is adult leagues for 18+ full court, 30+ cross- in writing a column for The Jewish an artist/entrepreneur, who has painted a court, and 40+ half court. Georgian. He said it could be related to the BY Jerry collection of “Sports Legends,” including I also wrote about the Adult Softball Jewish sports scene. I had always wanted to Schwartz Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Michael Jordan, League in a column called “Balls and be a sportswriter and have been actively and Sandy Koufax. Strikes.” Gene Benator is the unofficial his- involved in the scene since 1966, so I • David Cohen is a man with a great sports torian of that league and gave me a “best” thought I’d have a few columns in me. It eventually going to happen if you’re background, and I found him to be one of list of guys who played from 1971 to 2006. might be fun. I even had a name for the col- engaged in a sporting activity. For example, the most interesting and knowledgeable His best all-around player was Harry umn: “Schwartz on Sports.” when you go to the locker room to change, people I’ve ever talked sports with. You Lorowitz, who was a great fielder and hit- Now, I am sitting here 49 columns there might be 50 empty lockers, but some- have to see the inspiring movie, Glory ter, played every position, and could do it later, and, somehow, I’ve always been able one always ends up changing at the locker Road, where he has the role of a play-by- all. to come up with an idea for a new column. right next to yours. play announcer in the historic Kentucky- There were columns that specifically Sometimes I’ve had help. Richard Bracker • Jewish Sports Quiz: I hope you took the Texas Western basketball game. featured the MJCCA and its programs and has given me ideas for at least three 1st Jewish Sports Scene Quiz. It consisted • Thanks to Hal Krafchick, I was able to participants. columns. Sam Appel is always ready with a of 25 questions covering 50 years, and I interview Hawks Assistant Coach Herb In “A Day At The J,” I shared my expe- suggestion, and I’ve taken him up on it on haven’t heard from anyone who got more Brown. Hal grew up with Herb in Long riences after spending a Sunday there from at least two occasions. Kenny Silverboard is than 11 questions right. All ex-softball play- Island. Herb took me through his amazing 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. and wrote about my Maccabi Games and Senior Olympics ers over 50 should have known that Nancy 45-year career of coaching basketball. the great variety of activities going on. The source. Then there’s Gene Benator, who’s Fox was the first woman to play in the • Jay Fisher was one of the two Atlanta judo J is a true treasure for the Jewish always ready with information about the Men’s Softball League. players who represented the USA in the Community. basketball and softball leagues. 2005 held in Israel in I also took a 40-year “trip” of my expe- So, for column number 49, I thought it One of the perks about writing your 2005. riences at the J, which started in 1967 with would be interesting to look back at past own column is that you can include things • Toby Basner, a nice Jewish boy from Norman Lebedin being named the new columns and write about things I thought about your family. My columns have Gwinnett, is 24 and on the fast track to H&PE chairman to the 2006 Atlanta Senior were poignant, different, and informative. included the bar mitzvah stories of grand- becoming a major league umpire. Olympics, which had 628 participants and So, sit back, and let’s take a journey sons Jared and Jacob, as well as the sports culminated in the Harris Jacobs Dream through time by way of the Jewish exploits of the whole Schwartz, Cohen, and “Schwartz on Sports” columns have Run-Walk. Georgian sports scene. Backal families. My sister, Fran, is proba- included many special events related to the One of my all-time favorite columns bly the best athlete of all of us and reminds Jewish sports scene: was “Chicken Soup for the Jewish Soul,” in One of my favorite topics—and one me that she hasn’t been mentioned. How • Maccabi Games. Atlanta hosted them in which I shared inspirational stories relating that generates the greatest reader can you forget a water skier, tennis player, 2001 and had the Opening Ceremonies at to Jewish Georgian athletes. I especially response—is “Where Are They Now.” Over bowler, and runner? She calls herself Phillips Arena, where an audience of like Ricky Tinter’s story about coaching the the years, I’ve mentioned 30 or more for- Francane because of her love for the 10,000 cheered on 1,800 athletes from 26 13-14-year-old boys in the Maccabi games mer participants in the Jewish sports scene University of Miami football team. Well, U.S. cities, , and Israel. in 2002. The Atlanta team was playing the that I had lost contact with and asked for Fran, this one’s for you. I guess your hus- • Atlanta Senior Olympics. Thanks to Pennsylvania team, who had a player with a help from readers in finding them. Some band, Ron the triathlon man, will be won- Howie Rosenberg and Kenny Silverboard’s developmental disability. The boy tried his were found right here in North Atlanta, like dering why I left him out. initiative, in 2004 and 2005, the MJCCA hardest during the few minutes he was in Bob Buck, Bobby Thompson, John I wrote about my cousin, Tom Bass, hosted the games, which included sporting the game. Ricky told his team to put up Chaifetz, Jim Clancy, Steve Wexler, and the success he’s had as baseball coach activities for adults over 50. Mayor Shirley their hands, but allow the boy to get off a Richard Cohen, Bobby Feldberg, and Rich at Dunwoody High. I even had a cousin, Franklin kicked off the opening ceremony. shot. When he drove for a lay-up and Greenstein. Marcus Katz and Andy Brad Ross, help me write an article on the • Dr. Larry Bregman Special Olympics. In scored, the gym exploded with applause. Harrison ended up in California, Jay history of the Men’s Softball League. I did 2005, I wrote about this annual event, What a great example of sportsmanship that Anasov in Wisconsin, Bobby Hyman in a column on cousins Neal and David Bach which has been held at the Greenfield made a difference in one boy’s life Dallas, Jack Hanschrow in Alabama, Larry and how their love of baseball has taken Hebrew Academy for the last 18 years. Schwartz in Florida, and Jim Godfrey in them to almost every major league park in Larry’s daughter, Peggy Eisenstein, GHA’s Charlotte. There are still many more miss- the United States. My son, Michael, has Health, Physical Education, and Athletics ing in action, but we’ll keep looking. been mentioned in many columns. He was a director, coordinates the event named in her Over the years, some of my other source of inspiration as a high school father’s memory. favorite features have included: wrestler who exhibited the champion for- • Harlem Legends. The MJCCA All-Stars • We’ve Got Your Number: I looked at the mula, Courage + Character + Competence had the opportunity to play the Harlem numbers one through ten and their signifi- = Champion. I even had an opportunity to Legends at Dunwoody High School in a cance. For example, the number one repre- write about my own personal experiences in game that was a fundraiser for the sented some of the best one-on-one basket- the National Senior Games and National MJCCA’s Recreation and Wellness ball players I’ve ever played with; the top Scrabble Championship. Department. I got to play the first quarter, three were Andy Harrison, Adam Frank, I also wrote an “All In The Family” along with I.J. Rosenberg, Ron Slotin, and Alex Montgomery. column about father-son and brother-broth- Andy Empel, Louis Meddin, and Adam • ABC’s of Jewish Sports: All 26 letters er combinations over the years. It was Eicholz. Chuck Palefsky was our coach. Nancy Schwartz hard at work on col- were included, and I used the letter “I” to accompanied by a photo featuring the • First MJCCA Alta-Cocker Softball Game. umn 49 describe a mythical all initials basketball Benator men, Gene, Brian, Seth, and Barry. Marcus Katz, Gene Benator, and Jack team, whose members would have been I’ll know it’s time to retire when I start Vangrofsky organized this game for guys I could not have done 49 columns in A.J. Robinson, A.J. Silverman, D.J. playing with the grandson of one of my who played in the JCC Men’s Softball eight years without my wife, Nancy, who Edelson, and I.J. Rosenberg. M.J. would contemporaries—and that time is getting League between 1971 and 1992. Sixty guys typed every one and helped me edit and have made the team a sure winner. close. showed up to reminisce, eat, and play. proofread. She also served as a friendly crit- • Things I’m Thankful For: I stole this idea ic. She now knows more than she wants to from sportswriter Furman Bisher, who’s I’ve interviewed and written columns I included two columns on the history know about the Jewish sports scene. She been sharing his list on Thanksgiving for on some very interesting people: of the AJCC’s Men’s Basketball League has signed on for at least another year, and over 50 years in the Atlanta Journal- • Garth Potts is the executive director of the and Softball League. I wrote about the I’m looking forward to 2009 and column Constitution. My personal favorite was Levite JCC in Birmingham. My daughter, Men’s Basketball League in a column 50. having parents who were willing to sacri- Mindy, who works there, told me about called “Captains, Characters, and fice the grass in the backyard for their sons’ Garth’s talent in drawing portraits and cari- Champions.” I started playing in 1966 and Until next time, drive for the bucket football, basketball, and softball games. catures of sports figures. He even gave me remember when we had only six teams with and score. I • Givens: These are things you know are one of Sandy Koufax. Page 28 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 The Chai Games owards the end of the 19th century, area. The second such tour covered 5,825 there was a movement in Europe to miles. Tform a Jewish sports movement as a From an original total participation of means of improving the physical condition about 400 athletes (this year the U.S. team, of the Ghetto Jews and as a cog in the by itself, will have over 950 athletes), the wheel of the dream of the creation of a event has grown to over 9,000 participants national home in Palestine. In 1895, the first and is the largest Jewish event in the world. club was founded in Constantinople, and There are three separate competition cate- shortly thereafter, similar organizations gories, Open, Juniors, and Masters. Juniors were started in such places as Bulgaria, are those in an age group of from 15 to 18, Berlin, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague, Masters are generally for older competitors. among others. A major motivating factor The Games are the third largest world- was the desire to foster the feeling of a com- wide sporting event, behind the Olympics mon historical and social background. and the World Student Games, and are sanctioned by the International Olympic In 1912, Yoseph Yekutieli, a 15-year- Dani Paz in action Dani Paz (left) battles for control of Committee, the World Federation of Sports, old Jewish young man living in what was the ball then known as Palestine (this was the name FINA (the international swimming organi- given to a political division in the Ottoman zation), MSRA (the international squash Paz, the daughter of Karen Paz and Atsmon teur sports, and each member of the team Emprie, which encompassed a large mass of organization), and many others. The event Paz, is a 15-year-old Atlanta athlete who must provide the necessary funding for his land and not the area that presently has takes place every four years, and the 2009 has qualifies as one of 20 girls to represent or her participation. Since receiving her adopted this name), motivated by the Games, which will be the 18th convening, the U.S. as a member of our Junior girls official notification this month of her selec- Olympic Games, had a vision of an will be the Chai event, the Hebrew meaning soccer team. Dani has been playing club- tion, Dani has been busy planning on what Olympic type of event for Jewish athletes “life” and the letter in Hebrew for the num- level soccer for the last eight years, and, for she can do to offset some of the $7,200 it from around the world to be held in the ber 18. the past three years, she has been part of the will cost. She says she realizes this is a Holy Land, While the games have as a basis the Georgia Olympic Development Program daunting task, but that “it has always been In 1932, Yekutieli’s dream came true, celebration of Jewish life, sports, culture, team. Her club team has been first in the my dream to be part of the ‘Jewish and the Maccabiah Games were born. Since unity, and pride, and Jews for all countries state for the past two years, number three in Olympics,’ and I’m very excited to support this was before cheap telephones and e- are eligible to participate, participation is the region, and is ranked nationally in the Israel, represent the Atlanta Jewish commu- mails, ingenuity was required to spread the also open to all Israeli citizens, Jews and top 10. nity and the United States, and be part of word. Beginning in 1930, champions of the non-Jews alike. For Dani, whose father is a native this wonderful worldwide event.” No doubt movement left from Tel Aviv and, on sever- Atlanta has sent a number of athletes Israeli, this will be particularly sweet, since the competitive nature of her athletic al different tours, spread out by motorbikes to this competition. Another Atlantan will she will have her Isreali grandparents, endeavors will now be turned to raising the throughout Europe and the Mediterranean be included in this 18th competition. Dani uncle, and cousins in the stands to see her in necessary funding. Check out her web page action for the first time. “Imagine the thrill at http://www.pazdani.blogspot.com/ of marching into a stadium along with thou- To Dani and the other athletes, to the sands of Jewish athletes from throughout worldwide Jewish population, and to Israel, the world,” she said.. “That’s where I’ll be we join in the excitement of the Chai July 2009 as part of the 900+ delegation games, and we salute that special character- representing the United States at the 18th istic that continues to lead us to the celebra- World Maccabiah Games in Israel.” tion of LIFE. I The Maccabiah Games are truly ama- January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 29 A lot of Yiddishkeit around Boston

interesting tours and sightseeing when we it was too late. reached millions of listeners. There are are in Boston. When he began his campaign, experts internships for college students; confer- estimated there were approximately 70,000 ences for adults; and Pakn Treger, the cen- BY Leon On this trip, we visited the Vilna Shul, Yiddish books in North America. In the 25 ter’s English-language magazine, which now known as Boston’s Center for Jewish years since, Lansky has collected over 1.5 features articles about Jewish culture and Socol Culture. It was organized in 1893 in the million Yiddish books from all over the history, fiction, graphics, and more. West End of Boston and moved to the north world. Some of the collection efforts were One of the most ambitious current slope of Beacon Hill in 1906. We toured the borne out of desperation, like the time a call undertakings is the Steven Spielberg Digital any 1st-generation American old building and were fascinated by the lay- came in from a tenement resident, Yiddish Library. This project will digitize Jews like me were raised by par- ers of wall paintings that had been careful- telling the center staff that a dumpster full the whole of Yiddish literature, making on- Ments who spoke Yiddish at home ly uncovered. We noted that there was a of Yiddish books was sitting out on the demand reprints of every title available in and with others who came from Eastern separation of the sexes in seating. Because street, and rain was expected that day. The perpetuity. Europe. I never learned to speak fluent of the layout and contour of the building, staff responded by rounding up all the vehi- The center occupies a beautiful build- Yiddish, but I heard enough of it and picked the women sat in a connected side room off cles they could and racing to New York. ing, which is located in an apple orchard on up a “bissel” when my parents spoke about the main sanctuary that allowed them to Although some of the books were damaged the campus of Hampshire College. The cen- matters they didn’t want the children to look down on the men but didn’t allow the by rainfall, the majority were saved and ter also features a theater, library, gift shop, hear. My mother, especially, spoke a “salty” men to view the women. brought back to the center for repair and and extensive exhibitions, and it hosts Yiddish that rather shocked me when I While most synagogues were aban- processing. Jewish events. We attended a program in learned what she was saying. doned, sold, or converted to other uses, the Today, hundreds of books arrive at the the library’s modern auditorium and heard Yiddish became known as a slang or Vilna Shul operated until 1985. It was even- center each week. The organization distrib- radio recordings of Jewish stars of the ‘30s. common language, spoken mainly by lower tually purchased by the Vilna Center for utes out-of-print volumes to over 450 lead- This program was presented by a New York middle-class Jewish people who, for the Jewish Heritage in 1995 and became a ing university and research libraries, couple with an extensive collection of most part, had limited education. The fact museum dedicated to remembering the con- including Harvard, Yale, Oxford, Hebrew Jewish radio shows. that so much Yiddish vocabulary is derived tribution made by the Jews to the city of University, Library of Congress, and the from German probably caused it to be Boston. British Library, and to researchers through- rejected, contributing to its gradual demise. As we concluded the tour of this won- out Europe and the Far East. Individuals Prior to the Holocaust, most of the 16 mil- derful building, which is being restored to may request reprints or purchase books and lion Jews living in Eastern Europe spoke its former grandeur, we imagined streets of Yiddish articles as well. Yiddish. After WW II, there were fewer old teeming with Jews speaking Yiddish, than three million Jews left in Europe. The and a neighborhood with stores and sounds Nazis had been terribly efficient in their that reflected their Eastern European ori- extermination of our people. gins. The shul, with its beautiful Magen Our West Texas town had about a David rose window, was a beacon for the dozen Jewish families when I was growing Jews of the area. up, and my mother had a widow friend who spoke Yiddish almost exclusively. They The exterior of the National Yiddish would sit in our living room and spiel for Book Center looks like it is part of a hours. I learned some key words and phras- European shtetl. es of Yiddish as a result of those visits. This past November, my wife and I Aaron Lansky has built the National went to Boston to attend a family simcha The Yiddish Center’s interior is Yiddish Book Center by personally travel- and stayed with two of our favorite cousins, bright, sunny, and packed with neat- ing throughout the United States to collect Stephen and Charlotte Diamond. They have ly displayed and categorized books. thousands of books and with financial sup- a three-story home in Cambridge. Stephen port from 33,000 members. He tells his is retired, having practiced and taught In recent years, the center has expand- story in his book Outwitting History. To architecture. Charlotte is a clinical social ed its scope to reveal its collection’s con- learn more, visit worker in private practice. They are the tents to a new generation, especially those www.yiddishbookcenter.org. I most genial hosts, and they always plan who can’t read Yiddish. Its National Public Radio series, “Jewish Short Stories,” has

The landmark Vilna Shul building on Beacon Hill in Boston, with its famed Get The Jewish Georgian At Home! Magen David rose window Receive the next 6 issues for only $15.00 We were now thoroughly steeped in Boston Yiddishkeit and ready for more. Name:______Our next visit was to the National Yiddish Book Center in Amherst. The cen- ter was founded in 1980 by Aaron Lansky, Address:______who at the time was a 24-year-old graduate student in Yiddish literature. City:______State:______Zip: ______Lansky, who still serves as president of the center, realized that many irreplaceable Please mail this form together with your check to: Yiddish language books were being dis- carded by American-born Jews who were The Jewish Georgian Frieda Socol (left) with Stephen and unable to read them. Lansky organized a Charlotte Diamond, inside a Boston nationwide network of “zamlers” (volun- 8495 Dunwoody Place • Building 9 - Suite 100 • Atlanta, GA 30350 Public Library branch that Stephen teer book collectors) and resolved to save All comments and suggestions are welcome. helped design in the early 1950s the world’s remaining Yiddish books before Page 30 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 ADL honors Isakson and Kogon

.S. Senator Johnny Isakson and received ADL’s Abe Goldstein Human Atlanta businessman Marty Kogon Relations Award in recognition of his life- Uhave received the Anti-Defamation long commitment to philanthropic giving League and service to (ADL) Atlanta’s Jewish Southeast community. Kogon Region’s is the immediate most presti- past president of gious the Jewish awards. Federation of Senator Greater Atlanta, a Isakson, who former president of has devoted the board of The more than Epstein School, three and a member of decades of the Georgia Lottery his career to Commission; he public serv- has served on Marty Kogon (left) and Senator Johnny ice, has been numerous other Isakson named the Jewish and com- recipient of munity boards for the ADL Community of Respect Award. In decades. presenting the award, ADL past regional In presenting the Abe Goldstein award, chairman Doug Hertz said it honors an indi- ADL board member Leon Goldstein said, vidual who embodies the ADL mission of “[Marty is] a successful entrepreneur. He’s striving to eliminate prejudice and fighting been an extraordinarily generous philan- to end hatred and bigotry. Senator Isakson thropist and has worked tirelessly to was also honored for his longstanding com- encourage others to contribute to important mitment to assuring that the State of Israel Jewish causes. He’s put his mark on the remains a safe and secure homeland for the important work of educating Jewish stu- Jewish People. dents and helped create stronger bonds Marty Kogon, a partner in the Atlanta- among families in our community.” I based Pull-A-Part used auto parts stores, January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 31 Page 32 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009

t Atlan Bes F ta’s kfast in • Nova Lox & Bagel inest Brea Desse Town • Fresh Brisket rts • Corned Beef & Pastrami Reuben • Homemade Short Ribs • Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage • Where Traditional Matzo Ball Soup is Made Fresh Everyday Open 24/7 3620 Roswell Road • Atlanta, GA Call for Reservations 404-816-9090 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 33

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Sandy Springs / East Cobb / Buckhead Marietta 4540B Roswell Rd 4140 Roswell Rd Atlanta, Ga 30342 Marietta, GA 30062 404 843 4500 770 565 5700 Rates based on double occupancy. Other restrictions may apply. Call for details. Page 34 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 35 MJCCA hosts historic Jewish BUSINESS BITS Educational Alliance reunion By Erin O’Shinskey Georgia Power; Robin Spratlin, general manager, economic development, Georgia leadership began looking for a larger lumni of the Jewish Educational EORGIA LEADERS VISIT Power; Heith Rodman, attorney, Jones Day; location in the late ‘90s. In 2000, the Alliance (JEA), the precursor to ISRAEL. The American-Israel Tom Glaser, president, AICC; and Ilan AJCC moved to its current 52-acre Awhat is today the Marcus Jewish Chamber of Commerce (AICC) led Friedman, Israel director, AICC. Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA), Dunwoody location and became the G a Georgia delegation on a business mission Marcus Jewish Community Center of will hold a reunion on Sunday, February to Israel, December 13-18, exploring MAKING HIS MARK. Daniel K. Atlanta, renamed for its benefactor, 22, 2:00-5:00 p.m., at Zaban Park. opportunities for their companies and eco- Loventhal CFP, a financial advisor with Atlanta entrepreneur, industrialist, and According to JEA alumnus and event nomic development for Georgia. The mis- Northwestern Mutual Financial Network’s philanthropist Bernie Marcus. chairperson Arthur “Archie” Merlin, sion focused on the AICC’s priority areas, Goodwin, Wright network office in Atlanta, Admission to the reunion is free with “Back in the ‘30s, ‘40s and ‘50s, the including life science, cleantech, security, has been authorized by the Certified an advance reservation; tickets are $10 at Alliance on Capitol Avenue was the place software, and telecommunications. Financial Planner the door. Light refreshments will be where many members of Atlanta’s Jewish Participants included Georgia’s Insurance Board of Standards served. Transportation is also available. community congregated for social and Commissioner John Oxendine; Maggie Inc. to use the CFP Reservations can be made at sports programs. BBG, AZA, Young Baldwin, partner, CarterBaldwin; Ben and CFP (with flame atlantajcc.org/alliance. Judea, Boy Scouts, independent clubs, Taube, executive director, Southeast Energy logo) certification Those who would like to help cover and individuals met there. We are looking Efficiency Alliance; Ervan Hancock III, marks. These marks the costs of this event may donate at for anyone who remembers the fun and manager, Renewable & Green Strategies, identify individuals atlantajcc.org/alliance or send checks, camaraderie we experienced and would who have met rigor- made payable to The Alliance like to reminisce with us. This includes ous experience and Reunion/MJCCA, to: The Alliance spouses, significant others, and the spous- ethical requirements, Reunion/MJCCA, ATTN: Janice Wolf, Daniel K. es of those no longer with us.” successfully com- 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody GA Loventhal JEA opened in 1910 on Capitol pleted financial plan- 30038. Any donation, large or small, is Avenue in downtown Atlanta. For the first ning coursework, and passed the CFP welcomed. half of the 20th century, it served as the Certification Examination. Loventhal grad- For reservations, questions, and hub of the Jewish community. In 1946, uated from the University of Rochester and transportation requests or to send infor- the JEA incorporated and officially received a certificate in marketing manage- mation on the whereabouts of JEA alum- became the Atlanta Jewish Community ment from Rochester’s Simon Graduate ni, contact Sam Pinsky at Center (AJCC). In 1948, property was School of Business. He is the 5th-genera- purchased on Peachtree Street for a new [email protected] or 404-351-8260. I Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine (right) meets with a tion Loventhal to work with the building. Citing expansive growth, AJCC I representative of DTL, a Yokneam- Northwestern Mutual family. Israel based company. Page 36 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 2482 Jett Ferry Road, Ste. 685, Dunwoody Mashgiach: Joe Melamed and Yosef Goldstein Bruster’s Ice Cream AKC 2095 LaVista Road, Atlanta Kroger Sage Hill Kosher Korner Approved 404-320-7166 404-607-1189 226 Johnson Ferry Rd, Atlanta 1799 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 404-943-0206 Glatt kosher meat department Mashgiach: Velvel Grossblatt (Kosher flavors posted at each location) Mashgiach: Khosrow Radparvar

MEAT RESTAURANTS TCBY Kroger Sandy Springs BY Rabbi Reuven 404-325-8736 404-256-3434 Chai Peking Loehmann’s Plaza 227 Sandy Springs Place, Atlanta Stein 2205 LaVista Road, Atlanta 2484 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta Fresh baked challahs, breads, (inside Kroger Toco Hill) (Check store letter for list of baked items, pas yisroel OSHER ESTABLISHMENTS. A 404-327-7810 kosher products) Mashgiach: Shlomo Moradov kosher establishment can be identi- Chinese take-out (seating available), fied by a te’udah (kosher certifi- glatt kosher meat OTHER ESTABLISHMENTS Kroger Toco Hill K Mashgiach: Gedalya Silverstein cate) displayed in a prominent place in the (Supermarkets: 404-633-8694 facility. The te’udah will also indicate Select departments only, as noted) 2205 LaVista Road, Atlanta whether a facility is meat, dairy, or parve, if Israeli Kosher Kosher fish, meat, and deli (glatt); pareve; it is cholov yisroel or pas yisroel, and if 4639-D North Shallowford, Atlanta Ali’s Cookies pas yisroel bakery (separate from the everything sold in the facility is under 770-452-9599 770-971-8566 in-store non-Kosher bakery) supervision. Glatt kosher meat 1255-13 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta Mashgiach: Rabbi Avraham Schwartz Some ice cream facilities have vari- Mashgiach: Stuart Gleicher Kosher, dairy baked goods, candy eties of ice cream and toppings that are not Marcus Jewish Community Center of certified. Krispy Kreme is certified only for Off-Broadway/ Bijan Catering Avenue K Catering Atlanta doughnuts baked on the premises. The 2166 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 770-578-1110 678-812-4000 drinks sold in the front of the store need to 404-633-9288 736 Johnson Ferry Rd. Building E, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Atlanta be checked individually. Glatt kosher meat Marietta AKC certified meat and dairy kitchens that Kroger and Publix have kosher and Mashgiach: Dovid Schwartz Glatt kosher events provide meals for various programs non-kosher departments. Occasionally, Mashgiach: David Kayser Mashgiach: Dov Davitz someone might place a non-kosher item on Pita Palace a kosher shelf. Consumers should always 1658 LaVista Road, Atlanta Elegant Essen Publix Supermarket double-check items before purchasing. 404-781-PITA 770-451-3065 404-638-6022 All events that are in a kosher estab- Glatt kosher meat 3130 Raymond Drive, Atlanta 2969 North Druid Hills Road, Atlanta lishment are supervised. All events that are Mashgiach: Roi Levy Glatt kosher meat and dairy catering Glatt kosher meat and fish departments, not in a kosher establishment are under Mashgiach: Yaakov Mermelstein deli, sub shop, kosher dairy, and kosher Atlanta Kashruth Commission (AKC) HOTELS & HALLS WITH pareve bakery supervision only if a mashgiach is present. SEPARATE KOSHER KITCHENS The Goodfriend Company/The Glatt Mashgichim: Levi Novotne and Rabbi One should ask to speak to a mashgiach if Smokehouse & Barbeque Lew Weinreich there is a kosher question. Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center 678- 222-3719 To check on the status of an establish- 770-394-6500 1440 Spring Street, Atlanta Quality Kosher Emporium ment, hotel, or caterer, visit the AKC web- 246 Perimeter Center Parkway, Atlanta 404-636-1114 site, www.kosheratlanta.org, or call the The Selig Center 2153 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta AKC office at 404-634-4063. Crowne Plaza Ravinia 404-873-1661 Grocery and deli; glatt kosher butcher 770-395-7700 x2204 All events are under AKC supervision shop in process of remodeling grocery, 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta Mashgiach: Josh Seiden deli, and other departments; delivery available The Georgia Aquarium Griller’s Pride Mashgiach: Nathaniel Klein 404-581-4125 770-454-8108 225 Baker Street, Atlanta 3939 McElroy Road, Atlanta Return to Eden Home delivery of glatt kosher meat 404-320-3336 Grand Hyatt Atlanta Mashgichim: Johnny Bolnick 2335 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta 404-364-3889 and Betzalel Johns Many kosher products, sushi, and select DAIRY RESTAURANTS 3300 Peachtree Road, Atlanta bulk items are certified. Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Bagel Break Heritage Hall (doughnuts only) Schakolad Chocolate Factory 6333 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs (inside Congregation Beth Jacob) 295 Ponce De Leon Ave., Atlanta 770-730-9770 404-255-6055 404-633-0551 404-876-7307 1100 Hammond Drive Cholov Yisroel 1855 LaVista Road, Atlanta 4129 Highway 78 SW Suite 430-A, Atlanta Mashgiach: Dovid Cenker Lilburn Production now under AKC dairy supervi- InterContinental Buckhead Hotel 770-985-2810 sion. As soon as all non-kosher products Broadway Café 404-946-9000 299 Cobb Parkway, Marietta are used up, the facility will be entirely 2157 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta 3315 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 770-425-0374 kosher. 404-329-0888 6689 Highway 85, Riverdale Vegetarian restaurant, dairy, cholov yisroel Westin Buckhead 770-997-6210 Simone’s Bakery Mashgiach: Morris Rosenberg 404-365-0065 1500 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth 404-321-5108 3391 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 770-717-5134 2899-A North Druid Hills Road, Atlanta Cafe Ofi (inside MJCCA) 791 Atlanta Street, Roswell Pas yisroel baked goods and candy 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Atlanta Westin Atlanta North at Perimeter 770-998-0779 770-396-3250, ext. 408/405 770-395-3937 Mall of Georgia Store #56, Buford Dairy café 7 Concourse Parkway, Atlanta 770-831-1174 Rabbi Reuven Stein is director of supervi- Mashgiach: Dov Davitz sion for the Atlanta Kashruth Commission, ICE CREAM Kroger Orchard Park a non-profit organization dedicated to pro- OU For You Café 770-391-9035 moting kashruth through education, 1155 Hammond Drive, C2, Atlanta Carvel Ice Cream 2090 Dunwoody Club Drive, Atlanta research, and supervision. I 770-396-5533 770-396-0555 Kosher fish, meat, and deli (glatt) January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 37 National Fund’s 2008 Golf Tournament at Jewish community. The first two the Standard Club on November 3. The books included images from the late tournament honored the memory of Paul 19th century through the mid-20th Alterman and Peggy Alterman Shulman. century. This volume contains recent MISH MASH JNF Southeast raised more than $40,000 to images of families, organizations, support the Be’er Sheva River Walk Project and events from the Savannah By Erin O’Shinskey in the Negev, Israel. Pictured: (back, from Jewish Archives. The photographs left) Jill Lerner, Mark Kaufman, Karen are identified and grouped by sub- Isenberg-Jones, Michael Alterman, and ject, such as celebrations, syna- Todd Starr; (front, from left) Ronnie Porat, gogues, fundraising, and sports. Robert and Tara Alterman, and Michael A. Copies may be ordered from and all Miller funds will be donated to: Savannah Jewish Archives, c/o Georgia Historical Society, 501 Whitaker St., Savannah GA 31401 (phone: 912- 651-2125).

JF&CS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. JF&CS is seeking volunteers for numerous programs, including the Alterman/JETS Transportation Program (drivers, dispatch- er), Meals on Wheels (driver), the senior art therapy group (art therapy assistant), Ben Massell Dental Clinic (front desk help), and Bikur Cholum (hospital visitors). For infor- mation on these and other opportunities, contact Denise Deitchman at ORT SAYS THANK-YOU. Pictured: (standing, from left) ORT Atlanta board [email protected]. To volunteer members Danny Lipson and Richard Bressler; ORT Atlanta Co-presidents for the Larry Bregman M.D. Educational Jan Haber and Dr. Joe Berger; honorees Susan and Ray Schoenbaum; Conference, February 28-March 1, visit World ORT Director General Robert Singer; and ORT Atlanta board member www.Bregman.org; for the Empty Bowl Hilly Panovka; (seated, from left) ORT America National President Doreen Dinner, February 8, visit www.jfcs- Hermelin; award namesake Joan Lipson; and Danny Lipson’s wife, Susan atlanta.org/emptybowl.asp; for PAL, Lipson. (Photo: Edward Zelster of Edward Zelster Photography) Atlanta’s Jewish Big Brother/Big Sister JEWISH LIFE IN SAVANNAH. A new Program, contact Danielle Steinhart, Roswell donated her time and expertise to book compiled by Kaye Kole and [email protected] or 770-677-9390. I SCHOENBAUMS HONORED. The make this mitzvah possible. Madeleine Valerie Frey Stone is the 3rd in a Atlanta Region of ORT America brought belongs to Congregation Beth Shalom, series showcasing Savannah’s together 140 Jewish community leaders and Junior Kadima, and the Haverim Junior Girl supporters on December 7 to present ORT’s Scout Unit at her schul. She is the daughter 1st Lipson Award to the Schoenbaum fami- of Jeff and Dawnene Kahn; granddaughter ly. Through the Schoenbaum Family of David Morgan, Long Beach, California; Foundation, $5 million has been invested in Grace Hurwitz Kahn, Atlanta; and Dr. ORT’s mega-project in Kiryat Yam, Israel, Abraham and Anita Gilner, Alpharetta. for the revitalization of the seaside city’s center. At a cocktail reception at Pemberly FIGHTING DRUNK DRIVING. The Estate, tribute was paid to Betty Century Council, a national not-for-profit Schoenbaum; her son Raymond, president organization funded by distillers, is honor- of the Schoenbaum Family Foundation; ing select attorneys general and state legis- Raymond’s wife, Susan; and the rest of the lators who have shown an outstanding com- family. Raymond and Susan Schoenbaum mitment to fighting drunk driving and are Atlanta residents and philanthropists. underage drinking. State Representative Kevin Levitas (GA-82) was one of 13 part- LOCKS OF LOVE. Fourth-grader ners to receive the honor for his ongoing Madeleine Sage Kahn helped another child dedication. Representative Levitas is a by donating 12’’ of her hair to Locks of leader and partner in the fight against drunk Love, which provides hairpieces to finan- driving and underage drinking. He spon- cially disadvantaged children under age 18 sored HB 336, increasing the penalties for suffering from long-term medical hair loss. repeat DUI offenders. Representative Hair stylist Bonnie Harrison of Marci’s in Levitas’ bill has, for the first time in Georgia, created a felony-level DUI offense.

GOLFING FOR RIVER WALK. Nearly 120 golfers participated in the Jewish

Madeleine Sage Kahn (left) donated her hair to Locks of Love with the generous assistance of hairstylist Bonnie Harrison. Page 38 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 678-812-4093 or [email protected]. Thought You’d KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEWING. Interviewing Skills: Practice Makes Perfect is an innovative workshop offering essential tools Like to Know to job seekers. This workshop is January 28, 9:30-11:30 a.m., at JF&CS North Metro, 3159 By Jonathan Barach Royal Drive, Suite 330, Alpharetta. The work- shop is free, but registration is required. Call OOKIE TIME. Girl Scout Cookie sales 678-948-4000, or e-mail northmetro@jfcs- started January 1. Girl Scout Booth atlanta.org to register. CSales will begin at local grocery and retail stores on February 28. Proceeds from the ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVE. The next City sale directly benefit individual participating Wide Blood Drive sponsored by Jewish War troops and provide funding for program devel- Veterans Atlanta Post #112 is February 1, 9:00 opment and resource materials for girls and a.m.-2:00 p.m., at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, volunteers. All Girl Scout cookies, including 600 Peachtree Battle Avenue N.W. the new Dulce de Leche and Sugar-Free Appointments can be made at Chocolate Chips, have zero grams of trans fat. www.givelife.org; use code JWV. Walk–ins are Each box sells for $3.50. During the months of always welcome, but donors with appoint- February and March, visit the Booth Sale ments are given priority. Bring a picture ID. Locator on the council’s website for the nearest For questions about eligibility, contact the location. For more information, call 404-527- American Red Cross at 1-866-562-7156. For 7500, or visit www.girlscoutsnwga.org. other blood drive information, call Gail Solomon at 404-351-1900. ON THE BIG SCREEN. The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) runs through January 25. FILLING THE EMPTY BOWL. The Empty Featuring a diverse mix of narrative, documen- Bowl Dinner is February 8, 12:30-3:00 p.m. tary, studio, independent, international, feature, Benefiting Project Connect, JF&CS’ homeless- and short-length programs, the AJFF is the ness program, this event features a simulated largest film festival in Atlanta and 2nd-largest soup kitchen. Guests select a keepsake bowl Jewish film festival in the United States. The designed by local students and volunteers and 2009 festival is expected to attract an audience enjoy delicious soups by some of Atlanta’s of 18,000 and more than 40 international film finest restaurants. They can also become artists works. Screenings are supplemented by guest for the day by participating in the community speakers, providing a dynamic forum for audi- canvas project and can enjoy interactive enter- ence dialogue with filmmakers, actors, aca- tainment. Tickets are $20/adults and $5/chil- demics, and other expert panelists. For a com- dren ages 6-18; children under 6 are free. Table plete schedule and tickets, visit www.ajff.org, sponsorships are available for $250 (includes or call 404-806-9913. 10 tickets). For details, visit www.jfcs- atlanta.org. PARTY WITH YOUR PALS. Havinagala, the annual party benefiting Jewish Family & BREGMAN CONFERENCE. The Larry Career Services’ PAL Program, is January 24, Bregman M.D. Educational Conference is 8:00 p.m.-12:00 midnight, at the Hyatt February 28-March 1. Co-sponsored by Regency Atlanta. Tickets (including beer and JF&CS, this conference offers adults with wine) are $40 in advance, $50 at the door; VIP developmental disabilities, their families, and tickets (including liquor and free parking) are their caregivers the opportunity to learn about $65. For more information and to purchase topics that might not be addressed in other ven- tickets, visit www.havinagala.com. ues. This symposium provides opportunities for participants to socialize with others who DANCE THE DAY AWAY. B’Yachad, Amit’s share their interests and needs in a unique con- buddy program for teens with and without dis- ference atmosphere. Visit www.Bregman.org abilities, will offer a chance to learn the latest for more information. dances and play the greatest party games, January 25, 2:30-4:00 p.m. Play It Again SAVE THE DATE. Limmud Atlanta + Sammy will DJ the afternoon, which will Southeast is March 21-22 at Oglethorpe include snacks and prizes. This event takes University. This festival of Jewish learning, place at Congregation B’nai Torah, 700 Mt. culture, and ideas includes a Saturday night Vernon Highway. Admission is free, but space cultural happening and a full day of learning is limited; reservations are on a first-come, and experiences on Sunday. Register at first-served basis. RSVP to info@amitat- www.limmudse.org. lanta.org or 404-961-9966. Visit www.amitat- lanta.org for event updates. AMIT HONORS FAMILIES. Amit will honor its families at the 8th Annual Community COMPUTER CLASSES. SeniorNet is an Event, Sunday Family Funday, March 22, 5:00- international computer literacy program for 9:00 p.m., at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta. The adults ages 50+. MJCCA’s winter offerings evening features carnival-style entertainment include beginner classes in Internet and E-mail, and games, a buffet dinner, live auction, raffle, January 26 and February 2; Buying & Selling and a program and award presentation. on eBay, February 9 and 16; Computer Honorees are Dulcy and Jerry Rosenberg Housekeeping, February 18; and Beginning (Shorashim Award), Jan and Warren Epstein Mouse, March 12 and 19; and intermediate (Sam P. Alterman Family Foundation Etz classes in Microsoft Word, January 29-March Chaim Award), and Miriam Pass Botnick 5; Fun with Graphics, February 2 and 9; (Amit Volunteer of the Year Award). Tickets are PowerPoint, February 11 and 18; Photoshop $85/patron, $180/VIP, $28/children 6-17, and Elements, February 17-March 31; Internet and free for children 5 and under. For more infor- E–mail, February 23-March 16; and My First mation, call 404-961-9966, or e-mail Web Page, March 5-26. For registration, times, [email protected]. I fees, and prerequisites, contact Kristin Felix, January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 39 SLAMMING AT CENTENNIAL shley and Lindsey Rosenberg, who went to the ADavis Academy through eighth grade, are the only two sophomores on the Class 5A Centennial varsity basketball team. The twins and their 10-lady squad recently went to Orlando, where they finished third in the prestigious KSA Disney Tournament, beating the high school that was attended by Florida Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow. The twins also made a huge impact on Centennial’s varsity track team. Last spring, as freshmen Ashley broke the school’s pole vaulting record and also qualified for the 200 at the Region 6 meet, and Lindsey qualified in both the 400 and triple jump. In this photo from the Centennial trip to Orlando, Ashley is shown on the top row, far right, and Lindsey is shown on the bottom row, far right.

n March 12, 2008, at 8:00 p.m., Neshama Carlebach, an international celebrity in OJewish entertainment, will captivate the audience with her wide-ranging music at the Neshama Carlebach Community Concert at the Greenfield Hebrew Academy. To purchase tickets, call 678-812-4002.

rom March 25 - 29, Member of Piedmont Healthcare Jerry's Habima Theatre, Your health can’t wait. FGeorgia’s only theatri- cal company directed and “Yes, We Take Your Insurance.” produced by professionals featuring actors with devel- opmental disabilities, will Walk-ins Welcome, present the musical comedy, Once Upon a Mattress, at the MJCCA's Zaban Park. To Minimum Wait! purchase tickets, or visit www.atlantajcc.org or call 678-812-4002. ALL AGES WELCOME

• IMMEDIATE CARE he 11th Annual Empty • PRIMARY CARE Bowl Dinner is Sunday, • TRAVEL MEDICINE TFeb. 8, 2009, from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. at First Open Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, 1328 Peachtree Street. The event features a 7 Days simulated soup kitchen where guests enjoy delicious soups by some of Atlanta’s finest restaurants. Select a keepsake bowl creatively 678-904-5611 designed by local students and volunteers. It’s fun for the entire family! Empty Bowl www.perimeterclinic.com benefits Project Connect, Jewish Family & Career Service’s homelessness 3867 Roswell Road 1/2 Mile North of Piedmont Road program. $20 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-18, children under 6 are free. For more information visit www.jfcs-atlanta.org/emptybowl.asp Just a few minutes from anywhere in Buckhead, Midtown, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs Page 40 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 enthusiasm to the Atlanta Jewish community, and they have been central to the suc- cess that The Weber School enjoys today. To make a contribu- tion to the new tribute journal in their honor, visit generosity and dedication to the communi- www.weber- ty, family, and The Epstein School. school.org. By Belle Klavonsky Celebration Steering Committee members are Mindy Binderman, Warren Binderman, WEBER SCHOOL MUSICAL. The Weber Paula Freedman, Linda Schear, Lauren School is presenting You’re a Good Man, Wayne, and Stephanie Wyatt. If you are Charlie Brown! in its Black Box Theatre, interested in becoming a sponsor, or would February 22, 5:30 p.m., and February 23- like more information, contact Special 24, 7:00 p.m. The cast includes Jason Events Coordinator Lori Miller at Feldman (Charlie Brown), Melanie [email protected] or 404-250- Oppenheimer (Sally Brown), Chantelle 5635. Visit the special events webpage at Berman (Snoopy), Talia Feldman (Lucy www.epsteinatlanta.org for ticket informa- Van Pelt), Samantha Westheimer (Linus tion. Van Pelt), and Nadine Paull (Schroeder). Tickets are $5 at the door. For more infor- EPSTEIN STANDS WITH ISRAEL. The ATLANTA MAGAZINE LAUDS WEBER. mation, contact Melanie Brown at Epstein School is committed to creating In Atlanta Magazine’s annual guide to [email protected]. experiences that bond students to modern Atlanta’s K- and biblical Israel. These bonds are further 12 private TOGETHER IN SONG. Songs about love strengthened by faculty and staff who come schools filled the air at The Epstein School’s 8th from Israel or have family there. In the face (pictured), Annual Middle School Shiriyah. Musical of the Gaza War, students are learning about The Weber Director Michal Spiegelman, supported by the complications of media attention, the School an extraordinary team, led this production. hardship of war, and the human elements received Almost 700 guests enjoyed an evening of that spur emotion. In response, they are pro- special family-style entertainment that included the viding moral and financial support to Israeli recognition “Fun-tastic” Performers Academy, the children and adults by writing them letters for its lan- Israeli Dance Academy, and solo perform- and collecting tzedakah money. Pictured: guage arts ances by 6th-grader Jack Schneider and preschooler Mollie Meyerowitz stands by a program, its 8th-graders Peter Danis and Jordan Rich. hand-painted Israeli flag. literary During the grand finale, Epstein alumni magazines, BEGINNING. Greenfield Hebrew spontaneously rushed to the stage to join and several elective classes. Student Academy students have studied parsha sto- their former classmates in singing “Shir Yasmeen Malik was featured on the cover ries over the years, but this year, 2nd- Israeli.” In this touching moment, a new of the magazine as part of an article featur- graders are involved in a more thorough tradition was born. Pictured: Jack Schneider ing writers and artists at VOX, Atlanta’s examination of the book of Bereishit, teen newspaper. Genesis. In October, they took part in a cel- ebratory chumash presentation that marked GINDI HONORED. Julian Gindi (pictured) the beginning of their life-long commitment was recognized by Atlanta Intown Paper as to Torah and learning. After a few remarks, one of 20 stu- the students sang four songs, and everyone dents under participated in a chumash workbook activi- the age of 20 ty. Pictured: Annie Intro with her mom, ILLUMINATING SCIENCE FACTS. A making a dif- GHA teacher Beth Intro (center), and Lava Lamp is fun to watch, and it’s also a ference in flanked by her grandmother, Lynne great example of how a scientific fact— their commu- Rabinowitz, and her dad, Craig Intro water and oil don’t mix—can be used to nities. Julian create something new. Each week, an was honored WINNING PROJECTS INSPIRE OTH- Epstein Kindergartener is designated for creating ERS. Epstein students Alex Duner, Peter Scientist of the Week and performs an in- (along with Danis, Emily Duner, and Alexa Rakusin class science demonstration. Matthew Jonathan were invited to present their winning proj- Flame (pictured) used common household Gaynes and ects from last year’s regional and state tech- items including plastic cups, food coloring, Adam nology fairs to educators at the recent vegetable oil, and a soda bottle to synthe- Augenstein) GaETC Conference. The students placed size a Lava Lamp. His classmates watched the non-prof- first in the region at the NAJSTF in amazement as he tilted the “lamp” back it organization Student Ecology Movement. Technology Fair. Alex and Peter also placed and forth, and the colorful blobs of “lava” first at the State Technology Fair with their (food coloring) stayed together in the oil. EVENING OF HONOR. The Weber School multimedia virtual art museum. The stu- will pay tribute to Gita and Steve Berman dents were well received at GaETC; sever- PARTY LIKE A ROCK STAR. The 2009 (pictured) at the 7th Annual Evening of DESIGNER ORGANISMS. GHA 7th- al educators requested copies of their proj- Epstein Celebration, March 29, 5:30 p.m., Honor Purim Masquerade Ball, March 8. grade science students recently designed ects to present to and inspire their own stu- at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, will honor This year’s celebration will continue the their own microscopic organisms. They dents. Pictured: Emily Duner, Alexa Kitty and Ezra Cohen (pictured), who, theme of “honoring education” by raising drew their detailed organisms in color and Rakusin, Technology Educator Batia Ben- through their pro bono work for local funds to support tuition assistance. Gita and built 3-D models, which were then hung Aroia, and Peter Danis organizations and individuals, epitomize Steve have devoted years of energy and from the ceiling of teacher Deborah January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 41 Tenenbaum’s science lab. Each student had to provide a written description of his or her organism, including its name, classification, locomotion (how it moves), digestive sys- tem, excretory system, and reproductive system. The students took this assignment and ran with it, and their creativity really showed. Pictured: (bottom, from left) Jeremy Tepper, Micaela Robinson, and Aaron Solomon; (top, from left) Carly Berlin, Noa Allen, and Anna Sirota

on Rabin’s message of peace. Students sang Hebrew word means—explore. Students School on November 12. Each year, Math songs about peace and read letters from choose from a variety of classes—electron- Night brings out multitudes of Davis fami- Israeli children describing how they felt ics, cartooning, Israeli cooking, Math Club, lies to test their skills and play math games when Rabin was killed. A group of 8th- SSAT prep, and more—that meet at the end together. graders also performed skits at the assem- of each Friday. bly, and Rabbi New delivered a D’var Torah. GHA also welcomed Samie Kabaloh from the Israeli Consulate for this poignant program. Pictured: 5th-graders Ross Berlin, Ethan Robinson, Greg Shapiro, Jake Chesler, David Goldfarb, and Abby Berger

MOCK DEBATE. Watching the Middle School Mock Debate on November 4, one would think that GHA 7th- and 8th-graders were on the campaign teams for Senators Barack Obama and John McCain. Middle School students gathered to hear debates on issues including healthcare, the , global warming, the environment, and CHANUKAH PARTY. Students in Mrs. Israel. Afterwards, the students voted, and Julie Weiser’s Davis Academy Senator McCain won with 67% of the vote. Kindergarten class hosted new friends from BLUE RIBBON CERTIFICATION. Torah Pictured: (from left) R.J. Engelman, 8th neighboring Dunwoody Springs Day School of Atlanta was officially recog- grade; Dylan Shaban, 7th grade; David Elementary School for a Chanukah party. nized as a Blue Ribbon School at a ceremo- Feldman, 8th grade; Jake Belinky, 8th The Davis students shared the Chanukah ny in Washington, D. C., during Sukkot. grade; Sophia Wilder, 7th grade; Danielle DISCOVERING ART. Alfred and Adele story with Dunwoody Springs students, and Representing TDSA, Middle School sci- Goldstein, 8th grade; and Daniel Gordon, Davis Academy 8th-grader Paige Licenberg everyone played holiday games and ate tra- ence teacher Ms. Christine Hippeli (pic- 8th grade. (pictured) studies a glass sculpture during a ditional foods such as latkes and jelly-filled tured, right) accepted the citation, plaque, field trip to the home of attorney Sandra donuts. Pictured: Dunwoody Springs stu- and banner from representatives of the U. S. Cuttler, a local art collector. Seventeen dent Faith Benton decorates cookies with Department of Education. Torah Day is the Davis Academy 7th- and 8th-graders visited Davis student Eric Shindell. only private school in Georgia and one of Cuttler’s home, which, according to art three Jewish day schools nationwide to teacher Michele Stein, “is a virtual museum receive the Blue Ribbon accolade in 2008. of contemporary 2-D and 3-D art.”

MOCK ELECTION. In November, GHA 4th-graders held a mock election. The stu- dents, who had been studying the election process and candidates, received a card with a state’s name, a descriptive phrase, PUPPETRY ART AND CHEROKEE HIS- and that state’s number of electoral votes. KABBALAT HaSIDDUR. During a special TORY. Combining puppetry and American Students cast their state’s electoral votes for class-wide ceremony on December 12, Beth history, Ms. Nancy Riggs of Piccadilly the candidate of their choice, announced it, and Brian Sherman present to daughter LITERARY VISIT. Award-winning author Puppets brought “Cherokee Tales” to Torah and watched as a U.S. map projected onto a Jamie, a Davis Academy 2nd-grader, her Laurie Halse Anderson spoke to Davis Day’s early childhood and elementary screen filled with red and blue states. The new siddur (pictured). In this school tradi- Academy Middle School students during a classes. Working interactively with stu- results: Senator John McCain won the elec- tion, students are presented with the prayer- visit in November. Ms. Anderson, whose dents, who helped her to portray traditional tion. Students later discussed the experience book that they will use during their years at books include Fever 1793 and Chains, told Cherokee characters such as Raven, Eagle, in class. Pictured: Matthew Sklar, Rebecca Davis. This year, students received copies the students how she came to be an author and Turtle, Ms. Riggs retold stories about Weiss, Dustin Daynai, Naomi Moosai, of the Reform movement’s new siddur, and offered writing tips. Here, Ms. the sinking mountain in north Georgia and Relly Hayut, and Isabella Cantor Mishkan T’Filah. Anderson enjoys a laugh with 8th-grader how fire came to people. She also wove into David Anderson, who interviewed the her stories some information about YITZCHAK RABIN MEMORIAL FANTASTIC FRIDAYS. Seventh-graders author before her presentation. Cherokee customs and the tragic history of ASSEMBLY. GHA 3rd-5th graders gath- Allison Miller and Ben Walters (pictured) the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Pictured: (from ered for an assembly on November 10 to plant pansies in front of The Davis MATH FOR FUN. Davis Academy 2nd- left) Ms. Nancy Riggs, Eli Greene, Jacob remember Yitzchak Rabin. The 5th grade Academy Middle School as part of Taglit, a grader Evan Nathanson and his dad, Avery, Rubinstein, and Talya Wittenberg new Middle School enrichment program (pictured) play a math game during the prepared a program that focused on passing See CLASSNOTES, page 42 that allows students to do exactly what the school’s Family Math Night at the Lower Page 42 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009 Classnotes From page 41

ther Jacob to Leah…” read the invitation received by Kindergarten, 1st-grade, and 2nd-grade students at Torah Day. Hebrew teachers, dressed in biblical garb, acted out the story of this famous wedding, bringing HONORING PARENTS AND GRAND- the parsha lesson to life in a truly memo- PARENTS. Cohen Assisted Living Home rable way. “Guests” enjoyed the mock fes- residents, hosted by Torah Day 7th-grade tivities, real wedding treats, singing, and girls, visited the school in November. Mrs. dancing. The biblical mock wedding is a Rachel Stein arranged with Mrs. Leah longstanding Torah Day tradition and one Hiller for a special program of songs and many former students recall with delight, skits about Kibud Av V’em (honoring par- even in their teen years. Pictured: Mrs. ents), which the girls are studying in their Leah Bryant, Mrs. Michal Donowitz, Miss Halacha class. They also made floral, per- Dena Saboo, and Mrs. Elana Ellman sonalized doorknob decorations to brighten the residents’ rooms during the winter months. The girls interacted with warmth and learned much about their guests, creat- ing a meaningful event for both genera- tions. Pictured: Shira Shkarofsky, Sarah Ooziel, Cohen Home resident (unidenti- fied), Shoshana Wiggins, Rachel Kaminetzky, and Dena Stiefel

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON MID- DLE EAST POLITICS. Torah Day’s Middle School girls were treated to an informative presentation by Mrs. Gail Ripans, an expert on Middle East history A GIFT GOES BOTH WAYS. Eighth and politics. She shared insights on recent grade students Nachum Glaser and Rachel events, beginning with the historical back- Leff represented TDSA’s students as they ground of the British Empire and the cre- stood in front of over 100 community lead- ation of India and Pakistan, and connected ers and thanked the Jewish Federation of these to the birth of Israel. She described Greater Atlanta’s board members. They Iran’s desire to control the world with a then handed a check for $1,100 to Mrs. Muslim theocracy and how President-elect Carol Cooper, president of the Federation Obama’s selection of key foreign policy Board of Trustees (pictured with Nachum advisors affects U.S.-Israeli relations. and Rachel), for this year’s Federation Finally, she charged the students with Campaign. The funds, which are raised by becoming informed citizens and advocates the students, are in recognition of and for Israel. appreciation for the assistance that Federation has given to TDSA for two A BIBLICAL WEDDING. “You are cor- decades. I dially invited to the wedding of our forefa- January-February 2009 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN Page 43 Page 44 THE JEWISH GEORGIAN January-February 2009