A PUBLICATION OF THE CHATTANOOGA JEWISH FEDERATION The SHOFAR

Volume 7 Number 5 Tevet - Shevat 5753 January, 1993 Social Worker Hired to Establish Welcome to America! Social Services Arm of Our Jewish Federation The appointment of Susan Ross Distefano, MSW, as social worker for the Chattanooga Jewish Federa­ tion is announced by Louis B. Solomon, Executive Director and Dr. David Solovey, chairman of the Federation Social Services Committee. "We are pleased to have found an individual with Mrs. Distefano's experience and knowledge of the Chatta­ nooga human services network to establish this greatly needed service for our Jewish community," Dr. Solovey said. "We have been looking for the right professional to shape and develop information, referral and case management services, provide support services and short term counseling to the elderly, help with the resettlement of new Soviet immigrants and service u cmMcuis lor over a year, Lou Solomon said, the search began in response to the report of the ad hoc committee report recommending the establishment of the service based on examination of the data collected during the Needs Assessment and Demo­ The first group of Soviet Jews has arrived in Chattanooga to be reunited with their son, graphic Study done in 1990. (More about the study on Demitry Selipanov andhis wife, Cindy. Demitry, emigrated from Moscow to Atlanta about page 2.) The social worker will also work closely with the twoyearsago. Achemist with Analytical Industrial ResearchLabs, he moved to Chattanooga rabbis and the Jewish Community Center to imple­ several months ago. Leonid and Nonna Iqffe andAleksey Selipanov came to Chattanooga ment Jewish Family Life Education programs in lastmonthfrom Vladimir, a suburb of Moscow. The parents are jewelers workingwith gems conjunction with the synagogues, Jewish agencies and precious metals. Their 22yare old son, Aleksey, has a degree in Russian Language and and organizations. Anative of Oak Ridge, TN, Susan Ross Distefano World Literature. His wife, Ann, who was unable to accompany them from Russia, is earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and expected to arrive on January 8th. Aleksy has already gotten his driver's license and he and History from Centre College in Danville, KY in 1982 his parents are attending English Language classes at Chattanooga State. We welcome and a Master of Science degree in Social Work from them to our community. (R-L) Aleksey Selipanov, Nonna Iqffe, Demitry and Cindy the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 1985. She is also a Tennessee certified School Social Worker. Selipanov and Leonid Iqffe. Mrs. Distefano has most recently worked as a Jewish Social Service p. 2 Our Mas la Israel p. 9 Inside National eUnttNewi p. 4 CoBgregattoaal News p. JM3 consultant to Adventist Community Services in Commaaity Relation Newt p. 5 Life Cycles p. 14 vA Collegedale and served as Social Service Director of this A Miracle Mission p.« JCC News p. 16-18 the Salvation Army in Chattanooga from 1988-1990. Shoreshim Trip la Poland & Israel p. 7 too.kBcatp.19 : '••'•:• (ContinuedpageX)^ issue; i Recipes from owe Rebetcens p. 8*9 Chattanooga Jewish Federation Bulk Rats P.O. Box 8847 U.S. Postage Campaign Update Chattanooga, TN 87411 Paid PSMDttCB December 25,1992 (Addpess connection requested) Cbattaaoosa, TN Return postage guaranteed

Time Value 1993 Campaign $568,829 (up 9.96%) 1992 Same Cards $517,296 Page 2 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Federation Responds to Needs in Our Jewish Community: Social Service Arm Established In response to the data gathered in the Needs Assessment and Demographic Study Background: done by the Chattanooga Jewish Federation in 1990, a social service arm of the Report of the Ad Hoc Social Federation has been established, headed by Susan Ross Distefano, MSW. Services Committee Mrs. Distefano will develop information, referral and case management services, provide support services and short term counseling to the elderly, help with the Following the Jewish Federation's Needs Assess­ resettlement of new Soviet immigrants and service transients for the Chattanooga ment & Demographic Study of 1990, Lou Solomon Jewish Community. She will also work closely with the rabbis and the Jewish organized a group of individuals to look at the data Community Center to implment Jewish family Life Education programs in conjunc­ which indicated a possible need for social services tion with the synagogues, Jewish agencies and organizations. within the Jewish community. A committee, headed by Dr. Sandra Packard, was formed consisting of Dr. The study questionnaire asked the respondents whether or not the Chattanooga Carol Berz, Sue Cohn, Helen Smith, David Jewish Federation should provide an array of new social services ranging fromadul t Hirschfeld, Louis Solomon, Rabbi Kenneth Kanter, day care for elderly or disabled persons to substance abuse counseling. A majority Rabbi Richard Sherwin, Dr. Martin Packard and ofthe sample supported offering each ofthe proposed services under Jewish auspices. Angeline Harrower. The committee's charge was to determine whether a need for Federation sponsored The respondents proved most supportive of geriatric counseling, emergency financial social services existed and what should be done to aid and adult day care. Domestic violence counseling, vocational counseling and meet such a need. individual counseling received the least support. The committee convened over the course of The Jewish Social Service will be housed in a private office in the Chattanooga 1991 to examine the survey data,share their expertise and experience in the social service community, and Jewish Community Center. If you are in need of assistance from Federation Social to determine the alternative strategies and associ­ Services or would like more information about this program, please contact Mrs. ated costs for meeting the social services needs of Distefano at 894-1317. All inquiries are confidential. Chattanooga's Jewish community. The conclu­ sion of the committee was that social services FIGURE 3: PERCENT FAVORING ADDITIONAL SERVICES were desired by the Jewish community, particu­ HEV SERVICES larly in the area of senior adult assistance and with counseling in financial and family emer­ £ 53* gencies. The questionnaire did not ask the DOMESTIC CONFLICT COUNSEL!© / questions necessary to determine whether the 5598 VOCATIONAL COUNSEL!© respondents perceived these services as being 5 adequately available in the larger community, t T. 57* or if they would use these services were they rorVDUALCfJUNSajNG available through the Jewish Federation. -jpiaiaiaiaiiii!iiiiiaiiMiiiaiaitt i 63* The committee did conclude that if the SUBSTAICE ABUSE COUNSEL!© I Chattanooga Jewish Federation were to pro­ i 66* vide limited social services, these services would FAMLY COUNSEL!© be well used. We also believe that the most I appropriate services to be offered, given the •2 76* limited information available on potential us­ ADULT DAY CAKE age and the limited resources of the Federation, 78* are referral services. Referral services would EMERGENCY FMANCIAL AD provide assistance to permanent and transient 83* members of the Jewish community in the form GERJATRC COUNSEL!© c 1 of direction and assistance in obtaining the sub­ 3£ "2 3= 7 stantive and long-term services available in the 0.0* 20.0* 40.0* 60.0* 80.0* general Chattanooga region. An additional ser­ vice to be offered would be the development and PERCENT FAVORMB operation of support services for elderly mem­ bers of Chattanooga's Jewish community. Not recommended, however, are a day-care service The questionnaire asked the respondents whether or not the Chattanooga Jewish Federation for the elderly, an intensive counseling pro­ shouldprovide an array of new socialservices rangingfrom adult day careforelderly or disabled gram, or other major support services which persons to substance abuse counseling. The data presented in Figure 3 indicate a majority of would require a significant commitment of funds. the sample supported offering each ofthe proposed services under Jewish auspices. The As to supervision, it would be most desirable respondents proved most supportive ofgeriatric counseling, emergency financial aid and adult for the individual to report to Lou Solomon as Director ofthe Federation with a separate com­ day care. Domestic violence counseling, vocational counseling and individual counseling munity advisory board selected by the Federa­ received the least support. tion. The Chair of this board would make an annual report to the Federation Board in the form of census data only, without identifying Chattanooga Jewish Federation names or characteristics that could identify indi­ vidual clients to any member of the Board. Annual Meeting Steve Vlin interviews Carolyn Pfenning on Chattanooga Housing on page 19. 7:30 p.m. at the JCC The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 3 Susan Distefano to Head Jewish Social Services (Continued from page 1) 1993 UJA National Summer She also has experience as a school Missions to Israel social worker, counselor and teacher. Mrs. Distefano has served as a mem­ ber of the Tennessee Conference on Family Missions Singles Missions Social Welfare and the Homeless Co­ ordinating Council, Secretary of the I June 14-24 I June 27-Juiy 8* Community Services Club of Chatta­ II June 28-JuIy 8* II July 4-15* nooga and a representative to the Prot­ estant Health and Welfare Assembly III July 12-22* and the Chattanooga Homeless Task IV August 2-12 Force. Looking for a position in which education, experience and abilities in Young Couples Singles Over 35 social work, psychology and locating funding resources would be of value, Mission Mission Susan Distefano is proficient in relat­ ing to people on all levels and main­ August 8-18 May 30-June 9 taining tact in difficult situations. She has the ability to develop, plan and "featuring the 1993 Maccabiah Games implement long-term solutions and has a strong networking aptitude. Susan Ross Distefano, MSW "I am really enthusiastic about the opportunity to develop this new service for Cost, Itinerary and other details coming soon to the Jewish Community of Chattanooga from the ground up. I am especially your Federation. For information call Jay Wiston, excited for the chance to work with Soviet Jews in their resettlement process," Mrs. Distefano said. Missions Chairman or Lou Solomon at 894-1317. Mrs. Distefano came to Chattanooga six years ago with her husband, David, a CPAwith Joseph Decosimo & Company. They have two daughters, Sarah, four The Coaocil of Jewish Federations is Ike continental associationorahnost 200 Jewish Federattoag, years old, and Victoria, one year old, and are members of Mizpah Congregation. the central community organization which serves nearly 800 localities embraciaga Jewish popalaHoti of more than 6.1 million in the United States and Canada. In her spare time she enjoys working on their house which is over 100 years old Established In 1932, CJF helps streagthea tie work and lie impact oT Jewish Federations by and gardening. developing programs to meet changing needs, providing an exchange of eaceessfh) coisraanify experi­ ences, estabihhlag galdeliace for land raising and r operations and engaging la Joint planning and action on common purposes dealing with local, ca^-f^i^M^ieS^ish Federation Parliament m;MMmy*t&^*u*iMtr*Mn*l need*. The Council of Jewish Federations has approved "The adoption of the governance proposal is still another new bylaws that will turn the umbrella organization example of how CJF and the Federations are responding to the into a parliament of its member federations/The increasing demands of current Jewish life," said CJF President Council of Jewish Federations has approved new Charles H. Goodman after the vote. "With the adoption of bylaws that will turn the umbrella organization into domestic collective responsibility and the CJF Loan Guarantee a parliament of its member federations. Delegates Program for the resettlement in Israel of Soviet Jews, the establish­ It takes a lifetime of effort representing member Federations at the recently ment of the CJF Hurricane Fund for Miami, and now the approval to build an estate. concluded CJF General Assembly overwhelmingly of the governance model, we truly have a continental system that Its worth a few weeks of approved the report ofthe Council of Jewish Federa­ can and does respond to the challenges of our time." careful planning tions Governance Commission, thereby instituting a The vote by the Federations is the result of a careful strategy of to conserve it new era in the relationship between CJF and the consensus-building engaged in by the Governance Commission communities. since it began its work at the CJF Board Leadership Institute in The new CJF board of delegates consists of Houston in February, 1991. In this process, which included re­ representatives of its nearly 200 member federa­ gional meetings and many other consultations throughout the ROBERT S. BERZ tions, with each delegation reflecting the size of the Federation system, the plan underwent significant changes to meet community and its campaign. The governance pro­ the concerns of the Federations. COMPANY posal provides for a Board of Delegates on which The objective throughout the development of the plan, Kraar every Federation regardless of size will have at least declared, was "to have a document that everyone could understand Insurance two representatives and which under certain condi­ and that would meet two requirements: the inclusion of everyone tions has the power to bind Federations to its deci­ and clarity on how decisions will get made." and sions. This includes financial issues requiring the The result, Kraar said, is the ability "to make decisions as a Financial Services expenditure of no more than $850,000. system in which everyone will have a say, in which everyone will The Board, which will have between 460 and 500 have voting rights, in other words, a completely democratic sys­ members, will serve as the principal decision-making tem." forum of CJF. It will replace the current Board of Under the governance plan there is a shifting of power, with Directors and assumes many of the functions of the more being given to the smaller Federations, each of which will General Assembly. now be represented at all times on the Board of Delegates as An Executive Committee of about 50 members opposed to rotatingmembershi p on the Board of Directors. Since will serve as the principal administrative and super­ decisions must be approved by a quorum consisting of atleast 60% visory body of CJF, and with its smaller size, will be ofthe Federations aiid60%ofthe total votes, then by the affirmation called on to deal with emergencies. of 85% ofthe votes cast and 85% ofthe Federations voting on the Robert S. Berz, CLU The final vote of 485-35 was taken on November issue, only 28 Federations, regardless of size, can blocka proposal. 407 East Fourth Street 13 at the Business Session of the 61st CJF General The reason for the change is clear- federations are no longer Assembly, held in New York. islands unto themselves. What happens in Federation X affects (615) 756-0782 The structure which will be established is the Federations Y and Z. This is a structure to permit exploration of culmination of almost two years of intensive work by issues concerning our system and the national agencies in ways we the Commission, chaired by Dr. Conrad L. Giles of couldn't do before. Detroit and David G. Sacks of New York. Page 4 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 National & News 1 Lester Pollack Elected Chairman of Conference of Presidents Religious Leaders Unify in Campaign to End War in Bosnia by Richard Cohen Associates by Richard Cohen Associates Lester Pollack, 59, president of the Jewish Community Centers Association, At the initiative of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation, the heads of the has been unanimously elected to serve a one-year term as chairman of the Serbian Orthodox, Croatian Roman Catholic and Muslim religious communities Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Beginning in the former Yugoslavia have joined hands to launch a unified campaign aimed January 1,1993, he succeeds Shoshana S. Cardin of Baltimore, who is completing at ending the conflict and killing in Bosnia, at a conference Nov. 24 and 25 held a second one-year term as Presidents Conference chairman. in Switzerland. The religious summit marked the first time the three Yugoslav Long active in Jewish communal religious groups had ever met or sat down together. affairs, Mr. Pollack is a past president Following the meeting-attended by Serbian Orthodox Patriarch Pavle, of the Jewish Community Relations Catholic Archbishop and Metropolitan Vinko Puljic of Sarajevo and Jakub Council of New York. He currently Efendi Selimoski, Rais Ulema of the Islamic Community-a joint appeal was chairs the international affairs com­ issued calling for "the immediate, unconditional and irrevocable end of the war, mittee ofthe Anti-Defamation League the re-establishment of peace and the renewal of dialogue as the only method of of B'nai B'rith and is a member of the solving existing national and political problems," said Rabbi Arthur Schneier, executive committee of the American president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation. Israel Public Affairs Committee The "spiritual mobilization" by the Yugoslav religious leaders to halt the AIPAC. He is the founding chair­ fighting, he said, will be implemented by a standing committee ofthe three faiths, man and and chief executive officer of called "Conscience in Action." The committee will take these specific steps: the Center for Middle East Research, 'Make representations to leaders of the waning political factions demanding the release of all war prisoners, hostages and detainees, and nn end to all fighting and "ethnic cleansing;'' chairman of the board of directors of 'Devise a plan for leaders ofthe three faiths to join representatives ofthe International Red Cross in Tel Aviv University's Trilateral Peace visiting prison camps and in demanding unhindered access to humanitarian relief; Project and vice chairman ofthe Coun­ 'Join In a caU to the United Nations and the international community to use "all morally Justifiable means" to make further appeals unnecessary; and cil for Initiatives in Jewish Education. ' Launch an international day or prayer on December 23 "to demonstrate solidarity with all Mr. Pollack also serves on the boards individuals and people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as all other afflicted people in former of the American Zionist Youth Fed­ Yagoslavta." eration, Council of Jewish Federations, The Appeal of Conscience Foundation, a New York-based interreligious HIASand UJA-Federation of Greater organization that works for religious freedom and human rightsha s been closely New York. monitoring the situation in Yugoslavia. It sent two missions to that country in 1985 and 1990. A former chairman of the board of Lester Pollack, Chairman, the Associated YM-YWHAs of "We were pleased by the messages of support for the meeting received from Conference of Presidents of President Bush, United Nations Secretary General Boutros Boutros-GhaJi, Greater New York and vice president Major Jewish Organizations of the UJA-Federation of New York, British Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd; Cyrus Vance, co-chairman of the where he served on the executive committee, Mr. Pollack has also been a trustee International Conference on the Former Yugoslavia, and Rene Felber, president of the Swiss Confederation, which formally hosted the meeting in Wolfsberg, of Community Synagogue in Rye, NY and a member of the board of overseers of Switzerland," said Rabbi Arthur Schneier, president of the Foundation. the Wurzweiler School of Social Work of Yeshiva University. Mr. Pollack is a member of the board of trustees of New York University, where he is vice chairman ofthe academic affairs committee, and chairman ofthe Clinton Names Mayors of budget committee of the New York University Law Center Foundation. A general partner in the New York investment banking firm of Lazard Freres Jewish Advisers Jerusalem, & Co., Mr. Pollack also is senior managing director of Corporate Partners, LP., President-elect Bill Clinton has Te\ AVIV RetlrinG a and chief executive officer of Centre Partners, L.P., investment partnerships named Samuel Sandy Berger, his . affiliated with Lazard Freres. longtime friend and trusted campaign ?** charismatic mayors of Born in New York, Pollack graduated from Brooklyn College and received a foreign policy adviser, to head the na- Jersusalem and Tel Aviv both say law degree from New York University School of Law. He is married to the former tional security policy board of his tran- they are stepping down. Teddy Geri Ruskin and has two married children and one grandchild. sitionteam. Kollek, 81, and Shlomo The Presidents Conference, founded in 1955, is composed of 50 national Jewish secalar and religious The appointment of Berger, who is ("Cheech") Lahat, 65, said Mon- groups whose members comprise ike great majority of American Jean. In Us work of protecting and enha Being the security and dignity of Jem abroad and s trengthealng U.S.-Is raei rela tioas, the Conference Jewish, was one of several transition day they ^ not g^ re-election of Presidents speaks and acts on International affairs of Jewish concern as the consensus voice of the p^teannouncedbytheaintonopera- next j^k has been in world's largest Jewish community. ^SSSiSSSSSRS^ office27yearsandLahatl9 Israel Bonds Announces Service Plan for Tennessee chief financialofficer , Al From, as as- T^e Jerusalem mayor, how- by Mark E. Benson sistant director for domestic policy; ever, has agreed to postpone his Following a corporate reorganization by State of Israel Bonds which affected Rahm Emanuel, as coordinator of the official announcement for two Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi, Ambassador Meir Rosenne, president and inaugural; Robert Reich, as head of months to allow the Labor Party CEO of State of Israel Bonds, announced that the international securities the economic policy team, and Gene t0 choose a candidate as his suc- organization will continue its sales program in the Nashville and Chattanooga Sperling, as Reich's deputy. ^^j m ^ high-visibility post. area. As of January 1, those wishing to purchase or reinvest Israel Bonds, will be able to do so through the St. Louis regional office. German Official Ashamed of Racism "It has always been our intention to actively service these communities," said Visiting German Foreign Minister Klaus Kinkel told Israel's leaders he is Ambassador Rosenne. "We are quite pleased that Israel Bonds activities, "ashamed as a German" of the racist outbreaks that have taken place in his programs and operations will be conducted through Avy Weberman, the execu­ country in recent months. In separate working sessions with Prime Minister tive director based in St. Louis, who will assume this area's sales responsibilities Yitzhak Rabin and Foreign Minister Shimon Peres, the German guest, who was for State of Israel Bonds." in Israel on a one-day official visit, said his government fully understands Israel's Ambassador Rosenne said, "While economic constraints necessitated this concern over this issue. Kinkel also stated his government's decision to become change we are confident that sales of the investments, based on competitive more involved in Middle East peacemaking, specifically in two areas of the financial merits, will continue to climb and the needs of communities across the multilateral talks: water resources and economic development. United States will be serviced most effectively." During their meeting, Rabin urged the German government to end delays in For more information on the securities available contact 1-8Q0-989-BOND, adopting legislation aimed at curbing compliance with the Arab boycott against or write toStat e oflsrael Bonds, 9666 Olive BlvcL, St Louis, MO 63132. Israel. The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 5 c Community Relations News 3 operational expenses only. He was immediately transferred to a prison hospital The Case for Jonathan Pollard in Springfield, Missouri, where he was imprisoned in a ward for the criminally In 1983, President Reagan and Israel signed a document called an executive insane though he did not require treatment. After ten and one-half months in agreement. This agreement was endorsed by Congress, thus assuming a status this ward, he was rescued by Congressman Lee Hamilton and held for six months equal to that of a treaty, which is the law of the land. It provided that Israel and thereafter in a sealed room. Jonathan was then moved to United States the United States were obligated to transfer to each other all intelligence penitentiary in Marion, Illinois, the most severe prison in the United States. He information related to their national security interests. has been in Marion for over five years, in a basement room, in solitary for 23 While working in the office of the U.S. Naval Intelligence, Jonathan Pollard, hours per day. He is allowed out in an adjoining room for exercise for one hour. found a mass of intelligence information regarding efforts that were being made For a good part of every summer, the temperature is 107 degrees in his celL by Iran, Iraq, Syria, and other Arab countries to develop chemical, biological and nuclear weapons of mass destruction, and even plans by the PLO and other Arab What can we do? terrorists to at tack Israel. None of this information had been given to Israel, even though the law mandated that this be done. When Pollard asked his superior why the information was being withheld from Israel he was told, as if it were a huge andsenditto: Citizens for Justice, Inc.,P.O. Box 3257, New Haven, joke with Auschwitz in mind that Jews had become too sensitive about gas. CT 06515. In November of 1985, Jonathan Pollard was arrested and charged with spying on behalf of IsraeL His wife Anne, was arrested one day later. She was charged with being an accessory after the fact to her husband's possession of Dear Mr. President: classified national defense documents. In 1986, a plea bargain was entered into We the undersigned, respectfully call upon you and the Ameri­ an arrangement proposed by the U.S. Justice Department as being beneficial to can Government to recognize the undue harshness ofthe punish­ both Jonathan and Anne: the U.S. Government said it would not ask for a life ment endured by Jonathan Pollard and ask that his basic civil sentence for Jonathan. Jonathan's plea was motivated in large part by his desire rights be immediately restored. to spare his ailing wife a prison term and by the Government's refusal to accept We ask you on humanitarian grounds, to commute Jonathan Anne's plea of guilty unless he did likewise. The Government promised that "things would go easier on them if they cooperated." They pled guilty. Anne pled Pollard's sentence to time served. Unless this is done, history will guilty to the charge outlined above, which is not usually punishable by incarcera­ regard this case as disproportionate purnishment in the extreme tion; Jonathan pled guilty to passing classified information to an ally, one of the and prejudical toou r stature as champions of human and political lowest levels of the espionage statues. A Grand Jury spent many months studying rights. this case and brought no charges against Jonathan for having harmed the Name ' United States, its people or security. He was never accused or indicted for Address . treason. John and Michael Walker, who spied for Russia, were accused and indicted on five counts of treason each; they both got more lenient sentences than Jonathan. Jonathan cooperated fully with the authorities and helped the U.S. , ORT Opens Electronics Lab in India in its extensive damage assessment. by Freyda Reiss Weiss The U.S. Government suggested a hearing im camera in secret, with the In its continuing drive to modernize its facilities for Indian Jews, ORT, the promise again that things would go easier on them both if they cooperated. global Jewish network for technological and scientific education, recently in­ Jonathan and Anne complied because they trusted the U.S. Government. The stalled an advanced electronics and automation laboratory in the ORT Boy's morning of the hearing, March 4, 1987, one hour before sentencing, Caspar School in Bombay, announced Sandy Isenstein, national president of Women's Weinberger, then Secretary of Defense, sent an unprecedented, hand-delivered American ORT. The laboratory contains a number of systems which will letter to the Judge asking for the stiffest possible sentence "commensurate with considerably widen the scope of subjects the school will be able to offer, to include the enduring quality of treason", totally ignoring the fact that Jonathan was robotics, automation and control and other high-tech educational systems in never accused of treason. which ORT is a world leader. The crime or treasoa to defined la tie US. CoosMotion. In Article 111, Section 3, II says, "Treason against the U.S. shall cons 1st only in levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving tbem "With the installation of the new electronics laboratory, ORT is now able to aid and comfort" offer Indian Jews the opportunity to study cutting edge technologies in their own Anne received two concurrent five year sentences; Jonathan received life community," said Isenstein. "This small but vital community will be further imprisonment with recommendation for no parole from the sentencing judge. strengthened and be tter able to integrate itself into the global economy ofthe 21st No fine was imposed on Jonathan because the money he received was for century." Women's American ORT, an organization of 1,000 membership chapters Donations Needed to Settle New Americans across the United States, has been in the vanguard of social and humanitarian Dana Banks, Chair of the Chattanooga Jewish Federation Resettlement action for 65 years, building schools and training students in Jewish communities Committee reported that we are expecting to resettle sixteen new immigrants around the world. from the former Soviet Union begmning in early 1993. We are now accepting donations of items which are desperately needed to help furnish the apartments for the new Americans. All items must be in working order and clean. Read Our Lips! We need the following furniture: Beds, Mattresses & Box Springs, Couches, Armchairs, Kitchen or Dining Room Sets, Lamps, End Tables, Bookcases, Dressers, Radios,TeIevisions, Tape Recorders and Record players. We will also accept the following household items: Electrical appliances, Bedding & Linen supplies, Pictures, Dishes, Winer, Levine & Young Glasses, Silverware, Pots & Pans and other kitchenware. Also needed: Certified Public Accountants Bicycles, Toys, Games and Cars (in working condition). Utters oT Receipt for tax purposes wlU be mailed toaUdonors. ThetoatrilmtiOBsmaybedropped 425 High Street off at the Jewish Community Center from 9a.m. to 5 nan., Monday Ihrongh Friday. If you have large items *» donate that require pick up, please caU Lou Solomon at the Federation offke at 894-1517. 266-1811 266-0303 Fax To findou t more information aboutthe New Aaiericaa program orvolua leer possibilities, call Mr. Solomon. Page 6 The SHOFAR, January, 1993

breakup of the Soviet Union, and the rise of Nation­ A Miracle Mission alism, they feared persecution by the Moslems. We by Claire Binder had lunch with a beautiful young Russian woman. Whenever we travel, we are always asked, "What She and her husband were engineers, and had good was the highlight of your trip?" and this trip was no jobs in Russia. They came to Israel in order for their exception. This was our first UJA Mission, although son to have more opportunities and be able to live as not our first trip to Israel. Our first trip was a medical Jews. Their son asked, "Why, when we lived in trip...Sam presented a paper before the Jerusalem Russia, they called us Jews and in Israel they referred Medical Society. We visited hospitals and climes, to us as Russians?" from the very poorest to the most modern-such as The Neve Michael Youth Village was a joy to Hadassah-and visited with Israeli physicians in their visit. We met with Esther Lauffer, an American, and homes. Hana Levine, directors of the village. Esther and her husband Lane have 11 children of their own. We saw As exciting as that trip was, nothing can compare the smiling faces of Ethiopian, Russian and Israeli with going on a UJA Mission. There were about 150 children living, playing, studying together. Many of participants on the Atlanta Miracle Mission, from these students were orphans, many from broken Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Illinois and Tennessee. homes, some from abused families, and many placed It was exciting to meet all the participants and to were placed there by their patents in order to give learn why they had chosen this trip to Israel. Many them an opportunity for a better life-all learning and were on repeat trips, and others on their first trip. living together and rebuilding their lives. Two girls Some took this opportunity to combine a mission joined us at lunch and said they wanted to study hard. and a visit with children in high school programs. A "To feel a part ofthe past is to become a part One wanted to be a policewoman, the other wanted number said they had come on their first trip in order ofthearcheological landsanddigatBeit Guvrum to join the army. Both wanted to work hard, become to find their roots and what it meant to be Jewish. A and to learn the history ofthe area." Clairefound good citizens and contribute to the growth oflsrael. Rabbi recently returned from Israel, stated that it a 2,000year old oil lamp at TelMaresha. "It was They wanted to help others as they have been helped. was important for all Jews to visit Israel in order to thrilting.n discover why they are Jewish, and for most participants, this was"true. Everyone A mission is a learn­ admitted that their ties to Judaism and the Jewish people were strengthened. ing experience, not only Going on a mission is not only a sightseeing and emotional experience, but most by visiting and talking important, it is an educational experience. with people, but it is the ability to hear some out­ standing speakers, such as Dr. Arik Carmon, President of the Israel Democracy Institute. The Institute is trying to bring academic know- how to political thinking. They would like to de­ centralize the entire po­ litical system and give more strength to local government. They would like to develop more private investors and are trying to encour­ age more participation amongst citizens. Attending Kabbalat Shabbat Service at the Western We traveled to Ma 'akh Adumin and picked up Wall, to be praying at the holiest ourdesertvehicle for the experience of a lifetime-- shrine of the Jewish world, and "We were delighted to be on this mission with our cousins Perry and an excursion through the wilderness of Judea. We seeing the many different faces Shirley Brickman, and to have them as our bus leaders? of our Jewish families from picniced on hot dogs, met Bedouin children and around the world, has got to be Upon arrival, we were taken to the Mt. Scopus campus of the Hebrew learned more history ofthe area. thespiritual highlight. Saturday University for a dedication of a building donated by Mr. Al Davis, a philantropist morning we attended services at from Atlanta. During the dinner, we were entertained by an orchestra of Russian the Grand Synagogue and listened to the magnificant voice of the Cantor; then attended aBar Mitzvah at the Conservative synagogue with another glorious Cantor; then we attended a study session by Rabbi olim. Yitzhak, a mission participant, who spoke on the Parshat Noah. The following morning we left for Beersheva and Ben Gurion University. We had a briefing by Dr. Avaraham Infield, Director of the Meletz Institute Mayor Yitzak Rager welcomed us and spoke about the growth of the University, for Jewish Zionist Education. Mr. Infield, a South African by birth, was the first the diversity ofthe student body, and how Beersheva is absorbing olim. We were Shaliach to the United States in Baltimore. He addressed us about the two special introduced to Dr. Roger Nathan, project director of the Atlanta Federation things human beings are attracted to: "Need and Now." "We must live beyond Funded Economic Development Project and Ben Gurion University in the field 'Me'. Being a Jew is being constantly to Remember and to Remind. Toremember of Innovative Prosthestic. We listened to Dr. Haim Levine, a scientist who to live now and live in history. To live with memory. Jews should not speak founded the Neuromuscular Electical Stimulator System. The purpose of this singularly, but in plural. Being Jewish is a spiritual experience. Being at the Lod system is to give motion to paralyzed upper extremities in quadraplegics. Dr. Airport when planes are arriving carrying immigrants is to remind Jews what a Kaplan announced that through the Atlanta project partnership, Ben Gurion will Jewish State is about. American Jews want to know how to survive as a Jew in the be working with Georgia Tech and the Siskin Regional Rehabilitation Hospital open society of the U.S. Israel can be the answer. We can send our teenagers to in testing and further developing this program. It was with a great deal of pride school in Israel to learn and feel Judaism. The goal of Israel is that there should to be introduced as a Siskin Foundation board member. never be another refuge." We traveled to the Negev town of S'Derot to visit a settlement of olim and to Being on amission is a unique experience-- different because ofthe discuss the direct absorption of olim from the former Soviet Union. We were variety of the participants, each adding a special meaning. We shared fortunate to be able to visit a classroom and speak with the olim through an interpreter. The majority of these olim were from the Crimea and some from the moments that are difficult to describe. As one participant expressed: Ukraine. When asked why they had come to Israel, they all replied "For "You just gotta be there !'* Do yourselves a favor, wherever you plan Freedom." The olim from the Crimea had not felt the restraints of Jews in other to travel, make sure Israel is on the top ofthe list, and make at least one areas of the Soviet Union and had been able to practice their Judaism. With the trip a Mission to find your roots and to reenforce your heritage. The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 7 Shoreshim Trip to Poland & Israel by Ellie Miller This summer I spent six weeks touring from Poland to Israel. My main reason for going on tht trip was to see Israel, and to have a good time with other Jewish teens. I really had no desire to see Poland but an old friend from summer camp con­ vinced me to go with her on a trip to Israel and Poland. When I first told people about going to Poland they thought I was crazy. One of my relatives told me, "Our people escaped from places like that and you're going back there." Poland was nothing like I could have expected. We visited various old Jewish cemeteries and con­ centration camps. Yeah, you're saying, sounds like a great time! Well, it wasn't a great time those five days in Poland, but it was such an experience. Probably it was one ofthe most powerful and meaningful things I will ever do in my life. The cemeteries we saw were "Uncle Moishe Wants You!" Ellie Miller (right) got to see Israeli Army life up close and filled with crumbling graves and weeds. There was a personal by spending three days at an army base. "We wore actual army uniforms and wall made up of pieces of gravestones destroyed by the Nazis. At one ofthe cemeteries there was one old canteens. Our canteens had to always be full. Everywhere we went we had to walk in lines Jewishman whowatched over it. He told us that after of two and someone had to carry a Jerry can filled with water and someone else carried a he died no one would be left to care for the graves. stretcher. Every time we met someone we lined up in lines with 3 people in each. We would But far worse than the cemeteries, were the death have to put our hands behind our back and on cue, shout in Hebrew a phrase meaning that camps. We visited Majdanek, Auschwitz and Birkenau. Majdanek was the worst by far. Auschwitz we accept whatever our commander tells us to do. We learned how to camouflage ourselves was all prettied up like a little park with a museum and rubbed mud on our faces. We did drills at night where we had to immediately drop onto inside. On the outside were two ice cream shops, the ground and crawl on our elbows despite rocks everywhere." flowers, and benches just like a park. Everything on the inside was in glass cases. It just seemed like the I found that Israeli teens are just like Americans. spite rocks everywhere. At meals we would sit with Natural History Museum. Majdanek looked much We wear the same clothes, listen to the same music, our hands behind our backs until given permission by more like a death camp because things were left how feel the same emotions. The one difference between the head commander to eat. they were and not transformed into a museum. The us is that the Israelis on my trip who all were seniors We shot M-16 guns but only after 2 days of average life span in Majdanek was 40 minutes. The in high school would be going to the army next year. learning how to safely use them and learning all the trip leader told us this when we first walked in. I It is very hard for me to believe that next year my parts ofthe gun in Hebrew. It was scary to shoot such looked at my watch 50 minutes later and realized that friends in Israel will be fighting in the Israeli Defense a big gun. It was loud even with earphones and there I would have been dead 10 minutes ago. It was a Force. Some ofthe boys on my trip will be defending was a huge recoil. Despite this, I actually got two terrifying thought. There were three barracks filled the borders of Israel from Arab attacks and possibly shots very close to the bulls eye. only with shoes. Each shoe represented a Jewish even dying for their country. Through my experiences this summer, I got a person who had died. There were hundreds of thou­ For them joining the army is not an issue. They deep insight into the Holocaust and the magnitude of sands of shoes. I just couldn't believe how many are all proud to defend their country. They have a it. No history book or movie can even touch on the shoes there were. I tried to picture all the people who deep sense of pride in their country which is not the emotion of being there. My views and opinions will wore those shoes. There would have been so many case with the Americans. None of us felt nearly the be forever altered by what I have seen. My views of and that was only at one camp. The emotions that I same patriotism as the Israelis did. Very few of the Israel are also changed for the better. Through many felt in Poland cannot be described. It was kind of a Americans even knew anyone who had died in battle. lectures, I now know quite abit about the country and mixture of hate, fear and sadness. By the end of those All the Israelis know someone close to them who have eliminated any stereotypes I previously had. By five days in Poland I was so ready to go to Israel, not have died in war. During our trip one boy named Udi going to Israel I also helped eliminate the stereo­ to mention my hunger. The food was horrible in had a close friend die near the border of Lebanon. types some Israelis had about Americans being lazy Poland. For those five days in Poland I lived on He also had an uncle who had died during a war. This couch potatoes. poptarts, peanut butter and goldfish. is just part of their daily life. For anyone considering going to Israel, I would When my group arrived in Israel from Poland we I got to see the aspect of the army in Israeli life by recommend it without hesitation. I have traveled to started kissing the ground. We were so glad to be spending 3 days at an army base. The army was quite Sweden, England, Denmark and Mexico, but Israel is there. The Israeli teens who were going to be on our an experience. We wore actual army uniforms and by far my favorite country in the world. Nowhere else tour with us ran up and hugged us while singing and canteens. Our canteens had to always be full. If they are the people so friendly, the streets so safe, and are screaming. They were so glad to see us but we were weren't full then we would have to run and fill them there so many Jewish people. even more glad to be with them in Israel. in 30 seconds or do pushups. Everywhere we went we Once in Israel we traveled through the whole had to walk in lines of two and someone had to carry EltieMh&,daughterofBerthaandFrankMUler, country. Most of the time was spent in youth hostels a Jerry can filled with water and someone else carried spent Summer '92 in Poland and Israel on a with the exception of staying at an army base and a a stretcher. Every time we met someone we lined up "Shoreshim" trip. Shoreshim means roots ~ kibbutz. in lines with 3 people in each. We would have to put Ellie seems to have found hers. our hands behind our back and on cue, shout in The most unique part of my trip was getting to The Chattanooga Jewish Federation is making know Israel through Israeli teens. It was so special to Hebrew a phrase meaning that we accept whatever grants available to give every Jewish child in have Israelis traveling with us explaining to us about our commander tells us to do. We learned how to their country. I didn't feel like a tourist because I felt camouflage ourselves and rubbed mud on our faces. Chattanooga the opportunity to go to Israel For just like I lived there. We did drills at night where we had to immediately information or an application, call Lou Solomon drop onto the ground and crawl on our elbows de­ at894-1317. Page 8 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 As One Kitchen Door Opens, Another Seems to Close by very tired, but it had been strongly Gerry Sadow suggested that I attend this lec­ and Marlene Solomon ture. Ken was very tired, but To quote Private Benjamin as strongly urged to meet this young she marched in circles with full woman. Neither of us knew why pack in the rain, "Lunch, I'd just we were there, but after a couple like to go to lunch." Many a busy of dinner dates, it became appar­ woman these days has all but for­ ent," Wendy confided. Many of us gotten the luxury of going to lunch were at their wedding almost a with friends to just sit and share year ago. Too bad they won't have the news and enjoy the moment. their first anniversary for another Gerry Sadow, a beehive of activ­ three years. (They were married ity herself, was the catalyst who Feb. 29,1992.) brought us together with Barbara Wendymeets life head-on and Davidson and Wendy Kanter for is ready for just about anything. two interesting, relaxing and en­ She carries several full changes of joyable lunches recently. clothes in the trunk ofher car so Being the wife of a rabbi, or she can move through her day, rebbitzen, aswe traditionally call Barbara Davidson Wendy Kanter whatever it may bring, from the them, is but one ofthe hats that each of these vibrant, dynamic women ing in spa management. To see Alpine Slide on Raccoon Moun­ wear. Barbara Davidson works full time as a neo-natal nurse at the joy in life is an attitude she got tain to the symphony. Erlanger Hospital and is raising three active children, Michaela, Elana from her mother—and when she's It is with joy and sadness that and Jacob, as well as being a helpmate to her husband, Rabbi Josef around, it's definitely contagious. as the door to one kitchen swings Davidson. Barbara is a native of Carmel, California. The couple met Wendy was introduced to Ken open, another seems to be when a friend shlepped her to services at Fort Ord, a nearby army base, Kanter by Jed Mescon's parents closing. The Kanter's car has trav­ where Joe, a Denver native.was a soldier working as the assistantto the at a brunch in Atlanta, following a elled the Chattanooga-Nashville Chaplain. This was before he knew he was going to become a rabbi. talk that Ken had given. "I was road many times; we know they Barbara had already completed nursing school, and worked as a nurse won't be strangers. through rabbinical school and the birthing of children. For many years, Practically Instant Minestrone er husband was a hospital chaplain but made the change to become lean vegetarian retried beans (29 oz) 2 qt water Salt & Pepper to taste a pulpit rabbi when they went to Danbury, CT about four years ago. 1/4 c olive oil 1/2 tap. marjoram 2 med. onions Barbara takes it all in stride." I just try to streamline things as much as llg. can crushed tomatoes 1 clove garlic 2 c chopped cabbage possible," she says. "There are very few places and little variety for 4 celery stalks 1 c. macaroni grated parmesan people who maintain a kosher diet in Chattanooga. I have always Heat beans & water. Chop onions, garlic & celery. Saute in oil with the enjoyed doing all sorts of international cooking. So, when I cook marjoram for 10 minutes. Add to beans. Add crushed tomatoes and cabbage. something, I just make big batches and freeze alot. If I don't make my Season to taste with salt & pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes. Add macaroni and own challah for Shabbat, the kids complain and just won't eat it. So I cook until tender. Other vegetables may be added, such as zucchini and carrots in reasonable quantities. To serve, sprinkle heavily with Parmesan cheese. make it once a month, and freeze it." Barbara shares some of her Serves 10. family's favorite dishes with us-including the challah. Roast Chicken w/Vegetables & Whole Garlic Cloves Wendy Kanter is abundle of energy determined to make life fun. In (The Gourmet Jewish Cook - by Judy Zeidle fact, you could call "fun" her life's work-she's a physiologist, specializ- 2 chickens (3 lbs. ea.) cut into pieces 2 onions Barbara Davidson's A to Z Bread 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 carrots, peeled & thinly sliced 12 med. mushrooms, quartered 1/4 cup finelychoppe d fresh parsley (By: Hazel GentryContra Costa Cookbook) 5 small new potatoes, unpeeled & quartered 1/2 cup olive oil 1 whole head of garlic, cloves separated, unpeeled 3 cops flour 1 cup oil 1 tsp. salt 2 cups sugar 1 green pepper, steamed, seeded & thinly sliced 1 tsp. soda 2 cups A to Z 3 tsp. cinnamon 3 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. dried Rosemary or Thyme Salt Freshly ground black pepper 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1 c. chopped nuts 3 eggs 1 can (15 oz.) peeled tomatoes with juice 1 cup dry white wine AtoZ Put the onions, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, green pepper and tomatoes Use one of the following to equal 2 cups except as indicated: in a large roasting pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Add wine and simmer Apples • grated Peaches - fresh or canned, for 5 minutes. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Applesauce Peppermint • use only 1/2 cup In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and brown quickly the Apricots - chopped Pears • chopped Bananas - mashed Pineapple • crashed, well drained chicken pieces on both sides to seal juices. Transfer the browned chicken to the Carrots . grated Prunes - chopped (use only leap) roasting pan and baste with tomato/onion mixture to coat the chicken. Add the Cherries • pitted & chopped Pumpkin • canned mushrooms, parsley, unpeeled garlic cloves, rosemary, salt & pepper to taste. Coconut .fresh ground Raisins Dates - pitted, finer/ chopped Rasberries Cover and bake for 1 hour or until chicken is tender. Eggplant - ground Rhubarb * finely chopped To serve this dish, spoon the sauce onto individual heated serving plates; place Figs • finely chopped Strawberries . fresh er well drained frozen the chicken on top with the mushrooms & vegetables, put an unpeeled garlic clove Grapes - seedless Sweet potato -grate coarsely Honey (omit Sugar above) Tapioca - cooked on top of each serving Lemons • ase only 1/2 c Juice Tomatoes • ase only 1/2 c sugar Marmalade (omit 1 cap sugar) Yams • cooked and mashed Mincemeat Yogurt • plain or flavored Do you have a favorite recipe you'd like to share? Oranges .chopped Zucchini • gro and or grated, well drained Sift dry ingredients; set aside. Beat eggs in a large bowl; add oil & sugar; cream Or, perhaps you are lookingfor # special tveipe for well. Add A to Zand vanilla. Add dry ingredients. Mix well. Add nuts. Spoon some forgotten dtehjromyour childhood? into well-greased pans. Bake in preheated oven at 325 degrees for 1 hour. Makes 2 large *loaves. (*Note: I like to make this in muffin tins and serve for a quick Contact: Marlene Solomon atS94il 317. breakfast. Bake in regular sized muffin tins for 20-25 mins. The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 9

Challah (Adapted from First Jewish Catalog - By Sharon Strassfeld) Q Our Man in Israel: Alan Lebovitz J 2 cups very warm water 2 sticks parve margarine 3 packages quick-rise yeast 5 eggs (reserve 1 for glaze) Project Otzma is taking me places 8 cups flour 11/4 cup sugar 11/2 tsp. salt that I would never have the opportu­ Mix dry ingredients 1st 7 cups of flour including yeast. Heat margarine & nity to experience on my own, such as water until very warm 125- 130 degrees. Combine with flour mixture and 4 Nahalal Youth Village. The Youth beaten eggs. Knead until smooth, add flour as necessary until dough is no longer Village, which is part of Israel's Youth sticky and until smooth for approximately 10 minutes. Allow to rise in greased Aliyah program, is a boarding school bowl, covered, for about 45 mins. Shape into braided loaves - 4 small, 2 medium, for close to 200 teenagers who come or 1 extra large. Small loaves can be put in loaf pans. Allow to rise another 45 from problematic homes and weaker minutes. Brush with beaten egg and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until educational backgrounds. The board­ brown. These Freeze Well! ing school is part of Nahalal's regional high school which is comprised of an­ other 400 students. This youth village Wendy's Wonders... is located within Israel's oldest moshav, As a health and fitness specialist, international travelerandrebbitzin, I Moshav Nahalal, which is situated in thought I would introduce you to a few of my favorite recipes. They represent the Northern Galilee between Haifa the exotic, diverse and traditional facets of my life. and Afula. As part of the Otzma expe­ This fast, low-fat herbed cheese spread tastes exotic. rience, each Otzmanik works inayouth Mock Boursin village, as my group of 8 is doing here 1 pkg. light cream cheese 2 cloves garlic 1/4 tsp. pepper at Nahalal. Our other Otzma friends are spread out within different schools 1/2 tsp. thyme 1/2 tsp. rosemary 1/2 tsp. parsley throughout the country. 1/2 tsp. chives 1 Tbsp. milk (add a touch more for fluffierspread ) Alan Lebovitz Blend the above in a food processor or with a speedy fork. Refrigerate for 1 Wednesday, December 9,1992 • 3rd day at Nahalal day and share! Accompany with any water biscuit, toasted bagel and lots of Last night, Dan and I spent our first night working with our new group of kids- conversation in between seconds and thirds! Serves two for an entire afternoon. - 30 Russian students who arrived in Israel without their families only one month Diversity Salad w/Hearty Dressing (American Heart Assn.) ago. These kids, who are between 14 and 16 years old, are part of a selective Salad program sending Russian kids to study in Israeli high schools. We were assigned Torn lettuce leaves (eg arugula and Boston bibb) to work with the Russians while Tami, Dave, Erica, Cindy, Robyn, and Shara were 1 carrot blanched 1 tomato 1 sm. blanched zucchini each assigned to work in separate dorm buildings with the Israeli boarding 1 sm. blanched yellow squash 1/2 c chopped purple cabbage students. When we first stepped foot in the Russians' dorm, we were over­ 1/2 c cold colorful pasta wheels, shells or shapes whelmed with their warmth and openness. They came up to us with wide smiles a smattering of toasted pine nuts a smidgeon of grated gruyere ceese saying, "Hello" and introducing themselves. There was Igor, Deborah, Leana, Toss torn pieces ofyou r two favorite salad greens into large salad bowls. Slice Iry, Vitaly, Boris, Vladimir, Sofia, etc. definitely too many difficult names to a blanched carrot into the bed of greens, then wedged tomatoes, then 1/2 slices of remember so quickly. After we introduced ourselves, we attempted to explain blanched zucchini and squash, and some colorful pasta shell. Top with grated to them in Hebrew mid in some English who we were and why we were here. We purple cabbage, toasted pinenuts, and finally, thinly grated gruyere cheese. described Otzma's format 99 people from North America on a 10-month Drizzle Hearty Dressing and allow flavors to mingle. Then..Voila... volunteer program, working in different aspects throughout Israel in simple Dressing (makes one cup) Hebrew and English. We also tried to communicate our past three months in 2/3 cup unsaturated salad oil 1/3 cup vinegar Israel on kibbutz learning Hebrew and working in a bread factory for me and 1/4 tsp. dry mustard pwder 1/4 tsp sugar or sugar substitute an olive factory for Dan. We continued to explain that we are now at Nahalal 1/8 tsp. pepper 1/8 tsp. garlic powder as teachers and dorm assistants. Specifically, our mornings would be spent Place all ingredients in a jar and shake well. Chill. assistant teaching in the high school, grades 7-12, and our afternoons would be spent with them tutoring English and math and conducting different activities. This entire introduction period was quite crazy. While we explained our mission "Momele's" Split Pea and Barley Soup to them, different kids crowded around us, as the stronger Hebrew and English An exceptionally hearty, healthy and heavenly soup. Itwas a soup djour speakers translated for their friends. and one for life because its nutritious, aromatic and just delicious! My father This brief introduction to the Russians quickly added another dimension to finally wrote this years later so I could carry on the magic. I share it with our program. Rather than being welcomed to Israel and lectured to in another you. museum or about the Golan Heights, Dan and I were on the other side welcoming large pot 3/4 full of water (about 3 qts.) 4 carrots newcomers and soon helping them adjust to Israel. Needless to say, both of us large beef bone sawed in half 1 onion cut up were excited about this wonderful opportunity. 1 package of Manishevitz split pea and barley basics (hold out small This afternoon when I went to the Russians' dorm, I walked into one of the pkg. of powdered mixture) 1-2 tsp. salt or salt substitute women's rooms, and shortly thereafter one of them asked me to read her essay. Bring to boil and then simmer at low heat for 1 hour. Stir from time to time, The rest of the women were ready for me to help them next. Many of their essays removing froth that collects during boil. After simmering for 1 hour, add meat demonstrated very impressive writing skills. My next task developed when and continue to simmer slight boil for about 11/2 hours or more. When soup another kid asked for help with his math homework, and, of course, I consented is ready, soup aroma permeates the kitchen area. Add the small package of and sat down to an opened page of geometry. I took a deep breath and said Manishevitz powdered mixture to the soup 15 minutes before the cooking is something like ooy va voy, and the kid kept asking me, "Do you know? Do you finished. When the soup is finished, let it cool on the range until cool enough to know? You don't know? Youdon'tknow? I told him that he must be patient with place in the refrigerator to solidify the fat for easy removal. Can be left over night me because I haven't seen geometry for nearly eight years. After a small pause, with cover for cooling and placed into the refrigerator in the morning. we worked the problems out successfully, and he was very grateful patting me on A little ofthe old world, a little ofthe new world, all "out of this world!" the back and thanking me in Russian, "Spacibo! Spacibor After dinner, our building planned a music program with singing and key­ board playing. We sat around and sang Hebrew songs and even the Soviet Join us for National Anthem. One woman, in particular, had a beautiful voice. After the music, Dan and I decided to try to teach them some new words by playing hang­ An Israeli Extravaganza man with them. The game was very funny because they kept guessing the words before any of the letters were even written down. We were laughing at their Sunday, January 9th, 8:00-10:30 p.m. uncanny guessing ability. It was easy to decipher that Dan and I are very fortunate at the Jewish Community Center to be working with such smart and motivated kids. We can hardly wait until tomorrow night's planned disco, in addition to the remaining seven weeks. If I can Featuring the sights, sounds and tastes oflsrael. only remember all of these new names... Page 10 The SHOFAR, January, 1993

From the Chair of Excellence UTC Sponsors Symposium on by Dr. Irven Resnick Jewish Press in America: Chair of Excellence in Dr. Barbara Straus Reed, Scholar -in Residence Jan. 12 -16 Judaic Studies, UTC Dr. Barbara Straus Reed will be the Scholar-in-Residence for a Communications Symposium co- Denying the Holocaust sponsored by the West Chair of In early November we hosted a 4-day con­ Excellence in Communications ference at UTC entitled, "Learning from the Holocaust." The conferencebroughtmore than Dr. Irven Resnick and the Chair of Excellence in 350 secondary school educators and students to Judaic Studies at the University of campus for a series of lectures, films, and workshops. For us one of the Tennessee at Chattanooga, B'nai unexpected lessons ofthe Holocaust, however, was the growing influence of a Zion Synagogue, Mizpah Con­ movement that proudly calls itself revisionist, and denies that the Holocaust gregation and the Chattanooga has any historical basis. Many of my colleagues, most of whom had absolutely Jewish Community Center begin­ nothing to do with the conference, received anonymously through the mail ning Tuesday, January 12th. Dr. packages of revisionist hate literature. The University "Echo," which had Reed, a noted expert in magazine earlier published a story on the conference, also received this material. journalism, is an Assistant Pro­ I call this literature hate literature because behind the mask of historical •C fessor of Journalism and Mass scholarship it both denies that there is evidence of Nazi genocide and seeks to dismiss such evidence with the absurd claim that it is an invention of "the Jews." Media at Rutgers University in Thus, when confronted with damning confessions from the Nazi commandants New Jersey. Her Ph.D. disserta­ of concentration camps presented as evidence at the Nuremburg trials after the tion at Ohio University was in the war, the Institute for Historical Review proposes that these confessions were area of Jewish journalism history, Dr. Barbara Straus Reed obtained by torture by "Jewish interrogators in British uniform..." The grim and she is currently working on a book on Outsiders in 19th Century and disturbing photographs of emaciated corpses in the camps are denounced American Journalism, concerning the ethnic press in America. as faked, or are identified as actually "pictures of piles of German women and children killed in Allied bombing raids [who] have been passed off as dead Dr. Reed will give six lectures: Jews." The first-person testimonies of Jewish survivors are dismissed as either Tuesday. January 12 contradictory or self-serving propoganda intended to create the "Jewish Holo­ " Women and the Media" caust myth." The 'Holocaust myth' is deemed the product of World Zionism, Signal Mountain Room, UTC Student Center, 925 a.m. -10:40 am. used to exploit the tender conscience of the much maligned German people, "Women's Magazines" a slide presentation who have now 'generously' provided Israel with billions of dollars in allegedly Signal Mountain Room, UTC Student Center, 10:50 a-m. • 12 noon unjustified reparations. To Holocaust revisionists it is a myth "used by the "The Best Jewish Newspapers in America" Zionist/Israeli lobby to control American foreign policy toward Israel and to Chattanooga Jewish Community Center, 7:30 pan. force American taxpayers to put up all the money Israel wants" and cleverly designed to "instill a guilt complex within all Gentiles which will thereby enable Thursday. January 14 organized Jewry to further exploit America which has become a puppet of "Outsiders in 19th Century American Journalism" Israel..." Raccoon Room, UTC Student Center, 12:15 pan. • 1:30 pan. Is this to be taken seriously? A recent poll in Italy suggests that 9% of Italians believe that the Friday, January 15 Holocaust is a hoax. Closer to home, one may read a little newssheet called "The Truth At Last," one of the more offensive publications of Holocaust revisionism, printed in Marietta, Georgia. Ibis "A New Light in the Jewish Community: The Journalism ofIsacc Mayer newspaper makes it abundantly dear that, as Professor Richard Rubenstein remarked during our Wise," organizer of Reform Judaism in America. conference, those who most vehemently deny that a Holocaust occurred are the same ones who most Mizpah Congregation, 8:00 p.m. ardently wish it had. A few weeks ago Don Carter, a professor of history at Emory University, Saturday, January 16 published a piece in the Chronicle of Higher Education 11/18/92 entitled, "Before Littith: Rosa Sonnenschein and the American Jewess" "The Academy's Crisis of Belief." There Carter describes an encounter he had B'nai Zion Synagogue, 10:00 a.m. with a "distinguished Atlanta physician" who insisted with great vehemence All lectures are free and open to the public. that "There was no Holocaust." These claims for Carter represent a true crisis Dr. Barbara Straus Reed received her doctorate from Ohio University at for the academy, and especially for historical study-not just because they Athens in Mass Communication in 19S7. She received her MA in Journalism demean Jewish suffering and the suffering of millions of other victims, but from the University of Minnesota in 1965 and her B.S. in English from Miami because, if they pass unchallenged, they reveal a disturbing feature about us University of Ohio in 1963. She has worked in education, advertising, public that threatens to undermine every historical enterprise. Carter laments a relations, television, consulting and print, having written many publications, growing willingness among influential historians to accept the notion that articles and book reviews and served on numerous panels. Her most recent award history consists of mere "stories we tell about the past" that are "only a half step was from the International Association of Business Communicators, for an away from pure fiction." Historical data are treated like literary 'texts' that are outstanding research paper, "Individual Differences in Ethical Values of Public divorced from reality [and] totally dependent upon the prejudice and precon­ Relations Practitioners" written with Jacob Shamir and Steven Connell, June 1992. ceptions ofthe author and the reader, and thus subject to infinite interpreta­ Dr. Reed is married to Dr. Michael Kesler, a chemical engineer, and has two tion." This approach threatens to make of the Holocaust too a 'text' subject to children, Michael Reed, 24, an electrical engineer and Esther Reed, 19, a student the infinite manipulation of'historian' Willis Carto, the creator ofthe Institute at BrynMawr College. for Historical Review and a man Carter describes as "an advocate of anti- Semitic causes. If we let pass unchallenged the notion Oat the seminal event of modern history, one for which the For news of Israel, watch..... evidence is so overwhelming, is an Invention or a hoax one can no longer safety assume the existence of any historical truth. For this reason, Carter insists that "we have a moral obligation to confront these outbreaks of irrationality in onr classrooms and la the larger arena of civic life. In Oat confrontation, Jerusalem On-Une we cannot meet dogmatism with dogmatism, orsimpty shrug ourshouMers and say that there are'many kinds of truth.' We have to rely upon the long traditions or rational inquiry; the careful accumulation Sundays at 6:30 p.m* of empirical evidence, rigorous analysis, and the marshalling of logical argument However frail these methods may seem in the face of both paranoia and nihilism, they are all that we have." Although it is often painful to treat issues of the Holocaust, it is extremely important that we do so, passing on the on WTCI-TV 45 (Cable 5) 'traditions of rational inquiry' to the next generation. Sponsored by the Community Relations Committee ofthe Chattanooga Jewish Federation The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 11

A Message from the Consul General The Bilateral Middle East Peace Talks A Review of Round Seven: Bill Cancelling Ban on Meetings With PLO Before Knesset Oct. 21 - Nov. 19, 1992 Justice Minister Prof. David Liba'i, will present for its first Knesset reading, the bill cancelling the ban on meetings with the PLO, as defined The seventh round of direct bilateral peace negotiations between Israel and within the prevention of terrorism ordinance. The decision was taken her Arab neighbors was concluded on November 19,1992. Thisroundwas unanimously at the Justice Minister's request in the Ministerial Committee held in Washington D.C, and lasted about Jive weeks. As we are in the midst headed by Prime Minister Rabin, which dealt with the timing of itssubmission ofRoundEight, it is important to understand where matters stood at the end on behalf of the government. The decision was supported by both the Prime of Round Seven. The Israeli Consulate in Atlanta has provided us with their Minister and the Foreign Minister. The Justice Minister clarified that the analysis. cancellation ofthe ban does not signify a change in the government's position, which continues to regard the PLO as a terrorist organization and opposes its Palestinians: participation in the political negotiations with the representatives of the In the negotiations with the Palestinian delegation some progress was made Palestinian residents of the territories. concerning the structure of the talks, while discussions regarding substance were Prof. Liba'i explained that since the amendment was first brought to the less successful. Knesset by then Justice Minister Moshe Nissim, he vehemently opposed the Israel has been working with the Palestinians to establish small negotiating inclusion of this ban in the legislative code. There is no country in the world teams toaddres s the details necessary to reach an agreement on the Interim Self- which punishes meetings with the enemy with imprisonment, when the person Government Arrangements (ISGA). Encouragingly, small groups were estab­ making the contact has a reasonable explanation for his action, did not lished and discussions began concerning land use, economic arrangements, and damage, and had no intention of damaging, state security. This penalty, added human rights. Minister Liba'i, is in direct contradiction of the basic principles of the penal Unfortunately, the move toward small negotiating groups was not accompa­ code, and imposes a political viewpoint by means of punishment and under­ nied by a similar move toward constructive negotiations. The Palestinian mines democracy, since it restricts political contact to the government, which delegation insisted on raising issues concerning the final status ofthe Territories precluding absolutely identical contact by the opposition. and Jerusalem which hampered progress on practical immediate issues and are The Justice Minister stressed that should the ban in the Prevention of not relevant to the Interim Self-Government negotiations at hand. Terrorism Ordinance be abolished, there exists a prohibition in the penal Jordan: code which forbids meetings with PLO leaders, on condition that the person Showing some progress, Israeland Jordan arrived at amutualworkingagenda making contact intends to impair, or did so impair, state security, or has no outlining the issues and goals of interest between the two parties. Small, subject reasonable explanation for holding such a meeting. The maximal punishment oriented working groups comprised of non-political experts in the field of for such a crime is IS years imprisonment, and this severe penalty should discussion, as well as diplomats and legal specialists, are already at work. The suffice to deter unjustified contacts with the PLO which have no reasonable parties have already begun substantial talks including the issues of water and explanation. Prof. Liba'i added that until this penalty is lifted, the stipulations cooperation in the areas of the environment and energy. Israel expects to address of the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance must be respected, and the additional issues in the upcoming round of talks. Attorney-General must be sure to enforce the law. Syria: Israel presented Syria with a reformulated position paper which mentioned Immigrants Trained by JDC to Fill Needs in a willingness to consider withdrawal on the Golan Heights within the context of a peace treaty. Such a Treaty would have to address the crucial issues of security, Textile and High-Tech Industries peace, and borders. The talks, however, did not advance much beyond this point. Israel's textile and high-tech industries recently got a "shot in the Syria demanded that Israel commit itself to a full withdrawal from the Golan arm" as a group of 28 Russian immigrant engineers graduated from Heights before Syria would even describe the depth, attributes and substance of two retraining programs sponsored by JDC, the Ministry of Labor and the peace it is willing to offer. Such a Syrian expectation is tantamount to Social Affairs and the Absorption Ministry. expecting Israel to agree to their price before being able to see the merchandise. One ofthe courses prepared olim with computer backgrounds to The Israeli delegation explained that further elaboration on withdrawal would be impossible without hearing what the Syrians are offering. Basic information work in the field of computer software. They were trained at Decision needed includes whether there would be a complete peace diplomatic relations, System Israel, a private company specializing in this field, and were open borders and whether that peace would exist independently ofthe other guaranteed at least three years of employment. Decision System is now peace negotiations. Israel hopes for greater progress in the next round of talks training some 100 immigrant computer engineers, many of them and hopes that Syria will enter the talks in more of a "give and take" spirit. PhD's, to almost double its work force. Lebanon: The other course took place at the Jerusalem Fiber Institute and The negotiations with Lebanon were heavily influenced by the repeated acts trained the immigrants in the specialized fiber technology and chem­ of violence carried out against Israelis by extremist terrorist elements operating istry fields to fill the needs ofthe textile industry. Ofthe 16 graduates on Lebanese soil. There were a number of attacks by the Hizbullah which caused from the last course, 15 have already found employment in their field six Israeli fatalities and over a dozen injuries. The Hizbullah, a Fundamentalist Islamic Terrorist Organization which operates freely from Syrian controlled Lebanon with Iranian training and support, uses terrorism in an attempt to ALL SEASONS undermine the Peace Process. In its talks with Lebanon, Israel stated that while it remainsdedicate d toth e Peace-making process, such terrorist attacks will not TRAVEL be toleratedan d that it will do whatever is necessary todefen d itself from further > attacks. As the security situation on the Lebanese border stabilized, Israel presented the Lebanese with a compromise proposal suggesting a cooperative military working group. Such a venture would provide both sides with a mecha­ Joy Greenberg nism to avoid the kind of violence that has plagued this round of talks. The proposal is still on the table and awaits further rounds of negotiations. Nancy Ulin Conclusion: Overall, some modest progress was made in this round. However, the extremist violence in the region, and the increasingly upcoming positions in the Carol Young negotiating room hindered further achievements which could have been made and which Israel had come prepared to make. In order to conserve the momentum of the talks and to increase the chances of success, Israel is more than willing to continue in the Peace-making processes 892-5235 as soon as possible. Page 42 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Congregational News 1 B'nai Zion Synagogue by Millie Lander Mizpah Congregation hy Ruth jaffe We all hope that 1993 will be a Happy & Healthy Year for you and Friday January 8-8:00 p.m.: Mizpah Congregation honors Rabbi your family. and Wendy Kanter for his 10 years of service to Mizpah and the The membership of B'nai Zion invites everyone to the Installation Chattanooga Community at a special shabbat service. Our congrega­ Service ofRabbiJosefDavidson, Sunday, January24,1993 at2:00p.m., tion family will be joined by clergy representatives of Chattanooga's and to the reception afterwards, honoring the Rabbi and Barbara and religious community and many friends fromthroughou t the Chatta­ their children, Michaela, Elana and Jacob. Dr. Steve Ulin and Alvin nooga area. The special speaker for the evening will be Rabbi Randall Shoenig are chairing the event. Falk, a long-time friend ofthe Kanters and our congregation. Please Shabbat morning, January 16th, Dr. Barbara Straus Reed, Assis­ mark your calendars for this special evening. The Mizpah choir-both tant Professor of Journalism & Mass Media at Rutgers University, will professional and volunteer--will participate. address the congregation on "BeforeLiUith: Rosa Sonnenscheinandthe Friday, January 15: Isaac Mayer Wise Scholar to Speak. The American Jewess." Dr. Reed will be in Chattanooga as part of a scholar- Mizpah Adult Education Committee cordially invitesyou to attend our in residence program with UTC, the JCC, Mizpah Congregation and first Friday Night Scholar presentation when we welcome Dr. Barbara B'nai Zion. Straus Reed, Assistant Professor of Journalism at Rutger's University. The monthly Shabbat Experience for families will be held Following an abbreviated Friday evening Shabbat Service, Dr. Reed Friday evening, January 22nd. This will be in conjunction with will speak on "A New Light In The Jewish Community: The Journalism Women's League Shabbat Weekend. of Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise." Dr. Reed is brought to Chattanooga On Tuesday, January 5th, at 7 JO pan. Rabbi Davidson will begin through the auspices of UTC professor and Mizpah member, David an adult education class covering the principles, rituals and history of Sachsman. She will also be speaking at UTC, as well as several other Judaism. Beginning with an overview of Jewish theology, the class will venues during her visit to Chattanooga. Rabbi Wise, the founder of be structured so that every month a new topic will be introduced Reform Judaism in America, and source of our Congregational name, followed by several in-depth sessions. This format will allow interested was also the founder of the American Israelite, which was one of individuals to attend either on a monthly basis or a weekly basis America's first English language Jewish newspapers and is still in depending on one's level of interest. All sessions will be held Tuesday publication. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Reed to Mizpah and to evenings at 7:30 p.m. Chattanooga and hope you will make every effort to attend. Jordan Forman is offering a Basic Hebrew class which will meet on Mizpah is pleased to announce that we have secured thirty tickets Monday evenings at 6:30 p.m. Jordan is busy compiling a tape to the "Fabulous Fox" Theater in Atlanta to see the Broadway touring catalogue and library of the weekly Torah portions. If anyone is company of "Guys & Dolls." The date is Sunday, January 17th at 2:00 interested in a particular Torah reading, check with Jordan. pan. in Atlanta. Tickets are $26.00 per person. Your check is your Also, on Saturday evenings, January 9th and 16th, B'nai Zion will reservation. Transportation by van is available for the first thirteen present feature movies. On the 9th, "My Favorite Year," and on the (13) who sign up at a costof $10.00. Please reserve your space by calling 16th, "Blazing Saddles." The movies are shown on large-screen TV the Temple office at 267-9771. and showtime is 7:30 pan. Admission is 99 cents. Popcorn and drinks January 29-30-31 - TYG Convention, One people, Many Faces, wiilbe are available at a nominal charge. in Chattanooga. Friday evening, January 29th, there will be a AND for fun...The Super Bowl Party, Sunday, January 31st at 6 "Creative Service For the Community." Approximately 60 members p.m.. Chili,hotdogs,gamesand big board will make thisafun evening. will attend fromGeorgia , South Carolina and Chattanooga. This will Save the Date! Sunday February 21 st for the B'nai Zion Women's be a weekend of music, prayer, special events and social activities. League Torah Fund Luncheon. Officers of TYG: Donlforget ongoing programs at B'nai Zion: Paige Ginsberg ...... President Torah Study, Shabbat mornings at 9:30 a an.; Library Discussion Liana Gefter Chaplain Group, Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. (No session January 3rd). Margo Levy...... Secretary Rabbi Davidson is seeking an IBM XT or AT personal computer Brian Ettkin Treasurer with 5 1/4 floppy disk drive(s), monitor and printer, for use in the Ellie Miller Social Vice President synagogue. If you are planning to upgrade your computer system, Mizpah Congregatrion's Annual Fundraiser (and this will be a please consider donating your old system to the synagogue. "Biggie"!!) Sunday, February28 - 7:00p.m. Thisyear thisBig Event will Theatre Party -February 14,1993 be honoring and starring Rabbi Ken Kanter in "With a Song In Our B'nai Zion Synagogue and Mizpah Congregation are co-sponsor­ Hearts," a special musical lecture created by Rabbi Kanter for this ing a Theatre Party at Chattanooga Little Theatre on Sunday after­ occasion. The formatwill be similar to his "Jews On TinPanAlley." This noon, February 14th. The play, "Social Security" is the story of Sophie will also be the Temple's 1993 Goldman-Moses Lecture. Greengrass' transformation from an elderly, frumpy grandmother to Helpingto make tiiisevenin g more festive musically, will be soprano an octogenarian femmefatale. Itisafast-pacedplayfilledwithloveand Rebecca Tate St. Goar, U.C. Foundation associate professor of music, laughter.We have rented the theatre for the afternoon and plan to who has been a soloist at Temple. Also performingwill be baritone Kim provide refreshments at intermission. Tickets will be $9.50 each for Thompson, also a Temple soloist and long-time performer in commu­ non-subscribers (this price includes refreshments). If you are a season's nity musical theater. The Jim Wilson Ensemble will accompany the singers. A wine & cheese hour will preceed the concert, which will be ticket subscriber.you can useyourticketforthisperformance(the only held in the Temple sanctuary. Patron ticket holders will attend a post- charge to you is a $1 refreshment charge to help defray our costs). concert reception at 212 Market Street Restaurant. Co-chairs ofthe Seating is reserved and is on a first-come, first-served basis. event are Karen Diamond & Judi Pressman. To make reservation or to work on planning this program, please contact Marilyn Goler at 899-2128 or Phyllis or Jed Mescon at 624- Please patronize our 7087. The deadline for reservations is February 1st The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 13

Beth Sholom News by Harold Shapiro Helping Russian Jews Rnd a Modern Judaism That Appeals To The Mind And to the Heart Beth Sholom Congregation has engaged Rabbi Mordechai Saxon By Martin Horwitz, director ofthe World Union for Progressive to serve as their rabbi. Rabbi Saxon, a Kolel rabbi from Atlanta, will Judaism in Moscow. spend every other Shabbat in Chattanooga with his family, according "My grandfather was a very religious man, and sometimes I went to shul with to Sam Roistacher, congregation president. him on Shabbos. But it was only here at our Kabbalat Shabbat service, where We wish Rabbi Saxon and his wife a hearty mazel tov on the very prayers were explained in Russian and Hebrew, that I began to understand and recent birth of their second child, a son. We look forward to welcoming feel what Shabbos is all about." Toan American, workinghere as director of the World Union for Progressive the Saxon's to our community. Judaism, these words from a young man from Chernovtsy in the Ukraine were deeply gratifying. They confirmed my conviction that what is happening to the Jews in the former Soviet Union is nothing short of a miracle. The world's third B'nai Zion Super Bowl Party largest Jewish population-Jewish in background but little else, once hidden Sunday, January 31 at 6 p.m. behind a curtain of iron and now seeking to renew itself—is becoming a part of world Jewry again. Bring Your Favorite Games! It is especially inspiring that the growth of our movement here has been so Cards, Man Jongg, Board Games, etc... much a grassroots effort, with significant local initiative. These Jews are search­ $100 Board includes 2 admissions ing for a modern interpretation of Judaism-one that appeals to both their intellect and their sense of tradition, to the mind and to the heart. Without the $5000 in prizes World Union they would still be searching. We are indeed in the right place. Large-Screen TV A major component of our work is the seminars held in different locales for teachers, youth leaders and potential board members of congregations from Hot Dogs & Chili (Regular & Veggie) throughout the Commonwealth of Independent States. It is an exciting effort. And they work. The level of Jewish involvement of some ofthe participants in the Admission: $10.00 per person seminars we conducted this year in Nizhny Novgorod, Minsk and Perm moved Call 894-8900 for reservations from mere curiosity to regular observance of the Sabbath and holidays. My own role is that of a teacher-counselor. When I lead a model Seder for religious school teachers, I have a profound sense of gratification as I re-enact this chapter of our people's saga. I feel I am part of one of the most important things Oifib1c1i5ritin5 Times the World Union is doing: giving Jews in the East what we Jews in the West take for granted-not just the experience of a Seder, but of making a Seder, helping for Shabbat them move from attending a Chanukah celebration to lighting candles for their own children and the children of their congregation. I have two assistants. Mark Rykel, our traveling shaliach, lectures and leads January 01...... ,.5:20 Kabbalat Shabbat services in our new communities. He also provides valuable feedback on potential leaders whom he meets on his visits. Mark has spent most January 08 5:26 of his time in the Western part of the former U.S.S.R. Rega, Minsk, Tallin, St. January 15. 5:32 Petersburg, Kiev. His colleague Alik Feldman, who coordinates much of the logistical assistance to our congregations and schools, has made longer forays to January 22 5:39 the East-visiting communities along the Volga River and in the Urals, such as January 29.. 5:46 Samara and Perm. Their reports are invaluable in helping to prepare the rabbis and teachers from Israel, North America and Europe who come to visit our schools and congregations. Much of our time in Moscow is spent on the prosaic task of distributing books, These times are 20 minutes before sunset. siddurim, matzot and videotapes of Shabbat services and holiday celebrations, Israeli films and teaching guides. But this is no simple task when "here" is Moscow and "there" can be cities and towns scattered anywhere from the Baltic Treating a Jewish Disease to the Volga, from the Ukraine to Siberia. Dr. Robin Berman is a woman~and a physician-with a purpose. A graduate To be a part of this effort is the greatest privilege of my life. It is an effort in of Yale University and Georgetown University medical school, she is married and which all of us who work for or give to the World Union for Progressive Judaism the mother of six children. Three of them have Gaucher Disease-and therein lies can take encouragement-and pride. her mission. Gaucher pronounced go-shay is a genetic disorder that affects mainly Ashkenazi Jews. It is the most common genetic disease affecting Jews, duced by the Genzyme Corp. of Cambridge, Mass.-there is a treatment for it. including Tay-Sachs. One in 10 Jews is a carrier of Gaucher. In Tay-Sachs, the An estimated 5,000 Americans-more than half of them Jews-are believed to ratio is one in 35. When two carriers marry and have children, the chances are be victims of Gaucher Disease. About 500 are currently in treatment. Ceredase, one in four that each child will fall prey to the disease. whose scientific name is aglucerase, replaces the missing or faulty enzyme much Gaucher Disease is caused by a defective gene, resulting in the failure of an as injected insulin substitutes for naturally-produced insulin in diabetics. The essential enzyme to process and dispose of a certain fat or lipid known as drug is administered by intravenous infusion. Like insulin, Ceredase must be glucocerebroside. The lack of normal enzyme production causes the fat to taken regularly and permanently. Ceredase reverses the course of the disease, accumulate, building up to the point where it clogs the liver, spleen and bone giving patients a feeling of energy and well-being that-as many of them have marrow. The result may be stunted growth and, often, an enlarged spleen and/ reported-"makes life worth living again." or liver, leading to a distended abdomen and physical deterioration. Other Dr. Berman notes that many people have Gaucher Disease without knowing symptoms are more subtle: frequent bone pain, bone fractures, fatigue, anemia, it. Often, she says, physicians cannot identify Gaucher victims because they have easy bruising and bleeding. Until these symptoms appear, many victims of never seen it. Many persons afflicted with the disease don't develop symptoms Gaucher disease may not be aware they have it. until later in life, when treatment becomes longer and more expensive. A blood Gaucher affects both children and adults. It struck three of Robin Berman's test can reveal Gaucher Disease, and free screening programs are available for six children at an early age. Until last year there was no treatment for it. people who believe they or their children might have the genetic disorder. When Dr. Berman discovered that her son Brian was suffering from Gaucher For information on how you can be tested for Gaucher Disease, call the Disease, she quit her private practice to work without pay at the National National Gaucher Foundation toll-free at 1-800-925-8885. There are no Gaucher Institutes of Health with Dr. Roscoe Brady, who was seeking a treatment for the Disease treatment centers in Chattanooga but there are centers in Atlanta: disease. In the nearly 100 years since it was first discovered in France by Dr. Philip Emory University, Dept of Pediatric Medical Genetics, 2040 Ridgewood Drive, Gaucher, the disease has been considered incurable. There is still no cure, but Atlanta, GA 30322 (404-727-5863) and in Nashville: Baptist Medical Center, thanks to Ceredase--an enzyme replacement developed by Dr. Brady and pro* 2021 Church Street; Suite 608, Nashville, TN 37203 (615-340-4460). Page 14 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Chattanooga Life Cycles

Scott Abelson Bar Mitzvah Names in the News Jan. 16 at Mizpah Scott Abelson, son of Iris & Congratulations to: Lee Abelson, will become a Bar Joy Greenberg on being cast in the Little Theatre production of Mitzvah at Mizpah Congregation "Cinderella." on Saturday, January 16 at 11:00 Ruth Holmberg on her recent selection as United Negro College a.m. He is the grandson of Ray & Fund Leader of the Year. Ira Long, Joy Adams, and Herb Rabbi Kenneth Kanter for being honored by the Downtown Abelson. He has one sister, Blair. Sertoma Club. Scott attended Signal Moun­ Amelia Lebovitz and Owen Allen on their upcoming marriage, tain Middle School last year. January 10th. While there he lettered in soccer Ira Long and family on their new grandson, Matthew Newell and wrestling. Currently, he is in Long. Proud parents are Ira and Catherine Long, who live in Denver. seventh grade at the Baylor Rachael Miller on being cast in the Little Theatre production of School. He was a member of "Cinderella." Baylor's Seventh Grade Football Steven Prigohzy & Sonia Young for their brilliant performances Team in the fall and is currently Scott Abelson in the recent Little Theatre production of "The Diary of Anne on the wrestling team. Scott also Frank." is a member ofthe select soccer team, United Sting Attack. Wolff Scholarships Available for Jewish Service Careers Condolences to: The Willy & Erna Wolff Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to attract Ronni Charyn, granddaughter, and Micah & Jesse Charyn, committed and talented leaders to professional careers of Jewish service. This great-grandchildren of Ida Sheroff who died recently in Worcester, includes careers in: Jewish education, Jewish family service, Administration of MA. She was 91 years old. organizations promoting Jewish causes, The Rabbinate, Undergraduate studies The Family of Ethel Harris Miller. at institutions in Israel, Other professional careers except medicine and law. Melinda Rosenthal and family on the recent death ofher father, Willy Wolff understood the need to maintain continuity of strong Ernest Smith. leadership. Recognizing that our community is having difficulty Herb Stoloff & family on the death of his brother, Milton. attracting high caliber professional leaders, he set out to help correct this problem. Willy & Erna Wolff Memorial Scholarships will be granted for a one-year Deaths: period. The awards will be given in amounts up to $5,000 depending on the Mrs. Edythe Woods Gewirtzman, 85,of Chattanooga,died Tues­ applicant's needs. The awards will be made in two payments, the first at first day, December 8th in a local hospital. A 50-year resident of Chatta­ semester registration, the second at second semester registration. Scholarships maybe renewed for successive years but renewal is not guaran­ nooga, she was employed by Peacock Jewelers and was a member of teed. Applicants must reapply and will be evaluated in conjunction with all the the Mizpah Congregation. Survivors include her daughter, Janet current year's applicants. Furthermore, eligibility will have to be reestablished. Sue Mayer, Spring Valley, N.Y.; son, Ira Gewirtzman, Lexington, Willy & Erna Wolff scholarships and fellowships will be awarded to commit­ KY.; sister, Rita Hendrickson, New York; two grandchildren; several ted and promising candidates for undergraduate and graduate studies leading to nieces and nephews. Services were held December 10th at Mizpah careers in Jewish professional service. Candidates must be residents of a seven- Congregation with Rabbi Kenneth Kanter officiating with burial in state region composed of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Mizpah Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Mizpah Tennessee and Texas or must be attending school within this seven state region. Congregation or to the Siskin Foundation. Residents from these states may attend school within or outside the seven-state region. Students who are not residents of these states but who are attending Ethel Harris Miller, widow of prominent Chattanooga merchant school within the seven-state region may apply after the first academic year. and civic leader Harry Miller, died Saturday night, December 5th at Awards will be given to applicants who have demonstrated a strong personal her home here. She was 103. commitment to Jewish life, exemplary personal qualities and interpersonal skills, Mrs. Miller was born in New York City and lived in Atlanta at an and excellence in academic achievement. early age before moving to Chattanooga. She and her husband Preference will be given to those applicants who have already begun their started the Vogue clothing shop in 1921 and developed it into one of concentration in Jewish studies. the city's leading women's wear stores. She was a member of the The final choice of scholars and fellows will be made by the Jewish Endow­ Mizpah Congregation and Sisterhood and Memorial Hospital La­ ment Foundation of New Orleans. Individuals who wish to apply for scholar­ dies Auxiliary. She was preceded indeathbyherparents, Samuel and ships and fellowships should address their inquiries to: The Willy & Erna Wolff Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o The Jewish Rebecca Smullian Harris. Survivors include a daughter, Mrs.Harold Endowment Foundation of New Orleans, 2-3-4 Loyola Building, Suite 806, New (Eleanor) Schwartz, Chattanooga; two sisters, Mrs. Ruby Orleans, Louisiana 70112. Oppenheimer, Atlanta, and Mrs. Florence Chapman, Los Angeles; three grandchildren, Harold "Hal" Schwartz, Jr., Chattanooga, Pattl Ann Schwartz, Suwanee, GA_ and Ellen Yellan, New Orleans; Best wishes to all of our friends for a three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. The funeral was held Monday, December 7th at Mizpah Congregation with Happy Chanukah and burial in the Mizpah Cemetery. Rabbi Kenneth Kanter officiated. a Happy, Healthy New Yearl Memorial contributions may be made to the Miller-Schwartz Fund of Mizpah Congregation or to Annandale Village, or to a favorite Virginia and Bill Raider charity. The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 15

Comments on "Battle of Chickamauga" At the Siskin Museum of Religious Artifacts by Mel Young

by Geneva Stonecipher ______-__^^ In the new book. "Battle ofChickamauga " byPeterCozzensJcame Pictured is a typical fili­ across the following: gree silver spice tower. The "September 17-20,1863, the Union Commander, General Rosecrans item was made in called a meeting of several of his Generals, at the Widow Glen's Cabin, Czechoslovokia in 1864 the evening of September 19,1863. The "Butcher's BUI" for the three- while the Czechs were still day battle was 35,000 Union and Confederate soldiers killed, wounded, under the domination of or missing. To alleviate anxiety and exhaustion on the eve ofthe final the Austro-Hungarian and bloodiest day of that battle, General Rosecrans, a devout Catholic, Empire. requested ofthe XX Corps' Commander General McCook, known to There are three square have a rich, melodious voice, to entertain the group with a particular sections, surmounted by song. General McCook sang this ballad: the unusual knop, topped The Hebrew Maiden's Lament" by a staff and pennant. The In that sombre chamber yonder List'ning then a few short moments, central section has a pen­ Father's tape still burns bright, I may by this lattice stand, nant at each corner. The Bending to his breast his aged, And may watch yon little window quadrangular base is set Care-worn face he prays tonight. Of our neighbor's nigh at hand. on hemispherical supports. Havdalah xa&scassepa- Open wide before the righteous Oh! in yonder friendly chamber, ration and the service Lies the Talmud which he reads, Whence the light now peepeth forth, serves to separate the And his child e'en is forgotten, Lives of Christian youths the fairest, Shabbos from the rest of Tore his God, and Israel's deeds. Live my life, my all on earth. the week. Following sun­ down (when three stars Dearest youth whose care-worn image, can be seen in the sky) on Graven in my heart will be, Shabbos, the service be­ Ah thou seest not the bitter, gins with the lighting of a Bitter tears I shed for thee." twisted candle, a cup of The words have a significant meaning, now, as 130 years ago. wine and a besomim con­ Turkish Spice Box, circa 1800 Note: Where They Lie, by Mel Young, is available in the Temple Gift Shop. tainer, a spice box filled with sweet spices. The smelling ofthe spice follows the blessing over Hadassah News by Judy Sachsman the spice: "Blessed art thou, Lord our God, King ofthe Universe, who createst the various kinds of spices." "As the aroma ofthe spice leaves a pleasantness to the nostril, so may the beauty of this Shabbos Despite icy rain, Vice President Fillis Frank, in charge of Program­ abide with us until the next Shabbos ming, being called back to Texas, and my moving (across Chatta­ According to Maimonides, the symbolic use of fragrant spices nooga), the Young Judaea-Hadassah meeting went on - thanks to during the recital of the Havdalah is to cheer the soul which is Trudy Trivers, Hadassah star story-teller guest; Robin Snyder, Presi­ saddened at the departure ofthe Sabbath dent of Young Judaea; and Judi Spector, Hadassah Representative The Siskin Museum of Religious Artifacts, operated by the Siskin Memo­ and Young Judaea Advisor. rial Foundation, houses a private collection of more than 400 artifacts related The date ofthe January meeting has changed to Tuesday, January to various religions of the world; One Siskin Plaza; museum hours: 9 a.m. 12th at 7:30 p.m. at the JCC, where we will hear Dr. Barbara Straus 4 p.m. weekdays; private tours by appointment, 634-1700. Reed speak on "The Best of Today's Jewish Press." This promises to be an educational entry into 1993. Join us for Please save the date, Sunday, March 28th for a Midday Donor An Israeli Extravaganza Luncheon. Our Mediscope Hadassah physician will be visiting Chattanooga Sundayj January 9th 8:00 -10:30 p,m. from February 9th to 11th. An expert on tissue typing,Dr. Brautbarwill atMeJeMshComMtu^ speak to Hadassah members and local physicians about his area of specialty as well as about Hadassah Hospital. Wishing you a Peaceful 1993.

Women In Literature @SI_E The next session ofWomen in Literature will be held foreight (8) consecutive Thursday mornings (10:00 aan. to Noon), from Janu­ ary 7 through January 25th. For information about fees, ete~ call S 4 J Marcia K. Krosner at 886-4613. Places are limited. Discount Drugs Room Service l S»lllik<| I'om m k+ny or MnntP C« SICKROOM SERVICE. IMIIIH.1 CM •.«.!«• ,mttwim MMilka twtaiut IOO— at Imn, *• km fcwsiul Wtft, ariMl- cktlM. <•>« *>. _«• iiWtt i»4 <«—m««n . . . and Shabbat Supper Club msit than WOO «.II....M >«_i «l kaiailal _»•*>•< STANLEY NUSBAUM W Mm w tor. S» #•»'« luw M *«««« lwii«| •_»... cm SICKROOM SERVICE (Way. Interested in forming a Shabbat Supper Club? Registeied Pharmacist Please contact David Solovey at 842-3845. ©E5_g? DIAL 629-7283 Cily-Widt OtUvtry S«rvlc« Page 16 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Jewish Community Center 3 Kids Night Out 3rd - 6th Grades Join us for An Israeli Extravaganza Pizza & Bowling Saturday night, January 16 Featuring the sights and sounds 7:00-10:30 p.m. oflsrael Meet at the JCC and travel by van to Pizza Hut for dinner. Then it's on to Holiday Bowling Center for Sunday, January 9 a fun evening of...what else but bowling! We will return to the JCC at 10-30 pan. 8:00-10:30 p.m. Jewish Community Center Members: $10 Non-Members $15 Reservations required by Thursday, January 14th. So call 894-1317 and reserve your space today!! Speaker: Tuvia Mendelson Israeli Singer: Danny Katz

Monday Maccabi Madness Exhibits of Israeli Art and Literature 1st-6th grades ®E Special Gas Mask Exhibit Monday, January 18th (Martin Luther King Day) ^ Children's Art Exhibit 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ^* Israeli Snacks

This special one-day event will feature all kinds of exciting Don't miss this exciting evening sponsored by games and relays and the day will end with a special the Chattanooga Jewish Community Center, with Maccabi sports competition for both girls and boys. the American Zionist Youth Foundation . Children must pack a dairy sack lunch. We will provide a drink and afternoon snack. So don't miss out on this fun sports day at the JCC!! The Chattanooga Jewish Community Center, in conjunction with the West Chair of Excellence Communication & Public Affairs, the Chair of Excellence in Judaic Studies, B'nai Zion Members: $15 Non-Members: $20 Synagogue and Mizpah Congregation presents: Registration is required by Friday, January 15th. Dont miss out —call 894-1317 and reserve your space today. Dr. Barbara Straus Reed, Asst. Professor ofjumalism and Mass Media at Rutgers Univ. o speaking on Save the Date!!! "The Best Jewish Newspapers in America Today," JCC Anniversary Ball Date: Tuesday, January 12 Saturday, April 24,1993 Time: 7:30 p.m. Fly Me To The Moon.... Place: Jewish Community Center '''-[':•- an Dr. Reed is a specialist in magazine journalism. Her Ph.D. International dissertation was in the area of Jewish journalism history. She is o Extravaganza currently working on a book titled, "Outsiders in 19th Century American Journalism." The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 17

T Senior Adult Programming) ^--••"'•"• ••-••""• -• • • • • •• •• • ••••'••'•• ••'••••'••-:'y-"-' • •••••-•:•:-' -• ••.-'•'••-• -_^ Shall We Dance? • Sunday At The Theatre I Ballroom Dance I Have you ever wanted to go dancing on a weekend but didn't because you didn't really know how? Have a special occasion ** coming up, where you will need to dance? Well, here's your chance to learn. Dances to be taught will be: waltz, foxtrot, rhumba, cha Sunday, Februarys, 1993 cha and swing. The instructor will teach you all the basic moves so Come see a play at the Fox Theatre and that you will feel comfortable on a dance floor anywhere. You do not need to come with a partner. Singles are welcome! spend the day with the Atlanta JCC's seniors. Instructor: Zetta Deweese Time: 7:30 - &30 pan. Dates: Monday, Jan. 11,18,25; Feb. 1,8,15 (6 weeks) Transportation is provided to Atlanta. We will leave the Members: $35/individuaI $70/couple Chattanooga JCC at 9:30 a.m. and will stop for lunch in Non-Members: $40/individual $80/couple Atlanta. We will return to the JCC at about 7:00 p.m. Registration is required by Thursday, January 7th. Members: $30 Non-Members: $40 Reserve your place today by calling 894-1317. (Includes Play & transportation to and from Atlanta.) Lunch is to be purchased separately. Ballroom Dance II Your check made out to the JCC will be your * reservation. If you have ever attended a basic ballroom dance class and you Reservations (checks) required by Friday, January 22. wanted to learn more...or, if you have had basic dance lessons, but *We cannot hold spaces without a check. it's been awhile...then this class is designed especially foryou! It will cover the waltz, foxtrot, rhumba, cha-cha and swing - butin greater detail than a basic class. You do not need to come with a partner. Singles are welcome. Let's dance!!! Join Us For Instructor: Zetta Deweese Time: 83C930 p.m. Dessert and Tour of Dates: Monday, Jan. 11,18,25; Feb. 1,8,15 (6 weeks) Members: $35/individual $70/coaple Siskin Museum of Religious Artifacts Non-Members $40/individual $80/couple Registration is required by Thursday, January 7th. Wednesday, January 13, at 1:30 p.m. Reserve your place today by calling 894-1317. at Siskin Memorial Foundation One Siskin Piaza Spend an afternoon out enjoying dessert with your Exciting Position Available: friends, and then a memorable tour of the Siskin JCC Program Director Museum of Religious Artifacts. The museum has over 'Experience in supervision, developing and executing creative 400 religious artifacts, with 240 of them being Judaica Jewish programs. items. This is one afternoon you wont want to miss!! 'Candidate will oversee all JCC programs. Transportation is available if needed. "Must possess ability to work well with lay people. Members: $2 Non-Members: $3 "Minimum of three (3) years experience In education, Your check made out to the JCC is your reservation. recreation or similar fields. "Candidates must have a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree. Reservations/checks are due by Friday, January 8. " Flexible hours, but must be available some evenings and weekends. For a confidential interview, contact Lou Solomon, Executive f Director at 894-1317. Retired Men s Club Starting date flexible, after February 1,1993. presents

Deli Poker Night WINER & CROWNOVER , P.C. Wednesday, January 20 at 6:30 p.m. CERTIFIED PUBUC ACCOUNTANTS at the JCC Join us for Kosher deli sandwiches and 1120 First Tennessee Bank Bldg. spend the evening playing a lively game of poker 701 Market Street with old friends. Chattanooga, TN 37402 This is an evening you won't want to miss! 265-0047 Members: $7 Non-Members: $10 Reservations are required by Friday, January 15. Members of Reserve your place today by calling 894-1317. Private Companies Practice Section Ameficaii Institiite of Cei^ifleg Public Aecoiiiittiiti Page 18 The SHOFAR, January, 1993 1 JCC Events 3 Fabrangen Fiddlers Performed at JCC

Golden Agers said goodbye to long time member, Sylvia Chawkin (center), who has moved to Deerfield Beach, Florida at their Two-fifths of the Fabrangen Fiddlers, a musical group from the Washington, December 9th meeting. Gitta Stein (left) andNorman Hofferman D.C area, performed in concert at the Chattanooga JCCon Saturday, December 12th. Alan Oresky L and David Shneyer R played and sang original and (right) brought the cake and ice cream. traditional Jewish music to an appreciative audience in their Smokey Mountain Blue Grass style. Marlene Shneyer wove tales of Jewish tradition through his music, suggesting musical evidence that Jews have inhabited the South much longer than once expected, in Solomon that "She'll Be Comin1 'Round the Mountain" is actually a Jewish song about the and Eve Shabbat and our traditions. Drucker Younger members ofthe audience were encouraged to suggest new materials presented a out of which a dreidle might be fashioned, as the singers spontaneously rhymed new verses to the old "Dreidle" song, grappling with dreidles made of wood, tin program of foil, titanium and marshmallows. A great time was had by young and old. Yiddish, Hebrew and English songsforthe The ^SHOFAR Golden Agers on December Published 10 lines a year by the Chattanooga Jewish 9th. Federation, located at the Jewish Community Center. The mailing address 1st P.O. Bex 8947, Chattanooga, TN 37411

Barbara Wiston , President Louis B. Solomon, Executive Director Marlene P. Solomon, Editor

Editorial Board Dr. Steven Prigohxy, Chairman

Members; Gerry Sadow Amelia Lebovitz Miriam Levine Irven Resnick Robert H. Siskin A. Steven Ulin

Reporters! Ruth Jaffe, Mizpah Harold Shapiro, Beth Sholom Judi Specter, Young Judaea Millie Lander, B'nai Zion

The SHOFAR Is mailed at no charge to members of the Chattanooga Jewish Federation. Additional subscriptions are available at $28 a year. All submissions must reach the Federation office by the 10th The Opening Meeting ofthe Retired Men's Club was held Thursday, Nov. of tho month to bo Included In the next month's Issue. All 19th at the Epicurean. Bob Berz spoke on Financial Investments. (L-R) letters must be signed to be considered for publication. The views and opinions expressed In guest editorials and in Steve Ulin, Maurice Shavin, Irving Polsky, Bob Berz, Harry Dubrov and the letters column are those of the authors and not necessarily Sidney Lang. Join them for poker and kosher deli on Wednesday, Jan. 20th those of the Federation or oHhe editorial staff oitb'uaewtpaper. at 6:30 pan. at the JCC. The SHOFAR, January, 1993 Page 19 A House L Is Not A Home HI When Elijah Knocks > i Review An Interview by Rabbi Charles A. Kroloff by A. Steven Ulin With Behrman House, Inc., 1992 loss in self-esteem can quickly follow the trag­ Carolyn What is this quiet disease that is spreading edy; regaining self-respect is a slow and diffi­ through our cities and towns? What garners cult process. Henning headlines this time of year, then sinks quietly Part Two of 'When Elijah Knocks" inves­ by out of sight until next Thanksgiving? The tigates the problem at a personal level. When AJSteven Ulin headline says: "Community Kitchen Notes we see the beggar in the street, we are faced- Carolyn Carolyn Henning Rise in Homeless Getting Free Meals." We read to-face with poverty, defeat, cop-out. How do Henning was appointed to the Chattanooga Housing further: In Hamilton County there are about we face this confrontation? Usually not well. Authority Board of Directors by Mayor Robert Kirk 2447 homeless individuals; 459 are children "And so it is with the homeless. If we are Walker in 1972, worked her way up to Chairman and and adolescents, and 117 are age two or continued there until her retirement in 1991. convinced that they are all liars, ne'er-do- CHA is an autonomous organization chartered younger. Who are these homeless? How can wells, or alcoholics, we—citizens, agencies and by the State, with broad-reaching responsibilities in children age two and under be homeless in this the government-will treat them that way and the city of Chattanooga for public housing, block great city with a $45 million Aquarium and a that is what they will become," writes the grants, planning and construction and many other $35 million Airport and a Hamilton Place Rabbi. He continues: "Is it true that we have areas. Who better to ask about the homeless at the Mall where you can't find a parking place? guilty consciences about the millions of home­ local level? How did this come about? Who are these less who populate our cities and countryside? "Carolyn, why are there homeless children in homeless? If we do not feel guilty about this situation, we Chattanooga?" Ms. Henning is an old friend of ours for about 40 Rabbi Charles A. Kroloff s recently pub­ should." Rabbi Kroloff gives many examples years. She has raised her family, and made many lished book is a study of the homeless and a and anecdotes of how individuals, by volun­ friends with her charm, honesty and intensity. She personal and religious response to the prob­ teering themselves, have faced this problem seemed pleased to dialogue in an area ofher experi­ lem. It is called "When Elijah Knocks'' and it and have been personally strengthened. ence. "That's not a simple problem" she said. "The is well worth reading. Certainly, Kroloff says, Part Three beginswith: "Religion delivers housing is out there. Ofthe approximately 3700 units there have always been homeless people. We a clear unmistakable message about poverty, of public housing in the city, there are about 200-300 called them the dropouts... the bums... the hunger and homelessness." It is not enough to vacancies. I don't know how desirable they are, but alcoholics... the drug addicts... mostly men they are available. And families with .children get pray, we must act. We must translate our first choice. 'With all the public agencies surely who had quit the search for the American religious precepts into deeds. The "Wander­ someone told them to apply to CHA Whether they Dream. In recent years, there has developed ing Jew" knows the heart of the homeless, applied or not, I don't know." another serious cause for homelessness. The though he sometimes forgets. We must give "Has there been a decrease in the building of new cost of homes has risen astronomically; the charity, but we must also act at the personal housing? Has the cost of renting or owning homes cost of renting an apartment, or even a room level. aggravated this problem?" has risens o much that a person on Welfare or Part Four focuses on doing the job. Rabbi "Shortly after Reagan took office and put that earning minimum wage cannot afford to live Kroloff writes of real responsibility: at the dreadful Pierce in control, new building in this area "on the bubble." Marginal workers who hit a Federal level, at the State level, at the commu­ stopped. HUD became a national disgrace until Jack bump in the road: illness, loss of a job, auto Kemp took over many years later. Did you ever hear nity level, and at the personal level. Each must of Housing Section Eight? A private owner of an accident, are suddenly out in the street. So the function at its specific level of expertise. John apartment can offer it for low-cost housing. The local Community Kitchen reports a rise in the dilulio in New Republic, June 24,1991 writes, renter will be charged a maximum of one-third of his homeless. And we say we must do something. "Given the multiple sources of homelessness, income, even if he or she is on Welfare, and the Unfortunately, after the Xmas season we efforts to address the problem will necessarily government picks up the rest of the tab. That's what quickly forget. depend on a wide array of economic assis­ the homeless want. Unfortunately, there are very Rabbi Kroloffisthe Senior Rabbi of Temple tance and social services, federal leadership few apartments and the waiting list is long." Emanu-FJinWestfield,N.J. Hehaslongbeen and local initiative, social innovation and judi­ "What is the solution?" "There may be no solution. You can't force active with Interfaith Councils for the Home­ cial reform... Although government did not people to live in public housing. If you go into the less and is quite articulate in their cause. Part create, and cannot cure, all aspects of the Housing Project and ask, you are told everything is One of his book defines the Homeless, and problem, it must help to solve them." fine as long as you mind your own business. If you destroys the myths with which we have sup­ Personal involvement at the church and syna­ report something bad, they come back and retaliate pressed our guilt in facing this problem. The gogue level are priceless to those in need. These after the Police are gone. The residents, many of causes of homelessness are quite complex and people are accustomed to bureaucratic agencies and, whom have lived their entire lives in a housing project poorly understood. The results are devastat­ as you might expect, appreciative of warm interested have a deep anger within them. These apartments ing to the person or family with children. And human helpers. This is an area of volunteerism so are places to live, not home—and people want toliv e superior to the usual alternatives that it behooves us once the descent into hell begins it gets more in "Homes". all to lend a hand. We must help these victims who Habitat for Humanity does a nice job. They have and more difficult to reverse the process. The are unable to help themselves. built eight homes in Chattanooga-homes we other­ Author's Note: It wise would not have. You know, CHAsold them the Terrace becomes clear that the: lots for practically nothing, but we need so much people in the Housing more." Wine & Spirits Projects need "Homing." Instead of our elected fathers screaming about South Torraco Plaza ambulances, they should be seeking more social services for the residents of the 899-5739 Mastorcard/Vtsa Projects, morejob - training, better security,moreplaygroands,more and smaller 5084 South Torraco Plana Martha Borman Alton Park centers would help. More one-on-one care, more trust, more modes Chattanooga, TN 37412 Edith Berman, Owners to build self-respect, more encouragement to find a way out of public low-rent housing. Then we could offer the "Homeless" an alternative toth e streets. :• Page 20 The SHOFAR, January, 1993

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