Southern Jewish Life NEW ORLEANS EDITION
INSIDE:
July 2016
Volume 26 Issue 7
Southern Jewish Life 3747 West Esplanade, 3rd Floor Metairie, LA 70002 “Welcome Jerusalem” by Yaakov Agam, from the private collection of Pauline Witt, part of an Agam exhibit currently at AEIVA in Birmingham
2 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
shalom y’all shalom y’all y’all shalom
Cover Image: Courtesy Haspel
When I was a student, I often would get to lead the tour and question-and-answer session for visiting church groups at my synagogue. One of my favorite questions to ask them went like this: Birmingham is a metro area of about 1 million, how many Jews do you think there are here? Occasionally someone got it right, but the most common answer was around 25,000, with some guesses at 50,000 and above. In this issue, we have a piece on the latest survey of Jewish population in the U.S., and how it used older numbers for Birmingham and New Orleans — both communities now have larger population figures, but still well below the perception. The Deep South edition of this issue also has a piece on the new Jewish community study results in Birmingham; New Orleans edition readers can find it on our website. Conversely, over the last couple of weeks, we attended the closing of the synagogues in Pine Bluff and McGehee, Ark, as Jewish population shifts continue to the larger communities and away from the smaller towns, with college towns and the Gulf Coast being notable exceptions. Of course, the big gorilla in the South is Atlanta, with roughly 120,000 Jews. And then there is South Florida, which doesn’t really count, as once you pass Gainesville, you’re back up north. The Deep South is a region where every person in the Jewish community counts. Whether the community is several thousand or in the single digits, there are lots of stories to tell, and we will continue to serve all of the communities of the Deep South. We’ve been working on a bunch of stories this summer, and will share them with y’all Larry Brook over the next several issues. EDITOR/PUBLISHER EDITOR@SJLMAG.COM
Read SJL Anywhere
Our digital editions are always available at sjlmag.com. Read SJL You may also to go Cover Image: Courtesy Haspel Anywherechoose paperless and have each Our digital are mont Read SJL editions magazine delive always available at Anywhere to your inbox. SJLmag.com. Our digital You may editions arealso choose to go paperless always availableand have month’s magazine at each sjlmag.com. delivered You may alsoto your inbox. choose to go paperless and each month’s /sjlmag have @sjlmag /southern /sjlmag jewish magazine delivered life to your inbox.
sjlmag.com
sjlmag.com
sjlmag.com /sjlmag
/sjlmag
@sjlmag /southern /sjlmag jewishlife
@sjlmag /southern /sjlmag sjlmag jewish sjlmag /sjlmag life
Larry Brook EDITOR/PUBLISHER
Larry Brook
EDITOR@SJLMAG.COM
EDITOR/PUBLISHER
EDITOR@SJLMAG.COM
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 3
Hadassah Southern Supports Gender Equity in Medical Research
To get involved with Hadassah, contact Sherrie Grunfeld at SSDGrun@aol.com 4 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
July 2016
agenda interesting bits & can’t miss events
What’s more Southern in the summer than this? Participants in the Institute of Southern Jewish Life’s annual Education Conference in Jackson observed Seersucker Monday on June 27. There were over 150 in attendance, representing 64 congregations in the 13-state region.
Just how many Jews are there in the Deep South? Annual listing for New Orleans will be updated next year Next year will show changes to the American Jewish Yearbook’s listing of Jewish population in the United States, at least in reference to a couple of Southern communities. The 2015 listing, which was recently released, has a 2011 figure for Birmingham as having 5,200 Jews, and a 2009 post-Katrina New Orleans figure of 7,800. After the listing came out, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans contacted Ira Sheskin, director of the Jewish Demography Project and professor of geography and regional studies at the University of Miami, to give an updated figure. According to Federation Executive Director Michael Weil, the affiliated Jewish population in Greater New Orleans is 11,000. Adding non-Jewish members of Jewish households brings a reach of 14,000 individuals. In Birmingham, a community study that was just released estimates the community’s size at an all-time high of 6,300. In the rest of Alabama, Mobile and Montgomery are listed with a 2014 figure of 1,100 Jews each. Huntsville has an estimated 750 Jews, and Dothan and Tuscaloosa have 200 each. Other communities, such as Florence, Anniston, Auburn and Selma have a total of 250.
The 200 in Dothan is a change from 15 years ago, when the community was de-listed for having fewer than 100 Jews, a move that was not received well in the Wiregrass. Since then, Blumberg Family Jewish Community Services of Dothan embarked on an incentive plan to attract Jewish families to the area, resulting in over a dozen families moving there. The statewide total for Alabama is listed as 8,800, but the revised Birmingham figure brings it to 9,900. That change is significant, because this year’s list compares population figures with 1971’s listings. Using the 8,800 figure, Alabama’s Jewish population shrank from 9,140 in 1971. The new estimate means the state’s Jewish population grew in that time span. Only Pensacola is listed in the Florida panhandle, with a 2015 estimate of 800 in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. The Fort Walton Beach and Destin areas have a community with a Reform congregation and a Chabad, and the Panama City area also has a Reform and an Orthodox congregation. As a whole, Florida’s Jewish population has grown 150 percent since 1971, to 651,510. In Louisiana, the yearbook lists Baton Rouge
as having 1,600 Jews, 450 in the Shreveport area, 200 each in Lafayette and Lake Charles, 175 in Alexandria and 150 in the Monroe-Ruston area. Another 100 are scattered elsewhere in the state, for a total of 10,675. Using 11,000 as the New Orleans figure, the Louisiana population grows to 13,875. That is still well below the 1971 figure of 16,115. In Mississippi, Jackson is listed as the largest community, with 650. The Biloxi-Gulfport area has 250, Hattiesburg has 130 and Greenville has 120. Another 425 are in communities like Clarksdale, Oxford, Meridian, Columbus, Tupelo, Vicksburg and Natchez, totaling 1,575 for the state. In 1971, Mississippi had 4,125 Jews, meaning the community has shrunk by almost 62 percent. The bulk of Arkansas’ Jewish community is in Little Rock, with 1,100. Another 175 are in Fayetteville, 150 in Hot Springs and 100 in Bentonville. The rest of the state has an estimated 200 Jews, for a total of 1,725. The 1971 figure is 3,030, for a 43 percent decrease. The Atlanta area has about 120,000 Jews, while Memphis has 8,000 and Nashville has 7,800. In 1971, the entire state of Georgia had just 25,650 Jews. July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 5
agenda Tulane is Top 10 in Jewish enrollment Florida tops in U.S. with 6,500 Jewish undergraduates
We are open while rebuilding for you.
Which university in the United States has the largest Jewish student population? According to the latest Hillel International College Guide, it’s not up north — it’s the University of Florida, with 6,500 Jewish undergraduates, 19 percent of total enrollment. Rutgers comes in second among public universities, with 6,400 students, while Central Florida counts 6,000. Also in the 2016 Top 60 rankings are the University of Texas, with 3500, Florida State University, with 3,220, and the University of Georgia, with 1,400. Among private schools, New York University has 6,000 Jewish undergraduates. Tulane ranks eighth, with 2,250 Jewish undergraduates. Emory has 1,300 and Vanderbilt has 1,050. While public universities need at least 1,080 Jewish students to make the Top 60, private universities need only 350 to make the list. By percentage of undergraduate enrollment that is Jewish, Tulane ranks 15th, with 27 percent of the student body being Jewish. Florida is 34th with 19 percent, Emory is 41st with 17 percent and Vanderbilt is 47th with 15 percent. Hillel lists the University of Alabama as having 600 Jewish undergraduates, and Auburn with 100. Figures were not given for Ole Miss or Mississippi State, both of which have Hillels. Louisiana State University is listed as having 350 Jewish undergraduates.
Renovation time nears for Uptown JCC Campaign for new facilities continues
Ray Brandt Infiniti of Metairie
3700 North Causeway Blvd. Metairie 504-832-2005 RayBrandtInfiniti.com 6 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
Toward the end of August, construction work should start at the Uptown Jewish Community Center — aside from the never-ending work on Jefferson Avenue. For the next year and one-half, the Uptown JCC will undergo a series of expansions and renovations, starting with the outdoor pool area and fitness facilities. Toward the end of July, more details and dates will be announced regarding the process. The “Building for the Next Generation” capital campaign is ongoing, with a goal of $8.5 million, and as of late June the campaign was at $7.4 million. JCC Executive Director Leslie Fischman said the campaign and expansion will help the JCC prepare “for the needs of millennials as well as baby boomers” and ease crowding of the facility. The outdoor swimming facilities, which will be named for Oscar Tolmas, will include space for lap swimmers, family swimming areas and a splash pad for toddlers. Plans call for the outdoor swimming areas to be ready for next summer. Inside, there will be a year-round warm water teaching and therapy pool. On Leontine Street, the current fitness entrance will become a dedicated nursery school entrance, with a new fitness entrance further down the street. The nursery school will be expanded by two new classrooms and a children’s garden and green space. The new fitness area, which will expand south along Leontine, will have three stories with many new group fitness classrooms, a 2,500-squarefoot cardiovascular space, and a larger personal training studio. The current group exercise room will become a multipurpose youth activity center. As the back of the building is completed, renovations will take place in the front of the building, with an expanded senior adult lounge among the plans.
agenda NOLA NCJW applauds Supreme Court ruling on Texas abortion law, ponders Louisiana effects The New Orleans Section of the National Council of Jewish Women applauded the June 27 U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down a Texas law that was “designed to close abortion clinics” and spoke of its ramifications for Louisiana. In Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt, the 5-3 ruling struck down a provision that required all abortion providers to obtain local hospital admitting privileges. A similar law was passed in Louisiana in 2014, but it was blocked by a federal judge. In late February, the Fifth Circuit granted an emergency request by Louisiana’s Attorney General to overrule the lower court, allowing the law to take effect, and leaving only two clinics open, each with only one provider meeting the requirements. The same week in March that it heard oral arguments in the Texas case, the Supreme Court stepped in to block Louisiana’s law, allowing clinics to reopen. The Louisiana admitting privileges law remains enjoined as a result of the Supreme Court’s action, but the parties will need to brief and argue the merits of the case to the Fifth Circuit Court as the facts in the Louisiana case are unique, but Section leaders are hopeful the ruling will lead to Louisiana’s law being overturned. “The Supreme Court strongly affirmed that a woman deserves compassion, respect, and
dignity in making her own health decisions without barriers imposed by politicians with a religious agenda,” stated Michelle Erenberg, Louisiana Policy Advocate for NCJW. “The ruling is an important first step in dismantling medically unnecessary laws designed to make it harder for women end a pregnancy, but Louisiana’s lawmakers are likely to continue to promote policies that assert one religious point of view over the right of women to make their health decisions based on her own faith and in consultation with her doctor.” The Louisiana legislature passed several new laws this session that will affect abortion access, from tripling the state-imposed waiting period to banning the most common and safest second-trimester procedure. Reproductive rights advocates testified that these laws were likely to face costly court challenges, but, even with the state budget crisis, legislators were not deterred. “National Council of Jewish Women, in New Orleans and across the country advocates for the well being of women, children and families. Our advocacy includes ensuring women have access to reproductive health care, including the ability to access a safe and legal abortion. The Supreme Court ruling is a landmark decision for women in Texas, Louisiana and across the nation,” said Susan Kierr, president of the NCJW Greater New Orleans Section.
Summer? JCRS accepting Chanukah requests With summer camp in full swing and undergraduate college scholarship season finished, the New Orleans-based Jewish Children’s Regional Service is turning its attention to Chanukah. The social service agency helps fund students, based on need, for overnight Jewish summer camp and for college assistance. The agency also administers the PJ Library program of free Jewish books for all Jewish children up to age 8 in smaller communities throughout the region. The agency also provides Chanukah gifts to youth in lower-income families, in a program that is sponsored by the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust. Each year, JCRS gives more than 200 youth Chanukah packages filled with gifts, which they have they requested or selected. JCRS sends special Chanukah packages annually to more than 30 adults in foster care or state-run institutions.
For Chanukah 2016, JCRS plans to send gift cards, along with wrapped gift packages, but the gift cards are only guaranteed to families that register in June or July. Families who wait to register after July are less likely to get their specific gift requests and not likely to receive a holiday gift card. Headquartered in New Orleans since 1855, JCRS opened the first Jewish children’s home in the United States. Over 1,500 Jewish youth, residents of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee or Texas, are served annually. JCRS’s annual budget is supported primarily by individual and family contributions, and it seeks support at all levels. To contact JCRS, send mail to 3500 N Causeway Blvd., Ste. 1120, Metairie, La., 70002; or call (504) 828-6334. For more information, visit jcrs.org. To apply for Chanukah gifts, email colleen@ jcrs.org or ned@jcrs.org or call (800) 729-5277.
Southern Jewish Life Online: www.sjlmag.com
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 7
KIDNEY TRANSPLANT MITZVAH NEEDED! My wife, Casey Pearl Kahle and I have been faced with our challenges during the waiting period for a kidney transplant. Dialysis has just become extremely hard on her body. Please consider donating a kidney so we can move on with our lives. Compatible Blood Types are B+, B-, O+ and O-. Casey’s blood type is B+. Casey’s transplant will take place at Baylor St. Lukes Medical Center in Houston, Tex., or at Medical City Hospital in Dallas, Tex. If you’re really interested, text me at (832) 654-0242 or sent a text message to Casey at (713) 591-6017. Bryan Kahle
agenda Rabbi Yochanan Rivkin to lead Anshe Sfard Polsky farewell event on July 17 Rabbi Yochanan Rivkin, director of Chabad at Tulane, will be the interim rabbi this coming year at Anshe Sfard in New Orleans. The congregation will say farewell to Rabbi David Polsky, who has led the congregation for the past five years, with a Mardi Gras-style luncheon on July 17 at Anshe Sfard, featuring some of Polsky’s favorite dishes. The event will include roast-style tributes to Polsky. Sponsorship levels for the noon luncheon are $72 for the Kosher Krewe, $36 for ages 18 to 35 and $18 for ages 4 to 18. For additional event tickets and half-page spaces in the tribute book, Krewe de Mench is $360, Krewe de Shabbos Queen is $720 and the Krewe de Machur is $1,018 and includes a year’s membership. Reservations are requested by July 8. The Polsky family is moving to Southfield, Mich. Etgar Keret will kick off this year’s Cathy and Morris Bart Jewish Cultural Arts Series, Sept. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Uptown Jewish Community Center in New Orleans. Keret is an internationally-acclaimed best-selling Israeli author and award-winning filmmaker. His books, including “The Bus Driver Who Wanted to Be God,” “Missing Kissinger” and “Suddenly a Knock on the Door,” have been translated into 30 languages. Several additional authors will be featured over the course of the coming year. The joint Reform summer services in New Orleans are at Gates of Prayer in Metairie in July. On July 29, there will be a potluck dinner following the 6:15 p.m. service, with no pork or shellfish. At 8 p.m., some of the congregation’s teens and college students that have been on summer trips to Israel will speak about their experiences. Temple Sinai in New Orleans will have its Sisterhood Attic Sale, July 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and July 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There is an Early Bird hour at 8 a.m. on July 24, with admission of $10. Jewish Community Day School in Metairie will have a Back to School Jumpstart. Fun and educational hands-on activities in literacy, science, and math will jumpstart brainpower and help children gear up for school. The Jumpstart will take place Mondays to Thursdays, from 3 to 5 p.m., from July 18 to July 28. The cost is $100 per week or $180 for full session, and is open to the first 10 students who register. To sign up, contact Tiffany Cotlar at tcotlar@jcdsnola.org or (504) 887-4091.
8 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
Luxury in Australia
Photos by Karim Shamsi-Basha
The complex weave of Jerusalem: A single view contains a mosque, a church and Israeli flags
A Former-Muslim Arab Visits Israel
Syria native reconciles two opposing sets of feelings
19 Nights from $18,735 Melbourne • Kangaroo Island • Barossa Valley • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Daintree Rainforest • Lizard Island • Sydney • Blue Mountains
The History: The year was 1979. The place was Damascus, Syria. I was a 14-year-old Muslim boy growing up in a country that had been at odds with Israel since earth formed that sliver of a land. On the anniversary of the 1973 war, the government would celebrate the “victory” over Israel, the one when Syria lost the Golan Heights. I vividly remember having to march the streets and shout, “Long live Hafez Assad,” and “Freedom, Unity, Socialism,” and “Death Karim Shamsi-Basha is to Israel,” and “Death to the Jews.” an award-winning writer My lips moved, but my heart wondered why and photographer in I wanted an entire country, or people, dead. Birmingham I asked my father, who was a progressive and loving writer and a poet. He said just to move my lips, but my heart should resist wishing ill on people, no matter what, or who, they were. I immigrated to the United States in 1984, and became an American citizen who loves freedom and appreciates the high virtues this country aspires to. And while I converted to Christianity in 1996, I respect all faiths and adhere the idea that what matters is how you treat your fellow human beings, not the label you wear.
includes Sydney Bridge Climb • Lanes and Arcades private tour Foodies Journey through the Mornington Peninsula tour Louise Hentley Farm Experience • Safari at Silky Oaks Lodge 3 nights Great Barrier Reef • Spectacular Sydney Afternoon tour Sea Sydney Morning Cruise • 18 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 10 dinners
504-834-7000 or 800-899-8553 3221 N Causeway Blvd Metairie vacations@travelcentralvacations.com
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 9
ExtErior DEsigns, inc.
By Beverly Katz
“Problem Yards Our Specialty” DRIVEWAYS POOLS LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
COURTYARDS PERGOLAS CARPENTRY/ PAINTING
(504) 866-0276
exteriordesignsbev.com
10 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
community My Journey:
What I saw:
I met Michael Duvdevani at a coffee shop in Birmingham. When I asked where he was from, he replied, “Israel, where are you from?” “Syria,” I said. Two walls of hatred, blood, loss, and other negatives should have risen, but they didn’t. We shared stories and laughed and accepted each other’s difference. We became best of friends. Then he invited me to go home with him. Since becoming a Christian, I have dreamed of visiting the country where all three monotheistic faiths meet. Where Jesus walked. Where Arab and Jew wrestle with differences. And where beauty of the land beckons thousandyear-old olive trees and seas that are dead and seas that are alive. Upon landing, I was immediately struck by the smell of earth, of wind, and of water. The smell I remembered growing up with in Syria. We drove the two hours to the Moshav where Michael’s parents live, a mile away from Gaza. The first thing they showed me was the bomb shelter. Over the next 10 days, I visited Jerusalem, Haifa, Caesarea, the Dead Sea, the Golan Heights, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee, and Tel Aviv. As a journalist for the past 30 years, I have been to nearly 40 countries. I can say without hesitation that Israel was the pinnacle of my world surfing. Not only did the beauty of the land strike me, but also the people, the honest smiles, and the genuine welcome. I experienced no animosity, no hatred and no prejudice; just plenty of understanding… and shock. Shock of how similar we are — Arabs and Jews. We both wave our arms when we speak. We both feel too much. We both love Hummus. And we both protect our families and loved ones incessantly. Both of us spend way too much time eating, smoking Argheela, listening to music, arguing over politics — loudly, criticizing each other, and telling each other how to make certain dishes better. We both love to tell others what to do, and how to do it. We are connected to our land, and that is where the problem lies. Both of us want that entire sliver of land. What puzzles me is this: Why can’t we both live on it peacefully? Like many other countries with different ethnicities sharing resources — The United States, Canada, Mexico, and most countries on this planet. Why do Arabs and Israelis have to fight?
In Jerusalem, I visited the Garden of Gethsemane, the Church of the Sepulcher, and Stations of the Cross. Being a convert to the Christian faith, I had tingles in my heart laying my hands on the tomb. I know Jews do not believe the same, but that is the beauty of this earth we share. Our differences create our attraction to one another, at least they should. One day and while walking the streets of the Old City aimlessly, I found myself at the Western Wall. I took pictures of Jewish worshipers and the dedication and respect exemplified at this monument. It didn’t dawn on me till later that I had the Arabic Kafia around my neck, a traditional Palestinian piece of clothing. No one said a word. Everyone smiled. From atop the Golan Heights, I called my sister who still lives in Damascus, two hours away. I said, “Guess where I am?” She said, “I know where you are.” I looked at Syria, the country of my birth. The country I cannot visit currently because of the civil war. I cried, and felt my heart leap over the fence towards the land I played marbles in, and the land I had my first crush in. The land where I laid on the grass barefoot and looked at these wide heavens one night wondering what it all meant. Syria lost the Golan Heights to Israel in 1967 and 1973. Trying to reconcile the feelings I grew up with with what I feel now proved tough. Some of my best friends are Jewish and Israeli. In Nazareth, visiting the Church of Annunciation, where Gabriel appeared to Mary, was moving. I also saw Capernaum, where he walked as a young boy and worked as a carpenter, and the site where he multiplied the loaves and the fish. Then it dawned on me. Jesus never called himself Christian. He just loved people. What if our religion was just “love”? No labels, no differences, no hatred, no killing, no conflict, just love. From this day on, my religion is love… (Part 2 will be in the August issue)
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 51
Superior White Vinyl Double Hung (Compare to others at $600 or more) Four window minimum. Additional labor charges will apply to remove aluminum windows.
• Maintenance Free! • Lifetime Warranty • Save 30-40% on Utility Bills • All Window Styles Available • Also Available: Patio Doors, Swing Doors, French Doors
women’s health an annual SJL special section
Hadassah backs medical testing gender equity act by Lee J. Green Across from East Jefferson Hospital Emergency
Hadassah wants all women to have GEMs as it pushes for Gender Equity in Medical Research and access to preventative health. The women’s Zionist organization of America created the GEM Initiative to help ensure that medical research benefits women and men equally. Hadassah continues to advocate for policy changes at the Food and Drug Administration as well as the National Institute of Health to ensure that more females are included in medical research — from the most basic, cellular-level studies to late-stage clinic trials — and that all the data is reported. Hadassah supports the Research for All Act, sponsored by Reps. Jim Cooper D-Tenn.) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.). This legislation, introduced on April 29, would require NIH-funded medical research to include adequate levels of female test subjects and to analyze the results of those studies on female biology. The act would also expedite access for drugs that better treat women than other currently available medical treatments. “We need to unite together as Hadassah members, chapters and those who support this to encourage our representatives to vote yes on this,” said Sherrie Grunfeld of Birmingham, who is in charge of PRAZE (Programming, Advocacy, Zionism, Education) for Hadassah Southern. Heart disease has for many years been the number one killer of women, but only one-third of research subjects are women. “Not only do women have unique symptoms and other healthcare needs, but we also react to diseases and process certain drugs differently,” said Grunfeld, a retired nurse. Women react differently than men to antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, anesthesia, aspirin, sleep aids, anti-psychotics and cholesterol-lowering drugs. In 2015 it was discovered that the official recommended dose of the sleep aid Ambien, for example, was actually twice the amount women need because women metabolize that drug differently than men. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, many women’s health services were not covered by insurance or included high co-pays and deductibles. Before ACA, 92 percent of health insurances had different prices for women and men. Recognizing that the health needs of women are different than the health needs of men, the ACA requires private health insurance to cover a range of essential preventive services at no additional cost, including mammograms, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings along with well-women visits. Grunfeld said she encourages those who are not members to join Hadassah, and for members to take action in seeing that important initiatives benefiting women’s health are passed. She can be contacted at SSDGrun@ aol.com.
Providing long-term care services and short-term rehab and therapy in an atmosphere of caring and compassion
METAIRIE’S PREMIER SKILLED NURSING FACILITY
Medicare Skilled Planned Activities Tours Offered Daily Short Term Rehab & Therapy Three Home-Cooked Meals Daily Private Pay Options Social Services Dept
4312 Ithaca Street (504) 887-6414
www.colonialoaksliving.com
ONE STOP KOSHER FOOD SHOPPING Eat In — Take Out — Catering
Sushi and Fried Chicken Friday
ed Saturday)
-3pm (Clos Mon-Thu 10am-7pm • Fri & Sun 10am
-2010
3519 Severn, Metairie • (504) 888 www.koshercajun.com
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 23
women’s health
Lonseth offers new needle-free, no-pills option to end migraine headaches More than just a headache, a migraine is a crippling condition that steals normal human function from millions of Americans every year. The World Health Organization pinpointed migraine as number four on their list of most disabling diseases. Three times more women than men have migraines, and people with chronic migraines miss an average of 63 days of work, school and family activities in a three-month period and spend at least half of each month with debilitating pain. Dr. Eric Lonseth, an Interventional pain specialist with Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers in Metairie and Baton Rouge, says that migraines often come with nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light. And the pain can be overwhelming. One of his patients describes her migraines as feeling “just like pushing a baby out… of her head…” Typical migraine sufferers find that overthe-counter anti-inflammatories and sleeping it off doesn’t often work. Botox and acupuncture can be unreliable. Prescription medication can have side effects. SphenoCath is a new alternative that is getting a lot of attention with pain specialists due to its positive benefits. The treatment is administered quickly in a physician’s office, dispensed without a needle or pain, and offers immediate and often sustainable relief. SphenoCath provides a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block. The simple translation is that it delivers anesthetic through the nasal passage and temporarily blocks the impulses of nerves connected to different parts of the brain. SphenoCath has been shown to provide in-
24 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
stant relief — often stopping the migraine in its tracks while in the doctor’s office. Reports show it will often keep migraines at bay for months. SphenoCath is safe enough that even pregnant women can use it. This low-risk application of anesthetic has been approved for and shown to be effective in patients of all ages. Unlike needles, pills or other treatments, SphenoCath is comfortable and relieves pain on the spot. It is good for most types of headache and facial pain, from cluster headaches to trigeminal neuralgia and more. Most major insurance companies cover the procedure. The manufacturer is encouraging all insurance providers to review the benefits of SphenoCath, including long-term savings on migraine medications. Lonseth says patients may worry they don’t have time for the procedure, but he reminds them “what we don’t have time for is the pain and loss of function with a migraine.” And the good news, he says, is the procedure takes less than five minutes with a few minutes afterwards of laying flat. “It’s non-invasive, non-surgical and non-pill-related,” Lonseth said. “It stops migraines and prevents them from coming back. Best of all, it’s 15 minutes from headache to happy.”
Tulane Dermatology offers skin care education by Lee J. Green Years back, there was a popular number on the radio advising everyone to “always wear sunscreen.” That remains sound advice, said Dr. Erin Boh, clinical professor of dermatology and chair of the Department of Dermatology at Tulane University Health Sciences Center. “It’s important to wear the appropriate sun screen or sun block all the time people will be out in the sun, especially in the Deep South during the summer,” said Boh. “I recommend one ounce of sun screen on all sun-exposed parts of the body, re-applied every two hours someone is out in the sun.” She advised putting it on at least 10 minutes before going out to give it time to absorb into the skin. Boh recommended consulting a dermatologist to find out which sun screen or block is best based on one’s skin type and color, but the minimum SPF should be 30, she said. “Sun screens are also good for the skin. They provide moisture and help prevent wrinkles in addition to the protection they provide,” said Boh. Skin cancer issues tied in with tanning beds is “becoming an epidemic” in the South. The state of Louisiana has placed restrictions on how much younger people can use tanning beds. “There are an increasingly significant number of new melanoma cases stemming from excessive tanning bed use, especially among young women,” said Boh. She advised people to conduct regular skin checks for certain abnormalities, such as black or red moles or dots on the skin that could prove to be melanoma or other skin cancers. “Early detection is so critical, especially with melanoma. If a spot is ignored for even six months, the cancer could really advance,” added Boh. “Do regular skin checks on your self and your family. Check all areas for abnormalities, even those areas that we don’t think get much sun exposure.”
women’s health Classic Jazz on the Mississippi River al 4th Annu t a o SEPTEMBER steamb
Touro first in area to offer Radioactive Seed Localized Breast Surgery
23-25, 2016
Breast imaging technology has become more refined, allowing many breast abnormalities and cancers to be detected before they can be felt with a physical exam. While this allows identification of problems earlier than ever, it also makes the affected tissue more challenging to precisely locate and remove. Touro Infirmary in New Orleans is the first hospital in the Gulf South region to offer Radioactive Seed Localization breast surgery. The program, spearheaded by Dr. John Colfry, Breast Surgical Oncologist, and Dr. Daniel Rupley, Radiologist, allows the radiologist and surgeon to very accurately target lesions in the breast. Colfry and Rupley completed a training course for Radioactive Seed Localization at MD Anderson Cancer Center and are excited to bring this new surgical technique to patients in Louisiana. Radioactive Seed Localization offers a new alternative with multiple benefits, compared to traditional wire localization. A very low-energy radioactive seed is placed under ultrasound or mammographic guidance by an experienced, specially-trained radiologist. The seed can be placed one to five days before surgery. During the surgery, the surgeon uses a handheld gamma probe to more precisely identify and remove the tumor by obtaining a three dimensional view of the tumor’s location. This also allows for accurate and alternative planning of the surgical incision. The seed placement procedure is very similar to a needle biopsy procedure. The radiologist injects a local anesthetic to numb the area before starting the procedure. Ultrasound or mammography is used to guide placement of the seed. During surgery, the surgeon removes the abnormal tissue or tumor along with the seed. Each seed is only 5 millimeters long, which is about the size of a grain of rice. The seed acts as a marker for the surgeon because the iodine inside can be detected by the gamma meter being used during the lumpectomy, and the seed itself can be seen on ultrasound. The seed does not present an exposure risk to caregivers, family members, or others who come in contact with the patient, therefore special isolation measures are not required. With this procedure, once the seed is removed with the breast tissue, the entire radioactivity is gone. With Radioactive Seed Localization, less tissue is removed than with Wire Localization, allowing for much improved cosmetics, which is extremely important to patients. There is less unnecessary dissection and undermining of native tissue that should be left undisturbed. The procedure is more comfortable for patients; the time between placement of seed and surgery can be uncomfortable with traditional wires. There is also the benefit of decreased operating time. Learn more about Touro’s Breast Surgery Program online at www.touro. com/cancer/breast-cancer-surgery
STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ, NEW ORLEANS Friday, Sept 23: Opening evening Jazz concert at a historical local venue. Saturday, Sept 24: Three stages, multiple bands, performing under the stars on the Steamboat Natchez. Dinner included. Sunday, Sept 25: Sunday Jazz Brunch on the Steamboat Natchez. Tickets and more information available on the festival's website www.steamboatstompneworleans.com
Tulane OB/GYN offers incontinence advice by Lee J. Green Minimally-invasive mid-urethral mesh slings still remain the “gold standard” for treating incontinence in women, according to Margie Kahn, M.D., who is Section Head of Tulane Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. “It’s a shame that because of lawsuits, companies are taking some effective products off of the market,” said Dr. Kahn. “I advise my patients on a caseby-case basis what I believe will work best for their specific situation. These have proven very effective in most cases.” Dr Kahn said she has been asked why meshes are not made of biological material such as cadaver or animal tissue, but she pointed to a higher failure rate. She also recommends prolapse surgery utilizing mesh for some patients. As medical technology continues to improve she can offer more options such as robotic surgery that are minimally invasive. Earlier in the spring, Kahn spoke to seniors at the New Orleans Jewish Community Center on these topics. Last month she spent some time in Nicaragua on a medical mission.
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 25
women’s health Progress for Couples Wanting to be Families by Barry Ripps There is a buzz phrase, “public awareness,” that is perhaps taken for granted or dismissed as not so important. When one examines advances in healthcare, public awareness often leads to action and positive outcomes. For decades, when a woman discovered she had breast cancer, it was often kept confidential. Disclosing the diagnosis meant having to deal with a barrage of questions each time it was shared with someone new. It just wasn’t something people were accustomed to talking about openly. That changed when a few celebrities were comfortable enough to share their personal battles with breast cancer. This new awareness has led to an increase in women seeking cancer screening, which over time has begun to save lives through earlier detection. It didn’t lower the number of women who developed cancer, it just helped save their lives. We haven’t reached that highlight with infertility, but there are signs of progress. For couples that are not conceiving readily on their own, the public awareness is beginning to include a very important message: “Don’t wait!” Over the years, success rates with treatment have steadily improved for almost all fertility problems. One that remains a challenge is the impact of a woman’s age on egg number and quality. Appropriately, women are seeking fertility evaluations earlier, some even before they have a partner with whom they wish to conceive. Women with certain histories or conditions should be aware of their potential negative impact on reproduction and consider their options earlier. These are not often talked about and not commonly known. Some examples include: Lifestyle, circumstances or careers that will delay childbearing beyond age 30; Family history (sisters, mother) of early onset of menopause (before age 45); Longstanding current or past tobacco smoking or exposure; Progressive weight gain, hypertension, diabetes; Diagnosis of endometriosis or symptoms of painful menstrual periods; History of complicated pelvic and abdominal surgeries (e.g. ruptured appendix). Women unsuccessful with simple therapies should not dally as it is a possible sign of more difficult fertility problems. From a clinical perspective, fertility specialists are now well informed by large clinical trials and recognize that improved outcomes are achieved with more aggressive management. The higher success rates with Assisted Reproductive Technologies (In Vitro Fertilization) actually save patients money, as well as time, when compared to conventional treatments — particularly for women 35 years of age or older. Dr. Barry Ripps leads NEW LIFE fertility leaders with several clinics across south Alabama and the Florida panhandle. 26 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
women’s health Women’s hormonal changes affect vision by Lee J. Green Pregnancy and post-menopause can cause changes in a woman’s vision. But what is clear is that there are proactive and reactive measures that can help to combat the effects of hormonal changes. “The most common thing with women during pregnancy or post-menopause would be dry eye,” said Brooke Schaeffer Kaplan, medical director of Schaeffer Eye Center in Birmingham. “The good news is, if we catch it early enough when the symptoms are mild to moderate, it can be readily treated.” Kaplan said the reason why people get dry eye is multi-factorial. “My number one recommendation is to take Omega 3 (fish oil) vitamins, which is good for diet anyway, especially during pregnancy,” she said. “My number two recommendation is Restasis, which is the only prescription product on the market that treats dry eye,” though a few others are currently in various stages of FDA testing. When women retain fluid during pregnancy, minor changes in the cornea can result in blurry vision at times. Those usually revert to normal post-pregnancy, so Kaplan advised temporary or disposable contacts to compensate for a prescription change. Temporary vision loss, light sensitivity and flashes of light as a result of hormonal changes are also possible during pregnancy. Less common are more serious issues such as Central Serous Retinopathy, which is a blister on the retina. Those having a multiple-birth have a higher chance of dealing with Bell’s Palsy — where they can’t blink their eyes due to the hormonal changes. “We recommend women during pregnancy just keep their OBGYN and optometrist informed about any changes with their vision. Good diet and exercise are very important. We are happy to provide any proactive education that we can,” said Kaplan. She also added that men and women tend to be more prone to developing dry eye due to the prevalence of time spent on computers and mobile devices. “When you are on a device you blink 40 percent less than usual,” she said. “I have the 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes look away 20 feet for 20 seconds.” Kaplan grew up in the family business, with her parents starting Schaeffer Eye Center in 1978. She would go on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics from the University of Georgia and graduated medical school in Optometry at UAB. She has one brother who also works as a doctor for Schaeffer Eye Center — one of 21 doctors Kaplan oversees as Medical Director — and one who is in optometry school. “Our parents told us to do what we wanted to do,” she said. “I would not be doing this if I did not love what I did. I am passionate about helping others be or get well.”
General Dentistry Cosmetic Restorative Implant
Timothy Delcambre, DDS, MHA
NAGHI’S Diamonds Platinum 14k & 18k Gold Antiques Estate Judaica
3426 Coliseum St. New Orleans
633 Royal St • (504) 586-8373
504.895.6657 www.yourneworleansdentist.com
30 Years on 30A
Experienced in sales of second homes and investment properties
Alice J. Forrester - Mickey Whitaker Brokers/Owners
45 Sugar Sand Lane, Suite D Seagrove Beach, Fl 32459
850-231-5030 • 30Arealty.com
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 27
community The Name You Know… The Quality and Value You Trust Experts in Palm Tree Restoration Tree Trimming and Pruning Removals Stump Grinding Certified Power Line Specialists Licensed and Fully Insured
with General Liability and Workers Comp
Spotless Cleanup Guarantee References Available Arborist #1488
LAmen TREES
Locally Owned by Wil Kingston and Family
985-966-4345
Home Cooking always pleases… Casual dining Specializing in Italian cuisine and seafood
OPEN
Monday-Friday 11am-9pm Saturday 4:30-9pm
724 MARTIN BEHRMAN AVE METAIRIE • 504-834-5646 www.furysrestaurant.com
Proud to be part of the New Orleans Jewish Community
Nobody does local coverage like
Southern Jewish History group will visit Natchez for 300th birthday This year, Natchez is celebrating its 300th birthday, and as part of the celebration the Southern Jewish Historical Society will hold its annual convention in Natchez, “Jews in the Southern Hinterland.” The conference will be Nov. 4 to 6, starting in Jackson with an optional tour to Vicksburg and Port Gibson. A tour bus will leave Jackson at 9 a.m. for Anshe Chesed and the Jewish cemetery in Vicksburg, followed by lunch at the B’nai B’rith Literary Club building. The group will then head to Natchez, stopping in Port Gibson to visit the historic Moorish-style Gemiluth Chassed building. A non-touring bus will leave the Jackson airport for Natchez at 1 p.m. At 3:15 p.m., there will be a welcome event at Temple B’nai Israel in Natchez, with a history of the community given by Teri Tillman and Jennifer Stollman. After dinner at Rolling River Bistro, there will be Shabbat services at B’nai Israel, led by Rabbi Jeremy Simons of the Institute of Southern Jewish Life. Robin Amer will give the keynote address, “Growing Up with the Last Jews of Natchez.” There will be a series of panel discussions on Nov. 5, starting with “Standing on Ceremony: Jews and Gentiles in the South.” “Acts of God: Responding to Epidemics and Disasters in Southern Jewish Communities” will discuss Yellow Fever, the flooding of Bayou Sara, La., and Marlene Trestman’s research on the children who lived at the New Orleans Jewish Orphans Home from 1856 to 1946. Lunch will be at Carriage Hall, with Steve Whitfield speaking on “Jews Against the Ku Klux Klan,” with an introduction by Macy Hart. The afternoon discussion will be on “Family History and Jews in the South.” After a membership meeting, there will be optional Natchez tours, including a Jewish Natchez tour with Tillman and Mimi Miller, visiting the Jewish cemetery, Under the Bluff, and historic homes that used to belong to Jewish merchants. Other tours include the William Johnson House, Grady Photography Collection at First Presbyterian Church, Longwood Home and Melrose Plantation. On Nov. 6, the opening discussion will be “Southern Synagogues and the Gentile World,” followed by “Diaries and Memoirs from the Jewish South” moderated by Dale Rosengarten and Adam Meyer. The buses will depart for Jackson at 12:30 p.m. Accommodations are available on Nov. 3 at the Hilton Jackson, and during the conference at the Natchez Grand Hotel. Registration information is available at jewishsouth.org.
Southern Jewish Life
A Jewish music event was held in February at B’nai Israel in Natchez 28 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
Continued from page 30
applause from this Casspian Sea of fans. 2009, “A league of our own” (About the short-lived Israel Baseball League:) It’s Israel, we’re Jewish, we needed sparkling new baseball fields. Who else would we call but Chasidic diamond merchants? 2009, “Abs of Shul” The patent-proof Abs of Shul system simply combines physical activities that are already part of the service with a collection of clever contractions, some stretching, and avoidable alliteration. While designed for Saturdays, you can maximize your results by using most of Abs of Shul at minyan three times a day, seven days a week. 2008, “Jewish Heritage Night and Day” Erev Jewish Heritage Day, the night before, was the 18th in the countdown of games remaining before Shea Stadium closes. 2008, “Olympic predictions” (Sports Illustrated) calls Ariel Ze-evi “maybe Israel’s greatest athlete ever.” Ze-evi competes in Judo, which at first could sound odd until you consider it’s the most logical sport for Israel to win. After all, what sport is more appropriate for Israel than one with “Jew” right in the name? 2008, “The Chosen Game” Israel Baseball League rules include: Stealing bases is not allowed. After all, “thou shalt not steal.” In the stands you’ll hear stories about the greatest game ever played, where the relief pitcher who was only supposed to be good for one inning lasted for eight innings. 2006, “The dog vays of summer” After a klezmer rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” the seventh inning stretch got new meaning with the matzah eating contest. Three guys behind home plate. 45 seconds, a plate of matzah, and a water bottle. It wasn’t pretty. 2006, “Rebbe at the Bat” The outlook wasn’t brilliant for the Mudville nine that day, The minyan score was nine, they needed one man more to pray. And then when Cooney died at first, and Burrows did the same, A sickly silence fell upon the minyan, who could blame?
Named “Best Fertility Practice in Florida” and Top 5% Nationwide by FindTheBest.com
“…go forth and multiply”
The straggling few remained behind, alone in deep despair. Clung to hope from that light eternal hanging in the air; They thought if only Rebbe could but get a whack at that, They’d put up even money now, with Rebbe at the bat. 2004, “The Sporting Jews” Think that’s all the Olympic hardware Israel can hope for? Gotcha! Gotcha Tsitsiashvilly, that is. He’s predicted to win the gold medal in the 84-kilogram category for Greco-Roman wrestling. According to Sports Illustrated, Tsitsiashvilly is from Georgia (no, the other one), and is the fourth Israeli men’s world champion in any sport. A leading Israeli Orthodox leader ruled in early August that bullfighting is cruel to the bulls, and says Jews in Spain should avoid the sport. He later ruled that Mets games since the All-Star Break have been cruel to fans, and says to avoid them for now, too. Doug Brook is a writer in Silicon Valley who, as a freshman, scored the first touchdown for Mesch AZA in at least 10 years, at the Cotton States BBYO regional convention held at the Landmark in Metairie. To read these or any other past columns, visit http://brookwrite.com/. For exclusive online content, like facebook.com/the.beholders.eye.
But if performing this mitzvah is taking too long, call the baby mavens at NewLIFE Since 1994, providing lower-cost and patient-friendly fertility care while relaxing at the beach Barry A. Ripps, MD Board Certified in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility
To learn more, call 850.857.3733 or visit:
www.FertilityLeaders.com
Pensacola • Panama City • Tallahassee • Mobile • Dothan
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 29
rear pew mirror • doug brook
The long and sport of it Later this year will mark the 20th anniversary of this column. Leading up to that momentous moment, a short series of columns revisits tidbits from over the years. This month’s column, with apologies to “Airplane!,” provides more about Jewish sports than a leaflet on famous Jewish sports legends, with a timely focus on baseball, Jewish Heritage Nights and the Olympics.
Advertise in Southern Jewish Life Email lee@sjlmag.com • Toll Free: (866) 446-5894 Do you spend more time planning a vacation than planning for retirement? What if you can take a memorable trip
that’s just a quick phone call and a couple of clicks away?
All the planning is done for you… Just pack and go!
Hundreds of destinations — including Israel, Hong Kong New Orleans, London, Greece…
For more information contact Derrick Ellis
Independent WorldVentures Representative
513-833-7696
ddellis.dreamtrips.com
ddellis19742000@gmail.com
Your Source for all Home Loans We can finance in 30 States, including AL, MS, LA, GA, FL, TN, SC, NC · Programs for Veterans · First Time Home Buyers · Experienced Home Buyers · Experienced Investors · Home Renovation Lending · Construction Lending · Reverse Mortgage Lending · and much more...
Jacob M. Cohen, MBA
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #534287
“a familiar face and a familiar name”
205-613-4717 JacobC@CrewLending.com • jacobknowsmortgage.com A division of Goldwater Bank N.A. NMLS #452955 • Programs Subject to Change Without Notice
30 Southern Jewish Life • July 2016
2013, “Parched pigskin” It seemed like a logical first step to explain Torah reading in the context of college football. After all, college football and the reading of the Torah combine to be central to most people’s Saturday prayers. 2011, “Turning a Kippah Trick” The Golden State Warriors hosted their Jewish Heritage Night along with the Sacramento Kings in Oakland. Omri Casspi, (the first Israeli player in the NBA), who sports number 18, of course, did not play in the game, and neither did the Warriors, who failed to score until nine minutes remained in the first quarter. At the first ever Jewish Heritage Night by the Oakland Athletics, Jewish left-handed reliever Craig Breslow, who in the footsteps of Moe Berg has been called “the smartest man in baseball,” pitched a perfect eighth inning. Breslow, a 2005 Southern League All-Star with the Mobile BayBears, was part of the half-minyan who played for the 2006 Red Sox (including Youkilis, Kapler, and Stern). Paul Goldschmidt, the D-backs’ Jewish-sounding first baseman, the day after his Major League debut, hit his first Major League home run in the fifth inning. Also-Jewish-sounding leadoff hitter Willie Bloomquist went hitless, and also-also-Jewish-sounding reliever Brad Ziegler warmed up but did not play. (The one Jewish D-back, who also did not play, is pitcher Jason Marquis. Funny, he doesn’t sound Arizonian.) 2012, “The Penance Race” The Oakland Athletics hosted the Jews and the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 19th. What’s more Jewish than a group that left Brooklyn for Hollywood, and whose starting pitcher was named Harang? Madison Bumgarner, taking Rabbi Tarfon one further, decided to not stray from his task but to also complete it, throwing all nine innings for the Giants’ 6-1 win. However, the next morning turned the Giants’ race for a pennant to penance, as Melky Cabrera was suspended for using performance-enhancing drugs — the worst instance in baseball history of mixing Melkhik and Fleishik. 2010, “The Chosen Game” The Bible starts out with not merely a big bang, but with a grand slam. “In the big inning, the Big G created heaven and earth.” Through Sept. 5, the overall Jewish batting average in 2010 is .288, compared to a Major League average of .262. The pitchers have a combined ERA equally higher than the Major League average, so it’s better left unsaid. As of this writing, 14 active players are listed, all of whom have the good sense to not be Y*nkees. 2010, “Jewish Hoopla” In an alternate reality, where both teams are not perennial bottom-feeders, this game could have been dubbed a David (Kings) and Goliath (Warriors) matchup. (Israeli player Omri) Casspi was the first player introduced, to good continued on previous page
Gates of Prayer held its gala, “A Monte Carlo Night in Metairie” on May 21.
July 2016 • Southern Jewish Life 31