May 2012 • Volume 26 • Issue 5
A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition
IT AIN’T YOUR DADDY’s (or YOUR MOMMA’s) ANNUAL SYNAGOGUE MEETING!
A Look Inside Our Gates
IT’S A CELEBRATION! May 20, 2012 — 9:30 AM Click this link to RSVP for the Celebration or contact the Synagogue office at 770-642-0434 (Remember, we don’t want to run out of food, so please RSVP) ● Baby Sitting and Youth Activities Provided by Reservation ● ● Adult and Teen Choirs will sing ● ● 12th Grade Kivunim Recognition ● 25th Anniversary Announcement ● ● Rabbi Greene’s Annual Message to the Congregation ● ● Elections and Installation of Trustees ● Financial Update ●
Fridays with Friends Please join Friends and Family for a "Blue Jean Shabbat" Cookout on Friday, June 1st at 6:30 p.m. Followed by a joyous "camp style" service in our outdoor Alterman Chapel at 8:00 p.m. Menu Kosher Hot Dogs Baked Beans &Slaw Veggie Burgers are available for vegetarians
Annual Synagogue Meeting Cover and Page 4 Fridays with Friends Cover Confirmation Shabbat Page 2 Bucket Projects Raffle Page 3 Aluminum Recycling—ECEC Page 6 Graduation Information Wanted Page 6 Bonfire Havdalah
Page 6
B’nai Mitzvah
Page 7
Rosh Chodesh Group Page 7 Seniors Luncheon
Page 7
Men’s Club
Page 8
Israel Committee Discussion Group Page 8 Women’s Interfaith Group Page 8 Relay for Life— Ruach ATL Page 9
$10/pp in advance - Adults
25th Anniversary Tribute Book Page 9
$6/pp in advance - children under 6
Food of the Month Page 11
RSVP by May 25 to RSVP@bethtikvah.com or register online by clicking this link.
In the Community Page 12
Dinner by PAID reservations only. Please send check to TBT marked "Fridays with Friends"
Shavuot Celebration, Picnic, Services & Study Page 16
Complimentary Babysitting During Services Available by Reservation News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Contributions
Kudos Corner
Pages 13-15
Page 17
The Power of the Synagogue These words by Rabbi Alexander Schindler, zt”l, have always resonated with me: The synagogue is where Jews are made, where the individual soul and the community are joined…Only the synagogue creates Jews child by child, family by family…
place of homecoming. People want to be known, cared for, to contribute to something powerful and vital, and to make a difference. The synagogue can receive all who yearn to be known. To be accepted for who you are. To be embraced, but also to be challenged and stimulated to journey forward. We can’t only be “receivers” always looking to be filled up, but contributors in an intimate relationship. We contribute by showing up for others, supporting the community through tzedakah, sharing our hopes and dreams together, and bringing up our tzures (life’s challenges) to find comfort. This is living in Covenant (Brit) with God and with our People.
Jewish organizations, agencies, institutions, and chavurot are so important to engage and contribute to Jewish life. But, with all my heart, I do believe that it is the synagogue that is the foundation of Jewish life. Would you expect to hear such a thing from a rabbi? Probably. Sure, I am invested in this enterprise. But it is certainly not for job security. There is no other institution or center in the Jewish community that can bring people together, challenge their sensibilities, encourage a search for a transcendent God, and expect a standard of ethics beyond reproach.
This past year, I have seen some amazing acts of generosity of tzedakah and of spirit. I have seen people give their all to make this a place of meaning and power. I have seen sheer joy and the depths of sadness. I love it how people come together here. Even more so when folks who haven’t been so involved get to see how a community like our synagogue can make a difference in our lives, and yes…in our world.
And yet, we live in a time where personal connections are becoming harder and harder. Aside from the need to be social (for some, that is a challenge), we look around and see people on some sort of phone, tablet, or screen. Kids can be around the table communicating without even speaking to one another.
So for all of you who give, I thank you, from the bottom of my heart. For all of you who journey through our different gateways, I hope it has been enriching and compelling. For those of you who are still unsure about where you are and how to find your own connection, give us a call. Let’s chat. Let’s find a way to help you tap into the power of being part of a sacred community like ours.
Yes, as we see a greater distance in relationships, there is a yearning by many to find meaning in their lives. The synagogue is the address that can bring spiritual responses to human joys and crises. It isn’t simply about doing what you are told because that is Tradition! It is about embracing a tradition that can shed light on life…real life! One of my teachers, Rabbi Larry Hoffman, helped me to understand that the synagogue isn’t simply about the building or the programs or even the rabbi. It is to be a
Rabbi Fred Greene
Confirmation Shabbat Service Friday, May 4 at 7:30 p.m. Please join our Confirmation Class in this special creative Shabbat service marking their Jewish journeys within our Beth Tikvah community. Nate Diamond - son of Karolyn Diamond-Jones and Greg Jones Nicole Klein - daughter of Ellen Klein and Jeff Klein Amanda Sandfelder - daughter of Bonnie and David Sandfelder Jeremy Segal - son of Kara and Bart Segal Mazal tov to you all!!
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News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Notes from Cantor Kassel “Lessons from My Dinner With Andre”
For those of you involved in the world of Facebook, it’s interesting to see what kinds of things people are prompted to share… with the universe! Some people hold out and share remarkable adventures or accomplishments and others delight in sharing a picture of their dog, sprawled out on a sofa, paws up in the air, symbolizing the essence of bliss! Other Facebook postings call our attention to worthy causes, potentially lulling us out of an ignorance or avoidance of a variety of political, religious, social and medical topics.
The other day I caught most of an old movie I had nearly forgotten about: My Dinner With Andre (1981). The entire movie consists of a restaurant dinner conversation between two actors - using their real names in the movie: Andre Gregory and Wallace Shawn. Gregory has spent the last five years of his life forsaking a mundane existence in favor of a variety of esoteric experiences around the world (a bit like “Eat, Pray, Love”). At first Wallace Shawn is mesmerized by Gregorgy’s tales but eventually he ends up defending the little pleasures and joys he experiences in his daily routine (more-or-less mundane) life in New York City, only one example of which is - morning coffee and reading the newspaper with his wife.
It’s not easy having so many things and people call out for our attention on such an on-going basis. This is the world we now live in. As with most things, balance is needed. I am thankful for the sacredness that is found in relationships with others and in opportunities I’ve had to visit other parts of the world. I am thankful for the role Judaism plays in heightening my awareness of both the sacred and the ordinary and the inter-mingling of each. The older I get, the more I realize that life isn’t so bifurcated. There’s a little bit of Andre Gregory as well as Wallace Shawn in my life!
This movie is about the age-old tension between what we perceive as mundane and extraordinary. The movie ends with a feeling of unresolve which might be acceptable to some and unnerving to others. Personally, the unresolved ending didn’t bother me as I don’t think it’s an either/or situation. Life is full of both the routine and the extraordinary. It’s important not only to take note of which is which but perhaps to put a little of one into the other.
Bucket Projects Campaign Raffle at TBT’s Annual Meeting—Sunday, May 20, 2012 Imagine the cost of maintaining your own home then multiply that cost by 5 or maybe even 10. Our two-year Bucket Project Campaign ends this June and has focused on sustaining our spiritual home with both major and minor repairs and upkeep. Donations raised have addressed external and internal needs as well as supported the Religious School. The Bucket Projects Campaign Raffle is another great way to celebrate the Campaign’s efforts and to encourage every family to give a little something to their TBT home. The Raffle drawing will take place at this year’s Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 20, 2012. So this year’s Annual Meeting is not only going to be informative and inspirational but it will also offer members a chance to win some wonderful raffle prizes! What items could I win? Those who purchase raffle tickets have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes, including but not limited to: IPAD2 Three Day/two night weekend retreat in the mountains $200 Honda Carland Service Certificate 3 NTB oil changes and tire rotation At-home car cleaning service
High Holiday Parking Space Whole Foods Gift Card Starbucks Coffee Gift Card Delicious baked treat by Deborah Greene…
and so much more.
Where do I buy raffle tickets? Call the synagogue Office at 770-642-0434 or purchase your tickets before the Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 20th. How much are raffle tickets? Tickets cost $12 each or 2 for $18 How can I get FREE raffle tickets? You can double your chances of winning by attending the Annual Meeting. Those who attend will receive a second raffle ticket free for each ticket already purchased. When and where will the Raffle occur? The winning tickets will be drawn at the Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 20th. We look forward to seeing you there and good luck! 3
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Shalom Chaverim - שלום חברים IT AIN’T YOUR DADDY’s (or YOUR MOMMA’s) ANNUAL SYNAGOGUE MEETING!
We will joyfully celebrate and recognize our 12th grade students who have fulfilled the commandment/ mitzvah to study, as they have completed TBT’s postconfirmation Kivunim program. We all owe it to these terrific teens to recognize this accomplishment, especially in a world that tugs so heavily on them for their time and their attention.
Babysitting is available for our youngest children, and our senior youth group will have activities for our elementary school age children. Both of these are a first to make it a bit easier on our families with children to come and participate in our Annual Celebration!
IT’S A CELEBRATION! (May 20, 2012—9:30 a.m.) Hello Friends, Wow!!!!!
A year has come and gone and our Annual Celebration (f.k.a. Annual Meeting) is right around the corner. The “typical” synagogue annual meeting is a bit of a drudgery… we hear the budget...we hear the slate...a few bagels and We’ll help you understand what it takes to financially hook schtook...that’s it. run your synagogue. Not this year. We’ll embrace those who are stepping into synagogue This year it’s a CELEBRATION! And what a wonderful leadership roles for the first time. Temple Beth Tikvah celebration it is! We’ve been together as a synagogue certainly does not exist without those congregants community for 25 years—praying together, studying who are moved to lead. We all will thank them for together, celebrating each other’s simcha’s and being doing this for us. It is a sacred task they have taken on. there for each other in our challenging times. We will kick-off our 25th Anniversary Celebration and What’s different about this year’s Annual Celebration… learn what’s in store to celebrate this milestone in our I’ll tell you. synagogue’s life. First...you’ll all be there!! Yes, we look forward to all of We will also learn about a world-wide first Temple us being together for this celebration! Schmooze a bit, Beth Tikvah will be leading the way on and about meet someone new, say hello to a long-time friend. which other communities elsewhere have already started to contact us.
There’s BREAKFAST! Not just bagels! (OK...not a full
buffet from the Ritz, but way more than just bagels!
Yes...I said WORLD-WIDE first, and it truly is. We started our synagogue with a “leap of faith,” and this exciting “first” is a statement of that connection to God and to making the world a better place. Come hear how you can be part of a WORLD-WIDE first!!
The morning opens with our Adult Choir showing us
what Jewish celebration with music is all about. Go on...get ready to get up out of your chairs and SING! You can even tap a toe or two!
Rabbi Tam, our Rabbi Emeritus who led us for
seventeen years, will teach us a bit with his D’var Torah. It’s a real treat to have him with us for this morning of Celebration!
And finally...our Junior and Teen Choir will close out the morning bringing us to our feet in song and celebration! So you see my friends . . . It Ain’t your Daddy’s (or Momma’s) Annual Meeting!
Rabbi Greene will share with us his vision for the
coming days, months and years for Temple Beth Tikvah. You have the terrific opportunity to take away his words and message and figure out where you and synagogue life come together. We are here for you. All of our Committees will be there to help you find a
IT’S A CELEBRATION!! I look forward to personally greeting each and every one of you that morning. See you there. Shalom,
way to connect to Temple Beth Tikvah. There’s something for everyone, and our committees will share with you how their particular work helps create and sustain our community. You just might find something that speaks to you!
Steven C. Gerson President Please remember to RSVP on line or call the synagogue office... we don’t want to run out of food!! 4
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Religious School Education Director Our students did such a beautiful job reading the Haggadah and singing songs at the model Seders. We know they went home and made their parents proud at their own family Seders. I’d like to thank everyone for sending in the supplies and volunteering. We couldn’t have done it without your support! After celebrating a beautiful Pesach our students participated in some very touching experiences. The stones that our 4th grade students decorated last month were used in our book burial at TBT. Jewish tradition prescribes that holy books and objects that have outlived their usefulness be ritually buried. The book burial was a very moving and touching ceremony that our children experienced.
Special services for Yom Hazikaron and Yom Hashoah were held at the school. Our last day of school saw a big celebration of Yom Ha’atzma’ut. The entire school was in a festive mood. We did arts and crafts, sang songs, and had special treats from Israel. We have had a terrific school year. I am always so amazed by how much our students have learned and how much they have grown up by the end of the year. It has been a true pleasure to teach them and celebrate our holidays, traditions and customs with them. I am so proud not only of the knowledge they have gained, but of their understanding of how important tzedakah and mitzvot are to us. We are very lucky to have wonderful teachers, students and parents. This combination is what makes our school so special. I’d like to thank all of our dedicated parent volunteers who assisted us throughout the year with all of our holiday celebrations, Shabbat Onegs, the book fair and helping with tasks throughout the summer. We truly could not have done it without you. I’d also like to thank our amazing Board of Education, led by Seth Zimmer, for supporting us whenever needed. Special thanks to Perri Kunofsky for her dedication and hard work! Perri helps everything run smoothly, our school is lucky to have her. And lastly, I’d like to thank Rabbi Greene and Cantor Kassel for always being so involved in our school. As our year comes to a close, we are already working hard on next year. By now, everyone should have received their registration packet. If you have not received a packet please call the religious school office (770-642-4168) or email us at bethtikvahrs@gmail.com and we will send you a packet. You can also visit our website to download the registration. Please note that there is a discount for those who return their registration forms by May 15th. Receiving your registration form on time allows us to plan effectively for next year. Also, please mark your calendars for our 1st day of school which will be September 9, 2012. The beauty of education is that it never ends. I would like to encourage all of you to keep practicing Hebrew with your children over the summer. Learning another language necessitates practice. Even if it is just 10 minutes every other day over the summer, this will allow children to retain all that they learned with us. I recommend that you review flash cards, read your siddur together and attend services over the summer. There are also a wonderful website where students can practice their Hebrew—www.behrmanhouse.com. Wishing everyone a happy and healthy summer. See you in September! Hassia Levin
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Early Childhood Education Center Director Another wonderful school year is coming to a close. It seems just like yesterday that we were welcoming back old students and comforting new ones. Now, all of the children walk down the hallways with their heads held high and smiles beaming from their cute faces. The children of the ECEC spent their school year immersed in Jewish learning, making friends and having fun. I would like to thank the ECEC teachers: Marlene Bach, Sheri Baker, Mary Block, Lisa Garris, Laura Gordon, Deborah Greene, Karen Gutman, Karen Kremer, Lisa Laudicina, Rebecca Mattace, Jill Matthews, Rhonda Povlot, Maria Schwartz, Martyne Seidband, Susan Shields, Linda Siegel, Ellisa Vitulli, Rachel Wilson and Robyn Shippel for their hard work and dedication. These ladies are the backbone of the school, and we are so lucky to have them all as part of our family. Thank you all for another successful school year! I would also like to thank Seth Zimmer and the Board of Education, as well as Steve Gerson and the Board of Trustees for their hard work and support. These leaders are invaluable to our school and their time and dedication are greatly appreciated. I would like to thank Rabbi Greene and Cantor Kassel for their support, participation and guidance that they provide us all throughout the year. We are so lucky to have you! Finally, I would like to thank all of our ECEC families for their dedication, loyalty and support of our school. Your thoughtfulness and kindness helped provide the Zaban Shelter with meals, JF&CS with food, showed appreciation to our teachers and assisted the teachers in providing quality class programs. The ECEC is so lucky to have such warm and wonderful parents and families, and we thank you for sharing your most precious treasure with us. We are still accepting registration for both summer camp and the 2012-2013 school year! If you or someone you know would like to come see all of the great things going in our school, please feel free to contact me at 678-350-0076 or preschool@bethtikvah.com. Jenifer Friedman
Passover foods purchased with the Tzedakah from our ECEC students for JF&CS Passover food drive! Thank you!
RECYCLE+REDUCE+REUSE=REPAIR
Youth News
TBT’s Early Childhood Center wants your aluminum cans!
Graduation Information Wanted! Do you have a child graduating from High School or College? If so, we want to know about it! Please email bernice@bethtikvah.com your child’s name, school graduating from and where they will be attending next fall (if moving onto college). We will publish this news in the June Kol Tikvah - please submit by May 11th.
Please save your aluminum cans and put them in our recycling bin located outside in the back parking lot. It is mighty big, so send in all that you have! By doing this simple deed, you will be helping the ECEC as we will get money back from what we collect, but most importantly you will be helping our world and creating a better place for our children! Why should I do it? It’s a great lesson in Tikkun Olam, repairing the world!
Bonfire Havdalah Saturday, May 12 at 5:00 p.m.
When should I send in my cans? Send in one or send in a bunch– it doesn’t matter how many or when!
Make your own Besamim (spice box), spend time with family and friends and celebrate all of TBT’s Youth Groups! All TBT families are welcome!
Can I bring other recyclables? Anything aluminum—pie pans, cat food cans, etc.
RSVP to the synagogue office by clicking this link. 6
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
B’nai Mitzvah Brianna Claire Boehm will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on May 12, 2012. She is the daughter of Amy Boehm and Larry Boehm and sister to Shelly. She is the granddaughter of Bobbi Strauss and Vera and Bill Boehm. Brianna is in the 7th Grade at Dodgen Middle School where she is on the Principal's Honor Roll. She participates in Young Author's Club, as well as Orchestra. Brianna likes to draw, bake, enjoys gymnastics and spending time with her family and friends. Brianna is also a teacher's aide for TBT Religious School. Joshua Jay Cohen will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on May 19, 2012. Joshua is the son of Lisa and Michael Cohen and the brother to Jacob and Jamie. Josh is in the 7th grade at St. Francis where he participates in football and soccer and is a peer leader. Josh enjoys playing football with his dad and brother, playing soccer with friends and playing Xbox with his cousin.
Rosh Chodesh Women’s Spiritual Group Spirituality is the nutrient of the neshama (soul). Celebrate your feminine spirit and its link to the Hebrew calendar. (TBT Women of all ages and knowledge are welcome.)
Join us on Wednesday, May 2, from 7:00—8:30 p.m. This will be our last meeting of Rosh Chodesh, as we take a break for summer. We will begin again in August! 7:00 - 7:30 p.m. — We will begin with optional gentle yoga/stretch/breathing to unwind and focus on the meaning of the Hebrew month IYAR. (If you have physical limitations, you can participate sitting in a chair.) If you can't arrive until 7:30 p.m., you can join us then. 7:30 - 8:15 p.m. — We will create beautiful watercolor bookmarks for our summer reading, with the help and direction of Laura DeRiemer; as well as discuss ways in which we can develop our personal independence. What to bring — a candle in a container and a yoga mat if you have one. Wear comfy clothes. Please RSVP to Pam Chanin chaninp@bellsouth.net.
Cantor Kassel to headline Seniors Luncheon
From the TBT Gift Shop
Monday, May 14th 11:30 AM lunch and program
Looking for something shiny and new to show off that pre-summer/mid-spring glow? Come by the gift shop during normal TBT business hours and look at our gorgeous (and WELL priced) jewelry featuring Israeli artists.
Do you ever wonder… "WHAT WOULD IT BE LIKE TO BE CHRISTIAN?" Join us as Cantor Kassel leads us in a lively discussion as she summarizes the book, “My Jesus Year,” a hilarious journey by author, Benyamin Cohen.
We are here for your convenience and shopping pleasure!
YOU DON'T HAVE TO READ THE BOOK—You will be able to learn and discuss the related provocative ideas even if you have not read the book.
Carrie, Pam and Rhonda Your Gift Shop Co-Chairs
Join us for this fun learning experience. All are Welcome! Please RSVP Ruth Zeidman at 770-552-1966
404-457-3242 (Carrie)
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Men’s Club— “Martini Mixer” goes Cinco de Mayo TBT Men's Club Annual Martini Mixer will have a Mexican flair in 2012. This year's "fiesta" will be held on Cinco de Mayo (Saturday, May 5) at the home of Floyd and Barb Shiffman. With catering by a Mexican restaurant and a margarita machine on hand, this will certainly be a fun evening to catch up with old friends. The cost is $20 per person/$40 per couple. Send questions or RSVP to mensclub@bethtikvah.com.
Israel Committee News
Women’s Interfaith Community News
“A CLASH OF CIVILIZATIONS”
Women’s Interfaith Community Potluck Supper at TBT Thursday, May 17, 2012 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Come here Rabbi Tam talk about Israel and the Middle East! Thursday, May 24, 2012 7:30 p.m.
Please join us as we share food and information about our respective dietary laws and customs.
At 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 24, 2012, Rabbi Emeritus Donald A. Tam will present his views on the Middle East conflict from its origins to the present, with focus on the conflict as a clash of civilizations.
Bring your favorite homemade or store bought vegetarian or fish dish. Dairy products are okay, but not shellfish. Please provide a list of ingredients. Please RSVP by May 14th to Terry Apt Carasick herbalterry@yahoo.com
Admission is free – snacks will be provided.
Also indicate if you are bringing an appetizer, a salad, an entree, or dessert.
RSVP to the synagogue office at rsvp@bethtikvah.com. Gene Carasick Chair
Kindly bring a canned food item(s) to be donated to the North Fulton County Charities
TBT Congregants Attend the AIPAC Conference in Washington, D.C. The American Israel Policy Action Committee (“AIPAC”) held its annual policy conference in Washington D.C. from March 4-6. AIPAC’s mission is to strengthen the ties between the United States and Israel. As America’s leading pro-Israel lobby, AIPAC works with Democrats, Republicans and Independents to enact public policy that enhances the U.S.-Israel relationship. Over 13,000 people of all ages and backgrounds attended the 2012 policy conference, including six TBT congregants. The conference featured keynote addresses by Israeli Prime Minister President Benjamin Pictured L to R: Joel and Aviva Margolies, Netanyahu, Israeli President Shimon Peres, and U.S. President Barack Esti and Rick Blue. Not Pictured: Obama, as well as numerous workshops Gene Carasick and Matthew Weiss conducted by prominent journalists, writers and political thinkers. On the final day of the conference, there was an organized lobbying effort during which AIPAC delegates met with nearly every member of the U.S. House and Senate to lobby on behalf of Israel. Next year’s conference will be held from March 3 – 5, 2013. You can view highlights of the 2012 conference and get further information about the 2013 conference by visiting AIPAC’s website http://www.aipac.org.
Pictured to the left are Rick and Esti Blue. 8
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Relay For Life Ruach Atlanta One person can make a difference - it is true - it is fact. In an effort to raise money for the local American Cancer Society office in Tacoma and to show support for all of his patients who had battled cancer Dr. Gordy Klatt spent 24 hours circling the track at Baker Stadium for a total of more than 83 miles while friends, family and patients watched. Throughout the night people donated $25 each to run or walk the course with him for 30 minutes and the Relay for Life was born. Once again one person has seen the need to make a change and make a difference for our Jewish community. Realizing that many Jewish supporters were restricted from the annual Relay because it was on Shabbat, Past President, Sheryl Blechner, with the support and encouragement of Steve Gerson, President and Esther Shultz, long time member of Beth Tikvah and member of the Relay of Life Roswell Steering Committee, approached the American Cancer Society with the idea of a separate relay that, while not faith based, would consider and respect the needs of those in the Jewish community who could not participate without compromising their religious beliefs. After four months of research and due diligence, it was determined that there was no precedent for this anywhere in the world and thus the Relay for Life Ruach Atlanta was born. Ruach (Spirit) is the very essence of what the relay is about. It is about life, survival and remembrance. Sheryl approached the American Cancer Society with a three year plan. Years one and two would incorporate the twelve congregations north of the Chattahoochee and year three would see the event move to a larger venue and include the entire Jewish community. The year one Steering Committee will include representatives from Temple Beth Tikvah, Temple Kol Emeth, Congregation Ner Tamid and Congregation Etz Chaim. The kick off for this ambitious event will be on October 14, 2012 from 1:00 PM to dusk and, in keeping with the integrity of the original, will maintain the key components of the relay which will be an opening ceremony, a Survivor Walk and Survivor Dinner. With a participant goal of 20 teams of 10 and a financial goal of $30,000.00, the relay is destined to be the beginning of a tradition around the world.
TBT’s 25th Anniversary Tribute Book—Be a Part of our History and Anniversary As we gear up for TBT’s 25th Anniversary celebration weekend October 12th—14th, we want to give each member of our community an opportunity to contribute to this momentous occasion. TBT’s 25th Anniversary Tribute Book will be your chance to publicly acknowledge, honor, thank and remember people and/or moments at TBT that have touched you and your family. Every TBT family will receive a copy of the Tribute Book. Be creative! The ways to contribute are endless. You could: Thank TBT’s founding families for having the courage, vision and dedication to build our Synagogue. Thank Rabbi Tam for his endless years of work on our behalf. Honor Rabbi Greene for his vision, devotion and inspiration to our community as well as his inclusive nature in reaching out to all members of TBT. Acknowledge Cantor Kassel’s creativity each year in producing wonderfully funny Purim Schpiels, working with the Bar and Bat Mitzvah students and choirs and producing wonderful music. Thank our staff Becky, Bernice and Jenny for all they do to keep TBT running smoothly every day. Encourage your TBT preschooler or Religious School student to acknowledge a teacher or director that has had a special impact in their life. Thank your parents, children and friends for all they do to make TBT so special. Tell a great TBT story that will make everyone smile! Send in photos to mark this milestone in TBT’s history. Memory submissions: 36 words or less = $18 ● ¼ page = $36 ● ½ page = $72 ● Full page = $180 The 25th Anniversary Tribute Book will help mark this special moment in TBT’s history and be cherished for years to come. Deadline for memory submissions is August 31st. Please send your submissions along with your payment to Temple Beth Tikvah, 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell, GA 30075 (Attn: The Tribute Book). 9
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
TBT Happenings for M
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
May 2012
Food of the month
May For JF&CS And NFCC Peanut Butter Jelly 100% Fruit Juice
SAVE THESE DATES:
TBT’s 25th Anniversary Celebration October 12— Shabbat Service honoring our 18+ year congregants October 13—Danny Maseng in Concert October 14—Relay for Life October 28—25th Anniversary Family Picnic From 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at TBT
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
In the Community WANTED: RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATES! Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! Dr. Seuss wrote that in 1990, and even then, finding a job wasn’t easy. But anyone trying to start a career these days no doubt has discovered what a tough market it is right now. Finding employment is more competitive than ever! Unemployment in Georgia right now is above 9 percent, and if you count those who have stopped looking for a job, the real number is about 16 percent. Nobody would deny that job hunting is quite stressful, but it can be even more so for graduates just starting their careers – even in a good economy. That’s especially true today. It’s an employer’s market, and those doing the hiring often prefer experienced workers. Finding the right job requires creative thinking – and some introspection. JF&CS’ Career Services – Tools for Employment now offers college graduates resources and programs to help in the job search. Our career packages, which are available at three levels, include assessments to help determine interests, strengths and abilities. They also offer individual career counseling, attendance in our career workshops, the opportunity to register in our job database and more. So... if you’re in a slump, or you don’t know which street you want to go down, or if you find yourself in the waiting place, come see us. Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting. So get on your way! For more information about getting started, call 770-677-9358 or email grads@jfcs-atlanta.org.
On October 11, the Anti-Defamation League and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra & Chorus will present Defiant Requiem: Verdi at Terezin, a multi-media concert that tells the story of the courageous Jewish prisoners in the Theresienstadt Concentration Camp during World War II who learned Verdi’s Requiem Mass by rote and then performed this compelling work 16 times. The concert/drama features a full performance of the Requiem, video testimony with surviving members of the choir, original Nazi propaganda film footage, and actors telling the remarkable story of the Jewish prisoners who sang as a symbol of secret defiance against their Nazi captors. The performance is powerful, dramatic and inspirational, with a contemporary message of hope. Click here for Defiant Requiem video & more!
Tickets are on sale NOW and can be purchased by calling the Woodruff Arts Center box office at 404 733-5000 or on the Atlanta Symphony website at www.atlantasymphony.org. Use discount code ADL10 for a 10% discount on each ticket. 12
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Thank You to Our March and April Bucket Campaign Contributors We would like to take this opportunity to list the new contributors to our Second Year Bucket Projects Campaign who donated over the past two months. Thank you for your support as we work together to fulfill our mission and sustain a strong TBT. The next quarterly donor report will be in the June Kol Tikvah. Contributions as of April 23, 2012 Amy and Melvin Finkel Martha and Julian Fuerst Bernice M. Isaac Alice and Sam Herndon Patricia and Fred Landsberg Larry and Jackie Pepper Tributes In memory of: Joseph Hinerfeld ∙ June and Don Restler Isabelle Edelman ∙ Anne and Larry Skal Howard Paul ∙ Nancy and Sandy Simon Mason Myers ∙ Carol Shutzberg Beverly Isaac ∙ Rebecca and Jonathan Bennett
Mannie Berlin Rose Weiss ∙ Debbie and Mark Weiss Helen Skyer ∙ Rachel and Todd Wilson Ida Kerbel ∙ Debra and Spencer Shilling In appreciation of: Rabbi Greene, Rabbi Tam and Cantor Kassel for their caring comfort ∙ Addie Myers The Congregation for all of the support, kindness and contributions made in memory of my mother, Beverly Isaac upon her passing ∙ Bernice M. Isaac
Beth Tikvah’s Bucket Projects
Campaign Year II
The Cohen Home Says “Thank You” for the Mishloach Manot
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Contributions to Temple Beth Tikvah Contributions thru April 20, 2012 Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund In memory of: Beverly Isaac ∙ Bernice Isaac and Richard Quintana ∙ Betty Rickles ∙ Myrna and Ed Kaye Doris Smookler Julius Norvell Morris Norvell Simon Kapp ∙ Myrna and Ed Kaye Irwin Rickles Norman Bronstein ∙ Betty Rickles Mathew Tuvlin ∙ Rita, Bernie, Estelle Tuvlin and family William Gordon ∙ Florence Gordon and Susan Gordon John Steinberg ∙ Cynthia and Howard Steinberg Mason Myers ∙ Florence Gordon and Susan Gordon ∙ Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan ∙ Lois Clymin ∙ Gerri and Steven Lacoff Gertrude Willard ∙ Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Maryetta L. Aronow ∙ Judee and Sherwin Levinson In honor of: Arleen and Mark Reese on the engagement of their son, Brett ∙ Lois Clymin Sam and Brenda Graiser’s Anniversary ∙ Carol and Bruce Waldman In appreciation of: Rabbi Greene for his comfort, warmth and kindness during our loss and for officiating a beautiful memorial service for our mother, Beverly Isaac ∙ Bernice Isaac, Richard Quintana and Maurice Isaac Rabbi Greene for his guidance and help with Zachary on becoming a Bar Mitzvah ∙ Florence Gordon, Susan Gordon and Richard Hall
Rabbi Greene ∙ Nannette and Michael Wien Rabbi Greene for helping me with my D’var Torah and preparing me for my Bar Mitzvah ∙ Robby Scott Rabbi Greene for preparing Michael to become a Bar Mitzvah ∙ Susan and Scott Wynne Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund In memory of: Beverly Isaac ∙ Sharon Khoury Robert Tam ∙ Myra and Ed Kaye Sophie Mellinger ∙ Barbara and Alan Chaiet Harold R. Hirschfield ∙ Barbie and Andrew Perlmutter and Jamie Perry Nathan Resnick ∙ Bernice and Bernie Bickwit
Building Fund In memory of: Norman Bachman ∙ Addie Myers Mike Mahoney ∙ Lisa and Hadley Lowy Endowment Fund In memory of: In memory of Mason Myers ∙ Sheryl S. Blechner Rose Levenson ∙ Gloria and Saul Levenson In honor of: The engagement of Ariel Cohn to David Margis ∙ Sheryl S. Blechner The birth of Micah Dymkowski ∙ Sheryl S. Blechner General Fund
In memory of: Scott Monat ∙ Bracha Sokolic Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund Rita Lederman In memory of: Cyril Lederman Margaret Zolla ∙ Maureen and Bruce Severn ∙ Jane Greenberger and Doug Wexler Mason Myers Belvie Hawkins ∙ Debbie and David Scheer ∙ Betty Rickles ∙ Theda and Leonard Seifert In appreciation of: Rabbi Jacob Holzman Cantor Kassel for her comfort, warmth ∙ Deborah and Julian Isakow and kindness during our loss and her Max Hertzberg beautiful voice at the memorial ∙ June Wallach service for our mother, Beverly Isaac Sophie Finkel Gershcow ∙ Bernice Isaac, Maurice Isaac and ∙ Amy and Melvin Finkel Richard Quintana Carole Friedman Cantor Kassel in preparing Jeremy to ∙ Helene and Pete Levinson become a Bar Mitzvah Esta Schaier ∙ Leslie and Tod Rubin ∙ Myra and Robert Idol Cantor Kassel for her guidance and Joe Aronow help with Zachary’s Bar Mitzvah ∙ Judee and Sherwin Levinson ∙ The Gordon/Hall families Molly Brown Cantor Kassel, Aviva Margolies and ∙ Debra and Spencer Shilling Amy Peskin for preparing me for my In appreciation of: Bar Mitzvah Tony Rosenberg for helping me earn ∙ Robby Scott the Ner Tamid Award Cantor Kassel for preparing Michael to ∙ Robby Scott become a Bar Mitzvah ∙ Susan and Scott Wynne 14
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Contributions continued... Kehillat Chesed/Caring (continued)
Religious School/Education Fund
In appreciation of: The Pesach cards for sports programs in Israel sent to me by my TBT friends ∙ Ruth Zeidman
In memory of: Bernice Landsberg ∙ Patricia and Fred Landsberg
Campership/Israel Fund In memory of: Fela Vigoda Miller ∙ Shirley and Frederick Osterloh Kehillat Chesed/Caring Fund In memory of: Belvie Hawkins ∙ Aubiere and Arnie Cohen Herbert Waldman Ed Cleveland ∙ Carol and Bruce Waldman Mason Myers ∙ Bonnie and Bruce Walkes ∙ Jane Greenberger and Doug Wexler ∙ Ruth Zeidman ∙ Doris and Irving Rosing ∙ Esther and Walt Shultz Ron Schor ∙ Doris and Irving Rosing Doris Smookler ∙ Ruth Zeidman ∙ The Seniors Group In honor of: The speedy recovery of Sy Davis ∙ Doris and Irving Rosing The speedy recovery of Alan Shippel ∙ Aviv Chavurah ∙ Barbara Bogartz and Richard Mindel ∙ Esther and Walt Shultz Amy and Jeff Fain—wishing them good luck and good health in their new venture ∙ Esther and Walt Shultz
Torah Fund In memory of: Sam Grosswald Judy Grosswald ∙ Phyllis and Ira Madans In honor of: The speedy recovery of Maxine Rosen ∙ RoseAnn and Steve Gerson In appreciation of: Rick Winer, for leading a beautiful shiva minyan for our mother, Beverly Isaac ∙ Bernice Isaac, Maurice Isaac and Richard Quintana Youth Fund In memory of: Harris Derene ∙ RoseAnn and Steve Gerson Michael Zalkin Memorial Library Fund In memory of: Mollie Krigsner ∙ Sheila and Aaron Stieglitz Mason Myers ∙ Sandy and Alan Saltzman ∙ June Wallach ∙ Gail and Mark Rudel Harry Morchower ∙ Lisa and Scott Morchower
Prayerbook Fund In memory of: Mason H. Myers ∙ Addie Myers ECEC/Preschool Fund
Donations can be mailed to: Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road Roswell, GA 30075
In memory of: Madeleine Schultz ∙ Jeanne and Jeff Schultz 15
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Submissions for the June KT are due to the synagogue office on Tuesday, May 1. koltikvah@bethtikvah.com
Welcome New Members Honor a special person or event with a leaf on our Tree of Life
Temple Beth Tikvah wishes to welcome the following new members to our family: Peter Birnbaum 7980 Saddle Ridge Drive Atlanta, GA 30350 770-391-0042
Rosalind Taranto 7155 Roswell Rd, #39 Atlanta, GA 30328 770-351-0092
Welcome!
The Tree of Life is a great way to honor a person or life cycle event. Leaves can be donated by individuals or by several people or families. Please consider the Tree of Life the next time you are looking for a way to honor someone or something special!
Condolences Temple Beth Tikvah acknowledges with sorrow the passing of: Mason H. Myers ∙ Son of Addie Myers ∙ Brother to Dean Myers
Address Changes Please make note of the following families who have recently moved. We wish them all the best in their new homes. Susan and Bernard Greenberg 1593 Bayhill Drive Johns Creek, GA 30097
May God console you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Kudos Corner Thank you to…
The Temple Beth Tikvah Board of Trustees, Clergy and Staff wish you a wonderful summer!
Addie Myers, Roberta Goldman and Barbara Schall their help in preparing the mailing for the Annual Congregational Meeting Richard Staviss for his help in the synagogue office
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Synagogue Information Synagogue Office Fax Number School Office (Perri) Preschool (Jenifer) Assistant to Clergy Financial Secretary Admin. Assistant Office Manager
Planning a simcha or group gathering? The Tam-Blank Social Hall is the Place to Be. For more information on renting our Social Hall, contact the synagogue office at 770-642-0434.
- 770-642-0434 - 770-642-0647 - 770-642-4168 - 678-350-0076 - Michelle Leder - Jenny Korsen - Bernice Isaac - Becky Sullivan
Get Involved! TBT Committees and Chairpersons Adult Education Cindy Getty cindygetty@me.com Budget & Finance Harlan Graiser harlanng@yahoo.com Chavurot Ivie Graiser iviegraiser@yahoo.com College Outreach Lynda Bennett lrbennett08@comcast.net Ginger Glazer ggchoc@bellsouth.net Communications Dave Faupel davefaupel8@yahoo.com Fundraising Laura DeRiemer lderiemer@mindspring.com Gift Shop Pam Alterman pmalterman@earthlink.net Carrie Bickwit carriebickwit@yahoo.com Rhonda Schweber rschweber@comcast.net House Ted Nathan tnathan@baldwinscheduling.com Human Resources Karen Moss karenmoss4@msn.com
Israel Gene Carasick gcarasick@gmail.com Kehillat Chesed (Caring) Leslie Swichkow lswichkow@comcast.net Membership Recruitment Kim Peters bradkim3@yahoo.com Lori Goldstrom lorigoldst@att.net Membership Transition Scott Block sblock@bellsouth.net Michael Braun mrbraun@earthlink.net Men’s Club Neil Goldstein nsg24@cornell.edu Nominating Committee Bart Schwartz bart_schwartz@coface-usa.com Andy Goldstrom agoldstrom87@hotmail.com Outreach To Be Determined Purim Mishloach Manot Wendy Lenhard wel1967@mindspring.com Suellen Bergman swbergman@gmail.com Ritual Esther Shultz savtaesther@bellsouth.net
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Rosh Chodesh Women’s Group Pam Chanin chaninp@bellsouth.net Security Michael Gutkin gutkin1@bellsouth.net Seniors Ruth Zeidman zeidmanr@comcast.net Sisterhood Heather Braun hbraun@earthlink.net Sheri Weiner ronsheri@bellsouth.net Social Action Jeff Willard pursuejustice@comcast.net Rodney Eberhardt reberhardt@amerisourcebergen.com Social Committee To Be Determined Website Development Mark Weiss maweiss@mindspring.com Scott Povlot spovlot@yahoo.com Youth Group Julie Perlson jbperlson@hotmail.com
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
For A Special Friend: A courtesy examination & x-ray at no charge when you present this card
LEVINSON CHIROPRACTIC & VAX-D CENTER 5457 Roswell Road, Suite 102 Sandy Springs, Georgia 30342 404-257-0404
www.levinsonchiropractic.com
Publication’s Title and Number: Kol Tikvah • Volume 26 Issue 5 Issue Date: May 2012 Frequency: Monthly Authorized Organization’s Name and Address: Temple Beth Tikvah • 9955 Coleman Road • Roswell, GA 30075 19
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
20 Fred Greene Rabbi Donald A. Tam Rabbi Emeritus Nancy Kassel Cantor Hassia Levin Education Director Jenifer Friedman ECEC Director Steve Gerson President Paul Beckman Vice President Jonathan Bennett Vice President Debra Schwartz Vice President Ron Swichkow Treasurer Rhonda Povlot Secretary Seth Zimmer Chairperson, Board of Education
Attention Postmaster: Time Sensitive Materials ďƒ˜ In home date: April 30, 2012 ďƒ—