Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. XCV NO. 9, April 15, 2020

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VOL. XCV NO. 9 | PASSOVER

APRIL 15, 2020 | 21 NISAN 5780

Happy Passover Virtual Seders and More

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Virtual Reality Passover this year is unlike any holiday Jewish Atlanta has experienced before. The story of the Jewish Exodus from Egypt takes on surreal comparisons to our own confinement and repression. And yet this period of sheltering in place offers opportunities to connect in new ways with family, friends and the community; empathize more deeply with those in dire straits; take a breather from routine; and appreciate our blessings. These are some of the themes community leaders share about Passover during the COVID-19 health crisis in response to our prompt: “Opening the Flood Gates to a New Normal.”

In addition, we bring you stories about a new earth haggadah, along with novel Passover lessons, alternative seders, and ways to view the holiday. In addition to heroes and volunteers who have emerged from the darkness, we tell you how COVID-19 has affected different demographics, from pre-school to the elderly. We hear from experts about mental and emotional well-being, spiritual health and how the community is caring for each other and

THIS WEEK

those in need.

In our news section, we inform you about layoffs at the Marcus JCC caused

by COVID-19 shuttering businesses.

Meanwhile other small businesses, even those closed to protect the public, are rolling up their sleeves to help the less fortunate. We tell you about a new trend in cybercrime capitalizing on the pervasive use of video conferencing platforms – Zoombombing – and how to protect yourself from unwanted disruptions.

But not all activity is derailed.

We introduce you to the new director of Hillels of Georgia, the new rabbi of Congregation Or Hadash and the host of the AJT’s new podcast, "Jewish Time."

Plus, we update you on the latest in Israeli leadership battles and, closer to home, help you make the most of your virtual holiday. Chag Sameach from the AJT family to yours. After we’ve had our fill of matzah and hopefully turned the tide on this 11th plague, we’ll join you back here next issue for more coverage of our most vulnerable, seniors, and the outlook for the Atlanta real estate market before and after COVID-19. ì

Cover image: This Passover, Jewish Atlanta is connecting virtually like never before.

CONTENTS NEWS ������������������������������������������������� 6 POLITICS ���������������������������������������� 16 ISRAEL NEWS ������������������������������� 18 BUSINESS ��������������������������������������� 20 OPINION ����������������������������������������� 24 COVID-19 ���������������������������������������� 26 PASSOVER ������������������������������������� 38 ART ��������������������������������������������������� 61 CALENDAR ������������������������������������� 62 COMMUNITY ��������������������������������� 66 KEEPING IT KOSHER ������������������ 72 BRAIN FOOD ���������������������������������� 73 OBITUARIES ���������������������������������� 74 CLOSING THOUGHTS ����������������� 76

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ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 5

NEWS COVID-19 Blamed for JCC Job Cuts

By Dave Schechter The anticipated loss of program fees and membership revenue — the result of closing indefinitely on March 13 as a COVID-19 precaution — has forced the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta to lay off or furlough more than half of its staff, according to an email sent March 23 by its CEO Jared Powers.

In his message to the “Marcus JCC Family,” Powers said that “we have had to make necessary, though very difficult, decisions to ensure the long-term future of the Marcus JCC. … This very difficult decision is what will allow us to serve the community again in transformative ways when we are able to reopen. We are offering a variety of benefits to those being furloughed and laid off to ease their transitions.”

The JCC did not provide a figure either for the number of employees laid off or furloughed, nor for its total number of employees before the facility closed.

“I cannot even begin to express to

6 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

you how difficult it was to come this decision; nor how heartbreaking it was to deliver the news to our dedicated staff who have helped bring our stellar programs and services to you and our community, and who have built genuine relationships and friendships with you and your families. My heart is truly pained, as I would imagine many of yours will be as well,” he said.

“The remaining staff (many of whom are our Day Camps, Camp Barney Medintz, and Preschool staff), will take on additional work, fulfill additional roles, and take a reduced salary.

This reduction in workforce will not hinder our ability to be up and running as soon as circumstances allow. A decision about Camps will not be made until mid-May,” Powers wrote.

Cancellation of summer camp programs, which generate more than half of the JCC’s revenues, would be a serious blow to the institution’s finances.

The JCC interacts with an estimated 60,000 people annually.

A variety of JCC programming has migrated to online presentation,

Heavy job cuts were “necessary, though very difficult, decisions to ensure the long-term future of the Marcus JCC,” said CEO Jared Powers.

including pre-school and day camp programs, the Lisa F. Brill Institute for Jewish Learning, the Book Festival of the JCC, BBYO, and services with Rabbi

Brian Glusman.

“The Marcus JCC is more than just buildings and campuses; we are truly a home away from home. These difficult decisions were made to ensure that our community will continue to have the Marcus JCC to provide its life-changing programs and services when we reopen,” Powers said.

According to the JCC’s tax return for the fiscal year that ended in August 2018, the most recent available online, 80 percent of its $24.6 million revenue came from “program service revenue,” while 57 percent of its nearly $24.8 million in expenses was “salaries, other compensation, employee benefits.”

Atlanta is not the only city where the JCC has slashed staff. The Jewish Telegraphic Agency reported that the Kaiserman JCC outside Philadelphia, which also closed its doors March 13, has laid off 176 of its 178 employees.

Doron Krakow, CEO of the JCC Association of North America, told JTA that layoffs should be expected throughout the JCC network, which employs about 38,000 people. ì

NEWS

No Small Talk or Small Needs in Jewish Atlanta

By Dave Schechter

way to address collective needs at this moment.”

Terri Bonoff, CEO of JF&CS, said: The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta has made the first grants from its CO- “JF&CS is enormously grateful for the funds VID-19 emergency fund to services helping allocated, allowing us to meet the growindividuals impacted by the public health ing needs in our community. … This virus strikes randomly and crisis. leaves carnage in its path.

Four organizations We are in this together. and Atlanta rabbis reWe will use these funds ceived eight grants totalto make sure people in ing $851,000. As of April our community have the 3, the fund had raised food and resources to get $2.5 million from more through this time and than 250 donors. can access critical mental The largest grant, health support.” $273,000, was made to Rabbi Laurence Jewish HomeLife, which Rosenthal of Ahavath operates elder care faciliJewish Interest Free Loan Achim Synagogue and ties and provides home of Atlanta “is pretty much president of the Atlanta services, to help defray its designed to fill the need which Rabbinical Association, March to May expenses the community now has,” said said: “It is incredibly genfor staffing, equipment Laura Kahn Travis, president of JIFLA’s board of directors. erous and forward-thinkand other needs.

Jewish Interest Free Loan of Atlanta ing of the Federation to supply such funds received $174,000 “to expand capacity and help rabbis continue to guide and support people throughout (through staffing and loan our communities. All dollars) to meet increased of us receive outreach loan demand for memfrom people in need, bers of the Jewish comnot just congregants. It munity.” is our honor to support The Marcus Jewish people wherever they Community Center reare on their spiritual ceived two allocations in journey and this fund response to job cuts totalgoes a long way to help ing more than half of its assist us in doing this. “ staff: $102,000 to fund In conference calls three months of health in the week before the insurance for furloughed Atlanta’s rabbis “are bracing for workers and $32,000 to what might be the inevitable flood first round of grants, the same leaders assessed do the same for laid off of funerals we’re going to have to deal with” as the COVID-19 crisis the challenge facing the workers. continues, said Rabbi Laurence community.

Jewish Family & CaRosenthal of Ahavath Achim “We have top notch reer Services received Synagogue and president of the organizations that we $100,000 to meet inAtlanta Rabbinical Association. have spent a long time creased financial needs in the Jewish community, $70,000 to sup- building and strengthening,” Robbins said. port mental health services, and $50,000 “They’re all threatened long term right now.”

Bonoff said, “This to fund the purchase of morning, as I looked at food and meet adminismy staff’s faces, I saw trative costs in its food something that I hadn’t pantry operation. seen just a few days ago, An allocation of a palpable fear in their $50,000 was designated faces and sadness and to bolster the discretiondespair.” ary funds available to Rosenthal said, rabbis to aid their syna“Many of our colleagues gogue communities. are bracing for what Eric Robbins, presimight be the inevitable dent and CEO of the Fed“Many of our organizations do flood of funerals we’re goeration, told the AJT: “We not have significant reserves to ing to have to deal with. I are so appreciative of the weather a significant disruption of think that scares a lot of way our entire commuthis nature,” said Mark Silberman, our colleagues. I definitely nity has come together Federation board chairman. know it scares me.” in an unprecedented

Federation officials believe that much sonal protective equipment for JHL employmore than $2.5 million will be needed ees, is “a real nightmare for every health over time. “Many of our organizations do care provider in the country” and a 24-hournot have significant reserves to weather a a-day challenge. “We’re dealing with costs significant disruption of this nature,” said we haven’t had to incur,” he said, including Federation board chairman Mark Silber- overtime and sick leave, and based on what he’s being told, “We’re bracman. ing for more tough times, Calls to JF&CS for especially in the coming emergency financial month.” assistance and food aid Jared Powers, CEO of were “doubling week the MJCCA, said that the job after week,” while calls cuts were made “to make for mental health assissure that we can be a finantance increased, Bonoff cially stable and viable orgasaid, adding that her nization moving forward.” agency may need an Speaking for the Jewadditional $5 million in ish day schools, David the coming year.

JF&CS CEO Terri Bonoff said Abusch-Magder, head “The staff of JF&CS her staff are “heroes,” who are of school at The Epstein really aren’t the same “bringing a tremendous amount of School, said that the crisis people that they were talent and courage to dealing with came during the “recruitthree weeks ago. They the broader Jewish community.” ing season” for potential are heroes. They are heroes working around the clock, … bringing students and families. “We are gearing up a tremendous amount of talent and cour- for knowing that some families will be unable to meet their current age to dealing with the commitments for tuition broader Jewish commu… and that some may be nity,” Bonoff said. in a position where they Harley Tabak, are afraid of being unable president and CEO of to meet their commitJewish HomeLife, spoke ments for the future,” he similarly about JHL’s said. employees. “We have Helping people meet amazing caregivers who financial obligations is the walk in our buildings mission of JIFLA. “We’re every day knowing that incredibly well-suited to they are potentially gohelp the community at ing to be exposed to the COVID-19 is posing “one of the this particular time,” said virus and risk their own biggest challenges we have seen Laura Kahn Travis, presihealth,” he said. That in this community in a very long time,” said Eric Robbins, dent of JIFLA’s board of was no idle statement, president and CEO of the Jewish directors. “We have an oras six residents and six Federation of Greater Atlanta. ganization here which is employees in JHL facilipretty much designed to fill the need which ties have tested positive for COVID-19.

Tabak said that locating enough per- the community now has.” ì

Happy Passover!

Rabbi Abi Nadoff Call: 844-MOHEL-ABI (844-664-3522) SimpleCircumcision.com ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 7

NEWS

Piedmont’s Marcus Tower Opens Early for COVID-19

Renderings from the inside of the new Marcus Tower, including a patient room, lobby, surgical pavilion, donor wall and visitors sunroom.

The Marcus Tower at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital opens April 13, almost four months early, in an effort to serve the community and make more intensive care unit beds available during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If necessary, three ICU and acute nursing units, spread over the tower’s sixth, seventh and eighth floors, will be made available, adding a total of 132 additional beds, with 64 designated as ICU beds. These units will house both COVID-19 positive and non-COVID-19 patients.

The tower, which was made possible through an initial donation of $75 million from Bernie and Billi Marcus through The Marcus Foundation, was originally set to open Aug. 1.

"Billi and I are happy to see that Piedmont can open their new building early and add additional ICU bed capacity for the people of Atlanta in the wake of this growing emergency situation," said Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Marcus Foundation.

“By opening this part of the tower

early, we are increasing capacity at a criti- than by increasing our capacity with cal time when our community needs it this state-of-the-art facility during the the most,” said Dr. Patrick Battey, CEO of COVID-19 pandemic,” said Kevin Brown, Piedmont Atlanta Hospital. “Getting these president and CEO of Piedmont Healthbeds ready for patients who may need care. “Because of the great work our team them during the COVID-19 outbreak was on the project has performed by already the right thing to do, and I am proud of the being ahead of schedule, we were able to advance the timeline furstaff at Piedmont and our ther to open these ICU partners on the project and acute care units and who made it happen.” have them ready in case Piedmont’s projwe need them. ect management team, “Piedmont would working with its partners like to recognize the leadBrasfield & Gorrie, CBRE ership of Georgia Gov. and HKS Inc., have acBrian Kemp and Atlanta celerated the completion Mayor Keisha Lance Botof these floors and manutoms for helping us to facturers have shipped make this a reality.” equipment ahead of Rendering of the new Marcus When the rest of the schedule to achieve this Tower of Piedmont Atlanta tower opens in August, it goal. Crews have worked Hospital from Peachtree Street. will house the Piedmont extended schedules, including weekends, to get these areas ready Heart Institute, the new Marcus Heart for patients. Piedmont Atlanta staff mem- and Vascular Center, the Samsky Invasive bers have worked hard in preparation for Cardiovascular Services Center, and the the opening as well, creating plans, partic- Shaheen Auditorium. The 16-story tower ipating in tours and drills, testing equip- will feature technologically advanced opment and training to work erating rooms, cardiac labs, critical and acute care facilities, and up to 408 beds. ì in the new space.

Compuiled by AJT Staff “Piedmont exists to serve its communities and there is no greater way that we can serve them

Billi and Bernie Marcus, co-founders of The MarcrusFoundation 8 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 9

NEWS

Rabbi Creates Facebook Page for Spiritual Leaders

By Bob Bahr

there are other moderators representing other faith traditions.

Recently Rabbi Josh Lesser of Congregation Bet Haverim thought it might be helpful to have a place where rabbis and other spiritual leaders could meet, exchange ideas and generally find a sympathetic ear during the coronavirus pandemic. So he set up a Facebook page just for religious leaders. He was astonished by the response.

AJT: How did you get the idea that the spiritual leaders, who are always being asked for help, needed help, themselves?

Lesser: I had this moment of recognition that to do this work well, that clergy needed a safe space to be able to share ideas, but also to process what was happening to us in a way so that we could be better present to our communities.

A friend of mine, Dr. Letitia Campbell, who is responsible for moral leadership at Emory’s Candler School of Theology, is my co-administrator. We’ve been reaching out to make sure that

AJT: How is it working out?

Lesser: I thought that maybe I would create a group that would attract 150 or 200 of my friends and their friends to kind of create this online community. I never imagined that it would.

You know, we’re close to 6,500 folks now.

And it grows every day.

AJT: In practical terms how is the group functioning?

Lesser: This group is functioning as a very creative, brilliant network of good ideas, cross-pollinating between different faiths, and when there need to be specific faith threads, those are happening as well. So, while there’s a lot of Passover threads on Jewish spaces, there are Passover threads on this space. So that is one piece. The other piece is that people are sharing different aspects of what’s happening in their communities, sometimes asking for specific advice.

AJT: What’s an example of an issue

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Rabbi Lesser, in front of banner, is deeply involved in issues of social justice.

AJT: So perhaps this is a good time one rabbi or spiritual leader might disto ask you for an answer to a question a cuss with another?

Lesser: One of the most profound person might have this Passover as they posts was from a person who was a hu- are confined at home, alone. If they were manist, who was really wrestling with sitting at your virtual seder, what would the kind of ledge of hopelessness that he you say about the meaning of freedom sits on. I would say that over 200 people today?

Lesser: The responded. mystics and Even I respondJewish tradition ed that when I talked about find myself on an outer libthe ledge of deeration, which spair or hopeis the story of lessness, I pracEgypt, of the tice a sense of Jews leaving humility. I have Egypt from to cultivate the slavery.

But sense that I rethere’s also the ally, truly don’t inner liberaknow it all. And tion. And I beso I was able to lieve that this say, there is so year is the year much that I do for us to exnot know that’s The coronavirus is not the first health crisis plore our inner unfolding.

Rabbi Josh Lesser has had to deal with. landscape if we As a gay rabbi he has had considerable are not able to AJT: And experience with the AIDS epidemic. have a sense of yet that’s not something most of us hear very often comfort with ourselves. Whether it’s the Joseph story where Joseph finds a sense from religious leaders.

Lesser: I think that there’s a trap of his own destiny and power while he that we set up with one another and is imprisoned or the story the story of with our congregants and that clergy Martin Luther King, Jr., who wrote his walk into. What I try to pivot towards famous letter on non-violent protest is that we may not have all the answers, from the Birmingham jail. There are but we will accompany you on the jour- ways that our quarantine does not have ney. We will hold your questions. I want to confine us, but that with a sense of to encourage strong laypeople to be able spiritual imagination and liberation, to have a relationship with their own we may be able to hear the call to what wisdom rather than be dependent on is our most powerful truth. That’s what you would hear at my Passover table. ì spiritual leaders for "the answer."

Happy Passover

NEWS

Hillels of Georgia Announces New CEO

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

namic Jewish professionals to inspire and engage students. We are pleased Elliot is Hillels of Georgia announced the ap- bringing his considerable talents, experipointment of Elliot B. Karp as CEO last ence and devotion to Hillels of Georgia and week. Karp takes the reins during a time that he will be leading its exciting future.”

Karp is a respected and recognized when the organization has shifted its programming to online-only to support stu- Jewish community professional with exdents who have left their college campuses pertise in nonprofit management, fundraising and development, strategic plandue to coronavirus. ning, programming, “We are pleased to marketing and commuwelcome Elliot to Hillnity relations. As camels of Georgia,” said Bob paign director for the Wilensky, chair of HilJewish Federation of Cinlels of Georgia board of cinnati, he was selected directors. “He is a visionby his professional colary with a deep comleagues as chair of the mitment to Jewish life, Campaign Director’s Inliving, learning and valstitute of the Council of ues. He is a skillful and Jewish Federations, the accomplished executive predecessor organizawho has devoted his tion of the Jewish Federprofessional career to ations of North America, serving the Jewish comNew CEO Elliot Karp comes and he was awarded the munity, Israel and the from Onward Israel, and is annual Rabineau Award Jewish people. We look committed to making even more for Professional Excelforward to Elliot’s pasadvances at Hillels of Georgia. lence. sionate leadership and “This is an incredibly important time the future growth of Hillels of Georgia.”

“Under Karp’s leadership, Hillels of for Hillels of Georgia as we build upon the Georgia will remain steadfast in support- organization’s tremendous history across ing students through this crisis with virtu- our campuses,” Karp said. “I am honored al social activities and impactful programs, to join the passionate and dedicated team networking opportunities, Jewish educa- as we work to support students virtually tion and emotional support. Where need- through these moments of uncertainty ed, Hillels of Georgia staff have been on the on campuses. I look forward to working front line assisting Hillel students as they collaboratively with our students and moved off campuses and helping them to board members as well as my professional colleagues, faculty and university cope with this crisis through counseling.”

Karp has served the Jewish communi- administrators, our generous donors and ty his entire professional career and brings community partners throughout the comto Hillels of Georgia extensive local, nation- munity.”

Karp received his Bachelor of Arts al and international executive leadership degree in political science from SUNY experience.

He comes to the post from Onward Is- Stony Brook where he served as Hillel rael, where he was vice president of devel- president for three years. He went on to opment. Before that, he served as president earn a Master of Arts from the Hornstein and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Las Jewish Professional Leadership Program Vegas. He has been a senior executive with at Brandeis University. Karp was recogthe Jewish Federations of Columbus and nized and honored by Brandeis as the Cincinnati, Ohio, and Philadelphia, as well recipient of the Bernard Reisman Proas the national United Jewish Appeal, Jew- fessional Excellence Award and served ish Agency for Israel, Brandeis University as president of the Hornstein Program Alumni Association. and Hebrew Union College.

Hillels of Georgia’s virtual programKarp’s appointment was the result of a national search chaired by Michael Kogon, ming is open to college students across Hillels of Georgia vice president of leader- Georgia and beyond, as well as high school ship development, and members of the Hil- students and seniors who are interested in lels of Georgia board, with help from Hillel joining a Hillel on campus once they graduate. ì International.

Adam Lehman, Hillel International For more information, visit www.Hillelpresident and CEO, said, “Hillel International is committed to hiring the most dy- sofGeorgia.org.

12 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 13

NEWS

Or Hadash Hires a New Rabbi

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

tion, said Gita Berman, co-chair of the search committee. Co-chair Lynn Epstein Seven months after launching a rab- said Henderson’s first video interview binic search committee, Congregation made a strong impression. “She operates Or Hadash signed a three-year contract in a state of grace,” Epstein said. “She’s not only poised and April 1 with a rabbi warm, but there’s from South Caroa well of Jewish joy lina to replace the and learnedness that founding rabbis of she possesses. This the Sandy Springs was amplified dursynagogue. ing the weekend,” at Rabbi Lauren the end of February, Henderson, origiwhen Henderson nally from Sparwas invited to meet tanburg, S.C., will the nearly 18-yearreplace Rabbi Anaold congregation and lia Bortz and Rabbi lead services.

Mario Karpuj in July, “Shabbat was according to congremagical how people gation President Ben responded to her,” Nadler. The rabbinic Epstein added. couple plan to make When the search aliyah sometime this Rabbi Lauren Henderson had her committee sursummer. eye on the Atlanta Jewish community even before Congregation Or Hadash veyed congregants Rabbi Henstarted looking for a new rabbi. to ascertain their derson was chosen from 17 rabbis who applied for the posi- opinions of Henderson, fully 93 percent

14 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

She told the AJT that she began exsaid they would be as involved or more ploring Atlanta and contemplated “what involved in the synagogue headed by would it look like to start a new comHenderson. “That’s the beautiful chalmunity,” such as the one where she’s lah coming out of the oven,” Epstein enworked for the last four years in Chicago. thused.

Mishkan Chicago is a unique spiritual From the beginning of the search, environment that is not bound by a parBerman and Epstein made a point of ticular location, according to its website. hearing from all the congregation’s conBut Henderson realized that she is not an stituencies – “from the youngest to the entrepreneur.

“My skill set is to go into families with kids to seniors” – about a community and help reimagine a new what they wanted in a new rabbi. creative” future, she said.

“We met with the synagogue’s key Before Henderson “pivoted” to Jewstakeholders as well as leaders in the ish practice, after growing up on the greater Atlanta Jewish community,” said “fringe of the Jewish community” in her Berman, as their “small, but nimble comhometown, music was her “spiritual mittee” was formed. They also consulted home.” with Congregation Shearith Israel, which “I love to sing and lead davening,” she had gone through a rabbinic search two said.

She played the clarinet when she was years prior. “We wanted to hear how they growing up, but added somewhat sheephad done it and they were very helpful. ishly that she doesn’t play the guitar.

It’s not an easy process,” Berman said.

The day after Henderson submitted “We were looking for our bashert and her application for the position at Congresometimes that takes time.” gation Or Hadash, she traveled to GuateBerman, who was the congregation’s mala with a handful of Jewish leaders as first president, followed by Epstein, said part of the Global Justice Fellowship run they were delighted to take on the “holy by American Jewish World Service, an task” of finding a replacement for the organization that supports human rights congregation’s beloved rabbis. The comand efforts to fight poverty in developing mittee held several listening sessions with various groups of congregants and countries. Among the group was Rabbi created an online survey to ask members Bortz, so she had an opportunity to chat with her about the congregation. what they wanted in their new rabbi.

Henderson spoke about the responNadler said among the top things on sibility of following Rabbis Bortz and the synagogue’s list of attributes it was Karpuj, noting that “no one can fill their seeking was “somebody who is inclusive. shoes.” Hearing that, We felt it was imporKarpuj pointed out tant to have somethat “we are taking one who believed our shoes with us.” in an open tent for Along with her people of all kinds husband, Joel Dworof traditions and kin, Henderson is levels of observance. excited about joining We wanted someone the Atlanta Jewish open and accessible community. “I would to Jews of all types.” love the community Other important atto know that I’m gotributes were a love ing to be a part of this of social justice, love wider ecosystem. It’s of music and somebeen a dream of mine one who was pasfor the last couple of sionate about teachyears and I’m excited ing. to collaborate and Henderson, learn from and parwho was ordained “We were looking for our bashert,” said ticipate in what it has by the Jewish Theosearch committee co-chair Gita Berman. to offer.” logical Seminary A transition committee has been in 2016, already had her eye on Atlanta when the position of rabbi at Congrega- appointed to figure out the hand-off betion Or Hadash came up. During rabbin- tween Rabbis Bortz and Karpuj and Rabic school, she was already thinking about bi Henderson. “The pandemic could afreturning to the Southeast. And then in fect that,” Nadler said. “One lesson we’ve 2016, she interviewed with Congregation learned is that we can only do so much B’nai Torah, but it wasn’t “quite the right planning and we must let nature take its course.” ì fit and timing.”

NEWS

Zoombombing: New Frontier of Anti-Semitism?

By Roni Robbins

and the Anti-Defamation League. It’s especially troubling considering the ubiquitous While The Temple was hosting classes use of the app for business, education and on Zoom, as it does every day lately, a few group meetings during the coronavirus.

“What is happening is people are people dressed in black started popping up on screens with anti-Semitic backgrounds hacking into people’s Zoom meetings, esin two of the classes. “They start shouting pecially with Zoom being used so widely,” said Allison Paanti-Semitic slodilla-Goodman, gans about Jews, vice president of use the ‘n’ word, ADL’s Southern and in both cases Division. shouting, ‘allahu The disruptakbar’ (God is ers spew antimost great, in ArSemitism, hate abic),” said Senior and sometimes Rabbi Peter Berg. pornography or “In both casother inapproes, we removed Heather Blake’s musical Friday night priate content, the individuals Shabbat service on Zoom for Congregation she said. Padillafrom the call and Etz Chaim was shockingly interrupted April Goodman also have taken nec3 by pornography. She quickly redirected has received reessary protocols congregants to Facebook Live for the remainder ports of Zoomboto prevent these of the program, as seen in this screenshot. mbing happening individuals from to other non-Jewish community groups. rejoining our Zoom classes.”

A musical Shabbat service of Congre- “It’s becoming pretty widespread,” she said.

“We track and monitor a lot of antigation Etz Chaim on Zoom and Facebook Live was also disrupted about 15 minutes Semitism, but this is a disruptive activity into the program by someone screenshar- on a new platform that creates a new chaling a meme with the “f” word and draw- lenge,” Padilla-Goodman said.

Most previous activity of this type has ing a phallic symbol. This was followed by someone showing explicit pornogra- been on social media, she said. “You are phy, and later, after screen sharing was able to ignore a tweet or can choose not to read it. You can report a disabled but before the bad user on Twitter or sound muted, a recordblock someone through ing with derogatory Facebook.” speech including the But the perpetra“n” word. Heather Blake, tors of this new antiEtz Chaim engagement Semitism can’t just be director who led the prokicked out of the Zoom gram from her home, meeting. “They expose directed about 30 in ateveryone. They are front tendance to only use and center with whatevFacebook Live for the er they are spewing. It’s remainder of the prenot something you can Shabbat service. Visibly just ignore. They take flustered, she apologized over the meeting,” she several times during said, adding that ADL is the Facebook program tracking and analyzing about the late start and the trend. “We continue shortened service resultAllison Padilla-Goodman of the to try to understand ing from the disruption.

“I wish I had acted faster ADL has received a growing number how they are doing it of reports about Zoombombing and how serious a threat and closed the meeting by anti-Semitic perpetrators. it is.” as soon as the meme On March 24, a known white supremwas up, but it was hard to think on the fly when you are shocked and confused,” she acist and hacker interrupted a webinar told the AJT after Shabbat. “It was horrible.” about anti-Semitism hosted by a MassaThe hijacking and disruption of video chusetts Jewish student group by pulling teleconferencing on the popular platform his shirt collar down to reveal a swastika Zoom, which has become known as Zoom- tattoo on his chest, according to an ADL bombing, is a growing concern to those blog, “What is ‘Zoombombing’ and Who is who fight crime and hate, including the FBI Behind it?”

Zoom videoconferencing is increasingly being used for business, education and group meetings during the global health crisis.

In another blog about “How to Prevent ‘Zoombombing,’” the ADL listed a number of incidents targeting virtual classrooms at Arizona State University and the University of Southern California, and a virtual Torah lesson March 22 interrupted by multiple people sharing anti-Semitic images and language. In Thousand Oaks, Calif., an online school board meeting was cut short after someone shared pornographic images as well as a Nazi flag and swastika, the blog post said.

Zoom responded quickly to an AJT request for comment about the disruptions to its videoconferencing. “We are deeply upset to hear about the incidents involving this type of attack and we strongly condemn such behavior,” a Zoom spokesperson said.

“We have been actively educating our users on how they can protect their meetings and help prevent incidents of harassment.”

Starting March 20, Zoom published a series of blogs to clarify the protective features that can be put in place such as waiting rooms, passwords, muting controls and limiting screen sharing.

“We have also been offering trainings and tutorials, as well as free interactive daily webinars, and we’ve been proactively sending these resources to our users so that they can better understand their own account features and how to best use the platform,” the spokesperson said.

The ADL also has published guidelines for preventing Zoombombing and how to respond to it.

Zoom, the ADL and the FBI encourage reporting disruptive incidents to their organizations.

“I highly recommend that all Jewish organizations follow the protocols of the ADL and other organizations for Zoom se-

curity,” Rabbi Berg said.

The ADL offers this checklist for staying safe when hosting Zoom meetings: Before the meeting: • Disable autosaving chats.

• Disable file transfer.

• Disable screen sharing for non-hosts.

• Disable remote control.

• Disable annotations.

• Use per-meeting ID, not personal ID. • Disable “Join Before Host.”

• Enable “Waiting Room.”

During the meeting: • Assign at least two co-hosts.

• Mute all participants.

• Lock the meeting, if all attendees are present.

If you are Zoombombed: • Remove problematic users and dis able their ability to rejoin when asked.

• Lock the meeting to prevent additional Zoombombing.

To read the full ADL blog on preventing Zoombombing, visit www.adl.org/blog/howto-prevent-zoombombing.

For more information about keeping your meetings safe, visit Zoom’s March 20 blog, https://blog.zoom.us/wordpress/2020/03/20/ keep-uninvited-guests-out-of-your-zoomevent/.

You can report Zoombombing incidents to the ADL at adl.org or Zoom at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/requests/ new. The FBI asks anyone who is a victim of teleconference hijacking, or any cyber-crime for that matter, to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. If you receive a specific threat during a teleconference, the FBI requests you report it to tips.fbi.gov. ì ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 15

POLITICS COVID-19 Impacting Georgia Election Plans

By Dave Schechter The questions around Georgia’s scheduled May 19 primary election include: Should we?

How do we?

Will we?

The primary is when Republicans and Democrats select their nominees for the Nov. 3 general election from the President and U.S. Senate down through state, county and municipal races. The deadline to register to vote in the primary is April 20. Georgia is an open primary state, meaning that registered voters do not have to be members of a party to vote in that party’s primary.

The March 24 Democratic presidential primary was postponed and moved to May 19 because of the public health crisis. The Democratic ballot will show 12 presidential candidates, even though all but two have withdrawn or halted their campaigns. Early voting for the Democratic presidential primary was suspended March 19 after more than 275,000 people had cast ballots. Those who already voted in the presidential primary will not find that race on their ballot.

Three weeks of early voting are set to begin April 27, though not every county has announced its early voting plans.

Should the state hold a primary election in the

16 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Gov. Brian Kemp has said that his current emergency powers, which expire April 13, do not give him authority to change the date of an election in May.

midst of a public health crisis? Should the primary be moved to July or August, presuming, of course, that by then the spread of the virus has been arrested and some semblance of public activity can resume?

How to conduct the election is a tricky issue.

Many of the men and women who work the polling places are senior citizens, among those most vulnerable to the virus. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, whose office oversees elections, has said that younger poll workers will be needed.

In-person voting would have to be conducted in a way that protects the health of poll workers, main-

tains social distancing, and prevents the spread of the virus through the touch-screens voting machines.

Some 6.9 million eligible voters on the state’s rolls are being mailed an absentee ballot request form. Once filled out and mailed back (voters paying the 55-cent postage), the state will mail the Democratic or Republican ballot, as requested. Voting by mail is controversial in some political quarters, but it does reduce the number of people venturing out in public.

Absentee ballots accounted for about 7 percent of the ballots cast in the 2018 general election, a figure expected to increase this year.

The decision as to whether the primary election will remain on May 19 is in the hands of Gov. Brian Kemp and Raffensperger, both Republicans. Kemp has said that his current emergency powers, which expire April 13, do not give him authority to change the date of an election in May. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Raffensperger said that moving the primary from May 19 would require either an executive order from Kemp or action by the state legislature, which suspended its session March 12 because of the coronavirus Georgia House Speaker David Ralston, a Republican, said threat. the absentee ballot election “Elections are part should drive up turnout. of America’s critical infrastructure. They must go on, as they have in our history during civil war, crushing recessions and deadly epidemics,” Raffensperger told the Atlanta JournalConstitution.

The state Democratic party wants the election held as scheduled, with expanded mail-in voting.

The 11 Georgia Republicans in the U.S. House and Senate sent Raffensperger a letter encouraging him to change the date.

Speaking about the potential of large numbers voting by absentee Secretary of State Brad ballot, Georgia House Raffensperger, whose Speaker David Ralston, office oversees elections, has said that younger poll a Republican, told Fetch workers will be needed.

YourNews, based in north Georgia, “This will be extremely devastating to Republicans and conservatives in Georgia. Every registered voter is going to get one of these. … This will certainly drive up turnout.”

As for the candidates, at all levels the usual forms of campaigning are out. No pressing the flesh. No kissing babies. Campaigning via social media and video conferencing have replaced public events and meet-and-greets in supporters’ homes. ì

Committed to Fulton I am running to be a Fulton County Superior Court Judge because I believe Fulton County residents deserve to have fair, efficient, effective and excellent judges, who have a deep commitment to serving this County and its residents.

My husband and I decided to make Fulton County our home fourteen years ago, and I am committed to making my community proud.

I have dedicated my legal career to the service of Fulton County residents and organizations. I have served as legal counsel to several of Fulton County’s bedrock institutions, including Grady Memorial Hospital, MARTA and the Atlanta Housing Authority. In 2017, I was honored to be appointed as the 1st Chief Judge of the City of South Fulton’s Municipal Court, and efficiently and effectively built the judicial system for the third largest city in Fulton County in record-time, 40 days! While there, I developed effective programs, such as the “Be What You Can See” youth shadowing/mentorship program, which allowed middle and high school students an opportunity to shadow Court officers during Court sessions in order to expose them to careers in the justice system. Currently, I serve as a Pro Tem Judge in Union City’s Municipal Court. My commitment to Fulton County and its judicial system is unwavering, and if elected, I will work every day to make you proud.

Education South Carolina State University, B.A. Political Science, summa cum laude, 2003 University of Georgia School of Law, J.D. cum laude, 2006 Judicial Appointments Chief Judge, South Fulton Municipal Court (2017-2019) Pro Tem Municipal Court Judge- Union City, Forest Park and Riverdale (2019-present) Awards POLITICO’s 2018 Woman of Impact 2018-2019 Law and Justice Woman of the Year, Georgia’s Most Powerful and Influential Attorneys 2018 Atlanta Women of Distinction Finalist Professional Memberships District Five Representative, Council of Municipal Court Judges Executive Committee Member, Atlanta Bar Association Judicial Section Member, Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys Member, Gate City Bar Association Member, Elizabeth Baptist Church Member, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Endorsements

The Honorable Thelma Wyatt Cummings Moore, Fulton County Superior Court (Ret.).

I humbly ask for your support in my endeavor to become the next Fulton County Superior Court Judge.

Early voting begins April 27, 2020, and the election is May 19, 2020.

Tiffany

Honorable Debra Bazemore GA House of Representatives District 63

Dr. Craig L. Oliver, Sr., Senior Pastor Elizabeth Baptist Church

Tiffany Carter Sellers Candidate, Fulton County Superior Court

www.ElectTiffanySellers.com

Dr. Walter L. Kimbrough Cliftondale United Methodist Church

Thomas Gatewood Sampson, Sr., Managing Partner Thomas, Kennedy Sampson & ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 17 Tompkins, LLP

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

Photo from Israel Defense Ministry // Engineers produce

ventilators in a converted missile factory.

Missile Factory Converted to Produce Ventilators To address the ventilator shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic, Israeli manufacturers converted a missile factory to produce the machines, The Times of Israel reported.

This project is a collaboration between the Defense Ministry, Inovytec medical company, and Israel Aerospace Industries.

The production line, which is located in an Israel Aerospace Industries factory, already delivered 30 ventilators to the Health Ministry, the Defense Ministry said,

and “was set up within days.”

The ventilators are designed by Inovytec and are the Ventway Sparrow line, which the company describes as a portable, compact and durable version for emergency treatment of children and adults.

“This development will enable the production of crucial ventilators for the life-saving treatment of patients diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus,” the Defense Ministry said in a statement.

“The State of Israel must develop independent capabilities in everything related to dealing with the COVID-19 virus pandemic. We cannot remain dependent on procurement from other countries. We must develop independent, advanced capabilities,” the Defense Ministry said.

Stores to Offer Pre-Set Passover Baskets As Israeli supermarkets see a steep increase in sales, stores are finding new ways to address their customers’ needs for Passover. Rami Levy, the CEO of the Rami Levy Hashikma Marketing 2006 supermarket chain, said they are offering customers a pre-set basket of 57 items that will be prepared ahead of time and delivered within 72 hours from the time of the order. “We are starting tomorrow,” he said.

Because of the coronavirus, “we have seen online orders jump five or even six times more than in regular times,” Levy told The Times of Israel. “People are afraid

Yossi Zamir/Flash90 // Empty shelves at a supermarket in Tel Aviv. Israelis are stockpiling food as the government takes stricter precautions against the coronavirus.

to leave their homes, and we have a logistic problem.”

The list of products was compiled with the Ministry of Economy and Industry, and the basket costs 767 shekels ($214). It includes a six-pack of mineral water, 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of drumsticks, one kilogram (2.2 pounds) each of chopped meat, chicken thighs and salmon fillets, along with sweet Kiddush wine, red wine, kosher-for-Passover crackers, hummus, cheeses, matzah, rice, vegetables, coffee, tuna and eggs.

The supermarket Shufersal is also preparing a Passover product basket, a spokesperson for the chain said.

They will offer customers a “quick and limited basket of products” that can be ordered online.

The basket will be available for delivery within a week of order, TOI reported.

Israel to Help Christians Share ‘Holy Fire’ Ritual Israel is working with Orthodox Christian leaders in the Holy Land and foreign governments to make sure the ancient Holy Fire ceremony is able to occur, The Times of Israel reported.

Thousands of worshippers flock every year to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem’s Old City for the pre-Easter ceremony. The church is built on the site where Christian tradition holds Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected.

For the ceremony, Eastern Orthodox clerics enter a small chamber marking the site of the tomb and exit with candles said to be miraculously lit with “holy fire” as a message to the faithful. The flame is shared with pilgrims and sent to communities globally. Details of the flame’s source are a closely guarded secret.

With the ban on public gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ceremony on April 18 will be limited to around 10 leaders from various Orthodox denominations. They have developed a way to deliver the flame overseas: foreign dignitaries coming to pick up the flame will receive it on their planes and immediately return home.

Akiva Tor, who heads the Israeli Foreign Ministry’s department for world religions, said the arrangement has been discussed with local church leaders and coordinated with several foreign countries with large Orthodox populations, including Greece, Russia, Georgia and Ukraine.

Tor said church officials have been understanding. “We have the same goal in mind, which is to enable the continuation of this miraculous event while being respectful of the medical emergency which is taking place,” he said. ì

18 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

ISRAEL NEWS No New Government as Israel Heads for Lockdown

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

the international community,” reported Kan, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanya- Corp. hu and his former opponent and probAnother stumbling block appears able future partner Benny Gantz had to concern judicial appointments. Gantz hoped to establish a unicalled off negotiations ty or emergency governafter Netanyahu’s negoment before Passover. tiating team reportedly However, after “meetwalked back a previous ing” over the weekend agreement. to try to work out their The proposed differences, Gantz reagreement between portedly planned to ask Netanyahu and Gantz President Reuven Rivlin calls for a rotation that for a 14-day extension would allow Netanyaon his mandate to crehu to remain as prime ate a coalition governminister for the first 18 ment. months, followed by a “Met” in the new hand off of the premierworld of coronavirus ship to Gantz for the meant that Gantz sat following 18 months. As IDI’s Dr. Gilad Malach said on the patio outside the The Times of Israel rethe ultra-Orthodox account prime minister’s resiported, a rotation agreefor 12 percent of Israel’s population, but 40 percent dence while Netanyahu ment isn’t moored in of the coronavirus cases. sat inside. For the secIsraeli law and depends ond time, Netanyahu was in isolation. on the first premier voluntarily resignThe first time was after being exposed ing at the agreed-upon time. There has to an aide who tested positive for COV- been talk of trying to anchor the rotaID-19, the illness that results from coro- tion into law to ensure Netanyahu vanavirus. More recently, he was exposed cates the position at the appointed time. again, this time to his health minister And while Rivlin has stated that who tested positive. he would consider a The pandemic inrequested extension fecting Israel along for the establishment with the rest of the of a government as the world is only one hurdle April 13 deadline apthe two men are facing. proaches, it is unclear if While there’s a reported the government under partial agreement on discussion even meets how the ministries will his original mandate. be divided between the Gantz had received coalition parties, the the mandate based on two leaders are still in the majority of Knesconflict over any posset members who had sible annexation of the recommended him as West Bank. Netanyahu prime minister to Rivlin Gantz “needed to make a bold wants to announce at after the March 2 elecmove to prevent this democratic least a partial annexation – the third incongridlock from continuing,” said tion of the disputed clusive election in less Richard S. Walter, vice president territory to satisfy his than three years. of curriculum and outreach at right-wing partners.

But less than two the Center for Israel Education.

Gantz argues that any weeks ago, Gantz shook such move should get approval from the the Israeli political world by entering international community. negotiations with Netanyahu on a unity On Monday, April 6, Israeli media government, something he swore not were reporting that a possible compro- to do because the prime minister is facmise was reached, although there are ing several charges of corruption. Gantz conflicting details. Gantz has insisted cited the pandemic as one reason he that no annexation occurs before the changed his mind, saying that the counend of the coronavirus pandemic, and try is faced with an emergency situathat “the prime minister and acting tion. prime minister will act with the full He also stated that he didn’t want agreement of the U.S. and in talks with the country to be forced into fourth elec-

tions later this year. “Gantz’s calculation was that to avoid a fourth election in this time of crisis, someone needed to make a bold move to prevent this democratic gridlock from continuing,” explained Richard S. Walter, vice president of curriculum and outreach at the Center for Israel Education.

Walter added that “a coalition government is not a slam dunk.” In these historic days, nothing is certain.

As the majority of people in the United States, Israel’s citizens have been told to stay in their homes except for essential reasons. For the most part, the country has followed that instruction.

However, the ultra-Orthodox communities were slow to closing their synagogues and yeshivot, and refrain from attending mass gatherings, resulting in a huge uptick in coronavirus cases.

According to Dr. Gilad Malach, director of the ultra-Orthodox society in Israel program at the Israel Democracy Institute, the ultra-Orthodox accounted for 40 percent of the coronavirus cases

in the country, while making up only 12 percent of the population.

In a media briefing on Monday, Malach said there were three reasons for the spreading of the coronavirus among the ultra-Orthodox. First, the spiritual leaders didn’t heed initial warnings because they believed G-d would protect them. Second, it took a few weeks for the national government to identify the ultra-Orthodox towns as dangerous areas. And third, the ultraOrthodox cities are the most dense areas in Israel. In addition, the lifestyle of the men includes many communal rituals and practices.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu announced that there would be a general lockdown of the whole country starting Tuesday at 4 p.m. and only lifting on Friday at 6 a.m.

Already on Monday, police were stopping buses on the way to Jerusalem to pull out families trying to enter the city for the holiday. A curfew banning all movement outside homes on Passover eve was also put into effect. ì

Happy Passover

We are open and doing a Telehealth IOP during Covid-19

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 19

BUSINESS No Winner in Hackers Challenge – Again

No one won last year’s Hackers Challenge in Atlanta so the $100,000 reward for the winner was voided.

On April 6, 3,500 hackers from 16 countries tried to breach the secured network of Israeli cybersecurity firm Cyber 2.0, which has offices in Atlanta. Like the past two years, no one won this year’s home-based Hackers Challenge. The prize of 10,000 shekels or about $2,700 will be donated to the Israeli nonprofit organization “The Good Guys” (‫ החבר’ה הטובים‬in Hebrew), which gives

holiday care packages to the needy.

This year’s hackathon, the third such competition, was the first offered remotely as a result of the coronavirus and the company’s new cloud service. Previous challenges took place in Atlanta and Israel for even larger sums of money. No one has been successful in breaching the Cyber 2.0 network, including private hackers, companies and

The contest involves hackers trying to break into Cyber 2.0’s security system.

also enables organizations to connect with specialized military units.

But this year, literally anyone around employees from home more securely, an evthe world with only a computer and inter- er-important feature in the wake of the COnet access, could attempt to hack Cyber 2.0’s VID-19 pandemic. As more businesses begin chaos theory-based system from the com- to install secure lines to their networks for fort of their own homes. More than 500,000 employees working from home, Cyber 2.0’s agent ensures that those attacks were recorded this employees’ computers year. aren’t taken advantage of The competition is and used as vehicle to gain an attempt to prove that access to the rest of the Cyber 2.0’s system, which network. harnesses the power of Cyber 2.0 was esmathematical chaos theotablished in 2015 by CEO ry to prevent the spread of Herzl Ozer and chief viruses in a network, is totechnology officer Erez tally impenetrable. Cyber Kaplan, who developed 2.0 provides a protection system for employees Erez Kaplan, who helped develop the patented system. It is Cyber 2.0, laughs last year as currently offered in the working from home. he realizes hackers attacked his United States by the AtlanRecently Cyber 2.0 made its service available personal computer in an attempt ta-based Don’t Sweat IT to get a leg up on the competition.

Solutions. in the cloud, allowing For more information about the company companies to simply download their agent from Cyber 2.0’s website and remotely in- and its services, visit www.cyber20.com. ì Compuiled by AJT Staff stall it on their computers. In addition, it

Happy Passover!

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BUSINESS

Shlomo Steps Up to Help the Front Line

By Marcia Caller Jaffe When his business declined, superfood pioneer Roi Shlomo felt compelled to help local overworked and stressed hospital workers. “My business was so slow, down 70 percent in sales, that I mulled over what I could at least do to help others.” Shlomo, who opened the first Kale Me Crazy in 2013, turned to social media to ask for suggestions on how he could contribute. “I got over 600 responses and suggestions. I kept asking, ‘Yes, good ideas, but can anyone connect me to the front line of those workers treating COVID-19? There is so much se-

curity, I knew I couldn’t just show up at a hospital.”

Digging into his own pocket, Shlomo started delivering “immunity shots” of fresh juices to Grady, Emory Saint Joseph’s, Emory Midtown, and Piedmont hospitals. To take it a step further, he got support from Sharcare and its CEO Jeff Arnold. They started a Go Fund Me page in which Arnold will match dollar-fordollar the first $10,000 toward healthy juice shots and meals, depending on the need. This will allow Kale Me Crazy to take a leap forward to get its products to more hospitals, along with police and firefighters.

Photo by Sara Hanna // Kale Me Crazy

CEO Roi Shlomo has mobilized to deliver free food and juices to health care workers and first responders.

Shlomo is also implementing “Feed the Front Line” where KMC customers can buy a lunch and juice shot for $9 delivered free for health care workers.

The Israeli who grew up on a lettuce moshav near Ashkelon and served in the Israel Defense Forces was also the founder of frozen yogurt empire Yogli Mogli. Thinking like an entrepreneur, he has persuaded vendors like FreshPoint to contribute produce.

“We are working weird hours to do this and stabilize a new routine. I’d call it a ‘routine of chaos.’”

Hat’s off to Roi! ì

Free Sweet and Compassion with Every Cup

By Terry Segal The Nest Café in downtown Alpharetta is still open for business during the health crisis.

Following city guidelines, the 5-year-old café is only providing takeout orders through its walk-up window, and The Nest Café app for pickup and delivery services.

Jordan Segal became The Nest Café in Alpharetta five years ago when he was 24.

“We’re providing convenience and continuity as well as good food,” said owner Jordan Segal. “A number of people rely on the convenience of having others prepare their meals, especially during this crisis. It’s one less thing to figure out.”

Segal has been running free coffee out, curbside, and including free beignets with every order for a touch of sweetness. Two of his baristas, Haley and Mollie, tuck handwritten notes with hearts inside the orders, wishing the customers well and thanking them for their support. For some, it may be the only outside connection they’re experiencing. Segal is grateful to his customers and staff. “We’ll get through this together, but my focus is on the positive energy of the future.”

In the meantime, nothing has changed in terms of the café’s already high standard practice of handling food. “We always wash our hands, 22 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

wear and change gloves with each order, mop the floors and deep clean, constantly.” The Nest Café received a 100 on its most recent inspection.

“That’s a given.”

Five years ago, when the structure was being prepped to open, Jordan was 24-years old. He asked me, along with my colleague, to feng shui the café.

That involves balancing the energy around the placement of objects to create harmony between the inhabitants and their environment. On every space of the raw drywall we wrote his intentions: “To be a place in the community for food, family, and friends to gather in this cozy, coffee home.” We wrote blessings on the kitchen walls, to his staff, in the dining area, to his customers, and by the windows, for those who would eat on his patio, as well as to the community beyond. ì To learn more about The Nest Café, visit www.thenestcafe.net.

BUSINESS

Local Business Recreates and Gives Back

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Brian Oxman, owner of Cartridge World in Vinings and Buckhead, is using the current shutdown to formulate a new business model and offer compassion and relief to small businesses.

“I’m offering free printing for anyone working from home without a printer during these difficult times.

An email went out to my customer list and condominium community stating that we are open and have solutions,” he said.

“During the pandemic, our overall business is off around 50 percent, and it has been a struggle. We are still getting some walk-ins and taking care of customers working from home. We will get by and continue to offer free printing.”

Oxman learned about small business operations at a young age. His late grandfather Buster Oxman owned and operated Allied Foods in Georgia. Dad Joe advised Brian to not necessarily pursue an MBA post-college (Arizona State). The elder Oxmans believed that it was better to gain hands-on experience than just study about operating a business.

The model that Brian Oxman uses is 90 percent business services to legal, accounting, and school offices. Fortunately for Oxman, through a random contact, he got linked into Atlanta’s lucrative production and film industry. “We have next day delivery at no charge and supply them with printers, cartridges, and also do printer repairs.

Currently most TV and movie sets are

Walton High School graduate Brian Oxman, owner of two Cartridge World locations in Atlanta, is committed to stay open, follow health regulations and help other small businesses.

not at active production levels.” This is contributing to the loss of Oxman’s business.

For free printing, email your file to brian@cartridgeworldatlanta.com, and call to ensure it was received. The document will be delivered to you. The company uses gloves handling documents and maintains all recommended precautions. The free printing is available to anyone at Oxman’s two locations. He asks that free print requests be limited to 10 pages each. ì

Happy passover

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RE/MAX AROUND ATLANTA David Shapiro Jon Shapiro DShapiro@remax.net JonShapiro@mindspring.com 404-252-7500 404-845-3065 404-845-3050 www.jonshapiro.com ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 23

OPINION A Silver Lining in COVID-19’s Dark Cloud tomers from going inside, Maybe the most fun so my order for plants, I’ve had since being told to seeds and potting soil was remain on the premises was brought outside. My last a Shabbat candle lighting “recreational” was my via Zoom with my wife’s weekly lunch with a friend, family. during which we sat at a In some senses, it was broad table and ate carrylike any time this bunch gets out from a neighborhood together: aunts and uncles eatery. catching up with their niecSince then, my only es and nephews, and cous- Dave Schechter From Where I Sit ventures off-site have been ins with each other, humor specific to the family, and, when you took to the doctor’s office on three succesa moment to think about it, recognition sive Mondays to continue cancer maintenance treatments. I am grateful that that this occasion was special. these have not been postponed as the Albeit minus the food.

My father-in-law could see his three medical infrastructure in Atlanta and daughters and his son, along with 11 elsewhere continues to be tested by an grandchildren (and a bearded lizard and appalling lack of necessary materials a few dogs), who besides Atlanta live in and equipment to treat the COVID-19 Dripping Springs, Texas; Coral Gables, coronavirus, which continues to shine a Fla.; Columbia, S.C.; Chicago, and West bright light on a nation ill-prepared for a Bloomfield, Mich. The only person miss- large-scale public health crisis.

Since March 11, I have written about ing was my mother-in-law, in a memory care facility, who will be shown pictures a dozen pieces reporting how Atlanta’s of the screen, which had more boxes Jewish community has adapted to the than “The Brady Bunch” or “The Holly- new reality forced by a disease that has closed synagogues, schools and other inwood Squares.”

As my wife asked, why didn’t we do stitutions; sparked creative solutions for prayer, for teaching, and for meeting, this before now?

If the coronavirus is a dark, omi- and already is taxing the financial resilnous, threatening storm cloud over all ience of the local Jewish “ecosystem.”

There have deaths and illnesses in our heads, the way that families have employed social media and video con- the community linked to COVID-19. We ferencing platforms might be a silver worry about our extended families amid wrenching stories from friends about lining.

I call my 92-year-old mother in Chi- relatives ill or dying alone in cities far cago most every day, but the occasional from Atlanta, without family present, as chat via video technology, along with a health precaution. To all who mourn whichever of my siblings is available, has we say, may their memories be a blessing.

Passover this year will be tinged by been a good tonic for her, as she has been confined to her senior residence apart- absences from our seder tables, particularly by those whose age made staying ment as a health precaution.

One day I gave my mother and in place the medically prudent course of youngest sister a guided tour of our action. “Next year not in quarantine” is a backyard, highlighted by the vegetable refrain I heard more than once.

As much as social media platforms garden box and the fruit vines, and a and video conference technology help blooming azalea.

The tomatoes, basil and eggplant, bridge the physical distance, they canstarted from flats, are several inches tall. not fulfill emotional longings to be presThe corn may never reach as high as an el- ent in-person.

During that Zoom gathering with ephant’s eye, but small green shoots have emerged from beneath the soil. Whether my father-in-law, my wife’s siblings, as sunflowers bloom from the seeds planted well as our children and their cousins, along the back of the driveway remains we did finally get around to lighting to be seen. The vines planted by a novice Shabbat candles, as well as the prayers horticulturist years ago – blueberries, over the wine and bread. That may have raspberries, and blackberries – appear been the stated purpose of the gatherhealthy, but there will be nothing to pick ing, but the real blessing was having everyone together, at least in this virtual for a couple of months.

The garden store has barred cus- room. ì 24 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

OPINION

Publisher's Note This will certainly be America citing that virtually the most notable Passover in all are experiencing fewer my lifetime. (To be clear, my calls, incidents and arrests, most unforgettable is still as much as 90 percent less Israel, some 15 years ago, on in some jurisdictions. There the terrace of the King Dais, unfortunately, one area of vid overlooking the walls of crime that is up – domestic Jerusalem). Surely this is the violence. In the same report, most difficult time period for these agencies are experiencall Americans, if not all of ing 10 to 30 percent increashumanity, since World War Michael A. Morris es, which is particularly sad.

II. This is in no way like the Publisher I would hope that part war, but we are coming toof the reason for the tremengether like no other time since that point. dous decrease in crime (and specifically There are three disparate topics I want to murder) is that we are all together in this cover. They have nothing to do with each fight, that we are all preoccupied and are other, but they are all connected by our working on the same team, at least for a communal response to isolation. short period of time. I suspect, however, First, I want to mention one topic that criminals also share something with that has not been in the news as much you and me, a notion that they do not want as I would like to see. The Washington to get this disease and they do not want to Post ran an article last week touting that share it with their loved ones. Of course, New York City’s crime plummeted in the there may be less opportunities as well. For last two weeks of March. Of note, one any, or all of these rationales, crime is curmurder versus eight in the last week of rently at an all-time low. Let us hope it stays March. USA Today ran an article about a this way for the balance of our isolation, sampling of 53 police agencies throughout and beyond.

I have read a few articles recently about why social distancing and isolating ourselves is so difficult. The message appears to be that we are hardwired to be social creatures; therefore, all of this distancing goes against our natural inclinations.

I knew it was going against my instincts, but it wasn’t until I read about it that I put these words into action. I mention this for one salient reason. For those that are single and forced to self-isolate alone, we need to be more cognizant and offer more opportunities to interact. Many of us have parents, aunts or uncles, or close family friends that are enduring this alone. My sister is alone. I have taken to calling her twice a day and texting with her throughout the day; so have other family members. We watched the same movie and then discussed it after. It is not the perfect scenario, but it has gone a long way in offering her social interaction of which she has been totally deprived. Think about the mitzvah you can accomplish today.

During this time period, might I suggest we not lose one thing: our sense of humor? This pandemic is not something

to take lightly, but even at the most serious of times, we occasionally need to break the strain and stress. I do know there are a few people with too much time on their hands because of the number of humorous texts I have received. Here are a few choice ones: “Day 7 at home and the dog is looking at me like, ‘See, this is why I chew furniture.’”

“Adding 'Showed up to work during the apocalypse' to my resume.” “Day 10 of quarantine, preparing to take out the garbage.

So excited, I can’t decide what to wear!”

Finally, I want to end by publicly thanking all the people that are making my isolation bearable and who are on the front lines of combatting this pandemic.

The mailmen, UPS and FedEx delivery folks; all the truckers that are continuing to move food and medical supplies to our stores nearby; the physicians and nurses, of course, but also the janitors at all the hospitals and clinics as well as the janitors at the stores that we are still able to go to; and the people who are keeping our utilities running. I cannot determine which is more important – water, electric or my Wi-Fi! ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 25

COVID-19 COVID-19: Mental Health, How are People Coping?

By Dave Schechter Just as a seismograph gauges how the ground moves during an earthquake, calls for mental health and substance abuse services are one measure of the tremors that COVID-19 is causing beneath the surface of Atlanta’s Jewish community.

The frequency of those calls has increased steadily in the past two to three weeks and, based on conversations with counselors providing those services, the trend line will continue upward even after the immediate threat posed by the virus eases.

“It is the unknown that terrifies people and raises anxiety and increases feelings of depression,” said Dan Arnold, who directs clinical services for Jewish Family & Career Services. “The other piece of this is that when this pandemic ends, the mental health issues are going to continue. This is going to be a traumatizing period for people,” he said.

“I don’t think we’ve seen the worst yet in mental health. We’re seeing an uptick in services and a steady growth, but we have not reached the apex at all. We’re going to be flooded with requests,” Arnold said. “We are

a community-based organization that does not want to turn people away based on the ability to pay so, yes, we are going to need community support to be able to do that.”

Recognizing that need, one of the first grants made by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta’s COVID-19 emergency fund was $70,000 to support mental health services provided by JF&CS. The agency received 151 calls for clinical assistance during the week of March 16, as various levels of government began to issue shelter-in-place orders and restrict public gatherings, as many workers relocated to home officers, as businesses laid off or furloughed employees, and as schools sent children home and turned kitchen tables into distance learning centers.

The transition was well underway the week of March 23, when JF&CS received 197 such calls. That figure was approaching 250 as the week of March 30 drew to a close, “and I think it’s just going to keep growing,” said Arnold, a licensed clinical social worker. “I think, quite honestly, that the mental health needs of Atlanta are going to explode in the next two weeks.

I think people are going to realize how frightening it is, how life-changing this is.”

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The 29 full- and part-time therapists ent sense of optics for those kids,” Arnold employed by JF&CS shifted their work, said. Now, seniors are graduating into an which primarily involves talk therapy for uncertain economy. “They worked for 16 individuals and groups, from in-person years to march to pomp and circumstance, sessions to telephone and video conferenc- to throw their mortar boards in the air ing platforms when JF&CS closed its doors and say, ‘I’m a college graduate,’ and now March 16. “We are going to be available to that ritual has been taken from them, and folks who need services in whatever way there’s a grief process of not being able to observe that ritual in the way they have we can be available,” he said.

Alyza Berman, a licensed clinical so- pictured it.”

Parents with young children at home cial worker and founder of The Berman Center, which provides mental health and are struggling. “Suddenly, and some are sinsubstance abuse counseling in a Jewish gle parents, they have become teachers and caregivers 24 hours a context, said that calls day, while they’re jugto her group were up gling employment and about 10 percent. “We job responsibilities, or are definitely getting they’re struggling with the clients who really sudden unemploysuffer from the isolament,” Arnold said. tion and need a lot of Atlanta’s 40-plus social interaction to congregations are domake them feel beting their part to meet ter, to get them out of the needs of families, symptoms of depressaid Rabbi Laurence sion and anxiety,” she Rosenthal of Ahavath said. Berman Center Achim Synagogue, staff are engaging with who also is president their youth and adult of the Atlanta Rabbiniclients by phone and cal Association. He and online, individually “This is going to be a traumatizing his colleagues are hearand in “virtual” groups. period for people,” said Dan Arnold, ing about “a lot of isoNo age cohort is who directs clinical services for lation, a lot of mental immune. “Adolescents Jewish Family & Career Services. health issues, a lot of are really struggling with social isolation and anxiety,” Arnold boredom issues, about children acting out.”

Berman cited a client, a widowed single said. “Seniors in high school and at college are at wit’s end. These are groups that al- mother with two school-age children, workready were in transition.” There will be no ing her full-time job from home, fearing that proms, graduation ceremonies or other she will lose that paycheck if her productivhigh school rites of passage. “Their interac- ity slips, while also trying to be a full-time tion with their peers, with the people who mom. “There’s a lot of stress for parents who were also going through this, their support have full-time jobs and now have a full-time job as a home-school teacher, making sure groups, are gone, too.”

College students have been sent home things are running smoothly, trying to mix to finish course work online. “When the those roles,” she said.

Sheltering at home while meeting job economy was roaring, there was a differ-

COVID-19 responsibilities, and worrying about fi- one feels, “This is so uncomfortable I can’t nances, is adding to the stress for the “sand- take it anymore,” she said.

“Ever ybody wich generation,” who knows the phrase, ‘the are raising children opposite of addiction while also looking afis connection.’ Such a ter the welfare of their huge part of recovery own parents, Arnold is connecting with said. other people. People This “new norhave been stopped mal” is especially from doing what they difficult for those elknow helps them in rederly who, whether covery,” as 12-step and at home or in a senior other programs have residence, are alone, shifted from in-person particularly those ungatherings to video accustomed to or lackconferencing, Lubell ing the technology to said. “A huge part of communicate with what happens at meettheir families. “They’re “I just encourage anyone, check on ings happens before isolated and they’re your loved ones,” said Alyza Berman, already thinking of founder of The Berman Center, a mental the meeting and after: drinking coffee, talking end-of-life issues, and health and substance abuse counselor. to each other, making there is a growing fear of contracting the virus and dying alone,” connections. You can’t do that on Zoom.”

Lubell related conversations she had Arnold said.

“Social isolation is deadly. Loneliness with clients who had left rehabilitation just is deadly. In times of increased anxiety and before the COVID-19 crisis hit. “One of them increased depression, . . . suicide risk is al- said to me, ‘Everything the world is telling ways increased. The underlying issues are me now is the opposite of what I learned in very fertile ground. All of the boxes are get- rehab,” in terms of being told to shelter-atting checked for there to be an increase in home and maintain social distancing.

“Not being able to connect [in-person] suicide,” Arnold said.

There also is concern about the wel- is like a slow poison in the recovery comfare of those in abusive domestic relation- munity,” said Lubell, who worries about people self-medicating ships, “a population and those in recovery that is at increased who might relapse, risk with shelter-in“who might be using place regulations,” he or drinking alone, said. He added that because they’re so isoJF&CS’s Shalom Bayit lated.”

(Hebrew for “peace In the current enat home”) program is vironment, “It’s easier available to those in to get alcohol than it such situations. is to get toilet paper, Berman differen. . . probably easier to tiated between stress get drugs, too,” Lubell and anxiety. “Stressed said, without humor. out is the worry that “I want people to you can’t control the know they don’t have stuff that’s going on to wait until they are around you, which no“We’re not guessing about whether in crisis to get help. body can control right this will impact mental health. It The time to build up now,” she said. “Anxiwill,” said Leslie Lubell, program your defenses is now. ety is debilitating. You manager of HAMSA (Helping You don’t have to wait can’t shake this feeling Atlantans Manage Substance Abuse). until you’re falling that’s going on in your apart. Be pro-active, take care of yourself; head, the catastrophizing.”

How people might cope with the isola- do that now. We’re not guessing about tion, stress, anxiety and depression worries whether this will impact mental health. It Leslie Lubell, program manager at HAMSA will,” Lubell said.

(Helping Atlantans Manage Substance “We have gotten more calls because Abuse), a part of JF&CS. “Trauma doesn’t always show the results immediately,” Lubell people are really suffering at home and said. “People right now are still in scramble they can hide” their substance abuse, Bermode. They’re still adjusting. It doesn’t feel man said. “I just encourage anyone, check normal.” The danger comes when some- on your loved ones.” ì

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ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 27

COVID-19

COVID-19 Changes Passover, Life for Seniors

By Bob Bahr When the first cases of the COVID-19 virus first began surfacing in the United States in February, the residents and staff of the senior independent living community of Sunrise at Huntcliff Summit in Sandy Springs showed little outward concern.

The dining room and the cocktail lounge were crowded at dinnertime, family and friends of the residents were free to come and go and a full calendar of daily activities kept the residents busy.

Two months later, everything has changed. The bar and dining room are empty, family and friends are barred from visiting and each of the 220 residents is forbidden to leave their apartment without permission.

Meals are delivered to each resident and the afternoon happy hour comes from a beverage cart that’s pushed through the halls.

Huntcliff Summit’s Passover Seder, which last year attracted 125 guests, has been cancelled. Instead, each of the facility’s Jewish residents is responsible for creating their own seder, alone, in their apartment, or they can join one online. For the residents, many of whom are in their 80s and 90s, it is a holiday like none they’ve ever seen.

Every morning a nurse stops at each apartment, and takes the resident’s temperature and asks about their general health. For some of those living here, like Ed Wexler, the short daily visit can be among the most

28 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The spacious lobby of Huntcliff Summit is off limits to residents and the general public.

Residents are not allowed visitors.

About 35 percent of the residents at Sunrise at Huntcliff Summit are believed to be Jewish.

stressful moments they experience.

“Every day when she comes, I’m like, holding my breath,” he admitted. “Is she going to say, ‘Gee Ed, you’re running a temperature today?’ Or is she going to say I’m ok? I breathe a sigh of relief when she leaves and wishes me well. I mean, I’ve made it for another day.”

The stakes are high for this segment of the population, which often has underlying health issues in addition to their age. Even when the residents could move

freely around the building, several week ago a longtime friend of Wexler’s, who was tethered to a portable oxygen tank, waved him away when he came near.

“There’s a lot of fear out there because we’re the ones with the most to lose,” Wexler said.

The recent death of friends in another city, a couple in their 80s, weighs heavily on him. They were wealthy, influential and well-liked. Only a few weeks before they had visited their children in New York and then flew home. Both of them contracted the virus and both died within a week of one another.

His good friend Dr. Morris Miehl, a retired anesthesiologist who has lived in this independent living facility for almost 20 years is also concerned, but somewhat more philosophical.

“Living here these days,” he says, “is like living in a golden cocoon. The opportunity in this cocoon is to discover new things. In these four walls I am living in, I am busy all the time.”

He mentions that while he’s not a whiz on the internet, his son, who’s a successful high-tech entrepreneur, has given him a few pointers.

“I get about 20 different emails about Jewish life every day,” he said. “I watch the services from the Central Synagogue in New York City. The first night of Passover I am going to participate in an online seder. I think a lot of people, when they are in a place like this, they vegetate. Not me.”

But being active during this time doesn’t mean that Miehl doesn’t take his health seriously. While we were talking, he received a package from Amazon.

“Amazon’s got a big problem with the virus,” he said knowingly. “I’ve got some gloves here and I have a mask, from when I took care of my wife before she passed away. So I’m going to put on the gloves on and unwrap it.”

Miehl, who has experienced a lot in his long medical career, is shaken by what he has seen so far.

“It’s not an influenza epidemic. It’s not a polio epidemic. It’s not a tuberculosis epidemic. We’ve had them all. This particular virus that is afflicting so many people all over the world is going to change the world. And the world will never, ever, be the same.” ì

COVID-19

We Must All Be Agents of Change How do you maintain a sense of community in an atmosphere of isolation and separation?

A few months ago, none of us were familiar with the term “social distancing.”

Now, as we ready to mark our collective journey from slavery to freedom this PassDina over, I can’t help but ponder Fuchs-Beresin the irony that Jews all over the world are celebrating this milestone, while not actually enjoying the freedoms we so recently took for granted. The idea of struggle, while certainly a recurring theme in Jewish history, was – until just weeks ago – a foreign concept to many of us. Now, more than ever, we must remember that even as the Jewish people suffered and wandered in the desert, we did so as a community. And that notion of strength in numbers is central to our identity both then and now. In times of struggle, we always have one another – our community - to lean on. This was true thousands of years ago during the Exodus, and it is true today.

Nine months ago, Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta launched the ACT (Agents of Change Training) program, designed to build community, foster leadership skills and personal growth among women in our Jewish community, and create meaningful relationships with those interested in becoming advocates for a variety of causes. We were delighted when applications streamed in for our first year at nearly double the expected capacity. After face-to-face interviews with each applicant and many tough conversations with our trustees, we chose 20 women, ranging in age from 34 to 63, as part of this first cohort.

Our roster ran the gamut of experience, from women who were already intimately familiar with our Jewish community having organized Atlanta’s recent Maccabi Games, and others who worked on staff at major Jewish organizations, to women only tangentially involved in the community who were interested in figuring out where they might be more inspired to make a difference. All were striving to gain specific insight into how they might “plug in” and become catalysts for change. Most, but not all, were moms, some still raising small children, while others were already empty nesters. It was as wide a variety of experiences as we’d hoped to convene, and we were overjoyed with the positive response.

Until recently, the group met in person each month for training sessions, with various other gettogethers, both social and educational, scheduled in the interim. We explored topics such as personal and family philanthropy, sexual harassment and the #MeToo movement, identifying and living your values, the gift of having a mentor and the art of communication and networking.

Following each session, a participant wrote a blog post to recap what they’d learned. Reflecting back on those recently, I was struck by how pertinent their takeaways were. Though we had no way of knowing it then, many of the lessons we’ve touched on through-

out the program now take on new and more significant meaning in this time of amplified stress and uncertainty.

The collective wisdom of these remarkable women speaks to the reinvigorated value they place on themselves as individuals, as members of a vibrant Jewish community, and as stewards of hope for the future.

Be brave, don’t be perfect.

We are validators of the worth of one another.

Be real. Be vulnerable.

The conversation challenged me to honestly think about my family’s charitable giving and how we give. Do we give because we’re obligated to, or do we give with real passion and purpose?

Now I am not only looking to the future for myself, I am looking at it for my daughter.

Step by step we can create change. We teach our daughters that they can do and be what they want. Now we have to teach them how to be heard.

By assuming that we are all in growth mindsets, we both challenge one another and give one another confidence to be who we will be (ehiyeh asher ehiyeh).

Think of advocacy like a muscle. To strengthen, it requires repetition and regular work.

There is no question that our global community will be forever changed as we emerge from this health crisis. It’s an experience we’ve all shared that will likely transform us mentally, physically and emotionally. In the aftermath, it will be incumbent upon all of us to become Agents of Change, caring for ourselves and one another with compassion, nurturing our own resilience and continuing our commitment to work together for the common good.

Our final ACT sessions may have us convening via Zoom rather than in person, but the actual connections we’ve built extend well beyond Wi-Fi. Despite the unique circumstances, the first year of our program is exactly what we’d dreamed it would be: An inspired and energized group of women who now have the tools to make a difference in our community, at a time when it’s more vital than ever.

Dina Fuchs-Beresin is the program manager of Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 29

COVID-19

Taking on COVID-19 as a Millennial

By Paula Baroff

ical shift in normal life. “It’s a very strange feeling,” Preiser said of the current state of Shira Preiser, 25, did not expect to be the world. “It’s a mixture of this sort of cozy spending the last months of being 25 in interpersonal connection with my family quarantine, worrying about the safety of and my friends painted against this really scary and grief-saturated backdrop.” Even family. when something positive “Some days it’s pretty like the opportunity to terrifying. Some days it talk to a friend arises, “you feels manageable.” Preiser can't forget it’s because of has been coping with the these awful circumstancCOVID-19 pandemic by es,” Preiser said. taking a lot more walks Preiser described the around the neighborhood sadness of a friend who than usual and making a had to cancel her wedpoint of reaching out to ding. She still held a small friends. “I’m not getting the sort of casual interac- Shira Preiser encouraged people ceremony, Preiser said, to reach out to teletherapists but it was certainly not tion with my coworkers or during this difficult time. what had originally been personal connection with planned. Shira’s friend is planning on havmy students that I normally would.”

Preiser’s younger brother works in ing a reception in the future, but of course a grocery store, and although he isn’t im- nothing is certain, and the timeline is unmunocompromised, Preiser is concerned known. “It was really hard watching her about him and their mother, who is below struggle with that decision because I know the high-risk age, but still older. “I want to it had been something incredibly important try to shield her from all this, but with my to her.” Preiser also mentioned that many brother being an essential worker, that’s not of their friends are using the time stuck at home for self-reflection. “I’m noticing a lot of really possible,” Preiser said.

For young adults, as for other age de- people reevaluating their priorities, which is mographics, the pandemic has meant a rad- really nice, but there's an undercurrent of

fear I really wish didn't have to be there.” to make a prediction, myself and a great This fear can have an impact on people, deal of other young people are probably and it has on Preiser, who is thankful that going to come out of this more politically some therapists are trained in and able to organized, more politically aware, and with offer teletherapy. “I would very much en- a greater sense of emotional urgency to our courage anyone who's needing some extra political beliefs.” emotional or psychologiPreiser said that the cal support to look and see stereotypes seen in the if there are therapists who media of millennials igdo teletherapy because it's noring the recommendabeen a big help to have tions are frustrating. that emotional support.”

In contrast, Kadey Preiser spoke about Burstein, a senior at the other friends who are University of Georgia, said struggling. There’s one that although her famfriend who works for a ily has been very strict Kadey Burstein is spending the startup who hasn’t been about the guidelines, she paid for their last month last of her senior year of college at has seen on social media home, completing online classes. of work. There are some in groups of college students other states who are required to go to work hanging out in public areas like the pool. and are concerned for their own safety but “It’s really frustrating to see,” Burstein said. have no choice financially. “For myself, and “These are people who aren’t staying with I would imagine many other people my age, their parents and they’re thinking they’re this has confirmed a lot of the flaws that a young, they’re not going to get it. And that’s lot of us already knew existed in both the just not true.” healthcare system and labor law,” Preiser Burstein expressed concern that besaid, explaining that for those whose family cause America is now the epicenter of the members are considered essential workers, virus, and hasn’t reached the peak yet, if there’s a greater awareness about protec- people here don’t adhere to the guidelines tions needed for them. “I think that if I had it could continue to worsen and spread. Her

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COVID-19 family does Shabbat with extended fam- Schwartz said the quote that’s resonated ily each week, and they have had to cancel, the most with him is “‘to not act like anyone instead FaceTiming them. “It’s going to be else has it, but act like you have it and social hard to keep Passover. We’re going to try, but distance yourself appropriately.’ That’s what there are limited Passover resources at the resonated with me, to try to keep my friends stores. We’re going to try our best to keep and family safe. Doing what I can to support Passover.” them from a distance.” He has been meeting Burstein was set to graduate from UGA his parents to drop off groceries and waving in May, but is now spending her last semes- at them from his car and has been makter stuck at home doing ing a point to video chat online classes, with comwith friends and family. mencement indefinitely “There’s a mixed reaction postponed. “It’s my last sein terms of when people mester of senior year of colare concerned about lege, and I was preparing to themselves, but there’s have a great semester with an overall concern about all my friends and teachharming the general comers,” she said. “It’s really munity,” he said regarding hard on me and other peoefforts to social distance.

Josh Schwartz said Moishe ple I know that it’s been cut “There’s some anxiHouse is coming up with ways short, because we don’t get ety, but I think I, in particto connect and serve Jewish to say a proper goodbye.” ular, am in a good space,” young adults virtually.

The cancellation of Schwartz said. “I’m supthe graduation ceremony was one of the ported by my work; I’m a cyber security conhardest things to hear, Burstein said, as when sultant. … While I’m no longer traveling for you begin college as a freshman it’s “the point work as I typically do, I’m still able to work of your college career you look forward to and I’m still able to make an impact on my and dream of. … You dream of walking across project and help clients during this time.” that stage. Walking under the [UGA] arch.

Harper Landau, the Birthright Israel Taking pictures, celebrating.”

Community Fellow for Jewish Federation of Finishing classes as a science major Greater Atlanta, said they have seen a lot of has been particularly difficult, as profes- desire from young adults, the demographic sors who had prepared to teach hands-on they call NextGen, to help the community labs have scrambled to transition to online in any way they can. Federation is working learning, she said. “Teachers have been with partner organizations to develop volworking really hard to transition, but it’s a unteering opportunities, such as “setting up lot harder to take upper-level science class- ways that NextGen can go out and donate es, with tests and stuff, online.” Burstein food, help deliver food, do these things with takes cellular biology, for example, and the as little physical contact as possible,” she tests have been made open book, which in- said. “People want to do what they can, and creases the difficulty because the questions with this age group not always able to conare now conceptual, she said. For a horticul- tribute financially, they’re able to contribute ture lab, the teachers sent her a box of sup- with time and energy.” plies, but without face-to-face instruction, it One major volunteer effort they’re is difficult to know what to do. working on, Landau said, is helping Jewish As tough as this has been for her, Burst- Family & Career Services keep its food bank ein said some of her friends are having an full. “They’ve seen a huge increase in needs even rougher time. “Some of the people I and amount of people they’re serving,” she know aren’t taking it as well. They’re hav- said. “We’ve seen a huge response on that, ing a really difficult time with their mental sharing on social media.” health. … As students are transitioning at Staci Eichelbaum-Levine, the director this time, they’re being kind of set back in a of NextGen Philanthropy and Journeys for way. It’s just a really hard time for everyone.” Federation, said they’re using every CDC Josh Schwartz lives in a Moishe House guideline to develop these efforts for young in Atlanta, which provides Jewish program- adults. There’s a page on the Federation’s ming for young adults. He said that their website where people can find volunteer rehouse decided to try to continue building sources, among other COVID-19 resources, a community virtually, although they are including mental health, https://jewishatnot required to do programming during lanta.org/covid19-resources/. this time. For April, they decided there are Federation began an online grassroots two main ways they can make an impact, giving campaign a couple of weeks ago.

Schwartz said. Along with planning a vir- “We’ve been floating it through all of our tual Passover seder, last week they hosted a networks,” Eichelbaum-Levine said. “We Zoom happy hour with 19 participants. They have seen members of the NextGen commuused The Jackbox Party Pack video game to nity step up and give what they can. We’ve play interactive games. been very impressed and grateful for the In terms of his personal response, support from the NextGen community.” ì

Best wishes for a healthy, happy & meaningful Passover!

Keep smiling, stay safe and enjoy your loved ones

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COVID-19

Taking Care of Ourselves Spiritually During Crisis Jonah is one of the Trei Asar / ‫תרי עשר‬ 12 prophets in the Hebrew Bible called the minor prophets because their books are Rabbi relatively short Richard Baroff compared to the major prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel.

Jonah is unusual because he preached repentance, not to the Israelites, but rather to the citizens of Nineveh – pagan Assyrians. We read the Book of Jonah on the afternoon of Yom Kippur because its main theme, like the Holy Day, is teshuva /‫תשובה‬, repentance.

The Bible tells us that Jonah spent three days the belly of the big fish-‫דג גדול‬/dag gadol. He had fled from G-d after the prophet had been commanded to go to Nineveh to preach to the Assyrian king and people. Jonah’s plan instead was to flee to Tarshish/‫ תרשיש‬in the west

(possibly Spain). Jonah boarded a ship to sail as far away from Nineveh as he could get.

The Almighty caused a storm to toss the ship about like a cork. The sailors prayed, each to his own god, for protection. But Jonah knew it was because of his disobedience to the Holy One that all the ship’s crew was imperiled. He said, “Throw me overboard.” Reluctantly they did, and calm waters returned.

G-d summoned the gigantic sea creature to swallow Jonah whole in one gulp, so that, living in the stomach of the great fish (not a whale), he might reconsider his conduct and his faith. Jonah did, and then prayed after three days and nights in the darkness, in the abdomen of this marine beast: I cried out in my distress to the Lord and G-d answered me. From the bowels of the Underworld I called out in desperation and you heard my voice. (Jonah, Chapter 2:3).

Many people today all over the world must feel like Jonah, sitting in darkness,

pleading for Divine intervention. Our darkness is not physical, but it may feel like it, in that the danger cannot be seen, only it’s effects. Like Jonah our distress is fueled by great uncertainty as to what our future may hold.

Jonah called out to the Creator for relief. So can we. But for those three days in darkness Jonah was all alone. We all have each other. We practice social distancing.

But spiritually we are brought closer together. We also have science. Our civilization has been studying viruses for many decades, pandemics for even longer. This enemy, the coronavirus COVID-19, will be defeated by all of us working together.

Later in his supplication to the Holy One from the belly of the fish Jonah prayed: When my soul flagged I remembered Adonai, my prayer came unto You, to Your Holy Temple. (Jonah, Chapter 2:8).

G-d is here to support us if we are willing to work together to help ourselves. This is a moment for both science

and for faith.

Our spirits may waver, but if we remember our Redeemer we can courageously meet and destroy this pestilence.

If we are wise, we might even use this medical and economic emergency as a template for solving future problems.

May we working as a global community not only vanquish our viral foe but grow together as one family of humanity. ì Rabbi Richard Baroff is president of Guardians of the Torah.

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COVID-19

Parents and Kids at Home, Oh My! HAPPY PASSOVER

Photos by Meghan Beth Photography // Rachel Wasserman with her children.

By Dr. Terry Segal

sponsibilities? Wasserman said she has several lists, some on paper and some in The coronavirus pandemic has up- her head. She’s been doing extra work ended life. Unlike a natural disaster that on the weekends and evenings to be hits over the course of a few days and available for her children during school then shifts to the clean-up efforts, this vi- hours. Scheduled, work-related Zoom rus poses an ongoing threat. meetings are productive, and the rest of One major change occurring for the moving parts revolve around them. families across the U.S. is that school- Otherwise, her focus is on the needs of aged children are home from school, her children. along with their parents, who are now The AJT asked what the most chalworking from home. lenging part of stayThis has ramped up ing home has been the stress like what so far. “Not having happens when you my regular, daily turn the pegs on a support systems in violin. How much place. Several of my pressure until the good friends have string breaks?

COVID-19 and I’m The AJT caught worried about their up virtually with health.” Always conRachel Wasserman, scious of the impact executive director of on her children, she the Jewish Women’s tries to remain calm.

Fund of Atlanta.

What are you Not only is she a doing to maintain Wasserman said she maintains her dynamic force in your good health health and sanity by exercising every day, often with her children. our community, but and sanity? WasserRachel Wasserman has 8-year-old the mother of four man diligently exertwins, a 10 and 12-year-old. children, 8-year-old cises every day, often twins, a 10- and a 12-year-old. Her twins with her children. Not only is it keeping just celebrated their birthday but had to her physical body fit and healthy, it has cancel their party because of COVID-19. been “the most effective form of stress When asked in what ways her daily relief.” She strictly limits the amount of life has been altered, she said, “In nearly news she watches, checks in with the CDC every way possible. I’m a very organized website every few days, and has limited person who thrives on predictability, and, her time on social media because it has overnight, all of my systems went out actually made it more difficult to cope. the window.” She found herself working Wasserman created fun activities at home full time, in addition to home- for her children and set reasonable exschooling four children who normally pectations, and she encourages them to attend a Jewish day school. rest and relax. She said they’re “doing What about structuring the “new well, are incredibly resilient, and they normal,” and how she prioritizes her re- impress me every day.” ì

ELECT ADAM GARDNER DEKALB SHERIFF 2020

“YOUR SAFETY IS MY TOP PRIORITY”

VOTE DEKALB SAFE VOTE DEMOCRAT WWW.ADAMGARDNER2020.COM ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 33

COVID-19

How to Care for Your Body, Mind, Spirit In this challenging time of COVID-19, we need to nurture our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual selves.

Physical: Dr. Terry Segal Beyond practicing good hygiene, strengthen your immune system.

Exercise 30-minutes daily, to keep your circulation moving and endorphins releasing. Eat nutrient-dense foods such as wildcaught salmon, egg yolks, blueberries, garlic and leafy greens such as kale and spinach versus potato chips and pretzels. Consume antioxidant foods, high in vitamins C and E such as red peppers, oranges, strawberries, broccoli, mangoes, fruits, vegetables, nuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, beans, and lentils, which also contain zinc. Vitamin D levels are boosted by 20 minutes in sunlight or through plant-based milks or supplements.

A crisis can make you want to eat com-

34 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

fort food but we’re in a battle to stay healthy.

Avoid foods that create inflammation, such as dairy, processed food, and added sugar, which reduces the ability of white blood cells to fight infection from bacteria and viruses. A teaspoon of sugar destabilizes your immune system for about four to five hours.

The average American consumes about 17 teaspoons or more of sugar daily.

Rest and sleep when you can.

Avoid weather conditions that could aggravate your system, such as dampness and cold. There’s validity in what your grandparents said. If you get caught in the rain, change into dry clothes and warm yourself. COVID-19 is a damp lung illness, so drink warming fluids to regulate your body temperature, perhaps adding spices such as cinnamon, ginger or turmeric.

Mental: Become aware of behavioral signs of stress that are observable in both adults and children: Excessive crying or irritability, extreme worry, regression in behaviors already mastered, such as bedwetting, difficulty concentrating, irregular patterns of sleep or eating, physical ailments, and increased use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs.

This list describes most of us at this

time of global crisis. We’re all adjusting to massive changes and it’s normal to cycle through many emotions, but if you need help, please call the crisis number below.

In the meantime, here are some things we can do ourselves and with our families: Breathe. Scan your body for tension and send your breath into those places to release it. Eat mindfully, observing the way your food looks, smells, sounds, tastes, and its textures. Separate what you are and are not in charge of and empower yourself. You can’t control the pandemic, but you can be in charge of your response to it. Create some structure, urge yourself to be productive by accomplishing at least one thing each day, while also being compassionate toward yourself and others. Spend time enjoying a hobby or coloring, puzzles, singing (you can’t hold your breath and sing) walking or playing with your pet. You can put joyful things to do on slips of paper in a jar and pull one daily.

Allow all of your thoughts and then redirect those toward positive action.

Emotional: We’re all finding our way, but adults need to process with other adults.

Don’t discuss your fears with or within earshot of your children. It raises their anxiety.

You don’t need to present a false picture but try not to instill fear either. They take their cues from you so be mindful of what you’re expressing.

Stay focused on the present and go with the flow. Acknowledge what’s challenging and then release it. Repeat as necessary.

Don’t scare yourself with dark imaginings.

Use positive self-talk, journal with words or images, and look up Nick Ortner’s Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) videos as an effective method of reducing anxiety by “tapping” on acupuncture points and emotions.

Spiritual: People endured extreme conditions and atrocities during the Holocaust, and many went on to live long and fulfilling lives. We’re being asked to stay inside, with our families. Practice gratitude.

Invite Hashem in. We can get through this together. ì If you need help, the Georgia Crisis and Access Line is available 24/7, 365, at 1-800-715-4225.

Dr. Terry Segal is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a doctorate in energy medicine. She also writes a regular column for the AJT, New Moon Meditations.

COVID-19

Book Helps Kids Share Emotions

By Roni Robbins Beth Jacob preschool teacher Davida Merlis Graber was inspired by her own experience working from home with three young children during the global health crisis when she decided to write a book for kids about the experience.

“I Sing When I Wash My Hands: A Social Distancing Book,” self-published “I Sing When I Wash My Hands: A Social March 27, is a children’s book based on Distancing Book,” self-published March 27, is based on Graber’s family experience. her family’s challenges and the need to discuss emotions and feelings while ish day schools herself, said it took her trapped indoors.

“Two weeks ago, on a Friday morn- a week to write the book and publish it, ing, I had trouble sleeping like a lot of working early in the morning and late parents who are having trouble sleeping. in the evening while her children were There’s a lot to worry about: the world, asleep. She enlisted the help of Freedman because of her experience as a new selfour children, ourselves, our parents.”

Those stressors arise from families taught digital artist. “While she has been trying to adjust to working from home home, she also has been practicing a lot as their children learn alongside them as of artwork,” Graber said of her niece.

Once the pair bepart of social distancgan collaborating on ing efforts, according the book, “Hannah to the educator of 15 worked many hours years who teaches at to get it right. We felt the same school she atwe wanted to provide tended as a child. a resource and wanted “These are unit to be timely.” usual and challenging Before the book times,” said Graber, was published, a famwho continues to teach ily friend in Israel through Zoom lessons who learned about it and videos while her on Facebook, trauma infant daughter Gracie, psychologist Naomi 5, and son Ami, 10, are Baum, reached out to home. “It’s a challenge Graber and agreed to to all parents trying to The book is told from the point of write the foreword. work from home and view of Graber’s 5-year-old daughter “Use this book as parenting. I’m balancGracie, who attends Torah Day School. an opportunity to aling motherhood and low your child to ask questions, and to being a morah [teacher].”

The book includes illustrations engage them in further discussion about based on photos of Graber’s family cre- their feelings, even some of the more difficult ones,” Baum ated by her 14-year-old wrote. “This conversaniece, Hannah Honey tion will provide a safe Freedman. place for children to The story is told both identify feelings through the eyes of a and express emotions, child during the COa skill that is an esVID-19 pandemic with sential part of growing Hannah’s colorful and up.” engaging illustrations Baum hopes to and age-appropriate translate the book into language for young Hebrew, Graber said. readers, ideally ages 3 “Everybody is in to 10, according to the survival mode. Right Amazon listing. It is now we need to be ranked among the top taking care of our chil100 paid through AmaHannah Honey Freedman used dren; they need to be zon’s Kindle Store and family photos to illustrate the book. our priority and that’s 124 among children’s so hard. This book is about opening or social situation books.

Graber, a product of Atlanta Jew- even starting the discussion between

A Jewish value in the book is the importance of reading to children.

parents and children about our feelings, social and emotional well-being,” Graber said. “The social part is a challenge because of the distancing. We need to focus on the emotional ways we can cope with changes in our life.”

The book has a positive hopeful message, she said. “It talks about anger and being scared, fear. It’s also about being joyful and hopeful and proud.” The pride is helping keep people healthy, Graber said.

“Everyone is making a sacrifice to help other people, so we should feel proud of the sacrifice we are making to

help keep people healthy.”

While the book doesn’t have a Jewish theme because Graber wanted to keep it “accessible to everyone,” she might consider a Jewish version in the future, she said. “In general, it talks about Jewish values and the way we invest in our children and the need to invest in our children emotionally: engaging with children, reading books with children, and making this a special time to make memories around children when we can.”

While a bit older than the target audience, Freedman said she enjoyed working on the book and understood it’s mission “because I, myself, have had a hard time not being able to leave the house and I can’t imagine how hard it must be for young children who really don’t understand what’s going on,” said the student of Temima High School for Girls.

“I hope this book can help kids out there feel like they’re not alone. We’re all in this together.” ì “I Sing When I Wash My Hands” is available on Amazon and www.isingwheniwashmyhands.com.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 35

COVID-19

These Shows Must Go On, But How?

By Chana Shapiro Student actors in two Jewish schools, the Atlanta Jewish Academy and The Weber School, are carefully watching the news, wondering if they’ll get to perform before the school year ends. The Weber Thespians and the Jewish Academy Players are uncertain whether they will be able to present their plays, which were nearing show time when the schools were closed due to the coronavirus epidemic.

Weber senior Caroline Goldman plays the part of Ti Moune in “Once on This Island,” the multiple-award-winning play about a peasant girl on a tropical island who uses the power of love to bring people of different social classes together. If Goldman isn’t part of this year’s show, she won’t get another chance because she’s planning on being in college in Boston by the end of August.

She’s also troubled by more than her own circumstances. “Our close-knit troupe is beyond frustrated. We became really close during rehearsals and I, as a senior, had the opportunity to be friends with remarkable kids in other grades.” She added, “I’ve been in every Weber show, and this one is special, with an all-student cast, our director Brad

36 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The cast of “Once on This Island” include front row: Jordan Liban, Liana Bernstein, Miriam Burmenko and Jake Friedman; middle row: Amelia Heller and Sammy Lebowitz; and back row: Eliana Glusman, Cece Robinson, Kayla Furie, Jordan Joel and Dov Karlin.

Bass’ vast Broadway experience, and Emmynominated musical director John Burke.”

Weber freshman Miriam Burmenko, who plays Asaka, hopes she can go back to Camp Stone this summer, but would be “extremely happy to be in a summer performance if the other actors are in town.

We need everybody! We’ve learned so

much from Brad, and we perform very well together. The songs are beautiful, and I love the costumes. Half of us are freshmen, so this is our first chance to show how much we’ve learned and what we can do.”

Kayla Mintz, an eighth grader at AJA who plays the parts of Fruma Sarah and Fyedka in the popular musical, “Fiddler on the Roof,” credits director Simonie Levy with keeping the cast spirits up. “Ms. Sim is very upbeat, optimistic and encouraging. If we get a chance to present our show this year, we’ll be able to use that energy on stage. We’ve worked hard and spent many, many hours in rehearsals. We’ve been fitted for our costumes and mastered the big ensemble numbers.”

Mikey Wilson, who plays Lazar Wolf in “Fiddler,” thoroughly enjoys his part and appreciates the opportunity to dance.

He, like Kayla and the majority of the lead characters, is an eighth-grader. These students enter high school next year, so they are especially eager to make it to the stage before the end of middle school. Mikey says, “I’ll be extremely disappointed if the show never happens this year. It’s taken a whole lot of time and work, and I really hope it’s not wasted.”

AJA’s Levy has years of experience directing teen theater. “I love this group! We’ve blocked every scene; the students know their lines and learned all the choreography.

We have a big cast, and it’s complicated, but with a couple of weeks of rehearsals, we’ll be ready to go. Barring that, I’m confident that we’ll figure out something else.”

Weber’s Bass said he needs only a few days of rehearsal to be ready for a performance. “We have a full-company production, which means that each of our fantastic actors is onstage throughout, in constant support of the others. This en-

The cast of “Fiddler on the Roof” includes: Natalie Borukhov, Kayla Joel, Gila Ben-Yaacov, Yulie Maimon and Hadara Seeman.

semble is so talented and competent that they could deliver a great show even without mics or a set!”

In the meantime, Bass and musical director Burke are creating a montage performance of the cast, which will soon be available online. Burke said, “The show must go on, … in the best way it can!”

Marci Joel, whose ninth-grade son, Jordan, plays Tonton Julian in “Once on This Island” at Weber, and whose seventh-grade daughter, Kayla, plays Chava in “Fiddler on the Roof” at AJA, expressed her family’s double disappointment. “Kayla had been rehearsing since October, and Jordan had spent every Monday through Thursday of this semester in rehearsals until 6 o’clock at night. Our children have sacrificed and juggled other commitments because of their love of performing! I do believe that both schools will create alternate showcases.”

Weber headmaster Rabbi Ed Harwitz noted, “These are strange, uncharted and challenging times. We’re taking every step to utilize online tools for curricular and cocurricular programs. We’re doing our best to ensure the excellence of activities and, until we reconvene, to maintain the morality, creativity and spirit of our school.”

AJA headmaster Rabbi Ari Leubitz considers the unique personalities of teens. “This age group needs human contact and interaction. Theater folks display their energy, talent, and desire to connect through performance. Their venue is the stage. Hopefully, we can find a way, through technology, to help them express themselves.”

Cautious optimism is clearly the shared sentiment of the performers, directors and headmasters of both schools, yet it’s anyone’s guess when the shows really will go on and what the forum might be. ì

SHERMELA ELECT SHERMELA WILLIAMS

WILLIAMS

FOR FULTON COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE

VOTE BY MAIL NOW | EARLY VOTING STARTS APRIL 27, 2020 | ELECTION DAY IS MAY 19, 2020

FOR FULTON COUNTY I am running for judge to make our community a better, safer place for everyone! As a seasoned trial lawyer with 15+ years of hands-on experience, I have worked SUPERIOR COURT on all sides of the judicial system (criminal, civil, and family law). I was a prosecutor for nearly a decade and have also worked as a JUDGE defense attorney. I was born and raised in Fulton County and am a proud product of this community. I have served our community since I was a child through Girl Scouts, church, my sorority, and VOTE BYI MAIL NOW | EARLY VOTING STARTS APRIL 27,and 2020 | ELECTION DAY IScommitted MAY 19, 2020 other volunteer opportunities. am dedicated to protecting our community, empowering our youth, strengthening our families.

I am to ensuring justice for all, accountability, integrity, and transparency in the courtroom. I will work to protect our community against the revolving door of repeat offenders, in I amI running for judge to make ourcourts community a better, place forbe everyone!

As awhile seasoned trialsensible lawyerintersection with addition to reducing recidivism. am a proponent of accountability and criminal justicesafer reform.

I will fair and firm, also being 15+ years of hands-on experience, I have worked on all sides of the judicial system (criminal, civil, and family law).

I was of justice, compassion, and mercy. My personal and professional experiences make me uniquely qualified bring balance to the bench.

a prosecutor for nearly a decade and have also worked as a defense attorney. I was born and raised in Fulton Vote for Shermela Williams to represent us as Fulton County Superior Court Judge!

County. I am a proud product of THIS community. I have served the people of Fulton County since I was a child Yours in Service, through Girl Scouts, church, my sorority, other volunteer opportunities. I am dedicated to protecting our community, empowering our youth, strengthening our families. I am committed to ensuring justice for all, accountability, integrity, and transparency in the courtroom. I will work to protect our community against

DEDICATED COMMUNITY sensible intersection SERVANT & LEADER

Shermela J Williams EDUCATION

ACCOMPLISHED ATTORNEY & MENTOR

of justice, compassion, and mercy. My personal and professional experiences make me uniquely Shermela Williams to • Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, DC • Vote 2019 - Mentor of the Year, The Daily Report represent our community as our Fulton County Superior Court Judge! • 2018 - Attorneys to Watch, Attorney at Law • Impact United Methodist Church (Worship Facilitator, • Howard University, Washington, DC Yours in Service,

Hon. Andrew and Carolyn Young Former United Nations Ambassador and Retired School Teacher

ENDO RS ERS

ENDORSERS

College Ministry Mentor, 501(c)(3) Board Co-Chair) • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – East Point/College ORGANIZATIONS AND AFFILIATIONS DEDICATED COMMUNITY Park Alumnae Chapter SERVANT & LEADER • Spelman College Adjunct Professor • Atlanta Bar Association EDUCATION • Impact • Junior League of Atlanta, Inc. United Methodist Church • Gate City Bar Association Worship Facilitator, • Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation • Stonewall Bar Association • Georgetown University Law Center, • College Ministry Mentor, • LEAD Atlanta, Class of 2015 • Georgia Association of Washington, DCWomen Lawyers 501(c)(3) BoardAward Co-Chair • Howard University, DC • Girl Scouts of the USA (Gold and Silver Recipient) • Georgia Association of BlackWashington, Women Attorneys • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – East Point/College Park Alumnae Chapter ORGANIZATIONS AND AFFILIATIONS • Spelman College Adjunct Professor • Atlanta Bar Association • Junior League of Atlanta, Inc. • Gate City Bar Association • Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers • Stonewall Bar Association Foundation • Georgia Association of Women Lawyers • LEAD Atlanta, Class of 2015 • Georgia Association of Black Women Attorney • Girl Scouts of the USA Gold and Silver Award Recipient Hon. Felicia Moore Atlanta City Council President

Hon. Andrew and Carolyn Young Former United Nations Ambassador and Retired School Teacher

Shermela J. Williams

ACCOMPLISHED ATTORNEY & MENTOR • 2019 - Mentor of the Year, The Daily Report • 2018 - Attorneys to Watch, Attorney at Law Magazine (Metro Atlanta Edition)

• 2012 - Trial Court Lawyer of the Year,

Miguel Dominguez Lawyer

Terry Jackson Lawyer

Dr. LeRoy Reese Child Psychologist Former Board Chairman Men Stopping Violence

Hon. Felicia Moore President Atlanta City Council President

Stephen Putnam

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PASSOVER Virtual Seders Connecting Our Community

Turning a virtual world into reality this Passover.

By Roni Robbins Over the past three weeks or so, the world has transformed to a virtual reality for education, business, social and communal life. Jewish Atlanta has mobilized right along with it while preparing for one of the most widely observed holidays, bringing families

38 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

and community together to celebrate our deliverance from slavery to freedom.

Although we are no longer slaves, there’s still a sense of bondage all are feeling cooped up in their homes for the global cause: saving lives. Still, wanting to bring the community together, at least figuratively through technology, various Jewish com-

munal organizations decided to hold virtual seders. You will find more than a handful of them on AJT’s Calendar within these pages and on the Atlanta Jewish Connector online.

As of deadline, there were at least five seders on the first night of Passover conducted by various synagogues and organizations listed on the Connector, and at least four on the second night.

We also include in this Passover issue stories about a few of the virtual seders that began March 26 and continue through April 13. There’s the annual women’s seder sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women and Congregation Or Hadash that became a mini-seder via 60 computers across the globe.

Another interesting livestreamed program was The Downtown Seder presented

by City Winery Monday, April 6, including celebs Peter Yarrow, Speech of Arrested Development, Congressman Jerry Nadler asking four important questions; Al Franken from his shower; and comedian Seth Herzog performing the 10 plagues.

Also Monday night, a virtual Unity Seder took place on Zoom with leaders from various faith and ethnic communities from around Atlanta sharing messages of hope and unity. About 150 people attended virtually.

“We were not planning on hosting a Unity Seder this year,” said Dov Wilker, regional director of AJC Atlanta. “However, in light of COVID-19, we decided to create an opportunity for unity before the holidays.”

He said he believed it was the only seder of its kind bringing the community together “solely focused on unity.”

The program was led by Rabbi Loren Filson Lapidus of The Temple and included speakers from Atlanta churches along with the Latin and Muslim communities. Geor-

gia Congresswoman Lucy McBath also attended.

Moishe House, which provides programming for young adults, is hosting a virtual seder on the second night. “We decided there are a lot of people who are misplaced right now in terms of their typical Passover routine,” said Josh Schwartz, who lives in the house. His sister, Rachel, a Jewish educator, will help him lead the service, he said.

“The goal is to just, while people can’t necessarily practice all the traditions around Passover in terms of celebrating with family and friends in person, our hope is to remind people how to connect to Passover and give them the opportunity to celebrate it the best they can given these unseen circumstances,” Schwartz said.

“We’re handing out our own haggadah we’re custom developing. We’re also doing a cookbook of five or six recipes around matzah. Also, the necessities of what’s on a seder plate. Those two ideas have been wellreceived and also well-supported.”

Even after Passover, there are opportunities for communal unity. The first virtual Hunger Seder takes place Monday, April 13. The seder is an interfaith event re-imagining the traditional Passover seder that includes learning about hunger and food insecurity, problems and community-led solutions, according to the Jewish connector listing. “Join the Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish and other faith partners for an online evening of Passover symbolism, presentations from experts, and breakout discussions. Their theme this year is urban community farming and gardening,” the listing states. ì For more information about virtual seders, visit www.atlantajewishconnector. com.

Paula Baroff contributed to this story.

PASSOVER

How to Bring Mental Health into Seder?

By Jan Jaben-Eilon Like everyone else, Atlanta Jewish organizations are being required to rethink their programming during the COVID-19 pandemic. At The Blue Dove Foundation, which helps Jewish Atlanta address mental illness and substance abuse, the question became: How do you bring mental health into the Passover celebration?

“We had to cancel three programs in March and had five programs canceled in May,” said Gabby Spatt, foundation executive director. “We recognized that celebrating Passover this year is going to be different. There won’t be 30 people around the table.”

Acknowledging that she isn’t trained as a Jewish educator, she turned to her education team which put together a couple of resources that could be added to the traditional seder.

time to stop and reflect not only on the Exodus story but on our own mental health.”

The symbols on the Mental Health Passover Seder Plate suggest participants reflect on six questions: One thing I can do to help myself calm down; one thing I will tell myself on a bad day; one sign to alert me when I’m struggling; one place I can go to feel safe and comfortable; one person who can support me when I need it; and one strength I have to help me get through this.

The Mental Health Passover Seder Plate also provides a mental health perspective on the traditional symbols on seder plates, such as the shank bone, egg, bitter herbs and charoset. Instead of, or in addition to, the traditional four questions, it suggests that participants ask: Am I still in Egypt today, or am I free now? From which struggles have I freed myself? Who in my life can be my outstretched arm? And, what’s on my mental health seder plate?

I have that I need right now? What is one raised $1,000.

According to Spatt, The Blue Dove small, everyday thing or activity that doesn’t provide therapy to people with menmakes me feel good? tal health issues. “We creSpatt told the AJT ate tools and resources that the gratitude during for organizations wantsocial distancing resource ing to do mental health “was created just for programming. We were this situation.” However, ahead of the curve” on the creating mental health coronavirus. “We started resources for Jewish holiimmediately with the chaldays is not new for The lah bake.” Jewish mental Blue Dove. “We did this health workshops, typicalfor Chanukah, too,” Spatt ly held in a group setting, said. “We had eight nights are now done virtually. of gratitude.” The whole The quick efforts to idea, she explained, is to Gabby Spatt is executive director provide sources to suphelp people reframe their of The Blue Dove Foundation. port mental health during minds to be grateful.

“Our focus is on mental health and the coronavirus epidemic are especially we’re constantly thinking of what is hap- important because Mental Health Awarepening and how we can provide resources” ness Month starts April 30. ì that are specific to Jewish traditions, she To learn more about the Mental Health said. For instance, at the end of March, the organization held a virtual self-care Passover Seder Plate , visit https://thebluedovechallah making class. Spatt was amazed foundation.org/mentalhealthpassoverseder/ that the program, put together in six days, and for Gratitude in a Time of Social Distancing ended up including 138 participants from resource, visit www.thebluedovefoundation.org/ around the country. And the organization socialdistancinggratitude.

The Mental Health Passover Seder Plate suggests participants reflect on six questions addressing their emotions, helping them calm down, feel safe and comfortable, deal with struggles and find support and strength.

The Mental Health Passover Seder Plate provides self-care tools that can help seder participants be conscious of their mental health. “Self-care refers to ways we attend to our mental, emotional, physical and spiritual well-being,” The Blue Dove’s resource explains. Referring to the sense of being stuck in a metaphorical Egypt, it points out that “The more of these tools we have, the better prepared we are for days when we are at our most vulnerable. We can use Passover as a

Another resource The Blue Dove created focuses on gratitude during a time of social distancing. “Jewish culture teaches that in moments of pain, fear and instability, a gratitude practice can help us cope.

For those living with depression or other mental illnesses, it can be even more important – especially right now, when many of us remain isolated from others.”

The questions that can spur a sense of gratitude include: What are three things ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 39

PASSOVER

Rabbi Confronts Interfaith Couples’ Fear, Uncertainty

By Bob Bahr For the last three years, Rabbi Malka Packer-Monroe, who works full time with interfaith couples, has had a difficult time helping them cope with the difficulties that come when Passover overlaps Easter. For ex- 18 Doors works in 14 North American communities, including ample, the second day of Passover coincides this month Atlanta, to connect young interfaith couples with Jewish life. with the Christian observance of Good Friday.

But this year the rabbi, founding director of 18 ed more urgent issues that have arisen out of the health Doors Atlanta, a national Jewish nonprofit that supports crisis.

“I think the couples I work interfaith relationships, hasn’t with are finding different ways had to deal with many questions to connect with the community about navigating the social and and be creative,” she pointed out. religious demands of the two “This is a time for creativity in holidays when they overlap. For the way we relate to each other. interfaith couples, their Passover There’s a new normal right now.” seder is likely to be a virtual expeFor interfaith couples who rience celebrated electronically, may not be synagogue members and the same is true with holiday or feel very much a part of a largchurch services. er faith community, the stress “It’s actually easier now,” caused by sudden and sharp ecothe Reconstructionist rabbi said, nomic dislocation and a rapidly with some relief in her voice. changing epidemic has, accord“Interfaith couples don’t have to ing to Packer-Monroe, made life chose where they’re going.” very challenging.

With what used to be such Rabbi Malka Packer-Monroe has worked “What I am hearing is this difficult questions settled, the with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta uncertainty.

It’s the word people interfaith couples that Packeron issues related to interfaith couples. are using the most. This is a time Monroe counsels have confront-

40 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The recent invitation to interfaith couples for a discussion of Easter and Passover came with a seder plate that had an Easter egg.

of uncertainty and it can feel scary. I talked to several of the couples I work with who are buying guns because they are really terrified of how things are going to unfold.”

Packer-Monroe is married to a hospital chaplain whom she describes as “being on the front lines,” working not just with patients but with staff who are feeling the kind of pressure that she says sometimes verges on panic.

“It’s very stressful there,” she emphasized. “There is just so much fear, so much fear, at the hospital now.”

This year, just before Passover, the rabbi brought together several of the interfaith couples she works with around a virtual Shabbat table. For 1 ½ hours she talked about not only how to better understand the holiday, but how to make their celebration more meaningful.

“We have a choice every moment,” she said. “We can think about fear and scarcity and not enough-ness. We can feel we are not going to be okay and we are not safe, or we can go into that place of faith and gratitude and be open to that possibility.”

What she found with her couples, recently, is that the social isolation of being together at home has given them a greater appreciation of each other. Life is less frenetic and they feel more connected.

“One of the couples said that we’re so grateful for this time,” the rabbi said. “It’s made us realize that we still love one another. We’re both working from home and we look across at each other from our computers on the dining room table all day long. We still love one another. Like, what a gift this is.”

The Hebrew word for Egypt, according to the rabbi, is mitzrayim, which means a place that is narrow and it constricts us. The challenge, she tells her couples group, is how to get out of that.

“How do we get out of that place of narrowness where we are stuck? I mean, those are the themes of Passover and Easter, freedom and renewal,” she said.

“What are the gifts we gain when we get out of those narrow places of enslavement, embrace this time, and really connect?”

Several couples, though, didn’t wait for the holiday to take the rabbi up on her idea about the importance of togetherness. During their recent virtual Shabbat call three of the women announced they were pregnant. ì

PASSOVER

Atlanta Women’s Mini-Seder Reflects Current Plague

By Jan Jaben-Eilon The traditions of the Passover seder took on a whole new meaning at this year’s women’s seder sponsored by the Atlanta section of the National Council of Jewish Women and Congregation Or Hadash. When the seder leader, Rabbi Analia Bortz, started the Urchatz, or washing of the hands, she noted, “There’s nothing more important today than to wash our hands. Our ancestors have been doing this for many, many years.”

In the midst of Atlantans – Rabbi Analia Bortz of Congregation Or Hadash led and Jews everywhere – staying at the online seder for more than 60 participants. home to avoid the current plague of the coronavirus, the annual seder was held March 26 via 60 computers in locations as far afield as grateful and allowing oneself to be creBoston and Las Vegas in this country, ative. She’s trying to learn to play the Canada and New Zealand around the guitar, she told the seder participants, something she hadn’t done since she was world.

“Thank goodness for technology and 8 years old.

In a seder devoid of food, the “meat” thank goodness for Zoom,” exclaimed Sherry Z. Frank, president of the Atlanta of the service was the explaining of sevsection as she welcomed participants that eral symbols often seen in women’s seders. Referring to included several Miriam’s cup, mother-daughter Rabbi Bortz said combinations at the “real story one location. Albegan in 1978 in ternately turning Philadelphia by a the mute button group of women on and off, several who got together women read pason Sukkot.” The sages from the sestory picked up in lections of the hag1985 with women gadah chosen for in Massachusetts this year’s renamed who incorporated NCJW and Congrea glass of water gation Or Hadash into the Rosh Ch“Mini” Community odesh, or New Women’s Seder.

Month, prayers.

Co-chairs of the The artwork on the haggadah was Finally, in 1998, event included Eldrawn by Flora Rosefsky. the idea jumped len Banov, Ellyn the pond when women in the United Jeager and Renee Videlefsky.

Noting that the participants were Kingdom “decided to bring Miriam into “physically distant but socially connect- the seder.” These women sang a version ed,” Rabbi Bortz launched the seder with of the song “Eliyahu Hanavi,” naming a niggun, or melody, that needed no lyr- Miriam instead of Eliyahu. Miriam was ics. “We can’t hold hands, but we can hold Moses’ sister in the story of the Exodus.

Participants in the women’s minihearts,” she said. “Today we are leaving a different Egypt,” plagued with an “invis- seder also sang “Miriam’s Song,” written ible virus that has shown us that we’re by the late Debbie Friedman.

Even the traditional Four Questions just humans.”

She disclosed that she had written were rewritten to be asked by “sisters of new “commandments” for herself dur- NCJW.” “Why is this night different from all ing these days of sheltering in place, or, in other words, being told to stay home. other nights? Tonight we gather as womAmong those were being patient, being en and shed our light on the story of the Exodus.”

experiencing of the liberation in our day.”

“Why on this night do we recline? We recline on this night for the unhurried telling of the legacy of Miriam.”

Modern plagues were recited in place of those in the traditional haggadah. These included discrimination, poisoning of the earth, ravages of war, economic injustice, chemical dependency, world hunger, religious intolerance, unemployment, denial of human rights and the threat of nuclear holocaust. Noting that these are plagues that “afflict our NCJW Atlanta President Sherry Frank own generation,” Rabbi Bortz displays the haggadah created for the pointed out that “each year, these annual Community Women’s Seder. plagues have different meanings.”

“Why is this night both bitter and She ended the seder with her famsweet? The struggle for women’s dignity, ily’s tradition of singing the Israeli anequality and security is bitter; the results them, “Hatikvah,” which was especially of our advocacy and service are sweet.” fitting for her since she and her husband, “Why on this night do we drink the Rabbi Mario Karpuj, will be living in Jeruwine of our history? We rejoice in the re- salem before next Passover. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 41

PASSOVER

Passover Stories, Rituals Help Children Learn

By Sarah Shinsky

dip our finger in our wine (or grape juice) and drop These are bits of liquid on challenging times. our plates for each Schools are closplague. This is not ing and students only a Jewish traare transitioning dition, but a fun to virtual learning counting exercise from home. While with little ones. e-learning might be • D i s c u s s i n g seamless with older the meaning of kids, it is certainly The 3-year-olds of the Llama The 3- and 4-year-olds have story WELC’s 3-year-olds sing Classroom put on a mock seder. time with Rabbi Peter Berg. the Four Questions at their symbols with the not optimal for our classroom mock seder. food on the seder young ones. There plate. It is full of are opportunities to make learning fun and engaging for Learning Center. Families and commu- ing through reflection on doing” is a meaningful objects. Each edible piece nities come together to retell the story wonderful way to connect education represents a story, an emotion or a maour toddlers and preschoolers, though.

Experience is the best teacher. Jew- of our journey from slavery to freedom. with Jewish values. The Passover holiday terial from biblical time. Discuss how ish educators often use storytelling to Passover is also a holiday of accounts traditions of the seder, including food the egg represents the “circle of life” and guide young students through multiple that involve everything from hardliners preparation, storytelling, singing and have your child feel its round shape. Talk emotional and sensory experiences. This to heroes, amphibians to insects, and games, all become part of a greater learn- about how the karpas represents spring month, we welcome a terrific occasion emotional highs and lows. There are ing experience for young children both and point to its color and leaves.

• Developing social and emoto teach children about a multitude of many opportunities for kids to learn in in the classroom and at home. tional understanding through empathy subjects all within a Jewish context – the meaningful ways.

Engaging Young Children for the plight of Jews escaping Egypt. Emholiday of Passover.

Be cognizant of pathy is at the core of Passover provides one of our favor- Connecting Education with Jewish Values Focusing on the experiential “learn- opportunities to teach social-emotional learnite learning times at the Weinberg Early your children not just ing that has become verbally, but through prevalent in school their five senses. The curriculums. Empathy seder plate is a coris also central to our nucopia of edible Jewish value of tiksamples, smells and kun olam (saving the surfaces. Parents and world). educators can employ the traditions of PassA Seat at The Table over to demonstrate acThe lessons and WELC’s 3-year-olds get a ademic concepts such experiential learnPassover baking lesson. as counting. Passover ing opportunities of stories become an opening to understand Passover extend across culture, history, emotions and teach and show empathy. religion and academics for our young This year, while celebrating Pass- students. They also extend beyond the over with preschoolers, introduce experi- classroom. ential learning by …

Have your children play roles in the • Discussing taste: Young children learn the meanings of words such as “sweet” and “bitter” by tasting the honeyed apples in the charoset and the harsh flavor of the maror.

• Distinguishing different textures through touching. Tangibility is at the core of learning for your preschoolers. Have your child feel the smoothness of the hard boiled egg, the wetness of parsley dipped in salt water. This is also an excellent time for children to associate positive feelings with reading as they sit among their family and friends with a haggadah in hand.

• Counting through reciting the 10 plagues or the traditional Passover counting song “Who Knows One?” We 42 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

storytelling, draw or create representations of religious figures and events, join or lead songs, and share their classroom lessons about the symbols and significance of Passover with your family. ì To learn more about WELC educational programs, contact Sarah Shinsky, sshinsky@ the-temple.org or Audrey Henderson, ahenderson@the-temple.org, at 404-872-8668.

Sarah Shinsky is the director of the Weinberg Early Learning Center in Midtown. WELC provides a rich and joyous learning environment for young children ages 3 months to 4 years that stimulates their minds, nurtures their souls and embraces the wonder and beauty of their Jewish heritage.

PASSOVER

New Haggadah Stresses Land, Freedom Bond

By Bob Bahr

Aramean who went down to Egypt” and goes on to say that G-d rescued us from Last spring when Rabbi Ellen Bern- Egyptian slavery “with a might hand, an stein was a scholar-in-residence at Congre- outstretched arm and awesome power.”

What Bernstein notes is that the gation Bet Haverim, part of her discussion was about the radical reinterpretation of early rabbis cut the last two verses of the passage from their early haggadot. It the Passover story she was working on. read that when we fiBernstein, who has nally reached the land been a pioneer in the of milk and honey we Jewish environmenbrought “the first fruits tal movement, was, at of the soil that you, the time, putting the Adonai, have given.” finishing touches on Adding the missing a Passover haggadah text, she believes, rethat would marry the stores the connection biblical story of Exobetween freedom and dus with the environour care for the land mental teachings of and the environment. creation in Genesis.

This Passover she Little did she Rabbi Ellen Bernstein wants is putting all of her imagine, then, that her to create a national network of energy into organizing new haggadah, “The seders this Passover that honor the a series of earth sedPromise of the Land,” environment as well as our freedom. ers that would discuss would be published in the ideas about the relationship between February just as the world was entering a crisis that mirrors many of the concerns freedom and the responsibilities we have that went into her reading of the Pass- for G-d’s creation.

Among the co-sponsors of the seder over story. series is the Coalition on the Environ“What does freedom really mean?” ment and Jewish Life, and Hazon, which she asked, when the AJT spoke with her describes itself as the recently. “What freelargest faith-based endom really means is vironmental organizafor us to have a relation in the country. tionship with a healthy In Atlanta, the earth. And as long as Earth Seder is being cothe earth’s health is ordinated as an online compromised, we’re event at Congregation compromised, and our Bet Haverim by Elizafreedom is comprobeth Cohen, who recentmised.” ly received ordination Bernstein, who as a spiritual director in founded the first JewALEPH: Alliance for Jewish environmental orish Renewal. ganization, Shomrei Cohen believes Adamah, Guardians of Jews have a special the Earth, in the late obligation during this 1980s, believes that G-d critical time. liberates us so that we The new Passover haggadah “For me, it’s to can find a way to live is a beautifully produced hold the story of our in harmony with the work that features original tradition together with earth. Our freedom art by Galia Goodman. the needs of the world and well-being, she beright now,” she said.

“We have become lieves, depends on the earth’s well-being. used to a way of being and a pace of life “What I have been trying to express that can just grow out of control.

In a my whole life is the importance of appreway it’s sort of a cancerous growth.

These ciating the beauty of nature,” she said, “and illuminate that beauty through our eight days of the holiday offer us a way of sacred texts. For me, it is up to people to understanding what we need to do.”

While much of what is happening take the steps to care for nature.” today is related directly to health and She included in her haggadah the well-being it may also be, according to traditional verses from Deuteronomy Cohen, a wake-up call for much more. that are a part of the retelling of the story “The COVID-19 virus” she said, “has of our liberation. The verses begin with brought to us the need to be more mindthe words, “My father was a wandering

Earth seders are the latest project for Rabbi Ellen Bernstein, who has a long record of accomplishment in Jewish environmental work.

ful both of the need for us collectively to care for this earth and to care for all our freedoms.”

Bernstein pointed out that shortly after the end of Passover, on April 22, the world will mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, which is an international celebration in 193 countries.

What she hopes is that her new haggadah and the response to the crisis in which we are immersed will lead us to greater appreciation for much of the

natural harmony that is missing in the world today.

“We’re supposed to be partners with G-d and taking care of creation,” she emphasized. “The whole point of our existence is to ensure the perpetuity of creation.” ì “The Promise of the Land: A Passover Haggadah,” by Rabbi Ellen Bernstein with artwork by Galia Goodman and published

by Behrman House in February, is available on Amazon for $9.95.

Wishing you a Happy Passover Andy N. Siegel CPCU, CIC, AAI Sheldon Berch

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Opening the Flood Gates to a New Normal With Passover falling in the midst of a time of increased isolation and daily challenges around the world, the AJT asked Jewish Atlanta community members to share thoughts on a new norm that they see emerging. Their responses included a comparison between the Exodus from Egypt and our current bondage of sorts; lessons to learn from the confinement; how to connect in novel ways with family, friends and the community; empathize more deeply with those in need; enjoy the moment and appreciate the blessings of good health and life.

We share their full responses here:

David Abusch-Magder Every year when we recount the story of Passover, we are supposed to remember we, too, were slaves in Egypt. This year, when we sit down to have seder, we will tell the same story, but likely with fewer people around the table or with a computer at one of the chairs to virtually share the holiday with family and friends. No doubt, it will feel different, like so much of our lives of late. But the unique circumstances of this COVID-19 Passover present us with new understanding of one of the central ideas of Passover – the meaning of freedom.

As Americans and as American Jews, we are generally blessed with being able to take freedom for granted. We don’t think of going to the grocery store, going hiking in the park, or going to school as exceptional. Now we are sheltering in place and our movement is curtailed. The loss of these freedoms highlights how much we cherish them and challenges us to search for other blessings that are overlooked. Often, we are so busy with activities, school and work that we don’t take the time to just sit and read a book, go for a walk, or find new ways to connect with friends near and far. If we are to create meaning of this time, we need to focus on that which is possible and create new opportunities to make each day of social distancing full of light and freedom.

As the seder finishes, it is customary to say, “next year in Jerusalem.” My hope for us all is that, next year, we can celebrate Passover enjoying all of the freedoms we normally take for granted, as well as some of our newly discovered ones. That we can retell the story of this time with appreciation for how our community supported one another. That we cherish the moments of freely interacting with one another again.

Chag Sameach, David Abusch-Magder, is head of school of The Epstein School.

Rabbi Peter S. Berg A Season of Hope

Rabbi Ruth Abusch-Magder Does it matter if we wear sweatpants every day?

Does it matter if the sink piles up with dishes?

If we are sheltering in, does time really matter?

If I’m honest, time has lost some of its meaning in these days of sheltering in. Doctors, nurses and food supply workers are laboring seven days a week because each day is as precious as the next, while the rest of us sit at home where the days monotonously run into each other.

Starting on the second night of Passover, Jews are meant to count the Omer, the 49 days that separate Passover and Shavuot. Every evening we are meant to welcome the opportunity to count down from the liberation to the moment of revelation.

This year, I have a renewed understanding of this tradition. Like the Israelites wandering in the desert with the promise of great things ahead, we are without a clear sense of where we are going or when we will get there.

When we count the days of the Omer, we precede the counting with verses that recognize that the counting is a positive commandment. Each day matters. Each day is an important step in this journey. It is not about the dishes, the sweatpants, or the Zoom classes. It was hard for our ancestors and it is hard for us. But it is not without meaning. It is about being in a community together in which it is a positive to be on an uncertain path together because if we stay the course, every day does matter, and we will reach the moment of celebration together.

Rabbi Ruth Abusch-Magder is the director of education at Be’chol Lashon, an organization dedicated to racial diversity in Jewish life.

44 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Pesach is a holiday that commemorates an ancient historical event – the exodus from Egypt. Yet, while our seders offer us a chance to reflect upon our past, our celebration (especially this year) also reminds us to look thoughtfully and optimistically towards the future.

One of the primary themes of Passover is zicharon – remembrance. So many of the rituals associated with Passover are designed to recall the drama of leaving Egypt. Even though this event happened thousands of years ago, much of the liturgy in the haggadah relates to the hope for the coming of the messianic age. The cup of Elijah reminds us of the redemption that is to come; the haftarah reading chosen for the last day of Passover has a futuristic dimension; we sing at the end of the seder: “l’shanah haba’ah (next year) b’Yerushalyim.” Yet, we live in the present, trapped between these two-time tenses.

Both the seders and the yizkor service offer a unique opportunity to reflect upon the past and remember our loved ones. At the same time, in the true spirit of Passover, we must think about our future as well. Part of the message of Judaism and of Passover is to reassure us that we can move forward beyond these troubling times, precisely because we are strengthened by our link to our past and to those who came before us and gave us life.

May our Pesach celebration this year be filled with moments that are truly devoted to the memory of our loved ones. May their lives serve as a source of inspiration and give us the resolve, determination and hope to dedicate ourselves now and in the future to what was precious to them – a better world for our children and our children’s children.

With blessings from our home to yours.

Rabbi Peter S. Berg is the senior rabbi of The Temple.

PASSOVER Chuck Berk During this time of unprecedented challenge, Pesach reminds us that, whether we reside in the diaspora or in Israel, we are bound as one by a shared heritage. As the Jewish people have proven throughout the millennia, we will remain resolute and emerge strong.

In seeking comfort in our traditions, I hope the coming seder finds you and your loved ones healthy and safe, and may you find joy and inspiration in this celebration of freedom.

Chag Pesach Sameach.

Chuck Berk is chair of the Israel Bonds National Campaign.

Rabbi Michael Bernstein When the first Passover seder took place, Israelites were instructed to close themselves into their houses and protect themselves with a ritual of daubing the blood of the Paschal lamb on their door. They stood at high alert, staff in hand and sandals on their feet as they consumed the required meal of unleavened bread, bitter herbs and the roasted meat of the lamb. They were ready to leave Egypt behind and with it their confinement. And all the while, it is unavoidable to say, they waited out the ravages of the 10th plague safe behind their walls marked with the sign that they may be passed over. Yes, we too are isolated within our households and likely to be so when Passover comes. But as tempting as it is to lean into the imagery of the plague, I do not want to do so. Because COVID-19 is a terrible pandemic, but not a plague.

When the Israelites sequestered in their home and painted the blood on their door, they did it to distinguish themselves from the rest of the households. The mark told the destroyer to move on by and touch someone else. When those of us fortunate enough to stay home with our loved ones do so, it is instead a recognition that there are no designated targets. And we each know that whatever we do is not primarily for us, but for our neighbors and co-workers and others we do not know. We do not say to the invisible killer go get someone else, but to each other we are in this together, flattening a curve which commands us in a way more abstract, yet just as urgent as the One who told Moses and Aaron what was about to occur.

Our houses have no blood on the doorpost, neither for protection nor identification. As I imagine sitting at my Passover table with many fewer people in my house, but perhaps many more connected to us from theirs, I think about what we might do when we get to the part about the plagues that struck Egypt. As we take a drop of wine out for each in order to symbolize diminished joy, we will think also of those who have suffered and succumbed to COVID-19. And we will recognize, please G*d, the blessing of being able to once more recount and relive the story of the Israelites and the meal they ate in haste awaiting redemption. However, most poignant about having a seder in a house closed off because of the threat of the coronavirus will be the unmistakable teaching that, unlike that midnight in Egypt we, all of us, are in this together.

Rabbi Michael Bernstein is the spiritual (and now virtual) leader of Congregation Gesher L’ Torah. He is a member of the advisory committee of SOJOURN, a frequent participant on interfaith panels, and member of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Board of Preachers.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 45

PASSOVER Rabbi Ronald Bluming This year’s Passover observance will be a unique experience for all of us. The retelling of the Passover story highlights the uncertainty of a successful exodus from Egypt. Passover 2020 presents us with the challenges of physical distance while celebrating the family and community seder.

Just as Pharaoh was not successful in weakening the strength of the Israelite community who remained strong during their flight from Egypt, the current health crisis we face does not have to isolate us from each other or weaken us as a people.

Let us use our respective and creative celebrations this year to remind ourselves that throughout history, Adonai has shown us His gifts and miracles.

Rabbi Ronald Bluming has been the rabbinic chaplain at the Renaissance on Peachtree senior living community since 2012.

Terri Bonoff Passover is and has always been my favorite holiday. I remember gathering around my grandparents’ dining room table. My cousin Jayne and I would be seated on my Grandma’s beloved piano bench. We would inevitably end up laughing so hard that the seder would be completely disrupted, and my Grandpa Sam would lovingly scold us.

This year, our family Passover is on Zoom. It is treasured more than ever. We Jews understand that Passover is about being spared during many horrific times. We say a prayer of thanks as we remember surviving different plagues through ancient and modern history. Today, we face a plague unlike any we have confronted in our lifetime. We gather virtually because we know that it is sacred to honor Passover, and it is most sacred to “save a life.” That is why this year, we pray in ways that save a life.

Led by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, we have come together to raise emergency relief funds in a swift and meaningful way. We at JF&CS are enormously grateful to be a recipient of these funds and are putting them to use with urgency. The silver lining is the speed in which we came together, united in faith, community and love to be there for all who are in need. This message, felt and acted on around the globe, is the tikkun olam we have been crying for — let this be a mark of demarcation — we are united, compassionate and empathetic. These principles will guide our future actions.

May you and your loved ones be healthy. Blessed Pesach to all.

Terri Bonoff is CEO of Jewish Family & Career Services.

Jodi Danis

Michal Bonell I thought my new normal was after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. Even then, at my lowest of lows and most frightening and vulnerable stage of my life, I would find the brighter side of things. Yes, I have cancer, but there are so many successful treatments these days. Yes, it could be deadly, but listening to the nightly news of war, accidents and unexpected loss of life, I felt like I was actually fortunate!

Fast forward to 2020 and the new normal bestowed upon us. No, we cannot go about life the way we are used to, but let’s look at the brighter side. It’s an absolutely beautiful spring!

A wonderful time to spend with family and appreciate the simple things like the birds chirping, family safety and health, and the simple act of waking up to take another breath of life. Modeh Ani! “Modeh ani lefanekha melekh chai vekayam shehechezarta bi nishmahti b’chemlah, rabah emunatekha. I give thanks before you, King living and eternal, for You have returned within me my soul with compassion, abundant is Your faithfulness!”

Michal Bonell is a senior account manager for the AJT. 46 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Ah, such irony: A holiday celebrating the freedom of our people while we find ourselves chained at home, sheltering in place. A biblical story in which plagues descend upon Egypt as we also struggle through a modern-day pandemic. The joyful tradition of large groups eating together now changed to one of physical distancing and isolation. But just as our ancestors have struggled and persevered throughout history, so too shall we ultimately triumph over these uncertain times. After all, Passover is much more about hope, faith and freedom than about despair and captivity.

I received a recent Facebook reminder that two years ago I hosted a seder for 20 people. There was a picture of the beautifully set tables we had aligned in our basement to accommodate our family and friends. Instead of joy at seeing the photo, I felt a pang of sadness and longing for what once was “normal.” But despite the new reality facing us today, we are still determined to celebrate the holiday with our loved ones. Thanks to a modern-day miracle (a.k.a Zoom), our seders will be virtual ones this year, split among multiple households. Apart, but together. Separate, yet connected. This isn’t what any of us had envisioned for Passover of course, but we are going to make the best of it with determination and some creative planning.

Although there is much I am anxious and concerned about right now, these strange times have also led to self-reflection and appreciation for the many blessings in my life. And I am certain I am not the only one who has been changed by recent events. It may sound cliché, but don’t take anything for granted. Cherish those dearest to you. Find ways to stay connected, even when isolated. As you gather for this year’s seders, in whatever form they may take, may you find inspiration during this celebration of our people’s freedom. Wishing your family good health and great strength to weather the storms ahead.

Jodi Danis is the executive assistant to the AJT publisher and managing publisher/editor.

PASSOVER Rabbi Daniel Dorsch

Beth Gluck

Why do we celebrate a Passover seder? According to the haggadah, it’s because vehigadeta levincha, we are commanded to tell the story of the Exodus to our children.

In our sedarim for the year 5780, this will be easier said than done. How do we tell a story to our children, let alone our grandchildren, when we cannot be in the same room together?

The story of Pesach is a story that contains many truths. But this year, none is more significant than the importance of breaking barriers and leaving comfort zones.

Moses was the ever-reluctant leader; but in the end, lead he did.

The Israelites did not want to leave Egypt or cross the sea, not because life was good, but because it was what they knew. Such is the power of our comfort zones to restrain us.

As a rabbi, for the sake of preserving a community, I’ve needed to leave my comfort zone when it comes to the use of online technology, even in a time of crisis. To tell the story, many of us will rely on Jewish legal guidance to hold virtual sedarim and connect with our families.

The Midrash famously reinterprets the phrase yitziyat mitzrayim, the exodus from Egypt, using the word mitzarim, meaning “the exodus from that which constrains us.” May we, in this new normal of 5780, have the strength to leave our constraining comfort zones to fulfill the mitzvah of passing this story to our children.”

I love the ancient story of Passover and its relevance to our lives today. A chapter that is especially rich in meaning is when the Israelites wander in the desert for 40 years to allow one generation to die and the next to take hold. The time in the barren desert is a fertile landscape for new ways of thinking and acting.

COVID-19 didn’t allow us 40 years to get used to a new way of life. Still, we’ve had to let go of expectations, routines and assumptions – all in a matter of days.

Habits have broken, relationships strengthened or cracked, and financial positions … challenged. We lost our freedoms to the confines of our home. We gained greater control over our health while we saw many of the options of living in the 21st century disappear.

What will we take with us when this virus is behind us? Will we go back to the routines of our lives BV (before virus)? Will we have grown from the adjustments we were forced to make? Will we remember a sweetness that came from slowing down?

Will we recover what we lost? Will we honor the world in a different way? Who will we trust to lead the way? These are questions that our ancestors may have asked themselves as they fled Egypt. They remind us that we are more similar than we thought to our ancestors in the desert. They, and we, had no choice but to let go.

We know the good that came to the Israelites. What good could come to us from our extraordinary experiences in the time of the coronavirus?

Rabbi Daniel Dorsch is the senior rabbi at Congregation Etz Chaim. His favorite Passover food is matzah pizza.

Rabbi Loren Filson Lapidus The Passover seder teaches that there are four types of children. This year, we are all these four children: We are the children who do not know what to ask. The news headlines are overwhelming and yet we still feel uninformed. We cannot even formulate our questions because change comes quickly, and we cannot fully articulate our worries or fears.

We are the simple children. We have discovered what it means to focus on simplicity: having our basic needs met, paring our lives down to what can be done at a distance from others, craving the moments we can go outside in the sunshine and pollen. Our new normal is finding fulfillment in simple pleasures, taking nothing for granted.

We are the wicked children. We complain about what we have, forgetting that others would do anything to be in our shoes. We get annoyed about the abundance of “family time,” or grump about the grocery stores. We feel the pull to place blame on others — other leaders, other countries, other people — for this situation, whether justified or not.

And, most importantly, we are the wise children. We take time to breathe and be aware each moment is a gift. We see our blessings and wonder how we can share our gifts with others in these unique circumstances. We remember that we are part of the Jewish community, resilient because of our faith and our commitment to one another and our world. We remember that we are part of humanity, with the constant responsibility to look beyond ourselves.

Rabbi Loren Filson Lapidus is one of the clergy at The Temple.

Beth Gluck is executive director of the Jewish National Fund of Greater Atlanta.

Rabbi Arnold M. Goodman L’Shana Haba’ah – The Coming Year

Pesach is a holiday of hope. Our enslaved Israelite ancestors despaired of a better life. Even after Moses appeared on the scene with his assurance that God had sent him to liberate them, the message fell upon deaf ears because “their spirits were crushed by cruel bondage.” (Exodus 6:9).

Following the 10th plague, our liberated ancestors began a journey to the Promised Land where they would live in freedom and peace. Yet all did not go well on the march. Time and again there were new dangers and frustrations: at the Red Sea, with the ever-present concern about water and the unchanging diet of manna, which they regarded as “miserable food.” (Numbers 21:5) Life’s ever-present cycle of despair and hope is captured in the startling passage, “In every generation enemies rose up to destroy us, but the Holy One Blessed be He saved us from their hands.” It’s a stark reminder that life be it for nation or individual, is never a constant flow of happiness and joy. Inevitably failures and setbacks darken every life. Yet we humans are endowed with amazing adaptability to find the will and strength to move from darkness to light.

This year of the coronavirus plague, the night of Passover will be different. Illness, quarantine, isolation and social distancing dictate that the seder, the wonderful family reunion of three or four generations seated around the table, will be sorely missed. Many will forge virtual togetherness via Zoom or Skype; others will celebrate with spouses or live-ins; and far too many are destined to celebrate a solo seder.

In this dark and difficult period plagued with illness and death, with isolation and loneliness, with devastating economic impact, may Elijah’s cup with its faith and assurance of tomorrow’s better day bless us with the strength and forbearance now demanded of us. L’shana haba’ah, next year and in years to come, may we celebrate our seders as we have in the past.

Rabbi Arnold M. Goodman is a senior rabbinic scholar of Ahavath Achim Synagogue and was its senior rabbi from 1982 to 2002. He now lives in Jerusalem.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 47

PASSOVER Rabbi Pamela Gottfried

Rabbi Joshua Heller

My favorite sentence in the Passover haggadah is “Mah nishtana ha-lailah ha-zeh mi-kol ha-leilot How different this night is from all other nights!” I know this line and the sentences that follow it are often referred to as the Four Questions, but this isn’t a question at all and what follows are not answers.

Rather, this line from the Mishnah is an acknowledgment that something is different, and the sentences that follow it point out rituals that are novel or surprising about Passover.

The rabbinic tradition is that even a person alone at a seder must recite this line: we are meant to notice and describe what is new and different about Passover. What is normal for Passover is to point out what is unusual! As we confront COVID-19, which requires all of us to practice physical distancing, we will experience a vastly different Passover this year, and not just because we are reclining at the table.

We are fortunate the early sages gave us the language to acknowledge how different this night is, to consider what is unusual about this situation, and to name it. As we arrive at this line in the haggadah, I will encourage my family — those around the table and those joining us virtually — to add their own words to the script, to acknowledge our new normal and celebrate our strength and resilience.

The Torah describes the Israelites’ experience of the very first seder night, huddled in their homes, trying to eat a festive meal, even as death and terror stalked Egypt. One might have thought that that meal was the last meal of slavery, with freedom beginning when the Israelites left their homes and began the march to the Promised Land.

In fact, that is not true. The Israelites' freedom actually began even earlier. Certainly, when they sprinkled the blood of the Paschal lamb on their doorposts, they sent the signal to their Egyptian neighbors that they were no longer afraid. That seder meal, eaten under less than ideal circumstances, hurriedly, with shoes on and bags packed, was the first meal of freedom.

It’s too soon to know when we will be able to emerge safely from our homes. It’s too soon to know the path that will take us to our promised lands. But what we do know is that this Passover is the beginning of a new era, the gateway to a new normal.

The traditions and emotions of this less-than-ideal Passover will carry us forward.

Perhaps they will even inspire new rituals and new excitement for next year’s seder.

Like our ancestors, we can recognize that even in the midst of fear and frustration, there is already a taste of freedom.

Rabbi Pamela Gottfried serves Congregation Bet Haverim and Your Jewish Bridge. She is sheltering in place with her family in Sandy Springs.

Rabbi Joshua Heller is senior rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah.

Rabbi Karmi Ingber

Arnold Heller Last year I wrote that the Hebrew’s 10 plagues were the first recorded use of applied terror to achieve political goals. The plagues brought about the Exodus from Egypt, and after the wandering, the ancient State of Israel.

Therefore, it’s ironic that Passover 2020, our holiday that celebrates the plagues, is being canceled by a modern-day one. Many seders this year will be held on the Zoom.com platform. Jews will remotely read from the haggadah, eat their traditional foods, and sing “Dayenu.” A zissen Pesach and Chag Sameach to them too.

I wonder though if God is punishing the world for globally damaging the environment and retreating from the ideal of liberal democracy? Is the Lord leveling the United States for electing Trump who divided the country and led us into a national catastrophe?

Our commander in chief threw away President Obama’s 69-page strategic plan to combat the virus and fired the standing pandemic team. In January our intelligence specialists began urging the president to act.

We are sadly living in an aberrant time. A new normal is coming but it won’t arrive until the virus is checked and Trump and the Republicans are driven from power.

Dr. Arnold Heller is chair of the Atlanta-Ra’anana Committee.

48 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Anyone who tells you they know why this is all happening is either a prophet/holy person or a fool.

Still, we need to learn lessons that can help us improve.

There is one place in the Torah (Bible), where isolation was required; in the plague of tzaaros. It was a spiritual malady that was caused by evil speech, lashon hara. I can’t help but think we need to improve in this area. I personally went on a Facebook fast almost two years ago because the tenor of discussion was so divisive and hostile. Amazingly, social media is now our only means of communication, which is why I began giving daily FB Torah classes, to fix the problem at its root and use the medium itself to help unite us. Passover is the time when we become one nation united with G-d. The Pascal lamb had to be roasted whole and eaten communally to represent the idea of truly becoming one. I don’t mean this in the superficial level of “everyone is right,” rather let’s converse and interact deeply where we can question our positions and hear others instead of being swayed by quick FB style sound bites of truth.

This past week’s Torah portion discusses the opening daily Temple service, scooping up the ashes and placing them by the altar to become part of the altar itself. What does this signify and why is it the beginning of the service?

Ash and Earth are interchangeable terms in Hebrew but there is a crucial difference; everything grows in earth; nothing grows in ash. Ash represents our failures, where no growth takes place. Yet ash and all rejected refuse actually becomes the best fertilizer to cause other things to grow. When we fail, instead of getting down, it should create a deep yearning which become the basis of our future success. The ash of failure is the catalyst of growth and becomes the altar for our development. Let’s come out of this time stronger and more united with soft, open hearts that are ready to receive.

Rabbi Karmi Ingber is the founding rabbi of The Kehilla in Sandy Springs and director of the Inner Spark, an organization dedicated to make deep, authentic spirituality accessible and relevant to all.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 49

PASSOVER Marcia Caller Jaffe Bondage and Freedom

The opportunity for self-reflection, productive use of downtime, and the counting of the passage of time in isolation has derailed us from life’s treadmill. Clever jokes abound, like the one about Publix in Florida having special senior hours resulting in “the remaining 10 people having the store to themselves all day.” And what about revealing our natural hair roots? In the next minute, we field a call from a friend whose relative was put on a ventilator.

Who would have believed that we would be washing cardboard boxes in Clorox or assessing food scarcity by cataloging what we have at home to survive? Taking on and off gloves, have I then infected my phone or car keys? This hyper-consciousness is outright stressful.

Passover references to the plagues are tongue and cheek as the obituaries come rolling in. A Zoom seder, matzo ball soup for one.

When we settle into what holds as the “new normal” at the end of this tunnel, what good can devolve? Will we more highly value health care workers? Work remotely and lose peer interaction? Show more kindness? A condo neighbor eblasted that since his office was closed, he would provide free printing.

Freedom has been lost; emotional depth has been gained. How would we have fared without cell phones and internet?

What will we tell our grandchildren? “I remember a time when we actually shook hands and hugged!” Maybe we will bow as is the Japanese custom.

However the dust and salt water settle, Passover 2020 has rocked our universal souls.

Marcia Caller Jaffe is a regular AJT contributor.

Rabbi Ari Kaiman

Trauma Necessarily Precedes Redemption As our story goes, God sent us to Egypt in order to be enslaved, in order to learn how cruel humanity could be, in order to relive slavery year after year.

We begin in the shame of slavery so that no matter how privileged and blessed we become, we always identify with the oppressed and downtrodden.

Our slavery and oppression, our trauma, lasted many years in Egypt. In an instant, God came and wrought harsh plagues upon Egypt. Our trauma was turned on our oppressors in concentrated form.

Their trauma preceded our redemption.

But perhaps, Egypt was in a way redeemed along with us. The masters of slaves are also bound up in the economic trap that leads to collective moral decline.

During this trauma of COVID-19, I am praying for redemption to follow. The plague of loneliness was around for a long time before social distancing. Civic engagement was declining and political polarization increasing. We collectively didn’t do enough for the most vulnerable among us.

May this trauma precede our redemption! May we engage with one another with open hearts, healing from this self-imposed distancing to save the lives of the most vulnerable. May we recognize that leadership is about so much more than political party, but about discernment and protecting all life. May we finally recognize that this entire world is bound up with one another, and that your trauma is my trauma, and my trauma is yours. May we all be redeemed!

Rabbi Ari Kaiman is the rabbi of Congregation Shearith Israel, and proud partner with Emily raising four independent children.

50 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Mitchell Kaye

Frog, Coronavirus and the 2020 Election We are approaching another presidential election. For the past 3 ½ years, an unprecedented segment of the population and media have been angry and haven’t let this anger go. The Torah says that anger is the most grievous of all sins, as it leads to all other sins. Moses was denied entry into the Promised Land as a result of his anger – hitting a rock instead of speaking. King Solomon wrote, “Like a broken city without a wall, so is a man whose spirit is unrestrained.”

The second of the 10 plagues are tzfardeah. According to the Midrash, initially there was only one ugly monstrous frog. The Egyptians in their anger tried to the kill the frog, but with each attempt, the frog spit out a multitude of baby frogs. As anger increased, so did the quantity of frogs, and soon swarms covered the land, inflicting punishment on Pharaoh and his people.

Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon, known as Maimonides or Rambam, a noted doctor, medieval philosopher and prolific and influential Torah giant, suggested three keys to healthy living: eat less, exercise more and swallow (get rid of) your anger. Studies show joy and happiness increase immunity levels as the opposite is equally true.

Despite our seders being smaller and the uncertainty surrounding the virus, avoiding anger is increasingly important. We can utilize this time to learn and reflect on our many blessings in life. In social distancing and isolation, interactions with family and friends are greatly missed, providing each of us an opportunity to be more sensitive to the pain and suffering from loneliness many experience every day. The virus, by attacking indiscriminately, treats us as equals regardless of culture, race, religion, nationality or financial status. Lastly, it reminds us that we are all connected, and something that affects one person can affect the lives of many others.

During this season, as we go from slavery to freedom, let us resolve to reach out and bring light, happiness and companionship to everyone in need, to swallow our anger, put aside our differences and come together. Wishing the community, a sweet, inspiring and kosher Pesach!

Mitchell Kaye served five times in the Georgia House of Representatives and is a frequent traveler to Israel.

Happy Passover

BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA

Thank you for all of your support!

From, Louis DeJoseph, M.D.

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BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA

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‫הכרת תודה שלי‬

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PASSOVER Rabbi Hillel Konigsburg

Rabbi Micah Lapidus

On the Bright Side

If there is anything that social distancing has taught me, it’s how spoiled I was before the pandemic.

With a computer and a few numbers on a plastic card, I can have things delivered to my house without having to put on shoes. Running low on diapers? No problem!

Just reorder online and they’ll be here within a week. In the mood for homemade pizza? I’ll just stop by the store on my way home and get some more cheese. Nowadays, however, I can’t even call the store ahead of time to see if the toilet paper is back in stock. If only I could just have one can of chickpeas, Dayeinu! It would have been enough!

During this Passover season, we recall the Exodus from Egypt, and exclaim that had this new freedom been our only blessing, then Dayeinu! It would have been enough! As we then recount all of the events that befell the Israelites afterwards, we recognize that each and every one was a blessing in and of itself, and we should be grateful for it. Yet I always wondered whether it really would have been enough that “God led us through the sea but had not taken care of us for 40 years in the wilderness.” Surely, we needed that extra protection as well. However, Dayeinu teaches us to count every blessing individually. Even though our whole routine has been disrupted, it is enough that we are here to continue remembering and retelling the story.

Rabbi Hillel Konigsburg is the assistant rabbi at Congregation B’nai Torah.

Rabbi Mark Kunis Why do we eat matzah on Passover? Long ago when the Jews were leaving Egypt, there wasn’t enough time to bake bread because they were so busy rushing, they put the dough on their backs which they later baked into unleavened cakes.

Really? God rains upon the Egyptians 10 of the coolest plagues ever. Couldn’t He have arranged a late check out??? Why did we have to run out like fugitives?

And yet, this technical difficulty of not having the time to bake bread becomes the symbol of our freedom? It’s because matzah is a crucial life lesson.

Egypt, in Hebrew, is Mitzrayim which means, “narrow places.” We all have our narrow places — strained relationships, frustrations and disappointments. And now, as we endure our coronavirus in solitary confinement, we understand the fear the Israelites lived with on that first night of Passover with the angel of death hovering just outside.

But as the Israelites understood in Egypt, we must understand that God has our backs. He will never abandon us. In fact, it is possible that we emerge from our current isolation stronger and better. You see, growth moments are always wrapped in challenge, difficulty and discomfort.

There are times in our lives when we get stuck. There are things we know we should do, but don’t get to. We should make the call. We should be healthier. We should learn more. We should be more patient and kind and generous and tolerant — but it’s too hard.

We come up with the brilliant response: “Later! I’ll do it, later.” Well, with our coronavirus predicament, later has arrived. Life has now given us the time we never had.

That’s the difference between matzah and chametz. You mix flour and water to make matzah, but if you wait too long — more than 18 minutes before it finishes baking — it becomes spoiled, leavened, chametz. Chametz is later and matzah is now. Perhaps this is why matzah is the symbol of Passover — the holiday of our freedom. Matzah reminds us that the difference between a life of mediocrity or meaning — of Egypt or the Promised Land — is really determined by one thing: our reaction to challenge, our willingness to either delay or engage in the opportunities in front of us. Our plague of COVID-19 has given us the opportunity to revisit many things in our lives. What will we make of it? Chametz or matzah? I pray this Passover, that God will give us all the wisdom to choose wisely.

Rabbi Mark Kunis is the spiritual leader of Shaarei Shamayim.

52 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

This March, thousands of teachers and students had to pack their belongings with little or no advanced warning and little or no time to gather all of the “essential” items that typically facilitate teaching and learning in our schools. For the dedicated faculty and staff of The Davis Academy, the rush felt eerily reminiscent of what our ancestors must have experienced as they hurriedly packed their bags to flee Egypt. The bread, either literally or figuratively, had no time to rise.

Like the Israelites, teachers and students have found ourselves in a kind of wilderness. On the one hand, the wilderness is a scary place, full of threats, obstacles, and the unknown. On the other hand, the wilderness is a place of insight and revelation. Just as our ancestors met God and received the Torah in the wilderness, so too has The Davis Academy community experienced a kind of revelation and encounter with God. For The Davis Academy, the wilderness of distance learning has revealed to us the extraordinary character of our teachers. It has revealed to us their love, devotion, creativity and professionalism. It has revealed to us the resilience of our students, the covenantal partnership of our parents, and the deeply embedded menschlichkeit at the heart of our community. It has reminded us of the unshakeable strength of our community, the values that we share, and the love that unites us. In reminding us and revealing to us these profound truths, this time of social distancing has helped us all feel the closeness of God’s presence in new and nourishing ways.

Rabbi Micah Lapidus is director of Jewish and Hebrew studies and school rabbi at The Davis Academy.

Rabbi Steven Lebow Above all, the Jews are survivors. Jews have survived the Expulsion from Spain, the Spanish Inquisition and the Holocaust. At times it seems like all history has conspired to cleanse the earth of the Jewish people. But our glory is that we have survived even the worst darkness of history. The Torah describes the Jews as “The Prisoners of Hope.” We will survive COVID-19 and by next year each one of us will be able to say, “Next Year in Jerusalem!”

Rabbi Steven Lebow is the senior rabbi of Temple Kol Emeth.

PASSOVER Rabbi Shalom Lewis

Rabbi Lydia Bloom Medwin

Perhaps the crown jewel of Pesach is the seder.

But it is more than a meal. More than a banquet. It is a guide for how we are to live. Seder means order and at the start of the festivities, in the very beginning of the haggadah, is the outline we are to follow.

Kadesh to Nirtza. Fourteen rituals that make up the seder. If we disrupt the sequence, there is confusion.

Disarray. So too in life declares the seder and the haggadah. Without order, seder, we tumble into hefkerus, chaos. Today we all find ourselves in a place that invites despondence. Our world has been turned upside-down and we are losing our balance. What are we to do as we shelter in place?

One of the most often asked questions in the midst of the quarantine is ‘What day is it?’ When our lives were tethered to routine it was easy not to be lost with the passage of time. Every day had an identity. But now, when our environment doesn’t change and our schedule is redundant, we find ourselves wondering ‘What day is it?’

As our heads spin trying to make sense of the senseless, trying to grab hold of a shifting universe, we are homebound. We observe the appropriate social distance from loved ones and friends but long for something to cling to, so we don’t plod from dawn to dusk. What comes to our rescue is the blessing of routine. The gift of familiar deeds.

What saves us, is behaving in the storm as if there is no storm. We acknowledge and dismiss. We adhere to regimen as a sacred duty, rejecting paralysis of the spirit. What keeps us sane, is clinging to the familiar when we are engulfed by the unfamiliar. To avoid the seduction of weariness and despair, we do not hide under our covers, rather we are to jump out of bed each morning and defiantly maintain the old norm as best we can. It is not tedium but holiness.

There was once a clock tower in a town by which all the citizens set their watches daily. Day after day. Year after year. But then lightening hit the tower damaging the clock. No longer did it keep time. The clock master was not due to pass through for a year, so everyone decided to remove and put away their watches. Everyone that is, except for one man who faithfully wound his watch every morning for a year though it never kept proper time. At the end of the year, the repairman arrived. After he fixed the clock in the tower the towns folk gathered in the square to wind their watches.

It was a moment of celebration that turned to disappointment. All the unused time pieces were dry, and the gears rusted. Every watch, that is, except for the one belonging to the man who wound his watch faithfully every day, though for a year it never had the right time.

Our salvation and recovery will come because we refused to mourn and sit shiva, because we refused to surrender to hopelessness and gloom. And so, embrace and treasure routine. Wheel the trash to the curb. Work out on the treadmill. Sing lullabies to the children. Plant flowers. Make the bed. Light Shabbos candles. And let us wind our watches faithfully every day as we await the clock master.

In my daughter’s room hangs a poster with a quote on it, and the quote reads: The important thing is to not stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. Although this is a famous quote by Albert Einstein, the graphic on the page shows a girl, sitting amongst a bunch of bored looking students, raising her hand like Hermione from Harry Potter, about to jump out of her chair.

This is the attitude we are supposed to adopt during this season of Passover. This kind of zealous questionasking is an absolutely essential part of what it means to be Jewish and what it means to celebrate this most-beloved of all holidays. In fact, in the Talmud tractate Pesachim, it says that if there are only two people at a seder, and both of them are completely brilliant Torah scholars and know everything there is to know about the seder, one must ask the other questions. Then it goes on to say that, even if one is alone, one must ask questions to him or herself!

This brilliant didactic move on the part of our sages continues to challenge and benefit us today. Because it says to us: Question asking is not just about learning facts.

Question asking is also about uncovering the breadth and depth of our reality, both the ugly and the resplendent. Curiosity is an exercise in sewing the very fabric of our universe, and its produce is life itself, in all of its abundance. It is literally about creating new possibilities and figuring out ways to dive into those possibilities.

Today, there are things that are true this Passover that have never before been so. And this disruption actually gifts us with the opportunity to ask even more, even deeper questions, such as: How do hungry school children get fed when school is out for months and no one can go near them? And why do we have hungry children in Atlanta in the first place? And what is spiritually happening to all of us in our journey towards freedom, when so many are trapped in Georgia’s fields and orchards, harvesting the very food we eat daily, while they themselves risk their health and the health of their families? What is the Pharaoh inside us all that allows for the great chariot drivers who deliver food to our doorsteps to remain without protective gear as they battle for us to stay well? What is this plague, the 11th in our count, which takes not the young but the elderly? Is it the result of holding our planet as a slave to do our bidding without end? Is this COVID like the bitter wail of the Israelites, the planet crying out to be freed from bondage?

This year serves to highlight so many of the problems that already faced our state. May we use this time to ask not just four questions, but many, many questions, because our curiosity has many reasons for existing, and one of them is to make our world a more compassionate and peaceful and freedom-filled place for all who inhabit this earth.

Rabbi Lydia Bloom Medwin is director of congregational engagement and outreach at The Temple.

Rabbi Shalom Lewis is rabbi emeritus of Congregation Etz Chaim.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 53

PASSOVER Rabbi Rachael Miller

Clearing Out Our Chametz and Deflating Our Ego Our Talmudic sages parallel chametz to a person’s ego. Chametz can be seen as the thing that allows bread to rise, just as our egos are what allows us, as humans, to “inflate” ourselves.

We all need to have some ego which we use to pursue our dreams and be confident people; however, we should strive to use our egos for positive goals and not to become overly inflated. It is vital that we check-in with ourselves periodically to make sure our egos are under control.

In the days leading up to Passover we are called upon to clear the chametz from our homes, and in the same way, we should take the time to check in on the inflated pieces of our identity, our egos, and make sure those are cleared out as well.

As many in our community are facing times of tremendous transition as well as obstacles related to the most important aspects of our lives like health, job security, and family dynamics, we must be mindful of our ego throughout this journey. We must search deep within for patience and kindness for ourselves and our loved ones.

We must deflate our ego to be like the matzah of Passover so that we don’t walk around with an inflated and puffed up attitude at this difficult time. Let us be humble to all that is occurring in the world and let us come together as a community so that our world may find redemption.

Chag Sameach.

Rabbi Jordan Ottenstein As we approach this year’s Pesach, which celebrated our collective freedom from bondage in Egypt, just like our ancestors of old, we have entered into a new world. However, this new world has not taken us from the narrow place; it has placed us into one.

We are physically distant from our families, friends, communities, even our synagogues. And yet, even though we have narrowed our existence because of social distancing, many of us are finding the ability to socially and spiritually connect in different ways.

The midrash speaks of Nachshon ben Aminadav, who went first into the Sea of Reeds, into the unknown, with only his faith to protect him. At this Passover, as we extend our seder tables, not only by mere feet to make room for others, but across miles, time zones, and, in some cases, even continents, we will all become like Nachshon, braving the unknown, using our faith to guide us, and just like our ancestors did, building a new world together. Chag Sameach.

Rabbi Jordan Ottenstein is the senior rabbi at Congregation Dor Tamid in Johns Creek.

Rabbi Rachael Miller is a rabbi at Temple Emanu-El in Sandy Springs.

Eric Robbins

Everything We Need is in the Passover Story

Rabbi Hillel Norry

This Year, Balance Is the Spirit We Most Need.

Passover is usually a time of luxury and abundance.

Though the haggadah has us begin with bitterness and slavery, the rabbis mandate copious wine, and it isn’t long into the seder night before we are celebrating liberation and eating to our fill. Such a tone suits the holiday that celebrates spring/aviv, and expansiveness. It is the season of growth, verdure and abundance, and our tradition asks us to steep ourselves in that satisfying yomtov spirit.

This year, I believe something different is called for.

This year let’s remember those who are most needy, most alone, still enslaved or incarcerated, dependent or degraded.

Let’s remember to balance and temper our exuberant spirit with a sense of modesty, restraint and conservation. This Pesach, on the holiday we most associate with being together and sharing the full seder table, let’s keep in mind that many struggle to have a seder, and many more will, this year, be alone.

I suggest we each spill one ADDITIONAL drop of wine from our second cup, to properly mark our loss, so that we can then sing “Halleluyah” at the end of the seder celebrating the plentiful spring and liberty.

Rabbi Hillel Norry teaches martial arts and spiritual arts.

54 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Earlier in March, just before the COVID-19 crisis became more intense in Georgia, I was at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra with one of our community’s wise elders, Jarvin Levison. Looking back, it was an eerie evening with the seats half full. The music seemed to herald the dark period that has now arrived.

Our world has been transformed. Grateful as I am to reconnect with the basics of a slower pace, selfcare, and more time with family, my days are filled with worry about how to meet urgent human needs and the financial health of our institutions.

Yet like any personal crisis I have lived through, or the Jewish people has lived through, when we get to the other side things will be different. I hope we will refocus on the essentials that make our people unique: the obligation to be responsible for each other, the centrality of Jewish education, and all the beautiful communal ways we gather to play and pray.

I am overwhelmed by the generosity that is pouring into our COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. More than $2 million has been raised from hundreds of donors!

Grants are already going out to help our community handle food insecurity, social isolation, job loss, the shortage of protective equipment for frontline healthcare workers and more.

As we welcome Passover, let’s proudly tell the story of Jewish resilience and optimism. Our master story of redemption and survival despite suffering, plagues and slavery, is everything we need right now.

Eric Robbins is president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta.

PASSOVER Roni Robbins

A Break From Routine There’s something about a routine that’s so predictable and comforting.

For me, besides my daily work schedule – long hours before the health crisis added daily breaking news – there was my ushering at synagogue every Shabbat. For several hours every Saturday I greeted familiar and new faces, was social and helpful, I hope, while somewhat authoritative, at times, to maintain the dignity of the service. The following day, I spent a similar amount of time on my very long and effective cardio workouts. Like everyone else, my routine has been rocked.

But where there’s a will, there’s a way. I maintain contact through text, WhatsApp and Facebook with friends from synagogue, among others, and have tuned into my shul’s Shabbat services. I take long walks with family and friends – at a distance. After my gym was closed and until I got my own spin bike, I shared one with a friend who lives alone, immaculately sanitized, of course. (I’m a longtime germaphobe, so the advice to wash hands and use sanitizer is second nature.) There’s always jogging with my son, who I’m spending more time with than ever possible before the virus struck.

Aren’t we told to break from routine, shake it up, smell the roses, if you always do what you’ve always done, and other clichés? So, I go with the flow as my world and everyone else’s is upended. I roll with the punches and find a way to maintain my life balance.

There are definitely some silver lining moments besides playing Scrabble with our college kids and saving money on gas.

Of course, we’ve got two newish cars that aren’t getting much use, and we’re paying rent on two apartments while our kids live at home. (So much for the empty nest). On the other hand, I get to report my own weight to Weight Watchers – yes, I’m honest – I stay in comfy clothes and slippers all day for virtual work or “shul services,” instead of dressing up. Plus, we’ve been invited to three virtual seders so far. Looking on the bright side, it could be worse. Chin up people. We are all in this together, and there’s something comforting about that too.

Roni Robbins is associate editor of the AJT.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 55

PASSOVER A.J. Robinson There are so many parts of the haggadah and the Passover story that are relevant to a seder while in quarantine. For me, one of the most interesting messages occurs in the Maggid section where we read “Let all who are hungry, come in and eat. Let all who are in need, come and celebrate Pesach.”

Perhaps one of the greatest lessons from COVID-19 is that one’s basic health depends on the health of everyone, and everyone depends on you. Basically, the virus has connected us in a way that no one could have anticipated. The whole world has been drawn together in the same pandemic battle and everyone’s actions have an effect on the global battlefield. But, as in most calamities that occur (think weather disasters, economic downturns, health maladies, etc.), many of us are able to endure the short and long-term affects much better than others. The effects of COVID-19 will be with us for a while and the effects will be long-lasting. Therefore, in addition to the likely complaining of our quarantine conditions during our sedarim, let us be especially mindful of those who are hungry, sick, and in much greater need than ourselves, as called for in Maggid, and pledge in some way to assist them in the difficult days ahead.

A.J. Robinson is president of Central Atlanta Progress and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District.

Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal Embracing Change

There have been many theories about the miraculous survival of the Jewish people. How have the Jews survived? Judaism finds holiness in change! This doesn’t mean that all change is good or welcomed.

But the Jewish people have a unique ability to pull out the holiness and divine throughout. Beginning at the beginning, our creation story, each new day brought change. It wasn’t long after the first people were exiled from the Garden that they were reaching back out towards God, seeking meaning and understanding.

The Jews left Canaan because the climate became inhospitable, forcing them down to Egypt. Egypt became inhospitable so they were enslaved. Then they were brought to freedom. And the story goes on and on.

Looking at Jewish history shares the same story: Destruction of two temples, the end of the sacrificial worship rituals, exile, expulsion, murder and death all brought struggle, challenges and change to our ancestor’s doorstep. Resilience came through our people’s ability to see another path when the original door was closed.

Today we have the opportunity to share with our neighbors, our spiritual brothers and sisters in other faith traditions and kol yoshvey tevel (all who live on earth) how to find the holiness during these trying times. There are sparks of the divine everywhere. It is our job to gather those sparks and create a fire that can warm us during this cold, dark time.

Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal is the senior rabbi of Ahavath Achim Synagogue and the president of the Atlanta Rabbinical Association. He lives in Atlanta with his wife Brooke and their four children.

56 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Rabbi Neil Sandler “Mah nishtana halaila hazeh mikol halaylot?”

“Why is this night different from all other nights?”

A Reading for Your Seder Table and for Those Who Will Join You from Near and Far For years we have joined, as a family, with Jews around the world in asking that question on this seder night. Reclining, dipping, eating, … Every year the words and tune of the Four Questions resonate deeply and joyously. We know why this night is different.

But this year, as we ask those time-honored questions, we will add a deeply troubling response, one we pray we will never offer again: “Why is this night different? Because never before has a worldwide pandemic forced us to remain physically distant from each other.”

Tonight, the modern plague of coronavirus forces us to be apart. We pray that we will never utter such words again. We pray that we shall never again experience what we are now going through.

On this seder night, Holy One, heal our pain that comes with our physical separation from each other. We are thankful to have this moment together, to see and/ or hear each other and to know that we will celebrate Passover in good health, Godwilling.

As we begin our seder we pray for the safety and well-being of all humanity, created in Your image, in this besieged world. We pray for healing on behalf of those who are suffering from the effects of the virus. We pray that You will protect the brave, courageous and devoted women and men who are seeking to bring healing to them.

Tonight, our hearts are with the loved ones of those who have perished during this plague. Be with them, Lord, console them in their time of need.

Now we begin this Feast of Freedom, constrained in ways we have never previously experienced, but still free, … free to reach out to loved ones, free to express concern for those who are especially in need of our care, free to act in the healing ways You have shown us.

Please God, May all of us remain healthy and well. Tonight, we are in our own Egypt, a narrow place of suffering, concern and physical separation. Next year may we be fortunate to gather again and to feel each other’s touch. May we return, as in years past, to this table, a place that represents our Jerusalem, in a state of good health, well-being and love. Amen.

Rabbi Neil Sandler serves as a rabbi at Ahavath Achim Synagogue in Buckhead.

PASSOVER Rabba Melissa ScholtenGutierrez Floodgates or Freedom: Navigating two realities this Pesach

How often have you been in a remote place and found matzah in the grocery store’s ambiguously kosher/Jewish/Israeli section? Based on my own experiences, I’m assuming it’s a lot. I think it might be the most identifiably “Jewish” food. But even if it’s not, it’s the core food of Pesach. And yet, it holds a powerful polarity.

Matzah is simultaneously the poor man’s bread (lechem oni) and the bread of freedom (oogot matzah) which the Jewish people baked for the journey to freedom.

Matzah is simultaneously both a representation of oppression and redemption, of suffering and of healing.

Now more than ever, we understand these two realities and how they live in tension with one another. Many of us are simultaneously filled with grief and overwhelmed by the current state of the world amidst this pandemic, while yearning for freedom and hoping for a return to normal. We are balancing optimism and realism, faith and fear.

Matzah reminds us that these polarities exist and that there is hope on the other side. If we remain focused on our community, the floodgates will ease, we will find freedom, and we will be prepared to sing and dance together again on the other side of the proverbial sea.

Rabba Melissa Scholten-Gutierrez currently supports the community as the Jewish Camp Initiative manager at Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta.

Rabbi Beth Schwartz The pandemic dominates every section of the news, whether it is sports or arts, in addition to business and politics. I try to take myself “off the grid” by about 8 or 8:30 each evening. I keep a jigsaw puzzle going on the other side of my desk to give me a break from my phone and computer. I think what makes me most anxious about being homebound is having to learn the mechanics of living in community, virtually.

Understanding how computers work, and even how databases work, in a previous career, is not the same as knowing how to navigate an application. My family and congregation are very kind and helpful, reassuring me that I am the content provider and they are my tech support, but this is my personal challenge these days.

I try to call several members each day, and I am finding that the ones who are most impatient with the restrictions tend to be our most senior members, who are not used to staying home, let alone thinking of themselves as fragile. They are strong and inspiring.

At my house, we are baking a lot, and I think of the aromas from the kitchen as therapeutic in addition to the comforts of the challah and cookies (and pecan cake for Pesach). Perhaps I will get through some of the many books that I haven’t had time to read, or prepare for future classes. On the other hand, there is television. “Night on Earth” is a fascinating documentary; “Unorthodox” was excellent; and Britain’s National Theatre is streaming for free. Stay home. Save lives. Breathe peace.

Rabbi Beth Schwartz is the spiritual leader of Temple Israel in Columbus, Ga. ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 57

PASSOVER Terry Segal

We Can Still Find Freedom Passover is a time for telling the story of our people. 2020 will have its stories, those unique to the times and to our individual families. While we’re ever grateful to have our three grown children with their families very close by, we’re observing the orders for social distancing this Passover. It’s our newest grandchild’s first Passover and while we won’t be able to hold her, thanks to technology, we’ll be able to see her.

Even with all of the imposed restrictions, we can still find freedoms to enjoy.

The Ten Plagues are always the highlight during our seders, in addition to the festive meal, of course. This year should be no different. It’ll be easy to reach off camera for the clear pitcher, rimmed at the bottom with red food coloring, and then dramatically pour water into it from the second clear pitcher, as we watch it turn to “blood.”

Usually I have to hide it from inquisitive eyes until the critical moment. We’ll still be able to wear our boils (Band-Aids) that have been painted in advance, with green, yellow, red and orange puffy paint. Guests always get creative with where they put them.

Most importantly this year is the focus on prayers of gratitude for good health, hope to maintain it, and healing for those afflicted or grieving. May we use this transformative time to emerge, better than we were before, in all ways.

Dr. Terry Segal regularly writes the New Moon Meditations column for the AJT. She’s also a licensed marriage and family therapist with a doctorate in energy medicine.

Maayan Schoen Were only the stores empty, dayenu. Were we only brought out of school and work and made to stay home, dayenu. Were we only fearful for our and our loved ones’ health, dayenu...

This moment in history feels like one long night of darkness and unknown. With faith, we isolate and wait until “morning.” Thousands of years ago, our ancestors waited all night in isolation for news that the plague — death of the firstborns — was over. When morning came, they were redeemed. Other periods of isolation in our history have served as preparation for redemption too.

Our haggadah begins with our ancestors worshipping idols and being slaves, and ends with us singing praise to G-d for our redemption. This reflects the Gemara in tractate Pesachim, which instructs us to begin with genut, (shame), and end with shevach, (praise). The Maharal explains that “knowledge of all things is acquired from their opposite;” we can’t properly praise G-d for our redemption or truly know what we’re praising without knowing its opposite.

I have to believe that the world we are living in right now is one huge “opposite.”

It is not a test we would choose, but it is here. While there is still so much good to be found, there is suffering, and what we thought we knew has changed. My bracha this Pesach is that the bad in this time acts as a radical opposite for each of us in the months and years to come. May we draw on the strength of our ancestors, may the future be gloriously good to us, and may we be comforted soon with the redemption the haggadah promises us.

Maayan Schoen graduated from Torah Day School and Atlanta Jewish Academy. She studied in the Migdal Oz Beit Midrash for Women in Israel last year and is now a first-year student at Yale University.

Chana Shapiro

A Different Kind of Seder: A Table for Two For the first time in our lives, my husband, Zvi, and I will sit together at our seder without family and friends.

As newlyweds in New York, we hosted my husband’s extended family for both seders. None of the others kept kosher, so, as the sole chefs and haggadah leaders, my husband and I worked very hard.

That first seder, after non-stop shopping, cleaning and cooking, I passed out (really, I passed out!) after serving the soup, but my husband and guests resolutely carried on. Thankfully, the second seder was perfect. We hosted Zvi’s family seders for several years and loved it.

After we had children, we traveled to St. Louis to be with my family. It was wonderful to relive the beautiful seders of my youth. My parents, aunts and uncles did all the work, and we arrived from Atlanta just in time to set the table and arrange the seder plate. During Pesach week, we had fun reconnecting, cooking and sightseeing while our daughters learned family lore and basked in unmeasured love.

Eventually, we again became seder hosts. In Atlanta, there were more friends than family, however, the mix of backgrounds, accents and cultures enriched every moment. These Atlanta seders have been the vehicle for creating memories and sharing practices and values. Our daughters will have an opportunity to access those values and practices this year. They will be home with their own families, hosting their own seders.

We’ll miss our children and grandchildren, but we also welcome this new experience. Zvi and I will read the haggadah, dine and sing, and finally, together, leave Egypt.

We pray that all of us will be spared from this plague so that we can understand a new kind of freedom.

Chana Shapiro is a teacher, author, illustrator, and AJT columnist.

58 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner “Every year we begin our seders by declaring “Ha Lachma Anya, all who are hungry, come and eat.

Whomever is in need, come and celebrate Passover!”

What can this mean for us this year, in this unprecedented moment in history?

Though we are commanded to see ourselves as the redeemed, often it’s not so easy. For many, the narrative is read through the lens of other. Not us, but “our Israelite ancestors” were the ones freed from strife, from the narrow spaces. But this year is different.

It is “us” in the narrow place. Each and every human on earth is experiencing mitzrayim. We find ourselves sheltering in place, far away from family and friends, perhaps completely isolated and alone. Lacking any control over the forces swirling around us and praying that the pestilence will Pass-over our homes. We are the constricted, the hungry, the needy, the vulnerable.

Desperate for assurances that when this passes we will feel safe and secure.

Ha Lachma Anya! Whomever is in need, come and celebrate Passover!

We are being called, invited to lean into the uncertainty, and use our vulnerability to discover the preciousness and sanctity of each moment of life, of each holy breath. Inspired by the ageless wisdom of the haggadah, “all who are hungry, come and eat,” we are able to journey through its pages cultivating bitachon (trust) and emunah (faith), releasing us from the chains of fear and raising us upward toward freedom and hope.

Hag Sameach and Zissen Pesach.

Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner is senior rabbi at Temple Beth Tikvah in Roswell.

PASSOVER Rabbi Albert Slomovitz “Every Passover we read from the haggadah, after tasting the bitter herbs. “In every generation one must look upon him/herself as if they personally had come out of Egypt.” For most, that verse might have been difficult to understand. How do we bridge thousands of years? This year, the connection is ironic and poignant. We are presently tasting the bitterness of loss of life among our relatives, friends and neighbors. As our ancestors witnessed the reality of plagues, their lives were affected. They must have been frightened to witness the raw power of disease and nature displayed.

We, too, have been greatly affected as we watch the numbers of fatalities increase daily. Our ancestors reach through time and offer needed comfort. When the haggadah retells the Passover story, it concludes with this verse, “Now we are here; next year may we be in the land of Israel. Now we are slaves; next year may we be free people.”

They knew that sometimes in life, plagues occur. We must make our way through those plagues the best way we can. Our fervent hope in being in a better place next year is crucial. Israel may be the country of Israel, a synagogue, restaurant, theater or at any place of enjoyment. Mostly, however, we want to be free. Free of this awful virus, free from the burden of worrying so much about life and death. This Passover, let’s focus on the future and the freedom it holds for us all.”

Rabbi Albert Slomovitz is the founder of the Jewish Christian Discovery Center, a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to educate Christians about their Jewish roots, helping reduce anti-Semitism.

Ken Stein

Is Passover a Legacy Moment in Jewish History?

What are turning points or legacy moments in history? That was the focus of my Zoom class at Emory for 80 students in late March when we touched on whether the June 1967 War was a turning point or legacy moment in Israeli, Jewish and Middle Eastern histories.

Every day, there are events, occurrences, and some turning points, and even fewer of these become legacy moments. Yesterday’s context is today’s new normal.

The 1967 War was judged a legacy moment because it dramatically altered all three histories, and at the same time remains “unfinished.”

At this moment, what we are experiencing worldwide is a new normal. If we are in the middle of the occurrence, how do we know if it is a turning point, or beyond that, a legacy moment? Here are some criteria to consider if this is a legacy moment: Have we ever seen this before in either depth or scope? Is the duration and lasting impact simply impossible to know? I suspect that tomorrow’s historians, artists and writers will have a field day praising those that ran headlong into the crisis to save their fellow man, while others will want to punish demonstrated incompetents with accusations of negligence if not involuntary manslaughter!

These undergraduates on Zoom stretched from Singapore to New York City. They know that they are in the midst of a turning point, if not a legacy moment in history. In deciding where the June War fit, I asked the students to choose core turning points in world history. They were given 15 choices, each omitted their own birth dates, the assassinations of Lincoln, King, the Kennedys, Sadat and Rabin. Also not making the list were Pearl Harbor, Hiroshima, the October 1973 War, or the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling. What made the list of their legacy moments? The American Revolution, invention of electricity, the outbreak of World War I, and 9/11. Where will they place COVID-19?

So, is Passover an occurrence, turning point, or legacy moment in Jewish history? Is it as consequential as Abraham, Sinai, the expulsion, surviving in the diaspora, the birth of a particularly Jewish leader, Zionism, the Holocaust, Israel’s establishment, Entebbe, or the June 1967 War? If Jews had not left Egypt who would they be?

Ken Stein is president of the Center for Israel Education at Emory University.

HAPPY PASSOVER!

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PASSOVER Rabbi Harvey Winokur During the seder, we read or sing, “Avadim hayinu ata bnei horin. We were slaves but now we are free.” In many ways, instead of thinking of “sheltering in place” as a type of enslavement, I have experienced it as releasing me from the slavery of the everyday. No more days filled with appointments, traffic, calls, texts and more. Now I am free. My days are more relaxed (certainly my wardrobe is). My commute involves a half-dozen stairs. My wife, college-age son and daughter, two Golden Retrievers and long hair cat now get to spend hours of quality time together. We have enjoyed more family dinners in the past few weeks than we have in the past few years.

Personally, this freedom has allowed me to pursue my studies in Mussar Torah commentary and share hours with my chevruta partner and students exploring the meaning of being a soul. The past few years, my family has joined with others on the first night and joined members of Temple Kehillat Chaim on the second night. They were meaningful seders, but it meant rushing around to get ready and checking the GPS to make sure we arrived on time. This year, I am looking forward to a quiet, relaxing seder with just the four of us. “Avadim hayinu ata bnei horin. We were slaves but now we are free.”

Rabbi Harvey J. Winokur is rabbi emeritus of Temple Kehillat Chaim and a trainer/ facilitator with The Mussar Institute and Prepare-Enrich.

Rabbi Mark Zimmerman Remember just a few weeks ago when everything in life seemed fairly normal?

This is life. Things are going along just fine.

Then something happens that dramatically turns your world upside down. A child gets injured, a parent falls suddenly ill, or you have a car accident. Suddenly, the small things you thought were important are now completely irrelevant.

Rabbis often get those kinds of phone calls from others who suddenly find themselves thrust into crisis mode.

But when a crisis such as the current pandemic strikes ALL OF US, much of our pastoral training seems inadequate.

Everybody’s life has indeed turned up-side-down. I think of all the simchas, the b’nai mitzvah, weddings and more that are now being put on hold. Even the Olympics are being postponed for a year to 2021. Imagine the athletes who have trained years for this moment, and who now must also put those dreams on hold.

During our seders, we will read a passage from our haggadah which states: b’chol dor va’dor chayav adam lir’ot et atzmo k’ilu hu yatza mi-mitzrayim, in every generation a person is to see him/herself as if they personally left Egypt. While it is not possible to actually experience the pain and redemption of our ancestors, we are supposed to try and feel as if we ourselves experienced the bitterness of slavery and took part in the Exodus. This exercise helps us to better understand the enormity of those events.

Likewise, when we try to empathize and comfort others in their time of need, we go a long way in helping to make the world a better place.

And so, this is one of the important lessons that Passover teaches us, namely, that when we remember and identify with the struggles of our past, we are better able to face the challenges that lie ahead in the future. That’s why we retell the story of the Exodus every year at our seder tables; and likely we will all be telling stories about the coronavirus for years to come. These struggles can be difficult to face, yet they underscore how we are all bound together. When we face a crisis together, we work to create the kind of caring community that will make our lives worth living and ultimately more meaningful.

Let us remember that “Gam Zu Yaavor” – this crisis too shall pass. Let’s celebrate the blessings we have been privileged to enjoy in the past, with hopes for a better tomorrow.

Rabbi Mark Zimmerman is the rabbi of Congregation Beth Shalom in Dunwoody and past president of The Rabbinical Assembly, Southeast Region.

60 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

‘The Plot Against America’ Explores Power of Fear

By Bob Bahr

received an elaborate diamond encrusted military decoration and sword from the “That’s how it happens: everyone is Nazi leader Hermann Goering, there were the weekly national radio broadcasts by afraid.”

This single line of dialogue, spoken by the Catholic priest, Father Charles CoughBess Levin, one of the central characters in lin, that blamed Jews for many of the HBO’s new mini-series, “The Plot Against world’s problems, and Fritz Kuhn, the outspoken American America,” neatly Nazi leader of the summarizes the German-Amerioverall tone of this can Bund. adaptation of PhilAmong the ip Roth’s critically high points of the acclaimed novel. anti-Jewish moveThe series, ment was a 1939 which first landed rally that attracton HBO on March ed 22,000 Hitler 16 as the coronasupporters and virus was terrifyAmericans oping millions, takes posed to Ameriits audience back can participation to 1940 as the in another war. world was facing They filled New the prospect of Actor John Turturro portrays an American York City’s Madianother deeply rabbi who lends critical support to Charles Lindbergh’s successful run for the presidency son Square Garunsettling event, in HBO’s “The Plot Against America.” den while 100,000 World War II. In six weekly episodes, the fascinat- counter-protestors demonstrated outside. ing series poses an intriguing, “what if” A documentary short about the rally, “A scenario. Instead of a third term election Night at the Garden,” won an Academy victory by President Franklin Roosevelt, Award last year.

For Goldstein, a distinguished histowhat if the election winner is Charles Lindbergh, a popular American hero who rian of Jewish American life, it was a time manifests a strong streak of anti-Semi- of rising tension and fear.

“There was a lot of technological intism and a fondness for Adolf Hitler?

In some respects, the fanciful no- novation, a lot of urbanization, and I’d say traditional comtion that Amermunities began ica could elect a to lose their hold president 80 years on young peoago who openly ple,” he said. “It blamed Jews for was also a time of trying to drag cultural change, America into a which frightened brutal and puna lot of people” ishing war was The series not quiet as unbeand Roth’s book, lievable as it first are a searing exseemed. aminations of Eric Goldhow fear affects stein, who heads Nazi leader Hermann Goering presents Charles one Jewish famthe Tam Institute Lindbergh with a ceremonial sword and a medal ily who live in for Jewish Studies in 1938. Lindbergh never repudiated the awards. the largely Jewish at Emory University, maintains that the years leading up community of Weequahic in Newark, N.J., to World War II were precarious times for where Roth grew up.

The creator of the series, David SiAmerican Jews.

“The inter-war period between World mon, is among the most respected proWar I and World War II is really the height ducers of intensely dramatic television. of American anti-Semitism,” he pointed He has created such award-winning series out. “And it continually increased right up as “The Wire,” “The Deuce” and “Treme.”

Simon grew up Jewish in the Washto the beginning of the war.” World War ington, D.C., suburb of Silver Spring, Md., II, that is.

In addition to Lindbergh, who had and he has given this, his first series based

on American Jewish life, an existential twist.

As we watch the unraveling of American democracy back then, he asks, how would each of us have responded? In one of a run of promotional podcasts about the series by HBO, Simon stressed what he believes is the central question of Roth’s work.

“This is a book that is about the spectrum of resistance and complicity in a time of political upheaval and a time where right and wrong are delivered to everybody’s doorstep,” Simon said.

Important as the question is, American Jews of the time are portrayed as relatively powerless to exert much influence.

In both the make-believe scenario that the HBO series presents and in the real world of American history, American Jews in the early 1940s came up short.

“Whatever power they had was very limited,” according to Goldstein, “and it was tempered by the fact that they very much wanted to fit in and be accepted. So they had to be diplomatic and ultimately, there was a limit to their influence.”

All of this merely serves to multiply

ART

HBO’s “The Plot Against America” is a look back at history with echoes of present-day American life.

the sense of fear that pervades this dramatic HBO series about the imaginary decline of American democracy at such an important turning point in history and the realization of the immense power that fear can exert over our lives, then and now. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 61

CALENDAR

APRIL 8-28

PASSOVER

through the world of Jewish mystical teaching and learn how to apply these profound teachings to your daily life. This ongoing class probes the esoteric through a unique program of English text-based study.

No prior kabbalistic experience required. For more information, www. bit.ly/3aDqzEp.

MONDAY, APRIL 13 Intown Jewish Academy Presents Maamar Monday – Live Online – From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Original Chasidic discourse on the Soul of Passover.

For more information, www.bit. ly/342w3WO.

Virtual Passover Seders:

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 18Doors Alternative Passover Experience – From 7 to 8 p.m. How is this Passover different from all other Passovers? Join 18Doors for an engaging, spiritually nourishing, virtual alternative Passover experience for Jews and their loved ones. Connect with your beloved and with other interfaith couples. Rabbi Malka PackerMonroe, director of 18Doors Atlanta, will help you discover deeper meaning and joy this unique holiday season. For more information, www.bit. ly/39ChHgP.

MONDAY, APRIL 13 Virtual Hunger Seder – at 7:30 p.m. The Hunger Seder is an interfaith event re-imagining the traditional Passover seder to include learning about hunger and food insecurity: problems and community-led solutions.

Join the Jewish Community Relations Council, Jewish and other faith partners for an online evening of Passover symbolism, presentations from experts, and breakout discussions. Their theme this year is urban community farming and gardening.

Suggested donation of $6 to $36 will be given to their speakers’ organizations: Historic Westside Gardens, Wholesome Wave and an additional organization addressing urgent community needs related to food access during COVID-19. For more information, www.bit.ly/2WDOqPW.

Virtual Classes and Events:

SUNDAY, APRIL 12

Chabad Intown Presents Kabbalah and Coffee – Live Online – From 9:30 to 11 a.m. Discuss, explore, and journey

Find more events and submit items for our online and print calendars at:

www.atlantajewishconnector.com

Calendar sponsored by the Atlanta Jewish Connector, an initiative of the AJT. In order to be considered for the print edition, please submit events three to four weeks in advance. Contact community relations director, Jen Evans, for more information at jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Cookin’ with Rabbi Ari – Live Online – From 7 to 8 p.m. Zoom link, www. bit.ly/2UY9OwW.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17 Congregation Beth Shalom’s Preschool Shabbat Sing Live with Rabbi Mark – At 1 p.m. Join Rabbi Mark and the Alefbet Preschool for an interactive Shabbat Sing every Friday at 1pm on ZOOM. Join in the fun and learn about Shabbat. For more information, www.bit.ly/3aPfsYQ. JF&CS Presents Parenting Young Kids in a Pandemic Support Group – From 1 to 2 p.m. For parents of children ages 3 to 11 years old. Join Ina Enoch, Ph.D., and Ula Zusman, NCC, for a weekly free support group for parents dealing with difficult issues during this unprecedented time. For more information, email uzusman@jfcsatl.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17 TUESDAY, APRIL 14 JF&CS Presents Parenting Teens/ Tweens in a Pandemic Support Group – From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For parents of teens and tweens. Join Ina Enoch, Ph.D., and Ula Zusman, NCC (National Certified Counselor) for a weekly free support group for parents dealing with difficult issues during this unprecedented time. For more information, email uzusman@ jfcsatl.org.

JF&CS Presents College Student Transitions Therapy Group – From 3 to 4:30 p.m. Get support, coping skills and share strategies for COVID-19 transitions. A virtual therapy group for college students impacted by COVID-19.

For more information, email jstepansky@jfcsatl.org.

Intown Jewish Academy Presents Talmud Tuesday – Live Online – From 8 to 9 p.m. Zoom link, www.bit. ly/2R7AE4D.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 Intown Jewish Academy Presents Torah Studies – Live Online – From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Deep Analysis of the Torah. Zoom link, www.bit. ly/3aFO6V9.

THURSDAY, APRIL 16 Intown Jewish Academy Presents

Congregation Etz Chaim’s Yoga Shabbat Live Stream – From 4 to 5 p.m. Join their congregant and yoga instructor, Paula Coplon for a relaxing livestream yoga and meditation before Shabbat begins each Friday afternoon. The entire community is welcome to check it out on Etz Chaim’s Facebook page, www.bit.ly/2JxqZAd. Marcus JCC Presents Acoustic Shabbat Live – Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m. Rabbi G will be leading “Acoustic Shabbat Live” on Fridays at 6:30 p.m. on the MJCCA Community Outreach Facebook page. To watch, www.bit. ly/2QFabv4.

TUESDAY, APRIL 21 Jewish Fertility Foundation Toco Hills Virtual Support Group – From 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Free for any woman experiencing infertility. The support groups are led by a licensed social worker. For more information, www.bit.ly/3aP1Vkp.

THURSDAY, APRIL 23 Jewish Fertility Foundation Sandy Springs Support Group – From noon to 1:30 p.m. Free for any woman experiencing infertility. The support groups are led by a licensed social worker. For more information, www. bit.ly/3aP1Vkp.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28 JumpSpark Presents Post-Graduation Engagement for Parents Webinar – From 7 to 8:30 p.m. Join JumpSpark for a panel event on post-graduation engagement for parents of teens to share the different ways adults can get involved in the Jewish community in Atlanta once their teens graduate high school and move to college.

They will have speakers from a variety of intown organizations speaking about ways to get involved and grow spiritually. For more information, email jessica.schwartzman@jumpsparkatl.org.

ONGOING Chabad.org Presents Jewish Kids Activities Online – Jewish art projects, videos, games, activities and more.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2UgUFId. In the City Camps Presents - Virtual Camp – Every weekday afternoon from 3:30 to 4 p.m. In an effort to keep the community connected, they are giving their campers opportunities to see one another. To watch and join in, www.bit.ly/2xhGR71.

Jewish Spirituality & Mysticism – Join Rabbi Hirshy for a weekly class on Jewish spirituality, mysticism and how to apply it to your personal growth in a meaningful way.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2wmSBFp. MJCCA Day Camps – Weekdays, 9 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Check in for weekday live activity sessions on their Facebook page. To participate and for more information, www.bit. ly/2wvLOcn. MJCCA Fitness – MJCCA will be posting daily workouts and conducting live workouts on the Fitness Facebook page. They also have a free option to help keep you active and working out at home. For more, watch here, www. bit.ly/2WHcSQz. MJCCA Book Festival – Click to view MJCCA’s upcoming Book Festival vir-

stereotyping and scapegoating. To read more, www.bit.ly/3dp5a3t.

PASSOVER CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Wednesday, April 8, 2020, light holiday candles at 7:46 p.m.

Thursday, April 9, 2020, light holiday candles after 8:43 p.m.

Friday, April 10, 2020, light Shabbat candles at 7:47 p.m.

Saturday, April 11, 2020, Shabbat ends at 8:44 p.m.

Tuesday, April 14, 2020, light holiday candles at 7:50 p.m.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020, light holiday candles after 8:48 p.m.

Thursday, April 16, 2020, holiday ends at 8:48 p.m.

tual events, www.bit.ly/3bk1mi7.

MJCCA Athletics –The – MJCCA Athletics program encourages kids to stay active at home while school is out for an extended period of time. Action for Healthy Kids, a nonprofit organization that promotes a focus on health, fitness and wellness in schools, has provided some amazing resources to keep kids happy, engaged and focused on their overall health while at home. Click for activities to do at home through MJCCA’s Game On Activity Library, www.bit.ly/2wzY5MO. MJCCA BBYO – Tune into BBYO On Demand, a brand-new virtual experience for teens worldwide. Enjoy amazing programming and global events. Some of the sessions will even be led by our very own Greater Atlanta Region BBYO members. For more information, www.bit.ly/2QFlCD2.

every morning and every afternoon.

To join in and for more information, www.bit.ly/2WzFFqh. Repair the World – Repair the World welcomes you to sign up for its programming. Join them from the comfort of your home for a discussion on compassionate care for ourselves and our community. For more information, www.bit.ly/2xhUsv5.

Virtual Hillel Connections – If you’re looking for community, connection, and meaningful learning opportunities or if you’re just bored and need a distraction during coronavirus cancellations, then you’ve come to the right place. Hillel has virtual meetups and online gatherings that bring you together with Jewish and Jew-ish students from around the world in real-time! For more information, www.bit.ly/3af7wjA.

MJCCA Blonder Department for Special Needs – MJCCA Blonder Department for Special Needs. Please stay tuned to the Blonder Family Department for Special Needs Facebook group for daily activities, chats, workouts and more. For more information, www.bit.ly/2Jmpl4x.

MJCCA Aquatics – A few things that you can work on at home to keep your swimming abilities top notch.

Please see our swim skills guide that describes exercises for your child’s ability along with a picture. For more information, www.bit.ly/3bmmlRC.

Virtual Senior Center Zumba Class – DeKalb County Department of Human Services has put together a Virtual Senior Center Zumba Class video. To watch and join in, www.bit. ly/39hEVsl. Please send Virtual Classes & Events to jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Community Services: PJ Library is Going Viral! – Mondays at 9:30 a.m., Tuesdays through Fridays at 9 a.m., and every afternoon at 2 p.m. PJ Library is bringing to you fun, crafts, stories, Q&As, scavenger hunts, food demos and so much more

Anti Defamation League – The Coronavirus Surfaces Fear, Stereotypes and Scapegoating: A blog post from ADL to help provide accurate information, explore emotions, and, most importantly, play a role in reducing

Atlanta Community Food Bank Text for Help SMS Function – The Atlanta Community Food Bank’s mission to provide nutritious food to the people who need it has reached a major milestone toward access to food for all. The Text for Help SMS function recognizes two keywords – ‘findfood’ (no space) in English or ‘comida’ in Spanish. Each keyword will activate automated responses in the relevant language. When a person texts either keyword to 888-976-2232 (ACFB), they’ll be prompted for their zip code or address to enable location services for food pantries closest to them. For more information, www.acfb.org.

Atlanta Jewish Music Festival Updates– Music is a powerful force. It heals.

It can bring people together. In the wake of the tragic events over the last few weeks, people have reached out to the AJMF community seeking “healing music.” To listen, www. spoti.fi/2Uuq7BB. For information about the AJMF, www.atlantajmf. org.

Atlanta Restaurants Offering Curbside Pickup and Delivery – Atlanta has suspended dine-in service, with takeout and delivery and online gift card and merchandise purchases now the new reality for restaurants. For a continually updated list of Atlanta restaurants now offering food delivery service and curbside pick-up, www. bit.ly/2Uyg1zl.

Creating Connected Communities – If you have books to donate, please contact Stefanie Foree. CCC needs LEGOs. They are collecting new or used LEGOs so the kids at their programs can make more amazing creations. If you’re cleaning out a gift closet and have NEW toys that your kids are never going to use, CCC can use them. CCC needs small gift items to give to the adults who attend Amy’s Holiday Party. For more information, tara@cccprojects.org or Stefanie at: stefani@cccprojects.org.

Sunshine School and the Club J AfterSchool Program will also be closed.

For more information, www.bit.ly/2QEAuRX.

Israel American Council – IAC @Home brings you the most innovative content online while continuing to build a national community with Israel at the heart. With activities for kids, teens, young professionals and adults, you can stay connected to Hebrew, Israeli and Jewish heritage, online activism and to one another.

IAC @Home lets you enjoy a coastto-coast community right from your own home. For more information, www.israeliamerican.org/home.

JF&CS – Emergency Financial Assistance – JF&CS is there to provide emergency assistance for individuals and families. Please call 770-6779389 to get assistance. For more information, www.bit.ly/2wo5qzj.

JF&CS - Telehealth Counseling Services – Now offering telehealth options via phone or video conference for current and new clients to help our community during this crisis. For more information about their therapy services or to make a telehealth appointment, email us at therapy@jfcsatl. org or call 770.677.9474.

My Jewish Learning – Jewish learning resources to get you through these difficult days. For more information, www.bit.ly/3bms5dQ. YMCA of Metro Atlanta Outreach – The YMCA is activating all YMCA branch locations to deliver childcare for thousands of healthcare workers and emergency responders. They are distributing meals for early learners, families and seniors at YMCA sites and working with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to expand food pantries and offer food distribution to the community. The YMCA has implemented Operation R.E.A.C.H. to engage our seniors and vulnerable groups during this difficult time, activating resources and support to keep them connected and healthy.

For more information, www.bit. ly/3aCHjM7.

Please send Community Service Opportunities to jen@atljewishtimes. com.

broadcasted from the main sanctuary and Ellman Chapel. Open to members and the community. To watch and for more information, www.bit.ly/33EJfAU.Congregation Congregation Beth Shalom’s Virtual Services – Sunday through Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 to 8:45 a.m.

For more information, www.bit. ly/3aDdUkX.

Ways to Help Through CCC: www.bit. ly/2vAXqdN

Virtual Wednesday Evening Minyan – Etz Chaim’s Sababa USY invites you to join them for Wednesday evening minyan at 6:30 p.m. They welcome the community to remotely daven with them for this virtual Mincha/Ma’ariv service. To join in and for more information, www.bit. ly/2UJc4s3.

Package and Deliver Meals Through Open Hand Atlanta: www.openhandatlanta.org/volunteer

Temple Emanu-El Live Streaming Services – Erev Shabbat, Fridays at 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Service, Saturdays at 10 a.m. and Bar/Bat Mitzvah Services Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Join in, www. bit.ly/2QHzpZT. Jewish Federation of Greater Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Resources – The unsettling, fast-moving and unpredictable world of life with COVID-19 is upon us. As we’re all discovering, a worldwide pandemic disrupts everyone on an unprecedented scale. For updates and more information, www.bit. ly/3ahrNVM. Marcus JCC Updates – The Marcus JCC will be closed until advised that it is safe to open. In addition, The Weinstein School, The Schiff School, The

Synagogue Live Streaming Services: Ahavath Achim Synagogue – Participate in services live from your computer. Ahavath Achim’s services are

Creating Connected Communities: www.bit.ly/3bekKNI

Congregation Etz Chaim’s Virtual Morning Minyan and Shabbat Services – Sunday through Friday at 8 a.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m. Join Rabbi Daniel Dorsch for live-streaming daily morning minyan and Shabbat morning services. To call into Shabbat morning services, dial 646-5588656. When prompted for the meeting ID, enter 365 561 931. For more information, www.bit.ly/2xhKjP1.

Congregation Shearith Israel – Live Stream Services Services – Daily and Shabbat services will continue at regular times in a virtual manner. They are counting participants in these live-streamed services as part of a minyan, or prayer quorum, allowing members to recite full prayer services including Mourner’s Kaddish.

To participate via phone, dial 929205-6099 and then enter the meeting code 404 873 1743. To be a part of services, visit the following Zoom link: www.bit.ly/2wnFWlD.

JF&CS – Telehealth Older Adult Services – Aviv older adult staff are there to help provide resources, care plans, and support for you and your family. Call AgeWell at 1-866-AGE-WELL (1-866-243-9355) to find out how they can help. For more information, www.bit.ly/2wo5qzj.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Become a Virtual Tutor: www.mindbubble.org Donate for Emergency Groceries: Groceries www.pawkids.org Provide a Meal to Homeless Women: www.rebeccastent.org.

Package and deliver meals through Concrete Jungle: www.concrete-jungle.org/ The Atlanta Public Schools need help delivering food on bus routes as well as food distribution sites in kitchens and drive-through lines. For more information, www./bit.ly/2Uk7lga.

JF&CS Kosher Food Pantry: www.jfcsJF& atl.org.

Repair The World Resource – A onepage resource for caring for the sick in the time of crisis. For more information, www.bit.ly/2JamMlQ. Jewish HomeLife – Volunteer and support opportunities to help seniors in our community. For more information, www.bit.ly/33FrxNH. Cards & Care Packages for Jewish HomeLife Staff: www.bit. ly/2WDncsY and www.bit. ly/2WDncsY.

Temple Sinai Live Stream Services – Temple Emanu-El will have live Shabbat services on Friday night and Saturday morning. For more information and to view services, www. bit.ly/2JdsZxa.

Second Helpings Volunteer Opportunities: www.bit.ly/2UpkxQE.

The Temple Live Streaming Services – Find live streaming services here, www.the-temple.org.

Please send Community Service Opportunities to jen@atljewishtimes. com.

Please send Synagogue and Temple Streaming Services to jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Check the Atlanta Jewish Connector for updates: www.atlantajewishconnector.com.

Help with COVID-19 – A list of additional volunteer opportunities: www. helpwithcovid.com.

Connector Chatter Directory Spotlight Ahavath Achim Synagogue In conversation with Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal

www.atlantajewishconnector.com

Welcome New Directory Member Amp’d Entertainment

How long has your organization been in Atlanta?

Since 1887.

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How do you cater to young members?

We built a premier preschool (Ahava Early Learning Center) that serves working families, employing the best in early childhood education coupled with long hours that fit into working parents’ schedules. Ahavath Achim runs a boutique supplementary education program for older children growing Hebrew and Judaic literacy.

We also provide many ways to connect with community, spirituality and God through classes, social justice initiatives, learning opportunities for all levels of knowledge base, prayer services, small group/havurot and leadership development.

Where do you see your organization in 10 years?

In the next 10 years, we strive to become a leader in Jewish spirituality, education and leadership development for the Jewish and greater Atlanta community.

Amp’d Entertainment is a creative DJ company focused on dynamic mixing using live mashups and remixes. Its goal is to make each event personal and unique while still being accessible to everyone. When you have a diverse crowd with diverse tastes, you need entertainment that is flexible, dynamic and creative.

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CheCk out “Jewish time” A PodCAst brought to you by the AtlAntA Jewish times

bringing you An interesting And timely ConversAtion eACh month.

PodCAst.AtlAntAJewishtimes.Com

COMMUNITY Beth Jacob Takes Shabbat Greetings to the Street

By Dave Schechter On Friday afternoon if you happen to be in the Toco Hills neighborhood and think you see Rabbis Ilan Feldman and Dov Foxbrunner of Congregation Beth Jacob waving from the back of a white pickup truck adorned with signs and blasting Jewish music … well, then, that is what you saw.

Call it . . . the Shabbat-mobile.

For the past two weeks, on Friday afternoon, in the hours before Shabbat, neighborhood residents, members of Beth Jacob and other congregations, have stepped out of their doors and, maintaining the appropriate social distancing, waved back as the truck has passed by their homes.

“And G-d willing, we intend to do so each Friday we can, providing that it only serves to enhance communal wellbeing,” Yaakov Haller, a Beth Jacob congregant and an organizer of the effort, told the AJT. Beth Jacob’s doors are closed, but like congregations throughout Atlanta, the synagogue has put a considerable

66 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Photos by Congregation Beth Jacob // Rabbis

The doors of Congregation Beth Jacob may be closed, but the “Shabbat-mobile” is bringing the spirit of Shabbat through the Toco Hills neighborhood.

amount of teaching and other programs online. But not worship services, in keeping with Orthodox tradition.

“Nevertheless, as a community of dedicated Orthodox Jews who strictly adhere to traditional Torah law and do not utilize any form of electronic communication during the 25-hour Shabbat, I began to consider the emotional strain and compounded stress that nearly total separation may place on our resilient

neighborhood from sundown Friday evening through Saturday night each week,” Haller said.

“And so in a matter of days, the concept of mobile 'Pre-Shabbat Ruach' centering on our beloved (and brave) rabbis slow-rolling through the streets of Toco Hills to gift personalized ‘Good Shabbos / Shabbat Shalom’ wishes and cheer, set to a backdrop of energetic Jewish music, took shape. If circumstances were

Dov Foxbrunner and Ilan Feldman of Congregation Beth Jacob ride through the Toco Hills neighborhood offering Shabbat greetings.

going to prevent our cohesive congregation from entering Beth Jacob, then a home-delivery version of Beth Jacob throughout the community was vital to ensuring that no one felt alone or forgotten,” Haller said. Among the signs on the side of the truck is one reading “Though Corona keeps us a safe distance apart, SHABBOS KODESH connects us Heartto-Heart!!”

But no one person conceives and executes such a plan, and Haller praised several others for their “shared commitment to doing our small part to uplift spirits and keep hope at the forefront of communal consciousness during these uncertain times.”

In addition to Rabbis Feldman and Foxbrunner, the list included Rabbi Yitzchok Tendler, Beth Jacob’s executive director of the synagogue’s office staff, and members Avi and Rachel Tate, who provided use of Tate Electric’s truck, generator, diesel and propane fuel and professionally printed banners. And, for good measure, “the unparalleled comaraderie of families throughout the Toco Hills Jewish community.” ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 67

COMMUNITY

Limmud Aims for More Programs at Home

By Bob Bahr

about two dozen people gathered at their home to hear how couples like the KistenWhat first attracted Rob Kistenberg to bergs can have a strong Jewish home life, his wife Amy were her chickens. When they and a strong attachment to nature.

“I feel like I’ve always been very close first met, they were both attending the annual LimmudFest, a long weekend of Jewish to nature,” Rob Kistenberg said. “I think you can find that kind of spirilearning and outdoor livtuality and attachment to ing that is held at the Camp your religion anywhere in Ramah Darom retreat cennature. You can find your ter in the North Georgia faith anywhere.” mountains over Labor Day On their nearly weekend. ¾-acre property, they have “I was interested in a chicken coop with a having chickens and she solar-powered door to alhad backyard chickens. So low their chickens space I went over to her house, to roam, two massive beemet her chickens and here hives and room for the we are.” herb seedlings that Amy Six years later they raises for the garden at Ralive on a quiet cul-de-sac mah Darom. street in Chamblee near The Sunday afterthe DeKalb-Peachtree AirUnder Chamblee city noon with the Kistenbergs port. They are proud parordinances, chicken owners is part of an effort to diverents of a 4-year-old son and like the Kistenbergs are sify Limmud’s programs eight chickens, and they allowed to have up to eight and make them more perare still are big fans of Limchickens in their backyard. sonal. According to Adina mud.

On a Sunday afternoon last month Rudisch, Southeast director of Limmud, the

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Limmud’s centerpiece is its LimmudFest held each Labor Day weekend.

organization wants to expand its reach be- them are non-denomination and intensely yond once-a-year “marquee” events to create democratic. Among the basic principals learning opportunities throughout the year. they follow is that no one is more important It’s an idea that has gained greater ur- than anyone else and everyone should be a gency in recent weeks as the effects of the student and anyone can be a teacher.

According to Leslie Anderson, Limmud coronavirus pandemic take hold.

“During this time when everything Atlanta & Southeast board member, much around us appears to be changing, Limmud of the appeal of the organization is its incluin Atlanta and in the Southeast is also get- siveness.

“What I love about Limmud is that ting its bearings and finding new ways to be flexible in order to better meet the needs of there’s something for everybody,” she said. our Jewish community in Atlanta and be- “It allows you to define what Jewishness is to you. And that it offers an entry point, no yond,” Rudisch said.

On March 29, the North American matter how you define that connection to Limmud organization and its 19 regional af- Judaism.”

Anderson, filiates, including who is also exthe one in Atlanta, ecutive director of held what they the Jewish Comcalled their first munity Relations ever EFestival, a Council of Atlanta, five-hour online spent a lively afeducational proternoon trampgram. ing through the Participants Kistenberg’s backhad a choice of 50 yard. She hung one-hour learnout on a pleasant ing opportunities spring day with in subjects that Amy-Price-Kistenberg explains the joys the chickens and ranged from the of urban beekeeping in her backyard the bees and reethical Jewish during the Limmud At Home program. flected on her love questions posed by toilet paper hoarding to what was de- for Limmud and Judaism.

“Limmud takes you in new ways scribed as a “cholera wedding – a magical that you may not have even anticipated ritual to end an epidemic.”

The virtual program, like all Limmud or thought about before, because you just programs, including the annual event at thought it was just this way. In fact, there’s Ramah Darom, was run entirely by volun- this whole wonderful world of learning and teers under the broad principles that have living available to you.”

For now, Limmud Atlanta’s main event, made Limmud one of the biggest success stories in the Jewish world over the past 40 LimmudFest, is on the schedule at Ramah Darom for Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4-7. years.

There are now over 80 communities in The organizers of the event are confident 43 countries on six continents that have ac- that when and if the event takes place, evtive Limmud Jewish learning groups. All of eryone will have much to celebrate. ì

COMMUNITY

Voice Behind New Podcast

Silberblatt at the microphone in his home office recording studio.

By Roni Robbins When he was approached by the AJT earlier this year to host its first podcast, Jeff Silberblatt was eager to be part of a new media venture and recapture his former career and passion as a radio host and producer. “To me it was an interesting project.

Podcasts are incredibly popular these days.

One of my loves and comfort zones is to try to create interesting conversations,” he said.

70 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Plus, he was excited about the opportunity to bring AJT headlines to life in a podcast called "Jewish Time." “I love being part of a pioneer effort, especially because it touches on my professional roots,” he said. This is Silberblatt’s second stint with the AJT. He was director of advertising sales from 2007 to 2010.

So far, Silberblatt has helped produce three "Jewish Time" podcasts. The premiere aired last month about the Atlanta Jewish

Silberblatt was part of the Atlanta radio production crew that produced a Lionel Richie concert in 2003 outside of the King and Queen buildings in Sandy Springs.

Film Festival. Silberblatt interviewed AJT one of the largest lunchtime concerts ever correspondent Bob Bahr, a longtime vol- held in Atlanta at the King and Queen office unteer with the festival who teaches and towers in Sandy Springs in 2003. “He was a writes about the film industry. The next great guy, very down-to-earth.”

Photos of Silberblatt with celebs grace two installments of "Jewish Time" – the latest aired April 1 – expand on stories the the walls of his home-based radio studio in AJT published recently about the COVID-19 the Smyrna-Vinings area. This is where he interviews his "Jewish Time" subjects, usucrisis.

Silberblatt brings to "Jewish Time" a ally through Zoom. In the future, the AJT memorable radio voice, accustomed to might have its own recording studio, he said.

What he likes about his new podcast serving as a voice-over actor in radio commercials. This is the first time he’s hosted a medium is the freedom it affords. “In radio podcast, but he has a 22-year history man- and television interviews, there are strict aging broadcast programming for radio rules that must be adhered to at all times.

This podcast stations and has no such groups across rules, and that the country, can lend itself he said. Silto producing berblatt has intriguing conworked with versation with CBS radio, my guests," he Clear Channel said.

CommunicaHe furtions (now ther explained iHeartMedia), the format.

Viacom and “This isn’t a Cumulus MeThe entrance to Silberblatt’s home office and recording studio is lined with gold and platinum news report. dia. records, gifts from artists with whom he’s worked.

It’s a conversaHe managed radio stations in Michigan, Washing- tion, and I want listeners to feel as if they are ton, D.C., and Honolulu before coming to in the room while the conversation is taking place.”

Atlanta to manage Peach 94.9.

But how does he ensure the audience is As a broadcast manager he rubbed shoulders with celebrities, including Elton fully engaged? The goal is to keep the podJohn, Jon Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen, casts timely. It’s a chance to bring the pages and while in Hawaii, he was part of a pro- of the AJT alive with conversations beyond duction team that produced sold-out con- the printed story with newsmakers and certs at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu star- people of interest in Atlanta.”

The goal is to “keep Jewish Atlanta conring Celine Dion, Lionel Richie, The Rolling nected,” the AJT tagline, featuring newsStones and Ricky Martin.

One of his favorite moments in radio makers associated with Jewish culture and was being part of a lunch meeting with lifestyle. “It’s not always hard news.,” SilberRingo Starr in Los Angeles in 2002. “I’ve had blatt said. “Sometimes it’s the arts and enterartists to my house for barbecues. I’ve been tainment side. We find people who are part in the studio when artists put together new of connecting Jewish Atlanta.”

Tune in to the latest episode at podcast.atmusic. I did with Lionel Richie.” He recalled how Richie put on what was believed to be lantajewishtimes.com. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 71

KEEPING IT KOSHER

JEWISH JOKE OF THE WEEK

A Fishy Story

Butternut Squash Pear Kugelettes

By Chaia Frishman Cooking and prep: 40 minutes Preference: Pareve Difficulty: Easy Diet: Vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free Servings: 12 2 cups butternut squash, cooked and puréed 1 cup pears, cooked and mashed 3 eggs ¼ to 1/3 cup brown sugar, according to taste 1 tablespoon potato starch 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar 1 tablespoon oil or margarine, melted Candied nuts, crushed Preheat oven to 375 F. In a medium bowl, mix all the ingredients except the nuts. To get the right amounts here, I took a small- to medium-sized butternut squash, sliced it down the middle, and removed the seeds. Then I peeled two pears and sliced them down the middle and cored the seeds and stems. I placed both, skin side down, in a pan with a shallow amount of water, covered the pan, and baked for one hour. I scraped the butternut squash so it got puréed, and I mashed the pears together. You can cook them using whatever method works best for you, just be sure the total yield is 3 cups.

Divide mixture into 12 muffin tins. Sprinkle liberally with crushed candied nuts. Bake for 30 minutes.

Source: Family Table by Michpachah Magazine Photo by Moshe Wulliger with food styling by Renee Muller ì 72 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

As Moses and the children of Israel were crossing the Red Sea, the children of Israel began to complain that they were very thirsty after walking so far. They couldn’t even drink from the walls of water on either side of them because they were made up of saltwater.

Whilst Moses was looking around for some fresh water, a fish from the wall of water told him that he and his friends were willing to help. They would use their gills to remove the salt from the water and force it out of their mouths like a freshwater fountain for the Israelites to drink from as they walked by.

Moses accepted this kindly fish’s offer with gratitude, but the fish said there was a condition. The children of Israel and their descendants always had to be present at the Seder meal that would be established to commemorate the Exodus, since they had a part in the story.

When Moses agreed to this, he gave the fish their name, which remains how they are known to this very day, for he said to them, “Go Filter Fish!”

Joke provided by David Minkoff www.awordinyoureye.com

YIDDISH WORD OF THE WEEK Maven

‎

‫מֿבין‬

Expert, aficionado , meyvn, from Hebrew: ‫מבין‬‎, mevin, 'understand'; OED

BRAIN FOOD

Makot Movies

ACROSS

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1. What a cop might flash 6. Impersonate 11. 1984 Leon Uris bestseller, with "The" 14. "Have ___" (waiting room offer) 15. Licoricelike flavoring 16. "... ___ in a galaxy far, far away..."

17. 1996 Michael Douglas historical thriller, with 67-Across 19. Bother 20. This woman 21. ___mode 22. THE Marvel name 24. Nasty, as a remark 26. One in the Indy 500 27. Outdoor eatery 30. Posts 33. Make like a Manning 34. Some dishes 36. "None so blind as those that will ___" 38. English title 39. Parts of the Exodus story that can be found in this puzzle's movies 42. Sketchy show?

45. Ace concealer 47. Gets close 49. Israeli supermodel Ginzburg 51. Tefillah where people bow 54. City south of Jerusalem

25. Oasis near the Dead Sea 27. Inclusive letters 28. Kind of tuna 29. 1982 Sylvester Stallone action film 31. Funny Costello 32. ___-Foy (city in Quebec) 35. Impersonate 37. ID # 40. "Solaris" author Stanislaw 41. California roll ingredient, to an Aussie 43. Piece-keeping org.?

44. Letters that might trip you up?

46. Hold on property DOWN 48. Have some matzah 1. Soak 49. A-listers 2. Queens stadium name 50. Deli cut 3. Stag, for one 52. Enter forcibly, as a country 4. Joke 53. Yom Kippur War Prime 5. "Fargo" director Coen Minister 6. Ancient Dead Sea fortress 56. "Here, I'll do that" 7. Bad QB throw 58. Does a bit of lawn work 8. Farrow and Sara 60. Bat mitzvah locale 9. Money ___ everything 61. Pharaoh that might have 10. Wood used for the Tabernacle enslaved the Israelites 11. 2016 George Clooney 63. Currency south of the border comedy 64. One on an app 12. Concurs 65. "Hey, pal!"

13. Some wild cards 68. Moines of note 18. Those who have made aliyah 69. Something the tired might 23. Neck part take 24. Gov. abbr.

55. An artist might sign with one 57. Like some gasses 59. Affliction 62. By way of 63. Little dog 66. Principle represented by the yin and yang 67. See 17-Across 70. Rock sub-genre 71. Less bright, as colors 72. Backs off (with "up") 73. "Science Kid" of PBS 74. "Fur ___ " (Beethoven) 75. Curling or hurling

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15 Years Ago//April 15, 2005 ì Craig and Beth Intro of Atlanta announced the birth of their daughter, Jolie Maya, Oct. 14, 2004. A naming ceremony was held at Congregation Beth Jacob Oct. 16. Jolie was given the Hebrew name Gavriella Maya in memory of her maternal great-grandmother, Gertrude Rachelson, and paternal great-grandmother, Moreen Phillips. ì The JCC held “An Evening with an Authentic Hero,” featuring Paul Rusesabagina, the real-life subject of the Academy Award-nominated film “Hotel Rwanda.” The event was held April 18 and a portion of the proceeds benefited CARE, a humanitarian organization.

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Jewish music, the dancers illustrated the history of the wandering Jewish people from the biblical era, through pre-Inquisition Spain, to early 20th century America, and the modern Middle East ì Rabbi Steven Lebow and Madeline Sable announced the birth of their daughter, Julie Rena Sable Lebow, on Feb. 6. She has a sister, Shira. Julia Rena was named March 19 by Rabbi Fred Davidow, in memory of her greatgrandfather, Jack Sable, and her great-grandmother, Rena Spero Gorlin.

The JCC held “An Evening with an Authentic Hero,” featuring Paul Rusesabagina, subject of the Academy Award-nominated film “Hotel Rwanda.”

50 Years Ago //April 17, 1970 ì Susan Spector, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Maurice W. Spector, married Laurence Dale Schulman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ira Schulman on March 18 at Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Rabbi Harry Epstein officiated. A reception was given by the bride’s parents in the VIP Room of the Atlanta Cabana Motel. A wedding trip was planned for Miami. ì Temple Sinai held a special Shabbat service April 17. This freedom 25 Years Ago// April 14, 1995 service, in honor of Passover, included original guitar music, a rock and sing-a-long, and ì Steven Weintraub and Sharona Paller Rubenstein performed dances telling the original creative prayer interpretations.

The event was held at Birney Elementary School, history of the Jewish people April 19 at the JCC. Set to traditional folk songs and modern and was hosted by the Temple Sinai Youth Group. ì ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 73

OBITUARIES

Wilma Jolson Bloom 94, Sandy Springs

Wilma Jolson Bloom, 94, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 29, 2020, at her home in Sandy Springs. Her family wants everyone to know: While losing our mother is the deepest of sorrows, having her for a mother was the greatest of joys! She was a fierce supporter of family and friends, welcoming all into her home, whether to provide a warmhearted gathering or to lend a helping hand when someone was in need. She was a full-time motivator; her strength and will broke barriers and provided inspiration for all who knew her; she stood up for her children and supported their life dreams. Mom was a timeless example of the best of motherhood: Selfless, giving, loving, powerful, talented. She will be missed always, and with us forever.

As Mom always set examples of doing good for others, we ask that you reflect on this and share this kindheartedness with friends and strangers as you move through life. As she loved animals and always enjoyed having her small dogs by her side, memorial contributions can be made to: http://atlantapetrescue.org/ (select “in memory”).

She was preceded in death by her husband Aaron J. Bloom, of blessed memory.

Survivors include her sons Larry (Yvonne) Bloom, Paul (Hope) Bloom, and Ron (Marta) Bloom; grandchildren Amanda (Max) Weissman, Adam (Stacey) Bloom and Augie Bloom; and four great-grandchildren.

A private graveside service will be held at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at a later date. Sign online guestbook, www.

DresslerJewishFunerals.com. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Sharon P. Freedman 75, Dunwoody

Sharon P. Freedman passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family Thursday, April 2, 2020, following a short, but valiant fight against pancreatic cancer. She was born October 8, 1944, in Pittsburgh, Pa., to Natalie and Morris Podolsky, both of blessed memory. She graduated from Carnegie Mellon University.

Sharon was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Stephen Freedman, and is survived by her daughters Randi Meyer (Gary Meyer), Allison Freedman (Harry Horowitz), and Laura Freedman (Joel Gress), and seven grandchildren, Jared, Jessica, Abbi, Alon, Koby, Victoria, and Liam. She is also survived by her sister Barbara Cynamon (Brian Cynamon) and brother Gary Podolsky, both of Pittsburgh, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice. A private graveside service will be held for immediate family only, and a memorial service will be planned for a later date. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Ethel Hilowitz Kopkin 88, Sandy Springs

Ethel Hilowitz Kopkin, 88, born July 4, 1931, in Bronx, N.Y., entered into rest peacefully in her home in Sandy Springs April 4, 2020. Raised in Chattanooga, Tenn., Ethel earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga and her master’s degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Given her desire to keep learning, Ethel later earned a specialist degree followed by another master’s in education from the University of Georgia. She started her career as a teacher, then went into school administration. Eventually, Ethel became a principal at Sope Creek Elementary, where she received a National School of Honor award presented by then President Ronald Reagan.

Ethel’s utmost passions in life were her family and faith. She met Theodore, the love of her life, while living in Chattanooga. They were married in 1951 and moved to Atlanta in 1958, where they raised their family. Ethel’s greatest love was creating a legacy wrapped in the rich traditions of Judaism for her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She treasured filling her home with her loved ones, especially over the holidays, and never missed an opportunity to create a Kodak moment. Her cherished moments caught on film filled her with incredible joy throughout her long life.

She was a longtime member of Temple Sinai in Atlanta and was dedicated to caring for those less fortunate.

Ethel was predeceased by her adoring husband of 64 years, Theodore Kopkin. She is survived by her daughter Marian Kopkin and son Mark Kopkin of Atlanta; four grandchildren, 74 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

OBITUARIES Matthew (Danielle) Kopkin and Samuel Kopkin, both of Winter Park, Fla., Sarah Kopkin and Bryan Kopkin, both of Atlanta.

A graveside service was held for immediate family April 7. In lieu of flowers, she has requested donations be made to Second Helpings Atlanta. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Balfoura “Bo” Friend Levine 94, Atlanta

Balfoura “Bo” Friend Levine left this world April 5, 2020, to begin her next great adventure. Bo was born July 12, 1925, in Shanghai, China, to Russian refugees, Jacob Lion Friend and Frieda Kovarsky Friend. Although she was well taken care of, Bo grew up very poor and it profoundly affected her throughout her life. Bo was a very good student and graduated from the Shanghai Public School for Girls in 1943. She completed her first year of college at St. John’s University in Shanghai while working as a finance clerk for the 14th Airborne, the “Flying Tigers.” Then, a miracle occurred: her aunt and uncle Dubby and Louis Friend of Eastman, Ga., became her sponsors to come to America! Bo felt joy and anticipation as the General Gordon crossed under the Golden Gate Bridge on May 16, 1947, and docked in the port of San Francisco.

Her love affair with the University of Georgia and Athens began in September 1947. Most active on campus, Bo was on the executive council of Hillel, wrote for The Red & Black, was the organizer for many charitable and social events, and was tapped for Mortar Board her junior year. She received her ABJ degree from the Henry Grady College of Journalism in 1950, and ironically, her first job was writing obituaries for the Atlanta Journal and Constitution.

Bo was a single lady for many years until she met the dashing shoe salesman Hans Mayer of Savannah, Ga. They married in 1953 and settled in Hawkinsville, Ga., where they built a family, opened Bohans shoe store, and enjoyed small town life until Hans’ untimely death May 28, 1968.

In August 1968 Bo moved with her three children kicking and screaming to Atlanta from Hawkinsville. The children would never know the real reason for the move until many years later. It is in Atlanta that “Miz Bo” as people were now calling her, began providing for her three children and jumped right into charity work as well.

Bo was a member of the Ahavath Achim Synagogue and its Sisterhood, Hadassah, and other Jewish organizations, as well as the Rhododendron Club. In the early 1980s, Bo took it upon herself to be a translator for many Russian families who immigrated to Atlanta, and she was the proud interpreter for the Moldova delegation of the 1996 Summer Paralympics. Bo was so proud to introduce the Moldovians to “Val-Mart” and relished her role for this historic event.

It was in Atlanta that Bo met her next two husbands Bernie Dudman, who she married in 1970, and Nate Levine, who she married after Bernie’s death in 1984. After Nate’s passing, Bo had various suitors at her beloved home at the Renaissance on Peachtree, where she lived for the past 20 years. Never missing a dance or an activity, she stayed very busy and outpaced her adult children with her boundless energy. The self-appointed “maven” of the Renaissance on Peachtree, Bo spent her last years there surrounded by many friends and acquaintances.

Bo was a prolific correspondent and people person. She kept up with Israeli relatives, Shanghai friends from elementary school, UGA classmates, Hawkinsville friends and others she met along the way. She instilled in her children the joy of keeping up with old friends and they all carry on this spirit today.

Bo’s proudest day was January 7, 1954, when she would become an American citizen. She would never be a refugee again. In later years, when writing columns for the Jewish Georgian, Bo would always sign off with “God Bless America.” Her final request was to be wrapped in the American flag at death to honor her beloved country.

Bo is survived by her three children Sandy Mayer Baumwald (Larry), Ronnie Mayer (Debbie) and Laurie Mayer Coffey; grandchildren Erica Baumwald (Meaghan), Scott Baumwald, (Sarah Carter), Keith Baumwald (Betty Kaplan), and Tommy Black; and great-granddaughter Holden Baumwald.

In lieu of flowers, donations are graciously accepted to Jewish Family & Career Services, 4549 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA 30338, www.jfcsatl.org, a social service organization of the greater Atlanta area serving thousands regardless of age, race, religion or national origin. A graveside service was held April 7 at Greenwood Cemetery. The funeral was live streamed, https://www.facebook.com/dresslersjewishfuneralcare/. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999. ì

Obituaries in the AJT are written and paid for by the families; contact Managing Publisher Kaylene Ladinsky at kaylene@atljewishtimes.com or 404-883-2130, ext. 100, for details.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 75

CLOSING THOUGHTS The Best Way to Beat a Cold (and Maybe the Flu) I have been healthy most of my life, thank God. However, when I am around people who are sick, mostly having a cold, I someAllen H. Lipis times catch The Bottom Line a cold too. It doesn’t happen often because I am not with little children, who seem to get sick more often than adults, and I don’t hang out with large crowds of people. That is an advantage in being retired. You don’t have to be around lots of people, and some of them may not be well.

When I do get sick, it’s almost always a cold. Sometimes a cough shows up with the cold, and that makes it more miserable. Over the years, I have treated a cold aggressively with three items that almost always work, so I thought I would share them with you. However, I am not a doctor. I do not have convincing scientific evidence that I can share with you

76 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

outside of my own results, so I do not know if what I am telling you is definitive proof, but it works for me.

The first line of defense against a cold is lots of sleep. I tend to stay up late at night, but when I have a cold, I go to bed much earlier, and try to sleep much later. Sleep is critical to keeping my body rested and warm and allowing it to do its job to get rid of the cold.

The second line of defense is hot tea. Any kind of tea is okay, but I have gravitated to green tea, especially jasmine green tea. I like the taste of the tea, but it’s not the taste that matters; it’s whatever is in the green tea. Over the years, I have read about the positive benefits of green tea, and while I cannot say what it does in the body, I have concluded that it works on my colds, and it generally has helped to keep me healthy.

I will not bore you with the large variety of teas that are available. I can say, however, that I drink caffeinated teas, and I buy the more expensive kind because I like them, and they have unadulterated teas leaves. Whatever the value of

the tea leaves themselves, I don’t want to mess with mother nature when it comes to staying healthy.

Finally, I am a believer in large quantities of vitamin C as my third line of defense based on the work of Linus Pauling, who won a Nobel Prize for his work on medical research. Pauling published a book in 1971 called “Vitamin C and the Common Cold,” marshaling the thenavailable research data. It became a sensation, kicked off a public controversy in the press, and helped convince millions of people to take more vitamin C. While the medical community roundly attacked both the findings and Pauling’s credibility, in more recent years, re-evaluations of Pauling’s work have shown that vitamin C can have significant beneficial effects on health.

Once I have a cold coming on, I take up to 5,000 mg (milligrams) of vitamin C every day until the cold is gone. I prefer pills with 1,000 mg so I only need to swallow five of them and move on. Vitamin C is an antitoxin and the medical world seems to say that is a good thing.

I know that other people have other

remedies, like over-the-counter medicine, echinacea, zinc, honey and chicken soup. My mother used to put Vicks VapoRub on my chest when I was a child, but I gave it up years ago. To each his own. I like my remedy, and it has worked for me for many, many decades.

I wrote this to my cousin, who is a doctor and knows a great deal about alternative medical treatments. She wrote me the following: “May I suggest that you load up on some immune support right now as it makes a BIG difference on the outcome of viral infection contraction and severity! I suggest vitamin A (100,000 IU once, and then around 20,000 IU daily), vitamin D (5000 daily), vitamin C (around 3 to 5 grams divided daily), zinc (40 mg daily) mushroom caps (2 daily) and eat lots of garlic, ginger, onions and stay away from sweets and dairy.”

The bottom line: No one wants a cold or the flu, and there’s no cure for it, but sleep, tea and vitamin C have worked for me. P.S. Given the new virus, I am following my cousin’s recommendations. ì

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CAKE

Specializing in driveways & small parking lots Family Owned & Operated since 1969

CALL NOW FOR 10% OFF SPECIAL

Strict Confidentiality • References Upon Request Member: ANA, NGC & PCGS

770.962.7125 770.480.1698 cell

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RENTAL It's not just a dessert. It's an experience!

Perfect for the Athens Jewish Film Festival March 21-25th Great for Parents Weekend, Sporting Events, Music Festivals & Alumni Weekend

Closets, pantries, garages, offices and more!

404-255-0589

Atlanta Custom Closets Rick Moore www.closetpro.net

15% Discount On A Two-Night Stay Or Greater VRBO Property ID# 718963 404-444-3348

BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA

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Looking for an good excuse to visit your UGA Students?

We have a wonderful in-town vacation rental home in Athens Georgia

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Carehelper Elise

404-664-1174 Home Renovations Handyman Services Over 20+ years Home Depot Experience

Follow us on Facebook Ray’s Roswell Renovations www.raysroswellrenovations.com Call us at 404-664-1174 for a free estimate!

78 | APRIL 15, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

carehelperelise.com earonson99@gmail.com 770-500-4137 Professional references upon request

I’m looking to help others with daily tasks and provide companionship.

Being aware that many people need help as they age, and may not have family near, I can be of assistance.

Among the services I provide are: • Groceries and prescriptions pick-up • Preparation of meals • Transport to/from doctor appts • Light housekeeping & organization

MARKETPLACE

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Serving students since 1986

COMPUTER

COMPUER HOUSE CALLS

Cash for Junk

HOME/BUSINESS NETWORKING

10% OF PROFITS THR

PERFORMANCE UPGRADES2019 WILL BE DONATE APPLE DEVICE SUPPORT

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As Seen On

Same DayDAMON.CARP@GMAIL.COM Appointments • Reasonable Rates • All Services Guara

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10% OF PROFITS THROUGH 2020 WILL BE DONATED TO JEWISH CHARITIES.

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CARS

INSURANCE

Everyone Knows Someone Who Loves Their SUBARU

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& YOU

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Bob.Smith4HEALTH@gmail.com

NO FEE or obligation to review your Health & Life Insurance options

Winner of Salesman of the Year Award for 3 consecutive years

Ralph Kurland Sales Representative 905 Ernest Barrett Pkwy, NW Kennesaw, GA 30144

cell: 678-665-1024 dealership: 770-419-9800 ext. 312 rkurland@subaruofkennesaw.com www.subaruofkennesaw.com

Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Dental & Vision Final Expense Life Insurance From Obamacare to Trumpcare to BobcaresSM

Call me to test drive any of our new or used cars!

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 15, 2020 | 79