NOT ENEMIES
An interfaith gathering picks love over hate in the face of violence such as the San Bernardino slaughter. Page 4
NEW HOME
DEDICATED
The Chabad Israeli Center buys a Brookhaven home to be the gathering place for Atlanta’s Israeli community. Page 14
woodruffcreateATL.org
In memory of her mother, Elena Oliker opens her basement studio to guide Torah Day students in building art. Page 17
Atlanta VOL. XC NO. 47
WWW.ATLANTAJEWISHTIMES.COM
DECEMBER 11, 2015 | 29 KISLEV 5776
Torah World Eyes Atlanta
M
Standing Up for the Faith
Danielle Foster, the religious school director at Congregation B’nai Israel, stretches to light the first candle on the synagogue’s electric chanukiah at Heritage Park in downtown Fayetteville on the first night of Chanukah, Sunday, Dec. 6. Rabbi Rick Harkavy, enjoying his first Chanukah since becoming the Reform congregation’s spiritual leader, keeps a close eye on her effort. The Chanukah menorah, built by B’nai Israel member Harold Leopold, sits a few feet in front of the city’s towering Christmas tree. For more start-of-Chanukah photos, see Page 26.
NOT ACADEMIC
The scholarly organizations for anthropology and women’s studies join the movement to boycott Israel, and a history association could be next. Page 8
COUNTRY STYLE
Patty Berkovitz has filled her home with an eclectic collection, from the paintings on the walls to the horses, dogs and donkey on the grounds. Page 18
INSIDE
Calendar 2
Cartoon 17
Candle Lighting
3
Home 18
Remember When 5
Education 20
Israel 7
Business 24
Opinion 10
Obituaries 29
Arts 17
Crossword 30
onday night, Dec. 14, will mark a milestone in Atlanta’s growth as a center of Torah observance and Talmudic study. The Daf Yomi Commission of Agu dath Israel of America will bring its celebration for the completion of a tractate of Talmud to Congregation Ner Hamizrach at 1858 LaVista Road in Toco Hills. It will be the commission’s first siyum, or celebration of completion, in Atlanta, and there’s no telling when the next one will be here because so many cities want the honor of hosting, said Rabbi David Kapenstein, the executive director of Kollel Ner Hamizrach. “We’re really very excited,” he said, noting that in addition to a capacity crowd at Ner Hamizrach, thousands will participate at sites in other cities or watch the festivities online. The Daf Yomi Commission organizes the daily study of one page, or daf, of Talmud. Every day, including holidays, people worldwide spend an intense 45 minutes to an hour to study the same page. Atlanta has at least four daf classes. By sticking to the rigorous schedule, participants complete the Talmud in 7½ years, leading to a grand siyum; the last one drew 98,000 people to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Smaller celebrations are held when each tractate is finished. Dec. 14 marks the end of the Gemara’s Tractate Sotah, focusing on adultery. Part of the excitement for the event, free and open to the public, is that Rabbi Eli Mansour will be the speaker. “We’re really honored that he’s coming to Atlanta to speak,” Rabbi Kapenstein said. “You always walk away with something very meaningful.” The event will start at 8 p.m. ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
CALENDAR THURSDAY, DEC. 10
Middle school party. Chabad of North Fulton, 10180 Jones Bridge Road, Johns Creek, holds a Chanukah party for middle-schoolers from 6:30 to 8:30. Free; RSVP to admin@chabadnf.org or 770-410-9000.
Hallelujah concert. Zimria Festivale Atlanta presents a choral concert, conducted by music director Amy Thropp, at Congregation Beth Shalom, 5303 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for adult full-time students and $5 for youths; festivalsingers.org/zimria-festivale-atlanta-winter-concert.
Hawks night. Jewish Heritage Night at the Atlanta Hawks’ home game at Philips Arena downtown against the San Antonio Spurs features a menorah lighting at 7:27 p.m., kosher concessions and a performance by Prodezra Beats. Tickets are $39, $75 and $129; www.atlantajewishheritage.com.
Menorah lighting. Chabad Intown lights a grand menorah and celebrates Chanukah at 6 p.m. at Decatur Square. Free; www.chabadintown.org or 404898-0434.
Bowling party. YJP Midtown Atlanta and several co-sponsors hold Lights & Strikes, a young-adult Chanukah party with dinner, music and a cash bar, at 7:30 p.m. at Midtown Bowl, 1936 Piedmont Circle, Atlanta. Admission is $20 at the door; www.yjpmidtownatlanta. com or 404-898-0434.
SATURDAY, DEC. 12
AIDS Havdalah service. Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave., Buckhead, hosts an AIDS memorial service for Havdalah and the seventh night of Chanukah, led by Ahavath Achim Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal and Congregation Bet Haverim musical director Gayanne Geurin, at 6 p.m. Free; aasynagogue.org
Latke party. The Sixth Point holds its Chanukah celebration for ages 21 and up from 8 to 11 p.m. at the Peachtree Place Condominiums Clubhouse, 3777 Peachtree Road, Brookhaven. Admission is $10; thesixthpoint.org/event/ wanna-whole-latke-love-2.
SUNDAY, DEC. 13
Chanukah festival. Congregation B’nai Torah, 700 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, holds a community festival from 10 a.m. to noon. Donations of small gifts are sought for holiday bags for children who attend Lake Forest Elementary School. Admission is $18 per family or $9 per adult in advance or $25 per family or $15 per person at the door; rsvp@bnaitorah.org or bnaitorah.org.
Daffodil planting. Congregation Or Hadash, 7460 Trowbridge Road, Sandy Springs, holds an Am Yisrael Chai planting of 180 bulbs at 10 a.m., followed by a feast of sufganiyot. Free; RSVP to www.signupgenius.com/ go/30e094ca5ac2aa7fd0-thedaffodil. Chanukah carnival. The Kehilla in Sandy Springs, 5075 Roswell Road, offers games, food and activities (purchase tickets at the door) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free; www.thekehilla.org. Chanukah party. Congregation Shearith Israel, 1180 University Drive, Morningside, holds a holiday carnival open to the community from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free; shearithisrael.com. AIPAC program. Temple Emanu-El, 1580 Spalding Drive, Sandy Springs, plays host to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee for an address by the Brookings Institution’s Dan Arbell and several breakout sessions, starting with a reception at noon. Free; advance registration required at www.aipac. org/TempleEmanuEl2015. Teen open mic. The Atlanta Jewish Music Festival welcomes acts of all genres to perform at Steve’s Live Music, 234 Hilderbrand Drive, Sandy Springs, at 3 p.m. Free; www.atlantajmf.org.
Gubernatorial menorah lighting. Temple Emanu-El, which has provided the Chanukah decorations at the Governor’s Mansion, joins first lady Sandra Deal for a lighting ceremony at the mansion, 391 W. Paces Ferry Road, Buckhead. The temple choir performs at 3 p.m., and the lighting is at 4. Free; www.templeemanuelatlanta.org. Menorah lighting. Chabad Intown celebrates Chanukah with a grand menorah at 4:30 p.m. at 1017 N. Highland Ave., Virginia-Highland. Free; www. chabadintown.org or 404-898-0434. Chanukah and Torah. Congregation Beth Shalom, 5303 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody, celebrates Chanukah with games and a dairy dinner at 5 p.m., followed by the dedication of a restored Holocaust Torah at 6:30. Admission to the Chanukah party is $10 for adults, $7 for children; bethshalomatlanta.org or 770-399-5300. East Cobb/Roswell celebration. The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta partners with the Marcus JCC and the congregations of East Cobb and Roswell for a community Chanukah celebration at 5:30 p.m. at Temple Kol Emeth, 1415 Old Canton Road, East Cobb. Free; to RSVP or get more information, contact Stephanie Wyatt at swyatt@jewishatlanta.org or 404-870-1625.
Uhry’s ‘Ballyhoo’ in Sandy Springs
“T
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
he Last Night of Ballyhoo,” the second play in Jewish Atlanta native Alfred Uhry’s “Atlanta Trilogy,” is being performed at Act3 Playhouse in Sandy Springs through Saturday, Dec. 19. The play, directed by Chris Ikner, is set in 1939 Atlanta. It famously criticizes an assimilated German Jewish family whose status-conscious matriarch rejects that heritage as Hitler leads Germany in launching World War II. “This play offers a delightful opportunity to consider the essential core issues of nationality, faith, community, and, most importantly, family,” Ikner said. “Alfred Uhry has created a beautiful play using comedy and romance to offset the subtext of social commentary.” The Sandy Springs production opened Friday, Dec. 4. Uhry completed “Ballyhoo” to coincide with the Cultural Olympiad in Atlanta during the 1996 Summer Olym2 pics. The Tony-winning play forms a
AJT
loose trilogy of Jewish Atlanta stage shows with 1987’s “Driving Miss Daisy” and 1998’s “Parade” (about the Leo Frank case). Taking place in December, the production focuses on the Freitags, who are much more concerned about who is going to Ballyhoo, the social event of the season, than what Germany is doing to Jews. The proceedings take several unexpected turns as the Freitags confront their roots and their identity. The play features Johnna B. Mitchell, recent winner of the Metropolitan Atlanta Theater Awards President’s Award, as Boo Levy and Atlanta stage veteran David Skoke as Adolf Freitag. ■ What: “The Last Night of Ballyhoo” Where: Act3 Playhouse, 6285-R Roswell Road, Sandy Springs When: Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19 at 8 p.m. and Dec 13 at 3 p.m. Tickets: $15 to $23; www.act3productions.org
“The Last Night of Ballyhoo” forms a cultural and historical stage trilogy of Jewish Atlanta with “Driving Miss Daisy” and “Parade.” (Photo: Leah Harrison)
CALENDAR CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES
Parshah Miketz Friday, Dec. 11, light candles at 5:11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, Shabbat ends at 6:10 p.m. Parshah Vayigash Friday, Dec. 18, light candles at 5:13 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, Shabbat ends at 6:12 p.m.
Menorah lighting. Chabad of Peachtree City holds its third annual menorah lighting outside City Hall, 151 Willowbend Road, Peachtree City, at 6 p.m. Free; www.chabadsouthside.com. December holiday discussion. Congregation Gesher L’Torah and InterfaithFamily/Atlanta hold a conversation for families of all ages about celebrating the different holidays at 6:30 p.m. at the Hampton Hall Clubhouse, 1400 Hampton Hill Drive, Alpharetta. Free; RSVP to gltrelschool@gmail.com. Trouble in River City. The Marcus JCC’s Youth Ensemble presents “The Music Man Jr.” at 7 p.m. at the center, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Tickets range from $5 for a JCC member child to $10 for a nonmember adult; www.atlantajcc.org or 678-812-4002.
MONDAY, DEC. 14
Trouble in River City. The Marcus JCC’s Youth Ensemble presents “The Music Man Jr.” at 7 p.m. at the center, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Tickets range from $5 for a JCC member child to $10 for a nonmember adult; www.atlantajcc.org or 678-812-4002. Hebrew Dead. Hip-hop artists Sagol 59 and folk singer Ami Yares perform Hebrew-language covers of Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia songs in a concert called “The Promised Land” at 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Or Hadash, 7460 Trowbridge Road, Sandy Springs. Free; www.facebook.com/ events/772639742879530. Community siyum. Congregation Ner Hamizrach, 1858 LaVista Road, Toco Hills, plays host to the Daf Yomi Commission of Agudath Israel of America’s celebration of the completion of the study of Tractate Sotah of the Gemara
with an address by Rabbi Eli Mansour at 8 p.m. Free; www.nerhamizrach.org.
TUESDAY, DEC. 15
Dogs by the dozens. The Marcus JCC’s Junior Youth Ensemble presents “101 Dalmatians Kids” at 6 p.m. at the center, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Free and open to the community; www. atlantajcc.org.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 16
Dogs by the dozens. The Marcus JCC’s Junior Youth Ensemble presents “101 Dalmatians Kids” at 6 p.m. at the center, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Free and open to the community; www. atlantajcc.org.
SATURDAY, DEC. 19
Shabbat after-party. The Melava Malka Musical Jam & Party, featuring a nightclub atmosphere suitable for all ages, is being thrown by the Kehilla in Sandy Springs, 5075 Roswell Road, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5; thekehillaorg.shulcloud.com/melava-malka. Senior dance. The 3 Score More or Less group of Congregation Etz Chaim, 1190 Indian Hills Parkway, East Cobb, offers vodka, latkes, and dancing to the music of the ’50s and ’60s with the Grey Matters Band at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $15; RSVP to Norman Marinoff at nsm1553@yahoo.com.
SUNDAY, DEC. 20
Film festival preview. Bob Bahr and Emory’s Matthew Bernstein look at the 2016 Atlanta Jewish Film Festival and offer their best bets among the narrative features at 3 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 5645 Dupree Drive, Sandy Springs. Documentaries are the topic Sunday, Jan. 3, at 3 p.m. at Temple Sinai. Registration is $25 for both programs; ajff.org.
THURSDAY, DEC. 31
History of Jewish Atlanta. “Eighteen Artifacts” ends its run at the Breman Museum, 1440 Spring St., Midtown. Museum admission is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students and educators, $4 for children 3 to 6, and free for members and younger children; thebreman.org or 678-222-3700.
Send items for the calendar to submissions@atljewishtimes.com. Find more events at atlantajewishtimes.com/events-calendar.
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 "Forget every negative car buying experience you've ever had. Our afternoon at Subaru of Kennesaw was nothing short of spectacular. From the minute we walked through the front doors, Ralph bent over backwards to find us the exact right car and negotiate the best possible price. We drove home with a great car, a great deal, and a new friend.” Jack Feldman, Executive Director, Temple Sinai
Call me to test drive any of our new or used cars!
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Daddy-daughter dance. The Marcus JCC, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, hosts a dance for girls from pre-K through sixth grade and their dates (fathers, stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, etc.) at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 for member couples, $50 for nonmember couples; www.atlantajcc.org.
AJT 3
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
LOCAL NEWS
Interfaith Rally Walks Common Ground Barefoot By Michael Jacobs mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com
A
t least 50 Muslims, Jews and Christians gathered in a lecture hall at Mercer University’s Atlanta campus Sunday afternoon, Dec. 6, to share a simple message in light of recent acts of terrorism at home and abroad and the resulting increase in religious tensions: “We refuse to be enemies.” The one-hour event, whose sponsors included The Temple, the Bridge Interfaith Alliance, the Faith Alliance of Metro Atlanta, and the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Atlanta, was one of 50 rallies held in 20 countries by the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding to bring the Abrahamic faiths together. “Love is stronger than hate. Peace is stronger than violence,” said the afternoon’s host, Wm. Loyd Allen, a professor at Mercer’s McAfee School of Theology. The event came a day before Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump called for a moratorium on the immigration of Muslims and hinted at support for serious, unconstitutional restrictions on Muslims already here, all in the name of waging a war against Islamic jihadists. But Trump was clearly on organizers’ minds. “We reject the voices of fearmongering and polarization, including of those of presidential candidates who claim that we are doomed to tear each other apart in a decades-long war between civilizations,” Jewish community member Audrey Galex read to the
Photos by Michael Jacobs
Muslim high school student Dania Ibrahim (left) and Jewish professional recording artist Hannah Zale lead the crowd in singing John Lennon’s “Imagine” to close the rally. AIB Network’s Audrey Galex delivers a message from Walter Ruby, the MuslimJewish program director for the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding, which was one of the sponsors of the rally.
crowd in a statement from the FFEU’s Walter Ruby. “Instead, we proclaim our intent to bring people of diverse faith communities together to celebrate our common humanity and build ties of friendship and trust.” The Rev. Corey Brown, a Protestant minister and founder of the Bridge Interfaith Alliance, took the opportunity to apologize for the “asinine comments” made against Muslims by an unspecified evangelical Christian leader, possibly Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr., who responded Friday, Dec. 4, to the San Bernardino shootings two days earlier by proclaiming that more concealed-carry gun permits “could end those Muslims before they walked in.” But the rally focused more on what believers in each Abrahamic faith tradition can do to bring peace than on what others have been doing wrong. Brown said it’s a mistake to say
people are numb to violence in America because numbness actually brings pain. Instead, too many people are experiencing indifference, but he said that will change if people let love guide them. The Islamic Speakers Bureau’s Soumaya Khalifa told of recently experiencing the feeling of being stared at in public, and she feared that the eyes on her came from someone who hated her because of her Muslim attire. But when she turned around, the huge man who had been staring embraced her in a loving hug. “This act of compassion is what we need,” she said. Rabbi David Spinrad of The Temple emphasized that point when he told about a congregant who had one question about the planned peace rally when he talked to her at Friday services: Will there be security? A member of the audience provided the answer: “Where there is love, no security is required.” The rabbi emphasized that Jews and Christians, like Muslims, have seen
People who attended the rally sign and add messages to the banner declaring their refusal to be enemies.
violent extremism within their traditions, but the crowd gathered at Mercer was united in abhorring such hatred. Rabbi Spinrad called for all of the people to follow the example of Moses and remove their shoes because “the ground on which you are standing right now is holy ground.” Almost inevitably, the rally ended with the singing of John Lennon’s “Imagine,” led by Dania Ibrahim and Hannah Zale, each of whom sang alone earlier. And the attendees spent time after the rally doing as Khalifa had urged, getting to know one another and becoming friends instead of enemies. ■
Ahavath Achim Hosts AIDS Awareness Month By David R. Cohen david@atljewishtimes.com espite significant progress in HIV prevention and treatment the past 30 years, about 50,000 people are diagnosed with the AIDS virus each year in the United States. To bring attention to the persistent HIV/AIDS health problem, Ahavath Achim Synagogue is holding a number of special events in December in connection with World AIDS Day, which was Monday, Dec. 1. Ahavath Achim is displaying a portion of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in Srochi Hall until Tuesday, Dec. 21. The quilt is made up of more than 90,000 panels and is the world’s largest piece 4 of folk art.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
D
AJT
Atlanta Jewish Academy’s Upper School will display a portion of the quilt on its Doraville campus and hold an educational session for students to learn about HIV and AIDS. On Saturday, Dec. 12, the Buckhead synagogue will hold a HIV/AIDS memorial and healing Havdalah prayer service with songs led by Congregation Bet Haverim’s music director, Gayanne Guerin. The service is meant to mourn those lost to the disease and educate those in attendance that HIV can strike anyone, and that Atlanta is not immune to the effects of the virus, which returned to the front pages recently with actor Charlie Sheen’s announcement that he carries the virus.
“HIV and AIDS is not a gay disease; it’s a world epidemic,” said Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal of Ahavath Achim. “Minority communities who don’t have good access to sexual education and medication are the ones who are being affected most. It’s here in Atlanta. We like to ignore it, but it’s here.” In 1993, Ahavath Achim congregant Michael Shure died from complications of the AIDS virus. He was 35 years old. The largest event planned at the synagogue will be an HIV/AIDS Shabbat service Saturday, Dec. 19, featuring guest speaker Dr. Stephen Margolis, who will speak about the history of AIDS in the United States. His son, Dr. Andrew Margolis, will speak during the post-Kiddush beit
midrash about HIV in current times and what we can do to combat it in 2016 and beyond. The month of events at AA was planned by the congregation’s LGBT task force and Rabbi Rosenthal, who sought to raise awareness of HIV/ AIDS in Atlanta and to educate people on misconceptions that remain. “For me, the biggest piece of it is that our country did not do right by the people who first got this disease, and we still don’t,” Rabbi Rosenthal said. “As a spiritual community, our duty is to stand and support people in their time of need, and as a religious community, we haven’t done that.” He added, “I really feel that this is in some way doing teshuvah for me and my congregation.” ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
LOCAL NEWS
Remember When
Atlanta
PUBLISHER MICHAEL A. MORRIS
michael@atljewishtimes.com
BUSINESS OFFICE Business Manager
KAYLENE LADINSKY
kaylene@atljewishtimes.com
ADVERTISING
Senior Account Manager
JULIE BENVENISTE julie@atljewishtimes.com Senior Account Manager
BRENDA GELFAND
brenda@atljewishtimes.com Sales Assistant
SARAH SKINNER
sarah@atljewishtimes.com
MARKETING
Marketing & Communications Director
STACY LAVICTOIRE stacy@atljewishtimes.com
EDITORIAL Editor
MICHAEL JACOBS
mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com Associate Editor
DAVID R. COHEN
david@atljewishtimes.com
Contributors This Week RABBI RICHARD BAROFF YONI GLATT JORDAN GORFINKEL R.R. GROSSBLATT LEAH R. HARRISON MARCIA CALLER JAFFE RABBI MARK HILLEL KUNIS REBECCA MCCARTHY RUSSELL MOSKOWITZ LOGAN C. RITCHIE TERRY SEGAL AL SHAMS RACHEL STEIN ANNA STREETMAN
10 Years Ago Dec. 9, 2005
■ The Tau Epsilon Phi house at the University of Georgia suffered an estimated $100,000 in damage in a suspected arson early Saturday, Dec. 3. The kitchen sustained extensive fire damage, and the dining room was hit by heavy smoke damage. Thirty-one students were sleeping in the house when the fire started about 4 a.m. The state insurance commissioner is offering a $10,000 reward in the case. ■ The bar mitzvah ceremony of Kevin Kahn of Atlanta was held Saturday, Nov. 26, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Kevin is the son of Bobby and Susan Kahn. 25 Years Ago Dec. 14, 1990 ■ U.S. District Judge Orinda D. Evans upheld a state ban Tuesday, Dec. 11, on the display of a Chanukah menorah in front of the state Capitol in Atlanta. The ruling came in response to a request from Chabad-Lubavitch of Georgia for a temporary restraining order to allow the group to erect a 15-foot-high menorah. ■ Shelley and Howell Schisler of Roswell announce the birth of a son, Saul Aaron, on Oct. 22. 50 Years Ago Dec. 10, 1965 ■ Sunday, Oct. 31, at 11:30 a.m., the Adas Yeshurun Synagogue section of Magnolia Cemetery was the scene of a rare religious burial service, the first of its kind in Augusta in many years. All of the worn-out holy synagogue articles that were removed from the Ellis Street branch of Adas Ye-
shurun were buried. The Ellis Street synagogue was closed. ■ Mr. and Mrs. Albert L. Hershberg of Atlanta announce the engagement of their daughter, Joyce Michele, to Dr. Zale Harlan Smilack, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lester Smilack of Winter Haven, Fla.
CREATIVE SERVICES Creative Design
DARA DRAWDY
CIRCULATION
Circulation Coordinator
ELIZABETH FRIEDLY
efriedly@atljewishtimes.com
The Atlanta Jewish Times is printed in Georgia and is an equal opportunity employer. The opinions expressed in the Atlanta Jewish Times do not necessarily reflect those of the newspaper. Periodicals Postage Paid at Atlanta, Ga. POSTMASTER send address changes to The Atlanta Jewish Times 270 Carpenter Drive Suite 320, Atlanta Ga 30328. Established 1925 as The Southern Israelite Phone: (404) 883-2130 www.atlantajewishtimes.com THE ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES (ISSN# 0892-33451) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY SOUTHERN ISRAELITE, LLC 270 Carpenter Drive, Suite 320, Atlanta, GA 30328 © 2015 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES Printed by Gannett Publishing Services MEMBER Conexx: America Israel Business Connector American Jewish Press Association Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce Please send all photos, stories and editorial content to: submissions@atljewishtimes.com
WE’LL TAKE CARE OF YOUR PARENTS EVEN IF THEY’RE A HANDFUL. DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
CONTACT INFORMATION GENERAL OFFICE 404.883.2130 KAYLENE@ATLJEWISHTIMES.COM
Jeffrey Taratoot & Lester Czuper
LET’S TALK HOME CARE.
770-396-0996
acahomecare.com
AJT 5
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
LOCAL NEWS
Georgia’s Own Olive Oil
Growing industry produces some green By Leah R. Harrison
W
hen most of us visualize olive-growing regions, we conjure up images of densely covered hills in the Italian countryside or sun-dappled groves in California. Time to refocus. Ponder instead the bottom half of the state of Georgia, south of the fall or “gnat” line from Columbus to Macon. Unlike the red clay of the Atlanta area, the sandier soil of the once-oceanic region is turning South Georgia, especially closer to the coast, into a highyielding, well-respected olive-growing mecca. Thus, the olive oil central to celebrations of Chanukah can originate much closer to home than the Mediterranean or California. Two olive oil brands are being produced in Georgia, each with its own mill, but with high demand and favorable conditions, increasing numbers of growers are entering the fray to supply fruit to those two manufacturers. Vicki Hughes, the executive director of the Georgia Olive Growers Association, said Georgia had about 120 acres of olive groves three years ago. Today some 14 growers are producing Arbequina olives on 600 acres in the state. The association now has 60 members in supporting industries. Arbequina is a dense, high-yielding cultivar of olives that can flourish in drier conditions. It became an attractive option after the Georgia drought of 2007 and the ensuing economic down-
Courtesy Georgia Olive Growers Association
Georgia first lady Sandra Deal checks out the olive processing at Georgia Olive Farms in Lakeland.
turn when farmers were searching for high-density, drought-resistant crops to cultivate. Research with the University of Georgia determined whether olives would grow and which types would flourish, and the fledgling industry was born. The growers association now supports further research and development and educational programs. Tours and tastings are available at both Georgia Olive Farms in Lakeland and the smaller Terra Dolce in Lyons. In metro Atlanta, Georgia olive oil is featured at Strippaggio, a gastronome’s delight of a store that offers carefully curated brands of domestically produced olive oil and vinegar, gourmet salt and seasonings, fine cookware, coffee, and other culinary delights in a tasteful, rustic, apothecary-like
atmosphere. Founder Celia Tully and her knowledgeable staff will consult with you to determine the type of olive oil and vinegar varieties that suit your needs and appeal to your palate. With two locations, at Emory Point and Ponce City Market, Strippaggio offers an impressive variety of proprietary olive oils and vinegars with large dispensers and tasting cups for the epi-curious. Tully took time to educate me about olive oil production and the industry in Georgia and will gladly do the same for any shopper. Tully said Terra Dolce raised the profile of Georgia-produced olive oil by entering its first-ever 2013 pressing in the International Olive Oil competition in New York in the spring of 2014 and winning first place against 700 competitors. She said Georgia oils are now well-received and are popular in her stores, where buying “local is very important” to many customers. Could there be a more fitting Chanukah gift than olive oil for your favorite cook or consumer? ■ Chanukah coverage continues on Page 26.
Photos by Leah R. Harrison
Top: Both Georgia-grown and -produced olive oils are on Strippaggio’s shelves. Bottom: Strippaggio founder Celia Tully shows one of the popular Georgia-produced olive oils. Left: This is Strippaggio’s original location at Emory Point. It now also operates at Ponce City Market.
200 Students From 5 Campuses Join Chabad Shabbat
By Anna Streetman
T
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
he four Chabad chapters at the major universities from Kennesaw to Athens brought together more than 200 college students at Emory University on Friday, Nov. 20, for a “mega Shabbat.” The night consisted of a fourcourse meal, Shabbat services and blessings, and a student from each university — Emory, Georgia, Kennesaw State, Georgia Tech and Georgia State (the last two share a Chabad center) — speaking on behalf of its Chabad. Rabbi Zalman Charytan of Kennesaw State called it “a beautiful night and experience for the Jewish students 6 in Georgia.”
AJT
According to the Jewish calendar, 5776 is the year of hahkel. “Hahkel is the year of gathering and unity,” Rabbi Charytan said. “We figured it was a perfect time to get all the major Chabads together to share a Jewish experience together.” Shifra Sharfstein, one of the codirectors of Chabad at Georgia Tech and Georgia State, said the unity at the Shabbaton was amazing, as was the students’ joy at being part of a community. “The most amazing part of this event is seeing all the Jewish students with such diverse backgrounds come together in unity,” Sharfstein said. “They enjoy singing the same songs and are all so passionate about being part of Jewish life on campus. They loved the
opportunity to socialize with a large Jewish community.” Rabbi Michoel Refson of the UGA Chabad said: “On an average Friday night, there are over 400 students in the state of Georgia enjoying a homecooked, four-course meal at their Chabad on campus. It only made sense to bring them all together for a shared experience.” Julia Franklin, who is graduating from Georgia in May with a degree in psychology, was one of the student speakers. She spoke highly of the Shabbaton and her time with Chabad in Athens. “During my four years at UGA, Rabbi Refson and Chana provided a wonderfully Jewish environment for
myself and other students and a second home and family to us all,” Franklin said. “It was great to meet with other students and share our Chabad experiences. Rabbi Refson and Chana are truly doing a mitzvah and changing people’s lives.” The mega Shabbat provided only a taste of what Chabad offers students on Georgia campuses. Chabad at Kennesaw State, for example, organized the first campus community chanukiah lighting on the Campus Green on the second night of Chanukah, and the UGA Chabad expected to hand out 200 Chanukah-themed “finals survival packs” on the fourth night. Each pack includes bagels and lox, gelt, and a menorah kit. ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
ISRAEL NEWS
Diversity Shines in JNF Photo Contest
J
ewish National Fund’s Southeast Region has named four winners and four runners-up in its second annual Israel Photo Contest: • Landscape — winner Sam Solomon of Dunwoody, runner-up Orly Mansbach of Atlanta. • People — winner Jeremy Tepper of Sandy Springs, runner-up Jeff Cohen of Dunwoody. • Historical Israel — winner Jody Frankel of Sandy Springs, runner-up Howard Silverman of Atlanta. • Modern Israel — winner Margery Diamond of Sandy Springs, runner-up Paul Benamy of Atlanta. Tepper’s photo of a young girl playing in a bomb shelter in Sderot was the grand prize winner. A panel of six judges picked the winners from more than 70 entries. Every entrant received a professionally printed 5-by-7-inch photo, and the winners received 24-by-36-inch canvas prints, courtesy of Chuck Wolf’s Photo Design Bar. The Atlanta Jewish Times was one of the sponsors of the contest. The contest celebrates the beauty, diversity and character of Israel. The photographers provided the descriptions for the winning entries on this page.
Jeremy Tepper: “The photo is of a young girl playing in a playground bomb shelter in Sderot. Located a little over a mile from Gaza, the people of Sderot are under such constant attack from terrorist missiles that they have built bomb shelters everywhere, including schools, parks and playgrounds. While visiting this city, I was able to see these shelters firsthand, and that is where I took this picture. I believe it is a very powerful photo, showing the resilience of the Jewish people despite the constant attacks from enemies. … The dim lighting in the shelter provides great contrast with the light shining on the girl, and the long, circular shape frames the subject well.”
Howard Silverman: “In March 2013, while visiting with our granddaughter, we went to the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit at the Israel Museum. What made it most exciting was to hear her read and translate the scrolls, as they epitomize Israel and the Jewish people. I was drawn to the subject because of the lighting and mood of the museum.” Sam Solomon: “The Baha’i Gardens are simply beautiful. The meticulously groomed, symmetrical terraced gardens ascend Mount Carmel. This view was from the top terrace looking down over the city of Haifa, towards the Mediterranean Sea. We shared the view with a busload of new IDF inductees who were touring the country as part of their service.”
Jody Frankel: “This photograph … depicts a small dwelling made of baked clay found in an ancient Jewish village. Archaeological excavations in Israel reveal and enable us to explore the daily lives of our ancestors and bring back to life our rich history and cultural heritage.”
Jeff Cohen: “This photo was not planned, of course, as I stumbled upon a group of Muslims enjoying a day at the beach in Tel Aviv. I almost felt as though I was eavesdropping, as I was up on street level when I zoomed in. The scene fills me with pride that Israel is an open society where people of any faith can partake in the simple pleasures in life, like a day at the beach.”
Orly Mansbach: “I took this photo on Mount Gilboa during my time as a student at Alexander Muss High School in Israel. I was there for four months, learning and experiencing firsthand the history and stories of Israel and really getting in touch with the land and the people. When this picture was taken, we were hiking down the mountain, and I noticed we had a beautiful view of the valley’s agriculture that complemented the lessons we learned of the history of Israel.”
Paul Benamy: “I was visiting Israel in early February 2015. We were staying at the Sheraton near the beach in Tel Aviv. Every morning I would take an early morning walk along the boardwalk and the marina. This morning was very quiet, and I saw the sailboats all lined up by type and size. It looked like it had been staged for a postcard.”
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Margery Diamond: “ ‘Moon Over the Judean Hills’ shines on the community of Giv’at Ze’ev. When we look at the moon, we are seeing an object of the utmost antiquity. Here, the oldest is framed by the newest, a new community sprouting in the hills just north of Jerusalem. Its light spreads joy beyond this tiny piece of the Holy Land. I recently spent time there in my family’s home and felt the warmth that caring parents and their 10 children bring to each other.”
AJT 7
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
ISRAEL NEWS
Cobb, Fulton Juniors Win Muss Scholarships
O
shocked, but in the ne junior from Milton High School most excited and and one from Walgrateful way,” said ton High School will spend Ladinsky, who is the spring semester studythe stepdaughter ing in Israel, thanks to Jewof the Atlanta Jewish National Fund’s Shirlye ish Times’ business Kaufman Birnbrey Alexanmanager, Kaylene der Muss High School in Ladinsky. “The inIsrael Impact Fellowship describable feeling Program. of bliss I felt inside Tyler Schwartz of Milof me assured me ton and Carlie Ladinsky that this would be of Walton were chosen to the greatest experispend the semester at Alence of my life.” exander Muss High based Schwartz said, on merit and dedication to “I didn’t sleep all Carlie Ladinsky is a junior at Israel. Walton High School in East Cobb. night because I “I sprinted up the could not stop stairs and called out to my parents to thinking about this incredible opportushare the amazing news. I was utterly nity and everything that I am going to
Israel. experience.” Muss’ pedagogical apEstablished by proach fuses traditional Shirlye Kaufman Birnclassroom study and inforbrey’s children — Jeff mal experiential learning, and Alison Kaufman, so students gain knowlBarbara and the late edge and get to explore IsRichard Kaufman, rael as a living classroom. Mark and Nancy The high school has proKaufman, and Karen duced 24,000 alumni the and Craig Senft — the past 43 years. Shirlye Kaufman BirnThe Muss model highbrey Impact Fund is a lights the benefits of a merit-based scholarship long-term Israel program. funding two Atlanta Ninety-eight percent of high school students per Tyler Schwartz is a junior alumni consider the school year for a four-month at Milton High School to be the most transformasemester at Muss. in North Fulton. tional experience of their The fellowship was established to help Atlanta Jewish lives. Students leave the school feeling teens discover their own connection to better prepared for life on college camthe land, people, history and culture of puses and beyond. ■
Academic Boycotts Against Israel Gain Momentum By Michael Jacobs mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com
T
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
wo American scholarly organizations in the past month have voted to enact academic boycotts against Israel, and an organization meeting next month in Atlanta is considering a less severe measure singling out Israel for criticism. The American Anthropological Association, which with more than 10,000 members is the world’s largest professional organization for anthropologists, will become the largest U.S. academic organization boycotting Israel if, as expected, the membership this spring ratifies the resolution overwhelmingly approved by the 1,400 people Nov. 20 at the group’s annual meeting in Denver. That resolution calls for a boycott of Israeli academic institutions for “their complicity in violating Palestinian rights as stipulated in international law.” The resolution accuses Israel of colonial practices and mass human rights abuses and makes no mention of any Palestinian role or responsibility in the ongoing conflict. While the boycott targets institutions, not individuals, it could have a chilling effect on contacts between Israeli anthropologists and their colleagues, including limiting access to the AAA’s journal and academic resources, said Aren Maeir, an archaeologist at Bar-Ilan University. “I know a lot of academics in various fields who have felt the brunt of 8 various boycott issues. There are some
AJT
journals that either overtly or in a roundabout manner don’t accept Israeli papers. There are people who won’t come to Israel because of the political situation,” Maeir said. “I have colleagues who are anthropologists, and this bothers them because it means, at least according to the decision, the AAA won’t enable Israeli institutions to buy their journal. An anthropologist can buy them on his own — they’ve stressed that they’re boycotting institutions, not individuals — but most people don’t buy the journals. They get them through the university libraries, so what are you going to do?” The National Women’s Studies Association followed within days by announcing that more than 88 percent of its voting members supported a BDS resolution against Israel. “As feminist activists, scholars, teachers and public intellectuals who recognize the interconnectedness of systemic forms of oppression, we cannot overlook the injustice and violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, perpetrated against Palestinians,” the resolution’s sponsors wrote. “This resolution is an act of transnational solidarity aimed at social transformation for a better world.” Smaller U.S. academic associations have endorsed a boycott, including the American Studies Association, the Native American and Indigenous Studies Association, the Association of Asian American Studies, the Critical Ethnic Studies Association, the Peace and Justice Studies Association, and the Association for Humanist Sociol-
ogy. A boycott has been discussed by the Modern Languages Association and other groups, including the American Historical Association, the professional organization for teachers of U.S. history. That organization is meeting Jan. 7 to 10 in Atlanta, and the only resolution on its business agenda is one targeting Israel, although the current text does not call for a boycott. Instead, it urges action to defend Palestinian academics, calls for an end to any attacks on Palestinian institutions, and vows to monitor “Israeli actions restricting the right to education in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.” Again, no mention is made of Palestinian actions, nor are rights violations in other nations mentioned. Maeir said at least four times as many people have been killed the past four years in Syria as have been killed in a century of Jewish-Arab conflict. “An anthropologist who supposedly knows about history, culture, etc., should have an expansive enough view of the world to say, for example, is the American Anthropological Association boycotting Turkey, which is occupying northern Cyprus? Are they boycotting Indonesia, which is occupying west Papua? Are they boycotting China, which is occupying Tibet? Are they boycotting Russia, which is occupying Crimea?” he said. Emory anthropologist Mel Konner, who won the AAA’s Anthropology in Media Award in 2004, made a similar point in a letter of protest to the head of the association when the
resolution was proposed. He criticized the appointment of an anti-Israel task force to create recommendations about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and questioned the lack of similar panels to study China in Tibet, Russia in Crimea and India in Kashmir. He didn’t recognize any of the names on the task force that produced the “thoroughly biased” report, but Konner, who considers himself liberal, said such action isn’t surprising from what he considers the most left-wing of the major U.S. academic associations. Harvey Klehr, an Emory political scientist who noted that, unlike Konner, he has zero influence with the AAA, said the whole boycott movement is a symptom of the degeneration of higher education in the United States. “Ultimately, it’s going to have more impact on the association that does this, and not in a good way,” Klehr said. When scholars dive into politics, he said, they risk losing public support. He added: “I think there’s a significant anti-Israel bias in higher education, partly fueled by anti-Semitism that won’t speak its name. And I think the BDS people have been very effective at demonizing Israel. I don’t think the response has been effective.” For now, Konner, Klehr and other concerned academics are discussing a more effective response. Possibilities include legal challenges based on association charters or states’ laws, efforts to expose the anti-Israel motives of the BDS movement, and boycotts of classes taught by professors who boycott Israel. ■
ISRAEL NEWS
Israel Pride: Good News From Our Jewish Home
Trauma after terror. As Israeli children and their parents cope with the latest wave of terrorism, the Hadassah Medical Center’s trauma specialists in Jerusalem are providing expertise and comfort. Once parents and children leave the ER, Hadassah’s psychiatrists often follow up with the family. Those who are admitted to the hospital with physical injuries also need continued psychological support. After waves of terror, regular patients frequently come to the outpatient clinic with worsened symptoms, and parents bring children to the clinic a few days after a terror incident because they notice that their children are experiencing increased levels of anxiety. Heart to heart. Israeli Zion Farjan, 58, was recently fitted with an artificial heart at Hadassah’s intensive care unit in Jerusalem after he suffered a heart attack and was experiencing an extremely irregular heart rhythm. Dr. Oz Shapira, the head of Hadassah University Hospital’s cardiothoracic unit, put Farjan on life support until the hospital could implant the artificial heart. So far, the surgery has been a success, and the patient is walking around the unit while he waits for the donation of a human heart. Germ warfare. Within 24 months, Herzliya-based NanoLock expects to win regulatory clearance for its first two products embedded with an anti-microbial nanomaterial. The material will protect against biofilm, the sticky cluster of microbes that can form on everything from household surfaces to medical implants and devices. NanoLock’s nanoparticle material is unique on several counts: It kills both bacteria and fungi; it is not a coating but is built into the medical device; and it contains no metal or toxic ingredients. A reported 75 percent of health-care-associated infections, which cause an estimated
99,000 deaths every year in the United States alone, can be traced to biofilm on devices such as catheters, ventilators and endotracheal tubes. Spanish company gets charge out of Israeli opportunity. Spanish company Semi has won a contract worth 2 billion shekels (roughly $517 million) from Israel Railways to electrify about 260 miles of track and install the related transformers and other infrastructure. Israel Railways had expected the contract to cost 50 percent more at 3 billion shekels. The contract covers one piece of a project to convert all of Israel’s rails from diesel to electricity. Use for loose change. TravelersBox, a company founded by Israelis with a research-andd eve l o p m e n t center in Kadima, has created a new way to help international travelers find a use for change left from international travel. The company’s 40 ATM-like machines in Israel, the Philippines, Georgia, Turkey and Italy transform international currencies into simple e-wallet deposits and gift cards. TravelersBox also lets users donate to a range of charitable organizations. The company is in the midst of expanding and recently shipped 20 units each to Toronto and Tokyo. A smarter collar. A high-tech pet collar made by Ramat Hasharon-based PetPace provides remote real-time monitoring and analysis of your pet’s vital signs and activity. The collar uses noninvasive sensors to monitor data, including temperature, pulse, respiration, activity level, position and calories throughout the day. If the collar detects any abnormalities, an alert is sent to owners and veterinarians. PetPace was named “Israel’s Most Promising Startup” in a competition sponsored by Israeli business daily Calcalist, together with the Israel Export Institute and Israel’s largest commercial bank, Bank HaPoalim. The company beat out 150 other startups in all fields. Compiled courtesy of Israel21c.org, hadassah.org and other news sources.
Let me help you provide against: 1. Becoming disabled 2. Dying too soon 3. Living too long
3 out of 3
insurance policies that I have recently reviewed needed changes. I offer FREE reviews of existing policies to make sure the policies are a) what the policy owners think they are and b) will do what the policy owners think they will do.
404-725-4841
myfriendmayer@gmail.com
SENIOR CONSULTANTS GROUP, INC Mayer Smith CLU ChFC LUTCF, Pres. Do Something Good for Somebody Today
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Bubbling up in Tel Aviv. Sodastream, whose stock price has slumped on the NASDAQ market since June, has decided also to list its stock on its hometown Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. Sodastream, based just outside Tel Aviv in Airport City, said the move will expand its shareholder base and strengthen the Israeli economy. The home carbonated beverage company also got a boost from the news that rival Green Mountain is being bought out.
IS PEACE OF MIND IMPORTANT TO YOU?
AJT 9
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
OPINION
Our View
Iran’s Secrets
T
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
he International Atomic Energy Agency’s halfhearted report on the military aspects of Iran’s nuclear program raises renewed alarms about the Iran deal. Those concerns are not, however, about Iran’s intentions so much as about the ineffective efforts by the United States and the world community to rein in the expansionist regime in Tehran. The IAEA found, to no one’s surprise, that Iran was lying when it claimed to have only peaceful, civilian goals for its nuclear program. At least as late as 2009, Iran was trying to develop nuclear weapons. Iran’s military-related efforts included work on detonators, experiments with explosives technology and computer models of nuclear explosives. But the IAEA couldn’t reach definitive conclusions about the nuclear work since 2009 because Iran destroyed evidence and refused to answer questions despite its commitments under July’s Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to cooperate and despite assurances from the Obama administration that Iran would be forced to fully disclose its activities. Such disclosure was one of the justifications for the nuclear deal. President Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry told us the agreement would put us in a much better position to respond to any Iranian drive to cross the nuclear threshold because we would have all the details about the program. But like so much of the administration rhetoric regarding the negotiations with Iran — not least the assertions that no Iranian nuclear program was acceptable and that mere containment was not an option — the statements about disclosure greatly oversold the American position. Iran concluded that it could get away with its own interpretation rather than the letter of the agreement. It did the same thing with missile testing after the deal was reached, and we have no doubt that Iran will continue to push the limits of the deal. The pattern is set. The United States, with the lukewarm support of its negotiating partners, draws a line in the sand. Iran blurs and crosses that line. Rather than threaten the deal, the United States winds up applauding Iran’s compliance. So it is with the IAEA history report. We were promised that Iran had to disclose everything for the deal to move forward. Iran instead has disclosed almost nothing, and administration officials advise us to forget the past because only the future matters. We were told that Iran had to fully comply with the deal, including disclosing its nuclear history, before economic sanctions would be lifted. But even though we know little more now than we did six months ago, The Associated Press reports that the United States will join Russia, China, the United Kingdom, France and Germany in presenting a resolution for the IAEA to declare its investigation complete. That resolution, to be voted on by the IAEA board Wednesday, Dec. 15, would clear the way for international sanctions to be rolled back starting in January. Once those sanctions fall, we won’t get them back, even if Iran continues to flout the terms of the deal. And Iran can be confident that as long as it violates the deal by small steps instead of giant leaps, the United States and the rest of the world will make ex10 cuses rather than take punitive actions. ■
AJT
What’s in a Terrorist Name?
I
f a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, al-Baghdadi and his boys just don’t like seeing their shouldn’t a terrorist organization by any name name shortened. (The AJT doesn’t have easy access to be recognizably evil? Islamic State leaders to verify that claim.) Yet as much as I’ve heard debate about how to As acronyms, Daesh, ISIS and ISIL all mean the respond to Islamic State, especially since the Nov. 13 same thing: an Islamic state in Iraq and an area that attacks in Paris and the San Bernardino slaughter covers all or parts of Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and, Dec. 2, I’ve also seen disputes over what to call caliph yes, Israel. Daesh gives the group the same recogniwannabe Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s terrorist gang. tion as Muslim and a de facto nation as ISIS or ISIL The group’s name in Arabic or Islamic State. is ad-Dawlah al-Islamiyah fi l-Iraq The U.S. Howa-sh-Sham or just ad-Dawlah locaust Memorial Editor’s Notebook al-Islamiyah, neither of which Museum’s SimonBy Michael Jacobs works for an English-speaking Skjodt Center used audience. When the group came mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com “self-proclaimed out of nowhere in 2014 while Islamic State” in its being dismissed by President report finding that Barack Obama as a “JV team,” the group commitmedia used the translation Islamic State in Iraq and ted genocide last year. Syria because the acronym ISIS is easy to remember “We’ve used Islamic State because that seems and, for newsmen’s dark humor, kind of funny. to be the most widely understood and used. … It’s As it became clear that the group was not a easiest to understand,” said Cameron Hudson, the local problem or a second-rate Al-Qaeda, the more center’s director. accurate Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and the Asked about the cultural destruction carried out acronym ISIL became more common. The president by the group, Bar-Ilan University archaeologist Aren used ISIL in his speech Sunday night, Dec. 6. Maeir criticized “this idiotic debate that they are But once a term like ISIS takes hold, it’s not Islam or they are not Islam. They are not Islam, and going to be displaced in popular use by a less catchy they are not not Islam. They are Muslim, and they acronym. That applies to ISIL and IS, short for represent some aspect of Islam.” Islamic State, which requires shifting from reading Islam has at least 1.6 billion adherents, accordthe acronym as a word, as we do with ISIS and ISIL, ing to a 2010 Pew Research Center estimate. No one to reading it as letters. Otherwise, it’s just “is,” giving group can be said to represent all Jews or the Jewish a new dimension to Bill Clinton’s famous deposition viewpoint, and we number less than 1 percent of the discussion over “what the meaning of ‘is’ is.” world’s Muslims. Of course Islamic State’s ideology A popular alternative is Daesh, the Arabic acroreflects a minority view, but that doesn’t mean it nym for the organization. Advocates for Daesh argue lacks roots in an interpretation of Islam. that it removes the legitimacy of Islamic State (or We use Islamic State because that simple phrase the acronym equivalent) and avoids promoting the conveys how the group sees itself and what it wants group’s self-proclaimed Islamic ideology. We’re also to achieve. As a news organization, presenting clear told that Daesh insults the group because the Arabic information is our job; as human beings, it helps to word is a derogatory term for bigots or because understand an enemy if we want to defeat it. ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
OPINION
H
appy Chanukah! This is certainly an enjoyable time of the year. Thanksgiving, Chanukah (and gifts), winter break, New Year’s, and all with family. There is a lot for which we in Atlanta should be thankful. I could dwell on that, but I want to offer our community a challenge. As we look around our nation and world, we see serious issues creating pressure rather than credible solutions being offered to abate conflicts. I have heard many people suggest we live in times unparalleled from the past. That may not be the case. As examples, I have no doubt that during the Civil War our community, and all of America, thought things could not get worse. World War II represented the largest concerted world effort ever (and was responsible for more deaths than possibly all other wars combined in human history). During the Cold War, we lived with the fear of nuclear annihilation. We do, however, face serious challenges. We live in a time when the most aggressive enemy of America (because of our personal liberty and democratic values) is on a defined path to build nuclear weapons. What makes this threat different from the threat during the Cold War is that Iran prefers mutual destruction over life and coexistence. If that were not enough, we live in a time when professors on hundreds of college campuses are teaching anti-capitalistic values (think “Atlas Shrugged,” greed is bad), anti-democratic values (our form of government is unfair to many segments of our population), and opposition to freedom of speech as one-sided and reserved for the underprivileged. Anti-Semitism is so rampant on campus that it has virtually become acceptable, and administrators and professors (and many Americans) believe in a moral equivalency between protecting one’s citizens and using suicide bombers to defend a point of view. Murderers are killing police officers in record numbers, and rioters are standing behind these felons with vigor. Over 40 U.S. murders are perpetrated each day. Countless killings are prevented by police each day. Yet our society indicts, by media and political leadership, two or three killings by police officers each year and remains silent about the 95 percent that are justified. This trend of antagonism toward our police force is unsustainable. Like Passover, if that were all, it would be enough, but we are fighting
a war against several groups of Islamic fundamentalists who want nothing less than our obliteration. They hide behind innocent civilians. They recognize no borders or country’s sovereignty. They kill civilians, women, children, journalists, medics, anyone. Some of the less violent entities (less radical than, say, Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran),
Publisher’s Letter By Michael A. Morris michael@atljewishtimes.com
such as the Muslim Brotherhood, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, have made it clear that while they may not take up sword against us or terrorize us, they are rooted in the concept of a worldwide Muslim caliphate (offering submission, conversion or death to nonbelievers). We also live in a time when a double-digit percentage of Americans lack sufficient employment to feed themselves or their families. Most of us recognize that the unemployment rate does not accurately describe underemployment or reflect the people who have given up seeking employment. Finally, we live in a time when a significant portion of Americans do not trust the intentions and integrity of our president — very different from disagreeing with his policies. This is one of the reasons the presidential race has begun so early and is packed with passion and divisiveness. I could go on (immigration/secure borders, BDS, health care reform, gun laws), but I think you get the point. Here is my challenge to you. As you take the next few weeks to enjoy time with family and recharge, instead of just listening to the news and offering your opinions, delve into the facts. Learn about one or two of the serious problems facing America. Then take your knowledge one step further. Figure out how you can make an impact. Determine how you can become part of the solution. Our problems are well defined. But solutions are scarce, and a common-sense approach is not self-evident. I hope that your Atlanta Jewish Times can offer perspectives to help. I also hope that your paper covers the local flavor of being Jewish in Atlanta. Happy Chanukah, happy holidays, and enjoy health and happiness at home with family. ■
Judeo-Christian Nation Guest Column By Rabbi Richard Baroff
S
ince Dwight Eisenhower used the term over 60 years ago to describe our civic values, we often have heard “Judeo-Christian” to help edify public discussion of vital topics. It is mostly an inclusive and friendly term for the Jewish people. What is usually meant is that Jews and Christians share a value system different from that of other religions and from secular culture. Jews are included in the host Christian civilization in America and, broadly, in the West. The Ten Commandments, for instance, manifest Judeo-Christian values. Even though there are Jewish, Protestant and Catholic versions of the commandments, the content is largely the same. All three versions reflect the ethical norms that flow from the theology of ethical monotheism. Ethical monotheism teaches us that the Creator of the universe demands that we strive to do good and to fight evil. The universe created by G-d is characterized not only by time and space, matter and energy, but by right and wrong, matter and spirit. We learn about ethical monotheism mostly, of course, from the Bible. The Pilgrims, Anglican and dissenter, came with their Bibles. So did Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants. Of course Jews came with the Tanach, the Hebrew Scriptures (a small part of which is in Aramaic). As the country expanded into French and Spanish territories, American civilization came into contact with Christian civilizations that reflected Judeo-Christian values to a limited degree. There was always, though, a general belief that the United States embodied Judeo-Christian values the most fully because our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution were framed by Enlightenment ideas that were inspired by the Protestant Old Testament, which in content is largely the same as the Hebrew Scriptures. It is not an accident that the very phrase Jewish-Christian was first used by American writers in late colonial times. About 100 years later the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche used “Judeo-Christian ethic” in an uncomplimentary way to both religions. It is well known that the Jewish Bible is the basis for the Christian Old Testament. Not as well known is the fact that the Old Testament differs among Christians: The Roman Catholic version is larger than the Protestant,
and in turn the Greek Orthodox version is larger than the Roman Catholic. In Reformation times in Europe the early Protestants decided to restore the Old Testament to the Hebrew books that were part of the Jewish canon only. Those originally Aramaic and Greek books, which were canonical for the Orthodox and the Catholics, they called Apocrypha — Greek for hidden books. The spokespeople for the value system Jews and Christians share are found in the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, including Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and the minor prophets. Many of the framers of our government were Deist: Their conception of ethics flowed from the inspiring words of the prophets. For them, G-d was a remote figure. They did not hold to the trinity. As a result, the Judeo-Christian tradition of values originated from the mouths of the prophets, originally spoken, then written, in Hebrew. The civil religion that is the hallmark of the monuments surrounding the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., is permeated with this value system. Both Jefferson and Lincoln were guided by their Bibles. Moses holding the two tablets of the Ten Commandments is found at the Capitol and at the Supreme Court. Christian theology and Jewish theology are dramatically different. But the values that we have lived by, particularly in America, are similar. They are inscribed on the two tablets of stone brought down from Sinai not just for the Israelites, but for all humanity. The bases for Western civilization are found in Athens and Jerusalem — the Greeks and the Jews. Buddha and Confucius were great spiritual teachers, and their wisdom is the common heritage for humankind. We should be grateful for their efforts and learn what they taught. But their noble teachings were not foundational for our civilization. Neither is Islam. This not a judgment of these traditions, but rather a description of how history in fact unfolded. Uncritical multiculturalism is profoundly ahistorical and so should be resisted. The only way we will be able to preserve what is most precious of our legacy is if we are able to accurately identify what it is. The Ten Commandments should be up in our public buildings around the country as a reminder of our great heritage. ■
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Solution Time
AJT
Rabbi Richard Baroff is the president 11 of Guardians of the Torah.
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
OPINION
Gap-Year Resolution
T
wo parents and one child ideally want to do the right thing and ultimately want to be close as a family should be, yet their plans and interests conflict. How can they work together toward a peaceful resolution? Here is one more voice to guide them on their journey. Dear Barry, Eileen and Jeff, Am I the only one who doesn’t see this as a problem? I am 61 years old and grew up as an obedient daughter who went to college, married a nice Jewish boy and basically did everything that was expected of me by my parents. My husband had the same upbringing. Out of my own three children, I have a son whom we seldom see as he has chosen to live in Europe, another son who has battled a pill addiction, and a daughter who is gay. Believe it or not, we are a close, happy family who enjoys our time together, and my husband and I only wish for true happiness for our children, with health and good fortune. If only our problem was that I had a child who wanted a gap year in Israel. I don’t think there is anything I can say to Jeff if the biggest problem that his parents have ever had is that they are disappointed in Jeff’s authentic self. It doesn’t matter if Jeff’s father, Barry, was the subject of disappointment when he decided to become an accountant rather than a lawyer. Again, there are many of us parents out there who would love to have these kinds of disappointments. In summary, Jeff should go forward with his plans and not ask their
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Letter to the Editor Taking Refugees Not Enough
AJT
P
utting aside the questions of whether jihadis have mixed in with the throngs of refugees
seeking to enter the United States or whether they would want to (“Like Refugees,” Nov. 27), the fact is that the 10,000 whom President Barack Obama wants us to accept, and even the greater numbers that Germany and some
12 other Europeans are willing to accept,
Will the Top Candidate Please Step Forward? Looking around my new office, I feel a surge of pride and excitement well up inside. The peach-colored walls, comfortable chairs and bubbling aquarium definitely provide a soothing ambience. My dream of serving my community as a pediatrician is about to be realized, and I pray to succeed in promoting health and healing for my young patients. But one fundamental step remains before I can open my doors. I have two excellent nurses on staff but still need a secretary. Two interviews with potential candidates are on my schedule today, and I hope that one of the applicants will become my new right hand. At precisely 9 o’clock, a respectable middle-aged matron arrives for her appointment. “Good morning,” I greet her, already impressed by the aura of dignity surrounding her. Competence, efficiency and predictability seem to ooze out of her. “Thank you for coming. I see from your résumé that you come with a wealth of experience.”
Chuckling, Lori gives me a wide smile as she slides into the chair in front of my desk. “I’ve been a secretary since I finished college,” she glibly informs me, “so I can handle just about anything that comes up in an office. I’ve seen it all, the times when everything seems calm and quiet and other times when total bedlam erupts. At this point, not much fazes me, and I do love working with families, especially children.” “I see.” I lean back in my black leather chair, drumming my desk with my fingers while trying to conjure up a probing question. “Are you comfortable with Word, Excel and PowerPoint?” I can see she has the wherewithal to provide good service, but I am not ready to give up on high tech in exchange for maturity. All of our documentation and records will be computerized, and my secretary needs to be fluent in the various Office applications. “I certainly am,” Lori asserts. “I took several courses over the years as technology zoomed forward. I didn’t want to be left behind.” About 20 minutes later I conclude our session, assuring Lori that I will be in touch with her soon. I have a good feeling about her. Maybe I should just hire her. Then the bell rings, and the next applicant appears. “Good morning,” I begin, meeting Shelly’s earnest eyes. “Thank you for coming.” Shelly is Lori’s complete antithesis. In her early 20s, her effervescent personality bubbles forth with her every word. “Thank you for meeting with me, Dr. Schwartz. I’ve heard great things about you!” Flattery will get you everywhere, I
muse, flashing a small smile her way. “Can you tell me about your previous experience with office work?” I begin, employing my most authoritative, professional voice. “I worked in a lawyer’s office for several summers while finishing school,” Shelly explains, “and I adore children. Computers and I get along really well, too. Any time my friends have a computer glitch, they have me on speed dial. I know I don’t have a ton of work experience, but I’m a quick learner and a great people person.” And a charmer, I silently add. Several more questions conclude our talk, and I assure Shelly that I will have an answer in a few days. What to do? I swivel in my chair, sip my lukewarm coffee, and think. We now have two competent applicants and one stymied doctor. A dignified matron who has been around the block is a definite asset. She will certainly need a higher starting salary based on her experience. I can already envision the professional quality of our office with Lori on board. But there is something appealing about Shelly’s freshness, her eagerness to please, her malleability — and, of course, starting a new practice, the expenses are formidable, so a smaller expenditure has redeeming value, as well. Can any of you help me make this important decision? Which applicant should I hire?
represent a tiny fraction of the 66 million people who have been displaced from their homes worldwide, largely because of the actions of Islamist terrorists. Rather than making ourselves feel good by offering a haven to a few people, we really need to take action to rid the world of the scourge of Islamist terrorism. This means confronting the Islamists by all means possible, including cutting off their funding; preventing recruiting on social media; pressuring Muslim countries to stop incitement against Jews, Christians and other non-Muslims; and basing the
delivery of aid for refugees being sheltered on the efforts of the host countries to create ways for migrants to find gainful employment and have a path to citizenship. We also need to vigorously pursue military options, such as arming the Kurds and raising the number of aerial attacks to a level where they can be effective. We also need to stop thinking that the problem can be solved by assassinating one terrorist leader, such as Osama bin Laden, or weakening one group. Al-Qaeda, ISIS (aka ISIL or Daesh), Boko Haram, Al Shebab, Hamas, Hezbollah, Shiites killing Sunnis and
Sunnis killing Shiites are all branches of the same poisonous ideology that believes that people who think differently can be slaughtered at will. The United States should have been able to both fight Hitler and accept Jewish refugees. However, if we had done only the latter, Hitler might have accomplished his goal of world domination, which would have put the refugees we had accepted in danger once again. Likewise, we need to use military, educational, diplomatic and legal means to protect all people from Islamist terrorists. — Toby F. Block, Atlanta
permission but declare his intent with as much respect as he can muster. I pray that it goes well for him and that he is not guilted into being someone he is not. Sincerely, Sandra
Shared Spirit By Rachel Stein rachels83@gmail.com
Dear Readers, Your invaluable feedback is greatly appreciated. Kindly respond by Dec. 15 to have your opinions included in the next column. Wishing all of you a happy Chanukah! ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
OPINION
Terrorists Are Floating Down Denial
Tenth Series Jubilee Bonds ($25,000 minimum) for 10 Years
like on 9/11? How much lower will America sink before it regains its senses? The police and media, taking their lead from President Barack Obama, said the shooting may be a case of “mixed motives” and initially declined
Guest Column By Rabbi Mark Hillel Kunis
to call it “terrorism.” It took two days for the FBI to consider publically that it might be terrorism. Was it workplace violence like the shooting at Fort Hood, which really wasn’t? This couple just happened to have camouflage suits, assault rifles, pipe bombs and thousands of rounds of ammunition handy should anyone tick them off at work? We know Farook and Malik were very religious, had contact with radical Islamic elements and spent time in Saudi Arabia, and the wife pledged allegiance to Islamic State on Facebook. The obvious conclusion is that they were jihadists who killed in the name of Islam. But in America today you can’t state the obvious. To do so is considered irresponsible. If you’re in denial about terrorism, however, you’ll never be able to do much about it. What was the inspiring message given by our president in the wake of this terror attack (before his speech Sunday night, Dec. 6)? He said the massacre demonstrates that the United States needs stricter gun laws. As for the motives of the shooters, Obama shrugged. “We don’t yet know.” In other words, while ignoring what in all likelihood drove Farook and his wife to murder innocent people, Obama laid responsibility for the carnage at the feet of his political opponents who reject his demands for stricter gun control. Note that California has some of the most stringent gun control laws in America, and the guns used in the attack were obtained legally. Now I was an advocate of gun control in the past, but these kinds of incidents highlight the fact that this
3.75
Tenth Series Maccabee % Bonds ($5,000 minimum) for 10 Years
3.60
couple could reload their weapons, kill and wound so many without interruption. Why? Because no one with a gun was there to stop them. In almost every recent terror attack in Israel, the Palestinian terrorists were shot immediately, before they could do more harm, because someone on the street had a gun. Like Nero fiddling while Rome burned, Obama chose to press the immediately irrelevant point of gun control while ignoring the immediate crisis of terrorism. It’s maddening to see the hemming and hawing about the difference between terrorism and workplace violence. If Farook murdered co-workers because they insulted him, so what? The issue is that after being insulted, he and his wife proceeded to execute a detailed plan of attack with highly sophisticated weapons and bombs that were stored in their home along with other dangerous weapons that were undoubtedly readied for another attack. This was a terrorist act, and it’s irresponsible to say otherwise. The increasing tendency among the politically correct to narrow the definition of terrorism to relate only to entirely undifferentiated violence is concerning. For example, Secretary of State John Kerry a couple of weeks ago distinguished between the Charlie Hebdo attack with the related attack on Jews in January and the larger attack in Paris last month — because, he said, the Nov. 13 attackers had less of a rationale for the offense. Then the foreign minister of France advanced a similar argument,
I can’t relocate to NEW YORK, so how can I become a RABBI or CANTOR?
Seventh Series Mazel Tov % Bonds ($100 minimum) for 5 Years
You can do it at AJR.
noting how terrorism in France had advanced from attacks against Jews to attacks against “ordinary citizens” — as if Jews are different and not like ordinary citizens and Jewish blood is not as precious. Now in the United States we are saying you can’t be a terrorist if you’re mad at the person you killed. Oy vey! One more thing, and this is perhaps the most frightening. Several of Farook’s neighbors said they noticed “suspicious activity” at the home of this terrorist couple. One of them told police, “They were actually doing a lot of work out in the garage that was kind of suspicious.” Some of them suspected they might be making bombs. We now know the garage was a makeshift bomb factory. But the neighbors said they did not report their suspicions to the police for fear of being accused of racial profiling. Perhaps if one of them had made the call, the 31 victims would be going on with their lives. As the saying goes, if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and sounds like a duck, it probably is a duck. My friends, we live in dangerous times, and by the looks of things, it probably will get even more dangerous. If Americans can’t stand with one voice and identify terrorism when we see it, and if we choose instead to obsess over gun control and avoiding hurt feelings, G-d help us all. The Nile is a river in Egypt. May G-d help lift us from denial. Amen! ■ Rabbi Kunis is the spiritual leader of Congregation Shaarei Shamayim.
AJR’s flexible scheduling allows for full-time or part-time study. Stay overnight, return home after class.
ORDAINING RABBIS AND CANTORS FOR ALL JEWISH COMMUNITIES 28 WELLS AVENUE, YONKERS, NY WWW.AJRSEM.ORG
For more information, please contact
Cantor Lisa Klinger-Kantor at 914-709-0900 x14
3.12%
Seventh Series eMitzvah Bonds ($36 minimum) for 5 Years
3.12%
(404) 817-3500 Atlanta@Israelbonds.com Development Corp. for Israel Member FINRA Effective through December 14, 2015
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
T
he Nile is a river in Egypt. It was in the Nile that Pharaoh decreed Jewish babies be drowned. It was in the Nile that the enslavement of the Jewish people turned into the extermination of the Jewish people. It all began at the Nile. But in Brooklyn, where I’m from, there’s a word that sounds like the Nile, but it’s spelled “D-E-N-I-A-L.” Why did the Egyptians turn against the Jews? After all, the Jewish people were a benefit to Egypt. Joseph came to Egypt as a slave child and rose to become the prime minister of the Egyptian empire. He single-handedly rescued the Egyptians from economic ruin and starvation. What went wrong? The Torah (Exodus 1:8) tells us: “Vayakam melech chadash asher lo yada et Yosef” (“A new king arose over Egypt who knew not Joseph”). But how was it possible not to know Joseph? It wasn’t that many years since Joseph had died. His impact was still significantly felt. Rashi comments: “Asa atzmo k’ilu lo y’dao” (“Pharaoh caused himself not to know”). It was all a matter of denial. Yes, the Nile is a river in Egypt, but denial — defined in the dictionary as “a refusal to admit the truth or reality” — was a problem way back then, and more and more it’s becoming a problem in our world today. On Wednesday, Dec. 2, Syed Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, walked into a Christmas party for his co-workers at a community service center in San Bernardino, Calif. The two were wearing body armor and were carrying automatic rifles, pipe bombs and pistols. They opened fire, killed 14, and wounded 17. Thank G-d a bomb they had did not go off, or there would have been much greater carnage. Later they were cornered and killed by police. The news media jumped into action and gave the attack constant coverage for one day. The rest of the media — along with most of America — carried on like business as usual. Business as usual? This was the first serious terror attack in America since 9/11. How many have to die before we take terrorism more seriously? Is it 130 like in Paris? Three thousand
AJT 13
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
LOCAL NEWS
New Home for Israelis
Chabad center purchases building in Brookhaven near I-285 By Michael Jacobs mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com
T
he Chabad Israeli Center Atlanta has a new home, having closed on a property in Brookhaven on Monday, Dec. 7. After holding services at Congregation Beth Tefillah and maintaining administrative offices in Dunwoody since moving from its original location along Roswell Road in Sandy Springs, the Chabad center for the local Israeli community will consolidate everything it does into a renovated facility at 4276 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road. “This will be a full center, not just a synagogue,” said Rabbi Mendy Gurary, who leads the center. “It will be a place where every Israeli can connect, regardless of if they are secular or religious. They will be able to connect whether they are coming for food, events, day care or their support of Israel. Everything will be under one roof.”
The purchase is part of a $3 million project to upgrade the Chabad center. The new facility will include a social hall for private events, a preschool, a library, a student lounge, a kosher kitchen and cafe, and a mikvah. In addition to providing programming to Israelis from toddlers through adults and delivering educational seminars and lectures that connect with community leaders and secondgeneration Israelis, the center will have an interactive wing focusing on Israel for the general public. Visitors will find information on Israeli history, art and culture. “We have listened to the needs of the community and have undertaken the mission of developing a full-service center for Jewish activities,” reads the center’s vision for the facility, used in fundraising. An online campaign, in which three big donors matched contributions on a 3-to-1 basis, brought in $200,000 to complete the fundraising
The Chabad Israeli Center Atlanta is moving to this site in Brookhaven, just across Chamblee-Dunwoody Road from Chamblee and just south of the Perimeter. The property purchase is part of a $3 million project.
for the purchase. While the building needs work to meet Chabad’s needs, it is in move-in condition, and the offices should settle in there within a week, said Kari Sadeh, the center’s director of programming. The intention is to move Shabbat services there within a month. The Chabad Israeli Center usually
draws more than 100 people for Shabbat and up to 1,000 for special events. The hope is that the new location will enable growth by being easily accessible to more Israelis because the site is so close to Interstate 285. “It really was based on the property and the potential,” Sadeh said. ■
Finding the Edge in an Ethical Life
Dentist recommends rooting out your inner vision of yourself By Michael Jacobs mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com
D
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
entist Irwin Becker, the father of Sandy Springs dentist and Temple Sinai member Daren Becker, had a longtime yard man when he lived in southern Florida. The man, named Guy, had a college degree in the field of landscape architecture, but he made his living cutting and trimming grass. He was an expert at it, handling a whole block of homes at a time, and through hard work, he built a sustainable business. What he wanted to do, however, was take his kids fly fishing in the Everglades, just as Becker did with his children. But he never had time. Becker said he planted all sorts of landscape plants and trees, but he needed someone who knew how to take care of them to make his yard look its best. He pestered Guy to do the work and offered to pay whatever price would make it worth his while, but he refused, always saying, “I don’t have time.” Eventually, Guy agreed to do the work once and did an excellent job, but rather than take the assignment on a permanent basis, he stuck with his cut14 ting and trimming all the yards.
AJT
He never moved into the more lucrative landscape architecture business, and he never got that skiff to go fly fishing with his kids. Why didn’t he ever do what he Dentist Irwin Becker says he has found wanted to do? “No that for him, living an one can answer,” ethical, balanced life Becker said. leads to happiness. His point was that people often get off track and find themselves out of alignment with their goals and their values because they don’t see themselves accurately. Guy saw himself as a lawn man and nothing more, so he never became more, Becker said. The story of Guy the yard man was part of the annual Alembik Lecture on Thursday, Dec. 3, at Temple Sinai. The lecture, established 20 years ago in memory of Michael Alembik, focuses on topics of the soul, psyche and wellbeing. Becker spoke about “Spirituality, Ethics and a Code to Live By.” “I think of spirituality as not so much religion, but more of a deep, per-
sonal feeling about certain subjects,” Becker said. He added that “ethics is ethics,” and a code to live by simply has to be part of your approach to living if you want to be true to your values and achieve happiness. Nothing he said over the course of about 90 minutes was dramatic or surprising, but it all came together to provide an optimistic approach to achieving life happiness. He celebrated the examples set by the Hebrew Bible because all of our heroes are flawed humans, and he explored the problems an Orthodox dentist had with following his teaching to provide optimal care to each patient. He addressed the importance of emotional intelligence compared with IQ, which doesn’t point to success in life, and he advocated a focus on conscious discipline, which involves taking a few breaths and responding to situations rather than reacting. Becker summed up his secrets to success: • Achieving a clear vision, something Guy the yard man lacked. • Displaying dogged determination. • Understanding your strengths and weaknesses.
• Taking advantage when the door opens. • Maintaining balance. • Working hard. • Finding your purpose. He told his own life-changing story about taking advantage of opportunities by leading an ethical, principled life. He was serving in the Army as a new dentist in the 1960s, and during the first phase of his service he was doing basic dental repair work to enable fresh recruits to ship off to Vietnam. It was assembly-line dental work. But a new officer arrived who was doing a study, and he wanted crowns done a certain way that Becker didn’t consider complete. Becker did one the right way, polishing everything to a bright finish, and the quality of the work and the dedication impressed the study officer enough that he recommended Becker for a better position that moved him in a better direction in his dental career. “I simply did what I thought was the right way to do it,” he said, and he was rewarded. Ultimately, he said, each of us must define success for ourselves based on our values and our recognition of who we are. ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
LOCAL NEWS
Judge This Book by Its Cover
‘Heroic Children’ focuses on a few to tell the story of Holocaust victims
R
abbi Hanoch Teller offered the crowd at Congregation Beth Jacob’s Heritage Hall some insight into the publishing industry Tuesday night, Dec. 1. “Whoever says ‘They don’t judge a book by its cover’ never tried to sell a book,” Rabbi Teller said in introducing his new book, “Heroic Children: Untold Stories of the Unconquerable,” which almost didn’t get printed because of the cover. Rabbi Teller got permission Signed copies of from the U.S. Ho- “Heroic Children,” which lists for locaust Memorial Museum to $26.99, are available use for his cover at Judaica Corner. a photo of several children the day they were liberated from Auschwitz in January 1945. The image appeared in sepia, but he decided to add color to a child in the middle. A few hours before printing, with the plate already cut, Rabbi Teller was told he couldn’t use the image because he didn’t have permission from the boy to change the picture. “I’m not such a rollover,” said the rabbi, a scholar and docent of Yad Vashem. “I’m a fighter.” All he knew about the boy, 70 years later, was that he lived in Europe, and his last name was Hirsch. Rabbi Teller spent two hours making inquiries to try to find the survivor, and just seven minutes before printing, the prolific writer spoke with the survivor, who gave him permission to color his picture. “I took that as an omen for the book,” the rabbi said. Perhaps the attention on one child on the cover resulted from Rabbi Teller’s belief that it’s easier to relate to one person than to all the victims of the Holocaust. He said that in the 1940s the United States was concerned about the survival of only one person, Sigmund Freud. In another example, he said that it’s easier relating to Anne Frank, although she didn’t live in a ghetto, than to the 6 million Jews who were killed, many of whom did live ghettos. The author spoke about the depraved life in the ghetto and how the Germans deceived the Jews, often of-
fering to transport them to a better place. He shared what happened to the doomed ship St. Louis and the efforts of a couple who traveled from America to save 50 children. One touching story involved a group of American rabbis led by Rabbi Aharon Kotler, who went as far as the White House to ask for $1 million to save 800,000 Jews. The money wasn’t granted. The back cover of the book stands out for the endorsements: • “By telling the courageous and heart-thumping stories of nine children, Rabbi Teller has created the perfect means to convey the history of this period in a way that is mesmerizing and cannot be forgotten,” said Rabbi Israel Meir Lau, a former chief rabbi of Israel and chairman of Yad Vashem. • “We cannot change the past, but by remembering it, we can change the future. On no issue is this more vital than the Holocaust, all the more since the survivors are growing older and fewer, while anti-Semitism, almost unbelievably, has returned to the arena of
global politics,” said Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, the former chief rabbi of the United Kingdom. • “Hanoch Teller Rabbi Ilan Feldman (right) has put all of welcomes Rabbi Hanoch the students Teller to Congregation of the HoloBeth Jacob on Dec.1. caust — and of the human condition — in his debt,” said Martin Gilbert, the official biographer of Winston Churchill. Many at the lecture felt indebted in some way to Rabbi Teller, who presented information that they had never heard. After the lecture, Marci Greenberg, a Beth Jacob member, said, “With what’s going on in the world right now, what we heard tonight was necessary.” Rabbi Teller hopes that “Heroic Children: Untold Stories of the Unconquerable” will inspire with its special cover and change how people think. ■
Above: Rabbi Hanoch Teller signs “Heroic Children” for Adina Jagoda, a member of Congregation Beth Jacob and Young Israel of Toco Hills. Below: Rabbi Teller signs his book for Paul and Ilana Shenk.
EAST COBB, WALTON HIGH SCHOOL, EASTHAMPTON ON THE LAKE 6 Beds | 5 Baths | Finished Terrace Level
2207 LASALLE DRIVE Marietta, GA 30062
AMY BAROCAS
Offered at $685,000
404-790-0913 Cell amy.barocas@harrynorman.com
Fabulous John Wieland in desirable S w i m / Te n n i s / C l u b h o u s e / L a k e EASTHAMPTON Community. WALTON HS district. Bright and Open floorplan features granite and stainless kitchen opens to two-story great room overlooking retreat-like private backyard on the Lake with spectacular views. Bedroom and full bath on main, formal living room and formal dining. Oversized master with sitting area and updated spa-like master bath with heated stone flooring and three walk-in closets. Finished terrace level features rec room, family room, bedroom, full bath and unfinished storage area. This one has it all. Move in immediately.
PEGGY FELDMAN
404-310-0895 Cell peggy.feldman@harrynorman.com
LAURA D. MOYE
404-316-8694 Cell laura.moye@harrynorman.com
4848 Ashford Dunwoody Rd • Atlanta, GA 30338 | www.harrynorman.com • 770-394-2131 Office The above information is believed to be accurate but is nor warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
By R.M. Grossblatt
AJT 15
GIVE THE GIFT OF THE AJT! SPECIAL ABILITY
won’t Nonverbal autism from stop Dalia Cheskes h becoming a bat mitzva at Beth Shalom. Page 4
DIGGING IN
POWER OF ONE
Trees Atlanta gets a lot of help to at celebrate Tu B’Shev in Poncey-Highland. Page 32
the Federation honors many individuals who make the community more inclusive. Page 8
SUBSCRIBE TODAY
Atlanta | 24 SHEVAT 5775 FEBRUARY 13, 2015
ISHTIMES.COM
Diamant To Help Launch Community Mikvah
WWW.ATLANTAJEW
Welcome To The Future
VOL. XC NO. 5
A
to Atlanta to Jewish teens come Nearly 3,500 leading d. communal paths forwar chart personal and Page 18-25
BEST POLICY
GoldHonest Tea CEO Seth e of man brings a messag corporations as change ss agents to Emory busine students. Page 3
SCARY WORLD
simAnti-Semitism isn’t ple, which means there ns to are no simple solutio Eurothe problems facing pean Jews. Page 7
By Suzi Brozman htimes.com sbrozman@atljewis known as the nita Diamant, best Tent,” is comauthor of “The Red two public ing to Atlanta to make appearances this month. Boston Girl,” Her latest book, “The Feb. 23 to the visit her will be the focus of ity Center. But Commun Jewish Marcus will help local orgathe night before she a new project, an allnizers plunge into at Congregation denominations mikvah Springs. B’nai Torah in Sandy n of reimaginDiamant’s discussio age will be free ing ritual for the modern at The Temple in and open to the public the Metro Atlanta Midtown to launch (MACoM) into the Community Mikvah Atlanta. Jewish of sness consciou ent nonprofit MACoM is an independ construction of the that plans to start in May and finish community mikvah . The project will before the High Holidays n of the existing faciliinvolve a renovatio has the support of ties at B’nai Torah and synagogues and other more than a dozen organizations. diverse supMACoM’s board reflects rabbis and reprethree port, including Conservative and sentatives of Reform, Judaism. Orthodox streams of the model Diamant helped establish al community for a nondenomination 10 years at Boston’s mikvah the past Waters). Mayyim Hayyim (Living to the idea of a d responde “People g and beautiful, place that was welcomin and sad, a way to for happy occasions Diamant said. mark life’s changes,” thoughts on the See more about her
INSIDE Local News 2 Israel 10 Opinion 12 Arts 15 Calendar 16 Travel 26
Education 27 Obituaries 28 Simchas 29 Sports 29 Crossword 30 Marketplace 31
modern mikvah on
Page 6.
The Atlanta Jewish Times makes a perfect Chanukah gift. Treat yourself and others to the convenience of home delivery.
■
1-year subscription for home delivery of the Atlanta Jewish Times $65 in Georgia, $89 outside of state, delivery by U.S. mail. Enclose your check and the subscriber form, or go to
www.atlantajewishtimes.com/subscription. For more information, please call 404-883-2130.
Name
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Address
AJT 16
City
State
Zip
Email Mail to: Atlanta Jewish Times, 270 Carpenter Dr. NE, Suite 320, Atlanta, GA 30328 Thank you for subscribing to the Atlanta Jewish Times Home Delivery Service.
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
ART
Drawing in Frima’s Circle
Artist honors mother by guiding new generations at TDSA
“T
his is not an art class,” says Elena Oliker, who emphasizes the technology of drawing in her home each Sunday morning to young girls from Torah Day School of Atlanta. Oliker calls the space where the girls meet Frima’s Circle, in memory of her mother. Frima Gorinstein was born in Ukraine and remembered the pogroms. She became a construction engineer, and after her husband died, she worked at her profession and had little time for outside interests. “She raised me by herself,” Oliker said, “with full-time employment, putting me through college.” When Gorinstein retired at 65, she started developing her interest in drawing and painting. She was also fond of children. “Lots of kids in the community enjoyed another grandmother,” Oliker said. In October 2007, Gorinstein died in her 90s. Naomi May, then the vice principal of Torah Day School, made a shiva call, and Oliker shared her wish to do something special in memory of her mother, maybe teaching drawing to children. That seemed an appropriate way to combine her mother’s love of children and the gift she developed. The vice principal and friend asked only one question: “When can you start?” Oliker said she could begin after shloshim (the first 30 days after someone dies). So Oliker began teaching the technology of drawing to six young girls during their art period at TDSA. “Their teacher (Charlie Lewis) was amazing, but I felt it was an imposition on the school,” Oliker said. So she
moved Frima’s Circle to her basement art studio. Eight years later, every Sunday morning that she is in town, Oliker teaches three hour-long classes, one after the other, so she can honor her “mother’s memory with consisElena Oliker offers guidance to her art students. tency.” She never Chabad Intown’s preschool often charges a fee, and she furnishes all the invites Oliker to share something with supplies. Her goal is to give her stuthe children. “They run with it,” she dents the tools to become creative. said. People are born with different Examples of abilities, but Oliker her students’ work believes that “everycan be found on one has a little bit of her website, www. the gift.” LenaMatis.net/ She also believes TDSA; at traveling that the first time a exhibits; and at the child draws and gets Torah Day School critical feedback, the library. child becomes selfShe has started critical. So she tells another Frima’s Cirher students they Frima Gorinstein took up cle in Israel, which can’t mess up. art in retirement. she and her husThey draw in band, a math professor at Emory, visit green and correct in purple. “That writes something in her brain,” Oliker several times a year. In Netanya, Oliker started by said, “because the child sees it works, teaching her friend’s grandchildren beand then it’s exciting.” Oliker said the best teacher she cause of their high tolerance — “for my had in math drilled the axioms of ge- Hebrew,” she said. She guides boys from preschool ometry into her head. That’s also her teaching philosophy. “I drill the techni- to bar mitzvah age and teenage girls. Wherever Oliker honors her mother’s cal ideas into children’s heads.” For example, she teaches that a memory, she says: “It doesn’t have to head is an egg, and the eyes are in the be perfect to be excellent. It’s the excelmiddle. Like her math teacher, she re- lence you’re striving for.” She said her mother worked toquires her students to verbalize everyward such excellence and “built it.” ■ thing they learn.
Torah Day School students work on their art in Elena Oliker’s basement studio.
Above: An example of the art of Frima Gorinstein, who immigrated to America from Ukraine in the era of the pogroms. Below: Elena Oliker guides her students to avoid self-criticism and strive for excellence in works such as this giraffe.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
By R.M. Grossblatt
AJT 17
HOME
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
The Class Menagerie
Patty Berkovitz fills her family home with decades of thoughtful folk collecting
P
atty Berkovitz was described in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Private Quarters feature as a “color junkie” after her house was renovated in 2005. Patty used Harrison Design and interior decorator Leigh Nunnery to widen the doorways, go from Cape Cod to Country Craftsman, and envelop her bounty of folk art and photography. She has such an extensive collection that she often lends artists’ works back to them for their shows. From a purse made out of an intact armadillo, Eskimo art and biblical depictions to the soapstone African carvings seen at our airport, Patty said she “has enjoyed a lifetime of collecting and wants to share.” Instead of Europe, Patty collects from Jamaica, Barbados Alaska, Russia, Canada and the South. Where else could you find Noah’s Ark composed of coconut shells? Patty is the founder and a board member of the Watershed Alliance of Sandy Springs, where she interfaces with the city on zoning, variances and regulations that may affect streams and creeks. A coterie of Irish wolfhounds, horses and Pokey the donkey greeted us.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Jaffe: Elaborate on the history of this acreage inside 285. Berkovitz: When my parents acquired the land in the early 1960s,
AJT 18
A
there were gravel roads, no 285 and certainly no Jews. This is the family home in which I grew up with my father’s piano. Lots of memories here. Jaffe: Featured in the book “Flashes of Memory,” you are recognized as one of the major collectors of Linda
Chai-Style Homes By Marcia Caller Jaffe mjaffe@atljewishtimes.com
Anderson (of Clarkesville). What’s her appeal? Berkovitz: Linda is a master of memory painting, much of which is autobiographical. The 1985 “Tending to Baby, Fannie Mae Scott Midwife” depicts Linda giving birth. “Gathering Down” shows her as a youngster collecting feathers from the family geese used to make a comforter, which she still owns today. I recall going to one of her shows and buying practically the entire collection. Linda’s father ran moonshine, and she painted the still blowing up. Also, I have one of her paintings of Frida Kahlo. The Linda Anderson in the bathroom shows Eve entangled by the snake. Linda’s Eves are almost always black and do not have navels, as Eve was created from Adam’s rib. Jaffe: You had a relationship with
old Atlanta, Jewish, Coca-Cola royalty, Judith Alexander. Berkovitz: She actually got me started when she discovered Linda Anderson and Nellie Mae Rowe (known for her bubble-gum dolls). You can see how Nellie decorated these frames. Nellie used crayons until Judith supplied more sophisticated materials. The Alexanders inhabited a white antebellum mansion on the land Phipps Plaza now occupies. Jaffe: The steep stairway boasts some dramatic photography. What is the most impressive to you? Berkovitz: O’Keeffe’s “Mother Teresa” and one currently in MOMA, “Man and Community — Birth to Death,” with a gripping story by Richard Harrington, B 1950’s “The Family of Man” book, organized by Edward Steichen. Photographer Richard Harrington was visiting the Northwest Territories, only to find that reindeer had migrated, and the Eskimos were starving. His photos were headlines that sparked food drops before winter settled in. Come spring, the dead tribe was found with scattered boxes of food. Meaning well, they had supplies airlifted. Tragically, the food contained dairy ingredients, which were fatal to the unexposed native diets. This changed the way aid was seen. Great photography should challenge you to figure out what is happening. At the top of the steps is goat art by local artist Helen Duran. Jaffe: How would you describe your master wing? Berkovitz: The bathroom was designed around the standalone step-in tub. This is the ladies room with two Lorenzo Scott portraits, Linda Anderson’s “Eve in the Jungle” and “David and Bathsheba.” Janice Kennedy, Nellie
Mae Rowe and other artists’ portraits of ladies are hung about. I carried the persimmon color theme into the bedroom. Over the bed is the whimsical “Blue Cow” Russian folk art … between a pair of whimsical paintings by French-Canadian Mo Harvey. I like how the bedroom view overlooks the porch and land. Jaffe: Your porch oozes authenticity and charm. Berkovitz: The ceiling on the porch and the bathroom were crafted to have a rustic country feel. The footstool is by Barbara Winkel. The porch was photographed by John Farm III, featured in this table book “Porches.” Jaffe: Do you collect any Jewish artists? Berkovitz: Indeed. Strauser is over the living room fireplace between the wood-carved angels from Budapest. I have a Paul Muldawer, Harvey Lieberman and many biblical-themed pieces. My father had a fine collection of photography, which became his passion later in life; he encouraged me and introduced me to Judith Alexander. Jaffe: What are the most unusual things you have? Berkovitz: This pair by Kamante Gatura, who was the character in “Out of Africa” with the bad leg. When he moved to New York, he began making
HOME
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
C
D
F H
G I
these memory pieces, done in crayon. Judith found him and purchased all his work for resale. Also Benny Carter’s collage illustrating the Twin Towers and the decline of Piedmont Airlines is pretty outrageous. I have several signed just “JAY,” a homeless man who depicted charming scenes on boards with house paint. In his painting are the eyes of the Abominable Snowman. … Go figure. The Russian painting of Adam and Eve portraying an evil Stalin in the background controlling reproduction is pretty scary. Jaffe: What’s with the critters?
These dogs are like ponies. Berkovitz: I grew up around horses. It evolved. The horse got lonely, and we acquired a donkey friend. Then the neighbors brought over horses ready for retirement. We are actually looking for another wolfhound puppy. Jaffe: Will you ever stop collecting? The closets are full! Berkovitz: My mother is urging me to let go. I buy things because I like them, plus I inherited my father’s collections. I have passed my addiction to my daughter. So if this is my addiction, it’s all good. ■
J Photos by Duane Stork
A. The master bathroom is dedicated to the ladies, including a walk-in tub, Lorenzo Scott portraits and Linda Anderson’s “Eve in the Jungle.” B. The dining room features “Round People” (left) and Linda Anderson’s “Tending to Baby, Fannie Mae Scott Midwife,” featured in the book “Flashes of Memory” on the table. C. Patty Berkovitz’s homey porch is featured in coffee-table book “Porches.” D. Local artist Helen Durant’s “Goat” sits above two of Lawrence Lebduska’s creations. E. Photo by Marcia Caller Jaffe Benny Carter’s collage depicts the Twin Towers and the demise of Piedmont Airlines.
F. The master bedroom includes the whimsical Russian “Blue Cow” between a pair of works by FrenchCanadian folk artist Mo Harvey. G. Friend Jack Florek lends a hand with Patty Berkovitz’s barnyard menagerie. H. Judith Alexander, a member of local Jewish Coca-Cola royalty, is depicted with Linda Anderson in the painting on the left, next to Janet Munro’s “Noah’s Ark,” which is behind Eskimo soapstone carvings. I. Patty Berkovitz’s stairwell photo gallery includes Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Mother Teresa” and Richard Harrington’s 1950 photo that resulted in a misguided airlift to help starving Northwest Territories Eskimos. J. A Strauser still life hangs between two wood-carved angels from Budapest in the living room.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
E
AJT 19
20
6
4
7
ACROSS 2. ( מלאך3:6) 4. ( חיל4:6) 6. ( כהן3:1) 8. ( בת2:14)
DOWN 1. ( ראש4:7) 3. ( שמר3:7) 5. ( ראה4:2) 7. ( אדון4:4)
(Hint: Chanukah)
SDEANLC NAHOUTICS
(scramble) ADCIETED BCIZPEULI LMEETP HTIGE
WORD CMRLESAB
• On which Rosh Chodesh do we recite the full Hallel? • On which Rosh Chodesh do we not recite Hallel at all? • How many blessings are in Hallel?
blessings
8
3
5
Check your answers at: www.thefamousabba.com/chanukah
2
1
CROSSWORD
Share with a friend or family member 2 things that made you think about HaShem this week.
WEEK IN REVIEW
I was brought before the king Antiochus with my seven sons. The king ordered my sons to acknowledge his godliness by bowing down to an idol of himself. All my sons refused to obey the king and to leave Judaism, so the king killed all of them.
G
I
I
H
O
T
L
N
H
A
F
E
I
Y
K
U
A
W
E
N
A
L
H
T
A
H
T
R
I
W
E
S
S
B
A
R
U
A
S
V
S
W
© 2015 The Famous Abba
Brought to you by:
E
D
G
M
O
E
A
H
Y
D
N
M
A
J
R
S
C
A
L
L
W
E
N
G
I
O
E
Y
N
I
E
N
H
K
A
N
E
I
R
E
C
I
T
E
www.thefamousabba.com
Y
H
A
R
I
N
T
S
H
T
D
R A
H
G
O W
D
S E
G
T A
L
WORD FIND
Find the bold italic words on this sheet. The unused letters spell a secret message!
D
G
K
I
N
D
L
E
A
S
In 167 BCE, Antiochus Epiphanes of the Syrian-Greek Empire tried to force the Jews in his empire to practice his Greek religion. Antiochus desecrated the Bait Hamikdash, set up pagan idols, and gave the Jews the option of practicing Hellenism or facing death. Many Jews converted to Hellenism, but some refused to leave their Jewish faith. Antiochus also banned basic mitzvot such as: kashrut, shabbat, brit milah, and celebrating Rosh Chodesh and holidays. Matityahu the Kohen Gadol together with his sons, the Chashmonaim, fought back and, although greatly outnumbered, managed to miraculously defeat the Syrian-Greek army. The Maccabees did not gain complete freedom, but the Bait HaMikdash was reclaimed and Jews were able to practice their religion again. Upon entry to the Bait Hamikdash, the Chashmonaim found only one sealed cruse of pure olive oil. This oil, sufficient to burn for one day, miraculously burned for 8 days and nights. Almost a year later, the 2nd Bait Hamikdash was rededicated on the 25th day of Kislev, which is the date the Sages set to begin the celebration of Chanukah. Over the course of the 8 days of Chanukah we read from the Torah about the inauguration of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) in the midbar and of the mitzvah instructed to Aharon to light the menorah daily. By reading these portions, we connect the rededication of the Mikdash to the bravery of the Maccabees, and the commandment given to their ancestor Aharon to light the menorah and dedicate the Mishkan.
25 KISLEV 5776 CHANUKAH
EIGHT
LATKES
ת ÷י
ו +ד
מ
÷ב
ה xו
מ
ל +י
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
weekly chinuch podcast - OVER 100 posted! CHINUCH + Parsha < 5 minutes www.thefamousabba.com/podcasts
400 300 200 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10
א ב ג ד ה ו ז ח ט י כ ל מ נ ס ע פ צ ק ר ש ת
ר - קצט
When there is a 2nd Shabbat Chanukah, the Haftorah is read from:
GEMATRIA
• Your neighbor did not have a menorah in his window during Chanukah. • A cousin canceled the family Chanukah party at the last moment.
Can you judge these situations favorably?
SEASON
MENORAH
you be the judge
MIRACLES KINDLE
Which one is different? (Hint: Hanerot Halalu - “These Candles”)
spot the difference
• The Chashmonaim cleaning the Holy Temple and re-dedicating it on the 25th of Kislev. • A Hellinist telling you not to observe Shabbat, kashrus, or other Jewish laws and what you would do.
Act out these scenes with friends and family:
chanukah SKIT ideas
• The Maccabees found one jar of oil in the Holy Temple with enough oil to burn for 1 night, but the candles burned for 8 days. • A small army of religious Jews led by the Maccabees defeated the mighty Greek army.
Wonders of hashem
SUPER CHANUKAH SHEET
Complete the crossword by translating each Hebrew word into English. The reference is from the Haftorah in Zechariah, which is read on Shabbat Chanukah.
AJT
whO AM I?
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
EDUCATION www.atlantajewishtimes.com
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
EDUCATION
UGA Junior Reaches Top in Online News By Rebecca McCarthy
U
niversity of Georgia junior and Woodstock resident Michelle Baruchman has been named the first student representative on the Online News Association’s board of directors. The nonprofit association promotes innovation in journalism and sponsors training, networking, workshops, professional development opportunities, awards and conferences. “I saw it on the website, and it looked like a pretty easy application process,” said Baruchman, who’s a member of the student ONA chapter at UGA. A return call asked her what she wanted to accomplish. Her answer — help strengthen local chapters and
increase access to student resources — earned her a position on the board for two years. Baruchman, Michelle Baruchman 20, is a member of Temple Kol Emeth in East Cobb. Her term on the ONA board starts Jan. 1. She’s majoring in broadcast journalism and international affairs and is earning a certificate in new media. She works as a reporter for UGA’s independent student newspaper, The Red & Black, for which she has been a news editor, a copy editor and an audience development consultant. She also reports, produces and anchors for her class broadcast program, “Grady FiveSeventy.”
Weber Conquers All
In the summer of 2015 she interned with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s digital audience department. The student ONA board position doesn’t get to vote, so Baruchman isn’t sure what her duties will be. She knows there are virtual meetings monthly and face-to-face meetings twice a year. But she is ready to contribute ideas from her student perspective about how to increase membership in,
and support for, the organization. An ad hoc committee of ONA board members Benet Wilson, Robert Hernandez, Jody Brannon and Greg Linch selected Baruchman from a group of student applicants. When she finishes her undergraduate studies, Baruchman said she wants to do a mix of reporting and multimedia work, “using my digital technology skills. Anything where I’m reporting, that’s a job I want to have.” ■
APPLIANCE REPAIR
ALL Major appliances & brands washer, dryers & refrigerators ovens, stoves & dishwashers
ALL WORK GUARANTEED
Garbage disposals
Benjamin La Kier (left) and Yarden Willis celebrate the Weber School varsity boys basketball team’s championship Nov. 24 in the Collegedale (Tenn.) Adventist Youth in Action Thanksgiving tournament. Weber won five games in two days to take the title. Weber’s varsity girls finished third in the Collegedale tournament and have started the season 4-5, while the boys have begun the year 8-3.
30 Years Experience
FREE
SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR OR $25 SERVICE CHARGE
Call Kevin 24/7
770.885.9210
appliancerepair.kevin@gmail.com
Servicing All of Metro Atlanta
Time to invest in yourself. gpc.edu/apply
It’s not too late to apply for Spring classes.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Soon to be part of the new Georgia State University.
AJT 21
GPC Spring AJT Ad.indd 1
11/19/15 6:27 PM
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
EDUCATION
Schools Share Chanukah
K
indergartners from the Davis Academy celebrate Chanukah with their peers from Dunwoody Springs Elementary School in a meeting of Sandy Springs schools Thursday morning, Dec. 3. The Davis pupils introduced their new friends to the story of Chanukah through music and small group activities, including dreidel graphing, Chanukah bingo, a dreidel scratch art project and an edible dreidel project. ■
Atlanta’s Finest Persian Cuisine
Outside Patio ! Full Bar Catering For Large And Small Events Book Your Next Holiday Party
Atlanta’s Finest Persian Cuisine Atlanta’s Finest Persian Cuisine
Patio ! Full Bar Full Outside PatioOutside Bar Catering For Large And Small Events Catering For Large And Small Events Book Your Next Holiday Party Book Your Next Holiday Party
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
AJT 22
SufisAtlanta.com Peachtree St NW I Atlanta, GA 30309 I 404-‐888-‐9699 20% off LunchI 1814 15% off Dinner Epstein Cracks with coupon with coupon
Monday-Friday
Monday-Thursday
Expires 1/31/2016 Excludes major holidays
Expires 1/31/2016 Excludes major holidays
SufisAtlanta.com I 404-888-9699 1814 Peachtree St NW I Atlanta, GA 30309 SufisAtlanta.com I 1814 Peachtree St NW I Atlanta, GA 30309 I 404-‐888-‐9699
Under new ownership.
QR Code For Chanukah Learning
E
pstein School fifth-graders Barri Seitz and Matthew Neuberger get instruction from teacher Debbie Levine on the Chanukah scavenger hunt she organized using QR codes. Levine recently took an online course on using the codes in the classroom, and she applied that new knowledge by creating personalized Chanukah packets for each student that required scanning the codes. “I thought the QR scanner was a very creative activity and really made you think,” Matthew said. “Overall, this activity was a 10 out of 10.” ■
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
EDUCATION
Fernbank Exhibits AJA Seventh-Graders’ Menorahs
C
hanukah menorahs created by Atlanta Jewish Academy seventhgraders are on display at the Fernbank Museum as part of “Winter Wonderland,” an exhibit celebrating cultures, holidays and traditions from around the world. The students created the chanukiot from recycled and repurposed materials to represent aspects of Jewish culture. Students Ryan Helland, Paulina Lebowitz, Ethan Rice and Bobbi Sloan wrote about their submission that “the golden wires symbolize all the hardship that we, as Jews, have been through.” Doni Chasen, Deena Glusman and
Wade Rabinowitz wrote, “We made a menorah representing Israel and recycling. … We painted a Star of David white and blue, Israeli colors. The buttons on the wood represent color and fun in Israel.” The exhibit runs through Jan. 10. The project is part of an ongoing collaboration among Fernbank, AJA and the Israeli Consulate. AJA Hebrew language teacher Yaira Auz led the menorah project with the help of teachers Elite Shaier and Sagit Shaked. “We are grateful for the opportunity to build an authentic connection between Israel, our school and the Atlanta community,” Auz said. ■
Third-, fourth- and fifth-grade girls at Torah Day School seem to enjoy the Playworks program.
Making Play Work
T
Rabbi Joshua Einzig, the Torah Day head of school, joins third-, fourth- and fifth-graders on the kickball field.
ensure a harmonious atmosphere, and the children got to play in a large group and work together. The third-, fourth- and fifth-grade girls participated in team-building activities, such as passing a Hula Hoop from one girl to the next around a circle that included teachers. The girls cheered for each student and teacher making a successful pass. ■
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
orah Day School of Atlanta in mid-November began implementing training teachers received from Boston-based Playworks on how to give children opportunites for safe, inclusive and meaningful play. The training aims to counter the problem of children feeling excluded or getting into conflicts during recess. The goal is for every child to return to class after having a positive play experience. Torah Day hired Playworks as an investment for the future because students who play well together learn well together. The third-, fourth- and fifth-grade boys played kickball outside in preassigned teams while their teachers were on the field, taking part in the fun. Having the teachers involved helped
AJT 23
BUSINESS
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
Cookie and Coffee Kingpin Serves Advice A conversation with Michael Coles
I
recently had the great pleasure of meeting with Michael Coles and gained some insight into the events and attitudes that shaped and guided his business and personal life. After a successful 20year career in the clothing business, he decided while still a young man in his 30s to embark on a new career that would demand less travel away from his family. In 1977, after much thought and effort, he opened the Great American Cookie Co. at Perimeter Mall. He was joined by a friend, Arthur Karp, and the two remained partners until they sold the company in 1998. The cookie company was modestly capitalized and encountered numerous challenges during its early years. But a combination of tremendous effort, dedication and hard work made the venture a great business success. In 2003, Coles became a co-owner and CEO of Caribou Coffee. He had some involvement with the company
previously and was familiar with its weak operations. He immediately began an extensive transformation of the company, which became a viable, profitable business employing thousands of people.
Business Sense By Al Shams
Coles offered the following insights into his business and life successes: • Only associate with people of integrity. Those lacking integrity, regardless of their appearance of success, can be harmful to your career. • Find a mentor to guide your career, or be a mentor to someone starting a career. • In the retail business, customer engagement and a quality customer experience are crucial. • Even in the age of Internet shop-
EY D I E KO O N I N G ROU P “The Team Friends Recommend” EYDIE KOONIN 404.697.8215 eydiekoonin@atlantafinehomes.com
KERI GREENWALD 404.307.6000 kerigreenwald@atlantafinehomes.com
MIKE TOLTZIS
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
404.376.9135 miketoltzis@atlantafinehomes.com
AJT 24
AT L A N TA F I N E H O M E S . C O M
-
4 0 4 . 2 3 7. 5 0 0 0
© MMXV Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Artwork by Jenny Pruitt. Used with permission.
ping, customers still seek and will respond to the personal touch. In the final analysis, we are all human beings and social creatures and seek meaningful experiences with Michael Coles others. • Retail companies do not have a contract with their customers; they must earn the customers’ business each day. • There is an ongoing revolution in the world of customer service. Providers need to listen, connect and converse with their customers. Customers now have a voice through social media. • When told that Caribou could not compete with Starbucks and its 5,000 locations, Coles responded that the customer is not impressed by the 5,000 stores; he is impressed by the quality of his experience. • Have a business vision to articulate and share with your sales associates; incorporate them in your dream. • In the cookie company, Coles’ goal was to deliver to the average consumer a cookie that was as good as what a millionaire could buy. • Be totally committed to the business and the vision. If you are concerned about how much effort will be required, how long it will take or how profitable the venture will be, you are not totally committed. • Continue to adapt to changing circumstances because change over time is inevitable in our business and personal lives. • Do not be afraid to fail. • By empowering employees and associates, and helping them succeed, you empower your own success. • As a result of a motorcycle accident and hospital confinement, Coles came to believe that the biggest handicap we all face is the limitations we place on our vision and imagination. • He believes that the most effective customer survey effort is to speak directly with the customer while he is in the store. • He believes that David can defeat Goliath, but David must know his strengths, be totally committed, develop a good plan of attack, have tremendous courage, study his opponent and exploit the opponent’s weaknesses.
3 Important People During our visit, Coles mentioned three people whose confidence in him during difficult times had a big positive impact on his life: • Irving Settler was a Miami businessman who owned and managed a clothing company. At age 13, Coles began working for Settler and learned some important life lessons, such as deal only with people of integrity because those lacking integrity can be harmful to you personally and financially; work hard and do not expect a handout, do your best for your employer. • As a teenager, Coles worked three jobs in high school. As a consequence he had little time for homework; his grades suffered. Because of family circumstances, he decided to live with his older brother in Rockport, Mass., for his senior year in high school. Unknowingly, he registered for all advanced college prep classes. After becoming aware of his error, he became distressed and overwhelmed, not knowing how he could complete the course work. His brother, nine years older, said, “I will help you focus, do your best, and you will be amazed at what you can accomplish.” The confidence his brother expressed helped Coles earn all A’s that senior year. • By 1972, Coles was a successful man in the clothing business. He was married, a father of two, making good money, but he made some poor choices and let his material success dominate his thinking. He got divorced and entered a period of self-review. During that turbulent time he met his current wife, Donna. She restored his confidence, and they have been happily married for more than 40 years. Three people entering Coles’ life at important times had a big impact on shaping his life in a positive direction. Coles, in turn, is using his skills and insight to act as a mentor to others, creating a chain reaction of good. We can all tap in to the tremendous talents young people have to improve our society by being supportive of their efforts. The Accident Six weeks after starting the cookie company, Coles was involved in a horrific accident while riding his motorcycle. Upon waking up in the recovery
BUSINESS
An Important Job On several occasions, Coles mentioned that being the president of Hillels of Georgia is the most important task he has ever had. Hillel’s goals are to engage and enrich the lives of Jewish students and to promote Jewish values by offering a welcoming and inclusive environment in which a variety of programs can be
offered. Jewish students nationwide, face a new threat by well-funded, wellorganized anti-Israel groups. These hateful groups seek to spread false information about Israel to students. Their approach is known as the BDS movement: • Boycott Israel every way possible. • Divest from any interaction with Israel at any level. • Sanction to impose controls on Israel. All of those actions seek to delegitimize Israel and isolate it from the community of nations. An effective step we can all take is to learn the facts, challenge false information and educate the uninformed.
Silverman Construction Program Management has hired Arthur Clement as a project manager. Clement has extensive experience in managing higher-education construction projects in Georgia. “I have known Art for more than 30 years,” said Arnie Silverman, the president of Silverman CPM. “His indepth knowledge and experience in the higher-education market will enable Silverman CPM to offer its construction program management services to an even broader market.” Already for Silverman CPM, Clement is involved in a project to build an $8 million student support center at Atlanta Metropolitan State College and
See The Best of the Fest Before Ticket Sales Begin
Bernstein and Bahr 2016 Best Bets The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Previewed
Matthew Bernstein and Bob Bahr
December 20 and January 3 at 3 PM Temple Sinai, 5645 Dupree Drive Registration at wwww.templesinaiatlanta.org Registration $25 includes both programs
Public Service and Philanthropy Coles has served the community and his fellow man on many levels: • He made a large financial contri bution to Kennesaw State University to create the Coles College of Business. • In 1995 he received the Georgia Philanthropy award. • He served as a mentor to numerous students to empower their dreams. • He has taught many courses on entrepreneurship and leadership. • In 1998, Coles was an unsuccessful candidate for the U.S. Senate. While I respect his desire to serve in government, one could argue that he could be far more effective as an informed, dedicated private citizen. I believe he DEBBIE SONENSHINE has taken the latter approach. STAR NEWMAN Michael Coles is an amazing KATIE GALLOW individual who, through tremendous Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Internationally Certified Negotiator, Luxury, New Homes energy and determination, achieved and Corporate Relocation Specialist great business and personal success. #1 Sales Associate in Sandy Springs Office He is a person who has given back Voted Favorite Jewish Realtor in AJT, Best of Jewish Atlanta much to society. ■
THE SONENSHINE TEAM Atlanta’s Favorite Real Estate Team
Movers & Shakers Silverman Project Manager
to renovate the Our House temporary shelter in Atlanta. Clement was a principal at Clement & Wynn Program Managers for 22 years. His other experience includes overseeing the program management division of H.J. Russell & Co. He is a graduate of North Carolina State University and has a master’s from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Klorfein Recognized Stephen R. Klorfein of Chaiken Klorfein LLC has been named a 2015 Five Star Financial Service Professional by Atlanta Magazine for providing outstanding estate planning legal advice. ■
#1 Team Coldwell Banker Atlanta
Debbie Sells Houses Great Investment and No Rental Restrictions!!
Dunwoody $150,000
• Upper Floor Unit in Oaks of Dunwoody
• 2 Bedrooms/ 2 Full Baths
• Open Floor Plan
• All Appliances Remain
• Freshly Painted Throughout
• Swim/Tennis Community
• Newly Painted Kitchen Cabinets, New Light Fixtures & Newer Windows
• Walk to Marta, Shops & Restaurants
direct 404.250.5311 office 404.252.4908
Debbie@SonenshineTeam.com | www.SonenshineTeam.com ©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Operated By a Subsidiary of NRT LLC.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
room, he was told by the surgeon that he was lucky to be alive but might never walk unaided. After being confined in the hospital for a few weeks, Coles arrived at a mental point where he was determined to walk and enjoy his three children and a normal life. Walking with assistance led to walking alone, which led to cycling. Over time, cycling became a passion, and Coles participated in a number of long-distance events. From 1984 to 1989, he cycled across the country on four occasions. In 1984 he cycled from Savannah to San Diego in 11 days, eight hours. In 1989, as part of a four-man team, he cycled from Los Angeles to New York in five days, one hour and eight minutes. Those record times stand to this day. That’s amazing when you think they were set more than 25 years ago, and there have been tremendous upgrades in equipment technology and training procedures. I do not believe that Coles set out to become a long-distance cyclist, but he became good at one activity, then said to himself, “Maybe I can do more.” That attitude built on itself. He was a person who would not become complacent or reach a point of comfort. He had a need and desire to continue to push for more.
AJT 25
CHANUKAH
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
Come Light the Menorah
L
ike a perfectly spun dreidel that never seems to fall, Jewish Atlanta went all out with a full day and evening of events to mark the start of Chanukah on Sunday night, Dec. 6. The AJT offers just a sampling of those events on these pages, from Chabad of West Cobb’s Lego menorah build in Kennesaw and an ice menorah lighting in Woodstock to the 40th annual bazaar at Congregation Or VeShalom in Brookhaven, and from the storytelling at Little Shop of Stories in Decatur and a party at Javavino in Virginia-Highland to mark InterfaithFamily/Atlanta’s arrival on the scene to two south-side celebrations, a chanukiahbuilding workshop at Home Depot with Chabad of Peachtree City and a menorah lighting in downtown Fayetteville with Congregation B’nai Israel. We even have a couple of second-night celebrations with the Marcus Jewish Community Center and Chabad at Kennesaw State. Want to share your Chanukah celebrations with the community through the AJT? Send photos to Associate Editor David R. Cohen at david@atljewishtimes. com. ■
One young chanukiah builder, after showing great determination with her project, proudly shows the result at the Chabad of Peachtree City workshop at Home Depot.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
With the plans across the table, a chanukiah builder sticks to his task at the Chabad of Peachtree City workshop at Home Depot.
AJT 26
The InterfaithFamily/Atlanta team of (from left) Rabbi Malka Packer, Stacie Garnett-Cook and Laurel Snyder enjoys the organization’s first Chanukah party.
After an introduction from Chabad Rabbi Zalman Charytan, the lighted ice menorah is a focal point at the Outlet Shoppes of Atlanta in Woodstock.
The Lego menorah at the Chabad Jewish Center of West Cobb begins to take shape Sunday morning before the start of the festival.
Children gather around their Lego chanukiah after a morning of building at the Chabad Jewish Center of West Cobb.
Writer Laurel Snyder, the project manager for InterfaithFamily/Atlanta, reads Chanukah stories Sunday afternoon at Little Shop of Stories in Decatur.
BBYO’s David Hoffman has some dreidel fun with Mimi Hall (sporting an Amy’s Holiday Party T-shirt) and Ahavath Achim’s Leah Fuhr at the InterfaithFamily/ Atlanta party at Javavino.
The Chabad Jewish Student Union at Kennesaw State celebrate Chanukah with its first public menorah lighting on the second night.
The InterfaithFamily/Atlanta party brings together (from left) Taylor Davis, Jesse Ammons, Mimi Hall and Russell Gottschalk.
CHANUKAH
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
Congregation B’nai Israel closes its first-night ceremony in Fayetteville with individual candles throughout the crowd of 150 people.
Congregation B’nai Israel children dressed as dreidels and latkes sing songs for the crowd of 150 in Fayetteville.
Congregation B’nai Israel boys wearing dreidel costumes compare their letters to see whether they’re winners.
Congregation B’nai Israel’s first-night menorah lighting in downtown Fayetteville includes an inflatable polar bear as a greeter and a Christmas tree as a backdrop.
The cast of the Marcus JCC Youth Ensemble’s production of “Music Man Jr.,” premiering Dec. 13, performs a song from the show before the lighting of the menorah Dec. 7.
Rabbi Netanel Friedman of the Atlanta Scholars Kollel spins the dreidel and hands out gelt at the Marcus JCC on the second night.
A menorah is lighted on the second night of Chanukah in the Marcus JCC lobby.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Rabbi Brian Glusman plays a few Chanukah tunes for the Marcus JCC crowd on the second night of the Festival of Lights.
The lunch crowd works its way through the line for the famous food available at Congregation Or VeShalom’s 40th annual Chanukah bazaar Sunday, Dec. 6.
AJT 27
CHANUKAH
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
Welcoming Chanukah
Leaders from Israel and the United States joined Jews around the world in celebrating the start of Chanukah on Sunday night, Dec. 6.
I
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
sraeli President Reuven Rivlin produced this statement: “My dear brothers and sisters in Israel and around the world: At Chanukah we stand around the lights, watch as they glow, and sing together ‘Maoz Tzur,’ a song that tells about the many challenges that have risen against the Jewish people in the past. We celebrate the survival of our people and our faith against all the odds. We celebrate the freedom that was won in those days and that we enjoy today with Israel as the national home of the Jewish people. It is no coincidence that the symbol of the government of Israel is the menorah, the symbol of Jewish independence, which lights our path. In each generation we must find that path to reinforce the bonds between Jews across the world, to share together, to hold high the torch of freedom, to bring light where there is darkness. Just as it was for the heroic Maccabees, the light of the menorah inspires us all. “Today, hatred, incitement and terrorism threaten the whole world. In the
AJT 28
President Reuven Rivlin
President Barack Obama
face of these threats, we need to be firm and strong like a rock — like ‘Maoz Tzur’ — in our beliefs in freedom, justice, in the values of our tradition and of democracy. So this year, as we gather with our families and communities and look at the wonderful lights, it is my prayer that we will be reminded of the bonds that we all share and the important role we all have of being a light unto the nations. “Our thoughts at this time are of course with those who will be celebrating with a heavy heart: the injured and the families who have lost loved ones in the wave of terror that has struck in
Israel and around the world. To them, especially, and to all the Jewish people, I wish a very happy Chanukah. Shalom from Jerusalem.” President Barack Obama issued the following statement: “Tonight, Jews in America, Israel and around the world come together to light the first candle of the Festival of Lights. At its heart, Chanukah is about the struggle for justice in the face of overwhelming obstacles. It’s a chance to reflect on the triumph of liberty over tyranny, the rejection of persecution, and on the miracles that can happen even in our darkest hours. It renews our commitment as Americans — as people who live by faith and conscience — to lead the way and act as unyielding advocates for the fundamental dignity of every human being. “During these eight days, let us be inspired by the light that can overcome darkness. As we recall the Maccabees’ struggle to free a people from oppression, let us rededicate ourselves to being the engine of the miracles we seek. May the lights of the menorah brighten your home and warm your heart. From my family to yours, chag sameach.” White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough made the following remarks at the lighting of the National Menorah: “Happy Chanukah, everybody! Chag Chanukah sameach! Thank you, Rabbi (Abraham) Shemtov, for the very kind introduction. It’s truly an honor to celebrate the beginning of Chanukah with you all and to participate in this wonderful ceremony. “The lighting of the National Menorah has become a great American tradition. For many years now, by its presence in the heart of our nation’s capital, this tradition has introduced people of all faiths to a profoundly moving story, the miracle of Chanukah. “Even though it was more than 2,000 years ago that a small group of Maccabees drove out their oppressors and secured their right to worship, their courage is something that resonates today. It reminds us how fortunate we are to live in a country that was founded by those in search of religious freedom. It reminds us of our own obligation to safeguard freedom. “As a person of faith, I have always been moved by the demonstration of faith that is at the heart of the Chanukah story. After their victory, the Maccabees rededicated the Second Temple
in Jerusalem by building a new altar and lighting a menorah. Although the menorah only had a one-day supply of oil, its flame burned for eight straight days. It was a miracle that sustained the Jewish people in their hour of need — an inspiration to all people of faith. “This National Menorah lighting ceremony has inspired Americans of all faiths with the Festival of Lights. It took many years of hard work, with special effort by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, to bring this tremendous menorah to these grounds. “This Chanukah, families, friends and communities will gather together to recall the Maccabees’ triumph and the miracle of an oil lamp that burned for eight days. They’ll recite the candlelighting blessings as they light their menorahs and reflect on their many blessings. They’ll eat traditional foods cooked in oil, like potato latkes and sufganiyot. Parents will play the dreidel game and wager chocolate coins with their children, recalling the children back then who hid their Torah study from the Assyrians by playing with spinning tops. And as generations come together for Chanukah, they’ll reflect once again on timeless rituals and stories to bring more light into the world through tikkun olam. “So this is a joyous occasion. And yet we are mindful, even as we gather here tonight, that while the light of freedom burns brightly for us and our generation, it flickers for others: refugees fleeing religious intolerance and oppression, people targeted for their faith, people whose faith is perverted by others. We are Americans, and as Americans, we do not turn our backs on those who seek sanctuary, nor do we stay quiet in the face of bigotry or intolerance. We stand up for one another and for the persecuted around the world. That’s what we remember this season: that we were strangers once too. That our inheritance gives us an obligation to remain true to our values. That, as the Jewish tradition teaches, by saving one life, we save the world. “This National Menorah stands for those values — values that are Jewish and American alike. Thank you all very much for the opportunity to be a part of this celebration. On behalf of President Obama and all of us at the White House and across the entire administration, happy Chanukah, everybody!” ■
OBITUARIES
Brian R. Cohen 37, Atlanta
Marvyn Cohen 85, Valley, Ala.
Marvyn Cohen, age 85, of Valley, Ala., died Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2015. Dr. Marvyn D. Cohen practiced as a pediatrician and allergist in Columbus, Ga., for 47 years; he opened his first office in Phenix City, Ala. He treated four generations of patients and once estimated that he ordered 40,000 lollipops a year to give to young patients who feared shots. Dr. Cohen served as president of the Muscogee County Medical Society, and he was an active member of the Medical Association of Georgia. He taught nurses as an adjunct professor at Columbus State. As the host of a weekly medical call-in segment of “The Rozelle Show” on WRBL, he answered questions on the air, providing stellar and often entertaining responses. Dr. Cohen was a graduate of Emory University Medical School, and his undergraduate degree was from his cherished University of Alabama. An avid Crimson Tide fan, Dr. Cohen rarely missed watching and cheering for his team. Dr. Cohen served as the president of the Harmony Club, volunteered for Israel Bonds and supported many local charities. He played tennis for many years and enjoyed boating. Dr. Cohen is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gloria Greenberg Cohen; his children, Jason Cohen, Harold “Sonny” Cohen and his wife, Kirstie, and Mauri Cohen Artz and her husband, Philip; six grandchildren, Max, Carson, Cassidy and Annie Artz and Taylor and Michael Cohen; and two sisters, Ruth Cohen Kravtin and Doreen Cohen Friedman. Sign the online guestbook at www.jewishfuneralcare.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be directed to the Wynnton Neighborhood Network or the American Cancer Society. A graveside service was held Friday, Dec. 4, at Greenwood Cemetery in Atlanta with Rabbi Brian Glusman officiating. A memorial service at Temple Israel in Columbus was held Sunday, Dec. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, Atlanta, 770-451-4999.
Death Notices
Bernice Keller, 75, of West Bloomfield, Mich., mother of Jay Schneider and sister of Sid Malkin, on Nov. 15. Allen Lewis, 76, of Chattanooga, father of Temple Sinai members Mark Lewis and Cathy Berman, on Nov. 15. Roslyn Seligman, 80, of Cincinnati, the sister of Pearl S. Friedenberg and Temple member Melvin Seligman, on Oct. 15.
Taking care of each other is what
community is all about.
W E ’ RE P ROUD TO S E RV E our community with personal, compassionate care. As your Dignity Memorial® professionals, we’re dedicated to helping families create a unique and meaningful memorial that truly celebrates the life it represents.
R Call today for information about the newest area in our cemetery, Shalom II, and to receive your free Personal Planning Guide.
Arlington Memorial Park SanDy SPRingS
404-255-0750 ArlingtonMemorialPark.com
M1726_0437_ArlingtonMP_PNT_Comm_4-44x11-75_C.indd 1
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Brian R. Cohen, age 37, of Atlanta passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 2, 2015. The son of Roy and Joy Cohen, loving husband, devoted father, brother and close friend to so many loved ones, Brian will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Brian grew up in Boca Raton, Fla., graduated from Spanish River High School, and attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, earning a master’s degree in decision and information science. He moved to Atlanta in 2004 for a work opportunity and met the love of his life, Stacy, building a life together and raising sons Blake and Drew. Brian will be remembered by all for his infectious smile that could light up any room, his love and passion for his family, and forming loyal friendships with so many, all of which have lasted a lifetime. Brian is survived by his loving wife, Stacy; sons Blake and Drew; brother and sister-in-law Scott and Shannon Cohen; brother and sister-in-law Jeff and Amy Cohen; father-in-law and mother-in-law Jerry and Ellen Sokol; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Kevin and Amanda Sokol; nephew Jared Cohen; and nieces Jordan Cohen and Evie Sokol. Funeral services were held Thursday, Dec. 3, at The Temple in Atlanta, as well as Sunday, Dec. 6, at Temple Beth El in Boca Raton. Sign the online guestbook at www.jewishfuneralcare.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Brian R. Cohen Fund at the Birmingham Jewish Foundation, 3966 Montclair Road, Birmingham, AL 35213, 205-879-0416. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, Atlanta, 770-451-4999.
AJT 29
7/27/15 11:44 AM
CLOSING THOUGHTS OBITUARIES – MAY THEIR MEMORIES BE A BLESSING
Light in Darkness
R
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
osh Chodesh Tevet begins Saturday, Dec. 12, the seventh day of Chanukah. The zodiac sign is Capricorn; Hebrew letter is ayin; ruling planet, Saturn; tribe, Dan; sense, anger; and controlling organ, liver. This month contrasts good and evil, light and darkness, hidden and revealed, and the level of maturity in our decisions. We’re charged with turning negatives into positives by rising above our fears, anxieties, untamed anger and desire to control things. We also must allow HaShem’s wisdom to inspire us as we cultivate a vision of faith and spirituality to see our way through the darkness. Capricorns, symbolized by the goat, are stable, practical, methodical people who climb steadfastly up the craggy mountain with determination, perseverance and an eye on the prize. Externally, they appear stoic, powerful and deserving of respect, but internally, they might not be as self-confident as they are perceived. Once their authority is threatened, they have the tendency to make unsound decisions. Richard M. Nixon and Mel Gibson are examples of this. Pessimism challenges Capricorns, as do social inhibitions. With regard to money, planning and discipline bring Capricorns security. Tangible things are fleeting, though, and the development of spirituality is required. These Capricorn qualities appear in everyone’s chart. Tevet’s Hebrew letter, ayin, looks like two eyes and a nose. We look inward with our good eye and strengthen our vision by consciously developing our midot, or internal aspects of our character. Looking outward, we see the world through the evil eye and must intentionally not succumb to it. Capricorn’s planet is Saturn, the universal rule enforcer. It determines loss, dishonor, scarcity and confinement, as well as other negative aspects of life. The extreme darkness can be isolating, making us feel as if HaShem has left us alone to be responsible for protecting ourselves. Like the sun, HaShem’s light can seem farther away at this time, and so we must seek it. The tribe is Dan, the fourth son of Jacob from his unknowing union with Zilpah, Rachel’s handmaiden. Dan is Hebrew for “to judge.” In Exodus it appears as if this tribe was responsible for several important projects, including “the tent of meeting, and the ark 30 of testimony, and the mercy seat upon
AJT
it, and all the furniture of the tent.” In another passage, Dan is depicted as lowly, intermarrying Egyptians while enslaved, and as the lost tribe. The sense is anger. There’s a distinction between immature anger, as in a temper tantrum, where the self-serving ego struggles to have what it wants, and a “holy anger,” during which strong emotions are expressed
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
CROSSWORD “Hanukah Hits”
By Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com Difficulty Level: Manageable
1
2
3
4
5
6
Dr. Terry Segal tsegal@atljewishtimes.com
17
9
27
12
13
35
36
37
53
54
55
19 22
24
23
25
28
29
30
32
31 34 38 44
11 16
21
20
26
10
18
45
39
40
41
46
42
43
47
48
49
50
on behalf of G-d. The former is a cursing of the darkness, while the latter is surrender into it so that the soul overtakes the ego. In that free-falling, vast emptiness is the opportunity to connect with G-d in an act of faith. Such a connection enables untapped wisdom to be received as inspiration. The controlling organ is the liver, which governs anger and, in Chinese medicine, is the body’s ruler, second only to the heart in importance. The liver governs metabolism, detoxification, and blood-related processes such as clotting, filtering, regulation, volume and storage. When the liver is congested, the result can be redness of the face and eyes, glaucoma, night blindness, and visual blurring. When the liver is healthy and functioning properly, the eyes maintain their moisture, and vision is good. A constricted liver can provoke irritable and inappropriate outbursts of anger, which are often precursors to strokes and heart attacks, caused by the irregular flow of blood to the brain or heart. Many other diseases and imbalances result from liver toxicity in the body, mind, spirit and emotions. The health of the liver affects our decision-making abilities and self-esteem. There are dragon firerising personalities whom we might recognize as narcissists, as well as those with liver blood deficiencies who suffer from low self-esteem and are indecisive or overwhelmed. Meditation focus: Look at the decisions you make. Are they fueled by anger, fear or anxiety, or are they mature decisions that balance thoughts and feelings? Allow the light from the Chanukah candles to be as torches, illuminating G-d’s wisdom in the darkness. ■
8
15
14
33
New Moon Meditations
7
51
52
56
57
60
61
62
63
64
65
ACROSS 1. Bench player or part for Zach Braff 6. Jews may have fought with them in the Colosseum 11. Genre for Matisyahu, at times 14. Like Elijah when he wandered the desert 15. Daniel Day-Lewis, e.g. 16. Dell key 17. Ricky Martin hit? 19. Civil rights org. 20. Dead Sea ___ 21. Like a fresh HE’BREW 22. Jacob’s encounter with an angel, once 24. JDate, e.g. 25. Plague 26. KC and the Sunshine Band hit? 31. Major works by Singer or Stein 32. Like those who eat way too many jelly doughnuts, perhaps 33. Film written by Anne Spielberg 34. “La-la” lead-in 35. “It’s ___ ___,” words of rejection 38. Real first name of Borat 41. Opposite of Og and the like 44. Way of listening to 17-, 26- and 57-Across that’s tops? 48. Tefillin have them 49. Some lodging locales on moshavs 50. He starred with Joseph in “The Dark Knight” 51. Like an Orlando Bloom character 53. 36-Down’s less talented cousin 56. Give an Uzi to 57. John Legend hit? 60. ___ L’Dodi 61. A new ___ on life, someone who says Gomel might have one 62. What a date will do over time
58
59
30. YU schedule abbr. 34. Commandment pronoun 35. “Where the Wild Things ___” (Jonze film) 36. Wilf and Kraft’s league 37. It was dissolved in the DOWN 1. Mineo of “Exodus,” and U.S. four years before the Mossad was formed others 38. Info. on Ryan Braun 2. Congress did this a lot 39. Tel Aviv’s streets are full for Bibi of it 3. The Old City 40. Airer of a show with 4. What singer Ben Lee Mayim Bialik might call college 41. Levi’s material 5. Kind of manner 42. Mark Spitz and Sarah 6. Fungus problem not Hughes common in the Negev 43. They can help business 7. Coach in the Jerry 44. “___ tovah!” Goldsmith scored “Rudy,” 45. G-d’s existence, and others poetically 8. Bet Shemesh, e.g. 46. Charlie Sheen 9. AK native played him in “The Three 10. Tribal VIPs Musketeers” 11. 17 film for Wilder 12. Prayer said at least six 47. Made like Simon and Garfunkel times a day, by some 51. Flamboyance or an 13. Like the most skilled Israeli name cantor 18. Mercedes cabs in Israel, 52. What Epstein’s team did to the Mets in October e.g. 23. Setting of a 1996 Tom 53. Ecclesiastic mantle 54. Favorite word of a Hanks film whose title song was written by Adam schnorrer 55. Holy follower Schlesinger 24. They’re numbered in NYC 58. “Seinfeld” uncle 59. Bit of Binyamina 25. Work a kibbutz field 26. One of TV’s Bluths 27. Prefix with center (Jerusalem is one) LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 28. Schlep 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 F E T C H P R O M S S P A 29. 14 15 16 A B A Y E R U P E E H E S “WarGames” 17 18 19 M A R C C H A G A L L E R E org. Israel is 20 21 22 23 E Y A L A I S H L L A M A not a member 24 25 26 I S M S D E E of 63. Kings and most rabbis 64. Like Maccabi Tel Aviv players 65. Julian Edelman has it
27
33
M
28
I
C
H
A N
C
A
N
A
A
O
D
D
L
Y
W A
R
M
I
37 41
44
50
M
59
A
51
I
52
N
R
C
M A
S
A
Y
63 66
N
45
C
48
H I
42
E
29
U
O
B
I
M C
S
F
A
A
H
A
E
L
A
T
46
M
60
M
61
30
C
38
L
34
53
L
54
T
Y
O
E
D
O
N
B
T
A
I
E
D Y
E
C
H
A
D
R
E
A
R
S
36
L
A
E
Z
K
A
K
32
L
H
62
I
A
40
R
49
35
A
C
47
31
G
O
C
67
39
T
S
I
64
43
R
55
56
C O
57
L
S
58
A
C O
H
E
A
R
E
N
T
B
E
L
T
S
65 68
N
www.atlantajewishtimes.com
MARKETPLACE FINANCIAL SERVICES
AUCTION
COMPUER HOUSE CALLS
When it comes to finding your perfect home, it’s important to have options. The same is true when deciding on your mortgage. That’s why we offer a wide variety of mortgage options to fit your particular needs:
• • • •
Voted #1 by Atlanta Jewish Community
770-751-5706 www.HealthyComputer.com
Purchases and Refinances Conventional, FHA, & VA Jumbo Loans with no PMI 100% Financing for Doctors
• • • • • • •
Jay Givarz
PC, MAC, iPhone/iPad Service Home & Commercial Service Virus/Malware Removal Laptop Screen Repair Data Recovery/Forensics Wireless Corporate Networks We beat competitor pricing!
As Seen On
It’s Time to Call for Help!
Senior Mortgage Banker
678-522-2343
COMPUTER SERVICES
GENERATOR SERVICES
jay.givarz@lionbank.com
fakakta computer? I’ll drive to you!
NMLS# 203728
→ Desktop & Laptop Repair → Home/Business Networking → Performance Upgrades → Apple Device Support → Virus/Spyware Removal
EVENT SERVICES
Fast Appointment Scheduling Reasonable Rates All Services Guaranteed
404-954-1004 damon.carp@gmail.com Generator Sales & Service, Inc. www.perkinselectric.com
25,000 sq. foot midtown event space www.defoorcentre.com events@defoorcentre.com 404-591-3900 CAREGIVER/NURSE Caring hands and loving heart in the comforts of your own home. Dependable/honest. Excellent References. Please call 678-427-4135
770-251-9765
24/7 Power Protection Hands Free Operation | Professional Installation
GENERATORS 24/7 POWER PROTECTION
HOME SERVICES
Power up. Technology should simplify.™
I T S O LU T I O N S
IT
IT SOLUTIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
877.256.4426
www.dontsweatitsolutions.com
CAREGIVER/NURSE
FOLLOW THE ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES ONLINE.
CNA Caregiver for the sick and elderly 24 hour care, dependable, good references Call Geraldine Brown – 770-712-8638
Visit our website www.AtlantaJewishTimes.com for More of What You Need.
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015
Mitzvahs Weddings Formal Ceremonies Formal Dinners
AJT 31
AJT
32
DECEMBER 11 ▪ 2015