April 2015 Kol Tikvah

April 2015 • Volume 29 • Issue 4

A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition

Happy Passover from Rabbi Fred Greene

Cantor Nancy Kassel

Rabbi Emeritus, Donald Tam Hassia Levin

Jenifer Friedman

TBT Officers and Board of Trustees

and your Synagogue Staff

CONFIRMATION Friday, May 1st at 7:30 pm Please join with friends and family as our young adults continue to affirm their commitment to the Jewish people Page 5

News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

EXPERIENCE Friday, April 24th at 6:30 PM For children age 5 through 2nd grade... ...and their Parents!!

Parents can attend services in the sanctuary while their children are in "CREATIVE JEWISH PROGRAMMING" (children ages Pre-K thru 2nd grade) FREE TO ATTEND BUT RESERVATIONS REQUESTED

REFLECTIONS - PART ONE important people in our lives. It isn’t always easy, but to have that friend in your life, someone so devoted to you that s/he will tell you hard truths… that is a blessing. I am grateful for building not only sacred congregational relationships with this community, but also friendships that extended beyond its walls.

We are taught in the Mishnah, Aseh L’cha Rav, u’k’neh l’cha chaver.

Make for yourself a rav/a teacher…

And acquire for yourself a friend.

--Avot 1.6

I believe that God has created us to be involved and engaged with others. We need people in our lives to walk with us and challenge us along the way. They are our truest friends. But we also need mentors, teachers, role models to look to for guidance. I feel privileged to be a rabbi. I can’t think of another endeavor like it. To accompany people on their journeys through life, through faith, through good times and bad, is an incredible gift. I don’t take it lightly.

I would like to share some insights that I have learned from the writings of Rabbi Abraham Twerski, M.D. “Make for yourself a teacher.” How does one “make” a teacher? It seems so strange. But I do believe it is true. As I continue reflecting on my nine years here, I see that being a rabbi – this congregation’s rabbi – has made me a better teacher. I often share that I am not the same rabbi I was when I arrived at 35 years old.

My hope and my prayer that emerge from this text is the following:

Our congregants, those who wanted to learn, who posed challenging questions, who engaged me in dialogue about God, Israel, public policy… have made me into a better teacher. I am grateful that in striving to respond to your needs, I was able to stretch and grow myself, as a rabbi and as a Jew.

May you be surrounded by people who are so devoted to you that they can share truths to help you grow. And may your rabbis, your teachers, inspire you so deeply that you will stretch along with them. We need teachers and friends, mentors and companions, to live life’s journey fully. May you be rich in both!

At the same time, I hope that the Torah that I shared, the messages I taught, the holy days that we encountered together, the sacred conversations in the hallways were sources of support and inspiration for you as you live out your Jewish journeys.

Rabbi Fred Greene

“Acquire for yourself a friend.” Literally, the term is to “buy” a friend, not “acquire.” Hmmm. I was taught that we shouldn’t buy friendship! But that is not what this is…

Tefillin with Rabbi Greene

We need our teachers to provide answers and to help us to interpret difficult sources. Our friends, however, challenge us.

Real friends are much more than “study partners.” (Although, Jewish tradition does encourage us to learn with others so we can encourage one another to grow.) I need to listen to my friends disagree with me. Being sensitive to another’s point of view and hearing them out is the price we pay for having

The Introduction to the Talmud that You’ve Been Waiting For! Bring a dairy lunch and join Rabbi Greene for a lively monthly class and discussion which will consist of an introduction to the Talmud - its stories, its themes, the sages, and see how its teachings build upon the foundation of the Torah.

The class will meet from 11:45 am to 1 pm on Friday, April 17 All are welcome. Date is subject to change. Please check the TBT calendar to confirm.

RSVPs are appreciated.

RSVP to michelle@bethtikvah.com 2

News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

NOTES FROM CANTOR KASSEL THE SEARCH FOR CHAMETZ – on so many levels!

As with Shabbat, Rosh Hashannah, Sukkot and most Jewish holidays – we shouldn’t just expect to be ready for the full experience of the holiday without some sort of preparation. To abstain from working or shopping on Shabbat one must make the extra effort to do what is necessary before Shabbat begins. To do serious introspection during the High Holydays one ought to attend to any mundane matters beforehand that might otherwise interfere with this process. And for dwelling in the Sukkah during Sukkot, the Sukkah must be constructed prior to the start of the holiday. You get the picture, I’m sure.

Similarly, it is not enough to say that you will abstain from eating all chametz during Passover. The chametz must be entirely removed from our homes. As much as is reasonably possible, we consume (indulge in?) the chametz in those weeks leading up to Passover. It is not that the chametz is ‘evil’ in and of itself, but the temporary abstinence from things that are such a normal part of our lives creates a space that can potentially be filled with something else that might enrich our lives, both physically and spiritually.

For some, the search for chametz is either the prelude or postlude to “Spring Cleaning”. We look at what we have, evaluate it’s purpose in our lives and decide whether to keep, discard or donate. This sounds much simpler than it actually is as we naturally form attachments to things, behaviors and emotions whether or not they serve our best interests and personal development.

JUST ONE MORE REASON WHY I LOVE JUDAISM: Do not remain static or presume that you have learned and lived all there is to learn and live. We, humans, need constant reminders! See the mezuzah and be reminded to follow God’s commandments.

Pray in communal settings and be reminded that we all strive to be more grateful and inspired to partner with God in Tikun Olam (repairing the world.) Recall the story of the Exodus from Egypt and be reminded how precious freedom is and the responsibilities it demands.

I wish for each and every one of you a joyous and meaningful celebration of Pesach. In the extended Kassel family this will be the first year in my life where a new generation hosts the family seder. While this holds a bit of sadness for me, I take much comfort in knowing that my parents have raised their four daughters well in that the words “l’dor va-dor” (from generation to generation) are far more than words; it is a reality.

Chag kasher v’sameach,

Cantor Nancy Kassel

STAND WITH ARZA - It’s Now or Never!

His name was Nachshon. His story emerges out of the richness of both Torah and Midrash.

The Israelites were on the move, leaving behind the bitterness of slavery.

The Egyptian army was rapidly approaching from the rear, and the Reed Sea was in front of them. So our people froze.

And then, Nachshon, an Israelite, walked straight into the Sea. An act of faith. An act of courage. He took the future into his hands.

The Sea split. And the rest is part of the history of Passover.

These are the last days in which you can cast your vote for ARZA’s delegation to the World Zionist Congress, that singular parliament of the Jewish People that will convene in Jerusalem in October. On the agenda of the Congress will be items critical not just to Israel’s future, but to the future of our own children and grandchildren in America.

Each of us can be a Nachshon. Cast your vote for ARZA and for Israel’s future as a light unto the nations. Don’t be indifferent. Don’t for a moment think that your single vote is not important.

Want more information? Visit www.reformjews4israel.org. And while you’re there vote the ARZA: Representing Reform Judaism in Israel slate.

Voting concludes April 30th. Remember - our people’s greatest miracles have emerged out of our decisions to shape our own future.

There can be no DAYYENU until each of us has voted.

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News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

March Madness March was a very busy month at Temple Beth Tikvah. Our Purim carnival was a HUGE success and very much enjoyed by our younger kids and, I think, by the many youth volunteers who helped. Once again the weather did not cooperate but we were not to be denied. Sometimes Plan B can turn out as good as Plan A. I have said before that being in the building with this energy is tremendously uplifting to me. But, without one very brave person, this event could not have taken place. Beth Janes, whose kids are in high school, took on this project when nobody else would. She recruited enough volunteers to be sure that it was a success and most of these volunteers also did not have young children who benefitted from their efforts. Not many people know how much work goes into planning, execution and cleanup of such an event. Friends, this is what community is all about. If you see Beth, please let her know that her efforts were appreciated. And, think about volunteering for this high-energy event next year!

We concluded our month with the Volunteer Recognition Shabbat. For those of you who volunteer but were unable to join us, I offer my heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Our synagogue cannot function without the support of lay leadership and the many congregants who choose to be a part and make a difference.

My hope is that you gain as much pleasure and satisfaction from your volunteer experience as I do and that you are proud of your role in TBT’s success.

Our second night Passover Community Seder is only days away. Cantor Kassel will be leading us in an inspiring and creative service. If you have your reservation already, I will see you there. If you miss it this year, there is always 2016.

Our Annual Campaign team hopes each of you has or will help us reach or exceed our goals, both in dollars and participation before the June 30 deadline. To those of you who haven’t yet contributed, please consider joining all those that have already done so. The Annual Campaign is such a vital part of our overall operating budget and we really NEED to finish this year’s campaign on a strong note.

We are close to reaching our dollar goal for this year but hope that we can surpass that goal in order to fund certain projects and programming that our current resources don’t allow. Everyone benefits from the funds raised - all I ask is that everyone do their part by contributing at whatever level is right for you.

Our Purim service and Megillah reading was, once again, an entertaining evening. The Cantor’s creativity and hard work ensured an amazing service – many have said “the best yet” - and our very own Blues Brothers stars, Rabbi Fred Greene and John Restler, did not disappoint. Our own youth told the story of Purim, showcasing their talent and sharing their enthusiasm with all of us. Those Purim songs will stick in my head for a while……”It’s all about the Faith, ‘bout the Faith, no trouble!!!!” Again, having our sanctuary full and seeing kids, small and large, enjoying the evening is truly special.

L’Shalom

Ron Swichkow

Join Us for a special Ruach Shabbat service in honor of Rabbi Fred Greene May 15th at 7:30 pm This will be a special celebration of Rabbi Greene’s spiritual leadership and his significant contributions to Temple Beth Tikvah during the past nine years.

A special oneg will follow the service ♦ Please click here to sign up to help bake (Please watch for an email with more info coming soon to your inbox) 4

News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Religious School

Confirmation Friday, May 1 at 7:30 pm Mazel Tov to the confirmands and their families

Lindsey Aranson, daughter of Nancy and Rick Aranson

Yael Greene, daughter of Deborah and Fred Greene

Drew Baker, Son of Sheri and Brian Baker

Jacob Janes, son of Beth and David Janes

Riley Boehm, daughter of Jennifer and Todd Boehm

Tobias Leventhal, son of Valerie Kassel Jr

Ryan Bruckman, Son of Adrienne and Adam Bruckman

Ryan Mermelstein, son of Sharon and Evan Mermelstein

Joseph Chanin, son of Pamela and Eric Chanin

Noah Pollack, son of Audrey and Matthew Pollack

Matt Diamond, son of Dyann and Mitchell Diamond

Robert Scott, son of Julie and Robert Scott

Casey Gordon, daughter of Laura and Barry Gordon

Jacob Shippel, son of Robyn and David Shippel

Lindsey Gordon, daughter of Laura and Barry Gordon

Jason Weiner, son of Ellen and Robert Weiner

Early Childhood Education Center What’s Been Going On? Well, since you asked…….

On February 21, the ECEC and TBT joined forces and hosted the Second Chance Prom Silent Auction Fundraiser! This was an amazing evening full of funny 80’s outfits, great music, lots of laughter and great support of our school and synagogue! I would like to thank Traci Hartog, Erica Stein, Rachel Palazzo, Katie Jaffe, Maggie McAuliffe, Jessica Perlman, Jill Fields, Sheri Flink, Kristi Glickman, Gina Kellis, Robin Schorr, Becky Sullivan, Ron Swichkow, and Temple Beth Tikvah’s fundraising committee for organizing and helping to make this event such a success. I would also like to thank everyone who participated for your support and I hope you had a great time!

The children in the ECEC have been so busy! They had a great time celebrating Purim, with our own mini Purim carnival! They loved dressing up, playing games and winning prizes! I was told, “it was the best day ever!”

Jenifer Friedman ECEC Director

News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

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HOTTY - OSCARS PARTY

Youth Group HOTTY (9-12th Grade) In March the HOTTY teens “kidnapped” all of the 8th graders and inducted them into HOTTY! It was such a fun evening – we did mixers at temple and then headed out for our own version of Amazing Race. We went to SkyZone for a dodgeball tournament then to CiCi’s for dinner. Our final challenge of the night was a cupcake war at temple. 8th graders –we’re so glad to have you as part of HOTTY now!

Next up is our HOTTY elections and Screen on the Green on April 18th. If you are planning on running for HOTTY Board for next year make sure to get your letters of interest in on time. Then, come out on April 18th so we can vote for our new board members. And don’t miss our huge blow-up screen outside by the chapel. Watch your email and Facebook for details.

April 24-26th is NFTY-SAR Spring Kallah in Charlotte, NC. It’s not too late to sign up.

Register at: http://www.nfty.org/sar/.

Join the HOTTY Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.HOTTY/) to stay up-to-date on what's happening and to RSVP for HOTTY events!

JYG (7-8th Grade) The 7th & 8th graders had an amazing time at NFTY-SAR’s Hatikvah Kallah in March. We had over 15 JYG’ers attend this fun weekend. They are hooked on NFTY and will definitely be back for more next year.

Save-the-date for our final JYG event of the year on May 17th. We are having a pool party!

More details will be coming soon. And, 6th graders – you are all invited to join us for this event.

Join the JYG Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.JYG/) to stay up-to-date on what's happening with JYG, RSVP and arrange carpools for events!

JYG - MAD SCIENCE

5th & 6th Grade

Make sure to join us on April 19th for our final Club 56 event of the year. After Sunday school we’ll head over to Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park. If you’ve been there, you know how much fun this place is! And, if not, you definitely don’t want to miss this one.

See you there!

Join the 5th & 6th Grade Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.56/) to stay up-to-date on what's happening, RSVP and arrange carpools for events!

Want more info about the youth groups at TBT? Contact us at: youth@bethtikvah.com or call us: Bobbee (303) 981-2356 & Adam (404) 971-4687

Upcoming Events: April 1 - HOTTY Leadership Boot Camp April 18 – HOTTY Elections & Screen on the Green April 19 – Club 56 Sky Zone April 24-26 – NFTY-SAR Spring Kallah May 9 – HOTTY Installations, Senior Sendoff & Final Banquet May 17 – JYG Pool Party

12th Grade Religious School Graduation Please join us as we celebrate our Graduating seniors who have continued their religious education through Kivunim.

On Friday, April 17th at 8:00pm we will honor these students at a special Shabbat service.

Bonim & Gesher Havdalah Under the Stars

It's been a pleasure and an honor to be a part of their Jewish journeys at Temple Beth Tikvah and we are proud of everything they've accomplished.

April 18th at 6 pm Families, bring your dairy picnic dinner.

Dessert will be provided.

The kids will play while Rabbi Greene meets with parents to discuss Jewish Parenting topics.

Mazel Tov and continued success to: Zach Baker Jacob Kremer Samuel Marks

Maryn Perlson

We will then finish with Havdalah under the stars.

Zac Povlot

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B’nai Mitzvah Reid Dobbins will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on April 18, 2015. He is the son of Kristopher and Paige Dobbins and brother to Paxton Dobbins. He is the Grandson of Barbara and Troy Dobbins and Anita Rosenau Hellman.

Reid attends Mabry Middle school where he is an honor student. He enjoys playing football and lacrosse.

Rachel Lyndsi Steuer will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on April 25, 2015. Rachel is the daughter of Cindy and Howard Steuer of Marietta, Georgia, and the younger sister to Samantha and Melissa. She is the Granddaughter to Iris and Arnold Steuer of Long Island New York, and Jerry Weiner of Boynton Beach Florida. She is in the seventh grade at Dodgen Middle School. Rachel is involved in cheerleading and competitive dancing outside of school.. Rachel’s Mitzvah Project includes volunteering at her local Elementary School with the Special Needs children. Rachel is dedicating her special weekend to her Nana, Rita Weiner.

Matthew Aaron Jacobson will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on April 25, 2015. He is the son of Debbie and Jared Jacobson and older brother to Zachary Jacobson. He is the grandson of Emily Wilner of Marietta, Georgia. Matthew is a 7th grader at St. Francis Middle School where he is an honor student and plays on the school tennis team. He also has been playing tackle Football for the Junior Knights of Centennial High School since 4th grade and is looking forward to playing high school football. In his free time, he likes to spend time with his friends and play on his X Box and is looking forward to going back to 6 Points Sports Academy for his 4 th summer.

College Connection Forty-three lucky college students are about to receive a care package sent on behalf of the Temple through the college connection committee. We want them to know they’re being thought of while they’re away from home. Included in the packages are items such as Hamantashen (to coincide with the upcoming Purim holiday), gum, school supplies, candy, popcorn, coffee and cocoa packets.

None of this could be possible without the help from our gracious volunteers Beth Kess, Julie Scott and Nan Janis. Thank you so much as we couldn’t do this without you!

The committee would also like to thank Rabbi Greene for finding time to prepare a letter of his words of wisdom to be included in the packages. I’m sure the students really appreciate his doing so. Also, a huge thanks to the office staff Becky Sullivan, Lisa Singer and Michelle Leder. They make our job so much easier and help us with so many of the details.

It is so important to keep our students connected to the Jewish community. We would like to go beyond the mailings. If you have any suggestions on how this could be accomplished please let us know.

We’d also appreciate any small items that could be donated to future packages. Please contact us if you’re interested in making such a donation.

TBT College Connection Committee Lynda Bennett (lrbennett08@comcast.net) Ginger Glazer (ggchoc@bellsouth.net)

SAVE THE DATE

Shavuot Celebration Family Potluck Dairy Dinner followed by a Multi-Generational Shavuot Service Saturday, May 23 beginning at 6 pm 7

News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Fundraising News Shalom from the Fundraising Committee!

As we continue to climb our way towards reaching our goal of $100,000 for this year's Annual Campaign, I want to thank everyone for their support and hard work that went into creating a wonderful evening for everyone who attended the 2nd Chance Prom and Auction. The event was extremely successful and raised over $13,000 for TBT programs.

All TBT event, were social or spiritually themed take hard work and preparation from volunteers like you and me. Providing these events to our community is always a challenge but when we work together, it breathes success and provides for our future.

We are starting to gear up for next year's committee and have some exciting plans ahead. You don't need to be a salesperson to be part of the Fundraising Committee. You need to desire to provide support and build for the future of TBT. If you'd like to join the committee or have any questions about TBT Fundraising efforts, feel free to ping me at jlagin1@gmail com. This is a rewarding way to help support our TBT family.

Happy Pesach!

Jonathan Agin, TBT Fundraising Chairman

Andy and Julie Aaronson Jonathan and Allison Agin Barry and Shari Alhadeff Pam Alterman Steven and Teri Astren Brian and Sheri Baker Steven and Sheila Barid Dale and Wendy Bearman Jonathan and Barbara Berger Leonard Berger Harris and Suellen Bergman Michael and Jeannine Bernstein Jerry Bilsky and Judy Tolkan Peter Birnbaum David and Robin Bledsoe Todd and Jennifer Boehm Michael and Heather Braun Adam and Adrienne Bruckman Jamie Burak Paul and Cherie Cervasio Lois Clymin David and Roberta Coad Michael D. and Lisa R. Cohen Michael and Marlene Cohn Steve and Arlene Cohn Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties Mark and Stephanie Craig Renee Davis Gordon and Hollis Decker Craig and Susan Derene Mitchell and Dyann Diamond Kristopher and Paige Dobbins Joseph and Waynah Dunn Rodney and Erika Eberhardt Audrey Eisen Alan and Pam Epstein Elliot and Donna Feller Steven and Amy Fine Rory and Jenifer Friedman Steve and RoseAnn Gerson Ed and Cindy Getty Arthur Gittelman and Marcia Pearl

Cary Goldenthal and Lori Shapiro Neil and Jennifer Goldstein Robert and Cindy Goldstein Harlan & Ivie Graiser Rabbi Fred and Deborah Greene Anne Grossman Burton and Sara Grossman Andrew and Karen Gutman Scott and Nancy Harris Peter and Tracy Hartog Yitzhak and Ronit Hermoni David and Ellen Herold Mitchell and Julie Hilsen Jamie and Katie Jaffe David and Beth Janes Peter and Sharon Jedel Daniel and Stephanie Joseph Morris and Anna Kagan Doug and Donna Kallman Cantor Nancy Kassel Valerie Kassel Jr Howard and Linda Katz Jerry and Marcy Kaufman Sharon Khoury Jared and Rachel King Jeff and Cindy Klein Marc and Deborah Klein Peter Klokow and Ellen Frank Stanley and Bobbie Kopkin Steven and Helen Kraus Ned and Lisa Kreiss Robert and Karen Kremer

Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig Murray and Sonia Lynn Joel and Aviva Margolies Jonathan and Joan Marks Jason and Maggie McAuliffe David McClung Thomas and Marsha McMurrain Howard and Helaine Medoff Gary and Peggy Mendelson Ric and Barrie Mershon Martin and Charlene Milstein Ilene Monat Mark and Jennifer Mosbacher Robert Moss Jay and Anita Myer Robert and Marcy Nader Bernie and Gail Natter North Georgia Pain Clinic, PC Ryan and Rachel Palazzo Larry and Jackie Pepper Gary and Sheyla Peterson Jason and Melanie Pickett Shirley Plotkin Scott and Rhonda Povlot Marla Ramaglia Joel and Valerie Rapowitz Herbert and Bunny Renkin Betty Rickles Robert and Ellen Rickles Barry & Robin Riegelhaupt Howard & Barbara Rosenberg Joel and Judy Rosenberg Harvey and Natine Rosenzweig Irving and Doris Rosing Paul and Julie Rubin Tod and Leslie Rubin Mark and Gail Rudel Andrew and Barbara Sacks Robert and Donna Schacher Joel and Kathleen Schoenblum Gary and Debra Schwartz William and Terry Schwartz Rhonda Schweber

Kenneth Lawler Jr and Ginger Glazer

Fred and Patricia Landsberg Melvin and Vivian Lapes Scott and Sheryl Lasky

Hal and Jill Leitman Ron and Lindsay Levin Ronald and Jennifer Levine Emily Lewit Gary and Michal Loventhal William and Rita Loventhal Hadley and Lisa Lowy

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Sanford and Gail Seidman Ira and Brenda Share Stacy and Alicia Sher Walter and Esther Shultz Carol Shutzberg David and Elisa Siegel Sandy and Nancy Simon Lawrence and Anne Skal Kenneth and Helene Skolky Sharon Snowiss Stuart and Frances Solomon Howard and Cynthia Steinberg Steven and Linda Steinberg Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz Mathew and Dani Stordy Barry & Denise Straus Ronald and Leslie Swichkow Donald and Marilyn Tam Rosalind Taranto Lloyd and Gail Tate Steven and Abbe Tobin David & Christine Toltzis Bruce and Mariann Mamberg Turiansky

Mark and Sally Vosk Bruce and Carol Waldman Bruce and Bonnie Walkes June Wallach Ronald and Sheri Weiner Clifford and Loretta Weiss Mark and Debbie Weiss Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger

Bram and Dana Wieskopf Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Mark Williams and Michelle Easton Thomas and Susan Williams

Todd and Rachel Wilson Scott and Susan Wynne Andrew and Ilana Zalkin Ruth Zeidman Seth and Ellen Zimmer (donations received through February 2015)

News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

April 2015 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

1

2

Friday 3

7:00 pm HOTTY - Leadership Boot Camp

PASSOVER BEGINS

1st Night Seder TBT Offices Close at Noon No ECEC

5:00 pm Shabbat Service

5

PASSOVER No Religious School

6

PASSOVER

7

PASSOVER

8

9

PASSOVER Cobb & Fulton Spring Break - No ECEC

PASSOVER Cobb & Fulton Spring Break - No ECEC

10

PASSOVER

Cobb & Fulton Spring Break - No ECEC

Cobb & Fulton Spring Break - No ECEC

Cobb & Fulton Spring Break - No ECEC

No Religious School

No Religious School

TBT Offices Closed

7:15 pm Families Anonymous

9:30 am Tai Chi

10:00 am Passover Service and Yizkor

Saturday 4

PASSOVER

10:00 am Shabbat Service 6:00 pm Second Night Community Passover Seder

11

PASSOVER

10:00 am Shabbat Service

8:00 pm Shabbat Service 12 No Religious School

13

14

12:00 pm Senior Luncheon

9:30 am Tai Chi

6:45 pm Kesher/Confirmation /Kivunim

5:00 pm Religious School

7:15 pm Families Anonymous

15

16

YOM HASHOAH

6:30 pm HOTTY - Board Meeting

17 9:45 am ECEC Family Shabbat 11:45 am - 1:00 pm The Introduction to the Talmud that You've Been Waiting For!

7:00 pm Board of Ed Meeting

6:00 pm ATID Dinner

8:00 pm Shabbat Service

18 9:00 am Bagels, Learning & Torah

10:00 am Shabbat Service - Dobbins Bar Mitzvah 4:30 pm HOTTY - Elections & Screen on the Green 6:00 pm Bonim / Gesher Havdalah Under the Stars

19 9:30 am Religious School 9:30 am Religious School Yom Ha'Shoah / Yom Hazikaron Assembly 12:00 pm Club 5/6 Event

20 6:30 pm Kesher Teen/Parent Dinner & Class LAST NIGHT 6:45 pm Confirmation & Kivunim 7:15 pm Families Anonymous

21

22

YOM HAZIKARON

9:30 am Tai Chi

23

YOM HA'ATZMAUT

7:00 pm Breast Cancer Support Group

5:00 pm RelIgious School

7:00 pm Women's Study - From Sarah to Savannah: Leadership Lessons from our Ancestral Mothers

7:30 pm Board of Trustees Meeting

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25

NFTY Spring Kallah

NFTY Spring Kallah

6:00 pm Oneg

9:00 am Bagels, Learning & Torah

6:30 pm Shabbat Service w/ Shabbat Experience

10:00 am Shabbat Service Steuer/Jacobson B'nai Mitzvah 6:00 pm Bourbon, BBQ & Brotherhood

26 NFTY Spring Kallah 9:30 am Religious School 9:30 am Religious School Yom Ha'atzmaut Assembly 9:30 am Sisterhood-Mah Jongg

27 6:45 pm Confirmation & Kivunim LAST NIGHT 7:15 pm Families Anonymous

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29

30

9:30 am - 10:30 am Tai Chi 5:00 pm Religious School Last Tuesday 7:30 pm Officers Meeting

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

What's a Chavurah Like? A Longtime Member Shares Her View

by Ivie Graiser

TBT Seniors Luncheon

Being in a chavurah helps my family feel like we are part of an extended TBT family. We have been members of ours for almost 20 years, and we see someone from our chavurah almost every time we come to services.

Being part of such a group gives us a special, warm feeling of truly belonging. We started out as the "young family chavurah". We watched all of our young children grow and become bar or bat mitzvahs. We shared in each other's simchas and life cycle events, celebrating with each other and supporting each other through the highs, the lows, the deaths, and the times of joy. It is a truly rewarding experience, and I urge every member of the TBT community to try it!

Sound interesting? New groups are forming now!

Monday, April 13 at 12 PM

Mary Lou Austin, CEO of USO of Georgia, will be our speaker RSVP to Natine at rosen4348@aol.com How do I join a Chavurah? Just fill out the application and we'll help you find like-minded families or individuals to form a group. Drop by the TBT office to pick one up, or visithttp://www.bethtikvah.com/community/ chavurot to download.

What's a Chavurah?

It's a group of people who share common interests and meet regularly to celebrate Jewish holidays, share simchas, attend TBT events, and participate in any activities that interest them. Being part of a Chavurah can enhance your experience at TBT by helping you develop a strong sense of community and deeper connections within the congregation.

Questions? Please contact Dalia Faupel at d2faupel@comcast.net

Happy Spring to you!

Sisterhood welcomes the new friendships and comradeship blossoming this year as participation and volunteerism have grown so nicely! March saw a great turn out for Mah Jongg; a big thank you to Leslie Swichkow for organizing this great social event. Our women’s community outreach project, Knit and Nosh, was also so successful, and a big thank you nod goes to Terry Carasick and teacher Amy Glass. This continuing project will make knitted and crocheted scarves for homeless men and women in the metro Atlanta area. We hope to make at least 25 scarves by next December for distribution. Please watch for more “get togethers ” to continue our creative community outreach project. If you are interested in teaching newcomers to the world of basic knitting and crocheting, please let us know.

Please join us for our next Mah Jongg, Sunday, April 26, 9:30 am 11:30 am in the social hall. We have had a great response and welcome all new players. Teachers are always needed and greatly appreciated. Just let us know if you are able to teach at this fun social morning.

In addition, be on the lookout for our end of the year social gathering, planned for early May. What a great way to end our spring season before summer arrives. Also, if you are interested in chairing or co-chairing a Sisterhood subcommittee next fall, please let us know. We look forward to new ideas and new folks to our Sisterhood Committee.

Robin Bledsoe

Sisterhood Chair 10

HELP US HELP YOU Your synagogue community wants to be a Caring Community/Kehillat Chesed If you have recently experienced a loss, are facing a crisis or are celebrating a simcha, please let our office know as soon as possible.

Our clergy and friends strive to be a source of support as best as they can. If you know of one of our fellow congregants who has experienced a loss or can use a hand, please contact the office at 770.642.0434.

News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Thank you to Robin Bledsoe, Cherie Cervasio, Laura DeRiemer, Marcy Kaufman , Jill Leitman, Marsha Mathis, Gail Neder, Meredith Paulin, Leslie Swichkow, Nina York and Ilana Zalkin who came together to bake 600 Hamentashen for the Purim Carnival.

Purim Carnival 2015

Thank you to our grillers extraordinaire Peter Hartog, Mark Greenspan, Mark Mosbacher, Bart Schwartz, Bart Segal, Eric Smolin and Terry Stein who braved the rain from the sky and the heat from the gill so we could all eat!

Thank you also to all of the volunteers who showed up to help Saturday night and all day Sunday.

Thankfully, there are too many of you to name without leaving someone off. Just know how much we appreciate your help and support!

Second Chance Prom

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Donations Annual Campaign

Prayerbook Fund Mark and Sally Vosk in memory of Melvin Haber Addie Myers in memory of Mason H. Myers

Sandy and Nancy Simon in memory of Abe Berney Ronald and Leslie Swichkow in memory of Charles Moore Shirley Plotkin in memory of Saul Plotkin Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund Robert and Adele Toltzis in memory of Joe Zeidman Ruth Zeidman in memory of beloved husband, Joseph Zeidman Ilene Monat in memory of Scott Monat Scott and Marci Weiss in memory of Marilyn Weiss Scott and Susan Wynne in honor of Anna Wynne becoming a Bat Mitzvah Doug & Donna Kallman wishing Mazel Tov to Cantor Kassel on being named the American Conference of Cantors Volunteer of the Month!

Ted and Melanie Nathan in honor of Morgan's Bar Mitzvah Walter and Esther Shultz in appreciation for helping Izaac prepare for his Bar Mitzvah Steven and Helen Kraus in memory of Jerome Oxman Shirley Plotkin in memory of Philip Plotkin

Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund Michael and Wanda Cohen in memory of Morris Cohen Howard and Cynthia Steinberg in memory of Regina Karmel Tom and Patti Seibold in memory of Maxine Gelb Kurtz Jerome and Margie Cohen in memory of Meyer Friedman Mike and Kathy Levin in appreciation of the prayers and support of Rabbi Greene and the TBT community Hilda Ortiz in memory of Mrs. Hilda Maria Ortiz Scott and Susan Wynne in memory of Anna Wynne becoming a Bat Mitzvah Ted and Melanie Nathan in honor of Morgan's Bar Mitzvah Families Anonymous Walter and Esther Shultz in appreciation for helping Izaac prepare for his Bar Mitzvah June Wallach in memory of Max Hertzberg David and Bonnie Sandfelder

Caring/Kehillat Chesed Fund Steven & Linda Steinberg in memory of Anita Seidman James & Lois Shaevel in honor of Izaac Shultz becoming a Bar Mitzvah Richard Mindel and Barbara Bogartz in honor of Izaac Shultz's Bar Mitzvah Ronald and Leslie Swichkow in memory of Louise Herndon Sherwin and Judee Levinson in memory of Joseph Aronow Ruth Zeidman in memory of Mae Gaber Walter and Esther Shultz in honor of Debbie Brateman Gordon and Hollis Decker in memory of Harriet Decker Levi Melvyn and Vivian Lapes in honor of Izaac Shultz becoming a Bar Mitzvah Betty Rickles in memory of Irwin Rickles

Rabbi Shuval-Weiner’s Discretionary Fund Steve and RoseAnn Gerson with best wishes for a speedy recovery to Dale Bearman

General Fund Phyllis Madans in memory of Judy Grosswald Jonathan and Ashley Maloy in honor of babynaming Dale and Bob Israel in memory of Anita Seidman Cary Goldenthal and Lori Shapiro in memory of Louise Herndon Melvyn and Vivian Lapes in memory of Bea Lapes Marvin and Dana Mermelstein in honor of Ilana Jaye Mermelstein becoming a Bat Mitzvah Shirley Crawford Bob Bachrach in honor of the conversion of Richard Quintana Jim and Renee Berman in memory of Faye Sackler David and Bonnie Sandfelder

Religious School Scholarship Fund Burton and Sara Grossman in memory of Harold Grossman

Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund Renee Davis in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Izaac Shultz Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Moses Reiber and with prayers for a speedy recovery to Rose Reichbach, mother of Hedva Wiener Religious School Fund Terri Cohen in memory of Ethel Young Terri Cohen in memory of Mel Haskins Julian and Deborah Isakow in memory of Bernie Bickwit Fred and Patricia Landsberg in memory of Solomon Turkel

Shalach Manot Fund Ruth Zeidman thanking all TBT friends for Purim greetings Tikkun Olam Fund Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz in memory of Mollie Krigsner Torah Fund Walter and Esther Shultz in memory of Louise Herndon Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig in memory of Elsie Stern Youth Group Fund Jeffrey and Amy Fain in memory of Stanley Fain

Michael Zalkin Memorial Library Fund Robert and Ellen Rickles in memory of Irwin Rickles Joshua and Debbie Sinsley in memory of Judy Naftolin

(donations received through 3/18)

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

SHMOOZE NEWS / KUDOS CORNER

In Memorium

Thank You to our Amazing Office Volunteers!

Temple Beth Tikvah acknowledges with sorrow the passing of:

Louise Herndon Mother of Sam Herndon

Erica Stein June Wallach Richard Staviss Marsha McMurrain Leslie Swichkow Marsha Mathis Roberta Goldman Audrey Gordon

Charles Ronald Moore Brother-in-law of Steve Mahan Sarah Saida Mother of Hagit Beecham Miriam Belger Mother of Susan Scheinfeld

Mazal Tov to Sam Marks for being selected as the next recipient of the Harvey Rubin Scholarship Award of the Marcus JCC of Atlanta.

The Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship award that recognizes the outstanding leadership of a high school senior in the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and the Atlanta Jewish community.

May God console you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

Breast Cancer Survivor Group for the Jewish Community

Spring Bargainata Sale!

We have had a great start to the Breast Cancer Survivor Group! The monthly support group meetings are for all interested people who have had cancer, who are going through treatment or surgeries, and /or who have been recently diagnosed, as well as for those who might have questions pertinent to breast cancer. In addition, this program is for sharing experiences, meeting others and gathering information regarding diagnoses, surgeries, and genetic testing from various professionals.

PREVIEW NIGHT- Thursday, April 23, from 7:00pm-10:00pm $25 prepaid by April, 22 or door on Thursday night

$35 at

Friday, April 24 from 11:00am-7:30pm FREE Sunday, April 26 from 11:00am-5:00pm FREE Hilderbrand Court Shopping Center 6125 Roswell Rd. Atlanta, 30328

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 PM This survivor support group is sponsored by The Kehillat Chesed/Caring Committee of Temple Beth Tikvah.

Honor a person or event with a leaf on our tree of life. You can purchase a

For further information or questions, please contact Valerie Rapowitz at vrapowitzslp@yahoo.com or call 678-643-9672. Please RSVP. All are welcome.

leaf as an individual or as a group.!

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Synagogue Information Synagogue Office Fax Number School Office (Perri) Preschool (Jenifer) Assistant to Clergy Financial Secretary Admin. Assistant Office Manager

- 770-642-0434 - 770-642-0647 - 770-642-4168 - 678-350-0076 - Michelle Leder - Jenny Korsen - Lisa Singer - Becky Sullivan

Planning a simcha or group gathering?

The Tam-Blank Social Hall is the Place to Be. For more information on renting our Social Hall, contact the synagogue office at 770-642-0434.

Get Involved! TBT Committees and Chairpersons Adult Education Cindy Getty eeg@comcast.net Budget & Finance Karen Korshak karcpa@comcast.net Campership Marcia Haber marciahaber@yahoo.com Chavurot Dalia Faupel d2faupel@comcast.net College Outreach Lynda Bennett lrbennett08@comcast.net Ginger Glazer ggchoc@bellsouth.net Communications Mark Rudel mrudel@ups.com Family Promise Randy and Amy Siegal amysiegal@gmail.com Brian and Jennifer Steinberg zokadesigns@gmail.com Tony Rosenberg trosenberg860@gmail.com

Fundraising Jonathan Agin jlagin1@gmail.com House Ted Nathan tnathan@baldwinscheduling.com Human Resources Seth Zimmer sz4941@att.com Israel Gene Carasick gcarasick@gmail.com Kehillat Chesed (Caring) Leslie Swichkow lswichkow@comcast.net Library Ilana Zalkin ilanaz@att.net Membership Recruitment & Retention Jill Leitman jaarons2@yahoo.com Marcia Pearl marciapearl@bellsouth.net Men’s Club Mark Greenspan greenspanfamily@bellsouth.net Peter Hartog althazyr@gmail.com

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Nominating Committee Todd Boehm tboehm30@bellsouth.net Ritual Esther Shultz savtaesther5@gmail.com Security Jay Sausmer jsausmer@gmail.com Seniors Natine Rosenzweig rosen4348@aol.com Sisterhood Robin Bledsoe sisterhoodtbt@gmail.com Social Action Darrin Cohen dcohen@wealthofga.com Website Development Scott Povlot spovlot@yahoo.com Youth Group Debra Schwartz dls63@bellsouth.net Michal Loventhal loventhalmichal@gmail.com

News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Fred Greene Rabbi Donald A. Tam Rabbi Emeritus Nancy Kassel Cantor Hassia Levin Education Director Jenifer Friedman ECEC Director Ron Swichkow President Todd Boehm Vice President Harlan Graiser Vice President Denise Straus Vice President Andy Gutman Treasurer Michael Braun Secretary Jill Mattos Chairperson, Board of Education

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