August 2014 • Volume 28 • Issue 7
A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition
Upcoming Prospective Member Events Blue Jean Shabbat Friday, August 15th 6:30 PM
Cookout
7:30 PM
Shabbat Service* in the outdoor Alterman Chapel with “camp style” music
Open Door Shabbat Friday, August 22nd 7:15 PM Wine and Cheese Reception for Prospective Members 8:00 PM Shabbat Service* (oneg to follow)
Prospective & New Member** Brunch Sunday, August 24th 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Join us for brunch and learn more about our Religious School, Early Childhood Education Center and our many worship and social opportunities. Bring the kids! *Babysitting available by reservation
** New Members since January 2014 If you have friends or family seeking a new spiritual home, please call the office and we will send them information on these events.
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Now there is a whole new way to stay connected to the Jewish Community See page 11 for details
Adult Learning Opportunities I am a believer that we all have a desire to continue our own growth as human beings, to make our personal journeys meaningful. But I also see that we are pulled in many directions that often distract us from the experiences we would like to have.
the TBT Library; and 9/14 (Chapters 6-10) from 10 -11:30 am at the Coleman Village Starbucks at 930 Marietta Hwy. Our discussion leader will be Cindy Getty. This book is available from Amazon as a hardcover or on Kindle. For more information or with questions contact Cindy at eeg@comcast.net
I would like to encourage you this year to try something that perhaps will be new. The idea of a “class” doesn’t really describe what it is that we do when we offer our adult learning opportunities. When I think of a class, I think of a school setting where information is being shared and we take the data.
September 20 at 9:00 pm – Selichot are “penitential prayers” (prayers asking for forgiveness). We call the Saturday night prior to Rosh Hashanah Selichot as a special day. Before our brief, late night service that includes changing the covers of our Torah scrolls, we learn about the themes of the Days of Awe – why are they so holy, ideas of teshuvah/turning and acts of atonement, and prepare our hearts for the Days of Awe later that week.
Our adult learning “classes” are really opportunities to have our own encounters with our own faith tradition’s ideas and values. We meet others within our community to become familiar with traditions, to learn about ideas from texts, but ultimately, they are New: On Yom Kippur, after the Late Service (of our Morning challenges to be better, to do better, and to be inspired to try Services), we will have a conversation on Forgiveness with a harder. very special panel. Cindy Getty will be moderating and participating, so will Rick Winer, a psychiatrist and our Gabbai. I love learning together because there is an intimacy that we can More to be confirmed. Watch for details. get with other people that draws us closer to one another. And yes, it draws many of us closer to God. As Rabbi Chananya ben What else is in store? We are planning to continue our Teradyon teaches: “When two sit together and exchange words of partnership with the The Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Torah, then the Divine Presence dwells with them.” (Pirkei Avot Learning through the Brill Institute at the MJCCA (Monday 3:2) It isn’t just about the learning that brings God’s Presence nights). We are organizing our Women’s Study Group that will closer… it is the sharing, it is the openness to new ideas, it is the meet monthly. Rabbi Donald Tam, our Rabbi Emeritus, Cantor closeness we can have with another person to help us grow. Kassel and I will be announcing our classes shortly. We owe When we engage in real relationships that aren’t hierarchical, but great thanks to Cindy Getty, our chair of adult education, for communal, then we invite God to be a part of them. That has putting all of these pieces together. You can contact Cindy always moved me when I teach… because I receive at least as directly with any question or if you would like to get involved at much as I give from those who are learners with me. eeg@comcast.net. So here is the pitch… Try it. Let us know if you’d like to attend May this year not only be a great year of learning, but one where a class by sending an email to rsvp@bethtikvah.com. We have an we permit ourselves to return to our truest Selves – seekers who abundance of opportunities. Here are just a few: are journeying towards truth, contentment and meaning. Monday, August 4 at 7:30 pm Join me in the Library to mark Tisha B’av, the 9 th Day of Av, which marks the Destruction of the First and Second Holy Temples in Jerusalem. We will explore its meaning in Jewish history and its meaning for Reform Jews today.
Rabbi Fred Greene
Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 pm I will be leading a session on “Preparing Your Hearts for the Days of Awe.” What do we need to do to show up on Rosh Hashanah ready for atonement and healing? Sundays, August 24 and September 14 at 10:00 am Let's explore the Days of Awe together! We will have a book discussion about the book: This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared: The Days of Awe as a Journey of Transformation by Alan Lew. From Tisha B'Av to Rosh Hashana to Yom Kippur to Sukkot, we will journey together and emerge fresh and whole again. Meeting dates: 8/24 (Chapters 1-5) from 10-11:30a m in
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News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Notes from Cantor Kassel There are times when certain topics tend to surface around you for a period of time, and perhaps that is a sign to pay attention. Back in June I had the opportunity to share words at Erev Shabbat services – about the protest against commencement speakers and the controversy surrounding a particular opera (“The Death of Klinghoffer”) whose subject matter could potentially be perceived as anti-Semitic. In both areas, there was an underlying theme of keeping an open mind to the perceptions and understandings of ‘others’, all the more so when those understandings differ from those of your own. In Pirkei Avot 5:17 (from the Mishna) we are taught: An argument (machlochet) which is for the sake of Heaven, its end will endure, but one that is not for the sake of Heaven, its end will not endure. What is an argument for the sake of Heaven? The arguments of Hillel and Shammai. And one that is not for the sake of Heaven? The arguments of Korach and his company. Both Hillel and Shammai lived during the reign of King Herod (37-4 BCE) which was an oppressive period in Jewish history because of the Roman occupation of Palestine. Shammai tended to be more strict with his interpretation of Jewish law and Hillel tended to be more liberal. The Rabbis of the Talmud generally sided with the rulings of the School of Hillel, but the Sages believed that both views were valid. When asking ourselves whether or not our own arguments are for the sake of Heaven, we have to take a closer look at our motives: are they in pursuit of an enduring truth (as we understand it) or in pursuit of some temporal power? Admittedly, this is not always an easy question to answer. As we head back into a new school year….. which corresponds to the most active months at Temple Beth Tikvah, may we be courageous enough to more honestly examine the motives behind our goals and more carefully consider the sphere’s of influence in our paths. May we open our eyes and hearts to learn from one another even when our respective experiences lead us to different understandings and conclusions. B’Shalom,
Cantor Nancy Kassel
Educator’s Message We are just around the corner from beginning the new religious school year. The first day of Sunday school will be September 7th. This summer has truly flown by and we have been very busy planning for the new school year. We have registered students, ordered books and classroom supplies and planned special activities. Our teachers have worked on lesson planning along with other aspects of preparing for the beginning of school. The religious school wing has new floors in the lobby and office area. There are lots of freshly painted halls and classrooms. Our media center has been updated with new computers and furniture. We have about 93% of our previous students already registered. Thank you to those families who have sent your registration forms and tuition in thus far. Getting your forms in early helps us immensely in the planning process. If you have not sent your registration form and tuition to the office, please do so promptly. This is the only way we can make sure your child will be placed in his/her appropriate class and have the necessary books on the first day of school. Open house for 3rd – 6th grade will take place on Tuesday, September 23rd. Open House for K – 2nd and 7th grades will take place on Sunday, September 28th. A note to our parents of post B’nai Mitzvah age children (8th through 12th), please remember to enroll your child in our Kesher, Confirmation and Kivuinim programs. These programs are a continuation of your child’s Jewish education after their seventh grade year. The forms are available on our website (www.bethtikvah.com). Your post B’nai Mitzvah children are also eligible to become Madrichim (Teacher Aides) this year. If they are interested please call the religious school office at 770-642-4168 to discuss. Have a wonderful and relaxing rest of the summer. We are looking forward to seeing all of our students’ smiling faces in September. Shalom,
Hassia Levin 3
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Why Is Synagogue Membership Important? With the New Year just around the corner, I wanted to share with you some of the pros and cons of synagogue membership. For me, this says it all. It convincingly states the importance of synagogue affiliation. Yes, I am biased on this topic and I suspect you may be tired of hearing me talk about it. One of the fixed items in our household budget has always been synagogue membership even when we were younger and struggling to make ends meet. We no longer need it for religious school education or B’nai Mitzvah tutoring. So, why is synagogue membership still important to my family?
6. I have people with whom to learn. There is no substitute for a community when doing Jewish learning: it just does not work alone. I have a committee that provides these opportunities for me so that I just choose what I like and show up. 7. I know that by supporting this synagogue, I am contributing to the future of Judaism in my area. Even though my kids are grown, other children will be learning about Judaism at our synagogue. Couples will get married. Funerals will be held. Celebrations will happen, holidays will be observed. Last, but far from least: By being a part of a synagogue, I keep Judaism going.
Let me count the pros… 1. I have a Rabbi and Cantor on call should I need them. I like knowing that if I have a big decision to make, there’s someone grounded in the tradition with whom I can talk it through. I like knowing that if something bad happens, especially if it’s unexpected, all members of my family will be free to call on the clergy for support and guidance. I don’t want to be looking for a Rabbi during a crisis in my life. And, at that time, I want someone I KNOW to be there for me.
Now for the cons of synagogue membership: Yes, it costs money. Everything worth having does. Having that Rabbi and Cantor on call, staffing the office, and maintaining a building all cost a lot of money.
2. I have a community. I don’t love everything about our community, or everyone in our community, but it is MY community, people who know who I am and with whom I navigate life. If I am looking for a plumber, or a doctor, or a real estate agent, everyone has a recommendation. If I have something to celebrate, they will care. If something bad happens, they’ll care. I am not anonymous here.
As I said, not everyone at my synagogue is my best friend. Sometimes there is conflict. There might be a few people who drive me a little nuts. To be fair, I probably drive them a little nuts, too. Just ask Leslie. Yes, I am asked to volunteer and give money. I am free to say no if I am unable to do something or it just doesn’t move me.
3. I benefit from Kehillat Chesed, our Caring Community. When my mother-in- law died, we received calls, letters and a lovely book to help us through this difficult time. There were plenty of congregants there to make a minyan at our Shiva service.
I don’t agree with the way everything is done by the synagogue. I get to state my opinion, but majority rules. My opinion might count a little more since I actively participate in the Board discussions – that’s my choice. Paying your Nadiv Lev commitment dues is just the beginning. To really get the full benefit of synagogue membership, you need to invest time and heart. Synagogue membership is not cheap. It costs money, time and heart. Sometimes it is aggravating. But for me, for my family, it is totally worth it. It keeps me centered.
4. I have somewhere to develop and use my talents as a volunteer. This goes for small stuff, like bringing food to potlucks, and to larger things as well. I could sing in the choir IF only I could sing. I do get some appreciation for the things I do from time to time, and that’s nice too. I also learn about Social Action opportunities, and have a ready-made group of people with whom to pursue those.
I hope you feel the same. We are very grateful that you have chosen Temple Beth Tikvah as your spiritual home. We appreciate your generous support and commitment. Thank YOU for being a part of our community and may we continue to share in the opportunity of supporting our synagogue TOGETHER.
5. I have a minyan with whom to pray. Jews engage in private prayer, but there are some kinds of prayer for which we need a minyan of at least 10 Jewish adults. I have felt enormous strength from having my community around me when I pray.
L’Shalom
Ron Swichkow
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Early Childhood Education Center It happens every year. Sometimes early in August, sometimes later in August. But it happens. Teachers prepare and prepare, and it comes and goes really quickly. Parents are excited, children are nervous and classrooms are ready. It’s the first day of school. And although we do it every year, each year it is a new experience. In preschool, the first day of school can bring out an array of emotions. Parents are excited that their “baby” is growing up and able to experience school, but are also nervous that their “baby” is growing up and able to experience school! Children are apprehensive and scared, but also intrigued by all of the new experiences they see. And teachers….well, teachers are filled with every emotion possible! To make the first day of preschool a little easier on all involved, here are a few suggestions: Meet the teacher: If possible, take your child to a Meet the Teacher program or Open House and let her play on the playground before school starts. Play dates: Try to enroll her in a class where she already knows some of the other children. If that’s not possible, ask if you can have the class list before your child starts school. You could offer to make your email available to the other parents so that you can arrange a play date before school begins. Perhaps several play dates can be arranged or you will meet someone who would like to exchange play time. Don’t be shy. The children will benefit from seeing a friendly face the first day of class. Practice separation: Leave your child with others for short lengths of time so that they know you will return. Backpack and lunchbox: Before school starts, help her be excited about starting school by empowering her to pick out a backpack. If she is staying all day, she’ll need a lunchbox. Keep in mind everything you have to fit in these items. In her backpack she may need pulls-ups, a special blankie or stuffed animal.. You may need to put an ice pack in her lunchbox. Fill it with food you know she already likes. Independent skills: If your child is staying all day, ask her to help you prepare her lunch. She can stand next to you on a stool while you give her choices such as grapes or raisins, Grape or Strawberry Jello, and orange or apple juice. That way, she’ll feel like she has some control and will also begin to understand what is really happening that day. Focus on your child: Make the whole experience as fun as possible. Give your child your full attention on the way to school. Phone calls can wait. Tell her stories about when you were a little girl and how much you liked school. Sing songs. Try a spin-off version of “If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands”. Make it, “If you’re excited to go to school, clap your hands!” Be excited, smile a lot, and be happy for her. Communicate: Tell her it is okay to be afraid, but that there are always adults to help her and she can ask for help anytime. Promise her that you will pick her up in a few hours or after a certain activity at school – like when the teacher sings a certain song or reads the last book of the day. Don’t linger: When it’s time for drop-off, keep your goodbyes short, sweet and simple. Take advantage of carpool opportunities. Give her a quick hug, tell her how much you love her, and leave her in the hands of the capable teacher. Even if she’s crying hysterically, she will likely only cry for a few minutes once you’re out of sight. But if you linger, the crying will probably last longer. Trust in the fact that your child is in good hands, and any crying or not wanting to go to school will soon taper off. Remember that time is the key to building any good relationship! Be calm, supportive and positive and your child (and you) will have a wonderful school year! See you on August 18! Jenifer Friedman
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B’nai Mitzvah Ian Matthew Staviss will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 9, 2014. Ian is the son of Susan & Richard, and brother to Samantha. Ian is on the Principal’s Honor Roll at Simpson Middle School and is a first chair violist in the school orchestra. He expresses his creative side by building, designing and redesigning in Lego and Minecraft, and was invited to be in a high school credited art class in 8th grade. Ian volunteers for the Family Promise program and the office at TBT. Ian is excited to be on the men’s D-squad of the Atlanta Junior Rowing Association this coming fall. He is a good and caring friend and will always stand up for those who are bullied. Ian is excited to become a Bar Mitzvah and share his celebration with family & friends. Lily Anne Peters will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on August 9, 2014. Lily is the daughter of Kimberly and Bradley Peters, and sister to Emma and Molly. Lily Attends Dodgen Middle School , where she is a Principal’s honor roll student. She enjoys dancing ballet at Dance Stop Studios, as well as playing the piano. Lily love to spend time with her friends here in the Atlanta area and at her summer home at Camp Barney Medintz. Lily volunteer activities include, feeding the homeless at a local shelter, visiting the elderly at a local nursing home, as well as helping out at Temple Beth Tikvah. Lily plans to volunteer again this year at Ruach Atlanta Relay for Life to Benefit the American Cancer Society. Lily is looking forward to sharing her Bat Mitzvah with her family, friends , and synagogue community. Edward Vito Vitulli will be called to Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 16, 2014. He is the son of Anthony and Ellisa and the brother to Elizabeth. His grandparents are Paul and Diane Genter. Edward is in the 8th grade at Dickerson Middle School where he participates in the band. He also plays travel baseball for the East Side Heat. When he's not busy with baseball, he swims year round.
Morgan Pickett will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on August 16, 2014. Morgan is the daughter of Jason and Melanie Pickett and the sister of Garrett and Tessa. She will be in the 8th grade at Elkins Pointe Middle School where she participates in Science Olympiad. She also plays soccer, is an avid reader, and continues on a path towards astrophysics.
Spencer Mathew Berman will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 23, 2014. Spencer is the son of Andrea and Josh Berman and brother to Sammy and Austin. He is the grandson of Evelyn and Fredley Berman and Harriette and Mark Becker, all of Aventura, Florida. He attends Dickerson Middle School and will be entering the 8 th grade. Spencer is an avid baseball player and plays on a year round travel team. He enjoys playing the trumpet as part of the jazz band at Dickerson. Spencer is looking forward to this special day as he has learned quite a bit about family, faith and community through the many mitzvah projects he has done in preparing to become a Bar Mitzvah. Reece Weiner will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 23, 2014. Reece is the son of Ellen and Robert Weiner and brother to Jason. Reece is in the 8th grade at Hopewell Middle School where he participates in Spanish Club and the “WEB” mentoring program. His hobbies include baseball and taekwondo. He also enjoys playing video games, all types of sports and hanging out with friends. In the process of becoming Bar Mitzvah, Reece participated in various volunteer organizations including the Miracle League baseball program. Patti Tropauer will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on August 30, 2014. Patti is the daughter of Mike and Debbie Tropauer and the sister to Charlie and Ellie. She is the granddaughter of Linda Kappel, Steve and Ellen Kappel, and Eileen Tropauer all of Atlanta, and of the late Alan and Patricia Tropauer. Patti is in the 7 th grade at Crabapple Middle School where she is an Honor Roll student. Patti loves soccer and plays for Roswell Santos.
Charlie Tropauer will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 30, 2014. Charlie is the son of Mike and Debbie Tropauer and the brother to Patti and Ellie. He is the grandson of Linda Kappel, Steve and Ellen Kappel, and Eileen Tropauer all of Atlanta, and of the late Alan and Patricia Tropauer. Charlie is in the 7 th grade at Crabapple Middle School where he is an Honor Roll student. Charlie loves watching and playing soccer. He plays soccer for Roswell Santos.
Ellie Tropauer will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on August 30, 2014. Ellie is the daughter of Mike and Debbie Tropauer and the sister to Charlie and Patti. She is the granddaughter of Linda Kappel, Steve and Ellen Kappel, and Eileen Tropauer all of Atlanta and of the late Alan and Patricia Tropauer. Ellie is in the 7th grade at Crabapple Middle School where she is a member of the chorus. Ellie performs with the Roswell Showstoppers musical theater group and enjoys dancing and singing.
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
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LET’S EXPLORE THE DAYS OF AWE TOGETHER! Monday, August 4 at 7:30 pm in the oneg room – Join Rabbi Greene to mark Tisha B’av, the 9th Day of Av, which marks the Destruction of the First and Second Holy Temples in Jerusalem. We will explore its meaning in Jewish history and its meaning for Reform Jews today. Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 pm in the library – Rabbi Greene will be leading a session on “Preparing Your Hearts for the Days of Awe.” What do we need to do to show up on Rosh Hashanah ready for atonement and healing? September 20 at 9:00 pm – Selichot are “penitential prayers” (prayers asking for forgiveness). We call the Saturday night prior to Rosh Hashanah Selichot as a special day. Before our brief, late night service that includes changing the covers of our Torah scrolls, we learn about the themes of the Days of Awe – why are they so holy, ideas of teshuvah/turning and acts of atonement, and prepare our hearts for the Days of Awe later that week. We will have a book discussion about the book: This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared: The Days of Awe as a Journey of Transformation by Alan Lew. From Tisha B'Av to Rosh Hashana to Yom Kippur to Sukkot, we will journey together and emerge fresh and whole again. Sunday, August 24 from 10 am - 11:30 am in the library. Chapters 1-5 Sunday, September 14 from 10 am - 11:30 am at the Coleman Village Starbucks at 930 Marietta Highway in Roswell. Chapters 6-10 Discussion leader: Cindy Getty. This book is available from Amazon as a hardcover or on Kindle. For more information contact Cindy at eeg@comcast.net
Second Night Seder 2015 Thank you to all our Family Promise volunteers! You have once again outdone yourself by showing up to prepare & serve meals, make beds, wash sheets, sweep floors ... you name it! You have made a difference in the lives of many and provided an inspiring model of community service to your children.
Saturday April 4, 2015
Thank you for your responses to our survey on 2nd Night Seder! This seems to be something that many of you would like to attend at Temple Beth Tikvah so...
Our next host dates are August 24-31 — the last session for 2014. Sign up today at http://vols.pt/VfFMHn Act fast - spots fill up quickly! For details contact Jeanne Schultz at 678-938-1302.
Save the Date
Join the JYG Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.JYG/) to stay up -to-date on what's happening and to RSVP and help arrange carpools for events!
and look for more information in future issues!
Want more info about HOTTY or JYG? Contact Adam or Bobbee at: youth@bethtikvah.com or (404) 228–2494.
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
JF&CS - Transitions
Memorial Plaques
How to Transition to College
Memorial plaques are a beautiful way to honor the memory of a loved one. Your loved one’s plaque will be lit up on the anniversary of their passing and at Yizkor services.
Your adult — yes, adult — child is off to college and on his or her own probably for the first time. There are some things every 18year-old should know how to do: laundry, study without prompting and ultimately take responsibility for him or herself. Parents need to learn this too. It can be hard learning not to be a crutch to lean on in every difficult situation.
With the High Holy Days approaching, we want to make sure we receive your order in time.
This is especially true in the age of cell phones. It is so easy for “Jill” to call or text you to ask what to do in any situation. But which is more beneficial — to let her make her own decisions or to make them for her?
The ordering deadline to receive plaques in time for Yom Kippur is August 6 The price of a plaque is $300. If you have any questions or would like to order a plaque, please contact Lisa in the synagogue office at 770-642-0434 or send an email to lisa@bethtikvah.com.
Then there is the world of social media. When “Jon” is sitting at his computer doing work, it is tempting to check out what others are doing. So it’s important for him to learn how to organize himself and manage his time amid all this technology. Living in the dorm, “Anna” will learn there is a lot going on — all of it way better than studying! If she doesn’t learn how to manage her priorities, achieving success will be hard. What can parents do? Encourage college-bound children to be wise about their independence. Help them gain the skills they need to succeed. Teach them self-reliance. And remember adjustment to college takes time. Be patient. Things will fall into place! For more information on Child & Adolescent Services – Tools for Families, visit ytfl.org/families
Breast Cancer Survivor Group for the Jewish Community
EXPERIENCE
Come join our support 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.
Friday, September 5 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
Monthly meetings will resume in September
"CREATIVE JEWISH PROGRAMMING" (children ages Pre-K thru 2nd grade)
This survivor support group is sponsored by The Kehillat Chesed/Caring Committee of Temple Beth Tikvah
NO COST BUT
For further information or questions, please contact Valerie Rapowitz at vrapowitzslp@yahoo.com or call 678-643-9672.
RESERVATIONS REQUESTED
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
August TBT Happenings Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday 1
Saturday 2
NO SERVICE AT TBT TONIGHT
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am - 10:00 am in Oneg Room
Reform Movement Shabbat 6:30 pm at The Temple
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4 Tishah B'Av Families Anonymous 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Oneg Room
5 Tishah B'Av
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Tai Chi 9:30 am 10:30 am in Oneg Room
8 BOE Planning Meeting 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm in RS Office
Shabbat Service 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in Sanctuary
9 Shabbat Service 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm in Sanctuary
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am - 10:00 am in Oneg Room
Shabbat Service Staviss Bar Mitzvah 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in Sanctuary
Explore the Meaning of Tisha B'av 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm in Library
Peters Bat Mitzvah (Mincha service) 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm in Alterman Chapel 10 Endowment Fund Meeting 10:30 am 11:30 am in RS Office
11 Families Anonymous 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Oneg Room
12 Tai Chi 9:30 am 10:30 am in Oneg Room
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Committee Chair Meeting 7:15 pm 9:30 pm in Social Hall
Ruach Relay for Life Meeting 7:00 pm 8:30 pm in Library
Choir Rehearsal 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Sanctuary
15 HOTTY Board Retreat
HOTTY Board Retreat
ECEC Meet & Greet 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in RS Wing
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am - 10:00 am in Oneg Room
Membership - BBQ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm in Outside (or Social Hall if raining)
Camp Style Blue Jean Shabbat Service 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm in Alterman Chapel 17
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HOTTY Board Retreat
ECEC First Day of School
TBT Board Retreat 8:30 am - 4:00 pm in Offsite
Families Anonymous 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Oneg Room
19 Tai Chi 9:30 am 10:30 am in Oneg Room
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Religious School Madrichim Meeting 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm in RS Lobby
Choir Rehearsal 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Sanctuary
Preparing Your Hearts for the Days of Awe 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm in Oneg Room
Board of Trustees Meeting 7:30 pm 10:00 pm in Social Hall
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Family Promise
Family Promise
Family Promise
ATID 9:30 am - 11:45 am in Oneg Room
Families Anonymous 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Oneg Room
Tai Chi 9:30 am 10:30 am in Oneg Room
Social Action New Committee Member Meeting 6:30 pm 7:30 pm in Library
Book Discussion on the Days of Awe 10:00 am - 11:30 am in Library Membership Prospective Member Brunch 10:00 am in Social Hall
Kesher - Journey throught Kesher 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Upstairs Assembly Room
Religious School Teachers Meeting 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm in RS Lobby
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Choir Rehearsal 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm in Sanctuary
Family Promise
Shabbat Service Vitulli/Pickett B'nai Mitzvah 10:00 am 12:00 pm in Sanctuary
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ECEC Welcome Back Parents Breakfast 9:30 am - 10:30 am in Social Hall
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am - 10:00 am in Oneg Room
Membership - Open Door Shabbat Wine & Cheese 7:30 pm 8:00 pm in Lobby
Shabbat Service Berman/Weiner B'nai Mitzvah 10:00 am 12:00 pm in Sanctuary
Shabbat Service 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm in Sanctuary
Family Promise
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Family Promise
Family Promise
Shabbat Service 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm in Sanctuary
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am - 10:00 am in RS Lobby
Shabbat Service Tropauer B'nai Mitzvah 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in Sanctuary
Officers Meeting 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm in RS Office
31 Family Promise
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE MEMBERS WANTED!!
Welcome to the TBT Family!!
In an effort to reinvigorate the Social Action Committee, we will be holding a new committee member meeting and discussion on August 27th at 6:30 PM.
Michael and Audrey Gordon Rachel Cohen Jared and Jill Marber Lawrence and Lauren Cooper
The objective is to lay out a new plan and objectives for the committee, and to bring some passionate individuals together to enhance our Social Action efforts within TBT and the community at large. Monday, August 4th between 4:00 PM & 7:00 PM Menchies at Sweetapple 12030 Etris Road, Suite C
Please RSVP to Darrin Cohen at dcohen@wealthofga.com if you are interested in attending or for more information.
Join us at Menchies and help win the fight against cancer! Menchies will donate a percentage of ALL proceeds between those hours!
Temple Beth Tikvah would like to congratulate all of our graduates. We wish you the best of luck as you move forward to the next phase of your life, be it college or career. Mazel Tov! Jennifer Fine - University of Alabama Ellen Fine - University of Alabama .
Please provide the college outreach committee your rising freshman's name and college address once available. TBT would like to maintain contact them while they're away from home. Please send the information to Lynda Bennett at lrbennett08@comcast.net or Ginger Glazer at ggchoc@bellsouth.net
College Outreach Committee We Want you! If your child will be a freshman attending college this fall or you currently have a student attending college, please contact us with their college mailing address (& e-mail if possible) as soon as it becomes available. We would like to send them a care package around the holidays to let them know they’re being thought of by the Beth Tikvah community. Even if we already have an address for your student, we need confirmation of their current address. If you would like to donate to the cause either monetarily or with small items to be included in the packages, we would greatly accept the contributions. Our contact information is Lynda Bennett (lrbennet08@comcast.net) or Ginger Glazer (ggchoc@bellsouth.net) 10
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
The Beth Tikvah Board of Trustees has voted to participate in a new innovative and exciting Jewish social media tool called GrapeVine, sponsored in part by the Jewish Federation of Atlanta. Several other congregations in Atlanta are participating in this pilot. Currently, GrapeVine has 56,000 individuals from 341 participating organizations in New York, Portland (OR), Rhode Island, Los Angeles and Chicago. We believe this social media tool offers our congregants another avenue to stay connected to the community by receiving tailored information about upcoming events. GrapeVine will provide our synagogue with the opportunity to share information about our own events with a wider audience, and increase our visibility to the Jewish community at large. If you choose to participate, based on a user profile that you personalize, GrapeVine provides you with customized recommendations right to your inbox, your browser and/or to your mobile device! You will not be flooded with emails but you will receive a weekly email about the Jewish events in Atlanta based on your personal interests. GrapeVine has asked Temple Beth Tikvah to provide a list of adult member names, street addresses and email addresses (and no other information) to facilitate the sign up process. Unless you have already been contacted and are already a GrapeVine user, GrapeVine will use this list to contact you directly by email, providing you with an explanation of their program and the opportunity to sign up to receive customized information about events that may interest you. We value the privacy of our members and will not provide your name and address to GrapeVine if you object. If you do not want to be on the GrapeVine communications list, please let us know by August 12 by clicking here and adding "Do Not Include Me in GrapeVine" to the subject line. If you choose to participate and/or don't respond to this opt-out invitation, you always have the ability to opt out once you receive any GrapeVine communications. GrapeVine will not sell, share or disclose submitted information. TBT has a written agreement with GrapeVine that protects our members' information. Please click here to read the privacy agreement. The Board believes this program is worthwhile in building community and connectivity for all of our members and will help us increase the level of engagement of our members in a variety of events, both at Temple Beth Tikvah and in the community. The Board also believes GrapeVine could provide another way for prospective TBT families to find us and learn more about our community. We hope you will agree to participate.
Ron Swichkow
Mark Rudel
President
Membership Co-chair and GrapeVine Coordinator
Click on this
image for more info about GrapeVine
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Donations Annual Campaign Jason and Melanie Pickett in memory of Abree Pickett Stan Reich in memory of Paula Baer and Maurice Reich Sandy and Nancy Simon in memory of Ruth Berney Arnold and Ellen Bernstein in memory of Frances and Louis Stein and Miriam Bernstein Sandy and Nancy Simon in memory of Gloria Paul Dale and Wendy Bearman in memory of Leo Ebstein Building Fund Steven & Linda Steinberg in memory of Herbert Steinberg Shari Alhadeff and Sheila Freed in memory of Esther Kirchheimer Campership/Israel Fund Addie Myers in honor of the marriage of Lois Clymin's grandson, Steven Rudel, to Miss Emily McManus Charlotte Fleisher in memory of Milton Charyn Hadley and Lisa Lowy in memory of Harry Lowy and Richard Cooper Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund Bernard and Susan Greenberg in appreciation of Cantor Kassel Steven & Janice Liederman in memory of Pauline Liederman Jason and Melanie Pickett in memory of Abree Pickett David and Mindy Ellin in appreciation of Cantor Kassel Paul and Anne Beckman in memory of Seymour 'Sy' Davis Harvey and Natine Rosenzweig Ilene Monat in honor of Zachary and Caryn's wedding Carol Shutzberg in honor of the marriage of Steve Rudel to Emily McManus Ed and Cindy Getty in honor of Jon's Bar Mitzvah Mark, Gail, Jeff and Steven Rudel in appreciation and in honor of Emily McManus Rudel's Bet Din Suzanne Sacks in honor of Ilana Sacks' Bat Mitzvah Adele Toltzis in memory of Harriette Seifstein Steven and Amy Fine in memory of Marvin Fine Steven and Amy Fine in memory of Flora Fine Richard and Naomi Binenfeld in appreciation of Cantor Kassel Rosalind Taranto in memory of Molly Pomerance Schneider Laura Aven in appreciation of Cantor Kassel Caring/Kehillat Chesed Fund Addie Myers in memory of Ida Elkin Bachman Gail Natter in memory of Cydel Feldser Fred and Patricia Landsberg Ruth Zeidman in honor of the marriage of Lois Clymin's grandson, Steven Rudel to Emily McManus Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz in memory of Jack Stieglitz The Aviv Chavurah wishing Fred Warshofsky a speedy recovery Walter and Esther Shultz in honor of Myra Idol The Aviv Chavurah wishing Allan Shippel a speedy recovery Walter and Esther Shultz in honor of Ian Staviss on his Bar Mitzvah and in memory of Saul Plotkin Fred and Patricia Landsberg in memory of Shelley Gaegner Robert and Cindy Goldstein in memory of Phillip Kaplan Douglas Wexler in memory of Marion Wexler Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz in memory of Sarah Stieglitz Endowment Campaign Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger in honor of grandson, Aaron Cooper's graduation from The DePaul University Law School Rory and Jenifer Friedman in honor of the marriage of Micah and Jenny Blechner
General Fund Arthur Gittelman and Marcia Pearl in memory of Ruth Gittelman Starrett Shirley Crawford Richard and Cathy Gross in memory of Wilbur Gross Jerry and Marcy Kaufman in memory of Max Kaufman Shirley Crawford Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz in memory of Ann Efruss Harlan & Ivie Graiser — in memory of Bernard Berger and Marilyn Narduzzi Mazel Tov to Ilene Monat on Zach and Caryn's marriage Mazel Tov to Sheryl Belchner on the marriage of Micah Blechner and Jenny Gurman Michael Braun in memory of Paul Braun Marvin and Trudy Davis in memory of Sam Davis Sherwin and Judee Levinson in memory of Shelley J. Birkner Michael Zalkin Memorial Library Fund Jay and Lois Barcus in memory of Leo Wixman Mark, Gail, Jeff and Steven Rudel in appreciation of Rabbi Tam and in honor of Emily McManus Rudel's Bet Din Bruce and Bonnie Walkes in memory of Bessie Wixman and Leo Wixman Prayerbook Fund Mark and Sally Vosk in memory of Sy Davis Clifford Weiss in memory of Fred and Annette Knieberg Kenneth and Helene Skolky in memory of Dora Breines Preschool Fund David and Jenny Korsen in honor of Jamie Jaffe's 40th birthday Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund Bernard and Susan Greenberg in honor of the wedding of Bradley Dannenbaum and Jenna Greenberg David and Mindy Ellin in appreciation of Rabbi Greene Lois Clymin in honor of Carol Shutzberg's special birthday Jerome and Margie Cohen in memory of Minnie Friedman Paul and Anne Beckman in memory of Seymour 'Sy' Davis Ilene Monat in honor of Zachary and Caryn's wedding Tom and Patti Seibold in memory of Maxine Gelb Kurtz David and Robin Bledsoe in memory of Morris Raiken Ed and Cindy Getty in honor of Jon's Bar Mitzvah David & Marci Slotin in memory of Marian Birlant Slotin and Larry R. Bernstein Mark, Gail, Jeff and Steven Rudel in appreciation of Rabbi Greene's guidance of Emily McManus Rudel's conversion and Bet Din Suzanne Sacks in honor of Ilana Sacks' Bat Mitzvah Audrey Eisen in memory of Jerry Liroff Michael and Wanda Cohen in memory of Seymour Cohen Howard and Helaine Medoff in honor of Steven and Emily Rudel's wedding David and Robin Bledsoe in memory of Ruthann Raiken Mariann Mamberg in memory of Lola Mamberg Families Anonymous in honor of Rabbi Greene Seth and Ellen Zimmer in memory of Eddie Gralnick Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund Barry & Robin Riegelhaupt in memory of Oscar Brandes Paul and Anne Beckman in memory of Seymour 'Sy' Davis Ed and Cindy Getty in memory of Ella Goldstein Marvin Davis in memory of Pauline Davis Martin & Fern Soniker in memory of Ida Soniker Steve and RoseAnn Gerson Jane Greenberger in memory of Frank Greenberger (see next page) 12
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
SHMOOZE NEWS / KUDOS CORNER
In Memorium Temple Beth Tikvah acknowledges with sorrow the passing of:
Thank You to our Amazing Office Volunteers!
Marilyn Anzellotti Narduzzi Mother of Lisa Lowy
June Wallach
Helen Berman Grandmother of Marla Ramaglia
Addie Myers
Carol Tolchinsky Mother of Ben Tolchinsky
Susan & Richard Staviss
Ian Staviss Abby and Evan Friedman Walt and Esther Shultz Kathy Rieter Pat Landsberg Benjamin, Jacob and Samuel Rockaway
Saul Plotkin Husband of Shirley Plotkin George Stern Stepfather of Jay Sausmer Stanford Shulman Father of Gail Frank
Beth Janes Curtis Gropman Ellisa Vitulli Robyn Shippel Zach Povlot Michelle Gurin Jeff Schultz Ellen Weiner Terry Stein Please call us if you are interested in helping with a project in the office as we always need helpers!
Betty Arogeti Mother of Jack Arogeti
Gail and Mark Rudel, and Lois Clymin on the marriage of their son and grandson, Steven, to Emily McManus on June 7, 2014.
May God console you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Sheryl Blechner on the marriage of her son, Micah, to Jenny Gurman on June 14, 2014.
(continued from page 12) Religious School Fund Amira Nachman Hal and Jill Leitman Andrew Schwartz and Danielle Levy
The Monat Family on the marriage of Zach to Caryn Ellin. Alice and Sam Herndon on the upcoming marriage of their son, Adam, to Megan Burke.
Tikkun Olam Fund June Wallach in honor of the marriage of Lois Clymin's grandson, Steven Rudel, to Emily McManus Lionel Stutz in honor of June Wallach's 82nd birthday
Rachel Cohen on the birth of son, Christopher Wayne Battles, Jr., and to Rachel’s Mom and Stepdad, Terry and Gene Carasick.
Torah Fund Morray and Susan Scheinfeld in memory of Paul and Joan Barton Morray and Susan Scheinfeld in memory of Carolyn Besser Ira and Phyllis Madans in memory of Esther Grosswald
HELP US HELP YOU
Youth Group Fund Walter and Esther Shultz in honor of their grandsons all making honor roll at Crabapple Middle School Stanley and Bobbie Kopkin in memory of Dave Kopkin
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.
Honor a person or event with a leaf on our tree of life. You can purchase a 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 open 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 Marsha Mathis marmat0915@yahoo.com Family Promise Andy Fried andyf17@gmail.com Jeff Schultz asburypark@comcast.net Fundraising Jonathan Agin jlagin1@gmail.com House Ted Nathan tnathan@baldwinscheduling.com
Human Resources Seth Zimmer sz4941@att.com Interior Standards & Marketing Susan Estroff sestroff@earthlink.net Israel Gene Carasick gcarasick@gmail.com Kehillat Chesed (Caring) Leslie Swichkow lswichkow@comcast.net Library Ilana Zalkin ilanaz@earthlink.net Membership Recruitment & Retention Mark Rudel mrudel@ups.com Jill Leitman jaarons2@yahoo.com Marcia Pearl marciapearl@bellsouth.net Men’s Club Mark Greenspan greenspanfamily@bellsouth.net Peter Hartog althazyr@bellsouth.net
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Nominating Committee Sheryl Blechner ssb1951@gmail.com Ritual Esther Shultz savtaesther5@gmail.com Security Jay Sausmer jsausmer@gmail.com Seniors Natine Rosenzweig rosen4348@aol.com Sisterhood Stacy Chambers scham31477@aol.com Robin Bledsoe dbledsoe@gsu.edu Social Action Darrin Cohen dcohen@wealthofga.com Website Development Scott Povlot spovlot@yahoo.com Bram Bessoff bram@soundart.us 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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