December 2013 • Volume 28 • Issue 11
A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition
NFTY-SAR Fall Kallah a Huge Success!
טו בשבט Tu B’Shvat New Year of the Trees! January 11, 2014 Join us for the seder you probably never heard of ! Celebrate the environment and appreciate the fruits of the Land of Israel.
Who Family Event For All Ages
Don’t BE a Turkey - DONATE One! Our Annual Turkey Drive Continues Through December! Your $10 can make a world of difference to a hungry family!
What Havdalah and Tu B’Shvat Seder When 5:30 PM—7:30 PM Where TBT Social Hall
Please bring your own Israeli wine & a dish to share. We will provide dairy main course. Last name beginning in: A –M Salad or Vegetables N - Z Dessert RSVP at www.bethtikvah.com Sign up for events
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Wednesday December 4, 2013 6:45 @ Temple Kol Emeth
Temple Beth Tikvah joins with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and neighboring synagogues to celebrate Hanukkah
For Our Veterans As I write this, we are not far from Veterans Day. A day that is supposed to be devoted to recognizing and expressing gratitude to those who have served – and continue to serve – our country in the different arms of our military. Yet, it is often characterized by sales at the mall with few people who take stock in how fortunate we are to be in America. For our own Jewish community, we have veterans who served in World War II through the most recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. From our Tradition’s point of view, we know well that there is a time to make war and a time to make peace. Even when war is about to break out, we are instructed to find a pathway to peace. Some of our greatest heroes were also warriors – Abraham, Joshua, King David, Deborah, among others. Even God is referred to as Ish Milchamah – a Man of War – as God brings the Israelites out of Egypt on their way to the Promised Land. What does this say to me? Jewish Tradition does not embrace a pacifist perspective. While we must be rodfei shalom – pursuers of peace, there are times when we must defend ourselves or others who are vulnerable. But as Veterans Day approaches and will pass, I will be thinking about our women and men in our military who will be putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our nation, its democracy and its interests worldwide. What happens to these soldiers, sailors, airmen when they return? How has our country expressed its gratitude? According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, it is estimated that 18 veterans die by suicide every day. The same report in 2010 found that as many as 950 suicide attempts each month occur among veterans receiving services through the Veterans Administration (VA). The rate is lower, however, among veterans aged 19-29 who are receiving services when compared to those who are not currently receiving care through the VA. According to NAMI: While officials speculate that a better screening and reporting system may be a factor in the increase, it is also likely that repeated deployments during the extended conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are a part of the equation. The suicide rate is also impacted by high levels of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in young veterans who served in one of these regions. I have been reflecting on this a great deal since last Memorial Day. (Again, it isn’t really supposed to be a day devoted to shopping.) My family and I always attend Roswell Remembers (www.roswellmemorialday.com), the local Memorial Day ceremony. There is a time where veterans come up and share their own memories and ideas relating to their fellow fallen soldiers. They are always moving tributes. But this year, a mom came up and spoke about her son who served, was recognized for acts of bravery, and yet could return to “normal life” here in the States. Her son took his own life. She pleaded to all of us to write our Members of Congress to advocate for better services through the VA, but also implored us to be better partners with other organizations to support these men and women who return wounded – physically, emotionally or spiritually. For a list of organizations to support or to share with someone in crisis, visit www.nami.org and search for “Veterans and Suicide.” Let us join together and show our truest sense of gratitude by making sure that when they return home, they have the tools the need to re-enter their lives, find meaningful employment, get the emotional and physical support they need to heal their wounds. And let us join with them as we return to Isaiah’s ultimate hope: “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, nor shall they learn war any more.” Rabbi Fred Greene 2
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Notes from Cantor Kassel SHABBAT EXPERIENCE
THERE’S MORE TO THE KADDISH PRAYER THAN MOST OF US KNOW
Friday night, December 13 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm For children age 2 through 2nd grade and their Parents!!
The Kaddish prayer (and there are many types of Kaddish prayers) is a doxology. Doxology comes from the Greek words “doxa” (glory) and “logia” (saying). For Jews, a doxology is a liturgical formula of praise to God – praising God and praising God’s name. The majority of Kaddish prayers are said in Aramaic but the “Mourner’s Kaddish” concludes with the Hebrew words of “Oseh Shalom”. The different types of Kaddish prayers are used to punctuate larger and smaller rubrics of our prayer service and what better way to do so than by offering praise to God. A shorter Kaddish known as the “Chatzi Kaddish” separates the end of opening prayers from the “Bar’chu” and then again (although it is not the custom at TBT) just before the beginning of the “Amidah”. There is a “Kaddish D’Rabbanan” (Kaddish of the Rabbis) that follows parts of the service that includes extracts from the Mishnah or Talmud. And the Kaddish prayer we are probably most familiar with is the “Kaddish Yatom”, the Mourner’s Kaddish. It might seem odd to utter words of praise to God when we are experiencing immediate grief for loss of a loved one or remembering that person on the yahrzeit, anniversary of one’s passing. When we recite these words at this time, the idea is that merit is accrued to the soul of the departed, for they are no longer here to utter these words themselves. It’s a powerful prayer and in these days of fluctuating Hebrew fluency…… I hope its meaning is not lost. How I wish that every member of TBT who has lost a parent or close loved one would honor their memories by coming to services on Shabbat, the 7th day of Pesach, the morning of Simchat Torah, the morning of Shavuot and of course – the Yizkor service of Yom Kippur. The recitation of the Kaddish prayer requires the presence of a minyan, once again showing us the importance of community and prayer in Judaism.
Parents can attend services in the sanctuary while their children are in: BABYSITTING (children ages 2 - 4) or "CREATIVE JEWISH PROGRAMMING" (children ages Pre-K thru 2nd grade) NO COST BUT RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
RSVP now!
DO YOU READ HEBREW and WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN TO CHANT TORAH ? If so, please contact me at cantorkassel@bethtikvah.com.
I will start working with a group of interested learners in January on Sundays when Religious School is in session. We will work on Shabbat morning prayers and how to chant from the Torah. Over the years there have been groups of TBT congregants who have become “Ben/Bat Torah” and as a result they have become more connected to others and more confident in their ability to participate in services. STAY TUNED FOR JANUARY 2014 “SHABBAT SHIRAH” (Sabbath of Song) - Shabbat Morning ‘Services’ January 11 “MLK SHABBAT” - Friday night, January 17
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“SHABBAT EXPERIENCE” - Friday night, January 24 “RUACH SHABBAT” – Friday night, January 31
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News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Great Things Going on at TBT WOW!!! I finally got to have my very first Jewish camp experience!! Leslie and I joined about 20 other Beth Tikvah families for the first Annual TBT Family Retreat at URJ Camp Coleman. It was an awesome experience from beginning to end!
made new friends and learned more about others that we might have known, but now know much better. We were a group ranging in age from preschool to 60’s, and I think everyone had a great time. The committee spent a lot of time and effort to Our retreat began with a cool Scavenger Hunt that guided us on a tour of the Camp. We met for Shabbat meticulously plan the entire weekend – no one was without something to do and everyone seemed to have dinner in the Dining Hall and were treated to as much fun as I did. Wouldn’t it be great if we could Coleman’s famous fried chicken and Apple Brown Betty. Diet blown! We enjoyed a song session after double the families participating next time? dinner lead by our clergy and John Restler, followed Our Casino Night and Silent Auction on October 19 by a creative Shabbat service. After services, young was another TBT home run! Our social hall morphed and old formed teams and rocked the TBT Olympics! into a huge Casino with Blackjack, Roulette, and other casino games. There were over 100 Silent Auction On Saturday, we were able to experience Shabbat items as well – great trips, restaurants, gifts, art and morning services in the idyllic outdoors, in the Hillman Chapel overlooking the mountains and lake. gift certificates galore. Special fall cocktails and beautiful and delicious food rounded out the evening. We were inspired by the music and again led in This event raised almost $11,000 for our Annual meaningful and creative worship. The committee Campaign. Again, much time and effort went into the planned programming for the rest of the day for the children and the adults, with sessions such as “Portrait planning of this event but over 200 people attended, of an American Jew,” Yoga, Sports, Arts and Crafts, enjoyed and contributed to our fundraising. Music and Mah Jongg. We came together before dinner for a thought provoking session titled, “Using Our Past to Build a Jewish Future.” All “campers” joined together for this session. I was amazed by the contributions of some of our younger members.
In summary, I am so grateful to all the “hands” and “hearts” that made these two huge events possible. I could never accurately thank everyone but hope you know that your efforts are appreciated and know that you felt rewarded by seeing the success of your hard work!
Saturday evening, we shared a special Havdalah around a roaring fire then made our own S’mores. L’Shalom The kids had their own special program and the adults Ron Swichkow had free time. There were small groups doing different things, but in the background, we all were treated to guitars and singing by some very talented people! We sang favorite camp songs as well as oldie goldies from the seventies and eighties.
SAVE THE DATE!
After breakfast on Sunday, there was a Mitzvah Project and a Closing Circle. Unfortunately, I had an all-day URJ Presidents meeting and had to miss this, but I heard it was as memorable as the rest of the weekend.
Volunteer Recognition & Ruach Shabbat
The weather was perfect. Even though the nights were cool, everyone stayed warm in their cabins. We
January 31, 2014 8 pm
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Campaign TBT: EveryONE Matters Update In September when we kicked off our 2013-2014 annual campaign we announced that the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation made a very generous matching donation. The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation committed to match dollar-for-dollar up to a total of $25,000 for donations received by December 15, 2013. I am pleased to announce that thanks to the generosity of our congregants this match has been met. Including the matching gift and the proceeds raised from our very successful Casino Night and Silent Auction our campaign has raised over $73,000 so far (as of 11/1/2013). In addition to our goal of raising $100,000, we also have a goal of 100% participation. To date 16% of families have participated in the campaign. Please consider joining your fellow congregants and participating in this year’s campaign. Remember, there is no minimum pledge amount. You can make your pledge by: - Returning the response card recently mailed to you in September - Calling the TBT office (770-642-0434), or - Visiting www.bethtikvah.com and selecting "Annual Campaign - EveryONE Matters" on our donation page (http://www.bethtikvah.com/make-donation).
Campaign TBT: Thank You! A big thank you goes out to everyone that helped organize the Casino Night and Silent Auction. A HUGE thanks to Lindsay Levin who chaired the event and spent countless hours making this event a success. As with last spring’s Comedy Night, the Casino Night was a sell-out with over 200 people attending. In addition, the fundraising committee would like to thank the families that have participated in this year’s campaign: Barry and Shari Alhadeff
Cary Goldenthal and Lori Shapiro
Drs. Gary and Michal Loventhal
Walter and Esther Shultz
Steven and Teri Astren
Marshall and Roberta Goldman
Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig
Carol Shutzberg
Dale and Wendy Bearman
Harlan and Ivie Graiser
Joel and Aviva Margolies
Sandy and Nancy Simon
Andy Berke
Rabbi Fred and Deborah Greene
Jonathan and Joan Marks
Lawrence and Anne Skal
Arnold and Ellen Bernstein
Burton and Sara Grossman
Thomas and Marsha McMurrain
Eric and Victoria Stein
Peter Birnbaum
Drs. Larry and Stacey Heit
Robert Moss
Howard and Cynthia Steinberg
Todd and Jennifer Boehm
Michael and Kim Hirsch
Hilda Ortiz
Steven and Linda Steinberg
Nancy Broudy
Peter and Sharon Jedel
Larry and Jackie Pepper
Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz
Paul J. and Cherie Cervasio
Morris and Anna Kagan
Jason and Melanie Pickett
Lionel Stutz
David and Roberta Coad
Cantor Nancy Kassel
Saul and Shirley Plotkin
Ronald and Leslie Swichkow
Steven and Arlene Cohn
Stanley and Bobbie Kopkin
Robert and Ellen Rickles
Donald and Marilyn Tam
Michael and Marlene Cohn
Glen and Veronica Krapf
Russell and Gailen Rosenberg
Seymour and Renee Davis
Ned and Lisa Kreiss
Morray and Susan Scheinfeld
Rosalind Taranto Bruce Turiansky and Mariann Mamberg
Audrey Eisen
Fred and Patricia Landsberg
Douglas and Lisa Schiffer
Mark and Sally Vosk
Daniel Ellison
Kenneth Lawler and Ginger Glazer
Gary and Debra Schwartz
Elliot and Donna Feller
Amir Levin and Tanya Blasbalg
Rhonda Schweber
Bruce and Bonnie Walkes Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger
Andy and Marci Fried
Ron and Jennifer Levine
Ira and Brenda Share
Todd and Rachel Wilson
Matthew and Vanteria Geller
Sherwin and Judee Levinson
Stacy and Alicia Sher
Andrew and Ilana Zalkin
Ed and Cindy Getty
Jeffrey and Ellen Levitz
Spencer and Debra Shilling
Marilyn Zimmer
Arthur Gittelman and Marcia Pearl
Emily Lewit
Allan and Pessie Shippel
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Educator’s Message We have had a very busy month at school. Our 5th & 6th Grade Retreat was held here in our building. With the leadership of Rachel Wilson it was a huge success. We had over 25 kids attend. Rachel put in countless hours of preparation to really create something special for our students. Friendships were strengthened and new bonds were formed. The children participated in social, religious, and mitzvah activities. The students worked as a team to complete group tasks and initiatives through ropes course activities. Teamwork, Judaism, and fun were all interwoven throughout the weekend. The excitement and commitment felt by the students was contagious. All of our chaperones and volunteers were amazing. Your dedication and enthusiasm throughout the retreat helped make it such a wonderful event. We couldn't have done it without you! Thanks to the generosity of Arthur Blank, excitement and anticipation of our Falcons Fundraiser was everywhere! We announced the winners during school. Two of our first grade students had the honor of drawing the winning tickets. I am pleased to let you know that we raised almost $2,000. Congratulations to our winners: Sam Herndon was the winner of the Falcons ticket package and Jill Mattos won the football autographed by Matt Ryan. Our 6th grade class kicked off the start of the family Shabbats. It was so wonderful seeing the students partake in the service. This was the culmination of weeks of practicing with the Cantor. They did an amazing job. Our 2 nd and 3rd grade families participated in the family education day for their grade levels. The parents joined their children for Tefilah services, and then attended a special education program held by the Rabbi. The children rejoined their parents and learned about the Hanukkah/Thanksgiving phenomenon. Due to the timing of Hanukkah this year, we are asking all students in grades K- 7th to come to school on Tuesday, December 3rd for our Hanukkah celebration. Our 3rd and 4th grade classes will perform a Hanukkah play and all the students will sing songs. We will eat latkes, applesauce, donuts and gelt. School starts at 5:00 and ends at 6:30. We hope to see everyone at school on that night. As a reminder, our last day of school will be December 17 th for winter break. Our first day back in school will be Tuesday, January 7th. Please mark your calendars and enjoy the break! Chag Hanukkah Sameach,
Hassia
Early Childhood Education Center We all know the story of Judah and the Maccabees, how they defeated Antiochus’ army, rebuilt the destroyed Temple and had one night of oil last for eight. Nes Gadol Hayah Sham- A Great Miracle Happened There. While we are celebrating Chanukah, it is important that we teach our children the story of Judah and his army because although it occurred over 200 years ago, the meaning is still very relevant today. The Maccabees were determined and brave. They were great planners, cooperators, leaders, and helpers. They brought light and happiness to others and were thankful to G-d. Judah and his crew may have not looked as cool as the superheroes of today, no capes, leotards or fancy cars, but the characteristics and values that they possessed are all that we as adults can hope for ourselves and our children. We, as adults can also take heed from Judah and the Maccabees. Great miracles surround us every day. I see that in the eyes of not only my children, but the 46 children that attend TBT’s Early Childhood Center. Take the time to channel your inner Maccabee! We all are capable of being great leaders, cooperators, and planners. We all have the ability to bring light and happiness to others and to be thankful to G-d. By doing this you will be able to really appreciate the great miracles that happen in your life.
Jenifer Friedman, Director
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B’nai Mitzvah Kaela Mical Burton will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on December 7, 2013. Kaela is the daughter of Rebecca and Derrick Burton of Johns Creek, Georgia. She is the granddaughter of Lorraine and Bob Levan of Silver Spring, MD, and Doshia Burton of Lutherville, MD. Kaela is an eighth grade honor roll student at Haynes Bridge Middle School. She enjoys playing rec soccer, and sings both with the Temple Beth Tikvah Junior Choir (soon to “graduate” to the Teen Choir) and the District Honor Chorus. She is a voracious reader, and an avid writer of fan fiction. Kaela’s passion for literature has led her to spearhead a book drive for the two elementary schools that were destroyed by the terrible tornadoes that devastated Oklahoma last spring, so that they can restock the shelves of their libraries. Benjamin Ross Mattos will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on December 7, 2013. Ben is the son of Jill and David Mattos and brother to Jonathan. He is the grandson of Joan and Morrie Berger, the late Elliott and Maryln Friedman, and Ignacio and Blanca Mattos. Ben attends Elkins Pointe Middle School where he is on the Principal’s list. Ben is an avid lacrosse player and has participated in the sport since 1 st grade with Roswell Recreation and clubs around town. For one of his many Bar Mitzvah projects, Ben was able to spend time playing cards with his 98 -year-old Great Grandmother, “Gigi”, before she passed away this year. Ben looks forward to sharing his upcoming simcha with many friends and family from near and far.
Welcome to the TBT Family!!
Gift Shop Volunteers Needed
Gil and Ellen Ludwig Estelle Weinstein Maddy Kallman Kathy and Larry Feldman
9:30 am until 12 noon on Sunday mornings while religious school is in session Please contact Rhonda at rhonda.schweber@hotmail.com
Youth Group Thank you so much to all of our families who helped house teens for the NFTY Kallah!!! Together, we housed 321 teens! Thank you also to all of our volunteers who pitched in for planning the Kallah and helping during the weekend - flipping rooms, setting-up, cleaningup, serving meals, and more. This was one of the biggest events in our region and we couldn’t have done it without your help! A huge THANK YOU from HOTTY and NFTY-SAR!
event and spent the afternoon eating pizza, playing dodgeball, and jumping on the trampolines. Sky Zone is always a favorite with our youth groupers!
HOTTY (9-12th Grade)
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!
UP NEXT:
December 8th JYG is hosting Hollywood Movie “Night”. Watch your email and our facebook page for this fun event which will start right after Sunday school. See you there!
WHAT DID WE DO THIS PAST MONTH? Fall Kallah was a HUGE success! After the months and months of planning it was so awesome to see it finally all come together. We watched movie clips from tv families, participated in scenarios about different family types, and listened to a panel of speakers. In synagogue. Hope you can make it! between we had a blast leading services, watching the hypnotist, and dancing on Join the HOTTY Facebook Page Saturday night! (https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.HO TTY/) to stay up-to-date on what's happening UP NEXT: Chanukah may be over, but we still have latkes and to RSVP for HOTTY events! to eat…join us on December 14th-15th for JYG (6-8th Grade) HOTTY’s Annual Broomball & Latke-in LockWHAT DID WE DO THIS PAST MONTH? in. We’ll meet at TBT on Saturday night and then head over to the Cooler to play broomball! JYG had so much fun at Sky Zone in Then, its back to TBT for a lock-in at the November. We had a great turnout for this News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
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Want more info about HOTTY or JYG? Contact Adam or Bobbee at: youth@bethtikvah.com or 404) 228–2494.
SAVE-THE-DATE: HOTTY Dec. 14/15 – Broomball & Latke-in Lock-in Jan. 12 – Youth Lounge Decorating Night JYG Dec. 8 – Hollywood Movie “Night” Jan. 12 – Young Chef’s Academy
Social Action
TBT Seniors Luncheon
VOLUNTEER TO BE A
Monday, December 9 at 12 PM
PINCH HITTER
Rabbi Donald Tam speaks about “The Founding Fathers of the United States Constitution and Religion” RSVP to Natine at rosen4348@aol.com
Please bring a gift card from Publix, Kroger, Wal-Mart or Target. Jewish Family & Career Services will distribute them to families in need.
ON DECEMBER 25TH! The Pinch Hitter Program, which is organized by B’nai B’rith and chaired by Harry Lutz and Jerry Kravitz, provides volunteers to work in non-medical positions in area hospitals on Christmas Day to give employees the day off to spend with their families. We will work in four-hour shifts at thirteen hospitals and assisted living facilities this year. You can sign up on line at www.pinchhitters.org Call Harry at 770.392.1175 or Jerry at 770.640.5091 for more information.
It’s the Annual Turkey Drive!
Please send your donations in increments of $10 to TBT marked Turkey and we will do the rest. New to the Turkey Drive? Call Marsha Mathis @ 770-992-4256—She loves to talk Turkey!
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
December 2013 TBT Happenings Sun
Mon
Tue
1 5th Night of Chanukah
2
3
Thu 4
Fri
Sat
5
6
6th Night of Chanukah
7th Night of Chanukah
Last Night of Chanukah
6pm Oneg
6:45pm Kesher / Confirmation / Kivunim
9:30am Tai Chi
6:45pm Community Chanukah Celebration @
6:30 pm Family Shabbat Service hosted by the 5th Grade
5pm Religious School - ALL GRADES
7pm Families Anonymous
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Temple Kol Emeth
6:40pm URJ Camps Celebration & Info Session
7:15pm Melton Dramas 9:30am Religious School 9:35am Family Ed Day - K & 1st Grade 10:30am Cantor’s Corner 12;15pm Rosh Hodesh - It’s a Girl Thing 12:15pm JYG Hollywood Movie “Night”
Wed
9
12pm Senior Luncheon
7pm HOTTY Board Meeting
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11
12
7pm Breast Cancer Support Group @ Tarahumata Mexican Grill
5pm Religious School
6:30pm Shabbat Service with Shabbat Experience
10am Shabbat Service 10am Jewish Meditation Experience 4pm HOTTY Broomball & Lock In
7:15pm Melton Dramas 16
7pm Families Anonymous
9:30am Sisterhood Steering Committee Meeting
7:15pm Melton Dramas
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9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
7pm Families Anonymous
15
Bar Mitzvah of Benjamin Mattos
13
6pm Oneg
6:45pm Kesher Teen/Parent Dinner & Class
9:30am Religious School
10am Shabbat Service
Bat Mitzvah of Kaela Burton
9:30am Tai Chi
6:45pm Kivunim / Confirmation
7
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
17
18
9:30am Tai Chi
19
7pm Women's Study Group
5pm Religious School 7:30pm Board of Trustees Meeting
20
21
9:45am ECEC Family Shabbat
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
8pm Shabbat Service w/ Choir
10am Shabbat Service
10:30am Cantor’s Corner 12pm Chavurah Mitzvah Project 12:15pm Gesher - Bowling 22
No Religious School
23
24
No Religious School
No Religious School
7pm Families Anonymous
9:30am Tai Chi
25
26
27
8pm Shabbat Service
Christmas TBT Offices Closed
10am Shabbat Service
7:15pm Melton Dramas
29
No Religious School
31
30
No Religious School 7pm Families Anonymous 7:15pm Melton Dramas
No Religious School
28
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
January 1 New Year’s Day TBT Offices Closed
9:30am Tai Chi
2
3
8pm Shabbat Service
4
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah 10am Shabbat Service
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Donations Campaign TBT - EveryONE Matters Gary and Debra Schwartz in appreciation of Ron Swichkow Lila Stein in memory of Jeanne Laibow and in memory of Jacob Dutkiewitz Ellen Frank in memory of Barry Feinberg Lawrence and Anne Skal in memory of Joseph Cunix Building Fund John and Pamela Rosenberg in memory of Maurice Lavine Campership/Israel Fund Friends of TBT Family Retreat in appreciation of Mark, Jennifer and Lily Mosbacher Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund Steven and Amy Fine in honor of Paige Dobbins for beautifully conducting the choir during the High Holy Days Michael and Lisa Cohen in appreciation of Cantor Kassel Robert and Karen Kremer in appreciation of Cantor Kassel Jonathan and Rebecca Bennett in honor of the B'nai Mitzvah of Jonah Bennett and Kyle Cohen Caring/Kehillat Chesed Fund Scott and Rhonda Povlot in honor of Sheryl Blechner and in honor of Leslie and Ron Swichkow Gordon and Hollis Decker in memory of Isadore Zierler Addie Myers in honor of the speedy recovery of Carol Shutzberg Aviv Chavurah in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Spencer Shippel, grandson of Pessie and Allan Shippel Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger in honor of the 100th birthday of Sid Cojac Aviv Chavurah in honor of a speedy recovery for Carol Shutzberg Ruth Zeidman in honor of the marriage of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Ruth Zeidman in memory of Dr. Howard Davis Endowment Fund Scott and Rhonda Povlot in honor of Denise and Barry Straus General Fund Mariann Mamberg in memory of Kashmira Kiesel Jane Greenberger in memory of Jacob Stern Adam Rabinovitz William & Marjory Segal in memory of Muriel Segal Matthew and Iris Dunbar in honor of Ron Swichkow Michael and Lisa Cohen in honor of Jonah Bennett's Bar Mitzvah Barbara and Al Goldstein in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan's wedding Selma Merbaum wishing Mazal Tov to Belle Kulkin on 3 great granddaughters Bill and Dale Borer in memory of Carl Borer Dan and Laura DeRiemer in memory of Sydney DeRiemer Harris and Suellen Bergman in memory of Abner Bergman Adam Rabinovitz Prayerbook Fund Addie Myers in memory of William L. Myers Bernie and Gail Natter in memory of Robert Feldser Mark and Sally Vosk in memory of Irving Vosk
Preschool Fund Scott and Rhonda Povlot in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Cameron Schwartz and in memory of JoAnne Baxter and Fred Baxter The ECEC Staff in honor of the birth of Cooper Allen Tucker Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund Michael and Wanda Cohen in memory of Gladys Cohen Stan Reich in memory of Natalie Bronk June Wallach in honor of Sid Cojac on the occasion of his 100th birthday Michael and Lisa Cohen in appreciation of Rabbi Greene John Hirsch and Herb Leiman in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan's wedding Lila Singer in honor of the wedding of Steve Mahan and Jeff Willard Alan Epstein in appreciation of Rabbi Greene Dan and Brenda Chatfield in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Addie Myers in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Judith Luger in honor of the marriage of Steve Mahan and Jeff Willard Matthew and Sandra Bennett in honor of Jonah Bennett's Bar Mitzvah Mariann Mamberg in honor of Isaak Mamberg Leonard Berger in memory of Doris Klaus Berger Bob and Bunny Lenhard in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Justin Kremer Pam Burke and Steven Lewis in honor of the wedding of Steve Mahan and Jeff Willard Phyllis Kinsler in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Jonathan and Rebecca Bennett in appreciation of Rabbi Greene June Wallach in honor of the marriage of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Ronald and Jennifer Levine in appreciation of Rabbi Greene Robert and Karen Kremer in appreciation of Rabbi Greene Helane Bernath in honor of the wedding of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Ralph and Ellen Levy in appreciation of Rabbi Greene Richard Dillner in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund Andrew and Barbara Sacks in memory of Dorothy Tveit Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger in honor of their new great-grandson, Benjamin, and Lois Clymin's new greatgranddaughter, Morgan Alan and Barbara Chaiet in memory of Jacob Mellinger Religious School Fund Efraim and Bruria Lahav in memory of Ran Shohat George and Sherrie Warsaw in memory of Ran Shohat Torah Fund Morray and Susan Scheinfeld in memory of Leo Snitzer Youth Group Fund Gary and Debra Schwartz in appreciation of Rabbi Greene, Cantor Nancy Kassel and Ron Swichkow Steve and RoseAnn Gerson with prayers for a speedy recovery for Marty Soniker and Warren Lampert 10
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Adult Ed
Chavurot
TBT Seniors Luncheon
NEW CHAVUROT ARE FORMING NOW Get Connected: Join a TBT Chavurah!
Monday, December 9 at 12 PM
We have congregants interested in forming groups for young families, single parents, and young professionals, and there are many more possibilities for groups that might interest you!
Rabbi Donald Tam speaks about “The Founding Fathers of the United States Constitution and Religion” RSVP to Natine at rosen4348@aol.com
Thank you to Richard and Susan Staviss and family and Bernie and Susan Greenberg for their contributions to help pay for the uninsured flood losses in the office
ADULT ED
What's a Chavurah? A Chavurah is a circle of friends. It's a group of people with similar interests or who are in similar life stages gathering together regularly to celebrate Jewish holidays, share simchas, attend TBT events, visit interesting places or 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. Who can be part of a Chavurah? Any member of TBT! Just fill out the application and we'll help find like-minded families or people to form a group. Drop by the TBT office to pick one up, or visit http://www.bethtikvah.com/sites/default/files/Chavurah%20 Application%20Form%202013_0.pdf to download. What does a Chavurah do? You choose the activities you'll participate in and how often and where you meet. You might participate in holiday celebrations, adult-only social events, day trips, and charity projects. We can help you design a calendar of programs based on your group's interests.
Cantor’s Corner
Questions? Please contact Dalia Faupel at d2faupel@comcast.net
Sunday, December 8 and 15 10:30 - 10:55 am 12/8 - What is "Kabbalat Shabbat"? 12/15 - Jewish A Cappella Music
Submissions for the January Kol Tikvah are due by December 4. Please email to koltikvah@bethtikvah.com
11:00 - 11:25 am Torah Cantillation, continued 11:30 - 11:55 am Prayer Practice (for Hebrew and non-Hebrew readers)
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
JF&CS - Older Adult Warning Signs With winter break approaching, many of us will spend time with the older adults in our families. If you have not seen them in a while, you might notice some changes. Holidays offer a good opportunity to observe your parents or older relatives and think about ways to help them remain independent. Thinking back a bit, you might have noticed some changes over Thanksgiving. Following are just a few warning signs that Mom and Dad may be in need of help:
Please RSVP so we can best prepare to: gailktate@zevastudio.com
Breast Cancer Survivor Group for the Jewish Community 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. On December 12th at 7 pm, the Jewish Breast Support Group is going out to dinner at Tarahumata Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar in Roswell. All new members and current members are welcome. Please bring money if you want to eat. The address is 12050 Etris Road, Roswell, GA 30075.
1. Spoiled food in the fridge 2. Difficulty with walking, balance and mobility; unexplained bruising 3. Confusion when performing once-familiar tasks 4. Noticeable decline in grooming habits and personal care 5. Dirty house, extreme clutter and dirty laundry piling up 6. Late payment notices, bounced checks and calls from bill collectors (continued on next page) 7. Poor diet or weight loss 8. Changes in mood or extreme mood swings 9. Forgetting to take medications —or taking more than the prescribed dosage 10. Unexplained dents and scratches on a car
If you see any of these signs, it might be time to think about home care. Legacy Home Care carefully matches caregivers to clients and customize care that can be as little as 4 hours a day to as much as 24 hours. For more information, please call 770677-9353 or visit yourtoolsforliving.org. Legacy is part of JF&CS’ Aviv Older Adult Services – Tools for Aging division, which offers a vast range of services and programs, from counseling and geriatric care management to neuropsychological evaluations to programs for Holocaust survivors.
SAVE THE DATE
This survivor support group is being sponsored by The Kehillat Chesed/Caring Committee of Temple Beth Tikvah, 9955 Coleman Rd, Roswell, 30075, who is also the host synagogue.
Friday
For further information or questions, please contact Valerie Rapowitz at vrapowitzslp@yahoo.com or call 678-643-9672.
January 31
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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
SHMOOZE NEWS / KUDOS CORNER
In Memorium
Mazel Tov to: Jessica Jacobs, daughter of Carol Jacobs, for being elected Hillel President at UGA.
Temple Beth Tikvah acknowledges with sorrow the passing of:
Jane Greenberger and Doug Wexler on new greatgrandson, Benjamin Carter Findley, who was born September 29 to Rachel and Daniel Findley of Raleigh, NC.
Norine Alltmont Grandmother of Ellen Rickles and Nan Janis
Gene and Terry Carasick on the engagement of Gene’s son, Chris, to Tovah Radowski.
May God console you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Sharon and Scott Guttman on the engagement of their daughter, Michelle, to Thomas Clark. Rob Rickles as he begins a two year term as President of the Jewish Educational Loan Fund, www.jelf.org, providing eligible students with interest free loans for higher education.
“It is hard to sing of oneness when our world is not complete, when those who once brought
Thank You to our Amazing Office Volunteers!
wholeness to our life have gone and naught but memory can fill the
June Wallach Roberta Goldman Samantha Staviss
emptiness their passing leaves behind”.
Aaron Stieglitz Richard Staviss Kathy Reiter
The following Memorial Plaque has been placed onto our Memorial Board this past month: Rita Mae Weiner Mother of
Cindy Steuer
HELP US HELP YOU Your synagogue community wants to be a Caring Community/Kehillat Chesed. If you have recently experienced a loss or 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 that has experienced a loss or can use a hand, please contact the office at 770.642.0434.
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.
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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
Get Involved! TBT Committees and Chairpersons Adult Education Cindy Getty eeg@comcast.net Budget & Finance Harlan Graiser harlanng@yahoo.com 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 Tom and Marsha McMurrain bethtikvahcommunications@gmail.com Family Promise Andy Fried andyf17@gmail.com Jeff Schultz asburypark@comcast.net Fundraising Ruben Braiter rbraiter@manh.com Gift Shop Pam Alterman pmalterman@gmail.com Carrie Bickwit carriebickwit@yahoo.com
Rhonda Schweber rschweber@comcast.net 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 Lindsay Levin linsday@splicerealty.com Katie Jaffe katiegjaffe@gmail.com Men’s Club Peter Hartog althazyr@bellsouth.net Mark Greenspan greenspanfamily@bellsouth.net
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Nominating Committee Vicki Steine vicsteine@comcast.net Ritual Esther Shultz savtaesther5@gmail.com Rosh Chodesh Women’s Group Pam Chanin chaninp@bellsouth.net Security Jay Sausmer jsausmer@gmail.com Seniors Natine Rosenzweig rosen4348@aol.com Sisterhood Traci Hartog tracigator@bellsouth.net Danielle Rubenstein bdruben@bellsouth.net Social Action Rodney Eberhardt reberhardt@amerisourcebergen.com Darin 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
Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is proud to be one of the founding partners and leading fundraisers of the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s Hunger Walk. Check out this video to see what it is all about! Hunger Walk 2014 is on Sunday, March 9 at Turner Field. The park opens at noon and the walk begins at 2 p.m. How can you help? Join a team, make a donation and spread the word! To make donations and form teams, contact Marni Bronstein. Stay tuned! Registration opens early December.
URJ Camps Celebration & Info Session December 3 at 6:40 pm at TBT Come meet the Directors and Assistant Directors of our 3 great URJ camps. Summer is about fun and Camp Coleman, 6 Points Sci-Tech, and 6 Points Sports are great ways to explore, play and create friendships that will last a lifetime.
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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 Marsha Mathis Vice President Denise Straus Vice President Andy Gutman Treasurer Michael Braun Secretary Jill Mattos Chairperson, Board of Education
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