February 2015 Kol Tikvah

February 2015 • Volume 29 • Issue 2

A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition

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Deadline for This

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ordering your Purim greetings is 2/24!

Proceeds go to y!!

Temple Beth Tikvah & local community charities

News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEALING THE WORLD AND HELPING THE WORLD As I write this, I look forward to taking our Confirmation class back to the L’taken Seminar in Washington, DC, sponsored by the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (the RAC).

Our students will be joining teens from over 25 other Reform Jewish congregations in an experience that will teach about social justice, advocacy and Jewish values. We will be learning about public policy issues and how do we respond to these issues as Reform Jews. At the end of the Seminar, we will be taking these learnings and putting them to use as they lobby at the offices of Representative Tom Price, Senator Johnny Isakson and Senator David Perdue.

charitable acts or volunteering; it is certainly our work with Family Promise, the Turkey Drive or our ongoing food drives.

Those all help people. But I think that these crucial acts are acts to help, not heal. We are not confronting societal issues or addressing the core roots of poverty. Our acts of help and assistance are acts of gemilut chasidim. To confront poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness through advocacy – striving to bring healing through systemic changes, that is an effort to bring healing and wholeness to our broken world. We need both: help (acts of chesed) and healing (restoring balance and wholeness).

I am excited for these students to begin to witness the difference between the two. And I hope their parents and our wider community will begin to do its part to be involved and engaged in both. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

Martin Buber taught an important lesson for us when he wrote: “We shall accomplish nothing at all if we divide our world and our life into two domains: one in which God’s command is paramount, the other governed by the laws of economics, politics, and the ‘simple self-assertion’ of the group… Stopping one’s ear so as not to hear the voice from above is breaking the connection between existence and the meaning of existence.” (Buber’s “Address Delivered at a Convention of Jewish Youth Representatives in Antwerp,” 1932) Buber helps us to realize that Judaism is more than prayers and ritual. It weaves ritual with justice. Our positions on public policy and how we respond to people in crisis are the tests of our faith. The Jewish experience is more than just about surviving or doing good deeds. It is compelling because it does not relegate Torah or God to only spiritual, self-fulfilling pursuits. When we focus only on our relationships with God, without considering how we connect to other people or other parts of God’s creation, then we run the danger of embracing narcissism rather than spirituality.

This is the essence of our teachings of Tikkun Olam – the “repair of the world.” The name of the seminar we are going to is “L’taken” – “to fix / to repair.” And yet, for our own synagogue’s logo, we interpret Tikkun as “Healing.” I think there are lots of ways to fix problems. We are very good at helping those who need help. It might be through our own

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Ask to get involved in the Jewish Community Relations Council of Atlanta: http://jcrcatlanta.wordpress.com/

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Sign up for legislative updates from the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism at www.rac.org. Consider attending the RAC’s Consultation on Conscience – an incredible Seminar for adults who want to advocacy on behalf of the concerns in the Reform Jewish community.

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Learn more about how the Jewish community is responding to food insecurity in America and around the world via MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger (www.mazon.org) or the American Jewish World Service (www.ajws.org).

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Find out how you can help the new Advocacy Committee at North Fulton Community Charities: www.nfcchelp.org.

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Contact Darrin Cohen, our Social Action Committee Chairperson to explore how you can be a partner in helping TBT put our values into action.

I am grateful to explore this idea of distinguishing Tikkun and Chesed from the teachings of Dr. Erica Brown.

Rabbi Fred Greene

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 Fridays, February 20, March 13 and April 17 All are welcome. Dates are subject to change. Please check the TBT calendar to confirm.

RSVPs are appreciated for each session.

RSVP to michelle@bethtikvah.com 2

News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

NOTES FROM CANTOR KASSEL February 8th, 10:45 – 11:55 am The Music and Religion of Leonard Cohen

Funny how even teenagers know 80 year old Leonard Cohen’s “Halleluyah”. And this past summer, both in New York City and in Jerusalem, I heard his “Halleluyah” being adapted and used in Shabbat services. What is it about this poetic, raspy voiced older man whose talent appeals to and resonates with so many generations? And what role, if any, has Leonard Cohen’s Judaism played in his music? Let’s take a look at the lyrics to “Who By Fire” and it’s connection to the “Unetane Tokef” prayer (Who shall live and who shall die……).

Who By Fire And who by fire, who by water, who in the sunshine, who in the night time, who by high ordeal, who by common trial, who in your merry, merry month of may, who by very slow decay, and who shall I say is calling?

Then there’s Leonard Cohen’s connection to Israel. In October of 1973, when the Yom Kippur War broke out, Cohen enlisted in the Israeli Entertainment Corp. In 2009, at the age of 75, Leonard Cohen performed in Israel, a concert that was sold out immediately and from which all proceeds went to a fund for both bereaved Israeli and Palestinian families.

So much to discuss – and just an hour or so on a Sunday morning. I hope you’ll join me.

UPCOMING IN MARCH! Wednesday, March 4 – PURIM! The scroll, the Shpiel, the music, the Hamentaschen, the fun!

Sundays, March 15 & 22 – Adult Education Class Sunday morning class on how to lead a more engaging Passover Seder.

Sunday, March 22 – Cantor’s Concert I’ll be participating in a late afternoon Cantor’s Concert at Temple Emanu-El with colleagues: Cantors Lauren Adesnick, Barbara Margulis and Deborah Hartman. You’ll be treated to some gems of Yiddish music along with Broadway music by Jewish composers.

Monday, March 23 – I’ll be participating in a concert at The Temple: Music of Resistance and Survival: A Holocaust Remembrance Concert. Please check out this link. Concert is free but registration is required http://ksuweb.kennesaw.edu/~lsherr/2015HolocaustConcert B’Shalom,

Cantor Nancy Kassel

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News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

What’s In a Name?

Recently, as I was signing B’nai Mitzvah certificates for the next six months, I started thinking about the significance of what I was actually doing. At work, I sign my name on many documents, like checks and, of course, tax returns. But it really dawned on me as I sat there signing those certificates how important this task truly is and what it really represented. It isn’t a legal or financial document, but each certificate represents a Jewish life. I realized that for each certificate bearing my name, I would have a permanent connection to that student’s Jewish journey.

I think my signature represents our community as a whole and our community’s commitment to our children and our children’s Jewish education. Without each of the parties represented on these beautiful certificates, the chain might be broken.

After signing those certificates and thinking about what that truly represented, I went down into our basement and actually found my own Bar Mitzvah certificate (it was in the same drawer as my Ketubah). I could barely read the signatures but it did prompt a call to my father to ask if he remembered the synagogue’s president back in 1970. He did, but the important part of that call is that the conversation morphed into a discussion of my Bar Mitzvah and how it has shaped my own life and Jewish journey.

Admittedly, years from now when these students are adults, have graduated from college and started a life of their own, this certificate will probably not be taken out and reviewed. They won’t care who the synagogue’s President was at the time they became a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Yet, all of the signatures on those certificates have deep meaning. First and foremost, the B’nai Mitzvah sign their own certificate, which memorializes each student’s commitment to accept the privileges and responsibilities of being a Jewish adult. Their parents must also sign which signifies their commitment to both their child’s Jewish identity and commitment to Jewish peoplehood. The Rabbi and the Cantor sign as well, memorializing their sacred part in helping each student reach their Jewish adulthood.

Maybe in my old age I am just getting sentimental or maybe after all these years I truly realize how special each individual piece of the puzzle is to our future and to the future of the Jewish people.

L’Shalom

Ron Swichkow

Sisterhood shouts hello to all members of TBT!

SAVE THE DATE - SPRING FLING

January proved to be a busy month welcoming 2015. A big THANK YOU is in order to Leslie Swichkow, Erika Eberhardt and Hassia Levin for organizing our successful Challah Baking/Bake Off/TBT Kitchen Shower 1/13/15. The evening was creative, scrumptious, and a boost to enhancing our TBT kitchen with needed culinary items. Delightful indeed! A big THANK YOU also to Danielle Rubenstein and Leslie Swichkow for planning our second Mah Jong Happening 1/25/15. Great fun and comradeship filled the room as different levels of expertise were organized to play at their level of knowledge. Super planning!

Saturday, March 14, 2015 “Return of Judy Cole and Band” Special Musical Guest, Cantor Nancy Kassel

7:30 PM - 11:00 PM Havdalah at 8:00 PM - $18/person followed by music and dancing!

“Brought to you by your Membership Committee”

ATTENTION! NOMINATING COMMITTEE SEEKS YOUR INPUT

February events are very diverse and will be sure to interest you.

The TBT Sisterhood is planning a docent led tour of the Anne Frank in the World Exhibit, Sunday, 2/22/15. Please watch for the evite. In addition, I am proud to announce that Sisterhood will be making Hamentashen at TBT Thursday, 2/26/15, 10 am -1 pm and 7 pm – 10 pm. All hamentashen will be donated to the Purim Carnival, Sunday, March 1 st. We need your help as Sisterhood is counting on you to help bake dozens of our “homemade” goodies. Please watch for the evite and sign up for one or both shifts. See you soon!

The Nominating Committee for the 2015-2016 slate for the Board of Trustees, Officers and Board of Education has begun their work.

If you have names that you would like to suggest to the committee for consideration, please send them to Todd Boehm at tboehm30@gmail.com

Robin Bledsoe Sisterhood Chair

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Religious School Tu B’Shevat celebrates the new year for the trees. We acknowledge this day by rejoicing in the beauty of nature and the growth of trees. Every year at Temple Beth Tikvah we celebrate by eating different fruits and nuts.

Tu B’Shevat will be celebrated on Sunday, February 1st. Our 4 th grade class has been busy practicing for the assembly they will be presenting. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy this program.

Our next Shabbat and Family Service is taking place on Friday, February 27 th. On this day our 3rd and 4th grade students will accompany Rabbi Greene and Cantor Kassel. They will be joined by their teachers: Ophira Buchman, Esti Blue, Anna Gutkin, Robin Karlin, Carolyn Lippman, Aviva Margolies and Michelle Rodabaugh .

Please join our students for this meaningful service.

4th and 5th grade parents please plan to spend Sunday, February 22 Nd at the religious school for your Family Education Day. January 9th – January 12th our confirmation class had a wonderful time in Washington DC. 14 students made the trip along with Rabbi Greene and Adam & Bobbee Griff .

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events: Sunday February 8th, Madrichim Training – 12:15 – 1:30 Sunday, February 22nd, 6th grade Field Trip – location: TBD Sunday, February 22nd, 7th grade Field Trip to Breman Museum No school Sunday, February 15th – Tuesday, February 17th Shalom,

Hassia Levin

Confirmation Class Trip What an adventure Washington DC was this past weekend! From Friday talking about minimum wage and poverty all the way to Monday Lobbying Georgia’s senators about LGBT Rights, Disability Rights, Stem Cell Research, Israel, and poverty. The confirmation class and I went to go see the MLK Memorial, The Holocaust Memorial, Smithsonian museums, Capitol Hill, and the Jefferson Memorial.

Not only were those sights fascinating, but we also had intriguing services on Shabbat. Rabbi Namath and Rabbi Young were telling us on Friday and Saturday services how we can make impacts to our country. Well… I agree with Rabbi Greene, Adam, and Bobbee that we made an impact for the United States of America, and ourselves.

Rabbi Greene did hope we had open eyes to the country and the world after this, and I can say that we all did!

Thank you to the Religious Action Center for having us open up to more leadership, Adam and Bobbee for coming and experiencing with the class the whole time, and Rabbi Greene (and dad) for making this adventure possible.

Yael Greene

Chavurah Happenings Chavurot at TBT are busy! Within the past few months, groups celebrated Sukkot with sukkah decorating parties in member's backyards (like the Family & Fun Chavurah), observed Hanukkah with white elephant gift exchanges and charitable acts (like the Chai & Mighty Chavurah), and enjoyed Shabbat dinners or Havdalah services. This month, some groups plan to attend Jewish Film Festival flicks together and have all-ages game nights.

This spring, we'll be planning a multi-Chavurah outdoor gathering, inspired by the kickball challenge held last year by the Agin, Bessoff, Craig, Elinger, Kaseff and Wynne Chavurah. More details will come through Chavurot liaisons.

A few new groups have recently kicked off, and more are in the works! Chavurot are an excellent way to create community with TBT and forge new friendships. If you have interest in becoming part of a Chavurah at TBT, please grab an application here bethtikvah.com/community/chavurot, at TBT, or contact Dalia Faupel at d2faupel@comcast.net .

Ne

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HOTTY LATKE-IN

Youth Group HOTTY (9-12th Grade) We had 30 teens head to Jacksonville in January for our Winter Kallah. It was a blast!

Can’t wait for NFTY Convention in just a few short weeks. We also hosted our first fundraiser for Camp Jenny at Top Golf. It was a huge success – thank you to all of the TBT members who supported us by donating for this great cause. We truly appreciate it!

UP NEXT:

Join us on Friday, February 6th for our annual Youth group led Shabbat service. It promises to be an inspiring evening and gives us a chance to show you what we can do! The theme this year is “What does it mean to be connected?” Youth groupers and their families are invited to join us for Shabbat dinner before services. We also have our Chai Society party on February 22nd. Come dressed up in your tuxes and evening gowns to watch the Oscars and eat some hors d'oeuvres. .

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)

JYG’s In In January JYG’ers had a ton of fun at one of our favorite events – the Chocolate Making Party at Chamberlains Chocolate Factory. We spent the afternoon making chocolate lollipops, personal pizzas, and chocolate covered pretzels. It was a delicious event!

And, save-the-date…March 20-22nd is NFTY-SAR’s Hatikvah Kallah for 7th & 8th Graders (at Temple Sinai in Sandy Springs)!! We’ll send out more info about this awesome weekend as the date gets closer, but you don’t want to miss out.

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!

5th & 6th Grade

Join us on February 22nd for our Mad Scientist event at TBT! Right after religious school – we’ll eat lunch and then cook up some crazy experiments led by our very own Mad Scientist. Hope you can come!

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!

Thank you to the following families who donated items for our Youth Lounge: Schwartz Family, Diamond Family, Restler Family, Swichkow Family, and the Torino Family.

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

5TH & 6TH GRADE AT STARS & STRIKES

Upcoming Events: February 6th - HOTTY Congregational Services February 13th-17th - NFTY Convention February 22nd - Club 56 Mad Scientist February 22nd - HOTTY Oscars Party

We are SO excited to finally have our very own youth lounge at TBT (classroom 21)! We are looking for some items to help furnish it. Here is our wish list. If you have any of these items that you would be willing to donate to us, please email us at: youth@bethtikvah.com

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(they don't have to be brand new, but in reasonably good condition). Thank you!!

Youth Lounge Wish List ♦DVD player ♦Small tables/coffee ♦Keurig machine

tables

B’nai Mitzvah Logan Mitchell Coe will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on February 7, 2015. He is the son of Robin and David Coe and the brother to Ellie and Maya. Logan is a 7th grade honor student at Hightower Trail Middle School. He is a cross-country runner, plays piano and clarinet, and loves playing outside with his friends.

Audra Buffington will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on February, 14, 2015. Audra is the daughter of Mara and Don Buffington and sister to Nathan. She is the granddaughter of Murray and Glory Nadelle of Woodstock, Georgia, Janice McNeal of Atlanta, Georgia and Don and Pat Buffington of Atlanta, Georgia. Audra is blessed to spend time with Great Grandparents Madge McNeal of Sandy Springs, Georgia, Buffa and Don Buffington of Atlanta, Georgia and MaryAnn Yeargin of Summerfield, Florida. Audra is in the 7 th grade at The Davis Academy where she was selected as a Student Ambassador, plays on the school volleyball team and is a finalist in the upcoming school spelling bee. Audra enjoys travelling and hanging out with friends and will be celebrating this special occasion by visiting Paris this summer!

Morgan Sean Nathan will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on February 21, 2015. Morgan is the son of Ted and Melanie Nathan, and older brother to Madison Nathan. He is in the 7 th grade at Hightower Trail Middle School. Morgan enjoys all sports, especially basketball, and spending time with his family and friends.

Izaac S. Shultz will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on February 21, 2015. Izaac is the son of Robert and Ruth Shultz, and Suzan Shultz, and grandson of Esther and Walter Shultz and Carol and Fred Abrams. He has three step-brothers; Ben, Jake and Sam Rockaway. Izaac is in the seventh grade at Crabapple Middle School where he enjoys science and plays trombone in the seventh grade band. He also enjoys video games, playing soccer and tennis and going outside with his step-brothers.

Anna Wynne will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on February 28, 2015. Anna is the daughter of Susan and Scott Wynne, and the sister to Michael Wynne. She is the granddaughter of Flora and Richard Cohen of Dallas, Texas, and Margot and David Wynne of Greenville, South Carolina. She is in the 7th grade at Dodgen Middle School where she is a Principal's Honor Roll student. Anna is a cheerleader for the 7th Grade Pope Junior Greyhounds. In her free time, Anna enjoys spending time with her friends, and looks forward to every summer when she goes to Camp Coleman.

Ilana Mermelstein will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on February 28, 2015. Ilana is the daughter of Evan Mermelstein and Sharon Mermelstein and sister to Ryan Mermelstein. Ilana is in the seventh grade at Northwestern Middle School where she enjoys singing in the chorus and performing in school musicals. Ilana is also in a theater company outside of school. She loves hanging out with her friends everywhere she goes; school, theater, Religious School, Girl Scouts, and in the neighborhood. Ilana has enjoyed the learning experience and preparation for this milestone, and cannot wait to become a Bat Mitzvah!

The Atlanta JCC sends a delegation annually of 13-16 year old athletes to the JCC Maccabi Games, an annual multi-sports, cultural and social Jewish experience for well over 1,000 young athletes from all over the U.S. and some international countries including Israel. Sports include baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, swimming and more. This year, the Atlanta delegation will go to either Dallas or Milwaukee August 2-7. Check the Marcus Atlanta JCC website for information including fees and tryouts. http://www.atlantajcc.org/interior-pages/sports-maccabi/.

Two Beth Tikvah members are coaching baseball this year, Mark Rudel (15/16 year old) and Howard Janis (13-14 year old). Tryouts will be in late January / early February. Feel free to contact Mark Rudel (404-429-9289) or Howard Janis (404-729-0397) for more information. TBT has been represented with both athletes and coaches for multiple years. Let's keep this run going for several more years.

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Fundraising News OY VEY!! MAZEL TOV!! Congrats to our TBT family for reaching the 1 st goal of the ANNUAL CAMPAIGN! As of December 31st we collected enough pledges and contributions to surpass $50,000 and earn the Blank Family Foundation 50% matching gift, a total of $25,000. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the Fundraising Committee, we want to thank everyone who has contributed this far.

With this in mind, we still have a ways to go to get to our Annual Goal of $100,000. Next on the agenda to help us get there is a great event coming up on February 21: The TBT/ECEC Second Chance Prom event! This promises to be a great night of for everyone! We’ll have great entertainment, food, drinks and of course, great prizes through the auction to win!

In the mean time, please take the time to contribute to the Annual Campaign if you haven’t done so already. Just visit www.bethtikvah.com and scroll down to ANNUAL CAMPAIGN EVERYONE MATTERS to make your contribution today.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I'd like to thank the following members of our TBT family for their generous pledges and gifts: 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 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 Yitzhak and Ronit Hermoni David and Ellen Herold Mitchell and Julie Hilsen Jamie and Katie Jaffe David and Beth Janes Peter and Sharon Jedel Morris and Anna Kagan Doug and Donna Kallman Cantor Nancy Kassel Valerie Kassel Jr Howard and Linda Katz Jerry and Marcy Kaufman 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

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 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 Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig

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 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 Clifford and Loretta Weiss Mark and Debbie Weiss Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger

Bram and Dana Wieskopf 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 December 2014)

BAKERS NEEDED FOR PURIM CARNIVAL “BAKE WALK”!

Please email Beth Janes at bethjanes@comcast.net 8

News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

February 2015 Sunday 1

Monday 2

Family Promise

3 6:45 pm - 8:30 pm Kesher/Confirmation /Kivunim

9:30 am - 12:00 pm Religious School

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Families Anonymous

9:30 am -Religious School Tu B'Shevat Assembly

Tuesday EREV TU BISHVAT

Wednesday 4

Thursday 5

TU BISHVAT

Friday 6

9:30 am - Tai Chi

7 6:00 pm HOTTY Dinner

5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Religious School

8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Shabbat Service led by HOTTY

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Board of Ed Meeting

Saturday

9:00 am - 10:00 am Bagels, Learning & Torah

10:00 am - Shabbat Service - Coe Bar Mitzvah

10:00 am Special Congregational Meeting 10:45 am Purim Meeting

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9 9:30 am ATID 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Religious School 10:45 am - The Music & Religion of Leonard Cohen 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Madrichim Training

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10 12:00 pm - Senior Luncheon 6:45 pm - 8:30 pm Kesher/Confirmation /Kivunim

9:30 am - Tai Chi 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Religious School

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NFTY Convention and URJ Youth Engagement Conference

7:30 pm Fundraising Meeting

12:00 pm ECEC VIP Shabbat

8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Shabbat Service

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Families Anonymous

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President's Day

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NFTY Convention and URJ Youth Engagement Conference

NFTY Convention and URJ Youth Engagement Conference

No Religious School

No ECEC

No ECEC

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Families Anonymous

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19 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Breast Cancer Support Group 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Women's Study From Sarah to Savannah: Leadership Lessons from our Ancestral Mothers

No Religious School 9:30 am - Tai Chi 7:30 pm - Board of Trustees Meeting

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8:30 am - 12:20 pm - 7th Grade Field Trip to Breman

6:45 pm - 8:30 pm Kesher/Confirmation /Kivunim

9:30 am - ATID

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Families Anonymous

9:30 am - 12:00 pm Religious School 9:35 am - 11:45 am RS Family Ed Day - 4th & 5th grade

14 NFTY Convention and URJ Youth Engagement Conference

9:00 am - 10:00 am Bagels, Learning & Torah

10:00 am - Shabbat Service - Buffington Bat Mitzvah

NFTY Convention and URJ Youth Engagement Conference

No Religious School

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6:30 pm - HOTTY Board Meeting

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26 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Sisterhood Hamentaschen Prep

9:30 am - Tai Chi 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Religious School 5:45 pm - College Connection Mailing Prep

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Sisterhood Hamentaschen Prep

7:30 pm - Officers Meeting

20 11:45 am - Lunch & Learn: The Introduction to the Talmud that You've Been Waiting For!

8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Shabbat Service w/ Choir

27 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Oneg

6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Family Shabbat Service - 3rd & 4th Grade

21 9:00 am - 10:00 am Bagels, Learning & Torah

10:00 am - Shabbat Service Nathan/Shultz B’nai Mitzvah

7:30 pm Forever Young: 2nd Chance Prom Night 28 9:00 am - 10:00 am Bagels, Learning & Torah

10:00 am - Shabbat Service Wynne/Mermelstein B’not Mitzvah

10:00 am - Purim Meeting 12:30 pm Sisterhood - Anne Frank Museum Tour 12:30 pm - 5th/6th YG - Mad Scientist 4:00 pm - HOTTY Chai Society Oscars Party

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

Welcome to the TBT Family!!

TBT Seniors Luncheon Monday, February 9 at 12 PM

Joel and Amy Glass

Officer Zac Frommer from the Roswell Police Department will be our speaker.

Jim and Renee Berman

The topic is “Watch Out For…” RSVP to Natine at rosen4348@aol.com

Taglit-Birthright Israel with URJ Kesher | Register for Summer Trips on February 3, 2015! www.gokesher.org This summer we invite you to go on TaglitBirthright Israel with URJ Kesher — the only Birthright Israel trip organized by Reform Judaism.

You only get to go on Birthright Israel once. Make sure to Go Kesher! It’s your turn to explore Jerusalem’s Old City, float in the Dead Sea, climb Masada at sunrise and celebrate modern Tel Aviv.

Registration Day is Tuesday, February 3rd. Sign up for more information at www.gokesher.org.

Do We Have Your Child’s College Address?

The College Outreach Committee will be sending our college students a care package for Purim.

FOOD OF THE MONTH

Do we have your child’s address?

If you provided us with this information in the fall, nothing further is required. However, if you have not yet given us this information or your student has moved since October, please send us their college mailing address as soon as possible.

Also, if your child graduated this past December, please let us know this as well.

Monetary or item donations would be greatly appreciated.

Send all information to Lynda Bennett at lrbennett08@comcast.net.

The food bins are empty. Please bring hearty soups and peanut butter for North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) and Kosher foods for Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS) The need in our area is great.

Together we “can” make a difference!

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.

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News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah

CLICK ANYWHERE ON THIS PAGE TO RSVP AND PAY

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Donations Annual Campaign Ronald and Leslie Swichkow in memory of Bernie Bickwit Sandy and Nancy Simon in memory of Leonard Paul Irving and Doris Rosing in memory of Bernie Bickwit Thomas and Susan Williams in memory of Marjorie Williams and Charles Francis Williams Steven and Amy Fine in honor of Jennifer and Ellen Fine Sandy and Nancy Simon in memory of Bernie Bickwit and Leonard Paul Robert and Marcy Nader in honor of Rabbi Greene, Rabbi Tam and Cantor Kassel and in memory of Bernie Bickwit Alma Klein, Andrea and Steve Leaf & Family in memory of Bernie Bickwit Jamie and Lauren Burak in memory of Evan Burak Jamie and Lauren Burak in memory of Barry and Marcia Lurey Lawrence and Anne Skal in memory of Frances Cunix and Bernie Bickwit The Wilson, Faupel, Gergans, Hilsen, Loventhal, Salinas and Shields Families in memory of Donald Block

Building Fund Michelle Jacobowitz in memory of Bernie Bickwit Dale and Wendy Bearman in memory of Betty Ebstein

Campership/Israel Fund Mark and Jennifer Mosbacher in memory of Alvin Gross and Lester Mosbacher Howard and Suzanne Silverman

Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund Steven, Amy, Jennifer and Ellen Fine in honor of Cantor Kassel and Paige Dobbins Robert Leventhal in memory of Robert E. Leventhal David and Beth Janes in memory of Ira Madans and in honor of Phyllis Madans' birthday Judy Levine in memory of Milton Marshall Shelby Steinhauer in loving memory of Natalie Richman Rosalind Taranto in memory of Philip Pomerance Todd and Rachel Wilson in honor of Libby Povlot becoming a Bat Mitzvah

Caring/Kehillat Chesed Fund Fred and Patricia Landsberg wishing a speedy recovery to Esther Shultz Rabbi Thomas and Marilyn Liebschutz in honor of Esther Shultz's special birthday David and Roberta Coad in memory of Dorothy Spielvogel Shelby Steinhauer in loving memory of Natalie Richman Lois Clymin in memory of Michael Clymin Steven & Linda Steinberg in memory of Jay Rosen Fred and Patricia Landsberg in memory of Lila Surges Bruce and Bonnie Walkes in memory of Bernie Bickwit Lawrence and Anne Skal in celebration of Esther Shultz's special birthday Amy, Evan, Zachary and Ryan Rosen wishing a speedy recovery to Wendy Bearman

General Fund Howard and Pamela Levitt in memory of Jacob Levitt Renee Davis in memory of Melvin Haber Harlan & Ivie Graiser in memory of Bernie Bickwit, Melvin Haber and wishing a speedy recovery to Estelle Graiser William & Marjory Segal in memory of Bernie Bickwit Lawrence & Selma Silverman in honor of a speedy recovery for Pearl Bruger Aptekar Belle Kulkin in memory of Morris Richman Mitchell and Julie Hilsen and their Chavurah in memory of Donald Block

Michael Zalkin Memorial Library Fund David & Christine Toltzis in memory of Bernie Bickwit Sanford and Gail Seidman in memory of Fred Permison, Florence Permison and Robert Permison

Prayerbook Fund David and Beth Janes in memory of Ira Madans and in honor of Phyllis Madans' birthday Melvyn and Vivian Lapes in honor of Esther Shultz's special birthday

Preschool Fund Jenifer & Rory Friedman and Sheri & Brian Baker in memory of Bernie Bickwit David and Beth Janes in memory of Ira Madans and in honor of Phyllis Madans' birthday

Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund Melvyn and Vivian Lapes David and Beth Janes in memory of Ira Madans and in honor of Phyllis Madans' birthday Shelby Steinhauer in loving memory of Natalie Richman Donald and June Restler in memory of Bernie Bickwit John and Dahlia, Emily & Hannah Restler and Kevin and Cherie & Claudia Restler wishing a speedy recovery to Don Restler

Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund Ruth Zeidman in memory of Bernie Bickwit Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Bernie Bickwit Barry and Dore Kaiser in memory of Bernie Bickwit Lois Clymin in memory of Bernie Bickwit Barry & Robin Riegelhaupt in memory of Melvin Haber Andrew and Barbara Sacks in memory of Hyman Sacks

Religious School Fund David and Beth Janes in memory of Ira Madans and in honor of Phyllis Madans' birthday Lynn Friedman in memory of Bernie Bickwit Burton and Sara Grossman in memory of Evelyn Grossman Kathleen Levin in memory of Bernard Bickwit

Tikkun Olam Fund Ken and Lauri Winkler in memory of Louise Singletary and Donald Singletary

Torah Fund Marvin and Trudy Davis in memory of Bernie Bickwit Morray and Susan Scheinfeld in memory of Joseph Scheinfeld and Sophie Scheinfeld

Youth Group Fund Larry & Jackie Pepper in memory of Irving Yehuda Pepper

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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!

Donald E. Block Father of Scott Block

Erica Stein Marla Ramaglia Richard Staviss Marsha McMurrain June Wallach Rhonda Povlot Leslie Swichkow Emily Restler Maddie Schwartz Mark Mosbacher Dani Stordy

Eleanor Goldsmith Sister-in-law of Betty Rickles

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

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

Tamah and Glenn Cooper on the engagement of their daughter, Honey, to Zach Shair of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

An October wedding is planned.

a group.!

Breast Cancer Survivor Group for the Jewish Community

Hildy Ortiz on her engagement to Jim Chaffer.

Scott and Marci Weiss as their son, Jake, officially signed a commitment letter to accept a scholarship and play baseball as a member of the Eastern Michigan University Eagles. Scout Baseball, a leading national college scouting organization, ranked Weiss, an all-purpose outfielder, as a top-20 national Division I prospect in June 2014.

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.

Our next meeting will be held on

Thursday, February 19 at 7:00 PM

Leslie and Ron Swichkow on the birth of their granddaughter, Ellie Paige Cooper, on January 19.

Proud parents are Erin and Seth Cooper.

Dr. Stephen Szabo will speak to the group This survivor support group is sponsored by The Kehillat Chesed/Caring Committee of Temple Beth Tikvah.

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

Please RSVP. All are welcome.

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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 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@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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