March 2015 • Volume 29 • Issue 3
A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition
Volunteer Recognition Shabbat Friday, March 20th - 8 PM TBT will honor and thank our volunteers for the amazing job that they do in, around and for our synagogue. If you are a volunteer in any area, please join us for a special service and oneg.
Saturday, March 14th Return of the Judy Cole Quartet with
Special Musical Guest, Cantor Nancy Kassel
7:30 PM / Havdalah at 8 PM followed by music and dancing! $18 per person
(includes beer, wine, specialty cosmo, snacks & desserts)
Click here to RSVP Click on the heart to RSVP
“Brought to you by your Membership Committee”
We invite you to join Cantor Nancy Kassel for the re-telling of the Exodus from Egyptian slavery Saturday, April 4th at 6 PM (see page 11 for more info & to rsvp) News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
REFLECTIONS - PART ONE lights on. We need to spread our light to the larger Jewish and general community. Through these partnerships, we provide the connections that people yearn for.
It seems more official now, doesn’t it? I have announced my move to Congregation Har HaShem in Boulder, Colorado. This community has taken its next step toward continuing its journey with Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner. I am excited about the prospects for TBT’s future under her guidance and direction and look forward to hearing wonderful things about the continued growth of this congregation.
I have also tried to share our mission. I am not writing about Beth Tikvah’s mission statement. I am responding to the Jewish Mission, a term that was used much more frequently in previous generations of Reform Jews. The Jewish Mission is to be a light unto the nations, to simultaneously advance faith and Torah right alongside the values of justice and democracy. I have always seen the confluence of Reform Judaism, justice, democracy, and care for the most vulnerable as essential truths of our understanding of Jewish tradition. These are the core reasons for bringing our Confirmation students to the Religious Action Center, why SOJOURN: Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender and Sexual Diversity comes to teach our 7th graders about tolerance and inclusion, and why I have advocated so strongly to be a host congregation for Family Promise.
These changes, however, have put me into a reflective place. What have I brought? What I have gained? Where did I make a difference? Where did I miss the mark? As I look to the Torah, I see that the Israelites were about to enter into the land when Moses communicates that there will be prophets who follow him: “The Eternal your God will raise up for you a prophet among your own people, like myself; him shall you heed….” (Deuteronomy 18.15) I am struck by the fact that Moses acknowledges this even while he is still serving as the prophet. There is a hint here for those of us who are tasked to be leaders. Everyone needs to pass the torch.
All of these things relate to living a life guided by Torah. One of my greatest personal joys is teaching and learning. I am still a learner myself! I can’t hear God’s voice if I stop exploring new ideas, if I don’t challenge the truths that I hold dear, and if I don’t try to answer that call through all the static that my busy life produces.
The great Biblical scholar, Rabbi Harold Kushner, teaches: In the Bible, a prophet is not someone who tells the future, stealing knowledge from God and sharing it with the people. A prophet is someone who tells the truth. The prophet does not tell us what we want to know but rather tells us what God wants us to know, reminding us of our covenantal obligations.
I share all of this in some ways to thank you for giving me the clarity of who I am as a rabbi. I appreciate the blessings that have been given to me – the opportunities to nurture Jewish lives, as well as to journey with you during your moments on peaks and in valleys. With all of that said, I do hope that I have been able to leave a meaningful legacy here. I hope that my presence and gifts built upon those of Rabbi Tam’s. And I hope that I was able to make the foundation here at Beth Tikvah a little stronger so that Rabbi Shuval-Weiner can bring you to your next stage of growth.
By no means do I think that I am a Moses or a prophet. Nevertheless, Jewish leaders step forward to do what we can as God’s partners. I have tried to model this faith by responding to the needs of our more vulnerable populations, whether it was those who live with addictions, our youth who seek inspiration, our seniors who desire companionship and purpose, and you… who want to be known and heard. I have tried to model this by forging partnerships with other organizations, whether it is our Jewish Federation, Jewish Family & Career Services, North Fulton Community Charities, or our local Jewish camps. We can’t only strive to keep our
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, 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 MARCH MADNESS – OF THE ‘CANTORIAL’ KIND! March 4:
BLUES BROTHERS PURIM – 6:30 PM! Now that SNL has celebrated it’s 40th anniversary: join us for our Blues Brother’s Purim service, Shpiel and Megillah reading!
March 13:
‘CAMP’ RUACH SHABBAT - 6:30 PM It’s happening folks……….you/we are participating so much more in the music of our worship services. Let’s make this contagious!
March 14:
SPRING FLING: Judy Cole Music & Dancing - 7:30 PM I’ll have the pleasure of joining Judy and the Band for a few numbers!
March 15 and March 22
ENGAGING SEDERS! – 10:45 AM Join me for two consecutive Sunday mornings and learn how to lead a more engaging Seder in your home! This is one of my favorite things to teach.
March 20:
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION SHABBAT with our choir - 8:00 PM
March 22:
CANTOR’S CONCERT at Temple Emanuel - 5:00 PM free & open to the public Cantors Lauren Adesknik, Deborah Hartman, Nancy Kassel & Barbara Margulis perform music from Yiddish Theater to Jewish Composers of Broadway.
March 23:
MUSIC OF RESISTANCE & SURVIVAL: HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE CONCERT at The Temple - 8:00 PM free admission but registration required http://ksuweb.kennesaw.edu/~lsherr/2015HolocaustConcert or call Brenda Curtis at (470) 578-3214 This concert concludes an entire day of Speakers and Exhibits and is produced by Kennesaw State University College of the Arts, School of Music. Featured performers: Summit Piano Trio, Cantors Deborah Hartman and Nancy Kassel, Judy Cole.
March 24
Your Cantor collapses until Religious School that afternoon!
Temple Beth Tikvah and JF&CS Synagogue Engagement
Moas Chitim – Passover Food Drive Moas Chitim (“wheat money”) is an ancient custom in which Jews provide funds to Jews in need for the purchase of Passover food. JF&CS supports a group of dedicated volunteers who have taken on the responsibility of Moas Chitim in Atlanta. JF&CS coordinates the distribution of food and financial assistance for these Jewish families. Last year we gave out over 240 bags of Passover food to Jewish Atlantans in need. You can help by collecting specific Passover items (all marked Kosher for Passover) and place them in the barrel marked JF&CS Kosher Food Pantry. Passover Chocolates and/or Fruit Gels
Matzo Ball and Soup Mix
Macaroons (any flavor)
Passover Preserves
Dried Fruits
Tuna
Gefilte Fish *Please note: We Are Not Collecting Matzo or any Matzo products. These items have already been ordered*
All food must be collected by Sunday, March 22nd in order to distribute by Passover.
Thank you for your support! 3
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Spring has Sprung at TBT I don’t know about all of you, but I am ready for winter to be over. Actually, I’ll be more excited when April 15th is behind me! So, what’s in store this spring for our TBT community? There are a lot of things that go on during the spring, some of which you see and much that you don’t. Our fabulous Purim Carnival is on March 1st. As great as last year’s carnival was, we think this year’s will be even better, especially if the weather cooperates. A few days later, on Wednesday, March 4th, don’t miss our famous Megillah reading and Purim Shpiel. I know the Rabbi and Cantor have some surprises in store.
before the May congregational meeting. It is just as stressful than our planning meeting as we try to figure out how we can do more with less. We start by shooting for the stars on our first pass then slowly work our way back to reality given our actual financial resources. Towards the end of spring, our fundraising committee is making its final push for our annual campaign. Finishing strong definitely gives us momentum going into our new year in July and (hint hint) gives the budget group a little more flexibility for the next year.
It has been many years since TBT held a second night community Passover Seder. Enough people have expressed an interest in having a community Seder, so the Board, along with a handful of volunteers, will make that happen on Saturday night, April 4 th . Cantor Kassel has a beautiful and creative service planned for that night so please make your reservations. We tried to make the cost as affordable as possible. To round out April, the Men’s Club has an incredible event planned for April 25th, “Bourbon, BBQ and Brotherhood”. Be on the lookout for upcoming information on these events.
Our Rabbinic transition team has begun its work in preparing for the arrival of Rabbi Shuval-Weiner this summer. Our nominating committee is in full swing making sure our lay leadership team will be set and ready to go for the new fiscal year. Their slate, once approved by the Board of Trustees, will be presented and then voted on at the Annual Congregational Meeting on May 17 th. I would be remiss if I didn’t make a plea for one other key ingredient to all of the above. That ingredient is Volunteers. Our staff can only do so much. Without the involvement of our lay leaders and a multitude of additional volunteers, these wonderful events can’t be made a reality. I know I always seem to be asking for something so you shouldn’t be shocked. If you can give some time to our community, please reach out to me and I will certainly put you to work. I told someone recently that sometimes I feel like a college football coach. Half my time is preparing for the games and the other half is spent recruiting players.
Behind the scenes this spring, the heart and soul of our year, the annual planning meeting known as “plan-ageddon” will take place. This all-day affair includes all staff members, clergy and several lay leaders. This is the meeting that maps out all the events, activities, school schedule, holidays, etc. for the next fiscal year. It’s a cross between a jigsaw puzzle and a chess game sprinkled with a hint of “Let’s Make A Deal”. At the end of the day, all the pieces have to fit together nicely and all stakeholders will hopefully be happy.
I hope that I will see many of you at these upcoming events and celebrations.
Then comes the real fun, putting together our temple’s budget for next year. Our financial and accounting lay leaders participate in numerous meetings of our Budget and Finance committee to hammer out a workable budget to deliver to the Board for approval
L’Shalom
Ron Swichkow
Hello Sisterhood! So far we have had a great turnout for our varied events this year. Educational, social, community outreach, and culinary activities have been offered with great reception. A big thank you goes out to Michelle Easton and Barb Garb for arranging a thought provoking docent led tour of the Anne Frank in the World exhibit in Sandy Springs and to Lindsay Levin for opening her home to Sisterhood for a nosh afterwards. Also our hamentashen baking day was a great success with many dozen pastries made for the Purim Carnival. A round of applause and heartfelt thank you is extended to Leslie Swichkow for spearheading this fun and interactive happening. Great day indeed! Sisterhood looks forward to “Knit and Nosh”, Sunday March 22nd at 9:45 am. Terry Carasick will be leading us in this community outreach project to knit scarves for homeless men and women in the metro Atlanta area. This will be an ongoing project over the spring, summer, and fall so we have enough scarves to give to area homeless shelters next December. Bring your needles and washable yarn; crocheters welcome too. If you cannot attend but want to participate, email Terry Carasick; terryshealthylving@gmail.com for instructions. Also be on the lookout for more Mah Jongg; this has been a roaring success and great for comradeship for the medium and advanced skilled folks as well as the novices learning the basics of this intricate game! Our next board meeting is Sunday, March 15 th in the oneg room. Please join us, offer suggestions, new ideas and meet your fellow Sisterhood committee members. We look forward to seeing you!
Robin Bledsoe Sisterhood Chair
4
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Religious School Every session of school something exciting happens. Between studying, music, art and assemblies our days are always busy and the students are engaged.
We have a very busy March planned. Our Madrichim are busy practicing for a Purim play they will be presenting to the entire school on March 1st. Thanks to Zac Povlot and Maryn Perlson for stepping up and taking charge of this holiday assembly. On February 27th our 3rd and 4th grade students hosted a wonderful graded Shabbat. It was so fulfilling to see so many of our students attending services. They performed several songs for the congregation.
Three of our grades went on field trips during February. 7th graders had the opportunity to participate once again in a special program designed and implemented by the William Bremen Heritage Museum. They went to the Bremen Museum and were given guided tours which introduced them to all aspects of this tragic part of our history, the Holocaust. This program has been designed to empower our students to know our history; and to be able to share it with future generations, so that this kind of inhumanity will never happen again. It also teaches young people that the Jewish people did not just sit back and accept their lot but many struggled and tried to keep a light burning and that is so important to impart this for Jewish pride in our students. Our 4th and 5th grade students had wonderful field trips hosted by the youth group. These outings helped our children get to know their fellow classmates in a social setting.
Confirmation letters for 2017 B’nai Mitzvah dates have been mailed. I am pleased to report that all of our families received one of their date choices. If your child is eligible for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah during the year 2017 and you have not yet chosen a date, please call as soon as possible so we can be sure your child has a date set aside for him/her. Important March Dates March 1st - Purim Assembly at 9:35am March 1st - Purim Carnival, right after school March 8th - Madrichim training, right after school, ends at 1:30pm March 15th - 4th grade field trip, 9:30am March 22nd - 7th grade Family Education at 9:35am
Our 4th and 5th grade students have been tested on the Hebrew prayers on several occasions. The students all tested great! We will have a celebratory ice cream party for the two grades in mid March. We started the Hebrew testing for our 6 th grade students this month. As soon as all testing is complete we will send parents a letter informing them of the results of the testing.
Shalom,
Hassia Levin
1st Grade Students making Tu B’Shevat Projects
Ruach Shabbat and Camp Style Oneg Friday, March 13th at 6 PM Please join us for a Blue Jean Ruach Shabbat and Camp Style oneg. Come at 6 pm for a quick nosh and stay after services for a Camp Style oneg. We will be serving a light dinner at the oneg so please register! All families are welcome, especially those who are interested in learning more about Jewish sleep away camp for this summer or future summers. Meet the directors of many Jewish camps that are located near Atlanta and learn about their specific program. Kids will be able to participate in some camp style activities after the service. Anyone who loves Jewish camps should come in their camp t-shirts! Please RSVP for this event so we will have enough food before services begin.
Please email Viki Taranto Stein at vikistein@me.com if you plan to attend.
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
5
HOTTY - CAMP JENNY & TOP GOLF
Youth Group HOTTY (9-12th Grade) Thank you so much to all of the TBT members who donated to our Driving For Jenny Fundraiser. With your help we raised $9000, enough to send 18 kids to Camp Jenny this summer. For more info about Camp Jenny, go to: http://www.nfty.org/campjenny/. We will be using a portion of the money to also subsidize our future youth group events and provide scholarships to regional and national events. We appreciate your support! This past month we also planned and led our 3rd annual HOTTY-led Congregational Service. The theme of the service was "In this age of technology, what does it really mean to be connected?" In case you missed it, here is an excerpt from Hannah Restler and Leora Green’s reading: Silent prayer is a part of the service where we can reflect on ourselves, our week, our day, and connect with G-d on an individual level. For this silent prayer, think of the best thing that happened to you today. Try to remember as many details as you can: how good you felt afterward, the smile on the other person’s face, the smile on your face, and more. Now, try to imagine what your day would’ve been like if you were checking Facebook, checking your e-mail, or talking on the phone when that special part of your day was happening. What would the rest of your day have been like without that moment, that smile, that feeling of happiness? L: We all use technology. It’s a fact. But there are times when social media can take away our special moments. Take some time to reflect, and try to take in every special moment; you never know how it could affect you.
And we had our Chai Society Party on February 22nd. HOTTYites came decked out in their finest attire! We munched on some hors d'oeuvres and watched the Oscars 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) Its finally here!!! March 20-22nd is NFTY-SAR’s Hatikvah Kallah for 7th & 8th Graders!! We’ll be taking a bunch of TBT’s JYG’ers to Temple Sinai in Sandy Springs for Kallah a fun gathering of youth from around our region. It’s a weekend of teen-created educational, spiritual, and of course, social activities. At a Kallah teens worship together, learn from interesting and exciting programs, participate in a social action project, and of course have tons of fun. We can’t wait.
JYG CHOCOLATE PARTY
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
Our Mad Scientist event in February was a blast…literally! We first had a yummy lunch and then did some crazy experiments like diet coke & mentos eruption, aluminum foil boats, balloon rockets, and a race to blow up balloons with pop rocks. And thank you to Ben Goldenthal, who did an awesome job acting as our Mad Scientist for the day! Make sure to join us on April 19th for our final Club 56 event of the year. After Sunday school we’ll head over to Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park. If you’ve been there, you know how much fun this place is! And, if not, you definitely don’t want to miss this one. See you there!
12th Grade Religious School Graduation
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!
Please join us as we celebrate our Graduating seniors who have continued their religious education through Kivunim. On Friday, April 17th at 8:00pm we will honor these students at a special Shabbat service.
Want more info about the youth groups at TBT? Contact us at: youth@bethtikvah.com or call us: Bobbee (303) 981-2356 & Adam (404) 971-4687
Upcoming Events: March 20-22 – NFTY SAR Hatikvah Kallah (7th & 8th Graders) April 18 – HOTTY Elections & Screen on the Green April 19 – Club 56 Sky Zone April 24-26 – NFTY-SAR Spring Kallah May 9 – HOTTY Installations, Senior Sendoff & Final Banquet May 17 – JYG Pool Party
It's been a pleasure and an honor to be a part of their Jewish journeys at Temple Beth Tikvah and we are proud of everything they've accomplished.
Mazel Tov and continued success to: Zach Baker Jacob Kremer Samuel Marks
Maryn Perlson
Zac Povlot
6
B’nai Mitzvah Twins, Gabriella & Colette Lowy will be called to the Torah as B’not Mitzvah on March 7 th, 2015. Gabriella & Colette are the daughters of Lisa & Hadley Lowy of Dunwoody and the granddaughters of Dr. Robert Sharkis and the late Marilyn Narduzzi of Canton, Ohio, Benita Lowy of Atlanta ,and Stephen Lowy of Birmingham, Alabama. Currently as 7th graders at Peachtree Charter Middle School (PCMS), Gabriella plays Oboe for the PCMS band and competes in triathlons, while Colette sings in the PCMS chorus and runs track for the Patriots. Both girls have been involved with Second Helpings, delivering food to those in need, leading up to their B’not Mitzvah and look forward to continuing to volunteer for the food insecure afterwards. Gabriella and Colette spend summers at Camp Barney Medintz, which they love, and are very involved at the MJCCA, including junior counseloring and BBYO. They are excited to share this milestone, with so much family and so many friends, and to continuing their Jewish education afterwards. Jamie Alexa Cohen will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on March 14, 2015. Jamie is the daughter of Michael and Lisa Cohen and the sister to Jacob, 17 and Joshua, 15. Jamie is the granddaughter of Rita Liebowitz of McLean, Virginia, Joanne and Stephen Klein of Maplewood, NJ and the late Jerry Cohen of Gaithersburg, MD. She is in the 7th grade at Piney Grove Middle School. Jamie is a competitive cheerleader, loves tumbling, spending time with her friends and family and especially enjoys coaching her two special needs cheerleading squads. Josh Anderson will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on March, 14, 2015. Josh is the son of Dana and Mark Anderson and the brother to Jack Anderson. He is in the 7 th grade at the Atlanta Jewish Academy where he participates in a variety of activities at school. Josh’s hobbies include soccer, reading comic books, playing video games, and collecting anything regarding The Simpsons.
Alyssa Brooke Perlson will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on March 21, 2015. Alyssa is the daughter of Julie & Marc Perlson and sister to Maryn Perlson. She is the granddaughter of Helaine Buchwald of Marietta, Georgia and Harold and Paula Perlson of Henderson, Nevada. Alyssa is an honor student at Elkins Pointe Middle School. Alyssa is a competitive cheerleader, softball player and member of the 7 th grade Junior Eagles basketball team. She is looking forward to sharing this special occasion with her family and friends. Michelle "Shelly" Boehm will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on March 21, 2015. Shelly is the daughter of Amy Boehm, Larry Boehm and the sister of Brianna Boehm. She is the granddaughter of Bobbi Strauss of Roswell, Georgia and Bill and Vera Boehm of Orangeburg, New York. She is a seventh grade President's Honor Roll student at Dodgen Middle School. Shelly loves participating as a member of Company at Rhythm Dance Center in Marietta and volunteering at Beth Tikvah as a teacher aide for 5th graders on Tuesday nights. Shelly is excited to become a Bat Mitzvah. Ethan Asher will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on March 28, 2015 at Camp Twin Lakes in Winder, GA. Ethan is the son of Beth & Barry Asher, brother to Frannie Asher and grandson of Harvey & Louise Wachsman of Birmingham, Alabama, Mimi Wachsman of St. Louis, Missouri, Lois Asher of Atlanta, Georgia and the late Murray Asher, of blessed memory. Ethan is in the seventh grade at Haynes Bridge Middle School where he plays the saxophone and is a member of the Junior Beta Club. Ethan attends Camp Barney Medintz, enjoys hanging out with his friends, traveling, trying new and unusual foods and is an avid reader.
Volunteer Recognition Shabbat Friday, March 20th 8 PM
We invite you to join Saturday, March 14th Cantor Nancy Kassel for the re-telling of the Exodus Return of the Judy Cole Quartet with from Egyptian slavery Saturday, April 4th at 6 PM (see page 11 for more info & to rsvp)
7
Musical Guest, Cantor Nancy Kassel 7:30 PM / Havdalah at 8 PM
followed by music and dancing!
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Fundraising News Shalom! Fundraising at TBT is always an ongoing and exciting experience. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves at the 2nd Chance Prom, it was a great event! Community efforts like this allow our families to come together and enjoy our friendships with the goal of building the future of TBT. Ultimately, that's the common goal of all of our fundraising efforts, build the future of TBT so that our children and our children's children can appreciate our sense of worship that TBT is proud of. As we have continued to do over the past several months, the Board of Trustees and our committee thanks all of you who have helped us reach our goals for the 2014-2015 Annual Campaign. Financial support at TBT is an individual decision, whether your contribution is Chai or 20x Chai, your support is always appreciated and counted on to help build our future. Best! Jonathan Agin Chairman of the TBT Fundraising Committee Andy and Julie Aaronson Jonathan and Allison Agin Barry and Shari Alhadeff Pam Alterman Steven and Teri Astren Brian and Sheri Baker Steven and Sheila Barid Dale and Wendy Bearman Jonathan and Barbara Berger Leonard Berger Harris and Suellen Bergman Michael and Jeannine Bernstein Jerry Bilsky and Judy Tolkan Peter Birnbaum David and Robin Bledsoe Todd and Jennifer Boehm Michael and Heather Braun Adam and Adrienne Bruckman Jamie Burak Paul and Cherie Cervasio Lois Clymin David and Roberta Coad Michael D. and Lisa R. Cohen Michael and Marlene Cohn Steve and Arlene Cohn Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties Mark and Stephanie Craig Renee Davis Gordon and Hollis Decker Craig and Susan Derene Mitchell and Dyann Diamond Kristopher and Paige Dobbins Joseph and Waynah Dunn Rodney and Erika Eberhardt Audrey Eisen Alan and Pam Epstein Elliot and Donna Feller Steven and Amy Fine Rory and Jenifer Friedman Steve and RoseAnn Gerson Ed and Cindy Getty
Arthur Gittelman and Marcia Pearl Cary Goldenthal and Lori Shapiro Neil and Jennifer Goldstein Robert and Cindy Goldstein Harlan & Ivie Graiser Rabbi Fred and Deborah Greene Anne Grossman Burton and Sara Grossman Andrew and Karen Gutman Scott and Nancy Harris 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 Sharon Khoury Jared and Rachel King Jeff and Cindy Klein Marc and Deborah Klein Peter Klokow and Ellen Frank Stanley and Bobbie Kopkin Steven and Helen Kraus Ned and Lisa Kreiss Robert and Karen Kremer
Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig Murray and Sonia Lynn Joel and Aviva Margolies Jonathan and Joan Marks Jason and Maggie McAuliffe David McClung Thomas and Marsha McMurrain Howard and Helaine Medoff Gary and Peggy Mendelson Ric and Barrie Mershon Martin and Charlene Milstein Ilene Monat Mark and Jennifer Mosbacher Robert Moss Jay and Anita Myer Robert and Marcy Nader Bernie and Gail Natter North Georgia Pain Clinic, PC Ryan and Rachel Palazzo Larry and Jackie Pepper Gary and Sheyla Peterson Jason and Melanie Pickett Shirley Plotkin Scott and Rhonda Povlot Marla Ramaglia Joel and Valerie Rapowitz Herbert and Bunny Renkin Betty Rickles Robert and Ellen Rickles Barry & Robin Riegelhaupt Howard & Barbara Rosenberg Joel and Judy Rosenberg Harvey and Natine Rosenzweig Irving and Doris Rosing Paul and Julie Rubin Tod and Leslie Rubin Mark and Gail Rudel Andrew and Barbara Sacks Robert and Donna Schacher Joel and Kathleen Schoenblum Gary and Debra Schwartz William and Terry Schwartz
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
8
Rhonda Schweber Sanford and Gail Seidman Ira and Brenda Share Stacy and Alicia Sher Walter and Esther Shultz Carol Shutzberg David and Elisa Siegel Sandy and Nancy Simon Lawrence and Anne Skal Kenneth and Helene Skolky Sharon Snowiss Stuart and Frances Solomon Howard and Cynthia Steinberg Steven and Linda Steinberg Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz Mathew and Dani Stordy Barry & Denise Straus Ronald and Leslie Swichkow Donald and Marilyn Tam Rosalind Taranto Lloyd and Gail Tate Steven and Abbe Tobin David & Christine Toltzis Bruce and Mariann Mamberg Turiansky
Mark and Sally Vosk Bruce and Carol Waldman Bruce and Bonnie Walkes June Wallach Ronald and Sheri Weiner Clifford and Loretta Weiss Mark and Debbie Weiss Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger
Bram and Dana Wieskopf 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 January 2015)
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
March 2015 Sunday 1
Monday 2
Tuesday 3
Religious School 9:30 am
Kesher Teen/Parent Dinner & Class 6:30 pm
Religious School Purim Assembly 9:30 am
Confirmation Class 6:45 pm
Purim Carnival 12:00 pm
Families Anonymous 7:15 pm
Wednesday 4
Tai Chi 9:30 am Religious School Tuesday 5:00 pm
Thursday 5
EREV PURIM
PURIM
Megillah Reading & Shpiel 6:30 pm
Friday 6
7 Shabbat Service 8:00 pm
Begins ATID 9:30 am Religious School 9:30 am Madrichim Training 12:30 pm
9
8th Grade Secret Kidnapping 4:00 pm
10 Senior Luncheon 12:00 pm Kesher/Confirmation /Kivunim 6:45 pm
11
12
Tai Chi 9:30 am
13 The Introduction to the Talmud that You've Been Waiting For! 11:45 am
Religious School Tuesday 5:00 pm
Oneg 6:00 pm
Families Anonymous 7:15 pm
Blue Jean Ruach Shabbat Service 6:30 pm Camp Open House 7:30 pm
15 Hunger Walk 2015 Religious School 9:30 am Sisterhood Mah Jong 9:30 am Sisterhood Board Meeting 9:45 am
16 No ECEC Parent/Teacher Conferences No Relgious School Families Anonymous 7:15 pm
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am
Shabbat Service Lowy B’not Mitzvah 10:00 am
Board of Ed Meeting 7:00 pm
Endowment Board Meeting 5:00 pm
8 Daylight Saving Time
Saturday
17 Tai Chi 9:30 am Religious School Tuesday 5:00 pm
18
19
HOTTY - Board Meeting 6:30 pm
Board of Trustees Meeting 7:30 pm
Women's Study From Sarah to Savannah: Leadership Lessons from our Ancestral Mothers 7:00 pm
20
14 Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am
Shabbat Service Cohen/Anderson B'nai Mitzvah 10:00 am Judy Cole Quartet with Food, Drinks & Dancing 7:30 pm
21
NFTY Hatikvah Kallah
NFTY Hatikvah Kallah
Volunteer Recognition Shabbat Service w/ Choir 8:00 pm
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am
Shabbat Service Perlson/Boehm B’not Mitzvah 10:00 am
RS SOJOURN - 7th grade 10:15 am How to Lead a More Engaging Passover Seder 10:45 am Israeli Scouts 1:00 pm
22 NFTY Hatikvah Kallah ATID 9:30 am Religious School 9:30 am
23 Kesher/Confirmation /Kivunim 6:45 pm Families Anonymous 7:15 pm
RS Family Ed Day - 7th grade with SOJOURN 9:35 am
24
25
26
Tai Chi 9:30 am Religious School Tuesday 5:00 pm
Breast Cancer Support Group 7:00 pm
Officers Meeting 7:30 pm
Sisterhood Mah Jong 7:00 pm
27
28
ECEC Dad's Bagel Break 9:30 am
Bagels, Learning & Torah 9:00 am
Oneg 6:00 pm 6:30 pm
Shabbat Service 10:00 am
Shabbat Service 6:30 pm
Sisterhood - Knit & Nosh 9:45 am How to Lead a More Engaging Passover Seder 10:45 am
29 Religious School 9:30 am
30 Kesher & Confirmation 6:45 pm Families Anonymous 7:15 pm
31 Tai Chi 9:30 am Religious School 5:00 pm
9
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Welcome to the TBT Family!!
TBT Seniors Luncheon Monday, March 9 at 12 PM
Marc and Rena Harris Doug and Julie West
Christy Merritt from The Drake House will be our speaker RSVP to Natine at rosen4348@aol.com
Nominating Committee - Call for Petitions Annual Meeting - May 17, 2015 The Temple Beth Tikvah Nominating Committee is requesting nominations by petition for the 2015-16 Board of Trustees, Officers, and Board of Education. FOOD OF THE MONTH
If you would like to nominate a congregant or submit a nomination for yourself, these are the criteria, according to our by-laws:
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!
1) All nominations by petition must be separate for each position. 2) Each petition must be signed by twenty-five (25) “voting members” of the congregation and must also be signed by the voting member who has petitioned. 3) No more than one (1) petition shall be submitted for any one member. 4) All petitions must be submitted by April 1, 2015.
Please send all petitions to the Temple office, attention to Todd Boehm, Nominating Committee Chair
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.
10
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
CLICK ANYWHERE ON THIS PAGE TO RSVP AND PAY
11
Donations Annual Campaign Sandy and Nancy Simon in memory of Charles Zeitz Pam Alterman wishing Mazel Tov to Ron and Leslie Swichkow on the birth of their granddaughter Chai and Mighty Chavurah in honor of the birth of Ellie Cooper Betty Rickles in honor of Ron and Leslie Swichkow's new Granddaughter, Ellie Paige Cooper, and in honor of Libby Povlot becoming a Bat Mitzvah, and in memory of Eleanor Goldsmith Jamie and Katie Jaffe in memory of Curtis Pearl Building Fund Dale and Wendy Bearman in memory of Yetta Dutkiewitz Emily Lewit in memory of Ruth Frenkel, Michael Lewit and Theresa Olshine Addie Myers in memory of Irving Bachman Barry and Shari Alhadeff in memory of Milton Kirchheimer Dale and Wendy Bearman in memory of Herbert Stein, Martha Bearman, Ann Eileen Kant and Nora Stein
Dr. Tod and Leslie Rubin in memory of Barbara Rubin William & Marjory Segal in memory of Daniel Leavitt Marvin and Trudy Davis in memory of Ruth Rein Shirley Crawford Michael Zalkin Memorial Library Fund Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz in memory of Jacob Krigsner Jeffrey & Beth Kess in memory of Lester Mansfield Mark and Gail Rudel in memory of Curtis Pearl Mark and Gail Rudel in honor of the birth of Ellie Cooper, granddaughter of Ron and Leslie Swichkow Preschool Fund The ECEC Staff in honor of the birth of Eli Hall Rory and Jenifer Friedman in memory of Brandon Hirsch Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund Nadine Duhaney with prayers for her family Michael and Deborah Schlifka in memory of Melvin Haber David and Robin Bledsoe in memory of Dr. Roger Bledsoe Ruth Zeidman in memory of your beloved Father, Max Mendelson Seth, Ellen, Megan and Danny Zimmer in memory of Daniel Zimmer Nancy Broudy in memory of Irving Rothman William and Catherine Sirkin in memory of Janet Predmest Nancy Broudy in memory of Curtis Pearl Bernice Isaac and Richard Quintana in memory of Beverly Isaac Bernard and Rita Tuvlin in memory of Herman Myers Bernard and Rita Tuvlin in memory of Robert Tuvlin
Campership/Israel Fund Bruce and Bonnie Walkes in memory of Nathan Wixman and Sol Walkes Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund Steven and Helen Kraus in memory of Clifford Oxman Michael and Deborah Schlifka in memory of Melvin Haber Rosalind Taranto in memory of Ada Berman Pomerance Steven and Janice Liederman in memory of Harry Liederman Robert Moss in memory of Murray Moss Robert and Judith Goldblatt in appreciation of the naming of Georgia Linsey Goldblatt Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig in honor of Esther and Walt Shultz's grandson, Izaac, becoming a Bar Mitzvah Peter and Sharon Jedel in appreciation of all Cantor Kassel does David and Christine Toltzis in memory of Joseph Zeidman and Arthur Toltzis
Rabbi Shuval-Weiner’s Discretionary Fund Steve and RoseAnn Gerson with prayers and best wishes to Micah Blechner for a speedy recovery Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund Gwenn Holland in memory of Bernie Bickwit Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Molly Blank Michael and Deborah Schlifka in memory of Melvin Haber Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Adrian Gerson William and Catherine Sirkin in memory of Janet Predmest Kathleen Rieter in memory of Bernie Bickwit Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Adrian Gerson Max and Carol Wolf in memory of Stephen Ian Perling
Caring/Kehillat Chesed Fund Bruce and Bonnie Walkes in memory of Arnold Mangen Ruth Zeidman in honor of Leslie and Ron Swichkow's granddaughter Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in honor of the birth of the granddaughter of Ron and Leslie Swichkow Rory and Jenifer Friedman in honor of the birth of Ron and Leslie Swichkow's granddaughter, Ellie Paige Lila Stein in memory of Herbert Stein, Nora Stein and Yetta Dutkiewitz Ronald and Leslie Swichkow wishing Eric Levin a speedy recovery Harvey and Natine Rosenzweig in memory of Curtis Pearl Andrew and Karen Gutman in memory of Sol B. Gutman Walter and Esther Shultz in memory of Sandy Seidman's mother, Anita Seidman Larry & Jackie Pepper in memory of Curtis Pearl
Religious School Fund Fred and Patricia Landsberg in memory of Brandon Hirsch Suzy Scheinberg in memory of Bernie Bickwit Neil and Ruth Hilsen in memory of Leo Licht Tikkun Olam Fund Steve Mahan in memory of Whit Mahan Clifford and Loretta Weiss in memory of Mildred Weiss and Sarah Knieberg Torah Fund Nadine Duhaney with prayers for her family
General Fund Jamie and Katie Jaffe in honor of Leslie and Ron Swichkow becoming Grandparents Marshall and Dolores Barrash in memory of Donald Edward Block Andy Berke and Family in memory of Herbert Berke Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig in memory of Abraham Ludwig Robert and Myra Idol in memory of Jack Schaier Ronald and Leslie Swichkow in memory of Eleanor Goldsmith and Curtis Pearl, and wishing Micah Blechner a speedy recovery Dale and Wendy Bearman in memory of Bernie Bickwit
Youth Group Fund Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Donald Block and wishing a speedy recovery to Wendy Bearman Donald and June Restler in memory of Samuel and Leah Restler Steve and RoseAnn Gerson in memory of Betty Rickles' sister-in-law Harvey and Natine Rosenzweig in honor of the birth of Ron and Leslie Swichkow's granddaughter
12
(donations received through 2/19)
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!
Toba Freed Grandmother of Bram Wieskopf and Lauren Cooper
Erica Stein June Wallach Richard Staviss Marsha McMurrain Rhonda Povlot Leslie Swichkow Marsha Mathis Kathy Schoenblum Eric & Kevin Schoenblum
Curtis Pearl Father of Marcia Pearl Anita Seidman Mother of Sandy Seidman Sharon Derene Mother of Craig Derene
May God console you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Mazal tov to Rick Aranson, who has just been named the new CEO of Jewish Family & Career Services, effective July 1. We wish you great success in this next stage of your career.
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. In addition, this program is for sharing experiences, meeting others and gathering information regarding diagnoses, surgeries, and genetic testing from various professionals.
Mazal tov to Jeff and Jeanne Schultz on the engagement of their daughter, Sierra, to Jake Douglas Burgdorf.
Our next meeting will be held on
Thursday, March 26 at 7:00 PM Ellen Sichel, author of Splash into Calm, will speak to the group about techniques for stress and pain reduction Honor a person or event with a leaf on our tree of
This survivor support group is sponsored by The Kehillat Chesed/Caring Committee of Temple Beth Tikvah.
life. You can purchase a leaf as an individual or as a group.!
For further information or questions, please contact Valerie Rapowitz at vrapowitzslp@yahoo.com or call 678-643-9672. Please RSVP. All are welcome. 13
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Synagogue Information Synagogue Office Fax Number School Office (Perri) Preschool (Jenifer) Assistant to Clergy Financial Secretary Admin. Assistant Office Manager
- 770-642-0434 - 770-642-0647 - 770-642-4168 - 678-350-0076 - Michelle Leder - Jenny Korsen - Lisa Singer - Becky Sullivan
Planning a simcha or group gathering? The Tam-Blank Social Hall is the Place to Be. For more information on renting our Social Hall, contact the synagogue office at 770-642-0434.
Get Involved! TBT Committees and Chairpersons Adult Education Cindy Getty eeg@comcast.net Budget & Finance Karen Korshak karcpa@comcast.net Campership Marcia Haber marciahaber@yahoo.com Chavurot Dalia Faupel d2faupel@comcast.net College Outreach Lynda Bennett lrbennett08@comcast.net Ginger Glazer ggchoc@bellsouth.net Communications Mark Rudel mrudel@ups.com Family Promise Randy and Amy Siegal amysiegal@gmail.com Brian and Jennifer Steinberg zokadesigns@gmail.com Tony Rosenberg trosenberg860@gmail.com
Fundraising Jonathan Agin jlagin1@gmail.com House Ted Nathan tnathan@baldwinscheduling.com Human Resources Seth Zimmer sz4941@att.com Israel Gene Carasick gcarasick@gmail.com Kehillat Chesed (Caring) Leslie Swichkow lswichkow@comcast.net Library Ilana Zalkin ilanaz@att.net Membership Recruitment & Retention Jill Leitman jaarons2@yahoo.com Marcia Pearl marciapearl@bellsouth.net Men’s Club Mark Greenspan greenspanfamily@bellsouth.net Peter Hartog althazyr@gmail.com
14
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
15
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
16