Atlanta Jewish Times, No.1, January 10, 2014 by Atlanta Jewish Times

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Performers, Playwrights and Pajama-Pop Page 13

Inside a Squid? Page 18

Beginnings of a Learning Rights Movement Page 13

How Much Do You Know About Higher Education? Take Our Quiz. Page 12

EDUCATION SPECIAL SECTION | PAGES 10-17

january 10 ▪ 2014

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israel

Israeli Pride

GOOD NEWS MADE IN THE JEWISH STATE THIS PAST WEEK ISRAELI HOSPITAL DELIVERED 20,000 BABIES. Twenty thousand babies were born at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem during 2013 – the highest number ever in any Israeli hospital and almost unsurpassed in the world. This year will see more delivery rooms, a huge neonatal intensive care unit and new obstetrics wards. NEW PATIENT TRANSPORTATION. Being wheeled into an operating room is a stressful experience for everyone. The Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel has now decided to try and alleviate that anxiety among its youngest patients by pushing them in pedal cars. ISRAELI ON TOP ITUNES LIST. Idan Raichel’s latest album, “Quarter to Six,” is included among Apple Best World Albums of 2013. The Israeli musician, known for his Idan Raichel Project, previously went to the top of the iTunes World music sales chart in 2012 with his “The Tel Aviv Session” album. BUILDING PEACE FROM THE GROUND UP. A positive outlook on how peace between Israel and the Palestinian Arabs might come about. The new PA city of Rawabi will use Israeli wastewater treatment and grow JNF trees. Technical innovation plus regional cooperation could bring a win-win outcome. ISRAEL HOSTS SUPERCOMPUTING CONFERENCE. Tel Aviv is the venue for the PRACE (Partnership for Advanced Computing in Europe) Feb 2014 Winter School. The event begins with a workshop on Israeli innovation in High Performance Computing. Delegates will travel from places such as Turkey, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority. FREE TRAIN SERVICE FROM SDEROT. Some good news for residents of Sderot - the town constantly targeted by Gaza terrorists. Israel railways have started a new train service between Sderot and Tel Aviv. The one-hour journey will be free to Sderot residents for three months. SHATTERING THE SILENCE OF AUTISM. Ola Mundo (“Hello World ” in Spanish) transmits instant messages using symbols for people whose speaking or writing ability is severely impaired. Israel’s Ophir Harel developed the

world’s first and only symbolic communication app to help his 10-year-old autistic son. DRUZE MK PRAISES ISRAELI EQUALITY. Hamad Amar is a member of Israel’s Druze minority and Deputy Speaker of Knesset. “I initiated an overhaul, repair and modernization of the sewage and water systems and the electricity grids in predominantly Arab areas in the north of the country, long ignored by others. This is what can happen if one chooses integration and contribution over ostracism and demonization,” he declared.

TREATING AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Israel’s Cell Cure Neurosciences has been awarded a grant of NIS 6.1 million from the Office of the Chief Scientist. The grant will help finance the human clinical trials in 2014 of OpRegen, a cell-based therapeutic product for the treatment of age-relat-

PLANT A TREE WITH JNF, WIN A TRIP TO ISRAEL! Tu BiShvat is Thursday, January 16, 2014 Plant a tree in Israel and you will automatically be entered into a raffle to win:

GRAND PRIZE:

ISRAEL’S RIVERS ARE FLOWING AGAIN. Ha’aretz reports that the water flowing through Israel’s nature sites has increased tenfold over the past decade, and is expected to continue increasing due to new arrangements for supplying water to agriculture and the growing use of desalinated water. PREVENTING IDENTITY THEFT. Israeli start-up MyEasyDocs is a system for checking that important documents (such as a college diploma) are genuine. Schools and universities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, law firms and organizations such as the United Nations, accept verified digital documents vetted by MyEasyDocs.

ed macular degeneration. WINE FROM THE TALMUD. Archaeologists conducting digs at a site in the city of Elad in central Israel, have discovered several ancient wine and olive presses that date back to the Talmudic period, some 1500 years ago.

• 2 roundtrip tickets to Israel, courtesy of EL AL Israel Airlines • 2 free nights at the Carlton Tel Aviv

10 RUNNER-UP PRIZES

Contest rules can be found at jnf.org/tbsrules. Contest begins January 6, 2014 and runs through 11:59 pm January 16, 2014.

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DON’T JUMP – USE SKYSAVER. If you live or work 25 floors up or just three floors up, the Israeli-developed Skysaver escape harness will allow you to evacuate safely from a building fire or other emergency. No pre-installation just put it on, clip the harness to a support and climb out the window. CUTTING OIL USE BY 60 PERCENT. Israel plans to cut oil use in transportation by 60 percent by 2025 and will tap into its newfound natural gas deposits to make it happen. It is also investing heavily to help start-ups developing battery and biofuel technologies, and is offering an annual $1 million prize to innovators in the field. BLOGGERS HOSTED TO SPREAD ART. The Kinetis nonprofit educational organization hosted five international art bloggers with millions of avid readers, to help get the message out that Israel is made up of multiple layers that the world doesn’t always know about. The bloggers visited the country’s museums and met its top artists.

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‫ב"ה‬

T H E AT L A N TA DAYA N U T I N S T I T U T E WINTER SEMESTER KICKOFF LECTURE

An Evening With

Michael Medved Nationally Syndicated Radio Host

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israel

Community Conversation N.Y. CONSUL GENERAL OF ISRAEL TO SPEAK IN ATLANTA SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

ewish National Fund (JNF) proudly announces its 2014 Community Conversation featuring Ambassador Ido Aharoni, Consul General of Israel in New York. Ambassador Aharoni, will brief the crowd on Israeli politics and media to discuss the evolving image of the land and people of the country. Ambassador Aharoni will speak on Sun., Jan. 19 at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Or Hadash. There is no charge for the event and pre-registration is requested. The event will also hold a technology drive by Ecycle Services, ecotour of Or Hadash Synagogue and special discussion with JNF Israel Special Emissary Ezra Ravins on current and social issues in Israel. Pre-Keynote Events for the morning are as follows: 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Bring your computers/electronics for safe, secure, recycling by Ecycle Services 10 a.m. Eco-Tour of the new Or Hadash Synagogue 10 a.m. JNF Israeli Emissary Ezra Ravins discusses current social issues in Israel

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RSVP BY PHONE: 404.843.2464 OR WWW.CHABADGA.COM/MEDVED

ISRAEL ALONE?

MICHAEL MEDVED is a nationally syndicated radio host, best-selling author, veteran film critic, and proud Jew. His daily three-hour broadcast reaches more than 3.5 million listeners on nearly 200 stations across the country - drawing an audience that consistently ranks his show as one of the top ten political talk shows in the United States. He can be heard in Atlanta daily on Talk 920 AM.

How the Jewish state can continue to flourish in an often hostile world.

SPONSORED BY: A PROJECT OF CHABAD OF GEORGIA

“Theodor Herzl, the visionary founder of the Modern State of Israel taught us that ‘if we will it, it is no dream.’ Today, Israel continues its tradition of reaching for its dreams,” said Beth Gluck, Southeast Regional Director, Jewish National Fund. “Striving for a just State and contributing to the global good is

an integral part of the young country’s culture,” continued Gluck, “It is most fitting that Israeli Ambassador Ido Aharoni will visit Atlanta on Martin Luther King weekend. It is a tribute to MLK’s legacy of promoting social justice that we will gather to discuss Israel’s path to improving the quality of life all over the world.” Ambassador Ido Aharoni assumed the post of Consul General of Israel in New York in February of 2011 after serving as acting Consul General since August 2010. Ambassador Aharoni has brand management expertise as the former Head of Israel’s Brand Management Team, with previous experience holding positions in the Israeli government including Senior Advisor to Israel’s Foreign Minister and Vice Prime Minister, responsible for media and public affairs and Policy advisor to the Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jerusalem for five directors-general. He has been a member of Israel’s Foreign Service since 1991, and is a sought after speaker on all topics related to Israel. After addressing the Atlanta community, Ambassador Aharoni will continue onto Memphis, Tenn. at Baron Hirsch Synagogue. This is a free community event; a re-stocking fee of $10 is requested for a computer or monitor donation. For more information or to RSVP, visit jnf.org/atlido or contact Southeast Campaign Executive Abby Halper at ahalper@jnf.org or (404) 236- 8990 x852.

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Two Jewish sisters’ lives and the spirit of a city are forever changed in this romantic comedy. By Atlanta’s own Janece Shaffer Directed by Susan V. Booth

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Creative Design

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Series on the Alliance Stage Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs

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ACCORDING TO ARLENE

Dual Gifts

CELEBRATING THE ARRIVAL OF A GRANDDAUGHTER AS WELL AS A SON’S LEGACY By Arlene Appelrouth AJT CONTRIBUTOR

e were thrilled to head to Toronto to meet Chana Perel, the newest member of the Appelrouth family who was born Nov. 30. On Saturday, as we walked up the icy streets in Forest Hill to synagogue, we were greeted by bunches of pink and white balloons outside the sanctuary. My daughter-in-law, Dalia, had arranged for the balloons and also the special Kiddush where the sweet table was decorated with pink table clothes from the gamach, On top of the tablecloths were platters of pink cookies, pink jelly beans and pink cupcakes. If you’re wondering what a gamach is, I’ll tell you. I had never heard the word gamach until I first visited David and Dalia in Ramat Eshkol, a suburb of Jerusalem, where they lived for five and a half years. Orthodox communities, in Israel and around the world, have organized lending systems, called gamachs.

january 10 ▪ 2014

In Toronto, which boasts a Jewish population of 250,000, there are hun-

dreds of gamachs. One can borrow everything from dresses for a wedding party to wheelie-chairs and other things you would otherwise never think of borrowing. When Dalia decided she wanted the Kiddush tables covered with pink tablecloths, she knew she could consult her Jewish directory of Toronto for a gamach that lent out tablecloths and other linen. She borrowed 10 pink tablecloths knowing her only cost would be to have them dry cleaned, at the substantially reduced rate of only six dollars per tablecloth. The dry cleaner, owned by religious Jews, provides a substantial discount to those borrowing from the gamach. Back getting back to our trip to Toronto, when we went to synagogue last Saturday, my son David and oldest grandson Raphael wore pink ties. It was obvious it wasn’t only the Toronto Appelrouths who were thrilled to welcome a girl to the family after three boys. Many congregants were delighted and eager to speak to Dan and I. It’s always a pleasure to attend services at the Temmy Latner Forest Hill Jewish Centre, where David is an assistant rabbi and the educational

director. Dan always gets an aliyah, plus the rabbi always acknowledges my presence. Last week he spoke at length about our son, David. The Yiddish word kvell is a good one to describe the pride I felt listening to the many accomplishments and characteristics of my youngest son. When the rabbi spoke about David in his sermon, he talked about his being a Torah scholar and also mentioned David’s diversity because of his skills as a basketball player and musician. What really struck me, was when Rabbi Elie Garfunkle talked about my son’s lack of ego, or humility. Humility or anavah in Hebrew, is one of the most highly regarded qualities amongst religious Jews. Moses was regarded as the greatest leader in part because of his great humility. Listening to the senior rabbi compare my son’s humility to the humility of Moses really gave me pause. I found myself remembering other rabbis whose words about my son made me realize that his path in life would be different than what I had always imagined. W h e n David, at the age of 12, told me he wanted to attend the Greenfield Hebrew Academy, my knee- jerk reaction was that it wasn’t a good idea. We were a Jewish family committed to Judaism, and we attended a Reform temple. I wouldn’t have considered any school endorsed by the orthodox community because my understanding of

orthodox Judaism was that girls were educated differently than boys, and the religious culture has many gender specific expectations. That contradicted the strong feminist and egalitarian values I embraced. David, then only 12-years-old, was insistent about wanting an opportunity to learn about Jewish history from the Hebrew Academy, which was generally considered to have orthodox values. We allowed him to enroll, even though I had concerns about what he would be taught and how that might change his view of our family. Six weeks later, one of the faculty members called to let me know about David’s “hunger for Torah.” Rabbi Mordechai Saxon was so enthusiastic; I didn’t know how to respond. He was the first of many rabbis, over the years, who spoke to me in superlatives about my son’s insatiable appetite for learning about Torah and the rich Jewish heritage. When I show up in Toronto as “the rabbi’s mother,” there are times I’m not sure how to react or how much to reveal.One middle-aged woman always greets me and thanks me for bringing David into the world so he can be her spiritual guide. My son’s spiritual orientation began changing from the moment he enrolled in the Hebrew Academy. His orientation continued to evolve once he committed himself to a Yeshiva education, rather than the broader university education I had planned for him. We have been having interesting conversations for more than 25 years about how our world views differ. However, the bottom line is that I love my son David and am proud of him. And each time he and his wife bring another child into the world, the “Bubbie” in me kvells even more. Arlene Appelrouth earned a degree in news-editorial journalism from the University of Florida and her career as a writer and journalist spans a 50-year period; she currently studies memoir writing while working on her first book.

AJT

new moon meditations

Clean Home, Clean Spirit

REPRIORITIZING AND LETTING GO FOR THE NEW YEAR

AJT CONTRIBUTOR

he Hebrew month of Sh’vat began Jan. 2, 2014, a perfect time to earn Enchanted Key No. 5, for Reduced

Clutter.

As we enter this secular New Year, let’s clear the path so we don’t trip on anything. Amassing possessions is vexing to the spirit. The Torah teaches us that helping others, not ostentation, is the true purpose of wealth. And yet, many of us are collectors. There are varied reasons we have more than desired. Julie Morgenstern, author of, “Organizing from the Inside Out: Time Management from the Inside Out and Shed Your Stuff, Change Your Life” helps us with getting organized and keeping space clear. Obstacles include Need for Perfection, Complex Confusing Systems and More Stuff than Storage Space. Dragons fill the room with paraphernalia then sit in the middle of it where you can’t even see them or the clutter itself, since you’ve adapted to the restriction of space.

grant practices both contributed to holding on to things and repurposing them. People left their homelands without taking anything and thus, valued everything gained. We can tame these Dragons. To clear clutter and honor Sh’vat, The New Year of the Trees, reduce the paper trail so that sacred trees are not destroyed. Pay bills and save photos online, and remove yourself from junk mail lists. Passing along objects you no longer need is a terrific way to be generous. Feeling content with your lot allows humility and not needing things to show for your success fosters the modest soul. Donate clothing, toys and furniture to local charities. Sports equipment and books may have a new home at religious schools, temple youth lounges or libraries. Clearing space makes room for your spirit to soar. Feng Shui, the Chinese art of placement, uses the nine sections of the Bagua Map to pinpoint associated areas of a home and surrounding space to assess the flow of qi, or energy, and balance it. “The Western Guide to Feng Shui, by Terah Kathryn Collins,” is a favorite book on this topic.

My dear 91-year-old mother passed away this year and I still cannot bring myself to sort through her precious belongings. Morgenstern writes of sentimental attachment. My mother’s treasures will challenge me with decisions about items that not only held value for her, but also hold memories via possessions she inherited from my father and grandparents.

Don Aslett, author of “Is There Life After Housework?,” offers a fourstep process for de-cluttering: Sprout, Doubt, Reroute and Out.

I’ll face the emotional tidal wave that the sweet scent of her clothing will bring and wrestle with what to part with and what to keep, adding to my own pile of earthly goods.

Doubt is a container, emptied regularly, of items not needing immediate attention. Magazines or mail can be sorted at doctor’s offices, sporting practices or in carpool lines. Magazines are 70 percent advertising and time is wasted going through them repeatedly.

The Mishna includes three traits of the disciples of Abraham. They are, “a good eye [generous], a humble spirit [humility], and a modest soul.” The third trait references those who control their desires, even for things permitted.

The Depression Era and immi-

Sprout files house information gathered for a future project, whether remodeling, with sketches, color swatches and fabric or a simcha notebook, with vendors and business cards.

Aslett suggests reading them once and tearing out articles to put into the Doubt pile. They may get rerouted to others, filed or recycled. Recycle the rest of the magazine or donate it to art departments. Reroute a pile of

clothes, junk jewelry or other things designated to move out of your space. Out is the garbage. We all have well-meaning piles of stained shirts or those, missing buttons. It takes five minutes to sew on a button but if you’re not going to do it, pin it to the shirt and donate it. Discard pens that write every third word or replace the ink. Donate three items from your closet you haven’t worn in two years. Clear magazines taking up valuable breathing room. We’re most familiar with clutter on the physical plane, but it also exists on the mental, spiritual and emotional planes. Mental clutter makes you feel ferblunjit, confused and mixed up. You miss appointments and misplace important papers.

Spiritual clutter conflicts Divine values taught vs. those unconsciously adopted. Emotional litter presents itself as baggage never claimed. Meditation Focus: As you eat a new fruit this Sh’vat, compost the skins and consider the reason you hold on to things. Clear clutter in each of the planes and make a plan to eliminate it. Changing habits isn’t easy, but like the trees whose sap awakens inside of them, we can awaken to ways that help us grow and blossom. Dr. Terry Segal is a licensed marriage & family therapist, Ph.D. in energy medicine, hypnotherapist and author of “The Enchanted Journey: Finding the Key that Unlocks You.”

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COMMUNITY

Etz Aviv Hadassah’s Bat Mitzvah Year COMMUNITY CELEBRATES IN STYLE, MARKS GALA AS SUCCESS SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

he Etz Aviv Group of Greater Atlanta Hadassah celebrated the Bat Mitzvah year of its chartering on Saturday evening, Dec. 21, with a gala celebration at the Hilton Garden Inn, in Kennesaw.

As the 90 guests arrived, there was music playing by Atlanta Fever Entertainment, photographs being taken by Madison Shaw Photography, and a projected slide show of photos and newspaper clippings of Etz Aviv events from 2000 to 2013. The celebration began with a welcome by Etz Aviv President, Faith Shatzman, including the acknowledgment of Atlanta Chapter President Sue Rothstein, Southeast Regional President Ruthanne Warnick and Hadassah National Board Members Anita Levy and Sue Moye. Shatzman praised Marsha Bloomfield, Event Chair, for the perfectly orchestrated 13th birthday bash, and Marsha gave a hearty thank you to the event sponsors and to each of her committee members for helping to make the evening so special. The traditional Jewish blessings for the wine and the bread were followed by a delicious buffet dinner. The festivities continued with a candle lighting ceremony, as Etz Aviv’s past presidents, Adrienne Clayman, Sandi Leavitt, Andrea Feldman, Marsha Bloomfield, Marsha Kummins (in absentia), Lindsey Walker, Linda Harwitz and Shatzman were each called upon to light a candle to celebrate important Etz Aviv milestones and to honor those people who were instrumental in Etz Aviv’s growth.

There was a showing of the short but moving Hadassah film, “Partnership of Distinction,” emphasizing the relationship between Hadassah and Israel, which was followed by Michael Kroll leading everyone in the singing of Hatikvah, the Israeli National Anthem. The evening was a rousing social and financial success, and continued joyously with music, dancing, the drawing of winners for over 40 superb raffle prizes, as well as an auction for a Las Vegas Five-Star Hotel package. The Bat Mitzvah marked the perfect time for the members of Etz Aviv to recommit to the concept of leaving the world a better place than how it was found, and to the goals and missions of Hadassah.

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Former Israeli Mayor Joins JNF

EZRA RAVINS AS NEW PIONEER, EMISSARY TO SOUTHEAST SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

zra Ravins, who joined Jewish National Fund in November 2013 as Shaliach (Emissary) to the Southeast, is a “new generation of pioneer,” due to his leadership in developing Israel’s last frontier, the Arava Desert. As an emissary, Ezra will represent JNF’s vision of caring for the land and people of Israel. Ezra served as a farmer and Mayor of the Central Arava Regional Council from 1980 until 2013. Additionally, he led the Arava Agricultural Research and Development Department at the Central Arava Regional Council. During this time, he also served the Israeli Foreign Ministry as the manager of the Arava Medfly Eradication Project. He was involved in the peace negotiations with Jordan in 1996 and helped develop solutions to the region’s water deficiencies. Ravins has spoken throughout the U.S. and Israel, inspiring those who plan to visit Israel to include a trip to the Desert, to support the region, and to experience its beauty and diversity. He was born in the U.S., and immigrated to Israel in 1962. His wife Debbie, a native of the United States, and he have five children and one grandchild. Ezra is available for public speaking engagements. Topics of expertise include: •

The Last Frontier – Developing the Negev for Israel’s Future

•

Strange Bed Partners - Environmental Sustainability and Development in the Negev

•

A Light unto the Nations – Israel’s Exportation of Life-Saving R&D to the Developing World

•

Jewish National Fund – 2024’s $1B Plan

•

Straight off the Tarmack – An Israeli Perspective of These United States

january 10 ▪ 2014

To reach Ezra Ravins, please email ERavins@JNF.org or phone (404) 236-8990.

EDUCATION

AJT

Do You Suspect Your Child Needs to Be Tested?

ONE SMALL STEP CAN MAKE A WORLD OF A DIFFERENCE BY ANNA WISHNEFF Marketing Associate/Content Curator, at Jewish Family & Career Services. SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

s the world becomes increasingly complex, children and teens face more challenges than ever. When a child is struggling with a learning disability, it has an effect on his or her overall lifestyle, making these challenges more difficult.

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Parents want only the best for their children. But because there is no single symptom, and learning disabilities look different for each individual, parents do not necessarily see the signs and their child’s learning disability can go left untreated. Warning signs of a learning disability tend to be different for children of different ages. For example, a child in preschool may have a difficult time pronouncing words, controlling crayons and coloring between lines, or learning life’s basics like the alphabet or colors.

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Elementary school age kids tend to have a hard time with basic math, or learning to read and making the connection between letters and sounds.

Anna Wishneff

Kids approaching middle school tend to show signs of being disorganized, have bad handwriting and avoid reading outloud. If a child is showing these signs, having him or her tested to see if there is a learning disability present can make a world of difference. At Jewish Family & Career Services’ Child & Adolescent Services - Tools for Families division, we see this every single day as we conduct various psychoeducational evaluations. Proper pyschoeducational testing can help diagnose the correct disorder, ultimately allowing children to receive proper treatment.

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Parents must remember that children with learning disabilities can and frequently do achieve success. The best thing they can do is take action.

Dr. Lori Wilson

While Tools for Families has served a number of children on the autism spectrum, we are currently growing our services to include a more focused autism evaluation. Signs of autism become apparent beween the ages of 2 and 6. Some of these signs include a lack of our delay in spoken language, little or no eye contact, lack of interest in peer relationships, repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects), lack of spontaneous or make-believe play and persistent fixation on parts of objects. Tools for Families recently expanded our team of psychologists to include Dr. Amy Kincheloe and Dr. Shana Richardson, both of whom trained at the Marcus Autism Center. Dr. Lori Wilson, who leads the psychological evaluation services explained, “We are thrilled to have Dr. Kincheloe and Dr. Richardson join our team. They both come with experience in psychoeducational evaluations and, in addition, they both also have specialized training in working with children with autism and their families.” Austim testing is available for individuals 18 months to 18 years of age. For more information about Tools for Families, please visit www.yourtoolsforliving. org or call (770) 677.9474.

AJT

Bring Art into Your Life

Q&A WITH CHRIS MOSES, EDUCATIONAL DIRECTOR OF the ALLIANCE THEATER

Atlanta Jewish Times: How would you describe your job? Chris Moses: Wonderful. I have the opportunity to be part of the most creative team. We get to create world-class theater for every age group, from the very young to nonagenarians, in incredibly innovative ways. Our programs always engage the audience; my favorite is when young people become part of the show. AJT: Can you tell me about some of the programs the Alliance Theater offers young children? CM: Sure, one of our current programs is Little Raindrops. It’s an Alliance Theater original piece by Mike Haverty with musical accompaniment from Japanese pajama-pop AJT: Pajama-pop? CM: Yes, it’s a new genre named after its lullaby-like qualities. AJT: That’s cool, how did Alliance Theater and Mr. Havery connect with the pajamapop group? CM: We have a great relationship with The Japan Foundation, and many other international organizations. We hope that by blending languages and cultural experiences audiences, young children especially might become more open to new creative avenues and develop into more global citizens. Our most recent research proved that children who find themselves immersed in the arts, be it language, drama etc., actually make better learning connections throughout their developmental years. AJT: Wow, how can the community get involved? CM: Well, our most popular program for students is our summer camp program. We have an annual sale for the summer camp programs on Jan. 14, but we also have workshops and classes for all ages and levels throughout the year. AJT: I looked on Alliance Theater’s website and found something called ArtsVibe, could you describe the program? CM: I’d love to. ArtsVibe is a new partnership between Wells Fargo and the Woodruff Arts Center to get metro-Atlanta teenagers engaged with the arts, from visual

art to music to theatre and more. All four divisions at the Woodruff Arts Center are participating—the Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, High Museum of Art, and Young Audiences. ArtsVibe is designed to work for teens that are already active in the arts and those that might be less familiar with art. The program offers events and activities for students in grades 6 –12. They design projects and work with local professionals. Have you heard of “The Gellar Girls”? It’s a piece the Alliance Theater is putting on, about turning expectations. Well the students in ArtsVibe have created their own digital stories inspired by “The Gellar Girls” and will display their stories in a teen exhibit alongside “The Gellar Girls.” AJT: That’s intense! CM: Actually, our teen program gets better! On May 10, we [the Alliance Theater] will be hosting our annual Teen Festival, with workshops and classes. One of the crazy things about working at Alliance Theater is how I wish I had a chance to be a teen again to be able to experience some of our great programming.

The Right Place. The Right Time. Welcome Home!

AJT: You mean there’s more? CM: Yes. Our Collision Project for high school students is celebrating its 13th anniversary. Every summer, the Alliance Theatre assembles a group of teenagers from metro Atlanta to explore and unpack a classic text under the guidance of a professional playwright and director. Then the teenagers create a new piece inspired by the classic text but perceived through their own utterly unique and contemporary lens. AJT: What types of programs are available for those of us who have left the high school scene? CM: The Alliance Theater invites the entire community to their events and classes! We welcome all skill levels and ages. We have a saying around here at Alliance Theater, “Alliance Theater is a cultural institution for anyone 1 to 100 years old,” and we stand by that.

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AJT

EDUCATION

How Much Do You Know? A REVIEW OF HIGHER EDUCATION TODAY BY DR. MARK L. FISHER AJT CONTRIBUTOR

he school year is halfway-over and high school students have begun the college application process.

The Common Application changed their essay questions; no longer is there a topic of your choice. Georgia Tech joined the Common App and their applications should only make the competition even tougher. What is the scene today? By taking a quiz, we can better illustrate what the landscape looks like this year. Garnering statistics from The Chronicle of Higher Education’s Almanac for 2013-2014, we will gather some information. In addition, there are Jewish related questions regarding colleges. Take the quiz and see how much you really know:

1. Which public college has the largest total number of students including undergraduate, full-time and parttime, graduate and undergraduate students? A. Arizona State B. Ohio State (main campus) C. U. of Florida D. U. of Texas. 2. Which Private non-profit doctoral college has the largest (all students) enrollment? A. Boston U. B. Columbia U. C. New York University D. U. of Southern California. 3. Which is the fastest growing campus among the following private nonprofit research institutions? A. Drexel U. B. Cornell U. C. Carnegie Mellon D. Vanderbilt. 4. Which state drew the most out-ofstate freshmen in 2010? A. New York B. Massachusetts C. Ohio D. Pennsylvania. 5. The state that had the highest percentage of freshmen who attended

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6. Which factor was the least one that substantially influenced student’s choice of a major? A. Academic interest or passion for topic B. Ability to find a job C. Parental or family influence D. Preparation for graduate or professional school. 7. Which large four-year public college had the best graduation rate within 150 percent of normal time to earn a degree? A. College of William and Mary B. U. of Virginia C. U. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill D. U. of Michigan. 8. Which of the following four-year private colleges has the best graduation rate (same percent as in 7)? A. Stanford B. U. of Pennsylvania C. Yale D. Duke. 9. Politically, the highest percentage of freshmen enrolled in universities

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college in their home state was which state? A. Georgia B. New York C. Mississippi D. Oklahoma.

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throughout the country in fall of 2012 identified with what group? A Far left B. Liberal C. Conservative D. Middle of the road. 10. Which college raised the most in private donations in 2012? A. Johns Hopkins B. Brown C. Vanderbilt D. U. of Chicago. 11. Student membership in socialmedia sites was the lowest in what media? A. Facebook B. YouTube C. Google D. Linkedin. 12. Which baccalaureate institution had the most foreign students in 201112? A. Mount Holyoke B. U. of Richmond C. Smith College D. Middlebury. 13. Which of these colleges does not have a full kosher dining facility? A. Franklin and Marshall B. Dickinson C. Yale D. U. of Georgia? 14. Which of these college does not have a Jewish president? A. Muhlenberg B. Bradley C. Yale D. Washington College (MD)? 15. The public college with the highest number of Jewish students is: A. Michigan B. Indiana C. Florida D. Illinois 16. The private college with the highest percentage of Jewish students is: A. U. of Miami B. Drexel C. U. of Pennsylvania D. Northeastern? 17. Which state does not have a Jewish studies program at a public institution? A. Indiana B. Georgia C. Texas D. Oklahoma? 18. What state withdrew from the Academic Common Market and had a Jewish studies major? A. Tennessee B. Alabama C. North Carolina D. Maryland 19. Which college has the highest number of Jewish students? A. Pittsburgh B. Binghamton (SUNY) C. U. of Washington D. U. of Illinois 20. Which college in the state of Georgia has the lowest number of Jewish students? A. U. of Georgia B. Georgia Tech C. Georgia State D. West Georgia Dr. Mark Fisher is a college and career consultant at Fisher Educational Consultants (fishereducationalconsultants.com) and is a college counselor for Yeshiva Atlanta

Answers at bottom of page 20

EDUCATION

Beginnings of the Learning Rights Movement Q&A WITH EYE TO EYE, NATIONAL NON-PROFIT FOUNDER DAVID FLINK SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

avid Flink is co-founder and “Chief Empowerment Officer” of a national learning rights movement to change thinking about learning disabilities (LD), ADHD, and dyslexiDF: The former Atlanta native sat down to talk about the organization’s growth and goals, moving forward beyond the celebration of its 15th anniversary. Flink leads the Eye to Eye nonprofit with its keystone mentoring program, with chapters across the U.S. including in Atlanta at Georgia Tech.

the first time – talking about their struggles in learning. Each of us had met educators and adults sensitive to our unique abilities, and others who weren’t. I realized that through Eye to Eye we had a distinct opportunity — a responsibility — to show others what we had achieved despite the struggles and help others build the skills they need to become effective advocates for their way of learning to achieve academic success.

David Flink

A book in the form of an inspirational parents’ guide he has authored, “Thinking Differently,” is scheduled for release by Harper Collins in 2014. Atlanta Jewish Times: Why did you start Eye to Eye?

DF: Following this project, I found people were touched in a very personal way and felt comfortable – many for

I learned about the strength in social-emotional connections. The lesson I learned from an earlier generation is part of who I am. This legacy — how to share a story, how to share my LD story — is the lesson I’m sharing forward to benefit future generations of people. AJT: When did you know what you were doing was important?

DF: I knew from day one, but it took time to figure out my part as a messenger; the role was a natural evolution. For some, like my grandfather, this is a difficult concept to connect to. As all doting grandparents do, my grandfather has told me he is proud of me, even if he doesn’t know what I do. As a relative put it, I do what my grandfather does — I tell stories for

continued on page 14

I initially tapped the skills of friends and others to formalize the program, and further developed relationships with donors, administrators, and influencers to found over 56 Eye to Eye chapters in 20 states and growing. AJT: What kind of support does Eye to Eye provide? DF: Over 15 years, we have opened doors to the welcoming spaces Eye to Eye creates for thousands of kids.

Through art-related activities and without the David Flink: Everything pressure of academics, Original mentors started with a commuyouth labeled as “at-risk” nity service project at Brown University that brought me are able to speak freely about their together with a group of fellow college struggles and gain strength from seestudents with labels — learning dis- ing others who have walked in their shoes, who have succeeded. abled, ADHD, and dyslexic. Our work brought us face to face We foster self-awareness and build — or, as was ultimately the case, Eye self-esteem. Mentees will know how to Eye, with similarly labeled younger they learn and how to get the support they need to speak out. We help people students. to be heard. It was really after college when our involvement with that group of AJT: What does it mean to be leading a students was finished that I began to “learning rights movement”? see an even bigger future, building on DF: I am considered by some as “Eye what we had started — our organiza- to Eye Mentor 1,” our lead storyteller. tion now reaches across the country, From an early age, I was exposed to from coast to coast. Our volunteers this my grandfather’s masterful use of inyear alone have donated over 60,000 terpersonal skills in his historic local hours of service. Atlanta barber shop. AJT: How did you start Eye to Eye?

erful influence in solidifying his presence in the community.

A Greek immigrant and Holocaust survivor, Eli Sotto formed lifelong relationships with his patrons, including city mayors. That proved to be a pow-

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education

continued from page 13

a living. I am teaching others as I learned, to use my strengths and mitigate my weaknesses. My grandfather’s education was cut short, when he was taken to a concentration camp during the Holocaust. After eventually making his way to the United States, he overcame issues such as a language barrier to found and grow a vibrant, successful business. He succeeded without knowing the language and with little formal schooling; what mattered was what he could do. He always stressed the importance of education to me, inspiring me to reach beyond my learning challenges and develop my skills. Every fifth person has a learning difference, what is generally termed a disability, and few of this group graduate high school, while just 1.8 percent graduate from a four-year college. Eye to Eye is working to change that and provide more opportunities for success. AJT: Where do you see the biggest opportunities in the learning rights movement? DF: Building support systems in the community and with others. While we might like them to, our art projects and the spirit of acceptance that students labeled with the LD / ADHD experience in our art rooms don’t last forever. We aim to move the conversation into society at large so that having LD / ADHD is just another aspect of our individuality. AJT: What is the primary message you want to send?

january 10 ▪ 2014

DF: A significant effort was put into developing our vision statement. We wanted to appropriately capture the essence of what we’re doing.

To best summarize the vision for the learning rights movement, all of us involved with Eye to Eye are driven to create a world in which one day all learners will be recognized and youth who learn differently will realize their potential to succeed in school and life. Eye to Eye asks people to adopt a different view of what it takes to be a different learner, to be forgiving of kids and not to fault anyone for these challenges. Find a way to help them learn. AJT: What else would you like people to know?

DF: In reality, this is a story about learning and disability in learning. No person should ever be a “disabled learner.” There are so many routes available to become involved or support our efforts, from bringing our Think Different Diplomats to deliver a presentation to a school or a particular community, to following our activity on Facebook. I am honored to have been part of this amazing journey. I am humbled by the relationships that have been forged and how far we have come as an organization, and to see the progress we have made in raising awareness and attracting support. Editor’s note: To learn more about the work and activities of Eye to Eye, and to sign up for their mailing list, visit eyetoeyenational.org. You can also text the phrase “learnon” to 22828 to be prompted to join the Eye to Eye mailing list.

EDUCATION

AJT

The Secret to Success in School

TEACHING YOUR CHILD, AND YOURSELF, TO ADOPT A POSITIVE ATITUDE your child blow problems out of proportion. An issue he or she is dealing with today may be solved a year from now. A poor test score or even a slew of them in a row is not going to ruin your child’s life, and together, you can stop small problems from growing into big ones.

SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

f your child has experienced any difficulty in school, then you likely know the challenge of keeping things positive amid poor grades and dwindling self-esteem well. School can be the catalyst for any number of anxieties, even for the student who sails through classes seemingly with ease. However, for the student who frequently comes upon academic road blocks, the school experience can instigate negativity, fear and other problems. The power of positive thinking is undeniable, and learning to embrace optimism can have an enormous impact on your child’s emotional and physical well-being. Here are several ways parents can encourage their child to adopt a positive attitude about school, even when it isn’t all easy: • Take notice of your child’s achievements and strengths. If your child is struggling in one subject, he or she may feel badly about school overall -- and that negativity can quickly build upon itself. Make sure you take note of the small successes, such as an improved grade or a sincere effort on studying for a test. Point out traits that you admire or respect in your child, not just those you wish he or she would change. • Teach your child that failure is a part of learning. Your child needs to know that everyone messes up sometimes, and doing so yields valuable lessons. Let your child know that you support him or her no matter what, and that you are there to help him or her when things are difficult. Also remind your child that mistakes are an opportunity to learn and apply that new knowledge in future situations. •

Help your child keep things in perspective. It is easy for a child who is struggling with one or more subjects to feel badly about him or herself. However, don’t let

•

Look forward, not backward. If your child brings home a poor report card or grade, it’s natural for you to want to dissect what happened, and even to point the finger at your child’s failures. Did your child not study enough? Is he or she not paying attention in class? While reflection is productive, dwelling on mistakes is not. In such a situation, have an open conversation with your child about how to move forward and

develop an action plan to overcome problems. •

Teach your child to problem solve. Nobody lives a problemfree life. Your child will be happier and more independent if he or she knows how to address and solve problems effectively. Give your child the opportunity to make decisions at home. Encourage him or her to ask questions and be curious, as thinking critically is one of the components of good problem-solving ability. Teach him or her that sometimes, one’s first attempt at solving a problem isn’t successful. Good problem-solvers keep trying new solutions until they find one that works.

Optimistic thinking can make all the difference in a child’s school experience, giving him or her the energy and courage to face school problems head on. Have a positive attitude about school problems, and encourage your child to do the same. With confidence and a can-do demeanor, your child will be able to overcome any issue he or she encounters in school as well as life in general. Dr. Raymond J. Huntington and Eileen Huntington are co-founders of Huntington Learning Center, which has been helping children succeed in school for more than 35 years. For more information about Huntington, call 1-800 CAN LEARN. Find suggestions for helping your student build confidence at huntingtonhelps.com/resources/p-confident/

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EDUCATION

AJT

Bigger School, Bigger Opportunities

SCHOOL FOR SPECIAL NEEDS TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE, RESOURCE FAIR SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

he MDE School will host an Open House on Tues., Jan. 21, at 7 p.m. at its new facilities in Marietta, Ga. MDE School educates children K- eighth grade who are diagnosed with developmental disabilities and special needs, or need a different learning style and individual attention. The Open House will offer the opportunity to introduce interested parties to the facilities and staff, and inform them about the curriculum. In addition to the Open House, there will be a Special Needs Resource Fair that same evening. There will be representatives of many companies serving the special needs community on hand to provides information and answer questions. MDE School was founded in 2009 by Mindy Elkan and began as a homeschool program dedicated to helping

families achieve maximum success with home-schooling their children, along with an added social component. In October 2013, MDE School moved into new, larger facilities in East Cobb. With the move to this facility, there are increased opportunities for every student to expand their learning experiences. The new building encompasses two floors with classrooms on the upper level, and “specials” such as computers, art, music and life skills, as well as a library, gym, newly expanded lunchroom and an outdoor playground on the main level. MDE also shares a campus with Greater Atlanta Speech and Language Clinics which can allow for speech, occupational, and physical therapies to be incorporated as necessary during the school day. The program is designed for students with communication disorders and developmental disabilities, whose

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learning differences are addressed on an individual basis. The mission at MDE School is to provide a loving and nurturing learning environment for all children with delayed communication skills. The teachers and therapists are all highly skilled, certified and dedicated with advanced degrees and many years of experience with children with special needs. MDE is accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission as a certified provider of educational services to children grades K-eighth who have different learning needs. MDE can also offer a vocational rehab Certificate of Completion for grades ninth through 12th. A core curriculum is offered, as well as art, computers, P.E., improv and music. The program prides itself on a small student-to-teacher ratio of 4:1. The MDE classrooms provide a flexible

atmosphere in a more casual setting than the traditional mainstream classroom, providing each student with the environment that works best for their specific needs. Each teacher works with the family to determine the specific goals and grade level that is suitable for their child. Academic needs as well socialization are incorporated in to the daily program. The MDE goal is to facilitate intellectual, emotional and physical growth. Children will experience dedicated educators to guide them to achieve their maximum potential. MDE School accepts the Senate Bill 10 and participates in the GASSO student scholarship program. For a private tour of the facility and for information please call the school at (770) 971-4633 or visit www.mdeschool.com.

AJT

EDUCATION

Why We Need Jewish Childhood Programs

CONSEQUENCES AND RESPONSES TO RESEARCH FINDINGS ON JEWISH AMERICA SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

his past October, The Pew Research Center released its study, “Portrait of Jewish Americans,” which sparked much debate in the Jewish community. The study found that younger Jews are less connected to and less interested in Jewish life. In a response to the pew study, Jerry Silverman wrote an article called, “4 Things To Do About Pew Survey Findings on Jewish America.” In his article, Silverman suggests four examples of where we should put our attention to sustain the Jewish population. He suggests, 1.) Free Early Childhood Programs, 2.) Jewish Camping, 3.) Birthright Alumni, and 4.) Jewish Development Zones. Some may agree or disagree with Silverman’s suggestions, but what he did was begin a crucial conversation regarding our Early Childhood Programs. As an Early Childhood Director and teacher, I have seen enrollments in our institutions fluctuate for the better and for the worse. The economy, as well as decreased birthrates, population changes and other schooling opportunities have all played a major role in the shrinkage of enrollment at Jewish preschools. This trend is true not only here in Atlanta, but nationwide. In a recent article in JTA, The Global Jewish News Source, Julie Wiener writes, “Early Childhood leaders estimate that there are 540,000 Jewish children under the age of five in the United States. Where are these children? Why are they not connecting to our community? What can we do to change it?” Jews in the Greater Atlanta area are extremely fortunate to have a choice in one of many fabulous early childhood programs. These programs are all housed in different areas, including Roswell, Marietta, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Atlanta, and include Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements. Although the schools are different in those aspects, the areas in which they are the same lie in their purpose: to help nurture a strong, growing Jewish identity in a loving, caring environment and serve as a bridge between families and the larger Jewish community.

In data gathered by The Jewish

Early Childhood Council of Atlanta, Atlanta Jewish preschools are currently serving about 1140 children. I think most (if not all) will agree that our Jewish preschools are stepping stones to our Jewish future. In November, The Jewish Federation of North America’s General Assembly gathered in Jerusalem. The chairman, Michael Siegel, took the opportunity to speak about preschool, referring to Jewish Preschools as “ the seedbed of our community, “ and pledged to raise $1 billion over the next 10 years for a Jewish revitalization plan with tuition free Jewish preschool as its centerpiece.

Why are we so important? Why does there need to be a conversation about us? Why do we need attention? It brings me back to October’s Pew Study, and the fact that younger Jews are less connected to and less in-

terested in Jewish life. Your Jewish preschools have a way to engage young Jews, children and families. We are here; we just need you to find us.

Since Siegel’s proposal, another recent article from JTA, by Steven Nasatir, the president of the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, has brought more attention to how subsidizing Jewish preschools can work. Many educators disagree, stating that a tuition free preschool is not the answer, and that more money should be put into the programs themselves. Relieving financial stress on families that do choose a Jewish preschool is an incredible concept. In Georgia, many of our preschools compete with Georgia Pre-K which offers a free, quality curriculum to nearly 80,000 4-year-olds through funds from the state lottery and grants.

How do you celebrate Shabbat?

Putting more attention into programming, continuing teacher education, and leadership is also important and can make a huge impact on our programs. Investing in our schools, teacher training, communal marketing initiatives, scholarships for families, grants to advance innovation – these will all transform our efforts. Whatever the end result, the fact that Jewish Early Childhood Education has been brought to the forefront of our national conversation is amazing and overdue. I hope to see these conversations continue. In our schools, a child experiences the foundations of Jewish life, develops a love for Judaism and knowledge of Jewish values and morals. We aim to provide a rich and meaningful Jewish program to all of our children and families alike. Families are more likely to engage “Jewishly” when they have a child in a Jewish program. Our Jewish Early Childhood Programs serve as the beginning of a child’s Jewish journey.

Preschoolers: Meet Shabbat in the Playroom Author!

Sunday, January 12, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. Join us for a book reading by Shabbat in the Playroom author Galia Sabbag and a special Shabbat activity for threes and fours. Take home your very own complimentary signed copy of Shabbat in the Playroom. The Davis Academy Lower School 8105 Roberts Drive • Atlanta, GA 30350 The Alfred & Adele

Davis Academy

RSVP required to Lisa Mirsky, 678-527-3300 lmirsky@davisacademy.org

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january 10 ▪ 2014

BY JENIFER FRIEDMAN

AJT

Inside a Squid

EDUCATION

Science Projects at Chaya Mushka Childrens’ House Elementary School. SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

t the beginning of each year, Chaya Mushka Children’s House Elementary School teachers encourage children to research in the field of biology by telling stories and presenting beautiful books, posters, charts, and timelines. Each child begins a personal journey of discovery, and later joins a group for the research project and presentation. This year the children have been working on various biology projects. Working in groups, they chose to study either a squid, a frog or a shark. Each group then designed a presentation to give to their class. The real fun began when the students were able to get very up-close and personal with the animal they chose, dissecting the animals and discovering their internal workings. These hands-on activities were greatly enjoyed, and the students are eager to start the next research project.

Youth and Education Center Comes to Sandy Springs

NEW GOLDSTEIN YOUTH AND EDUCATION CENTER TO OPEN THIS MONTH . SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

habad of Georgia and Congregation Beth Tefillah will be hosting the grand opening of the Jeff and Carrla Goldstein Youth and Education Center on Jan. 19. The grand opening will be held in conjunction with the Chaya Mushka Children’s House main event, honoring Jeff and Carrla Goldstein and Evelyn Lefkoff.

january 10 ▪ 2014

After a year of construction, the beautiful facility is finished and ready for operations. The Youth center will be the home of the Chaya Mushka Children’s House, Chabad’s Montessori preschool, as well as an array of youth programming for the synagogue and community at large.

Congregation Beth Tefillah will have a beautiful children’s wing to hold programs for the youth of the community and meet the needs of its growing number of young families The Chaya Mushka Children’s House is the only Jewish Montessori in Atlanta. Currently 100 children are

enrolled at the preschool and the new facility has created additional space for 50 more children. Dassie New, the schools director, anticipates those spaces being filled for the next school year. “There is so much excitement around this new facility. After 20 years, the school has a building it can really be proud of that matches its quality education,” she said. The school will be having an open house on Jan. 30. Call (404) 843-9582 or email office@ chayamushka.org for more information.

AJT

EDUCATION

American Studies Association’s Anti-Semitism

HILLEL OF GEORGIA RESPONDS TO BOYCOTT OF ISRAELI ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS

his month, the American Studies Association (ASA), a scholarly organization devoted to the interdisciplinary study of American culture and history, joined the Association for Asian American Studies in passing a resolution to boycott all Israeli academic institutions. This boycott singles out Israel for censure with the justification that Israel deprives “effective or substantive academic freedom for Palestinian students and scholars under conditions of Israeli occupation,” and as Israeli academic institutions are “party to Israel state policies that violate Palestinian human rights,” they must be punished as well. This vote has been both a boon and a sting for the BDS (Boycott, Divest, Sanction) movement. On the one hand, as one of the primary goals of the BDS movement is to vilify Israel, the ASA’s resolution has to be viewed as a victory. Even if the ASA stands as one of the smaller scholarly organizations, with approximately 5,000 members, the boycott will be perceived internationally as another robust step towards hurting the international standing of Israel. On the other hand, the response from U.S. universities has been palpable. So far, four universities have resigned from the ASA, almost 100 university presidents have condemned the boycott, and quite surprisingly, eight universities have contested the fact that they were ever members of the ASA in the first place. Also, the American Association of University Professors, the nation’s largest professors’ group, also said it opposed the boycott and condemned the move. The galvanization of U.S. academic institutions against the ASA boycott has been nothing short of amazing. Yet, when one reads the academic condemnations of the ASA’s boycott that are floating about the internet, there is one issue that constantly emerges at the forefront: the values of academic freedom. It is the belief of most scholarly associations and places of higher education that academic freedom cannot be limited, no matter what the circumstances.

In other words, it might well be the case that Israel deserves condemnation, boycotting, and international interference in its domestic policy, but an assault on its academic institutions is not the place that this ought to take place. With this focus on the violation of academic freedom, it appears that most presidential statements are omitting another, and arguably more important, issue underlying this boycott: anti-Semitism. This narrow-minded focus on Israel, while ignoring the gross injustices in other countries is a clear example of anti-Semitism. Of course, there are many definitions of anti-Semitism, but several include the notion of singling out the Jewish State or Jews in general for their actions, when scores of other countries and groups carry out identical or far worse acts. In an email correspondence with Norm Radow, he aptly highlighted this issue:

Marez’s responded simply by saying, “We have to start somewhere.” This type of answer is juvenile, anti-Semitic and unacceptable. Even if the ASA has to start their boycott of countries somewhere, one would be hard-pressed to justify Israel being that starting place. Even if the ASA has to “start somewhere,” there is no reason that the ASA cannot choose to boycott several countries at once, or at least begin with the country which committed the most heinous crimes. Hillels of Georgia has taken several steps to address the ASA’s boycott. First, we sent a mass email to all our students noting Hillel rejects all attempts to boycott or delegitimize Israel and is pleased to see the vast majority of universities sharing this stance. Next, we called upon all the Georgia university presidents to condemn the ASA’s boycott and choose to sever all ties with the association.

President Wagner at Emory University has already published Israel’s condemnation on their website. Last, we have compiled a list of all the Georgian professors or graduate students that voted in favor of the boycott, listed where they work, and encouraged our student body to choose wisely when they register for classes. We believe this last step will have the greatest impact, as it sends a clear message to university staff that they do not live in an ivory tower, and that their actions can and will have consequences on their immediate lives. Our hope is that through these measures we will put a halt, not only to anti-Semitic actions that we are currently experiencing, but to those that will arise in Georgia’s future

“It should be pointed out that North Korea is not subject to any such resolution, nor is China, which is debasing the culture of Tibet; Saudi Arabia which doesn’t allow Christians or Jews to worship in its country and allow women to drive or vote; or Iran, of whom we could recite a book long list of its human rights violations. “So you may say the ASA is all over Syria, with 130,000 civilians dead, many of whom were gassed, and hundreds of other innocents in Aleppo who are being bombed to death as we speak. Actually not. No mention, discussion, or concern was expressed about these human rights violations. I guess mass murder is not the moral equivalent of something so heinous as Israel’s mere existence. No, Israel is the sole focus of this group’s ire and I cannot reach any other conclusion than that Israel is simply a metaphor for their enmity of Jews in general.” Indeed, the president of the American Studies Association, Curtis Marez even acknowledged that the ASA singled out Israel for an academic boycott even though there are a veritable plethora of countries with far worse human rights track records, and definitely countries that limit academic freedoms far more than Israel.

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january 10 ▪ 2014

SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

AJT

Reverse Mifgash

EDUCATION

REUNION AND EXCHANGE IN ATLANTA SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

he Reverse Mifgash is an opportunity for eight Israelis who have participated in various Atlanta community Birthright trips to come to Atlanta for a week and a chance for our local Birthright alumni and their peers to meet them.

The week will showcase various areas of the Atlanta Jewish community and educate attendees on how they can become involved. A variety of events will take place during the week and participants can pick and choose what they’d like to attend. Reverse Mifgash Events Event details, registration and pricing will be available early January 2014. •

Fri., Feb. 14- Shabbat services and Oneg at The Temple

•

Sat., Feb. 15- Bar night

•

Sun., Feb. 16- Birthright style tour around Atlanta

•

Mon., Feb. 17- Birthright reunions by bus.

•

ues., Feb. 18- Birthright Israel night at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. T Screening of “Hanna’s Journey” at Atlantic Station.

•

Wed., Feb. 19- Atlanta Hawks vs. Washington Wizards at 7:30 p.m.

For those with questions about the Reverse Mifgash, specific programs, registration or want to volunteer, please contact: Jessica Segal, jsegal@jfga.org or (404) 870-1863 or Marni Bronstein, mbronstein@jfga.org or (678) 222-3720

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january 10 ▪ 2014

Classes are held on Monday nights at the Basement Theatre on W. Wieuca and graduation is at The Punchline.

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Spend a Summer at Yale

STUDENTS NOW ELIGIBLE FOR JEWISH LEARNING AT YALE UNIVERSITY

SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

he Tikvah High School Summer Institute at Yale University, taking place June 22 - July 6, is a challenging two-week experience for current 11th and 12th graders who are interested in philosophy and politics and who care about the Jewish future.

The core of the program is a series of twice-daily, university-level seminars – faculty-led discussions, rather than lectures – on Jewish theology, human nature, ethics, economics and politics, and morality in the public square. Participatingstudentswillalsovisitwithinfluentialpractitionersinthefields of politics, journalism, scholarship, and the rabbinate. These programs will be designed to help students understand the ways that ideas, policies, and affairs interact in today’s world as they learn from the examples of thoughtful individuals leading impactful lives. Students will live in a Yale dormitory, pray and eat their meals at the Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale, and study in campus classrooms. In addition to offering a valuable intellectual and academic experience, the institute will provide ambitious students with an opportunity to get to know talented peers from across North America. Anapplicationformisavailableontheprogramwebsite(www.tikvahsummer. org/apply) and is due by Jan. 31. Applicants will receive notification by March 17. Answers to the Higher Education Quiz: 1.A 2.C 3.A 4.D 5.C 6.C 7.B 8.C 9. D 10.A 11.D 12.A 13.D 14.A 15.C 16.C 17.B 18.D 19.B 20.D

Are you a local Jewish entrepreneur or business owner? Want to share your story with the community?

Contact AJT business correspondent Al Shams via phone at (770) 804-3125 or via email at ashams@acpweb.com.

AJT

EDUCATION

The Importance of Early Detection READ THE EDUCATORS’ EVENING SPEECH FROM MOIRA FRANK

stage so that its students can achieve a lifetime of success.

The purpose of the event, was to inspire, because inspiration is contagious (the night’s tagline. In doing that, ORT celebrated the long-time careers of these three local educators who have truly made a difference, each in their own right:

Contrary to what you may think, it was not my passion for education that led me into the field. As a young girl growing up in South Africa, I am not always proud to admit that perhaps I spent more time in detention than in the classroom.

n Oct. 24, 2013, the Atlanta Region of ORT America honored three different, but very distinguished educators for their longtime contributions to education.

•

Marshall Duke, beloved and renowned Emory University professor.

•

Steve Chervin, Director of the Jewish Encounter, where he has taught hundreds of classes at the Melton School at the Atlanta JCC for more than 15 years now

•

Moira Frank, originally from South Africa, whose background in education dates back 25 years to even before her days as longtime director of Congregation B’nai Torah’s premier preschool program.

We now hope to inspire you by publishing a three-part series, featuring the words of each of our honorees, as the impact that they have made on so many is remarkable. ORT schools and programs have successfully educated and trained millions of people around the world. Like Marshall Duke, ORT helps train students to have meaningful, successful careers. Like Steve Chervin, ORT helps students, young and older, find passion in their day-today lives. Like Moira Frank’s passion at the preschool level, ORT sets the

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► The brain grows the most during the first five years of life. Therefore, the environment where children spend most of the time developing should be organized and appropriate where children are challenged to think and explore. In fact, most of

the effort of nurturing and education must be put into action before a child’s fifth birthday. [Yet another] reason preschool is essential remains a subject that very few of us discuss – early intervention. Continued on page 22

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After many years spent as a rebel of sorts, the headmaster of my school said, “Ironically, you would probably wind up being a very good teacher.” This was apparent through my obvious leadership skills – and the fact that I always had an answer for everything. Interestingly, it was my passion for Judaism that truly led me to education. Going to Shul every week with my father, celebrating Shabbat starting with the lighting of candles each Friday night, the chaggim, the songs, challah, all the food and of course, our family– these are the celebrations that inspired and became a part of me from an early age.

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After a long career in Jewish education at the preschool level, I have come to learn firsthand something that may seem obvious at first glance: ► Infants come into the world with a brain waiting to be woven into the complex fabric of the mind. Some connections in the brain are wired before birth, but many are waiting to be programmed by early experiences.

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january 10 ▪ 2014

SPECIAL for the AJT

Thru December 31, 2013

AJT Continued from page 21

While no individual educator can be held accountable for knowing or recognizing all of the signs, we have the ability to observe and identify children who learn differently. More often than not, parents cannot, or do not, notice that perhaps something is a little off.

EDUCATION

Several years ago, I had an 18-month old child enrolled in preschool and after some initial observation, I had a feeling that something just wasn’t right. I waited six weeks until I called the mother and asked her to meet with me.

I told her, “I know it’s only been six weeks, but I think we need to get an evaluation.” The mother, immediately concerned, agreed with me but when she

went to talk to her husband, a doctor, he called me and came down on me – hard.

“What training do you have?” he demanded to know. “I’m a doctor; I would know. He’s a happy, healthy 18-month old boy.” I felt so strongly that I said to the father, “Please…. go get this done.” Although the father was adamant that there was nothing wrong with his child, I urged him to go home and think about it and not wait another year or two. A few weeks later, the father showed up at my office. He was very upset. He explained that they had their son tested and he had the results. He thanked me for being caring and picking up on something he had missed.

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It turns out that the child was diagnosed with Autism and had to be placed in a different environment where his needs could met. So what’s the lesson here? There are several: ► Firstly, parents cannot always pick up on these things the way that a trained, educational provider can. Observation and assessment are crucial during these years and in a good preschool, which most of us are fortunate to be able to choose from for our children, our grandchildren; all of this will come into play. ► Secondly, early intervention is critical. With new learning and social disorders on the horizon with every year, a diagnosis at even 4 years old can sometimes be too late in terms of helping the child develop learning tools that meet their needs.

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january 10 ▪ 2014

If your Jewish child experiences a Shabbat celebration each Friday in a Jewish school, and then you show them how that same ritual is performed in the home that night, even if it is just lighting candles and saying the bracha, you [as a role model] are setting the stage for future behavior. A favorite quote of mine illustrates: “I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand.” Learning is not really taught – it is developed. Everything is developed from the experiences that you have. I have been familiar with ORT for many years, knowing that there are ORT initiatives set up in Cape Town, where I am from, adding Jewish, educational resources and tools to our students there, and around the world. As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” Wise words, but even more specifically, early learning education, is a far greater tool for success. This 3-part series on education will continue in next week’s Atlanta Jewish Times, with words from Marshall Duke, following in two weeks by an article from Professor Marshall Duke.

Experiencing Judaism – learning about any religion really, beginning at the preschool level, is the optimum

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In the Jewish preschool children participate in integrated activities which expose them to the stories and language of the Torah and the celebrations of the Chaggim.

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AJT

arts & life

Movie Review: ‘The Zigzag Kid’

PRECOCIOUS BAR MITZVAH PROPELS ZIGZAGGING FAMILY FLICK SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

n unabashed crowd-pleaser in a Day-Glo package, “The Zigzag Kid” transports young-at-heart viewers via a magic carpet of charming hijinks and manic energy.

Belgian director Vincent Bal has transposed vaunted Israeli novelist David Grossman’s beloved 1994 coming-of-age adventure fantasy from the Promised Land to a candy-cane Europe. The result is a confection of a film that dispenses laughs and life lessons en route to a poignant moral about the blood ties that bind. A family film whose most ardent admirers will be children, “The Zigzag Kid” is fueled by primal adolescent urges. Not the ones you’re thinking of, but the pressing need to comprehend the past, navigate the present and manipulate the future.

out he can’t abide the rules and conventions that most people passively accept. He’s not a rebel—he admires his detective father to the extent that he mimics Dad’s deductive skills and wants to follow in his gumshoes—so much as a creative thinker and fearless experimenter. The title comes from Nono’s iconoclasm, as well as the gold pin in the shape of a Z that the world’s greatest thief, Felix Glick, leaves behind as his signature.

The opening credits immediately set the tone in smile-inducing style, employing split-screens, a full-spectrum palette and a pop score to evoke the spy movies (and parodies) of the 1960s and ‘70s.

But I’m getting ahead of the story. After one of Nono’s bright ideas accidentally sends a cousin’s bar mitzvah reception up in smoke, our erstwhile hero is dispatched to boring Uncle Shmuel as punishment. But dad’s plan is derailed within moments of Nono boarding the train, launching the lad on a mission that takes him to the south of France and back.

As his 13th birthday approaches, cute-as-a-bug Nono is starting to figure

“The Zigzag Kid” is tons of fun as it sets its inspired plot in motion, while

Nono is a splendid protagonist who never devolves from endearing to tiresome. It helps that he’s aware he’s not completely self-sufficient, for that dollop of humility tempers his precociousness. In fact, Nono relishes the maternal attention and affection of his father’s (ahem) live-in secretary, Gaby. The boy never knew his mother, who died when he was an infant, and he’d be very happy if the current domestic arrangement continued ad infinitum. (Or, better yet, was sealed with marriage vows if his father could muster the moxie to propose). But I’m getting behind the story. No matter. Suffice to say that Nono crosses paths with the 60-something Felix Glick, who quickly presents himself as an alternate role model with his blend of resourcefulness and suaveness.

At a certain point, especially for those adults who have sussed out the relationships between the characters before Nono does, the pieces start to click into place, dissipating the film’s aura of cleverness. Everyone likes a happy ending, sure—although be advised a tragedy is revealed en route—but “The Zigzag Kid” trumpets an allegiance to the primacy of the two-parent family that is downright Spielberg-ian. Oddly, I discerned no particular insights into the lives, past or present, of European Jews. In the process of relocating the story from Israel to the Continent, Vincent Bal appears to have focused on preserving the novel’s themes and skipped the opportunity to allude to 20th-century history or current events. One consequence is that “The Zigzag Kid” could be anybody, and not necessarily a fully-assimilated Jewish boy whose preparatory, pre-bar mitzvah entry to manhood consists of a unique and remarkable treasure hunt. He finds his mother’s identity, and his, and we get to go along for the ride. Not a bad deal for all concerned, actually.

january 10 ▪ 2014

BY MICHAEL FOX

AJT

ARTS & LIFE

JEWS MAKING NEWS Compiled by elizabeth friedly

Max Greenfield To Reprise “Veronica Mars” Role

Jake Hoffman Scores with Scorsese, Directing

ax Greenfield has confirmed he will appear in the “Veronica Mars” movie. Greenfield first appeared as the sheriff’s new Deputy Leo D’Amato in Season 1 of “Veronica Mars,” which aired for two seasons on UPN before its final third season aired on The CW. His character Leo eventually became a romantic interest for Veronica and quite a member of the force. But fans of Veronica and Deputy Leo shouldn’t get their hopes up for a romantic reunion. Fans know Greenfield from his recurring roles in Veronica Mars and Ugly Betty, and the short-lived WB series Modern Men. He is also currently on Fox’s hit show, “The New Girl,” as Schmidt, alongside Zooey Deschanel. As of 2011, he lives in Los Angeles, California with his wife, Tess Sanchez (a casting director). The couple has one child.

ctor Jake Hoffman recently realized a dream, scoring his highest profile role yet as shoe designer Steve Madden in Martin Scorsese’s blockbuster drama, “The Wolf of Wall Street.” Hoffman is also busy with the upcoming release of “Enter the Dangerous Mind,” as well as editing his new film, “Asthma,” which he directed. Jacob Edward “Jake” Hoffman was born in Los Angeles County, California, the son of actor Dustin Hoffman and Lisa Hoffman. In 2003 he graduated from NYU Film School. Since then, he has directed music videos, written and directed short films, and is most known for his work as an actor. In 2006 he played the adult version of Ben Newman in the comedy fantasy film “Click,” playing Adam Sandler’s son. Hoffman and his real life father Dustin were also cast as grandfather and grandson in the HBO television series “Luck”.

Family Business

your go to Specialists Troop 73’s Reasons to Celebrate for all TROOP’s 64 YEARS, NEW EAGLE SCOUT TRINKER your REAL ESTATE enjamin Trinker recently earned the Eagle Badge, the needs highest rank a Boys Scout can G IN

ATL A

REG

IN E

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january 10 ▪ 2014

I TA L I A N

earn. Benjamin is the 44th scout in Troop 73, sponsored by Congregation Or VeShalom, to earn the Eagle Badge.

In Trinker’s Eagel Project, he supervised the building of an outdoor classroom consisting of six benches at the Beth Shalom Synagogue, which provided a new place for its pre-schoolers and religious school children to meet, learn, and pray. Trinker is a junior at Collins Hill High School. In observance of Scouting’s 104 years, Boy Scout Troop 73 will observe the Scout Shabbat by participating in Saturday morning services at Congregation OrVeShalom on Jan. 25, at 9:15 a.m.

Dinner Reservations Suggested

Troop 73 will be observing its 64th anniversary under the leadership of Scoutmaster Josiah V. Benator. Scoutmaster Benator will also be observing his 79 registered year’s anniversary in scouting. All scouts and former scouts are cordially invited to attend this special service.

1989 Cheshire Bridge Rd. Altanta GA 30324

404-876-1380 E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 7 4

YEARS RE/MAX AROUND ATLANTA David Shapiro Jon Shapiro dshapiro@remax.net jonshapiro@mindspring.com 404-252-7500 404-845-3065 404-845-3050 www.jonshapiro.com

alfre d o s a t l a n t a . c o m

Editor’s note: Troop 73 meets each Wednesday at 8 p.m. at Congregation OrVeShalom. Contact Scoutmaster Josiah Benator at (404) 634-2137.

AJT

arts & life

Engagement

Bat Mitzvah

Elizabeth Halper & Seth Harris Bernstein

udy and Andy Halper, of Edina, Minn., announce the engagement of their daughter, Abby Elizabeth to Seth Harris Bernstein, son of Joan and Bill Bernstein, Emma, Colo., formerly of Atlanta. Abby is the granddaughter of Adeline Gould, Minneapolis, Minn., and the late Melvin Gould, and the late Dorothy and Ace Halper, St. Paul, Minn. Seth is the grandson of Marion Brenner, Boynton Beach, Fla., and the late Leonard Brenner, and the late Jeanette and Samuel Bernstein, Mount Vernon, N.Y. A 2007 graduate of the University of Kansas, Abby is the Southeast Campaign Executive for the Jewish National Fund. Seth graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2002, and is a founder and partner at The Mainland Company, a real estate development company in Atlanta. A March wedding is planned in Jekyll Island, Ga.

Bar Mitzvah

Joshua Benjamin Asarnow

azel Tov to Joshua Benjamin Asarnow, who celebrated his Bar Mitzvah on July 23 at Congregation Or Hadash. He is the son of Jennifer and David Asarnow, brother of Maddie Asarnow; grandson of Don Asarnow and Bryn Shain of Florham Park, N.J., Cheryl and Burt Cohen of Scotch Plains, N.J., and Linda and Richard Cooper of Rochester, N.Y. For his Mitzvah project, Benjamin volunteered his time at Good Mews Animal Foundation, a no-kill and cage-free cat shelter located in Marietta, Ga. Joshua is currently in eighth grade at Dodgen Middle School.

Jillian Rachel Gerson azel Tov to Jillian Rachel Gerson, who held her Bat Mitzvah celebration on Oct. 12, at Congregation Beth

Shalom.

Jillian is the daughter of Shelley Gerson and Scott Kenith; granddaughter of Evelyn Gerson and Joe Gerson, of blessed memory; Joe and Daryla Kenith of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and Louise Kenith, of blessed memory. Jillian has two sisters, Alexandra and Shelley. She is in the eighth grade at the Greenfield Hebrew Academy. Her Bat Mitzvah is dedicated in honor of her aunt, Arleen Taffel, of blessed memory. She will be donating pet food to Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen, committed to helping keep pets and families together. Jillian enjoys anything associated with the arts, including acting and singing in her free time.

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Noah William Abramson

he Bar Mitzvah of Noah William Abramson of Johns Creek, Ga. Was held Jan. 19, 2013 at Congregation Gesher L’Torah. Noah is the son of Gary and Amy Abramson.

january 10 ▪ 2014

Bar Mitzvah

AJT

d’var torah

What Our Packing List Says About Us LEARNING FROM THE ISRAELITES’ BAGGAGE OUT OF EGYPT BY RABBI JOSHUA HELLER SPECIAL FOR THE AJT

hen you are preparing for a trip, what do you pack first? Some people start with clothes. Others focus on accessories, shoes or toiletries. Still others worry most about ensuring that their electronic devices are charged and ready to go. What we pack tells a lot about who we are. When the Israelites left Egypt, they too had to decide what to bring, when they had but a single night to leave their homes and begin a journey to the Promised Land. Over the course of several chapters, the Torah tells us what they

brought, and their packing list offers some lessons for us as Jews in the modern world.

them as they departed.

Last week’s portion, Bo hints at two items on their manifest. We are told that that they brought their asyet unleavened dough with them, the simplest nourishment possible, slung over their shoulders as food for the road (Ex. 12:34).

In this week’s Torah portion, Beshallach, we see three other items on the packing list, two explicit and one implied. We are told that the Israelites left Egypt “Chamushim”- armed (Ex. 13:18). One can only imagine what types of weapons this rag-tag group had brought with them from Egypt.

However, the very next verse tells us that they also took great wealth with them. G-d commanded the Israelites to “borrow” gold and silver utensils from their Egyptian neighbors as they were leaving.

Indeed, G-d was concerned that the first sight of war would dishearten them. Nevertheless, there were those who focused on weapons because they saw the need for selfdefense as primary.

The Egyptians, eager to see the end of the plagues, gave them great riches, even with the knowledge that the Israelites would not return. The Israelites bore this treasure with

Moses, however, has a different agenda – carrying out a sacred promise. Joseph, on his deathbed, had asked the Israelites to promise that they would bring his bones with them out of Egypt. The Mechilta, one of the most ancient commentaries on Exodus, notes that while the rest of the Israelites were collecting gold and weapons, Moses was engaged in fulfilling this promise, to seek Joseph’s bones. The ark containing Joseph’s bones accompanied the Israelites through the desert, as a reminder of history, of ancestors, and of the sacred promises of tradition. Finally, the Israelites cross the Red Sea, and afterwards Miriam and the other women sing and dance with drums. (Ex. 15:20)

january 10 ▪ 2014

The commentators (including Mechilta) note that this was a sign of great faith and vision on their part. While others were worrying about bringing food, weapons, or wealth, they knew that with G-d guiding them, there would be great miracles and cause for celebration, and so they packed drums and dancing shoes!

We can see this ancient packing list, the items that the Israelites carried with them, as a metaphor for the baggage that we carry, and that carries us, through life. It reflects our motivations and priorities in our personal and communal Jewish lives. Some of us, like the Israelites with the dough on their shoulders,

are concerned about whether we, or those around us, have sufficient bread for the next meal. It is hard to consider life’s big questions when one is worried about the most basic necessities. Others are like the Israelites who gathered gold and silver. They focus most intently on the bottom line, whether it be in shekels, dollars or cents. Still others are like those who brought weapons. They see the Jewish journey in terms of offense and defense, enemies and allies, and define their primary agenda in terms of physical or cultural warfare with those who might seek to harm us. Then there are those among us who are like Moses, transporting Joseph’s bones. We carry, and are carried by, the traditions. Each footstep forms a link from ancestors to our descendants. Each action, each mitzvah, is the fulfillment of ancient promises. Finally, there are our Miriams, who look for opportunities to sing and dance, to rejoice and celebrate the miracles of life. I would guess that each reader of these comments identifies with one, or likely several, of the items on this spiritual packing list, and many of us have set our own personal or organization agenda accordingly. The most powerful message of these chapters, however, is that as a complete Jewish people, we need all the items on our packing list. We stand together at the shores of the sea, vistas of freedom before us. We need those are concerned about meeting basic human needs, about physical defense in a dangerous land and those who tend to dollars and cents. We also need those who are guardians and advocates for our tradition, and those who remind us to sing and dance.

What did you bring out of Egypt?

what’s happening

Thurs., Jan. 9

The Epstein School-Prospective Parent Coffee, “Conversations and Classrooms” an informal look at The Epstein School. Meet the principals, visit classrooms, have coffee and talk with members of the community. Thurs., Jan. 9, 9:45 a.m. Epstein School. RSVP by Jan. 3. to admissions@epsteinatlanta.org or (404) 250-5607. Lunch ‘N Learn ft. Rabbi Greene, join Rabbi Fred Greene from Temple Beth Tikvah for a lively class and discussion as a part of the Lunch ‘N Learn series. Bring a dairy lunch or purchase from Goodfriend’s. Thurs., Jan. 9, 12 p.m. MJCCA Zaban park. Info, rabbi.glusman@atlantajcc.org “Peter Pan and Wendy” Musical Premiere, the MJCCA Arts & Culture presents a Family Musical: “Peter Pan and Wendy” a reimagining of classic characters. Through Jan. 19. Thurs., Jan. 9. $12 - $22/person. MJCCA Zaban Park. Tickets, www. atlantajcc.org/boxoffice or (678) 8124002.

Fri., Jan. 10

“Underutilized and Underappreciated” Lecture, bring your lunch and enjoy a program on the underutilized and underappreciated records at the Georgia Archives and what we can learn from them. Fri., Jan. 10, 12 p.m. Free. Georgia Archives, www. georgiaarchives.org.

Sat., Jan. 11

Potting Party, join the garden experts at Pike’s Nurseries for handson guidance in potting container gardens and houseplants for the New Year. Bring either your own pots or purchase in-store. Sat., Jan. 11, 9 a.m. (store hours). All Pike Nursery locations. Tot Shabbat Tu B’shevat Service, tots and their parents are welcome to join in for a fun morning of free play followed by a sing-a-long and seder. Everyone is welcome to stay for a Kiddush lunch at noon immediately following services. Sat., Jan. 11, 10:30 a.m. Congregation Beth Shalom.

Sun., Jan. 12

Ketura Hadassah L’Chaim Program, “Managing Priorities.” Panelists include: educator Miriam Rosenbaum; Linda Diamond, CEO of Captured Clutter; Ellen Sichel, CEO of Custom Calm, LLC and author of “Splash Into Calm”; Bill Loventhal, Financial Advisor. Sun., Jan. 12, 1:30 p.m. $10/person. Haynes Landing Clubhouse. RSVP by Jan. 5 to sdalmat@ gmail.com or (678) 441-0650.

Fri.., Jan. 17

Shabbat Dinner and AIPAC Speaker, immediately following Friday night services, Beth Shalom will host Carmiel Arbil from The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), at a traditional shabbat dinner to speak about world events and answer questions. Fri., Jan. 17, 7 p.m. $16.50/adults, $8.25/ages 10 and under. Congregation Beth Shalom. To reserve a space, (770) 399-5300 or www.bethshalomatlanta.org.

Thurs., Jan. 16, 6:30 p.m. Free. Park Tavern. Info, roey.shoshan@atlantajcc.org or (678) 812-4055.

Thurs., Jan. 30

Jews, Brews & Schmooze, mix & mingle with young Jewish adults. All are welcome, regardless of religious affiliation. Drinks and food available for purchase. Thurs., Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m. Gordon Biersch, Atlanta. roey. shoshan@atlantajcc.org or (678) 8124055.

Thurs., Jan. 26

“The Geller Girls” Performance, come see “The Geller Girls,” written by Janece Shaffer at a discounted price from the CSI Sisterhood. Thurs., Jan. 26, 2:30 p.m. $39.38. (until Jan. 2). Alliance Theater. Contact, (404) 733-4604.

Sun., Jan. 19

Emotional Sobriety Lecture, Spiritual Tools for Dealing With Dysfunction and Addiction: an honest look at why and how we get pulled into dysfunctional relationships and addictions and some practical insights on how to rise above the chaos. With Rabbi Shais Taub, acclaimed lecturer and author. Sponsored by Cobb Jewish Academy, JF&CS, Congregation Etz Chaim Sun., Jan. 19, 10 a.m. Free. The Pavillion, in Marietta. Info, (770) 565-4412 x300. Speaker: Ambassador Ido Aharoni, the Consul General of Israel in New York as a part of Community Conversation 2014. “Ancient Land. Brand (New) Israel.” Before event, bring computers and electronics for recycling, an Eco-Tour of the new Or Hadash Synagogue and JNF Israeli Emissary Ezra Ravins disccuses current social issues in Israel. Sun., Jan. 19, 10:30 a.m. Congregation Or Hadash. Register, jnf.org/atlido and RSVP, ahalper@jnf.org or (404) 2368990 x. 852.

Tues., Jan. 21

Emory at Etz Chaim, the bi-annual program bringing the best Jewish studies professors of Emory University to Etz Chaim. Professor Benjamin Hary, Winship Distinguished Research Professor, presents “Not Just Yiddish and Ladino: On the Phenomenon of Jewish Languages.” Tues., Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m. Congregation Etz Chaim.Info, (770) 973-0137 or www.etzchaim.net.

Thurs., Jan. 16

A Taste of Tu B’shvat, featuring “The TreeMan,” a walking, living tree and enjoy fruits and nuts associated with the Land of Israel. Thurs., Jan. 16, 5 p.m. MJCCA Zaban Park. rabbi. glusman@atlantajcc.org or (678) 8124161. Tu B’shvat at the Tavern, young Jewish adults (21 and over) are invited to celebrate Tu B’Shvat with the MJCCA and JNF at Park Tavern, located on Piedmont Park. Enjoy special fruits and nuts in celebration.

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AJT

may their memories be a blessing

Bruce Cooper Johns Creek

Bruce Cooper of Johns Creek, Ga. passed away Saturday December 28th after battling a long illness. He was a loving, caring and devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He is survived by his wife, Linda, son, Hadley, daughter, Dana Marks, grandchildren, Steven, Rachel and Sophia Marks and sister, Sonya Reyne. Arrangements by Wages & Sons Funeral Home P. O. Box 605, Stone Mountain, GA 30086. (770) 469-9811

Jeanette Cooper Nichols 96, Atlanta

What made our mother, Jeannette Cooper Nichols, unique? Let me count the ways – she’s kind, good, thoughtful, elegant, beautiful, loving, inspiring, caring, strong, patient, brilliant…we could go on all day. Jeannette Cooper was born April 6, 1917 to two immigrants from Eastern Europe, Fannie Koladner Cooper and Israel L. Cooper. She was born above their grocery store on Piedmont Avenue in Atlanta. She was married to Fred W Nichols for 72 years. Jeanette was a prolific artist and painted beautiful watercolors. She

was an example to all of us that we can do whatever we want as long as we have persistence, patience, hard work, lessons, good friend with whom to work, equanimity to praise and criticism, and love for the work. Jeannette Nichols’ life was built on her ability to: live in the present; to grow in good times and bad; to remain equanimous under stress; and, most of all, her ability to love her friends and family unconditionally, fully, and without restraint. Jeanette is survived by her children: Judy and Chuck Huizenga, Pat and Larry Fonts, Arthur Nichols, Joan and Marshall Wolff and Michael and Marcia Nichols, by her grandchildren: Stacey and Barry Bigger, Audrey Lefont, Paige Lefont, Kathryn and David Ovadia, Beth and David Shaz, and Susie and Don Kilbride, Josh and Lelia Nichols, Jessica and Alex Sanders, Zach Nichols, Anna Nichols, and Phoebe Wolff. And her great grandchildren: Samara, Jacob and Andrew Shaz; Cole Lefont; William, Annabelle, and Juliet Bigger; Sawyer, Duncan, and Finn Kilbride; Nathan, Dahlia, Raquelle Ovadia and Dinny Nichols. We are all grateful to mom and dad’s friends and family and all those people who consider our mom as their second mom. Special thanks to her nieces and nephews. Special thanks and deepest appreciation to mom’s dear and caring nurses: Michelle Veronica Thomas, Sharon McCullough and Chalathia Welch. Led by the wise and wonderful Lola Tonic, Lola brought great joy to mother’s life and to all of our lives. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Fred and Jeannette Nichols Library Fund and Temple Sinai in Atlanta. Funeral services were held Thurs., Dec. 19 at Temple Sinai. Interment followed at Arlington Memorial Park. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, Atlanta (770) 451-4999

Robert Myles 63, Atlanta

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Robert Alan Myles, known as Bob to all who knew and loved him, passed away on December 22, 2013, due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Costa Rica. Bob and his wife, Janis Gordon, were visiting her daughter, Eva Gordon, who lives in Costa Rica. Bob was 63 years old at the time of his death. Born in Rockaway Beach, N.Y., Bob was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy, after which he attended college at Buffalo State University. He moved to Atlanta in 1978. For 18 years Bob was employed as an ophthalmic photographer at Emory Eye Center, where he spent several years as head of the photography department. He was admired by doctors, co-workers and patients alike. Upon retiring from Emory, Bob founded a photography business, Down to Earth Photography, where he was trying his hand at aerial photography, jewelry and food photography, as well as wildlife and landscape photography. He could often be found taking pictures and making videos of the gorillas at the Atlanta Zoo. Bob particularly enjoyed travel, and he and his wife traveled extensively together during their wonderful seven years of marriage. The couple spent time in Alaska, Norway, the Baltic, Utah, Wyoming and Arizona, where they hiked and rafted through the Grand Canyon. He especially enjoyed visiting the national parks, and spent quite a bit of time in Death Valley, as well as Yellowstone. One of his favorite trips was to the Galápagos Islands. Bob and his wife had recently returned from a cruise through the Panama Canal, and were planning a trip to Italy and Turkey, as well as the Canadian Rockies, when the accident occurred. Bob was known and loved for his commitment to family and terrific sense of humor. He was very close to his brother, Kenny Myles, of New Jersey, with whom he

may their memories be a blessing

talked at least daily. Bob is survived by his loving wife, his brother, his two incredible nephews, Zachary and Matthew Myles, and his three stepchildren, Abe, Eva and Ross Gordon. Sign the online guestbook at www. edressler.com. A memorial service were held Sun., Dec. 29 at 11 a.m., at Emory Hillel, 735 Gatewood Rd, Atlanta. Burial immediately followed at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave, Atlanta, GA 30315. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, (770) 451-4999.

Jack Morris Hirsh 87, Marietta

Jack Morris Hirsh of Marietta passed away peacefully on December 28, 2013. He was born in Atlanta on Oct. 1, 1926, the son of Sadye and Isaac Hirsh, both of blessed memory, and was a proud alumnus of Boys High, where he graduated in 1944. At 17, Jack joined the army and trained as an engineer at North Georgia College and NYU. After 30 years, he retired from Ellmans as Senior Vice President. Always caring and selfless, Jack then had time to volunteer, working with Meals on Wheels and other organizations. He was always helping out his children, grandchildren and other family members and most importantly his devoted wife, Esta Jean. Jack was a devoted son, faithfully caring for his mother throughout her life. He loved sports, playing tennis for most of his life, and he was a standout basketball player in his youth. Jack is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Esta Jean; his sons: Evan (Ying), Lee, and Lawrence (Alexandra); and his grandchildren: Jennifer, Jeffrey and Mamie. Sign the online guestbook at www.edressler.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Funeral services were held 3 p.m. Mon., Dec. 30 at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs. Rabbi Neil Sandler officiated. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, (770) 451-4999.

Sam Berkowitz 84, Atlanta

Sam H. Berkowitz, 84, passed away December 27, 2013. He was a native Atlantan, proud Georgia Tech graduate, U.S. Army veteran, and retired from Lockheed Martin Corporation as a Sr. Design Engineer. He was preceded in death by parents, Zaidel and Jenny Berkowitz; brothers, Manuel and Frank Berkowitz; sister, Dorothy Robinson. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Sylvia; daughters, Susan Berkowitz and Tzivia “Helen” Silverstein; son, Steve and his wife Michele; grandchildren: Shaina and Adina Silverstein and Jeffrey, Hava, and Max Berkowitz, all of Atlanta, and Avraham Chaim Silverstein of Israel. Other survivors include loving brothers-in-law, Robert and Milton Sturman; sister-in-law, Natalie Ellis; many loving nieces and nephews; and dear family friend, Dell Asher. The family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff of the DeKalb Medical ICU for their care and compassion. Online guestbook is available at www.edressler.com. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to National Council of Jewish Women, P. O. Box 76162, Sandy Springs, GA 30328; or Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave., NW, Atlanta, GA 30327. Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Mon., Dec. 30 at Greenwood Cemetery, with Rabbi Neil Sandler officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, (770) 451-4999.

Rubye Tillman Chait 83, Atlanta

Rubye Jean Tillman Chait, age 83, of Atlanta died on December 25, 2013. Mrs. Chait was born and raised in Moultrie, Ga. After earning a degree in nursing, she worked for Crawford Long Hospital, where she met the love of her life, Donald Chait. Mrs. Chait volunteered for many years with the Women’s Auxiliary of Crawford Long Hospital, now known as Emory Midtown Hospital. Most of her efforts were devoted to the hospital’s gift shop for which she was head buyer and later Manager for a number of years. She inspired everyone she touched with her kindness and gentleness. She loved animals, especially dogs and cats and was an avid basketball fan. Devoted to her family, she is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Donald; sons, Leland, Douglas, and Gregory Chait; daughter-in-law, Dorinda; brothers, Samuel and David Tillman; grandchildren, Abraham, Healy, and Sarah, and many nieces and nephews. Sign the online guestbook at www.edressler.com. A graveside service were held on Sun., Dec. 29 at 1:30 p.m. at Crest Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Stroke Association, 7272 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75231. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, (770) 451-4999.

Serving Atlanta’s Jewish Community with Sensitivity and Respect Edward Dressler, President

David Boring Michael Braswell Allen Guertin Jonathan Miller Licensed Funeral Directors

770.451.4999

www.JewishFuneralCare.com

january 10 ▪ 2014

AJT

JEWISH PUZZLER by David Benkof

Across 1. Pulitzer Prizewinner Seymour 6. Where the Western Wall is, compared to the Dome of the Rock 11. When Rachel named Joseph, she said “The Lord ___ to me another son.” 14. “America” singer in “West Side Story” 15. C’est ___ (that is to say) 16. Bernard Baruch’s astrological sign 17. “War and ___” (Herman Wouk novel) 19. 586 ___ (Destruction of the First Temple year) 20. Ending for chariot 21. Kippah, streimel, etc. 23. YU Rosh Yeshiva Mordechai 26. Sounds from Americans in “Maus” 27. Israel’s unilateral move of August 2005 32. Artist-photogrpher Lassry 33. Characters in James Burrows’ “Cheers” 34. Grauman of Grauman’s Chinese Theater 37. St. where Bernard Madoff attended college for one year 38. Many of the 1972 Munich murderers, initially 40. Home Front Defense Minister Dichter 41. Home to the JTS 42. ___-Semite (Jew-lover) 43. Diplomat whose first name was originally Aubrey 44. “Charlie’s Angels” producer 48. Most German-speakers get at

least the ___ of Yiddish 50. Essayist Finkielkraut and producer Goldman 51. Like “An American Tail: Fievel Goes West” 56. “___ Got a Little Grogger” (Hyman Resnick Purim song) 57. First plague in Hebrew 58. Eastern European promoters of immigration to Palestine 63. Lennon: ___ :: McCartney: Eastman 64. “Jewish Millionaire: ___ for Kids” from Mazon 65. Gid Hanasheh (sciatic ___ forbidden by the Torah) 66. Nobel Prizewinning Soviet physicist Landau 67. Shalach ___ (Purim gifts) 68. Rebecca, Abraham’s ___ niece

Jenji Kohan’s shows 11. He developed an oral vaccine against polio 12. Drink produced by Israel’s Elite 13. Machers 18. ___ Gen. Daniel Gold (Iron Dome creator) 22. ___ Sacher (Jerusalem park) 23. Gene played him in a 1971 movie musical 24. Sci-fi author who wrote over 500 books 25. Jeff who plays Murray Gold-

berg on “The Goldbergs” on ABC 27. He and Frank were part of the Rat Pack along with Sammy 28. They may be set for the year at Rosh Hashana 29. Cafe ___ (Holocaust survivor’s center in Los Angeles) 30. “Family Guy” daughter voiced by Mila Kunis 31. Brooklyn add-on 35. Boesky and Reitman 36. Suky & ___ (Presenters of “Uncle Moishy and the Mitzvah Men”)

38. Mo. in which Tel Aviv was founded 39. He and Kissinger won the 1973 Nobel Peace Prize 43. Hebrew pioneer Ben Yehuda 45. In Israel, it’s called a “Caspomat” 46. The ___ Wiesel Foundation for Humanity 47. Performing Netilat Yadaim 48. Leading sage of a generation 49. Meshuggah 52. “I still had ___ sandwich for lunch!” (Sen. George Allen’s comment after he found out his mother is Jewish) 53. Item of clothing for Flavius Josephus 54. “___ Almighty” (modern-day retelling of Noah’s ark) 55. Palestinian Solidarity Wk. (anti-Israel ___) 59. Ehud Barak was one from the Yom Kippur War (abbr.) 60. Ctry. where Israeli President Chaim Herzog was born 61. Herod the Great’s eggs 62. Sergei Brin’s medium

Last week’s answers

Down 1. ___ HaMenuchot (largest cemetary in Jerusalem) 2. Suffix with Ess 3. Pacific ___ (Middle East rival) 4. Salo Baron’s “___ by Adversity” about American Jews 5. Gluekel, 17th century memoirist from ____ 6. ___-Ilan University 7. ___ HaChareidis (known popularly as the Bedatz) 8. A bit of “Death of a Salesman” 9. Boat in Spielberg’s “Jaws” 10. Plant that starred in one of

Shabbat Candle Lighting Times january 10 ▪ 2014

shabbat blessings

Blessing for the Candles Baruch Arah A-do-nai,El-o-hei-nu Melech Haolam Asher Kid-shanu b’mitzvotav V’zivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Sovereign of time and space. You hallow us with Your mitzvot and command us to kindle the lights of Shabbat. Blessing for the Wine Baruch Atah A-do-nai, El-o-hei-nu

Meelech Haolam, Borei p’ri hagafen Praise to You, Eternal our God, Sovereign of the Universe, Creator of the fruit of the vine. Blessing for the Bread (Challah) Baruch Atah A-do-nai, El-o-hei-nu Melech haolam, Hamotzi Lechem min haaretz. Our Praise to You Eternal our God, Sovereign of the universe, Who brings forth bread from the earth.

Fri., Jan. 10 5:28 p.m. Sat., Jan. 11 6:27 p.m. Fri., Jan. 17 5:35 p.m. Sat., Jan. 18 6:34 p.m. Fri., Jan. 24 5:42 p.m. Sat., Jan. 25 6:40 p.m. Fri., Jan. 31 5:48 p.m. Sat., Feb. 1 6:46 p.m.

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