Atlanta Jewish Times, XCIV No. 08, February 22, 2019

NEXT WEEK: AJMF PREVIEW

VOL. XCIV NO. 08 | HEALTH & WELLNESS

FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 17 ADAR I 5779

Jewish Atlanta's Inclusive Community CELEBRATING JEWISH DISABILITY AWARENESS, ACCEPTANCE AND INCLUSION MONTH

2 MILLION ATTACKS HACKERS AT GA TECH FAIL TO CRACK ISRAELI CYBER 2.0 CHALLENGE.

CDC ON VACCINES LOCAL EXPERT DISCUSSES SAFETY AND THE IMPORTANCE OF VACCINATIONS.

PET DETECTIVE KIM FREEMAN REVEALS HOW THE LOST CAT SEARCH & RESCUE BEGAN.

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PUBLISHER

MICHAEL A. MORRIS

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MANAGING PUBLISHER & INTERIM EDITOR KAYLENE LADINSKY

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JODI DANIS

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EDITORIAL Associate Editor

RONI ROBBINS

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EDDIE SAMUELS

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LEAH R. HARRISON leah@atljewishtimes.com

Contributors This Week BOB BAHR CHANA SHAPIRO KEVIN C. MADIGAN MARCIA CALLER JAFFE DR. MICHAEL C. GORDON PATRICE WORTHY RABBI JOAB EICHENBERG-EILON

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Feeling Groovy There’s no price tag you can put on good health and there’s no lack of doctors in Jewish Atlanta to tell us about our ailments. This issue is full of medical wisdom on such subjects as genetic testing, Alzheimer’s disease and vertigo.

In keeping with Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month, we take an in-depth look at disabilities, special needs and efforts of the Atlanta Jewish community to be more inclusive. We also spotlight Jerry’s Habima Theatre, celebrating 26 years of providing a stage for adults with special needs to express their talents.

From our medical journal, an addiction specialist offers 10 tips on how to prevent prescription medicines in your home from getting into the wrong hands, and we talk with a vaccination expert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the na-

tional vaccine debate.

For the dental team of mother and daughters we interview, dentistry is a family vocation that has changed dramatically in the 25 years between them.

Aside from health and wellness, we also continue our coverage of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. The AJT interviews the director of “The Other Story” and covers the AJFF Icon Award presentation to violinist Itzhak Perlman and his sold-out concert.

Stars didn’t actually align for hackers trying to win reward money that went unclaimed after the Feb. 14 competition at Georgia Tech.

From lost booty to missing kitties, we go beyond the internet cat obsession by bringing you a story on a pet detective who has a natural sense when it comes to searching out the scaredy-cats.

Our Jewish community is certain-

THIS WEEK ly diverse in its interests and fascinations. Next week is our preview of the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival because we can’t get enough of our celebration of the art. To life! To health! To our collective well-being! ■

CONTENTS LOCAL NEWS ���������������������������������� 4 SPORTS �������������������������������������������� 8 ISRAEL NEWS ������������������������������� 10 BUSINESS ��������������������������������������� 12 OPINION ����������������������������������������� 13 HEALTH & WELLNESS ��������������� 14 ARTS ������������������������������������������������ 25 CALENDAR ������������������������������������� 30 COMMUNITY ��������������������������������� 32 KEEPING IT KOSHER ������������������ 42 BRAIN FOOD ���������������������������������� 43 OBITUARIES ���������������������������������� 44 CLOSING THOUGHTS ����������������� 46

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Established 1925 as The Southern Israelite Phone: (404) 883-2130 www.atlantajewishtimes.com ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES (ISSN# 0892-33451) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY SOUTHERN ISRAELITE, LLC 270 Carpenter Drive, Suite 320, Atlanta, GA 30328 © 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES Printed by Walton Press Inc. MEMBER Conexx: America Israel Business Connector American Jewish Press Association Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce Please send all photos, stories and editorial content to: submissions@atljewishtimes.com

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 3

LOCAL NEWS

Nearly 2 million attempts to penetrate the Cyber 2.0 server and copy one file failed as a result of their chaos-theory-based system.

Erez Kaplan laughs as he realizes hackers attacked his personal computer in an attempt to get a leg up.

Dr. Bryson Payne from the University of North Georgia tries his hand at the hacking challenge.

$100,000 Hacker Challenge Goes Unclaimed at Tech

By Eddie Samuels The stakes were high for cracking into Cyber 2.0’s security systems. The Israeli cybersecurity company with offices in Atlanta offered a $100,000 prize for anyone who could access a single file from its protected server.

This was the second time the company challenged hackers to try and penetrate its system. The last time was in June in Israel with a $30,000 prize. The latest contest Feb. 14 took place at Georgia Tech Research Institute. It kicked off at 9 a.m. with an introduction to Cyber 2.0’s revolutionary technology from Chief Technology Officer and Founder Erez Kaplan.

He explained that it was based on the chaos theory of mathematics, utilizing systems in which predicting longterm development is impossible. He also encouraged those in attendance to ask him questions that might give them a leg up come competition time.

“We reinvented cybersecurity by creating the chaos mechanism that scrambles everything,” he told the AJT. “The different concept with us beside that is that the things responsible for defense are the surrounding computers.”

The event on Valentine’s Day was

open to hackers from different fields: from commercial, to student, to military and everything in between. A total of 61 hackers participated in the six-hour contest. And while many in the room were students, there were others from diverse backgrounds.

Kaplan said that although he thought it unlikely that anyone would be able to breach Cyber 2.0’s security, he was still feeling the nerves early in the day.

“I’m divided into two: I’m confident, but my heart beats like crazy,” Kaplan said. “We know that it’s impossible to hack it, … currently no one is doing anything unexpected. They’re going through standard attack routes.”

Kaplan did note that one competitor tried a unique approach, hacking into his personal computer in search of the file.

“It’s not there, but I closed it because I don’t want them to hack it,” he said.

Vice President of Sales Sneer Rozenfeld explained that his confidence in Cyber 2.0 was higher than ever.

“I’m $100,000 confident. I wouldn’t put it out there if I wasn’t,” he said.

Alongside the hacking, there were also guest speakers lined up, covering a variety of topics from developing technologies in Atlanta to car hacking.

When asked why Cyber 2.0 chose At-

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lanta for its first international challenge and business location, Rozenfeld said that when they were initially looking to break into the U.S. market they didn’t know where to start.

“There is a big conference in Washington, D.C., called SelectUSA,” he said.

“You meet delegates from all the states telling you, ‘come over and bring your business to our state.’”

Sima Amir, Georgia’s managing director of relations with Israel, came to Cyber 2.0’s office and encouraged them to pay attention to the Georgia booth at SelectUSA. “We met with so many delegates from all different states, and all of them were saying, ‘come to our place, or our place,’” Rozenfeld said. “We were so confused.”

Invitations to Atlanta’s Cyber Week in October from CyberHub Summit CEO Karin Zalcberg and Conexx – the America Israel Business Connector – first got Cyber 2.0 in the state, and from there, they never looked back.

“We fell in love with the place; you call it Southern hospitality,” Rozenfeld said. “We saw great opportunity here and great people here and decided this would be the best place to start U.S. operations.”

Dr. Bryson Payne, a professor of

computer science at the University of North Georgia, asked Cyber 2.0 to bring the same challenge they’d previously tried in Israel to Atlanta.

“Cyber 2.0 has 100 percent total protection for those files and they are putting their money where their mouth is,” he said.

Payne, who had students participating in the challenge, noted that getting access to the file would be a big ask.

“My students will have quite a challenge, as will the military and corporate hackers,” Payne said. “If they’re able to break through, not only do they get a $100,000 check, but Cyber 2.0 learns something that could help them improve their security.”

While no one was able to crack the server's protection, the competitors amassed an impressive 1,956,495 attacks on the network in the six-hour window.

And while Payne was not necessarily expecting anyone to retrieve the file that day, he did share some of the importance of bringing events like this to Georgia.

“It’s important to fire people up about cybersecurity jobs,” he said. “We need 11,500 more people in cyber in the state of Georgia, … so that we can continue to protect our country and our families from cyber attacks.” ■

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LOCAL NEWS

This year's dinner will feature Ambassador Danny Danon as a speaker with a musical performance by Peter Yarrow.

Israel Bonds for the Southeast region will honor Atlanta Jewish Times Owner and Publisher Michael A. Morris.

Israel Bonds Honors Powerhouse Publisher Morris

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Israel Bonds for the Southeast region will honor Atlanta Jewish Times Owner and Publisher Michael Morris as its 2019 Atlanta community honoree. A gala tribute dinner and reception will be held this year at City Springs on March 13.

Morris will be recognized for his longstanding support for Israel, his passion for the Atlanta Jewish community and for his leadership at the AJT. This year’s event is a standout because it comes during the continuing commemoration of Israel’s 70th anniversary.

Guest speaker is Israel’s permanent United Nations Ambassador Danny Danon with a special musical performance by Peter Yarrow, Grammy winning member of Peter, Paul and Mary.

Event co-chairs are Belinda Morris, Kaylene Ladinsky and Renee Werbin.

Morris will follow a long list of community leaders who have been recognized in recent years at the annual gala, including Home Depot co-founder Arthur Blank; Gov. Nathan Deal; The RADCO Companies CEO Norman Radow; and Aprio Managing Partner and CEO Richard Kopelman.

Israel Bonds Executive Director Brad Young said, “It is an honor to be able to recognize Michael Morris for his contributions to the Atlanta Jewish community. The Atlanta Jewish Times has been revitalized and become a publication our community can take great pride in under his leadership and guidance. Not only does the AJT provide great coverage of the

Atlanta Jewish community, our people, schools, organizations and synagogues, but the coverage of Israel has improved dramatically and been exceptional under Michael’s stewardship.”

Morris recently spearheaded the resoundingly successful premiere Atlanta Jewish Life Festival, where more than 4,200 Jews from all walks of life gathered at the Georgia Aquarium Jan. 13.

About the Bonds recognition, Morris said, “I remember hearing stories about my father raising money for Israel Bonds during the Yom Kippur War. I was quite honored to be asked to be this year’s award recipient, to help raise money for Israel, and follow in his footsteps.

“Israel is close to my heart,” he added. “It is my home away from home. It is not only important for me to support my extended family there, but it is important to teach my children, here in Atlanta, that Israel is a vital piece of our Jewish identity.”

The Israel Bonds organization ranks among Israel’s most valued economic and strategic resources, helping to build every sector of the economy by providing investment capital. Israel Bonds has exceeded $1 billion in domestic sales each of the past six years, and for 2019, the finance ministry of Israel has requested a goal of $1.1 billion in sales in the United States. ■ Tickets to the Israel Bonds gala tribute dinner are $180 (not tax deductible). For more information, contact the Israel Bonds office 404-817-3500.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 5

LOCAL NEWS

Dangerous Times for Politics in Europe

By Bob Bahr There is increasing concern among many in Germany about the rapid growth of radical right-wing politics that is reshaping the political landscape there. That was part of the message that members of the American Jewish Committee heard recently when they sat down with the American correspondent for Berlin’s largest newspaper.

Juliane Schauble of the German newspaper Der Tagesspiegel, told a Feb. 12 lunchtime gathering at AJC’s Buckhead offices that there is considerable fear that the right-wing party, Alternative for Germany, or AfD, is becoming too powerful. Since the party’s founding in 2013, it has gained representation in local parliaments in every one of Germany's 16 states. In the national election 1 ½ years ago, the party won 94 seats out of a total of 709 in the Reichstag.

This was the first time since the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II that such an extreme party, which has been linked to a resurgence of anti-Semitism in the country, has won seats in the national parliament. In a poll last September, they were picked as Germany’s second most popular party, just edging out the mainstream Social Democratic party.

“It is totally new for Germany and it’s a very difficult situation right now,” Schauble said. “In at least one state, Saxony, they could be the biggest party in the parliament there. It is a terrible development. They could get as much as 30 percent of the vote in Saxony.”

6 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

those who voted Although the for Trump. People extremist party’s feel neglected, parstrength is growing, ticularly in the and it is likely to underdeveloped gain new support in East,” Schauble said. state elections later “People don’t feel this year, it is unthat they are being likely that it will be heard.” able to govern anyPart of the difwhere in Germany ficulty is the result soon. So far, the AfD of the decision by has been shunned the government of by the political esChancellor Angela tablishment; not Merkel to admit a single party has more than a million shown a willingness refugees in recent to participate with years, many of them it in a coalition govfrom Syria, Iraq, Afernment.

Juliane Schauble is the Washington correspondent ghanistan and other “While there for the German newspaper, Der Tagesspiegel. predominantly Isis no party in Germany that would go into a coalition, the extremists are lamic nations. There has been a growing backlash that much too strong,” she said. “So I think it is very impor- establishment politicians are only now beginning to tant for the big parties to do something against it be- take seriously.

“The so-called refugee crisis of 2015 and 2016 creatcause it is a big threat to German democracy.”

The growth of the AfD, particularly in what was ed considerably hostility, particularly in the East. They formerly Communist East Germany, has been fueled, are not very used to welcoming refugees. Many of the in part, by the neglect that large political parties have newcomers are Muslim, many of them are young men.

They really object to Chancellor Merkel’s policy of letshown that part of the country.

“It is very similar to the situations of some of ting them in our country. For a long time we didn’t listen to their fears.”

The growth of extreme right-wing parties is widespread in Europe. They have a strong voice in Italy, Greece and Austria, and they and their allies are a threat in France. Eastern European governments in Hungary, Poland and Slovenia are dominated by parties that have strong nationalistic and anti-immigrant policies.

All this is likely to come to a head in the next several months as campaigning begins for parliamentary elections for the European Union, which are set for late in May. Right-wing nationalists across Europe are said to be working hard to take over the European parliament.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary called the elections an opportunity “to transform Europe, to ship it into a post-Christian era, and into an era when nations disappear.” His allies in Italy, led by Matteo Salvini of the anti-immigrant, Northern League party and the young Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz stand with him in what they see as a battle to preserve their national identity against an invading horde of immigrants.

Schauble is hopeful that mainstream German politicians have what it takes to resist a takeover from the right.

“Many Germans say we must do something to help Emmanuel Macron be successful in France, and to help the UK and Italy to overcome their challenges. It is a huge problem right now, but I hope it brings the people and their parties together, gives them a push to say, ‘This is what we have to do to make Europe an effective political model again.’ You have so many people in the European Union now who want to do something against the European Union. We need all the power we can get to move forward, not backward.” ■

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 7

SPORTS

George Bello wearing the new kit.

The crowd at the Atlanta United kit reveal event.

Striker Josef Martinez

Atlanta United: From New Duds to ‘Men in Blazers’

By Patrice Worthy Atlanta United is ready for chapter three, sharing its enthusiasm with a crowd of thousands last week during the new kit reveal.

The kit, or uniform, named “stars and stripes,” is made up of red and black stripes with a black mesh panel on the back with each player’s name and number in metallic gold. The front displays the new gold championship star placed

above the club’s crest, featuring the classic five-stripe design behind the gold A. The “17” mark along the jock tag of the jersey represents the team’s inaugural season and is for the fans who helped break every attendance record in Major League Soccer regular season, MLS Cup Playoff and MLS All-Star Game history.

The new kit reveal comes after Atlanta United’s outstanding preseason performance and the club’s 2018 MLS Cup win over the Portland Timbers Dec. 8.

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At the kit reveal Feb. 15, “Men in Blazers” co-host Roger Bennett treated fans to a series of interviews with players, including goalkeeper Brad “The Wall” Guzan, who said he gets stopped by fans, thanking him for bringing a championship to Atlanta.

“We’re fortunate enough to call this place home and call these guys our home fans,” Guzan said. “To be a part of this group on and off the field is phenomenal.”

The professionalism and reputation of the team is what attracted new Atlanta United Manager Frank de Boer to the club. The legendary Dutch player spent more than 15 seasons combined with Ajax Amsterdam and Futbol Club Barcelona. His attacking, high intensity approach to the game is parallel to Atlanta United’s style. He explained to the fans he plans to build on the foundation laid by former Head Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino while moving forward with a new vision.

“It’s in my DNA to dominate football with technical ability. Of course, Tata already brought it here and I want to update it and, of course, dominate every game,” de Boer said.

Defensively, Atlanta United can improve, de Boer said, noting the team has already shown improvement during the preseason.

During his career, de Boer made 51 debuts from the youth league, and he is expected to continue this practice as manager of Atlanta United. De Boer said things look good for George Bello, the 16-year-old player who made his debut last season, to play more minutes this season.

“George has already played minutes in the preseason. He’s a fantastic player and a fantastic person,” de Boer said. “I never underestimate these young players because if you’re good enough, the best experience is to play on the first team.”

The club selected midfielders Anderson Asiedu and Amir Bashti in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft. Then Atlanta United went on to acquire Florentin Pogba, Dion Pereira and 2018 South American footballer of the year Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez to round out the roster after the transfer of Miguel Almiron to Newcastle United, a move that broke the league’s transfer fee record. Team Captain Michael Parkhurst said the team was ready to win the CONCACAF Champions League competition Feb. 19 before playing Club Sport Herediano Feb. 21 in Costa Rica.

“The focus right now is the CCL. …

We want to win. We’re taking it seriously as MLS champs and we understand the pressure that comes with it,” Parkhurst said. “We’re looking forward to … getting it started.”

Josef Martinez hugs rapper Waka Flocka.

Goalkeeper Brad “The Wall” Guzan and Captain Michael Parkhurst hold up the 2018 MLS Cup.

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SPORTS Men in Blazers The AJT used the kit reveal as a chance to interview Jewish co-host Roger Bennett about his background and his clothing accessory choice for the event.

Originally from Liverpool, the British-born Bennett has made American football, or soccer, his vocation. He’s been covering the sport for more than 10 years on his popular podcast and TV show, “Men in Blazers.”

During the kit reveal, he interviewed team owner Arthur Blank, striker Josef Martinez and Gonzalo Martinez about the 2018 MLS Cup championship win.

Bennett who, appropriately, wore a pair of trousers and a blazer, also donned a button with a picture of Atlanta rapper 21 Savage. The rapper was recently taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement during a traffic stop in Atlanta. 21 Savage, whose real name is She’yaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, is originally from London. He was brought to America as a minor in 2005 but overstayed when his visa expired a year later. He is now free and on house arrest with the help of hip-hop mogul Jay-Z. On Feb. 15, 21 Savage turned himself in to Liberty County authorities in South Georgia for an outstanding warrant that

way he talked about the city and how he understands what Atlanta United represents to Atlanta, and that’s diversity, … he gets it. And when you try to unravel that or pick on it, you’re creating conflict and pulling a thread out of the fabric of the United States.

Arthur Blank and Roger Bennett toast with a beer.

“Men in Blazers” co-host Roger Bennett sports a 21 Savage pin.

ended up being a “civil contract dispute,” the AJC reported. However, Bennett took the opportunity to show his support for 21 Savage and voice his opinion on U.S. immigration.

country is the mix of people born here and who live here, and personally, I felt terrible watching it. It’s not one day that I don’t take America for granted. There is something very special about people that are born here and the people that move here to contribute and build this place, and I don’t really see a difference between the two.

AJT: How did growing up Jewish in the UK influence you?

Bennett: It made me appreciate being Jewish more and being a part of an amazing tradition. It also made me appreciate America and the freedom. They say most of the Jews in Liverpool were Jews headed to America; they just got off on the wrong stop. You know the promise of America now is different than it was then. We grew up looking at the Statue of Liberty and seeing that; we would watch “Yentl” and “Scarface,” so America represented something amazing to us.

AJT: Was the transition to America difficult?

Bennett: Of course, it was difficult.

You’re here in a new country and you see “Yentl” and “Scarface” and realize it’s somewhere in between the two. What I love most about America is the diversity.

We had Killer Mike on the show, and the

AJT: What made you want to launch “Men in Blazers”?

Bennett: America and football. The two things we love most in the world: America and soccer. We felt when we came here soccer was going to take off and we’re happy they let bald men like me on television. ■

AJT: Why did you decide to wear the button this evening?

Bennett: I love America and I love Atlanta and I’m blown away by the diversity, creativity and talent here, and he represents all that. To single someone out like that is terrible.

AJT: Do you know him? And have you been following the story?

Bennett: Yes. I’ve been following it and one of the great strengths of this

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 9

ISRAEL PRIDE

News From Our Jewish Home Are Our Brains Too Advanced?

Weizmann Institute of Science Professor Rony Paz and a group of researchers conducted experiments comparing brain efficiency in human and non-human primates. They compared the human brain to a washing machine, equipped to handle sophisticated programming, but prone to breakdown and disorders.

Their experiment uncovered that as neural codes become more efficient, the human brain loses some of its ability to prevent errors.

The findings were published in Cell research journal and may offer a potential explanation for ADHD, anxiety, depression and PTSD, among other conditions. But more information is needed on the subject.

Among the findings, the researchers discovered that different parts of the brain carry varying levels of efficiency.

Raviv Pryluk, a student in Paz’s group, created a way to test and compare the efficiency of the neural codes in several regions of the brain. “We defined efficient communication as that which uses the least amount of energy to transmit the maximal information – to pass on as complicated message as possible with the

Today in Israeli History Feb. 22, 1914: The board of directors of the under-construction Technikum in Haifa decides that the language of instruction at the technical college will be Hebrew, reversing an October decision to teach in German. The choice of German had sparked protests from residents of the Yishuv, whose children were learning in Hebrew, and led Ahad Ha’am and two others to resign from the college’s board. The reversal leads to a change in the university’s name from the German Technikum to the Hebrew Technion.

“Sallah Shabbati” is the first of (so far) 10 Israeli films nominated for the foreign language Oscar.

Feb. 23, 1965: The Israeli movie industry has its first Oscar nominee when “Sallah Shabbati” receives an Academy Award nomination for best foreign lan10 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

fewest ‘words,’” he said.

Weizmann researchers worked with others at Sourasky Medical Center in Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv University and UCLA Medical School in Los Angeles.

The researchers’ findings show that “evolution works with tradeoffs,” Pryluk said. “There may be a zero-sum game between efficiency and robustness; and our complex, multi-dimensional brains have gained one at the price of the other.”

examinations to take place in the comfort of your own home. Tyto devices, such as its digital stethoscope, are connected through an app. A doctor can also use the app to direct an examination and receive results remotely, leading to a potential diagnosis or prescription.

Tyto Care was recognized by Wired Magazine as “Best of CES,” (Consumer Electronics Show), and has been consistently raising capital, with the most recent $9 million from Tokyo’s Itochu Corporation, the United States’ Sanford Health and China’s Shenzhen Capital Group.

The first Tyto units launched in the U.S. in 2017 and received approval in the European Union and Canada in 2018.

Beresheet Spacecraft Ready for Liftoff A Tyto device featuring exam camera and thermometer. More attachments are included, such as a stethoscope and tongue depressor adaptors.

Israeli Startup Tyto Care Raises $9 Million Tyto Care is an innovative Israeli startup that allows for guided medical

guage film. Although the movie does not win — the Oscar goes to Italy’s “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” — it does bring home a pair of Golden Globes, including one for star Topol. Part of a genre known as bourekas films, “Sallah” takes a playful look at Ashkenazi-Sephardi tensions and the pioneering myth of the kibbutzim.

Feb. 24, 1942: A Soviet submarine sinks the refugee transport SS Struma in the Black Sea in the mistaken belief that it is an enemy ship. Only one of the 769 Jewish refugees survives. The Struma, a converted cattle transport meant to carry only 100 passengers, originated in Constanta, Romania, and stopped at Istanbul, where the refugees were denied visas to Palestine or entry to Turkey. After 10 weeks in port, the broken-down ship is towed out to sea on Feb. 23 and is sunk by a torpedo the next day.

Feb. 25, 1994: Baruch Goldstein fatally shoots 30 Muslims worshipping at the Mosque of Abraham on the site of the Cave of Machpelah and wounds 125 others before being beaten to death at the holy site in Hebron. Goldstein is an immigrant from the United States and a member of the radical Kach party who lives in the Kiryat Arba settlement. His attack during

Israel is poised to become just the fourth country — following the U.S., former USSR and China — to carry out a lunar landing with the Beresheet spacecraft. It is scheduled to take off from Cape Canaveral, Fla., aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, according to The Jerusalem Post.

The mission will try to answer from where the moon’s magnetism arose be-

Ramadan and Purim sparks two days of Muslim-Jewish riots. Israeli President Ezer Weizman calls the massacre “the worst thing that has happened to us in the history of Zionism.”

National Security Adviser Henry Kissinger (left) speaks with President Richard Nixon and Secretary of State William Rogers (right) on Feb. 23, 1973, two days before secretly meeting with Hafez Ismail.

Feb. 26, 1973: In the second of day of secret meetings in Armonk, New York, Egyptian National Security Adviser Hafez Ismail tells his U.S. counterpart, Henry Kissinger, that Egypt is willing to negotiate directly with Israel through a U.S.mediated, step-by-step process that trades territory for normalized relations — the exact process that occurs after the Yom Kippur War in October.

Feb. 27, 1928: Ariel Sharon, Israel’s 11th prime minister, is born Ariel Scheinerman in K’far Malal, near Hod Hasharon,

Photo courtesy of SPACEIL IAI // A student looks

at a scale model of the Beresheet spacecraft, set to be Israel’s first lunar lander.

cause, unlike Earth, the moon has a cold iron core. The craft will measure the moon’s magnetic field prior to and after Beresheet’s landing.

“The main scientific goal will be measuring the magnetic field of the moon. This will help us understand its source,” said Professor Oded Aharonson from the Weizmann Institute of Science.

Aharonson works in the institute’s Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and will lead the team tracking the landing and analyzing the data recovered. ■ Compiled by AJT Staff

to parents who made aliyah before World War I. He serves in the military from the War of Independence through the Yom Kippur War and oversees the first war in Lebanon as defense minister in 1982.

He becomes prime minister as the Likud leader in 2001, disengages from Gaza in 2005, forms his own party, Kadima, for the 2006 elections, then suffers a stroke from which he never recovers.

Feb. 28, 1955: Approximately 50 Israeli paratroopers carry out a raid against an Egyptian military camp in Gaza as a reprisal for repeated attacks by Palestinian militants against Israeli civilians.

Eight Israeli soldiers and 39 Egyptians are killed in the raid, called Operation Black Arrow. Gaza residents riot in response to the operation, which is condemned by the United Nations and criticized by Western nations. The raid highlights a split between the aggressive policy of new Defense Minister David Ben-Gurion and the more cautious approach favored by Ben-Gurion’s successor as prime minister, Moshe Sharett. ■ Items are provided by the Center for Israel Education (www.israeled.org).

ISRAEL NEWS

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Photos Courtesy of Shalva // The Shalva Band took the stage on The Rising Star in Israel in

the hopes of representing the Nation in May at the Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv.

The Shalva Band Shines on Rising Star in Israel

By Eddie Samuels With the Eurovision Song Contest coming to Tel Aviv, a lot of attention has focused on which group will represent Israel, the reigning champion following Netta Barzilai’s victory in 2018.

One of the four finalists, The Shalva Band — made up of individuals with a range of disabilities — stole the hearts and ears of Israelis with their performances on Rising Star in Israel, a reality singing competition that determines who will represent the nation at Eurovision.

The Shalva Band unfortunately pulled out of the Eurovision competition Feb. 5, because the final rehearsal before the competition — part of the performers’ scores — is scheduled for Shabbat. While the band asked for the rehearsal to be rescheduled as some of its members are Orthodox Jews, Eurovision organizers refused the request.

Shalva is the “Israel Association for the Care and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities,” according to its website.

Shalva was founded in 1990 by Malki and Kalman Samuels, who recognized the need to assist those with special needs while raising their son Yossi, who was blind, deaf and acutely hyperactive.

The group grew from an afterschool program aiding eight families to a national center serving thousands of Israelis with a wide spectrum of needs.

Kalman Samuels explained in an email to the AJT that the band was created as an extension of Shalva’s music therapy program in 2005. He also spoke to the growth of The Shalva Band since then.

“Today they perform to the highest musical standards in front of thousands at cultural venues, popular music forums and dignitary events throughout Israel and around the world,” he said. “Employed

by Shalva as professional musicians, the band performs several times a week, often alongside celebrity artists.”

The Shalva Band performed at Rising Star on a huge stage, uniting many Israelis behind their message of inclusion, Kalman Samuels added. He noted that they had received support from celebrities and politicians, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

“We are astounded by the unbelievable impact that The Shalva Band has made. The country has embraced them in ways we never imagined, and the band can literally not walk down the street without people approaching them for a chat or picture,” he said.

Kalman Samuels also said that their appearances have made a far larger impact than can be put into numbers.

“Their performances changed how millions of people view and embrace disability. They have strengthened children with disabilities and their families to believe in their amazing potential,” he said.

“And most of all, have proven that people deserve to be judged and celebrated for their abilities.”

The band made its debut on Rising Star in November with The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun,” shocking the nation. Since then they’ve performed hits

by Simon & Garfunkel, Idan Raichel and Leonard Cohen, and most recently their own original song, “I See Something Good Within You.” While they will not be in the official competition at the Eurovision Song Contest, they will still be performing there as an interval act during the second semifinal on May 16.

“We are so proud of The Shalva Band and [the] impact they have made with their performances on Rising Star,” Kalman Samuels said. “Shalva empowers people with disabilities to become ambassadors of their own change, and that is exactly what they did.” ■

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To see The Shalva Band’s performances, visit www.shalva.org.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 11

BUSINESS Selig Enterprises Adds Greg Selig Lewis Despite its size — one of the largest privatelyowned real estate companies in the Southeast — Selig Enterprises remains, at its core, a family business. It announced Feb. 11 that Greg Selig Lewis would be stepping into the role of senior vice president of development.

Lewis is the nephew of CEO Steve Selig and son of co-owner Cathy Selig. He is among the fourth generation of Seligs in the 100-year-old business.

Prior to joining Selig Enterprises, Lewis founded Innovative Roofing Group, which he ran for 15 years before selling it last year. He is a former board member of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and The Epstein School and current board member Greg Selig Lewis joins family of Woodward Academy, Roofers Insurance Trust at Selig Enterprises. and Selig Enterprises.

“I am proud to welcome Greg,” Steve Selig said. “His experience in the local business community along with his strong track record of entrepreneurship, successfully leading and growing a company, will be an asset to our team.”

Morris Just the One for PodcastOne PodcastOne, the “nation’s leading advertiser-supported podcast network,” announced its new CEO, Peter I. Morris, on Feb. 7.

Hosting “more than 300 of today's most popular podcasts, ... the audio on-demand leader“ has a highly diverse catalog, Morris is tasked with managing day-to-day operations, exploring strategic partnerships and growth opportunities, as well as securing new content initiatives.

Originally from Atlanta, Morris is the son of Bruce and JacLynn Morris of Sandy Springs — Temple Sinai members — and the grandson of the late Perry and Anita Morris.

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A graduate of Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business and Georgia State University College of Law, Morris has spent the last 10 years working in the entertainment industry on the West Coast.

He has previously served as the executive vice president of entertainment at IMAX and head of business affairs and strategy and general counsel at “Funny or Die,” the comedy video website and production company co-founded by Will Ferrell.

PodcastOne’s numerous celebrity hosts include NBA Hall-of-Famer Shaquille O’Neal, NFL Network personality Rich Eisen and retired senator Barbara Boxer.

Former Atlantan Peter Morris is new CEO of PodcastOne.

Rosenberg Named to Prestigious Chairman’s Club Morgan Stanley’s Chairman’s Club is an elite group comprised of only the firm’s top financial advisors. Earlier this month, the company announced that Mark Rosenberg has again been named to the select club. Rosenberg is a managing director and financial advisor in Morgan Stanley’s wealth management office in Atlanta.

His repeat induction is recognition for his creativity, consistency and excellence in guiding his clients through a variety of investment products and management services, the comMark Rosenberg has been again named pany announced. to Morgan Stanley’s Chairman’s Club.

Rosenberg’s daughter, Mollie, was featured for her wedding on the cover of the AJT in December. ■

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12 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

BEST OF JEWISH ATLANTA

OPINION Letter to the editor:

My name is Ben Beck and I am a Boy Scout in Troop 1818, located in the Alpharetta/ Roswell area. I’m currently working on my communication merit badge and one of the requirements is to write a letter to an editor of a newspaper or magazine. I chose the Atlanta Jewish Times because my dad reads it all the time and because recently, I was verbally hurt by someone saying some anti-Semitic comments on my school bus.

My brother has also encountered many direct comments to the fact that he is Jewish.

I just want parents to teach kids what they say can hurt people and some things just shouldn’t be said. I know it is a bad problem in public schools and people need to put negative responses against anti-Semitism. I’ve actually been scared to go to my synagogue ever since the Pittsburgh shooting back in October, even though it is the house of the Lord and physically, because I go there every week for Sunday school, my safe place.

My hope is that by more attention in the media these types of hurtful comments will stop.

Thank you for giving me a place to share my thoughts on this.

Sincerely, Ben Beck, Johns Creek

Letter to the editor:

I found Dave Schechter’s quote of Alfred Uhry to be illuminating. The reference to Eastern European Jews by American Jews as kikes confirms a lot of what my parents told me.

My parents were born in Poland, and my mom survived the Holocaust hidden by a righteous gentile, and my father survived the war in Siberia with a younger brother. The rest of his family was killed in the Treblinka extermination camp. Given that my parents are Eastern European Jews, they would qualify as kikes. Using the German racial laws, since my parents were both 100 percent kike, that makes me 100 percent kike as well.

When it was discovered that my mother and her sister had survived the war, their neighbors were not pleased to see them. Similarly, The Jewish community of America was not particularly welcoming to Holocaust survivors who arrived, because the Jewish survivors were witnesses to both the misdeeds of some of their Polish and Ukrainian neighbors and were witnesses to indifference (at best) of the Jewish community as well. A recent article in the Times of Israel documents the lack of response of the Jewish community to Kristallnacht, www.timesofisrael.com/ how-to-explain-the-timid-reaction-of-americanjewish-leaders-to-kristallnacht.

Jewish leaders explicitly called upon Jews not to ask for increased immigration of Jews from Europe. I would like to suggest a very simple reason why the leadership of American Jews did not do more to help the Jews of Europe. They did not want them here. Religious, foreign, accented Jews are not cool, and neither is the obligation to help them. My second hypothesis is that little has changed. Today, Israel is seen as the foreign, ac-

cented, dirty kikes by progressive Jews.

Thankfully, Israel is strong and doesn’t need the conditional love of progressives. On the other hand, the American Jewish community, where the tenet of abandonment is strong, is being abandoned by the younger generation.

There is no way we can compete with the younger generation when the sole metric is “coolness,” and anyone who is not cool is a kike.

The gefilte fish have come home to roost.

Dr. Jack L. Arbiser, Atlanta

Letter to the editor:

In 2000, Israeli reservists who mistakenly entered Ramallah were

stabbed, beaten to death and mutilated.

In 2011 in Itamar, a 3-year-old boy was stabbed in the heart, and the throat of his 3-month-old sibling was slashed.

Last week, a teenage girl walking among trees in the hills of Jerusalem was raped, stabbed to death and mutilated.

The Israeli youth of the IDF are all that stand between us and the monsters who committed these and many, many more hideous outrages which, according to Channel 13’s Oshrat Kotler, are “the result of the occupation.” Ms. Kotler avoids the reality that, as has been insightfully observed, the “Israel/Palestine conflict” is an artificial charade created to provide an excuse for endless attempts to destroy the Jewish state.

Smile Smile

Ms. Kotler also avoids these realities, made clear by much-hailed peacemaker Yitzhak Rabin in his last Knesset speech: “We would like this to be an entity which is less than a state, and which will independently run the lives of the Palestinians under its authority, ...We will not return to the 4 June 1967 lines. ... The security border of the State of Israel will be located in the Jordan Valley, in the broadest meaning of that term.”

Perhaps Ms. Kotler doesn’t see Yitzhak Rabin as a man who sought both peace and solid security for Israel.

She certainly is blind to the fact that the youth of the IDF are all that stand between us and the destruction of Israel and of our people.

Julia Lutch, Davis, Calif. ■

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770-642-9900 | 800 Mansell Road | Roswell, GA ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 13

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Jack Prettyman and Philip Flores at an Atlanta Braves baseball game.

Rachel Gray and Brian Dechant at Debra “Debbie” Sonenshine SOAR Rec Sports with volunteer Rick Emery.

Jesse Thomas-Durden, Patrick Robinson, Bess Winebarger and Michelle Cristal are participants in the MJCCA's Habima Theatre.

Jewish Atlanta’s Inclusive Community “Many people have the ability to do what they want, when they like, but being disabled can have its limitations.

Everybody is different, so why is it that some people stare? Is it because of curiosity or ignorance? Usually it is the latter.

People who stare at me make me feel insignificant and selfSonia conscious, but I realize they are doing it because they see me as Field different. I often chalk it up as lack of knowledge and understanding.”

– by a 25-year-old woman with ataxiatelangiectasia (A-T), a neurological disorder that affects balance and coordination.

Over the past decade, North American Jewish communities have been celebrating in February what has become Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month. Efforts remain focused on removing barriers, celebrating diversity and uniting communities to make Jewish life accessible for all.

In the past five years, the Atlanta Jewish community has made a collective inclusion effort to ensure that disabled members have easy access and encouragement to participate in all events.

Disabilities are not limited to those that result from aging or injury. On the contrary, disability can also be related to conditions that are present at birth, including gene and chromosome disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Down syndrome. In addition, disability can come from longstanding con14 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

ditions such as diabetes that can cause vision loss, nerve damage or limb loss.

There are three dimensions to disability: impairment, activity limitation, and participation restriction, according to the World Health Organization. Impairment is a “ significant difference in a person’s body structure or function or mental functioning.” This includes, but is not limited to, the loss of a limb, the loss of vision and memory loss, as reported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Difficulty seeing, hearing, walking, or problemsolving suggests activity limitation. This is not to be confused with participation restrictions in normal daily activities, such as working, engaging in social and recreational activities, and obtaining health care and preventive services, WHO reports.

Most people often judge others by what they see and decide a person can or cannot do something by the way they look. This judgment can be equally frustrating for those who may appear unable, but are perfectly capable, as well as those who seem able, but are not.

What You Can’t See

An invisible disability is a physical, mental or neurological condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities, but may not be clearly apparent to others. The very fact that they are

invisible can lead to misunderstandings, because of the number of people with “infalse perceptions, and judgments. “A per- visible disabilities,” said Annie Garrett, son is considered to have a disability if manager of the Greater Atlanta Jewish he or she has difficulty performing cer- Abilities Alliance.

The Greater Atlanta JAA provides tain functions (seeing, hearing, talking, walking, climbing stairs and lifting and sensitivity and awareness training to the carrying), or has difficulty performing community that stresses the use of incluactivities of daily living, or has difficulty sive terminology. The organization also with certain social roles,” according to promotes its vision of an inclusive, spirited environment that celInvisible Disabilities Asebrates the diversity in the sociation. An estimated 10 community and the uniquepercent of people in the U.S. ness of every member. JAA have a medical condition focuses on “improving acthat could be considered cess to synagogues, Jewish some type of invisible diseducation and daily rights ability, for example: ADHD, that we all have to experianxiety disorders, autism, ence,” Garrett said. bipolar disorder, chronic Among JAA’s goals is fatigue syndrome, chronic to equip organizations in pain, depression, epilepsy, the community with the fibromyalgia, multiple scletools and resources that rosis, narcolepsy, personalAnnie Garrett, manager of the Greater Atlanta they need to enable them ity disorders and schizoJewish Abilities Alliance. to practice inclusion in phrenia. their own realms, she said. JAA provides schools and synagogues with training, Politically Correct We can measure how far our society resources and funding so that they can has come as a whole by recognizing that be fully inclusive, Garrett said.

One of the ways JAA educates the years ago, awareness and inclusion was not a top priority. Starting at a young age, community about inclusiveness is by inthe education system now teaches chil- troducing the concept of “people first” dren that the word retarded is unaccept- language, she said. It is a commonly acable and politically incorrect. It is not a cepted way of defining an individual by medical or legal term that should be used highlighting their humanness first rather to describe someone. In 2010, Congress than their disability. “Addressing someone passed Rosa’s Law, requiring the federal as ‘the woman who is blind’ is preferred government to replace the term “mental over addressing her as ‘the blind woman’ retardation” with “intellectual disability.” in that it places a value on the humanness Terminology is especially important of the individual,” Garrett said.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Linda Danzig and Bayley Bristow at the spring dance.

Tyler Luciani and Hannah Keen at a cooking class.

Each person is worth more than his Jerry and Lois Blonder, provides social or her IQ or cognitive function, she said. and recreational programming to comThe current generation seems to look munity members throughout the full life beyond the surface and trains people to cycle, from childhood to adulthood.

“We want to serve everybody. We celebrate inclusion in every interaction.

“I strongly believe that every individual want everyone to be included. Sometimes should have access to places in the com- we have to get creative, but we do help evmunity they want to be a part of. Our role eryone regardless of their abilities” said Elizabeth Knapp, director is important. Hopefully we of the Blonder Department. can improve that access,” Most of the programGarrett said. ming is in group settings, JAA tries to be incluincluding cooking and art sive of those who are obviclasses, sports sessions and ously in need, as well as dinner outings. There’s those less obviously, with one-to-one attention withthe hope that it will encourin those group settings, age the rest of the Atlanta though, she said.

Jewish community to do This past summer, 130 the same, she said. children attended summer Synagogues around camp programs, and some town regularly host proElizabeth Knapp, of them paired with a staff grams such as inclusion director of the MJCCA's member to “help them naviShabbat services, which Blonder Department. gate the day camp scene,” incorporate inclusion practices into the experience and involve the Knapp said. When asked about challenges faced when striving for full inclusion, entire community.

Garrett cited other examples of the Knapp noted that a general lack of awareAtlanta Jewish community being more ness creates a struggle to find a truly welinclusive. On Saturday night, Congrega- coming community. “We pride ourselves tion B’nai Torah and Pizmon, a visiting on highlighting abilities rather than disco-ed pluralistic Jewish a cappella group abilities,” by trying to show everyone that invites those with “unique developmen- people with disabilities can do more than tal abilities” to participate in a free work- generally assumed, Knapp said. shop. Participants will be invited on stage to perform a song with Pizmon during a An Insider’s Perspective community-wide concert, followed by an Jerry’s Habima Theatre at the MJCice cream social.

CA is Georgia’s only theatrical company An illustrated Torah, housed at the bringing together professional actors Marcus JCC, is also available to the com- from the community and talented adult munity to provide a sensory approach, actors with special needs to present muhelping students with impairments that sical theater productions to sell-out audicould hinder their participation in Jew- ences. The theater has allowed Michelle ish services, Garrett said. Congregation Cristal, now 48, to be around other people Beth Shalom’s Alefbet Preschool recently like her with disabilities and have a good requested it for classroom use. time. Michelle is looking forward to her first performance as a leading role in the production, “Xanadu Jr.” Before she beRecreation for Special Needs The MJCCA’s Blonder Family Depart- came involved in activities in the Jewish ment for Special Needs, established in community, the confident woman with a 2002 through a generous endowment by developmental disability described her-

Jack Prettyman displays his work at an art class.

Caroline and Todd with Abby Frantz (center) at the Adult Disability Medical Home 5k.

self as being shy and keeping to herself.

Spread the Word She started her journey at Ahavath Founded by two youth leaders in Achim Synagogue preschool and later 2009, Spread the Word is a global enearned her high school diploma before gagement campaign that addresses a becoming actively involved in the pro- very powerful form of exclusion: the grams for people like her in the Atlanta word ‘retard(ed).’ Millions of participants Jewish community. in schools, workplaces and communiMichelle leads a busy and fulfilling ties around the world pledge to end the life by participating in the R-word.

VSP (Very Special People) Each pledge signifies program within MJCCA’s a personal commitment to special needs department. acknowledge the damage She’s also enjoyed a 10-year caused by the R-word and career at Marshalls that to speak respectfully to and she secured through Jewish about people with intelFamily & Career Services. lectual and developmental “I’ve become close friends disabilities. Hundreds of with other people with deorganizations, including velopmental disabilities, the Special Olympics and and if I didn’t have these Yachad, The National Jeworganizations, I don’t know ish Council for Disabilities, Abby Frantz, JF&CS what I would have done,” have pledged to end the Rcommunity access Michelle said in a phone program manager. word and work toward eninterview. suring inclusion in every

Social Life and Career Moves

JF&CS has many services across the human lifespan to encourage and enable inclusion, Garrett said.

She pointed to its residential and employment services for adults with disabilities.

“We have been renovating our sensory room that our clients use to stimulate senses and help them relax by adding new equipment to enhance the overall experience,” said JF&CS Community Access Program Manager Abby Frantz.

JF&CS supports employment for people with disabilities by providing opportunities such as working in gyms and salons to boost life and social skills.

Recently, JF&CS hosted its annual “Power of One” awards to honor members of Jewish agencies that make a difference in the area of inclusion. The goal is to “bridge the gap” between ablebodied members of the community and those with disabilities “to encourage a united community,” Frantz explained.

aspect of Jewish life.

On day six of its 28 Days of Inclusion Challenge, Yachad members took photos of themselves holding signs that stated, “We pledge to end the ‘R-word’” and posted them on Instagram to flood followers with their efforts to be inclusive and sensitive.

This campaign is still accepting pledges through March 6, the official Spread the Word day. ■ Community Resources CDC resource on people-first language: www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/ disabilityandhealth/pdf/ disabilityposter_photos.pdf Greater Atlanta Jewish Abilities Alliance calendar: www.atlanta.jewishabilities. org/calendar Behavioral health hotline adds text and chat access to reach Georgia’s youth offering free and confidential access to services for mental illness, substance use disorders, and intellectual and developmental disabilities: www.dbhdd. georgia.gov/access-services ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 15

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Atlanta Doctor Takes on the Alzheimer’s Challenge

By Marcia Caller Jaffe “It occurred to me that at one point it was like I had two diseases - one was Alzheimer’s and the other was knowing I had Alzheimer’s.” – Terry Pratchett, English author

crease to 190,000 by 2025.”

The term “Alzheimer’s” is credited to a German psychiatrist Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who wrote about it in 1906.

Get Levey’s latest wisdom on what is happening in this field:

When The Goizueta Foundation funded a large research project at the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Emory University five years ago, a major transformation took place, according to Emory neurologist and neuroscientist Allan Levey, director of the ADRC. The Wisconsin native received a Ph.D. and M.D. from the University of Chicago and further training in neurology from Johns Hopkins University before landing at Emory. He’s been studying Alzheimer’s disease since 1982.

On the cover of the Atlanta JournalConstitution’s “Aging in Atlanta” section Nov. 4, 2018, Levey stated that “Alzheimer’s is now the most expensive disease in America, costing more than $277 billion a year.” He further said that “140,000 Georgians are living with Alzheimer’s …. we predict this will be a 35.7 percent in-

Jaffe: Thinking of the rash of autism labels versus a decade ago, would you say that Alzheimer’s is indeed more prevalent or just diagnosed more aggressively?

Levey: That’s a good question. Alzheimer’s is more prevalent because we are living longer and surviving conditions like cancer, stroke and heart disease. The risk increases dramatically with age. At age 85, nearly one out of two individuals will have dementia, which is the umbrella term for these types of disorders.

Also, remember years ago, other terms like “senility,” “hardening of the arteries” were used previously, not realizing that Alzheimer’s was a disease. In the 1970s this became more clear.

It’s normal to find some degree of Alzheimer’s in the aging brain; 90 percent of autopsies in the elderly show some

form of brain pathology, most often the amyloid plaques and tangles that define Alzheimer’s disease, as well as several other microscopic types of pathology.

Why can some elderly have a brain full of pathology but never experience cognitive decline? It’s the brain’s resilience to not show symptoms that we need to understand.

Jaffe: Are there any accurate tests to predict the disease?

Levey: Yes, there are tests currently available which are accurate, but they are not suitable for widespread use because of expense (PET scan) or invasiveness (spinal tap). We need a simple, noninvasive, cheap method of diagnosing the disease. We are conducting clinical trials seeking new biomarkers. Things like retinal imaging and blood tests are being examined, as well as many other innovative technologies. We also need to give more tools to primary care docs to screen for Alzheimer’s in a simple and efficient manner. Georgia has recently earmarked funding of $4 million to develop a statewide diagnosing system, because early diagnosis is so crucial to get help to the individuals with the disease and their families. This will become even more of a pressing need in the future with new treatments on the horizon, which will likely need to be started early in the course of the disease.

Jaffe: Are there any new treatments or medications?

Levey: No new types of medication have been approved by the FDA for treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease in the last 15 years. And that means, unfortunately, that we are batting zero when testing new medications. However, there is a lot of promise for newer therapies that are currently being tested.

Moreover, because the timeline for developing new medications and gaining FDA approval is so slow, often taking 20 years, there is also an important opportunity to repurpose existing medications that are used for other conditions.

For example, medications used to treat hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and attention deficit are all examples of strategies that are being tested in Alzheimer’s disease because they influence brain mechanisms that are now believed to have unanticipated relevance for the disease. There are no findings to show that natural remedies have any effect.

Jaffe: What are the indications that

16 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Dr. Allan Levey

you have observed that make some more likely to succumb to Alzheimer’s?

Levey: Dozens of genes contribute to risk, sometimes leading to cases that run in the family. However, lifestyle and medical conditions also influence risk, in addition to genetics, and some are potentially modifiable. Negative risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Sound medical advice for virtually all conditions, including Alzheimer’s, is for exercise and a healthy diet.

Jaffe: Are a disproportionate number of Jews diagnosed with Alzheimer’s?

Levey: Not really. Alzheimer’s doesn’t discriminate.

Jaffe: Are you hopeful?

Levey: I believe that within one or two years it is likely that we will begin to have some of the first positive signals in clinical trials to slow and/or prevent the disease.

Jaffe: I look at the warning signs and wonder: “Is that me?” ■ Possible Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease • Forgetting recently learned information • Memory loss disrupting daily life • Familiar tasks difficult to complete • New problems with words, speaking or writing • Decreased or poor judgment • Withdrawing from activities • Confusion with time and place

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Jews, Genes and JScreen: What’s New in Jewish Genetics?

By Eddie Samuels Ancestry testing services such as 23andMe and AncestryDNA are increasingly popular, with answers to questions about families and histories that have never been widely available before.

But genetics is a deep and complex field, and many people have no idea where to dive in. The AJT spoke to experts who offered some of their knowledge about Jewish genetics, how DNA technology affects Judaism and additional risks that come with Jewish DNA.

DNA Testing and Ancestry

In a statement to the AJT, Barry Starr, Ancestry director of scientific communications, explained how a customer’s ethnicity is determined by Ancestry through a “DNA reference panel” and “genetic communities process.”

“The genetic communities process detects groups of AncestryDNA members who are most likely connected, as they share recent ancestors who came from the same region, … or culture,” he said. “Ancestry uses public family trees, ethnicity data, and historical records to determine where this group of people lived and moved over a period of time.

As of today, Ancestry can identify up to eight Jewish communities,” Starr said.

Avraham Groll, director of JewishGen — which ensures Jewish continuity for present and future generations — explained that ancestry testing services play an important role for historians alongside traditional research methods.

“Genetic genealogy is certainly considered to be a powerful tool in the arsenal, … and in recent years, much progress and many success stories have occurred due to a combination of technological advancements and a dramatic reduction in cost,” he said.

Jewish Descent

It’s well known that halachic laws of descent follow the mother, and that rule has been set in stone for many generations. DNA testing services raise new questions, but, according to Rabbi Shmuel Khoshkerman of Congregation Ner Hamizrach, DNA is only part of the puzzle.

“DNA cannot be ignored, but on its own, it is not enough to determine Jewish descent,” he said.

Rabbi Michael Broyde is a professor of law at Emory University specializing in Jewish law, family law and law and religion, among other fields. He spoke about the role that mitochondrial DNA

testing plays in Jewish descent laws.

“Technology provides data. All law changes as the data gets finer and better and more precise, and halachah is the same,” he said. “The early method of mitochondrial DNA testing is easy: It allows one to identify who the mother is, and then if she is Jewish.

“The second data point is more complex. It is to identify mitochondrial DNA with unique or nearly Jewish ancestry and markers so that one can say that the mother was Jewish, even if one does not know exactly who the mother is.”

In particular, he pointed to a very concrete example of how the testing might be used to answer otherwise difficult questions of Jewish descent.

“A woman or man comes into a synagogue in Poland and says, ‘I think my grandmother was dropped off in a monastery in 1940 and I think she’s Jewish,’” he said. “Until recently, there was no way to verify that. Many Jewish babies were dropped off in Catholic monasteries when Poland was conquered by the Nazis.”

screening technology — most notably being able to test saliva — JScreen’s remote testing kit orders were created.

There are dozens of diseases that are more common in Jewish groups. It is important to remember that certain diseases are prevalent in Ashkenazi Jews while others are common in different Sephardic and Mizrahi communities, Grinzaid said.

JScreen’s testing panel includes diseases that occur in all of these groups, and others that are common in non-Jews.

Grinzaid explained that while TaySachs disease is the most widely known condition affecting Ashkenazi Jews, it is not the most frequent.

“The most common is actually Gaucher disease, which a lot of people haven’t

heard of,” she said. “This is a condition where about one in every 15 Ashkenazi Jews is a carrier. It’s different than TaySachs because you can have a very mild form, … or have a form where you are very severely affected as a young child.

There is also an available treatment for this condition.”

Other conditions common in the Ashkenazi population include cystic fibrosis (1 in 27) and Canavan disease (1 in 55). A list of the more common diseases within the population and all 226 conditions for which JScreen tests is available at www.jscreen.org.

Grinzaid added that services such as AncestryDNA or 23andMe have led to people discovering Jewish ancestry and reaching out to JScreen about their screening.

“We have gotten calls from people who’ve gone through ancestry testing saying, ‘Oh, I think I need to be aware of this,’” she said. “That information can be important, … and many follow-up with genetic carrier testing to determine their risks and plan for the health of their future children.” ■

JScreen

JScreen is a Jewish genetic screening program that, unlike other similar services, can take place in the comfort of your own home. Karen Grinzaid, executive director of JScreen, spoke to the AJT about the importance of genetic screening and diseases that are more common in Jews than in other groups.

Originally, JScreen started as the Atlanta Jewish Gene Screen thanks to Caroline and Randy Gold, whose daughter suffered from Mucolipidosis type IV (ML4), a Jewish genetic disease. They had been screened before their son was born two years earlier, but that screening only included a few Jewish genetic diseases.

“They could have been screened for this condition before, but they weren’t offered comprehensive screening and didn’t know,” Grinzaid said. “They were the ones who worked to make sure that Jewish genetic screening in Atlanta was available and known.”

After two years of that pilot program, the goal was to expand to a more national level, and thanks to advancements in ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 17

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ADVOCACY ACTION ALERT Atlanta Study Series Women’s Issues - Thursday, February 28, 2019 Reproductive Rights Sex Trafficking Child Marriage Dignity for Incarcerated Women SPEAKERS Simone Bell, Chief External Affairs Officer, Planned Parenthood Lynn Pearson, Staff Attorney, Tahirih Justice Center

Gun Safety - Tuesday, March 12, 2019 Permitless Carrying of Handguns Concealed Weapons Assault Weapons SPEAKERS Mallory Harris & MarySue Hillard, Moms Demand Action Noon - 1:30 pm NCJW Atlanta office: 6303 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs (in the Trader Joe’s shopping center) Bring your lunch; dessert and drinks will be provided.

PLEASE RSVP TO

christineh@ncjwatlanta.org or call 404-843-9600

SAVE THE DATE NCJW Atlanta will be hosting a Women’s Seder with Congregation Or Hadash on Friday, April 12, 2019, at noon.

18 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Bikur Cholim provides homecooked, nourishing meals and other aid to assist in times of need.

Caring volunteers provide empathy, support and comfort as they visit patients in hospitals, nursing homes or at home.

Bikur Cholim Fills Gaps in Jewish Health Care Needs

By Eddie Samuels Atlanta Bikur Cholim has been bringing a Jewish connection to those in desperate need of a helping hand for nearly 20 years. Friends Michele Asa and Rachel Stein founded Bikur Cholim after recognizing a need through a very personal experience.

“We started Bikur Cholim when our dear friend, Danny Miller, of blessed memory, was struck by yet another bout of cancer that ultimately took his life at the age of 39,” Stein said. Miller was an active supporter “and was thrilled and honored that we created the organization in his merit. He spoke at our first opening event.”

When it started, Stein stresses that both she and Asa were “just wives and mothers who wanted to try and fill a need in the community.”

Now, Asa is a nurse-practitioner and Stein is a chaplain and life coach.

Since that time, Bikur Cholim has expanded to meet the needs of countless Jews in the Atlanta area. Their most common aid is through the on-call committee.

“Situations arise, such as someone who is having surgery [or] has taken sick, and then we find out what they need or want,” Stein said. “We stay involved as long as they seem to need us. For some it’s a few days, some a few weeks, and in rare occasions, a few months.”

The needs they fill can take many shapes depending on each individual, but most often include providing kosher meals and assisting with rides to and from

appointments and hospital visitations.

Another part of the mission is through the visitation committee, which sends volunteers to hospitals and nursing homes to visit Jewish patients and residents, providing a smiling face and some words of encouragement.

Stein explained that she hopes to get school groups involved and noted that Torah Day School visits Berman Commons regularly, but Bikur Cholim would like to work with other day schools to get more children involved.

There is also a phone committee through which volunteers make calls to members of the community that need to hear a friendly voice, establish a relationship or cheer them up.

Among Bikur Cholim’s future plans are establishing kosher pantries in each hospital as well as supplying “Shabbos kits,” with electric candles, grape juice and Havdalah supplies, to aid those who unexpectedly end up in a hospital bed over Shabbat.

While it’s currently under the Young Israel of Toco Hills umbrella, with taxdeductible donations thanks to the synagogue, Stein and Asa say they hope Bikur Cholim can become an independent nonprofit in the future.

Stein says that volunteers are always needed to service more of Jewish Atlanta as well as provide even better follow-up care. ■ To volunteer or to request aid for yourself or a loved one, visit www.atlantabikurcholim.com.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ADVERTISEMENT - Paid for by Holbrook.

New Active Adult Communities Focus on High-End Hospitality, Healthy Lifestyles

Three upscale all-inclusive active adult communities, outstanding for their commitment to offering residents an active, passionate and holistic lifestyle, are being developed by Holbrook Life Management. Holbrook Decatur is scheduled to open in May, Holbrook Acworth is set for an August opening, and Holbrook Woodstock is scheduled to be ready for residents by October, 2020.

The Holbrook concept differs from others in that it combines the finest amenities and a focus on hospitality services equal to a five-star resort with opportunities for living a meaningful life individually, and within the greater community.

Headquartered in Alpharetta, Holbrook Life Management is a family business that owns and manages active adult living communities across the Southeast. Holbrook Life Management Chairman Al Holbrook explains: “Our ultimate goal with the properties is to have people who not only want to focus on well-being and active lifestyles and health, but also giving back to society.”

The five-story Decatur community, on Clairmont Road near Toco Hills, offers 200 custom-designed leased residences with one and two-bedroom floor plans and upgrade options such as custom closets, fireplace, and wine chiller. Acworth and Woodstock properties will have three-bedroom options, as well as two- and three-bedroom cottages with a one-car garage. Exclusive assisted living and memory care residences are available.

Each residence is designed for maximum health and well-being, including floor-to-ceiling lighting that contributes to a positive mood and enables the benefits of sunshine-produced vitamin D. In addition, all have either an oversized balcony or a Juliet-style balcony to open for fresh air.

Holbrook recently hired awardwinning chef Tom McEachern as its Director of Culinary Services to oversee the food service in each of the community’s restaurants, all of which will be open to the public. In true farmto-table style, the Holbrook culinary team will purchase nearly all food ingredients that will be delivered fresh from regional farmers, creating both delicious and highly nutritious meals.

A wine cellar and tasting room will be available for private groups and cus-

tomized culinary dinners.

Each community is being built with state-of-the art amenities and will offer programs that promote physical health, including a Well-being and Longevity Workout Center with personal trainers, heated saltwater lap pool, fitness classes such as Pilates or water aerobics, a yoga studio, hydrotherapy pool, and cycling club. A limited number of non-resident club memberships will be made available.

Full spa services including facials and massages; a hair salon, as well as steam room and sauna are also on premises. The communities will use the latest technology, such as air ionization and UV water purification throughout the facility.

Holbrook believes that giving back to the community is also an important part of personal eternal well-being, and Holbrook residents will have access to numerous opportunities for making a

difference: The Small Business Incubation Program, which enables residents to mentor young entrepreneurs, and disaster relief volunteer programs, to name a few. Residents can tap into continuing education opportunities for mind engagement.

In keeping with Holbrook’s theme of inspiration and wonder, a wall of heroes, such as Amelia Earhart, Winston Churchill and Albert Einstein, will serve as a regular source of encouragement.

While Holbrook Communities are not religiously affiliated, they are welcoming to people of all faiths. Based on applicants, Holbrook Decatur is likely to have a significant number of Jewish residents, according to Tosha Marks, Chief Marketing Officer. Holbrook Decatur’s quick-service restaurant (like a Starbucks) will offer Kosher foods.

“It’s important to us to recognize all faiths and make sure there is a spiri-

tual component to the building. That’s what creates happiness,” said Al Holbrook.

Art and travel enrich an active lifestyle, and each community will strive to be “an arts center of excellence.”

With a professional artist on staff, residents may explore different kinds of artistry through painting, ceramics or jewelry-making, for example. In addition, excursions to arts, sports and cultural activities, and for the truly adventurous, trips to destinations such as Mt. Kilimanjaro and a Savannah Safari are planned.

And from providing local transportation with an electric-powered Tesla to using bio-degradable straws to recycling, being “green” is an important part of the company’s philosophy.

Holbrook is also expanding its concept to cities outside Georgia. Holbrook properties in Nashville, Charleston and Greenville, SC are currently in early stages of development. In one unique benefit, as the other Holbrook properties open, residents will be able to reserve one of the hospitality apartments the company will set aside in each community for short term stays.

With the tremendous variety and quality of the all-included amenities supporting an upscale and healthy lifestyle, Holbrook believes that the communities are very affordable compared to the expenses of owning and maintaining a home and purchasing all the services individually.

For more information or to schedule a private tour of the Decatur or Acworth residence model, visit www.holbrooklife.com.

ADVERTISEMENT - Paid for by Holbrook.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 19

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Ultimate Family Dental Plan

By Marcia Caller Jaffe “Mama said, ‘Be a dentist.’…

I’m your dentist, …

I thrill when I drill, … and I enjoy the career that I picked, …

Cause I’m a dentist, and a success!”

– Steve Martin, “Little Shop of Horrors”

Dr. Hanna: Sandy Springs office 80 to 90 percent Jewish; Chamblee, 15 percent.

Dr. Zoey: We treat up to five generations! Some send their neighbors, coworkers, synagogue members or friends from Jewish organizations. It’s the direction in which the practice grew.

You are not seeing triple! Legendary Atlanta dentist Novy Scheinfeld beams her own flawless smile in describing her group practice, The Right Smile Center, which includes daughters Dr. Zoey (ZoAnna) Scheinfeld, and Dr. Hanna Scheinfeld Orland.

Dr. Novy, who transitioned from a career in physical therapy, represents the changed arc of a profession not popular among females in previous generations.

Read on as all three dentists contrast their experiences in today’s practice, the stress associated with dentistry, modernization of equipment, and the synergy of being in a family business.

Marcia: Dentistry is stressful?

Dr. Novy: Both physically and mentally. When I was applying to dental school, I saw an article identifying dentistry as the number one “suicide profession.” Having always practiced with other dentists, especially now with my girls, I can immediately elicit a second opinion while the patient is in the chair.

I can imagine how stressful it would be practicing alone.

Dr. Zoey: I don’t look at stress as a completely bad thing. I stress because I care, am motivated, stimulated and want the best results. I fear boredom far more than I fear stress.

Marcia: What percent of your dental school class was female? Are more women going into dentistry?

Dr. Novy: 10 percent. As a career, it allows for a more balanced life between profession and family. It fits into the “caretaker role” most women play, ... similar to when I was a physical therapist.

Dr. Zoey: Half of my (and Dr. Hanna’s) class was female. I think there are more women in every industry. My mother was part of the pioneer generation of professional women – especially doctors. Hanna and I were lucky to be part of the next generation with less obstacles. The structure of the traditional American family has shifted, opening a greater variety of opportunities.

We were raised with encouragement. My father, Mark, our business manager, instilled a mindset that it never occurred to Hanna or me that being female was inferior.

Marcia: What are some of the new technologies that developed between the 25-year gap in your two generations?

Dr. Novy: When I bought a practice in 1992, it had one computer, dot matrix printer, and peg board/paper ledgers for billing and collections. Computer technology has enhanced our business processes, our diagnostic ability with digital 2-D sensors for regular radiographs and 3-D/CBCT scans for 3-D imaging. The dental materials we use now are light years above what was available when I was in dental school.

20 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Dr. Novy Scheinfeld (center) practices dentistry with her daughters, Dr. Zoey Scheinfeld (left) and Dr. Hanna Scheinfeld Orland (right).

Dr. Hanna: I use new and “older” perspectives for each patient who is uniquely different.

Dr. Zoey: The fundamentals of dentistry have been applicable for at least the last century, but computers are changing the way we diagnose and treat patients.

There are endless new advancements. We are still in a guinea pig/transition period, which means that there is not yet enough long-term research to determine the success rate of using all this new technology.

Marcia: Plusses or minuses of being in a family business?

Dr. Novy: We rule as a group, and Mark/Dad usually has the final analysis.

The girls have taken over the business aspect of running a practice to understand components from the ground up.

Dr. Zoey: We divide responsibilities and brainstorm ideas on how to better the practice as a whole. There are definitely positives and negatives to family business, but that is the case for any business or job. Our benefits significantly outweigh the negatives. We are asked often what it is like to work with our mom, or patients will share their personal sentiments about not being able to work with family. I can definitely understand their partiality, but I can’t relate to it.

We have a very unique dynamic between the three of us; we can almost switch from family to colleagues and back instantaneously.

It’s hard to think of any negatives other than scheduling dilemmas when we want to take a family vacation together!

Marcia: What are your individual

strengths?

Dr. Novy: Esthetics and smile balance are my strengths, which I owe to my prosthodontics residency at Emory.

Great instructors taught me the skill of visualizing how minor contouring achieves great results.

Anything anterior (front), I hear ...

“Let Mom see this patient.”

I’m known for patients not realizing they had an injection! I practiced because I hate that part of dentistry too.

Dr. Hanna: Zoey is the most artistic.

I have a similar bedside manner to my mom, though Zoey and I have very different bedside manners. I wouldn’t say one is necessarily better. It’s a benefit to have the option to see either of us.

Zoey and I enjoy extracting teeth and placing implants, where my mom is talented in restorations. I am certified in Botox for cosmetic refinement and joint pain issues.

Dr. Zoey: Before we entered Mom’s practice, surgery-related (extractions, bone grafts, implants) were referred out.

While in dental school, I discovered how much I enjoyed this aspect and sought out additional training. Thus, we create more “in house” conveniences to save patients time and money.

Marcia: What percent of your patient base is Jewish?

Dr. Novy: Probably 50 percent, due to native Atlantans and extended families. We decorate for the holidays, secular included, and it’s a warm feeling when Rosh Hashanah is celebrated. Our great roots come from our parents in whose memory [Temple] Kol Emeth’s social hall is named.

Marcia: Do patients mix you up?

Dr. Novy: Dr. Hanna, is my “minime.” She will check someone in hygiene (cleaning) and say, “Mom, I think they thought I was you.”

Dr. Hanna: Yes. I try to be clear when introducing myself that I am different from my sister. I have heard patients remark, “Oh, I get it. There are two of you!”

Dr. Zoey: Yes. Every day patients confuse us. When I meet a new patient, I share that we all practice together and eventually they will meet all of us. Later, I introduce myself with not just my name, but my relationship to them so it’s easier to make a connection. We are never offended by the confusion and have grown to expect it. Most patients will refer to my mom, as “Dr. Scheinfeld,” and my sister as “Dr. Orland,” so I am “Dr. Zoey.”

Marcia: Last word?

Dr. Hanna: Dentistry is easy when we have a boss like Mom, who is truly a mentor.

Dr. Novy: This is happy medicine when patients leave better than they arrived. We can get people out of pain, educate them on staying healthy, and give them the smile that fits their desire and budget. The human interaction is why I love what I do. When I’m not drilling, I’m talking and learning from patients.

Dr. Zoey: Dentistry is a combination of medicine, art and people. No two days, two patients, two teeth are ever the same.

It is never boring and requires constant adaptation and multitasking. ■

HEALTH & WELLNESS

CDC Expert Weighs in on Vaccination Debate

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

vaccine confidence around the world.

Since that time, multiple large and The national debate continues be- high-quality studies have been conducttween measles outbreaks on the one ed that demonstrate there is not an ashand and parents with scary stories sociation between autism and MMR vacabout the side effects of vaccines on the cine. In 2004, the Institute of Medicine other. Since the beginning of the year, reviewed all available data and concludthe Centers for Disease Control and Pre- ed there is no causal association between vention confirmed 101 cases of measles vaccines and autism.

Parents of children with autism in 10 states. The largest outbreaks were in New York, tied to the Orthodox com- and other developmental disorders are munity. It is reported to be the worst out- looking for answers, and understanding the combination of environmental and break in decades. genetic factors that How do we assess may lead to autism is the practice of some important. However, parents to allow an vaccines are not part unvaccinated child to of the answer parents go into public places are looking for. Vacto possibly infect othcines are very safe ers? and protect young Dr. Amanda children from serious Cohn, a Centers for infectious diseases Disease Control and that can cause hospiPrevention pediatritalization and death. cian, has three daughIt’s important to me ters at The Epstein that parents who do School and Riverhave questions about wood High School. A vaccines talk to their member of Congregahealthcare provider tion Or Hadash, Cohn so they can feel conruns the expert adviDr. Amanda Cohn, a CDC vaccination fident in making the sory committee that expert, discusses the safety and decision to vaccinate. makes immunization importance of vaccines. recommendations for Jaffe: How have the schools respondchildren and adults in the U.S. She previously worked on vaccine ed? Didn’t the Jewish day schools send projects in Africa, including an Ebola out a letter not allowing children to attend without proof of vaccination? vaccine clinical trial in Sierra Leone.

Cohn: I can’t respond specifically Cohn, an Atlanta native, serves as executive secretary of the CDC Advisory about what local Jewish day schools are Committee on Immunization Practices doing, but Georgia does have state immuand is senior advisor for vaccines for the nization requirements for children atCDC’s National Center for Immunization tending school. Having high vaccination and Respiratory Diseases. She is board coverage in schools protects not just the certified in pediatrics and is a fellow of child, but also protects against outbreaks the American Academy of Pediatrics. She of disease, and can protect children who obtained her medical degree from Emory are unable to get vaccinated for medical University School of Medicine and com- reasons from being exposed to vaccinepleted a residency in pediatrics at Boston preventable diseases.

Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center.

Jaffe: What has transpired in reliThis is what she had to say about the gious communities in New York recently vaccine debate. and how was it resolved?

Cohn: The measles outbreaks in the Jaffe: When did all this drama and Jewish religious communities in New misinformation about childhood vacci- York demonstrate how contagious meanations evolve? sles is and what happens when you have Cohn: There was a paper published pockets of unvaccinated people. Measles in 1998 claiming a link between autism infects more than 90 percent of people and the MMR [measles, mumps and ru- who are exposed and susceptible, and bella] vaccine. This paper was later re- even with the best of care, measles can tracted, and it was determined that the cause swelling of the brain (encephalitis) data was fraudulent. However, this paper and death. had a major long-term negative impact in Travelers to Israel imported measles

back to their home communities and it spread because of low vaccination rates. Public health and religious leaders worked closely to communicate the potential severity of measles and the safety and effectiveness of the measles vaccine, which has resulted in thousands of people getting vaccinated, which will hopefully end the outbreak.

recommend, such as the flu vaccine, the pneumonia vaccines, and the shingles vaccine. I strongly encourage you to not only make sure your children are vaccinated, but also to make sure you and your parents have received all the recommended vaccines. ■

Jaffe: Looking forward, what remarkable wish list vaccinations are on the horizon?

Cohn: Vaccines are one of the most impactful achievements in public health.

We now have vaccines to prevent 18 diseases throughout the lifespan, preventing thousands of deaths in the U.S. annually.

I am most excited about development of vaccines to prevent infectious diseases for which there are currently high levels of antibiotic resistance, such as MRSA [Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus] and vaccines preventing disease in young infants by vaccinating pregnant women.

Where I think we have the most opportunity is by getting more adults to get vaccinated with vaccines we already

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 21

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Stein Aims for Sweeping Changes in Hospital Care

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

ated from Emory University School of Medicine in 1998 and completed residency at Barnes-Jewish Hospital at Washington University in St. Louis in 2001, I had a sense that there was something important to do to improve hospital care. So, I went on to complete a faculty fellowship in healthcare quality improvement.

Local physician and family man, Dr. Jason Stein is ahead of the curve when it comes to improving outdated hospital systems that cause variation in clinical processes and ultimately, patient frustration.

Through his experience and formula for better team communication, the software startup he Jaffe: How did you get the idea formed with his brothers, 1Unit, to start 1Unit? Any one incident provides hospital staff and patients propel you? more tools for efficiency, consisStein: The idea for 1Unit grew tency and cost-savings resulting in gradually over 15 years as I gained improved patient care and less sufDr. Jason Stein is the CEO and physician clinical and operational exposure fering. founder of 1Unit, a solutions company to 100+ hospitals in the U.S., AustraStein is the only person to win that trains doctors, nurses and staff to lia and Canada. At some point, it bethe Society of Hospital Medicine’s practice in high-performing teams. came clear that hospital care could award for Teamwork in Quality Improvement for two years. In 2012, he was selected as be so much safer and kinder for patients and staff, if a innovation advisor for the Centers for Medicare & Med- common set of challenges could be overcome. Hospitals may be the most complex human organizations and the icaid Services. stakes are high. Stress and suffering flow through the Read how Stein is making strides: halls every day, and we spend a whopping 18% of our Jaffe: You are a medical doctor. Did you originally GDP on healthcare. Yet somehow, the world has never designed clinical operations to deliver the humane reintend to practice in this way?

Stein: I’m an internist whose focus is the hospital, sults we want and deserve. That’s the idea behind 1Unit also known as a hospitalist. I’m also a health services and that’s the problem that propels us. researcher, with a focus on improving outcomes for paJaffe: You are all sons of Dr. Kenneth Stein, profestients, families, and hospital staff. By the time I gradu-

Patient and staff find benefits in Stein's 1Unit program.

sor of contemporary Middle Eastern history, political science and Israeli studies at Emory University. It’s a “family affair”?

Stein: I first started doing this work as a nonprofit when I was still at Emory. As interest from hospitals grew, the work needed a full-time focus. So, I left my faculty position and clinical practice, and along with my brothers, Todd and Andrew, formed 1Unit as a startup.

Jaffe: Where are you now in implementation?

Stein: Through our nonprofit, and now also through 1Unit, we’ve been able to help over 100 hospital units in 25 states and countries reorganize themselves into high-functioning teams. We have reports of higher patient and staff satisfaction. We have reports of fewer preventable deaths and complications of care. And we have reports of lower costs and better resource utilization. We’re seeing preventable pain and suffering all over the place, so we dream about being everywhere.

Jaffe: How would you summarize what 1Unit does?

Is it a software system that hospitals buy?

Stein: Anyone who’s been a patient or caregiver in a hospital knows the frustration of feeling kept in the dark. When will I see my doctor? What’s the care plan?

When can I go home? Most of that uncertainty and frustration comes from outdated ways hospital professionals organize and communicate with each other. We fix that by implementing a new type of interdisciplinary rounds that bring the physician and nurse together face-to-face with the patient at a predictable time.

Jaffe: What is the core of the problem? Is our health care system so overly impacted that doctors cannot get around to everyone smoothly? Is it red tape? Fear of malpractice?

Stein: The nexus of the problem is three types of failures. The first failure is operational: physician and nurse workflows are typically not designed to share time and space with each other or with patients. The second failure is educational: physicians and nurses typically lack the skills to communicate as high-performing teammates. The third is a failure of will and ambition; there’s no way to address the first two failures unless a hospital and its physicians acknowledge and commit to addressing them.

Jaffe: Does this lower the cost of healthcare?

Stein: We have reports from several hospitals who have discovered gains in productivity or efficiency, or reductions in cost of care. ■ For more information about 1Unit, visit www.1Unit.com.

22 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Local Expert Offers Hope for Vertigo Relief

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

this?

Marbach: PosiDr. Peggy Marbach tional vertigo is a mehas been treating pachanical problem of tients with vestibular the inner ear, and we illnesses, vertigo and have to physically move related imbalance for the crystals out of the more than 30 years. Opcanals and back where erating her own practhey belong. For weaktice near Northside Hosness of the system, we Dr. Peggy Marbach tests a patient pital, she addresses this have to retrain the brain using infrared video goggles. annoying and someto accept this movement times debilitating condition with specific as normal. I use a highly technical video evaluations and treatment plans. goggle testing system to get a true image “We have over a 90 percent improveof what is off and where problems exist. ment rate treating classic positional verThen I design a very specific program to tigo and help to retrain the brain to accept get the head movement to shift/tilt the ear dizzy feelings as normal by strengthening canal so the gravity receptors can be redithe vestibular system,” she said. “Somerected back to the center of the vestibular times it is a matter of getting the stronger system. After the evaluation, we develop ear system to work harder to reduce dizzia comprehensive home exercise program ness. My goal is to keep patients engaged that the patient completes twice daily. in their normal realm of daily activities.”

Clinic treatment continues once every Read what Dr. Marbach has to say two weeks for about six to 12 weeks. When about the latest technology and advice for symptoms resolve, patients continue their dealing with this problem: exercises three times weekly, like taking Jaffe: I hear of so many friends and vitamins to keep the system strong. family members with these issues. Is it Jaffe: What do you see when you look more prevalent now? through goggles?

Marbach: No, it’s not, but people have Marbach: The goggles allow me to see become more aware that there is treatabnormal eye movements under intense ment for dizziness and are talking more magnification to where problems exist. about vertigo.

Jaffe: For what do you use Kinesio Jaffe: What type of doctor are you?

Tape?

Marbach: I have my clinical doctorMarbach: Patients often avoid moveate in occupational therapy. For me, as a ment because it causes dizziness, and the therapist, “Your life is your occupation.” tape helps relax tense head and neck musMy goal is to help you return to your norcles, like getting a 24/7 massage, so they mal life with activity related programs. can do their exercises.

Vertigo, vestibular weakness and dizziness-related conditions are often not Jaffe: What advice would you give to seen as life threatening, however dizziness folks dealing with this? increases the likelihood of falls, which can Marbach: It’s important to see a vesbe life-threatening. People may not go to tibular specialist with proper diagnostic a doctor for dizziness, or their internists equipment and individualized treatment may not know where to send them for plans. Doing generic exercises online treatment. The first step is to confirm with may not be accurate or effective. I teach your physician that there are no underly- patients the most effective way to do the ing issues like stroke, heart disease or ab- exercises. normal blood pressure.

In the aging population, treatment of dizziness is vital for fall prevention. Stay Jaffe: Why do patients succumb to active and keep exercising. this?

Marbach: It is not hereditary. SomeJaffe: Is this more prevalent in Jewtimes it can be prompted by a virus. The ish people? My mother and grandmother gravity receptors, or “crystals” can get out were often complaining of dizziness. of place and stuck in the semi-circular caMarbach: Nothing specifically Jewnals [of the inner ear] where they do not ish. But we need to keep you well-balbelong. If crystals are pressing on those anced, so you won’t fall during your chalnerves, the eyes may jerk and shift, which lah baking! ■ causes the dizziness.

For more information, visit www.dizJaffe: How do you go about changing zysolutionsatlanta.com.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 23

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Doctor's Orders: Medication Safety

By Dr. Michael C. Gordon

their development, their minds, and even their lives. We worry about what they are It’s Friday night. You and your looking at on the web, who they are asspouse are out to eat with friends. Or, sociating with at school, what they are you have gone to a movie, or a play, or a doing when unsupervised; and we worry basketball game. Maybe you are at your about drugs. We seem to worry less about drinking, but this is a synagogue. You get a mistake. Alcohol and frantic call from your marijuana are still the 13-year-old, who says most abused substances she can’t awaken her among teenagers.

16-year-old brother, We have all seen who is on the floor in the statistics. We are in his room. She has althe midst of an opioid ready called 911. epidemic in which the Hopefully, the next middle class of our sothing that happens is ciety is fully embroiled. you wake up and realAs parents we are wellize it was a bad dream. aware of our responsiBut, all too often it is the bility to see to it that our real thing. It is a frightAddiction medicine specialist, Dr. children arrive at adultening time to be raising children. This story, or Michael C. Gordon, is the medical hood alive, functional, director of The Berman Center. competent, law-abiding, some variation of it, has happened to thousands of families and productive. We even want them to throughout our communities. It might be happy. Ideally, they will have posieven have happened to yours. Sometimes tive adult relationships with us, produce grandchildren, celebrate family events, there is a happy ending; sometimes not.

Our children are exposed to so much and comfort us in our old age. What can these days that it can be destructive to we do to optimize the likelihood that our

24 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

children will survive to enjoy their lives?

For this article, I want to focus on medication safety in the home. Most teenagers who are using drugs are getting them from their own home, from the homes of friends, or from kids at school who are selling drugs that they get from people’s homes. There are certain common-sense measures that we all can take to minimize the risk of having our own prescribed medications diverted to nonprescribed use.

1. Safely store medications that have abuse potential. These would be, primarily, pain medications, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and ADHD medications. Ideally, keep a safe or lock-box in the home for this purpose. Remember, it is not just your own family that has access to your medicine cabinet, but everyone who comes into the home.

2. Supervise your child if they are using prescribed medication in one of the abusable categories. You might trust your child enough to take his or her own medication, but if you do, be sure to count the pills frequently.

3. Be a good role model by taking your own medication responsibly. Never give your child or anyone else a pill not prescribed for them.

4. Beware of grandparents. Their homes are just as much a potential pill mine as yours, if not more so. Make sure all the safety precautions are taken there as well. Also, if you have house guests that spend the night, have a lockbox available for them to use for their medications. Insist on it; don’t negotiate.

5. Dispose of all medications remaining after the purpose for which they have been prescribed has passed. You may get differing opinions about how to dispose of potentially dangerous drugs. One option is to place them in a resealable plastic bag, add a little water and coffee grounds, kitty litter or dirt, and throw it in the garbage. The FDA recommends that most pain medications be flushed down the toilet.

6. Maintain open communication with your children. Ask them about their friends, their schoolwork and their activities. Be observant as to their moods, their friends, their online activities, their sleeping habits, their hygiene, and general sense of well-being. Ask questions and show interest.

7. If anyone in the family takes opioid pain medication, you should keep rescue medication in the house where it is readily accessible. Everyone needs to know where it is and how to use it. Your pharmacist can sell this to you without a prescription in the state of Georgia. The best products are the easiest to use, either an autoinjector or a nasal spray.

8. You should also have the Poison Helpline number in your phone and kept prominently posted in your home. The number is 1-800-222-1222. Always call 911 immediately in case of a suspected overdose. Go over all these procedures with your children who may be the only ones home at the time of an emergency.

9. If your child is exhibiting moodiness or behavior change, get a drug test kit and use it. Talk to your doctor and bring your child in for an examination.

Get a referral to a licensed therapist. It is better to go through these precautions when it turns out to be unnecessary than to wish you had.

10. For more information about teenage substance abuse, talk to someone you know who has either professional or personal experience. A comprehensive information resource is www.SAMSHA.gov. ■ Dr. Michael C. Gordon is a board-certified addiction medicine specialist in Cobb County. He is the medical director of The Berman Center, www.bermancenteratl.com, an intensive outpatient program for adolescents and adults with mental health and substance use disorders. He also wrote the award-winning novel, “Autobiography of a Georgia Cat,” and he blogs as his cat, Black Magic, at www.georgiacat.com/blog.

Cory’s restored master bedroom desk below original acrylic Woodie Long painting.

Photos by Duane Stork // Cory and Alan Begner pose in front of a table of Inuit light green serpentine

(left) sculpture with the Fox Theatre billboard in background. Mask collection on right.

Chai Style Home Memory-Laden Rustic, Retro Ranch Marcia: Elaborate on your passion for pottery.

Cory and Alan Begner have been together since Cory: I’m especially attracted to American folk and 10th grade at Midtown’s Grady High School. Now they practice law together; but who knew they were avid art Native American art. Alan and I love to drive through collectors? Nothing is banal about the Begners, whose New Mexico and Arizona, finding specific pieces that we can acquire directly from artists in variFirst Amendment legal practice spans the ous pueblos such as Navajo, Hopi, Acoma KKK, strip clubs, the Gambino crime famand Santa Clara, as well as from galleries ily, the Gold Club, and Hosea Williams. Now and trading posts in the area. The Native picture them driving to New Mexican IndiAmericans use clay dug from their own an reservations for native pottery, searchland to build pots by hand-coiling, then fire ing the Pont Neuf in Paris for watercolors, their pots in outdoor wood-fired kilns, then daily winding a grandfather clock from the smooth and polish the vessels with stones.

1700s, and amassing Southern pottery and Finally, they may decorate a pot with slip folk paintings. made from watered-down clay and tinted One whole wall of the Begners’ living with various plant materials. So each piece room features a 7-foot-by-12-foot billboard Marcia is unique. I especially love it when I can advertising the 1929 opening of the Fox Caller Jaffe find older pots, which are hard to come by.

Theatre. Cory rescued the silk-screened We also collect Southeastern folk pottery, including work in panels and had it reassembled and framed.

“I never ask if something will work in our house. If face jugs by artists such as Marie Rogers, the Meadors I like it, it just does. Can you name a color that you don’t family, Steve Turpin, the Hewell family, Rodney Leftwich, and the Crocker family, most from North Georgia. see in here?”

We treasure our Inuit and Northwestern pieces It’s an assortment of diverse styles and periods spanning a wide range of artistic media, all lovingly col- such as the serpentine and soapstone works displayed on the table behind the sofa. The intricately woven baslected one piece at a time.

ket is made from baleen, which comes from the mouth of a baleen whale, and walrus ivory (legally sourced from the tusks that they shed).

Marcia: What are the most unusual pieces you have?

Cory: The 18th century grandfather clock at the entrance to the dining room was my parents’ engagement gift to Alan. My multi-talented mom restored it. Alan winds it every day.

Jennifer’s Glassworks helped me design the stained glass front door and panel in the art nouveau style of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. I also immediately fell for the old stained glass window featuring a country cottage, which hangs in front of a sunroom window. We found it in an antique mall in Blue Ridge, Ga. The handpainted front entrance chandelier was created by artist Connie Sweet whom I met at the old Piedmont Road flea market.

Alan: I surprised Cory with this huge porcelain serving platter that was already encased in a cocktail table. I’m particularly fond of this little painting we found in Paris in which the artist quoted a Paul Verlaine poem that translates: ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 25

ARTS This original watercolor shares calligraphy as art.

The poem is by French poet Paul Verlaine.

The cheery Begner sunroom looks out on a Japanese pagoda and bridge. On the right is Cory’s stained glass window from Blue Ridge, and ceramics line the high walls.

“You swore that it was a lie, And your look lied itself, Flamed like an ongoing moving fire, And with your own voice you said 'I love you'” Marcia: What artists do you collect?

Alan: By far, my favorite is “Four Players” by LoriGene (recently deceased) in the master bedroom. She was known for paintings inspired by music. It was said that she could “see sound.” She worked in pencil and often created her drawings as she sat amid the performers.

We watched her do this with the Emory Wind Ensemble.

I love the interaction between the musicians and instruments. See the detail of the cellos.

The original John Lennon drawing is pretty cool, “John and Yoko 1977.”

Cory: On a trip to the Florida Panhandle, we discovered Woodie Long, the Southern Alabama son of a sharecropper who began as a house painter. We have several of his paintings, some on wood, others on canvas or paper, all done in acrylics. Woodie’s paintings mostly depict scenes from his childhood memories.

Alan surprised Cory with the huge platter encased in a cocktail table. Tabby China peers up for the best view.

26 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Middle: The couple enjoy this original John Lennon sketch,"John and Yoko 1977."

Bottom: Alan’s favorite work done in pencil by LoriGene while she sits in on a classical concert.

ARTS The super-sized face jug, “Here Boy,” by Rob Slovin surrounded by unusual jug and face folk pottery.

The country French décor highlights art, from left, Costa Rican Patricia Erickson, cabinet of treasured china and pottery, Russian samovar from great-grandmother, and “Sunflowers” by Woodie Long, folk artist from the Florida Panhandle.

Marcia: How would you describe your dining room?

Cory: The country French celery green sideboard is from Highlands, North Carolina. The crystal sconces are from a flea market, as is the glass trumpet-flower chandelier. The various objects displayed include old French oyster plates, turn-of-the-century American pottery, and old country French Henriot Quimper pottery. This painting is a colorful 1995 Patricia Erickson oil from Costa Rica and the samovar was brought over from Russia by my great-grandmother.

Photos by Duane Stork // Anabelle enjoys lounging by Native American and serpentine carvings and pottery.

Marcia: Are you done collecting?

Cory: In addition to art, I collect rocks, shells, lava – natural reminders from beautiful places like the Galapagos Islands. This blue and red tile from Istanbul is a unique treasure. I can’t help myself. A collector is never done. I buy what I can’t stand NOT to buy.

Alan: As long as our cats China and Anabelle enjoy jumping and relaxing all over everything in here, I’m content. Once in a while, we hear a crash! ■

This rare Fox Theatre billboard advertises acres of parking and 5,000 seats from the 1929 original. Cory designed the front door stained glass panels. Inset: The detailed light fixture in the entrance by Connie Sweet was commissioned by Cory.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 27

ARTS

Avi Nesher has directed more than 40 films in his long and distinguished career.

“The Other Story” deals, in part, with the tension between secular and religious Jews in Israel.

Israeli Director Explores Israeli Fears

By Bob Bahr Avi Nesher is one of Israel’s most popular and most respected directors.

This past year the Israeli government honored him with its Lifetime Achievement Award. His most recent film, “The Other Story,” had five screenings at this year’s Atlanta Jewish Film Festival and is in the competition for the festival’s best feature length fiction film.

It has already earned him a best director award from the Israel Film Critics Association and is a smash hit there, attracting audiences from a broad crosssection of Israeli society.

One of the reasons for its appeal is the even-handed way the film handles the story of a romance between a secular Jewish woman, who has become enamored of the observant life, and a newlyminted, ultra-Orthodox man. Much of the plot turns on the efforts of her family to thwart the relationship, an effort that

illustrates the deep tensions that have developed in Israeli society. The growth of influence by religious Jews, particularly the ultra-Orthodox, has become, in a sense, the other story, and a major issue.

The AJT sat down with Nesher to talk about this topic and its influence on the film.

AJT: How important, in Israel, is this split between secular and religious Israelis?

Nesher: We are very, very afraid that the religious entities are becoming more and more powerful. Israel is now a country which is battling this process which might lead us close to a theocracy. Secular people see the religious as the other side, as the other story, and very often as the enemy.

Israel is much more threatened by this than by the conflict in the Arab Middle East. Right now, this internal division within Israel is the biggest problem Israel

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is facing.

AJT: One of the unusual aspects of this film is the way you don’t seem to take sides in this dispute.

Nesher: I am always highly suspect when I think that my side is right, and the other side is wrong. You know things are never black and white. And when I talk to my religious friends, they are just as terrified of us secular people as we are terrified of them. And I thought it would be great if I made a movie that would address this fear we each have of the other.

And this really got a dialogue going, and it’s astonishing. This movie sold five times more tickets in recent months than its nearest rival. It sold more tickets than any of the big American movies that are playing in Israel.

It’s not just a hit; it’s a huge, huge hit. It has finally gotten Israelis talking about the elephant in the room and the elephant in the room is that we’ve got people who believe not only in different things but in conflicting things.

You know, this movie is not about my story. It’s about the other story. I get uncomfortable around very religious people. And I feel ashamed that I get uncomfortable. It’s because of the way Israeli politics has shaped us. We have become each other’s enemies. And, of course, you know people say that that’s how the second temple collapsed 2,000 years ago, by internal strife.

AJT: Of course, dealing with conflict is not just an Israeli issue. America is a very divided nation and so are many others around the world.

Nesher: Which is again why this movie has been so successful. I mean this

movie has been shown in more than 100 festivals just in the last few months. It’s opening theatrically in this country in the spring, which is a rarity for Israeli cinema. I mean my next stops after this are the festivals in Zurich, Paris and Berlin. People understand this movie in their own terms.

It’s about the way people view the other; every society has the other. We are in the American South and in the American South you have had the other for a couple of centuries before something was done about it.

AJT: What’s your next project?

Nesher: I’ve just come from Los Angeles, where I’ve had discussions to make an American movie. I have not done so in a long time, and suddenly I like the idea because we talked about the growth of anti-Semitism. I think there’s a very powerful sense of the rise of anti-Semitism in this country. This is something that cinema needs to address. There has not been a film like “Gentleman’s Agreement,” which was made in the late 40s, for a long, long while. I think American Jews have taken things for granted. They’re comfortable in this country, and as we saw in Germany in the last century, this situation can turn around in a jiffy. I’ve been presented with some projects that address this and this is something I’m very interested in.

AJT: Any chance you might be filming your next American film in Atlanta?

Nesher: Well it just so happens that one of the stories I’m really interested in takes place in the South. So, if that works out, that would be lovely. ■

ARTS

Habima Theatre Celebrates 26 Years Jerry’s Habima Theatre has come a long way over the past quarter decade.

“The focus of this special theater company is a parallel approach: helping adults … with special needs find their ‘community,’ while helping with camaraderie, self-awareness, and selfconfidence,” explains Kim Goodfriend, founding artistic director. “Habima is a tremendous opportunity given to people with disabilities, to develop a network with the cast that they rehearse and study their lines with.”

The Marcus JCC theater is Georgia’s only theatrical company that for 26 seasons has brought together professional actors from the community and talented adult actors with special needs to present a musical theatrical production to sellout audiences and much acclaim.

“In the early production years of Habima, actors were regularly prompted from backstage throughout the show’s run. Today, most of the scenes are carried entirely by the actors. In addition, now, they sing and dance in front of an audience night after night, memorize lines, follow a script, receive standing ovations and flowers, and find their sense of belonging,” Goodfriend said. “Partnership, professionalism, creativity, and love have motivated all the folks who have staffed Jerry’s Habima Theatre over the years.”

One of its longest participants, playing Calliope next month in the theater’s 26th annual production, “Xanadu Jr.,” is 48-year-old Michelle Cristal.

“She’s come a long way,” explains Michelle's mother, Marilyn. “I never would have believed that she could do it, and in front of so many people!

“Michelle was so nervous to be onstage at first. But Habima has really made her come out of her shell. It was so good for her,” Marilyn Cristal said. “The first time I saw her onstage, I cried. But as the years have gone by, she’s had more speaking roles and has gotten more confidence.”

When Michelle was a child, Marilyn and her husband, Alan, knew that some-

cial needs department when the agency was still located in Midtown in the 1990s.

She also became involved with Jewish Family & Career Services, which found department store jobs for VSP participants. Michelle was hired by Marshalls, where she has worked in various capacities for more than 10 years, and she has earned multiple awards, commendations, and salary increases.

Shortly after joining VSP, Michelle got involved with Jerry’s Habima Theatre.

“We are very thankful for our benefactor Jerry Blonder’s patronage and foresight,” Marilyn said. “And, we couldn’t be prouder of Michelle; she has accomplished so much.” ■

Bess Winebarger and Michelle Cristal are among the cast members of Habima Theatre’s “Xanadu Jr.”

Practicing a scene from “Xanadu Jr.” are Patrick Robinson and Jesse Thomas-Durden.

thing was cognitively not right.

“Michelle started at the Ahavath Achim [Synagogue] preschool at 4 ½, and her teacher made me aware of my daughter’s learning disability,” Marilyn explained. “Her disabilities included poor eye-hand coordination, visual perception, and fine and gross motor skills.

She had difficulty learning how to ride a bike or tie her shoes.

“For two years, we got Michelle special personal tutors, until we found The Howard School, (a school that recognizes each learner’s strengths, while also addressing their disabilities and weaknesses). Michelle stayed there for 8 ½ years until she was 14,” Marilyn said.

She and her husband looked for residential high schools for Michelle that would have the resources she needed.

The (then) director of The Howard School helped them to find some that would be a good fit. The first high school was in Amenia, N.Y. (where Michelle stayed for four years); the other in East Sandwich, Mass. (where she stayed for two years, and from which she graduated at the age of 21), earning her long sought-after high

school diploma.

Michelle tried a college-type setting, but it didn’t work. So, she came home.

She joined the MJCCA’s VSP (Very Special People) program within its spe-

“Xanadu Jr.” is a musical tale full of romance, art and dancing, ideal for audiences of all ages. It runs March 7 through March 17 at the MJCCA’s Morris & Rae Frank Theatre, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody.

Jerry’s Habima Theatre is produced under the auspices of the MJCCA’s Blonder Family Department for Special Needs. To purchase tickets, visit www.atlantajcc.org/habima or call 678-812-4002.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 29

CALENDAR CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

FRI., FEB. 22–TUES., FEB. 26

19th Annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Six metro Atlanta theaters.

Check website for locations and showtimes. See the World on Film. The 19th annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival returns with a diverse collection of more than 70 outstanding international and independent works that you won’t see anywhere else, with premieres by both familiar and new directors and producers alike. Covering everything from drama, romance and comedy to documentary and short film, AJFF uses the power of film to entertain, educate and foster community understanding and dialogue. For more information, www. ajff.org.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Ki Tisa Friday, February 22, 2019, light candles at 6:10 p.m.

Saturday, February 23, 2019, Shabbat ends at 7:06 p.m.

Vayak'hel Friday, March 1, 2019, light candles at 6:16 p.m.

Saturday, March 2, 2019, Shabbat ends at 7:12 p.m. lation. $13 per person. To purchase tickets, www.bit.ly/2I6fsd7.

FRI., FEB. 22–SUN., FEB. 24

A Pitch Perfect Weekend – Congregation B’nai Torah, 700 Mount Vernon Highway NE, Sandy Springs, from 8 a.m. Friday through 8 p.m. Sunday.

Pizmon, a co-ed, pluralistic Jewish a cappella group, will join Congregation B’nai Torah for a full weekend of performances, workshops and a Saturday evening concert. Free. For schedule and for more information, www.bit. ly/2RGVZPZ.

Acoustic Shabbat Café – Alon’s Bakery & Market, 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, from 7 to 9 p.m. Join Rabbi Brian Glusman, Drew Cohen and teen musicians from The Weber School for an evening of music and Shabbat prayers. Food and wine available for purchase. This interactive, Shabbat-themed experience is sponsored by Atlanta Jewish Music Festival and The Weber School. Free. For more information, www.bit.ly/2nVTxbJ.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

The Classics Film Club – Marcus JCC,

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

YITH Cholent Cook Off – Young Israel of Toco Hills, 2056 Lavista Road, Atlanta, from 8 a.m. Cholent Cook-off during Kiddush. Many have entered, only one will win the Cholent Cook-off Champion Belt. The cholents will be judged anonymously and each cholent will be identified with its creator when the results are announced. Free. Enter at www.yith.org/cholent.

King Bibi: The Life and Performances of Benjamin Netanyahu – Sponsored by the Atlanta Jewish Times – UA Tara Cinemas, 2345 Cheshire Bridge Road NE, Atlanta, at 11 a.m. Assembled entirely of footage from countless TV appearances, the film charts the ascent of Israel’s media-savvy prime minster. As his political fortunes rose, Bibi quickly perfected his skills as a master of public speaking and media manipu30 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Atlanta, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Black tie optional. Dinner and dance for both ACIR and International Club of Atlanta members and nonmember friends. It is an opportunity to spend an evening together with those members of the Atlanta community who share a strong desire to remain aware of international events shaping our world today and learn how we collectively can live with one another to accomplish shared aspirations of peace and understanding for all humanity. Please join us for this event, which will include a cocktail hour, dinner and a 16-piece live orchestra. $100 for ACIR members and $125 for nonmembers. For more information, info@atlantacir.org.

ATL Council on International Relations Mid-Winter Gala –Capital City Club, 7 John Portman Blvd. NW,

3542 Tilly Mill Road, Atlanta, from 1 to 3 p.m. Watch movies from different genres and discuss the techniques and themes that went into producing them. The first session is always free, so invite friends to join for a weekend classic and a vibrant discussion.

Free for members, $5 for the community. For more information, www.bit. ly/2CcGKbS.

caust gallery will be given at 12 p.m.

Speakers will tell their remarkable stories beginning at 2 p.m. Free. For more information, www.thebreman.org.

MJCCA Welcomes Authors Alyson Richman and Pam Jenoff – Marcus JCC, 3542 Tilly Mill Road, Atlanta, from 7 to 9 p.m. The event will be in conversation with Zoe Fishman, New York Times bestselling author. $10 for members, $15 for the community. For more information, atlantajcc.org/bookfestival, or call 678-812-4002.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25

A Historic Evening with Eva Schloss – Ferst Center for the Arts, 350 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta, from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Enter the world of Anne Frank as told by her stepsister and childhood friend.

Her story is sensational and difficult to imagine, yet it reminds us that life is precious and fragile, that the power of good is immeasurable, and that love makes a difference. $180 for first person, $36 for second person and $25 for third person. For more information, email office@chabadintown.org.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26

2019 Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Closing Night – Byers Theatre at City Springs, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, from 7 to 10 p.m. The AJFF closes with a screening of “Chewdaism: A Taste of Jewish Montreal.” The festival wraps up with a Q&A from Eli Batalion and Jamie Elman and a themed food tasting. $36 per person. For more information, visit www.ajff.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27

Words to Action – Temple Beth Tikvah,

Bearing Witness: Robert Ratonyi (Hungary) – William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum, 1440 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, from 2 to 5 p.m. Ratonyi remembers a childhood scarred by fear, upheaval, hunger and loss. He was six years old when forced to wear a yellow star and face the terrors of war and ghetto life without his parents, both of whom were deported to concentration camps. He grew up under communist dictatorship and escaped Hungary following the bloody uprising of 1956. A graduate of MIT and Drexel University, Ratonyi went on to a successful business career. Guided tours of the Holo-

9955 Coleman Road, Sandy Springs, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. “Words to Action: Empowering Students to Address Anti-Semitism” is an interactive education program for eighth- through 12thgrade students designed to empower and equip them with constructive and effective responses to combat antiSemitism and anti-Israel bias. Open to all Jewish teens. $12 for TBT members and $18 for nonmembers. For more information, email education@bethtikvah.com, or call 770-642-0434.

Introduction to Biblical Hebrew – Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave. NW, Atlanta, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. For adult students who can read Hebrew words but do not know what they mean, this course introduces the Hebrew grammar and

FEBRUARY 22–MARCH 3 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Torah Studies – Chabad Intown On The BeltLine, 730 Ponce De Leon Place NE, Atlanta, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Torah Studies program brings the tradition of classical Jewish learning in a series of inspiring and engaging weekly classes.

Free. For more information, www.bit. ly/2SfnVPV.

vocabulary found in the Torah and siddur. This course is suitable for beginning and intermediate students. $50 for members, $65 for nonmembers and $75 for couples. For more information, www.bit.ly/2nVTxbJ.

ner. For tickets and more information, www.bit.ly/2tjoUj7.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Brain Health Boot Camp – Jewish Family & Career Services, 4549 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, from 3 to 5 p.m. This can help maintain and enhance your memory and brain function. $25 per class, $200 per semester. For more information, www.bit. ly/2Ob6bCB.

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

Sharing a Love of Music – Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave. NW, Atlanta, from 3 to 5 p.m.

An afternoon of music with “Sharing a Love of Music,” the inaugural annual concert of the Dr. Jerome and Betty Berman Concert Series. Wine and refreshments served. Free and open to the community. RSVP, www. bit.ly/2Sybfmw. For more information, www.bit.ly/2WI1YHM.

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

YJP First Fridays – Green Eggs No Ham – Chabad Intown On The BeltLine, 730 Ponce De Leon Place NE, Atlanta, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Join YJP every month for First Fridays Shabbat Dinner on the BeltLine. Mingle, shmooze, and meet new people with an open bar and a delicious Shabbat dinner buffet. Bring friends and make new ones. $18 early bird tickets, $25 after Feb. 27. Tickets include open bar and din-

Southern Soiree – Young Israel of Toco Hills, 2056 Lavista Road, Atlanta, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. A pre-Purim event with improv from a troupe from Dad’s Garage, a chicken and waffles dinner, craft bar with signature bourbon cocktails and more. $54 per person. 21 and up. RSVP, www.yith.org/soiree. ■

Find more events and submit items for our online and print calendars at:

www.atlantajewishconnector.com

Calendar sponsored by the Atlanta Jewish Connector, an initiative of the AJT. In order to be considered for the print edition, please submit events two weeks in advance. Contact community liaison, Jen Evans, for more information at jen@atljewishtimes.com.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 31

COMMUNITY

The auxiliary volunteers spread love and upbeat wishes for Valentine’s Day. Sherry Jaffe Habif, left of the heart T-shirt, decorated the room.

The William Breman Jewish Home Auxiliary’s annual Sweetheart’s Ball got residents dancing in their chairs spirited by Auxiliary volunteers.

‘Sweetheart’ Seniors Do the Wheelchair Waltz

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Music and dancing were part of the festivities when The William Breman Jewish Home’s Auxiliary hosted its annual Sweetheart’s Ball for the nursing home residents Feb. 13, the night before Valentine’s Day. Residents invited family

32 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

and guests to join the celebration.

The highlight of the evening was the Wheelchair Conga Line circling the ballroom with residents swaying to a singer belting out oldies and classic tunes.

Shauna Horvath, director of volunteer services for Jewish Home Life Com-

munities, was on hand and beaming.

“This festive evening was complete with a wonderful dinner, live music, heartshaped candies and a table full of fancy desserts.”

Fifteen volunteers from The Auxiliary were dressed in red with blinking light necklaces to give the residents a

night to remember. Volunteer Chair Joan Massre said, “What makes this event so much fun is that decorations (thanks to Sherry Jaffe Habif) are so cheerful that you can’t help but be in a ‘party mood’, … and more important is the heart and soul of the volunteer team.” ■

Israel Bonds Atlanta Cordially Invites You to Attend the

2019 Annual Gala Dinner

Limited Availability! Register Online Today: www.bit.ly/IsraelBondsGala2019 Couvert: $180 (NOT TAX DEDUCTIBLE)

Wednesday, March 13, 2019 | 6:00pm-9:00pm | City Springs | 1 Galambos Way

Featuring Guest Speaker

Honoring

With Special Musical Performance By

Ambassador Danny Danon

Michael A. Morris

Peter Yarrow

Israel’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations

Owner and Publisher of the Atlanta Jewish Times

Grammy-winning Member of the Legendary Peter, Paul & Mary

For More Information Contact: 404.817.3500 | atlanta@israelbonds.com DIETARY LAWS OBSERVED ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 33

COMMUNITY

Gesher L’Torah Offers Week of Health & Wellness

By Roni Robbins

Like other synagogues, Congregation Gesher L’Torah struggles to keep members engaged once their youngest reaches b’nai mitzvah age. Ritual Vice President Ofir Kaidar-Heafetz came up with a way to involve members of all ages and genders with an inspirational program that includes both lectures and hands-on activities over a weeklong period.

Gesher L’Torah’s Health & Wellness Week will be held March 4 through 10 with four activities: workshops on stress and on the use of mind, body and spirit; a healing Shabbat; and a community action project.

When designing the weekend, Kaidar-Heafetz thought a day or two of programs would have been disconnected.

But a week allows members to pick and choose options they like and still feel a part of a larger community. “A week of events is a vehicle to provide different opportunities for engagement, so that each participant can find at least one event, if not more, that is relevant and meaningful,” Kaidar-Heafetz said.

During the Shabbat service, members will share their experiences of recov-

34 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Ofir Kaidar-Heafetz is the organizer of Gesher L’Torah’s Health & Wellness Week.

Mariah Dantzler will speak about connecting the mind, body and spirit.

ery from illness and caretaking.

“Everyone knows someone who died or got sick and had a long recovery,” Kaidar-Heafetz said about the focus of the week.

The stories of survival will be interwoven into the service, he said. The purpose of the service is to show the role the community can play in the healing process, he said.

“There’s a tendency of people to isolate themselves. They don’t want to infect others,” he said. “There is always some element of isolation. It’s counterproductive. Having a support system” is helpful

Liat Philipson will lead a stress relief and meditation workshop.

to healing, he said, “even just to know others are praying for you, thinking of you.

“There’s a lot of benefit to being part of a community. I do not think that’s being leveraged enough. It’s more than paying dues and attending high holiday services,” he said. “You need to invest in that when you are healthy so you can use it when you are not healthy.”

From 7 to 9 p.m. March 5, counselor Mariah Dantzler will present “Mind, Body, Spirit and the Connection to Everyday Life.” Liat Philipson, owner of YogaMa, will lead a stress relief and medi-

tation workshop 7 to 8:30 p.m. March 7, and a congregation mitzvah project will take place 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. March 10.

Families can assemble care packages for the residents of No Longer Bound, an addiction recovery program for men. The “graduation” transition kits will include such items as suitcases, shampoo, towels, notebooks and gift cards. Families can also make greeting cards with positive messages of encouragement, KaidarHeafetz said.

“I know the people who participate in the program. When they leave the program, they are so desperate. They leave with the clothes on their back they came with. We have gotten a wish list. People can donate or bring something from the wish list.”

Kaidar-Heafetz said if the event is successful, he already has others in mind that could be set up in a similar way: four different activities with a fresh theme. “We’ve had mitzvah projects, services dedicated to a topic, guest speakers, but not so close together. I am excited with what more we can do with this format, to bring members in and understand the value they can get from the community.” ■

COMMUNITY

Perlman graciously accepted the AJFF Icon Award from Board President Max Leventhal.

Photos of Perlman courtesy of AJFF // Violinist Itzhak Perlman

performed with pianist Rohan De Silva.

Jeff Winner – who produced the Sandy Springs Society video shown at the post-performance reception – with society President Sue Winner and Dr. Jon Winner.

Perlman Got Icon Award; Winner Cinched the Deal

By Marcia Caller Jaffe He came to play, and that he did Saturday night. Renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman commanded the sold-out Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center concert stage with his mesmerizing arco and pizzicato finger dancing along with his emotive facial expressions.

Accompanied by pianist Rohan De Silva, the snow-headed Perlman performed in segments of Schnittke, Beethoven, and Dvorak. Musicologist Warren Woodruff shared during intermission, “I know Beethoven like the back of my hand, and his performance was monumental, expansive and breathtaking!”

After intermission, Max Leventhal, board president of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, presented Perlman with the AJFF Icon Award. A personalized video tribute to Perlman was shown full screen with touching and light-hearted congratulations from film director Steven Spielberg and composers John Williams and Zubin Mehta. Spielberg expressed that Perlman was “the subatomic connection to emotive Jewish music and the soul of Israel.” Light jabs were made to Perlman’s inclination to tell corny jokes and have so much audience adulation that “we’d laugh at anything he said.”

At the close of his prepared segment, Perlman chatted with the audience and took out 1,200 sheets of songs he might encore, quipping he would “avoid anything he has played in Atlanta since 1912.”

He did add more numbers, including his most famous “Schindler’s List” movie score.

Some of us, perhaps many, are not technically knowledgeable about classi-

The concert was not without drama.

The front page of the Atlanta JournalConstitution Feb. 16 ran a story with the headline, “Northside residents frustrated over scarce tickets at city venue.” The basis of the story was that Sandy Springs officials faced criticism that sponsors were favored over taxpayers with the ticket allotment being held back before opening to the general public. The tickets, ranging from $65 to $100, sold out in less than an hour. The needs of the AJFF and Perlman’s unavailability for a second performance dictated some limits.

Sandy Springs spokeswoman Sharon Kraun explained,” We did everything in the best interest of the community. To get an artist of Perlman’s caliber to come here, ... that’s not such a bad move.” She

committed to continue to experiment to find the right fit and formula for the relatively new facility.

The presenting sponsor was the Sandy Springs Society, which envisioned and executed the concert to coincide with its 30th anniversary. Sue Winner, the first Jewish president of the Society, was the powerhouse who made it happen. Last year, Winner was considering her presidency and how to celebrate the anniversary. She was inspired while watching “Itzhak,” a documentary and Atlanta premiere at the AJFF, with her husband. “The film was introduced by an Atlanta Symphony Orchestra commentator who stated that whenever Perlman came to Atlanta, and no matter how many performances he offered, tickets typically sold out in two hours or less. As the film began, I was mesmerized by the story. We had seen Mr. Perlman at the Fox Theatre years ago, and even though I am totally without musi-

Emily Hutmacher, Executive Director of the Sandy Springs Arts Foundation, celebrates at the post-concert reception with Esther and Mike Levine.

Jack Greene and Todd Maziar flank the Sandy Springs Society 30th anniversary cake.

cal music, but we knew that we had witnessed the greatest violin virtuoso of our time.

The Back Story

cal ability, I remembered how much I enjoyed the performance.

“About halfway through the film, I gave my husband an elbow punch, ‘That’s what I want to do for the 30th anniversary, bring Perlman to the new Performing Arts Center.’ My husband Jon’s response was, ‘It’s good to want, but this is one of those things you won’t get.’ That’s what my mother used to say to me when I was growing up!”

Later, several Sandy Springs ladies took a “hard hat tour” of the new performing arts center to plan the fall fundraiser, The Elegant Elf Marketplace. Impressed with the beauty of the facility, Winner asked for a meeting with former City Springs event coordinator, David Daly, to pin down the anniversary celebration.

“When asked what I had in mind, I told him my dream would be to have Itzhak Perlman in concert, coupled with a dinner before the performance, plus an anniversary cake and champagne celebration following. His answer was simple …

‘If you want that, I will contact Mr. Perlman and arrange it.’”

Perlman’s calendar allowed only two possible dates: Saturday, Feb. 2 – the night before the Super Bowl – or Saturday, Feb. 16. Winner said,” I definitely did not want to compete with the Super Bowl … and the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival had a hold on Saturday, Feb. 16 Kenny Blank, David Daly and I sat down and found a way to work together on this event. I’m very proud of that!”

So, let’s send an “icon award” to Winner. Without her energy and foresight, there wouldn’t have been a show!

And Sue did, indeed, get her cake. … a giant multilayered pink, chocolate and vanilla confection – champagne and all. ■ ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 35

COMMUNITY

Kim Freeman of Lost Cat Search & Rescue.

Henry peers out from the search car.

Pet Detective Follows Clues to Stray Cats

By Kevin C. Madigan

36 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

When Kim Freeman lived on a horse farm in Texas years ago, one of her companions was an orange cat named Mister Purr. He went missing one day, and Freeman promptly freaked out.

“No one took me seriously in my panic,” Freeman said in a phone interview with the AJT. From that moment of desperation, she took it upon herself not only to find her fleeting feline but then made it her life’s work guiding others to do the same thing.

“Had I listened to the typical advice such as ‘He’ll come back when he’s ready’ and the old ‘Put his litter box outside,’ Mister Purr would have died behind this fence in a rancher’s metal shipping container. He is why I do lost cat search and rescue, both to save other cats, and support the people in panic mode who are getting the usual bad advice.”

Freeman runs Lost Cat Search & Rescue, based in Decatur, and she has had considerable success using some lessthan-obvious methods in finding missing cats and to train owners to conduct their

own searches. She is also author of the book “How To Find Your Lost Cat.” She said the basics of the training come from the world of missing persons procedures and investigative questioning. This means profiling the subject; learning their habits, personality and preferences; then assessing what happened to the cat and location based on the probability theory.

“There are eight possibilities that cover what may have happened with any missing cat. Each case begins with a profiling session to assess the probability of each one. Studies show that various cat personalities behave differently when displaced from their known territory. We also know that indoor cats require different techniques than outdoor-access cats.

All these observations help us recover cats based on the probability theory, factoring in time, location, the weather, the cat’s personality and terrain in which cat was lost,” Freeman said.

“I will take the address of where the cat was last seen: their house or the vet’s parking lot or wherever and then look at a Google map, figure out a parameter

Kim Freeman's assistant, Henry, the search cat.

Freeman poses with a happy cat owner after finding Jackson.

COMMUNITY

where the cat might be, based on his personality, and then I’m able to rule some places out. He’s not going be in the middle of the street, for example. Then you deduce down to the probability of where he’s most likely to be, and you can start your search there.”

She added that people in search mode can be counter-productive. “There is a probability that the cat will evade you,” Freeman said. “A lot of people tend to cover the whole area, but you’re just pushing him further away because he’s evading the big loud noise coming towards him. If you’re walking around shaking trees they’re not going to go ‘here I am.’ Sometimes people actually drive around calling them. Cats don’t come when they’re called.”

Another key element in her work is the use of equipment such as sound amplification devices, drones, infrared night-vision cameras, thermal scopes, borescopes and humane trapping techniques. Freeman has also studied bird language to pinpoint the location and movement of cats. Her most valuable tool is a powerful flashlight usually used by hunters, law enforcement, and the military.

And then there is Henry, her tracking cat and secret weapon. “I adopted Henry in 2014 and began training him to follow a scent trail, tapping his paw on evidence he finds along the way,” she said. “That year near Christmas, Henry and I were called out to find a kitten who escaped the owner’s car at a gas station in the night. Thanks to Henry, it was a quick, successful recovery.”

Being able to coach clients long-distance is gratifying for Freeman, who has helped people get missing cats found in nearly every state, and several other countries. This not only makes many people happy, she pointed out, it also keeps hundreds of strays out of the shelter system.

It’s all about education, Freeman said. “That’s why I wrote the book, to educate people. It’s kind of a do-it-yourself system. Just read the book.” ■ For more information about Freeman and her book, visit www.lostcatfinder.com.

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A selection of the lost cats Freeman has found – some missing for days, some lost for months or even two years.

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Once inside, the sense of relaxation and surrender takes over as you find a house-made arrival treat waiting for you, as well as cozy robes and slippers, sumptuous Italian linens, heated marble bathroom floors and the inviting glow of a gas fireplace in most rooms.

If you can possibly resist immediately succumbing to the robe-and-slipper embrace of indulgent languor, you might wander out to one of two heated mineral pools with Jacuzzis and poolside service.

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ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 37

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

The Marcus JCC held a retrospective showing of Eugen Schoenfeld’s photos last year.

The religious life of his native Munkacs in Czechoslovakia was dominated by an emphasis on tradition.

Eugen Schoenfeld Reflects on a Long Life

By Bob Bahr Eugen Schoenfeld, who has often written for the Atlanta Jewish Times, survived the loss of most of his family in the Nazi Holocaust of World War II to become a distinguish scholar of the sociol-

38 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

ogy of religion. He is a professor emeritus of sociology at Georgia State University and former chair of the department. Now 93, he recently discussed his ideas about Judaism and what he has learned in his long life.

AJT: What did your experience of the Holocaust teach you?

Schoenfeld: I came out of the Holocaust, not with a desire for revenge, but with a sense of hope that man could rise above that experience.

That hope was founded on two personal experiences that I had. The first came when I was traveling by train with a number of other Jews from one work camp to another. We were guarded by an SS officer, who looked like the perfect Aryan. He was tall, blond and blue-eyed, all discipline and polished boots, and yet he did something I never expected on that train ride. When we made a stop along the way, he got off the train and brought us water and coffee and made an effort to treat us as human beings. Given all that I had suffered, I found it hard to believe, at first. But that experience taught me that perhaps man, even a hardened Nazi officer, can rise above himself, can rise above what Freud called the Id, our ego state, and become not just human but humane.

The other experience that made such a strong impression on me was when I was working as a slave laborer on a nighttime building project. I was carrying 50-pound bags of cement back and forth to the cement machine and at one point I staggered, my legs buckled, and I almost fell on the ground.

The German who was guarding us saw me, and instead of beating me or even killing me, he came over and took the cement off my back, threw it down and motioned for me to follow him.

Then, when we came to a place where he couldn’t be seen, he took out a piece of bread and gave it to me. Instead of sending me back to work with the cement

bags, he gave me a broom to sweep with, which probably saved my life.

What it also saved was my sense of hope. It preserved for me the hope that I could survive and the hope of what could be achieved in the depths of the Nazi slave labor organization. What I found was that no matter how far some sunk, others, maybe only a few, retained the capability of empathy and their understanding of other human beings.

AJT: How do you believe that we should remember the Holocaust?

Schoenfeld: I don’t want the Holocaust to be remembered as we remember Tisha B’Av, when we sit down and cry and bemoan what happened.

I want the Holocaust to be recognized, in a sense, as part of our historical experience, as the lowest point of human existence that man experienced. And that we must work in the world to rise above that low point of human existence.

The whole notion of tikkun olam, our responsibility to repair the world, lies in the purposeful action by G-d in not completing His creation of the world.

Perhaps the most important part of the Torah is the notion of how we seek to improve ourselves and the world in which we live.

G-d gave us consciousness for a purpose. And that purpose is not to eat this animal or that animal. Or do this or do that law. The real purpose is to make life better. And our understanding of history was always subject to this idea. How can we make life better?

AJT: What part does G-d play in making the world a better place?

COMMUNITY

Schoenfeld was educated early in life at the traditional cheder, or synagogue classroom.

Schoenfeld: I have been, and I still am, enamored with Judaism. And I want Judaism to fulfill itself not through laws which do not mean anything, a kind of ancient cultic idiocy. For us to think that we must do things for the sake of G-d is a very stupid idea.

I mean if G-d is supreme in everything, he has no needs. Only we human beings have needs.

The essence of the Torah and the essence of our rabbinic conceptions is to raise us to some level of empathy with all of humanity.

What we have that is so important is the ancient way of our moral thinking that is rooted in our collective historical experience. To me, this becomes the foundation upon which Jewish philosophy, including theology, should be based.

I want Judaism to shine and to become really a kind of glorious thing of ideas rather than emphasizing that, for some damn reason, G-d wants us to do certain things that make no sense, that we become so committed to ritualism that the original intent of the idea is lost.

AJT: If we say that we don’t have to do anything for the sake of G-d, does that mean that we can ignore the teachings of the Torah?

Schoenfeld: When the rabbis created the so-called universal laws of Noah in the book of Genesis, they were meant to apply to all people.

They realized that there must be a path of humanism not only for Jews, but for the rest of the world. So, these laws were not dealing with faith, they were dealing with the essence of what it means to be human.

They were dealing with how we create a better world, how we eliminate pain. If we are going to create an American Judaism for those of us who are, have been, and will remain in the Diaspora, we must create a value system and an ideal that provides a beacon for mankind.

We don’t have to give up the Torah because there are far too great things in the Torah. But we can use the Torah as the foundation for our humanistic Judaism in which our relationship with each other is more important than our relationship with G-d.

We must get away from this junk story that G-d will punish, punish, punish you, as I was taught in my childhood, and come back to the ancient ideas of idealism and the perfectibility of man upon which all Judaism is based. ■ ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 39

COMMUNITY

Marcus JCC Receives Outstanding Programming Awards

By Eddie Samuels The Marcus JCC was recognized with two JCC Outstanding Program Awards from the Jewish Community Centers of North America for its Intown Outreach and Spotlight Theatre programs.

Awards are given out every two years in 15 categories, including: Israel, inclusion, arts and culture.

MJCCA Chief Programming Officer Hope Chernak said that the awards are a prestigious honor, and that each category is rife with competition.

“What’s nice about it is that you’re able to recommend or apply for your agency, so the nomination comes internally, but it’s selected by the national organization,” she said. “You’re up against close to 20 applicants per category, so it’s definitely a broad field.”

Spotlight Theatre — winner in the inclusion category — is an immersive theatre experience for actors with special needs. The theater features an audition process, and the actors all train and rehearse together and learn from professionals and educators in the performing arts industry.

40 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The MJCCA's two award-winning programs, Spotlight Theatre (left) and Intown Outreach.

Elizabeth Knapp, director of the Blonder Family Department for Special Needs, explained that the Spotlight Theatre program was originally formed to help actors with special needs elevate their experience to a more professional level.

“One of the great things that has come out of it is not just that the participants are reporting improved self-confidence and self-esteem, but also that participants are working with professionals in the industry,” she said. “The recognition has allowed the actors to show off their abilities rather than their disabilities.”

Knapp also said that she believes more national attention may cause other communities to mimic the innovative program.

“I think the attention will make others try similar programs in the future.

One of the things we addressed when we submitted Spotlight for the award is how adaptable it is,” she said. “We talked about how other communities and JCCs can do a similar program.”

Lauren Chekanow, MJCCA’s Intown Outreach associate, said that after beginning the program last May, it has drawn more than 1,800 attendees at events and

more than 20 partnerships with intown organizations.

“The goal was to increase engagement among young Intown Jewish families, and …. it’s very exciting for us,” Chekanow said. “It’s definitely been an initiative for the MJCCA that everyone is proud of.”

Chernak added that including Intown Jews in the MJCCA’s initiatives is a big focus.

“We here in Atlanta have an interesting vision that the Jewish community is not just in one specific location,” she said.

“We’ve been focusing on how we do our outreach to the intown, and we’re seeing how JCCs can expand beyond the walls, outside of a campus.”

The awards will be handed out Feb. 24 at the JCCA conference in Orlando, Fla. “To be recognized as excellent in programming is beyond just a feather in our cap,” Chernak said. “It means we will now become a resource for our colleagues around the country," and, "not everyone gets to know about it unless it’s shouted from the rooftops, which we try to do, but having the national platform means it’s more widespread,” she said. ■

COMMUNITY SIMCHA SPOTLIGHT

B’nai Mitzvah Notices: Ryan Sienna Carter, daughter of Cameron and Dan Carter, on Feb. 9.

Morgan Goldstrom, daughter of Julie and Seth Goldstrom, on Feb. 9.

Michael Lowenstein, son of Jen and Stan Lowenstein, on Feb. 16.

Ian Mintz, son of Janice and Scott Mintz, on Feb. 16.

Jesse Benjamin Ratner, son of Jill and Joshua Ratner, on Feb. 16.

Have something to celebrate?

Happy Birthday Ben Hiller

Ben Hiller, Holocaust survivor and father of Torah Day School’s Rabbi Moshe Hiller, celebrated his 97th birthday Feb. 13. He was surprised with cake and balloons at the LA Fitness in Toco Hills, where he works out nearly every day.

Bruce Kauffman, who helped organize the celebration, described Ben Hiller’s shock. “Ben said, ‘This is the biggest surprise of my life,’ which I find hard to believe,” Kauffman said.

Births, B’nai Mitzvah, Engagements, Weddings, Anniversaries, Special Birthdays and more ...

Share it with your community with free AJT simcha announcements.

Send info to submissions@atljewishtimes.com.

Wedding Announcement

Kahn – Pastroff

Brooke Kahn and Jeremy Pastroff were married Dec. 1, 2018, at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta. Rabbi Ron Segal officiated at the ceremony along with Cantor Beth Schafer.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Brian Kahn of Atlanta. She is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Berger of Atlanta, formerly of Mobile, Ala., and the late Dr. and Mrs. Bernard Kahn of Atlanta.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pastroff of Michigan.

He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Pastroff of Pittsburgh, and Mr. and Mrs. Schrier of Michigan.

Brooke graduated from Indiana University and is currently working as a research associate for Russell Reynolds, an executive search firm, in Chicago.

Jeremy graduated with honors from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, with a double major in finance and international business. Jeremy is currently earning his master’s in business administration at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, while working as a senior consultant at Ernst & Young.

The newlyweds have made their home in Chicago.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 41

KEEPING IT KOSHER Yiddish Word of the Week hot er gezógt Hot er gezógt, “so he said.” Yiddish: ‫געזאגט‬ ָ ‫האט ער‬ ָ , from the German Er hat gesagt, “he said.” On the most basic level, it has the same meaning, “He said,” for instance, after a quote (example 1). Depending on context and intonation, this can be a positive or (more frequently) negative exclamation.

The positive sense (example 2) would denote something like “But he promised!” in response to doubt about someone keeping his word. The negative (example 3) would be doubting or dismissive of reported speech, akin to “Words are easy” or “He can talk the talk, but can he walk the walk?”

Examples: 1. “I thought I saw a pussycat,” hot er gezógt. [= He said / said he.]

2. “Hon, is your boss coming to dinner?” “Hot er gezógt!” [= Why wouldn’t he? He said he would.]

3. “How exciting! My dad is investing in your business!” “Hot er gezógt!” [= Let’s wait and see… / Promises, promises… / I don’t believe a word he says…]

Rabbi Joab Eichenberg-Eilon, PhD, teaches Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic at the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies, eTeacher Group Ltd.

Jewish Joke of the Week

Lowcountry’s Country Captain Chicken Preference: Meat Servings: 6 to 8

Difficulty: Easy Occasion: Shabbat

This awesomely fragrant and exotically flavorful chicken dish is an iconic Lowcountry classic. While most obviously Indian in origin, Country Captain Chicken in its modern American form has been enjoyed in the Southern United States since at least the mid-20th century, when it was often served at social functions and was a staple recipe in many Southern community cookbooks. While there are numerous spice variations, this recipe remains loyal to the classic ingredients, creating one awesome chicken dinner that’s ridiculously easy to prepare. Enjoy.

Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided 12 pieces bone-in chicken thighs and/or boneless breasts, skinless 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus more for garnish 2 cloves garlic, minced 2, 12-ounce bags frozen pepper and onion blend 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1, 14 1/2-ounce cans fire roasted chopped tomatoes, un-drained 1/2 cup golden raisins Toasted sliced almonds, for garnish

How He Got His Job David has done well for himself and is mayor of a small town in Israel.

One day, David and his wife Andrea are walking past a construction site.

Suddenly, one of the construction workers stops and calls out.

“What’s new, Andrea?”

“Why, it’s nice to see you again, Avi,” Andrea replies. She turns to introduce David to the construction worker, and they speak for several minutes.

After David and Andrea continue on, he turns to her and asks how she knows Avi. “Oh,” Andrea said. “We went to the same high school. I even thought about marrying him.”

David began to laugh. “You don’t realize how lucky you are. If I hadn’t come along, today you would be the wife of a construction worker!”

Andrea replied without hesitation, “Not really. If I had married him, he’d now be a mayor!"

Combine flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a large ziplock bag. Place chicken pieces, a few at a time, in the bag and shake to coat. Discard flour mixture. Heat oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add half the chicken pieces and cook until well browned and crisp on one side, about 6 to 7 minutes. Flip and cook until lightly browned on the other side, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Transfer to a plate and set aside. Repeat with remaining chicken. Remove from skillet and leave oil/drippings.

Add chopped parsley, pepper and onion blend, garlic, curry powder, black pepper, nutmeg and 1 teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until onion and peppers are slightly tender/softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add tomatoes and raisins and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and return chicken to skillet. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Uncover and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes or until an inserted meat thermometer reads 165 F for thighs, or 160 F, breasts. Serve over rice. Garnish with toasted almonds and reserved chopped parsley. ■ For more information about this recipe and others, go to: www.bourbonandschmaltz. com, Bourbon and Schmaltz: The Culinary Adventures of a Jewish Southern Gentleman.

Joke provided by David Minkoff www.awordinyoureye.com

Recipe by Alex Idov 42 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

BRAIN FOOD

Synagogue Sights By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com Difficulty Level: Challenging 1

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14. Skin care staple 56. Light ring 15. Chemical in fertilizer 57. “Just ___ like one of us” (Joan 16. 11-year-old, e.g.

Osborne line) 17. Words that might come before 59. “..., not ___ mouse” “...but, I messed up...”

61. Like some Manischewitz 19. Dismantle sail supports products 20. Home of the Bnei Menashe 64. Rafa of note 21. Letters identifying the four 65. Peanut and olive voices in a choir 66. British rocker whose real first 23. Sch. near the Appomattox name is John River 67. Belonging to the Queen of 24. Google letters Arendelle 25. Animals with one sign of 68. “JAG” spinoff kashrut 69. Talmudic scholar, perhaps 29. ___visit DOWN 30. Bit of pollen 1. Rum and Silicon 31. ‘49 alliance 2. Solo 34. ___air 3. Laker’s guard 36. Contort 4. “Smallfoot” animal 39. An alternative title for this 5. Mark puzzle 6. Rest area?

42. Palindromic prophetess 7. Pose once more 43. Make a stink?

44. Historic character created by 8. Blip producers 9. Like Pharaoh, in Exodus Siegel and Shuster 45. Pharaoh withheld it, in Exodus 10. Barley beard 11. Napkin, to an Aussie 47. Agents

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33. Some bikes 35. Academic basics, briefly 37. Sacker of ancient Rome 38. Hatzalah worker, for short 40. They were once used to “prove” unicorns existed 41. Put out 46. Candidate who benefitted from Roosevelt getting shot 48. Rabbinic ruling 49. “___-rene” (“Women’s Bible”) 50. Harari of note 51. History, for Harari 52. Mrs. Begin 53. Muppet in love with a chicken 54. Delivery letters?

58. Go through mud 60. Aviation group: Abbr.

62. Clay’s new name 63. Blogger’s feed, initially

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R O M A

■ The bat mitzvah of Sasha Marissa Swift of Decatur took place Saturday, Feb. 19, at The Temple. Sasha is the daughter of Cheryl and David Swift.

15 Years Ago // February 20, 2004

50 Years Ago // February 21, 1969

■ Danny Sklar donated $50,000 to the Weinstein Hospice to start a new pain management program at the facility.

■ In conjunction with Jewish Music Month, Congregation Ahavath Achim will present “Cantoral Masterpieces” with six world-famous cantors. Cantor Isaac Goodfriend of Ahavath Achim has arranged the program through the Cantors Assembly of America. In addition to Cantor Goodfriend, cantors will participate from New York City, Great Neck, N.Y., Pittsburgh, Hartford, and Cleveland.

■ The bar mitzvah of Austin Cohen of Marietta was held Saturday, Jan. 24, at Temple Beth Tikvah. Austin shared his bar mitzvah with his great-grandfather, who was 83. Austin is the son of David and Terri Cohen.

25 Years Ago // February 18, 1994 ■ Dori Beth Taratoot received an award for journalistic excellence from the North Carolina Press Association. She won first place in the lifestyle features category in the small daily newspapers edition of the NCPA’s 1993 Editorial Contest.

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Photo courtesy of William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum archives // Cantor

Isaac Goodriend arranged Cantoral Masterpieces with world-famous cantors.

■ A new theater company, the Alliance Resident Theatre, has been formed as the newest component of the Atlanta Arts Alliance. The company is expected to fill the void left by the recent closing of the Atlanta Municipal Theatre. Michael Howard, artistic director of the AMT, has been retained in the same capacity for the new group.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 43

OBITUARIES Sidney Blase

Melissa Carol Greenhut

Sidney S. Blase, age 72, of Atlanta, died Feb. 10, 2019. Sidney was born Nov. 3, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pa. He moved to Atlanta as a young child and as a boy he often attended Blue Star Camps in Western North Carolina.

As a young man, Sidney graduated from Woodward Academy in Atlanta and attended Valdosta State College. Sidney enjoyed traveling the world with his lovely wife of 27 years and was happiest relaxing under the tropical sun next to the pool or watching sports.

Survivors include his wife Jutta Blase; son Joseph Blase; and stepchildren Tobe Bagwell and Tim Holt. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sidney’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite. A memorial service was held, Feb. 14, 2019, at Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, Atlanta 770-451-4999.

Melissa Carol Greenhut, 37, formally of Atlanta, Richmond, Va., and Rockville, Md. Preceded in death by her father, Gordon Greenhut; mother Harriet Goldstein Greenhut; grandfathers Jacob L. Goldstein and Daniel P. Greenhut; and grandmother Alberta E. Greenhut.

Melissa is survived by her beloved and devoted fiancé Jason Stolow; cherished brother Scott Greenhut; loving grandmother Maxine S. Goldstein; and Jason’s parents Marty and Rosemary; adored aunts and cousins: Marcia, Greta, Maxine, Michael, Carmen and Janet; and treasured friends who were her chosen family: Victor, Dale and Laurie Moes.

Melissa truly had a zest for life and enjoyed making memories everywhere she went. She took great pride in being a funeral director for over a decade and making connections with people near and far.

Melissa wanted to extend her deepest gratitude to her incredible team of doctors at Thomas Jefferson Hospital who treated her with extraordinary care and humor and the Moes family whose love and unwavering support meant the world to her.

Donations may be made in memory of Melissa Greenhut to support Dr. Takami Sato’s research at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University.

Checks may be made out to Jefferson and mailed to the Office of Institutional Advancement, Jefferson, 125 S. 9th St., Suite 700, Philadelphia, PA 19107

72, Atlanta

44 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

37, Philadelphia

OBITUARIES

Mary “Kay” Powell 92, Decatur

Mary “Kay” Powell, 92, of Decatur, died Feb. 3, 2019, at her daughter’s home, knowing she was loved and cared for. Born Aug. 26, 1926, in South Philadelphia to Max and Esther Mikelberg, her first language was Yiddish and her first memories were of playing on the stoop and watching the horsedrawn carts delivering ice and milk.

She is survived by her daughter, Faith Georgia Powell, and a community of friends and extended family. Her cat, Max, misses her immensely. Kay had been a working single parent since the 1950s. She had been a general manager for several hotels, and a manager of two of Atlanta’s most prominent dinner theaters.

In her 60s, she became a conservation farmer. In her 70s, she became a personal trainer for seniors, introducing them to Pilates and weightlifting. She was best known as an artist and art instructor. She taught countless art workshops through her late 80s and beyond and conducted a weekly open studio at Binders Art Supplies. She was known for her wit and sense of style, which continued until the end of her life. She did not want a funeral. She asked for a party with food and drink and stories told about her, which is planned for the near future. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Rita Ross Schoenberg Johns Creek

Rita Ross Schoenberg of Johns Creek, formerly of Miami, Fla., passed away Feb. 12 with her daughters by her side. Rita was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. to Celia and Sam Ross. She attended the University of Miami and graduated with a degree in mass communications. Rita worked for many years as a copywriter and was extremely bright, clever and witty. Rita was so fortunate to have had a wonderful 54-year marriage to Marvin Schoenberg, the love of her life.

She had a beautiful voice and loved to sing. She started the Somerby Singers group where she formerly lived. She was a member of the Sweet Adelines International chorus in both Miami and Atlanta. Rita enjoyed music, word games and particularly, time with her family.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Sylvia Cohen, her brother, Sol Ross, and her granddaughter, Rachel Goldsmith. She is survived by her daughters Susan Goldsmith (Gary) and Leah Stitzer; grandsons Chaim Shmuel Stitzer (Shifra), Cory Goldsmith, and Yaakov Tsvi Stitzer (Nechama); and four greatgrandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at Arlington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999. Sign online guestbook at www.dresslerjewishfunerals.com. ■

‫זיכרונה‬ ‫לברכה‬ Obituaries in the AJT are written and paid for by the families; contact Managing Publisher Kaylene Ladinsky at kaylene@atljewishtimes.com or 404-883-2130, ext. 100, for details about submission, rates and payments. Death notices, which provide basic details, are free and run as space is available; send submissions to editor@atljewishtimes.com.

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CLOSING THOUGHTS The Fabric of My Life I’ve always been a pushover for interesting textiles. If it’s handmade, beaded, embroidered, batiked or silk-screened, I’m hooked. Over the years, I’ve done a lot of sewing, but I’ve also purchased fabric simply because it’s exceptional. Some people like precious gems; I like precious fabrics, and I have a lot of them.

Nowadays, I seldom sew. I don’t want to buy more material that will remain unused along with my current stash; however, Chana Shapiro I still need an occasional fix.

I found an alternate way to satisfy my addiction to textiles and sewing. It’s SCAD FASH, the fashion museum of Savannah College of Art and Design at the Atlanta branch on Peachtree Road. One has only to visit one of its extraordinary exhibits to be hooked. The most recent show features period costumes from television and film, but this description doesn’t come close to the reality of getting close to the clothing and accessories.

I’ll let you explore SCAD FASH at your own convenience; however, let me tell you what just happened.

My friend Viky and I asked a few orientation questions to the students who greet visitors at the admission desk, but they couldn’t help us. That was fine, really, because the show was a sensual experience, and the TV and film shows in which the costumes had appeared were clearly identified. Unlike many other museums, this one does not provide audiotapes, which add interesting and helpful tidbits and ancillary information.

We were on our own to enjoy the show visually, sufficient in itself, but we wanted to know more.

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Luckily, a young woman, whom we had noticed standing among the students at the front desk, came up to us. She had clearly noticed that we were interested in the intricate details and structures of the garments. She asked if we’d like her to give us more information about the costumes and creations. You bet we did!

Our unofficial docent stayed with us for more than an hour. She showed us additional photos and explained the background, sources, intricacies, personalities, and tricks of the trade in building authentic costumes. How did they get modern-day satin and velvet to look like that of 200 years ago? How did women manage to get their waists so narrow, and was there collateral physical damage? Where did they find a mannequin slim enough for Johnny Depp’s costume?

She explained how perfect replicas of two crowns were created and modestly revealed that she was the one who made them with a 3-D printer and specially-ordered Swarovski crystals. Those crowns were fabulous and would have definitely fooled any of today’s sitting royalty.

Naturally, we wanted to know more about our incidental docent. Her name is Tina, a student from Serbia, who is planning to be a fashion designer. She’s a senior, with several leads on jobs. (Their brochure claims that a degree from SCAD is a powerful tool in the competitive world of fashion.) On her phone, Tina showed us pictures of her work. It was modern and classic at the same time. It had the touch of a true seamstress, and I had an idea.

“What kind of sewing machines do you have?” I asked. I was sure she had a few.

“The best,” Tina answered. “I use the ones here at school.”

“Do you like to sew your own clothes, too?”

“Of course!”

“Do you sometimes sew just for fun?”

Tina laughed, “Absolutely!”

“I have a lot of wonderful fabric, and I’d love to show it to you. I’ve had most of it for years, and it needs to belong to someone who will use it,” I explained.

She was surprised, of course. “That’s an amazing offer, and I accept!” she exclaimed.

Tina pulled a business card from her pocket, an original must-have for SCAD students in the job market.

On one side is a picture of her senior design dress. She asked me to call her to set up a time to visit.

When I got home, I went downstairs and visited my containers of textiles. After spending a long time appreciating my collection, I called Tina and left a message. I decided to offer her everything. ■

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thehandymancanatlanta@gmail.com ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES FEBRUARY 22, 2019 | 47

48 | FEBRUARY 22, 2019 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES