BACK IN TWO WEEKS: THE AJT TACKLES HEALTH & WELLNESS
VOL. XCIII NO. 26
Pets
of Jewish Atlanta on pages 11-22
JEWISH PET RESCUERS
LOCAL LEADERS & VOLUNTEERS HEED A HEARTFELT CALLING. COVER STORY, PAGE 12
REPAIRING OUR WORLD
DELEGATES GATHER TO DISCUSS SOCIAL CHANGE & JUDAISM. LOCAL NEWS, PAGE 9
QUEST FOR SAFE HAVEN THE JEWISH QUESTION ABOUT HOW TO TREAT A STRANGER. REFLECTIONS, PAGE 6
JUNE 29, 2018 | 16 TAMMUZ 5778
2 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
OPINION Speaking Truth to Power I hear a lot these days about the need to “speak truth to power.” Most of this talk comes from the left, which isn’t surprising given the balance of power in Washington, D.C. At its core, speaking truth to power is an act of resistance. Indeed, speaking truth to power is inherent in the Biblical exhortation “Justice, justice shall you pursue" (Deuteronomy 16:20). In the Torah, Moses spoke truth to power by demanding that Pharaoh free the Hebrew slaves, and Abraham petitioned on high, urging that Sodom and Gomorrah not be destroyed for the sake of the good people living there. Today, everyone with access to a keyboard seemingly feels compelled to speak their truth, frequently in unvarnished language. Truth may be defined as “being in accordance with facts,” but the latter can be arranged to distort the former, and those who feel entitled to their own facts (no matter how provably wrong) find comfort in the truths they create. By the way, both the right and left are guilty of this practice. It just depends on the issue being discussed. The “power” in question may be an individual, an institution like the government, a corporation, the military and academia. From another perspective, it may be a segment of society, singled out by race, religion, ethnicity, and gender. What may be overlooked is the origin of the phrase. In 1955 the American Friends Service Committee published “Speak Truth to Power: A Quaker Search for an Alternative to Violence.” The title may have come from “a charge given to Eighteenth Century Friends,” though numerous accounts cite a 1942 letter written by AfricanAmerican civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, a co-author of the Quaker publication. The document’s foreword states: “We speak to power in three senses: To those who hold high places in our national life and bear the terrible responsibility of making decisions for war or peace. "To the American people who are the final reservoir of power in this country and whose values and expectations set the limits for those who exercise authority. "To the idea of Power itself, and its impact on Twentieth Century life.”
It also cautions that: “Speaking truth to power is not about moral superiority. In order to be effective, it has to be aimed at changing the target’s fundamental attitudes towards violence.” That piece of wisdom apparently has been lost in certain quarters.
From Where I Sit By Dave Schechter dschechter@atljewishtimes.com
No matter how entertaining some found actor Robert De Niro chanting “F**k Trump” during the Tony Awards or comedienne Michelle Wolf’s caustic monologue at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner, their remarks were not designed to change attitudes and came off as rooted in a presumed moral superiority. Truth can be spoken by voice, but also by deeds, such as: The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter From Birmingham Jail.” The Buddhist monk who set himself alight in Saigon in 1963 to protest discrimination by the South Vietnamese government. The young man who blocked a convoy of tanks in Tiananmen Square in Beijing in 1989. Natan Sharansky, who endured years in the Gulag for speaking out on behalf of Jews wishing to leave the Soviet Union. The “Freedom Riders,” who risked limb and life in the civil rights struggles in the South in the 1960s. To these, I add the spectrum of faith groups voicing objections to government policies that separate children from parents who illegally enter the United States, a practice they view as running afoul of fundamental religious precepts. “The rabbis of the Talmud teach us: Shtikah k’hoda’ah dami – silence is acquiescence. Our silence in the face of wrong behavior means that we accept the immoral action. Silence in the face of evil is not just terribly wrong, hurting the victims of those actions, but it also encourages this behavior to continue, creating future victims,” Rabbi David Lerner, of Temple Emunah, in Lexington, Massachusetts, wrote last year. Lerner may have been referring to the case of Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, but his words can be applied more broadly. ■ ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 3
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REFLECTIONS
1900s Jewry Fireworks Left, Atlanta Auditorium and Armory, 1909. Below, Atlanta Terminal Station, 1905.
“We were firecracker people,” the late Professor David Macarov told me as we sat together in Jerusalem. “Atlantans and many Jews too loved cherry bombs, whirling dervishes, sky rockets, small crackers and all the others that were manufactured sometimes legally and sometimes illegally.” He was tallking about Atlanta in the 1920s, but Jewish firecracker tradition of kids at The Orphans Home, Ahavath Achim, the Temple and Shearith Israel started earlier. Beth Israel, which lasted only 15 years or so, also participated in this exciting routine on Independence Day. A few notes about the Fourth of July. “The advent of this day of American Independence, which was once hailed with universal gladness and celebration throughout the entire nation, now meets scarcely a recognition in Southern Land,” a Georgia newspaper wrote on July 8, 1877. “Away with your 4th of July until Democratic resolutions shall again plant the Union solidly upon the principles of American Independence which marked the days of Washington.” This was, of course, a little bit of crying by the beaten Confederates. That same year the Selig and the Haas brothers went out to either Grant or Piedmont Park on July 4. They had bought a bunch of “crackers,” and they wanted to ensure that Atlanta knew that American Jews were real patriots. From a few notes I found, that night was one of glory for these four because they had such pleasure in being old time Atlantans, which their families were. Of the early "cracker" boys were the sons of Jacob Elsas, who owned the Fulton Cotton Spinning Company, better known as the Fulton Bag and Cotton Mill. The Elsas boys, the Adler boys, and the Dreyfus boys, who had more change than some of the others, bought a lot of this stuff. In 1896 they had a grand time in Grant Park joining up with their Christian friends to make it an Independence Day long to remember. From the Zimmerman family,
old time Shearith Israel founders and members, the younger kids had quite an evening over on Hunter Street near the Oakland Cemetery. When they became too wild, they were chased back to their homes.
Guest Column By Rabbi David Geffen
In 1905 a group of families, best known as the Eplans and Sauls, broke away from Ahavath Achim to form Beth Israel. They called themselves “Conservative," clearly Atlanta’s first such shul. A large synagogue was built at Washington and Clarke streets, trying to compete more with the Temple than Ahavath Achim. July 4th arrived in 1909, and the city had welcomed Teddy Roosevelt. Down on Butler Street at the Ahavath Achim, a whole crowd gathered. Rabbi Levine, Morris Lichtenstein and others were there. The boys from Ahavath Achim, Shearith Israel, Beth Israel and the Hebrew orphanage had a grand time. Cherry bombs were a favorite because, when they exploded, everyone had to hold their ears. Skyrockets were shot into the air, and the Jewish families looked up in amazement, thinking that fireworks on the Fourth made you a real American. The last event that I found some evidence for in those early days was a July 4 celebration, 1912, in Piedmont Park. Ahavath Achim and Beth Israel kids got together at a congregational picnic and barbecue roast. When darkness fell, the firecracker sounds boomed and the sky lit up. I knew the late Meyer Balser well, but I never asked him if he and his friends were “cracker” boys. Maybe Macarov had a list of those who were firecracker people like himself, but I never got to ask him. ■
This Week
The Golden Rule It’s no surprise that Atlanta Jews are so passionate about the topic of immigrant children being separated from their parents at our country’s border. After all, many of us are the children of immigrants, if not immigrants ourselves, and the border issue can’t help but trigger images of families being divided during the Holocaust – especially for survivors. Civil engagement is a cornerstone of our basic religious beliefs, so whether it’s politics or service to the community, Jews are known to be on the forefront. Providing a home for people or animals in need is a call to action for many in the Atlanta Jewish community. For that reason, a number of Atlanta Jews are at the helm of local organizations serving the pet rescue and adoption arena. You can read in these pages about Judaism’s teachings on kindness to animals and how those lessons are followed by so many in the Atlanta Jewish community who either have pets or work in the pet service world, or both. We spotlight people, businesses and nonprofit services, including those that train animals, have mastered pet empathy or rescue animals by flight. We also learn from the Chattahoochee Nature Center what to do if you find an injured animal. Best of all, we show you the cool, fuzzy, furry pets you submitted for our Jewish Atlanta Pets contest, and of course, the winners you selected. But it’s not all fluff. We have local reactions to the headline-making controversy about immigrant families being divided at the border. In keeping with our focus on civil engagement, we write about the nonprofit, Repair the World, choosing Atlanta as its eighth location. There’s also a piece on the history of our American Independence Day celebration dating back to 1877 in Jewish Atlanta. You’ll learn of the historic Jewish fascination with fireworks in all their explosive forms: cherry bombs, whirling dervishes and sky rockets, to name a few. Speaking of the 4th of July holiday, we’re taking a week off. But after all the fireworks, we’ll continue our focus on those who care for others in our July 13 Health and Wellness issue. What are the chances of finding a Jewish doctor in this community? ■
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REFLECTIONS
Zachor: Remember our Quest for Safe Haven It seems that the question of how to treat the stranger is an eternal issue – and is repeated today in this country with its fullness of venom. Here we are pondering again what to do with the many people who come to our borders trying to escape horrendous conditions that they have to face in their home land. Yes, they are brave people because in spite of the difficulties they face when they leave their homes, the love of their family, and the comfort of living within their own culture, they dare to wander in search of a new homeland and become a stranger with all the difficulties that will ensue. The issue of how to treat the stranger has been an ancient one in Jewish thought, and it is reflected and encapsulated in two Biblical events -- in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah and in the story recounting our Egyptian experiences. But the issue doesn’t stop there. We were strangers for more than two millennia both before and after the destruction of the Temple. Perhaps it is apropos that we look at our own historical wander-
6 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
ing in search for land on which we can live without fear of annihilation. In fact, Jews called themselves a people of “nah v’nad,” a people in constant movement and search for a home. We were ejected by many countries and for millennia did not find a safe haven where we could live in peace. As a matter of fact, this quest for a peaceful and accepting country is
One Man’s Opinion By Eugen Schoenfeld
my own story as a Holocaust survivor. Central in the story of Sodom is the juxtaposition of humanism and barbarism. On the one hand, there is God with a humanitarian outlook stressing the principle of tzedek, of justice. Standing in opposition is Sodom’s barbarism which deprives people, especially strangers, from their dignity and subjects them to all types of de-humanizing forces. The Talmud is resplendent with tales of
Sodomite evil. To make us conscious of the plight of the stranger, each year we recount our historical experiences as strangers in the land of Egypt. And in so doing, we Jews are forced to confront the issue of whether we will make ourselves into humane persons governed by morals, or, we will succumb to our fears of the strangers and deprive them from inclusion in our social system as well as deny them what the founding fathers of this country called their unalienable rights to justice. How many of us Jews, living now in comfort and relative wealth, seek to remember the struggles of our ancestors trying to escape the Russian pogroms and the anti-Semitic laws depriving us a chance to life itself? Only 73 years ago, after being subject to forces of destruction, I and the other survivors of the Holocaust being housed in displaced persons camps, were similarly seeking admission to countries where we hoped to re-construct our broken lives. Let me reiterate our cry of despair: it is ZACHOR – remember modern day Amalekites who sought our destruction. Do you remember the ship St. Louis of the Hamburg- Amerika line that in 1939 plied the Caribbean with 937 passengers, mostly Jews, seeking to escape Nazi Germany? They planned to disembark in Cuba while waiting entry to the U.S. Cuba refused the ship to enter its territory and it returned to Germany. Most of its passenagers were then sent to camps and died. The United States, citing legal argument, has similarly refused entry to refugees. As a child, I too was told of the wonders of America – this “golden medinah,” so called not only because of economic opportunities, but because, in addition to gold paved streets, the real gold in America is found in its just laws and above all equal opportunity, untainted by anti-Semitism. America was more than a good country – it was a dream. But the truth is far from the dream. Unfortunately, there are those in America who refuse to make it a shining dream or as some wish to call it “the new Jerusalem.” Nonetheless, I have hope that the idealism of America will be realizable.
The SS Marine Flasher ship brought European refugees to the U.S. after World War II.
We came and stayed, and in some ways we managed to alter it to become less anti-Semitic than it was. Like those on our southern border, I remember my own struggle to enter this country. I clearly remember 70 years ago when I stood on the deck of the SS Marine Flasher, the ship that brought me to this country. There in New York harbor, even though I had a visa, still I was denied entry and sent to spend 28 days incarcerated at Ellis Island. Just like our ancestors when given the law, the Torah, that was centered on the principle of justice, so we today are similarly asked to stand up for humanism against barbarism and remember our ancestors who for many years also sought a safe haven. Remember the words of Hillel, “If not now, when?” Let us not be fearful like other Jews to stand up for humane principles. In 2001, I spent eight weeks at Oxford University. It was Rosh Hashanah, and I joined my fellow Jews in traditional services. At the end of the service, in a discourse with Jewish university deans, I asked them why I never see them stand up against British opposition to Israel. Their answer was simple, and it still reflected the pre-Holocaust Jewish perspective: “We don’t dare.” For ages we Jews were advocates for the principles of fairness. We must continue to stand up for righteousness – that is for the rights of all people. Malachi, the last prophet in the Jewish Bible, tells us: “Lo, I will send the Prophet Elijah to you before the coming of the awesome and fearful day of the Lord. He shall reconcile parents with children and children with their parents, so that, when I come, I do not strike the whole land with destruction.” We must be careful of validating the most villainous and immoral Nazi acts like taking children away from their parents. I remember standing in line at Birkenau with my father and my 13 yearold brother when a German SS came and took him away from us, never to be seen again. Are we to enter a similar immoral stage? ■
OPINION
On Immigration
Judaism's "thou shalt nots" By Dave Schechter dschechter@atljewishtimes.com The Torah portion Mishpatim lays down the laws such as: “You shall not wrong or oppress a stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 22:20). And ... “You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 23:9). Of course, we who live comfortable American lives in the early 21st century were not strangers in the land of Egypt. Nonetheless, we are urged to heed lessons that have survived some 133 generations since, as Jewish lore maintains, the Torah was received at Mt. Sinai, and apply them to current events along the southern border of the United States. The Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” immigration policy - particularly the separation of children from parents who cross into the U.S. illegally - struck a decidedly negative chord in the Jewish community and contributed to a case of seemingly odd bedfellows. On matters religious and political, little common ground often exists between non-Orthodox and Orthodox Jews. That certainly appeared to be the case when the Orthodox Union, Jews representing a swath of religious Americans, hosted Attorney General Jeff Sessions at its annual conference, honoring him with a plaque reading “Justice, justice, you shall pursue” (Deuteronomy 16:20). So it was notable that just days later the OU signed onto a letter to Sessions and Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen expressing “strong opposition” to the zero tolerance policy, joining dozens of national, as well as state and local level Jewish organizations of all demoninations. Orthodox Jews were more supportive of then-candidate and now President Donald Trump than their co-religionists. An estimated 70 percent of American Jews voting in 2016 backed Hillary Clinton, while 25 percent cast ballots for Trump. By denomination, though, more than half of Orthodox Jews may have voted for Trump, compared with 24 percent of Conservative, 10 percent of Reform, 8 percent of Reconstructionist and 14 percent of those who identify as “just Jewish.” Since Trump took office, Orthodox Jews have registered approval of his job performance at a rate nearly equal to the disapproval expressed by non-Orthodox Jews. Orthodox Jews may be inclined to overlook less savory aspects of Trump’s
personal behavior because of such policy decisions as relocating the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and the nomination of Neil Gorsuch, now an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. In the debate over immigration policy, it is important to know why these parents endure the hardship of the journey from Central America and the risk of being detained, prosecuted and deported once they reach the United States. I have seen postings online of a poem called “Home” by Warsan Shire, a British poet and writer born to Somali parents. Consider these lines: “you have to understand that no one puts their children in a boat unless the water is safer than the land.” Why they come is a separate issue from what we do once they’re here and how they are treated by our government. I respect the Holocaust survivors who live with the traumas of their childhood and fear that history is repeating itself. One of my sons asked my thoughts on comparisons equating the treatment of the children - some housed in facilities with chain link enclosures (but don’t call them cages) - with the Holocaust. First, I explained Godwin’s Law, which holds that as an online discussion continues, the likelihood increases that someone will invoke Adolf Hitler and Nazis. But, I said, this is not the Holocaust. As abhorrent as separating children from parents may be, and as upsetting many may find the photographs (when not taken out of context), video and audio of the children, this is not the Holocaust. Masses of people are not being forced from their home; are not being herded like cattle into rail cars; are not being marched to showers, where they are gassed, and their bodies then cremated; are not being gassed in mobile killing units; and are not being machine-gunned, their bodies dumped into pits. That was mass extermination on a scale so great that a word - genocide - had to be created to describe it. Those who feel so inclined may decry the immigration policy or even rebuke the President of the United States as being amoral - but should avoid using the Holocaust to support their argument. Beyond the above admonitions from Exodus, consider the wisdom of Hillel, who converted a gentile to Judaism with these words: “That which is despicable to you, do not do to your fellow, this is the whole Torah, and the rest is commentary, go and learn it.” ■ ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 7
ISRAEL PRIDE News From Our Jewish Home RISHON LEZION
Sustainable Farming
The Volcani Institute has secured a $4.8 million gift from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. This generous donation is dedicated to establishing a model farm for testing, developing and demonstrating sustainable agricultural practices. The model farm, which will be located in northern Israel, is set to be the first of its kind in the country. With approximately 100 acres of land, the model farm’s size allows Volcani’s researchers to evaluate farming methods on an economic scale as well as an environmental one. Working in close collaboration with
the Israel Farmers’ Union, Volcani’s sustainable farm will host trainings, seminars and workshops to ensure farmers are always up-to-date on the latest practical research. The model farm began operations in the spring. It is supported by Volcani’s on-site laboratory, which will expedite soil testing that could otherwise take several years. The research applied on the farm’s fields will be immediately available to benefit farmers. “We are exceedingly grateful for this generous gift from the Helmsley Charitable Trust, which will allow Volcani to implement this one-of-a-kind model farm in northern Israel,” said Volcani Institute General Director Eli Feinerman. “With world-renowned scientists and a proven track record for innovative research and applied agricultural strategies, the Volcani Institute is uniquely positioned to advance the quest for successful sustainable agricultural practices, for Israel and the world.”
Photo courtesy of JNF
Special in Uniform Israeli soldiers receive a private meeting with top Israeli officials.
JERUSALEM
A Soldier’s Salute Thirty young men with physical disabilities arranged a heartwarming ceremony called Salute the IDF in honor of Israel Defense Forces’ 70th anniversary. The ceremony was attended by Minister of Defense Avigdor Lieberman, Minister of Culture Miri Regev, Opposition Leader Buzi Herzog, and Chairman of Yesh Atid Yair Lapid and others. The new soldiers also received a private meeting with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “It’s good to see you in uniform!” he exclaimed. “It’s a great privilege for you and a great privilege for the IDF which
benefits from your wonderful talents and commitment.” The Prime Minister and soldiers’ discussion spanned a variety of topics, in the course of which Netanyahu agreed that if his brother Yoni were still alive, he would have surely been proud of these valiant young soldiers. During the subsequent ceremony, Brigadier General Gabi Ophir, chairman of Lend A Hand to A Special Child, presented the Inclusion Award of 2018 to the IDF, a tribute to its efforts to integrate thousands of young people with special needs into the armed forces. ■
Today in Israeli History
ater opens in Tel Aviv. The festival coincides with the beginning of the first war in Lebanon and is almost canceled because many Israeli participants were called up for reserve duty. July 4, 1976: Elite Israeli military forces launch a successful rescue attempt of Israeli hostages on board a hijacked Air France flight at Entebbe Airport, Uganda. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s brother, Yoni, is killed in the operation. July 5, 1950: Introduced as part of a festive legislative session marking the anniversary of Theodor Herzl’s death, the Law of Return creates an open-door immigration policy for Jews throughout the world. ■ Items provided by the Center for Israel Education (www.israeled.org), where you can find more details.
June 29, 1939: Kibbutz Givat Brenner is established. Originally working as laborers in surrounding agricultural communities, the founding members of Givat Brenner establish agricultural and industrial infrastructure for the kibbutz, quickly making it financially stable and self-sustaining. June 30, 2012: Yitzhak Shamir, Israel’s seventh prime minister and staunch advocate for settlements in the West Bank, passes away in Tel Aviv at age 96. July 1, 1244: Duke Frederick II of Austria issues a charter extending rights to Jews. His goal is to build the region’s economy. The charter encourages Jewish money-lending, Jewish migration to an outlying area, and it guarantees Jewish safety. July 2, 2010: Chelsea Football Club, one of Europe’s most prized teams, offers Yossi Benayoun, one of Israel’s top soccer players, a three-year, multimillion-dollar deal. July 3, 1982: The First International Conference and Festival of Jewish The8 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Israeli soccer player, Yossi Benayoun, played for Arsenal and West Ham United during his tenure at Chelsea.
LOCAL NEWS Atlanta Opens Arms to Repairing Our World
Founding president of Hands on Atlanta Elise Eplan looks on as senior director for the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation Seth Cohen holds up a newspaper covering a federal judge’s decision in Northern Georgia to halt an unconstitutional law that would restrict minorities' voting rights. Cohen was one of 20 lawyers who helped win the case.
By Sarah Moosazadeh sarah@atljewishtimes.com Jewish values, a strong identity and affinity toward service are traits Repair the World aims to promote among Jews. The nonprofit hopes to expand that viewpoint this summer by launching its eighth community in Atlanta. Aside from Atlanta’s rich civil rights history, vibrant Jewish community and strong culture of service and civil engagement, the nonprofit selected Atlanta because of the city’s overlapping narrative between civil rights and Jewish engagement. Two of those narratives were highlighted during Repair the World sixth conference which gathered 50 delegates to learn more about social change and Judaism on Monday, June 18 at the Omni Atlanta hotel. Fifth generation Atlanta native Elise Eplan grew up learning about social justice through her parents who were very involved in the civil rights movement. It was that background that prompted her to create volunteer opportunities that were not only flexible but also substantive and fun. After speaking with a friend who started New York Cares, Eplan was determined to create her own organization. Eplan quickly learned that the best lesson was to not reinvent the wheel or to bring in friends, but promote diversity. After careful planning, Eplan appointed 12 founders who were disproportionately Jewish to launch Hands on Atlanta in 1989, which continues to offer multigenerational and cultural volunteer opportunities. The group's founders are diverse in terms of race, religion and gen-
der, which was not something obvious 30 years ago, Eplan said. With the help of philanthropic executive Michelle Nunn, Eplan and her team were able to grow Hands on Atlanta which she believes ties to Jewish engagement. She said, “We still tend to draw a disproportionate number of young Jews because, as everyone knows, it’s a part of who we are, and a lot of young people, Jews and non-Jews want to do something meaningful, which is the case for Hands on Atlanta.” She added, “It’s a startup story, but my Jewishness and my involvement in BBYO is what gave me the gumption to start something. It’s about helping people repair the world and I am happy to be one of those people.” This also was the first time Repair the World welcomed all its board of directors at its annual conference. Before Seth Cohen became the senior
director for the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation, he served as a corporate attorney and is known for his role as the leading attorney in a federal civil rights law suit protecting Georgia citizen's voting rights. In many ways the trial was the beginning of more tests to come, Cohen said. But his first trial began 20 years before he moved from New York to Atlanta and he had a difficult time meeting people. “I’d like to say that I was this proud, deeply social justice Jew, but the truth is I was a really nice Jewish-engaged young adult. I had been to summer camp and was involved in a Jewish fraternity … But when I moved to Atlanta I didn’t know anybody.” Cohen eventually got involved in Jewish Family & Career Services, and through its volunteer program, he was able to make friends and help homeless people, an innate interest for him. Via Project Connect Cohen was able to engage into other services, such as refugee assistance, which 20 years ago were unorganized. That was one important step, Cohen said, which led to his greater involvement in the community. “It was the day I expressed interest in intersecting my Jewish identity with something universal such as caring for people who did not have a home.” he said. From that moment, Cohen became more involved not just in Jewish services but in homeless , service and was asked to serve on the JF&CS board. "I was more engaged because I had that Jewish connection and particularly because of the J in JF&CS, which really enforced the values we have as a Jewish community, plugged into the universal community we were supporting,” Cohen
said. Before Cohen knew it, he got involved in other organizations such as the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and the Anti-Defamation League’s Glass Leadership Institute, which allowed him to connect his profession as a lawyer with social justice and Jewish identity. “All of a sudden I was able to see what civil rights means and how it all intersects with the way we engage and support individuals who are homeless.” On October 18, 2005, Cohen and organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League, American Civil Liberties Union, and National Council of Jewish Women, as well as Miles Alexander, former attorney for Martin Luther King Jr., were instrumental in stopping the law for voter IDs. “To me," said Cohen, "that moment of empowerment was really the sum of everything I learned. From being a volunteer who happened to be Jewish, from being a lawyer who understood what justice meant and from being a justice seeker who knew how to use his skills as a lawyer.” Federation CEO Eric Robbins said, “Atlanta is the type of place where people make things happen. It has been growing in leaps and bounds for many decades ... This is a city where you can dream something and make it happen and it’s a city of justice and doing the right thing.” He added, “bringing Repair the World to Atlanta has really ignited a tremendous amount of energy and I think that is because people live in a very assimilated city, but they also are holding on to something that is very important to them, which is their Jewish identity..." ■
Conference attendees and Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta president and CEO Eric Robbins (far right) discuss takeaways from the conference and what they hope to implement in their own communities. ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 9
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
Atlanta Participates in Global Forum
AJC Atlanta participants at the 2018 Global Forum in Jerusalem
By Dov Wilker More than 55 members of the Atlanta Jewish community, almost half of them students, participated in the American Jewish Committee’s Global Forum in Israel June 10-13. The Atlanta delegation joined 2,400 from around the world who were part of the forum, which honored Israel’s 70th anniversary. Joining the AJC in Israel were more than 350 students, representing 156 colleges and universities worldwide. They included students from Agnes Scott College, Emory University, Georgia State University, Georgia Southern University and the University of Georgia. Atlanta participants included: Zachary Adler, Lipaz Avigal, Jonathan Biran, Rabbi Analia Bortz, Matthew Chatzinoff, Rabbi Scott Colbert, Karen Colbert, Mollie Cole, Julie Covall, Sandra Cuttler, Linda Davis, Isabella Dubrow, Richard Ellin, Janice Elli, Ilene Engel, Lois Frank, Larry Frank, Wini Freund, Murray Goldman, Jon Goldman, Aaron Gordon, Talya Gordon, Leah Gross, David Horwitz, Merle Horwitz, Rabbi Mario Karpuj, Adina Karpuj, Eric Kelly, Jessica Korn, Sheri Labovitz, Steve Labovitz, Sarah Lampert, Gabby Leon, Rachel Markhoff, Linda Meir, Dennis Meir, Debbie Neese, Melanie Nelkin, Allan Nelkin, Jessica Nooriel,
Jennifer Pardee, Shelly Peskin, Lauren Rein, Marni Rein, Rifqa Sa’Aadat, Rachel Sarch, Lee Setty, Sarah Snow, Bari Steel, Isabella Taylor, Simone Wilker, Dov Wilker, Katherine Winston, Jacob Young, and Allan Zachariah. In 1962, the AJC became the first American Jewish organization to open an office in Jerusalem. The AJC has been actively involved in Israel since the country’s rebirth in 1948 and participates in year-round diplomatic activity. AJC delegations regularly visit capitals around the world to meet with top government officials and Jewish community leaders. Highlights included keynote addresses by: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu; Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz; Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov; and Yahya Cholil Staquf, General Secretary of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Supreme Council in Indonesia, the leader of the world’s largest Muslim organization. A surprise highlight was the reunion of Miss Israel, Adar Gandelsman, and Miss Iraq, Sarah Idan, who “broke twitter” with their selfie at last year’s Miss Universe competition. There were also 18 simultaneous excursions to visit and meet with experts at key strategic, counter-terrorism, innovation, absorption, interreligious, Israeli Arab and ultra-Orthodox sites and a gathering at Jerusalem’s Davidson Center, in a show of solidarity for religious pluralism. ■
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the opening plenary session of AJC’s Global Forum.
David and Merle Horwitz introduced Miss Iraq, Sarah Idan, and Miss Israel, Adar Gandelsman, at the AJC forum. 10 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Jewish Home Life Communities Has New Chief Development Officer
Stephanie Wyatt is the new chief development officer of Jewish Home Life Communities (JHLC). Wyatt succeeds Carole Shovers, who is retiring in December after serving for many years as develStephanie Wyatt, JHLC Carole Shovers, retiring opment vice president. Wyatt will chief development officer JHLC development VP start work October 1. Shovers has been with JHLC since 2005, becoming the first development director after a brief stint as controller. A tribute event will be held for her in November. Wyatt joins JHLC after eight years with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, serving as its vice president of engagement and leadership development.
Dunwoody Starts Its Own Bar Association
Dunwoody has created its own bar association. By having its own bar association, Dunwoody joins the ranks of Georgia’s top legal communities. The newly elected board includes: Andrea S. Hirsch and Eileen J. Shuman, co-presidents; George Fox, vice president; Neil Wilcove, secretary; Ryan Schwartz, treasurer; Lynn Goldman, Jewish members include (from left): Lynn Goldman, Eileen J. Shuman, Ashley Wine and Erin S. Stone, memAndrea Hirsch and Ryan Schwartz. bers at large. For its inaugural event, Aug. 2, Mayor Denis Shortal will be the guest speaker. The Dunwoody Bar Association will also be participating in the city’s 4th of July parade. For more information about the group, contact Andrea Hirsch (andrea@thehirschlawfirm.com) or Eileen J. Shuman (eileen@shumanfamilylaw.com).
The Piedmont at Buckhead Earns Three-Year Accreditation
The Piedmont at Buckhead, a senior living community operated by Senior Resource Group (SRG), has earned a three-year accreditation in independent and assisted living from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). The certification is the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to a retirement community. To receive the three-year accreditation, The Piedmont at Buckhead completed a rigorous peer review process showing mastery of more than 1,000 CARF standards, including those that measure the effectiveness of management and communication, programs and activities, and interaction with other agencies about additional services for residents.
Federation Considers Redeveloping its Home
Major changes are being considered for the home of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and the Breman Museum. The Atlanta Business Chronicle reports that JFGA is “seriously exploring” redevelopment of the three-acre site at 18th and Spring streets in Midtown. “We are at a feasibility stage of looking to create a new community arts space that would house the Breman Museum, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival and other groups, as well as an innovation hub,” Federation President and CEO Eric Robbins told the Business Chronicle. The paper reported that JFGA considered selling the site, which has a reported value of about $25 million. But as the Jewish community grows inside the Perimeter, the Federation decided to reFederation President and main in Midtown. CEO Eric Robbins
PETS Readers' Pets
This is the third-annual pet issue for the AJT. Each year we ask Jewish Atlanta to submit pet photos to be published in the issue. We generally receive 15 to 20 entries each year, but this year, the overwhelming response shows just how engaged you are. We received almost 100 entries and, as promised, we are publishing all of your pets. With so many entries, we chose our six favorite pets and let Jewish Atlanta vote on the winner for the cover. Voting closed Monday, June 25.
MAZEL TOV TO OUR RUNNERS-UP ... YOUR 2018 COVER STAR IS …
Lila Greyhound/Coonhound mix, 9 Liz Karen of Brookhaven
Duncan Scottish Terrier, 11 Jennie Kaufman of Norcross
2nd PLACE
Stella Ragdoll cat, 6 Steve & Donna Krodman of Woodstock
3rd PLACE
1st PLACE
A rescue, Lila can be skittish around our one-year-old, but loves chasing deer all through Brookhaven. Her coolest trick? She can tell us when there's going to be a storm.
Tofu Pomeranian, 12 Sarah Darrow of Smyrna/Vinings
5th PLACE
Andy Labradoodle, 3 Alisa Freeman of Cabbagetown
Angus Clyde Marvelous mutt, 3 Toni Perling of East Cobb
Sasha Burmese, 13 Shari Neumann of Sandy Springs
6th PLACE
Bailey Mutt (some Staffordshire Terrier), 5 Ella Szczupak of Northlake/Tucker
Milo Shichon, 6 months Gavin & Thea Cohen of Sandy Springs
4th PLACE All of your submissions were entered into a drawing to win one of five raffle prizes of a $25 gift card to PetSmart. We congratulate the following winners: ■ Melissa Miller of Johns Creek, owner of Charlie Gronk ■ Jesse Friedman of Sandy Springs, owner of Ellie ■ Marni and Daniel Bekerman of Dunwoody, owners of Herschel ■ Laura Levy of Atlanta/Tel Aviv, owner of Kimchi ■ Sue Harrison of Roswell, owner of Croix Please enjoy Jewish Atlanta’s pets featured in the following pages.
Bernard Corgi mix, 5 Erin Miller of Marietta ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 11
COVER STORY Jewish Pet Rescuers Find a Heartfelt Calling By Roni Robbins roni@atljewishtimes.com Jews are a vital part of the pet rescue industry in Georgia, from the national to the local level and from volunteer to staff member. Most of those involved with sheltering and fostering animals see it as their responsibility to give back to their community and to care for those who don’t have a voice, but bring so much unconditional love to humans. Let’s start at the top. Debra Berger is probably one of the highest-ranking Jews in the pet rescue world. She’s Georgia state director of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). But she started her volunteer “career” at the Atlanta Humane Society (AHS) many years ago. The two groups partner on many projects in Georgia, she said. “Judaism guides my outlook on animal welfare,” Berger says. “My animal advocacy is strongly influenced by the biblical mandate of tza’ar ba’alei chayim, which commands us not to cause the suffering of living beings. “Of course one does not have to be Jewish to practice compassion towards animals,” Berger says. “Being Jewish is just one of the many lenses to understanding the divine. The divine spark within us makes us empathetic to all of God’s creatures, human and non-human.” There’s a definite connection between volunteering and Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, said Jackie Nix, volunteer coordinator for the Atlanta Humane Society. While volunteering isn’t just a Jewish concept “everyone wants to make their community better,” said Nix. Some of the volunteers Nix works with “may have four dogs and want to
Debra Berger, Georgia state director for the Humane Society of the United States. 12 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Sarah Rosenberg promotes pet fostering as part of her work with LifeLine Animal Project. It’s easy for her to fall in love with pets who need a home.
walk dogs or are a huge cat lover and want to help someone else find a cat. They want to give back to the community, whether they’re Jewish or not.” The Humane Society tries to curb the population of animals on the street, she said. “I think sometimes they are forgotten. There’s a lot of helplessness; they can’t tell you what’s wrong. They may not have had a good life, but they get to have a forever home. We help people find pets and make them happy.” Sarah Rosenberg was a volunteer with LifeLine Animal Project before she became its community engagement manager 1½ years ago. LifeLine is one of the largest pet rescue and adoption organizations in Atlanta, caring for 30,000 animals at four shelters and two clinics. “I became involved with LifeLine first as a parent chaperone of a 6th grader who wanted desperately to volunteer at the shelter. I soon found myself visiting the shelter during my own free time, without my daughter, and kept finding more reasons to stop off at the shelter while out in the community. In addition to volunteering, we started fostering, as well, and we were basically immersed in the LifeLine experience. “Once we realized how many animals in our county shelters need the simple gifts of love and attention, we felt like we had found our niche in community service. With six rescue animals of our own in our home at the time, we knew that we could make a daily impact on lives, and that’s what hooked us.” Rosenberg never had any pets of her own until her 20s. “My first dog was what people now refer to as a ‘pittie mix’ and I became at once completely enamored with and devoted to these dogs who have been so poorly treated and highly misun-
Karen Hirsch has rescued, fostered and placed hundreds of animals into homes. She's adopted many of her own.
derstood in our society. I have shared my She rescued and adopted over 3,000 dogs home with a series of dogs and cats over over a 10-year period and sadly she took the past 25 years and consider each of my her life this March.” animal charges a part of my family.” Cohen became friends with PatterShe says working with animals “is son and told her that when she retired, hugely personally fulfilling and truly she would volunteer. She did just that. makes a difference to the lives of so many “I started going with her to rescue in the Atlanta community.” dogs from high kill shelters and other LifeLine spokeswoman Karen places and then go with her while they Hirsch became attached to animals at a got vetted.” So when Patterson died, Covery young age. “My mom and dad loved hen was asked to continue the shelter in animals and we were always taking in her friend’s legacy. stray dogs and cats. Because of my love “She was a one woman show and for animals, I became an advocate at a worked 24/7 and we knew we could young age, canvassing never fill her shoes. But our Atlanta neighborwe wanted to give it a try. Tza’ar ba’alei hood at age 10, and askMy main job is looking chayim, ing people to sign petifor dogs to rescue and literally “the suffering tions against issues like communicating with the of living creatures,” is a people the first week. We steel leg hold traps, nets Jewish commandment allow the people to foster that trapped dolphins, that bans causing animals a week before they decide etc. At age 16 my love for unnecessary suffering. It to adopt. We get tons of animals caused me to become vegetarian, and comes from the biblical law texts and calls during that requiring people to assist time with questions.” 36 years later, I still am,” in unloading burdens from The shelter is comHirsch said. animals (Exodus 23:5). pletely run by volunteers “As an adult, I’ve rescued, fostered and placed hundreds of animals into homes, and have adopted many animals of my own. It really upsets me how Atlanta’s homeless animals were being routinely euthanized in county shelters, and so I advocated for better treatment of shelter animals,” she said. “It is wonderful to be able to work for an organization that is saving so many lives and working to put Atlanta on the map as a no-kill city.” The new volunteer director of Ruffus Rescue, Carla Cohen, adopted her first dog from the animal shelter about five years ago and has since adopted four more. “The rescue was founded by Harriett Patterson, who by the way, was Jewish.
and depends entirely on donations. “We do charge an adoption fee, but every cent is put in our account and used for heartworm treatment and surgery and whatever other expenses we have.” Cohen admits it’s difficult not to fall in love with the animals she helps. “I try not to get too attached because it is bittersweet: happy they get a good home, but sad when they leave. We do make them fill out applications and screen every applicant to make sure they are going to the right home. There have been a few sad instances where I didn’t know if I could handle it, but my love for dogs is so great. I truly love, love, love my job.” ■
PETS
Nonprofit Helps People, Pets and the Planet By Leah R. Harrison Aaron Fisher is like the Pied Piper of animal advocacy. Whether participating at a synagogue tikkun olam event or in a booth at a community festival, the founder and CEO of Atlanta Rescue Dog Café is a magnet for people of all ages, most especially children. So devoted is he to curtailing the need for shelters and promoting responsible and humane treatment of Aaron fisher engages with eager leash makers at In The City Camp. animals, Fisher left his sevenyear teaching career to do the work year-round. As a teacher he had with them the importance of collars and noticed all his students were interested ID tags. When opportunity allowed, he The soft sales pitch in animal welfare and learning about pet also talked to the children about the apfor leash making. rescue opportunities and organizations, propriate way to approach and pet a dog. and he was passionate about providing While a donation to the organizaHis programs are ideal for birththat information. tion was requested, the activity at the fes- day parties and community and private Atlanta Rescue Dog Café was in- tival was free. The finished leashes, with events. Fisher has already made a precorporated as a 501c3 late last year, and their accompanying letters of dedication sentation to rising bar and bat mitzvah programming fully began in January from each participant, were then provid- students at Temple Sinai about making 2018. Fisher has been surprised by the ed to pet rescue organizations and police Rescue Dog Café their mitzvah project, response. Demand is exceeding his origi- officers for use throughout Atlanta. and will do the same at Or Hadash in the nal goal of reaching 5,000 students in With an eye on the enviroment, fall. He has participated with Jewish Kids the first year. On average, more than 500 Fisher partners with area climbing gyms Groups, In The City Camp and Marcus people are presently being touched by his to recycle old rope for the leash-making JCC Summer Camp. programs each month. project. Fisher’s alliance with local gyms Earlier this year he was part of an With the stated mission of “one has already prevented 1,200 pounds of MLK day of service at Congregation day ending the need for animal shelters retired climbing rope from ending up in B’nai Torah, and Purim with a Purpose through educating the next generation landfills, while helping spread the mes- at Gesher L’Torah. He will conduct synaabout humane animal practices and the sage about proper treatment of animals. gogue educational programs, and his Tikimportance of responsible pet care,” this This activity, Fisher said, “helps kun Olam Project is scheduled for future champion of all people, pets and services at Or Hadash and B’nai Torah. things furry has the planet.” There Residents at a DeKalb County senior Our mission is to one day is always a surplus center been tirelessly apwere looking for a way to give pearing at schools of animals in shel- back, so Fisher brought his leash-making end the need for animal and speaking to he said. The program and a couple of therapy dogs to shelters through educating ters, scout troops and numbers continue the facility. They would like him to rethe next generation about to go up instead turn. youth groups. Fisher’s sumhumane animal practices of down, and he mer calendar is aspires to help reand the importance of now chock full of verse that trend engagements to on the front end, responsible pet care. spread his gospel of by preventing anihumane treatment of animals at camps, mals from ending up in Atlanta shelters libraries, festivals, day care facilities, se- in the first place. nior care residences and more. He will Fisher believes his is the only nonpresent anywhere within an hour of profit solely dedicated to animal welfare Atlanta and will never refuse any orga- practices. His programs are specifically nization. His newsletter lists local res- tailored to each grade level, such as the taurants, breweries and even real estate “Can I Pet Your Dog?” presentation for agents that have teamed up to donate a younger audiences, or the “So You Think portion of their proceeds to Atlanta Res- You Want a Dog” segment or career day cue Dog Café. A CrossFit gym allowed pa- for older age groups. He has worked with trons to make a donation upon check-in. children as young as 3 years old. Bernie At Summerfest 2018 in VirginiaThe Atlanta Rescue Dog Café mesDomestic Long Hair Feline, 12 Highland in early June, Fisher engaged sage resonates with a broad spectrum of Lisa Handman of Alpharetta youth in making leashes while sharing audiences.
Aaron Fisher with the leash-making assist as the rest of the family looks on at Summerfest 2018 in Virginia Highland June 10.
For the sake of clarity, there is no actual brick and mortar café. At least, not yet. Fisher hopes that one day, maybe in year three, there will be a nonprofit café at which to hold events, and possibly in year five, a small senior dog facility. For now, “A café is a place where conversation happens,” said the soft-spoken Fisher. That discussion is one of the main reasons Aaron Fisher created Atlanta Rescue Dog Café. It appears to be working so far. There are opportunities within the organization for both youth and adult ambassadors and volunteers. To help support the efforts of Atlanta Rescue Dog Café or to request programming, please go to: https://www.atlantarescuedogcafe. org. ■
Bianca British Long Hair Feline, 8 Ran Nahum of Roswell ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 13
Bishop Golden Retriever/Collie mix, 5 Heather Hanselman of Dunwoody
Boba Goldendoodle, 5 months Lauren Olens of Chamblee
Bogie Australian Labradoodle, 4 ½ Kathy & Howie Sachs of Sandy Springs
Captain Jack Lab-Great Dane mix, 6 Jacquelyn Allen of Tucker
Cody Jack Cockapoo, 13 Joe Freeman of East Cobb
Croix Golden Lab, 11 Sue Harrison of Roswell
Daisy Pointer/Springer Spaniel mutt Fredricka Kahn of Dunwoody
Dobi Lab mix, 1 Susan & Ron Heidt of Brookhaven
Fierce-o Rescue mutt, 13 Robin Vogt of Northlake/Tucker
Herschel "Hershey" Mix (Mastiff, Lab, Pit, Husky), 6 months Marni & Daniel Bekerman of Dunwoody
Hunter Australian Labradoodle, 2 Belinda Morris of Pine Hills
Jack Domestic Shorthair Feline, 9 Lisa Handman of Alpharetta
Kirby Puggle, 12 Judy Goldstein of Sandy Springs
Kiya Shetland/Pomeranian, 10 Lori Herman of Johns Creek
Leena Half Pit/Half Lab, 2 Nata & Miriam Saslafsky of Toco Hills
Leroy Beagle/Hound mutt, 6 Ella Szczupak of Northlake/Tucker
14 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Carley Dog, 13 Judy Goldstein of Sandy Springs
Charlie Lab/Retriever mix, 2 Gabby Golden Retriever, 18 months Carmela, Sam & Leeron Ofer
Charlie Gronk Purebred Welsh Terrier, 3 Melissa Miller of Johns Creek
Cody Shih Tzu, 7 Pam Rosenthal of Sandy Springs
Einstein Bearded Collie, 4 Stacey Geer of Dunwoody
Ellie Shetland Sheepdog, 2 Jesse Friedman of Sandy Springs
Emily Rescue mutt, 13 Robin Vogt of Northlake/Tucker
Emma Domestic Shorthair Feline, 11 Lisa Handman of Alpharetta
Jackson Feline, 1 Shelly Dresdner of Dunwoody
Jade Dragon Boxer mix, 8 Faye Kent of Midtown
Joey Cockapoo, 2 Jenna Lipowsky of Brookhaven
Kimchi Mutt, 7 Laura Levy of Atlanta/Tel Aviv
Lily Bagle, 8 & Latke Beagle, 3 Bernice Isaac & Richard Quintana of Marietta
Lily Domestic mixed cat, 8 Lisa Handman of Alpharetta
Luca English Bulldog, 2 Ellie & Max Tavani
Lucky Schnoodle, 2 Ali Rubenstein of Sandy Springs ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 15
PETS Ruby on the go with owner, Emily Leopold Ruby, Teacup Chihuahua, is ready for travel.
Lucy Liu Pitbull/Lab mix, 1 Faye Kent of Midtown
Lylah & Tali Labrador Retrievers Robyn Bernstein
Animals and Empathy By Vicki Leopold
Maximus Great Pyrenees, 6 Josh Schaier of Kirkwood
16 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Max & Maisey Shih Tzus, 3 & 2 Shayna Peiken of East Cobb/Marietta
The reason we connect so much with mammals, rather than other animals, is because they seem to understand our moods and read our body language, according to Dr. Frans de Waal, an expert and lecturer on animal social behavior. “Most of our pets are mammals because mammals sense our emotions, we sense theirs and so we connect better with them than, say, fish or iguanas.” People believe that their pets really understand them and to an extent, de Waal agrees. While they can’t read our minds, they can tune into our feelings, said the Emory University psychology professor whose research about animal behavior has guided politicians, business leaders, psychologists and animal lovers. “I am sure they understand our body language and moods, such as sadness at loss or happiness.” While humans previously kept pets to help with tasks such as hunting, fishing, herding and protection, the need has changed, and pets are now mostly desired for companionship, de Waal said. Besides the companionship, people get something from their pets that they cannot always count on from other humans. De Waal believes that people enjoy and are drawn to their pets because of their honesty. “A dog or cat is not going to pretend to like you or be nice to you out of politeness. There is no second layer to their expressed feelings. “In humans, we always wonder if what we see is true. Are they really happy to see me? Are they really sad? In our pets, we see what we get. The loyalty of a dog is genuine as opposed to the loyalty
of most people we work with. I think this is an aspect of their behavior we really like.” De Waal, who has a Ph.D. in biology, has gained worldwide attention for relating his insights from primate behavior to human behavior. His extensive research on social skills, cooperation, food sharing, and conflict resolution has uncovered new and surprising information about animal behaviors. Aside from his work at Emory, de Waal is also director of Living Links Center at the Yerkes National Primate Research Center and a Distinguished Professor at University of Utrecht, Netherlands. He wrote many award-winning books about animals including: “Chimpanzee Politics,” (1982), “Our Inner Ape,” (2005), “The Age of Empathy: Nature’s Lessons for a Kinder Society” (2009), and his most recent, “Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are?” (2016). De Waal’s research improved the understanding of empathy in mammals and its foundation in human evolution. Before de Waal’s research, most studies focused on the biological role of aggression in securing survival. De Waal suggested a different viewpoint about social development and survival. He concluded that biology provided for the role of empathy in survival. In addition to aggression, he found that mammals have an innate ability to understand and empathize with each other. Rather than aggression, understanding and empathizing is the glue that holds societies together and allows them to engage in cooperative activities, innovation, kindness and caring for the needy. ■
PETS
Pet Rescue Takes Flight By Sarah Moosazadeh sarah@atljewishtimes.com Few people have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, but for Temple Kol Emeth member Ben Singer that dream became a reality after he obtained his pilot’s license and began volunteering with Pilots N Paws to rescue pets. As an insurance wholesaler for employee benefits for 20 years, Singer never imagined the heights his dreams would take him. But in 2016 on Labor Day weekend, Singer’s brother-in-law, who is a captain for Delta, became the owner of a Cessna 182 airplane and wanted someone to share the expenses. Because Singer’s brother-in-law knew his dream was to fly, he granted him access to the plane so he could acquire his pilot’s license. Singer began training in 2017, and on January 22 of this year, he received his private pilot’s license. But before he could take to the skies Singer had to apply for a medical certificate, undergo 10 hours of ground instruction and log 40 hours of flight time divided into instructional and solo time. Of those 40 hours, 20 were spent on emergency procedures, maneuvers and systems in preparation for the final check ride.
On average it takes pilots six to seven months to receive their license, Singer said, including an hour and half oral exam and practical. “It was a childhood dream to fly and while my wife was nervous about the whole thing, she knew this was something I wanted to do my entire life. To be presented with an opportunity like this was hard to say no to,” Singer said. Singer later became acquainted with Pilots N Paws through a client who volunteers for Angel Flight, a nonprofit which helps fly disadvantaged people to hospitals for treatment. Singer also wanted to volunteer his time, and because he and his wife adopted dogs throughout their marriage, he thought about rescuing pets. One of his most memorable missions, Singer recalled, was getting stuck in Cornelia, Georgia’s airport with his 12-year-old son. After a pilot rescued two golden retriever puppies and a dalmatian from South Korea, where they would have been used for meat, he delivered them to Hickory, North Carolina where Singer was scheduled to pick them up. Once Singer retrieved the dogs he flew into Cornelia, where he met and delivered them to two adoptive families from Florida, who were forced to drive an extra hour after one of the pilots pulled out last minute. But when it was time to head back, Singer noticed a thunderstorm had developed, and he and his son waited out the storm, watching movies on the airport’s TV and enjoying each other’s company. He said, “I got to spend six hours with my son and not once did either of us complain about having to be there. There was never any stress and it was
An adoptive family’s children from Florida spend time with their new pet that Singer flew in. One of the pets Ben Singer helped deliver was a dalmatian that was rescued from South Korea.
just us hanging out. I felt like the trip allowed me to spend more time with my son.” Another one of Singer’s most memorable moments was flying over the highrises in downtown Atlanta and Buckhead at midnight. There is an airspace of 30 nautical miles from the center of Hartsfield Jackson Airport which pilots are not supposed to fly over and forces them to fly to Carrollton to reach Southside Atlanta. But when it’s not busy pilots can call air traffic control and fly on top of Hartsfield’s terminals, which takes them right over Atlanta. “It was gorgeous scenery and a bit of a thrill for me to do that. But that’s how these things go, you do something nice and you usually get it back two- to threefolds in different ways,” Singer said. Part of what attracts Singer to Pilots N Paws he said is being able to combine his two
passions for giving back and flying. “It seemed cool to me and allowed me to use my pilot’s license in a different way. I got to see new places I normally wouldn’t go to,” he said. Singer, along with his wife and three boys, lives in East Cobb. A longtime and active member of Temple Kol Emeth, he is finishing up his third term as president of the board of trustees. For Singer, being able to fly and volunteer is why he got involved with Pilots N Paws. “Whatever happens I always gain so much experience from volunteering my time and I am not doing it for Karma’s sake. What I saw was an opportunity to volunteer and just give back.” ■
Singer obtained his private pilot’s license while practicing in a Cessna 182.
Ben Singer spent more than 40 hours training to become a pilot and ultimately fulfilling a childhood dream.
Maya Mixed, 11 Kareen Bronstein of Chamblee
Millie Dee Bichon Poodle, 2 Aviva Sauer of Sandy Springs ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 17
PETS
Potty Training Your Pooch Just Got Easier By Marcia Caller Jaffe mjaffe@atljewishtimes.com Michael Jenkins, a Sandy Springs resident and British subject, was always looking for opportunities. In training his poodle Rocco, he became fed up with potty pads and the frustration of coaxing his pooch not to go in the house. So he developed a retail product that is easy to set up and use. Jenkins’ PupAlert aims to take the stress and difficulty out of house training dogs. “I firmly believe this will revolutionize the pup potty home training as it’s so easy to do and will enhance home hygiene. " said Jenkins. Doggie Potty Alert System™️ from PupAlert, (www. pupalert.me) uses technology to act as a communication bridge between you and your dog. When used with an integrated training system, you learn when your pup needs to go out.
Doggie Potty Alert System from PupAlert makes potty training pets a snap.
The system is connected to home Wi-Fi. When your pet approaches the door linked with the Doggie Potty Alert System, a dog tag sends a message to a
sensor that, in turn, delivers a clear, audible sound that your dog has to go. Through a free app, you receive an audio-visual notification on any smartphones linked to the system. You can add as many smartphones as you want so the whole family gets notified, plus you can add multiple sensors and multiple tags. The app also allows you to customize and manage your dog’s schedule. Jenkins spent a year researching his product and assembling a team of contractors skilled in electronic engineering, app development, printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing and assembling, not to mention label and box suppliers. The key to a potty-trained pup is consistency, Jenkins said. “This way, you’ll always know when your dog has to go.” ■
Nili Golden Retriever, White Lab mix, 6 Shira Fleishman of Toco Hills
Pearlie Girl Pibble mix (Pitbull mix), 2½ Faye Kent of Midtown
Reno Hound/Shephard mix, 3 Rebecca Gordon of Roswell
Rook Black Lab mix, 4 Heather Hanselman of Dunwoody
Rosie Besenji mix, 1½ Charlotte Rich of Dunwoody
Sadie Jack Russell/Beagle, 4 Lexi Lab/Shepherd, 8 Mitchell Kaye of East Cobb
Simba German Shepherd mix, 6 Samantha Beskin of Sandy Springs
Solomon "Solly" Havanese Bev Lewyn of Toco Hills
Stella Terrier mutt, 3 Samantha Lennon of Brookhaven
Sunflower Jack Russell Terrier mix, 9 Lindsay Resnick of Midtown
18 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Noodle Maltese, 1½ Janie Sutler of Woodstock
O.J. American Shorthaired cat, 2 Jodi Kaplan of Roswell
Ollie Feline, 1 Mocha Husky/Boxer mix, 10 Adam Cohen & Emily Titus of Brookhaven
Peanut Russian Dwarf hamster, 1 Hengameh Pourfakhr of East Cobb
Pebbles Beagle, 7 Bernice Isaac & Richard Quintana of Marietta
Petals Tottie Point Himalayan, 13 Bradley Rudy of Marietta
Poundcake French Bulldog, 10 Susan of East Cobb
Reese Goldendoodle, 12 Michelle Cohen of Sandy Springs
Sam Domestic Shorthair Feline, 13 Lisa Handman of Alpharetta
Scout Golden Retriever/Terrier, 9 Lena Robbins of Marietta
Shainee Black Lab mix, 4 Elliott Rich of Dunwoody
Shelby Shephard-Lab mix, 4 Sherrie Epstein of Cobb County
Toby Mini Goldendoodle, 1 Kara Barron
Tova Rhodesian Ridgeback, 11 Liz Karen of Brookhaven
Tux Domestic Shorthair Feline, 4 Lisa Handman of Alpharetta
Winston Quarter Horse, 24 Robin Vogt of Tucker/Northlake ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 19
PETS
Another Way to Foster
Playful foster dogs in sun and snow.
We are all familiar with foster-parenting children who are in need of a temporary home, but did you know that it is also possible to foster a pet? There are a number of agencies that need short-term care for animals that are not yet adopted or are in the process of adoption. Erica Bercovitch is a woman who has fostered three dogs, and she and her mother, Marlene, who loves dogs as much as Erica does, have permanently adopted two of them. Erica has many wonderful stories to tell about her pets. At one point the family had three dogs. I asked her to share the story of Miracle Molly in her own words:
20 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, one picture changed my life. It was a picture of a scared little dog with the caption ‘this dog dies tomorrow’. Molly (then known as Darcy), had a
Guest Column By Chana Shapiro cshapiro@atljewishtimes.com
very hard life. She had been used as a bait dog and she’d been bred countless times. She also had several other strikes against her. She was black – people tend to prefer light-colored dogs – she was a pit bull and
she was out of time, meaning she’d run out of time for an adoption. She needed a foster home, and I couldn’t resist. Molly was originally supposed to stay with us for two weeks, but she was critically underweight, and two weeks turned into four months. BeErica Bercovitch with Miracle Molly, her cause of her severe situation, it foster pet whose life was saved. became clear that her progress to health would be slow, but neither she nor I gave up. She was totally in the snow and even climbs trees. Letting that incredible dog go was dependent on me – for walks, hand feeding and building trust. With all that she the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, but had been through and because of her te- it was also the best thing I’ve ever done. nacity, she became Miracle Molly, named Molly is healthy and happy, and that’s for her indomitable spirit. I took care what matters most. of her and she learned to trust me. She If you are interested in providing taught me about unconditional love and being a part of something bigger than a temporary home for a pet, an online search under dog or cat rescues in your myself. Today, Molly is living in upstate New area will provide plenty of opportunities. York with her amazing forever family. In Potential foster homes and foster parents addition to the incredible couple that ad- are carefully vetted to ensure that each opted her, she has two “fur brothers” and animal, while in their care, will be safe, two human siblings to love her. She plays loved and nourished. ■
PETS
Judaism on Kindness to Animals By Lewis Regenstein
among the most serious of offenses.”
Americans cherish their pets, but few realize that the responsibility to care well for them is mandated and even stressed throughout the Bible and Jewish literature. Jews can take pride in our ancient laws and traditions that, for thousands of years, have forbidden cruelty to animals and required responsible stewardship of G-d’s creations. Jews are the first people in the world known to have recorded and adopted such teachings.
Celebrating the Animals
Cruelty is Prohibited
There is an entire code of laws (“tsa’ar ba’alei hayim,” the requirement “to prevent the suffering of living creatures”) mandating that animals be treated with compassion. In Jewish tradition, Moses and King David were deemed worthy to be leaders because, as shepherds, they treated their animals kindly. And Rabbi Yehuda the Prince, the compiler of the Jewish law book known as the Mishnah, is said to have endured years of heavenly punishment for speaking harshly to a calf being led to slaughter that had sought his help. The story of Rebekah at the well (Genesis 24:19) stresses the importance of kindness to animals as showing good character, an account that is repeated four times in this chapter. When Rebekah shows concern for and draws water for the 10 thirsty camels of the servant of the patriarch Abraham, she is deemed fit to be chosen as the wife of Abraham’s son, Isaac. The Talmud even ordains that a person must provide for his animals before eating anything. It states that one should not have an animal unless one can properly feed and care for it (Yerushalmi
Lew Regenstein has this Edward Hicks print in his home. It depicts Eden, known as the Peaceable Kingdom, and also hangs in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
Keturot 4:8, 29a; Yevanot 15), and that “a good man does not sell his beast to a cruel person” (Sefer Hassidim 13c, #142, p. 64). Proverbs 12:10 tells us: “A righteous man has regard for the life of his beast,” and rabbinical literature even says that one should avoid living in a city where the bark of a dog is not heard, or the neighing of a horse.
Animals Must Be Allowed Rest on the Sabbath
Animal welfare must have been very important to the Almighty. G-d’s very first commandment (Genesis 1:22) was to the birds, whales, fish and other creatures to “be fruitful and multiply” and fill the seas and the skies. The first commandment to humans (Genesis 1:28) was to “replenish the earth…and
have dominion” (stewardship) over other creatures. In the beginning, G-d pronounces each life form created – the fish, whales, birds, cattle, “everything that creepeth upon the ground” and the other “beasts of the earth" – as “good” (Genesis 1:21, 25). And when creation is completed, the Lord declares it “very good” (Genesis 1:31). Even the holiest of the laws, the Ten Commandments, require compassion to animals, prohibiting working them on the Sabbath (Exodus 20). The revered biblical scholar Rabbi J.H. Hertz cites the tenet that “to relieve an animal of pain or danger is a biblical law, superseding a rabbinic ordinance, the Sabbath observance. Care and kindness to cattle are of such profound importance for the humanizing of man that this duty has its place in the decalogue. The rabbis classed cruelty to animals
Judaism doesn’t just require that animals be protected, it stresses the joy they bring to us. The Talmud requires that Jews recite special blessings when they behold lovely birds or animals, the beauty of lofty mountains, trees blossoming in the spring, rainbows and shooting stars: “Blessed art thou, O Lord our G-d, King of the Universe, who created beautiful animals in His world” (Berachot 9). “Blessed art thou, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who created everything for His glory.” And Psalm 36 (6-7) states, “Man and beast thou savest, O Lord. How precious is thy steadfast love…” Animal lovers will be happy to learn that the Bible even suggests that humans and animals will share a common fate, implying an interdependent relationship. As Ecclesiastes (3:19-21) states, “For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts, even one thing befalleth them … yea, they have all one breath, so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast....” There are many other such biblical verses and teachings, but Psalm 145:9 summarizes it all: “His compassion is over all His creatures.” ■ Regenstein is the author of “Replenish the Earth: A History of Organized Religions’ Treatment of Animals and Nature – including the Bible’s Message of Conservation and Kindness toward Animals.” He can be reached at regenstein@mindspring.com.
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PETS
What To Do When you Find Injured Wildlife Warm weather, summer vacation and outdoor adventures often lead to more calls to the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s wildlife department about injured baby animals. The CNC is licensed and trained only for reptiles, amphibians and raptors such as hawks, owls, vultures and eagles. Still, around this time of year, the CNC responds to more than 150 requests a month about wildlife babies. Part of the reason for the increase in calls is because the animals are living longer and there’s no hard freeze to keep them at bay, said CNC Wildlife Director Kathryn Dudeck. “In February, we had temperatures in the 60s.” Without a hard winter, reptiles and other wildlife came out earlier to breed, she said. Residents should be especially alert from dusk to dawn, when wildlife come out to enjoy the cooler temperatures. If you find an injured baby animal or other wildlife on your walks in the woods or in your yard, Dudeck offers these suggestions:
Baby Squirrels
People who find injured turtles can call the Chattahoochee Nature Center
that the mother has a clear path in and out. Place bricks or rocks on the box to keep your pet from disturbing it. Please note that mother rabbits do not have “bunny radar” and are unable to locate their nest if it is moved. A baby rabbit whose eyes are open and ears are fully standing up is old enough to be on its own.
Baby Turtles And Snakes
By far, the wildlife department receives the most phone calls this time of year about baby squirrels. Eastern gray squirrels have two peak breeding seasons in the South. Mother squirrels can have eight to nine babies in each litter and place two to three babies in each nest they build. The mother visits the nests in the same order several times a day to care for the young. If one of the nests is falling apart or getting cramped, she carries the babies in her mouth one at a time down the tree and leaves them on the ground. She will then carry them, again one at a time, up to one of the other nests. If you find a baby squirrel on the ground – the only rodent in Georgia with black toenails – gently place it in a box with some leaves and grass clippings and leave the box on the ground. If neighborhood pets are a concern, you can wedge the box in a nearby tree or shrub. Give the mother four hours to retrieve the baby. If she has not returned by then, call a licensed small mammal rehabber at the DNR. But note that the mother will not retrieve the baby at night. In addition to DNR, you can visit Animal Help Now, which has a phone app for locating rehabbers by GPS location. For more information, contact the CDC wildlife department at 770-992-2055, extension 239. ■
In this part of Georgia, turtles and other reptiles, including snakes, have no parental care. This means that from the moment they hatch from the egg or are born, they are totally self-sufficient. Keep in mind that aquatic turtles nest away from water, so you may encounter hatchling sliders, cooters, and snapping turtles on land. Their instinct is to travel downhill to water once they emerge from the nest. You can gently pick up the turtles and carry them to the edge of a creek or pond if their journey requires crossing busy roads.
Baby Birds
Photo by Wes Hatch/Chattahoochee Nature Center
The Chattahoochee Nature Center responds to calls about injured baby animals, like this rabbit some campers found.
Baby Rabbits
Rabbit’s nests are simply shallow depressions in the ground with dried grasses and rabbit fur lining. Mother rabbits don’t sleep with their young. Instead, they visit them once a day and once a night to nurse, and then cover them back up. If you have accidentally uncovered one, simply put grass clippings back over the nest, and place a tic-tac-toe pattern of yarn over the area. If the yarn is disturbed the next day, the mother has returned and all is well. If it is still in place, contact a licensed small mammal rehabilitator through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). There is a simple way to keep baby rabbits safe if your pet uncovers the nest. Mother rabbits only enter nests from one side and exit the other. Place a large box, such as what might hold printer paper, upside down over the nest. Make sure to cut out the short sides so 22 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
The first question we ask is: “Is it naked, covered in fluff, or does it have fluff, feathers, and a stumpy tail?” What needs to be done, if anything, depends on the answer. If the baby is naked or covered in fluff, it should not yet be out of the nest. If possible, place the baby back into the original nest, ensuring to look on the ground, in low shrubs, and tree branches, since some species only nest 3 to 4 feet off the ground and others actually nest on the ground. If you cannot find the nest, place dried grass and leaf litter in a small basket and place or hang it in the closest tree. The parent cannot pick up the baby, but will tend to it in the surrogate nest. If the bird is partially feathered and has a stumpy tail, it is a fledgling and is supposed to be on the ground. This is the critical time it is building flight muscles and learning from its parents what to eat and how to hide. If the bird has wandered into a roadway, gently pick it up and place it under some nearby bushes. It will start calling once you leave and the parents will relocate it. It’s an old wives’ tale that the mother won’t return to her young if they’re touched by humans. The myth of leaving a human scent started when people tried to put fledglings back in the nest and they jumped out or were pushed out by the parents so that they could continue teaching them.
Photos by the Chattahoochee Nature Center
Turtles like these can be found at the Chattahoochee Nature Center
Ink Domestic Medium Hair Feline, 6 Molly Okun of Sandy Springs
ARTS Boy Band Rocks Out for Charity
The boys recently performed at the Ronald McDonald House for Wolff’s bar mitzvah project. The proceeds from the concert will be donated to the nonprofit.
By Sarah Moosazadeh sarah@atljewishtimes.com What began as an innate interest in playing Jewish folk songs grew into a band of seventh-graders from The Davis Academy who do more than just play music. They also give back to the community. “Friction” includes Carson Wolff on bass, Zach Friedman on drums, Jackson
Crim as lead guitarist, and Sammy Effron as vocals and rhythm guitar. After Effron realized each of the group’s members could play an instrument, he decided to put the band together to perform at each other’s bar mitzvahs. The band’s name was inspired by Davis Academy’s music program “Fusion.” Friction is the opposite of fusion. The school’s musical director Robert
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Michek has taught some of the kids for nearly five years. The group describes its music as classic rock, but also performs liturgical Jewish songs. Lead vocalist Effron says one of the things he likes most about performing on stage is being able to play music and do what he loves. The band performed its first charity concert in January at Darwin’s Burgers and Blues in Sandy Springs as part of Effron’s bar mitzvah project. The performance attracted nearly 100 people and raised $2,200 to benefit the Songs for Kids Foundation. Effron serves as a youth ambassador for the organization. “It’s very special for me to be a part of that because it coincides with my Jewish values and I enjoy giving back,” he said. The band performed last month for the Ronald McDonald House as part of Carson Wolff’s bar mitzvah project. The proceeds will be donated to the organization. “The boys did a phenomenal job,” said Ronald McDonald relief manager Cori Mayfield. “It was awesome to see our kids just dancing away and they are still asking about the boys, so it’s pretty cool to see the impact and the smiles that they brought to the kids.” The band is already in touch with the Ronald McDonald House to host another concert. Friction performed at the Sandy Springs Festival last year and took an award at the Jewish Music Festival’s teen battle of the bands March 2018 at Smith’s Olde Bar. Wolff says what sets the band apart is its dedication to its craft and helping the community. “Most kids will spend their weekends playing sports with their friends or getting on the computer, but we visit each other’s houses and play music, and if we have an opportunity to give back, why not do so. To me Judaism means my community and family and it is who I connect with.” When the boys are not busy practicing, they are involved in track and field,
play soccer and throw the discus. “There are so many bands out there that mesh while they are on stage, but once they get off, they don’t even talk to each other,” Michek said. What makes the band unique is the boys’ camraderie, he said. “These guys are friends first, which I think makes them a tight niche.” Michek says one of the reasons audiences gravitate toward the boys is because they know who they are. “They all have made a dent in the social community at Davis,” he said. “There is already a connection there before they have strummed the first chord or hit the first drum beat. Their personalities and what they bring to this school as a family and sharing their gift and their passion just comes full circle,” he said. Wolff began playing the drums before he moved to the bass and saw an opening with the band. Friedman has always been interested in playing the drums. He said he draws his inspiration from his dad who can play almost any instrument. Crim, on the other hand, wanted to become a guitarist after watching rabbis perform for his family during Shabbat. Effron says one of his inspirations is Paul McCartney. But before Effron got into classical rock, he enjoyed learning covers of Jewish folk songs. In addition to charity concerts, the band also has performed at different Shabbat services. The group looks forward to writing its own songs and performing more gigs in the fall. Michek said teaching the boys the same songs his father taught him as a child allows him to spiritually connect with the kids. He noted that the band just consists of four members, but to watch them hype a crowd of 600 kids during a concert is amazing. “It makes me think of Moses leading the Israelites because for 40 days and 40 nights he took them on a journey, and when these four guys are on stage, they take people on a musical journey.” ■
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24 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
Friction is made up of Carson Wolff on bass, Zach Friedman on drums, Jackson Crim as lead guitarist, and Sammy Effron as vocals and rhythm guitar.
COMMUNITY
Noshfest 2018
Celebrate Jewish Food & Culture Noshfest 2017
The event will be sponsored by Superior Plumbing.
SIMCHA
Hours of the festival are 11am-5pm on Sunday and 11am-4pm on Monday. Temple Kol Emeth is located at 1415 Old Canton Rd. in Marietta 770-973-3533
Alexis and Eric Dworkin of Alpharetta along with brother Jace, proudly hold their new daughter, Olivia Brooke.
Temple Kol Emeth has announced it will host this year’s Noshfest on September 2 and 3. The event will be held in the parking lot of the temple at 1415 Old Canton Road in Marietta. Noshfest enters its eighth year celebrating Jewish food and culture by showcasing delicacies and activities unique to Jewish heritage and bringing together members of Cobb County’s diverse community in a fun, twoday festival. Enjoy international foods from more than 40 vendors and browse 50 booths of interesting and unique crafts and goods. Learn about Jewish culture through interactive exhibits, tours of the temple sanctuary, and
events for children, including a kids' zone with inflatables, games, petting zoo and face painting. There will also be special entertainment with dancing and live music, including the Alex Guthrie Band on Sunday at 3pm. The event will feature its third annual bagel eating contest where participants have five minutes to eat as many bagels as possible for a $500 cash prize. There will be complimentary family portrait sessions with Courtney Goldman Photography. Admission for the event is free. Patrons are asked to bring two canned goods per family. All food collected on admission will go to MUST Ministry’s effort to feed the hungry in Atlanta. ■
Birth
Olivia Brooke Dworkin Alexis and Eric Dworkin of Alpharetta proudly announce the arrival of their daughter, Olivia Brooke Dworkin on May 21, 2018. She weighed 7 pounds 15 ounces and was 20 inches long. She is the little sister of Jace Dworkin. Olivia is the granddaughter of Susan and Daniel Alterman of East Cobb, Amy and Neil Dworkin of New Jersey, and Jeff and Mechelle Levine of Florida. Olivia is the great-granddaughter of Phyllis Grocoff, Emily Levine, and Roberta and Cornelius Raskin. ■
Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael Sends 12 Graduates Into the World
Leah and Andy Lewis receive a collage of their four sons graduating from Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael.
By Sarah Moosazadeh sarah@atljewishtimes.com Both change and consistency are woven into the fabric of Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael. To help create that fabric, students, as well as the staff and teachers, work together in a similar way that warps and wefts create a pattern. That metaphor was used to describe the 12 members of Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael’s 13th graduating class on Sunday, June 24 at Congregation Beth Jacob’s Heritage Hall. This marks the 16th year the school will complete the education of young men.
Rabbi Shimon Wiggins (left) receives a memento from Rabbi Mayer Neuberger as a token of appreciation for his service at Yeshival Ohr Yisrael.
In attendance were Andy and Leah Lewis who were honored for their longstanding commitment and sponsorship of different programs at Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael. The graduation of the Lewis’ fourth son, Avraham Lewis, marks the family’s last graduate from the school. The graduation ceremony also highlighted Rabbi Shimon Wiggins' last year teaching at the yeshiva. “The last 14 years have been incredibly fulfilling. The enterprise of teaching and nurturing has been rewarding … Thank you all for your affection and support,” he said. Menahel Rabbi Avrohom Tkatch imparted three principles for the graduates
to walk away with: to have a good eye, which translates to always looking out for the good in other people, an aweinspiring spirit, which means to always give back, and a limited desire, which signifies being humble. Rabbi Mayer Neuberger looks on as class of 2018 He added: “throughout your years at yeshiva you have graduate Moshe Alterman receives a diploma and siddur been led very carefully on a from Rabbi Shimon Wiggins and Rabbi Avrohom Tkatch. path, given a very specific direction, values, traditions and taught the same room knowing who I am and ways to make decisions and to think the role I want to play.” ■ about what you want to do next. As you walk away from your high school, from Class of 2018 Graduates Yeshiva and go out into the big world, Moshe Alterman you won’t be under the careful guide of Moshe Bari the past. The future is there to be on your Moshe Gerchikov own.” Hainoch Baruch Kayser Graduate Moshe Bari reflected on Josh Leff his time spent at the school and what he Avraham Lewis learned: “Yeshiva provides us the frameMordechai Nir work. It gives us the values and beliefs Binyomin Pearlman and gives us a deeper understanding of Yisrael Meir Tkatch some sort of greater purpose. It is withElazar Simcha Warga in that framework that we make use of Kalman Warga what we are given. We discover our role Tuvi Warga and our mission. This time I am exiting ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 25
CALENDAR THROUGH JULY 15
Winnie-the-Pooh – Rich Theatre at the Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. Now through July 15. Based on the children’s stories by A. A. Milne, Winnie-the Pooh comes to life with familiar characters and music in this family-friendly, one-act production. Dates, times and prices vary. See the website for details, www.alliancetheatre.org/winnie.
CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES
Balak Friday, June 29, light candles at 8:34 p.m. Saturday, June 30, Shabbat ends at 9:36 p.m. Pinchas Friday, July 6, light candles at 8:34 p.m. Saturday, July 7, Shabbat ends at 9:34 p.m.
THURSDAY, JUNE 28
Emily Giffin, “All We Ever Wanted” Book Launch – Marcus JCC, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody at 7:30 p.m. New York Times bestselling author Emily Giffin discusses her latest novel, the Nashville-set “All We Ever Wanted.” Tickets, including a pre-signed book are $30 for JCC members and $35 for non-members. For more information, www.atlantajcc.org/bookfestival.
FRIDAY, JUNE 29
Dive into Shabbat – The Marcus JCC, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, holds a pool party at 5 p.m. and Shabbat songs and blessings with Rabbi Brian Glusman at 6 p.m. Free to all. For more information, bit.ly/2IQsOJV or 678812-4011.
SUNDAY, JULY 1
Honeymoon Israel Webinar – Cost
The Atlanta Jewish Bowling League Wants You – Bowlero Spalding, 6345 Spalding Dr, Norcross. Every week on Sunday, 6:45 to 9:30 p.m. $15.00. If you’re interested in joining, please call Alex Schulman 404-667-7752 or Pauline Weiss 404-514-9036.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 4
Fireworks in Sandy Springs – Concourse Corporate Center Lawn, 5 Concourse Parkway, Sandy Springs from 7 to 10:30 p.m. https://www.visitsandysprings.org/event/annual-stars-andstripes-celebration/15/.
Shabbat Together – Temple EmanuEl Rabbis Max and Rachael Miller organize a Shabbat dinner at a private home for young adults at 7 p.m. Free. For more information, rkmiller@templeemanuelatlanta.com.
SATURDAY, JUNE 30
SUNDAY, JULY 8
JF&CS Volunteer Opportunity – 11270 Elkins Road, Roswell at 1 p.m. Jewish Family & Career Services’ VIA young-adult volunteer corps assists at North Fulton Community Charities. Free. To sign up and for more information bfeldser@jfcsatl.org.
The Sixth Point Does Soccer – Mercedes Benz Stadium, 1414 Andrew Young International Blvd, Atlanta from 7 to 10 p.m. Twenty seats available for $45 at http://thesixthpoint. org/calendar. 26 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
single registration and $169 for double registration and includes materials, https://intownjewishacademy.org/ product/character/. is $2,200 per couple and includes roundtrip airfare and ground costs in Israel, and nine days of innovative cultural and historical experiences. Visit the website at https://www.honeymoonisrael.org/ for more information or applications@honeymoonisrael.org 12 to 2 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 11
1968 Summer Film Series: “Oliver!” – Temple Sinai, 5645 Dupree Drive, Sandy Springs at 11 a.m. Free. For more information www.templesinaiatlanta. org/event/1968-summer-film-series. html or 404-252-3073.
THURSDAY, JULY 12
“It’s Not Easy Being Green:” Conser-
The Kabbalah of Character – Chabad Intown, 928 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta from 8 to 9 p.m. July 12 through August 30. Learn strategies for making changes that are lasting and chart your own path to personal growth. Cost is $99 for single registration and $169 for double registration and includes materials, https://intownjewishacademy. org/product/character/.
FRIDAY, JULY 13
MJCCA Intown Summer Fun – Historic Fourth Ward Splash Pad, 6800 Dallas St. Atlanta, at 10 a.m. Free and open to all. https://www.atlantajcc. org/interior-pages/family-programsintown-programs/.
Dive into Shabbat – MJCCA 5342 Tilly Mill Rd, Atlanta, from 5 to 7 p.m. MJCCA hosts families for swimming, challah, grape juice and ice pops for children. Free and open to all. For more information, https://www.atlantajcc. org/pldb-live/dive-into-shabbat-outdoor-pool-party-at-the-mjcca-40026/.
Friday Night Alive Service and Pot Luck – Congregation Beth Shalom, 5303 Winters Chapel Rd, Dunwoody, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Join Rabbi Zimmerman for musical Kabbalat Service. Free. To RSVP, https://www.bethshalom.net/ event/potluck-dinner.html.
vation through Amphibian Education Efforts – Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, at 12 p.m. In conjunction with the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Hear about Kermit the Frog’s creator, Jim Henson, and his passion for the environment. Free. For more information, https://www.thebreman.org/lunchtime-culture-2018
Frankly Speaking with Sherry Frank – National Council of Jewish Women, Atlanta Section: 6303 Roswell Rd NE, Sandy Springs, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Lunch and discussion group. Free. Please RSVP by the day before the meeting to christineh@ncjwatlanta. org or call (404)843-9600.
TUESDAY, JULY 10
The Cakemaker Screening – Land-
The Kabbalah of Character – Chabad Intown, 928 Ponce de Leon Ave, Atlanta from 8 to 9 p.m. Eight Tuesday Evenings - July 12 through August 28. Learn strategies for making changes that are lasting and chart your own path to personal growth. Cost is $99 for
pel Rd. Dunwoody from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Free. For beginners or those needing a refresher course. Free. For more details, visit https://www.bethshalom. net/event/weekly-mah-jongg13.htm.
Beginners Mahjong Night – Congregation Beth Shalom, 5303 Winters Cha-
mark Midtown Art Cinema, 931 Monroe Drive NE, Atlanta. A film by Ofir Raul Graizer tells the story of Thomas, a young German baker, having an affair with Oren, an Israeli married man who has frequent business visits in Berlin. Check theater for times the
JUNE 28–JULY 15 week of the show. Tickets are $9 for seniors and $11 for regular adult admission. For more information, https:// www.atlantajewishconnector.com/ events/the-cakemaker/.
SATURDAY, JULY 14
Georgia Master Gardener Marketplace – The Galloway School, 215 West Wieuca Road NW, Atlanta from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plant, garden, art and craft vendors. Free and open to the public. For more information, https://www.facebook.com/events/181379522582302/.
SUNDAY, JULY 15
Camp Barney Medintz Tour – 4165 Hwy 129 N, Cleveland, GA at 10:30 a.m. Prospective families tour CBM while in
session to see the camp in action: Free. RSVP required at campbarney.org/ summertours. Tours are for families who do not have children at CBM this summer.
Rosh Chodesh Av Ladies Paint Night – The Kehilla in Sandy Springs, 5075 Roswell Rd NE from 7:30 to 10 p.m. To
register, https://www.thekehilla.org/ event/rosh-chodesh-av.
Volunteering at the Atlanta Community Food Bank with Sixth Point – Atlanta Community Food Bank, 732 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW, Atlanta, 1 to 4 p.m. Volunteer opportunity at the Product Rescue Center. For more information, http://thesixthpoint.org/ calendar/.
Summer Dinner and a Movie – Congregation Beth Shalom, 5303 Winters Chapel Rd, Dunwoody 6 to 9 p.m. Israeli meal prepared by Chef Schulman. $25 per adult. RSVP at https://www. bethshalom.net/event/summer-moviedinner-event.html.
Find more events and submit items for our online and print calendars at:
www.atlantajewishconnector.com
This calendar is sponsored by the Atlanta Jewish Connector, an initiative of the AJT.
THURSDAY, JUNE 28
AJFF Connects: Maynard Special Screening – Regal Cinemas Atlantic Station 18 IMAX & RPX at 7 p.m. A documentary celebrating the legacy of Atlanta’s first black mayor. Admission is $15 for film and Q & A and $25 for film, Q & A and post-film event. For more information, https://www.ajff.org/ article/2018/05/ajff-connects-maynard.
ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES JUNE 29, 2018 | 27
BRAIN FOOD "Founding Fathers" By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com Difficulty Level: Medium 1
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54. Oscar winner for "Amadeus" 55. Early Palm smartphone 1. He's (still) in charge in the West 56. ___ and eggs Bank 59. Bird of Celtic lore 6. Coll. whose mascot is the Nit61. Mentions knowing (Jacob) tany Lions Degrom, e.g. ...or a hint to solving 9. Gilbert and Hughes this puzzle 14. Frasier or Niles 66. Teens often care a lot about it 15. Not well 67. Erev 16. To be of use 68. Bratislava bucks 17. Name associated with gravity 69. Palindromic dogma 19. Pace 70. Mich. neighbor 20. It finds itself in hot water 71. He loved Potter's mom 22. "Swell!" 23. Yeshiva University's neighborhood DOWN 27. Get off the ground 1. Summer coolers, for short 29. The United Nations often 2. ___'at HaOlam (creation of the seems biased against it world) 30. It beats a heart, at times 3. Kind of Mitzvah? 32. Science class, for short 4. Late columnist Landers 33. Ambassador Avner 5. Be very angry 35. Squared cracker? 6. Breads with pockets 38. Nairobi's land 7. Messy dresser 40. Beer brand certified by Star-K 8. It parallels the radius 41. Jewish rapper whose father is 9. Took a load off the Prime Minister of Belize 10. Locale of Matthew Weiner's hit 43. Sault ___ Marie AMC show 44. Thingamajig 11. Asian noodles 47. Wallach and Roth 12. Defender of Isr. 48. Barnyard honker 13. One driving fast in "Zootopia" 49. Birds with showy plumes 18. How dogs kiss 51. Way to begin 21. All smiles
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23. "American Idol" winner Taylor 24. ___ Chayil (Var.) 25. Hurricane of 2011 26. Like old meat 28. Entry-level legal jobs: Abbr. 30. A sukkah provides it 31. Sneaker cat 34. Those, in Mexico 35. Tippecanoe's partner, in an 1840 campaign 36. "Hotel du Lac" novelist Brookner 37. Like buffalo wings, eating-wise 39. Happenings 42. Title for Freud before Doctor 45. Expressions of delight 46. "Philadelphia" director 48. Norman Lear character in two hit sitcoms 50. Group leaders around the Old City 51. Coastal town south of Haifa 52. Set up 53. Aired "I Love Lucy," e.g. 54. Hall of ___ (sports shrines) 57. "___ car!" (game show prize) 58. Kibbutz or Camp 60. Still 62. Seek a seat 63. "... boy ___ girl?" 64. Weasel's sound? 65. Yosemite to Joshua Tree dir.
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28 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
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25 Years Ago // July 2-9, 1993 ■ The proposed Atlanta Jewish Heritage Center, now The William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum, received a $1.75 million gift from local philanthropist William Breman. At the time this was believed to be the largest one-time gift in the history of the Atlanta Jewish community. ■ Observant Atlanta Jews react to the resignation of executive director of the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), Tom Dine, for referring to ultra-Orthodox Jews as “smelly” and “low-class.” ■ The bar mitzvah of Marc Bryan Sonenshine of Atlanta took place at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, June 26, at Congregation B’nai Torah. A congregational kiddush followed.
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■ Helene and Mark Popowski announce the birth of a son, Gabriel Herbert, June 19. Linda and Randy Evans announce the birth of a daughter, Taylor Cecilia, June 14.
Abe Fortas, the fifth Jewish Supreme Court justice.
50 Years Ago // July 5 -12, 1968 ■ Abe Fortas was the first Jew in U.S. history to be nominated as chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Fortas was the fifth Jew to serve on the Supreme Court. He was named to fill the vacancy created when Arthur J. Goldberg resigned at the request of President Johnson to be U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. ■ Rabbi Philip M. Posner became assistant rabbi of The Temple in Atlanta. He was ordained at the Hebrew Union College on June 8. ■ The Jewish Educational Alliance in Savannah received the first annual community safety trophy for its contributions to a driver education program for high school students. ■ Mrs. Paula Barker Chamberlain, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Barker, and Robert Barron Weil, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph Weil, were married June 23 in B’nai B’rith Jacob Synagogue. Rabbi Abraham I. Rosenberg and Rabbi Moe Stern officiated.
OBITUARIES
Atlas James Mallen 7 months, Atlanta
Atlas James Mallen passed away peacefully on June 17, 2018, at home in Atlanta, GA. He was born October 1, 2017 to Jonathan and Amy Mallen with Vici Syndrome, a rare, terminal, genetic condition. During his short life, Atlas enjoyed kisses from his beloved puppies, Tucker and Mason, lounging in the backyard, and spending time cuddling with friends and family. Amy and Jon are so happy to have chosen Atlas’s name before meeting him. Atlas is notorious for holding the weight of the heavens. They chose this name partly to honor all their angels in heaven. How ironic that they chose the name of the strongest titan in Greek mythology for their son, who was weak in so many (physical) ways. He more than made up for it, and they are so appreciative of what he taught everyone around him and the strength he showed every single day. Atlas was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Saul “Twom” and Muriel Mallen, Charles King, Aubrey Barlow, and Geraldine Hallemann; grandfather, Peter James Mallen, and grandmother, Judy Barlow Hallemann. Survivors include his parents, Jonathan and Amy Mallen; great-grandparents, Betsy King, Nelva Barlow, AJ Hallemann and his wife Jolene; grandmothers Janie Mallen and Kathy Brumley; grandfather Terry Hallemann; aunts, Stephanie Mallen, Amanda Mallen, and Emily Hallemann Trevino and her husband Jeffrey; uncle, Matthew Mallen; cousin, Elizabeth James Trevino; dear family friend, Rossy Bruno; and multiple aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends. The family would like to give special thanks to Atlas’s amazing hospice and palliative care teams, as well as his wonderful nurses and doctors. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and/or The Children’s Program of Hospice Atlanta in honor of Atlas, in connection with Amy and Jon’s Atlas Strong Charity efforts. Donations can be mailed to: CHOA Foundation, attention: Katie Miller, 3395 NE Expressway, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30341, and Hospice Atlanta, attention: Lanise Shortell, 1244 Park Vista Drive NE Atlanta, Ga 30319. Amy and Jon are determined to turn their devastating situation into a positive situation and benefit future patients at CHOA and Hospice Atlanta in honor of their sweet angel baby. A funeral service was held Wednesday, June 20, 2018, at 11 a.m. at The Temple, with a burial afterward at Arlington Memorial Park. Arrangements entrusted to Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999. Atlas’s story can be read at https://bit.ly/2HwH5IC.
Death Notices
Meyer Lichtenstein 88, Augusta, Ga, passed away June 22, 2018. Jeanette Cohen Rousso, 97, died in her home surrounded by her loving family in Montgomery on June 20, 2018. Allen Sender, memorial service was held at The Temple on Sunday, June 24. Beatrice Katz, mother of Michael (Valerie Wender) Katz and grandmother of Jeremy and Jennifer Katz and step-grandmother of Sarah and Joseph Capelouto, passed away on June 23 in South Africa. Rabbi Lew Weinreich, of Atlanta, husband of Evie Weinreich and father of Tzvi and Dovid Weinreich, died on June 22, 2018.
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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30 | JUNE 29, 2018 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES
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In Defense of Being a Keep-a-holic I recognized the benefits of my keep-a-holicism a few days ago when a friend called me. This woman volunteers at a homeless shelter, and she agreed to serve as props manager for an original production written by the residents. That means that my friend (let’s call her Ruth) has to acquire the costumes and other items for the stage, without spending money on them. So Ruth called me. Over the years, I’ve attained official “go-to” status with Ruth, because—how shall I put this?—I happen to possess items other people don’t value. When I get a call from Ruth, I know she’s looking for props for a show. And my record’s pretty solid. Over the years I’ve only let her down a couple of times, once when she requested a beekeeper’s head covering (you’ll be happy to know that I have one now), and once for a pair of men’s wading boots (no, I don’t have those). I love these challenges, so I was happy to get the call to help again. That’s because I’m a keep-a-holic; I have loads of stuff and I love to share. One of the characters in Ruth’s play is a ghetto big shot who has stereotypically flamboyant trappings of power. Ruth asked if I had a fake cigar. The presentation was in a community center that had a strict fire code, so they couldn’t use a real one. At the same time,
CLOSING THOUGHTS
because the audience would be seated close to the stage and could see everything clearly, the cigar couldn’t be the easily-sourced party-favor kind. It had to look real and it had to light up. You guessed it: I had one.
Chana’s Corner By Chana Shapiro cshapiro@atljewishtimes.com
A few days later, Ruth requested a plaid man’s vest, a gray fedora (with garish feather and striped band) and a silver-tipped walking stick. I had the vest and fedora, and Ruth conceded that my cane with a brass handle would do. Note to reader: If you have a silver-tipped walking stick, I’d be more than happy to take it off your hands. Happily, I’m not there only for Ruth. I’ve be able to provide our grandson’s class with three dozen pieces of groovy colored cardboard and large reproductions of the grand master artwork they were studying. Our granddaughter’s class benefits from ethnic fabrics and vintage clothing (Anything from the ‘70’s and ‘80’s is a treasure!). Tablecloths and napkins for simchas, with coordinated vases, are a slamdunk. My most fun contribution to a worthy cause was colored glass costume
jewelry for an acquaintance who was interviewed on network TV. Everyone agreed that the necklace looked exactly like the one Martha Stewart wore when she was arraigned for insider trading. I know what you’re thinking: “My dear Chana, I don’t want to hurt your feelings, but perhaps you should reconsider the use of your basement and attic, places where other people have luggage (but not 13 pieces of it) and a futon (but not with two dozen assorted pillows). “The closet in your guest room would be great for, well, guests, and the outdoor shed would be ideal for lawn equipment rather than three croquet games and several sets of golf clubs. (Chana, if you played golf, it would be a different story). “Chana, admit it, you’re a borderline hoarder, and we’re worried about you!”
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Fret not, concerned reader. Piles of newspapers aren’t blocking halls and doorways. I don’t have stacks of tattered sheets and towels filling my closets. Weekly, we recycle plastic containers and cereal boxes. Our chairs and sofas are available for seating. Our magazines and newspapers are current. No, I demur. I’m a keep-a-holic, a sensitive curator and intrepid guardian of useful and interesting things. I have a neighbor whose home is zen-like in its refined minimalism. But when I saw empty space in her hall closet and a completely barren shelf in the den, I was stunned. What if one of her grandchildren needs a pair of bright fuchsia gloves or a neighbor requires six matching folding-chair seat covers? Thank goodness I’m right down the street. ■
The Handyman Can
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