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19 adar – 25 adar 5773 vOL. LXXXVIII NO. 9
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MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
AJT
from our readers
Hooray for Chana! Dear Editor:
I
hope the Atlanta Jewish Times realizes what a “jewel” you have in Chana Shapiro. I look forward to her [semi]-weekly columns. They are humorous, poignant, heart warming, relatable and always give me food for thought.
Her recent piece “A Family Memento’s Message Is Revealed” really was meaningful to me. My mother was the collector and guardian of family treasures, such as home movies from the early ’50s and years beyond and recordings that captured messages from many family members. I can still hear myself being encouraged by my mother to sing “Going to Take a Sentimental Journey” when I was 4 years old. I have been able to secure most of these irreplaceable remembrances. I hope that one day they will be watched and listened to by my children and grandchildren and have the same sentimental value for them that they’ve had for me. Sincerely, Jerry Schwartz Alpharetta
Real Education, Not Memorization Dear Editor:
I
just read the letter entitled “Blame the Teachers!” written by Alan O. Feingold, MD, MBA in the Feb. 1 issue of the AJT. Wow, someone finally hit the nail on the head: If we teach our children how to learn and problem-solve, they can apply those skills to anything they want to learn. Sir Ken Robinson, education and creativity expert, lectures and writes books about how our schools kill creativity. [In a Huffington Post article, he points out that] a child learns quickly not to risk being wrong in school for fear of humiliation or reprisal. But America is great because so many people were willing to risk failure. If you breed people afraid of that risk, no one would ever start their own business. The point of my letter is to ask the AJT to start this discussion as a series of articles. Nothing will change if not challenged, and it could create a wonderful dialogue among your readership and bring a different view to many that can effect change in the system. Our current system of testing rewards those with good memorization skills, but anyone who has done it can tell you that once the test is over, those facts memorized for that test begin to fade. So, did you really learn anything? Sincerely, April A. Weiner
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
Atlanta
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AJT
from the jcrc
Op-Ed: The Iranian Plot Thickens WEIGHT OF WORDS, OBAMA’S RENEWED FOCUS BY HAROLD KIRTZ
AJT Contributor
T
he Iranian leadership’s words of animosity for Israel are a constant stream. Still, some in the international
community believe that mere words do not matter and that they cannot be the basis for action taken against Iran’s nuclear development.
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The depth of the hatred, however, should not be underestimated. Those with ears to listen might hear Mahmoud Ahmadinejad promise to “wipe Israel off the map� or “erase Israel from the page of time.� It seems that the Iranian President is making pronouncements every month, if not every week, about the debasement of or the destruction of Israel and all Israelis – and, in many instances, the extermination of all Jews. Furthermore, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has expressed exactly the same sentiment for many years. In early 2012, for example, the conservative website Alef – known for its ties with Khamenei – featured an article providing the legal and religious justification for the destruction of Israel and the slaughter of its people, and the article was repeated on the website of the Revolutionary Guard. But there remains an irrational chorus who try to tell us that these threats are of little or no consequence. Thus, the issue is whether the international community will start taking the Iranian leaders at their word.
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It is difficult to not take these words seriously, they are expressed with such vitriol. What’s more, they are accompanied by descriptions of the ever-closer developments of nuclear capability. These messages could be either a pronouncement of Iran’s plans or an incitement for Israel to attack their nearby enemy, which would allow these leaders to solidify their hold on the Iranian people. At the very least, we are seeing a pattern of psychological warfare. In recent days, there have been hints that Iran might be open to new discussions on its nuclear program, but they have run simultaneously hot and cold on bi-lateral talks. How many times have we gone through this now? After 10 years, the only real development is that Iran is now far closer to its ambition of gaining a weapon of mass destruction. Meanwhile, Tehran’s defenders and apologists say the regime has never acted in a hostile manner against any of its other neighbors – but what of Iran’s arming and funding of terrorist proxies,
including Hamas and Hezbollah? Consider this: Rafael Bardaji, a former national security advisor to the Spanish prime minister, met with Khamenei some years back. When he asked what was the Supreme Leader’s job, Khamenei replied, “My job is to set Israel on fire.�
Their rhetoric has not changed.
What has changed? The re-election of President Obama and the advice that he has received from Hillary Clinton, John Kerry and White House Chief of Staff Tom Donilan may have, and for this reason the U.S. could now be traveling on a different path. The President is now re-engaged with the Middle East; he and John Kerry will be traveling to the region soon. And, in what some commentators would have us believe is a reversal of attitude from his first term, Obama appears to be aiming for even greater cooperation with Israel in facing the increasingly active axis of Iran-Syria, Hezbollah and – possibly – Egypt. Although the recent visit by Ahmadinejad to Cairo was not without local controversy, it was clearly undertaken to establish renewed ties between the two countries. And, with many Iranian weapons in storage depots across Syria, Iran has been exerting pressure on their neighbor to transport these arms to Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Israeli strike on Syria a couple of weeks ago was an effort to destroy some of these weapons in storage and their transportation vehicles. Still, according to some intelligence sources, Syria has at least two other warehouse complexes of these weapons, and Iran may also be stoking the fire under Assad to get Syria to engage Israel in a hotter exchange of fire. All of this is part of Iran’s plan to divert global attention from their nuclear development. The world should not be thus distracted. Thankfully, the United States and Israel, perhaps with other partners, may be on the verge of setting back Iran’s nuclear program. Editor’s note: Harold Kirtz is past president of Atlanta’s Jewish Community Relations Council.
AJT
israel
Israeli Pride
GOOD NEWS MADE IN THE JEWISH STATE THIS PAST WEEK
TOUGH TUMORS TACKLED. Current medication for breast cancer targets receptors in the tumors, but one in six tumors has no receptors and thus are difficult to treat. Now, a team of 11 Weizmann Institute scientists has found a combination of two antibodies that mount a “pincer attack” on these tumors, causing them to collapse.
INTEL ISRAEL HAS A MEGA YEAR. Despite the global economic slowdown, exports by Intel Israel more than doubled in 2012 to $4.6 billion (from $2.2 billion in 2011). Intel exports now account for one-tenth of Israel’s total industrial exports, and the number of full-time Intel employees grew by 10 percent to 8,500.
CELEB SELECTS “HATIKVAH.” Non-Jewish Zionist writer Julie Burchill chose the Israeli National Anthem as one of her eight records for BBC’s “Desert Island Discs,” which asks a well-known person which eight albums they would take with them on a desert island. Burchill also chose “Hebrew Man” by Israel’s Ehud Banai and the theme song from the movie “Exodus.” ISRAEL GETS MORE BEER. Gush Etzion residents from Scotland and the U.S. have teamed up to create Lone Tree Brewery. David Shire of Scotland described his new product at the International Mediterranean Tourism Market conference in Tel Aviv. NATURAL ANTI-FREEZE DISCOVERED. A team of Israeli, American and Canadian scientists has unraveled the workings of anti-freeze proteins that allow animals, plants, fish and microorganisms to exist in cold climates. The discovery has implications in food and medicine production around the world. SYRIANS TREATED IN SAFED HOSPITAL. The IDF administered emergency first aid to seven Syrians – one in critical condition – wounded in battles between Syrian army forces and rebels near the border fence. They were then taken to the Ziv Medical Center in Safed for further treatment. ISRAELI ART DISPLAYED IN ROME. Twenty-four renowned Israeli artists are the stars of an exhibition in Rome under the title “Israel Now: Reinventing the Future.” The exhibition has received the Medal of Honor from Italian President Giorgio Napolitano. PROFESSOR DETERMINES THE SECRET TO A GOOD RELATIONSHIP. Bar-Ilan University’s Psychology Professor Ruth Feldman found couples that stay together have higher levels of oxytocin in their blood when they first pair up than couples that ultimately break up. This list courtesy Michael Ordman and verygoodnewsisrael.blogspot.com.
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
ISRAELI PEPPER SETS A RECORD. A green bell pepper dubbed “Godzilla” has won a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Grown in brackish water by the company Yofi Shel Yerakot (“Beauty of Vegetables”) of Moshav Ein Yahav, it weighs half a kilogram.
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AJT
chana’s corner
Birthing Picassos DON’T BOTHER TRYING TO PLAN CREATIVITY BY CHANA SHAPIRO AJT Columnist
C
hildren are natural creators whose drawings and paintings are uninhibited and gorgeous. They’re born loving color and making a mess. I read that Pablo Picasso never actually put a paintbrush into the hands of his offspring, and yet they turned out to be artists of different genres themselves. He didn’t need to push them; they were surrounded by materials of all kinds and allowed, from their earliest years, to wander freely in his crowded and stimulating studio, touch anything and experiment with his materials. Picasso gave them space. I grew up in a neat, clean and tidy home. There was a place for everything – everything had a proper shelf, drawer or container. Yet even in this pristine environment, I always had lots of crayons and watercolors.
My very conventional parents allowed me to pull scraps of old letters and discarded pieces of cardboard from the wastepaper basket. I painted these treasures on our newspaper-covered kitchen table (the paint always bled through!). I even drew pictures in my books. I guess my mother and father knew what they were up against, because I couldn’t help decorating everything I found. I drew everywhere, including the backs of pastel-colored invoices that came to my parents’ store. I looked forward to the daily mail because I knew how to open and unfold envelopes carefully in order to expose a quasi-trapezoidal blank sheet of paper. My Aunt Charlotte enabled my obsession. A secretary for a print shop, she raided their garbage for blank scrap paper of every color and size. She became a steady supplier to my drawing habit, and the materials she brought allowed me to make col-
lages.
do with it.
What’s more, my Aunt Shirley gave me my own stapler and a box of staples, and my mother taught me to make glue from flour and water, so I went three-dimensional. And in the third or fourth grade, I started writing and illustrating my own stories. My parents stood aside, benignly allowing me to draw, cut, glue and paint anything and everything.
But here’s the truth: our daughters were more inventive and original when they weren’t urged into creativity.
The books I loved contained beautiful drawings super-saturated in unreal colors, and I started copying these pictures, sometimes squeezing my drawings into the margins, inside front and back covers and on the flyleaves. When I moved to grown-up stories that had few illustrations, I discovered the drawings of these tales were intricate and perfect. I tried to copy them, but when my copies were pitifully inept by comparison to the originals, I drew my own pictures. Who cared? Nobody judged me: I had only to please myself, and the more I drew, the better I felt about my “work.”
Really, it was the opposite of work.
Thus, drawing and painting were essential to me as a child, and – mindful of the pleasures of creating – when I became a parent, I wanted to get our daughters off to a good start. They’d never have to make do with the margins of books, unfolded envelopes or blank sides of shipping cardboard.
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To ensure that they could be their most creative selves, I bought colored pencils, crayons, chalk, paint, markers, all kinds of paper, glitter, sequins, beads, feathers and brushes. Pretty rocks, interesting twigs, seeds and acorns were collected when we were outside. No one came home empty-handed, and then everything was organized into boxes and jars upon our return to the “studio.” Plastic tablecloths were always at hand to cover our kitchen table, ready at any moment for art; bulletin boards were hung; varying sized frames were purchased. Our daughters well remember our frequent “art projects.” They tell me they enjoyed the organized endeavors, but as I look back, I realize that I was always the instigator. They were both good at making things, and I like to assume that the ambience we provided at home had something to
The Next Generation For the past few years, I’ve tried every trick in the book to get our grandchildren to use this great stuff. We’re blessed that their small motor function and brains seem fine; I’ve seen what they bring home from school, and I love every birthday and anniversary card they’ve made. So, why can’t I get them to take my lead and create with the tools I present? I made art kits for each of them, which they enjoy in the car when I’m busy driving. They have more extensive house art kits, which they employ on their over-crowded, too-low playroom floor when I’m in another room. Still, what happened yesterday was truly telling. I was in my office, looking for safety pins; the grandkids found me there, rifling through drawers of paper punches, brads, mailing labels, road maps and tape. They closed in, and I watched them finger through the containers. “Can we have some of these?” Zellik asked, holding a box of paperclips. “I can use all of them!” “I need the maps and a paper punch,” Miriam added. “And where’s the scissors?”
I pulled out a pair of scissors.
“Thanks,” she said, reaching for the tape. “Take anything you want,” I answered, feigning nonchalance. “Here’s a shoe box you can dump everything in.” They loaded up, and I cleverly followed with pieces of red and orange cardboard and some markers. Miriam and Zellik spent the rest of the afternoon making art all over the unprotected kitchen table, while I forced myself to stay out of the way. Thanks, Mr. Picasso – I finally got it. Chana Shapiro is an educator, writer, editor and illustrator whose work has appeared in journals, newspapers and magazines.
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MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
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AJT
community
Pure Purim Joy at Etz Chaim CARNIVAL WAS THE “WHOLE MEGILLAH” OF FUN STAFF REPORT
N
o surprise that Mordecai, Haman and Esther were part of the crowd at Congregation Etz Chaim last Sunday. But it was a bit of a shock that Cinderella, Snow White and Spiderman were also enjoying the fun at the East Cobb synagogue’s Purim Carnival. In fact, there were cats, clowns and jugglers; the usual fun and games – face-painting, spin art, darts, bean bag tosses and a fortune teller – and a few special treats, including a huge truck filled with video games, two inflatable bounce houses and (for those who dared) a climbing wall and mechanical bull.
Can you say oy vey?!
“This year’s carnival definitely exceeded my expectations,” said Lilly Shneibaum, a member of the shul’s USY chapter and one of the event cochairs. “It was amazing.”
Purim, the joyous holiday that is equal parts festival and celebration, recalls the defeat of wicked Haman and the salvation of the Jews of Persia thanks to the heroic deeds of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai. Synagogues across the U.S. have been holding parties and carnivals for decades to recall the ancient story (detailed in the biblical Book of Esther, Megillat Esther) and raise funds for special projects.
Sy Polakoff, 9, had his ups and downs, spending much of his time last Sunday zipping along this super slide at Etz Chaim.
As often as not – and as was the case at Etz Chaim – the annual event is handled by youngsters, and profits help them fund synagogue youth programs. “It’s all going great,” said Benjy Nadolne, also a member of Etz Chaim’s USY chapter. “I’m just here volunteering. It’s fun and it’s always nice to help out at the synagogue.”
Twins Addison and Dylan Merrill, 3, were too cute for words, all dressed up and ready to party at this year’s Purim Carnival.
Lena Robbins, 13, has a really good idea of what’s going to happen soon. After all, she was the fortune teller at this year’s holiday happening in East Cobb.
Rabbi Paul Kerbel of Congregation Etz Chaim was dressed for the occasion. Depending on your point of view, he was either Mordecai or, according to the costume’s packaging, a desert prince.
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
Matthew Pressnall, 7, seemed to be getting up in the world, working his way along this climbing wall to celebrate Purim.
8
Purim was a lot of bull for Jacob Schwebel, who spent some quality time on this mechanical gizmo. PHOTOS/Ron Feinberg
AJT
community
GAH’s “Women’s Heart Health” a Hit HADASSAH EVENT EDUCATES, EQUIPS IN FIGHT AGAINST HEART DISEASE
Life at Home is the Key to IndependenceSM
Staff Report
First, Marsha Hilderbrand, RN and certified health coach, and Dr. Nanette Wenger, Professor of Medicine at Emory’s School of Medicine, shared vital information regarding heart health, including lifestyle changes to make, steps to take, dangers to avoid and signs to monitor.
to your intensity of risk.” Then, Nancy Falchuk – the 24th Hadassah national president, whose visit was announced only weeks before the event – took the stage to tell of philanthropist Irene Pollin’s hugely generous donation to add the Linda Joy Pollin Cardiovascular Wellness Institute to the Hadassah Medical Center system in Jerusalem. “We [Hadassah] continue to be pioneers with wonderful philanthropists and healthcare professionals,” Falchuk said. “Mrs. Pollin really believes that we can make a change in women’s cardiac health by changing behaviors.”
Finally, Susan Gurley spoke of the new partnership between Ha The former told her personal stodassah and ry of living Pollin’s orat-risk of ganization, heart disSister to ease, turnSister. Poling her life lin founded a r o u n d StS and upon realmade the ization of donation the facts for the and now LJPCI in taking on memory of the title her daughof Womter, who enHeart she lost at Champion age 16 to in the fight heart disFrom left to right, speakers Dr. Nanette Wenger, against ease. Marsha Hilderbrand, Susan Gurley and Nancy preventFalchuk. “This able heart is a womdisease an [Pollin] deaths. who, as a “We’re the boots on the ground,” psychotherapist, believes in behavHilderbrand said. “We educate wom- ior modification and also believes en about the signs and symptoms of deeply and passionately about heart heart disease and what you can do to health,” Gurley said. “You are eduprotect your heart health.” cated women who have taken the Next, Dr. Wenger presented her time and interest to come here today, very own “owner’s manual” to the but there are a lot of our sisters out heart, providing eye-opening statis- there who don’t know and may not tics as well as guidelines for check- have access to healthcare as we do. up (ask for a waist measurement), “It’s our job to tell people: Heart maintenance (opt for a diet rich in disease can kill you, but there’s good fruits, vegetables and whole grains) news too – it’s preventable, and we and preventative measures (keep can mitigate against it. It’s our job tabs on blood pressure and choles- to let them know about the tools at terol). their fingertips.” “If you come away with just one A question-and-answer session thing today: Favorable lifestyle with forum participants concluded changes can decrease your cardiovas- the afternoon. cular risk and decrease your chances of developing disease,” she said. “But it’s not a one-size-fits-all, so you have to match the intensity of what you do
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MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
G
reater Atlanta Hadassah’s “Women’s Heart Health” forum brought together speakers with a specialty in cardiovascular wellness to inform and empower attendees in their lifelong efforts to prevent heart disease. The Feb. 17 event, held at Congregation Beth Shalom, also saw a past Hadassah national president make an exciting announcement.
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10
camp
Northern Exposure
CAMPS IN MAINE FOCUS ON LEARNING, PLAYING AND GROWING BY JIM GILL
SPECIAL FOR THE AJT
I
small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,� and how Armstrong at that moment was connected to the entire world (or at least to every person that had a television or radio).
“It’s certainly not the same experience – starting with the plane.�
In reality, though, Neil Armstrong had never been more alone in his life. And this is exactly what is happening to our children.
’m often asked why Atlanta families choose to send their children to Maine when the same camp experience can be found via a car ride instead of a plane. My answer:
How about climate? Maine has more than 3,500 miles of coastline, rivers, lakes, lobsters, woods and moose; warm sunny days in the 80s (without the humidity) and clear starry nights with temperatures falling to the mid-60s. In other words, summers up here are nothing short of perfection. Many camps in Maine were established more than 75 years ago and lead the industry in providing a premium camping experience that incorporates independence, selfreliance and social skills; and fills a gap by teaching children how to have real conversations, resolve conflicts maturely and form real and lasting friendships. The Need For Camp
02 6,3,4 53 0/-,/( $4 (134(,/$4-$/4$ 02* (3$
AJT
In today’s world of constant contact, parents often cling to their children. If their youngster doesn’t answer their cell phone or immediately reply to a text, some moms and dads fear that something is amiss. This causes anxiety for both parent and child. It’s my belief that the technology that keeps us in contact with our children is sometimes a problem. Technology today is leaving our children more alone in the world than they have ever been and causing parents to not let their children venture too far. Let me elaborate: At a recent TedX presentation, Champions Camp director Steve Baskin used an analogy to sum up our plight with communication “innovations.� He asked the audience to think of when Neil Armstrong made his famous quote, “This is one
While they are so connected to everyone around them, kids aren’t developing the social skills and confidence to successfully navigate the world. In turn, parents are keeping their children close to home because they do not believe in their child’s ability to navigate the world – not even summer camp – without their guidance. Parents also worry that their child will need them close and, therefore, choose to send their child to a summer camp that is close to home. My Solution So, how does a parent make sure that their child realizes his or her potential as a confident, prepared member of society? Send him or her up to Maine for summer camp. If you would like your child to have independence, resilience, selfconfidence, have real face-to-face conversations and the ability to navigate the world successfully, then demonstrate your confidence in your child and put them on the plane up North this summer. Editor’s note: Jim Gill is the Owner and Director of Fernwood Cove, an overnight, half-season girls’ camp located in Harrison, Maine. Check out fernwoodcove.com and other premier Maine summer camps at mainecampexperience.com.
AJT
camp
Have It All – Here, In the City!
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Staff Report
I
n the City Camp at Emory offers exciting, social camp memories right here in the Atlanta area. Children ages 6 to 10 are divided into small groups supervised by quality staff to experience the day in a way that is 100-percent child-centered. Although safety is the top priority at In the City, fun, friendships and learning are tied for a close second. Summer activities include hiking, gymnastics, plenty of field trips, late nights and much more. And beyond that, a co-ed Tween Camp – open to 11- to 13-year-olds during Sessions 2, 3 & 4 (see below) – provides a separate, age-appropriate choice for older kids. Specialized activities include video production, overnights, Braves games, and more. The group is small, so space is limited! Hours for both options are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday until 3 p.m. Morning care and lunch are offered at additional cost, and personal sports coaching is available until 5 p.m. after hours. Carpool is located at Emory Marcus Hillel Center.
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MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
In the City will be holding four sessions this summer: June 10 to 21, June 24 to July 5, July 8 to 19 and July 22 to Aug. 2. For more info or to register, visit inthecitycamp.com.
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AJT
camp
What’s Your Summer Camp Style? JAZZY, SPORTY OR OTHERWISE, TIPS TO FOLLOW BY DR. BRENT RUNNELS SPECIAL FOR THE AJT
F
inding the right summer camp can be daunting. With all the choices – from those that focus on various topics and disciplines to others with differing locations and costs – narrowing the selection can be a challenging process. Are we looking for a day camp, or one with overnight lodging? Is food provided? If the camp is skill based in some way, is there a “tryout” or “audition” process? Many publications like this one have discovered it can be beneficial to readers to publish a summer camp guide, as there are so many camps in Atlanta geared to students of all ages and backgrounds. These are certainly helpful, although not necessarily comprehensive, as only those organizations that offer information for these sections get listed. But perhaps that effort on a camp staff’s part may also be a signal to those searching, as buying an advertisement months before summer starts can suggest a degree of stability and planning on the part of the organization producing the camp.
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
Of course, like most other searches for information these days, undoubtedly combing the internet is part of the process too. Those of us in the camp production business have learned that the new social media platforms have provided an additional degree of reach for advertising. Searching on Facebook can be a great way to learn about what is hot in a particular area.
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In any case, most families probably start with the dates of a camp and the particular subject in which students are interested; those interested in sports or athletics will quickly gloss over notices for music or arts camps, while families with musically-inclined students might try to go to music stores or local school’s websites to see if a camp is being promoted or produced through
their programs. It is also advisable to make direct contact with camp organizers to see if there is open space remaining, even if it seems to be very late in the registration process. Most camps will accept participants right up to the start of camp if there are still spots available. Finally, consider the venue of your camp choices, keeping in mind that certain facilities aren’t always geared towards serving young students or in possession of the needed equipment for a particular discipline. In our case, Jazz Orchestra Atlanta has been producing a Summer Jazz Camp for middle and high school students for more than 10 years, but we have moved around a good bit. Fortunately, we’ve now found a great fit for our camp at Temple Sinai in Sandy Springs. The educational wing of Sinai is ideal for a daily music camp, as it separates the frequent comings and goings and administrative offices from the glories of young musicians learning a challenging musical style. What’s more, a beautiful large social hall serves as an excellent concert venue, and the Temple Sinai leadership couldn’t be more supportive of music in general. It’s a great place to learn and enjoy a week of music making! If you have a child interested in jazz and improvisation, I hope you will look us up at jazzorchestraatlanta.org. Good luck with your search for the perfect summer camp! Editor’s note: Dr. Brent Runnels is the executive and artistic director of Jazz Orchestra Atlanta.
AJT
camp
Camp Barney Medintz Celebrates 50th Anniversary “OUR SUMMER PLACE” SET FOR AUG. 23-25 From the MJCCA
For the Atlanta Jewish Times
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amp Barney Medintz (CBM), the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta’s (MJCCA) award-winning overnight camp, announces its 50th Anniversary Celebration. Set for the weekend of Aug. 23 through 25, the event – entitled “Our Summer Place” – will offer hundreds of alumni three days of camp activities and nostalgia with family and friends. The festivities will begin with a traditional camp-style Shabbat dinner in the dining hall, to be followed by Shabbat services in the Zaban Chapel. Campfires, “Milk Line,” and an auction featuring CBM memorabilia are among the highlights of the activities planned, which will conclude after brunch on Sunday morning. Further details of the bash are being worked out by event co-chairs Gail Goldstein Herman, Debbie Medintz Jacobs, Maury Shapiro and Ronnie Goldman. All four come from multi-generational camp families and agree that their summers at camp made a tremendous impact on who they have become as adults and members of our Jewish community. “Our committee composition is a true testament to the long-lasting impact Camp Barney Medintz has made on all of us,” Medintz Jacobs said. “Nearly 100 CBM alumni have joined on to help plan and promote the 50th. We all care so deeply about ‘Our Summer Place.’” Today, CBM is a premier Jewish overnight camp providing a magical summer experience to more than 1,200 campers from metro-Atlanta, 26 states from coast to coast, and several other countries. Since its establishment in 1963, the camp has always been known for its spectacular mountain setting, exhilarating activities, rich culturally Jewish program and opportunity to make or strengthen friendships, all under the supervision of the most talented, enthusiastic, conscientious and caring staff. “Camp Barney is so much more than exceptional facilities and incredible activities,” Jim Mittenthal, Camp Barney director, said. “It’s about discovering your talent, experiencing exhilarating new adventures, connecting to our rich Jewish culture, appreciating our natural environment, and making or strengthening lifelong friendships. “My staff and I are very much looking forward to this special 50th anniversary celebration weekend. We’ll enjoy our favorite camp activities, build new camp memories, and kick off the next 50 years!” Registration for “Our Summer Place” will be available online beginning March 15. Those coming to spend the weekend at camp will make themselves at home in camper cabins; alternatively, CBM has reserved blocks of hotel rooms for those who wish to stay off site (weekend and day rates for Celebration attendees will be offered).
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Editor’s note: For more information about Camp Barney Medintz’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, visit campbarney.org or call (678) 812-4151.
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AJT
education
Area Day Schools Take Top Honors at Tech Fair GHA, DAVIS, EPSTEIN AND WEBER COMPETE AT NAJSTF STAFF REPORT
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reenfield Hebrew Academy hosted the 9th-annual North Atlanta Jewish Students’ Technology Fair on Jan. 23. This year, participants included students from GHA, the Davis Academy, the Epstein School and the Weber School as well as Medlock Bridge Elementary School. The NAJS Technology Fair offers an alternative to the standard Saturday choice for public-school-based technology fairs. Students who take first place in their categories move on to the Georgia Educational Technology Fair, the statewide competition held at Macon State College. “This year’s tech fair entries are the most diverse we have ever had, encompassing more categories at a higher level of difficulty,” Scott Forbus, GHA’s Network Administrator, said. “Furthermore, many of the skills the students exhibit are the same as those being used right now in colleges and beyond.”
Davis Academy Members of the Davis contingent – 28 students and 35 projects strong - took top honors in six categories and collected 14 First-Place awards. Davis Academy’s First-Place Award Winners: • Zach Cohen, Digital Video Production, 7-8 Grade Division • Ohad Rau (with Dan Jutan of GHA), Team Programming Challenge, 7-8 Grade Division • Justin Thompson, Digital Video Production, 5-6 Grade Division • Jared Solovei, Project Programming, 5-6 Grade Division • Ben Cohen and Ross Williams, Robotics, 7-8 Grade Division • Willie Lieberman (“Glogster”), Web 2.0 Internet Applications, 7-8 Grade Division
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•
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Brandon Jaffe and Matt Diamond, Technology Quiz, 7-8 Grade
Greenfield Hebrew Academy GHA students made their best showing in the Tech Fair’s nine-year history, taking nearly half of the 71 available ribbons, including 17 First-Place ribbons. GHA’s First-Place Award Winners: • Daniel Sanders, 3-D Modeling, 5-6 Grade Division • Raina Grosswald, Animated Graphic Design and Multimedia Applications, 3-4 Grade Division • Yoni Bachar and Matthew Chen, Case Modification, 7-8 Grade Division • Sophie Knapp, Digital Photography, 3-4 Grade Division • Daliya Wallenstein and Sophie Knapp, Multimedia Applications, 3-4 Grade Division • Ariel Cann, Multimedia Applications, 5-6 Grade Division • J o n a t h a n Nooriel, Multimedia Applications and Non-Animated Graphic Design, 7-8 Grade Division • Katherine Cranman and Nissa Newman, Non-Animated Graphic Design, 3-4 Grade Division • S h a y n a Shapiro, NonMultimedia Applications, 3-4 Grade Division • Ari Slomka and Zach Mainzer, Non-Multimedia Applications, 5-6 Grade Division • Jared Amdur and Sam Brenner, Project Programming, 3-4 Grade Division • Dan Jutan (with Ohad Rau of Davis), Team Programming Challenge, 7-8 Grade Division • Arielle Wallenstein, Robotics, 5-6 Grade Division • Matthew Minsk, Web 2.0 Internet Applications, 3-4 Grade Division
Epstein School
The Weber School
Twenty Epstein students placed in the top three for their respective categories, and 12 took First-Place honors. Epstein’s First-Place Award Winners: • Lilah Juliet Presser Weiss, Digital Video Production, 3-4 Grade Division • David Leavitt, Robotics, 3-4 Grade Division • Emma Mailman, Technology Literacy Challenge, 3-4 Grade Division • Eitan Pritzker, Technology Literacy Challenge, 3-4 Grade Division • Carly Judenberg and Micayla Pollak, Animated Graphic Design, 5–6 Grade Division • Isabel Berlin, Multimedia, 5-6 Grade Division • Yoel Alperin, 3D Modeling and Digital Photography, 7-8 Grade Division • Hallie Bernstein, Animated Graphic Design, 7-8 Grade Division • Shaun Regenbaum, Hardware, 7-8 Grade Division
The group from the Weber School was the smallest in terms of number among the five schools represented, but what they lacked in quantity, they made up for with quality.
•
Elaine Berger, Technology Literacy Challenge, 5–6 Grade Division
Weber’s First-Place Award Winners: • Talia Katz, 3D Modeling and Technology Literacy Challenge, 9-10 Grade Division • Andy Axelrod, Digital Photography, 11-12 Grade Division • Ben Goldfein, Digital Video Editing, 11-12 Grade Division
AJT
education
And The Band Played On! SWEET SOUND AT EPSTEIN From the Epstein School
For the Atlanta Jewish Times
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his school year, the Epstein School launched the Epstein School Band under the direction of music specialist Gale Scott. The program is an extension of the elementary music curriculum and is intended for third- through fifth-grade students interested in a more challenging music experience. Beginner students start the learning process in a multi-instrument class and progress as a group, making teamwork an emphasis of the class. Instruction is offered for flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone and percussion. The band performed at the school’s Hanukkah Assembly and will perform for several other school events throughout the year.
Renowned Violinist Stops by Greenfield Hebrew Academy GLUZMAN WOWS STUDENTS BEFORE SYMPHONY DEBUT BY DEBBIE DIAMOND AJT CONTRIBUTOR
B
efore he brought the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra audience to their feet in thunderous applause in late January, violin soloist Vadim Gluzman paid a special visit to Greenfield Hebrew Academy (GHA) to entertain a much younger group of fans.
Gluzman, who has played with such orchestras as the Israel Philharmonic and London Symphony, has received critical acclaim from classical music aficionados throughout the world. Before his local debut with the ASO, he found time in between rehearsals to speak and perform before GHA’s fourththrough eighth-graders. Arriving with his 1690 “ex-Leopold Auer” Stradivarius violin in hand, Gluzman spoke about his life in the former U.S.S.R., his classical music training and making aliyah as a teen. Listening with rapt attention, students were engaged and curious about Gluzman’s life and work. “He was amazing,” said an animated Noam Laufer, who asked many questions during the presentation. “He must have practiced a lot to get to where he is now.” The humorous, good-natured presenter answered the student’s many questions, joked and played excerpts from classical concertos – as well as jazz – delighting students with the improvisational bow style used in the latter genre. “The opportunity for our students to hear from and meet with artists at the pinnacle of their craft is an important part of our three C’s – Curiosity, Commitment and Community, that we practice at GHA,” said Franeen Sarif, assistant principal and director of the GHA Middle School. “Our students were in awe and captivated by Mr. Gluzman’s stories, candor, accessibility and extreme talent. I heard from several students that this will definitely be one of those moments they will cherish forever.” The program opened with performances by middle school students Bella Cantor and Ari Stark, who played “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Hatikvah.” Both students indicated they were inspired and motivated by the presentation. In fact, as Stark left the school’s performing arts theatre, he summed up the sentiments of many students when he said;
“It was really cool to see Mr. Gluzman go crazy with the violin.”
TOP LEFT: Epstein third-grader Lu Lu Rosenberg plays the clarinet in the Epstein School Band. TOP RIGHT: Gabriel Weiss, fourth-grader, percussion MIDDLE: Left to right, brass players Roy Ginzberg, Daniel Bernstein, Salo Szumstein and Asher Force BOTTOM: Ava Granot, third-grader, flute
LEFT: Vadim Gluzman (center) with opening acts Bella Cantor and Ari Stark RIGHT: World-renowned violinst Vadim Gluzman presents to Greenfield Hebrew Academy middle-schoolers.
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In middle school-speak, that’s a great review for an outstanding performance by Vadim Gluzman.
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AJT
arts & Life
Exclusive Q & A with Lisa Loeb HEADLINING AJMF’S MAIN EVENT, MARCH 16 BY Elizabeth Friedly Assistant Editor
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he year is 1994; a time of chunky boots, short skirts and grunge. Lisa Loeb, another fresh face in the New York City club and coffee-shop scene, is about to hit it big. Loeb’s personal friend and neighbor, actorturned-heartthrob Ethan Hawke, was working at the time with Ben Stiller and Winona Ryder on the movie “Reality Bites.” One day, Hawke handed Stiller a tape of Loeb’s work – and the rest is history. The first notes of “Stay” filled theaters as the film’s credits rolled. Suddenly, Lisa’s song was number one on the charts, playing over radios across the nation and eventually culminating in a Grammy nomination. It’s the sort of thing ’90s dreams are made of.
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But she didn’t stop there; Loeb proceeded to turn that success into a prolific career. With five studio albums (two of which went Gold) and two children’s records, her time in music has been as varied as it’s been successful. Some of her more colorful contributions include a track for the soundtrack of “Legally Blonde,” a cameo for Japanese girl-group Rin, and guest vocals on pop-punk staple New Found Glory’s cover of her hit “Stay.” What’s more, she didn’t stop at music. She has launched two original reality TV series (for Food Network and E!) and has acted in both 2011’s feature film “Fright Night” and the “Gossip Girl” series. Also, as a woman known for her own distinctive eyewear, Loeb has created the Lisa Loeb Eyewear Collection, featuring frame designs – named after her song titles – for both men and women.
Now, in anticipation of her headlining performance at the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival, Loeb spoke with The Atlanta Jewish Times 16 about her particular fondness for the
city of Atlanta, her career, her new album and just how her faith fits in to the equation.
AJT: Since then you’ve been very busy! Of all your non-music related projects, do any stand out for you?
Atlanta Jewish Times: Could you describe what it felt like, living that sort of dream scenario of going from local shows to being picked up for a major film soundtrack?
LL: Again, I’m really pleased with the way things have changed with the entertainment business. When I started out, it wasn’t really as accepted to do really more than one thing. When I started off, I played music and that was the main thing I was known for, but I had all these other interests.
Lisa Loeb: It always felt like there was a lot of momentum, so it was really rewarding and exciting to have a song picked up for the soundtrack of a big mov-
Through the years, it’s been really satisfying to get to explore a lot of different things I’m interested in; maybe it’s doing a food show on the Food Network, because I love cooking and learning about food. I grew up like a lot of kids taking acting classes and dance classes and music classes – so there’s a lot of things I want to do creatively.
ie.
At the time, it seemed like a really normal thing to happen, but in retrospect I realize that it’s a very unique situation – even if you’re friends with actors [as I was] – for a song to actually get chosen to be a prominent part of a movie and be played as a single on the radio is a really big deal. So it was really exciting, working for years towards that success. AJT: And all without a label? LL: Yes, and at the time it felt very natural to me, as an artist who makes music on my own and choosing the people that I work with, because that’s what I’d been doing for years. And again, in retrospect I was a unique situation. People weren’t always so independent. Now it’s more commonplace for people to be more independent in the way they make their music, the way they sell their music and get it out to other people. Along the way I ended up working with people from RCA records, but I was lucky enough to make music the way I wanted to make it.
[And] I’m also a business person, so I like to produce things and make things. It’s nice to be in a place now, in 2013, where it’s encouraged – not only acceptable but encouraged – for musicians to not just play music. That fits me perfectly. AJT: Speaking of the business end, what was it like designing your own line of glasses? LL: It’s really been a learning experience for me. I love glasses. I’ve worn glasses for most of my life. I embrace people who wear glasses, who want to be able to see but also to look cute and sexy while they’re wearing them. Somebody who’s comfortable in their glasses is really cool, and I wanted for them to also feel excited about wearing glasses, especially women. Learning about the eyewear industry has been a whole new thing for me. Our eyewear line has been growing for the past few years; it’s available online and in stores. It’s been a rich part of my life, being able to have this other project, [so] I can learn so much more about the things I love. AJT: You’ve also branched out musically. What was it like reuniting with your former Liz and Lisa bandmate, Elizabeth Mitchell, for a kids album?
LL: So when Barnes & Noble offered me the opportunity to make a record that was different than the ones I’d made in the past, I really wanted to make a kids’ record. [Liz and Lisa] was our band in college, and we hadn’t worked together since then. I realized Liz has made some really great kid’s music; she really knows how to produce a record that sounds like real people are playing real music, which is also what I wanted, so we reunited to produce the “Catch the Moon” record, which also comes with a book. We made a couple videos for it, and I moved on from there to make “Camp Lisa” [her second children’s album]. AJT: And I understand that record grew into something more? LL: I started the Camp Lisa Foundation. I wanted to share my love of summer camp with other people through music, because that was one of the places where music became really important to me as something to do socially and for entertainment. We’d make up songs with the other campers. I went to Jewish day camp when I was little, but my favorite camp was a sleep-away camp called Camp Champions outside of Austin, Texas. I went for about six years. I loved it so much; we ran around in bathing suits all day, ate a lot of chimichangas, and we sang all the time. It was a regular camp with a lot of sports, which weren’t really my thing, but we’d [sing] standing on the benches in the cafeteria; out in an inner tube in the middle of a lake; marching to and from breakfast. Those are some of my favorite things. AJT: Now, back to your adult records, you had some pretty cool collaborations on this newest release. Who all was involved? LL: Chad Gilbert [of New Found Glory] co-produced the record. He’s the one who came to me about making a record that was so punky and rock ’n Continued on next page
AJT
arts & life
Continued from previous page
roll and poppy-sounding. And one of my favorite bands in that genre is Tegan and Sara, who incidentally he brought into the project. They wrote two of the songs on the record. I also did collaborations with old songwriting friends of mine, like Maia Sharp, Morgan Taylor and Marvin Etzion. And when I met with Chad, he helped me go through some of the songs I had written over the last couple years to figure out what would work for the album.
gave me a great opportunity. Also, my Judaism is very important to me, so I thought it would be fun to take part in another Jewish community and in a different city. AJT: How has faith factored into your lifestyle? LL: I have a great rabbi in Los Angeles named Rabbi Mordecai Finley. Through his classes and teaching sessions, he’s really helped me think a lot about bringing Judaism into
your daily life. I don’t keep kosher, but it’s like what they say about Buddhism – it [Judaism] is a way of life and looking at things. Of course, there’s some overlap with Judaism and other religions, and even people who aren’t religious at all. But through my studies of Judaism – things like counting the omer and observing holidays – it really takes me through the year in the way that I’m constantly evaluating my life and how I live. I’m looking at things in a Jewish way, which I think is about looking at things from a lot of different angles, trying to do what’s right, trying to respect other people. I don’t get to synagogue as often as I’d like to and as much as I did before I had my two kiddos, but that’s something that I’m trying to make a priority this year.
like to say to your fans? LL: I want to make sure people know to follow me on Twitter, “Like” me on Facebook and check out my website. I don’t know if people know, but the way music industry is these days, it’s really important for all these great fans who write me letters and emails to really engage with musicians [in these new ways]. I love it when people check out my new video on YouTube or watch me on television, but it also means a lot when they check out the music and actually buy it! So I look forward to sharing my music with other people who support me and other musicians by purchasing music.
AJT: Is there anything else you’d
[Chad and I] also wrote songs together, like a song called “The 90s.” It’s about the making of “Stay,” that period and how much I love it and am very nostalgic for it, but at the same time I like moving forward. AJT: The album comes off as almost retro, in that it’s got such a clean and simple sound. Was that a conscious decision? LL: I think that’s something that’s part of my style. That being said, for me this record is a lot more poppy-punky rock than any record I’ve made in the past.
AJT: What was it that brought you to the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival? LL: You know, I love playing in Atlanta. I’m looking forward to playing with my band [Nine Stories], and it
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I think the way my voice is and the way I like the final mixes to be, there’s always a clarity that’s really important to me. Part of that is also that I value the songwriting, so the song always needs to be done before we go into the studio. You can even have the song and strip everything away to just the guitar and vocals, and the song will work.
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AJT
arts & life
Writing a Novel: A Family Approach LOCAL AUTHOR RELEASES “ADVENTURES IN FAUN FOREST” by ELIZABETH FRIEDLY
her granddaughters.
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Now a full-length, published novel, “Faun Forest” began as a series of bedtime stories for Julia and Rachel. Each night, the girls would gradually shape the fictional world with their contributions; they also are credited with the editing and illustration of the book, respectively.
Assistant Editor
hirty-three years and nine published books into her writing career, local author Maxine Rock has finally tackled her first children’s book. Rock penned “Adventures in Faun Forest” with the help of two very special collaborators: Julia, 9, and Rachel, 12 –
This, however, is only the latest development in a story that arguably
2012-2013 S E A S O N COBB ENERGY CENTRE
Giuseppe Verdi’s
began at the New York University School of Journalism, where Rock supported herself in part with her skills as a writer. She went on to attend the University of Michigan for graduate studies and then later accepted a fellowship to John Hopkin’s Knight Center for Specialized Journalism. She spent the next 10 years as a professional journalist writing magazine articles and news features for various publications. Then, in 1980 Rock teamed up with friend and physician Dr. David Taylor to write her first investigative novel, “Gut Reactions: How to Handle Stress and Your Stomach.”
Sung in Italian with Projected English Translations
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TICKETS START AT $25
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404-881-8885 • atlantaopera.org
“That’s why, in a way, it’s just as much an adult book as it is a children’s book,” said Rock. “What I enjoy is that the kids really picked up on that.”
In addition to the larger contexTOP: This painting, which hangs tual themes, Rock in Rock’s house, served as the also made a point to original inspiration behind the write “Faun Forest” titular fauns. BOTTOM: From left to right, Julia using adult vocabulary. She holds the Schiffer, Maxine Rock and belief that if a child Rachel Schiffer comes across a word The pair travthat’s unfamiliar, eled around the country promoting they will either learn its meaning the book together. Ultimately, “Gut from context or look it up in the dicReactions” would be the jumping off tionary. point for Rock’s string of publications “They weren’t just doing it as a to come. She went on to publish eight bunch of stories,” said Rock of her other informative non-fiction works granddaughters, “but they started on a wide range of topics, including forming their own ways of looking “The Automobile and the Environ- at the world through these stories. ment,” and “The Marriage Map: Un- They knew they were expressing derstanding and Surviving the Stag- feelings about the environment and es of Marriage.” about people in general.” For her tenth book, Rock decided it was time to try something new.
MARCH 2, 5, 8, 10
And beyond that lesson of acceptance, Rock and her granddaughters have also infused lessons about the environment as well as acceptance. The fauns – to each of whom a chapter is dedicated – must protect the forest from invaders looking to use its resources for their personal gain.
“All of my previous books have been about how to do something,” said Rock. “I wanted this one to be a legacy for my children and grandchildren.” And so came about “Faun Forest,” the story of ten 10-year-old “fauns” (half-boy, half-goat) who inhabit and protect a mythical forest of other hybrid creatures. In the 80-page adventure, all of the forest folk combine elements of multiple real-world animals, such as the “furtles” or “pantahpusses” (fox-turtles and pantheroctopuses). “That brought forward a constant theme with the children,” said Rock, “which is that nobody’s purely anything. That’s sort of a political statement as well. I was encouraging them to be open-minded about everybody, because everybody has many facets to them.”
Finally, as if the positive message weren’t enough, a portion of the profits from “Faun Forest” will go to cancer research. The decision was that of Rock’s daughter, Lauren Sue, named after her great aunt who died at the age of 7 from leukemia. “I’m really happy with the book,” said Rock. “It turned out to be something that not only was a family adventure, but one that other people got drawn into as well.” After some thought, she added, “And you know, 10 is a nice, fat, chubby number. I like the idea of it being my 10th book. There’s even a character in the book that’s named ‘Ten.’ He was the 10th and last faun.” Rock is currently working on her next novel, “The Eaters,” a young adult science-fiction thriller. “Adventures in Faun Forest” is now available by calling the publisher Booklogix at (770) 346-9979.
AJT
out & about
“The Experiment”: Two Months Down… FOLLOWING DR. JANET PAGE’S “GET MARRIED THIS YEAR” Editor’s note: Our anonymous columnists, Andrew Singleman and Ellen Mazelman, are reading Dr. Janet Page’s “Get Married This Year,” and following the steps on their dating journey. Here we catch up with them two months into the process.
When You Least Expect It…
Figuring It All Out
BY Andrew Singleman
BY Ellen Mazelman
not being fair to him. I need to find my voice and be honest with him.
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I say “yes” to dates with guys that I know aren’t right for me because I feel like I have to be “in the game.” Again, is honesty the best policy or have I just not found my voice? You never want to hurt someone’s feelings, and it’s nice to know that someone is out there for me, checking in on me and ready to be my “plus-one” if needed.
W
here last we left off, I had met and started dating a woman I’ve identified, for the purposes of this column, as “Rachel.” Now, if you had told me back in December that by February I’d be in a fairly serious relationship, there was no way I would have believed you. My intent for 2013 was to take it easy, date a little and just be generally social. Well, we all know of the best-laid plans of mice and men. Rachel and I have now been together for two months, and I took the opportunity over Valentine’s Day to recognize our “anniversary” as well as celebrate the holiday. Here’s some tips, guys: a homecooked meal (steak, salad and two sides); three red roses; a bottle of red wine; and a certificate redeemable for an hour of massage and foot reflexology. The gifts were a home run, and overall it was a special night that I felt was worthy of a special effort. Now, I realize at this point you might be thinking: “Andrew, a single home-cooked meal on Valentine’s Day doesn’t constitute a relationship, let alone a serious one.” I agree. However, our time together over the past two months has far exceeded that. We’ve taken long walks and had long talks. We text, email, and/or talk to each other daily. We see each other two or three times a week. We spent New Years together and have even celebrated one of our birthdays together. What’s more, I’ve met some of her close friends, and she mine. I’ve cooked multiple meals for her as well as for her and her kids. And to top it off, both sets of our kids have met and spent time together, and fortunately, they get along well. We both originally felt it would be a while before we told our children about “us,” but circumstances and a
twist dictated otherwise. Indeed, the kids have become a core issue in this relationship and are what I’ve been leading up to in this month’s column. Keep in mind that I’ve spent just over the past two-and-a-half years focusing exclusively on mine since my separation and divorce. Meanwhile, Rachel’s children have been her only priority for longer than that. For both of us, this is our first post-divorce relationship and the first person our children have seen us with other than their other parent. This has not come without its challenges. Following Dr. Page’s advice, I’ve spoken to my kids about my dating life. I explained that their mother and I won’t be getting back together and that I’m establishing a social life and making new friends, which includes dating. I’ve even spoken to Rachel’s kids, making sure they were OK with me taking her out. I told them both that I liked their mom very much and wanted to make sure they were comfortable with me as well as me and their mother dating. Despite these efforts, though, I am still dealing with issues of fairness in quality time, jealousy and compromise, whispers and secrets and privacy. Thus, we had a “family summit” recently to clear the air and make sure everyone was on the same page. After about an hour of discussion, there was laughter, agreement and understanding all around. What was most impressive for me was how Rachel initiated and led this meeting: She saw the problems and stepped right up to nip things in the bud. She’s quite a woman, and I’m lucky to know her as well as date her. As usual, tune in next month for another installment and progress report. If you wish for more regular updates or even have questions and comments for me, I can be followed on Facebook as well.
AJT Columnist
o I’m sitting at home again on a Sunday, getting ready to watch the Oscars and reflecting on my weekend, the new year and the changes I know I need to make in my life. Meanwhile, I’m watching “Sex and the City” reruns for inspiration. I still need to read “Get Married This Year,” revamp my profile on JDate and Match.com and make an appointment with Dr. Page. I have lots to discuss with her about setting goals and reaching them in the dating world. I’m hoping to get all this done this week or, at least, by next month, when I’ll be right back here writing my next article. Unfortunately, houseguests, kids and work have once again gotten in the way; but I’m planning on making my dating life a priority. I have to do this in order to move forward. I have found that the hardest parts of dating again in my 50s are finding my voice, being honest with myself as well as those in my dating world and figuring out exactly what I want. Sometimes I wonder: In the dating world, is “telling the whole truth” really the best policy? I often joke that I’m not ready to share “the clicker”; as time marches on, am I getting too comfortable to living alone, not having to answer to anyone else and doing what I want, when I want? I talk about traveling, seeing friends and hanging out with my kids, but I think of them as things I need to do on my own. Or have I just not found the right person for whom I’m willing to give up all these things? To catch you up: I’ve been dating someone for quite a while, but he’s much more committed to me than I to him. He’s a great guy, adores me and makes me laugh, but there are some red flags. Lots of them. I know I’m not going to find the perfect mate; after all, I recognize that I’m far from perfect. But I’m pretty sure he’s not for me, and I’m
There, I said it!
I’ve never been good at saying “no” or sharing what I’m really feeling. I tend to go with the flow instead of detailing what I really want or need. Yes, it’s true: I hate confrontations.
There, I said it again.
Still, I’m not a wimp, and I like to control the day-to-day stuff in my life. After all, I really don’t need anyone’s help to get things done. I can take care of everything and anything. But this isn’t how I want to live out the next chapter of my life. I want to find a true partner, but I’d rather live my life out with my friends and family than settle for the wrong person. I definitely don’t want to get married again just for the sake of getting married. So, as I switch over from Carrie Bradshaw to the Oscars, I know I have a lot of work to do. It’s time to clean out the closets, get a fresh start, find my voice and get honest. Come join me at Dr. Page’s workshop on March 4 and see if you can figure out who I am…but remember, if you do, it’s between me and you! Signed, The Fiftysomething Carrie Bradshaw
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
AJT Columnist
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AJT
what’s happening
Fri., March 1
Sun., March 3
Art, Writing and Music Contest Deadline, from the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust. Submit entries by March 1. Division I: grades 6-8, Division II: grades 9-12. Info at holocaust.georgia.gov/art-writing-andmusic-contest.
The Daffodil Dash, the annual run for Holocaust education and children in peril in Africa. Sun., March 3, 9:30 a.m. Georgia Perimeter College. Register via daffodildash.org.
Sat., March 2 Families Center Stage, presented by Cartoon Network and North Highland; festival tickets include admission to “Charlotte’s Web.” Sat., March 2, 2 p.m. $38/adults, $25/children. Woodruff Arts Center Galleria. Tickets and info at alliancetheatre. org/familiescenterstage. Etz Chaim Movie Madness, benefiting the Etz Chaim Department of Education, featuring hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dancing and silent auction. Sat., March 2, 7:30 p.m. Congregation Etz Chaim’s Hammer-Tritt Social Hall. Register online at etzchaim.net/preschool_events_registration.aspx. Jerry Farber’s 75th Birthday Party & Kosher Weiner Roast A majority of the proceeds will benefit The Georgia Center For Humane Education - Advocating The Benefits of The Human-Animal Bond. www. human-animalbond.org. Doors open at 7:30PM, Show starts at 8:30PM. $25 per person - advance tickets available here: https://www.xorbia. com/e/laffs/farberweinerroast
Join us Sunday, March 3rd, 2013 6:30pm
“What’s in Your Genes?” take a simple blood test to find out if you are a carrier of Jewish genetic diseases. Sun., March 3, 10 a.m. $25/person (maximum). Congregation Or VeShalom. Pre-register at vistorcenters.org/ screenings. Hebrew Story and Art Project, for parents and children ages 3 to 6, featuring “Mommy and Me” by Emma Chichester Clark, in partnership with Sifriyat Pijama B’America. Sun., March 3, 11:15 a.m. Free. The Epstein School. Tben-senior@epsteinatlanta.org Bearing Witness, sponsored by Eternal Life Hemshech, featuring survivor Ben Hiller’s story. Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. The Breman Museum. RSVP via eventbrite.com. Parenting Perspectives, a two-part class with Rabbi Yossi and Dassie New. First session Sun., March 3; continues March 10. Chabad of Georgia. (404) 843-2464 ext. 102. Empty Nesters Potluck, meet others entering the “empty nest” stage of life and enjoy a delicious dinner. Sun., March 3, 6:30 p.m. Private residence. For more info and to RSVP, email pedsmom@aol.com.
Live Music
-- Atlanta’s Restaurant Guide
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
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Mon., March 4 “Tilly’s Table,” the launch of Tilly Joffe’s cookbook; enjoy a demonstration and dessert table. Mon., March 14, 7:30 p.m. Private residence. RSVP via (404) 394-6108 or leah@wolfam. us. Understanding the Siddur, three-part class with Rabbi Sender Lustig. First session Thurs., March 4; continues March 11 and March 18. Chabad of Georgia. (404) 843-2464 ext. 102. Tues., March 5 Italian Dinner, join Atlanta Jewish Singles for a meal at 20 percent off. Tues., March 5, 7 p.m. La Nonna’s Italian Restaurant in Norcross. meetup.com/Atlanta-Jewish-Singles/ events. “All-of-a-Kind Family,” Temima presents the original play penned by Miriam Feldman. Tues., March 5, 7:30 p.m. Women only; $22/advanced, $26/door, $14/student. Greenfield Hebrew Academy. RSVP via (404) 315-0507 or production@temima.org. Wed., March 6 “The Arts and Peacebuilding” Lecture, led by Frank Dominguez, vice president for Arts for Peace. Wed., March 6, 7 p.m. $5/person. Free for ages under 12 or members. Oglethorpe University Museum of Art. museum. ogelthorpe.edu. Thur., March 7
“Melanie has the gift to entrance and enchant you”
Melanie Massell And Company
Moas Chitim - Passover Food Drive, CDT’s seventh-grade mitzvah class collects kosher food with JF&CS. Sun., March 3. Congregation Dor Tamid. (770) 623-8860.
Online Price: $10.00 At The Door: $15.00 BUY NOW
404-418-6777 | 234 Hilderbrand Dr. • Sandy Springs • 30328
More Information: steveslivemusic.com
Innovations in Security, come meet and learn from Israeli innovators about making your mobile adoption powerful and secure; hosted by IBM with guest speaker Jim Brennan. Thur., March 7, 7:30 a.m. $15/AICC members, $25/non-members; register by March 4. (404) 843-9426 or aiccse@aiccse.org. “Grease: The School Version,” MJCCA’s Jerry’s Habima Theatre, for actors with developmental disabilities. Thur., March 7, 9, 10, 14, 16 and 17. $35/adults (non-members), $15/under 12 (non-members), $25/adults (members), $10/under 12 (members). Tickets and showtimes at atlantajcc. org/boxoffce. Mon., March 9 ORT America Annual Meeting, threeday retreat focused on strengthening ORT America’s leadership. Mon., March 9. $90/person. The JW Marriott/Le Merigot, Santa Monica, Ca-
lif. Registration at ORTamerica.org/ ortbeyond2013. Sun., March 10 Hunger Walk/Run, the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s annual walk/ run through downtown Atlanta. Sun., March 10, 12 p.m. Turner Field. hwr2013.org. “Whipping Man” performance, an afternoon at the theater with the Ketura Group of Greater Atlanta Hadassah. Sun., March 10, 2:30 p.m. $36/person. Alliance Theater, Hertz Stage. RSVP to sfparks@emory.edu. “And Then They Came For Me,” ‘Remembering the World of Anne Frank,’ a Georgia Ensemble Theatre multimedia public performance; video and live actors. Sun., March 10, 7 p.m. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. (770) 641-1260 or education@get.org. Mon., March 11 “The Pursuit of Happiness” Lecture, changing tactics and why happiness is eluding us with guest speaker Rabbi Ari Sollish. Part of the Chabad lecture series. Mon., March 11, 8 p.m. Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett. (678) 595-0196. Tues., March 12 Ladies Lunch ’n Learn. Tues., March 12, 12 p.m. Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett. esther@chabadofgwinnett.org. “Contemporary Wine, Food, Art” Dinner, wine sampling, art tour and food tasting featuring Sommelier Jeremy Iles and Eli Kirshtein of Top Chef. Tues., March 12, 5:15 p.m. $50/Breman members, $75/non-members. Private residence. Tickets via (678) 222-3758 or rkatz@thebreman.org. Thurs., March 14 AYJAN Meeting, Atlanta Young Jewish Attorneys Network first meeting of the year discussing volunteerism and pro-bono work. Thurs., March 14, 6:30 p.m. Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP, Atlanta. Register via (678) 336-7238 or efisher@taylorenglish.com AJMF Jazz Night with the Michael Feinberg Quintet and Jordan Dayan & Friends. Part of the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival. Ages 18-plus. Thurs., March 14, 7:30 p.m. $15/person. Steve’s Live Music. Tickets at ticketfly.com/event/216209.
AJT
MAY THEIR MEMORIES BE A BLESSING
Sol Blumenthal
88, OF ATLANTA
Sol Blumenthal, 88, of Atlanta, passed away on Feb. 21, 2013. He was the son of the late Theodore Blumenthal and Lena Talan Blumenthal and brother to the late Dr. Irvin Blumenthal, identical twin David Blumenthal and sister Joyce B. Gilbert-Barnett. He grew up in Royston, Ga., helping his father in the family’s dry good business. Sol fought bravely for his country in World War II, during which he served as a combat infantryman fighting in the campaigns in New Guinea and Luzon, where he was wounded in both legs. He was awarded the Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars and the Silver Star for valor. After the war, Sol returned to Royston to take over the family’s dry goods store; soon after, he made the move to Atlanta to join his twin brother in the interior design business David Inc., where he practiced the art of designing fine interiors for more than 40 years. He is survived by nieces Dr. Lisa Blue-Baron and Jodi Cobb; nephews Dr. Richard Blue, Dr. James Blue and John Blue; and his beloved cat, Kitty. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Tues., Feb. 26, 2013 at H.M. Patterson & Son-Oglethorpe Hill Chapel, 4550 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30319. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in his memory to your favorite charity.
Jonas Davidson
95, OF JACKSONVILLE, FLA. Jonas Davidson, 95, a retired jeweler of Jacksonville, Fla., died Wed., Feb. 20, 2013. Surviving are his nephew, Jules Davidson of Jacksonville, Fla.; nieces Lorraine Furst of Atlanta and Gail Zimmerman and family of Miami; and cousin Linda Liss and family, all of Atlanta. Mr. Davidson was a veteran of WWII, and a lifetime Scottish Rite Mason. Graveside services were held Sun., Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, 1173 Cascade Ave., Atlanta. Arrangements by H. M. Patterson & Son Arlington Chapel, observing Jewish funeral rituals and traditions.
Harry Seitz
90, OF ATLANTA Harry Seitz passed away peacefully at his home on Wed., Feb. 20, 2013 after battling Alzheimer ’s disease for several years. Harry was a native Atlantan born at Crawford W. Long Hospital on Dec. 17, 1922. He attended Boys’ High and graduated with a degree from Georgia Tech. He served his country in the Naval Air Corps during World War II and was a life member of the Jewish War Veterans. Following the war, he began working at Atlanta Provision Company in 1948 and then guided the company’s growth over the years until its sale in 1985. In 1962, he married Mary, the love of his life. Together, they shared a beautiful life for more than 50 years. Harry was fortunate to be a friend and mentor to many people during his lifetime and will always be remembered for his generous spirit and sense of humor. He is survived by his wife Mary; his son and daughter-in-law Greg and Eileen and grandchildren Sam and Abby; and his daughter and son-in-law Jodi and Mark Kobrinsky and grandchildren Mikey and Danny. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, 34 Washington Street, Suite 200, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481 (curealzfund.org). Graveside services were held Sun., Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at Arlington Memorial Park.
Saul Vinokur
Saul Vinokur, 92, passed away on Feb. 11, 2013 in Waterbury, Conn. He was born in Mount Vernon, N.Y. on March 1, 1920 to the late Bertha and Jacob Vinokur. Saul was a longtime resident of Eastchester, N.Y. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 52 years, Beatrice, in 2001. With his brother Benjamin, Saul was a partner/owner in B&S Specialties Plumbing & Heating in Mount Vernon for more than 48 years. Saul was also a professional musician, playing saxophone, clarinet and flute for more than 70 years. As this was his passion, he continued playing music with local community bands in Yonkers and Mamaroneck, N.Y., as well as with the Atlanta Concert Band and Callanwolde Concert Band with his daughter, Lisa. Saul was a longtime member of the Musicians Union, Local 38, the Odd-Fellows Organization and the local AARP in Mount Vernon. He also was a member of CBI Synagogue in Mount Vernon until its closing. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force Band during World War II, stationed in Baton Rouge, La. and was on tour to Casablanca, Morocco during the war. Saul enjoyed boating and fishing, especially on the Galene, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. Saul was a tinkerer who loved to use his imagination to create, and he often would make lamps out of just about anything – most notably, musical instruments. In his retirement years, he also refurbished antique chairs and sewing machines. He would often gift these creations to family and friends. For many years, he delighted in sharing vegetables that he grew in his home garden. Saul will be remembered with love as a devoted husband to his late Beatrice; an adoring father to Drs. Lisa (Ira) Vinokur-Tedoff, Drs. Bruce (Marilyn) Vinokur and Gail (Robert) Burke; a wonderful gramps to Perlman and Bryna Tedoff, Pauley Tedoff, Sidney (Kristen) Burke, Dr. Shayna Burke, Dr. Jessica Vinokur and Lauren (Benjamin) Sigg; and greatgramps to Henry and Hannah Burke.He is survived by his siblings: Benjamin Vinokur, Sophie Vinokur and Elizabeth Gamzon. Dad had a happy heart and will always be missed by all who knew and loved him.
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
92, HUSBAND TO THE LATE BEATRICE
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AJT
MATZAH BALL SOUP FOR THE SOUL
Doing It All, and Then Some G-D HAS REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS BY RACHEL LAVICTOIRE AJT Columnist
W
hen I was a kid, there were a lot of things I “couldn’t� do. I couldn’t read long books or remember vocab words. I couldn’t get my french horn to sing Hot Cross Buns, and I could never find x. I couldn’t do a cartwheel or a backbend, and I certainly couldn’t run very fast. When I said that I couldn’t do these things, adults would say, “Don’t say can’t; it’s that you won’t.� At the time, those adults were right to encourage me; I would be able to succeed eventually. But 10 years later, as a freshman in college, I’m trying to embrace the “can’t� in my life. I go to one of the top schools in the country. Fifteen hundred courses are offered each semester, and the average student takes 16 credit hours. We also have more than 300 student organizations. Every day, the flyers are different:
“Purim Festival!�
“WU-Slam Poetry Competition!�
“Stereotypes A Capella Concert!�
“WUnity Multicultural Ball!�
“Relay for Life Meeting!�
“AOđ?›‘ Strike Out Arthritis!â€?
The colored posters cling to the walls with blue tape, but they’ll be taken down in a few days, replaced quickly with another fundraiser/ meeting/discussion/party/contest going on around campus. There are about 1,600 kids in my freshman class. Among us walk child actors, valedictorians, athletes and award-winning Rubik’s Cubesolvers. I’ve met kids who spend their free time programing computer apps as well as kids who speak four different languages. I’m learning quickly that, yes, there are things I cannot do.
Blessing for the Candles Baruch Arah A-do-nai,El-o-hei-nu Melech Haolam Asher Kid-shanu b’mitzvotav V’zivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Sovereign of time and space. You hallow us with Your mitzvot and command us to kindle the lights of Shabbat.
MARCH 1 â–Ş 2013
Blessing for the Wine Baruch Atah A-do-nai, El-o-hei-nu Meelech Haolam, Borei p’ri hagafen Praise to You, Eternal our God, Sovereign of the Universe, Creator of the fruit of the vine. Blessing for the Bread (Challah) Baruch Atah A-do-nai, El-o-hei-nu Melech haolam, Hamotzi Lechem min haaretz. Our Praise to You Eternal our God, Sovereign of the universe, Who brings forth bread from the earth.
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This week’s Torah portion, Ki Tisa, tells one of the most well-known stories in Judaism: Moses gets the Ten Commandments, then shatters them when he sees the Israelites worshipping the Golden Calf. Instead of focusing on that, though, I want to concentrate on the opening lines of the portion:
“G-d understands our limitations. The world He created cycles in 24hour days, and no one day will be longer than the one before it; we therefore have to choose the ways in which we spend those limited hours.�
I have limits. I can’t take 16 credits, get straight As, pledge a sorority, buy my groceries, clean my room,
Shabbat Candle Lighting Times shabbat blessings
keep up with my favorite TV shows, keep up with my friends, serve on committees and slap a huge smile on my face every morning. I can’t spread myself too thin, and neither should anyone else.
Friday, March 1, 2013 Light Candles at: 6:15 pm Shabbat, March 2, 2012 Shabbat Ends: 7:11 pm Friday, March 8, 2013 Light Candles at: 6:21 pm Shabbat, March 9, 2012 Shabbat Ends: 7:17 pm
Friday, March 15, 2013 Light Candles at: 7:27 pm Shabbat, March 16, 2012 Shabbat Ends: 8:23 pm Friday, March 22, 2013 Light Candles at: 7:32 pm Shabbat, March 23, 2012 Shabbat Ends: 8:28 pm
“The Lord spoke to Moses, saying: ‘When you take the sum of the children of Israel according to their numbers, let each one give to the Lord an atonement for his soul when they are counted; then there will be no plague among them when they are counted. This they shall give, everyone who goes through the counting: half a shekel according to the holy shekel. Twenty gerahs equal one shekel; half of such shekel shall be an offering to the Lord.’� While I understand that we have no concept of how much a shekel was worth then, right now it’s worth relatively little compared to the dollar – if I’m not mistaken, I bought a $5 ring in Israel for 24 shekels. So why would G-d ask for only half a shekel? Keep in mind: This is G-d. He saved us from slavery and gave us the Torah, fed us in times of famine and comforted us in times of doubt. And in return, when G-d spoke to Moses, He asked for one half of one shekel. I like to think that it’s because G-d understands our limitations. The world He created cycles in 24-hour days, and no one day will be longer
than the one before it; we therefore have to choose the ways in which we spend those limited hours. Some people will choose to divvy up their time – an hour for work, an hour for relaxing, and hour for dinner with friends – while others may devote a full day to one task. Regardless, neither person can do both. It’s not that I am unwilling to work for straight As – it’s that I physically cannot put in the necessary work while also saving time for Kappa Kappa Gamma, the Social Programming Board, my friends, my family, my writing and – most importantly – my sleep. It’s a wildly difficult thing to do, to say “no,� you’re “too busy,� to say “you can’t.� You want to say it’s just one more thing, that you’re strong enough, that you can handle it. But don’t. We all want to think we’re the exception to the rule, but in reality, we all run the risk of being spread too thin. In fact, G-d Himself spoke to this; he said to Moses, “The rich shall give no more, and the poor shall give no less than half a shekel, with which to give the offering to the Lord� (Exodus 30:15). Thus, we all have to set limits. This being one of my biggest struggles, I am going to start now. It’s 1:36 a.m., and I got five hours of sleep last night. I took a 13-page midterm today and have another one on Thursday. Needless to say, I’m exhausted. So, regardless of the 150 words this article is shy from meeting the target word count, I am going to have to say “good-night.� There is my half a shekel. Rachel LaVictoire (rlavictoire@wustl. edu) is a graduate of the Davis Academy and Westminster High School, recipient of the prestigious Nemerov Writing and Thomas H. Elliott Merit scholarships at Washington University of St. Louis and an active member of Temple Emanu-El and the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. She was recently named to the board of St. Louis Hillel.
JEWISH PUZZLER by David Benkof
53. Incline 55. “Exodus” hero 57. Economist in the Clinton and Obama administrations 62. Pianist Bronfman 64. Sasquatch cousin 65. Gossipper Barrett 66. “J’accuse!” author Zola 67. Joe Klein’s sometime alias, for short 68. Kaufman of “Taxi” fame 69. British Chief Rabbi Jonathan 70. French judge Cassin 71. Proto-Zionist Moses
30. Dylan and Saget 31. Bedevil 32. “___ Management” (Adam Sandler movie) 35. Whence refuseniks 36. Biochemist’s letters 39. “___ The Woods” (Sond-
heim musical) 41. Water additive 44. House types 46. Jewish frat 49. Chanukah substance 51. ___ Kadisha (burial society) 53. “Street ___,” Elmer Rice play 54. Divulge 55. Some Knesset votes 56. Ashkenazi encoder of Jewish law 58. Month after Nisan 59. Kind of soldier 60. Sen. Bernie Sanders and others 61. Some Knesset votes 63. Genre
Last week’s answers
Down 1. MIA Ron 2. Auschwitz heroine Robota 3. “___ excellent driver” (Rain Man) 4. Portray 5. Place to find a cue 6. “___ Speaks” (1962 autobiography) 7. Initials for the Irgun 8. “Hold it, buster!” 9. Regret deeply 10. “___ Juive” (Jewishstyle dish) 11. German socialist revolutionary 12. “A Guide to Jewish Prayer” author Steinsaltz
Chess Puzzle of the Week by Jon Hochberg
Challenge: Black to move: Checkmate in 2 moves
Last puzzle’s solution. 1) Nc6+, b7 x Nc6 2) Qb3+, Bb4 3) Qb4#
Jon Hochberg is a chess instructor who has been teaching in the Atlanta area for the last 6 years. Currently, Jon runs after school chess programs at several Atlanta schools. He always welcomes new students, and enjoys working with children who have no prior chess knowledge. Jon can be reached at Jonhochberg@gmail.com to schedule private lessons.
MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
Across 1. Like the Negev 5. “Am I glad that’s over!” 9. Port of Senegal 14. Temple destroyer in 70 CE 15. It may be taken with a Bible 16. Avoid artfully 17. Rush order? 18. Italian for “barley” 19. Location of the Pletzl (historical Jewish neighborhood) 20. Martyred “Wall Street Journal” Journalist 23. Network for Kyra Sedgwick’s “The Closer” 24. Feminist psychologist Gilligan 25. Torah ___ (hidden message in the Bible) 27. Precisely right 30. Bit of Oral Law not included in the Mishnah 33. Antiapartheid org. 34. Oldest synagogue in the U.S., in Newport, R.I. 37. JTS Chancellor Arnold 38. Double DLI 40. Former network for anti-Israel commentator Pat Buchanan 42. Glitch 43. She sits near Ruth and Stephen 45. Figure skater Cohen 47. Hamburg-to-Berlin dir. 48. Summoned 50. “New Math” songwriter Tom 52. Aaron Spelling’s daughter
13. Enjoy Shabbat 21. Which wall to hang your Mizrach on 22. Orthodox clergy org. 26. Candidate’s perch 27. “Spider-Man” actor Franco 28. Esau, to Gad 29. Scholarly, in a way
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NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS Georgia, Cobb County. All creditors of the Estate of Constantine Horianopoulos, late of Cobb County, Georgia, deceased are hereby notified to render in their demands to the undersigned according to law, and all persons indebted to said Estate are required to make immediate payment.
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HOME FOR RENT MARCH 1 ▪ 2013
Johns Creek cozy 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath home. Quiet neighborhood. New appliances, tile, paint. 2 blocks from Chabad of Alpharetta. Lawn service included. No smokers, no pets. $1,050 per month plus utilities. Stewart Burt: 404-290-4038. rsburt@belsouth.net 24
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