Atlanta Jewish Times, Vol. XCII No. 36, September 15, 2017 by Atlanta Jewish Times

VOL. XCII NO. 36

SEPTEMBER 15, 2017 | 24 ELUL 5777

Wishing You a Sweet 5778

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INSIDE YOUR ROSH HASHANAH AJT UNINVITED GUESTS

STILL STANDING

Chabad Intown’s Dena Schusterman tells how Hurricane Irma made a bar mitzvah extra-special. Page 4

If isolation, economic challenges and aging populations couldn’t sink the small Jewish communities of South Georgia, there’s no reason to think Irma will cause problems. Page 98

Two recent high school grads from Israel are building connections in Atlanta. Page 9

FINEST HOURS After watching this community respond to two hurricanes despite also becoming a target, we’ve never been prouder to be part of Jewish Atlanta. Our View, Page 14

150 AND COUNTING We enter the holiday season with two reminders of Jewish life in 1867: a mahzor rescued from Poland and the first services at The Temple. Pages 16, 24

EAT, PRAY … Still looking for the right place to spend the holidays? We offer some options, along with choices in local honey and Georgia apples. Pages 18-23

DRINK What holiday would be complete without cocktail suggestions from Robbie Medwed? Page 26

SO MUCH TO SAY Representatives of nearly 80 local Jewish organizations help set the right tone for our community for 5778, from Federation CEO Eric Robbins’s hopes to help conduct a beautiful, powerful communal symphony, to the determination of new ADL Southeast Director Allison Padilla-Goodman to stand against hate, to Etgar 36 founder Billy Planer’s plan to talk our way through “otherness,” to the lessons Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta Executive Director has found around the Rosh Hashanah table, to SOJOURN Executive Director’s dignified call to respect the dignity of all, to the scary echoes of 1930s Germany being heard by Eternal Life-Hemshech leaders Karen Lansky Edlin and Jane Bick, to Chabad of North Fulton Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz’s desire to do better in his annual visit to a Catskills scale. Pages 30-100

SAME BUT DIFFERENT Congregation Or-Ami Rabbi Shalem Yeshurun knows College Park is the right place for him and his Hebrew Israelite congregation. Page 99

TOP NOTCH Tip Top Kosher Market brings the world of Israeli groceries to Chamblee. Page 101

CUBAN SANDWICH Author Nelson DeMille and former prisoner Alan Gross will offer two views of Cuba during a book event at the Marcus JCC. Page 104 On the cover: The Rosh Hashanah artwork is by Atlanta artist Flora Rosefsky, who offers these thoughts on the piece: “What would a Jewish holiday be without symbolic foods associated with teaching moments? At Rosh Hashanah, as we wish family and friends a sweet and good year, we dip apples in honey and eat a round challah filled with raisins, its round shape a reflection of the continuing cycle of seasons and years. The blowing of the shofar, with its piercing sound, reveals the most significant symbol for this annual introspective holiday. The shofar compels us to look back on our lives, make amends and start the new year with a renewed spirit. Inspired by the cutouts of Henri Matisse, I find that drawing with scissors, cutting directly into color, helps me bring the joyful messages of Jewish traditions to life.”

INDEX Candle Lighting �� 6 Israel News �� 8 Opinion �� 12 Business �� 101 Obituaries �� 102 Arts �� 104 Crossword �� 105 Marketplace �� 106

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

WELCOME VISITORS

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MA TOVU

Look Who the Hurricane Blew In Before satellites and 24-hour cable news, if a hurricane was headed your way, you might know it mere hours in advance, and the time you had to prepare was commensurate with how much information you knew. Perhaps Native Americans had a system of understanding the atmospheric changes based on their intimacy with the land. In the early 1870s when forecasters began predicting hurricanes out of Cuba, the work was based on cloud formations just days in advance. Later, the use of radio and airplanes greatly advanced the predictability of a hurricane. Today, there are satellites in the sky, and the accuracy of where a hurricane will hit is rivaled only by how many weeks in advance people are given to stress out and evacuate. With the all-knowing power of satellites, people are afforded the luxury of preparing appropriately and making plans for evacuation. The Ba’al Shem Tov, whose birthday just happened to occur this Shabbat along with Irma, teaches that

everything that happens to us is by divine design or happens by Hashgacha Protit — individual Divine Providence.

Guest Column By Dena Schusterman

This means that when we find ourselves somewhere, it is for a purpose. Even a leaf doesn’t fall off a tree without intention, if only perhaps to shade a lethargic inchworm (as the well-known tale goes). G-d has a master plan and is overseeing it all, with slightly more accuracy than the satellite, but technology is surely catching up. Everyone who ended up in Atlanta during Hurricane Irma was destined to be here, and those who were not destined to come never did — no matter their best intentions or how hard they might have tried. How many people were on their way, with even a place to stay, but did

not make it? And how many had plans to go farther north, but somehow Atlanta became their destination to hunker down and batten down the hatches? Most will never know why they had to spend Shabbat Parshat Hurricane Irma in Atlanta, or why their baby was born at Northside Hospital (Atlanta) instead of Jackson Health Hospital (Miami), or why their baby boy born last week was brissed at Chabad Intown Atlanta instead of their own living room in Aventura, Fla. Such is life. His mysterious ways are not always known or shown to us. But sometimes we are given a wink, letting us know that He is indeed orchestrating it all. This past Shabbat, along with our Irma evacuee guests, we hosted the bar mitzvah of one of our Hebrew school students. When this family came to our Hebrew school, it was a curiosity because they lived quite far away. The mother was intent on her children getting their education specifically at Chabad because she had fond memories of a Mr. Fellig, a Chabadnik who was instrumental in her own Jewish

education many years ago when she lived in South Florida. At the time this family signed up, we were thrilled with the Divine Providence of them ending up in our Hebrew school because Mr. Fellig was none other than the grandfather of my brother-in-law. It all seemed so beshert: She had found her family’s Jewish home. And, indeed, the past four years her son has grown into a fine young man and has been successful at the Hebrew school. And then came time for his bar mitzvah, Hurricane Irma and all the extra guests who were never invited to, but surely were welcome at his celebration. As the rabbi welcomed the crowd, he made special mention of the fact that the winds of Irma had blown in our sister and brother-in-law and their kids — the grandchildren and greatgrandchildren of Mr. Fellig — to come celebrate this special simcha. ■ Dena Schusterman is a founder of Chabad Intown and the founding director of the Intown Jewish Preschool and the Intown Hebrew School.

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CALENDAR THROUGH SEPT. 19

Shofar blasts. Rabbi Brian Glusman blows the shofar at 11 a.m. Monday through Friday on Main Street at the Marcus JCC, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. Free and open to all; atlantajcc. org or 678-812-4161.

THROUGH DEC. 31

JELF exhibit. The Jewish Educational Loan Fund’s history is featured in “The Legacy of the Hebrew Orphans’ Home” at the Breman, 1440 Spring St., Midtown. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students and educators, and $4 for children 3 to 6; thebreman. org or 678-222-3700.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 14

Infertility support. The Jewish Fertility Foundation offers a support group with wine and cheese for women experiencing infertility at 6 p.m. at MACoM, 700-A Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs. Free; www.jewishfertilityfoundation.org/Support or 770-8437413. Women’s event. Filmmaker Nancy Spielberg speaks at the fall event of the Federation Women’s Philanthropy at 7 p.m. at the InterContinental Buckhead, 3315 Peachtree Road. Tickets are $72; bit.ly/2vALaVv. Book talk. Jewish author Gabrielle Zevin talks about her new novel, “Young Jane Young,” at 7 p.m. at the Atlanta History Center’s Margaret Mitchell House, 979 Crescent Ave., Midtown. Tickets are $10; bit.ly/2pxGBsH. Film screening. In cooperation with Out on Film, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival presents its next AJFF Selects film, “The Lavender Scare,” a documentary about the purging of homosexuals from the federal government in the 1940s, at 7 p.m. at the Landmark Midtown Art Cinema, 931 Monroe Drive. Tickets are $15 (VIP tickets, including a post-film reception at Après Diem, are

$30); ajff.org/lavenderscaretix. Conservative update. Rabbi Steven Wernick, the head of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, addresses the state of the Conservative movement at 7 p.m. at Congregation Etz Chaim, 1190 Indian Hills Parkway, East Cobb. Free; etzchaim.net/uscj or 770-973-0137.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 15

LunchTime Culture. The monthly program of the Breman, the High and the Center for Puppetry Arts continues with a discussion of how art and artifacts can preserve history at the Breman Museum, 1440 Spring St., Midtown, at noon (first-come, first-served admittance begins at 11:30 a.m.). Free; www.thebreman.org or 678-222-3700. Bluegrass Shabbat. Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave., Buckhead, serves a kosher barbecue dinner while the Cohen Brothers Band plays at 6 p.m., followed by a musical Shabbat service at 7:30. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for ages 6 to 12 for dinner and the concert or free for just the service; www.aasynagogue.org. Camp weekend. The Marcus JCC holds its fourth annual young adult camp weekend today through Sunday at Camp Coleman in Cleveland. Admission, including cabin accommodations, meals and activities, is $99 for JCC members, $120 for others; atlantajcc.org/campweekend or 678-812-3972.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 16

Community Shabbos lunch. Congregation Beth Jacob, 1855 LaVista Road, Toco Hills, kicks off the New Year’s celebrations with a post-Kiddush lunch for the entire community at noon in Heritage Hall. Admission is $12 for members ($60 maximum per family) or $18 for nonmembers; 404-633-0551 or www.bethjacobatlanta.org/form/ shabboslunch.

Remember When

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

25 Years Ago Sept. 11, 1992 ■ A recent meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s government and 35 American Jewish leaders, including Atlantans David Minkin, Arnold Rubinstein, Jerry Horowitz and David Sarnat, reflects a shift in Israeli policy from settlement in the territories to absorption of immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Horowitz said the meeting focused on job creation. ■ Political fireworks fizzled Sept. 2 when two of the Republican candidates failed to attend a congressional candidate forum organized by Atlanta Hadassah and the League of Women Voters. John Linder in the 4th District and Newt Gingrich in the 6th District chose to send surrogates. ■ The bat mitzvah of Pamela Aronson of Roswell, daughter of Robert and Ro6 berta Aronson, took place Saturday, Sept. 5, at Etz Chaim Synagogue.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Nitzavim-Vayelech Friday, Sept. 15, light candles at 7:26 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, Shabbat ends at 8:19 p.m. Rosh Hashanah Wednesday, Sept. 20, light candles at 7:19 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21, light candles after 8:12 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, light candles at 7:16 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, Shabbat ends at 8:09 p.m.

Corrections & Clarifications

• Former Atlantan Rachel Weber is a mother at Houston’s Beth Yeshurun Day School, not a teacher as stated Sept. 8. • The name of Nefesh B’Nefesh co-founder Tony Gelbart was misspelled Sept. 8. • Honeymoon Israel began with trips from Phoenix and Los Angeles in May 2015. The original participating city was incorrect Sept. 8. Packaged Good fundraiser. Cocktails for a Cause is a party and silent auction to benefit the Packaged Good, 5517 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door; www.thepackagedgood.org/upcoming-events or 470-448-3937.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 17

The buzz on bees. Chabad of North Fulton, 10180 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta, offers a honey tasting and presentation on honeybees with a professional beekeeper at 10 a.m. Free; www.chabadnf.org or 770-410-9000.

Buckhead. $50; www.souperjennyatl. com/shop. New Year’s party. In partnership with PJ Library, The Temple and Jewish Kids Groups, the Marcus JCC holds an intown Rosh Hashanah celebration and nature program at 3 p.m. at the Wylde Center, Oakhurst Garden, 435 Oakview Road, Decatur. Admission is $15 per family; atlantajcc.org/wylde or 678812-4107.

Honey handout. Congregation Shearith Israel members share the sweetness of the new year by giving out honey on the BeltLine near Ponce City Market from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Congressional briefing. New 6th District Rep. Karen Handel speaks about her recent trip to Israel and her first summer in Congress to the Republican Jewish Coalition at 5 p.m. at Heritage Sandy Springs, 6110 Blue Stone Road. Admission is $5 for RJC members, $10 for others; RSVP required to atlrjc@ gmail.com or 770-438-0376.

Benefit musical. “Falsettos” — the story of a dysfunctional Jewish family in New York in the late 1970s that stars Jenny Levison of Souper Jenny, is directed by Mira Hirsch and benefits the anti-hunger nonprofit the Zadie Project — shows at 3 p.m. after a 2 p.m. dessert reception at the Atlanta History Center, 130 W. Paces Ferry Road,

Blood drive. Aesthetic Specialty Centre, 1825 Old Alabama Road, Suite 201, Roswell, offers a skin cancer screening, a gift bag and a $50 gift card to those who donate to the American Red Cross Bloodmobile from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free; sign up by emailing kpalmieri@ asc-psd.com or calling 770-393-9000.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19

Send items for the calendar to submissions@atljewishtimes.com. Find more events at atlantajewishtimes.com/events-calendar.

■ Diane and Marty Cohen of Atlanta announce the birth of a daughter, Jordyn Bette, on Aug. 14. 50 Years Ago Sept. 15, 1967 ■ A joint meeting of the board of directors for the Atlanta Jewish Social Services Federation, the Jewish Welfare Fund and the Jewish Community Council has been called by the respective agency presidents, Herman Heyman, Abe Goldstein and Bernard Howard, for Wednesday, Sept. 27, at the Jewish Community Center for further action on the already-approved merger of the three communal agencies. ■ Well-known Israeli writers, poets, playwrights, politicians and veterans of the security services have formed the Movement for Undivided Israel to oppose the return of any of the areas captured during the Six-Day War. ■ Mr. and Mrs. Frank S. Kaufmann of Atlanta announces the engagement of daughter Rita Jane to Raul S. Loeb, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frederico Loeb of Olivos, Argentina. Wedding plans will be announced.

CALENDAR Babyccino. Children up to age 2½ and their mothers have a Rosh Hashanah program at 10:30 a.m. at Chabad of North Fulton, 10180 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta. Free; www.chabadnf.org or 770-410-9000. Camp info session. The Union for Reform Judaism’s 6 Points Sports Academy holds a parlor meeting about the summer camp at 7 p.m. in Smyrna. Free; hross@urj.org for details.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 20

Resisting Fascism film series. Emory Cinematheque presents 1942’s “To Be or Not to Be” at 7:30 p.m. in White Hall Room 208, 301 Dowman Drive, Atlanta. Free; www.filmstudies.emory.edu or 404-727-6761.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 21

Food talk. Kosher soul food chef, culinary historian and author Michael Twitty talks about his new book, “The Cooking Gene,” in the Aiken Lecture at 7 p.m. at the Atlanta History Center, 130 W. Paces Ferry Road, Buckhead. Tickets are $10; bit.ly/2pxGBsH.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 24

Family Tashlich. Families are invited to bring picnic lunches and bread crumbs for a Tashlich observance at 12:15 p.m. Lake RB at the Marcus JCC, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, with a live bird show, bumper and paddle boats, a shofar-blowing contest and other activities after the brief ceremony of casting out sins. Free and open to all; atlantajcc.org or 678-812-4161.

By David R. Cohen david@atljewishtimes.com

thing a little bit more intimate, and I really have the time to meet the people.

Take legendary blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan, add a touch of Neil Young’s heavy distortion and enigmatic lyrics, and put a kippah on top. The result is American-Israeli guitarist Lazer Lloyd, one of Israel’s few purveyors of American-inspired blues rock. Lloyd returns to Atlanta for the first time since October 2015 for a performance at Smith’s Olde Bar, 1578 Piedmont Ave., Midtown, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door; visit bit.ly/2eKIMoj.

AJT: You’re one of the few blues guitarists in Israel, but here the genre is much more popular. Do you find that you have more fans in the Southern United States? Lloyd: Yeah, you know, obviously I have a lot of fans in the Chicago area and in the New York area, and a lot of people in California that like my music, but the middle lower half of America, going east to Texas and from Ohio down, that’s where the hot spot is for Lazer Lloyd. That’s where people really seem to enjoy it. You know, I play Americana, rock, folk, country, and am also obviously influenced by the blues.

AJT: What’s behind your upcoming concert at Smith’s Olde Bar? Lloyd: I have a lot of fans in Atlanta, and Atlanta has a lot to do with my sound. You know, I’m very influenced by a lot of the bands that broke down there, like the Black Crowes and others. I’ve got a lot of that sound in my writing and guitar playing and singing. So I keep coming back to Atlanta. AJT: You’re also hitting Paducah, Ky., and Grapevine, Texas. Do you enjoy playing places that are off the beaten trail? Lloyd: I’m an off-the-beaten-trail type of person. I’m not for the big city, and I really love meeting all the different people in those places. You know, there’s interesting people everywhere, but in those types of places you really get to meet some unique personalities. And the shows there are just some-

AJT: Who are some of your favorite guitarists and influences? Lloyd: Well, I’m discovering people all the time. New people (laughs). One of my latest favorites is Chris Stapleton. You know, he’s a great singer/songwriter in country, folk and Americana, but he can damn well play the blues, and it’s rare to see something like that today — someone who really is minimalistic. Stevie Ray Vaughan was a huge influence on me, B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix — those are obvious influences. Santana had a big influence on me, but also all the guitar players with Bob Dylan. You know, Bob Dylan’s sound and the whole thing he provided with Americana, folk, country and blues. He himself is an incredible guitar player. And obviously Neil Young was a huge influence for me as well. ■

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Israel’s Guitar Hero Returns to Atlanta

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ISRAEL NEWS

Partnerships Help Connect Atlanta to Yokneam By Patrice Worthy Partnership2gether is an initiative of the Jewish Agency for Israel to continue the task of keeping Jewish people across the Diaspora engaged and connected. Partnership2gether has 45 partnerships in 550 communities with 350,000 participants around the world. There are 450 programs to connect Jewish communities in South America, Europe, Australia, South Africa and North America to Israel. The communities of Yokneam and Megiddo receive money from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and the Jewish Federation of St. Louis to support initiatives that have resulted in a greater understanding of Judaism and Israel, said Eliad Eliyahu Ben Shushan, the director of the Partnership2Gether program between Yokneam and Megiddo on one side and Atlanta and St. Louis on the other. Ben Shushan served as a shaliach (emissary) in Omaha, Neb., where he worked with 14 communities in the Midwest before becoming one of the

Onward Israel participants are part of a Kabbalat Shabbat service at Tel Yokneam.

Partnership2gether directors. As a director of Partnership2gether, one of his goals is strengthening the relationship between Israel and Atlanta. “We want to have people build meaningful relationships,” Ben Shushan said. “We want people to see the real Israel. Nowadays, with all the BDS and university protest, you really don’t see the reality of Israeli life.” When the Jewish Agency launched the program in the 1990s, the basic idea was to connect Jewish Federations and specific communities in Israel,

SERVING THE ATLANTA

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

INTOWN JEWISH COMMUNITY

Chabad Intown is a non-proﬁt organization providing Jewish education and experience opportunities to all, regardless of background and afﬁliation

Food helps bridge the gap between Israelis in Yokneam and Americans participating in Onward Israel.

said Bernice Malka, the Living Bridge coordinator for the program between Yokneam/Megiddo and Atlanta. Yokneam was a development city, and at its inception the programming focused heavily on community development. Federation, however, recently approved more money for programs such as Kesher. Yokneam recently became home to Ohel Menashe, a Conservative synagogue. Federation decided to contribute to the construction two years ago, and continues to support the Conservative community in Yokneam. Tzachi Aizik, who participated in the Kesher exchange program and is a member of Ohel Menashe, said a Conservative synagogue in Yokneam shows Israelis there are other ways to practice Judaism. “We want to close the gaps, and People 2 People gave us an opportunity to expose different opportunities to practice Judaism,” Aizik said. In Israel, the understanding of pluralism is limited, Ben Shushan said. His vision for expanding the definition of Judaism among Israelis includes the Macabbim and Melton programs, which create experiences around different forms of Judaism. A Melton group at the Brill Institute of the Marcus Jewish Community Center recently studied with a group in Yokneam via Skype. Last September the Melton group visited Israel to tour and celebrate Shabbat, and in December members of the Macabbim group visited Atlanta. “Macabbim and Melton allows for different forms of Judaism to be discussed,” Ben Shushan said. “You can open your heart and mind to different ways of experiencing Judaism.” The International School Twinning Network allows schools in Israel to partner with Atlanta Jewish day schools so children can learn about different forms of Judaism. The students have a split classroom where they con-

nect via Skype, celebrate holidays, and share information about hobbies and day-to-day life. Next year People 2 People is launching an education delegation program in which educators from Yokneam will bring the education system in Israel to Atlanta. People 2 People is also bringing musicians to play in the 2018 Atlanta Jewish Music Festival. Such programming is a response to people who live in Atlanta and Yokneam. There’s a feeling of separation between Diaspora Jews and Israel, especially among the young, Malka said. “For us, bringing people on their own to experience Israel is very important,” Malka said. “All efforts together are giving a response to the challenge.” To combat the trend of disinterest or distancing between American Jews and Israel, the Jewish Agency launched Onward Israel as a part of People 2 People. The initiative brings college students on Birthright Israel to Yokneam and Megiddo. Ben Shushan said the initiative is important because it targets the age group that needs Israel engagement the most. “I think the age of young adults is when you see the distancing from both sides, Israelis from Americans and Americans from Israel,” Ben Shushan said. Ben Shushan is happy to bring American young adults to Israel because they often serve as ambassadors by bridging the gap between reality and media reports. For Partnership2gether, sharing a different side of Israel is important because it shows that Israelis can live with controversies. “People criticize Israel all over the world. Even Israelis criticize Israel,” Ben Shushan said. “But when people come here to Yokneam, the highlight is the hospitality because this is the time when connections are made and the real conversation starts.” ■

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ISRAEL NEWS

Love of Israel Brings Shinshinim to Atlanta One grew up in the urban streets of Rishon LeZion; the other was raised on a moshav. Together, Israeli high school graduates Or Shaham and Lior Bar are determined to share everything they know about Israel as Atlanta’s new shinshinim during a service year before they enter the Israeli army. The Shinshinim program, supported by the Jewish Agency for Israel in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, invites young Israelis to share their love and knowledge of the country through various organizations, synagogues and Jewish day schools while fostering a greater understanding among youths between the two communities. “I have all this experience that I am bringing with me from Israel which is deeply imprinted in my life and personality, and having this opportunity to be a part of Shinshinim allows me to share that with a second Jewish community,” Bar said. “It allows people to see me, my perspective, and hopefully to enrich theirs.” Although this is not Bar’s first time visiting the United States, as she previously lived in Mexico, Atlanta has grown on her. “It’s a big difference, as I am used to walking past multiple buildings and crowded areas, compared to open spaces and vast yards; however, it is also very beautiful,” she said. Shaham added, “Living in the States is much different from traveling through, as you have to work, possess your own car and are staying with host families, but it’s something I look forward to embracing as it is very different from living on a moshav.” During their stay, Shaham and Bar hope to foster a love of Israel in as many youths as possible by establishing friendships and partnering with various organizations, including the Atlanta Jewish Teen Initiative. They are working with Atlanta Jewish Academy, the Epstein School and the Davis Academy, as well as Jewish Kids Groups, The Temple, Congregation B’nai Torah and Congregation Or Hadash. “We wanted to create a pilot that would include specific organizations the girls could visit. Since we can’t send everyone to Israel, we figured we can bring a little bit of the country here,” said Roey Shoshan, who is leading Shinshinim locally as Federation’s di-

Atlanta’s first shinshinim, Lior Bar (left) and Or Shaham, hope to foster greater ties between Israel and Jewish youths in Atlanta.

rector of Israel and overseas initiatives. Moving forward, the young women hope to be resources for community members across Atlanta. “I think that meeting someone from Israel, hearing their story and connecting with them will enhance their point of view in the long run,” Bar said. In addition to shifting viewpoints, they hope to generate closer ties to Judaism within the community. “We represent something that people may not often see within the States, but learning from each other will bring us closer,” Bar said. “I hope people remember us the next time they hear or read something

about Israel and possibly have a different perspective,” Shaham said. Bar learned about Shinshinim through her older sister, who did not participate in the program but piqued Bar’s interest. “I realized that this is something that could really enrich my life while I gave something and received something back in return.” Shaham was already familiar with shnat sherut, which similarly sends high school graduates to conduct one year of community service before entering the Israel Defense Forces. She discovered the Shinshinim program through a youth delegation while visiting a Jewish community in Melbourne, Australia. “I really wanted to participate in a similar program and meet people who are in some ways similar and in some ways different from me while creating new connections” Shaham said. The shinshinim, who were selected out of 40 applicants based on how well they would fit the community, will

stay with host families for four months at a time. “I know the community well and sought to pick two individuals which would work well together and complement each other,” Roey Shoshan said. Bar said the application process includes 2,000 to 3,000 people, as indicated by the Jewish Agency for Israel, and involves seven months of screenings, interviews and sorting to narrow the group down to 113 people for 28 communities. With their different personalities, Shaham and Bar are pioneers, shaping how the Shinshinim program will work and be perceived in the future. “Their experience is just as important for us as it is for them,” Roey Shoshan said. “They are also taking a part of Atlanta’s community back with them, and I can’t think of a better way to support the Federation. This is not a question of religion, but the state of Israel, a conversation we are here to help change and share.” ■

The Shinshinim Program is looking for host families. If you are interested in hosting a shinshin or know of a family who would be interested, contact Federation’s Israel and overseas director, Roey Shoshan, at 404-870-1869 or rshoshan@jewishatlanta.org.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By Sarah Moosazadeh sarah@atljewishtimes.com

ISRAEL NEWS

Israel Pride: Good News From Our Jewish Home More products for seniors. The Matav Association, Israel’s nursing care nonprofit, and Tech for Good, which supports social impact investment, are setting up an incubator for startups developing products and services for senior citizens. The incubator will focus on solutions that extend the time that senior citizens can live at home. The joint venture is being launched now, and the partners expect to receive 60 to 70 separate offers of services and products. Muscling in. IKEA has chosen Israel’s Flying SpArk to join the nine other startups in its Swedish training course. Flying SpArk produces a highquality protein powder from fruit fly larvae for human consumption as a healthier and sustainable alternative to animal protein found in products such as Muscle Milk.

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Driverless prototype. General Motors’ research and development center in Herzliya recently revealed the company’s first prototype of an autonomous vehicle. Based on the electric-only Chevrolet Bolt, the car has an advanced array of Israeli-developed sensors and processors to enable it to travel without a driver. The car, which allows a travel range of 236 miles without recharging, is being marketed only in the United States. GM is the first auto manufacturer to establish a center in Israel for developing automotive technologies. Its center is the largest in Israel for smart transportation. Hipster Haifa. Israel’s third-largest city has taken a moment to recalculate and reboot. It is clear that the effort has succeeded as locals and visitors flock to Haifa’s newest nightlife center. Young urbanites are working hard to put Haifa on the map, where it always should have been. The young vibe is palpable. It exists in Breada, an artisan bakery whose owner and head baker is also a well-known DJ, and in Barberia, the hipster barbershop that hands out craft beers to customers and features Saturday night performances by obscure bands. The growth and improvement have happened steadily the past five years, with new and old hand in hand. The symbiotic vibe doesn’t end with bars, pubs and restaurants. The Downtown Haifa Board has reinstated the importance of art galleries and fashion and jewelry boutiques in the

up-and-coming area. PM flown by Haredi female pilot. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was flown by an ultra-Orthodox female pilot to Thessaloniki, Greece, for a trilateral summit with Greek and Cypriot leaders. Nechama Spiegel Novak was the first ultra-Orthodox female to co-pilot a trip for an Israeli prime minister. Better than the reef thing. When does an artificial vacation destination trump the real thing? When it’s a diving spot in Eilat and the aim is to preserve the authentic coral reefs nearby. That’s one of the conclusions from a study out of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, published in the Journal of Environmental Management. The researchers looked at the effect that artificial reefs, created in recent years to take visitor pressure off the natural coral reefs, have had on the Gulf of Eilat. The result, the researchers said, is clear: reduced damage at the natural reefs, which have suffered under the crush of divers at this popular spot on the southern tip of Israel. The artificial reefs, which were enhanced with ships deliberately sunk to provide interesting dive spots, are becoming increasingly popular with divers. The Ben-Gurion research project looked at the artificial reefs around the Satil, a sunken ship, and around the Tamar artificial reef, one of the most frequented in Eilat. The research is timely, as a new beach, in the area of the Eilat-Ashkelon pipeline, was recently opened to the public. The reefs there are mostly artificial in the form of pylons. Biggest animal march in history. The biggest animal rights march in Israeli history was held Saturday, Sept. 9, in the center of Tel Aviv. With an estimated 30,000 participants from Israel and around the world, the march featured the theme of “It’s in Our Hands” to illustrate the opportunity to act for the welfare of all animals. The rally at the end of the march took place in the central Rabin Square and hosted well known Israeli artists. Ingrid Newkirk, the president of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, was the keynote speaker. Compiled courtesy of israel21c.org, timesofisrael.com and other sources.

ISRAEL NEWS

Israel’s first education minister, Zalman Shazar, is shown during his school days.

Today in Israeli History

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Items provided by the Center for Israel Education (www.israeled.org), where you can find more details. Sept. 15, 2009: Judge Richard Goldstone, a South African Jew who had served as the chief U.N. prosecutor for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, presents his United Nations-sponsored report “Fact Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict.” The report criticizes Hamas and Israel, but in a column in April 2011, Goldstone recants portions of the report suggesting that Israel intentionally killed Palestinian civilians. Sept. 16, 1977: Israeli Foreign Minister Moshe Dayan conducts secret talks with Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister Hassan Tuhami in Morocco. The discussions help both sides recognize that a peace agreement is possible and lead to Anwar Sadat’s visit to Jerusalem in November. Sept. 17, 1978: Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin sign the Camp David Accords under the mediation of President Jimmy Carter. Sept. 18, 1949: Israel’s compulsory education legislation, which was passed Sept. 12, becomes law. It mandates that all children between the ages of 5 and 15 attend a state-recognized educational institution and provides for free elementary education. Language about “recognized trends” leads to the development of separate Jewish and Arab school systems. Sept. 19, 1988: Israel launches its first space satellite, Ofek 1 (“ofek” means horizon), from an undisclosed location near the Mediterranean Sea. It makes Israel the ninth nation with a satellite-launching capability. Sept. 20, 1890: Rachel Bluwstein is born in Russia. She makes aliyah in 1909. She is considered the founding mother of modern Hebrew poetry after becoming one of the first modern Hebrew poets to write in a conversational style.

OPINION

Letters To The Editor A Better History List

My list of Atlanta Jews who made the community and touched the world is a little longer than the AJT’s “10 Jews Who Helped Shape Atlanta” (Guide to Jewish Atlanta) because I have included individuals from the first list: Harold Hirsch, Rabbi David Marx, Victor Kriegshaber, Morris Lichtenstein, Rabbi Jacob and Janice Rothschild, Rabbi Emanuel Feldman, Rabbi Harry Epstein, Rabbi Tobias Geffen, David Mayer, Max Gettinger, Aaron Haas, Josephine Heyman, Frank Garson, Bernie Marcus, Arthur Blank, Rabbi Donald Tam and Ben Massell. The lady credited with starting the Jewish Home only built on the existing home, which I visited with my grandparents and parents. My grandmother was considered the founder of the home and the force behind the new home, which was on 14th Street. — Rabbi David Geffen, Jerusalem

Galloway Got It Right

L’Shana Tovah from

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Your go to place for anything Jewish in North Fulton

Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz Rabbi Gedalya & Ruthy Hertz 10180 Jones Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 770-410-9000 www.chabadnf.org

As an educator and a Jewish parent, I need to respond to your rather poorly investigated and reported article about the inclusion of “Mein Kampf” as an elective reading on the Galloway School summer reading list (“Galloway Sees Value in Reading ‘Mein Kampf,’” Sept. 1). In response to a request from some of the Jewish students (who number about a third of the Galloway student population), that reading was included as an elective reading — and conjoined with mentorship by Gordon Mathis, an insightful and inspiring history teacher and past head of the Upper School, as well as the Anti-Defamation League. If any of my students or my son had wanted to read “Mein Kampf,” that is exactly the path that I hope good educators would take. I am appalled that ADL and the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust were against inclusion. As we all know, students who are curious about the work and want to read it will find a way, perhaps without good guidance as to the fallacies of the work or its place in history I know Galloway, and the headline of your article was designed to breed negativity on the part of your readers toward a school that is a wonderful place for Jewish children and young adults as well as their parents. I know Head of School Suzanna Jemsby and Gordon Mathis very well. Their interest as educators, among other things,

is to teach students to think critically, and they are superior at developing that skill in young people. I’m sorry that your reporter didn’t take the time to get to know them and understand that their decision was the right thing for Galloway and the young people they are guiding and inspiring every day. As Jemsby said, it was the right choice for the Galloway community, although it might not have been right for other communities. Lastly, I am sad that ADL concluded that “the choice of ‘Mein Kampf’ was made without an awareness of the academic and pedagogical guidelines for teaching about the Holocaust.” That is an insult to educators they do not know and to the Jewish families who have placed their faith in Jemsby and the Galloway staff. — Sandy Ferko, Atlanta

Irma and Obamacare

Our delegates to Congress seem to have no trouble opening their hearts and our national treasury to rebuild the infrastructures devastated by Irma and her cyclonic siblings. Yet at least half of them, including our own Georgians, close their hearts and our purse to our most precious resource, our citizens. Do they care how their fellow Americans now suffer and will chronically suffer from the toxins, bacteria, molds, viruses and cancers before Irma, as a result of Irma and long after Irma becomes a meteorological footnote? I doubt our anti-Obamacare politicians stay up at night worrying about their own health insurance coverage and affordability. In the meantime, they don’t seem to worry about leaving millions, figuratively and literally, to hang out to dry. — Rabbi Scott B. Saulson, Atlanta

Write to Us

The AJT welcomes letters and guest columns from readers. Letters should be 400 or fewer words; guest columns are up to 700 words. Send submissions to editor@atljewishtimes. com. Include your name, town you live in, and a phone number for verification. We reserve the right to edit submissions for style and length.

From the Blogs

The community conversation is always active at the AJT’s blogs page, blogs.timesofisrael.com/atlanta-jewish-times. Visit the blogs to sign up for your own AJT blog or to add your comments to recent posts.

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OPINION

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Our View

Proudest Days

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

We like to think of Atlanta as one of America’s most underappreciated communities, despite being among North America’s 10 biggest and supplying innovators and fresh ideas nationwide. Jewish Atlanta has slowly gained attention, as seen this year with half a dozen major Jewish organizations holding their conventions here and with the Jewish Agency bringing a delegation of Knesset members for the first time Sept. 7 and 8. And as our colleague Marvin Botnick, the publisher of the Jewish Georgian, pointed out during a breakfast with the visiting Israeli politicians at the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, we should remember that Atlanta has about 1 percent of the world’s Jewish population. The other 99 percent couldn’t help but take notice when this community responded to the double disasters of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The Orthodox community of Toco Hills, led by Rabbi Ilan Feldman at Congregation Beth Jacob and Rabbi Adam Starr at Young Israel, deservedly gained local, national and worldwide press with its response to the two hurricanes. First, Rabbis Feldman and Starr led members of their congregations in rushing to Houston over Labor Day weekend to help with the demolition and cleanup of the devastated Jewish community there. No sooner did they return to Atlanta than they began to get calls from fellow Jews in Florida, looking for a place to spend Shabbat while Irma took aim at their state. By the time Shabbat arrived Sept. 8, just three days after the rabbis and their congregants wrapped up their priceless service in Houston, Beth Jacob and Young Israel had found a way to shelter and feed upward of 1,000 people. Toco Hills set the tone but was far from alone in rising to the occasion. Congregation Beth Tefillah and other Chabad centers found homes for hundreds of additional evacuees, often on air mattress placed anywhere floor space could be found in classrooms and offices. Conservative congregations created a list of members ready to open their homes to evacuees, and other synagogues and groups across the religious and activist spectrum helped in ways big and small, from a shipment of kosher food sent from The Temple to Toco Hills to forward-thinking offers by Temple Kol Emeth, Shema Yisrael and others to invite evacuees for the upcoming High Holidays. And while Atlanta answered the immediate needs created by Irma, the Packaged Good and others ensured that Harvey’s victims continued to receive supplies and support. All these efforts took place as Atlanta itself became a target for Irma. The evacuees who took shelter in Toco Hills, for example, found themselves stranded without power when trees began falling. None of it mattered. When Beth Jacob lost power, Quality Kosher supplied a refrigerated truck to store the kosher food that otherwise might have spoiled in the synagogue refrigerators. Jewish Atlanta’s response to the needs of our guests and, in the end, ourselves set an example of Jewish values in action to make any community proud. The only downside is we’ll have a tough time 14 topping ourselves in 5778. ■

Cartoon by Yaakov Kirschen, Dry Bones

When Irma Came Calling Not just that the tree is so big that it has crushed The Rosh Hashanah issue always is the biggest the wooden fence on one side of the house, smashed of the year for the Atlanta Jewish Times. While we’re into and partially through the roof, and decapitated not at the heights of the late 1990s, when the page another tree on the oppocount approached 180, this site of the house. Not just week’s issue is 108 pages, that branches have broken marking the first time in Editor’s Notebook into the kitchen and that too many years that we’ve By Michael Jacobs the walls have buckled, reached triple digits. mjacobs@atljewishtimes.com so that rain is dripping We are somewhere and splashing in from all between grateful and directions. Not just that elated that nearly 80 Jewish organizations contributed columns for this issue. the central beam across your sharply peaked living Those articles enable us to produce a newspaper that room ceiling is now dangling, with a clear view of reflects the strength and vibrancy of this community the blackening daytime sky in its place. But that your wife, the mother of your two for any visitors and for any locals sampling Jewish grown sons, was sitting in that living room when engagement at the High Holidays. The fact that so items flew off the walls with the impact. many organizations want to be in this issue also I’m still in shock about what happened to our shows that the AJT has an enduring, important place house. I appreciate the offers of help from friends in Jewish Atlanta. and colleagues, including one of our ad sales managStill, our staff is organized to put out 32 to ers who herself lost two cars to falling trees in the 48 pages a week, so we have just about all we can storm. I’m thankful to an insurance agent who handle with the Rosh Hashanah issue each year, proved his worth within minutes of the disaster and even without a giant hurricane bearing down on us to the hotel employees who waived their usual pet and causing the first tropical storm warning here rules so that our three cats could shelter with us since such inland warnings began in 2000. through the storm. Normally, in the great tradition of newsroom I’m worried, of course, about the extent of the gallows humor, we would greet horrible weather damage and the time and expense of repairing it, with jokes about kayaking to the printer or deployand once we dig into the mess and see what we’ve ing the spare ark all Jewish newspapers keep in lost, I’ll no doubt miss some of those things. storage. But what has kept me calm and ensured a dose But Irma stopped being funny at 2:45 p.m. Monof perspective is that image of my wife sitting in the day, Sept. 11. living room when the tree fell and the thought of That’s when a massive tree — probably a water what could have happened if the house hadn’t been oak, but I slept through the course in arboriculture much better built than I ever realized. in college — escaped a neighbor’s yard and crushed I didn’t lose what matters, and I’ll have all the the roof on my East Cobb house. more reason to be thankful when the family gathers There’s no mix of emotions quite like what you for Rosh Hashanah. feel when your wife calls you just as you’re starting I just hope I don’t meet any Irmas at services. ■ the 20-minute drive home with that news.

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OPINION

Winter Is Coming If You Don’t Subscribe I also know that without the support, through paid subscriptions, of just a few thousand Atlantans, your paper’s existence cannot be justified as

Publisher’s Letter By Michael A. Morris michael@atljewishtimes.com

an ongoing concern. I am asking you to subscribe, not so that you have the convenience of home delivery, but so that you can continue the dialogue of Jewish thought,

concerns and debate, so that you can continue to read about the amazing things our children are doing in our community, so that you can continue to promote Judaism and tradition to the Jews of Atlanta, so that each and every synagogue and Jewish charitable endeavor has a way of reaching our community, so that Jewish continuity in Atlanta has one arrow in its quiver to ensure sustainability. Only you can prevent forest fires, and only you can subscribe. If not now, when? Just do it. Subscribe, Sustain, Support Your Community, Your Paper I think it was Tyrion who said, “A

Somewhere north of the Wall, blue-eyed associates are donning similar orange outfits to serve the Night King’s hardware needs.

mind needs a newspaper like a sword needs a whetstone if it is to keep its edge.” ■ To subscribe, call 404-883-2130, email Jen@AtlJewishTimes.com, or visit www.AtlantaJewishTimes.com and hit the Subscribe button.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

In “Game of Thrones,” when the Night King pulled the dragon out of the lake, he used massive chains. The frozen lake was in an area of the north called Hardhome. Bloggers immediately called the producers to task for discontinuity: Where had the Night King been storing these massive chains? Another blogger replied: You silly, Hardhome Depot! Now that I have your attention, I would like to stand in my bully pulpit and make a High Holiday Appeal. In the three years that my team has worked to rejuvenate the Atlanta Jewish Times (or, for many of you, The Southern Israelite), I have received an outpouring of support and kudos. The team at the office has had at least a thousand people thank us for re-creating a weekly Jewish newspaper for our community. New writers seek us out every week. Veteran establishments contact us to ensure we are covering their events. Advertising support has consistently grown. We have won national journalism awards two years in a row. Online readership has grown tenfold, and physical readership has doubled (as several friends remarked, it’s great that I now see people reading the Jewish Times when I walk into Goldbergs again). Our response has been to grow the number of pages in an average weekly paper, ensure a higher caliber of writers and articles, cover more events, enhance our website to include blogs, more video and better search capabilities, create an annual resource guide for all of greater Jewish Atlanta — and just wait until we roll out the Atlanta Jewish Connector in a few weeks. It will be a vibrant online calendar of Jewish events and a comprehensive, dynamic resource guide in one package. There is one facet to growing this paper for our community that has been lackluster — dare I say, abysmal? Paid subscriptions for home delivery are at the lowest point ever for this paper of 92 years. I know that not everyone needs home delivery. I know that the U.S. Postal Service might be the least consistent federal organization we all use daily. I know that many Jewish Atlantans cannot afford $65 a year.

ROSH HASHANAH

Linda and Alan Lippitt found the Polish mahzor in an Atlanta flea market.

Mahzor From the Ashes

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By Linda Lippitt

It was a quiet Sunday morning. The kids were at Sunday school, so my husband, Alan, and I indulged ourselves in a simple pastime: hunting treasures at the Lindbergh flea market. I was always looking for a unique serving dish, and Alan hunted for old road maps (this was the infancy of eBay, and most ephemera still could be had at flea markets). We split up and wandered in our own directions. Nothing was catching my fancy when Alan came over and suggested, with some urgency, that I follow him to a certain booth. A somewhat portly gentleman with gray hair and mustache was standing before an eclectic assortment of books, knives, swords, medals, ceramics, etc. He introduced himself as a veteran of World War II. He had been in Patton’s 3rd Army and had liberated some towns in eastern Poland. In one of them he found some buried books and took one home as a souvenir. It had spent 30 years languishing in his basement because the writing was “Jewish” and he wasn’t. With an ultimatum from his wife to clear out the basement, this book was now seeing the light as an item to be sold. The book had a crumbling purple cover of a leatherlike material, and the lower corner was badly frayed. The pages unprotected by the cover were also crumbling, but when I opened the book, reading right to left, the title page said, “Warwasawie 1867” — printed in Warsaw in 1867. Everything else was written in Hebrew. It was a mahzor, the prayer book used on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the holiest days of the Jewish year. The old soldier asked $25 for the book. I quickly made the purchase. This had to be in Jewish hands, I

The mahzor was published in Warsaw 150 years ago.

thought, so grateful for its rescue from the dirt of some devastated town in Poland, where 3 million Jewish citizens had been murdered. That Rosh Hashanah I left the book at home and just took my modern mahzor to shul, but on Yom Kippur, I took my 1867 treasure with me to synagogue. I found my place for Kol Nidrei, whose hauntingly beautiful melody begins the service, and Yom Kippur, which 25 hours later culminates our search for a path to improve our souls and our world. I am not a visionary, but at this moment I experienced something that lasted no more than five seconds but has stayed fresh in my mind some 30 years later. There was suddenly the presence of a series of souls, almost looking like almost amorphous bodies with suggestions of faces, some big and a few small. For those seconds, the rest of the room faded away, and the glow of those souls filled my consciousness. I knew I had encountered the souls of the people who had buried this book during those desperate days of the Holocaust. The bodies had been murdered, but the souls survive. They knew at that moment that their book and our faith continue. I use this mahzor for part of every High Holiday service. I have never experienced that apparition again, but the image is still fresh and clear. Am Yisrael Chai: the people of Israel live. ■

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

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Free and Low-Cost High Holiday Options

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

The following are activities related to the High Holidays, as well as places to attend services if you are unaffiliated or interested in trying something different in 5778. Erev Rosh Hashanah is Wednesday night, Sept. 20; Kol Nidrei is Friday night, Sept. 29. • MACoM (www.atlantamikvah. org), 700-A Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, is open for pre-holiday immersions Sept. 15, 20 and 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sept. 17, 18, 19, 27 and 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Make appointments at immerse@ atlantamikvah.org or 404-549-9679. • Selichot services are available Saturday night, Sept. 16, throughout the area, but Atlanta’s Conservative synagogues (Ahavath Achim Synagogue, Congregation Beth Shalom, Congregation B’nai Torah, Congregation Etz Chaim, Congregation Gesher L’Torah, Congregation Or Hadash and Congregation Shearith Israel) are unusual in uniting for one communal service at Beth Shalom, 5303 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody, bethshalomatlanta.org. The festivities, free and open to all, start with Havdalah and a reception at 9 p.m., followed by a screening of “The Cake Lady,” about recently deceased Fay Tenenbaum, at 9:45 and Selichot at 11. • Birthright Israel alumni may attend free services at Congregation Beth Shalom, Congregation Or Hadash, Ahavath Achim Synagogue, Congregation Shearith Israel, the Atlanta Scholars Kollel (Ariel, Anshi or Brookhaven), Chabad Intown, The Temple, Temple Beth Tikvah, Temple Sinai, Temple Kehillat Chaim, Temple Beth Israel (Macon), Congregation Bet Haverim, Congregation Or VeShalom or Con-

gregation Shaarei Shamayim. Sign up at jewishatlanta.org/birthright-israelalumni-high-holiday-services. • The Sixth Point (thesixthpoint. org) hosts Rosh in the Park, a spiritual experience for young adults, at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at the gazebo at Ashford Creek Townhomes, 1442 Ashford Creek Circle, Brookhaven. It’s free, but RSVPs are appreciated at thesixthpoint. org/event/rosh-in-the-park-2. • Anshi (www.anshisfard.org), 1324 N. Highland Ave., Virginia-Highland, offers a festive dinner at 7:45 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, after candle lighting at 7:18, for $12 per person. RSVP to info@anshisfard.org. • Guardians of the Torah (guardiansofthetorah.com) holds free services (donations welcome) at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2400 Old Alabama Road, Roswell, at 9 a.m. Sept. 21 and 30. RSVP to Rabbi Richard Baroff at 770-286-3477 or richardbaroff@yahoo.com. • Kehillat HaShem (rabbiatlanta. com), 640 Stone House Lane, Marietta, offers free worship at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20, 10 a.m. Sept. 21 and 7 p.m. Sept. 29 and throughout Sept. 30 (starting at 10 a.m.). Call Rabbi Jeffery Feinstein at 770-218-8094 for seats. • YJP Atlanta (www.yjpatlanta.org) offers a free, 10-minute slackers service at 7 p.m. Sept. 21 at Chabad Intown, 928 Ponce de Leon Ave., Poncey-Highland, before a stump-the-rabbi session, an 8 p.m. service and, for the first 20 to register, dinner with the Schustermans. Sign up at www.eventbrite.com/e/yjpsslackers-service-tickets-36953773732. • The Kehilla in Sandy Springs (www.thekehilla.org), 5075 Roswell Road, offers free High Holiday services

with no reservations. • Congregation Bet Haverim (www.congregationbethaverim.org) holds High Holiday services at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 1790 LaVista Road, Toco Hills, except for Tashlich at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 21 at WD Thompson Park and Tashlich yoga at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 22 at the synagogue, 2074 LaVista Road. All services are free and require no tickets. Call 404-315-6446 for details. • Young Israel of Toco Hills (www. yith.org), 2056 LaVista Road, offers all services free with no tickets. After Sept. 14, nonmembers can get reserved seats for $72. • Congregation B’nai Israel (bnaiisrael.net), 1633 Highway 54 East, Jonesboro, welcomes all to its services — 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 and 29, 10 a.m. Sept. 21 and 30 — and asks only for a donation. Call 678-817-7162 for tickets. • Congregation Or VeShalom (orveshalom.org), 1681 N. Druid Hills Road, Brookhaven, welcomes all, although visitors must register in advance and pick up tickets in person for security reasons and are asked to make donations. Contact Executive Director Adam Kofinas at 404-633-1737 or adam. kofinas@orveshalomg.org. • Chabad of North Fulton (www. chabadnf.org), 10180 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta, offers free seating with no tickets on a first-come, first-served basis or reserved seating for $100 (purchased by Sept. 14). Educational and children’s services at 10 a.m. Sept. 21, 22 and 30 supplement a full schedule of traditional services. • Chabad of Peachtree City (www. chabadsouthside.com), 632 Dogwood Trail, Tyrone, offers everything free, from Erev Rosh Hashanah dinner at

7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 to a break-fast at 8:20 p.m. Sept. 30. See the schedule and reserve seats (optional) at bit. ly/2wBz6WP. • Chabad Intown (chabadintown. org), 928 Ponce de Leon Ave., PonceyHighland, offers free services with no tickets, although registration is requested. Rosh Hashanah services will be at Chabad Intown. Yom Kippur services will be at the Crown Plaza Atlanta Midtown, 590 W. Peachtree St., where a pre-fast dinner will be available for $36 and you can book a room by Sept. 15 for the Yom Kippur Retreat. • Atlanta Scholars Kollel (www. atlantakollel.org) offers services at the Kollel Dome, 5237 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, with Rabbi Daniel Freitag on Sept. 21, 22 and 30; at Anshi, 1324 N. Highland Ave., Virginia-Highland, with Rabbi Mayer Freedman on Sept. 21, 29 and 30; and in Brookhaven (address to be announced) with Rabbi Yosef Shapiro on Sept. 21, 22, 29 and 30. A $25 donation per ticket is suggested. Email ask@atlantakollel.org or call 404-3214085 for details and reservations. • Congregation Shaarei Shamayim (www.shaareishamayim.com), 1600 Mount Mariah Road, Toco Hills, welcomes everyone, with or without tickets, though a $100 donation is suggested for nonmember tickets. Call the office at 404-417-0472. • The Temple (www.the-temple. org), 1589 Peachtree St., Midtown, offers free tickets to visitors for the alternative services and overflow seating areas, not the main sanctuary. Visit bit. ly/2xLy09C, or call 404-873-1731. • Congregation Ner Tamid (mynertamid.info), 1349 Old Highway 41, Suite 320, Marietta, offers $90 tickets for all

ROSH HASHANAH Drive, Sandy Springs, offers free, noticket access to services at 8 p.m. Sept. 20, 9 a.m. Sept. 22, and 3:30 p.m. (renewal) and 5 p.m. (Yizkor and closing) Sept. 30. Tickets are not available to nonmembers for other services. • Congregation Shearith Israel (www.shearithisrael.com), 1180 University Drive, Morningside, offers tickets for all services for $78. Contact 404-8731743 or reception@shearithisrael.com. • Congregation Or Hadash (www. or-hadash.org), 7460 Trowbridge Road, Sandy Springs, requires no tickets for the 9 a.m. service Sept. 22 or the 4:45 p.m. service (Yizkor and closing) Sept. 30. Tickets for all services are $198 if you’re 30 or older, $36 if you’re younger. Tickets are free for students and active military personnel with ID (registration required). Visit www.or-hadash. org/high-holidays-at-or-hadash.html#, or call 404-250-3338. • Temple Kehillat Chaim (www. kehillatchaim.org), 1145 Green St., Roswell, offers tickets to nonmembers for $150 for all services. Students under age 25 and military personnel are free. Visit www.kehillatchaim.org/highholy-days to see the schedule, and call 770-641-8630 to get tickets. • Congregation Beth Shalom (bethshalomatlanta.org), 5303 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody, provides free access for college students and military personnel with ID. Second-day Rosh Hashanah services at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 22 are free and open to all. Nonmember tickets for all High Holiday services are $180. Visit bethshalomatlanta.org/ high-holidays-5778-2017. • Hillels of Georgia (hillelsofgeorgia.org) offers Reform and Conservative services at Emory University and in Athens that are free for students, $54 for adults 18 to 35, and $150 for other community members. Register at secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=b175b9.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

the holidays for nonmembers. Contact highholydays@mynertamid.org or 678-264-8575 for details. • Temple Beth Tikvah (www. bethtikvah.com), 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell, provides tickets to adult nonmembers for all holidays for $180, with college students free with ID. No tickets are required for tot family services at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 21 and 30, Tashlich at 4 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Chattahoochee on Azalea Drive, and Yom Kippur closing services at 4 p.m. Sept. 30. Call 770-6420434 or visit bit.ly/2vCebSR. • Congregation Ariel (www.congariel.org), 5237 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, welcomes guests for $108 for Rosh Hashanah and $108 for Yom Kippur. Contact shuloffice@congariel.org or 770-390-9071 for details. • Shema Yisrael (www.shemaweb. org) holds services at Atlanta Unity, 3597 Parkway Lane, Norcross. A $75 ticket is good for all services: 7 p.m. Sept. 20; 11 a.m. Sept. 21; 7 p.m. Sept. 29; and 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. (Yizkor) and 7 p.m. Sept. 30. Reservations are required; 404-998-5410 for questions. • Congregation Beth Tefillah (www.bethtefillah.org), 5065 High Point Road, Sandy Springs, offers nonmember tickets in the main sanctuary for $118. Rabbi Isser New leads family-appropriate educational services at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 21, 22 and 30 for a suggested donation of $72. Visit bit.ly/2gHrzAm. A High Holiday youth experience with Rabbi Ari Karp is available for children 10 and under during morning services and Kol Nidrei for $40 per family with one or two children and $70 per family with three or more children. Visit bit. ly/2vHg1n4 for tickets. For questions, email admin@bethtefillah.org, or call 404-843-2464, ext. 104. • Temple Beth David (www. gwinnetttemple .com), 1885 McGee Road, Snellville, will have guest Rabbi Jonathan Crane leading High Holiday services. Tickets are free for students and members of the military with ID and have a minimal cost for others. Email gwinnetttemple@gmail.com, or call 770-978-3916. • Ahavath Achim Synagogue (www.aasynagogue.org), 600 Peachtree Battle Ave., Buckhead, offers free tickets to Jewish community professionals, full-time students and active military personnel. Email Anne Cohen at acohen@aasynagogue.org. Adults ages 18 to 35 can buy tickets for $36 for one holiday or $54 for everything; for those 36 and older, it’s $100 for one holiday or $200 for everything. Visit form. jotform .com/72054288915159, or call 404-355-5222. • Temple Sinai (www. templesinaiatlanta .org), 5645 Dupree

Cartoon by Yaakov Kirschen, Dry Bones

ROSH HASHANAH

The packaged apple cakes are ready for delivery.

Myrna Orphan (left) and Leslie Okin team up to prepare apple cakes for Holocaust survivors.

Diane Heller shows off a tray of finished apple cakes.

Michelle Simon (left) and the Packaged Good’s Samantha Kurgan assemble cakes.

Apple Cakes Baked For Holocaust Survivors

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By Cherie Aviv

The Holocaust Survivor Support Fund sponsored a baking event Friday, Aug. 25, at the Marcus Jewish Community Center’s Kuniansky Family Center to make apple cakes so local survivors could experience some special sweetness while celebrating Rosh Hashanah. The event was the most recent conducted by HSSF, an initiative of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta that creates engagement and outreach opportunities and raises money to care for survivors. The day began with mixing and mingling among the roughly 20 bakers, who proceeded to bake 96 apple cakes. The bakers were paired up and given a basket with the ingredients for the cakes and all the necessary equipment. Flour was shaken, eggs were cracked, juice was poured, and cinnamon was sprinkled. The bakers poured cake batter into paper cake holders, placed them on trays, and, with the help of Kuniansky Family Center Chef Howard, put them in the oven for baking. The bakers were treated to an engaging talk by Manuela Mendels Bornstein, a Holocaust survivor from France. She and her family, who lived in Paris before World War II, survived by hiding in southwestern France. Her story honored the “conspiracy of goodness” that saved them — from

Parisian neighbors and friends, to members of the Resistance, to the grace of villagers who never revealed their whereabouts despite great danger to themselves. “Manuela told her story with grace and fortitude that was overwhelming and astounding,” said Leslie Okin, a participant. “Hearing all she had experienced gave me perspective on my own daily challenges. “ The bakers packed the finished apple cakes in gift boxes for recipients to enjoy the following Monday at Café Europa, a social program for survivors provided by Jewish Family & Career Services. Samantha Kurgan, the executive director of The Packaged Good, a local nonprofit focused on cultivating volunteerism in children, helped HSSF make paper flowerpots to accompany the apple cakes as gifts for the survivors. “The Holocaust survivors living suffered such a bitter history. It was wonderful to add some sweetness to their lives by baking apple cakes for them to enjoy this Rosh Hashanah,” Michelle Simon said. “The morning we baked could not have been more meaningful.” ■ Cherie Aviv chairs the Holocaust Survivor Support Fund (JewishAtlanta. org/holocaustsurvivorsupportfund). To learn more about the fund, contact Susan Moray at smoray@jewishatlanta.org.

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ROSH HASHANAH

Photos by Rachel Fayne

Young people gather by the bar to sample the cider cocktails and flights.

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Spices are lined up for the creation of apple and honey bitters.

Allison Oreck (left) and Shaina Gordon sample Urban Tree’s cider flights.

20s and 30s Sample Cider for New Year Urban Tree Cidery was an appropriate place to welcome the new year, and close to 150 Atlanta-area young adults showed up to celebrate about three weeks before the start of 5778. OneTable, the Marcus Jewish Community Center and Jewish Outdoor Food, Farming & Environmental Education sponsored the Aug. 31 event, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that all the Rosh Hashanah bases were covered. As people walked into the cidery, some visited the bar, but most gravitated toward the different stations offering free activities to celebrate the Jewish new year. One table contained all the ingredients needed to make apple and

honey cocktail bitters for drink or cookie recipes. Lining the table were allspice, ginger, cinnamon, coriander and various other spices next to fruits such as lemons and apples. Guests

The Social By Rachel Fayne

were invited to make their own concoctions and take a recipe card with instructions for the best use of the creations at home. A honey tasting with local brand Be Wild was set up in another station, naturally paired with apples.

OneTable’s Shira Rothman Hahn headed a mixology demo for apples and honey cocktails using the hard apple cider available from Urban Tree. Guests sipped on cocktails while Hahn explained the significance of Rosh Hashanah and OneTable’s involvement. Walking through the crowd, I could see that this was one of the more popular events I’ve been to for Jewish young professionals in Atlanta. The mostly 20s and 30s crowd mingled and met at the bar as well as at each station. Quite a few groups of men and women sat separately while sampling their cocktails and flights of cider but eventually made their way over to each other. I wouldn’t be surprised if some connections were made and

OneTable’s Shira Rothman Hahn and Urban Tree cider makers lead a mixology demo and talk about the significance of Rosh Hashanah.

phone numbers exchanged. Such events sponsored by OneTable are called Nosh:pitality and are designed to bring young people together to share Friday night experiences. “OneTable’s Nosh:pitality events are especially fun,” Hahn said. “I love when we get together to celebrate delicious food and teach how to incorporate special Jewish traditions in unique and creative ways.” This event was a success for OneTable, and I’ll likely be back for the next Nosh:pitality get-together at Souper Jenny Westside on Tuesday, Oct. 3. Interested parties can RSVP on the Facebook page (www.facebook. com/OneTableShabbat) as the event gets closer. ■

Orchards Offer Options for Your Holiday Table By Rachel Fayne Rosh Hashanah requires an abundance of apples and honey, and Atlanta residents can go straight to the orchards in the North Georgia mountains to pick the freshest fruit. Here are some of the closest and most popular options.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

B.J. Reece Orchards Family-run B.J. Reece offer a pickyour-own orchard behind the market near the bakery on the property. A $2 fee Monday through Friday gains access to the orchard, where you can mix any of 15 apple varieties to fill pre-purchased bags. The price rises to $5 on the weekends, when you also can milk a cow and watch pig races. Other weekend activities, including wagon rides, a petting farm, cow train rides, ziplines and apple cannons, can be purchased in a package. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m.; during apple-picking season, Aug. 26 to Oct. 29, 9 22 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day

9131 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, www. reeceorchards.com, 706-276-3048 Stover Mountain Orchard Organic Apple Farm One of the few all-organic apple farms in Georgia, Stover Mountain is open only by appointment. What sets this farm apart is its policy against chemical fertilizers, pesticides or insecticides. Stover Mountain relies on cover crops for the fertility of the apples. The Arkansas Blacks, Yates and Rambos are particularly popular. Hours: By appointment 3709 Big Creek Road, Ellijay, 706276-2512 Mercier Orchards Mercier stands out among the cideries in Blue Ridge for its variety and hand-pressed beverages. The September apple-picking options range from sweeter Ambrosia and Cameo apples to the rarer Smokehouse, ideal for cider with an earthy flavor. The property has a deli serving lunch and dinner and a store for the hard cider and wine grown, pressed, fermented and bottled

on site. Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; picking, Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, www.mercier-orchards.com, 706-6323411 Jaemor Farms Jaemor offers apple picking on select days and is known for the many other activities for those passing through. Cooking classes, farm-to-table dinners, and date night on the farm are available. More than 1,000 apple trees produce 14 varieties, including the Mutsu and Red Rome if picking in September. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Highway, Alto, www.jaemorfarms.com, 770-869-3999 Hillcrest Orchards Hillcrest offers a pick-your-own option during its Apple Pickin’ Jubilee festival weekends, when you also can watch the live bands, swimming pig races and cloggers. The festivals are held every weekend from Sept. 9 to Oct.

29, and admission is $12. Apple pickers will find everything from the popular Winesap apples to the less common Pinata variety, as well as the orchard’s other products. The bakery offers pastries such as apple cider doughnuts, and the farm market sells canned goods, honey and cider. Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; apple picking, Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 9696 Highway 52 East, Ellijay, hillcrestorchards.net, 706-273-3838 Penland’s Apple House Although Penland’s Apple House doesn’t offer a pick-your-own option, apples picked by the staff are made into various products. The apples also are for sale. Penland’s offers Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Jonagold, Mutsu and Rome Beauty varieties this time of year. The jams, jellies, butters and pastries are among the popular apple creations. Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 41 Talona Spur, Ellijay, 706-6355110; 7678 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay, 706635-5100, penlandsapples.squarespace. com ■

ROSH HASHANAH

www.atlantajewishtimes.com Photos by Patrice Worthy

Georgia Honey Farm’s Alpharetta store includes a tasting area.

As Georgia Honey Farm and its competitors show, bees make much more than honey.

Local Bees Busy for Atlanta’s Holiday Honey “If you’re a beekeeper and make honey, you’re going to get stung,” 81-year-old Jim Mabry said. He owns Mabry Farm Apiary at 4480 Sandy Plains Road in Marietta, where he produces wildflower honey and sells it by the pint and quart. Mabry Farm is one of several sources of honey produced in Georgia and distributed in time for the High Holidays. Mabry was born on the farm, which was purchased in 1904, and has run the apiary for more than 45 years. This year his bees produced 75 gallons of honey from the clovers, blackberries, apples, peaches and tulip poplars flowering on his property. “This is honey produced in Cobb County,” he said. “But I guess I just do it out of habit. My wife’s sister and brother-in-law bought beehives and put them on my farm. After a few years they abandoned them, and I decided to be a beekeeper.” It was easier to keep the bees alive when he began, but Mabry said Varroa mites, an external parasite, popped up in 1987 and began to attack bee colonies, making it difficult to sustain an apiary. But Mabry continues his work for the sweet return he gets from beekeeping. Mabry sells jars of honey at $17 a quart and $9 a pint, and he’s usually sold out by mid-October. He also eats honey every day in his coffee and oatmeal and on his pancakes. “The only thing I know about honey is it’s better than sugar,” Mabry said. “People like sweet things, and honey is a lot more nutritious than sugar.” Georgia Honey Farm at 3000 Old Alabama Road, No. 111, in Alpharetta focuses on the nutritional benefits of honey. It is a family-owned business run by Alex Pakdaman and his wife, Kat. They are Persian Jews who own an api-

ary in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The location allows the bees to produce various types of honey, including sourwood, gallberry, wildflower, tupelo and orange. The honey produced by the Pakdaman family is kosher because “if you focus on quality of business and take no shortcuts, G-d will bring you blessings,” Alex said. The bees are fed their own honey according to what is collected in the spring, instead of sugar or corn syrup; as a result, Georgia Honey Farm is kosher year-round and does not crystallize. Right now is harvest season for the Pakdamans, and they are processing online orders for Rosh Hashanah at georgiahoneyfarm.com. Alex has been a beekeeper for 27 years, and the family opened Georgia Honey Farm a year ago. They sell candles made from honey, honey sticks, and dried pollen and honeycombs for consumption. Health and well-being are huge elements of their work, Alex said. The Pakdamans provide recipes such as honey and cinnamon tea to combat arthritis, lower cholesterol, aid in weight loss and fight diabetes. Honey is a much healthier supplement than eating chocolate, Kat said. “I’ve replaced sweet treats like chocolate with a honey stick, which is only 15 calories, as opposed to 200 calories,” Kat said. “A lot of our customers give up sugar to use honey, and when they try to use sugar again, they can’t because they realize how bad it tastes.” Each type of honey provides a different flavor. For instance, gallberry is heavier and very sweet, much like wildflower, which is what you can find in most grocery stores. But every batch of wildflower honey tastes different, depending on the flowers or trees the bees pollinated. For roasting something like a chicken for Rosh Hashanah, Kat suggests wildflower because of the heavier

taste. She recommends sourwood for fish because of the light, buttery taste and gallberry for baking because of the deep, tart taste. Savannah Bee Co., which recently opened at Suite A01 at 1100 Howell Mill Road in the Westside Provisions District, also has a variety of honey and related products that can be used differently, depending on taste. The options include rosemary honey, which has a perfumelike taste, sourwood, orange blossom, lavender, black sage, tupelo and velvety palmetto. Savannah Bee also carries about 30 types of mead, which is wine fermented from honey. Ted Dennard, the owner of Savannah Bee, has been a beekeeper for more than 20 years and taught beekeeping in the Peace Corps in Jamaica but never thought it would become a profitable business. “I did it all for fun and love,” Dennard said. “Now I’m able to reach hundreds and thousands of people in stores.” He began selling honey in 2000 and opened Savannah Bee Co. in Savannah in 2008. A local synagogue was one of the first businesses to buy his kosher honey, putting it in the gift shop, Dennard said.

“Honey is huge in the Jewish community, and every September we have apples and honey sitting out for Rosh Hashanah,” Dennard said. His company’s other honey-based products include lip balm, candles, whipped honey, honey barbecue sauce and honey energy drinks. The bees come up with the ingredients, and Dennard said he just curates the products. The lip balm, body balm and shampoo, all made with royal jelly, are among his most popular products. When he began selling honey, he was the company’s only beekeeper, but now hundreds of beekeepers are contributing to Savannah Bee. He started a nonprofit, the Bee Cause Project, which puts glass beehives in schools throughout metro Atlanta, giving children the opportunity to observe honeybees building honeycombs. Humans need bees for pollination to grow healthy fruits and vegetables, a fact Dennard hopes to relay to everyone who comes into his store. “I’m trying to raise a generation that loves, understands and protects honeybees,” Dennard said. “It started with an old man teaching me about beekeeping and honey, and once you understand what they’re doing for the world, you bow down.” ■

Best Wishes For A Happy, Healthy And Peaceful New Year

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By Patrice Worthy

5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, suite 140 • Atlanta, GA 30342

404-297-1789

ROSH HASHANAH

www.atlantajewishtimes.com

1867: The Temple’s First Rosh Hashanah On Sept. 5, 1867, the following appeared in an Atlanta newspaper. Sounds much too familiar. “It is alleged in a Washington special publication that President Andrew Johnson has organized a system of espionage upon the conduct of members of Congress favoring impeachment by means of a corps of secret detectives, who are paid out of the secret service.” Four weeks later, the newly incorporated Hebrew Benevolent Congregation held its first High Holiday services. Those initial members had to wonder what was transpiring with their Republican president, the successor to the slain Abraham Lincoln. 1867 was a very good year for the women of Atlanta. The washing machine had been invented 10 years earlier, but a giant advertisement in the Atlanta Intelligencer focused on the new, advanced model that “would make every woman’s life much easier.” The entry of this device into the lives of the Jewish women in Atlanta — there were about 45 at the time — showed them that the Civil War was completely over. They could move on with their lives and await new inventions for the home. Dr. Steven Hertzberg, the author of the most definitive history of Atlanta Jewry, “Strangers in the Gate City,” noted how the Atlanta Jewish population grew from 50 to 400 from 1865 to 1867, the immediate years after the Civil War. The Jews responded to the American economic expert who pointed out “that Atlanta was a boomtown.” The original Jews in Atlanta were merchants, box makers, candy producers and a few other occupations. Hertz-

berg wrote that “the Jews of Atlanta” finally had a stable minyan in 1862, so from 1862 to 1867 Rosh Hashanah services were conducted in various rental facilities. Professor Mark Bauman, the outstanding historian of Jews in the South, wrote me that a synagogue

Guest Column By Rabbi David Geffen The Temple Records, Cuba Family Archive, Breman Museum

does not exist until it is incorporated. That is what happened with the Hebrew Benevolent Society. For those first five years, it was a prayer group with no other functions, and no incorporation was attempted. Attorney Samuel Weil filed the petition for the legal creation of the synagogue. A copy of the official request appeared in the Atlanta Intelligencer five times from the end of March until the end of April in 1867. Torah scrolls were borrowed from congregations in Savannah and Augusta, where synagogues predated the Civil War. What else was transpiring in Atlanta in 1867? Most important, Atlanta became the capital of Georgia a few years later in 1870. Second, there were elections in Atlanta, and the mayor was Luther J. Glenn. The leading Jew in the Gate City was David Mayer. He moved to Atlanta in 1850 and opened a dental practice. He then became a clothing merchant. In 1860 he volunteered and was inducted into the Confederate army. What did it take for Atlanta Jewry to decide to establish a synagogue? One of the key people, who lived in

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The Temple celebrates its centennial with a Sunday service April 23, 1967. Rabbi Jacob Rothschild is seated on the left, and Rabbi Richard J. Lehrman is on the right.

Philadelphia, was the Rev. Isaac Leeser. He had established a magazine known as The Occident. Twice he came to Atlanta after the Civil War to conduct weddings. Rabbi Leeser suggested forming an official congregation in Atlanta. He hoped the synagogue would become part of the traditional group in America, but after Rabbi Leeser died, Isaac Mayer Wise persuaded the Hebrew Benevolent Congregation to affiliate with the Reform movement. Until Rabbi David Marx’s arrival in 1895, The Temple vacillated in its ideology. Rabbi Marx officially marked the synagogue as Reform, which it has been the past 122 years. Information about Rosh Hashanah 1867 was gleaned from the writings of Janice Rothschild Blumberg and Hertzberg and the Atlanta Intelligencer newspaper. Hertzberg writes that for the few years of its existence, “the Hebrew Benevolent Congregation adhered to the traditional ritual … service chanted entirely in Hebrew by knowledgeable members like Jacob Steinheimer, L.L. Levy and William Silverberg.” Men and women did not sit together, and no instruments were used. Hertzberg and Blumberg both refer to services held at the Masonic Hall in 1862. A newspaper pointed out the High Holiday services were “observed with imposing religious ceremonies … by this most ancient denomination of people.” By 1866, the Atlanta Intelligencer described both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. On that basis, let me suggest who attended that first Rosh Hashanah service in 1867. First of all, it appears that L.L. Levy chanted the main service on Rosh Hashanah, which was Mussaf,

A portrait of David Mayer as a young man in Germany in 1830 is on display at the Breman Museum’s “18 Artifacts” exhibit.

a late-morning service with many piyyutim (poems). The Torah was read by Jacob Steinheimer. He chanted the regular portion from Genesis in one Torah, then the portion from Numbers in the second Torah. David Rosenberger raised the first Torah; I’m not sure about the second one. David Mayer, Herman Haas and M. Saloshin were seated on the first row; M. Wittgenstein, Aaron Haas and A. Hirshberg were on the second. Aaron Alexander and M. Lazaron were in the third row. Julius M. Alexander was on the fourth row. The rest of the congregation spread throughout. Samuel Weil, the lawyer, was given a very nice seat. Also present were the Selig brothers, Levi Cohen, Solomon Dewald, Moses Frank, Morris Hirsch, Abraham Rosenfeld, Morris Wiseberg and Isaac May. The young people present had been given religious instruction by the wives of Aaron Alexander and Simon Frankfort. They sang the prayers they knew with gusto. These questions remain: Did the members of the congregation fall to the floor when certain prayers were recited? Did the members go to a wooded section with natural springs and throw in bread crumbs for Tashlich? There is a story in the “Sunny South” in early 1870s about a shohet who lived 20 miles outside Atlanta. He was visited by many Atlanta Jewish individuals, who bought kosher meat for themselves. It is a privilege for me to write about the oldest Jewish institution in Atlanta. A Shecheyanu from Jerusalem with hopes for another 150 years of religious stimulation for your congregants. ■

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

Toast the New Year With Color and Style For nearly 6,000 years, Jewish families around the world have welcomed the new year together at synagogues, community gatherings and dining room tables. Our traditions and our foods help us refuel and recharge for the coming year as we’re challenged to take a hard look at all our shortcomings during the year. In that spirit, here are three easy-to-prepare cocktail recipes perfect for any gathering.

The Brown Derby is easy to make, and its honey syrup makes it right for Rosh Hashanah.

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Brown Derby There’s a reason the Brown Derby is a classic. It’s an easy recipe with simple measurements, and its honeyforward approach makes it absolutely appropriate for Rosh Hashanah. 2 ounces bourbon or rye 1 ounce freshly squeezed grapefruit juice ½ ounce honey syrup (equal parts honey and water) Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake very well. Strain and pour into a stemmed glass or into a rocks glass.

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Green Apple Gin and Tonic It’s rare to find green apple cocktails that aren’t made with a sickly

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Unlike most green apple cocktails, the Green Apple Gin and Tonic relies on fresh, tart apples.

sweet, neon-green, artificial syrup. This drink celebrates fresh apples, using the first green apples of the season to create a naturally tart mash that mixes perfectly with gin. And here’s a bit of fun trivia: The apple became a Rosh Hashanah tradition not because it has any specific symbolic meaning, but because it’s in season at the end of

the summer/beginning of the fall and is a great vehicle for the real star of the show, honey. 1 ounce gin ¼ green apple, diced

The Cocktail Hour By Robbie Medwed

½ ounce fresh lime juice 2 ounces tonic water Small handful of fresh mint Drop the diced apple into a large (pint) glass or heavy measuring cup, and add the lime juice. Using the edge of a wooden spoon handle or a traditional muddler, crush the apple into a pulp. Add ice, gin, and tonic or soda water to the mixing glass and stir well. Strain the entire mixture into a stemmed glass, and garnish with an apple slice or a lime wedge. Plum Punch The end of the summer means plums are at their finest, and this rum punch takes full advantage of their sweetness. It’s also a great drink to prepare for a crowd. 1½ ounces rum (not spiced) 1 ounce fresh lime juice ½ ounce lemon juice

Plum Punch takes advantage of the final days of summer fruit to provide bright holiday color.

¾ ounce black plum syrup* Soda water Hibiscus bitters (optional) Combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain and pour into a rocks glass over fresh ice and garnish with a lime wheel or plum slice. To make the plum syrup: Combine 3 diced black plums (skins on), ¼ cup of sugar and ½ cup of water in a sauce pot and bring to a low boil for 10 minutes. Cool the syrup, and strain it well. It will last about two weeks. ■ Robbie Medwed writes about alcohol and cocktails at koshercocktail.com.

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A New Year Brings Atlanta New Restaurants

Georgia peanut butter wings at Todd English Tavern are simple but close to perfect.

in the same Reynoldstown building. • PS404 (www.psontap.com/locations/ps404) — The full name of this restaurant is Public School 404. The dining destination is based out of L.A.

The Food Scene By Skye Estroff

and is already open in West Midtown. • Ponko Chicken (www.ponkochicken.com) — Ponko comes back after a 10-year hiatus. Previously in Stone Mountain, it will reopen in Tucker. • Poke Burri (www.pokeburri.com) — This is East Atlanta Village’s hidden secret. Walk to the back of the food hall to find Poke Burri’s stall, then try creative sushi ventures such as poke, sushi burritos and sushi corn dogs. • Tea House Formosa (www. facebook.com/teahouseformosa) —

Photo courtesy of Poke Burri

Poke Burri’s fusion creativity extends to a sushi corn dog.

This Buford Highway gem serves tea, coffee, snacks and even s’mores toast. • Todd English Tavern (liveatthebatteryatlanta.com/tenant/toddenglish-tavern) — This Battery Atlanta restaurant elevates appetizers, salads, flatbreads, burgers and sandwiches to meet the new-age sports arena expectation. A simple yet flavorful dish that Todd English Tavern has perfected is Georgia peanut butter wings. Tea House Formosa’s Want to treats include try this list of s’mores toast. restaurants? Taste them all at Taste of Atlanta 2017 on Oct. 20, 21 and 22. For its Sweet 16, the festival is moving to Historic Fourth Ward Park. For more information about Taste of Atlanta and to buy tickets, visit TasteofAtlanta.com. ■ Skye Estroff is the marketing and media manager for Atlanta’s largest food festival, Taste of Atlanta.

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We breezed past Labor Day, and Atlanta is finally beginning to feel the slightest glimmer of fall in the air. With 5778 less than a week away, it is time for new beginnings. In the smallest sense, we can bring in the new this year by opening up, going out of our comfort zone of restaurants within a 2-mile radius of our homes, and supporting and experiencing the newest flavors of Atlanta. Fall is the time of year when restaurants are in full swing, and it is also the time for Taste of Atlanta. This year the festival will have over 100 incredible Atlanta restaurants participating and serving their signature dishes. Skim through this list of new participating restaurants to get a little background and see which you would like to try on your own and which you would like to save for Taste of Atlanta weekend. • CO Restaurant (www.eatatco. com) — With locations in Savanah, Myrtle Beach and Charlotte, CO’s first Atlanta stop is in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood. The restaurant opened over the summer and serves many kinds of sushi and noodles. • The Establishment (establishmentatlanta.com) — This Midtown restaurant and bar will make its first Taste of Atlanta appearance, but it also participated in the Southern Wing Showdown in August. • Hattie B’s (hattieb.com) — The restaurant owner was named an Eater Young Gun and was also featured on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. The restaurant will open in Candler Park across from Wrecking Bar Pub. • Hawkers Asian Street Fare (eathawkers.com) — Based out of Florida, Hawkers is finally crossing state lines to an Atlanta location. • Muchacho and Golden Eagle (muchachoatl.com) — The Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall owners are launching two more restaurants that will live

ROSH HASHANAH

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3 Secrets to Add Meaning to the High Holidays I am writing this essay on the last day of August, with Rosh Hashanah three weeks away. Stores are being stocked with holiday supplies. People are ordering bottles of honey to send to friends. While they are not as popular as they once were, my local card store has a pretty nice selection of High Holiday greeting cards. For rabbis, this is our crunch time. It’s not only the beginning of a new year, but also, traditionally in the synagogue world, the beginning of the school year and programming year. From September through Chanukah, the fall season is filled with holidays, events, programs and adult learning classes. Synagogue life is vibrant and humming throughout the coming months. So much to prepare, so little time to do it. Rabbis work very hard to prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Not only do we have sermons to prepare, but we also write comments and introductions to the Torah readings

and new insights on the prayers of the mahzor. I am not sure you realize this, but it is not only we rabbis who need to prepare. All of us will gain so much more from the approaching Yamim

Guest Column By Rabbi Paul D. Kerbel

HaNoraim — our Days of Awe — if we prepare as well. So I would like to share with you three secrets to help you make your High Holidays more meaningful and enjoyable. Secret No. 1: Come early and stay late. For me, the most enjoyable moments of the High Holiday services come at the beginning of each service and at its end. Before the crowds arrive, I enjoy the first hour of a service — prayers thanking G-d for allowing us to begin a new day and praises to G-d for the miracles that are performed every day

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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that we often take for granted, followed by our most important prayers, the Shema and the Amidah. The Shema expresses our belief in G-d and our faith in life and the future. The Amidah on Rosh Hashanah asks G-d to remember us for life and to inscribe us in the Book of Life. And as we recite the special sections of the Mussaf service only recited on the High Holidays, reflecting on life and death and always encouraging us to choose life, and then recite the concluding hymns, I am strengthened by the experience. I encourage you to adjust your habit this year. Arrive at your congregation earlier than you usually do, and stay later. I think it will add to the meaning and spirituality of your synagogue experience. Secret No. 2: You don’t need to read every prayer word for word. One leading Conservative rabbi was asked by a congregant, “Rabbi, how do you do it? When we recite the confessional prayer on Yom Kippur, the Al Chait, we recite it silently and then we repeat it — 10 times in total on Yom Kippur! How do you say the same thing 10 times?” The rabbi responded, “I don’t say every word and every prayer 10 times. I focus on one or two of our confessional prayers and what I can do to improve in that area.” I would apply this advice to the entire High Holiday prayer book. This year, pick a few prayers that you will read more slowly and reflect on them and ask what they might mean to you in the coming year. Secret No. 3: Take a soulfie. This week I had the opportunity to learn from one of Conservative Judaism’s most thoughtful spiritual commentators, Rabbi Naomi Levy. In her new book, “Einstein and the Rabbi,” she has a chapter titled “Taking a Soulfie.” Most of us take selfies. Selfies, she writes, “are always a distortion of reality. The truth is, you are a tiny speck in

the face of a vast, magnificent expanse. But in a selfie, we are always disproportionately large and the vast, magnificent expanse looks like a speck.” So Rabbi Levy suggests to us, “Every day we are being asked to do something that we are resistant to doing: to look deep within our own souls and do an honest accounting of where we are and where we are going. Where am I needed? Have I strayed from the path of my life? Have I stopped learning and growing and changing?” On this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, let’s take a soulfie. Let’s look at the journey that we call our life and assess it and reflect on it. Are we headed in the right direction? Are we listening to the needs of our own souls and the needs of our family and friends? Can we strive for greater purpose and meaning in life? If you follow my advice to: come early and stay late, to focus on a few of our prayers rather than speed-reading or mumbling many prayers, and take these precious days before and during the Ten Days of Repentance to complete a self-assessment, I believe we will come out of the High Holiday experience more fulfilled and enriched. At a point in our history with so many concerns and questions left unanswered, our inward reflection may help us through these challenging times. May we all have a shana tova filled with love, meaning and goodness. ■

Pick a few prayers that you will read more slowly and reflect on them and ask what they might mean to you in the coming year.

Rabbi Paul Kerbel is the associate rabbi of Temple Beth Sholom in Roslyn Heights, N.Y. He served as the associate rabbi of Congregation Etz Chaim in East Cobb from 2003 to 2015. He is the rabbinic campaign chair of the Masorti Foundation for Conservative Judaism in Israel and serves on the Global Jewish Community committee of the UJA Federation of New York.

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

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Feeling the Pull of the Jewish Calendar

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

As I write this message, the days are getting noticeably shorter, and the nights are getting cooler. There are sure signs of the Jewish new year everywhere, from the recent full moon to the pomegranates and round challahs I’m starting to see at kosher Kroger and Publix. As I count down the waning days of 5777, I am already caught up in the swift current of the Jewish calendar. It propels us down a rapid river of selfexamination and renewal, all within a few weeks. We ride the rapids in the months of Elul and Tishrei, celebrating all the way through Sukkot to Simchat Torah. But even when the white water abates, the Jewish calendar keeps driving us to become better people all year long. For me, the rhythms of the Jewish calendar parallel the work Federation is doing with the Front Porch: Unlocking the (Incredible) Potential of Jewish Atlanta — that’s the playful name we’ve given to our communitywide process of self-examination and

renewal. The work has begun in earnest with more than 100 Jewish Atlantans from across the metro area gathering to grapple with our community’s future. The Front Porch has a yearlong timeline, and right now we are using the period between Rosh Hashanah

Guest Column By Eric M. Robbins Jewish Federation

and Yom Kippur to be reflective and listen closely to what people tell us about their hopes and dreams for Jewish Atlanta. The Front Porch is a very Jewish process; it even has its own “rebbe.” Our self-examination and renewal work uses a framework developed by MIT economics professor Otto Scharmer called Theory U or Presencing. Scharmer’s key idea is that in times of disruption, when the past is

no longer a predictor of the future, institutions require wide engagement and breakthrough thinking. We will be learning from the future as opposed to just downloading old mental models of the past. As the Front Porch calendar advances, we will send teams around the community to visit and observe innovative businesses and organizations that have successfully changed their cultures and become more effective. We’ll metaphorically leave Egypt, moving beyond our own narrow institutional thinking into a radical openness to new ideas. Our promised land will be a new Jewish ecosystem composed of agencies that collaborate, communicate and plan together for a growing Jewish population. But we don’t have 40 years to wander. We will be gathering, counting, assembling and learning rapidly. By Passover, the Front Porch will move into a series of bold prototypes — experiments that can move us swiftly to action to address the highest-potential opportunities affecting our future.

This will drive us quickly, just as the calendar does, to receive a “Torah” for a 21st century Jewish Atlanta, a blueprint and action plan that is more relevant and responsive than ever before. Our community already has a remarkable infrastructure of synagogues, agencies and programs that support and elevate Jewish life. But too often the “instruments” play as soloists. I want us to become a rich, vibrant orchestra that composes its own new music. With just a year of Federation leadership behind me, I am convinced that change is urgent and that it is possible. Please join me in 5778 in this creative and deeply spiritual work of community regeneration. Let’s be honest, let’s be constructive, and let’s be brave. Together we can build a community of meaning and mitzvah that brings even deeper purpose to our lives. ■ Eric M. Robbins is the president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta (jewishatlanta.org).

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Forgive Others to Gain Divine Approval morality that change with the times. The Nazis outlawed kosher ritual slaughtering because they thought it cruel. Disagreeing with them not only was illegal, but also was considered morally reprehensible. Either of these

Guest Column By Rabbi Karmi Ingber The Kehilla

extremes is not where we should be going. And although we think that the disagreements in our lives are that black and white, they usually fall into a much grayer area. In Talmudic times there were two famous schools of thought, Beit Shamai and Beit Hillel. These two groups disagreed fervently on many fundamental issues of life. Yet they discussed, argued and communicated what they each thought. Their dialogue was real and intense. And since their search for truth was so free from personal biases, they deeply loved each other. When we have an altercation with our friends, do we try to speak it out with them as is required by Jewish law, or are we so sure that we are right that nothing needs to be said? Do we justify maintaining discord and disharmony because we have been slighted? I would like to suggest that in most disagreements with friends and family we could let go a lot more. Certainly, we should change our patterns of interaction and protect ourselves, but the first step toward healing is not to stand on our rights but to learn to forgive and forgo. This is the recipe to be successful in judgment at this High Holiday season. Today, we are living in a very divided world. It is impossible to imagine the different sides dropping their arms and rhetoric and hugging each other. It’s not going to happen. However, if we drop our arms and rhetoric and make peace in our families, our social circles and our Jewish community, not only will we be judged favorably, but we also will create a ripple effect that will bring change and healing to the entire world. ■ Rabbi Karmi Ingber is the spiritual leader of The Kehilla in Sandy Springs (www.thekehilla.org).

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Imagine you are on trial. The fate of your existence hangs in the balance. And not just for your life, but for the entire world. Imagine the judgment is incredibly strict; it is exacting to the finest degree. There is no way to slip anything by. Everything you think, do and say is being carefully dissected and examined. Those are some scary thoughts. It is also exactly what is happening on Rosh Hashanah, the day of judgment. So every year, and in particular this year, we need to find a way to be successful in judgment. Thankfully, the Talmud gives us the solution! It says that if we are forgiving and forgoing of the injustices others do to us, G-d will forgo our iniquities too. The Zohar explains that just as our shadow mimics everything we do, so too G-d reflects to us the way we act. Those who show the world a smiling face are reflected a smiling countenance, and for those who are always complaining, the world is complaining back at them. Similarly, when we forgo our claims against others because we don’t feel so important and self-righteous, G-d forgoes the negative things we have done. Now this concept sounds sweet, but it doesn’t make much sense. Am I not supposed to stand up for truth and for what I know is right? If Nazis are asserting their beliefs, shouldn’t I be unyielding and unforgiving? For sure. In such cases, we must be uncompromising and stand up for what is true and right and see ourselves as bearers of the torch and keepers of the flame. The challenge is when our biases and personal beliefs begin to blur the line. I hate Nazis because their creed and deed are to hate and destroy anyone different from them; that is evil. When I fight against that and all other doctrines of hate, I fulfill the verse in Psalms: “The ones who truly love G-d hate evil.” The dangerous edge is that once I make myself the arbiter of truth, I might justify hating anyone who thinks differently. This problem is especially pronounced when humanistic philosophies dictate versions of

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Fulfilling the Dream As we approach Rosh Hashanah, a time of reflection, we look back at the previous year and ask ourselves, “How did we get here, and where are we going? What is our place within the community and the world at large? What is our vision for this new year?” When you surrender to a vision, success begins to chase you. That is the story of Jewish National Fund. In 1901, Theodor Herzl surrendered to a vision of reclaiming a Jewish homeland in Eretz Yisrael. Our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents recognized the importance of that future. Coin by coin, they saved money in blue boxes for a future that most of them would never see but would forever be a part of — the land of Israel for the Jewish people everywhere. Thanks to their foresight and vision, we carry on their legacy today. We are living their dream, and we can further that dream. A few months ago, I participated in historical festivities in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem. I stood proudly on the grounds where the decisive battle for Jerusalem took place in 1967 — where, against all odds, the dream of reuniting our ancient city was realized. This is the story of Jewish National Fund. This is the story of Israel. One of our young leaders, a member of JNFuture, said something that warmed my heart. “We will be here for the 100th reunification of Jerusalem’s celebration,” she said. Israel — the land and its people — is a special part of who they are, of who we are. We are doing something right. They give us all hope. With your help, we can do so much more. Our young people know they are a part of something bigger than themselves. Through the eyes of those who came before them, they see how a dream, a vision, has become a reality for their generation and the ones to come. Vision was transformed into mission and hope into success. Years ago, many said we would never be able to bring people to settle in the desert that encompasses 60 percent of the land in Israel. Some said no one in their right mind would ever move there. But a recent edition of CBS’ “60 Minutes” focused on Be’er Sheva, the capital of the Negev, as the future of Israel. This shows the success of Jewish

National Fund’s long-term investment in creating a flourishing future for southern Israel. Working with partners and companies like Cisco Israel, Jewish National Fund is training and providing residents the right skills to find good jobs and bolster the local economy.

Guest Column By Beth Gluck JNF

Our multiyear strategic plan for the Galilee is reshaping the economy in northern Israel. To attract new residents to the region, we are focusing on entrepreneurial opportunities, small businesses and tourism. With your help, we are strengthening the economic and social life for all who call the Galilee home. Our sages teach us that there is a duality to Rosh Hashanah. On the one hand, it is a day of trepidation and awe. On the other hand, it is a day of happiness and festivity. Martin Luther King Jr. did not say, “I have a nightmare.” He said, “I have a dream.” Surrounded by adversity, it would have been easy for him to speak negatively. It would have been easy to talk about a nightmare and not a dream. But he knew people don’t follow nightmares; they follow dreams. At Jewish National Fund we believe in dreams, so I ask you to join us. As individuals being judged, the day is filled with fear and uncertainty. However, we stand together as one people, one community. We have the strength and fortitude to enter this new year filled with joy and pride. Be a part of the Jewish National Fund community, and take part in what we have built and what we will continue to dream and build together. As we enter 5778, let’s work together to shape a more secure, more prosperous future for the land of Israel and its people. Become an active member of our community and our unique vision, and our success will find its way back to you. On behalf of the entire Jewish National Fund family, I wish you a happy, healthy and sweet new year. ■ Beth Gluck is the executive director, greater Atlanta, for JNF (www.jnf.org/ atlanta).

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An annual time of judgment is juvenile. Is G-d so lazy that He is willing to sit and judge us only once a year? Additionally, if we are to be judged but once, wouldn’t that encourage us to gamble — act lawlessly for

Guest Column By Rabbi Russ Shulkes Hillels of Georgia most of the year, then repent and act like a saint for a few days before Rosh Hashanah to earn the divine pass until next year? In truth, chazal (the sages) were not of one voice on the frequency of divine judgment. The Talmud cites several opinions on how often mankind is judged. While Rabbi Meir’s opinion — that we are judged annually — is preached every year from the synagogue dais, Rabbi Judah opines that mankind is judged daily. Rabbi Nathan goes a step further and rules: “Mankind is judged at every moment.” On the one hand, the idea that we are judged at every moment imports the sense that everything we do or think is important. Indeed, each act immediately molds us and defines our character. This perspective best empowers mankind to actively try to better ourselves. Nonetheless, it is anxietyinducing and overwhelming to believe we are judged at every moment. In fact, that belief can lead to a feeling of hopelessness and nihilism in which we feel that no matter how we try, we can never be the person we want to be. It’s similar to measuring ourselves daily as children, only to feel that we never grow taller. When we are judged once a year, at a specific interval, we are being granted a concrete time of reflection and growth wherein we can see progress and spur future progress. Rosh Hashanah is not necessarily the only time we are judged, but it is designed to help us become better people — even if it doesn’t last. Have a meaningful holiday season! ■ Rabbi Russ Shulkes is the executive director of Hillels of Georgia (hillelsofgeorgia.org).

Education, Advocacy Make Lives Better NCJW Atlanta’s 5777 year was impactful. NCJW Atlanta provided backpacks and school supplies to over 100 needy students at Hightower Elementary School. NCJW Atlanta’s 120 volunteer tutors worked on literacy skills with students in kindergarten to third grade in eight Title I schools. NCJW Atlanta held pop-up Mother’s Day stores in four Title I schools. In addition, as the host city and section for the National Council of Jewish Women National Convention, we provided world-class speakers and workshops for our members. We participated in workshops on such topics as “Courts Matter,” “Learning and Taking Action to Become an LGBTQ Ally,” and “Anti-Semitism and Racism in a New Political Reality.” We heard from Monica Raye Simpson, the executive director of SisterSong; CNN hero Luma Mufleh, the founder and CEO of Fugees Family Inc.; and Hillary Rodham Clinton.

At the banquet, the entire ballroom got happy dancing with Rep. John Lewis. It was a night we will always remember. NCJW Atlanta joined forces with

Guest Column By Rachel Rosner NCJW Atlanta

the Georgia Alliance for Social Justice for the Atlanta Women’s March. Simultaneously, NCJW National was an official sponsor of the Women’s March on Washington. We have provided many ways to advocate, starting with our monthly lunch-and-learn series, “Frankly Speaking With Sherry Frank.” The next dates are Sept. 28 and Oct. 26, both Thursdays, at noon. Bring your own lunch and join us for a meaningful dialogue. Bargainata has become an upscale ladies boutique, open weekly. We use

the store to serve our local community. Year-Up, Agape and Our House Genesis Shelter were beneficiaries of our members during the year. In 2017-18 we plan to build on our community relationships. We will continue to partner with the Anti-Defamation League, the Atlanta Initiative Against Anti-Semitism, the Jewish Democratic Women’s Salon and others to advocate for hate-crimes legislation in Georgia. We will continue to offer monthly programming for our members. We will provide school supplies and Mother’s Day gifts to children in need. We will tutor children in literacy, and we will open Bargainata to disadvantaged women. We will make a difference. NCJW Atlanta is a volunteer-run organization. Please consider joining us as a volunteer or advocate. Shana tova u’metuka — may you enjoy a sweet, happy and healthy new year. ■ Rachel Rosner is the president of NCJW Atlanta (ncjwatlanta.org).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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For those of us committed to progressive values — democracy, justice, inclusion — in Israel and around the world, the events of the past year have been incredibly troubling. It’s easy to feel nothing other than fear and despair as we move into the new year. But my work in support of the New Israel Fund reminds me that, despite the challenges, we are making progress in the long term. Before she retired as NIF’s director in Israel, my friend and former Atlanta resident Rachel Liel wrote, “In the past two decades, I have seen incredible changes, and I know there are many more to come. And the funny thing about change is that when it arrives, it seems as if it was there all along, waiting to happen.” I remember how different Israel was 20 years ago. Then, a gay pride parade in Jerusalem or vibrant nonOrthodox religious Jewish life was unimaginable. Today these ideas have become reality. Because of NIF, people in Israel have the capacity, tools and drive to continue the fight for their democracy. It isn’t an easy path. NIF invests in laying the groundwork for social change that sometimes takes years or even decades to pay off. Because of the groundwork we’ve laid, thousands of Israelis are mobilizing to oppose the erosion of Israel’s democratic values. They are combating racism and repairing Arab-Jewish relations. They are safeguarding human rights by fighting threats to democracy in the Knesset and on the streets, including rampant incitement against human rights defenders. They are pushing back against the Orthodox rabbinate’s monopoly on Jewish lifecycle events and strengthening moderate religious voices. They are advancing social justice, affordable housing and equal health care for all members of society. All this slow, steady work is paying off. Last year NIF marched with 25,000 people at the Jerusalem March for Pride and Tolerance. Israelis of all backgrounds and religious affiliations came to march in support of Jerusalem’s LGBTQ community. This summer the Israeli government took steps to reverse a longstanding policy and legalize same-sex adoption. Who could have imagined this when NIF began laying the groundwork, decades ago? I also couldn’t imagine a woman

sitting at the highest levels of the Rabbanut, but now, for the first time in Israel’s history, a woman will soon serve as deputy director-general of Israel’s Rabbinic Courts. No woman has ever held such a senior role within the religious establishment. This High Court victory came as a result of legal advocacy by NIF grantee

Guest Column By Shai Robkin New Israel Fund

Mavoi Satum and other women’s rights organizations. With assistance from NIF’s action arm in Israel, NIF grantees Advot and Ne’emanei Torah Va’Avodah helped persuade the attorney general to require that at least 30 percent of seats on the local religious councils be designated for women. It’s difficult to overstate just how significant these achievements are, especially considering the seemingly immovable conventions they were up against. These successes are powerful reminders that change is possible when people come together to protect and advance the values they share. And that’s a lesson we in America will need in 5778 and beyond. Rachel Liel wrote: “This is how social change works. At first, the goal seems daunting. We strategize. We educate. We train. We build coalitions. And over time, the change happens.” Tens of thousands of Israelis like Rachel are asking us for our continued partnership, support and commitment. They need our help. They’re asking us not to be silent. You can start doing that in 5778 by joining me Oct. 17 when Rachel’s successor, Mickey Gitzin, speaks at Congregation Beth Shalom on “Democracy or Theocracy? Championing Religious Freedom in Israel.” In this new year, with all the challenges we can be sure it will bring, let’s stand together with our partners in Israel who are working tirelessly for social change. And let’s learn from their example of courage and tenacity to stay the course toward progress, even when it seems impossible. ■ Shai Robkin is the chair of the Atlanta Regional Council of the New Israel Fund (www.nif.org).

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

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Make the Most of the Almighty’s Gifts

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

As we begin the Hebrew month of Elul and begin the countdown to the Yamim Noraim, the Days of Awe, many congregations have the custom of reciting every day that extraordinary Psalm, Chapter 27, “Ledavid Hashem ori veyishi”: “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” If a person can say, with absolute feeling, “Hashem ori veyishi mimi irah,” that “G-d is my light and my salvation; of whom shall I be afraid?” then he or she will be filled with the courage and optimism of youth. And don’t we all seek that elixir of youth? When we are young, all possibilities are open, and it is almost impossible to imagine the world without light and hope. As we say this psalm, we recapture that awe and, young or old, begin to see the world as a place of possibilities. As the late Robert Kennedy once said, “There are people who see the

world the way things are and ask, why? I see things that have not yet been and I ask, why not?” When you have the courage of knowing that “G-d is my light and my salvation; of whom shall I be afraid?” you really can go through your day

Guest Column By Rabbi Hayyim Kassorla Congregation Or VeShalom

with emunah (faith in G-d) and without fear. And the world opens itself to you, so that possibilities you did not see yesterday are so obvious, it is impossible to believe you did not see them before. It is with this attitude that we can go forth in the world and reclaim its wonder. There is nothing we cannot do! This is the new year 5778, when anything can happen! (Inspiration from

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks) King David, the author of this psalm, wrote something so beautiful in “ledavid Hashem ori veyishi” that is one of the most important lines in all of Scripture: “Ki avi veimi azavuni veHashem ya’asfeni.” David imagines G-d as parent who discerns his child favorably and sees the greatness that is possible. Perhaps we don’t believe in ourselves. Maybe others don’t believe in us. Maybe even our parents don’t believe in us, but the Almighty always believes in us because he has given each of us the gift of life. “G-d will hold me close, gather me in.” I’m sure you have heard the story of the diamond thief. This thief would hang around the diamond district to see who was purchasing a gem, so that later he could steal the diamond. One day he saw a well-known diamond merchant purchase the jewel he had been waiting for all his life. It was the most beautiful, the most perfect diamond in existence. He wanted that

diamond, so he followed the diamond merchant down the street and boarded the same train. He got into the same compartment as the merchant, and he began trying to steal the diamond. He spent an entire three-day journey trying to pick the merchant’s pocket and searching the merchant’s things, but every time he tried to steal the diamond, he ended up emptyhanded. Finally, when the journey had ended, the diamond merchant got off the train. The thief, exasperated by the three days he had just wasted, confronted the merchant. “Hey, mister!” he called after the merchant. “I am a diamond thief, the best out there. I saw you purchase a beautiful diamond, so I followed you onto the train. I used every trick in the book: I searched your things, I tried to pick all your pockets, but I couldn’t get the diamond. I just have to ask you, out of curiosity, where did you hide the diamond?” The diamond merchant smiled. “I saw you hanging around the diamond district, and I realized you were a thief,” he said. “I watched you follow me down the street and onto the train. I needed to find a place that was safe, where you wouldn’t think to look, so I hid the diamond in your pocket!” The merchant then reached into the thief’s pocket and pulled out the diamond. Like that diamond thief, so many of us are walking around with the precious diamond of life in our own pocket, and we never realize its value. Instead, we look with envy at those around us and wish for what they have. This is a season of courage and emunah, of new beginnings and hope. Reach for that precious gift that G-d has given you, realize how valuable it is and make the most of it in the year to come. On behalf of Congregation Or VeShalom, I extend to all readers a shana tova, a joyous year of health and happiness. May this be the year in which all our dreams come true for good, and peace is upon the world and Israel. Amen. ■ Rabbi Hayyim Kassorla is the spiritual leader of Congregation Or VeShalom (orveshalom.org).

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Remember Kindness to Start Sweet Year Memories. They are my narrative. They also express the psyche I have crafted for myself. Some memories I have chosen to forget. Others I have chosen to remember, and I have chosen how I remember them. They are, after all, my memories. They are the source of my fears and my motivations. I love to share certain memories, and others I hide in a deep, dark place inside me. Know my memories, and you know me. Does G-d also have memories? The answer is yes, and 10 of them are enumerated in the Mussaf service of Rosh Hashanah. Why are G-d’s memories part of the Mussaf service? Perhaps G-d is offering us a chance to know Him. A quick perusal of G-d’s Top 10 memories (as it were) shows an outstanding dedication to His covenant with His children Israel. G-d says of Israel: “He is my precious son, a delightful child. Whenever I speak of him, I remember him more and more. My inner self yearns for him. I will surely take pity on him.” What do G-d’s memories tell us about Him? That He is not harsh and demanding. That He is not “out to get us.” Just the opposite. He sounds like a G-d who is out to get back together with us. What about all the indifference, misdeeds and even crimes that we have committed? Those are not part of G-d’s memories. Instead, we read that G-d remembers the covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and how He yearns to fulfill His covenant. Isn’t it interesting? A list of G-d’s memories shows Him obsessed with us and our well-being. Where does He show up in our list of memories? For many of us, our memories have to do with our accomplishments or failures or negative things that occurred to us. How many of our memories have to do with kindnesses shown to us by others? We are all beneficiaries of acts of kindness. Not just from G-d, but also from parents and teachers, friends and neighbors, casual acquaintances and even strangers. Do acts of kindness make up our primary memories, or do acts of pain and anger? A former chief rabbi of Israel, Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, wrote a memoir a few years ago of his experiences

as a child survivor of the Holocaust. What is outstanding to me is that, in front of the backdrop of the horrors of the Holocaust, Rabbi Lau’s book fo-

Guest Column By Rabbi Binyomin Friedman Congregation Ariel

family members, concentration camp inmates, friends and strangers, Jewish and not, who all took pity on the boy. Rabbi Lau focuses not on bitterness over the murder of his parents and the loss of his very childhood, but rather basks in the love shown to him even by strangers. If there is anything to feel guilty about as we approach the High Holydays, it is our choice of memories. To remember pain is to live in pain. To remember anger is to live in anger. These are not G-d’s memories. G-d says, “I remember you for the kindness of your youth … how you followed me in the wilderness.”

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Did we really have a chance to do otherwise? Where else could we have gone? G-d, however, chooses to remember our sojourn in the desert as an act of kindness. Surely, we can choose to live our lives as beneficiaries of kindness — from G-d and from those all around us. May we all reflect on this past year and the kindnesses shown us, thereby guaranteeing us a sweet new year. ■ Rabbi Binyomin Friedman is the spiritual leader of Congregation Ariel (www.congariel.org).

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It is difficult not to take into a natural course of events for huconsideration the devastating flood in mankind, just as Mother Nature is a Houston and its impact on individuals natural course of events on Earth. and families during this most auspiIn Devarim 15:7-11, Parshat Re’eh, cious time of Elul. G-d reminds us, “You shall not harden How can we not think of Unetaneh your heart or close your hand against Tokef? “On Rosh Hashanah will be your destitute brother. Rather, you inscribed and on Yom Kippur will be shall open your hand to him; you shall sealed … who by water, who by fire, … who will rest and who will wander, who will Guest Column live in harmony and who will be harried, … who will By Laura Bogart be impoverished and who Tzarkei Naomi Fund will be enriched.” I would like to write an inspiring Rosh Hashanah lend him his requirement, whatever is message, but a more sobering message lacking him. … For destitute people will keeps coming to the fore. not cease to exist within the land.” No one would argue that the We have been inundated with people of Houston deserved the floodreports, photos and videos of the huwaters that engulfed the city. It was an act of nature and beyond their control. man suffering in Houston these past Resulting in devastation, immense few weeks. We are aware, and the nation is answering the call to assist in loss of property, loss of loved ones, a myriad of selfless acts of kindness; sickness and poverty. The recovery for from monetary donations to physical many will take months if not years. efforts to help the victims of the hurThe Almighty in heaven admonricane rebuild. ishes us in Tanach that poverty and Because we are made aware of need will never cease from Earth. It is

the devastation. it is easy to respond quickly and with generosity. But what about the devastation that occurs as a natural course of events that results in individual suffering, as opposed to suffering on the scale of Houston? Are we responding to these individuals with the same compassion and generosity as we are for the victims of Hurricane Harvey? For many years I worked both officially as a board member and unofficially as a volunteer to assist a local organization that provides kosher food assistance and other help to individuals and families in need. As the vice president of fundraising, my name was known, and I received many calls from individuals in need and from those who wished to help. One evening, a call came in. A recent widow wished to donate her husband’s clothing to a Jewish family in need; did I know whom she should call? She wanted to honor his memory through the donation. As we spoke, a story came out. Through a flood of tears, I learned that because of the cost of his illness and care, the family savings were depleted, no income was coming in, and she faced losing her home. Having no family to turn to, she faced the devastation not only of losing her beloved husband alone, but of becoming homeless as well. I said I would see what I could do. I spoke with my husband and told him we had to do something. We contacted Rabbi Binyomin Friedman of Congregation Ariel, and he gave us a letter testifying to the need so that we could raise money to save her from homelessness. With the help of my husband and the generosity of the Jewish community, we were able to bring her mortgage current. That gave her time to regroup while she suffered from the recent loss of her husband. After several months of assistance she was able to stabilize her situation. I soon discovered that there were other widows in need. My husband and I quietly assisted for several years until it became apparent that to truly help, we needed to become an official nonprofit organization. Fast-forward to 2016. With the assistance of George Scheer and his wife, Michelle, we received our 501(c) (3) nonprofit designation and launched Tzarkei Naomi Fund, an Atlanta Jewish fund for widows and orphans.

Ruth swears allegiance to Naomi in a painting by Jan Victors.

We are commanded numerous times in Tanach to care for the orphan, the widow and the Jew by choice. The Almighty recognized that these special individuals, who have no one to defend their cause, are our special charges. Think of the orphans and widows in Houston; would we turn our backs on them? G-d forbid. It is not without purpose that the Torah and Haftorah readings leading up to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur remind us to care for these individuals on an ongoing basis. In Ki Teitzei 24:19-22, we are told, “When you reap the harvest of your field, and you forget a bundle in the field; you shall not turn back to take it; it shall be for the proselyte, the orphan and the widow. When you beat your olive tree, do not remove all the splendor behind you; it shall be for the proselyte, the orphan and the widow. When you harvest your vineyard, you shall not glean behind you; it shall be for the proselyte, the orphan and the widow. You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt; therefore, I command you to do this thing.” Tzarkei Naomi Fund (Needs of Naomi) is named after Naomi, the mother-in-law of Ruth, both widows. Ruth, a Jew by choice, is known for her selfless kindness and generosity despite her own dire situation. I have often wondered whether the word “ruthless,” meaning merciless, unforgiving or heartless, was coined as the antithesis of our heroine Ruth, the biblical paragon of chesed. May we merit to model the kindness of Ruth and give ongoing support to the precious Naomis in our own communities. ■ Laura Bogart is the founder of the Tzarkei Naomi Fund (www.tzarkeinaomi.org). In addition to online, donations can be made at Judaica Corner, 2185 Briarcliff Road, Toco Hills, or by mail to Tzarkei Naomi Fund, 1000 Liawen Court, Atlanta, GA 30329.

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

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Jews, Public Safety and the BDS Threat The International Institute for Counter-Terrorism holds its annual conference in close proximity to Rosh Hashanah, and I have just attended its 17th annual conference, which certainly provided for some good reflection. The pattern continues: Again, Israel, the United States and many other countries around the world (particularly Belgium, France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom) did not have a very good year. The public safety prospects for 5778 are likely looking even worse. The prospects of increased terrorism loom ever larger. On Monday, Sept. 11, we commemorated 16 years since the worst terrorist atrocity in the world’s history. While the danger to personal safety is still far larger from vehicular accidents, drug abuse, health malpractice, natural disasters and numerous other factors, none captures the same imagination, attention, and often misperception of individuals and states as man-made disasters — namely, terrorism. Indeed, more of the same continues to be expected this coming year. It is the working assumption among experts that terrorists are planning something more spectacular and horrific than 9/11, and many point to the likelihood of using nonconventional means to carry out such operations. For us, as Jews, there is yet another dimension. There is little consolation in the universalization of terrorism around the world — that it is targeting not only Israel and Jews. In that sense, the trouble of many is the consolation of fools. Of course terrorism is an international menace, and its aims are more

than Israel. In fact, to date, the largest group of victims of terror are Muslims killed by Muslims. But that has more to do with the pyrotechnics of terrorism — the mode of attack. If it shoots, explodes, stabs or rams vehicles into people, it gets wide media attention. But there is another mode of attack that is specifically aimed at Israel

Guest Column By Robbie Friedmann GILEE

and Jews, and that is a modern incarnation of the old anti-Semitism. On Aug. 20, Palestinian Al-Aqsa mosque cleric Sheik Ali Abu Ahmed criticized the Arab rulers who condemned the Barcelona terror attack as being rulers of the “wicked ministates” sending weapons to fight in Iraq, Syria, Libya and Yemen instead of fighting the Jews, “the most despicable of Allah’s creations.” Abu Ahmed prayed to Allah to “annihilate all the Jews” and to “enable us to kill them,” and he was answered with “amen” from his listeners. While politicians in Israel and some columnists and experts of the day rush to pass judgment that the boycott, divestment and sanctions efforts to undermine Israel have failed, that judgment is premature. Perhaps the economic impact is, for now, less than BDS advocates aim for, but the long-term effect of undermining the very existence of Israel is far from weakening. BDS activities are not just anti-Israel, but also thoroughly anti-Semitic. Such activities are on an exponential rise on U.S. (and European and other)

Robbie Friedmann leads a GILEE delegation of American law enforcement leaders to Israel in the spring.

university campuses, and the vitriolic incitement is often translated into intimidation and violence. A case in point is France, but it is not limited to that country. That is why Israel has recognized BDS as a strategic threat that needs to be handled seriously. In that regard, it is encouraging to see that Frankfurt, Germany, has declared BDS as anti-Semitic, and it appears that it will rule its activities illegal. It’s a good role model from Germany to emulate elsewhere. Criticism of Israel is legitimate, yet the efforts of BDS are not meant to improve and correct flaws in Israel. Rather, BDS aims to eliminate Israel altogether. Under the guise of human rights, BDS is striving to deny those exact rights to Israel and Jews. The fact that some Jews and Israelis take an active role in the BDS campaign does not make it any less anti-Semitic. It is not who you are but rather what you do that defines your actions.

The BDS movement is attempting to debase Israel’s moral foundation by calling it an “apartheid state,” by claiming that Israel is a “colonialist settler entity,” by saying it “stole the land” from its “rightful owners,” and by making a host of similar, unfounded claims that are nothing less than a modern and sophisticated version of the Big Lie technique. In Atlanta, as in other cities, BDS is focusing on cutting the ties between local police and the Israel Police through the efforts of a coalition of pro-Palestinian groups joining forces as strange bedfellows driven by “intersectionality.” Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed has publicly said he is “not going to do that,” and he refused the demand to divest the police budget for other purposes. This past year the rhetoric has worsened. Now such groups “demand to stop the deadly exchange,” blaming Israel for training U.S. law enforcement to “kill blacks and Native Ameri-

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cans.” Sadly, this campaign has been steered by the so-called Jewish Voice for Peace. And this is where the gloomy yet realistic characterization of the outgoing and coming years turns optimistic. Reed has demonstrated what public resilience can be in the face of such attacks. More should follow his courageous leadership. We cannot ignore, wish away or hide from the problem. The onslaught is vigorous, well-funded and deadly serious (metaphorically and physically). Israel developed an expertise in fighting terrorism, and the Israel Police has accumulated professional and organizational knowledge that makes it one of the best police forces around the world. It works in partnership with sister agencies in many countries and has a great deal to contribute to better policing and is eager to do so. GILEE is proud to play a role in bringing together law enforcement agencies in closer partnership, not only between Israel and other agencies, but also with many countries and many states. GILEE is proud to mark 25 productive and effective years of service to the community. These partnerships and knowledge sharing constitute a contribution to and an impact on public safety. Real public safety, not pseudo-humanrights propaganda. In that sense, law enforcement agencies should be viewed as the best protectors of human rights. Undermining Israel will not contribute to the betterment of life of Palestinians nor of their supporters. By denying Israel what is seen as elementary for anyone else, the BDS efforts are doomed to fail, but only if we proactively cope with this threat. The lessons of strong partnerships can and should be adapted from police practice to civil society. Partnerships offer an effective way not only to better serve citizens, but also to display fortitude and resoluteness against looming threats. Perhaps not less important, being proactive through building partnerships provides a moral compass that reinforces our well-being and sends a message to those who wish us harm that we are not to be taken for granted. With best wishes for a shana tova. May it truly be a good year. ■ Robbie Friedmann is the founding director of the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange (www.gilee.org) and professor emeritus of criminal justice at Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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Many of us pause during the High Holidays to reflect on experiences and accomplishments of the past year, while also looking forward to the many opportunities a new year brings. For more than a century, the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta has played a vital role in the Atlanta community, making an impact on generations of Jewish families. This past year, the MJCCA connected 60,000 people to one another and the Jewish community, more than ever before, through more than 10,000 programs. I am so fortunate to be a part of this organization that has been an integral part of my life for almost 40 years. As we approach the new year, I encourage all of you to become involved in the MJCCA and discover the many ways it can enrich your life as it has mine. This High Holiday season we will gather for many wonderful events designed for everyone in our community to come together to celebrate the holidays, form meaningful connections, and, of course, have fun. I invite you to join us for our Sweet Celebration in the Garden, an Intown Rosh Hashanah party at the Wylde Center, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17; Tashlich, Birds, Bubbles and Boats at 12:15 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, at the MJCCA’s Lake RB; and our Sukkot Farm-to-Table Festival at noon Sunday, Oct. 8. The opportunities don’t end with the High Holidays; they are just the beginning. One of the things I love most about the MJCCA is that not a day goes by that I don’t see someone trying something new, making a new friend, gaining a new skill or being included. At Camp Barney Medintz, more than 1,200 campers develop lifelong friendships and a connection to their Jewish identity. Our MJCCA day campers enjoy every moment of their summer of fun, friends and adventure. Our more than 500 preschoolers revel in a warm, nurturing environment while learning Jewish values. Our Book Festival brings exceptional cultural opportunities to more than 10,000 book lovers. Through our teen programs, thousands of young people connect, establishing lifelong social networks and a stronger connection to their Jewish identity. Our Inclusion program enables children with special needs to learn and play side by side with their typically developing peers. More than

3,500 active mature adults participate in activities that help them stay engaged, make connections, and live rich, full lives. This year the MJCCA launched a series of meaningful events intown, creating the opportunity for young, busy families to take part in a variety of enriching activities that introduce them to other Jewish families living in the neighborhood and help them build

Guest Column By Jared Powers Marcus JCC

lifelong connections. While we will host the JCC Maccabi Games in Atlanta in 2019, the excitement is already palpable and the initial planning underway. Our MJCCA community extends a special thankyou to Philip Rubin and Brian Seitz for making this dream a reality. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to provide Jewish teens with this amazing experience where they not only compete in sports they love, but also build lifelong friendships, cultivate a deeper appreciation of Jewish values and collectively give back to the community. Hosting the JCC Maccabi Games involves a team of volunteer leadership. At the helm for the MJCCA will be Amy Rubin and Libby Hertz as the JCC Maccabi Games co-chairs, Garrett Van de Grift and Mike Leven as the JCC Maccabi Games advisers, and Lisa and Ron Brill as honorary chairs. It is going to take a village, and we invite you to volunteer as we plan for the JCC Maccabi Games in Atlanta. During this time of reflection, I want to acknowledge the incredible contributions made by our board, donors, members, sponsors, staff, lay leaders, partners and participants. Your continued support of the MJCCA will enable us to make an even greater impact in 5778. We are steadfast in our commitment to all those who depend on the MJCCA to be a welcoming, inclusive and safe space to gather, learn, play and find meaningful connections. On behalf of the MJCCA, I wish you l’shana tova! ■ Jared Powers is the CEO of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (www.atlantajcc.org).

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A Modern Mother’s New Year’s Prayer May G-d bless you always with health, wealth and happiness. May you be blessed with children and with children’s children. May you be blessed to enjoy a ripe old age with a healthy mind and body. May you be blessed with joyfully living in the ways of the Torah. May your heart beat with love toward His creations. May your eyes see the beauty in His majestic world. May your mouth speak words of wisdom. May your hands toil in honest and holy work. May your mind be filled with His thoughts, the Torah. May your legs move swiftly to do a good deed. May your muscles be flexed with courage. May your belly feel full with the abundance He provides. May your lungs breathe in the air of peace and harmony. May your ideas be truthful and

honest. May your time be occupied with acts of kindness. May your truths be found in our

Guest Column By Dena Schusterman Intown Jewish Preschool

traditions. May your thoughts be pure and wholesome. May your gratitude grow and keep entitlement away. May your questions cause you to seek answers. May your answers urge you to ask more questions. May your confidence uplift another. May your kindness spread out only in good ways. May your independence connect you with others. May your faith be that all is for the good. May your words be measured and

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May your fears be of G-d alone. May your enemies recognize their mistakes. May your disappointments be a catalyst for growth. May your challenges encourage you to grow. May your grudges be cause for compassion. May your sadness be reason to think about another. May your loss bring you more gain. May your depression cause you to introspect and find gratitude. May you be a shining link in our chain. May you be willing to give more then you get. You will always be a child of mine. Forever with love, Your Momma. ■ Dena Schusterman is a founder of Chabad Intown, a Jewish educator, and a founding director of both the Intown Jewish Preschool and the Intown Hebrew School. She and her husband, Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman, are native Californians living in Atlanta for 20 years.

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compassionate. May your friends be upright and bring you comfort. May your joy be boundless. May your purpose come from giving of yourself. May your happiness cause others to be happy. May your pleasure be found in spiritual quests. May your curiosity lead you to helpful answers. May your money be shared with the needy. May your lens be far and wide. May your life be perfect. But if it is not … May your insecurities compel you to be kind. May your anger be tempered by understanding. May your scepticism dissipate and not lead you astray. May your jealousy be toward those with more knowledge. May your pain bring you purpose. May your loneliness bring you empathy. May your indignation be for the downtrodden.

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The holiday of Rosh Hashanah is that time of year when Hashem judges the whole world and decides our fate for the year. The question one may ask: Why then do we pray all year long if indeed our fate is decided for the year? One of the answers given is that Hashem decides on Rosh Hashanah how much spiritual credit we can deposit into our spiritual account. However, the decision of how much of this spiritual credit we can withdraw in a physical form, that is decided by Hashem daily. Hence the need for daily prayer and for making daily good choices. Students come to school with all kinds of innate strengths or weaknesses, which one may call part of their fate. Our mission as educators is to help develop those strengths and to help students overcome their potential weaknesses. Similarly, just as we pray daily despite our fate being decided on Rosh Hashanah, we also work daily with our students despite some of their

inborn strengths or weaknesses. Dr. Carol S. Dweck in her famous work on “Growth Mindset” writes that the best gift we can give students is to become aware of their strengths and

Guest Column By Rabbi Michoel Druin Chaya Mushka Children’s House

weaknesses, then to help them develop a growth mindset to further develop their strengths and to work on overcoming their weaknesses. May we all be blessed to have a successful Rosh Hashanah in which our spiritual bank account is overflowing, and may we further be blessed with a growth mindset to be able to materialize these blessings on a daily basis. ■ Rabbi Michoel Druin is the head of school of the Chaya Mushka Children’s House Elementary & Middle School (chayamushka.org/elementary).

ROSH HASHANAH

The Gift Of Creation Offers A Chance To Re-Create Guest Column

One of the major themes of Rosh Hashanah is honoring Hashem as the Creator of the universe. Rosh Hashanah is Yom Harat Olam, the day on which the cosmos was created. G-d as Creator sets the foundation for the theology of the new year. The Creator and Sovereign of the universe is also the One who judges us. The focus of the mahzor for Rosh Hashanah is that of judgment: This is Yom Hadin, the Day of Judgment. The impact of Yom Hadin rests on the fact that the Divine Judge is also the Cosmic Creator. Creation comes before judgment. In the Torah, creation precedes revelation. Even more, the divine aspect of creation in Genesis is the basis for the acts of revelation and redemption in Exodus. This year I am thinking mostly of the divine gift of creation. We are made b’tzelem Elohim, in the divine image. We as human beings are creative by nature, resembling in this aspect the Holy One. Thus, we can always re-create our world and ourselves in part. This is an important ability and indeed a gift. In the new year I plan to focus on how I can re-create my world in crucial ways. I urge you all to consider what the divine gift to humanity of creativity may mean for all of us. What might you create in the year ahead? Hashem has fashioned us so that animals, plants and people all live in the world, but only human beings can rise above the world and change it. Because we are all creators as well as created. L’shana tova. ■ Rabbi Richard Baroff is the president of Guardians of the Torah (guardiansofthetorah.com).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By Rabbi Richard Baroff Guardians of the Torah

ROSH HASHANAH

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Israeli Innovation Powers Global Good Over the past few weeks the world neurs, businesses and startups have been inventing, creating, improving has been witness to horrible disasters and researching how to make this and adversities. Some, like the horrific world a better place. incidents in Charlottesville, are manmade. Others, like Hurricane Harvey and the devastatGuest Column ing flooding in By Benjamin Fink and the Houston area, Guy Tessler are delivered by Connex nature. Amid all the chaos and suffering, we have to admire those who step The Israeli innovation that the up to help. We look positively upon world has become so familiar with the people, communities and organicreates education, entrepreneurship zations that go above and beyond to and enlightenment. This innovation assist those in need. And, if you look enables lifesaving technologies and closely enough, on some of the sleeves techniques like those used in the orgaof those who first arrive to help, you nization Save a Child’s Heart, which will see a blue-and-white flag and Star provides critical care to children from of David. every corner of the earth. Or like the What many people don’t know (or Israeli soldiers and medics volunteerchoose to ignore) is that Israel is often ing with IsraAid, an organization at the forefront of providing relief and that provides relief and medical care solutions not only to natural disasduring disasters, like the ones on the ters, but also to debilitating diseases, ground in Houston. crimes, environmental problems and The can-do attitude and strong other issues. belief in tikkun olam (repairing the Since the founding of the country world) within the Israeli business nearly 70 years ago, Israeli entreprecommunity have had a positive impact

throughout the world, especially here in the Southeast. At Conexx, one of the key components of our mission is to help shine light on Israel’s positive force in the world, especially the positive impact brought about by its innovation and entrepreneurship. While Conexx is the premier America-Israel business connector, creating opportunities for Israeli businesses looking to expand in the United States and American companies and businesspeople looking to access Israeli innovation, our work at Conexx regularly involves educating the business community in the Southeast on the incredible, positive impact Israeli innovation is having on people’s lives throughout the world. Our work represents a powerful counter to those who would seek to harm Israel economically. Operating in the Southeast for 25 years, Conexx engages with and guides governments, companies and academia that might not otherwise demonstrate an interest in or affiliation with Israel. Our organization helps to educate and serves as a voice of Israel to those who might not know

or understand Israel’s vital and truly incredible contributions to humanity. Our mission and dedication to Israel are one in the same. Throughout the year, we engage and work with many diverse groups of women, men and young professionals around the Southeast and Israel by building business-driven relationships. This passionate work of Conexx creates long-lasting, deep and vibrant connections to Israel where they might not otherwise have existed. Conexx connects people to Israel who might not otherwise be connected, and we do it in real and tangible ways that are different from other organizations. By joining or supporting Conexx, you will support not only Israel, but also Israel’s innovation and ability to change the world in the most positive of ways. May this year bring peace, health and prosperity to us all. Shana tova u’metuka. ■ Benjamin Fink is the chairman of Conexx: America Israel Business Connector (www.conexx.org), and Guy Tessler is the president.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Bonds Boost Israel at Holidays, Year-Round

At the opening of the conference Current terms range from two to 10 that created Israel Bonds, Prime Minis- years. Most bonds are issued in bookter David Ben-Gurion said, “Neither entry form, so redemption checks are our security nor our future is safe, mailed automatically at maturity. and there is not yet attained the main In more than 400 synagogues purpose of the state of Israel.” around the United States and Canada, These words, spoken almost 70 members will be given the opportunity years ago, are still true today. on Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur to Investing in Israel Bonds proindicate their interest in purchasing claims that you support a nation that Israel Bonds to express their love for educates, builds and innovates, lives by democraGuest Column cy, liberty, human By Art Katz and rights and freedom for all people, Brad Young and produces Israel Bonds technologies that connect, feed and heal the world. Last year The Times of Israel, hope for Israel and pride in Israel reported, “More than one out of Israel. every four of the medicines, treatEach Israel Bond purchased durments and technologies in use today ing the High Holidays or any other have Israeli roots.” time of the year will, in the words Every investment, no matter the Ben-Gurion spoke nearly 70 years ago, amount, declares that Israel is our make Israel’s future safe and help athomeland to develop, visit and protect. tain its main purpose. Israel is our heritage, purpose, identity If you miss the opportunity to and responsibility. participate in a synagogue appeal Investment options begin at $36. during the High Holidays, Israel

Bonds are available any time at www. israelbonds.com. Gift bonds starting at $36 are perfect for any simcha and carry much more Jewish meaning and reaffirmation of our values than cash or a check. Israel’s economic resilience is built on three pillars. First, Israel has been proactive in developing farreaching policies enabling its economy to remain stable in the face of ongoing global challenges. Second, Israel’s leading and innovative technology sector attracts billions of dollars in foreign investment, hosts development centers that create jobs, rent and tax revenues, and generates global demand for Israeli products. Finally, the Israel Bonds organization has generated $40 billion in worldwide sales for the country since 1951, bringing enormous economic benefit to the state and providing a safety net for the country to generate foreign investment in good times and bad. “I like backing winners and am happy to own bonds of Israel,” said businessman Warren Buffett, the most successful investor in the world, while

participating in an Israel Bonds event in June. You can do the same. Go to Israelbonds.com to obtain prospectuses and rates and to set up an online account. You may also contact the Atlanta bonds office at 404817-3500 and do your part to support Israel during the High Holidays and as we approach the 70th anniversary of her founding. Thank you to the greater Atlanta community for your outstanding efforts on Israel’s behalf. May 5778 be a year of peace and prosperity for you, your family and loved ones and for the state of Israel and the Jewish people. Shana tova. ■ Art Katz is the Atlanta Advisory Council chairman for the Southeast regional office of Israel Bonds (www. israelbonds.com) in Buckhead, and Brad Young is the executive director. This is not an offering, which can be made only by prospectus. Read the prospectus carefully before investing to fully evaluate the risks associated with investing in Israel Bonds. The Development Corporation for Israel is a FINRA member.

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

www.atlantajewishtimes.com

Let Us Strengthen Ties L’shana tova to our friends in the Southeast. I want to begin by thanking all of you for your warm support and gracious hospitality. I am just ending my second year in Atlanta. My husband, Oded, our daughter, Roni, and I feel very much at home in the South. As you ready your homes and communities for the High Holidays, I’d like to extend to you my greetings and hopes for the new year. On this Rosh Hashanah, we not only look at the past and reflect on all we could have done better, but we also gaze at the road ahead and prepare for tomorrow’s challenges. Israel faces many challenges: social challenges, economic challenges and of course security challenges. Challenges that we can and will overcome, as we have done many times before. To do so, however, we must work internally. The relationship between the Jewish American community and Israel is firm, but we must endeavor for an even more verdant bond. I hope these High Holidays will inspire a sense of unity and bring us

into the next year with a revitalized commitment to promoting peace. On Rosh Hashanah, Jews are asked to shed the daily pressures of the past year to spend time on meditation, prayer and self-reflection so that we may come into 5778 renewed and able to focus our attention on tikkun olam

Guest Column By Judith Varnai Shorer Israeli Consulate

and matters of higher importance. As the year draws to a close, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the unwavering support of the Jewish community of Atlanta to the people and state of Israel. On behalf of the Consulate General of Israel to the Southeast, we wish you a happy and prosperous new year, and we look forward to working with you in 5778. ■ Ambassador Judith Varnai Shorer is the consul general of Israel to the Southeast (embassies.gov.il/atlanta).

ROSH HASHANAH 2017

Finding Community Throughout History On Aug. 25, 1944, after six days of fighting, the city of Paris was liberated from the Nazis, ending a four-year occupation that marked one of the darkest times in the history of the City of Lights. Three weeks later, dentist Marvin Goldstein, a captain in the U.S. Army Air Forces from Atlanta, walked to Paris’ Great Synagogue (the Rothschild Synagogue) with Rabbi Judah Nadich, the chief Jewish chaplain of the U.S. forces, and opened it for its Rosh Hashanah service. “We were treated as heroes by the Jewish population that poured into the synagogue on that particular occasion. We made many friends at that time,” Dr. Goldstein recalled when interviewed in 1989 by Merna Alpert. His testimony, along with those of countless others, is stored in the Cuba Family Archives at the Breman Museum as part of the Taylors Jewish Oral History Project.

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Rabbi Nadich had arrived in the city a few days earlier and immediately connected with the chief rabbi

Guest Column By Ghila Sanders Breman Museum

of Paris, Julien Weill. Minutes into the conversation, Rabbi Weill inquired why Rabbi Nadich spoke such good French. “Monsieur le rabbin,” he replied, according to the archives of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, “it’s because your brother was my French teacher in America!” At the Breman Museum, I have the privilege of hearing serendipitous stories like these on a regular basis. But chances are you have heard quite a few as well. In fact, you have likely been the protagonist of at least one such story — running into a Jewish friend from home in a remote part of the world or finding yourself at a Shabbat dinner where you don’t even know the hosts and discovering a common relative halfway through the meal. We are wandering Jews, and we seem to find community wherever we go. As we look at the future of the Breman Museum with aspirational lenses and add our voice to the reimagination of Jewish Atlanta spearheaded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and joined by dozens of other organizations, I start this new year mindful of our community in this city. In our ever-evolving and diverse society, we are more conscious of our challenges, and at the same time we are incredibly empowered by the extraordinary strengths that come with this new awareness. Listening to Dr. Goldstein’s Rosh Hashanah story, I can’t help but look at the journey ahead with great excitement. We may face some uncertainty, but one thing is for sure: Wherever we go, we will find community. Shana tova. ■

Happy chanuka For All Occasions and More

Happy chanukah Happy chanuka Happy chanukah

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SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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ROSH HASHANAH

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Showing Respect to the Right and Left inside my kishkes. I have to talk to you about the issues I think are deeply important in this moment. Also, I completely reject the idea that religion and politics don’t mix. If religion has nothing to say about the most important issues affecting

Guest Column By Rabbi Jeffery Feinstein Kehillat HaShem

society, then what good is it? If religion doesn’t help shape our national dialogue or our values, then what is it for? Abraham, Moses and the Hebrew prophets all spoke out with righteous indignation about the injustices they witnessed. We learn in Pirkei Avot, that great collection of early rabbinic wisdom, how our tradition defines someone who is wise. Eizehu chacham? Ha’lomeid mi-kol adam: “Who is wise? One who learns from all people — not

just the people with whom they agree, but also, and especially, from the people with whom they disagree.” I’ve got news for you: You can be a good Jew and be a Republican. You can be a good Jew and be a Democrat. You can be a good Jew and be a libertarian. Truth and goodness and justice do not exist in only one party or one ideology. I am under no illusions that any candidate will be perfect or impeccable in every way. We did not elect a mashiach; we elected a human being, a flawed, imperfect human being. We may have different views about who the best candidate was or what those critical issues were that demand our support, but, for G-d’s sake, let’s have some respect for each other. Let’s have some humility and sensitivity for other people’s opinions and views. At the end of the Amidah, the standing prayer we recite morning, afternoon and evening, our practice is to take three steps backward as we say the words “Oseh shalom bimromav, Hu ya’aseh shalom aleinu ve’al kol Yisrael, ve’imru, amen.” As we say this prayer, we physi-

YOM KIPPUR 2017 Break-Fast FISH TRAYS

cally step back, as if to say that we can only achieve peace when we are willing to take a step back and make room for other people, other opinions, other ways of understanding the world. After we take those three steps back, we bow — but not just straight ahead as in other parts of the service, but to the right and then to the left. I want you to think about this the next time you finish the Amidah. Maybe we are actually bowing to the people to our right and to the people to our left to demonstrate our honor for them and our conviction that achieving peace and harmony will happen only when we learn to respect not only those we agree with, but also the people who are to the right of us and the people who are to the left of us. Then and only then will the One who makes peace in the heavens make peace for us, for Israel and for all the world, as we say together amen. L’shana tova. ■ Rabbi Jeffery Feinstein is the head of Congregation Kehillat HaShem (rabbiatlanta.com).

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Happy chan

Beautifully catered trays include: Nova, Baked Salmon, Stuffed White Fish served with Bagels and Plain Cream Cheese $18.95 per person Substitute Sable add $5.00 per person Minimum Order 10 people

KUGEL/CASSEROLES

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Happy chanu Happy chan Happy chanu

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CHALLAH

• 1LB Round: Plain—$6.50 EA, Raisin—$7.50 EA • 3 LB Round: Plain—$15.00 EA, Raisin–$18.00 EA

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Old-Fa CHICKEN DINNER Challa Chicken Mushroom Casserole For All Occasions and More Potato Latkes served with Green Served with: “Kosher Catering at its finest so you can play host and get the most.” applesauce Green Wide Egg Noodles For•All Occasions and More 404-953-8157 Office @ fAOcAterin Broccoli Kugel Roaste Zucchini Latkes 5200 Northland Dr, Atlanta, 30342 For All Occasions and More $115.99 plus tax, serves 10 For All Occasions and More Potato Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Old-Fashio CHICKEN DINNER BEEF STEW DINNER 404-953-8157 • OFFICE@FAOCATERING.COM 49 Winter Beef Ragout (Beef stew) Roaste $99.99 plusMushroom tax, serves 10 Challah Bre Chicken Casserole PRIME RIB DINNER 404-953-8157 • Office @ fAOcAterin Potato Latkes served with Green Bean Served with: Honey @ Choice of Roasted Butternut applesauce Green Bean Wide Egg Noodles BRISKET DINNER SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

I have been eligible to vote in many presidential elections, and I know many of you have been casting ballots longer than I. But I cannot remember a time when an election season was infected with more meanness, more divisiveness, more crassness and crudeness than 2016. We were faced with possibly the two most unfavorable presidential candidates in the history of polling on candidates. Over half of Americans expressed deeply negative views of both candidates. I’ve been wondering over these past several months how G-d would have voted on Election Day. I think there’s at least a chance that G-d is a Republican. After all, the Torah explicitly permits self-defense, even lethal self-defense, when your life is threatened. Capital punishment is prescribed for several crimes. The Torah is not shy about getting involved in intimate details of our personal lives. And there’s a robust nationalism and militarism throughout the Bible. Not only all that, but G-d has spoken to Republican candidates and specifically told them to run: George W. Bush, Sarah Palin, even the Jewish Republican former-senator from Minnesota, Norm Coleman, who said on a radio show in 2008 that G-d wanted him to serve. But then G-d let Al Franken win his seat in that election, so maybe G-d is a Democrat. After all, there’s all the environmentalism of Genesis, l’ovdah u’leshomrah, that we must protect and care for the world. Leaving the corners of the fields for the poor to glean sounds like an ancient welfare system, and the mitzvah of paying workers their fairly earned wages on the same day sounds like the beginnings of union organizing. Of course, the Torah is unquestionably concerned about caring for the ger, yatom, ve’almana, the stranger (some translate that as refugee), the orphan and the widow among us, so G-d may well be a Democrat. That being said, though, about 40 percent of the Torah’s laws deal with property rights, and tzedakah is ideally meant to be given directly to the recipient, not through a proxy or government, so maybe G-d is a libertarian. People ask me how I come up with what I want to speak about on the High Holidays. The answer is that I have to speak about what’s burning

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ROSH HASHANAH

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

A Lasting Commitment In a Time of Change

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As we welcome 5778, we reflect on the past year and celebrate the new beginnings ahead. At this introspective time, our tradition calls on us to learn from the past and to intentionally set the course for the future. While Rosh Hashanah is most often translated as “head of the year,” a derivative definition of the Hebrew words rosh hashinui is “the beginning of change.” The great Jewish poet Robert Allen Zimmerman recognized the inevitability of change and gave this sage advice: “You better start swimmin’ or you’ll sink like a stone, for the times they are a-changin.” Bob was on to something when advising us to embrace the changes that Rosh Hashanah marks. The past year has been a time of change at JF&CS as we evolve to best meet the needs of our community and adapt to a changing world around us. While our methods and messaging may change, our mission will always be grounded in tikkun olam — repairing the world by helping people in need. Whether it is supporting an individual with disabilities in a first job, visiting the sick in a hospital, mentoring a child who has lost an adult role model, helping fix a broken smile, providing healing for a victim or addict, helping a family manage the coordination of care for an older adult, or another impact resulting from the many other services we provide, JF&CS exists to empower the lives of individuals and families in metro Atlanta. This year brought exciting changes to our Dunwoody campus. Through the community’s amazing generosity and a dedicated team of lay leaders, we completed the Walter and Frances Bunzl Family Foundation Clinical Services Wing. A total rebuilding of our counseling practice, this beautiful space provides a professional, comfortable and confidential environment for our clients and staff. In addition, we built a state-of-theart building for our intellectual and developmental disabilities services that features a sensory room, computer lab, teaching kitchen and laundry, all designed to enhance the vocational and life skills of our program participants. After years of a long waiting list, we have room to provide more individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities with care,

love, support and the highest-quality programming. Each Tuesday we share coffee and snacks with these wonderful individuals in our new Gathering Space, an area where our clients, our staff and the community can connect, collaborate and interact.

Guest Column By Rick Aranson JF&CS

Walking around our enhanced campus and gardens, I have noticed our clients holding their heads a little higher and our visitors taking in the new surroundings with pride. As community needs have changed, we have adapted. We have expanded our geriatric care management program to meet the needs of older adults and their families, grown and enhanced our programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, created strategies to assist the long-term unemployed, mature workers and other populations who have difficulty in finding employment, recruited more volunteers for the One Good Deed friendly visitor program, and increased our professional expertise and commitment to being a welcoming organization for the LGBTQ population and all in need through the Welcoming Communities Project. We forged new collaborations and strengthened existing ones, recognizing we can best serve our community by working with others. Working with our community partners, we have amplified our impact for older adults through the AgeWell Atlanta initiative, built bridges between young professionals and Holocaust survivors, and identified new partners to better respond to the needs of the ongoing opioid crisis with the HAMSA program. In a difficult, changing world, JF&CS is and always will be here for our community. On behalf of the board, staff and volunteers of JF&CS, I wish all of you a healthy and sweet new year. Please call us at 770-6779300 or visit us at jfcsatl.org if we can assist you and your loved ones in navigating life’s transitions. ■ Rick Aranson is the CEO of Jewish Family & Career Services (www.jfcsatl. org).

SEPTEMBER 15 â&#x2013;ª 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

www.atlantajewishtimes.com

Morals More Important Than Rituals

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By the time the month of Elul arrived to my hometown of Munkacs in the Carpathian Mountains, the cooler air of fall also appeared. Elul signified that the High Holidays were almost upon us. In Europe before the Holocaust, as we entered Elul, we began our mental and emotional preparations for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. In the synagogues, we began adding psalms of penitence, and at the end of the morning prayer, to prepare ourselves for the spirit of penitence, the shofar was sounded. Slowly we began wishing each other beyt auch zu a guttes yuhr — may you be successful in requesting of G-d a good year. As a child, I sensed the uneasiness that appeared among the adults. After all, soon the holidays would start, and our fate for the next year would be determined. Hitler was flexing his muscles, and even though it was before Kristallnacht, anti-Semitism was rampant

not only in Germany, but even in Munkacs. As we were approaching Rosh Hashanah, we became more and more conscious of our powerlessness and more fearful of the future. Each year we were aware, as

One Man’s Opinion By Eugen Schoenfeld Shema Yisrael

Rabbi Amnon described in the prayer Unetaneh Tokef, that life and death, poverty and well-being, health and illness were independent of our will and were instead in the hands of G-d. How often did I hear my mother’s sigh of oy Gottenyu? We needed help and didn’t know what the future held for us, so each year we came to seek the only help we could get: G-d’s help. From my childhood almost into adulthood, I was taught that whether I would be rewarded or punished depended on my adherence to G-d’s

commandments. To me, this meant adherence to ritual commandments. How well I remember one of the rabbis in Munkacs bewailing our sins and was sure we would suffer punishment because of the sins we committed. The one I remember most clearly, even when I was in my early teens, was his angry attack on the women. “Oh, women, how sinful you are,” he scolded with ferocity. What kind of sin had they committed to deserve such abhorrence — a sin that in his view threatened the existence of Jews? The sin he spoke of was the violation of the laws of nidah – of menstruation. (Laws regarding sexual behavior seem so important to Judaism, at least to traditional Jews, that we choose to read the Torah chapter related to sexuality on Yom Kippur.) The rabbi was disturbed because some modern women refused to cut off their hair and consequently could not fulfill the Torah-defined laws of ritual cleansing in the mikvah. With their hair intact, the rabbi argued, the women caused a separation to exist between their body and the water, and they thus failed to have a proper cleansing and hence performed unlawful, ritually unclean sex. Adherence to ritual laws was of far greater concern than the violation of the moral law. Because Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur were the time for accountability for adherence to ritual laws, the rabbi pleaded with the women: Cut your hair; otherwise, Jews will suffer. It is important that we and all of mankind should be held accountable for our sins, for the violation of the mitzvot. It is important that we should be taught achraut — responsibility for our actions. The idea of accountability was introduced to me in my childhood. I was always reminded that at night, while I slept, my soul ascended to heaven, and there in my own handwriting I entered in the Great Book all the things that I did and for which on Rosh Hashanah I would be held

accountable. Yes, I should be held accountable, but for what? I should be held accountable for whether I obeyed the mitzvot. In the Judaism of the shtetl, the mitzvot were primarily perceived as the ritual commandments. Did I obey Shabbat as prescribed in the Shulchan Aruch? Did I recite the morning prayers and put on the tefillin as I was commanded? Did I, G-d forbid, eat nonkosher food? This is what being Jewish meant in the pre-World War II Diaspora. But life has taught me that to be a Jew, we need to be held accountable for adherence to moral laws more than to ritualism. I learned a long time ago that one of the central teachings, at least according to my very Orthodox Hasidic grandfather, is that before anything else I should always strive to be an eidler mench — a moral and caring human being. Today, perhaps more than ever, we must place greater credence on moral life than on ritual performance. This view is not new. All one has to do is read the Prophet Micah, who tells us what G-d wants of us: to do justice, to love mercy and to practice humility. While as a child I was taught that the beginning of wisdom is fear of G-d and obedience to ritual laws, being Jewish has changed for most people. It is no longer fear of G-d but adherence to godly principles. It would be good if instead of prayers we began the High Holidays by reading Chapter 1 in Isaiah. From him we can learn that his benign G-d cares more about morality than ritualism. This view goes back much further than Isaiah. It is also what G-d expressed to Abraham when the latter argued to save the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Sins are not the omission of petty ritualism but the violation of universal justice, which demands that all people should have access to the necessities of life. Today the whole world stands in

Today the whole world stands in the crossroads, and we need to decide what path we and the rest of the world should follow.

the crossroads, and we need to decide what path we and the rest of the world should follow. Among many problems, our leaders have turned away the principle of achraut, the belief in human interconnectedness making us responsible for one another’s needs. If you ever read the haggadah, you should be aware that the evil person, the rasha, is one who cares little for the collective. He is the selfish individual who spurns mutual dependency. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur come to remind us of the importance of the collective to our life and the importance of our interconnectedness. The sages made an interesting allegory about the relationship of the individual and the collective. The individual, the sages tell us, is like a finger, an entity that is a part of a larger entity, the hand. Should one finger in that relationship become hurt, does not the whole hand suffer? Judaism does not teach selfishness. To the contrary, we believe that if one person in the community suffers, the whole community suffers. We are not here to fight each other for the acquisition of more goods. We must care for one another’s needs — this is the principle of tzedakah and gemilut chasadim, the concern for human welfare. The great sage Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, who I believe is the savior of Judaism, walked with one of his students in Jerusalem and came to the Temple, which recently had been destroyed by the Romans. The student raised his voice and cried: “Woe is to us. The Temple is destroyed, and how will we gain atonement and absolution for our sins?” Rabbi ben Zakkai responded: “We have something even more powerful than sacrifices. Performing gemilut chasadim, the performance of acts of lovingkindness, is the surest way to achieve redemption for sins.” The Torah, our sages remind us, begins and ends with G-d performing acts of lovingkindness. He provided fig leaves to Adam and Eve when they became aware of their nakedness. He came to take Moses’ soul with a kiss, and He himself buried Moses. The future of the world, my friends, is assured so long as we continue to perform justice and acts of kindness and care for one another. We, the members of the Shema Yisrael congregation, wish all of you a good and sweet year of 5778. ■ Regular AJT columnist Eugen Schoenfeld is one of the service leaders for Shema Yisrael — The Open Congregation (www.shemaweb.org).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Religious Dialogue Crucial for Democracy

When I think about my predecessors, the rabbis who came before me at The Temple, I realize that I am standing on the shoulders of giants. In 1957, a year before our own Temple was bombed, 80 white ministers in Atlanta publicly endorsed what has been referred to as the Ministers’ Manifesto, denouncing racial segregation. The statement was published in the Atlanta papers and subsequently in The New York Times. Rabbi Jacob M. Rothschild, our rabbi, was instrumental in the writing of that manifesto. He knew then what we know today: Religious leaders must stand up to bigotry and hatred. We live in challenging times. The need for interfaith support and cooperation is as important today as it ever has been. We all have strong feelings about the major issues of the day: the environment, the rights of minorities, safety and security, peace in the Middle East. Those who are wise realize that there are legitimate arguments on the other side, even if we disagree. Our lives are a balancing act between excessive modesty and excessive self-confidence. Sometimes, we feel our presence is too important to this world, and sometimes we feel our lives are no more important than anyone else’s. When the scale tips toward arrogance, we risk becoming intolerant. Like most of us, I worry these days about fundamentalism: the belief that there is only one way. This does not mean we shouldn’t have strong faith. I am passionate about my Jewish faith. But when that passion leads one to believe that there is only one way, only one truth, inevitably violence and death will follow. The worst and most powerful idols we have today are not made of stone and wood. They are made of ideas. Is single-minded fanaticism a necessity for passion, or can we have a multilingual view of G-d — the idea that G-d is not exhausted from a singular religious path? I’d like to believe that it is possible that Islam, Christianity and Judaism could know of a G-d who speaks Arabic on Fridays, Hebrew on Saturdays and Latin on Sundays. Any ideology that embraces only

self-importance violates human rights and leads to disastrous outcomes. Those claiming to be the sole owners of wisdom terrorize us every single day. We live in a world that is threatened by those who are blind to the beauty of pluralism, who despise the idea of tolerance for other religions and ways of life, who have absolutely

Guest Column By Rabbi Peter S. Berg The Temple

no faith in the rules of fair play. Our ancestors abhorred idolatry because they knew that nobody owns spiritual truth. The challenge of American democracy today is the same challenge religious Americans face. This is the reason for the 2017 Atlanta Interfaith Manifesto (www.atlantainterfaithmanifesto): to fashion a way that incompatible faith assertions can still talk with and learn from one another. What is needed most in our world is to speak to our neighbors of different faiths not with authority, but with reasoning; not with quotation, but with common ground. Religion is still the logical grounding for our democracy, but we must learn to speak to one another in ways that we can each hear, in words that allow for learning and growth and even disagreement. This task is, in no small part, the last, greatest hope in our humanity. In Jewish tradition, we have over 70 names and attributes for G-d. One of them is Adonai Tzilcha: “G-d is your shadow.” How can G-d be a shadow, a mere image cast on the ground, created by our own image? If you stand bent over, then the shadow of G-d will be contracted and shriveled, but if your stand straight, the shadow will expand and grow mightily. In our community, when we stand with outstretched arms, G-d will be elevated and enlarged in our lives. G-d is reflected in our actions. In this new year, don’t think that only we live in Gd’s shadow; act as if God lives in ours. ■ Rabbi Peter S. Berg is the senior rabbi of The Temple (www.the-temple. org).

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Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams Rosh Hashanah’s message is “Don’t give up on your dreams.” After Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the First Temple in 586 B.C.E., he took the Jews into exile to Babylonia. Zerubavel, the last descendant from the lineage of King David, wanted desperately to return to Judaea and rebuild the Temple. When Cyrus the Great conquered Babylonia and permitted the Jews to return, he immediately laid the foundation. But the Samarian people whom the Babylonians had moved into the Holy Land to replace the Jews didn’t want the Temple rebuilt, so they went to the lawyers and the judges with lies and deceit and got a decree halting construction. This is what happens all too many times. G-d puts a promise in our heart, and all our opponents come out of the woodwork to discourage us — to talk us out of it. Even Zerubavel’s own men said, “We can’t do this. The task is too great.” And they just gave up, and so

for 10 years there was no work done on the Temple. G-d then sent the prophet Zechariah (Zechariah 4:9) with this message: “The hand of Zerubavel laid the foundations of this Temple, and his hands will complete it!” In other words: “G-d says, ‘Stop brooding, begin again.’ ”

Guest Column By Rabbi Mark Hillel Kunis Congregation Shaarei Shamayim

All of a sudden, something stirred inside him: “You mean G-d can still bring this to pass? Do you know how long it’s been? Do you know how many people are against me? Do you really think I can still do this?” The prophet said: “I don’t think you can. I know you can, so get started.” This happens all too often in our own lives. Some of us believed we could

overcome that addiction, but now it has been so long that we have gotten comfortable where we are. G-d says to us, “Begin again!” Some of us wanted to buy a new home, but we didn’t qualify for the loan. That was five years ago. G-d says, “Begin again!” G-d is saying, “It’s not over until I say it’s over. Begin again.” According to Rabbi Yosef Caro (Beyt Yosef 584), who wrote the Shulchan Aruch, Rosh Hashanah is not a time to confess our sins. That’s for Yom Kippur. Rosh Hashanah, as seen in the Avinu Malkeinu prayer, is a time to express our aspirations. It’s a time to believe in ourselves again — something that’s far more challenging for many than believing in G-d. It’s a time to envision what our lives would be like if the desires of our hearts came to fruition. So as we approach Rosh Hashanah, let’s envision anew our aspirations. The child you’re praying for, see her life turned around. The troubled relationships you’re experiencing, see them turned around. The business that’s slow, see it successful. Zechariah told Zerubavel (4:7) to get an even-harosha, a cornerstone for the final piece of the Temple. Why was it important that he keep the cornerstone in front of him before the project was completed? Because every time he got tired, whenever he was down, when he thought it was impossible, he’d go over and look at that cornerstone. That was G-d saying to him, “I will complete it. I’ve got a plan. Just don’t give up.” Let me ask you, what’s your cornerstone? Do you have something that represents the final piece of your dreams to remind you it will be com-

Rose

plete? You can do the same thing. If you’re dreaming of a new home, why don’t you get a new brick or a key? Let it represent the finished product. You may have a dream to change your profession. Go out and get a little something that will represent the new work you’re hoping to do. It’s important that you keep something in front of you to see your dream completed. My friends, if G-d puts a dream in your heart, He will certainly help you bring it to fulfillment. It doesn’t matter how long it takes, G-d can still bring it to pass. How many of us have given up on a dream? How many of us have given up on a child or a relationship? Maybe you’re tempted to give up on the thought that you could become learned or you could achieve financial success. Rosh Hashanah is a new beginning. You must start each day of the new year thinking to yourself, “I believe and expect that every promise G-d put in my heart, G-d will help me bring it to pass.” Do not give in to despair, to the thought “My dreams will never work out.” Sometimes life tests us, trying to get us to give up, leaving us to think, “It didn’t work out. I didn’t get that promotion. I didn’t qualify for the new home. I’ll never find the time to study Torah. It’s never going to happen. Just fahgettaboudit!” Time, on the other end, is pulling. The longer it goes on, the more we hear all the negative voices saying, “You don’t have what it takes; the doctor’s report says you’re not going to make it.” But if you’re going to be the person G-d made you to be, you must have the attitude that nothing is going to cause you to give up. Don’t ever give up

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on praying for the fulfillment of your dreams. There’s a story of a tzadik (holy man) who dies and goes straight to heaven. The angels greet him and tell him he’s welcome in heaven; in fact, they were waiting for him. They also tell him G-d gave them instructions to make him feel especially at home as quickly as possible and to give him a tour of the whole heavenly realm right away. One of the angels then takes the tzadik from place to place, from room to room and from hall to hall. The tzadik sees so many wonderful sights — many holy souls engaging in creative holy activities, houses of study and such. Suddenly he notices the angel quickly walking by a closed door without opening it. He asks, “What’s inside?” The angel responds, “You don’t want to know.” “But I want to see everything,” the tzadik says. After a while he gets the angel to open the door. Inside is a huge room resembling a post office warehouse with shelf after shelf of packages that are addressed and ready to be delivered. “What’s this?” the tzadik asks. The angel tells him: “There are people who have prayed and prayed for a long time for something and lost patience with their prayers. We were about to send them what they prayed for, and then we had to cancel the package because they suddenly stopped praying!” Never stop praying for the fulfillment of the dreams G-d put in your heart. In the Torah portion for Rosh Hashanah, Abraham and Sarah finally have a child of their own. She was 90, and he was 100 years old. How many years do you think they prayed for a child — 20, 40, 60 years? Never give up on praying for your dreams. It may seem impossible, like Abraham and Sarah having a child in their old age, but G-d can make a way even when it looks like there is no way! I ask you to make a deal with G-d. Will you be G-d’s hands in making this a better world in this new year? Believe that your best days are still in front of you. Don’t settle for the way things are. Rosh Hashanah implores us, “Begin again! You can do it!” ■ Rabbi Mark Hillel Kunis is the spiritual leader of Congregation Shaarei Shamayim (www.shaareishamayim. com).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

ROSH HASHANAH

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We Must Rise Up to Drive Out Hate

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Friday, Aug. 11, 1,000 neo-Nazi white supremacists marched past the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. They were armed (Virginia is an open-carry state). They were prepared for violence with clubs and shields. And they carried torches. Officially, they were there to protest the removal of a statue of Robert E. Lee, but their real goal was to demonstrate that they were not just an Internet movement, but also a physical force ready to show strength and garner support. The torches, of course, were meant to bring forth images of Ku Klux Klan marches and the burnings and lynchings that spread like fire. Their slogans began with harsh grunts of “Hu! Hu! Hu!” and morphed into “You will not replace us,” “Jews will not replace us,” “Whose streets? Our streets,” and “Blood and soil.” “Blood and soil,” as a marching chant, is the translation of Hitler’s blut und boden, meaning, of course, “only Aryan blood belongs on this land.”

This night they did not wear masks, but many an American flag with a Nazi swastika superimposed on it was waved. Ethnic and racial slurs were spit at counterprotesters like knives. The next morning, a neo-Nazi white supremacist rammed his car

Guest Column By Rabbi Spike Anderson Temple Emanu-El

into a crowd of counterprotesters at 80 mph, injuring dozens and killing a woman named Heather Heyer. Who were the counterprotesters? Blacks. Jews. Asians. Whites. Priests. Imams. Pastors. Rabbis. Senior citizens. University of Virginia students. Who were the counterprotesters? They were all of us. I’m not here to talk about the merits of leaving or destroying symbols of the Confederacy. We Jews know the swastika. We don’t need hateful

symbols explained to us because we understand them in our kishkes. I’m not here to talk about the legal permit that the neo-Nazis had obtained to march, or to debate whether we need permission to protest those who would seek our annihilation. I’m not even going to begin the conversation about President Donald Trump’s reaction to Charlottesville or his claims of equivalency. These topics are worth talking about, but I’m choosing not to here. What I do want to talk about is that 1,000 Nazis marched through a university town, and they were pleased with everything that went down. The speaker for Unite the Right is a white nationalist named Christopher Cantwell, who told a reporter for Vice that he and his group were there to show that they were more than an Internet movement and could organize openly in a physical space. Asked whether they were a nonviolent movement, Cantwell said: “We are not nonviolent. We will … kill these people if we have to.” Robert Ray, who runs a neo-Nazi

website, spoke to the reporter about the reason 1,000 people were marching with torches, guns and Nazi flag: “We are showing this parasitic class of anti-white vermin that this is our country, built by our forefathers. … It is going to remain our country. … Today, our people are coming out. Today, we greatly outnumber the anti-white, anti-American filth. … We will clear them from the streets, forever. We are starting to slowly unveil our power level. You ain’t seen nothing yet.” Asked about the hit-and-run that killed Heyer, Cantwell said, “The death of Heather Heyer was justified. … I think that a lot more people are going to die before we are done here.” This is an outrage. It is appalling. Before our very eyes, what has been scoffed at, laughed at and excused as “the margins” for 40 years has emerged in broad daylight, unmasked, to rally national attention with bullhorns, guns and vitriol. My friends, this threat is real. I am not scared. And I am not surprised. Yes, I am sad that again we are fighting battles we thought were won long ago. I’m sad for our kids, and I’m sad that we have to deal with this. But deal with it we will. We have learned, we Jewish people, what happens when we stay silent in the face of Nazi ideology. Charlottesville is our Kristallnacht. The other American minorities, and good people of the majority, know that in Charlottesville, the line was crossed. We need to stand up, reach out for allies, and, shoulder to shoulder, show no daylight. This message is being preached loud and clear: • Hate has no place in our streets. • Hate has no place in these walls. • Hate has no place in America. We are not alone. We are as one, and this connection has awoken sleeping people all across our great country, awoken us like a sleeping giant. Hineni: We will be ready to act as our history and as our ethics demand that we must. We will not be silent in the face of anti-Semitism, racism and evil. We will not stand idly by the blood of our neighbor, nor will we stand for our own blood to be shed. Torah empowers us for times like these with chazak chazak v’nitchazak. Be strong. Be strong. And through one another, be strengthened. ■ Rabbi Spike Anderson is the senior rabbi at Temple Emanu-El (templeemanuelatlanta.org).

ROSH HASHANAH

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A Welcoming Place for All in Gwinnett Shabbat program, we always have room for one more. On the first Friday of each month,

Guest Column By Barry Nickelsberg Temple Beth David

we celebrate a family Shabbat, with a potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a service designed for children and appreciated by adults. These services are led by Paul Weiss, our director of

education, who is also an award-winning professor at Emory University. Also from Emory is Rabbi Jonathan Crane, who leads our High Holiday services. Our sanctuary comfortably seats 300, and its stained-glass windows and ark provide an ideal setting for quiet contemplation. Whether you have been with our synagogue for 35 years or this is your first time through our doors, we strive to make sure you feel welcomed, appreciated and respected. If you would like to become involved in our activities, great. If you prefer solitude, we will be there for you when you need us.

We invite you to join us on Sept. 20 and 21 and again Sept. 29 and 30 for Rosh Hashanah and for Yom Kippur. We also invite you to join us on Fridays throughout the year at 7 p.m. and on Saturday mornings at 11, or visit our Sunday morning classes at 9:30 and see for yourself why we are excited by our services and by our educational programs. All of us at Temple Beth David wish you and your loved ones a very happy, healthy and safe new year. ■ Barry Nickelsberg is the president and cantorial soloist at Temple Beth David (www.gwinnetttemple.com).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

For many people, our world seems upside down. Hate and intolerance are no longer hidden away. The fear felt in many communities is palpable. Whether Hispanic, African-American, Muslim, LGBTQ or Jewish, many people live in fear. Temple Beth David provides a safe, welcoming, accepting and healing environment for everyone. Temple Beth David in Snellville, 20 minutes east of the Perimeter, right off Route 78, is a proud member of the Union for Reform Judaism. Our Friday evening Shabbat services follow the Reform model, while our Saturday morning services are more geared toward the Conservative model. Temple Beth David prides itself on being a sanctuary for Jews, whether they have practiced all their lives or are returning after decades away. We are also a sanctuary for those who are not Jewish. Our members come from all walks of life and include many races and backgrounds, political beliefs, abilities and disabilities. We offer Sunday and Hebrew school and confirmation classes for children. Programs for our teens are filled with field trips and in-depth discussions on Jewish topics from ethics to history, and each summer they present a musical revue to a standingroom-only crowd. For adults, special classes from mah-jongg and belly dancing to American Sign Language are in place. Our professional and certified education staff is developing adult b’nai mitzvah classes as well as classes in basic, intermediate and advanced Hebrew. We also will be offering conversion classes. To ensure that our temple is available to everyone, we have reduced our fees for membership and tuition and for High Holiday services for those who have yet to become members. If your circumstances put our fees out of reach, please know that you are welcome regardless of your situation. Amid our search for a permanent, full-time rabbi, Rabbi Richard Baroff often joins cantorial soloist Barry Nickelsberg on the bimah. For those who remember classically trained cantors’ voices, we invite you to take a step back in time and listen as our chazzan leads our High Holiday choir and congregation in song, then continues that musical celebration all year. If you are a musician and would like to become part of our musical

ROSH HASHANAH

This Is the Year

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SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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New Year’s resolutions abound. They include commitments such as biting your tongue when your motherin-law is present (my mother-in-law excluded), attending Shabbat services each week for the entire year, losing that extra 10 pounds this year, and working a little less and spending more time with your family. The funny thing is that by the time we put away the Torah after the final dance on Simchat Torah, the resolutions have vanished like the Rosh Hashanah brisket. If you are the hardy type, you might make it to the first rain of the Cheshvan winter or maybe Chanukah. But how many keep the impassioned resolutions made at the year’s start? Don’t fear; you are in good company. In fact the Torah alludes to this (according to one commentator) in the following verse: “The eyes of G-d are upon the land from the beginning of the year until the end of year.” The obvious grammatical issue is the missing “the.” It should read “until the end of the year.” The idea is that we often begin the year saying this is going to be the year — the year that all these changes take place, for real this time. But by the time the end of the year comes around and we look back at the year, it turns out to just be another year. I’d like to share two thoughts: a comforting one and a challenging one. The comforting thought: “The righteous fall seven times and get up.” People who don’t make resolutions don’t stand a chance. Even the righteous fall, but they constantly get up, trying and striving. Keep making resolutions because it is a sign of a person who is not satisfied. Some years ago we had a family therapist conduct a discussion group one evening for the parents of the Intown Jewish Preschool. One of the moms, in presenting a parenting question, called herself a bad mom. The therapist asked her how many moms were enrolled in the preschool and how many moms were present. About 30 percent of the moms were there. The therapist concluded, “The fact that you are here this evening is a sign that you are a good mom.” A good mom is not the one who has it all figured out, but the one who never stops trying and never stops exploring how to be a better mom. The challenging thought: One of the books that influenced my think-

ing and approach to life (besides the Torah, Talmud and Tanach) is called “Goals!” by Brian Tracy. Tracy talks about people who set goals, high goals, maybe even unrealistic goals. Even though these people may not achieve the goals they set, they ultimately accomplish a lot more than those who don’t set goals. By way of analogy (my analogy),

Guest Column By Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman Chabad Intown

a 5-foot-7, 200-pound man may wake up one morning and resolve to lose 50 pounds. That may be an unrealistic, overly ambitious goal. Then you have a 5-foot-7, 180-pound, nonexercising, couch-sitting man who doesn’t make any resolution to lose weight. Come back in 12 months, and the 180-pound man will likely still be 180 pounds (or maybe more), but the 200-pounder will likely have lost 30 to 40 pounds. Setting high goals, even if they are out of reach, ultimately accomplishes more than setting lower, achievable goals or no goals at all. Notwithstanding the above, our sages say the first tablets of the law, given with a lot of noise (thunder and lightning), ended up broken. The second tablets, given quietly (brought down from the mountain on the day after Yom Kippur by Moses), remained intact. The moral from the sages is that you should make resolutions, but make them quietly, without proclamation. Those who make big announcements about the big changes coming to their lives rarely accomplish anything; the ones who go about their business by constantly striving for lofty goals are the real movers and shakers. So make big resolutions this year, and whether you accomplish 100 percent of them or only 50 percent, this will be the year. My blessings to you and yours for a wonderful year in all matters material and spiritual, good, huge but quiet resolutions, and the commitment to follow through. ■ Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman is co-director of Chabad Intown (www. chabadintown.org).

ROSH HASHANAH

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Judaism Teaches Vital Self-Discipline let go. They stood trapped with their hands in the cookie jar and were easily taken captive by the scientists.

Guest Column By Rabbi Ephraim Silverman Chabad of Cobb

So many of us lack the selfdiscipline to let go of certain habits and behaviors that we know are selfdestructive. What happens when you raise children without any discipline? They

will never achieve anything in life. I am reminded of a story. A boy once asked his mother for another slice of chocolate cake. “No,” she answered. “You’ve already had three slices.” The boy asked again, “Please, Mom, just one more piece. I promise, just one more.” Again, his mother said no. The boy did not give up: “Come on, just one more! Please? Please?” Finally, the mother gave in: “OK, one last slice, but that’s it. No more!” “Honestly, Mom,” the boy smiled and said, “I’m so disappointed in you. You have no self-control.”

Self-control is life’s most important skill, and the rules and regulations of Judaism are the most effective way to instill that discipline and selfcontrol from a young age. So my answer is, yes, you are right. There are a lot of rules and laws, and you definitely don’t have to keep all of them right now. Judaism is not all or nothing. But in general the rules and laws of Judaism nurture discipline, and discipline is probably the most critical ingredient for success in life. ■ Rabbi Ephraim Silverman is co-director of Chabad of Cobb (www. chabadofcobb.com).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

People sometimes ask me, “As a rabbi, do you have a spiritual sixth sense, some kind of psychic higher awareness?” The answer is no. The only magical ability I have is the use of my sermons to cure people who suffer from insomnia. So, no, I don’t have any higher powers, but on Yom Kippur I can read the mind of every person in the synagogue. I know what they are all thinking about. That’s right: food! In fact, pretty much every Jew in the world thinks about food on Yom Kippur. You could say the central theme of Yom Kippur is discipline and selfcontrol. All day we are hungry and would like to eat, but we exercise selfcontrol. We tell ourselves, no, today is Yom Kippur, and we will eat later. I know that a lot of people struggle with the rules and regulations of Judaism. There are so many observances, mitzvot, do’s and don’ts. There is also a lot of minutiae. People say, “Rabbi, I don’t like to feel restricted. I like my freedom. There are just too many rules.” What I will say is that the most critical life skill to achieve success in any area is discipline. Without discipline we are never going to succeed in life. In fact, without discipline we are doomed to suffer the consequences of some of our self-destructive behaviors. I once watched a TV program about a group of scientists on an expedition to capture a particular species of monkey in Africa. It was important that the monkeys be brought back alive and unharmed. However, the monkeys were difficult to catch. So the scientists brought along some monkey psychologists, who devised a clever trap. They took small jars with long, narrow necks and placed a handful of nuts inside each of the jars, then anchored the jars to the ground. Smelling the nuts, a monkey would thrust its arm down the long neck of the jar and grab a fistful of nuts. But when he tried to withdraw the prize, the monkey would discover that his clenched fist would not fit through the narrow neck of the jar. He was trapped in the anchored jar, unable to escape with his treasure. You think: Silly monkey, let go. Just let go of the loot, and you’ll be free. But the monkeys would never

ROSH HASHANAH

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Spreading the Goodness of the Good Year

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

It happens every year, just as it has been happening forever: Rosh Hashanah arrives, and the synagogues are crowded. Even those who, throughout the rest of the year, allow their Jewish connection to fall into the shadows, are inspired to show up. The High Holidays typically feature extra-long prayers, inspiring speeches and sermons from the rabbi, and, of course, the sounding of the shofar, the ram’s horn, many times over. Trust me, none of this resembles the synagogue experience of the rest of the year. Prayers and hopes are centered around the point of shana tova, a good year: pleading and begging for a renewed connection and a good upcoming year. As this occurs each year, the question is inevitable: Why are people doing this? Do those who emerge from their spiritual yearlong hibernation really need to disturb their slumber for a three-day, spiritually Jewish marathon,

begging for yet another good year? Besides, what does a “good” year mean? Are healthy adult men and women showing up to ensure their job is secure, a few extra dollars are found, their friends should love them, and

Guest Column By Rabbi Yossi Lew Chabad of Peachtree City

their doctors should stay away? The filled synagogues are not about people seeking healing, wealth and happiness. Infinitely more is happening. Indeed, every person who turns out for the High Holidays is giving up a matter of substance. It may be surrendering time, sleep, work or rest. Sacrifices are being made to attend services. A sacrifice normally originates from a profoundly personal place. It is from here — that “spark” of spirituality — one is inspired to behave Jewishly: to pray, to pay attention to the

sounds of the shofar, to take to heart words of Torah, and to consider reconnecting to spiritual roots. Those who undertake this move ostensibly appreciate and grasp, on some level, the merit of their actions. The High Holiday season tends to resurrect that spark of Jewish connection. In some cases, that spark has been waiting to be touched since the previous High Holiday season. And that spark of spiritual connection is “good.” On Rosh Hashanah, we connect to a place deep inside with wishes not merely for continued health and wealth, but for that connection to endure another day — we hope until next year. The dilemma: How does one turn this inspiration into a tangible, ongoing commitment? Even those more observant people whose connection is stronger struggle with carrying the inspiration from the High Holidays through the coming year. The key, then, is to examine the real goodness in the term shana tova, the good year. One may experience goodness in several ways: good news, good mood, good weather. One can point to good deeds as well. The ultimate goodness is that which is shared with others. Here, one has not only committed a good deed, but also shared and spread this goodness. Yet people tend to worry about the reaction of others. In truth, if a deed is a good one, it should not matter what another may think. Several years ago, I was attending the bar mitzvah of my nephew in London. My illustrious sister and her rabbi husband are Chabad emissaries to that far-flung neighborhood, and their neighbors are not the friendliest bunch. My sister advised us to be aware and to try not to stand out too much. One example she mentioned was the tallis (prayer shawl), worn during morning services in the synagogue: It is forbidden to carry an object in the public domain during Shabbos. My sister encouraged us to bring the tallis to the synagogue on Friday, before the onset of Shabbos, and avoid wearing this conspicuous garment upon

ourselves while walking in the street to services. This arrangement did not work for me: I was caught in traffic and arrived at the house too late. The next morning, I placed the tallis on my shoulders at the house, preparing to walk to the synagogue. A family member was alarmed. “What are you doing? Are you really intending to walk outside like this after we were cautioned about unnecessary attention?” Opening the door to leave, I looked back at this family member and said: “Do you honestly think I look normal without wearing my tallis?” To a world unfamiliar with Judaism and Jewish symbols, one probably looks strange or even nuts. But that should not matter. When people feature loud and noticeable gestures, this behavior is usually done to seek attention to personal expression. When, for example, a Jewish person wears a yarmulke in the streets or modest clothing even on the hot summer days, one is expressing good deeds. These should never be causes of worry. These are moments and opportunities to be a proud Jew and share good deeds with others. The hope for a shana tova, a good year, should include the goodness of sharing that which is good with others precisely because it is “good.” And it just may happen that, despite your feeling nuts, the other person is actually inspired and moved by this goodness. And that is the ultimate good. When praying for a good year this High Holiday season and when wishing this upon others, it would be wonderful to make a commitment to perform a good deed that will not merely affect the person making the resolution, but also others out there as well. And then the spark can become an inferno of warmth and light. The connection will be strengthened, and the year, together with the years to come, will contain only goodness. ■

To a world unfamiliar with Judaism and Jewish symbols, one probably looks strange or even nuts. But that should not matter.

Rabbi Yossi Lew is co-director of Chabad of Peachtree City (www.chabadsouthside.com).

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Enthusiastic Judaism Equals Jewish Continuity Rosh Hashanah is a time to take stock of where we are as people and where we are as Jews. We live in an un-

Guest Column By Rabbi Mayer Freedman Anshi

precedented time when we see Jewish youth leaving Judaism by the tens of thousands. How will the next generation of Jews perform? One thing we can do that will help stem this tide, and we hope will ensure that our children follow in our Jewish footsteps, is to make sure that we are appreciating our Judaism. If we are not, then it is a sign that something is lacking, and the chances of our children keeping our traditions are less. On behalf of all of us at Anshi and the Atlanta Scholars Kollel Morningside Center, I wish the entire Atlanta community a kesiva vechasima tova, a sweet new year of health, happiness and personal growth. ■ Rabbi Mayer Freedman is the spiritual leader of Congregation Anshi S’fard (www.anshisfard.org).

Affordable Jewish Ed At ALEF Fund our core mission is to be the funder of first resort for Jewish schools across Georgia because we believe in the transformative power of a great education. ALEF scholarships change lives by helping families access high-quality Jewish education and allowing them to find the best educational fit for each child’s specific needs. In the 2016-17 school year, through our partnership with 16 amazing preschools, day schools, high schools, yeshivas, the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and thousands of Georgia taxpayers, ALEF Fund helped 516 children afford the Jewish education of their choice. ALEF is not a traditional form of giving. It is part of Georgia’s Qualified Education Expense law, which allows taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state income taxes to support student

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Guest Column By Jeffery Lapp ALEF Fund

This High Holiday season, please make a simple gesture — give the gift of an affordable Jewish education by redirecting your state taxes through ALEF Fund. Visit aleffund.org to sign up, or email the ALEF Fund manager, Jared Novoseller, at jnovoseller@jewishatlanta.org with enquiries. L’shana tova. May you and your loved ones be inscribed and sealed for a good year. ■ Jeffrey Lapp is the president of ALEF Fund (www.aleffund.org) after serving as its secretary and treasurer.

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The week before Rosh Hashanah, we will read the Torah portion of Netzavim-Vayelech. Moses is about to die, and he is giving his last will and testament to the Jews. He exhorts them to follow the Torah and commands them, “Choose life (i.e., follow the Torah), in order that you and your children shall live.” It is obvious that you can affect your destiny by choosing to follow the Torah, but how can you affect the destiny of your children? Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986) explained that there are two ways to follow the Torah. One can follow the Torah and perform the mitzvot because he feels compelled to do so, though he isn’t too interested, or one can follow the Torah out of excitement and joy for the mitzvot. If children watch their parents fulfill their Judaism in the former way, it is very likely that they will reject this guilt-ridden Judaism and not follow in the ways of their parents. If, however, children see their parents view their Judaism as adding beauty, meaning and excitement to their lives, chances are that the children will want to keep their own Jewish spark alive and well.

ROSH HASHANAH

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I am thrilled to be spending my first Rosh Hashanah in Atlanta, a community that embodies everything that ADL is: a place with a fierce commitment and history of civil rights leadership, a strong Jewish community that is committed to justice and inclusivity, and a city of innovation, growth and rich diversity. What an incredible moment in our country to be digging in with ADL, and I could not be prouder of our work standing up to hate right now. The world was in shock over the public, emboldened display of anti-Semitism and hatred from extremists in Charlottesville. Hearing “blood and soil” and “Jews will not replace us” proudly and arrogantly chanted from the streets of a great American city is hard to reconcile or believe is reality in 2017. ADL worked tirelessly to prepare the local community and law enforcement for the Unite the Right rally ahead of time, and our Center on Extremism was in overdrive monitoring and responding to the largest and most violent gathering of white supremacists in decades. We were on the ground in Charlottesville and have been on the ground in other cities across the country as residual white supremacist and extremist events are planned. Our strategies focus on several angles. First, we continue to monitor hate-filled extremists and equip law enforcement and community partners with the resources and intelligence they need to come together and stand up to extremists. We are seeing law enforcement prepared for ensuring public safety and communities across the country unifying to create a counternarrative of love and inclusivity. ADL continues to educate others about extremism, and our Hate Symbols Database is being widely referenced and sought after. Unfortunately, it is a time when we all need to know what we are standing up against. That is why we have decided to focus ADL’s annual Community of Respect event in Atlanta in November on responses to extremism and white supremacy. We will hear from Rabbi Francine Roston of Whitefish, Mont., who tells an amazing and heroic story of courage and Jewish values in the face of anti-Semitism. We will learn

the various approaches to standing up to extremism from experts in the field and how we can be advocates against hate, even when the attacks are direct. The hatred is not limited to specific events. We have seen many antiSemitic incidents in K-12 schools in the

Guest Column By Allison Padilla-Goodman Anti-Defamation League

region, as students learn to navigate and translate the ugly, emboldened hatred they see on the news. Immediately after Charlottesville, ADL created and consolidated our education resources for schools and families. These empowering materials help teachers guide conversations with their students on Charlottesville and white supremacy and help parents talk about things with their families during dinner table conversations. The resources are available free at www.adl.org/education-and-resources. Locally, our anti-bias trainings are in extremely high demand. We are seeing a renewed interest and investment by our schools to dive deeply into guided conversations about hatred and inclusivity. These conversations are also valuable for the workplace and with community groups, and demand for our resources and support there is growing as well. Now is the time for us all to stand up and speak out against hate. We need safe, inclusive environments in our schools. We need a comprehensive hate-crimes statute to ensure that hate crimes are given the full attention they deserve so that communities feel safe. We need to declare our region and our community No Place for Hate. That’s why — very soon — we will announce a regionwide No Place for Hate day, when everyone can publicly pronounce a commitment to fighting hatred and bigotry and creating a positive, productive movement toward love and inclusivity. Stay tuned. I can’t imagine a better way to start the new year than to come together in unity. L’shana tova. ■ Allison Padilla-Goodman is the new Southeast regional director of ADL (atlanta.adl.org).

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Jewish Advocacy in Today’s Political Climate country’s Jewish community. Since the inception of the state, Israeli governments have not given legal recognition to the reality that there are a variety of legitimate interpretations of how to understand and practice Judaism. This continuing refusal to accept the validity of religious pluralism offends many American Jews and weakens the relationship of Diaspora Jewry to Israel. We must engage with Israeli political leaders and the Israeli public to recognize the danger and deal with it. That is Jewish advocacy. Sometimes, connecting the dots can be local. Look around you. Look at your neighbors, your friends, the people in the restaurant. You all share things in common, but in other ways each person is different. Our core Jewish values lead us to believe that we can strengthen our society by encouraging diversity of opinion and stimulating conversation between liberals and conservatives. That’s the way to find common ground on issues we may never have seriously

pondered before. And it can enable us to support someone else’s issue, which might not be our No. 1 priority, because establishing a positive relationship makes it easier to obtain the other’s support when we need it. That, too, is Jewish advocacy. What are our Jewish values? For American Jewish Committee, Jewish values call for a strong U.S.-Israel relationship even while recognizing the complexity of Israeli society and striving to make it more democratic. Jewish values support keeping the United States a strong global leader, since power vacuums leave space for unwelcome alternatives to our leadership. And Jewish values appreciate pluralism and the diversity of thought and opinion as essential to building a stronger community. If you want to base your advocacy on your Jewish values, we encourage you to join us, stay informed and know that you have a voice with AJC. ■ Melanie Nelkin is the president of AJC Atlanta (www.ajcatlanta.org), and Dov Wilker is the regional director.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

center in Argentina over 20 years ago. Which issues are most important to you? Iran also supports its proxy terrorist Israel? Growing anti-Semitism? The threat from Guest Column North Korea? By Melanie Nelkin and Challenges to pluDov Wilker ralism? DefendAJC Atlanta ing the rights of dreamers? IntraJewish relations in group Hezbollah, and North Korea is a Israel? neighbor to Asian allies of Israel and Perhaps the question should be of the United States. rephrased: Which of these issues do Thus, since Iran clearly threatens you most closely associate with your the democratic values so vital to JewJewish values, and what can you do ish advocacy, so does North Korea. about them? Often, connecting the dots of Whether you are passionate about Jewish advocacy involves a connection all, some or only one, effective Jewish to Israel. While we often focus on the advocacy is issue- and policy-based, challenges Israel faces from hostile not about personalities. Jewish advooutsiders, one of the greatest threats cacy requires us to connect the dots to Israel’s future is how to navigate the linking the issues to our Jewish values. thorny issue of religious liberty within What connecting those dots reveals is that Iran is carefully gauging its borders. Christians, Muslims and Jews are how the United States responds to all guaranteed religious freedom in North Korea’s aggressive rhetoric and actions. Iran, of course, was behind the Israel. But, ironically, considerable attack on the AMIA Jewish community religious restrictions exist within the

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SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Who Is B’nai B’rith?

When B’nai B’rith was founded in 1843 in New York, the focus was to help recent German Jewish immigrants adapt to their new home and provide aid to widows and orphans. Indeed, B’nai B’rith was the first Jewish service organization founded in the United States. When the first CocaCola was served in 1886, Atlanta had been home to a B’nai B’rith lodge for 16 years, and B’nai B’rith had been assisting people nationally for 43 years. What do we stand for? The sevenbranched menorah is the emblem of B’nai B’rith, whose mission is to fill the world with light of the divine truth. Each candle is symbolic of a noble ideal: Light, Justice, Peace, Truth, Generosity, Harmony and Brotherly Love. Today, with members in 59 countries, B’nai B’rith International defends Jewish interests around the world. But our impact goes far beyond the worldwide Jewish community. BBI mobilizes volunteers and provides financial aid to meet local needs. It operates the B’nai B’rith Disaster Relief Fund for nonsectarian assistance worldwide. We were there when floods plagued the Midwestern United States and when hurricanes struck Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Texas and Haiti. We were there after terrorists attacked the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, after earthquakes upset Armenia, Iran, San Francisco and Turkey, and after tsunamis devastated Indonesia and Japan. We offer assistance wherever and whenever needed, regardless of religious, racial or cultural background. Distributed to parents and caregivers nationwide, our “Smarter Kids, Safer Kids” guide provides information to protect children against abduction and sexual abuse. And our community service programs for the elderly, hungry and homeless have helped more than 10,000 people throughout the United States in the past year alone. B’nai B’rith International is the world’s largest Jewish membership organization promoting human rights, community action and humanitarian efforts. Why do we do all this and more? It’s the right thing to do. Tikkun olam is a concept that is an integral part of being Jewish. Loosely translated, it refers to our obligation to repair the world, to make the world a better place in which to live, work and

play. What we in BBI do is in keeping with tikkun olam. Achim/Gate City, Atlanta’s longstanding lodge, is one of the oldest B’nai B’rith lodges. We organize and promote volunteer community service

Guest Column By Art Link B’nai B’rith

programs, including the following: • Cares for Kids — Annually delivers new and gently used stuffed animals to children in hospitals and homeless shelters. Since 1997 we have distributed more than 20,000 furry friends to these children and brought countless smiles to their faces. • Pinch Hitters — Provides more than 300 volunteers in Atlanta-area hospitals and residential care facilities each Christmas Day to relieve our Christian neighbors from work so they can spend the holiday with their families. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush recognized Pinch Hitters as his 335th Point of Light. • Enlighten America — Encourages education, understanding and tolerance of our differences, and appreciation for diversity through an annual essay contest for middle school students. • Unto Every Person There Is a Name — Reads aloud names of Holocaust victims to help people realize that 6 million individual lives were lost, not just a monolith of people grouped together. This nationally observed B’nai B’rith program generally occurs around Yom HaShoah. Anyone who would like to do so may read names of victims; it is quite a moving experience for the reader and for those hearing the names being read. In addition, social programs throughout the year feature notable speakers with contemporary messages. These events often are combined with dinner at trendy Atlanta restaurants. Also popular are our social outings to plays and cultural events. We are B’nai B’rith Atlanta — Achim/Gate City Lodge. We would like to get to know you. ■ Art Link is a board member of B’nai B’rith Atlanta (www.bnaibrith.org/ southern-communities.html). Contact lodge President Karen Kahn Weinberg at kw30076@gmail.com or 770-645-1239.

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As the holidays approach, I always feel overwhelmed with the hustle and bustle of events, activities and additional professional responsibilities that come with leading an organization that is either traditionally observant or sensitive to the Jewish holidays. As the intensity mounts, I’m reminded to stop, simplify and recall my initial priorities — G-d, family, work, community — and understand the value of each. Everyone may have different priorities, and even if yours are the same, maybe you have them in a different order. The main thing to remember, however, is that if we are fulfilling our priorities and simplifying the clutter, we can accomplish our purpose and perform at a higher level. As Rosh Hashanah approaches and I reflect on my priorities, I am reminded that G-d is first, and as a part of fulfilling that priority, I have been given an opportunity to support and stand for the land of Israel, the apple

of G-d’s eye and the homeland of our Jewish people. Despite the mounting pressure and responsibilities, when I stop and reflect whether I am truly dedicating my time first to my priorities, I am

Guest Column By Kaylene Ladinsky Americans United with Israel

ultimately reminded of how blessed I am to lead an organization whose sole purpose is uniting Americans and others all around the world to stand with Israel. Americans United With Israel is the American branch of United With Israel, the world’s largest pro-Israel community, representing millions of supporters around the world deeply committed to the success and prosperity of Israel. Our mission is to educate, inspire and promote building a strong connec-

Our mission is to educate, inspire and promote building a strong connection with the people, country and land of Israel. tion with the people, country and land of Israel. It is my honor to pay tribute to Jewish Atlanta’s unwavering support of the Jewish state. I want to thank you for embracing the citizens of Israel and Jewish people around the world with friendship, kindness and genuine concern. It is a mitzvah and blessing to all of us to be recognized as one of Israel’s closest friends and most devoted allies. Thank you, Jewish Atlanta, for your unwavering support and participation. It is with great honor and pride that we published a historic book containing the names of over 600,000 people, including more than 300,000 U.S. citizens, who have signed the Jerusalem Declaration, a global statement of public support for a united Jerusalem. This volume is a testament to the power of grassroots support for a Jerusalem that is recognized as both the eternal capital of the Jewish people and the undivided capital of the state

of Israel. It is my greatest pleasure to be a part of an organization dedicated to uniting Americans in steadfast support of the people of Israel. We are marching toward true international awareness of the underlying issues: Israel’s right to exist and the necessity of a strong and undivided Jerusalem as the foundation of the one and only Jewish homeland. In addition, as the United With Israel community approaches the important milestone of 5 million supporters on its Facebook page, the world’s largest pro-Israel page, we celebrate Rosh Hashanah as a sweet new year that will unite 5 million strong. No matter what your first, second or third priorities may be, I invite you to join me as an American united with Israel. Baruch Hashem! ■ In addition to being the AJT’s associate publisher, Kaylene Ladinsky is the president of Americans United With Israel (americaunitedwithisrael.org).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

The Value of Priorities

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Examine the Receipts During Soul Accounting

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Have you ever undergone the process of throwing out your old receipts? Growing up, I didn’t realize that people did such things because when it came to saving old tax returns, my family could have been featured on an episode of “Hoarders.” When my father sold our childhood home, we found boxes of receipts going back to the 1970s. However, this year, instead of buying a new 12-pocket portfolio, my wife, Amy, decided it was time for us to shred our old receipts. Having never shredded receipts before, I assumed the act of shredding documents would be somewhat mechanical. Yet, as I approached the paper shredder, I quickly realized that this was far from a mindless exercise. First, I encountered pay stubs from my first rabbinic position. Then I came across a copy of the lease for the first home my wife and I rented. There were grocery store receipts from Shabbat dinners when we made new friends. Gas receipts and car payment invoices reminded me of all our road trips. I even came across receipts in Hebrew from our trip to Israel. For years I’ve been struck by

the fact, as we approach the High Holidays, that the Hebrew word for introspection is an accounting term:

Guest Column By Rabbi Daniel Dorsch Congregation Etz Chaim

cheshbon. Each year before the High Holidays, we are told to do a cheshbon hanefesh, a soul accounting. Many of us do just a quick mental math. Yet I wonder: If any of us were truly audited by the Kadosh Baruch Hu and asked to account for our life’s choices, would we have delved properly into the receipts? What can the physical and spiritual deposits and withdrawals we’ve made this year teach us about our priorities and values? And how may those things have shifted from five, 10 or even 20 years ago? Through a little soulful accounting, may this be a year when we understand how we may live better, meaningful, purposeful lives. ■ Rabbi Daniel Dorsch is the senior rabbi of Congregation Etz Chaim.

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In this beginning of the year 5778, we gather our voices to celebrate our kehilla kedosha and we pray: Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a heart filled with wisdom. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a mind filled with love. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with ears opened to the cry of those who are in need. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with eyes that can appreciate the beauty of Your creation. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a year in which diverse voices will be heard. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a year of understanding and mutual respect.

Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a year of spiritual growth. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a

Guest Column By Rabbis Analia Bortz and Mario Karpuj Congregation Or Hadash year of intellectual growth. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a year in which we can strengthen our relationship with the land and state of Israel. Avinu Malkeinu, bless us with a year, 5778, sheltered with peace. L’shana tova. ■ Rabbi Analia Bortz and Rabbi Mario Karpuj are the spiritual leaders of Congregation Or Hadash (www.orhadash.org).

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Flabby Souls, Stomachs Require Internal Focus The upcoming High Holidays are potentially about a lot of things. But primarily they provide us with an opportunity for reflection and change. Personal change calls upon us to have

Guest Column By Rabbi Neil Sandler Ahavath Achim

a clear picture, not only of the desired change, but also of its impact on others and on us. What will we look like after we make that change, and why is that outcome desirable enough for us to put forth the effort to accomplish it? When we have that new outcome in mind, we can begin to “shape real hopes about who we might become.” Perhaps it is not difficult to see that desired change in ourselves. The tough part, as Rabbi Wolpe hints, lies in “apprehending who we are.” What do my actions say about me and my priorities? If I need to change, what does that fact say about me?

Most of us (all, I hope) are good people. Our errors and acts of wrongdoing are just that; such isolated acts do not define who we genuinely are. However, frequent or consistent actions or inaction say much more about us, our nature, and, maybe, our character than we care to admit. Not infrequently I see people (including me) who say something is a priority or an important value, but whose actions seem to belie that claim. To “apprehend who we are” in such moments can be really tough! After all, when there is a gap dividing our stated priorities, values and actions, recognizing that gap and addressing it is often very difficult. No one wants to admit such shortcomings, and few of us actually do so. To be honest, I am not certain how to help people confront this reality when they do recognize it. I am not

even certain how to help myself. But this I know: To reflect the divine image within, each of us must learn to do what Rabbi Wolpe counsels. We must truly apprehend (and perhaps confront) who we are. Then we may change and grow. While our tradition offers a clear paradigm for teshuvah — recognizing our wrong, making amends and changing — it doesn’t tell us how to understand who we are to shape what we may become. It is my hope that each of us will take some quiet time as we approach and celebrate the High Holidays to give that challenge some thought. I wish you and all your loved ones a happy, healthy and sweet new year. Shana tova! ■

What do my actions say about me and my priorities now? If I need to make changes, what does that say about me?

Rabbi Neil Sandler is the senior rabbi at Ahavath Achim Synagogue (www.aasynagogue.org).

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I don’t want to be “buff.” I just want to have a flatter stomach! Sometimes I look at one of those guys with a flat stomach, and I put my head on his body. Then, as if my wife, Susan, is right next to me at that moment, I hear her in my head, saying, “Neil, you’ve got to do something about that stomach!” We have entered Elul, the final month of our Jewish calendar, and it is time to reflect on our lives and actions, especially in the recent past. It is time to recognize errors and wrongdoing, apologize when we recognize that we have wronged someone, and make changes, if necessary, in our lives. Most of those changes are probably far more significant than a flatter stomach — and they are just as hard to make. Rabbi David Wolpe has written, “Elul calls us to be deep-sea divers into our souls. Only by apprehending who we are can we shape real hopes about who we might become.” Rabbi Wolpe captures a truth that many of us ignore.

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See Judaism for the First Time To critics far and wide, Amazon. com is destroying the book industry. In an interview with Charlie Rose, Jeff Bezos responded by outlining a challenge inherent in innovation that should give Jewish leaders pause when we think about the relationship between embracing the future and feeling anxiety about the present. “The Internet is disrupting every media industry,” Bezos said. “People

can complain about that, but complaining is not a strategy. … Amazon is not happening to bookselling; the future is happening to bookselling.” As a rabbi who works with synagogues across North America at the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, I am inspired and scared by Bezos’ quote about the media industry. The Jewish world is changing at a rapid pace, bringing challenges and

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opportunities. Yet far too often, the strategy of Jewish leaders is to bemoan the changes while institutions are left behind. The more that our leaders use this stormy present as an opportunity to see Judaism for the first time, the more we will find the collective courage to write a vibrant new chapter of the Jewish future. My favorite passage from the Rosh Hashanah liturgy is hayom harat olam, “today is the birthday of the world.” Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz argues that Rosh Hashanah is a “day of gestation” when “all that will happen and be revealed in the coming year is already there, only in a hidden form.” We do not know what the Jewish future will look like, yet the seeds have been planted. We nurture them when we strengthen an authentic and dynamic Judaism with a spirit of possibility, rather than the paralysis of fear. This December, more than 1,000 leaders will convene in Atlanta for the USCJ Convention, the largest gathering of Conservative Jews in the world. It

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SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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Guest Column By Joshua Rabin United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and Rabbi Noa Kushner and to attend concerts for the entire Atlanta Jewish community, including Neshama Carle bach and her gospel choir at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Anyone can register at www.uscjconvention.org. The USCJ Convention is a campaign, not a convention, an opportunity to venture boldly into the Jewish future. Our convention challenges our participants to name the anxieties facing communities today and learn the skills to journey into the unknown. Participants will learn what it means to talk about core Jewish practices using new language, why thriving congregations must embrace 21st century Jewish families, and how experiments in innovation can provide us clues for how to navigate the present. This Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, more Jews will step inside a synagogue than at any other time during the year, yet most of the Jews will be disconnected from Jewish institutions from the time they leave on Yom Kippur until the next Rosh Hashanah. We all know that this model is unsustainable, yet creating paradigms requires that we develop collective courage to experiment in the present. Doing this will take all our creativity and strength, but the first thing each of us needs to do to be a part of the solution is to see Judaism for the first time. On behalf of USCJ’s international president, Margo Gold (of Ahavath Achim Synagogue), and CEO Rabbi Steve Wernick, we wish you and your families a shana tova u’metuka. Every Rosh Hashanah we have the opportunity to see things for the first time and embrace the power of change. And if each of us can change, then so can our institutions. ■ Rabbi Joshua Rabin is the director of innovation at the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (www.uscj.org) and the program director of the USCJ Convention (www.uscjconvention.org).

ROSH HASHANAH

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Transcending Hate and Nurturing Respect schel went to Selma to march alongside Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement. Why? Because his Jewish neshama told him that as a Jewish leader, he could be nowhere Rabbi Mark Zimmerman looks over the Holocaust-burned Torah before its restoration in the fall of 2015.

Guest Column By Rabbi Mark Zimmerman Congregation Beth Shalom

else. Humanity had to be reminded to regard others as equals and to fight injustice wherever it was found. Humanity still has not internalized this lesson. We have not been outraged enough at the brokenness and brutality we still witness in places like Syria. Even Europe, which should know better, has not shown enough outrage to the rising anti-Semitism that is spreading through its countries. Our internal Jewish divisiveness is equally distressing. We are divided by politics and even by how we express our Judaism. Looking at photos of the pre-1948

Kotel, I was struck by Jewish men and women praying peaceably side by side. There was no mechitzah (the partition separating men and women) back then, and certainly none of the infighting we see today. When Israeli soldiers uttered the famous words “Har HaBayit B’Yadenu,” nobody imagined that the liberated Kotel would become a place for Jewish enmity and strife. Therefore, a mitzvah we should all work to embrace this Rosh Hashanah is to make 5778 a year in which we come together in mutual love, recognition and respect, a year when Jews and all peoples rise above the differences that threaten to pull us apart.

May we see a 5778 where parents, teachers and students help create a more educated and responsible Jewish community. Where Jewish liberals and conservatives can disagree without being disagreeable. Where Israel recognizes each of our denominations’ weddings, conversions and gittin (divorce decrees). Where secular and religious Jews in Israel learn tolerance for each other’s way of life. And where humanity finally sees the benefits of living together in peace. Amen. ■ Rabbi Mark Zimmerman is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Shalom (bethshalomatlanta.org).

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Prominently displayed in the Beth Shalom lobby is a case containing three panels of burnt parchment from a Torah scroll set ablaze by the Nazis during the Holocaust. This burnt sefer Torah has always served as a painful yet powerful reminder of the Shoah. The scroll was long thought to be beyond repair, and so it remained tucked away on display. But the heavy layer of soot from the fires of the Shoah actually preserved much of this very old Torah scroll, and only three burnt panels needed to be replaced and rewritten. The rest of the Torah, scribed in a rare Kabbalistic style, could be salvaged. Our congregation embarked on the sacred task of bringing this beautiful Torah scroll back to life so it could take its rightful place in our holy ark. For our community, restoring this scroll was about much more than simply repairing a beautifully written Torah. This Torah was emblematic of the story of the Jewish people. We too survived the flames of an often brutal history, and we too were nearly destroyed. Yet, as G-d and fate would have it, Am Yisrael Chai: The Jewish people have persevered, just as this rare and precious Torah scroll managed to survive the flames. The horrific fire that enveloped this Torah decades ago was fueled by fanatical anti-Semitism and fanned by an unabashed hatred that we had all hoped was only a relic of a bygone era. After the Holocaust, we had hoped that humanity had finally learned the painful lessons of its savage past. But as we begin Rosh Hashanah 5778, it is clear that the scourge of hatred and fanaticism has yet to be driven from our world. We are still beset by intolerance and the forces of destruction. Who would have thought that neo-Nazism and white supremacism would resurface to plague us, as we recently witnessed in Charlottesville, Va.? Who would have thought that anti-Semitism would arise from the ashes, often masked as anti-Zionism, seeking to demonize Jews and delegitimize the world’s only Jewish state? When we proclaimed “Never again!” we knew deep down that such hatred would not easily dissipate and that this struggle would have to be continuously waged. If we were surprised about anything, it was about how soon humanity would forget. In the 1960s, Abraham Joshua He-

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How Will We Answer Life’s Tests? “And it came to pass after these things that G-d tested Abraham” (Genesis 22:1). So begins one of the Torah portions read and studied on Rosh Hashanah, dealing with the binding of Isaac. Our sages grappled with the implications of the statement. Why would G-d need to test Abraham? Surely the All-Knowing already knew what the outcome would be. How could it be fair for G-d to permit

suffering to prove a point? Furthermore, as careful studiers of the text, they concluded that this was not an isolated incident, but rather was the culmination of a full 10 tests imposed on Abraham. The Mishnah (Pirkei Avot, Chapter 5) claims that the binding of Isaac was just one of 10 tests Abraham weathered, and different sages search the biblical text to identify the other nine. Some trials generated more

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physical distress, while others were more existential in nature. Abraham was commanded to circumcise himself and his household. How would he respond to the threat of physical pain to himself or to those who mattered to him? Famine was yet another test for Abraham. How would he respond when the supposed land of milk and honey left him hungry? Maimonides, the great medieval philosopher, writes that the first test Abraham faced was being asked to leave his homeland. Exile, Maimonides would say, is a test. It is hard being a stranger or a foreigner, doubly so if one feels that one is unwelcome. In the past few weeks, we have seen thousands flee Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. For some, the sojourn will be temporary, but others will not have homes to return to. Two of Abraham’s other tests revolved around conflict in his home: the dispute that began between Sarah and Hagar and then was carried out between their sons, until Ishmael was

sent away. Conflict in one’s own home is one of life’s greatest stressors. This year has been marked by strident political conflict and unrest in our American society and by increasing tension and

Guest Column By Rabbi Joshua Heller Congregation B’nai Torah

negativity within our Jewish family. Abraham’s ultimate test took place at Isaac’s altar. Would he bring down the knife on his son? The test was clearly whether he would follow G-d’s word, but I wonder what answer G-d was expecting. It is certainly a test of character as to whether Abraham would put aside his own suffering in the pursuit of divine command. Was G-d also looking to see whether Abraham would be moved by the suffering of his son, by the sight of another human being in distress? Based on the model of Abraham’s trials, I would argue that we are tested not only when we are faced with challenges and troubles, but when we see them affect those around us. When we face personal illness, financial insecurity or conflict, we have no choice but to engage and respond. We are truly tested when we see suffering and distress around us and could, if we wish, choose to be mere bystanders. Do we engage to help those who are hungry, who are ill, are strangers, or have no home? Do we stand up to take the side of justice when there is conflict in the larger world? We come up against life’s tests, big and small, every day. There is no one lecture or course that can prepare us for all of them. Even so, we are fortunate to have the wisdom of our tradition as our guide. With the Torah in hand, at least we can consider these tests to be “open book.” On behalf of my own family and the entire B’nai Torah community, I wish you a year of blessing and a year in which we pass all of life’s tests. L’shana tova tikateivu v’tichateimu: May you be written and sealed in the Book of Life for a good year. ■ Rabbi Joshua Heller is the senior rabbi at Congregation B’nai Torah (www. bnaitorah.org).

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Conversations Can Turn ‘Other’ Into Just Another raised her hand and told the speaker, “There is nothing I agree with you on, and there is nothing about you I like.” The speaker responded, “There is nothing you like?” “I like your shoes” was her answer.

Guest Column By Billy Planer Etgar 36

After holding many conversations and getting to know each other better, the Klansman realized his hatred and fear were misplaced and unfounded. He ended up leaving the Klan. May this High Holiday season be the time that we realize the need to reach across the divide and have conversations with people we have dismissed as the “other.” This is where the real work — the repairing and changing of the world— begins.

May this be the year we begin to humanize the quote above many arks: “Da l’fnei mee atah omed” — know before whom you stand. Yes, it is referring to G-d, but may we begin to think it also can mean knowing the godliness in the human being standing in front of us and recognizing that more unites us than divides us. ■ Billy Planer is the founder and director of Etgar 36 (www.etgar.org).

Without missing a beat, the speaker said, “OK, let’s begin our connection there.” Once we make a basic human connection, we can elevate the conversation to the harder exchanges. The teens on Etgar 36 meet with Daryl Davis, an African-American blues musician who accidentally befriended a member of the KKK. After finding whatever common ground they had, they got to the bigger questions because Daryl wanted an answer to the question of how the man could hate him if he didn’t even know him.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Dec. 21, 1988, was the night before my birthday, and I was still on the Syracuse University campus because of winter exams. My friends who were also still at school were taking me out to celebrate when we heard about the tragedy of Pan Am 103. The plane exploded in midair because of a bomb placed on it by a Libyan terrorist. Thirty-five of my fellow students from Syracuse, including a former roommate, Grateful Dead touring friends and other friends, were on board, coming home from studying abroad. A lifelong lesson was learned that night: that my life is connected to people and events that I do not even know about. I began to think, “What if people who acted out of fear, ignorance and hatred toward others would funnel that same energy into just getting to know others? Acting out of fear toward others is nothing new. We read in the Torah that there came a new Pharaoh upon Egypt who did not know Joseph, and when he saw how numerous our people were becoming, he acted out of fear. Instead of getting to know us, he enslaved us. Speaking to people who don’t think like us, look like us, pray like us or vote like us may not sound like fun or a good use of time, but that kind of engaging is the way we move from viewing people as the “other” to just “another” human. It will help us stop demonizing and ignoring one another and learn to work together to understand one another. Hearing multiple voices of debate is a very Jewish idea. The compilers of the Talmud understood the need to make sure the winning and losing sides of a debate were included because what won the argument one day might not be what we follow later. The summer program I created, Etgar 36, takes teens on a journey across America to sit and speak with all sides of political issues so that the participants can test-drive their thoughts, education and opinions as well as step out of their echo chamber. One of the main lessons we learn is to begin these hard conversations just by finding something you have in common — a movie, sports team, musician, etc. — and move forward. After hearing from a conservative activist about his opposition to marriage equality, one of the participants

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Nearly 1,000 Teens Strong At Atlanta Council BBYO’s Spring Convention each year, seniors are given the opportunity to share their “life” with the convention body, expressing the impact their time in BBYO has had on them. One senior shared these words in March that have inspired me in my work for our pluralistic Jewish community: “BBYO has given me experience in programming, helped me with public speaking and my self-confidence. More than that, I received my Jewish identity. Through events and summer programs, I learned being Jewish doesn’t mean just attending services or memorizing prayers. BBYO taught me what being Jewish really is. It’s community.” As Rosh Hashanah approaches, our programming year has just begun, and we are given the opportunity to both look back on our achievements and forward at what is to come as our community grows and develops more meaningful programming. In 5777, we facilitated new, largescale programs, including an Electoral College tailgate on Election Night, an AZA (boys) overnight at the College Football Hall of Fame and a kickoff event in August that brought over 240 teens to a Braves game. Perhaps the most impactful moments in our community for BBYO teens occur at our five annual local conventions. Our New Member Convention in the fall welcomed over 120 teens to their first convention, where they developed relationships with older members who live near them and met other new members from all over the Atlanta metro area. At our largest convention of the year, Southern Region Convention, Atlanta came together with teens from the rest of Georgia and South Carolina for a weekend of interchapter competitions and relationship building. We also embraced the current state of our teens’ engagement with social media, using our first Snapchat geofilters. Each year, the programming at our Kallah convention centers on Judaism, Israel and community service. In January, we welcomed two teens from Israel as they toured various BBYO communities, as well as one teen from Georgia (the country) as a result of a teen-driven fundraising campaign and globalization effort. Our Spring Convention was coupled with our annual Family

Shabbat, where we welcomed over 450 teens, relatives and community members and had an opportunity to hear parting words from our largest class of graduating seniors at Senior

Guest Column By David Hoffman Atlanta Council BBYO

Life while electing our next board of teen leadership. Outside our local experiences, the Atlanta Jewish community was represented strongly at BBYO’s international level this past year. For the third consecutive year, we were the largest traveling delegation to BBYO’s International Convention, where we were awarded the Spirit Gavel. At IC, we had teens lead programs and initiatives, receive awards, and run for and be elected to serve on the International Executive Board. Atlanta Council also was represented by teen leaders at AIPAC’s High School Summit, the International March of the Living, BBYO’s multitude of immersive summer experiences, and Lift Every Voice, the inaugural Jewish song-leading conference sponsored by the Association of Independent Jewish Camps, the JCC Association of North America and BBYO. Looking forward, we are eager to build on our successes to engage more Jewish teens in our community with their peers through unique teen-led programming. We are on the verge of surpassing 1,000 teen members in the Atlanta metro area and plan on bringing another record-setting delegation to IC 2018 in Orlando. The impact BBYO makes on its teens does not happen magically, and we are grateful for the support of the Marcus Jewish Community Center, as well as our community’s parents, stakeholders, advisers and staff, who all collaborate with the teens for the most meaningful Jewish experience. We are looking for volunteer chapter advisers to support our teens in their efforts to grow as Jews and would love to hear from you if you or someone you know is interested. L’shana tova from our BBYO family to yours! ■ David Hoffman is the director of Atlanta Council BBYO.

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3 Stories to Inspire a Sweet Year

A Story With Passion Strong and wise, a woman of great beauty that radiated from within, Chana was a leader in the pre-Temple era. A mentor to many and wife to a loving husband, Chana tried to hide her pain, but an empty pit welled inside her. Empty because she was unable to bear a child of her own. And so on her next journey to the Mishkan in Shiloh (the temporary temple before the Temple in Jerusalem was built), she went heavy with emotion. Alone, she entered the holy space and began to cry, and whispered prayers escaped her lips. She stood there awhile, salty tears mixed with heartfelt pleas for a child.

Eli the kohen gadol (high priest) noticed her and couldn’t help but wonder about her behavior. Praying in silence? Prayer was said aloud! Tears and such emotion? What was this?

Guest Column By Shifra Sharfstein Chabad at Georgia Tech & Georgia State

Thinking her drunk, Eli approached Chana and asked her to leave. “Please, my master,” Chana said, “I am only drunk with emotion, praying for a child, a gift from my Creator. And I promise that if G-d grants me a child of my own, his life will be a godly one, solely dedicated to a greater cause.” “May you be blessed with a great and holy child,” Eli said, calming her. And so it was that Chana bore a son named Shmuel, a great leader to his people. And so it is until today that prayer is to be said with a full heart, with

great passion and with personal whispers to our Creator. A Story With Love Hundreds had gathered in the great synagogue of Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. Yom Kippur was minutes away, and they stood ready, watching their holy rebbe prepare for Kol Nidrei. In an instant, the rebbe removed his tallit and left, hurrying out the door. A young student followed with curiosity as the rebbe made his way to the outskirts of town and entered a small shack. A new mother lay there with a newborn baby; no one else was home. The rebbe chopped wood for a fire, prepared a soup and carefully fed the mother. After she and her baby were taken care of, he turned to leave, returning to a confused and waiting congregation. Rabbi Shneur Zalman donned his tallit and began Kol Nidrei. With tears, this story was shared by my Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem

Mendel Schneerson of Chabad. “Never think it below your dignity to help a fellow. With love and care, tend to others before yourself.” A Story With Connection “Do you not tremble in fear of the great High Holidays that approach us?” questioned the visiting speaker. The traveling rabbi had shaken the local congregation with words of fear. “G-d judges us all — who will live, who will die,” he had bellowed. Yet this one learned man was unmoved. Not really, he replied. “True, it is a great day of judgment. But the judge is my father.” You have your own connection to the Creator. Rely not on the rabbi, the cantor or your super Jewish friend next door. This year own that personal connection. The judge is your father too. Shana tova! May the year be sweet with passion, love and connection. ■ Shifra Sharfstein is co-director of Chabad at Georgia Tech & Georgia State (www.chabaddtu.com).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

I want to wish you a sweet new year — so sweet that you can feel and taste and see for yourself the goodness that you experience. Sweet with passion. Sweet with love. Sweet with connections that matter. Let me tell you three sweet stories.

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Educational Aid Helps Connect Dots

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Donna and Michael Coles and Their Family Wish all of Our Friends a Happy and Most Importantly Healthy New Year

JELF (Jewish Educational Loan Fund) has been around for a very long time — 141 years, in fact. Because we have had several name changes, however, our longevity is not always recognized. This year, the dots are finally connected with a new exhibit at the Breman Museum, “The Legacy of the Hebrew Orphans’ Home,” a joint effort of JELF, Kennesaw State University, the Breman and The Temple. Curated by Dr. Catherine Lewis, the exhibit unveils the history of the Hebrew Orphans’ Home, Jewish Children’s Service (JCS) and JELF. This long and vibrant history is told through the stories of the children, whose files have been carefully maintained in the Cuba Family Archives at the Breman. To bring this history together, the JELF staff and board members poured over the files, piecing together facts that exemplify the longstanding goals of the organization: to provide Jewish youths in need the knowledge and skills to step into their futures with confidence and lead successful lives. From 1889 through the 1920s, the Hebrew Orphans’ Home stood at 478 Washington St. until progressive reforms in the United States discouraged the continuation of orphanages. The home subsequently transitioned to providing foster care and adoption services, changing its name in 1961 to Jewish Children’s Service to better describe itself. Over time, as other organizations began to duplicate the services of JCS, the organization transitioned once again, with a focus on helping Jewish students attend college or graduate or vocational school by offering interestfree loans. In 1989 the organization’s name was changed to the Jewish Education Loan Fund to better reflect this mission. Since 1961 JELF has awarded nearly $12 million in interest-free loans to Jewish students in need across its five-state region. Today JELF’s mission is more relevant than ever. No one can deny the importance of higher education or its crushing expense. JELF has recently completed nine loan review sessions in six cities, awarding a total of $907,826 to 242 students. By the end of the year, JELF will have awarded nearly $1 million in interest-free loans

— more money than ever before! While the stories of our applicants are sometimes tragic, they are also the stories of middle-class families struggling to pay for the increased cost of higher education. Handwritten letters displayed on the exhibit’s “Wall of Thanks” show

Guest Column By Marianne Daniels Garber JELF

Photo from the Simon Scher Family Papers, Cuba Family Archives for Southern Jewish History, Breman Museum

Residents of the Hebrew Orphans’ Home take an outing to Loew’s Theater in Five Points around 1920.

how much our students recognize the importance of these last-dollar loans that ensure they can go to school. JELF’s 99 percent repayment rate reflects how aware our students are that a dollar repaid is a dollar that helps another student. I am so grateful for JELF’s incredible and growing base of donors, who also recognize that a dollar given to JELF is one that begins its own history of helping students the moment it is awarded the first time. JELF’s mission remains rooted in its twin objectives of helping Jewish children, the future of the Jewish people, and ensuring their education. As Bea Feiman, a past president of JELF, relates in a video that was created in the late-1990s, “My parents said, ‘You can lose many things, but an education once gained can never be lost.’ ” As we head into the High Holidays, I am so proud to serve as board president of this unique, historical and deeply personal organization. JELF’s exhibit will be featured in the Blonder Gallery at the Breman through the end of 2017. I hope you will make the time to discover our history as well. L’shana tova. ■ Marianne Daniels Garber is the board president for JELF (jelf.org).

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considered as though you too participated in the mitzvah. The Jewish Fertility Foundation is Let us all pray that the coming dedicated to providing financial and year brings an end to all suffering and emotional support to Jewish couples that the prayers of the infertile couples experiencing infertility. We also sitting among us at High Holiday provide educational opportunities to the Atlanta community. To that end, we would like to share the emotions infertile couples may experience around the High Holidays. This time of the Jewish calendar can be especially fraught for those suffering with infertility. Rosh Guest Column Hashanah and Yom Kippur By Debbie Derby, Elie Engler and Elana Frank are times of introspection, Jewish Fertility Foundation reviewing the events and actions of the previous services are answered. year, and of hope, looking forward to L’shana tova u’metuka. ■ the year to come. For those of us dealing with medical infertility, it is a time to accept that Debbie Derby is the education one more year has passed without our chair of the Jewish Fertility Foundation prayers being answered and to fer(www.jewishfertilityfoundation.org), vently pray that the new year brings Elie Engler is the JFF board chair, and a child. The Torah and Haftorah porElana Frank is the executive director and tions on Rosh Hashanah are especially founder. difficult for infertile couples, as we read about the pain and suffering of “barren” Rachel and Chana. This discomfort may be amplified by sermons exhorting congregants to “be fruitful and multiply,” by announcements of the births in the community over the previous year and by other seemingly noncontroversial statements. With one in six Atlanta Jewish couples experiencing infertility, it is highly likely that several infertile couples are sitting in every sanctuary, looking for comfort and hope. The Jewish Fertility Foundation exists to provide emotional and financial support to these couples, as well as educational outreach to the Atlanta rabbinate, larger Jewish community and medical treatment providers. “Be fruitful and multiply” — Jewish continuity is dependent on us reproducing, and, for many Jewish couples, medical intervention is required. For those couples experiencing the challenges of infertility, we encourage you to attend our support group sessions and apply for grants to assist with treatment costs. For those who would like to learn more about the subject, we encourage you to attend one of our educational programs or panel discussions. And for those who would like to contribute to provide finance assistance for treatment, it is

Financial Protection The year 5777 was a great one for Jewish Interest Free Loan of Atlanta, thanks to all our friends and supporters, and 5778 is going to be even greater with your continued support. This past year, we doubled our loan volume from previous years. That means 24 Jewish Atlanta families could pay their mortgages, get out from under a huge interest rate burden by consolidating their debts, pay medical bills and more. Remember: JIFLA is not just for folks in financial distress; we also want to help people who have hit a financial challenge (the effects of temporary unemployment, an unexpected bill, a family milestone or simcha) and need help to stay financially secure. How did we grow so much? Well, after seven years, word of our service is finally taking hold in the Atlanta Jewish community. Much of this is because of the hard work of Executive Director Nancy Weissmann and the head of our marketing and community engagement committee, Jay Kessler. These efforts will be enhanced when

Nancy and I, along with 60-plus leaders of Atlanta synagogues and community organizations, join a Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta leadership trip to Israel in January. What can you do to help JIFLA?

Guest Column By Laura Kahn JIFLA

Spread the word about our work. Encourage Jews you know who hit a financial bump in the road to talk to us for help. Donate time or money. Help us get a free ad in your synagogue newsletter. Call Nancy and offer to guarantee a loan. Please put JIFLA on your list for your holiday giving. Every dollar you give helps one of our brothers or sisters retain financial stability. Have a great holiday season! ■ Laura Kahn is the president of JIFLA (jifla.org).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

When Help Is Needed To Be Fruitful, Multiply

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Sharing Lessons From The Rosh Hashanah Table

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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There is a tradition on Rosh Hashanah to eat symbolic foods — simanim — meant to help ensure a good year ahead. On the first night of Rosh Hashanah, before digging into the main meal, we have a special ceremony for the blessing and eating of these symbolic foods. Each has a different good omen attached to it, and each has a specific blessing. A sweet year. Increased merits. The removal of adversaries. The list goes on. Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta expands opportunities in the lives of Jewish women and girls via effective grantmaking, advocacy and education through a gender lens. Our trustees are empowered to be leaders, philanthropists and decision-makers. Our grants drive social change and provide benefits to those we serve. In the year ahead, we aspire to lead and not follow, as the Rosh Hashanah blessing teaches. Therefore, as leaders for change in our community, this month we are officially launching our first strategic plan. We are building on our solid foundation to have a robust future and to be the most effective for our grantee partners, our trustees and the greater community. While it would have been easy to maintain business as usual — after all, we have grown larger and given away more money in five years than our founders ever imagined — that is not the lesson from the Rosh Hashanah table. Rather, we must challenge ourselves to do more and to think critically about opportunities for improvement. Over the next nine months, all Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta trustees will have the chance to engage in the strategic planning process, which will be led by our expert consultants, Terri Theisen and Mindy Wertheimer. Even as we take time to pull back the lens and ask big-picture questions, we move forward with our grantmaking, educational efforts and advocacy initiatives. Locally, we have helped launch several pilot programs, including sexual assault and violence prevention at the Weber School, body positivity and eating disorder prevention through the Eating Disorders Information Network, high-level career coun-

seling at Temima High School and early development of gender equity by SOJOURN. Each of these pilot programs affords the Atlanta community the opportunity to delve into women’s issues through a Jewish lens and to move

Guest Column By Rachel Wasserman Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta

toward a level playing field. By encouraging local organizations to engage in pilot programs, Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta reflects the lessons from the Rosh Hashanah table. Take the lead. Look for new opportunities for good, even if they are risky. Keep advancing. As we go forward, we must take time to appreciate how far we’ve come. Recently we celebrated our fifth birthday. In 2012, Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta was simply a dream of our three founders, Carol Cooper, Ilene Engel and Sara Franco. Here we are now: a collective of 120 local female philanthropists who pool their resources to expand opportunities and make positive change for Jewish women and girls. We have grown quickly yet deliberately, and in five years we have invested over half a million dollars in over 500,000 Jewish women and girls domestically and in Israel. We are proud of our achievements, and we invite the entire community to join us as we honor our five years, three founders and one mission Jan. 17, 2018 (learn more at www.jwfatlanta.org/ignite). This Rosh Hashanah, as we fill our plates with apples and honey, pomegranates, and raisin challah and give one another wishes of sweetness, prosperity and renewal, let’s also remember to lead and not follow. As you celebrate the personal goals you have attained and continue to challenge yourself with new aspirations, it is important to focus on your progress and always look for new opportunities to do good. L’shana tova u’metuka. ■ Rachel Wasserman is the executive director of Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta (jwfatlanta.org).

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Giving Israel’s Soldiers a Sweet New Year Soldiers Program is one of its flagship initiatives — and a source of pride for the Atlanta community. These Rosh Hashanah gift cards benefit all lone soldiers and help other soldiers in need celebrate the new year without the burden of financial stress. Over 10,000 eligible soldiers will

Guest Column By Seth R. Baron FIDF

receive a gift card in the amount of 500 shekels (about $140), and some 2,200 soldiers are eligible for a gift card of 350 shekels (about $100). Soldiers will be able to purchase supplies such as food, clothing, shoes, sporting goods and leisure products. Besides caring for the well-being of Israel’s lone soldiers, FIDF initiates and supports many other educational and well-being programs for IDF soldiers, such as the Legacy program,

which this summer brought 57 children and siblings of fallen IDF soldiers to the United States for summer camps, and the Impact! Scholarship Program, which grants college scholarships to Israeli combat veterans. We in Atlanta and the Southeast proudly serve these brave young men and women. During the 2016-17 academic year, the Atlanta community sponsored 38 FIDF Impact! scholarships — worth $16,000 apiece — for IDF veterans to pursue their academic dreams, and our community is sponsoring more than 65 scholarships for the upcoming school year. Four years ago, as part of the FIDF Adopt-a-Brigade Program, the FIDF Southeast Region adopted the IDF’s Combat Intelligence Collection Corps, for which we have raised more than $1.18 million. The program allows supporters to go beyond their donations and to get more involved, providing financial aid for IDF soldiers and their families in need, supporting lone soldiers, and funding general well-being activities and weeks of rest and recuperation for

soldiers of the adopted brigade. FIDF also recognizes the important need to think about the next generation and recruit and cultivate future leaders. The FIDF Southeast Region’s Young Leadership has seen tremendous growth the past two years and has become an essential part of FIDF’s success in Atlanta. Our next Atlanta gala dinner will be held Monday, May 14, 2018, at the InterContinental Buckhead. One of the premier events for the Atlanta Jewish community, our gala gives supporters the opportunity to meet Israeli soldiers and hear firsthand about the tremendous impact FIDF’s programs have on their lives. On behalf of FIDF, I wish you a good and sweet new year. Please help us wish the same to Israel’s brave men and women in uniform by signing our Rosh Hashanah card online at www. fidf.org/signthecard. ■ Seth Baron is the executive director of the Southeast Region of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (www.fidf.org/ southeast).

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My organization, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, this month is partnering with the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews to provide $1.5 million in Rosh Hashanah gift cards so that more than 12,000 Israel Defense Forces soldiers in need and lone soldiers can celebrate a sweet new year. There are 7,133 lone soldiers serving in the IDF today. Fifty-three percent of them come from abroad, hailing from 80 countries around the world. About 844 are Americans, with nearly 30 of them originally from Georgia. In June, FIDF sponsored the biggest-ever fun day for lone soldiers to kick off Israel’s first IDF Appreciation Week, and these gift cards are just the latest example of how FIDF cares for lone soldiers financially, socially and emotionally during and after their challenging military service. FIDF also sponsors flights for lone soldiers to visit their families and friends in their countries of origin. FIDF’s Lone

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SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

More Than Shelter

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It was a frigid winter in Atlanta in 1983, and the city had a serious problem: homeless people forced to live outside or in their cars. The combination of bone-chilling weather and men and women unable to find shelter was deadly. Rabbi Mark Wilson at Congregation Shearith Israel resolved to do something about this inhumane situation. He called Helen Spiegel, of blessed memory, who he knew understood the fear of displacement and survival as a refugee from Germany whose family had fled to America in the wake of Kristallnacht. He also knew her drive, perseverance and grit would enable her to stop at nothing to help others in terrible need. Helen became a beacon of hope to the lucky “guests” who populated the shelter beds in the basement of the intown synagogue. She was joined by her husband, Frank, and a dedicated core of volunteers to build the shelter for homeless women, a haven for the downtrodden, the abused and the women whose luck had run out. Helen and her determined group also broke new humanitarian ground by creating the nation’s first shelter for the homeless to be founded by a synagogue. They named it the Shearith Israel Shelter for Homeless Women and began with eight beds in the basement of the synagogue. “That first year we faced a world we didn’t know. Every one of us was a novice. We called ourselves the winter resort, and our idea was to be like a little family,” Helen said. “We learned to check for weapons and eventually to become much more selective to find women who we could really help.” Helen and Frank amassed hundreds of stories of success and failure — of shelter residents who banded together to monitor the bathrooms to help a young woman who was bulimic change her behavior, of volunteers who took sick ladies to Grady and of synagogue personnel who contacted young residents’ parents to reunite them and get them help. The shelter, now called Rebecca’s Tent, has changed with the times and the needs of its residents. Today the shelter is open from November through March and provides job support throughout the year. The shelter offers computer training, workshops on résumé writing, job skills training and lessons on how to dress for an

interview. The residents are selected according to those who are ready and able to seek employment and permanent housing and work toward stability. “Many of our residents are former working women with educations who had just one or two things go wrong to plunge them into homelessness,” said Tasho Wesley, the executive director of Rebecca’s Tent. “All it takes is the loss

Guest Column By Candice Gulden Rebecca’s Tent

of a job, a divorce, a job moving to an area without bus transportation or an unexpected expense such as medical bills for someone to lose a home.” In 2012 the shelter put the Challenge Program in place to provide extended support beyond the shelter season to former residents in their journeys toward independence. This program operates year-round and offers the women a weekly dinner and support group, MARTA tickets, case management and computer access. The program also has provided former shelter residents with connections to volunteer jobs, which have exposed them to positive environments that help to build job skills and networks. The women have developed a supportive network that has provided encouragement and practical help. This has all helped the participants to obtain and keep employment and stable housing. “Those of us lucky enough to have a house and enjoy a comfortable life have no idea how many people in metro Atlanta must sleep in their cars and find shelter during the cold winter months,” said Gillian Gansler, the board chair for Rebecca’s Tent. Over the past 30 years, more than 1,000 women in need of food, safety and a helping hand have come through the shelter’s doors and found acceptance, love and support. These women never could have been helped without the hundreds of volunteers who cook meals, teach empowerment sessions, run fundraising events and put the word out in the community for donations that keep the shelter doors open season after season. ■ Candice Gulden is a board member of Rebecca’s Tent (www.rebeccastent.org).

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Come on in; the Water’s Great enjoyed the beautiful photographic art exhibit, “Mayim Rabim: Many Waters.” The beautiful nature photography sat in stark contrast to what I was seeing on the nightly news. What was the lesson that I was supposed to be learning at this moment? As I sat with my thoughts, I could hear the water dripping through the Plexiglas and into the mikvah from

Guest Column By Caryn Hanrahan MACoM

the rooftop reserve. The sound of the water drew me in for a closer look. There was only a light rain outside, and I watched individual drops of living water (mayim hayim) traverse their way down to the well. At first, I enjoyed this moving meditation, but quickly my mind turned to worry. Would the bor fill up fast enough to be open for our scheduled immersions in the morn-

success. We look forward to gathering our community together on March 15, 2018, for this annual celebration. Our new and energized board gathered for its first retreat to plan for the upcoming year. Our education committee is busy preparing to train the next cohort of volunteer mikvah guides. We welcomed a part-time The waters of MACoM await all in the Jewish community. staff member, Amy Ruda, to coordinate our education ing? Would we have enough time to and outreach efforts. The list balance and filter the water properly? goes on. And when did I learn so much about We encourage you to visit us. mikvah? Call 404-549-9679 for an immersion That last question made me smile appointment, volunteer opportunity, and reminded me of the bigger picture. gallery tour or class. Follow us on What is the bigger picture as we Facebook, or visit atlantamikvah.org. enter 5778? As I reflect on the past Most important, have a healthy year, the main word that comes to and happy new year. May we all conmind is gratitude — gratitude for all tinue to weather the storms that life the blessings that have happened to us brings as a community and a nation. this year. L’shana tova. ■ MACoM is growing in leaps and bounds, and 5777 has been an amazing Caryn Hanrahan is the president of year. Our first community celebration, the Metro Atlanta Community Mikvah A Mitzvah for the Mikvah, was a huge (atlantamikvah.org).

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And G-d said, “Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together to one place, and let the dry land appear; and it was so” (Genesis 1:9). As I sit here writing this column, I hear the rain falling outside. I am saddened that what brings MACoM and our community so much joy is causing so much heartache for our friends in Texas and Florida. Just as many Jews ready themselves for the High Holidays, we at MACoM ready our mikvah. One of the many tasks is the emptying, inspecting, cleaning and ultimate refilling of the bor (cistern) used. While this is not necessarily required this time of year, it fits into our schedule nicely before the rush of the High Holidays. We usually block out time at the end of August, knowing that the weather will ultimately set the schedule. We then wait and watch the weather. The irony of this situation is that the rain that brought so much devastation to Texas was part of the same system that filled our wonderful mikvah. As I walked our facility, I

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Ensuring Dignity for All

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

The year 5778 is coming at just the right time. For people who do social justice professionally or personally, the last year has been devastating. A new year gives us hope that the next year won’t be as turbulent. Although there are threats of nuclear proportions, of white supremacist vitriol, as well as weather-related catastrophes, we have evidence that people are resilient and, under pressure, can change. We have seen more social and political engagement in the past year than in my lifetime. Folks now know who represents them in government. They have considered running for office themselves. And they are sharing their opinions like never before. There are many ways, both loud and quiet, to ensure that all of us have our dignity and bodies protected. I am writing as the executive director of SOJOURN, the Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender & Sexual Diversity. I am also a citizen who understands that when one life is in danger for not fitting into a certain mold, all of us are at risk. While I want to believe that my rights are guaranteed, too many times the powers that be have proved otherwise. Most recently there has been a reversal of transgender people serving in the military. In our state of Georgia and in 32 other states, LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) people can be excluded from getting health care, and these states don’t allow same-sex couples to legally adopt. It is likely that there will be federal legislation that sanctions discrimination based on one’s religious beliefs. The Torah mentions to love the stranger because you were once a stranger in a strange land. The text doesn’t mention this adage once; it has 36 references! At SOJOURN, we have a T-shirt that states, “Love your neighbor (even if they are not) like yourself.” This year SOJOURN caught the attention of Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta, which saw the potential of and helped to fund a new program called EDGE (Early Development for Gender Equity). Working with 5- and 6-year-olds, along with the adults in their lives, we are cultivating an environment where children are not 82 restricted because of their gender.

Upon learning about the effort, Faye Dresner, the chief programming officer of Jewish Family & Career Services, exclaimed, “If you start at such a young age, you eventually won’t have a need for SOJOURN’s other programs.” We hope so too. JF&CS also has embarked on a yearlong discovery process through SOJOURN’s Welcoming Communities Project, which will help the agency

Guest Column By Rebecca Stapel-Wax SOJOURN

enhance its LGBTQ inclusion practices, benefiting everyone, not just LGBTQ. When Joy Ladin, a Stern College of Yeshiva University professor who transitioned gender while on faculty, came to Atlanta in August, 260 people showed tremendous interest in learning about her. Knowing that conversations and questions about gender diversity are becoming more common, we intend to expand our transgender-directed education. We plan to create a curriculum that addresses people’s life experiences that go beyond the male-female binary. As a way to demonstrate SOJOURN’s work, there will be five SOJOURN in the Sukkah community events during Sukkot. We also will celebrate the 50-plus Jewish organizations that are partnering with SOJOURN for the Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade on Oct. 14 and 15. Come join us! Attending events like these is a visible source of support and a way of “showing up.” SOJOURN’s pinnacle event is Purim off Ponce, an annual fundraiser that is also a community celebration. This year’s honorees, Judy Marx and Billy Planer, are being recognized for their professional and personal efforts toward building loving communities where LGBTQ people feel welcomed, listened to and safe. In 5778, SOJOURN will continue to be here so that we may all feel that way — welcomed, listened to and safe — no matter what mold you represent. Remember, love your neighbor (even if they are not) like yourself. ■ Rebecca Stapel-Wax is the executive director of SOJOURN (www.sojourngsd. org).

Unifying Power of Film The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival wishes everyone a happy, healthy Rosh Hashanah, plus a heartfelt thank-you to our AJFF fans, who join us in fostering dialogue and community connections through cinematic storytelling. Your passion for movies and Jewish culture is reflected in manifold ways: in the large and enthusiastic audiences that attend AJFF programs; through the continued growth of AJFF as a valued community asset; and via the thoughtful feedback we frequently receive. Collectively, this deep engagement between AJFF and our audiences, donors and volunteers is what fuels our efforts to provide a meaningful experience at the movies. As Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed remarked at the 2017 AJFF opening night, “The rapid ascent of the Jewish Film Festival is a testament to Atlanta’s belief in the power of art as a unifier of people, at a time when we really need to be focused on being unified.” We couldn’t agree more. Film has the unique ability to reveal what lies within ourselves and at the same time connect us with the larger world and everyone in it. Movies with a purpose provide an opportunity to settle into theater seats not just to be entertained, but also to ponder our shared human-

ity and expand our worldview. Just as the High Holidays offer a time for purifying reflection and soulsearching, film sometimes imparts a time for serious thought and contemplation. We look forward to continuing that with you in the “temple” of movies, when the annual festival returns Jan. 24 to Feb. 15, 2018. In the meantime, this new year

Guest Column By Kenny Blank Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

has brought new chances for audiences to partake, thanks to our expansion into year-round programming. We hope you have enjoyed our AJFF Selects screening series, which began in May. There’s more on tap in the coming months. You can always stay in the loop at AJFF.org or through our social media. As we prepare to celebrate our chai year with the 18th annual edition of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, we wish you only good things in the new year. L’shana tova! ■ Kenny Blank is the executive director of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival.

Through Different Eyes Greetings of peace to all. My name is Rabbi Shalem Yeshurun. I am the spiritual leader of Congregation Or-Ami in College Park. We are a new congregation working on growing to be a vital part of the community at large. Being African-American and understanding and living a Hebraic/Judaic lifestyle can be a little hairy sometimes. But despite all the ups and downs, we continue to strive for excellence. Rosh Hashanah, also called Yom Teruah in the Torah, is a time when we embrace our undying love for Hashem and realize that his mercy toward us is ever so real. It is a time for us in my opinion to really look within and ask ourselves how we can do better in the new year. Well, to start, we can understand that Hashem is the G-d of the whole

earth. As is stated in Psalms Chapter 24: “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and they who

Guest Column By Rabbi Shalem Yeshurun Congregation Or-Ami

dwell therein.” Once we come to the realization that we are all created equal in His eyes, then we can begin to truly love our neighbors as ourselves. Then we can stand together unified under the banner of Torah and truly mean it when we say, “Hinei ma tovu manayim, shevet achim gam yachad.” L’shana tova. ■ Rabbi Shalem Yeshurun is the spiritual leader of Congregation Or-Ami.

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It’s a 5778 Puzzlement From In the City Camp

(apple) to dip in debash (honey). Shana tova (happy new year) from your friends at In the City Camp!

Dear Atlanta’s Jewish kids (and adults who are kids at heart), It’s time for the Hebrew word of the (holi)day! See what we did there? Find the 10 Rosh Hashanah-themed Hebrew words listed below and learn what they mean. You’ll be the hit of your holiday meal when you ask for a tapuach

In the City Camp (www.inthecitycamp.com) is a culturally Jewish Atlanta day camp that creates lifelong friendships, nurtures personal growth and inspires a meaningful connection to Atlanta’s diverse Jewish community.

Rosh Hashanah Word Search Find the Hebrew words!

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

ROSH HASHANAH (Jewish new year) SHANAH TOVAH (Happy New Year) CHAG SAMEACH (Happy holiday) TISHREI (First month of Hebrew calendar) TAPUACH (Apple) DEBASH (Honey) SHOFAR (Ram's horn) CHALLAH (Jewish bread) MISHPACHA (Family) CHAVERIM (Friends)

ROSH HASHANAH

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Choosing the Right Batteries

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Symbolized by shiny apples dipped in golden honey and the soulful wails of a ram’s horn wafting across halls brimming with worshippers, Rosh Hashanah is the fresh start of a new year. Rosh Hashanah is a time of introspection and growth. It is a time for reflecting on a year passed and paving the path for a better future. For many

of us, however, Rosh Hashanah just comes and goes, a year ends and a new

Guest Column By Rabbi Chezky Edelson Kollel Ner Hamizrach

one starts, and everything is just back to where it began.

Which leaves us wondering, what’s the point of it all anyway? Year after year we celebrate the same holidays and practice the same rituals, but where does this all lead us? To tackle this issue, we need to look at how we view time. Typically, we think of time as a linear system: It’s a long, straight line that started somewhere way back when and continues ahead of us as far as we can see. We view our lives as a never-ending journey down this narrow freeway of time, and as we exert all our efforts to keep ourselves straight on the path, it turns into a challenging task when the scenery becomes so repetitive. In Jewish mysticism we are introduced to another view of time, the cyclical view. Imagine time as traveling a circular route up the inside of a funnel. Each year you pass the same familiar milestones, but you are slightly higher and more broadened than last year. In Jewish mystical thought, it’s understood that each holiday or ritual has a specific and unique influence, a mood that we need to propel us along

our path. Rosh Hashanah is a time for selfdevelopment; it’s a time that empowers us to make positive changes and personal improvements. Our goal is to absorb enough energy from each holiday to propel us around the circuit and back to that same spot again next year. We hope we will be slightly higher and a bit broader when we get back to that spot. If we lose momentum or run out of energy, we are at risk of slowly slipping back down the funnel of life, which we’ve worked so hard to climb. The problem is that inspiration wears off quickly, so after getting uplifted and inspired, we soon find ourselves back in the daily grind, without the energy to propel us to the next level in the coming year. The remedy for this is the priceless pledge, an idea that I got from a unique and inspirational guided service I attended a few years back in Washington. The service was geared toward students and young professionals and followed a no-membership, no-commitment approach. So when the rabbi started making a High Holiday appeal, we were all wondering what we were in for. Then the rabbi started talking about the priceless pledge. He exhorted us to pledge to take one small step, make one small change in our lives for our own betterment or for the benefit of the community. Attend a class, join a social action committee or host an event. This, my friends, is the answer, because inspiration is just a feeling, and feelings wear off quickly. To hold onto that inspiration, we need to solidify it by committing it to something physical, an action that we can actually do and experience. It’s like the battery that holds the charge so you can continue to power your device long after you disconnect the power cord. Every congregation offers a slew of social, educational and charitable opportunities. If you’re tired of the same boring scenery along your journey and you want to experience the exhilarating ascent through life, then don’t sit back in your seat. Grab some batteries to store the energy that you need for the climb. What type of batteries will you choose this year? ■ Rabbi Chezky Edelson is the educational director at Kollel Ner Hamizrach (kollelnh.org).

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Make a Difference as a Moral Person thing to ponder in a quote from Shimon Peres. Peres died a year ago, on Sept. 28, 2016, just a few days before the High

Guest Column By Fred Levick Ramah Darom

Holidays. He was interviewed on the eve of his 87th birthday in 2010 and was asked, “What would you like to pass on to your grandchildren?” He replied, “The most important thing in life is to dare. The most complicated thing in life is to be afraid. The smartest thing in life is to try to be a moral person. There is no greater wisdom.” I’ve read this over and over again: “The smartest thing in the world is to try to be a moral person. There is no greater wisdom.” As we engage in our own selfreflection during this month of Elul,

each of us might ask, “What does it mean to try to be a moral person? And what did Peres mean when he called it ‘the smartest thing in life’?” We live in a world where the normal bounds of what we have known as moral behavior are eroding before our eyes. If this concerns you as much as it does me, I would ask: How can you and I make a difference? Our High Holiday prayers remind us that our ability to affect community begins with our own personal behavior — how we treat others, our family, our friends, and, yes, the stranger — and in our responsibility to our community — what actions we take to support those individuals and organizations that make a difference in creating and sustaining a just community. While the barrage of daily news reports tries to persuade us that the world is terribly messed up, ask yourself: What if the world is better than that? And what am I willing to do to make it so? From Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kip-

pur, I will be asking myself these very questions, and I will be praying for the wisdom and courage to make a difference in the world. I encourage you to do what you can and then do just a little bit more. At Ramah Darom we will continue our efforts to enrich Jewish community by offering exceptional experiences in Jewish living and learning — Camp Ramah Darom, our Camp Yofi for families of autistic children, the numerous programs we offer throughout the year, including our partnership with Limmud Atlanta + Southeast — and in making our Kaplan Mitchell Retreat and Conference Center available to Jewish groups of all kinds for their own programs and events. On behalf of the board of directors and staff of Ramah Darom, I wish you all shana tova u’metuka. May you and your loved ones be blessed with a year of good health, happiness, peace and prosperity. ■ Fred Levick is the CEO of Ramah Darom (www.ramahdarom.org).

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I’ll say it: This has a been a crazy year, filled with many shocks and surprises. On a personal level, I feel blessed — blessed that my family is healthy, blessed to be involved with Ramah Darom, blessed to work with a team of professionals and volunteers who are passionate about building Jewish community, and blessed to be part of an enterprise that engages so many young and old people in finding joy and meaning in Judaism. Yet I will admit that I am troubled by the tumult in the world around us. What is sad is that what once would have been shocking — the lack of civility in daily discourse, the unleashing of racial hatreds — have become the norm. With each new daily outrage, or news that the world has become unhinged, I ask myself, “Who am I, why am I here, and what can I do to make a difference?” I found inspiration and some-

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Finding Great Joy In Times of Sorrow

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

This has been a difficult few weeks. We witnessed two natural disasters that created so much loss of life, not to mention untold damage. On Sept. 11, we again mourned the loss of those who were killed during the worst terrorist attack on American soil. But even as we continue to mourn, we also come to appreciate our lives and the blessings we each have in this country. We cherish how in times of trouble we bond together as one people. I am so proud of how the Atlanta Jewish Academy community and the Atlanta Jewish community as a whole rose to support Houston and Florida these past few weeks. Like 9/11 and our recent natural disasters, the imagery of our vulnerability is visible on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. The Rambam says these days should be filled with fear and awe. On Yom Kippur, we have a custom to wear a kittel (plain, white garment). The kittel resembles the shrouds we wear at death. On Yom Kippur, we fast. Why? We are not commemorating a historical event or a tragedy as on other fast days, such as Tisha b’Av. We fast and do not sustain ourselves, as this brings us a little closer to our fragility. This helps put our mortality into perspective. On the eve of Yom Kippur, we say vidui (confessional prayers) to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to confess before the end of his or her days. To further illustrate this theme, the Gemara in Rosh Hashanah poses the following question: “Why is it that we do not say hallel on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?” The answer: “When the King sits in judgment with the Books of Life and Death open before Him, can Israel sing praise?” (Rosh Hashanah 32a). The High Holidays are when we confront the possibility of death, and therefore it is not an appropriate time to say hallel. As with the events of the past few weeks, these explanations of the Yomim Noraim (Days of Awe) are depressing and difficult to comprehend. But the Yomim Noraim serve an additional function. They have potential to give us the greatest joy in this world. The joy of 86 waking up from our slumber. The joy

of hearing the shofar and opening our eyes to the great promise of life and living. The joy of realizing how beauti-

Guest Column By Rabbi Ari Leubitz Atlanta Jewish Academy

ful and how incredibly priceless our family and friends are. Not only can the Yomim Noraim be a joyous time, but they can also serve as a time of renewal. That same kittel that is worn on Yom Kippur is also worn when we stand under the wedding chuppah. A chatan (groom) does vidui before his wedding, as the wedding is a renewal of life — a new beginning. On Rosh Hashanah, we have oneg and simcha — we celebrate! Honey, pomegranates, round challahs and teiglach (pastries) are some of the many minhagim (customs) that support the message of Rosh Hashanah. Overall, the entire Yomim Noraim are a time for joy and renewal to encourage a new appreciation for life. At the end of Yom Kippur, the final shofar blast is blown. What do people do? What is their attitude? People are elated — they hug and kiss one another. You find your spouse, your partner, your friends, your parents, your children, and you hug them. The feeling is “We did it.” Perhaps this elation comes from the consciousness of our own lives and the appreciation of those who are close to us. On the one hand, we are urgently pleading for life and forgiveness. At the same time, as the Mishnah says, the days of great happiness are ahead — a happiness that comes with an authentic appreciation for life. When we stop to think about how wonderful life is and take stock of the blessings G-d has given us, this will bring us true joy. Wishing joy to all of you, and strength and comfort for all of those who are experiencing challenges or distress. L’shana tova. ■ Rabbi Ari Leubitz is the head of school at AJA (www.atljewishacademy. org).

It’s Déjà Vu Once Again Yogi Berra was famous for his double-entendre Yogi-isms. One of the best known was “It’s déjà vu all over again.” The recent episode of neoNazi, Klan and other alt-right groups in Charlottesville, Va., spewing their hatred of Jews, blacks and anyone else perceived to be “other” has breathed new life into this Yogi-ism. More than 50 years ago Eternal Life-Hemshech’s founders, who survived unspeakable Nazi horrors, designed and built Atlanta’s Memorial to the Six Million. They needed a place to grieve and say Kaddish for their loved ones who had no gravesites. Today, the memorial at Greenwood Cemetery serves as a legacy from the survivors encouraging us to learn from their losses. Hemshech is the Hebrew word for continuation. As this new year begins, we hope to continue sharing the memories and celebrating the love our Holocaust survivors and those who did not survive bequeathed to us. But now we face “déjà vu all over again.” The neo-Nazi chants in Charlottesville that vilified Jews mimicked those heard in 1930s and 1940s Germany. And just as Hitler tried to blame the Jews he was killing, today’s perpetrators are trying to blame their victims. The alt-right bullies are claiming their vicious actions were merely self-defense. What seems new is old. The Turks in 1915 blamed the Armenians for the genocide that tortured and killed more than 1.5 million innocent people. Hitler copied many of the Turkish techniques for annihilating a population. As we know, suspicion and fear of the other are as ancient as humanity. After the American Civil War, the Ku Klux Klan was followed by Jim Crow laws with lynchings, church burnings and denial to black people of access to education and elections. Jews were not exempt from the hatred. In 1941, Charles Lindbergh said that the Jews’ “greatest danger to this country lies in their large ownership and influence in … our press, our radio and our government.” Hardly true, but repeat a lie seven times and people will believe it. The anti-Semitic syndicated radio priest, Charles Coughlin, in the prewar years told millions of listeners, “When we get through with the Jews in America, they’ll think the treat-

ment they received in Germany was nothing.” American pro-Nazi groups held huge rallies. In February 1939, one sponsored by the German-American Bund drew 20,000 people to Madison

Guest Column By Karen Lansky Edlin and Jane Horowitz Bick Eternal Life-Hemshech Square Garden in New York, where they chanted, “Heil, Hitler.” But through it all, our people resist, persist and continue with resilience and resourcefulness. This time, thankfully, virtuous people of all faiths are speaking out against such evil — even while its perpetrators are reported by experts to be growing in numbers. As the haters crawl out from under their rocks to spin venom against Jews and other minorities, good people are standing up to refute them. During Breman Museum Holocaust gallery tours for schoolchildren, survivors who tell their stories sometimes are asked two questions: “Can it happen again?” and “Where was G-d?” The answers: Yes, it can happen again if we are not vigilant in protecting our freedoms; and people made the decisions to hate and kill, not G-d. So where were the people? Actually, there were rescuers and resistors who, at great risk to themselves and their families, saved many Jewish lives. Students learn those heroic stories, too. Today we continue Hemshech’s mission of education to teach what we’ve learned from the past, treasure the survivors who are still among us to tell their stories, and use everything in our power to protect our collective future as the freedom-loving people we are. Everyone at Eternal Life-Hemshech wishes you and your family l’shana tova tikatevu v’techatemu — may we all be written down and inscribed for a good year — as we continue our work toward a peaceful, civil and kinder tomorrow in which we all join the efforts to smother hatred through education so déjà vu will not happen all over again. ■ Karen Lansky Edlin is the president of Eternal Life-Hemshech, and Jane Horowitz Bick is a board member.

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Interfaith Resolutions for Your Synagogue ence working with interfaith couples and families. What is your synagogue’s response to each of the following questions? Based on your responses, you

Guest Column By Rabbi Malka Packer InterfaithFamily/Atlanta

can see where you have work to do. • Does your synagogue’s website have photos that present the diversity of your community, including people of color, same-sex couples, mixed-race families, etc.? While presenting diversity, you also want to be sure to be honest and make sure to present your community as it actually is, not how it aspires to be. • Are all Hebrew words and Jewish “insider terms” that you use on your website translated and transliterated? • Is there an explicit statement on your website letting interfaith couples

and families know that you want them to be part of your community? • Does your website have resources and links to resources (such as interfaithfamily.com) for interfaith couples and families? • Who may be a member of your synagogue? Where are membership policies stated? • Who may be on which committees in your synagogue, and who may hold leadership roles? Where is this stated? On the website or in a pamphlet/brochure? • Are printed ritual policies with explanations accessible? Where are they? On the website? In a pamphlet/ brochure? In a bar/bat mitzvah manual? Do you also have clearly stated policies on all the following? 1. What role may parents and other family members who are not Jewish have during a baby naming? 2. What role may parents and other family members who are not Jewish have during a bar/bat mitzvah? 3. May members who are not Jewish open the ark? 4. If there is a synagogue cem-

etery (or local cemetery), may family members who are not Jewish be buried there? • Does your religious school handbook include information about children from interfaith homes? • Does your b’nai mitzvah handbook include information about interfaith families and extended family from other backgrounds? • Are resources for interfaith families (such as InterfaithFamily’s booklets on a variety of topics) set out and easily accessible? • Is there a guide to your Shabbat service available for those who aren’t comfortable with the service (b’nai mitzvah guests and others)? InterfaithFamily hopes these questions can help guide your synagogue in institutional cheshbon nefesh (accounting of the soul) at this time of the year and encourage an action plan for becoming more welcoming and inclusive of interfaith couples and families in the year ahead. ■ Rabbi Malka Packer is the director of InterfaithFamily/Atlanta.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Just like the approach of the secular new year, the approach of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, is a great time to reflect on the past year and to make resolutions about how you can be better in the year ahead. Synagogues can use this time to take stock of how they’ve been welcoming and inclusive to interfaith couples and families over the past year and how they can be even more welcoming and inclusive in the year ahead. One way to do this is to participate in InterfaithFamily’s Interfaith Inclusion Leadership Initiative. But even for those not participating in IILI, this is a great time of year to come up with an action plan for how to be more welcoming and inclusive. Below are suggestions based on a webinar on “Language and Optics” that we are presenting to IILI participants. These suggestions are the combined work of a number of InterfaithFamily staff members over the years, based on our vast experi-

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It’s Past Time to End One Occupation

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Rabbis who attended the AIPACsponsored National Rabbinic Symposium Association meeting in Washington at the end of August sat in my sessions on Zionism with common interests. Framing the right path, tone and content in their sermons about Israel (should they choose it as a topic) during the High Holidays was on many of their minds. There was a session devoted to “Politics and the Pulpit.” Controversial matters littered plenary and breakout sessions. Among others: • Prayer access to the Western Wall. • Another conversion controversy. • The breach-of-ethics cloud hovering over the Netanyahu family. • No movement with Palestinians. • Israeli intervention to prevent an Iranian proxy presence on Israel’s northern border. • Millennials distancing themselves from Israel. • BDS on campus.

Then, what about Charlottesville, Trump and an inept Congress? A rabbi shared with me that “anything that one wants to address from the pulpit can be toxic and likely

Guest Column By Ken Stein Center for Israel Education

anger-inducing.” “Maybe,” he continued, “it is just better not to do politics or Israel; stick with the holiday texts. Besides, many might be coming to shul to get away from political controversies of the moment.” Confessions are in order. Before the symposium, an organizer suggested that I show up with two ideas that might be considered by the rabbis. I argue that Jews should end the occupation and insist that they are pro-choice. Before you stop reading because you disagree with my titled phrases,

please hear me out. My meanings for the titles are different from what you might believe. For more than four decades in teaching about Israel and the Middle East, it has been my contention that Jews are occupied by what others say. We have as individuals and as a collective often adopted a notion that we are guilty for succeeding in creating a state and that we as a community are solely responsible for what happened to the Palestinians in 1948. A former Israeli consul general in New York, Ido Aharoni, several years ago said this about the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement: “We engage our detractors based on their claims against us, rather than telling our story.” My football field analogy is that many times when discussions evolve about Israel or Zionism, we allow others to start the conversation on our 10-yard line rather than on their 10-yard line. Arab leaders, and Palestinian Arab leaders particularly, made some terribly dreadful choices about manag-

ing their relationships with Zionists and Israel all these years. They need to be held accountable for the consequences of those political decisions. They cannot be excused by telling only the story that they want heard and leaving out their culpabilities. My comment to the rabbis was that if we know our own story, we do not need to get locked into an unending, defensive verbal war against our detractors, arguing every point slung at Jews or Israelis. It is perfectly valid to say that Zionism won. It succeeded in building a state. Did Zionists or Israelis make mistakes along the way and since? Of course they did. Like any person or country, wrong choices were made. We should not feel guilty or apologetic for earlier generations that did it the old-fashioned way through perseverance, sacrifice, commitment and even guile. The only way to feel positive about who we are and what we have accomplished vis-a-vis Zionism is to know how we did it. BDS should not be boycott, divestment and sanctions; it should be belong, digest and spread. Why are Jews pro-choice? We chose to believe in one G-d, and we chose to sustain our families and our traditions when confronted by duress. We chose to convert challenges into opportunities. We chose to take destiny into our own hands. My parents chose to leave Germany to overcome the creeping crud of anti-Semitism before it overwhelmed them. Penniless, they chose to build a new life in America, to raise their kids Jewish, to sustain their identity. My father wrote in my mahzor a phrase I am sure he did not invent: “Know where you came from, so you know where you are, so you know where you are going.” We need to teach our story diligently to our children. We need to belong proudly to it because it belongs to us. Happy new year. ■ Ken Stein is the president of the Center for Israel Education (www.israeled. org), dedicated to teaching Israel’s story.

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Birthright Tops 600,000 Participants denied. Study after study has shown that participants share an increased commitment to marrying a Jewish partner, raising a family in the Jewish

Guest Column By Jessica Katz Yonatan Birthright Israel Foundation

tradition, celebrating Jewish holidays, joining Jewish and pro-Israel organizations, having Jewish friends, and returning to visit Israel. Thanks in part to Birthright Israel, we see an engaged, thriving network of young Jewish professionals in Atlanta who are getting involved and making a difference. While most people in the Jewish world have heard of Birthright Israel, many are unaware of our fundraising needs and of our growing nationwide network of donors. At $3,000 per participant, the cost of sending this year’s 48,000-plus young adults exceeds $145

million. Birthright Israel Foundation, the U.S.-based fundraising arm of Birthright Israel, has more than 30,000 donors from diverse backgrounds, including individuals, foundations, Jewish institutions like Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, family philanthropies, dedicated alumni, their parents and grandparents, etc. Birthright Israel is a powerful, direct investment in our collective Jewish future, which is why we are working so hard to expand our Atlanta donor base. Truly every dollar counts. Our priority is to provide the gift of Birthright Israel for many generations to come as we continually adapt and add trips to meet the increasingly diverse interests of our participants from all corners of the Jewish world. While most contributions go toward the cost of a standard 10-day trip, Birthright Israel also designates funding for customized trips, including those with special needs, an extended 13-day trip allowing participants to earn college credit, and an abridged seven-day trip for those unable to take

off as much time from school or work. I hope you will join us in supporting Birthright Israel and celebrate with us Monday, Nov. 6, at our annual event with keynote speaker Ambassador Danny Danon, Israel’s permanent representative to the United Nations. This special event, honoring Doug Ross, the Atlanta Leadership Council chair and Birthright Israel Foundation national board member, will be unforgettable and give us an opportunity to express our deep appreciation to members of our community for supporting this profoundly impactful program. As we gather with families to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, I want to wish the entire community a happy and healthy new year and thank those who are already part of our growing Birthright Israel Atlanta family. Let us join in the coming year to ensure that even more young Jewish adults can receive this life-changing gift. Shana tova! ■ Jessica Katz Yonatan is the associate regional director in Atlanta for the Birthright Israel Foundation (birthrightisrael. foundation).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

As we enter 5778 and reflect on our accomplishments, we have much to be grateful for. Birthright Israel reached a remarkable milestone this year with 600,000 participants experiencing this trip of a lifetime. Birthright Israel is transforming a generation of young Jewish adults, creating profound relationships with their Jewish peers here and in Israel. The pride and connections they experience in just 10 life-changing days fuel their passion when they return home. They infuse our communities, our synagogues, our Hillels, our Federations, our causes and our families with love for our people and for Israel. Here in Atlanta, we have had over 7,200 of our children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and neighbors participate in Birthright Israel, and I am proud that most Jewish Atlanta families personally know someone who has received this gift. The powerful effect of the Birthright Israel experience cannot be

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A Good New Year Along my journey of life — having two children, losing a husband, starting a nonprofit (the Packaged Good), running businesses for and consulting for companies such as Spanx, Carter’s, Home Depot and CocaCola, living in different cities, traveling to different countries — I have learned that giving to yourself and giving to others is the highest form of good. Giving is powerful. Studies have shown that there is healing power in giving. In the Journal of Economic Psychology in 2014, Baris Yörük found that giving to others reduced stress and strengthened the immune system. A 2008 study by Harvard Business School professor Michael Norton and colleagues found that giving money to someone else lifted participants’ happiness more than spending it on themselves. According to a University of California, Berkeley, study in 1999, people

who were 55 and older who volunteered for two or more organizations were 44 percent less likely to die over a

Guest Column By Sally Mundell The Packaged Good

five-year period than those who didn’t volunteer. Teenagers who participated in volunteer activities on their own had 11 percent fewer illegal behaviors between the ages of 18 and 28 than teenagers who did not volunteer, 31 percent fewer arrests and 39 percent fewer convictions, according to a University of Iowa study released this year. So why don’t people think to incorporate giving into their lives as they do exercise, meditation or even brushing their teeth? I surely didn’t at the beginning of my life journey. I was focused on

Startup to Incubator

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Little ideas adapted from bigger ideas elsewhere often take on a life of their own. Sometimes they even become big ideas of their own. Limmud began over 35 years ago in the United Kingdom. Those who imagined Limmud believed that providing a place for Jews throughout the country to learn and celebrate their Judaism during the last week in December opened many new channels for engagement. Limmud in the United Kingdom grew to the point that more than 2,500 people gather for its major program, Conference, and over 500 for its summer gathering, Limmud in the Woods. This little idea from England spawned numerous similar events, touching the lives of thousands of likeminded Jews across the globe. In winter 2007 a small group gathered in Atlanta to create a Southeast Limmud experience. Our dreams were to draw a few hundred people. Were we ever surprised a year later when over 600 gathered at Oglethorpe University for the inaugural event. Limmud’s teachers made it the place to be, and the little idea has 90 taken on a life of its own. It is no

The first of two events on consecutive weekends packing supplies and care packages for Texas includes education for the young dogooders, such as a wall showing flood levels in Houston.

longer just an event that brings people together over Labor Day weekend. Limmud has become a major gateway for young adults to discover their Jewish life and to begin making personal

Guest Column By Paul A. Flexner Limmud Atlanta + Southeast

contributions, not only to Limmud, but also as innovators and entrepreneurs in the Jewish community. The volunteer leaders who step forward each year to create Limmud are recognized as both professionals and volunteers by the larger Jewish world. This contribution to our future leadership makes the Limmud experience valuable to all who participate as learners and teachers. On behalf of those who have stepped forward to create the Limmud experience, we take this opportunity as a collaborative to wish all a shana tova u’metuka. ■ Paul A. Flexner is the president of Limmud Atlanta + Southeast (www. limmudse.org).

success, a house, a career and things. Nothing like a tragedy, perhaps a flood or a death, to reset and remind you what is most important in life. I started the Packaged Good almost a year ago to create a platform to empower the community and kids of all ages to give more through community and private events such as birthday parties, Scouts, youth groups and more. We host events to support natural disasters, local homeless people, soldiers internationally, refugees and seniors in our community. Recently, we hosted an event for Texas, and over 400 people came out to pack care packages and fill a 26-foot

truck with supplies. We’ve sent over 17,000 care packages around the world to children in Haiti, soldiers in China and our neighbors in need in Georgia. I hope that’s only the beginning. As we approach a new year, I hope you’ll join me, our new executive director, Samantha Kurgan, and the Packaged Good team to make this year a good year and help us make a difference in our own community, the world and you. ■ Sally Mundell is the founder of the Packaged Good (www.thepackagedgood. org).

Season of Awe, Action We are entering the Days of Awe — awesome and awe-inspiring. We are aroused from the lazy days of summer, inspired by the magnificence of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and called to action. During these last days of Elul, we are preparing to be our very best selves. We fill our hearts with possibilities of good wishes and good deeds. We clean our homes and fill our kitchens with holiday comfort foods and bring on the honey for a sweet new year. We prepare ourselves by listening to liturgical music, reading or writing heartfelt poetry, and doing just one more mitzvah — just for good measure. My family — and I am sure yours — follows and passes along these traditions of preparing to be our best. Hadassah Greater Atlanta is a family with our traditions and awesome role models. Hadassah Greater Atlanta shares and loves like family. Over 100 years ago, our founder, Henrietta Szold, inspired us to be our very best selves: “Dare to dream, and when you dream, dream big.” Her actions complemented her words. She sent two nurses into occupied Jerusalem to treat the suffering

of mothers and babies. From these beginnings grew the Hadassah Medical Organization. We have awesome programs in Atlanta, such as Check It Out, promoting

Guest Column By Sheila Dalmat Hadassah

high school girls’ body awareness; the first Hadassah’s IncrEDIBLE Cooking Competition on Jan. 21, 2018; and the groundbreaking Breast Strokes A.R.T. (Awareness, Research and Treatment) gala on March 18, 2018. We nurture the EVOLVE initiative to engage younger women; the inaugural event is Oct. 26. What we do as individuals is awesome. What we do as Hadassah Greater Atlanta is awe-inspiring. We welcome everyone — members, associates (men) and guests — to join us this 5778 in a year of health, education, advocacy, happiness and peace. ■ Sheila Dalmat is the president of Hadassah Greater Atlanta (www. hadassah.org/atlanta).

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ORT in Atlanta Supports Top High School in Israel The ORT high school at the Hodayot youth village has been recognized as one of the 2017 top high schools in Israel by the Ministry of Education. Hodayot is one of three schools within the World ORT Kadima Mada network to be awarded this distinction, along with the high school in the Kfar Hassidim youth village and the Levinson high school in Kiryat Yam. Each of those institutions serves youths at risk from troubled backgrounds who face academic hardships. “ORT America Atlanta Region is extremely proud to support the high school in Hodayot, which was identified as one of the top-level high schools in the country,” said Rhoda Gould, the ORT America Atlanta Region presi-

dent. “We have an ongoing commitment to Hodayot youth village in the Lower Galilee region to raise funds for capital upgrades and renovations of the Hodayot school. We will do whatever it takes to enhance learning con-

Guest Column By Rachel M. Miller ORT America

ditions for the students and provide better resources for the teachers.” ORT America supports the educational network of World ORT, providing programs for more than 300,000 people in 37 countries focused on science, technology, engineering and math, as well as Jewish values.

World ORT in Israel is Kadima Mada (Science Journey), a multifaceted operation of educational opportunities primarily in under-resourced, peripheral areas of the country. World ORT Kadima Mada specializes in STEM instruction to give students a solid foundation for rewarding careers in the high-tech marketplace. Its educational network includes students with socioeconomic challenges who have failed in the conventional academic system, affiliated schools, partnerships with technical colleges, the YOUniversity after-school program, the Kav-Or program for hospitalized children to maintain their academic progress and training for teachers. Ofer Yerushalmi, the principal of the school in Hodayot, is not surprised by the recognition of three Kadima Mada network schools.

“Our schools provide a supportive educational environment for a diverse population; we take responsibility for the development of the values and personalities of our students and guide them accordingly,” he said. “In Hodayot, Kfar Hassidim, as well as other Kadima Mada locations, many students are immigrants from disadvantaged families who have performed poorly in the traditional system, and for most, these schools are their last chance.” You can invest in our high school students in Hodayot and other vital ORT educational programs that benefit over 300,000 individuals annually. For more information, call 404-3275266, or visit ORTamerica.org. ■

• I want to be kinder to the people I love the most. • I want to get to know people who are different from me as well as members of my community I don’t really know that well. • I want to give more tzedakah because I am truly blessed. • I want to figure out what my spark is and discover my true talents and creativity. • I want to read more about current events in America and Israel so I can get involved and make my opinion heard. • I want to try something I’m afraid of to see if I can do it. • I want to count my blessings every single day so I remember how lucky I am. • I want to do my best and try my

hardest in all areas of my life so I don’t have any regrets. During my decade-long tenure at the Davis Academy, I have grown accustomed to hearing such wisdom and maturity from my students. I have also grown accustomed to watching so many of them not only meet their goals, but also surpass them. I have often remarked that educators are, by nature, optimists. In sharing some of the wisdom of the Davis Academy student body with you, I hope that optimism spreads so that we can all embrace 5778 and the promise of a sweet new year. ■

Rachel M. Miller is the director of ORT America’s Atlanta Region (ortamerica.org/regions/atlanta).

The Future Is Bright Keep in mind these are children ages 4 to 14. I hope you will agree that their aspirations are our aspirations

Guest Column By Rabbi Micah Lapidus Davis Academy

and that the future is bright because these children will grow up to be the leaders of tomorrow. In no particular order: • I want to practice being a mensch and living my values. • I want to figure out how I can make more contributions to my kehillah (community).

Rabbi Micah Lapidus is the director of Jewish and Hebrew studies at the Alfred & Adele Davis Academy (www. davisacademy.org).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Here at the Alfred & Adele Davis Academy we are excitedly preparing for Rosh Hashanah and the High Holidays. Amid our preparations, many of our students are taking time to think about their goals for 5778. Not only are they thinking about their goals, but also about who they want to be and the kind of world in which they want to live. When I stop to reflect on this exercise, I realize how incredible it is that the Atlanta community is able to support a Reform Jewish day school that inspires kids to think about the world beyond themselves. In that spirit, I wanted to share a few of the things I have heard from our students.

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Food, Memories and Making a Difference What’s your favorite part of Rosh Hashanah? Listening to the shofar? Casting away your sins during Tashlich? For many people, the enduring aspects of the holiday center on food. Tearing off a chunk of a fresh, round challah. Savoring Bubbe’s tender brisket. Dipping apples into honey for a sweet new year. Food is a sacred and meaningful part of Jewish observance. When Gunther Hecht, Alli Allen and Shirley Leaderman Bernes founded Second Helpings Atlanta in 2004, they wanted to link food and Jewish values in a new way. The nonprofit organization they created was an expression of tikkun olam, the mitzvah of working to repair a broken world. The model was simple: Volunteer drivers would rescue surplus food from stores, schools and other sites and drive it to agencies that serve the hungry. And it worked. What started as a social action project at Temple Sinai has grown into a citywide effort that has rescued and distributed nearly 7 million pounds of food. Every day of the week, dozens of

SHA volunteers crisscross the metro area, picking up food from school cafeterias, grocery stores, farmers markets, corporate dining rooms, churches, synagogues and sports venues. Our volunteers come from diverse faith backgrounds and cultures. Some are retired. Some are students. Some participate through work. All are com-

Guest Column By Sheri Labovitz Second Helpings Atlanta

mitted to driving out hunger. The satisfaction of providing food to people in need isn’t limited to those who drive. It’s also in the hearts and minds of the 65 food donors that provide the bounty — from dairy products to meat, fresh produce, gourmet prepared meals, baked goods and more. For some, the environmental impact of food waste is a driving force. Food rescued by Second Helpings Atlanta ends up on the plates of the hungry in our community, not in our

landfills. The combination of sustainability and service is compelling to those who seek a better world. That gets me back to Rosh Hashanah. If you’re like me, the holidays are a time for reflection. While I may not always leave services with a Jan. 1-style list of resolutions, I do take time to think about how I can get closer to my goals. Some are challenging and illusive. Others, like reducing hunger and food waste, are easier to address. If you’d like to become a Second Helpings Atlanta volunteer this year, we encourage you to sign up at www. secondhelpingsatlanta.org (see the red Volunteers button across the top on the right). We’ll find a convenient route that fits your life. If you’re in a position to donate food — through your employer, a business you own or your simcha leftovers — we want to hear from you. If you have administrative or tech skills, we

need your expertise. Perhaps none of this works for you. Maybe you’re more interested in making a monetary donation to Second Helpings Atlanta (www.secondhelpingsatlanta.org/support) or taking small, personal steps to reduce hunger in the new year. Possible steps include checking your pantry before you shop to avoid overbuying, using leftovers rather than tossing them, and encouraging your kids to take only what they can eat at a buffet or event. About 40 percent of all food is wasted in our country. As you gather around the holiday table this year, I hope you will take a few minutes to think about the blessing of food. On behalf of the board, volunteers and food donors of Second Helpings Atlanta, I wish you a sweet, healthy and peaceful new year. ■

SHA volunteers pick up food from school cafeterias, grocery stores, farmers markets, corporate dining rooms, churches, synagogues and sports venues.

Sheri Labovitz is vice president of Second Helpings Atlanta (www.secondhelpingsatlanta.org).

Given in the Wilderness, Torah Belongs to Everyone

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

It is noteworthy that the Torah (the Five Books of Moses) was not given in a Jewish country. Israel is a Jewish country. Always has been. Always will be. But the Book of Numbers explicitly tells us that the Torah could not be given in the land of Israel; it had to be revealed in the Sinai wilderness, in a land that does not belong to any one nationality. The Jewish lesson that the Torah ultimately belongs to everyone has a number of applications. But the one that comes to my mind is that I conducted in the past few years a number of bar and bat mitzvah for children with special learning needs. The yearlong preparation for a bar or bat mitzvah service is a lengthy, rigorous and intellectual process that does not fit every child’s learning profile. It can take hours (and hours) of practicing prayers and learning to decode ancient biblical texts. But every 92 child comes with a unique skill set,

and hence each child needs a specific way to prepare. Some children have relatively minor disabilities, which may (or may not) include ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, a place on the mild side of the autism spectrum or mild issues with executive

Guest Column By Rabbi Steven Lebow Temple Kol Emeth

function abilities. In many of these cases, sensitive Temple Kol Emeth banal mitzvah tutors custom-fit the prayers and Torah portions to each student, and each one performs up to his or her ability. However, over the past few years I was faced with three specific challenges: a child with a panic disorder, a child with moderate autism/Asperger’s syndrome and a child with profound developmental disabilities.

In one case (the panic disorder), the child could not perform in front of a large bar mitzvah crowd. However, over time, we were able to have the child adapt to having 10 to 12 people in the room — his immediate family. Early on, we decided to move the service to the Lebow Chapel, and the child performed flawlessly. In a second case, the child with moderate Asperger’s was tutored rigorously, over and over again, with the same prayers and readings, which satisfied his need for complete orderliness with no ambiguity at all. As long as he knew exactly what was expected of him, no more and no less, the child with Asperger’s performed beyond expectations. Finally, the child with profound developmental disabilities could not learn to read the Hebrew letters, could not learn the melodies, could not learn to read from the Torah. This was “a bridge too far.” That said, the student learned to memorize, by heart, some of the melodies.

He learned, by heart, to say a few words from the Torah portion. He learned the first confidence of standing up in front of a room of 50 people to strut his stuff. I can’t tell you how proud the parents and the grandparents were of this child, able to overcome vast difficulties to take his rightful place among the Jewish people. So I guess the upshot is this: I’d like to think that I am a really good teacher for superior bar mitzvah students. But probably all synagogues are good at working with the easy students. Here at TKE, however, we like to pride ourselves that every child, whatever his or her abilities, will feel like a success on the bar or bat mitzvah day. And that, my friends, is why the Torah was given in the Sinai wilderness: because it belongs to everyone. Have a great new year. ■ Rabbi Steven Lebow is the senior rabbi of Temple Kol Emeth (www.kolemeth.net).

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Hoping to illustrate an important and timeless lesson before the new year, the story tells of a rabbi who stood before members of the congregation one evening and held up a glass of water. The rabbi asked all who were present: “How heavy is this glass of water I am holding?” Congregants called out answers that ranged from 8 ounces to 20 ounces. The rabbi replied: “All fair guesses, but in truth, the accurate weight is irrelevant. What matters is how long I attempt to hold it. If I hold it up for a minute, that’s not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I will likely develop a cramp and ache in my arm. And if I hold it for a day, I might need an ambulance! In each case, the weight of the glass of water does not change, but the longer I hold onto it, the heavier and more serious it becomes.” Placing the glass of water on the podium, the rabbi went on: “The same is true when we continue to hold onto problems, unresolved conflicts, life’s stresses and emotional baggage for too long. Sooner or later, the weight of these burdens becomes unbearably heavy. The obvious lesson is that, just like the glass of water, we have to put things down for a while before trying to hold it all up again. When we are feeling refreshed, we will then possess the necessary strength to carry any new challenges we might pick up in the future.” The message of this brief illustration is especially timely for this season. Before Rosh Hashanah arrives and we start a new year, we should

take advantage of this time to address — and possibly even put away — the individual burdens we have likely been carrying far too long. Devote some attention to the relationships in our lives that need

Guest Column By Rabbi Ron Segal Temple Sinai

repairing. Assess the issues weighing us down emotionally and make a plan to unload them. Reflect on the ways we might not have been our best selves in the year that is ending and determine to be better in the year ahead. Each of us undoubtedly appreciates the fact that life is complex. While we pray for boundless blessings, we understand and acknowledge that the year ahead will also present us with new challenges and conflicts. Thus, if we take the time to address and resolve the issues weighing us down now, we will be prepared to enter 5778 with refreshed spirits, renewed strength and firm resolve to not only relish the joys, but also confront whatever challenges await us in the days to come. Along with my colleagues at Temple Sinai — Rabbi Brad Levenberg, Rabbi Sam Shabman and Beth Schafer — we are wishing you and yours a shana tova u’metuka. ■ Rabbi Ron Segal is the senior rabbi at Temple Sinai (www.templesinaiatlanta.org).

A Healthy Generation Is Just a Spit Test Away As 5777 comes to a close, we look back on special moments that make us smile. We treasure the year’s festive milestones: weddings, babies, anniversaries, birthdays and other simchas. Looking ahead, it is important to think about how we can positively affect the lives of our friends, family members and the entire Jewish community in the coming year. One way is to prevent devastating diseases in future children and grandchildren. That may seem like a huge undertaking, but, thanks to the work of JScreen, planning for healthy families is easy, convenient and affordable. While we are preparing for the holidays, we should keep in mind that September is Tay-Sachs Awareness Month. Tay-Sachs is perhaps the best-known Jewish genetic disease, thanks to public health awareness and screening campaigns in the 1970s and 1980s. During that time, screening for Tay-Sachs became so widespread and mainstream that the prevalence of this devastating disease in the Jewish community was reduced by 90 percent. Now the next generation needs to be reminded of the importance of screening for Tay-Sachs, as well as over 200 other diseases that are part of JScreen’s genetic screening panel. People who have not been screened for this full panel of diseases and are planning to start or expand a family need to update their screening. JScreen is a national nonprofit Jewish genetic disease screening program based out of Emory University School of Medicine’s department of human genetics.

JScreen brings the innovative technology of genetic screening and the peace of mind it provides to your front door and can be completed from the comfort of your own home. JScreen’s panel of more than 200

Guest Column By Karen Grinzaid JScreen

genetic diseases includes over 100 diseases common in people of Ashkenazi, Sephardi and Mizrahi Jewish ancestry. Screening is important for Jewish individuals and couples, as well as interfaith couples. JScreen provides results via phone or videoconferencing with a certified genetic counselor, so you can ask questions, understand your results and talk through all your options to help ensure that you or your loved one has a healthy baby. JScreen is accessible anywhere in the United States. In fact, since launching in 2013, JScreen has tested thousands of people in all 50 states. We have a suggestion for your first good deed of the year. JScreen challenges you to mention genetic screening to five people over the High Holidays. Tell them to check out JScreen.org to learn more and to request a DNA spit kit. This year you have the capacity to change someone’s life. JScreen wishes you and your family a happy, healthy new year. ■ By Karen Grinzaid is the executive director of JScreen (jscreen.org).

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Grab the Chance to Grow Your ‘Family’ “What’s the most important thing in the world?” My dad poses this question at every Shabbat dinner, every Rosh Hashanah, every seder that we celebrate together. Since we were toddlers, my three siblings and I always emphatically respond, “OUR FAMILY!” For my entire life, my family has emphasized the importance of the family unit, working together as a team and taking care of one another whenever possible. When I moved to Atlanta two years ago, however, I feared that I would lose that close connection with my family members as we scattered across the country to pursue our individual dreams. Thankfully, however, when I started my journey as a Moishe House Buckhead resident in the spring, I realized that I would remain close with my siblings and parents, but also that I could grow my definition of family to include the new relationships that I would make through Moishe House. Last month, Moishe House residents from around the world gathered at our national convention in Wisconsin. During this action-packed weekend, I immediately realized that Moishe House, like my own family,

recognizes the importance of family ties. In fact, Moishe House leaders organized us into “mishpacha,” or family groups. In these groups of four to six people, we discussed topics ranging

Guest Column By Cassidy Artz Moishe House

from how to plan Jewish learning activities to how to work through house conflicts. Not only did I appreciate the dialogues initiated in my mishpacha group, but I also loved the fact that Moishe House, much like my family, values and emphasizes family ties, shared values and mutual support. As Rosh Hashanah begins, I find myself drawn back to this concept of family. Rosh Hashanah celebrates the new year, a time of new beginnings and opportunities to grow as a Jewish person; I reflect in gratitude. I am grateful for my Moishe House roommates and their ability to foster an inclusive, welcoming environment for our community members.

I am grateful for the other Moishe House residents in Atlanta, who open their doors to our community and always offer sage advice on how to excel in our programming for the many young Jewish people who join us for Moishe House events. I am grateful for all our community members, our friendships and the work we do together to improve our world. I am grateful for the Moishe House organization as a whole, providing us the opportunity as twentysomethings to go out and make a difference. Whether we’re hosting a Shabbat dinner at the house, donating to a local Jewish organization or participating in a Marcus Jewish Community Center sports league, we continue to grow together as a new family. Every time I walk through our front door in Buckhead, I am greeted with grins from my three roommates. Every time we host an Israeli pool party, I am surrounded by enthusiastic, loving community members who value one another and the community we build together. Every time I receive an email from our Moishe House regional director, I feel elated that she, along with the rest of the Moishe House family, truly cares about our growth as young Jewish adults. On this Rosh Hashanah, I chal-

lenge my fellow Jewish community members to branch out and discover more opportunities to grow their definitions of family. At Moishe House Buckhead, we invite the young Jewish professionals of the greater Atlanta area to join us as we celebrate the new year and continue to make a difference in the Jewish world. Find our group on Facebook. Attend a football watching party. Volunteer with us at a food bank. Most important, however, allow your family to grow. Rely on others and appreciate that others may rely on you. Let this new year catalyze the start of a new friendship, and let your friendship grow. As we dip apples into honey to represent the sweet new year, immerse yourself into a new environment to find a sweet addition to your mishpacha. In the city of Atlanta, the Jewish community thrives and provides opportunities to truly forge meaningful connections. Appreciate these new connections because, at the end of the day and at the end of the year, we will always remember the most important thing in the world: family. ■ Cassidy Artz is a resident of the Buckhead Moishe House (www.moishehouse.org/houses/atlanta-buckhead), one of three Atlanta Moishe Houses.

Renew Us for a Good and Sweet Year

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

On Rosh Hashanah it is customary to offer this seemingly simple wish: “May it be Your will, G-d, to renew us for a good and sweet year.” To fulfill this charge on the highest level, however, Jewish tradition requires us to engage in teshuvah (thoughtful reflection leading to personal growth) so that we may plan for a year that is not only pleasant, but also filled with meaning, purpose and service to causes greater than our own self-interest. Great schools — those that promote a culture of study, with rich content and critical discussion of great ideas — have served as the means by which the Jewish people have survived and thrived for over two millennia, providing our best means to access the wisdom, critical thinking and ethical judgment to do acts of tzedakah and gemilut chesed (service and activism) 94 that bring positive change to the world.

Looking to the year ahead, I am reminded of the lyrics to one of Paul Simon’s greatest songs: “These are the days of miracle and wonder.” Today, as our young people face a

Guest Column By Rabbi Ed Harwitz The Weber School

world filled with unparalleled opportunities and challenges, we must ensure that Jewish schools do not merely offer the sweetness symbolized by apples and honey, but also provide dynamic, creative educational settings that prepare them for college and careers and cultivate them as intellectually, socially and ethically advanced young adults with the desire and capacity to serve the Jewish and broader communities of North America and Israel.

An ambitious mission, no doubt, but one that is necessarily embraced by educators in Jewish schools. At the Weber School, where we have welcomed a record 270 students in Grades 9 to 12, our faculty and staff work to create a culture of teaching and learning that fosters wisdom, critical thinking and ethical judgment through ongoing innovations: • Advanced interdisciplinary academic electives in English and Hebrew language and literature, STEM, social studies, Spanish, French, American Sign Language and other languages. • One-of-a-kind community engagement opportunities, such as our legacy program Peace by Piece, along with new initiatives in Jewish sustainability and environmental stewardship and the establishment of a student-managed Office of Tikkun Olam and Community Service. • Along with the Senior Year Israel-Poland Experience, expansion of Spanish immersion learning programs,

in which students visit the Jewish communities of Spain, Cuba and Argentina. • A record number of athletic teams competing in the Georgia High School Association, along with expanded electives in club and intramural sports, health, and fitness. • Growing courses and co-curricular opportunities in visual arts, theatrical productions, instrumental and vocal music, and dance. • The expansion of three student fellowships — Social Entrepreneurship, Teaching Fellows, and Public Relations & Marketing Fellowship. On behalf of the students, families, and dedicated teachers and staff of the Weber School, I offer you wishes for a shana tova u’metuka — best wishes for a new year in which we experience a “good and sweet” year of high meaning and purpose. ■ Rabbi Ed Harwitz is the head of school of the Weber School (www. weberschool.org).

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Be Your Own Jew tion’s events. She “did not belong” there. We heard, “My parents forced me to go to Hebrew school” and “I hate going to synagogue.” Our peers repeat-

Guest Column By Michelle Levy The Sixth Point

edly shared stories of feeling judged, feeling guilty and feeling left out. While it pains me to know that people had these traumatic Jewish experiences, we found comfort in knowing that we were not alone. Through these conversations, we developed the core values and guiding principles for an initiative. It became clear that young Jews were thirsty for a place of belonging that was welcoming and nonjudgmental, where we could decide for ourselves how to be Jewish and do Jewish. What started out with 19 people in my living room is now a nonprofit

organization called The Sixth Point, an independent, nondenominational Jewish community for young adults in their 20s and 30s. We recently observed Shabbat with dinner and carnival games at Skyline Park on the rooftop of Ponce City Market. We once sang Havdalah at Atlanta Food Truck Park. Why not celebrate Simchat Torah with an improv comedy troupe attempting to perform the entire Torah in 60 minutes? (Not hypothetical — we actually did that.) We commemorate Tisha B’Av by volunteering at a charity — our way of rebuilding in the face of destruction. We make our own hamantaschen and our own Chanukah candles. Through all these experiences, we have made memories, formed bonds and built friendships that have created a strong Jewish community. Today, the stories we hear are much different: • “For the first time since I was a kid, I found what I was looking for — an independent Jewish community that made me feel wanted, included,

valued and not judged.” • “I consider myself lucky to have found such a warm and welcoming group of people at the Sixth Point, who have helped me find my own way to do Jewish.” Young adulthood is a time of self-discovery and independence. We are trying to understand who we are and determine who we want to be. The Sixth Point helps young people find their way along that journey. In the end, no matter our age, it’s up to each of us to find our comfort level and create our own personal Jewish identity. If you value and believe in what we’re doing, I invite you to show your support with a donation at thesixthpoint.org. If you’re a young adult who is interested, check out our Rosh in the Park alternative to services on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. More details at thesixthpoint.org. ■ Michelle Levy is the founder and CEO of The Sixth Point (thesixthpoint. org).

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Growing up in Atlanta, I was just about as involved in Jewish life as you could get. I attended Hebrew school until I graduated from high school. (Yep, my friends said, “I didn’t know there still WAS Hebrew school!) I also taught Hebrew school, read Torah at my synagogue, was heavily involved in BBYO and attended Camp Barney for 15 years. And that doesn’t include keeping kosher at home, holding weekly Shabbat dinners and attending seders with my family. I was in a Jewish sorority, became involved in Hillel as a student and went on to work for Hillel for three years after I graduated. It wasn’t until I moved back to Atlanta at age 25 that I found myself lost on my Jewish journey and less connected to the Jewish community than I had ever been in my life. I tried to get involved. I attended events. I reached out and tried to volunteer for leadership roles. But I just couldn’t find my place in the community. I never found somewhere that I felt I belonged. So I gave up. I just decided that I had no choice but to be disconnected (not to mention disappointed). I was bitter and cynical. And so went my 20s. But a few years later, a dear friend challenged me and inspired me. “What if you could do something about it?” she asked. So in May 2013 I gathered a handful of people in my living room for a focus group to talk about my idea to start a Jewish organization in Atlanta for young adults. The conversation included reflections on negative experiences we’d had in the Jewish community. As participants shared their stories, this focus group quickly turned into a therapy session. We heard from someone who felt judged when she attended a Jewish event. She felt like an outsider. Another participant’s Jewish education taught him that there is only one right way to be Jewish, and everything else is wrong. We listened to a young woman who went to shake the hand of a rabbi who is shomer negiah (someone who refrains from physical contact with members of the opposite sex), and his reaction was so upsetting to her that she never returned to that organiza-

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Centuries of Meaning in Random Encounters On Friday nights at camp I always share a story with our Camp Coleman community. One of my favorites is a story that Elie Wiesel told our class at Boston University one day more than 30 years ago about an encounter he had in Saragossa, Spain, when he was a correspondent for the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. In a cafe, a man approached and offered to be his tour guide for free. As they spoke, it soon came out that Wiesel was Jewish and knew how to speak Hebrew. The tour guide said, “I’ve never met a Jew or someone who understood Hebrew, but I have something I want to show you, and you can tell me what it is.” The two men walked to the guide’s villa, and when they entered, Wiesel noticed a large picture of the Virgin Mary hanging on the wall. Asking Wiesel to wait in the main room, the tour guide stepped into an adjacent room and returned with a fragment of a yellowed parchment and asked Wiesel if it was Hebrew. It was. Wiesel took the parchment, and as he read it, his eyes widened in awe of what he was reading. He realized he was reading a document that was nearly 500 years old. He started to translate it for the guide. This is what it said: “I, Moshe Ben Avraham (Moses, the son of Abraham), forced to break all ties with my people and my faith,

leave these lines to the children of my children and theirs, in order that on the day when Israel will be able to walk again, its head held high under the sun without fear and without

Guest Column By Bobby Harris Camp Coleman

remorse, they will know where their roots lie. Written at Saragossa, the ninth day of the month of Av, in the year of punishment and exile.” Wiesel exclaimed: “This is an amazing historical document. We must share it with scholars, museums.” The guide pulled it closer to his chest and said: “I am forbidden to let this out of our family. It has been passed down to me as it was passed down to my parents. They told us that if it was lost, a curse would come upon the entire family.” Wiesel then understood that the guide was a direct descendant of Moshe Ben Avraham’s. In awe of this discovery, the guide asked Wiesel to describe how he was connected to Moshe Ben Abraham. Wiesel described the Jewish history of Spain. He explained that after centuries of persecution and torture, Spanish Jews were forced either to convert or to leave Spain or to face death.

On Tisha B’Av (the ninth day of the month of Av) in 1492, the day referenced in the document, all Jews were officially expelled from Spain. The guide’s ancestor had been forced to convert to avoid expulsion and wrote this letter to his children so that the truth of their origins would not be lost. The guide was overwhelmed, and before they said their goodbyes, he asked Wiesel to write down the translation of the document. Five years after this encounter, Wiesel was on his way to cover a story at the Knesset in Jerusalem when a man stopped him on the street. The man said in Hebrew, “Hello! Don’t you remember me?” Wiesel did not recognize him. The man then said, “Saragossa, Saragossa,” and suddenly it clicked. The guide said, “I have something to show you.” He took Wiesel to his apartment. He opened the door and showed him a picture frame with the yellowed parchment on the wall. But this time the man read it to Wiesel: “I, Moshe Ben Avraham, forced to break all ties …” The two men spoke for a while, and the guide shared that, after their meeting in Saragossa, he had pursued learning Hebrew and eventually decided to move to Israel. As their second meaningful encounter was about to end and Wiesel got up to leave, the man stopped him and said: “You forgot to ask me my name. I want you to know my name. It is Moshe Ben

Avraham, Moses, son of Abraham.” I am not even sure that I can describe all or even most of the reasons that this story resonates so deeply for me. Perhaps it is a story of loss and revival so relevant to our Jewish story. I also love that what seems like such an ordinary and random encounter between Wiesel and the Spaniard ends up as a life-changing one filled with deep significance and meaning. Or is it that the story captures so well how small actions like taking a few extra moments to write a note to one’s children can make a difference even 500 years from now? When I share this story, I carry with me a mockup of what that parchment might have looked like. I tell the community that it is not an authentic replica but something that was made in our camp art room. I include this parchment because I want them to believe that the story can be real — that our actions really do matter, that our encounters and relationships and how we treat each other, even the random stranger, mean something today about the people we are trying to become both individually and collectively. ■ Bobby Harris is the director of URJ Camp Coleman (campcoleman.org) and the director of youth and camping services for the Union for Reform Judaism’s Southeast Region. The Elie Wiesel story appears in Wiesel’s book “Legends of Our Time.”

Books Are Just the Start of the PJ Story

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

“Apples and Honey: A Rosh Hashanah Lift-the-Flap Book” helps us have a meaningful conversation with our children about the significance of the shofar and the round challah in a fun, child-friendly manner. Every night before bed, we read Jewish books to our kids and have many stories because of PJ Library. For those who are unfamiliar, PJ Library in Atlanta sends over 2,700 Jewish-themed, age-appropriate, free books every month as a gift from our Jewish community and offers over 50 high-quality programs throughout the year. As we enter this new year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on PJ Library in Atlanta’s successes 96 this summer and share some plans.

This summer we launched A PJ Library Summer, a summer series that aimed to create neighborhood-

Guest Column By Vicki Abelson and Cobi Cohen PJ Library

based Jewish communities to welcome families through smaller and more individualized programs. We are thrilled to share that 138 families — over 460 people — attended 13 gatherings in 11 neighborhoods over three months. According to our survey, 97 percent agreed that attending this event made them want to attend another Jewish event in Atlanta.

We brought Jewish programming to larger audiences, with 38 percent of participants not having attended any other program by a Jewish organization in the past two months. We are energized by these results and plan to continue this model. Please look for upcoming information on fall programming for grandparents and their young grandkids. In addition, PJ Library in Atlanta received a grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation that will enable us to hire several part-time PJ baby connectors in underserved areas, with the aim of connecting families who have children under the age of 3. Our plans also include continuing to partner with many day schools, synagogues and other community organizations. Coming soon is the fourth an-

nual Book It to Shabbat weekend in partnership with Ramah Darom. The weekend — Oct. 20 to 22 — is our very own version of “Camp Wonderful Wild” (whose author was our author in residence in 2015) and features nature hikes, story time with a fabulous PJ Library author, a family Shabbat experience and much more. In 5777, we sent over 31,400 PJ Library books to families in Atlanta, and we hope to bring even more books to our community this year. We look forward to continuing to build Jewish communities through books, programs and partnerships for families, and we hope that you will join us in this effort. L’shana tova u’metuka! ■ Vicki Abelson and Cobi Cohen are the co-chairs of PJ Library in Atlanta (jewishatlanta.org/program/pj-library).

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The Book Never Closes on Life And this is where the words of the prayers, even in their most traditional form, tip the scales. The words of the prayers, in all their description of the awesome power of G-d and the humble, fragile nature of human beings, never waver from the belief that the Book of Life

Guest Column By Rabbi Michael Bernstein Congregation Gesher L’Torah

is always open. Because while the Talmud talks of life and death, the mahzor, the prayer book for the High Holidays, mentions only the Book of Life. Still, even focusing on the one book can leave the sense that Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are an either-or proposition: Do what it takes to get written and sealed for life or be left to a different fate. And certainly this understanding is only made more severe by the imagery of the Unetaneh Tokef with its citing of the year’s pos-

sible terrors, such as fire, earthquake and flood. The literal implications of this liturgy can make it as challenging as its majestic melody makes it moving for so many, and there are many beautiful commentaries to help place it in a context of responding to, rather than ordaining, life’s vicissitudes. Even with the theology of Unetaneh Tokef and its focus on the writing and the sealing of the judgment, we do not find anyone written out of the story. We do not see the kind of statement of ostracism that made such an impact in the life of this friend of the person who asked the question. Whether G-d writes or we write or the writing is simply the footprints left in the shifting sands of our lives, a new page is always waiting; the book is always open. Even as we find ourselves with more contemporary readings of the Book of Life, a story from the Hasidic

tradition shows the power of taking it more literally. Once when the High Holidays fell on Shabbat, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, known as the great defender of the people Israel, addressed G-d before the service. “Master of the Universe,” he called out, “today is Shabbat, and writing is prohibited. Of course, to save a life, anything is permitted. So, by your own rules, you may not write anyone in any book but the Book of Life.” Whether as a way of expressing the openness to whatever life brings or in the spirit of the Berditchever Rebbe’s assertion, may each of us find ourselves in the pages of life’s book, inscribed for well-being, vitality and joyful blessing. ■

While the Talmud talks of life and death, the mahzor, the prayer book for the High Holidays, mentions only the Book of Life.

Rabbi Michael Bernstein is the spiritual leader of Congregation Gesher L’Torah (www.gltorah.org).

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This year I accepted an invitation to speak as part of the “Know Your Neighbors” interfaith series at Johns Creek United Methodist Church. When the presentation was opened up for discussion, questions ranged from the most basic (“Why do you wear a head covering?”) to the more complex (“Do Jews believe in a messiah?”). But by far the most memorable moment was when a woman in the back row asked me about a friend of hers who had been born into a Jewish family but no longer felt like he belonged. He had, she related to me, been told that because of decisions he had made in his life, he had been inscribed in the Book of Death. “Is there really a Book of Death?” she asked. My heart sinks again just retelling the story. And while my answer to this woman was briefer, I felt it was worth expanding here on what I told her. The heart of her question is tied up in a central image of the High Holiday liturgy: We pray throughout the season that we be inscribed and sealed b’sefer chayyim (in the Book of Life). The Book of Life has its source in the Talmud in two main places. “Rav Kruspedai taught that on Rosh Hashanah three books are opened, one book for the completely righteous, one for the completely wicked and a third for those who are in between.” Elsewhere these open books are referred to as the Books of the Living and the Dead. So according to the most literal reading of these traditions, the new year becomes a time in which the Holy One sits to judge each of our fates, and the results are recorded according to our worthiness. Rav Kruspedai’s description of this divine accounting influences many prayers and customs of the season. Even one of the greetings for Rosh Hashanah is “May you be written in the Book of Life,” and the corresponding words for Yom Kippur are g’mar chatima tova: May the sealing (of the inscription) be finished well. Even without a literal understanding of these books, they play a large role in the way we think about what is at stake each year. So is there a Book of Death for this person’s friend to find himself recorded in?

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South Georgia Shuls Earn Places in Book of Life By Rebecca McCarthy

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

In the beginning, they would gather in one another’s houses for Friday night services. Gradually, the number of Jewish people scattered across South Georgia increased enough for them to build synagogues or rent buildings in their own communities. Larger congregations like those in Valdosta and Albany called rabbis and started religious schools. And during the High Holidays they welcomed home those who had grown up and moved away for jobs, college or other opportunities. For Yom Kippur, Lisa Duffey and her two children will make the fourhour drive from Carrollton to Waycross to spend the weekend with her family there and worship in the Waycross Hebrew Center. Her father will drive up from Florida, her cousins will come from other counties, and everyone will join her 87-year-old grandfather, Al Jacobson. In the past, the congregation engaged a student from the Conservative Jewish Theological Seminary for the High Holidays, but not this year. Conducting the services will be Waycross native Rich Ruskin, “who’s very educated in Judaism” and who’s retired and coming from Atlanta with his son and granddaughter, Jacobson said. Maybe 15 or 20 people will attend. For Rosh Hashanah, local people will bring dairy dishes the first day. Assuming the recovery from Hurricane Irma is sufficient, Jacobson will drive to Jacksonville to buy kosher meat for the second day’s sandwiches. “On Friday night, when we light the lights, we will talk about people in the past,” he said. The number of members has dropped so that usually on Friday night there aren’t enough people to make a minyan. Jacobson’s nephew, who comes to Waycross from Camden County, usually leads the services. “When I go back there, I feel full,” Duffey said. “I’m sad for my grandfather that the numbers are dwindling, but there’s such a sweet energy. It feels more authentic than any synagogue I’ve found in Atlanta. I’ve been taught how forgiving, loving and supportive G-d is, and that’s what I teach my children.” When the Waycross Hebrew Center was formed in 1924, Jacobson’s father was the vice president, and the congregation worshipped in a rented building in downtown. Jews who were living in the towns around Waycross, 98 such as Blackshear, Alma and Baxley,

About 15 to 20 people will gather for High Holidays in the Waycross Hebrew Center, built more than 60 years ago to hold 100 worshippers.

came for services and fellowship, and 48 families were involved. Most members of the congregation, like the Jacobsons, were merchants. A rabbi would come from Valdosta for special occasions. In 1952, the people in Waycross built a synagogue capable of seating 100 people, as well as a kosher kitchen and a social hall. A rabbi came from Valdosta to give religious instruction to the boys. During Rosh Hashanah, downtown businesses in Waycross, even ones not owned by Jews, would close for two days, Jacobson said. The number of congregation members began declining in the 1960s and ’70s. Jewish-owned businesses closed. Children often had no interest in running the family business, and if the business was a store, it had to compete with large national retailers. Jacobson’s Department Store on Main Street in downtown Waycross closed in the 1970s when Duffey was 10. Her grandfather and father went into real estate. Lately, though, the number of people at the lay-led services is increasing. “What’s interesting is that we have people who come to services who aren’t Jewish,” Jacobson said. “They’re just very interested in Judaism.” Like the Jewish congregation in Waycross, the Fitzgerald Hebrew Congregation has no full-time rabbi — the only full-time rabbi was Nathan Kohen, who served from 1947 until his death in 1975. Today, members employ a rabbinical student from the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York. For the past year, Rabbi Rafi Spitzer has traveled once a month to Fitzgerald, flying from LaGuardia to Savannah, renting a car and driving three hours to Ben Hill

County. He preaches Friday nights and teaches for 2½ hours Saturday, “and I’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback for my teaching,” he said. His wife will join him in Fitzgerald for the holidays this month. When he’s not there, the Friday night services are lay-led. “It’s a long schlep from New York, but it never feels that long,” Rabbi Spitzer said. “It’s been a year, and it’s already starting to feel like my community. It feels like going home.” The synagogue is in a renovated and updated former Methodist church, bought in 1939. The congregation formed in 1942. This year three new stained-glass panes will be unveiled during services. Rabbi Spitzer is expecting about 120 people, though as many as 200 have attended in other years. Many people who grew up in Fitzgerald but moved away for college or jobs return for the holidays. The congregation is made up of “committed, curious, loving people,” Spitzer said. “They’re a small bunch of hardy folks. And they really care about making their community as good as it can be.” Fitzgerald resident Ed Kaminsky grew up attending synagogue with his family and friends, many of whom owned dry goods stores in Fitzgerald or in nearby towns. Of those businesses, only The Big Store in Tifton is still open. Kaminsky’s father opened a pants manufacturing company in Fitzgerald in the 1930s. As a young man, Kaminsky moved to Atlanta, where he directed a plant making cloth. He has since moved back to his hometown. “We may have standing room only at the holiday services,” he said. “We’ll have kosher meals every day. On Thurs-

day there will be lunch and dinner, and Friday will have dinner. We’ll also have a bar and a social hour.” While the number of Jews in Fitzgerald continues to shrink as people die, Kaminsky is hoping for new members, including the new manager of Ben Hill County, who is Jewish. Jews began settling in Valdosta in the decades after the Civil War, but not until 1904 was there a large enough and observant enough group to incorporate as the Conservative Valdosta Hebrew Congregation. Today, Valdosta is the only congregation within 100 miles with a fulltime rabbi, Israel-born Rabbi Moshe Elbaz. The congregation meets in a synagogue that was built in 1962 and whose social hall and kitchen were renovated and updated in 2016. On the Wednesday before Rosh Hashanah, this year Sept. 20, the congregation welcomes different dignitaries from the area who offer greetings for the holidays. Among those attending in the past were a district court judge and a library director. At the end of Yom Kippur, the entire Valdosta community is invited for a full break-the-fast dinner, an event that has become a tradition. The congregation also opens its doors to personnel from Moody Air Force Base. Rabbi Elbaz is expecting 150 to 200 people at High Holiday services, more than the 65 or so who regularly attend. Of those members, maybe two dozen are people who converted to Judaism — and who traveled with the rabbi to Israel beforehand. Some of those coming for Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur will be Valdosta State University students or former members who grew up in Valdosta but moved away. But members, not visitors, will blow the shofar and read the Torah, the rabbi said. In Brunswick, Rabbi Rachael Bregman is a full-time rabbi who divides her time between caring for the 65 or so members of Congregation Beth Tefilloh and representing Judaism to the larger community. She leads a seder during Passover that attracts Christians, is a member of a ministerial board, and helps organize a food and culture festival in March. The congregation was formed in 1886, and the temple was built in 1890, dedicated by Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise, the pioneer of Reform Judaism in America. Rabbi Bregman expects about

ROSH HASHANAH

Former Atlantan Rabbi Rachael Bregman, shown in 2015, works not only to serve Brunswick’s Congregation Beth Tefilloh from the pulpit, but also to build connections with the non-Jewish community.

100 people for Rosh Hashanah, with 30 or so in the afternoon and 80 in the evening. “Most people don’t come home for the holidays,” said Stacy Stell, the president of the synagogue. “They just celebrate wherever they are. But we have people who come from McIntosh County and from Savannah as well.” Stell was the director of the synagogue’s religious school for eight to 10

www.atlantajewishtimes.com years, and she said she took a group of kids through confirmation. She also said that in the past few years interest in religious instruction has waned among young families, a trend that concerns her. Rabbi Phil Cohen lives in Greensboro, N.C., where his wife is the director of Jewish Family Services. He travels to Albany twice a month for services at B’nai Israel, a Reform synagogue. The other weeks, services are lay-led. For the holidays, the synagogue doesn’t have a cantor, but it does have a professional quartet, with one member driving to southwest Georgia from New York to provide “exceptional music” for services, the rabbi said. The congregation will recite Tashlich prayers together during Rosh Hashanah, and it will share food when people break their fasts after Yom Kippur. Though he has been going to Albany for less than a year, Rabbi Cohen

said he has developed a feel for the congregation. “The holidays are a magnet for any Jewish community,” the rabbi said. He plans to use the holidays to introduce himself to the full congregation, which includes 50 families. Many of those families have adult children who will return to Albany for the High Holidays. “I’m going to use them to sketch out what I would like to see the congregation doing and how I would like it to mature over the next year,” Rabbi Cohen said. “I want to talk about how we can respond to the problems in Houston.” The synagogue has a small religious school, and the rabbi said he has engaged with the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life in Jackson, Miss., to obtain a curriculum. Businessman Steve Fink is the president of B’nai Israel. A native of

Albany, Fink, 71, joined the synagogue in 1972 when he returned to town after attending college and working for a while. When he was growing up, he said, the congregation had a full-time rabbi, a practice that continued until “the congregation dwindled and we couldn’t afford it.” At B’nai Israel, Fink said, someone can be a member as long as he or she isn’t practicing another religion, regardless of whether that person is Jewish. A large number of members are married to non-Jews. Most members are senior citizens, he said, and only three families have children in Sunday school. “It’s difficult to get people to hold office,” Fink said. He is the president of the congregation for the third time and is entering the last year of his threeyear term. “Getting older people to participate isn’t easy.” ■

Rabbi Confident of Path to College Park The words of the Shema resonating through the small synagogue sounded like the traditional prayer Jews have chanted for centuries, but the melody, backed by a quartet of large conga drums, was straight out of the Southern black gospel tradition. Welcome to Congregation Or-Ami (Light of My People), one of Atlanta’s newest Jewish religious communities and the first local synagogue founded by African-Americans. The small worship space in a halfvacant office park next to the railroad tracks in College Park has all the usual furnishings: a modest ark for the Torah scroll, a simple reading table for the Torah service and a lectern for the rabbi. The women sit on one side of the room, modestly dressed in long skirts and turbans. The men, on the opposite side, daven with prayer shawls and covered heads. Leading the service on a typical Shabbat morning is Rabbi Shalem Yeshurun, a graduate of the Israelite Rabbinical Academy and a second-generation rabbi who grew up Jewish in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. “A lot of Jewish people don’t agree with the drumming,” he said, “but our concept is that the Sabbath is a day of rejoicing and a day of worship.” He added: “It’s a joyful day, and the Scriptures say make a joyful noise for Hashem.” For 10 years after moving here

from New York, he and his family made the 65-mile round trip from Riverdale in south Atlanta to Congregation B’nai Torah, a Conservative synagogue in Sandy Springs, for Shabbat worship. “I grew stronger in my convictions when I moved to Atlanta and saw how I was accepted at B’nai Torah,” Rabbi Yeshurun said. “The color of my skin didn’t matter. As long as you believe and you have faith, you’re accepted.” But so-called Black Jews or Hebrew Israelites, as they prefer to be called, have not always found acceptance as a religious movement in official Jewish circles. Their founder, the self-proclaimed Rabbi Wentworth Matthew, who established the Hebrew Israelites over a century ago in New York, was twice turned down for membership in the New York Board of Rabbis. The established branches of Judaism kept their distance. Israel doesn’t grant them automatic citizenship under the Law of Return. Over most of the past century there was little or no contact between white and black Jews. But relationships have begun to thaw. The chief rabbi of the International Israelite Board of Rabbis is Capers Funnye, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the prestigious Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership. His Chicago synagogue, which is listed on the Guide to Jewish Living website of the Chicago Jewish Federation, is the largest congregation of the approximately dozen Hebrew Israelite

synagogues. And he is an accepted member of the Chicago Board of Rabbis. Just before President Barack Obama’s first inauguration in 2008, he was the featured speaker on Martin Luther King Day at the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York, the first Hebrew Israelite religious leader to be so honored by an important mainstream congregation. It may have helped that he is Michelle Obama’s first cousin, a connection that was prominently mentioned during his visit in recent years to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. When the International Israelite Board of Rabbis met for its annual meeting in August, the Israelites chose Atlanta. The choice was in part recognition of the importance they see in their new congregation. It was recognition as well, perhaps, of the important role Atlanta’s Jews play in the national Jewish community. The importance of that connection hasn’t been lost on Rabbi Yeshurun in College Park. “My goal is to bridge those spaces between the African-American community and the Jewish community as a whole,” he said. “We have a little different flavor, but, bottom line, we do the same things, we respect the same things.” The four-hour service I attended was little different in many respects than an extended Shabbat service in most parts of America. There was a prayer book with all the important

Photo courtesy of the International Israelite Board of Rabbis

Rabbi Shalem Yeshurun of Congregation Or-Ami recites the Motzi during a recent Shabbat celebration at the synagogue in College Park.

prayers in Hebrew and English. The Torah service extended aliyot for the honor of reading from the Holy Scripture. There was a discussion of Jewish dietary laws, and an emphasis was placed on understanding the moral lessons of the weekly parshah. As the holy season of holidays approaches, Rabbi Yeshurun is as sure as he has ever been of the path that he is on. “I know this is where I am supposed to be. When I get up every morning and put on my tallit before I go to work in the morning, it is that ruach, that spirit, that overtakes me,” he said. “It lets me know that I couldn’t be anywhere else.” ■

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

By Bob Bahr

Bob Bahr will conduct High Holiday services for Shema Yisrael — The Open Synagogue and for the Jewish residents at Huntcliff Summit, a senior living community in Sandy Springs. All evacuees from Hurricanes Irma and Harvey are welcome to attend Shema Yisrael’s services free with IDs and no tickets; see www. 99 shemaweb.org for the schedule.

ROSH HASHANAH

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Stepping on the Scale On the last day of our summer vacation, I made a short but important stop. While it might sound trivial to you, it was very important to me. The same stop last year had in some ways changed my life and set me on a path of transformation and renewal. Exactly one year earlier, as I was about to head back home from our vacation and dive into yet another year of the hustle and bustle of life, I had stopped at the scale in my parents’ summer home to check in for an honest assessment of the state of my weight challenges. The number that flashed on the screen was one that I had never before seen associated with my name. I was extremely disappointed. There were many times before that I wasn’t pleased with the scale’s findings, yet this measurement was off the charts. Then and there, before stepping off the scale, I made a firm resolution. The next year would be totally different. I would finally make the changes needed to improve my situation and become the slim person I wanted to be. By the time I returned next summer, the scale wouldn’t recognize me. Here I was 12 months later, stepping back onto the Catskills scale for a blunt review of my year’s efforts. I closed my eyes for a moment, then I peeked. The number was lower than last year, and for that I was delighted. Yet it was still a far cry from where I needed and had hoped to be. I closed my eyes and tried to understand where I had gone wrong. I was so inspired and motivated when I first set out with my lofty ambitions and had invested many efforts toward reaching my target number. The next few minutes were spent in a meditative state, reviewing my

habits and experiences of the past year. There were moments I was proud of and others when I wished I had acted differently. Times I had been wise and those when I had been foolish. Occasions when I had acted with selfcontrol, yet others when I had slipped.

Guest Column By Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz Chabad of North Fulton

There were good decisions and bad ones, smart moments and others that demonstrated a lapse in judgment. There were cravings that were justifiably satisfied and other indulgences that should have been skipped. The numbers were now in, and while I was somewhat pleased with the results, I had no one to blame other than myself for the less-thanperfect outcome. I resolved once more to be more careful in the coming year and set my sights on a personal goal that I can reach if only I stay focused and strong. As I slowly walked off the scale, I couldn’t help but think about the irony of going back to Alpharetta to start preparing myself for the coming High Holidays, when we all step onto the ultimate scale for the annual and honest review of our behaviors and actions in the past year — when we get to see where we stand with regard to the most important areas of our lives. I resolve to work on being a much better person and committed Jew in the coming year. ■ Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz is the director of Chabad of North Fulton (www. chabadnf.org).

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A Yizkor Poem By Sheri and Emily Rosenblum A mother-daughter collaboration Yizkor comes from the Hebrew word zachor, meaning “may G-d remember.” The memorial service is recited on Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shavuot and Passover. It is customary to give tzedakah to elevate the souls of those who have passed. It also aides in our personal atonement, as an act of lovingkindness. Yizkor dates back to the time of the Maccabees. From generation to generation, l’dor vador, remembering loved ones, as it should be. Precious loved ones, who are no longer in life’s picture, Incredible memories, give solace and substance for anchor. Life is hard and oh so cruel, In our mind’s eye, they remain our own sparkling jewel. As we reflect on our own mortality and hope to be written into the Book of Life this year, We take a moment to remember our departed loved ones, we cherish so dear.

All About the Journey It is traditional to read either the creation story or the binding of Isaac on Rosh Hashanah. But I have often thought the better Torah portion for New Year’s would be when Abraham and Sarah are called to begin their journey to a “land they do not know.” Rosh Hashanah is the beginning of our cheshbon hanefesh, or personal accounting and inventory. Hopefully, we have prepared for this inventory during the month of Elul. Accounting and preparation are essential because how we account for the past is how we prepare for the future. In Elul (“searching” in Aramaic), we examine the mistakes of the past year so as not to repeat them. In particular, this means taking an honest look at what is trapping us and preventing us from truly moving forward. In the portion Lech Lecha, G-d tells Abraham, “Go from your land, your birthplace, the home of your parents, to the land that I will show you.” Even before Google Maps and GPS, G-d’s command is odd because when you tell someone to travel, you usually specify the destination. You don’t describe over and over again the point of departure. After all, we know from where we are leaving. But here G-d tells Abraham to leave his land, his birthplace and the home of his parents — three descriptions of his present location. When it comes to the destination, G-d tells him only to go “to a land,” without naming

it or even hinting at where it is. In a drash from the Meaningful Life Center, we learn that Hasidic thought, which gives voice to the inner dimension of the Torah, explains that in truth this verse is a commandment issued by G-d to each of us: “Go on a journey of self-discovery. Leave behind

Guest Column By Rabbi Harvey Winokur Temple Kehillat Chaim

anything that might hold you back. And then I will show you the landscape of your divine soul — the true you.” If you want to discover your higher self, this is the secret. The Ten Days of Atonement are a time for us to pack our bags — literally or metaphorically — and set out on a new path. But as with Abraham and Sarah, the destination is unknown. What will the new year bring? We pray to be written into the Book of Life. In truth, to create meaningful change, it is just as important to know where your journey begins as it is to know the destination. May we all be like our patriarch and matriarch and embrace the journey into the unknown and make of it an itinerary of self-discovery. ■ Rabbi Harvey Winokur is the spiritual leader of Temple Kehillat Chaim (www.kehillatchaim.org).

BUSINESS

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A Call to Accounting Yes, it’s true: In business, cash is king. Once Mark understood all this, the answer was simple. He needed an infusion of cash to get back on his feet. Then he needed to calculate the dollar amount that each new account drained his cash flow and for how long so as not to get in that position again. Above: Tip Top crams in more than 1,000 items. Left: Tip Top Kosher Market owners Yehonatan Hazot (left) and David Malka have Congregation Ner Hamizrach Rabbi Shmuel Khoshkerman in their store.

Coach’s Corner By Jason Adler JasonAdler@johnmaxwellgroup.com

He then set terms of net-30 with all new and existing clients. Within six months Mark was back on the road to a healthy business. Problem solved. Mark needed an evaluation and reconciliation to understand how to best manage his business’s cash and grow his company. Cash flow and profits are both crucial aspects of a business. Cash flow is the inflow and outflow of money from a business. It is necessary for daily operations, taxes, inventory purchases, and payment of employees and operating costs. Profit is the surplus after all expenses are deducted from revenue. Profit is the overall picture of a business and the basis on which tax is calculated. Determining which aspect is more important depends on the business and the circumstances. You should know before you start your business when and how to look at all your accounting statements. In business, a visit to the king of accounting statements is always available. At this time of year we all should be examining our spiritual books and do an accounting of where we are. What is our relationship to our king? While it is never too late to have a relationship with G-d, our lives become more enriched with our king in it today. Listen to the wake-up call, and let’s go visit him in the field. I want to wish all my readers a g’mar chatima tova! We should all be blessed with spiritual and material growth in the upcoming year. ■ Jason Adler is a John Maxwellcertified executive coach (www. johncmaxwellgroup.com/jasonadler) helping people and their organizations hire and keep quality employees.

Tip Top Meets Demand for Israeli Kosher Market By Patrice Worthy Word of mouth can make or break a business in the Jewish community, and between that buzz and Facebook, Tip Top Kosher Market is off to a roaring start. The Israeli kosher market at 2211 Savoy Drive, Suite B, in Chamblee was opened this summer by Israelis David Malka and Yehonatan Hazot, who are intent on giving Israelis a taste of home and expanding kosher options for Atlanta’s Orthodox community. “The community has been oversupportive,” said Malka, who has lived in the United States for 13 years. He said G-d picked the location on an access road running alongside Interstate 285. He and his partner decided to open the store in June and by August were up and running. The timing was fortuitous, providing another source for kosher products just before a spike in demand with the influx of Hurricane Irma evacuees. “For a long time it was my dream to open up a market here and in Israel,” he said. “We saw the Israeli population rising and the Jewish population rising, and we thought it would be a good idea.” Tip Top Kosher Market carries more than 1,000 items, most of which are Israeli. Shelves are stocked with such popular products as Bamba, Elite Peanut Wafers, Dr. Fischer’s skin and hair care products, Pinuk shampoo and conditioner, and Milky yogurt. Store manager Micka Lewit said the idea was to give Israelis an outlet

for products particular to Israel. The store will expand with a kosher restaurant featuring an Israeli menu and a chef from Raphael, an upscale restaurant in Jerusalem. “We want to cater to the Orthodox too and touch all levels of Judaism,” Lewit said. “Many of the items you can’t find anywhere else.” The store carries unusual items, such as fish pots, water heaters for Shabbat, Bodin pink hairspray and even Pez dispensers. Customers can call in orders to be shipped anywhere in Georgia. “A lot of the customers come in and say they’re in heaven because these are products they used growing up, especially the candy,” Lewit said. Rabbi Mark Zimmerman of Congregation Beth Shalom and his wife, Linda, are regular customers because they now have many Israeli products available just miles from their home. “I have an insane love for Nesher Malt Beer. It’s my favorite nonalcoholic drink, and you can’t get it anywhere,” Rabbi Zimmerman said. “I also love the sesame candy bars and the Mediterranean olives.” Linda Zimmerman, who does most of the baking in the family, said it’s easier to find kosher baking products, especially for cakes and other sweet treats. “Other stores don’t have the variety of flavorings or spreads,” she said. “It’s much easier to find items like that here. I make my own challah, cakes and cookies, so it’s wonderful to have this variety. I’ll be doing a lot more ex101 perimenting.” ■ SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

We are in Elul, the month before Rosh Hashanah, the day we crown G-d as king. There are many customs and observances during this month in preparation for our yearly reconciliation with G-d our king. One custom is to blow the shofar every day at the end of morning services. The rabbis discuss several reasons for these daily blasts. The following is my interpretation and how we can apply this ritual to our business life. There is a thought that during Elul, G-d goes out in the field (metaphorically speaking) and waits for us to visit him. The daily blowing of the shofar is a reminder. We should do a lot of preparation and be in the proper physical and emotional state to meet the king. In life, with G-d as our king, anything is possible. When your focus shifts off that spiritual ideal, your path can become a slippery slope. In business, there are often daily wake-up calls. Business owners would do well to listen and act in response. Oftentimes, I am called on to help after many of these wake-up calls. The business owner is in a state of panic for any number of reasons. The No. 1 question I am asked in this situation is “If I am showing a profit, why am I going broke?” The answer is different for every business, but the problem is universal. Most often the answer can be found in the cash gap. Here is one client’s story. Mark started his own landscape business. Because he had many contacts in commercial real estate, Mark decided to target the commercial landscape business. His business took off like a rocket. Mark was an excellent salesman, and his business grew from 10 to 20 accounts to 50-plus in a short time. Then the bad news set in: He had no cash in the bank even though he had more business than he could handle. Mark did not account for his immediate need to pay employees and vendors while his customers took 30, 45 or even 60 days to pay him. The more accounts Mark sold, the bigger his immediate expenses became. His cash gap grew larger as his business became bigger. The king of all the financial statements is the cash-flow analysis statement.

OBITUARIES

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Frances Brand 85, Atlanta

Frances Jean Brand, 85, of Atlanta, formerly of Sunrise, Fla., and Oak Park, Mich., died Friday, Sept. 8, 2017. Frances was born in Poland and immigrated to Montreal before the outbreak of World War II. She grew up and graduated high school in Montreal before moving to Detroit in the early 1950s. There, she started a family, raising her three sons in the suburb of Oak Park. In her retirement years she resided in Sunrise, finally moving to Marietta to be near family in 2017. Survivors include her son Dr. Ted (Bonnie) Brand of Marietta; son Bruce Brand of Dallas; son Richard Brand (Alan Keith) of Altadena, Calif.; grandchildren Jacob, Shana, Miriam, Sara and Eli; and great-grandchildren Ariel and Elan. Sign the online guestbook at www.jewishfuneralcare.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or a charitable organization of your choice. A graveside service was held Sunday, Sept. 10, at Arlington Memorial Park with Rabbi Joshua Heller officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

G. Alan Katz 88, Marietta

G. Alan Katz, a veteran of the Korean War and longtime resident of Marietta, died Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017, at age 88. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Janet Schulman Katz; four children, Sandee K. Panichi (Kevin), Nancy C. Brown (Michael), Stephen M. Katz (Rachel) and Robert N. Katz (Kathleen), all of whom live in the Atlanta area; eight grandchildren, Laura Poteet (Michael) of Woodstock, Aaren Panichi of Marietta, Matan Katz of Tel Aviv, Andrew and Julie Katz of Marietta, and Daniel, Gildea and Caitlin Katz of Decatur; and one great-grandchild, Logan

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Poteet of Woodstock. Katz was born in Louisville, Ky., on March 3, 1929, to Anna Gertrude and Raymond R. Katz. The close-knit family included his brother, Donald B. Katz, M.D., (Shirley) of Louisville, who survives him. Katz grew up and attended high school in Chicago and thereafter returned to Kentucky to attend college at the University of Louisville. He was a licensed pilot and a member of the rifle team and ROTC while in college. Katz, an expert marksman, served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War and was based in Okinawa, Japan. In 1954, after returning from military service, Katz married Janet Schulman, daughter of Rose and Harry Schulman, at the B’rith Sholom Temple in Louisville. Their marriage took place in the same room in which Janet taught Sunday school. Katz later joined the group and pension division of the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Co., where he was quickly promoted through the ranks to senior management positions. In 1973, Katz was transferred to Atlanta, and he retired from John Hancock as a senior executive in 1987. After retiring, Katz embarked on a second career as a tax specialist. After undergoing extensive training, Katz performed tax-related consulting, preparation of simple and complex returns, and other services for corporations and individuals from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds — from senior executives to new immigrants. Katz, a lifelong golfer with nine lifetime holes-in-one, served for many years on the executive committee of the Georgia State Golf Association and as a rules official for various tournaments and U.S. Open qualifying rounds. In 2008, Katz received the Bill Todd Award from the GSCA for long years of service to the organization and the game. Golf, with its strict rules and code of honor, was more than a game to Katz. Golf was a metaphor for how Katz conducted his life: with integrity and honor. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Temple Kol Emeth, 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta, GA 30062, www.kolemeth.net/A-Children-s-Memorial-Garden-537.aspx, or Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 404-785-4483, www.choa.org/ donors-and-volunteers/ways-to-give, choagiving@choa.org.

The Jewish Breakfast Club Featured Speaker

ANNE SCHUCHAT, M.D.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Principal Deputy Director and Former Interim Director, Centers for Disease Control Prevention Rear Admiral, U.S. Public Health Service

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Dr. Schuchat joined CDC as an Epidemic Intelligence Service officer in 1988. She has served in various leadership posts over the years, and currently serves as CDC principal deputy director, a role she assumed in September 2015. She served as acting CDC director from January-July 2017 and was director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases from 2006-2015. Dr. Schuchat played key roles in CDC emergency responses including the 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza response, the 2003 SARS outbreak in Beijing and the 2001 bioterrorist anthrax response. Globally, she has worked on meningitis, pneumonia and Ebola vaccine trials in West Africa, and conducted surveillance and prevention projects in South Africa. Dr. Schuchat graduated from Swarthmore College and Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine and completed her residency and chief residency in internal medicine at NYU’s Manhattan VA Hospital. She was promoted to Rear Admiral in the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service in 2006 and earned a second star in 2010.

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OBITUARIES

Sidney Newman 73, Atlanta

Sidney Marvin Newman, age 73, passed away peacefully Monday, Sept. 4, 2017, at Hospice Atlanta. Sidney was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. He was the beloved husband of Regina Newman and devoted father to Philip (Shira), Jodi (Mark) Beck and Jocelyn (Jeffrey) Soltz. He is also survived by his six loving grandsons, Ethan, Jacob, Adar, Jonah, Benjamin and Gabriel. Sign the online guestbook at www.edressler.com. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Congregation Beth Shalom or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Sept. 6, at Crest Lawn Memorial Park. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Frederick Scheer 93, Atlanta

Frederick Oscar Scheer of Atlanta died Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017. He was born in Eatonton in 1924. Fred attended school in Eatonton, then the University of Georgia, but left to join the U.S. Army and was called to active duty in spring 1943. Fred served in Europe and was captured and taken prisoner of war in France in 1944. He escaped the German prison camps three times. In 2015 he received the French Legion of Honor for his service. The adventures of his time in Europe are contained within the pages of his book, “A European Sojourn, 1943-1945.” Released from active duty, he returned to Eatonton. He married Gerry Kessler in 1947, and they were married for 69 years until her death in January 2017. He ran a farming and poultry business, Scheer and Scheer, until 1953, when he moved his family to Atlanta. Fred went into the commercial real estate business and was ultimately the co-owner and president of Haas & Dodd Realty Co. until his retirement. During his professional career, he was elected Realtor of the Year as well as president of the Atlanta Board of Realtors. Fred was a lifetime member of Kiwanis, beginning with the Eatonton Kiwanis Club, then as president of the North DeKalb Kiwanis Club and finally with the Peachtree Atlanta Kiwanis Club. He was an active, devoted Kiwanian for 70 years. He is survived by his brother, George M. Scheer Jr. (Michele), and sister, Happy Scheer Shaw (Irving); three children, Roslyn Scheer (Larry Rosen), Roy Kessler Scheer (Carol) and Barbara Scheer-Eason; two grandchildren, Claire Scheer Galloway (George) and Robert Kessler Scheer (Maria); and two great-grandchildren, Jackson Robert Galloway and Benjamin Crawford Galloway. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gerry Scheer; a sister, Gloria Rose Leder (Morrie); and a son-inlaw, Fred H. Eason, of blessed memory. In retirement, Fred and Gerry enjoyed extensive travel and time with family and friends. After Fred’s book was published, he became a popular speaker to students, military veterans, seniors and many others about his war experiences. Sign the online guestbook at www.edressler.com. Memorial contributions may be made to The Temple. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Regency Home Care, Guardian Home Health and Weinstein Hospice, but most of all to Silvaria “Sam” Miles, Fred’s companion and caregiver in his final months. A memorial service was held Sunday, Sept. 10, at The Temple, with a reception afterward. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Gerald Brumer of Dunwoody on Aug. 29. Deborah Fallick, 74, of Sharpsburg, mother of Ira Fallick and Seth Fallick, on Aug. 27. Alberta Foreman of Atlanta, mother of Jacqueline Cottrill, on Sept. 7. Ruth-Anne Hackner of Atlanta on Aug. 29. Lawrence Hirsch of Milton on Aug. 19. Yulia Nemtseva of Dunwoody on Aug. 17. Lazar Ringo, 90, of Atlanta, husband of Malvina Ringo and father of Gregory Ringo and Ralph Ringo, on Aug. 19. Fran Schlucker of Atlanta on Aug. 17. Rosemary Thropp of New York, mother of Congregation Beth Shalom member Steven Thropp, on Aug. 28. Barry Weiner of Sandy Springs, husband of Linda and father of PJ, Joe and Dan, on Aug. 20.

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The De-Lights of DeMille Holocaust Survivors Inspired Cuban Prisoner New York Times best-selling author Nelson DeMille introduces a new character, U.S. Army combat veteran Daniel “Mac” MacCormick, in his new thriller, “The Cuban Affair.” It’s the first stand-alone novel in over two decades for DeMille. He’s also with a new publisher after books such as “Radiant Angel,” “Plum Island,” “The Charm School,” “The Gold Coast” (my favorite), and “The General’s Daughter,” which was made into a film starring John Travolta. He will speak at the Marcus Jewish Community Center at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26., along with Alan Gross, the Jewish businessman/consultant who was imprisoned in Cuba for five years. DeMille’s new central character, Mac, is a charter boat captain who is about to set sail on his most dangerous cruise yet, from Key West to pre-thaw Cuba. The book is filled with blistering adventure and fascinating facts about Cuba, including a dark, shocking secret that could freeze the thaw. Mac learns that someone who fled Castro’s revolution hid $60 million in Cuba, and it’s only a matter of time before someone finds the stash. Mac knows that if he accepts this job, he’ll walk away rich or not at all. With his signature humor and heart-pounding pace, DeMille does not disappoint. Here’s our chat. Jaffe: You’re back in Atlanta. How do you view our city? DeMille: Atlanta is a great book city with enthusiastic crowds. Among authors, Atlanta is cherished.

SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

Jaffe: In your early days, why did you use all the different pen names? DeMille: For on-the-job training, I was writing paperbacks on police procedures for various publishers at $1,500 a book, one completed every two years. Hard to make a living at that rate! Jaffe: Share your observations about your visit to Cuba. DeMille: I expected it to be more of a police state. It’s not recommended to go walking in Moscow after dark. But Cuba at night lights up with culture, dance, drinks and sex — a Caribbean feel. I’d call it “joyful life” vs. a repressive society.

Jaffe: Speaking of a police state, 104 you are appearing here with Alan

Gross. What’s your relationship? DeMille: He mentioned me in his own interview, and then we connected. I regret how he suffered there. We talk on the phone and are meeting in D.C. for a Politics and Prose conference. Jaffe: Is it true that you still compose your books in longhand?

Jaffe’s Jewish Jive By Marcia Caller Jaffe mjaffe@atljewishtimes.com

DeMille: Yes, and each one takes 16 months. So this is my 20th book over 40 years. That’s one every two years. Jaffe: Do I sniff a movie deal for “The Cuban Affair” à la “The General’s Daughter”? DeMille: We are in talks with Sony. I think it would make a great stand-alone movie and am avoiding TV offers. By the way, initially I didn’t think Travolta would be good in that lead, but he pulled it off. Jaffe: You served in the military. Are your main characters autobiographical? DeMille (laughing): Now that I’m eligible for Social Security and Medicare, I guess I’ll say no. Jaffe: You are known for linear plots, sarcasm, a suffering hero, writing in the first person with an inconclusive ending. Does “The Cuban Affair” align with that? DeMille: Writing with twists and turns doesn’t make a book better. That may be a sign of bad writing in trying to be too clever. I read “The Great Gatsby” decades ago and realized that a first-person narrator is my magic. ■

The Cuban Affair By Nelson DeMille Simon & Schuster, 448 pages, $28.99

By Sarah Moosazadeh sarah@atljewishtimes.com After a career in international development, Alan Gross sought to combine the positive aspects of his experiences in global trade and social work to become an international economic and community engagement adviser. That profession took him to more than 50 countries while he worked alongside private clients and government agencies, including the U.S. Agency for International Development, until Cuba arrested him in December 2009. He was working on a humanitarian project seeking to increase wireless broadband Internet access for small communities, including the island nation’s Jewish population, but Cuban officials accused him of espionage for American intelligence services. Gross was sentenced to 15 years in prison. The former prisoner spoke to the AJT before his appearance at the Marcus Jewish Community Center with author Nelson DeMille on Tuesday, Sept. 26. Gross was notified of his sentence 14 months after his arrest. “I thought Cuban officials were going to deport me, but when that didn’t happen, I figured ‘I’m in trouble’ and imagined the U.S. government would send the cavalry to help get me out,” Gross said. “However, two weeks later, when that didn’t happen, I figured I was going to be there for a while.” Aside from what his wife told him during visits, he did not know what was going on for most of the first two years in prison. He had little knowledge about any initiatives from the U.S. government to help release him. A month before he was released from the Villa Marista prison in December 2014, five years after his arrest, Gross heard his name and saw his face on television. “I had a feeling we were getting close, and two days before my release I had a conversation with my wife, when she said, ‘Alan, we’re never going to talk like this again.’ ” Although hopeful, Gross said he also remained skeptical until he returned to his cell and discovered that his cellmate’s belongings had been cleared out. “That’s when I knew for sure there was a strong possibility I would be leaving the next day.” Three Cubans were released from U.S prisons in exchange for Gross and another person categorized as a U.S. asset. Cuba said Gross was released for

Alan Gross is scheduled to speak about his real-life Cuban experiences alongside Nelson DeMille, who will talk about his latest work of fiction, “The Cuban Affair.”

humanitarian reasons. While in prison, Gross said, he often reflected on the members of his family who survived the Holocaust. “I thought about them every day and knew that my ordeal was not as severe as theirs, which gave me hope and allowed me to survive.” After returning to the United States on the first day of Chanukah 5775 (2014), Gross delivered a speech that included “in the words of a De Mille character, it’s great to be home.” DeMille heard about it and mailed an autographed book to Gross. The former prisoner of Cuba and the best-selling author will reunite for the Marcus JCC event. If he knew in 2009 what he knows now, he never would have set foot inside Cuba, Gross said. “I never had an ounce of trouble anywhere in the world until I traveled to Cuba, yet my entire career was based on pursuing constructive avenues of engagement, whether it was through the government or the private sector.” Since his release, Gross has remained committed to economic development across the globe. “Even though my career is over, my wife and I continue to volunteer with various organizations and provide financial support.” Gross splits his time between Washington and Tel Aviv now. ■ Who: Nelson DeMille and Alan Gross What: Book talk and signing Where: Marcus JCC, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 Tickets: JCC members $10, others $15; www.atlantajcc.org/bookfestival or 678-812-4002

CLOSING THOUGHTS

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“Rosh Hashanah Cinema”

By Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com Difficulty Level: Medium

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ACROSS 1. Dunham and Horne 6. Like the daily manna provided in the desert 11. City where one can find the largest Modern Orthodox synagogue in the U.S.; abbr. 14. Six-time U.S. Open champ 15. Blue Jay Kevin who had a bar mitzvah 16. Stat for 15-Across 17. Garry Marshall ensemble film about 29 Elul? 19. The world, for one 20. 5778, e.g. 21. Tom Hanks film about Tashlich? 23. BDS supporter Brian (musician) 25. Jeremy who played with Casspi 27. American Hasidic folk/soul band 28. Screech, e.g. 30. King defeated by Moses 34. Penn of “I Am Sam” 35. Unetanah ___ 37. Ancient text 39. Modern texts 40. Tommy Lee Jones/Jeff Bridges film about a crowd in awe after hearing the shofar? 43. Where Joel often performs; abbr. 46. Sharon of Israel 47. He has a famous commentary on 37-Across 51. Kafr ‘___, East Jerusalem neighborhood 53. Isaac Mizrahi is known for it 55. Classic foe of Kirk’s 56. Accumulate, as debt 58. ___ HaMelech 60. Writer Rand 61. Seinfeld film about a worker necessary for Rosh Hashanah? 65. Cow part not often eaten 67. Yeled to Angus

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68. Julia Roberts film featuring at least two aspects of Rosh Hashanah? 72. Just manage a parnasah, with “out” 73. Marker on many an Israeli Nachal 74. “___ an ape or an angel?” (Benjamin Disraeli) 75. Nine-digit ID whose Israeli equivalent is a Mispar Zehut 76. Lip ___ (something that really irks Ellie Goulding) 77. They’re rigged on Haifa docks

31. Jessica Alba film about a Rosh Hashanah need? 32. How much of 37-Across was passed down 33. “Uh-uh,” rural-style 36. Irma rocked its keys; abbr. 38. ___ HaBayit 41. Places for Einstein R.N.’s 42. Kosher Himalayan beast 43. One who’s meshuga might be missing them 44. Talks like Fievel Mousekewitz 45. Starting point? 48. Aleichem and Harlow 49. What some look forward to DOWN hitting on Shabbat? 1. TV host Goodman 50. Rahab ran one in the Book 2. Perhaps the earliest of Joshua palindromic name 52. No-goodnik 3. Home to many of the world’s 54. “Do not ___ limb from a Jews live animal” (Noahide law) 4. Actor Gross on “Castle” 57. Leonard Cohen and Emma 5. Break a commandment Lazarus, e.g. 6. Passover mo. 59. Bialik of “Blossom” 7. Mishmash abbreviation 62. Show diversity 8. Entreaty from Moses to G-d 63. “Let’s call __ evening” 9. Sherutim, in England 64. “Exodus,” e.g. (informally) 66. Lead role in Curtiz’s 10. Land “Casablanca” 11. Uses Brin’s Google 69. “Treasure Island” or 12. Biblical patriarch with eight “Goosebumps” inits. sons 70. Tax on goods in Isr. 13. North Africans who (now) 71. Minyan need? live alongside zero Jews 18. Fleischer LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 and Graynor L I S A A A A A R A F A T 22. Where Freud 14E M O R 15 I B N 16B A K E R S 17 18 19 G A L G A D O T R W A N D A was born; abbr. 20 21 22 23 I D I O M R I C A C O R 23. Tolkien 24 25 26 27 28 T E D M A T C H M A K E R S creature that 29 30 might celebrate 31 32 33 S O 34N 35 36 A S 37D O 38 39 40 F L A K D I O N A D M A N Tu B’Shevat 41 42 43 D A V I D A N D G O L I A T H 24. Sci-fi 44 45 46 R O S I E D E E D A X E L hero on the 47 48 49 50 N A V I E E K Nebuchadnezzar 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 G O O G L E G O O D S S A C 59 60 61 62 26. Yutz A L L C O R K P I N T O 63 64 65 66 67 29. Jewish M I S F I T B A B Y T A L K 68 69 70 prophetess, for E V E R S O I P O E R I E 71 72 73 short S E N I O R T I N M E T S

The Day the Lights Went Out in Georgia The month: August. The day: Tuesday. The time: 7:45 p.m. My sweet dog, Ari, suddenly barked; Ari is not from the barkers. I looked out the window he was barking at. I did not see a thing and decided it was a mirage. Something did, however, register way back in the cockles of my brain. It took a moment or two to bring the something forward. The sun was not as bright as it had been just days earlier. I am so not ready! After some wonderful months of late sunlight, it was time for an adjustment. Oh, no, not another adjustment. I desperately need a break from adjustments. Spring and summer adjustments are far from traumatic; indeed, they bring hope along with the light. Fall, at least at the start, brings such beauty along with it that it’s hard to react with anything short of wonder. But late fall, driving us down the road into winter, that’s a whole different type of adjustment. Returning home to the big city and the borough of the Bronx from summer overnight camp each year was always a huge adjustment for me. Upon arrival home, it was a finster in my oygen (a darkness to my eyes). Until I was old enough and had the language to express the depth of what seemed like emotional upheaval, my mother (z”l) could not get her head around what was going on with me. I will tell you what was going on: I was in the throes of a major slide down the steep hill of — yep, you guessed it — an adjustment, fighting it

tooth and nail. (OK, my friends, what does this mean anyway?) Summer camp in the mountains of New York was bathed in sunshine, like a hidden sanctuary among the trees, calmed by the music of the

Shaindle’s Shpiel By Shaindle Schmuckler shaindle@atljewishtimes.com

birds, surrounded by some of the best humanity had to offer. Suddenly, I was transported home to apartment living, very few trees and nary a bird singing. It would take weeks to complete a successful transition, to crawl my way out of that place of longing for longer, sunshine-filled days. Here I am today, days before the Jewish new year. Each year we have our Rosh Hashanah dinner on our porch. Just once, I’d love for the light streaming onto the porch to be natural, not bulbed (this is a new word). I am working on readying myself for this year’s adjustment. By the time Chanukah rolls around, I should be well adjusted. The sunlight is still up, but the days of the light going out in Georgia are creeping up on us. Time for yet another adjustment, folks. Or … We could drive to the top of the highest mountain in Georgia, roll down our car windows, stand on the hoods or roofs, and, while the sun shines over Georgia, shout: Keep the sunlight turned on over Georgia! ■

Wishing Jewish Atlanta a Sweet and Prosperous 5778 SEPTEMBER 15 ▪ 2017

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