A Publication of the Greensboro Jewish Federation, Greensboro, North Carolina www.shalomgreensboro.org
VOL. 41, NO. 4 - DECEMBER 2015, KISLEV-TEVET 5776
FOSTERING COMMITMENT AND RESOURCES WHICH STRENGTHEN AND ENRICH JEWISH LIFE LOCALLY, NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY
Inside:
Pages 2 - Vodka, Latkes and Banks Page 6 - Morry and Ruth Jacobs Blood Drive — A Success! Page 8 - Maimonides End of Life Series
Federation
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DECEMBER 2015
Vodka, Latkes and Babkas Join the Federation for a Ladies’ Night Out!
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n Monday, December 7th, all women in the Greensboro community are invited to join the Federation for a Ladies’ Night Out to celebrate Hanukkah! Vodkas, Latkes and Babkas will take place at GIA restaurant; located at 1941 New Garden Road in Greensboro starting at 7 p.m. Attendees will be treated to special Hanukkah themed cocktails, wine, a various assortment of latkes and many other delicious fares. Guests will also have the opportunity take part in a live mixology demonstration
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by one of GIA’s superb mixologists. There is a $36 registration fee for this event which can be paid by visiting www.shalomgreensboro.org or by calling Dianne Hines at 336-852-5433 ext. 233. Be sure to reserve your spot by December 3rd as this popular event will fill up fast!
Campaign Team Prepares for — Soul Food: Chef Clash 2016
ne night. Two chefs. Your vote decides. It might be cold in January, but this year the Greensboro Jewish Federation is turning up the heat in the kitchen and hosting our very own Chef Clash 2016. This is not your bubbe’s cookoff! The Campaign Team is hard at work planning this exciting event and is thrilled to have event chairs Brad Semon and Leslye Tuck to guide us with their wide breadth of industry knowledge and event experience. The entire community is invited to join the Federation as we are wined and dined by two of Greensboro’s most esteemed chefs. Jay Pierce and Christina Fuller will battle for the chance to win the GJF red chef jacket. Jay Pierce, former chef at Lucky 32 and now chef at The Marshall Free House, is known throughout town as the man who brings the farm to you. Kristina Fuller, owner and executive chef at Crafted, The Art of the Taco and The Art of Street Food is highly regarded for her unique blending of flavors, cultures and textures at both of her restaurants. The Campaign Main Event team hard at work: In back, Emily Gray and Phyllis Shavitz; in front, Lenny Samet, Campaign Main All diners will ‘blindly’ taste three Event Chairs Brad Semon and Leslye Tuck, and Emily Kranz. courses from each chef and not know which chef cooked which dish. Guests will Competition Dining NC, Jimmy Crippen. meal wasn’t enough, our local Rabbis sustainability in Israel. then be asked to vote on each course they Crippen, who has a history of bringing will be competing to design the best Consider joining us on January 24th eat using an app on their phone. Each out the best in chefs and audiences alike, Campaign Cocktail. Who will win? Rabbi at 6:00 p.m. at the Empire Room to enjoy course will be scored on presentation, is known for Crippen’s Country Inn and Havivi? Rabbi Guttman? Rabbi Plotkin? a fun evening with good foods and good aroma, flavor and more. What’s the Restaurant in Blowing Rock, N.C., which You decide. friends and of course, feeding your soul! catch? The chefs must prepare the dishes he ran for almost twenty years before Throughout the night, we will also be Mix, mingle and laugh with us as we using secret ingredients that will only be turning his attention to the Got to Be NC showcasing work that the Federation is prepare for another year of great work. revealed the day of the event. At the end Competitive Dining Series full-time. doing to feed people in our community For more information on buying tickets of the night, a winner will be announced. To top the evening off, as if the and around the world, and the important or how to get involved, please call the Also joining us for Soul Food: Chef competition of two top chefs and a great work that is being done regarding food Federation Office at 336-852-5433. Clash will be the host of Got to Be NC
www.shalomgreensboro.org Executive Director’s Column
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Federation
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Preserving and Saving Life
here is a deep sadness that organization. European of Syrian refugees accepted by the U.S. holds my heart and grips Jewish communities sit During our meeting, Mark asked if our my insides – like I am re-living on the edge of economic Federation would once again consider 9-11 all over again. It has been and humanitarian crises. becoming a HIAS resettlement site. Since an angst-filled number of weeks They are threatened with 1990, the Greensboro Jewish Federation as we all witnessed the heinous terrorism, but also face the has proudly resettled hundreds of refugees cold-blooded killings, school need to assist refugees and fleeing form the FSU, Cambodia, Ivory stabbings, suicide bombings and help implement increased Coast, Liberia and other lands. threats to Parisians and those in aliyah to Israel. Through Throughout the Holocaust, our other lands. Flags are at halfour overseas partners, our U.S. State Department established high mast and citizens of western Jewish community is right security standards for entrance into our democracies are in shock, grievout in front helping refugees country fearing that refugees could be ing, mourning and outraged. landing on European soil. German spies. During our Federation’s Marilyn Forman Many feel that their country and On the one hand I feel great mission to Cuba in October, we viewed Chandler safety net has been violated. angst about the current an exhibit about the St. Louis – the The week prior to the Paris situation for these Jewish transatlantic liner filled with Jewish attacks, I attended the Jewish Federation communities; on the other, I always refugees that was turned away in 1940 and of North America’s General Assembly feel great pride knowing that with our sent back to Europe. A significant number (GA) in Washington, DC. Hallways were partners, we perform the mitzvah of of the Jewish passengers on board died in teeming with delegates rushing to the tikkun olam in over 70 countries around Nazi concentration camps. This exhibit next plenary or workshop, steeped in deep the globe. served as a reminder of the importance of conversation and excited to be learning While in DC, I had the opportunity to finding ways to help during this current together the newest innovations in the meet with Mark Hetfield, CEO of HIAS, refugee crisis. Today, HIAS and the White Federation world. Topics ranged from the Jewish community’s international House have produced guidelines as to how domestic issues focused on Millennials, immigration agency. Mark recently refugees are screened and vetted prior to the 2016 elections, faith, and services testified before Congress to encourage entry into the U.S. The process can take for the disabled to international issues our government to increase the number upwards of 18 months or longer. addressing Israel and the Palestinians, Israel and the U.S., Israel and Canada, pluralism in Israel and what’s happening on the European continent. I was especially drawn to the sessions Nate Beversluis, Conductor regarding the international Jewish A Night at the Oscars community. I attended one session about Dec ��, ����, �pm, Westover Church partnership opportunities and models Music of the silver screen with songs from Oscar winning and nominated dramas, between federations and communities romances and Hollywood classics. See pianist Rich Ridenour and trumpeter Brandon Ridenour, father and son, bring down the house with a deadpan sense of humor, and in Israel and in the Former Soviet Union snazzy, muted trumpet work with vocals by soprano Diane Penning. (like our twinning project in Beltsy, Moldova). Another session focused on the incredible work of our overseas Pinchas Zukerman Gala partners on-the-ground in Europe – the Jan �� & ��, ����, �pm, Dana Auditorium Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), the American Jewish Joint Distribution MENDELSSOHN • BACH • BRAHMS Pinchas Zukerman, Violin Amanda Forsyth, Cello Committee (JDC) and ORT, the world’s Dmitry Sitkovetsky, Violin largest non-governmental Jewish educational and vocational training 336-335-5456 x224, GreensboroSymphony.org, boxoffice@greensborosymphony.org CONCERT SPONSOR
CONCERT SPONSORS
While we explore what re-establishing HIAS could mean for our agency and for our community, Betsy Gamburg, our Jewish Family Services Director, will be meeting with area social service agencies already engaged in such efforts to learn more about what the Greensboro community is currently doing. We are taught in Leviticus (19:18) to Love your neighbor as yourself. And in the Mishna Sanhedrin (4:5), “Whoever destroys one life is considered by the Torah as if he destroyed an entire world, and whoever saves one life is considered by the Torah as if he saved an entire world.” Let us all work together to find a way to save a life, and with it, the world entire. For more information about HIAS or to read Mark Hetfield’s testimony before Congress, go to www.hias.org.
Next Maimonides Program continues End of Life Series Jewish Perspectives surrounding end-of-life decision making will be explored during the next GJF Maimonides Program, February 21, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at the Greensboro Jewish Federation building. Dr. JuanCarlos Monguilod, Chief Medical Officer, Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro will provide an overview of some frequent care decisions and care options that many are faced as end-of-life nears. Rabbi Eliezer Havivi, Beth David Synagogue, Rabbi Andy Koren, Temple Emanuel, Rabbi Yosef Plotkin, Chabad of Greensboro, Cantor/ Chaplain Katy Claussen will add to the discussion with the Jewish perspective and share how Judaism may inform and guide these decisions. This program is open to the entire community. This symbol shows what your annual campaign tzedakah accomplishes. Through the Greensboro Jewish Federation, your tzedakah touches Jewish lives in our own Jewish community, in Israel and throughout the diaspora.
GO PAPERLESS
Need less paper in your life? The GJF is once again offering to send your quarterly statement reminders of campaign pledges and other billings due by email. We agree that the less paper the better for all: you, the Federation and the environment. Please let us know that you’d like to receive your statement by email. Once you subscribe, you will no longer automatically receive a paper copy in the USPS mail. Please call Empy at 852-5433 x 230 or send your info. by email to: empy@ shalomgreensboro.org
Reggie Wynn, the OCS Virtual Social Studies Teacher with the Guilford County Schools, is a former recipient of a scholarship from the Miriam and Abe Brenner Holocaust Teacher Training Fund held at the Jewish Foundation of Greensboro. He participated this past summer in the Memorial Library Summer Seminar in New York City focused on writing, professional development and Holocaust/cultural studies. Reggie writes lesson plans for American History courses including a unit on the Holocaust. He is pursuing a post masters certificate in social justice education and sociology. This rap was written during the summer program. Marilyn Forman Chandler
Where I'm From (2 Sides) I come from two sides Can't choose won't be defined I'm straddlin’ two lines The result of love being blind Two sides but one mind Both treated unkind Remembering the times I was told to choose a side Both sides looked at with disgust Tried to hide one with no l luck One still shows so I'm stuck Feelin’ like no legs and no crutch In a world with no trust That wants both sides in cuffs I swear I had enough But keep it movin’ my mind tough Takin’ responsibility for history But hearing what they call me I'm not a Nazi I'm not a N-i-g G-e-r I'm scarred Livin’ in a world that prefers to see me behind bars It's hard tryin’ not to stay on guard or brawl Instead I choose to create beats and write bars I choose to define me Got my family behind me Showing the world that blindly Stereotypes won't define me Won't let hatred confine me My words'll make the blind see The power of my mind be That which defines me Reggie Wynn
FederationDECEMBER 2015
4 SHALOM GREENSBORO From the Campaign Trail
SHALOM GREENSBORO
Giving with an Open Heart
WWW.SHALOMGREENSBORO.ORG 2015-2016 FEDERATION OFFICERS
By Phyllis Shavitz 2016 Honorary Campaign Chair
could visit her. This was the beginning of our sharing. It’s all in the attitude – to give with an open heart to the less Looking back on my life, I now fortunate. realize that my giving of time and That’s why it is so important to give money stems to the Federation campaign from my husband and do a little more than you Stanley’s attitude. did last year. You are helping When Stephen was so many people that you may born, he was so never meet, but at Federation thrilled to have a we know how much they healthy son and he appreciate your help. said we had to give Together with you, to someone who Federation touches and was less fortunate. supports so many aspects of He found out Jewish life in our community. from a nurse who Thanks to Federation worked at an allocations, B’Nai Shalom Day orthopedic hospital School parents are helped Phyllis Shavitz in Charlotte that in offering a quality Jewish there was a Native education to their children. Our American girl from Lumberton, about teens benefit from an active B’Nai Brith eight years old, who needed everything. Youth Organization and grants and Her parents couldn’t afford bus tickets subsidies allow them the opportunity to visit her, so the nurses took her to lobby in D.C., do humanitarian work under their wings. in New Orleans, and learn our Jewish Stanley went to the children’s shop history from Poland to Israel. Our across from his store and bought Jewish Family Services offers food and several outfits for her plus a doll – and assistance to Triad families and cares we went to visit Roberta. I shall never for our seniors with dignity and respect. forget that child’s face when she opened Just as Stanley saw so many years the boxes. Afterwards Stanley sent ago the importance of giving to those bus tickets to Roberta’s parents so they less fortunate, I ask you to join me and give to the Federation’s 2016 Campaign. Your gift will help our community stay vibrant and strong. Giving is a privilege, especially when you give with an open heart.
Federation welcomes Hannah Henza as Program Coordinator
Hannah Henza is the new Program Coordinator at the Greensboro Jewish Federation. Hannah will be responsible for Federation’s youth and young adult Hannah Haenz programming, the Jewish Film Festival, as well as community outreach. Hannah has been a member of the Greensboro community since 2013 and is excited to put her talents and passions into action in the community that she loves. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband Jack, cooking, traveling, backpacking, biking, reading and building their tiny house. She graduated from NC State with a degree in Anthropology, and is currently training to be a yoga instructor. She has worked with youth, young people and adults in various programming roles since 2008 and has worked in non-profit event management since 2010. Hannah can be reached at 336-852-5433 x221 or hhenza@shalomgreensboro.org.
Community Enrichment Fund HONOR OF: Of: Al Jacobson 90th birthday From: Diana Knox IN MEMORY OF: Of: Doris Brickner From: Bob & Sally Cone
For all your printing and direct mail needs! Office: 336.855.2622 Toll Free: 877.271.3004 FREE ESTIMATES
estimates@pdmgso.com
901-A Norwalk St Greensboro, NC 27407
Keith Rosen Marc Isaacson Arthur Samet Jenny Kaiser Aaron Strasser Sue Simmons John Cohen Laurence Goldberg
President President Elect Vice President Vice President Vice President Vice President Secretary Treasurer
FEDERATION STAFF 336-852-5433
MARILYN CHANDLER, ext. 236 Executive Director EMILY GRAY, ext. 237 Assistant Director MICHELE PERRELL, ext. 231 Director of Finance and Human Resources DIANNE HINES, ext. 233 Campaign and Program Associate EMPERATRIZ PEREZ, ext. 230 Accounting Assistant HANNAH HENZA, ext. 221 Program Coordinator GABRIEL FRAIRE, 681-7227 Federation Editor/Graphic Designer CHRISTINA SHIFFLER, ext. 238 Administrative Assistant JEWISH FOUNDATION OF GREENSBORO SUSAN R. GUTTERMAN, 852-0099 Endowment Director MELANIE VERGES, Stewardship, Program, and Communications Coordinator 294-0846 DEBORAH LINDLEY, 852-8462 Senior Financial and Technology Associate JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES MAIN NUMBER, 852-4829 BETSY GAMBURG, ext. 225 JFS Director DAVID FRAZIER, ext. 227 Volunteer Coordinator KATY CLAUSSEN, ext. 228 Chai Notes Facilitator MARCIA HERMELIN, ext. 222 Administrative Assistant MARLENE BARUCH, ext. 224 Congregational Nurse BETH CHILDS, ext. 226
Shalom Greensboro is published ten times a year from September through May, and June/July, by the Greensboro Jewish Federation, 5509-C West Friendly Ave., Guilford Corporate Park, Greensboro, NC 27410-4211. Telephone: (336) 852-5433. Fax: (336) 852-4346. Its purpose is to provide informational and educational coverage of Jewish news, events and programs in the greater Greensboro and Guilford County areas. Delivery is on or before the first of the month. News of community-wide activities are welcome but must be submitted either on a disk or by email to: jfededitor@ shalomgreensboro.org. Photographs are accepted accompanied by captions. Please include the date, the contact person and a phone number with your articles and photographs.
Foundation
www.shalomgreensboro.org
SHALOM GREENSBORO 5
Susan Gutterman, Kathryn Miree, and Jeri D’Lugin. Kathryn Miree speaking to the Committee of Professional Advisors and Cardoza Society at Starmount Forest Country Club about the "5 Perfect Gifts for the Current Environment."
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Kathryn W. Miree addresses Foundation
he Jewish Foundation of Greensboro welcomed dynamic speaker Kathryn W. Miree. She is the president and primary consultant for Kathryn W. Miree & Associates, Inc., now in its 17th year of operation. Ms. Miree is a past president of the national Committee on Planned Giving, past president of the Alabama Planned Giving council, past president of the Estate Planning Council of Birmingham, and past president of the Alabama Bankers Association Trust Division. She is a member of the Alabama Bar Association. Ms. Miree is also an active member
of her community serving as a volunteer on a number of community boards. She is a past board chair of United Way of Central Alabama, a past board chair of The Altamont School and past president of the Independent Presbyterian Church Foundation. She currently serves on the board of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham and on the Editorial Advisory Board of Planned Giving Today. She spoke about Endowment Training relating to Create a Jewish Legacy, and then to the Foundation’s Committee of Professional Advisors on the “5 Perfect Gifts for the Current Environment.”
Mike Berkelhammer, Kathryn Miree, and Cathy Levinson.
Jewish Family Services
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Todah Rabah We thank the following people for their contributions to Jewish Family Services. All contributions to JFS are used for client assistance unless otherwise specified by the donor.
DECEMBER 2015
Morry and Ruth Jacobs Blood Drive — A Success!
Jewish Family Services In Honor: Of: Tobee Kaplan From: Marilyn Chandler Of: Tobee Kaplan’s birthday From: Shelly Weiner Of: the marriage of Elly Cohen and Arkady Roytman From: Judy Hyman In Memory: Of: Morris Fox From: Judy Hyman and Dick Rosen Ivan Cutler registers to give.
Of: Annette Skaggs From: Judy Hyman
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Congregational Nurse Fund William A. Stern Foundation
In Honor: Of: Lenny Samet’s 70th birthday From: Cheryl and Mark Davidowitz Sylvie and Walter Spielman
Food Pantry
ore than 75 people signed up to donate blood or to volunteer at this year’s Blood Drive, held Nov. 1 at Temple Emanuel. It was particularly special because both of Morry and Ruth’s children joined us. Barbie, who lives in Connecticut, and Rick, in Wilmington, NC, as well as their cousin Sylvia Curtis who resides here in Greensboro, were all present this year. Also,
Van Fund In Memory: Of: Morris Fox From: Marcia and Les Hermelin
George Rubenstein and Judy Hyman greeted people and signed them in.
this year for the first time, we worked with the Community Blood Center of the Carolinas. The Drive rotates from Beth David Synagogue to Jewish Family Services, and this year to Temple Emanuel. A Blood Drive task force chaired by Karen Slone and consisting of Michele Gordon and Paula Katz (Past Chairs), Barbara Teichman, Ruth Hoffman, Hindy Plotkin, Marlene Baruch, Mindy Kutchei, Brenda Henley and Betsy Gamburg were assisted by many dedicated volunteers. Homemade treats provided by Tracy Lurey and Jen Strasser have become a highlight of the event. We want to thank everyone involved—we surpassed our goal of 50 pints, reaching a total of 56. Michele Gordon and Beth Socol will be hosting the Drive next year at Beth David on November 6, 2016 so mark your calendars.
We apologize if we have missed anyone’s contribution. Please call Jewish Family Services at 852-4829, ext. 222 if we missed you, and we will include you in the next issue. The minimum donation for each submission is $10.00. Thank you.
JFS Volunteers Plus
Rick Jacobs, of Wilmington, son of Morry and Ruth Jacobs, stands next to his sister, Barbie Jacobs, who came in from Connecticut, and his cousin Sylvia Curtis of Greensboro.
A program for people who like to volunteer, share what they love to do, and learn how it all fits into the Jewish tradition If you have ever volunteered and would like to discuss what it has meant to you, join Gail Bretan for a light latke lunch and a discussion Friday, Dec. 11 11:30AM—12:30PM At JFS RSVP Gail Bretan gbretan@ shalomgreensboro.org or 420-0730 Or Carol Kaplan caroleknc@ yahoo.com or 339-2899.
Paula Justice (left) and Davida Levine waiting to donate.
Barbara and Stuart Teichman were donors number 55 and 56.
Assistance For Summer Camp It’s now time to think about Jewish summer camp. One Happy Camper Incentive Grant provides $1000 to first time campers attending an approved overnight Jewish Summer Camp of 19 days or longer and $700 for a program 12 to 18 days. Contact David Frazier at 852-4829, ext. 227 or dfrazier@shalomgreensboro.org. Applications can be made directly at www.onehappycamper.org. For needs based scholarships, contact Betsy Gamburg at 852-4829, ext. 225 or bgamburg@shalomgreensboro. org. The deadline for scholarship applications is the last day of February.
The Strasser children helped with the puzzle at the blood drive while their dad donated.
Jewish Family Services
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Children and Family Programming: Lost in Cyberspace
good turnout for a compelling program titled "Lost in Cyberspace-Children and Social Media" has been a highlight of JFS' Children and Family programming this year. Jessica Byerly, Marketing Director of PIP-Triad and a moderator for both CNN I-Report and WFMY News 2 Social Media, made a strong presentation on the dangers children confront by virtue of owning a cell phone. Using YouTube videos, she illustrated how children often abandon safety precautions and stressed how important it is for parents to have ongoing conversations with their children about interacting with strangers via their phones and about what constitutes a healthy relationship. Both Instagram and Snapchat are the latest apps of choice for children while Facebook (and other social media that has advertising and that parents use) is no longer so popular. Many of the issues related to phone usage and misusage stem from
SAVE THE DATE Jewish Family Services
Presents —
Cyberbullying: The Law, Psychology and Your Children January 11, 2016 7:00 p.m. Greensboro Jewish Federation Building Our Speakers: David Levine, Associate Law Professor at Elon University Jennifer Rosenbluth, Therapist and Co-Owner of Tree of Life Counseling Starr Brown-Hayes, Counselor, Guilford County Schools
Beth Childs, MSW, LCSW, and JFS Social Worker, introduces Jessica Byerly, social media expert.
teenagers desire to be popular and to the pressure to conform. Knowing who your children's friends are, parents understanding how to use and navigate popular social media, and putting the phones downstairs at night and away at family mealtimes are among some of the interventions parents can use. Nationwide, children are getting phones at the age of 8, so it is important for parents to understand the implications of cell phone usage and to assert rules for their children. Mashable.com/socialmedia/ is a site Jessica recommended to keep up with what's going on in social media. Sponsored by B'nai Shalom Day school, Beth David Synagogue, Temple Emanuel, and Jewish Family Services with assistance from PIP-Triad and the PNC Foundation, this program will be followed up by a second program on January 11, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at JFS called "Cyberbullying: The Law, Psychology and Your Children" with David Levine, Associate Law Professor at Elon University, Jennifer Rosenbluth, Therapist and co-owner of Tree of life Counselling and Star Brown-Hayes, a guidance counselor in the Guilford County public schools presenting. Contact Beth Childs at 852-4829, ext. 226 at JFS to RSVP or for more information.
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Manage
Stress at the Holidays
(According to Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen of Health Magazine) • Go Tech-Free (Turn off the gadgets and enjoy time together.) • Think Positive (Optimistic outlook helps you cope better.) • Turn Up the Tunes (Hearing music you love relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow which calms you down.) • Don’t Overschedule (It's okay to slow down.) • Exercise (Workouts can boost your
mood for up to 12 hours.) • Forget Perfection (Enjoy people in your life and don’t sweat the small stuff.) • Stick With a Daily Routine (workouts, bookclub, yoga, etc) • Walk (Decreases anxiety and improves your sleep.) • Just Say NO! (Don’t go overboard pleasing everyone and doing everything.) • Eat Breakfast Before Tanking Up on Caffeine (Caffeine on an empty stomach can lead to blood sugar spikes which causes irritability.)
We Are Partnering with the IRC—Please Help It’s that time of year again when temperatures begin to drop and the weather turns cold. Many of our community’s homeless are in need of gently used or new coats, blankets, gloves, hats, scarves, thick socks, and other items to help them keep warm. Please consider joining the Greensboro Jewish Federation/Jewish Family Services as we
partner with the Interactive Resource Center to help supply these lifesaving necessities to our homeless population. Please bring all items to the Jewish Federation building located at 5509-C West Friendly Avenue. Thank you in advance for helping to make this winter season safer and warmer for those in need.
Chai Notes Around Town
hai Notes is a unique program that exists to provide the opportunity for seniors to connect in a meaningful way and uses the creative arts as a means to do this. In addition to programs like the Chai Notes Choir and movie matinees, Chai Notes offers programs in different senior facilities (independent living, assisted living, and nursing facilities) where members of our Jewish community reside. For Hanukkah, for example, there will be celebrations at Brighton Gardens, Heritage Greens, Carolina Estates, Blumenthal, Friends Homes, Well-Spring and Abbo-
tswood. Non-Jewish residents are invited as well so they can learn about and enjoy the holiday with those in the Jewish community. In addition, families and friends from the larger Jewish community are welcome to come and make these celebrations even more festive. They are also wonderful opportunities for families to volunteer together and children of all ages are welcome. Since September, we have had music programs, art and poetry sessions, and inter-generational programs. The programs are tailored to the interests of the Jewish
residents who live at a given facility, and family and friends from the Jewish community are invited to join them. The Chai Notes facilitator has also worked with staff at several of these facilities to increase awareness about Jewish traditions and practices and to help them continue to meet the needs of Jewish residents. If you would like to be involved in helping to plan any of these celebrations or to participate, please contact Katy Claussen at 852-4829, ext. 228. This program is funded in part by the BJH Foundation for Senior Services.
Federation
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DECEMBER 2015
Maimonides End of Life Series R
isa Hanau, VP of Clinical Services at Hospice & Palliative Care of Greensboro, facilitated a well-attended Maimonides program on November 1. The opening meeting followed a lecture/video with Dr. Atul Gawande about goals that health care practitioners should be discussing with patients as they face serious illness and approach the end of life. Risa brought in the wisdom of a panel of experts from various disciplines: Dr. Vinay K. Gudena, Hematologist-Oncologist at Cone Health
(L-R) Nancy and Paul Summerell with Maimonides Chair, Gary Fischer.
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Cancer Center; Dr. Joseph Stern, Neurosurgeon with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates; Vivian Sheidler, RN, System-Wide Manager, Clinical Research at Cone Health Cancer Center; and Lois Mezer, MSW, Clinical Social Worker, facilitator of Alzheimer Caregiver Support Group. Upcoming Maimonides programs on February 21 and April 3 will focus on Jewish perspectives on end-of-life and advanced directives respectively.
(L-R) Risa Hanau moderates the End of Life Series.
Panelists (L-R): Vinay Gudena, Lois Mezer, Jody Stern and Vivian Sheidler.
2016 Campaign Team Joins Together to Inspire
uest speaker, Alina Spaulding, encouraged campaign solicitors to consider the “Art of Possibility” in approaching the Greensboro Jewish Federation 2016 Campaign, a term coined by Benjamin Zander, conductor of The Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. She shared the extraordinary difference an in-person donor meeting can make, allowing donors to speak about what moves and inspires them concerning our community and specifically the Federation. According to Federation President, Keith Rosen, “Our (L-R) Rachel Wolf, Emily Kranz, Guest Speaker Alina Spaulding, Mark Bochkis, Anita Hyman and Rodney Kranz.
community has changed; we have lost funds due to deaths and moves of many major contributors. We need to spread that responsibility throughout the community to make up for these lost gifts.” Campaign Co-Chairs, Emily Kranz and Lenny Samet asked solicitors to make the “community whole” again so that additional dollars can be distributed to local agencies. Alina encouraged the Campaign Team to be audacious and to be bold; to take risks!
(L-R) Assistant Director Emily Gray, Guest Speaker Alina Spaulding, Emily Kranz and Paula Katz.
Federation staff enjoys Ghost Tour As part of the Federation's Employee Wellness Initiative "GET SOCIAL" program, several employees and spouses attended the Carolina History and Haunts: Nightmares Around Elm Street tour on Thursday, October 29. Tales both creepy and historical were masterfully recounted by the tour guide, participants sauntered around town exploring the innermost scary secrets downtown Greensboro has to offer. Double thumbs up from all who participated. The group highly recommends this tour. (In photo to right) Federation employees and spouses during the Carolina History and Haunts Ghost Tour in front of the (reportedly) haunted Biltmore Hotel - Greensboro.
(L-R) Rodney Kranz and Men's Campaign Chair, Lenny Samet enjoying the Solicitors' Training.
www.shalomgreensboro.org
Federation
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On November 8-10, 2015, several staff members, community leaders and members of the campaign team traveled to Washington, D.C. to take part in the 2015 Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) General Assembly (GA). Together with 3,000 Federation volunteer leaders and professionals from all over the country, Greensboro participants took part in three days of sharing best practices, engaging in thought provoking discussions and showcasing the extraordinary work of the Jewish world. Highlights of the GA included hearing from top figures including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, television personalities, actress Debra Messing, reporter David Gregory and philanthropic thought leader Dan Pallotta.
Greensboro Delegation Members attending the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Washington, D.C. Pictured (L-R): Alina Gerlovin Spaulding, Emily Kranz, Kathy Manning, Marilyn Chandler.
Susan Gutterman, JD, Greensboro Foundation Endowment Director and Emily Gray, Assistant Director Greensboro Federation. Kathy Manning, former national chair of Jewish Federations of North America, is recognized during a GA plenary session.
Leadership Roundtable
The Greensboro Jewish Community Leadership Roundtable gathered in November with presidents, rabbis, executive directors and other representatives of most local Jewish organizations to hear updates about programs and to discuss current issues.The Roundtable discussion included food insecurity, the JFS Food Pantry, Syrian refugees, Jewish
life and Israel on campus, racism and local police relations. Allocations of resources, making Jewish camping affordable, Create A Jewish Legacy, security, and managing the community calendar regarding observances and commemorations were also reviewed. The Roundtable, convened by Federation, meets several times annually.
L – R (standing) Rabbi Fred Guttman, Corie Hampton, Sarah Jacobs, Diane Goldstein, Susan Gutterman, Susan Siegel, Keith Rosen, Laura Bonasia, Rabbi Andrew Koren, Erin Rosen, Andrew Aronson, Rabbi Yosef Plotkin. L-R (seated) Marilyn Chandler, Rabbi Eliezer Havivi, Mindy Kutchei, Betsy Gamburg, Wendy Cutler.
Federation
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B’nai Shalom Day School B’nai Shalom Upper School Students Learn About Russian Revolution By Sandra Carroll, Social Studies Teacher The focus of the Upper School social studies curriculum is to provide experiences that will create an emphasis on global education. Our students recognize that they are citizens of the world, not just of the B’nai Shalom community or of Greensboro, or even of the United States, but of the world. In light of this students learn to analyze, research, and comprehend material that we then discuss in a graded round table situation. Our most recent discussion involved George Orwell’s Animal Farm and Gloria Whelan’s Angel on the Square. These novels helped us view the Russian Having returned recently from the Greensboro Jewish Revolution from two different points of Federation Cuba Mission, Pamela Haber teaches stuview and gave us the opportunity to debate dents about the Jewish Cuban community and problem solve. Finally, we were able returned from Cuba, students learned about what to draw our own conclusions as to the happened historically and were able to discuss what effects that Communism has had on our world. they thought should never happen again in order to Combining this activity with a recent visit from promote and preserve create global harmony. Pamela Haber and Aaron Strasser, who have just
Why Families Choose B’nai Shalom Day School What were we looking for in a school for our children?
Of course, our first priority was their safety. Beyond that we wanted a warm, nurturing environment where they would be known as individuals, loved for their individuality, and where they would be unimpeded in learning and growing.
Why B'nai Shalom?
The Kleiner family: Rima, Adam, Eli & Naomi
Rima and Adam Kleiner moved to Greensboro from the Washington D.C. area in 2013. They share their thoughts on why Greensboro and B’nai Shalom Day School were the right fit for their family. Rima and Adam’s son, Eli, is in Gan Yeladim (Kindergarten) and their daughter, Naomi, is in Kitat Nitzan (Preschool 3/4).
What were we looking for in the Jewish community? The first key question, “Are there any Jewish people in Greensboro?” certainly was top of mind when we were presented the opportunity to move here. Short version, after living in several major U.S. cities, we were blown away by what a strong, closeknit community it is. From day one, we could tell something unusual and special was happening in Greensboro. And we felt immediately welcome.
Chabad of Greensboro Chanukah project Be a part of this year's amazing Chanukah project- The Canorah! The Chabad Jewish Center & B’nai Shalom Day School invite all to join in building and lighting of Greensboro’s Largest Canorah. We will be constructing a gigantic Menorah made out of your food can donations. After Chanukah the Can-orah food cans will be distributed to the local food pantries in our Community. To name a few: Out of the Garden Project, Backpack beginnings and JFS food Pantry. Together we CAN make a difference. Sunday, December 6 4:30 p.m. Building Menorah 5:00 p.m. Menorah Lighting & Chanukah Celebration At Center City Park, 200 N. Elm St. For more information call 336-617-8120 or visit www. ChabadGreensboro.com
Winter Camp Warm up the winter with C.G.I. December 21-25 ~ 9:00-3:30 p.m. For boys & Girls ages 4-13 Monday: Tumblebees/Rock Climbing Tuesday: Bumper Jumper/Airbound Wednesday: Ice Skating Thursday: Bricks4Kidz Friday: Bowling *All trips subject to change Daily Trips! Exciting Activities! Arts n’ Crafts! Delicious Lunch Served! Price: $225 (Including Lunch) $50 per day Sign up today! RSVP 336-617-8120 CGI@ChabadGreensboro.com
We found what we were looking for and more when our kids started in B’nai Shalom’s preschool. We are so impressed by the teaching staff and have found them to be so incredibly giving of themselves to the kids. Giving of caring, A traditional Hanukkah food, a sufganiyah is a round jelly doughnut that is typically fried in patience, love and guidance. We oil and topped with powdered sugar. This year, make your Hanukkah festivities a little lighter also greatly value the exposure with this baked version. The whole wheat flour, applesauce and all-fruit preserves bump up the fiber, while the skim milk and applesauce help to Jewish heritage and culture to lower calories, in this lightened-up doughnut. If our kids are receiving. It's Ingredients absolutely charming and fun 1 package active dry yeast to hear them belt out Jewish 2 Tbsp. warm water songs at home and in the car. We're the parents who never 1/4 cup granulated sugar expected to send our kids to a 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1 Tbsp. unsweetened applesauce Jewish school, but we love what 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 cup whole wheat white flour they're experiencing at B'nai. 1/4 tsp. nutmeg We hope their experiences will 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice not only teach them to be highSeedless strawberry or raspberry 100% 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract performing students, but also fruit spread (I use Smuckers Simply 1/2 cup skim milk help inspire in them a life-long Fruit spread) 1 egg sense of pride in being Jewish. Confectioner's or powdered sugar 2 Tbsp. butter or nondairy margarine, five sheets phyllo dough sheets, thawed plus some for melting To learn more about B’nai Shalom Day School’s In a mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes to dissolve. dual general and Jewish Add sugar and next 9 ingredients (through applesauce) to yeast mixture. Using a mixer, studies curricula, contact beat until combined on low speed. Gradually add flours, scraping sides of bowl; beat on low Nikki Goldstein, Director of until flour is just incorporated and dough is sticky. Cover and let rise, about 45 minutes. Admissions at 897-0705. While dough is rising, grease two baking sheets and preheat oven to 425 degrees. Drop
Join Students & Families at the B’nai Shalom Annual Chanukah Café The Greensboro Jewish community is invited to the annual all-school show on Thursday, December 10, 6:30 p.m. in the Beth David Synagogue Social Hall. Join the school for musical renditions of favorite Chanukah songs and a theatrical performance, an adaptation of the story
DECEMBER 2015
“The Magic Dreidels” by Eric A. Kimmel, by lower school students. Call 336-8555091 for more information. Learn more about B’nai Shalom Day School at www.bnai-shalom.org.
“Rima’s Recipes" Easy Baked Sufagniyot
dough by tablespoons onto baking sheets. Bake until lightly golden and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Let cool. Fill a pastry decorating bag or sandwich baggie with fruit spread. Cut a small hole in bag. Using an icing tip (or cut a small slit in doughnuts with knife), insert fruit spread into doughnut until doughnut puffs out. Fill all doughnuts, then roll each lightly in melted butter or margarine. Place back on baking sheet and sprinkle or sift powdered sugar on to tops of doughnuts. Makes about 30 doughnuts. Rima Kleiner, MS, RD, LDN Registered Dietitian | Nutrition Consultant | c 703.877.9339 | rima@kleinernutrition.com Find me at kleinernutrition.com or on Twitter @RimaKleinerMSRD
www.shalomgreensboro.org Temple Emanuel
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Balancing Your Soul Curriculum!
Eight high school juniors and seniors from Temple Emanuel and the American Hebrew Academy traveled to Washington, D.C. for the annual Schusterman Advocacy Institute High School Summit.
Temple Emanuel and the American Hebrew Academy Team Up to Bring Students to AIPAC Leadership Summit
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reensboro is a center for Jewish teen activity and leadership. For many years, teens from Temple Emanuel and the American Hebrew Academy (AHA) have been invited to participate in regional and national teen gatherings. From November 1-3, eight high school juniors and seniors traveled to Washington, D.C. for the annual Schusterman Advocacy Institute High School Summit. This leadership conference, hosted by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), attracts over 400 Jewish students from more than 189 public and private academic institutions across the country. The four high school 12th grade representatives from Temple Emanuel were: Carly Doobrow, Roni Epstein, Eli Fribush and Shiri Koren. AHA's delegation included two seniors, Charlie Freedman and Irina Ronina, and two juniors, Samuel Jessurun and Batyah Sneiderman. Rabbi Andy Koren from Temple and AHA Dean of Students Dave Press accompanied the group as advisors. While in the nation's capital, the students received intensive training in pro-Israel political advocacy. They also participated in lobbying appointments with area Congressional Representatives and US Senators, focusing on the value of the U.S.-Israel alliance. AIPAC's High School Summit, the cornerstone of AIPAC's Early Engagement program, is an empowerment vehicle for teens interested in supporting Israel through the American political process. Temple has sent many students on this program over the past decade since AIPAC first started its dedicated work with high school students. The goal of the High School Summit is to provide students with the tools they need to be effective activists now and in the future. Participants are exposed to various methods of articulating their commitment to Israel, the rationale for engaging Congress and Congressional candidates and the best case for the U.S.Israel relationship.
Summit session titles included: "Why We Commit: Telling our Stories," "Advanced Advocacy: Debate, Dialogue and Engagement," "The Case for Alliance," and "Legislative Agenda and Lobbying." The Summit also included advocacy skills workshops on public speaking, advocacy writing and social media. Sixty partner delegations—including five youth movements, 43 Jewish day schools, four synagogue youth groups and eight student leadership and advocacy programs—participated in this year's Summit. National BBYO alone sent 73 students, including the two International Presidents. Rabbi Koren and Dean Press were joined by 70 other faculty advisors accompanying their students. They attended exclusive seminars and receptions with AIPAC staff, including Leadership Development Director Jonathan Kessler, Early Engagement Director Erica Miller and Early Engagement Political Coordinator Sydney Kaplan. Also in attendance were 50 outstanding AIPAC campus activists serving as Peer Facilitators representing colleges and universities across the country, including: Princeton University, The Ohio State University, Kenyon College, University of Pennsylvania, University of Texas, Tulane University and University of Florida. Last spring, Temple Emanuel and AHA teamed up to bring four high school seniors to the prestigious AIPAC Policy Conference. "Training advocates for Israel in this day and age cannot begin early enough," said Rabbi Koren, who began his work as a voice for a strong U.S.-Israel relationship through AIPAC as a college freshman in the mid-1980s. "Thanks to Greensboro's Jewish leadership, so many of our older teens have already had significant experiences in Israel. These next-step experiences will prepare them to be leaders on college and to help maintain critical support for Israel in the coming decades."
Programs for Tots:
What if you could find balance between… your personal and professional life, the middot (values) on your personal soul curriculum, your everyday outer life and the inner life of your soul? On Monday, December 7 at 7:00 p.m., join us at Temple Emanuel for a live 45-minute webinar + Q & A presented by Alan Morinis, Dean and Founder of The Mussar Institute. Alan’s webinar, facilitated by Temple Emanuel member Jennie Spallone, will introduce you to the tools you need to balance your life and your soul. The program is geared for teens and adults. For the past seventeen years, Alan Morinis has been an active interpreter of the Jewish spiritual tradition of Mussar. Born and raised in a culturally Jewish but non-observant home, he received a doctorate of anthropology at Oxford University. Alan has written books and produced feature films, television dramas and documentaries; he has also taught at several universities and now regularly gives lectures and workshops in Mussar thought and practice. His journey to discovering the Mussar teachings is recorded in the book Climbing Jacob’s Ladder (2002). His guide to Mussar practice, Everyday Holiness: The Jewish Spiritual Path of Mussar, was published in 2007; his Mussar handbook, Every Day, Holy Day, came out in 2010. Alan's latest book is With Heart in Mind (2014). For further information, go to www. mussarinstitute.org.
Chanukah Shabbat Mishpacha:
Friday, December 11 (Sixth Night of Chanukah) Bring your menorah along with seven candles and take part in our congregational menorah lighting. 6:00 p.m. – Tot Shabbat (Families with children in Kindergarten and younger) 6:00 p.m. – Gesher Shabbat (Families with children in Grades 1 – 3) 6:30 p.m. – *Dinner (Reservations required) 7:30 p.m. – Chanukah Shabbat Service (For all ages) *Visit www.tegreensboro.org for more information and to make reservations for the dinner. Note that you can join us for any of these services without attending the dinner.
Friday, December 11, 6:00 p.m. – Tot Shabbat followed by the Chanukah Shabbat Mishpacha dinner.For more information about tot programs, contact Louise Van Schaack at 292-7899 ext. 302 or lvanschaack@tegreensboro.org.
Temple Emanuel’s Chanukah Party (Jefferson Road Campus):
Sunday, December 13, 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. (Eighth Night of Chanukah) The celebration will begin with Chanukah songs, the Chanukah story told by the one and only Judah Maccabee and the lighting of the menorahs (bring your own menorah and nine candles if you wish). After the story, enjoy games, inflatables, spinning dreidels, arts & crafts, sufganiyot (jelly donuts), latkes and lots of fun. Great for ALL ages and no cost to attend.
Schmooze with the Rabbi at the Proximity:
Wednesday, December 16, 12:00 p.m. Enjoy a casual lunch with the Temple Rabbis along with other friends at the Print Works Bistro. Join us as we talk about anything and everything – from local politics to Jewish issues. Your lunch is on you, while the conversation is on us! Reserve your spot with Noah at (336) 2927899 or ndomont@tegreenboro.org.
International Jewish Chinese Food and a Movie Night:
Friday, December 25 6:30 p.m. – Shabbat Service 7:30 p.m. – *Chinese food dinner (Reservations required) 8:30 p.m. – Movie viewing (“The Frisco Kid”) Join us for services and a delicious Chinese food dinner, followed by the movie. “The Frisco Kid” is about a rabbi (Gene Wilder) from Poland who comes to America to lead a Jewish community. When he arrives in America he is hijacked and has to work his way across the country. On the way he meets up with a bank robber (Harrison Ford). They form a friendship and have many misadventures, including being captured by Native Americans. *To make a reservation for dinner visit www.tegreensboro.org
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92Y: Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks: Not in God's Name Monday, December 2, 7:15 p.m., Coffee & dessert at 7:00 p.m. In his timely new book, Not in God’s Name, Rabbi Sacks tackles the phenomenon of religious extremism. If religion is perceived to be part of the problem, he argues, then it must also form part of the solution. 92Y: Politics and Pundits: Steve Israel and Chris Matthews Monday, December 16, 7:15 p.m., Coffee & dessert at 7:00 p.m.
(336) 617-2002 www.DeepRiver.com Brian Ross Steve Shavitz
We always knew Rep. Steve Israel had a funny side, but last December he “revealed his inner Jon Stewart,” according to the New York Daily News, with his novel The Global War on Morris. A Buckleyesque satire on the Bush Cheney era, it’s now in development for a comedy series for cable. Israel is joined by MSNBC host Chris Matthews to discuss the absurdities of Washington—as only insiders like these two can.
Youth Events/Religious School November 7 through February 27 Beginning November 7, Sunday religious school will switch to (Saturday) Shabbat Club. All are invited to join this exciting morning. Shabbat Club will run from 9:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. to coincide with the end of services. Each week will have: Mishpachah Minyan – brief family services where all can all learn about the structure, choreography and meaning of the Shabbat prayers. Small-group Student Discussions – Age-appropriate discussions on Liturgy as well as Jewish Morals & Ethics. Shabbat Lunch - After services conclude, each week the school community and the shul community will gather for a family-friendly Shabbat lunch JETT - Each week of Shabbat Club, will have a fun, hour-long session for the toddlers and pre-K kids from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Chanukah Zimriyah & Latke Party! Sun. Dec 13, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 Religious School students and Shabbat Club students will lead in Chanukkah songs, playing dreidel and Israeli dancing. Then will enjoy latkes and sufganiyot/ jelly doughnuts. Please join in for a great Chanukah brunch.
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DECEMBER 2015 Senior Events: Vatikim is a program for seniors, 65, including a weekly knitting group which makes items for local hospitals; special holiday luncheons and a weekly lunch and learn program featuring a speaker or entertainment, and great company. Tuesdays, 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lunch served. $3 donation, please. Events for December listed below. Questions? Call, Hilary 336-235-7734 12/1/2015 Medicare 101 with Jillian Reich. Jillian will discuss Medicare benefits as well as plan choices. 12/8/2015 Bnai Shalom Chanukkah Production. BSDS will perform their Chanukkah play for the group. 12/15/2015 Jews & Text – Rabbi Michael Ross continues his exploration into biblical times. 12/22/2015 92Y Video Replay: Ross/ Dershowitz: Dennis Ross & Alan Dershowitz with Ethan Bronner: The USIsrael Relationship. They’re from opposite sides of the aisle, but equally expert when it comes to setting the record straight on Israel. Dennis Ross, who has been a direct participant in shaping US policy towards Israel and the Middle East for nearly 30 years—first in the George H. W. Bush administration, then as Bill Clinton’s Middle East Peace envoy, and then as a special assistant to the president under Barack Obama. His new book is Doomed to Succeed. Alan Dershowitz has been a consultant to several presidential commissions and has advised presidents, UN officials, prime ministers, governors, senators and members of Congress. His latest book is The Case Against The Iran Deal: How Can We Now Stop Iran from Getting Nukes? Ethan Bronner, senior editor for international news at Bloomberg, moderates. 12/29/2015 Marlene Baruch, congregational nurse will talk about recent health news as well as answer any questions.
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Your Future ... Local Celebrations of Hanukah
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his year, Jewish older adults will celebrate Hanukah due in part to funding from BJH Foundation. Without funding from BJH Foundation, it would be difficult for some of these programs to even exist. The goal of the programing for this special population is to bring the Hanukah holiday back to life for many older Jewish adults in Greensboro. In fact, many older Jewish adults in Senior Living Facilities enjoy these gatherings as they are surrounded mostly by Christmas trees and Christmas decorations during the Holiday Season. The following programs offer and promote socialization, talking, reminiscing, singing and fellowship for many older Jewish adults. Temple Emanuel • Friendship Circle is always a welcoming environment for the older Jewish adult population. Rabbis Guttman and Koren engage the guests with song, friendship and educational presentations. Beth David Synagogue • Vitakim welcomes the older Jewish adult population with their gatherings. Vatikim, like Temple Emanuel Friendship Circle, fills a void in the lives of our older Jewish adults with socialization, entertainment and educational opportunities.
Jewish Family Services • Chai Notes is a program made possible by BJH Foundation. This program incorporates creative arts with older Jewish adults who are alert as well as those with dementia. Program Facilitator, Katie Claussen who is a trained cantor and Chaplin reaches out to older Jewish adults throughout the year. There have been a number of different programs during the year, including the holidays with Chai Notes being an instrumental part in connecting people through the arts to celebrate the holiday and aging. • Jewish Family Services steps in throughout the year with a multitude of services for everyone, including older Jewish adults. The Congregational Nurse program is available to the entire community, with special focus on our older Jewish adult group in Senior Living facilities as well as those living in private residences. Other organizations throughout North and South Carolina have creative and life enhancing programs as well. All of the older Jewish adult population benefits in some way from the grants awarded annually by BJH Foundation. If you would like additional information about BJH Foundation please visit our website at www.bjhfoundation. org or call 336-854-8400.
ORDER YOUR 2016 MAH JONGG CARDS Please order your 2016 Mah Jongg cards through Ann Gottman again this year so HADASSAH HOSPITAL in Israel will receive a rebate. From the 2015 sales, Hadassah received a check for $360. Regular cards are $8 and large print cards are $9. Please make checks payable to Ann Gottman and mail to 2204 Red Forest Road, Greensboro 27410 by January 28th, 2016
Any questions call Ann at 336-288-8402 or 336-327-8186.
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something we can do to help.” Students in Ms. Samra Nissan’s Hebrew class and Rabbi Michael Schwartz’s Israeli Society class exchanged letters with a group of 7th graders at Jerusalem’s Rene Cassin School. Mr. Shahar dubbed the project “Mehabkim et Yeldi Israel” or “Embracing the children of Israel.” The Israeli students primarily wrote about their fear in light of the wave of terror incidents. One Israeli student wrote: “There is a feeling of fear when you know it is coming close to your home.” Another AHA students reach out to Israeli Israeli teen shared: “I wanted to tell you what it is like living in Israel, in Jerusalem. students via letters. It is very scary to go out in the street alone, for fear that any moment there can Academy community to show their be a terror attack.” support in a variety of different ways. But many of the Israeli students shared One way that Academy students that despite their fear, they had confidence have shown their support to their Israeli in the security forces protecting them, peers is through a letter writing program and all the Israeli youth wished happiness developed by Mr. Shahar, himself Israeli, and success to their American peers. One who was a teacher in Jerusalem before student reminded her reader: “It’s not joining the Academy faculty. “I came up always this way [in Israel].” with this program because I, like many Shahar commented: “Creating a people here at our school, felt great personal connection was great for both distress about what was happening in sides. I believe that the Israeli students Israel, and wanted to do something,” understand that we stand with them, they Shahar explained. “I knew that we could are not alone, and Jews all over the world not directly fight terror, nor protect the are standing with them and praying for Israeli citizens on the streets, so I decided their security and peace. For our students we should combat the frustration and here at the Academy, it was an opportunity helplessness so many Israelis experience to learn about life in Israel, not from the as a result of feeling alone, isolated from news, but from actual people – kids their the rest of the world, and misrepresented age and younger.” And so the relationship by the international media. I contacted a was kindled. friend of mine who teaches in Israel, and The Academy students wrote back I made it happen. So we could at least letters in both Hebrew and English make a group of Israeli kids feel better, like they were not alone. I also wanted our expressing their support for and solidarity students to understand that there is always with the Israeli students, and the Israeli
American Hebrew Academy American Hebrew Academy unites in support of Israel
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n response to the recent violence in Israel, the American Hebrew Academy community has come together to show its support for the citizens of Israel by holding an Israel Solidarity Rally, participating in a letter exchange with Jerusalem teens, forming an advocacy club, and supporting the junior class, now studying abroad in Israel. “Our school community felt that it had to show solidarity with our brothers and sisters living in Israel,” said Dean of Jewish Life Leon Covitz. “The Israel rally was a student-led assembly, which included thoughts from one of our own seniors – Gillian Blais – as well as a number of readings, including the prayers for the injured and for the welfare of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).” The American Hebrew Academy encourages a close relationship with Israel. Each year, the junior class spends 10 weeks in Israel, offering students the chance to see and experience the Jewish homeland firsthand, and become personally connected to the history and future of the Jewish people. The Academy juniors are currently studying in Israel, safe and supported by their community in Greensboro and beyond. Students from the new Israel Club, mentored by Jewish Studies teacher Mr. Itamar Shahar, and the Student Jewish Life Committee, were responsible for the moving assembly, which was aimed to not only support Israelis living under the threat of terror, but to energize the
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DECEMBER 2015 people as a whole, and many students also sent fervent prayers for peace and security. Senior Sean Lerner from Charlotte, N.C., wrote in Hebrew: “Although I have never experienced terror in my city, I feel that I am a part of the Jewish people and the state of Israel. And I want you to know that I, all my friends, and the entire community support you.” In a private email, Hamutal Elbaz, the teacher at the Rene Cassin School in Jerusalem wrote: “My students were very excited to read your letters and we appreciate your support. We are all waiting for this situation to be over and hoping for peace.” The American Hebrew Academy is the only school of its kind – on the school’s campus, students from across the United States and the world, including Israel, come together to study in a unique college prep environment that offers a rigorous dual curriculum in Academics and Jewish studies. Numerous American Hebrew Academy students, alumni, faculty, and staff are from Israel, or made aliyah, and feel extremely connected to what is happening in the Jewish state. During the Israel Solidarity Rally, the community also took the opportunity to acknowledge those who have or are currently serving in the IDF. As the junior class enjoys their term in Israel studying at Alexander Muss High School in Israel, the Academy community in Greensboro stands with their peers studying abroad, and stands with Israel. As Dean Leon Covitz said: “The theme of kol yisrael arevein zeh lazeh – mutual responsibility – is certainly felt within our Academy community.”
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* Federation touches more Jewish lives on the planet than any other organization. With programs in 70 countries around the world, our work includes: aiding over 70,000 poverty-stricken Jews in war-torn Ukraine; helping needy Holocaust survivors worldwide; providing Jewish education for children and teens; helping connect young Jewish adults to their religion, culture and to Israel. And so much more.
This Chanukah, change Jewish lives for the better everywhere. You can do it from anywhere. Even your own kitchen. Feed your soul and the souls of others. Please give generously to: www.shalomgreensboro.org
But while you’re doing them— why not do good things for your global family as well? Like nurturing and strengthening Jewish life. Helping the vulnerable. Inspiring the young. And safeguarding our people.
menorah. Giving out gifts. Good things you do every year for your family.
It’s Chanukah! You’re in the kitchen frying up latkes. Lighting the
FEED YOUR SOUL
This Chanukah
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