What's Inside

48 Pages·2008·10.18 MB·English

Happy Passover
JeT Hw E ish Georg i a n
Volume 19, Number 3 Atlanta, Georgia M A R C H - A P R I L 2 0 0 8 F R E E
Jewish Theatre of the South says goodbye with The Last Schwartz
What’s Inside
Jewish Theatre of the South’s last pro- Lind) home for his father’s Yahrzeit.
duction, The Last Schwartzby Deborah And reclusive astronomer Simon, the
Zoe Laufer, will run April 30-May 25, middle brother, holds down a corner of
The Bar and the Band ending the company’s 13-year history. the living room, alternately peering out
Nothing remains sacred as traditions, of his telescope and reflecting on ques-
Attorney Beryl Weiner received a lifetime marriage, and family are scrutinized, tions that are bigger than his family,
achievement award for his career contri- and long-held secrets are unearthed in bigger than the Jewish people, and big-
butions, but his life outside work is note- this dysfunctional family comedy. ger than humanity itself.
Directed by Actor’s Express Artistic Jewish Theatre of the South’s pro-
worthy, too.
Director Freddie A s h l e y, The Last duction of The Last Schwartz takes
Page 8
Schwartz features Atlanta actors Tess place at the Morris & Rae Frank
Malis Kincaid, Chris Moses, Jared Theatre, located at the MJCCA, 5342
And Many, Many More Simon, Kathleen Wattis, Bethany Anne Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody.
Lind, and Jeffrey Zwartjes and the pro- Performances are We d n e s d a y,
Ahavath Achim commemorates 120 years duction talents of designers Tr a v i s Thursday, and Saturday nights at 8:00
with a special performance of Golda’s George (sets), Chris Crawford (lights), p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
Balcony. Linda Patterson (costumes and props), Reduced-price previews are April
By Miriam Strickman Levitas and Mimi Epstein (sound). 30 and May 1, at 8:00 p.m., and May 2,
Page 7 When the adult Schwartz children, at 10:30 a.m.
along with a spouse and a date, gather at The Saturday, May 3, opening
the family home in upstate New York, night will be preceded by a reception
Israel @ 60
they argue, eat, smoke, and drink. featuring complementary wine,
Oldest sibling Norma (Tess Malis He’Brew Beer, and hors d’oeuvres; it
Symposium Kincaid) is self-righteous but longs for will be followed by a party at Eclipse
the comfort of family unity. Self- de Luna at Park Place.
Or Hadash honors Ken Stein with a absorbed oldest brother Herb (Jared Tickets are $18-$30, with dis-
unique event that he helped design. Simon) finds himself caught between a counts for students, seniors, groups,
Jeffrey Zwartjes and Tess Malis Kincaid
Page 15 successful career in finance and his and MJCCAmembers. For ticket infor-
(Photo: TWMEYER.com)
high-strung wife, Bonnie (Kathleen mation and purchase, call the JTS Box
Wattis). Youngest brother Gene (Chris the family’s “golden boy,” inappropriately O ffice at 770-395-2654, or visit
Here Come the Hogs
Moses), a director of TVcommercials and brings shiksa starlet Kia (Bethany Anne www.jplay.org.
The Sabra Riders of Atlanta bring the
area’s Jewish motorcyclists together. MJCCA puts out
By Neil Cooper
Page 30
the welcome mat
One Book, Lots of Fans
People of the Book, Geraldine Brooks’ The value of providing quality cus- (newcomers) were immediately
tomer service is certainly nothing new embraced as friends, cared for both
new novel about a real-life Haggadah, has
to JCCs; however, at the Marcus Jewish physically and spiritually, and treated as
readers buzzing.
Community Center of A t l a n t a honored members of the family.
Reviews by Evie Wolfe,
(MJCCA), it has become a best practice. According to Wise, the MJCCA
Carolyn Gold, and Susan Kahn
“Customer service is core to our should be the modern-day equivalent of
Page 34
Jewish mission in building community Abraham’s Welcoming Tent: an open,
and creating incredible Jewish jour- all-inclusive, warm and welcoming
Bring on the neys,” says Michael D. Wi s e , “Jewish home,” where every member of
CEO/executive director of the MJCCA. the community, regardless of affiliation
Poodle Skirts “The value of Jewish welcoming is or level of engagement, is welcomed
deeply rooted in our history, beginning and feels an immediate sense of belong-
Shearith Israel is celebrating its 50th with Abraham’sWelcoming Tent.” ing.
According to Jewish tradition, Since assuming the leadership of
anniversary at University Drive with a
Abraham and Sarah’s tent was open on the nation’s third largest JCC in April
sock hop.
all four sides in order to welcome and Mike Wise in front of the new MJCCA
By Leon Socol
usher in all who passed by. Strangers See MJCCA, page 5 Membership and Customer Service Office
Page 36
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
Page 2 March-April 2008
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
March-April 2008 Page 3
Under The Guise of Humanitarianism
JeT Hw E ish Georg i a n
The Jewish Gergian is published bimnthly by Eisenbt, Ltd. It The politics of the Middle East are con- the First Intifada. Hamas shares with the
is written fr Atlantans and Gergians by Atlantans and voluted and, very often, not discernable to Muslim Brotherhood the goal of the estab-
Gergians.
Publishr Marvin Btnick Western observers. What makes it even lishment of a caliphate, the core ingredient
CEdi-tPurblishr SMaamrv Ainp Bpeltnick more confusing is that most of us see the B YM a r v i n of which is implementation of pan-Islamic
Managing Editr Marsha C. LaBeaume conflicts in this area through the eyes of unity based on Islamic law.According to
Assignment Editr Carlyn Gld Western values and concepts. Unlike many B o t n i c k Wikipedia, the Muslim Brotherhood “is the
Cnsulting Editr Gene Asher
Assciate Editr Barbara Schreiber of the modern clashes, what is taking place largest and most influential Islamic group
Cpy Editr Ray Tapley there is not really about land but rather in the world, and its offshoots form the
Assistant Cpy Editr Arnld Friedman which was interrupted. The temporary
PMrakdeuucpti End Citrrdinatr TTeerrrrii CChhrriissttiiaann abouItt riesl ingoiot nu.ncommon for the Islamists to embargo on fuel used was played to the elarrngmesetn otsp.p”osition parties in most Arab gov-
Medical Editr Mrris E. Brwn, M.D. press as a total denial of electricity to the
Phtgraphic Staff Allan Scher, Phil Sltin, Phil Shapir couch their ultimate goal in the terms of While the Muslim Brotherhood has
Graphic Art Cnsultant Karen Paz humanitarian abuses by others. Such was residents of Gaza. Pictures were broadcast been legally outlawed by the Egyptian gov-
Clumnist Andi Arnvitz (Israel),Gene Asher, around the world of residents of Gaza hav-
Jnathan Barach, the case in the recent embargo placed on the ernment, this fact has not lessened its ulti-
Janice Rthshild Blumbrg(Washingtn), supply of fuel to Gaza by the Israelis as an ing to use candles for light, and much was mate goal. Hosni Mubarak, who will be 80
Marvin Btnick, made of a photograph of a baby in an incu-
Shirley Friedman, Carlyn Gld, attempt to counteract the constant launch- years old this May, has served as president
Jnathan Gldstein, Gerge Jrdan, ing of rockets from Gaza into Israel. In the bator with the implication that this device since October of 1981, and, because of his
Marice Katz, Balfura Frind Levine, was not working because of a power inter-
Marsha Liebwitz, Hward Margl, world press, little was made of the fact that age, there is much talk about a successor.
Bubba Meisa, Erin O’Shinsky, a sovereign country’s duty and responsibil- ruption. Subsequent photographs have Given all of the above, it appears to me
Ben Rabinwitz (Israel), shown a monitor next to the incubator that
Lew Regenstein, Rberta Schr, ity is to protect its citizens from injury, that the emergence of Hamas as the power
JRarbryb iS Rhwuvaerntz S, Lteein,n Scl, harm, and death from the hands of others. wgraasp whso rokfi nrge.s iTdheenrtes ahroe lad innugm cbaenrd olef sp,h poutor-- in Gaza has far greater implication than the
Hannah Vahaba, Cecile Warnker, R a t h e r, what was broadcast around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. There are many,
Special Assignmnts ESuvsiea nW Kalfhen, Lyns Jel world was that the people of Gaza were panodrt eodthlye rf oerl eilclturmicainllayti opno,w werheilde isttermeest ilnig thhtes many knowledgeable people who question
Advertising Michael Plt unjustly being subjected to abuses of basic the ability of the existing governments of
Marsha C. LaBeaume background are giving off light.
Bill Snnshine necessities. The truth is, in an attempt to But what appears to be even more I s r a e l ’s neighbors, Egypt, Jordan, and
curtail these armed attacks on the civilian Lebanon, to survive the Islamic fundamen-
Editrial Advisry Bard Mmbrs unnerving is that these acts were not mere-
Sam Appel Rabbi Alvin Sugarman Sam Massell population in Israel, actions by the Israeli ly an attempt to gain the upper hand in the talist thrust. While I have no hard evidence,
Jane Axelrd Albrt Maslia William Rthschild government have resulted in some restric- it certainly seems to me that there is some
Gil Bachman Michael H. Mscn Marilyn Shubin Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It appears as
Asher Benatr Paul Muldawer Dug Teper tions in the availability of resources to some though this set of circumstances was used overriding coordination that is in place to
of the Gaza residents. take advantage of any situation or condition
290 Carpenter Drive, Suite 100 As it turns out, Gaza operates only one to further a much larger agenda of its gov- that arises to create a theocracy.
Atlanta, GA30328 power generating plant, which produces erning body, Hamas. The recent fuel embargo by Israel was
[phone] • FAX [phone] Hamas was created in the 1980s by
only 30 percent of the electricity used in just such a case. Under the guise of human-
[email protected] Sheikh Ahmed Yassis of the Gaza wing of
this territory; the remaining 70 percent of
www.jewishgeorgian.com the Muslin Brotherhood at the beginning of
electricity is furnished by Israel, none of See HUMANITARIANISM, page 6
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
Page 4 March-April 2008
many years and recently served as president InterContinental Buckhead, making it one
W h a t ’s
of Women’s ORT. Joe became involved of only two hotels in the city and one of
with ORT through the ORT- L i p s o n four in the entire state to achieve this honor.
International Studies Program, founded by Just having Martha Jo there is probably
H A P P E N I N G Nate Lipson, which brings students to worth a star or two—indeed, she’s a star
Atlanta from schools in countries where herself, and many Atlantans would not
ORTis active, such as Israel and Argentina. dream of having an event without MJ plan-
With the help of the Lipson family and ning it.
many other supporters, ORTAmerica pro-
motes Jewish values through a worldwide
network of schools and training programs
in 56 countries that have over three million
SAM MASSELL’S LIFELONG A M B I- graduates. Every year, ORTprovides train-
TION. “Georgia Weekly,” Susan Hoffman’s ing to some 270,000 students, enabling
Sunday program on Georgia Public them to achieve successful careers, become
Broadcasting, recently did a really interest- community leaders, and live independently.
ing interview with Buckhead Mayor Sam B YR e g For more information, contact ORT
Massell, who R e g e n s t e i n Atlanta at 404-327-5266.
was, as usual, in In the interest of journalistic integrity,
great form. we must disclose that Dr. Joe gives a group CELEBRATING. Pictured: (from left)
If you missed unbearable in Buckhead, how do we get out discount to the editors and writers here at Ronen Nissenbaum; Tom Murray,
it, here are some of thismess?” the JG—itself almost a full-time job. He COO, IHG The Americas; Martha Jo
highlights of tries to keep us sane, but it’s an uphill fight. Katz; Steve Porter, president, IHG
what Sam said: NEWMOVIE ON JEWISH RESISTANCE We are again reminded of that great The Americas; and Debbie Grant,
• “I’ve got a big FIGHTERS. We are very excited about a sign that hung in the old Buckhead Men’s InterContinental Buckhead hotel
ego today, but new movie being made about the exploits Shop when we were growing up: “You manager
back when I and heroism of the in-laws of our friend, the don’t have to be crazy to work here—but it
started out, I beautiful and charming Susan Candell helps!” SAVING WATER IN THE DROUGHT.
was introvert- Kaplan, of Sandy Springs. The great uncles George Hammond, who is smart enough to
ed.” of her son-in-law David Bell were leg- New ORT co-presidents have married Dena, the lovely sister of Joan
• “The first endary resistance fighters against the Brown, is also a resourceful conservationist
Buckhead Mayor semester of my Germans. who is helping solve Atlanta’s water short-
Sam Massell freshman year The renowned Bielski Brothers led the age problems.
at UGA, I was l a rgest group of Jewish partisans who The Savannah native’s firm, Advanced
elected president of Phi Epsilon Pi fraterni- fought the Germans during World War II in Coastal Technologies LLC, has come up
ty—there was only one active member, and what is now Belarus. After their parents and with a simple and effective way to reduce
he left.” most of their family were killed by the your water use and save valuable rain
• “My uncle was Ben Massell….Sherman Germans in December 1941, the brothers— runoff from your roof, using a device he
burned Atlanta, he built it back.” Tuvia, Alexander Zisel (“Zus”), Asael, and developed called a Water Tube Collector.
• “People were always asking me, ‘Are you Aharon—fled into the nearby forest and Hook it up to a small pump, and you can
related to Ben?’ My lifelong ambition began gathering in other Jews fleeing the run a sprinkler for the grass and landscap-
would be to become so successful, people Holocaust. Eventually, some 1,200 Jews ing.
would say to Ben, ‘Are you related to took refuge with the group and survived the The Water Tube is made of heavy-duty
Sam?’” war. vinyl and can hold 450 gallons of water. It
Once, when campaigning in Mountain N o w, a movie about the brothers, Jan Haber Joe Berger is totally reusable and can be stored and
Park to persuade voters to let MARTArun D e f i a n c e, is scheduled for release in folded up when not in use. To see how sim-
out there, he flew over the community in a December.This true story is based on The ATLANTADOGWOOD FESTIVAL. Our ple it is to save water, visit
helicopter during rush hour, announcing, Bielski Brothers, a book by Peter Duffy. favorite Berger is Joe’s inexhaustible wife w w w. A d v a n c e d C o a s t a l Te c h n o l o g i e s . c o m ,
“If you wanna get outta this mess, vote Susan’s grandson, Aidan Jacob (Melissa Debra, who devotes her life to helping ani- or e-mail George at
yes.” This being the Bible Belt, Sam fig- and David Bell’s son), was given the mals through her work with the Humane G h a m m o n d @ A d v a n c e d C o a s t a l Te c h n o l o g i
ured people would hear him and think it Hebrew name Asael in honor of his great Society of the United States, the nation’s es.com.
was a divine voice telling them how to vote. uncle. The movie stars Daniel Craig as largest and most powerful animal protec-
Sam did have a tremendously success- Tuvia, Liev Schreiber as Zus, and Jamie tion organization, and the Interfaith Council BANGKOK THYME. If you love Asian
ful career in real estate. But his greatest tri- Bell as Asael. It is directed by Ed Zwick, for the Protection of Animals and Nature. food, especially Thai and sushi, we’ve got a
umph—probably what gave him that big who directed and produced B l o o d Debra will be running the HSUS booth in restaurant for you. Bangkok Thyme, at
ego—was when he met the lovely, delight- D i a m o n d, G l o ry, and other well-known the Community Corner of the A t l a n t a 4969 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, has
ful, very popular, and sought-after Doris films. Dogwood Festival, which will be held at some of the best food and nicest service
Middlebrooks at the Pine Street Supper It is great to have a film coming out Lenox Square, April 4-6. we’ve seen in a long time.
Club, somehow persuaded her to go out that shows how the Jews who could, fierce- At the booth, children can participate Mr. Sakchai, the manager, and his staff
with him, and eventually married her, some ly resisted the Germans and fought for their in a Be Kind to Animals Poster Contest. go out of their way to make sure you get
52 years ago. Yes, Sam married way over lives and freedom. And we congratulate Who knows—maybe it could launch your exactly what you want, the way you want it.
his head, and they now have three great kids Susan on her distinguished in-laws. young artist’s career! The other day, he even helped fix us a deli-
and three even greater grandkids. If you would like to volunteer for this cious gluten-free, vegan, spicy Thai rice
We can’t imagine an introverted Sam Y E T ANOTHER HONOR FOR JOE event and help staff the booth, please con- noodle dish. It was perfect, even for such a
Massell, and as for ourlifelong ambition, BERGER. Our favorite psychiatrist, Dr. tact Debby at [email protected]. finicky eater as we are.
it’s for someone some day to ask Sam, “Do Joseph Berger, has just been named co- Visit www.bangkokthyme.com and
you know Reg Regenstein?” But the ques- president of ORTAtlanta, along with Jan MANAGER OF THE Y E A R . check out the large and varied menu. Or
tion we have for the Buckhead Coalition Haber. Congratulations to Martha Jo Katz for even better, visit the restaurant and check
president now is, “With traffic being so Jan has been involved with ORT for being named InterContinental Buckhead’s out the food. You’ll love it. Phone: 404-
Manager of the Year.And her boss, Ronen 389-0909.
Nissenbaum, has just been promoted to
regional vice president of operations of
North America, giving him responsibility
for 15 hotels.
They are also celebrating the coveted
Four Star Mobil rating given to
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
March-April 2008 Page 5
MJCCA the members that I have spoken with have While the MJCCAis already aestheti-
commented on the many positive changes cally pleasing, customer-friendly elements
around the center,” said Dee Goodman, such as the new Sheletron electronic sig-
From page 1
MJCCAdevelopment manager. nage totems and a Membership & Customer
2007, Wise has made it his personal mis- Additional training was also imple- Service Office have been added to the
sion to expand and enhance this important mented for new employees, who are now lobby.
value of Jewish welcoming. However, required to attend an orientation week that
faced with a unique set of challenges that includes working or spending time in every
include a rapidly growing Jewish communi- department—from support services to secu-
ty known to have a high rate of intermar- rity—in order to gain a better understanding
riage, a low rate of affiliation, a large base of how the agency works.
of newcomers, and growing pockets of One of the most exciting new initia-
Jewish communities in outlying areas, Wise tives has been the creation of a Staff Jacob Greenblat and daughter
knew that innovative approaches were Professional Development Program, featur- Hannah, the first two people in line
needed if the MJCCAintended to grow its ing year-round continuing education classes for Camp Registration Day, January
membership base and keep its current mem- offered during business hours and taken on 13, were rewarded with a member-
bers happy and engaged. company time. ship upgrade.
Recently, under Wise’s direction, the Whether full- or part-time, salaried or
MJCCA chose to make a radical culture hourly, all employees must earn at least five POLICIES AND PROCEDURES.
change that began with the adoption of one continuing-education credits annually. Consistent messaging is key to offering the Stacey Lasky, marketing traffic man-
of the world’s most successful models of There are currently 27 courses covering ultimate customer experience. Today, all ager, shows a member where to find
customer service, the Disney Approach to such topics as computer software training, front desk staff are instructed to answer her meeting room on the new
Quality Service. Jewish learning, customer service, manage- their phones with a warm tone and the Sheletron sign.
Founded in 1986, the Disney Institute ment training, financial, programming, added personalization of their name.
is known as a world-class leader in experi- agency culture, and skill enhancement. External e-mail correspondence concludes Additionally, the Community Service
ential training, leadership development, with a professional “signature,” and staff Department recently launched a new pro-
benchmarking, and cultural change for who will be out of the office for more than gram, Center Corps, to enlist volunteer
business professionals. Thousands of the 24 hours are instructed to leave voice mail greeters. Working in teams of two, greeters
world’s most successful companies, includ- messaging offering alternative personnel will wear MJCCAstaff shirts, be schooled
ing Delta Air Lines, IBM, Target, and Sony assistance. in “all things MJCCA,” distribute program
Electronics, have taken advantage of the and membership information as needed,
business philosophies behind the “happiest SETTING THE STAGE. Nothing is more escort members to their center destinations,
place on earth.” important to exceeding customer expecta- and be trained in CPR/first aid.
To implement this agency-wide culture tions than setting the stage. To create a
change, Jared Powers, a senior member of sense of identity and continuity, staff name IS ITWORKING?
the MJCCAmanagement team, was sent to tags now include the employee’s place of
the Disney Institute in Orlando, Florida, birth. At first, many staff members were “Aweek after we initiated the new cus-
where he completed a comprehensive three- puzzled by this change. However, the rea- tomer service plan, we began our participa-
and-a-half-day customer service training son soon became clear as patrons were tion in the JCCA 2007 Benchmarking
program. While there, Powers was treated Mike Wise with Beth Goldner, mature heard making such comments as: “You’re Study.While we are still awaiting the final
to an inside look at the Disney operation, adults program director from San Jose? I lived in San Jose for many results of this year’s study, we will definite-
where he was shown best practices through years. Do you know....?” The inclusion of ly have concrete metric data with which to
a combination of case studies, hands-on S t a ff Professional Development birthplaces turned out to be a key point of gauge our overall success after participating
field experience, and interaction with Committee member and Human Resources engagement with members, sparking con- in the study next year,” said Wise.
Disney leaders. Manager Terry Spector says, “The day we versation where there might not have been Until then, the changes at the MJCCA
“My experience at the Disney Institute posted the classes on our intranet, we were one before. are clearly working their “magic.”
is one I will not soon forget. The Disney inundated with completed registration The name tags also include what the Customers are commenting on the friendly
Approach to Quality Service is an outstand- forms. Many of our classes filled on that Disney Institute refers to as a “service atmosphere and the attentive service they
ing business model. Although I came away first day, and we had to create wait lists. theme or statement.” Not to be confused are receiving. Phone calls are returned
with an impressive amount of information, What was even more surprising was that the with the JCCAbranding taglines, “Inspiring p r o m p t l y. Smiles and greetings are the
what really struck me is their attention to majority of [registrants] signed up for more Jewish Journeys” and “You Belong Here,” order of the day, every day. People are gath-
even the most minute detail and how this than the required five hours. That told us a service theme is an internal statement ering, talking, and enjoying one another’s
impacts the guest experience in so many that we were definitely on the right track.” informing your customers and your company on MJCCA’s Main Street.
positive ways,” said Powers. employees of the service your company To Wise and his staff, h a c h n a s e t
Upon his return, Powers met with sen- BUMPING THE LAMP.According to the intends to deliver. During initial meetings o rc h i m—“welcoming guests is a mitz-
ior management, who chose to interpret the Disney Institute, the easiest way to exceed with the new customer service committee, vah”—have become words to live and work
Disney model by dividing it into four criti- customer expectations is through what it an MJCCA service theme was discussed by.
cal categories: Training, “Bumping the calls “bumping the lamp”—that is, raising and adopted: “Creating A m a z i n g
Lamp,” Policies and Procedures, and the bar. Experiences.”
Setting, creating a staff-driven committee Jacob Greenblat and his 10-year-old
to oversee each. daughter, Hannah, experienced “bumping
the lamp” when they showed up at the
TRAINING. Wise, Powers, and the mem- MJCCAat 4:40 on a frosty January morn-
bers of the Customer Service Committee ing and were first in line for the annual
knew that the ultimate success of the new Camp Registration Day. Membership
customer service plan depended largely on Director Kenny Silverboard was so
a total staff buy-in. Powers and his team impressed by this father’s effort to ensure
immediately set about creating a compre- his daughter a place at drama camp, typi-
hensive customer service training program cally one of the first to fill up, that he imme-
for staff, detailing the ideology behind the diately upgraded the family’s membership.
new Disney model. Within three months, all This “extra special something” went a long
employees had successfully completed a way in creating goodwill with a member at
two-hour training course. very little financial cost to the agency.
“I think that the customer service ini-
tiative is long overdue. Both the staff and
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
Page 6 March-April 2008
Humanitarianism support human suffering and misery that
they inflict on the innocent– Arab and
From page 3 Israeli alike?
They started suicide bombings in
itarian necessity, hoards of Gaza residents Israel, and nothing was said. Now look
breached their border with Egypt. Is it pos- what is happening.
sible that the constant launching of missiles They launched missiles and shells at
into Israel is more than just an attack on the Israel, and nothing was said. Now look
civilian population in Israel? Could it be what is happening.
that part of the consideration for the actions They allowed the teaching of hatred
of Hamas is to incite a reaction that they and lies to be burned into the minds of chil-
feel would give cover to a breach of dren, and nothing was said. Now look what
restraints that have made it difficult to is happening.
expand past their boarders? They boycotted Israel, and not much
We constantly hear that the United was said or done. Now look what is hap-
States should use its influence and support pening.
of Israel to bring forth a peace treaty.Yes, They egregiously violated justice and
Israel is the beneficiary of financial help human rights, yet they sponsored resolu-
from our country. But where is the money tions and boycotts of Israel in world organ-
coming from to support Hamas? There is izations, and nothing was said. Now look
ample evidence that financial support for what is happening.
Hamas, the Intifada, Hezbollah, and a num- It is high time that the world comes to
ber of terrorist groups has come from Saudi realize that what has happened in Israel is
Arabia, Iran, Syria, and formerly from Iraq. only a microcosm of what is going on.
If the world really wants peace, then why Buying into the lie in hopes of successfully
does the world not speak out in words and navigating “the road map for peace” will
actions to pressure these countries not to not bring “peace in our time.” Take off the
blinders; do not take these incidents as
independent actions. Understand that the
ultimate goal is domination and control; the
imposition of a culture and laws that they
have determined is the only correct one.
The world has gone through such a
conflict before: we call it the Dark Ages.
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
March-April 2008 Page 7
Ahavath Achim marks an historic year with an historic event
By Miriam Strickman Levitas generals?” she ponders. In an instant, she is Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Since its behalf of Palestine and Zionism. In the
transformed. “I’m not a housewife!” founding, both the rabbinic and lay leader- 1930s, along with members of Ahavath
The 120th anniversary of A h a v a t h I s r a e l ’s destiny is determined at that ship had been in the forefront of the cause Achim, he reconstituted the Atlanta chapter
Achim Congregation will be commemorat- moment. This riveting “replay” will engage of Zionism in Atlanta.” (From Generation of the Zionist Organization of America.”
ed with a one-night-only performance of and mesmerize the audience. to Generation: A Centennial History of
Golda’s Balcony, the longest running one- For tickets and informa- Congregation Ahavath Achim, 1887-2008
woman show in the history of Broadway. tion, call 404-413-9849, 1 8 8 7 - 1 9 8 7 by Doris H. From a rented room at 106 Gilmer
This stirring production, starring Kim or visit Goldstein) Street in 1887—Congregation A h a v a t h
Crow as Golda Meir, relives a critical time h t t p s : / / t i c k e t s . r i a l t o- Around the Achim’s first known address—to the rear
in the life of the State of Israel. The 90- center.org. same time, Prime of a building at 120 Gilmer Street, to its
minute production will be staged at the his- Minister Golda first permanent home at the corner of
toric Rialto Theater, now the Rialto Center 1948 Meir came to Piedmont and Gilmer, where its first bona
for the Performing Arts, April 10, at 8:00 This year Atlanta to fide rabbi was hired, to the construction of
p.m. also marks solicit support a new building (known as the “Big Shule”)
The script is by the renowned play- the 60th for the new in 1920, on the corner of Washington and
wright William Gibson, who also wrote the a n n i v e r s a r y state. Woodward, to the majestic house of wor-
acclaimed plays The Miracle Worker and of the State of In his ship erected in 1958 on the corner of
Two for the Seesaw. Israel. book A Northside Drive and Peachtree Battle
It is 1973—the call comes through— “ T h e History of the Avenue—Ahavath Achim has experienced
Israelis learn that Egypt and Syria, with the founding of the Ahavath Achim 120 historic years of growing, evolving,
backing of Jordan and Iraq, are about to State of Israel on C o n g re g a t i o n , and transforming.
launch what will go down in history as the May 15, 1948, 1 8 8 7 - 1 9 9 7, “Congregations like our own, that live
Yom Kippur War. What course of action was marked by a Kenneth W. Stein to be 120 years old, must also transform
will be decided upon? Apre-emptive strike midnight service, spon- states, “Virtually every themselves and renew their identities and
by Israel, risking international condemna- sored by the four Zionist major Zionist leader, place in their community,” says Senior
tion or risking an inevitable slaughter? youth groups in the city— including Nachum Sokolow, Rabbi Neil Sandler. “That is precisely what
Golda Meyerson, a Russian immigrant Masada, Junior Hadassah, I.Z.Y. F., and Golda Meyerson (Meir), and Yitzhak Rabin we at Ahavath Achim Synagogue are doing
who grew up in Milwaukee and made Young Judea. Rabbi Harry H. Epstein, of spoke from the Ahavath Achim pulpit. In now, as we continue to engage in an excit-
aliyah to Palestine, now Golda Meir, prime blessed memory, and Rev. Stanley Grauel, Nashville, Asheville, Columbus, ing process of strategic planning that will
minister of Israel, must make the call. minister on the refugee ship Exodus, spoke. Greenville, Columbia, Macon, and other enliven most every aspect of our congrega-
“How does a housewife decide between It was fitting for this event to be held at Southern cities, Rabbi Epstein spoke on tion’s life.”
Golda Meir visits Atlanta to solicit
Kim Crow stars as Golda Meir support for the new State of Israel
Current building on Peachtree
Battle shortly after completion, 1958
Washington Street building soon
after completion, 1921
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
Page 8 March-April 2008
Georgia Bar honors Beryl Weiner
Memberof Piedmont Healthcare
Your health can’t wait. Beryl H. Weiner, a veteran lawyer with
over 50 years at the bar, was presented a
“Yes, We Take Your Insurance.” lifetime achievement award by the State
Bar of Georgia, Eminent Domain Section,
on January 17.
Walk-ins Welcome,
The award was presented by renowned
lawyer and author Charles N. Pursley on
Minimum Wait! behalf of the Eminent Domain Section at its
annual seminar at the State Bar Building.
The award was in recognition of Weiner’s
ALL AGES WELCOME “outstanding contributions in the field of
Eminent Domain Law in Georgia and fur-
therance of the Constitutional principle of
just and adequate compensation.”
• IMMEDIATE CARE Surprised and stunned by the award,
• PRIMARYCARE Weiner stated, “I began my legal career in
1957, working on a landmark case in the
•TRAVELMEDICINE
field of eminent domain pending in the
Open Supreme Court of Georgia, and I have con-
tinued throughout these 50 years in that
Beryl H. Weiner
field.” Weiner graduated from the
7 Days
University of Georgia in 1954 and its law
former president of both the Jewish
school in 1955. He has served under six
Educational Loan Fund and the Southern
Fulton County attorneys and three attor-
Jewish Historical Society.
667788--990044--55661111 neys general as an associate Fulton County
In the recently published book A
attorney and special assistant attorney gen-
House of David in the Land of Jesus,
eral, while also in the general practice of
Weiner’s cousin, Robert Lewis Berman,
law with the firm of We i n e r, Ya n c e y,
writes about Weiner: “He could give Pete
Dempsey & Diggs, LLP.
wwwwww..ppeerriimmeetteerrcclliinniicc..ccoomm Fountain a run for his money.... He is the
At 76 years of age, he is still going
one person who holds [our Berman] family
388667 RRosswweelll Roaadd 11//22 Miillee NNorrtthh ooff PPieddmoonntt RRooadd strong, not only in the practice of law, but together in the Atlanta area and Georgia....
as a bass clarinetist in the Atlanta Concert
Just a few minutes from anywhere in Buckhead, Midtown, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs Band. He is also active in numerous civic, Beryl, more than anyone else I have ever
known, recognizes that family is the very
philanthropic, and history societies and is a
bedrock of civilization.”
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
March-April 2008 Page 9
I remember you wouldn’t go to your bedside. So I walked “When you died in Hawkinsville in
her to you, and you called her your 1968, we held a memorial service there for
‘babysheh,’in German, the way you often our friends and neighbors, who crowded the
called me your ‘liebsheh.’Now, at 46, she funeral home. Our friend Baptist Minister
really doesn’t remember that visit. Billy Winburn spoke so beautifully about
Agroup of us were discussing Mitch Laurie lives in Flowery Branch with your life in America and what a role model
Albom’s book The Five People You Meet in her husband, Edwin Coffey, who’s helping you were for the young people in
Heaven and thinking about the long-gone her raise her son, Tommy Richard Black. Hawkinsville. I was brought to tears by the
special person each of us would love to B YBalfoura Friend Tommy was named for his father, Tom sight of the elderly farmer who cried in our
spend the day with. Maybe Eleanor L e v i n e Black, and his middle name is your middle store when he heard that ‘Mr. Bohans’done
Roosevelt, Golda Meir, a parent, a spouse.... name. Tommy is nine, a bright, handsome, g o n e . ’ After services at the Fitzgerald
————— boy who attends church with his extended Hebrew Congregation, you were buried at
It’s a lovely, sunny day. My doorbell them in our faith. They were bar and bat family.You would be ‘foolish’about him, the cemetery there. A few years ago, the
rings. I open the door, and there stands mitzvah, and both Sandy and Larry have too. If you recall, we used to buy our work children and I decided to have your remains
Hans. He’s still tall, dark, and handsome, been principals at their temple in Athens. boots from a factory in Flowery Branch, a re-interred here in Atlanta, where we have
but he’s a bit stooped over, and his once- Larry owns an insurance agency. Sandy is lovely little town near Buford. ‘two on the aisle’plots—where I will join
black hair is now solid white. I am trying to no longer practicing law but working at “Laurie needed a father as much as you, someday.
remember that he’s no longer 45, the young Athens Academy, where the kids went to Sandy and Ronnie did. It was difficult rais- “As you look at me, Hans, you now see
man who left years ago. school. ing our three youngsters, even though I a gray-haired woman of 82, no longer the
“Come in, Hans; I’m so glad to see “You didn’t know the fate of your par- remarried and was subsequently widowed slim and pretty young mother of 42. I live in
you. It will be 40 years since you left us on ents and younger brother in the Holocaust, twice more. a senior community, am long retired from
Memorial Day in 1968. Even though I was but Sandy, who is computer-savvy, found “You would be so touched by the many work at B’nai B’rith, and am enjoying the
a terrible cook, I know you loved my chick- out years later that your brother Kurt per- young men who lined up to give blood after companionship of old friends from South
en soup, so would you like some now? You ished in Theresenstadt at 16, and your par- your cancer surgery.The head nurse, Mrs. Georgia and local residents.
k n o w, our children were so young in ents died in the killing fields in Minsk. In Brinson, even brought her own electric “Hans, it’s getting dark, and your
1968—only 14, 12, and 6. Your tombstone fact, Sandy participated in a beautiful but- blanket, because you were so cold in the air- image is slowly fading into the distance.
reads, ‘Dad, you left us all too soon, love, terfly project at the academy, where she told conditioned hospital room. Rest in peace, dear....”
Sandy, Ronnie, and Laurie.’ They called
of your brother’s life and his subsequent
you Dada, just as President John F.
death, and students made butterfly symbols.
Kennedy’s kiddies called him.
“Now we will go visit Ronnie. We
“Today, I want to take you to visit those
named him Walter Ronald Mayer, after
now-grown children of ours. First, let’s go
your father,Walter. Ronnie, as he is known
to Athens, where your first-born, Sandy,
by his legions of friends, is now 52 and is a
now 53, lives with her husband, Larry
‘barrone’-like 6’6” tall. He is gray-bearded
Baumwald, and their children, Erica and
and looks like you. He re-married recently,
Scott. You surely recall our living in
but he and Debbie do not have children
Hawkinsville, where we combined our first
from their previous unions. Ronnie claims
names for the name of our store, Bohans
he got his business sense from you and his
Shoe Store. After Sandy was born, you gave
social graces from me. It’s true. He has a
up your road trips selling shoes for a
fleet of trucks with neatly dressed drivers
Savannah wholesaler, we bought a house,
who tow cars mostly for car dealerships but
and, in a few years, we completed our fam-
for individuals as well.
ily with son Ronnie and baby Laurie.
“Afew years ago, Ronnie was in a seri-
“Sandy and I now laugh about her boy-
ous accident, and word got around the auto
crazy early teens, but you adored her. It
industry so fast that, within a few hours,
seemed at the time that you would never
there were e-mails from around the country
consent to her going off to college, since
to his bedside in the hospital ICU. When I
you were so protective of your kiddies. You
first saw him in the intensive care unit, with
just wanted to see them in their own beds
his bandaged skull and neck brace, I feared
every night and wouldn’t hear of them
for his life. Thank god he came through it
going to spend-the-night parties. Yo u
all without any residual problems.
wouldn’t let Ronnie go on a Cub Scout
“Ronnie went through a lot of teenage
camping overnighter, either.
angst and growing pains. After high school,
“Well, Sandy did go to a 4-H camp
he graduated from technical school, where
after you were gone, graduated from
he learned to paint cars. Realizing he didn’t
University of Georgia and its law school,
want to inhale paint fumes, he bought his
and married Larry. Now, their daughter,
first tow truck. Now he has a fleet of red
Erica, has graduated UGAand is at Mercer
trucks lettered with ‘R. Mayer, Inc.’ His
Law School. Scott just started at UGA.
business card describes his company as an
“Both are excellent students and good
‘Executive Class Towing Service.’ Yo u
athletes. Erica has some of your soccer
would be so proud of him—he’s a well-
genes and played as you did in your youth,
respected citizen; president of the Ashford
when you played with famous teams in
Park Civic Association; and a friend to
South America. She also played basketball
everyone. When he leaves me a phone mes-
in the Maccabiah Games. She’s petite,
sage, he says, ‘Mama, this is your number-
blond, and pretty. Scott is 18 and really tall,
one son calling.’He is indeed my number
dark, and handsome. In high school, he aced
one son! He lives a mile or so away from
his grades and played baseball. He would
me.
probably remind you of your six-foot tall
“Last, but not least, let’s go visit your
uncle you called ‘the baron’—you pro-
‘baby,’as you called our Laurie. She was
nounced it gutturally, as ‘barrone.’
only six when you last saw her at Taylor
“ You would be crazy about those
Memorial Hospital in Hawkinsville. You
grandchildren. No doubt, you would be
were so ill, on your deathbed really, when I
schlepping them around endlessly.As we
took her to visit you. You asked to hug her,
say in the South, you’d be foolish about
but she clutched my hand in fear and
them! Sandy has done a great job raising
THE JEWISH GEORGIAN
Page 1 0 March-April 2008
Things to do if you’re a 20-something Jew
Check out what is going on this activities. Internationally, AJC works to include contemporary situations, the Jewish
spring. Leave the winter thaw behind, have advance human rights, combat terrorism, c a l e n d a r, and current events. For more
some fun, and meet other young Jewish and aid in the quest for a peaceful Middle information, contact Jon Grant at jonathanl-
adults at some of the season’s best events. B Y Hannah East. Upcoming Access programs include [email protected].
Shabbat in the City, featuring a home-
Va h a b a
2135—YOUNG ADULTPROGRAMS. If cooked Shabbat meal, March 28; and a YLC. The Jewish Federation of Greater
you are in your 20s or 30s, single or in a Black-Jewish Seder, April 7. For more Atlanta’s Young Leadership Council has
relationship, you are welcome to come information, visit www.ajcatlanta.org. many fun and exciting upcoming events.
meet and mingle at any of the Marcus On April 13, there is a YLC Family Picnic
Jewish Community Center of A t l a n t a ’s BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL. Taglit-Birthright at East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Rd. (2
2135 Young Adults programs. 2135 is an Israel provides the gift of first-time, peer miles off Holcomb Bridge Rd.), at 10:30
exciting social network of wine tastings, group, educational trips to Israel for Jewish a.m.; the cost per family is $20 in advance
sports leagues, happy hours, concerts, and young adults ages 18 to 26. Ta g l i t - or $25 the day of the event; RSVPto Erin
more. You do not need to be a member to Birthright Israel’s founders created this pro- Zagnoev at [email protected]. On May
participate. The Co-Ed Softball season gram to help diminish the growing division 20, 6:30 p.m., YLC is hosting the Young
starts on April 2; games are every between Israel and Jewish communities Professionals Night at the Breman
Wednesday at the MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill around the world; strengthen the sense of Museum. For more information on YLC,
Road, in Dunwoody; the cost is $65/mem- solidarity among world Jewry; and visit www.shalomatlanta.org.
bers and $85/non-members; the registration strengthen participants’ personal Jewish
FITNESS TURBO DATING. Ally Levy,
deadline is March 26. The Chocolate- identity and connection to the Jewish peo- YOUNG ANGELS FUNDRAISER. T h e
Jason Frank, and David Frank got fit
Covered Seder is April 13, 3:00 p.m.; the ple. Registration for the Atlanta summer MJCCA’sYoung Angels sponsor an annual
and had fun at the MJCCA’s interac-
cost is $10/members and $15/non-mem- group trip is now open. Contact Erin fundraiser to support scholarships for chil-
tive turbo dating event.
b e r s . Break the Bread: a Post-Passover Zagonoev at [email protected], or visit dren who would otherwise not have an
Party is April 27, 6:30 p.m., at Lola, 3280 www.birthrightisrael.com. MJCCAsummer camp opportunity. Nearly
ACCESS. Access, the young-adult division
Peachtree Road NW, Suite 150, Atlanta; the 300 people are expected to attend this
of the American Jewish Committee, pro-
first slice of pizza is on the house, and CAMPUS SUPERSTAR. Campus year’s event, which takes place March 22,
vides leadership development, networking,
drinks are discounted. For more informa- Superstar is an “American Idol”-style com- 7:30 p.m., at Shout Midtown, 11 9 7
stimulating programs, and volunteer oppor-
tion on 2135 events, contact Emily Stemer petition sponsored by Hillels of Georgia. Peachtree Street. Tickets are $40 in advance
tunities. The Atlanta AJC chapter is recog-
at [email protected]. Over 200 students from 26 Georgia col- or $45 at the door and are available at
nized for its diverse programming designed
leges auditioned, and 32 semi-finalists were www.atlantajcc.org. The evening features
to enhance Jewish learning and identity, as
chosen to perform at the Atlanta and Athens music, food, cocktails, great auction items,
well as numerous interfaith and inter-ethnic
Semi-finals show. Eight finalists will com- and multiple HDTVs for all you NCAA
pete to win $5,000 on April 1 at Center basketball fans. For more information on
Stage, 1374 W. Peachtree St. N.W. Campus the Young Angels or to donate to the schol-
Superstar proceeds help support programs arship fund, contact Emily Stemer at
through Hillels of Georgia, an organization [email protected].
dedicated to building vibrant Jewish stu-
dent life at Emory University, University of
G e o rgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State
U n i v e r s i t y, Kennesaw State University,
and other Georgia colleges and universi-
ties. Each year, Hillels of Georgia engages
6,000 Jewish college students through 550
programs that connect them to their Jewish
heritage and community. For Campus
Superstar information or tickets, visit
www.campussuperstar.com.
KOSHER CHAMELEON. Kosher
Chameleons are young Jewish profession- Kate Samuels, Zoe Levine, Ally Levy,
als living in Atlanta. They enjoy going out Jessica Plasker, and Robin
in Midtown, the Highlands, and, occasion- Goodman promoted the upcoming
ally, Buckhead. Kosher Chameleon parties Young Angels event at the Hadag
are hosted by Spiral Entertainment, which Nachash concert on February 12.
has been throwing parties for the past nine
years. The events draw 1,000-4,000 people,
mostly 21-40-year-old intowners. T h e s e
parties are not religiously affiliated. Among
the many spring events is the No Ham Jam,
April 5. For more information, visit
www.kosherchameleon.com.
RABBI SILVERMAN. Rabbi Dave
Silverman, one of the founders of Atlanta
Scholars Kollel, hosts a discussion group
that meets one Sunday a month at his house
in the Toco Hill area. The goal of the group
is to raise young adults’ level of Jewish Beth Brown, Gavin Brown and
awareness by presenting the Torah and the Jackie Naggar enjoy the party before
responsibility that Judaism entails in a the Hadag Nachash concert at
sophisticated and meaningful way. Topics Center Stage.