dec 2013 kol tikvah
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December 2013 issue of the Kol TikvahTRANSCRIPT
December 2013 • Volume 28 • Issue 11 A Reform Congregation Embracing Our Jewish Tradition
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Temple Beth Tikvah joins with
the Jewish Federation of
Greater Atlanta and
neighboring synagogues to
celebrate Hanukkah
Wednesday
December 4, 2013
6:45 @ Temple Kol Emeth
New Year of the Trees! January 11, 2014
Join us for the seder you probably never
heard of ! Celebrate the
environment and appreciate the fruits
of the Land of Israel.
טו בשבט
Tu B’Shvat
Who Family Event For All Ages
What Havdalah and
Tu B’Shvat Seder
When 5:30 PM—7:30 PM
Where TBT Social Hall
Please bring your own Israeli wine & a dish to
share. We will provide dairy main course.
Last name beginning in:
A –M Salad or Vegetables N - Z Dessert
RSVP at www.bethtikvah.com
Sign up for events
NFTY-SAR Fall Kallah a Huge Success!
Don’t BE a Turkey - DONATE One!
Our Annual Turkey Drive
Continues Through December!
Your $10 can make a world of
difference to a hungry family!
2
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
For Our Veterans
As I write this, we are not far from Veterans Day. A day that is supposed to be devoted to recognizing and
expressing gratitude to those who have served – and continue to serve – our country in the different arms
of our military. Yet, it is often characterized by sales at the mall with few people who take stock in how
fortunate we are to be in America.
For our own Jewish community, we have veterans who served in World War II through the most recent conflicts in Iraq
and Afghanistan. From our Tradition’s point of view, we know well that there is a time to make war and a time to make
peace. Even when war is about to break out, we are instructed to find a pathway to peace. Some of our greatest heroes
were also warriors – Abraham, Joshua, King David, Deborah, among others. Even God is referred to as Ish Milchamah –
a Man of War – as God brings the Israelites out of Egypt on their way to the Promised Land.
What does this say to me? Jewish Tradition does not embrace a pacifist perspective. While we must be rodfei shalom –
pursuers of peace, there are times when we must defend ourselves or others who are vulnerable.
But as Veterans Day approaches and will pass, I will be thinking about our women and men in our military who will be
putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our nation, its democracy and its interests worldwide. What happens to these
soldiers, sailors, airmen when they return? How has our country expressed its gratitude?
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, it is estimated that 18 veterans die by suicide every day. The
same report in 2010 found that as many as 950 suicide attempts each month occur among veterans receiving services
through the Veterans Administration (VA). The rate is lower, however, among veterans aged 19-29 who are receiving
services when compared to those who are not currently receiving care through the VA.
According to NAMI: While officials speculate that a better screening and reporting system may be a factor in the
increase, it is also likely that repeated deployments during the extended conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are a part of the
equation. The suicide rate is also impacted by high levels of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in young veterans
who served in one of these regions.
I have been reflecting on this a great deal since last Memorial Day. (Again, it isn’t really supposed to be a day devoted to
shopping.) My family and I always attend Roswell Remembers (www.roswellmemorialday.com), the local Memorial
Day ceremony. There is a time where veterans come up and share their own memories and ideas relating to their fellow
fallen soldiers. They are always moving tributes. But this year, a mom came
up and spoke about her son who served, was recognized for acts of bravery,
and yet could return to “normal life” here in the States. Her son took his own
life. She pleaded to all of us to write our Members of Congress to advocate
for better services through the VA, but also implored us to be better partners
with other organizations to support these men and women who return
wounded – physically, emotionally or spiritually.
For a list of organizations to support or to share with someone in crisis, visit
www.nami.org and search for “Veterans and Suicide.”
Let us join together and show our truest sense of gratitude by making sure
that when they return home, they have the tools the need to re-enter their
lives, find meaningful employment, get the emotional and physical support
they need to heal their wounds. And let us join with them as we return to
Isaiah’s ultimate hope: “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, nor
shall they learn war any more.”
Rabbi Fred Greene
3
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Notes from Cantor Kassel
THERE’S MORE TO THE
KADDISH PRAYER
THAN MOST OF US KNOW
The Kaddish prayer (and there are many types of Kaddish
prayers) is a doxology. Doxology comes from the Greek
words “doxa” (glory) and “logia” (saying). For Jews, a
doxology is a liturgical formula of praise to God – praising
God and praising God’s name. The majority of Kaddish
prayers are said in Aramaic but the “Mourner’s Kaddish”
concludes with the Hebrew words of “Oseh Shalom”. The
different types of Kaddish prayers are used to punctuate
larger and smaller rubrics of our prayer service and what
better way to do so than by offering praise to God. A
shorter Kaddish known as the “Chatzi Kaddish” separates
the end of opening prayers from the “Bar’chu” and then
again (although it is not the custom at TBT) just before the
beginning of the “Amidah”. There is a “Kaddish
D’Rabbanan” (Kaddish of the Rabbis) that follows parts of
the service that includes extracts from the Mishnah or
Talmud. And the Kaddish prayer we are probably most
familiar with is the “Kaddish Yatom”, the Mourner’s
Kaddish. It might seem odd to utter words of praise to
God when we are experiencing immediate grief for loss of
a loved one or remembering that person on the yahrzeit,
anniversary of one’s passing. When we recite these words
at this time, the idea is that merit is accrued to the soul of
the departed, for they are no longer here to utter these
words themselves. It’s a powerful prayer and in these days
of fluctuating Hebrew fluency…… I hope its meaning is
not lost. How I wish that every member of TBT who has
lost a parent or close loved one would honor their
memories by coming to services on Shabbat, the 7th day of
Pesach, the morning of Simchat Torah, the morning of
Shavuot and of course – the Yizkor service of Yom
Kippur. The recitation of the Kaddish prayer requires the
presence of a minyan, once again showing us the
importance of community and prayer in Judaism.
.
SHABBAT EXPERIENCE
Friday night, December 13 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
For children age 2 through 2nd grade
and their Parents!!
Parents can attend services in the sanctuary while their children
are in:
BABYSITTING (children ages 2 - 4)
or
"CREATIVE JEWISH PROGRAMMING"
(children ages Pre-K thru 2nd grade)
NO COST BUT RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
RSVP now!
DO YOU READ HEBREW and
WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN TO
CHANT TORAH ?
If so, please contact me at [email protected].
I will start working with a group of interested
learners in January on Sundays when Religious
School is in session.
We will work on Shabbat morning prayers and how
to chant from the Torah. Over the years there have
been groups of TBT congregants who have become
“Ben/Bat Torah” and as a result they have become
more connected to others and more confident in their
ability to participate in services.
STAY TUNED FOR JANUARY 2014
“SHABBAT SHIRAH” (Sabbath of Song) - Shabbat
Morning ‘Services’ January 11
“MLK SHABBAT” - Friday night, January 17
“SHABBAT EXPERIENCE” - Friday night, January 24
“RUACH SHABBAT” – Friday night, January 31
4
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
WOW!!! I finally got to have my very first Jewish
camp experience!! Leslie and I joined about 20 other
Beth Tikvah families for the first Annual TBT Family
Retreat at URJ Camp Coleman. It was an awesome
experience from beginning to end!
Our retreat began with a cool Scavenger Hunt that
guided us on a tour of the Camp. We met for Shabbat
dinner in the Dining Hall and were treated to
Coleman’s famous fried chicken and Apple Brown
Betty. Diet blown! We enjoyed a song session after
dinner lead by our clergy and John Restler, followed
by a creative Shabbat service. After services, young
and old formed teams and rocked the TBT Olympics!
On Saturday, we were able to experience Shabbat
morning services in the idyllic outdoors, in the
Hillman Chapel overlooking the mountains and lake.
We were inspired by the music and again led in
meaningful and creative worship. The committee
planned programming for the rest of the day for the
children and the adults, with sessions such as “Portrait
of an American Jew,” Yoga, Sports, Arts and Crafts,
Music and Mah Jongg. We came together before
dinner for a thought provoking session titled, “Using
Our Past to Build a Jewish Future.” All “campers”
joined together for this session. I was amazed by the
contributions of some of our younger members.
Saturday evening, we shared a special Havdalah
around a roaring fire then made our own S’mores.
The kids had their own special program and the adults
had free time. There were small groups doing
different things, but in the background, we all were
treated to guitars and singing by some very talented
people! We sang favorite camp songs as well as oldie
goldies from the seventies and eighties.
After breakfast on Sunday, there was a Mitzvah
Project and a Closing Circle. Unfortunately, I had an
all-day URJ Presidents meeting and had to miss this,
but I heard it was as memorable as the rest of the
weekend.
The weather was perfect. Even though the nights
were cool, everyone stayed warm in their cabins. We
made new friends and learned more
about others that we might have known,
but now know much better. We were a
group ranging in age from preschool to
60’s, and I think everyone had a great
time. The committee spent a lot of time and effort to
meticulously plan the entire weekend – no one was
without something to do and everyone seemed to have
as much fun as I did. Wouldn’t it be great if we could
double the families participating next time?
Our Casino Night and Silent Auction on October 19
was another TBT home run! Our social hall morphed
into a huge Casino with Blackjack, Roulette, and other
casino games. There were over 100 Silent Auction
items as well – great trips, restaurants, gifts, art and
gift certificates galore. Special fall cocktails and
beautiful and delicious food rounded out the evening.
This event raised almost $11,000 for our Annual
Campaign. Again, much time and effort went into the
planning of this event but over 200 people attended,
enjoyed and contributed to our fundraising.
In summary, I am so grateful to all the “hands” and
“hearts” that made these two huge events possible. I
could never accurately thank everyone but hope you
know that your efforts are appreciated and know that
you felt rewarded by seeing the success of your hard
work!
L’Shalom
Ron Swichkow
SAVE THE DATE!
Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer
Recognition & Recognition & Recognition &
Ruach ShabbatRuach ShabbatRuach Shabbat
January 31, 2014 January 31, 2014 January 31, 2014
8 pm8 pm8 pm
Great Things Going on at TBT
5
Campaign TBT: EveryONE Matters Update
In September when we kicked off our 2013-2014 annual campaign we announced that the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation made a very generous matching donation. The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation committed to match dollar-for-dollar up to a total of $25,000 for donations received by December 15, 2013. I am pleased to announce that thanks to the generosity of our congregants this match has been met. Including the matching gift and the proceeds raised from our very successful Casino Night and Silent Auction our campaign has raised over $73,000 so far (as of 11/1/2013).
In addition to our goal of raising $100,000, we also have a goal of 100% participation. To date 16% of families have participated in the campaign. Please consider joining your fellow congregants and participating in this year’s campaign. Remember, there is no minimum pledge amount. You can make your pledge by:
- Returning the response card recently mailed to you in September
- Calling the TBT office (770-642-0434), or
- Visiting www.bethtikvah.com and selecting "Annual Campaign - EveryONE Matters" on our donation page (http://www.bethtikvah.com/make-donation).
Campaign TBT: Thank You!
A big thank you goes out to everyone that helped organize the Casino Night and Silent Auction. A HUGE thanks to Lindsay Levin who chaired the event and spent countless hours making this event a success. As with last spring’s Comedy Night, the Casino Night was a sell-out with over 200 people attending.
In addition, the fundraising committee would like to thank the families that have participated in this year’s campaign:
Barry and Shari Alhadeff Cary Goldenthal and Lori Shapiro Drs. Gary and Michal Loventhal Walter and Esther Shultz
Steven and Teri Astren Marshall and Roberta Goldman Gilbert and Ellen Ludwig Carol Shutzberg
Dale and Wendy Bearman Harlan and Ivie Graiser Joel and Aviva Margolies Sandy and Nancy Simon
Andy Berke Rabbi Fred and Deborah Greene Jonathan and Joan Marks Lawrence and Anne Skal
Arnold and Ellen Bernstein Burton and Sara Grossman Thomas and Marsha McMurrain Eric and Victoria Stein
Peter Birnbaum Drs. Larry and Stacey Heit Robert Moss Howard and Cynthia Steinberg
Todd and Jennifer Boehm Michael and Kim Hirsch Hilda Ortiz Steven and Linda Steinberg
Nancy Broudy Peter and Sharon Jedel Larry and Jackie Pepper Aaron and Sheila Stieglitz
Paul J. and Cherie Cervasio Morris and Anna Kagan Jason and Melanie Pickett Lionel Stutz
David and Roberta Coad Cantor Nancy Kassel Saul and Shirley Plotkin Ronald and Leslie Swichkow
Steven and Arlene Cohn Stanley and Bobbie Kopkin Robert and Ellen Rickles Donald and Marilyn Tam
Michael and Marlene Cohn Glen and Veronica Krapf Russell and Gailen Rosenberg Rosalind Taranto
Seymour and Renee Davis Ned and Lisa Kreiss Morray and Susan Scheinfeld
Bruce Turiansky and Mariann Mamberg
Audrey Eisen Fred and Patricia Landsberg Douglas and Lisa Schiffer Mark and Sally Vosk
Daniel Ellison Kenneth Lawler and Ginger Glazer Gary and Debra Schwartz Bruce and Bonnie Walkes
Elliot and Donna Feller Amir Levin and Tanya Blasbalg Rhonda Schweber Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger
Andy and Marci Fried Ron and Jennifer Levine Ira and Brenda Share Todd and Rachel Wilson
Matthew and Vanteria Geller Sherwin and Judee Levinson Stacy and Alicia Sher Andrew and Ilana Zalkin
Ed and Cindy Getty Jeffrey and Ellen Levitz Spencer and Debra Shilling Marilyn Zimmer
Arthur Gittelman and Marcia Pearl Emily Lewit Allan and Pessie Shippel
6
We have had a very busy month at school. Our 5th & 6th Grade Retreat was held here in our building. With the leadership of Rachel
Wilson it was a huge success. We had over 25 kids attend. Rachel put in countless hours of preparation to really create something
special for our students. Friendships were strengthened and new bonds were formed. The children participated in social, religious,
and mitzvah activities. The students worked as a team to complete group tasks and initiatives through ropes course activities.
Teamwork, Judaism, and fun were all interwoven throughout the weekend. The excitement and commitment felt by the students was
contagious. All of our chaperones and volunteers were amazing. Your dedication and enthusiasm throughout the retreat helped
make it such a wonderful event. We couldn't have done it without you!
Thanks to the generosity of Arthur Blank, excitement and anticipation of our Falcons Fundraiser was everywhere! We announced
the winners during school. Two of our first grade students had the honor of drawing the winning tickets. I am pleased to let you
know that we raised almost $2,000. Congratulations to our winners: Sam Herndon was the winner of the Falcons ticket package and
Jill Mattos won the football autographed by Matt Ryan.
Our 6th grade class kicked off the start of the family Shabbats. It was so wonderful seeing the students partake in the service. This
was the culmination of weeks of practicing with the Cantor. They did an amazing job. Our 2nd and 3rd grade families participated in
the family education day for their grade levels. The parents joined their children for Tefilah services, and then attended a special
education program held by the Rabbi. The children rejoined their parents and learned about the Hanukkah/Thanksgiving
phenomenon.
Due to the timing of Hanukkah this year, we are asking all students in grades K- 7th to come to school on Tuesday,
December 3rd for our Hanukkah celebration. Our 3rd and 4th grade classes will perform a Hanukkah play and all the students will
sing songs. We will eat latkes, applesauce, donuts and gelt. School starts at 5:00 and ends at 6:30. We hope to see everyone at
school on that night.
As a reminder, our last day of school will be December 17th for winter break. Our first day back in school will be Tuesday, January
7th. Please mark your calendars and enjoy the break!
Chag Hanukkah Sameach,
Hassia
Educator’s Message
We all know the story of Judah and the Maccabees, how they defeated Antiochus’ army, rebuilt the destroyed Temple and had one
night of oil last for eight. Nes Gadol Hayah Sham- A Great Miracle Happened There. While we are celebrating Chanukah, it is
important that we teach our children the story of Judah and his army because although it occurred over 200 years ago, the meaning is
still very relevant today.
The Maccabees were determined and brave. They were great planners, cooperators, leaders, and helpers. They brought light and
happiness to others and were thankful to G-d. Judah and his crew may have not looked as cool as the superheroes of today, no capes,
leotards or fancy cars, but the characteristics and values that they possessed are all that we as adults can hope for ourselves and our
children. We, as adults can also take heed from Judah and the Maccabees. Great miracles surround us every day. I see that in the
eyes of not only my children, but the 46 children that attend TBT’s Early Childhood Center.
Take the time to channel your inner Maccabee! We all are capable of being great leaders, cooperators, and planners. We all have
the ability to bring light and happiness to others and to be thankful to G-d. By doing this you will be able to really appreciate the
great miracles that happen in your life.
Jenifer Friedman, Director
Early Childhood Education Center
7
B’nai Mitzvah
News & Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Youth Group
Thank you so much to all of our families who
helped house teens for the NFTY Kallah!!!
Together, we housed 321 teens! Thank you also
to all of our volunteers who pitched in for
planning the Kallah and helping during the
weekend - flipping rooms, setting-up, cleaning-
up, serving meals, and more. This was one of
the biggest events in our region and we
couldn’t have done it without your help! A huge
THANK YOU from HOTTY and NFTY-SAR!
HOTTY (9-12th Grade)
WHAT DID WE DO THIS PAST MONTH? Fall Kallah was a HUGE success! After the
months and months of planning it was so
awesome to see it finally all come together. We
watched movie clips from tv families,
participated in scenarios about different family
types, and listened to a panel of speakers. In
between we had a blast leading services,
watching the hypnotist, and dancing on
Saturday night!
UP NEXT: Chanukah may be over, but we still have latkes
to eat…join us on December 14th-15th for
HOTTY’s Annual Broomball & Latke-in Lock-
in. We’ll meet at TBT on Saturday night and
then head over to the Cooler to play broomball!
Then, its back to TBT for a lock-in at the
synagogue. Hope you can make it!
Join the HOTTY Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.HOTTY/) to stay up-to-date on what's happening and to RSVP for HOTTY events!
JYG (6-8th Grade)
WHAT DID WE DO THIS PAST MONTH? JYG had so much fun at Sky Zone in
November. We had a great turnout for this
event and spent the afternoon eating pizza,
playing dodgeball, and jumping on the
trampolines. Sky Zone is always a favorite with
our youth groupers!
UP NEXT: December 8th JYG is hosting Hollywood
Movie “Night”. Watch your email and our
facebook page for this fun event which will
start right after Sunday school. See you there!
Join the JYG Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/TBT.JYG/) to stay up-to-date on what's happening and to RSVP and help arrange carpools for events!
Want more info about HOTTY or JYG?
Contact Adam or Bobbee at:
[email protected] or 404) 228–2494.
SAVE-THE-DATE:
HOTTY
Dec. 14/15 – Broomball & Latke-in Lock-in
Jan. 12 – Youth Lounge Decorating Night
JYG
Dec. 8 – Hollywood Movie “Night”
Jan. 12 – Young Chef’s Academy
Benjamin Ross Mattos will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on December 7, 2013. Ben is the son of Jill
and David Mattos and brother to Jonathan. He is the grandson of Joan and Morrie Berger, the late Elliott and Maryln
Friedman, and Ignacio and Blanca Mattos. Ben attends Elkins Pointe Middle School where he is on the Principal’s
list. Ben is an avid lacrosse player and has participated in the sport since 1st grade with Roswell Recreation and
clubs around town. For one of his many Bar Mitzvah projects, Ben was able to spend time playing cards with his 98
-year-old Great Grandmother, “Gigi”, before she passed away this year. Ben looks forward to sharing his upcoming
simcha with many friends and family from near and far.
Kaela Mical Burton will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on December 7, 2013. Kaela is the daughter of
Rebecca and Derrick Burton of Johns Creek, Georgia. She is the granddaughter of Lorraine and Bob Levan of Silver
Spring, MD, and Doshia Burton of Lutherville, MD. Kaela is an eighth grade honor roll student at Haynes Bridge
Middle School. She enjoys playing rec soccer, and sings both with the Temple Beth Tikvah Junior Choir (soon to
“graduate” to the Teen Choir) and the District Honor Chorus. She is a voracious reader, and an avid writer of fan
fiction. Kaela’s passion for literature has led her to spearhead a book drive for the two elementary schools that were
destroyed by the terrible tornadoes that devastated Oklahoma last spring, so that they can restock the shelves of their libraries.
Gift Shop Volunteers Needed
9:30 am until 12 noon
on Sunday mornings
while religious school is in session
Please contact Rhonda at [email protected]
Gil and Ellen Ludwig Estelle Weinstein
Maddy Kallman Kathy and Larry Feldman
Welcome to the TBT Family!!
8
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Social Action
VOLUNTEER TO BE A
PINCH HITTER
ON DECEMBER 25TH
!
The Pinch Hitter Program, which is
organized by B’nai B’rith and chaired by Harry Lutz and Jerry Kravitz, provides
volunteers to work in non-medical positions in area hospitals on Christmas
Day to give employees the day off to spend with their families. We will work in
four-hour shifts at thirteen hospitals and assisted living facilities this year. You can
sign up on line at
www.pinchhitters.org
Call Harry at 770.392.1175 or Jerry at 770.640.5091 for more information.
It’s the Annual Turkey Drive!
Please send your donations in increments of $10 to TBT marked Turkey and we will do the
rest. New to the Turkey Drive?
Call Marsha Mathis @ 770-992-4256—She loves to talk Turkey!
TBT Seniors Luncheon
Monday, December 9
at 12 PM
Rabbi Donald Tam speaks about
“The Founding Fathers of the United
States Constitution and Religion”
RSVP to Natine at
Please bring a gift card from Publix, Kroger, Wal-Mart or
Target. Jewish Family & Career Services
will distribute them to families in need.
9
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
December 2013 TBT Happenings
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
5th Night of Chanukah 6th Night of Chanukah
6:45pm Kesher /
Confirmation /
Kivunim
7pm Families
Anonymous
7:15pm Melton -
Dramas
7th Night of Chanukah
9:30am Tai Chi
5pm Religious
School - ALL
GRADES
6:40pm URJ
Camps
Celebration & Info
Session
Last Night of Chanukah
6:45pm Community Chanukah Celebration @ Temple Kol Emeth
7pm HOTTY Board Meeting
6pm Oneg
6:30 pm Family
Shabbat Service
hosted by the 5th
Grade
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
10am Shabbat Service
Bar Mitzvah of Benjamin Mattos
Bat Mitzvah of Kaela Burton
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
9:30am Religious
School
9:35am Family
Ed Day - K & 1st
Grade
10:30am Cantor’s
Corner
12;15pm Rosh
Hodesh - It’s a
Girl Thing
12:15pm JYG -
Hollywood Movie
“Night”
12pm Senior
Luncheon
6:45pm Kivunim /
Confirmation
6:45pm Kesher
Teen/Parent
Dinner & Class
7pm Families
Anonymous
7:15pm Melton -
Dramas
9:30am Tai Chi
5pm Religious
School
7pm Breast
Cancer Support
Group @
Tarahumata
Mexican Grill
6pm Oneg
6:30pm Shabbat Service with Shabbat Experience
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
10am Shabbat
Service
10am Jewish
Meditation
Experience
4pm HOTTY -
Broomball & Lock
In
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
9:30am Religious
School
9:30am
Sisterhood
Steering
Committee
Meeting
10:30am Cantor’s
Corner
12pm Chavurah
Mitzvah Project
12:15pm Gesher
- Bowling
7pm Families
Anonymous
7:15pm Melton -
Dramas
9:30am Tai Chi
5pm Religious
School
7:30pm Board of
Trustees Meeting
7pm Women's
Study Group
9:45am ECEC
Family Shabbat
8pm Shabbat
Service w/ Choir
9am Bagels,
Learning & Torah
10am Shabbat
Service
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
No Religious
School
No Religious
School
7pm Families
Anonymous
7:15pm Melton -
Dramas
No Religious
School
9:30am Tai Chi
Christmas
TBT Offices Closed
8pm Shabbat
Service
9am Bagels,
Learning & Torah
10am Shabbat
Service
29 30 31 January 1 2 3 4
No Religious
School
No Religious
School
7pm Families
Anonymous
7:15pm Melton -
Dramas
No Religious
School
9:30am Tai Chi
New Year’s Day
TBT Offices Closed
8pm Shabbat
Service
9am Bagels, Learning & Torah
10am Shabbat Service
10
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Campaign TBT - EveryONE Matters
Gary and Debra Schwartz in appreciation of Ron Swichkow Lila Stein in memory of Jeanne Laibow and in memory of
Jacob Dutkiewitz
Ellen Frank in memory of Barry Feinberg
Lawrence and Anne Skal in memory of Joseph Cunix
Building Fund
John and Pamela Rosenberg in memory of Maurice Lavine
Campership/Israel Fund
Friends of TBT Family Retreat in appreciation of Mark, Jennifer
and Lily Mosbacher
Cantor Kassel’s Discretionary Fund
Steven and Amy Fine in honor of Paige Dobbins for beautifully
conducting the choir during the High Holy Days
Michael and Lisa Cohen in appreciation of Cantor Kassel
Robert and Karen Kremer in appreciation of Cantor Kassel
Jonathan and Rebecca Bennett in honor of the B'nai Mitzvah of
Jonah Bennett and Kyle Cohen
Caring/Kehillat Chesed Fund
Scott and Rhonda Povlot in honor of Sheryl Blechner and in
honor of Leslie and Ron Swichkow
Gordon and Hollis Decker in memory of Isadore Zierler
Addie Myers in honor of the speedy recovery of Carol Shutzberg Aviv Chavurah in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Spencer Shippel,
grandson of Pessie and Allan Shippel
Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger in honor of the 100th
birthday of Sid Cojac
Aviv Chavurah in honor of a speedy recovery for
Carol Shutzberg
Ruth Zeidman in honor of the marriage of Jeff Willard and
Steve Mahan
Ruth Zeidman in memory of Dr. Howard Davis
Endowment Fund
Scott and Rhonda Povlot in honor of Denise and Barry Straus
General Fund
Mariann Mamberg in memory of Kashmira Kiesel
Jane Greenberger in memory of Jacob Stern
Adam Rabinovitz
William & Marjory Segal in memory of Muriel Segal
Matthew and Iris Dunbar in honor of Ron Swichkow
Michael and Lisa Cohen in honor of Jonah Bennett's Bar Mitzvah
Barbara and Al Goldstein in honor of Jeff Willard and
Steve Mahan's wedding
Selma Merbaum wishing Mazal Tov to Belle Kulkin on 3
great granddaughters
Bill and Dale Borer in memory of Carl Borer
Dan and Laura DeRiemer in memory of Sydney DeRiemer
Harris and Suellen Bergman in memory of Abner Bergman
Adam Rabinovitz
Prayerbook Fund
Addie Myers in memory of William L. Myers
Bernie and Gail Natter in memory of Robert Feldser
Mark and Sally Vosk in memory of Irving Vosk
Preschool Fund
Scott and Rhonda Povlot in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of
Cameron Schwartz and in memory of JoAnne Baxter and
Fred Baxter
The ECEC Staff in honor of the birth of Cooper Allen Tucker
Rabbi Greene’s Discretionary Fund
Michael and Wanda Cohen in memory of Gladys Cohen
Stan Reich in memory of Natalie Bronk
June Wallach in honor of Sid Cojac on the occasion of his 100th
birthday
Michael and Lisa Cohen in appreciation of Rabbi Greene John Hirsch and Herb Leiman in honor of Jeff Willard and
Steve Mahan's wedding
Lila Singer in honor of the wedding of Steve Mahan and
Jeff Willard
Alan Epstein in appreciation of Rabbi Greene Dan and Brenda Chatfield in honor of Jeff Willard and
Steve Mahan
Addie Myers in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan
Judith Luger in honor of the marriage of Steve Mahan and
Jeff Willard
Matthew and Sandra Bennett in honor of Jonah Bennett's
Bar Mitzvah
Mariann Mamberg in honor of Isaak Mamberg
Leonard Berger in memory of Doris Klaus Berger
Bob and Bunny Lenhard in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of
Justin Kremer
Pam Burke and Steven Lewis in honor of the wedding of
Steve Mahan and Jeff Willard
Phyllis Kinsler in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan
Jonathan and Rebecca Bennett in appreciation of Rabbi Greene
June Wallach in honor of the marriage of Jeff Willard and
Steve Mahan
Ronald and Jennifer Levine in appreciation of Rabbi Greene
Robert and Karen Kremer in appreciation of Rabbi Greene
Helane Bernath in honor of the wedding of Jeff Willard and
Steve Mahan
Ralph and Ellen Levy in appreciation of Rabbi Greene
Richard Dillner in honor of Jeff Willard and Steve Mahan
Rabbi Tam’s Discretionary Fund
Andrew and Barbara Sacks in memory of Dorothy Tveit Douglas Wexler and Jane Greenberger in honor of their new
great-grandson, Benjamin, and Lois Clymin's new great-
granddaughter, Morgan
Alan and Barbara Chaiet in memory of Jacob Mellinger
Religious School Fund
Efraim and Bruria Lahav in memory of Ran Shohat
George and Sherrie Warsaw in memory of Ran Shohat
Torah Fund
Morray and Susan Scheinfeld in memory of Leo Snitzer
Youth Group Fund
Gary and Debra Schwartz in appreciation of Rabbi Greene,
Cantor Nancy Kassel and Ron Swichkow
Steve and RoseAnn Gerson with prayers for a speedy recovery
for Marty Soniker and Warren Lampert
Donations
11
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Submissions for the
January Kol Tikvah are due by
December 4. Please email to
ADULT ED
TBT Seniors Luncheon
Monday, December 9
at 12 PM
Rabbi Donald Tam speaks about
“The Founding Fathers of the United
States Constitution and Religion”
RSVP to Natine at
Adult Ed Chavurot
NEW CHAVUROT ARE FORMING NOW Get Connected: Join a TBT Chavurah!
We have congregants interested in forming groups for
young families, single parents, and young professionals,
and there are many more possibilities for groups that might
interest you!
What's a Chavurah?
A Chavurah is a circle of friends. It's a group of people with
similar interests or who are in similar life stages gathering
together regularly to celebrate Jewish holidays, share
simchas, attend TBT events, visit interesting places or
participate in any activities that interest them. Being part of
a Chavurah can enhance your experience at TBT by helping
you develop a strong sense of community and deeper
connections within the congregation.
Who can be part of a Chavurah? Any member of TBT!
Just fill out the application and we'll help find like-minded
families or people to form a group. Drop by the TBT office
to pick one up, or visit
http://www.bethtikvah.com/sites/default/files/Chavurah%20
Application%20Form%202013_0.pdf to download.
What does a Chavurah do? You choose the activities
you'll participate in and how often and where you meet.
You might participate in holiday celebrations, adult-only
social events, day trips, and charity projects. We can help
you design a calendar of programs based on your group's
interests.
Questions? Please contact Dalia Faupel at
Thank you to
Richard and Susan Staviss and family
and Bernie and Susan Greenberg
for their contributions to help pay for
the uninsured flood losses in the office
Cantor’s Corner
Sunday, December 8 and 15
10:30 - 10:55 am 12/8 - What is "Kabbalat
Shabbat"?
12/15 - Jewish A Cappella Music
11:00 - 11:25 am Torah Cantillation, continued
11:30 - 11:55 am Prayer Practice
(for Hebrew and non-Hebrew readers)
12
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
With winter break approaching, many of us will spend time with the older adults in our families. If you have not seen them in a while, you might notice some changes. Holidays offer a good opportunity to observe your parents or older relatives and think about ways to help them remain independent. Thinking back a bit, you might have noticed some changes over Thanksgiving. Following are just a few warning signs that Mom and Dad may be in need of help: 1. Spoiled food in the fridge
2. Difficulty with walking, balance and mobility; unexplained bruising
3. Confusion when performing once-familiar tasks
4. Noticeable decline in grooming habits and personal care
5. Dirty house, extreme clutter and dirty laundry piling up
6. Late payment notices, bounced checks and calls from bill collectors
(continued on next page)
7. Poor diet or weight loss
8. Changes in mood or extreme mood swings
9. Forgetting to take medications —or taking more than the prescribed
dosage
10. Unexplained dents and scratches on a car
If you see any of these signs, it might be time to think about home
care.
Legacy Home Care carefully matches caregivers to clients and customize care that can be as little as 4 hours a day to as much as 24 hours. For more information, please call 770-677-9353 or visit yourtoolsforliving.org. Legacy is part of JF&CS’ Aviv Older Adult Services – Tools for
Aging division, which offers a vast range of services and
programs, from counseling and geriatric care management to
neuropsychological evaluations to programs for Holocaust
survivors.
Breast Cancer Survivor Group
for the Jewish Community
We have had a great start to the Breast Cancer Survivor
Group! The monthly support group meetings are for all
interested people who have had cancer, who are going
through treatment or surgeries, and /or who have been
recently diagnosed, as well as for those who might have
questions pertinent to breast cancer. On December
12th at 7 pm, the Jewish Breast Support Group is
going out to dinner at Tarahumata Mexican Grill
and Tequila Bar in Roswell. All new members and
current members are welcome. Please bring money if
you want to eat. The address is 12050 Etris Road,
Roswell, GA 30075.
This survivor support group is being sponsored by The
Kehillat Chesed/Caring Committee of Temple Beth
Tikvah, 9955 Coleman Rd, Roswell, 30075, who is
also the host synagogue.
For further information or questions, please contact
Valerie Rapowitz at [email protected] or
call 678-643-9672.
JF&CS - Older Adult Warning Signs
Please RSVP so we can best
prepare to:
SAVE THE
DATE
Friday
January 31
13
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
HELP US HELP YOU
Your synagogue community wants to be a Caring Community/Kehillat Chesed.
If you have recently experienced a loss or are facing a crisis, or are celebrating a simcha, please let our office know as soon as possible.
Our clergy and friends strive to be a source of support as best as they can. If you know of one of our fellow congregants that has experienced a loss or can use a hand, please contact the office at 770.642.0434.
Mazel Tov to: Jessica Jacobs, daughter of Carol Jacobs, for being
elected Hillel President at UGA.
Jane Greenberger and Doug Wexler on new great-
grandson, Benjamin Carter Findley, who was born
September 29 to Rachel and Daniel Findley of
Raleigh, NC.
Gene and Terry Carasick on the engagement of
Gene’s son, Chris, to Tovah Radowski.
Sharon and Scott Guttman on the engagement of
their daughter, Michelle, to Thomas Clark.
Rob Rickles as he begins a two year term as
President of the Jewish Educational Loan Fund,
www.jelf.org, providing eligible students with
interest free loans for higher education.
Thank You to our Amazing Office Volunteers!
June Wallach Aaron Stieglitz
Roberta Goldman Richard Staviss
Samantha Staviss Kathy Reiter
SHMOOZE NEWS / KUDOS CORNER
Planning a simcha or group gathering?
The Tam-Blank Social Hall is the Place to Be.
For more information on renting our Social Hall,
contact the synagogue office at 770-642-0434.
May God console you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
In Memorium
Temple Beth Tikvah
acknowledges with sorrow the passing of:
Norine Alltmont Grandmother of Ellen Rickles
and Nan Janis
“It is hard to sing of oneness when our world is
not complete,
when those who once brought
wholeness to our life have gone and naught but
memory can fill the
emptiness their passing leaves behind”.
The following Memorial Plaque
has been placed onto our
Memorial Board this past month:
Rita Mae Weiner
Mother of
Cindy Steuer
14
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Synagogue Information
Synagogue Office - 770-642-0434
Fax Number - 770-642-0647
School Office (Perri) - 770-642-4168
Preschool (Jenifer) - 678-350-0076
Assistant to Clergy - Michelle Leder
Financial Secretary - Jenny Korsen
Admin. Assistant - Lisa Singer
Office Manager - Becky Sullivan
Adult Education Cindy Getty [email protected] Budget & Finance Harlan Graiser [email protected] Campership Marcia Haber [email protected] Chavurot Dalia Faupel [email protected] College Outreach Lynda Bennett [email protected] Ginger Glazer [email protected] Communications Tom and Marsha McMurrain [email protected] Family Promise Andy Fried [email protected]
Jeff Schultz [email protected] Fundraising Ruben Braiter [email protected] Gift Shop Pam Alterman [email protected] Carrie Bickwit [email protected]
Rhonda Schweber [email protected] House Ted Nathan [email protected] Human Resources Seth Zimmer [email protected] Interior Standards & Marketing Susan Estroff [email protected] Israel Gene Carasick [email protected] Kehillat Chesed (Caring) Leslie Swichkow [email protected] Library Ilana Zalkin [email protected] Membership Recruitment & Retention Mark Rudel
[email protected] Lindsay Levin [email protected] Katie Jaffe [email protected] Men’s Club Peter Hartog [email protected] Mark Greenspan [email protected]
Nominating Committee Vicki Steine [email protected] Ritual Esther Shultz [email protected] Rosh Chodesh Women’s Group Pam Chanin [email protected] Security Jay Sausmer [email protected] Seniors Natine Rosenzweig [email protected] Sisterhood Traci Hartog [email protected] Danielle Rubenstein [email protected] Social Action Rodney Eberhardt [email protected]
Darin Cohen [email protected] Website Development Scott Povlot [email protected] Youth Group Debra Schwartz [email protected] Michal Loventhal [email protected]
Get Involved! TBT Committees and Chairpersons
15
News and Happenings from Temple Beth Tikvah
Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is proud to be one of the founding partners and leading fundraisers of the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s Hunger Walk. Check out this video to see what it is all about! Hunger Walk 2014 is on Sunday, March 9 at Turner Field. The park opens at noon and the walk begins at 2 p.m. How can you help? Join a team, make a donation and spread the word! To make donations and form teams, contact Marni Bronstein. Stay tuned!
Registration opens early December.
URJ Camps Celebration & Info Session
December 3 at 6:40 pm at TBT
Come meet the Directors and Assistant Directors
of our 3 great URJ camps. Summer is about fun
and Camp Coleman, 6 Points Sci-Tech, and 6
Points Sports are great ways to explore, play and
create friendships that will last a lifetime.
16
Fred Greene
Rabbi
Donald A. Tam
Rabbi Emeritus
Nancy Kassel
Cantor
Hassia Levin
Education Director
Jenifer Friedman
ECEC Director
Ron Swichkow President
Todd Boehm
Vice President
Marsha Mathis
Vice President
Denise Straus
Vice President
Andy Gutman
Treasurer
Michael Braun
Secretary
Jill Mattos
Chairperson,
Board of Education