February 2015 Voice of Chaim

Voice of ChaimCongregation Etz Chaim • 1190 Indian Hills Parkway • Marietta, GA 30068 • 770.973.0137

Creating Meaningful Jewish Experiences

February 2015 / Shevat - adar 5775 / volume 39, ISSue 2

In this Issue: From Our Rabbis page 2

From Our President page 3

From Our Youth Director page 3

Education News Page 4

Our Etz Chaim Community page 7

B’nai Mitzvah page 9

Sisterhood Scoop page 10

Men’s Club Updates page 11

Religious Corner page 18

Yahrzeits page 20

Calendar page 21

Tzedakah page 33

Daily Minyan Times:

Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m.

Sunday, 9:15 a.m.

Sunday – Friday 6:30 p.m.

Shabbat Services:Friday, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m.

www.etzchaim.netSee pages 27-28 for adbook contract information

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The Voice of Chaim | February 2015

Moses was perhaps the first magician in history…sticks into snakes…water into blood. Splitting the Red Sea and assorted other wonders weren’t too shabby either. Sleight of hand or ‘Yemin Adonai – the Right Hand of God’?...really not important. This legacy continued with the prophets. Elijah and Elisha bringing the dead back to life…never ending oil and grain for the needy. Smoke and mirrors or Divine intervention?...really not important.

Throughout our history, magic was not vaudevillian tricks, but added to the serious credentials of the sages. Great rabbis were seen as authentic manipulators of nature, of health, of climate, of destiny, especially when their incantations worked. Success does wonders for one’s resumé. Though we are told not to rely on the supernatural, our ancestors sure did. My sense is that tradition empowered the sages in an attempt to give Jews the illusion of power in a world where they were impotent. Magic was a weapon in the arsenal of the Jew who wished to flex something. With the momentum of centuries it should come as no surprise that the greatest magician of all time, the ultimate exemplar of the craft, was Harry Houdini (né Erich Weiss), the son of a rabbi.

All of us love a good magic trick – whether card play or a baffling illusion. It feeds the mystery we crave though we always want to know ’How was it done?’. Our curiosity and amazement are born of paradox. We wish to peek into other dimensions and enjoy real wizardry but know that it’s just a really good trick. Fool us, but we know better.

I have a bucket list, as many do, but also a mini bucket list. On my mini list was the desire to visit the Magic Castle in Los Angeles. A magicians club where entry can only be extended by a member. Dinner is served in elegant surroundings and various shows can be viewed before or after one dines. Through the kind efforts of a shul member we were extended an invitation and spent a December evening at the Castle. (Since we are now veterans, we can call the place the Castle and drop the Magic).The halls are intimate, no more than 25 or 30 at any show. We tended to sit up close and because of proximity, the magic sadly faded. We could see the wires, the transparent hooks, the phony doors, the false bottoms…It was disappointing because no longer was there any mystery. And I thought, beyond the dancing flower and a bunny into a bird, what a curse it would be to know everything about everything. We would journey nowhere. Scratch our heads over nothing. We would sink in the mire of our genius. And though we always pursue information, maybe, on occasion, bewilderment is a sacred gift. Ignorance, a blessing in the promotion of wonder. The vastness of the universe teases us and that is good. Folks are often disappointed when I offer rational explanations, grounded in physics, chemistry, biology for all the magical events in the Torah. They love the mythology, believe it and prefer it to science. I suspect that it serves as a conduit to the Almighty and perhaps there is power and hope in the unknown. If we wish a faith undisturbed and unchallenged, then we need to back up from Sinai. If we wish to be fascinated and happily fooled by magic, then we must sit in the back row. Knowledge is power, but it weakens the soul.

– Rabbi Shalom Lewis

On Giving Generously

I have good news and bad news. Even as the income gap widens in America, the wealthiest Americans are giving a smaller share of their income to charity, while poor and middle income people are donating a larger share according to an extensive analysis of IRS data conducted by The Chronicle of Philanthropy.

According to The Chronicle, those earning $200,000 or more gave 4.5% less in 2012 than 2006 and those earning $100,000 or less gave 4.6% more in that period. The decline in giving is most pronounced in major cities. In Philadelphia and Buffalo for instance, giving declined more than ten percent.

The cities with the most generous citizens are: Salt Lake City, Memphis, Birmingham, Atlanta, and Nashville; the cities with the least generous citizens: Hartford, CT, Providence, RI, and San Jose, CA. (Do you see a pattern with the states with the most generous citizens?) The cities with the greatest increases in giving include Las Vegas and Jacksonville, FL.

The Mormon Church recommends tithing ten percent of a family’s income to charity; one of our greatest rabbis, Moses Maimonides (The Rambam) in his epic work on Jewish law, also recommends ten percent; however, recent studies of denominations shows that Jews and Protestants generally give five percent of their income to charity.

Patricia Cohen reported on December 19 in the New York Times, “The wealthy are getting wealthier. As for everyone else, no such luck.” In a new study by The Pew Center for Research, the wealth gap between the country’s top twenty percent of earners and the rest of America stretched to its widest point in three decades. The median net worth of upper income families reached $639,400, nearly seven times as much as those in the middle and 70 times(!) the level of those on the bottom of the income ladder.” Noted economist Joseph Stiglitz is part of a growing group of economists who argue that wealth inequality hurts economic growth. But even as the wealthy get wealthier, it does not translate into proportionate levels of charitable giving.

The Talmud does not mince words on this subject: “There are ten hard things that God created in the world; death is harder than all of them but tzedakah supersedes even death.” Another rabbinic commentator said that the greatest sin in ancient times was idol worship, but once the Temple was destroyed, not giving enough tzedakah replaced idol worship as the greatest sin of the Jewish people!

The Rambam teaches us that “There is no greater joy than to bring happiness to the hearts of the poor, orphans, widows, and strangers. One who brings joy to the hearts of these disadvantaged people resembles God.”

President Clinton, in his book entitled Giving, suggests that if the top ten percent of income earners gave even only one percent of their income to charitable purposes, the total would be over $70 billion and if they gave ten percent, we could solve most of the world’s major charitable goals and issues!

And what about us? I am pretty convinced that most Americans who have the capacity to give, give way less than they could and should. And we should also remember that giving can be more than money: time, skills, things, and new beginnings. So as we begin a new secular year, let us review our capacity for charitable giving – to our synagogue, our Jewish community, its many local and international organizations and

From Rabbi Lewis From Rabbi Kerbel

Continues on page 7


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Super Bowl - 4 Students with Super Goals

Yes, it is February and I know lots of people are talking about Super Bowl XLIX. I would be a highly regarded and highly paid psychic if I could tell you now, in January, who will be playing and who to place your bets on. Alas, no magic predictions for Super Bowl Sunday and in fact, not even the Bowl game I have on my mind as I sit down to write this column.

As many of you may have guessed, my head is still in Pasadena at the Rose Bowl and its accompanying parade. You may wonder what the Rose Parade has to do with Etz Chaim but there is a connection; we had three congregants march in the parade on January 1, 2015, as part of the Walton High School Marching Raider Band. Alex Lewin, Amanda Miller and Abbie Wilson were among the 180 Walton students to make the 5.5 mile journey down the streets of Pasadena. Completing the difficult parade was a goal for each and every student and it was something they all worked hard to achieve.

The process actually began 2 years ago when the band director had to apply to the parade committee and wait to know if they were chosen. Last August, the parade President came to Walton with our formal invitation. And then the work really started, getting through a full marching season – football games and marching competitions – before starting parade practice. Marching miles around the track, playing heavy instruments after a full day of school. The goal: to march 5.5 miles while holding and playing your instrument, look good for the cameras, remember to enjoy the moment and take no bathroom breaks. I was privileged to act as a chaperone for the trip and spent the days leading up to the parade with these super kids; a few more practices mixed in with the fun and lots of post finals, exhausted kids with one goal in mind – make it to the end of the parade route. We were sitting in the bleachers around mile 4 and the feeling of exhilaration to see them all come into view was overwhelming. We cried and cheered as we watched them achieve their goals and make memories to last a lifetime.

But I only mentioned 3 students in the band and 4 in my title. I would be remiss if I did not tell you about USY International Convention that took place in Atlanta during the last week of December. One of the things that must get done during convention is the election of International Officers. There were 5 students who ran for the office of President and our own Hailee Grey walked away with the title. I would imagine that this was a goal she set for herself some time ago as she became involved with USY and accepted leadership roles along the way. Hailee, we are all so very proud of you and know that you will make Etz Chaim proud in your role.

In reading about the convention, I did read about some of the constitutional amendments that were passed by our youth. I am so impressed by the insight and wisdom of our teens and feel that they had a message to share with all of us in the goals that they have set for themselves as Officers and leaders of USY. Without repeating their actual wording: they have called upon their leadership to be role models, to treat each person with the recognition that they were created Betzelem Elohim (in the image of God), to foster a safe and inclusive environment, to uphold the zero tolerance policy towards bullying, to create a welcoming environment, to hold themselves to highest ethical standards including refraining from Lashon Hara (gossip) and treating others with Kavod (respect).

From Our President From Our Youth Director Shalom Chaverim,

We welcome you to Café Sababa, the greatest possible place for amazing experiences!

For an appetizer, why not buy advanced tickets for the Purim Carnival, or make a donation to help fund the carnival? This year’s theme is Beach Luau, so join us for fun in the sun. Proceeds benefit the Youth Department and allow us to provide top-notch programming throughout the year.

Some dinner entertainment while you wait: recently, a vote was held in regard to incoming freshmen running for Chapter Board. The vote passed, and as of January 1st, incoming freshmen will be allowed to run for a board position. We look forward to seeing all of our 8th graders developing into amazing leaders throughout the years.

We have many incredible specials for you this month on our “menu”, and you are invited to check them out below.

• February 1: K – 2nd Grades: Junkyard Wars 12:15-1:30 p.m.

• February 1: 3rd – 5th Grades: Rollerskating/Lasertag 2:30-4 p.m.

• February 4: 8th – 12th Grades: Tu B’shvat themed Wacky 6:30-9 p.m.

• February 7: 6th – 8th Grades: Event planned by Hailee Figur 7-9 p.m.

• February 8: Ladies of All Ages: Challah Day 2 p.m.

• February 13-15: 6th – 12th Grades: Universal Studios Convention in Orlando, FL

• February 28: 6th – 12th Grades: Retro Video Game Lock In/Purim Carnival Set Up: 8 p.m.

Please be aware, the dates and times are subject to change. Don’t forget to check our emails for the most current information! Please check your spam folders if you are not getting our emails!

At Café Sababa, the servings are hot, the portions a’ plenty! Please save the dates for our future events and be on the lookout for more information:

• March 1: Beach Luau Purim Carnival 12:15-2:15 p.m.

• March 22: Atlanta Hawks Synagogue-wide Trip 3 p.m.

– Perry Birbrager [email protected] 770-833-3227

Continues on page 7

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Save the Date:

Sunday, February 1Sisterhood Book Club at Suzanne Rivchun’s home 9:30 am

Sunday, February 1Men’s Club World Wide Wrap

Sunday, February 8Sisterhood/USY Challah Day 2:00 pm

Monday, February 9Shalom in the Home 12:00 pm at Cheryl Miller’s home

Friday, February 20Rosh Chodesh minyan 7:00 am

Sunday, March 1Purim Carnival 12:15 – 2:15 pm

Wednesday, March 18Sisterhood’s Chocolate Seder

Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22Scholar-in-Residence weekendwith Professor Stephen M. Cohen

Sunday, March 22Hawks-Spurs game 1:30 pm departure time

Mazal Tov to…Hailee Grey, daughter of Michelle and Mitchell Grey, on her being elected President of the International Board of USY

Brent Zucker, son of Stacey and Rob Zucker, for being named to the 2014 President’s List at Georgia College in Milledgeville, Georgia for completing his courses with exemplary marks

Helen and Steve Ehrlich, on the birth of their grandson, Tobin Sanford, born on December 18, 2014 to Gillian and Michael Parker

Riva and Clark Goldband, on the birth of their daughter, Willa Sadie, on December 22, 2014

Our Condolemces to...Doug Cohen on the loss of his mother, Sylvia Cohen

David Barrack on the loss of his mother, Hilda Barrack

Sandy Bailey and Richard Karol on the loss of their mother, Marcia Karol

Spencer Fox on the loss of his father, Warner Fox

Norman Radow on the loss of his father, Paul Radow

Peggy Freedman on the loss of her father, Harold I. Mosinger

Miri Sternberg on the loss of her mother, Mina Rubenstein

Thank You to Our Office VolunteersSally GreensteinHelen RosengartenLou RosengartenLinda Weinroth

New Phone Numbers...Edith and Irwin Feinberg 770-650-2646

Members on the Move…Joanne and John Reicher 7155 Roswell Road, Townhome 4 Sandy Springs, GA 30328 Phones are cell only Joanne: 404-931-7246 John: 404-931-7180

Annette and Stephen Friedman P.O. Box 2319 Tybee Island, GA 31328-2319

Connie and Tom Glaser 3 Wishmoore Retreat Savannah, GA 31311

Our Etz Chaim Community

These are lofty goals for our teenage leadership and ones that we should all embrace as we embark on another year. I know these are concepts that I will reinforce with our leadership as we work to make Etz Chaim a more engaging, inclusive and welcoming home for all who enter. Please let me, your board liaison, or any of our officers know if there is anything we can do to help enhance your experience at Etz Chaim or if there is something you can bring to the table that will help us to create meaningful Jewish experiences for our congregational family.

Kudos again to our students who have served as an example for all of us to emulate: set your goals and work hard to achieve them, you will feel like you’ve won the Super Bowl. (Photos on page 12.)

– Cheryl Cohen-Miller

Continued from page 3

institutions and the larger global issues that face our planet that we can make a difference with our support: poverty, hunger, education and training.

A pillar of Jewish life and thought is our responsibility to give tzedakah. We can make a difference in our community, our region, our Jewish world, our country and our planet. I believe that we must do more to meet the needs of our people and world. The checks we write with our hands say a lot about what we think in our hearts. May our giving reflect the needs and challenges we face and what we think we can do to help bring repair and support to our world.

– Rabbi Paul David Kerbel

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Upcoming B’nai Mitzvah

The Voice of Chaim is featuring photos and biographical information on upcoming B’nai Mitzvah.

If your child has a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in the coming months, VOC would like to feature your child’s:

• Biographical information

• School information

• Photo

• D’var Torah Quote

To have your child’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah information included, please email the material and a photo (if available) to Bernice at [email protected].

All materials must be received no later than the 1st of the preceding month. We will gladly accept material earlier.

Josh Cohen will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on February 7, 2015 – 18 Shevat 5775. He is the son of Faye and Paul Cohen. Josh’s Bar Mitzvah parasha is Yitro. He is a 7th grader at Dickerson Middle School. Josh has been a student in Etz Chaim’s Religious School for 8 years and attended Etz Chaim’s Preschool for 1 year. His hobbies and interests include international politics, reading, video games and violin.

Josh’s D’var Torah quote is “And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Behold, I am coming to you in the thickness of the cloud, in order that the people hear when I speak to you, and they will also believe in you forever.’ And Moses relayed the words of the people to the Lord.” For his mitzvah project, Josh has volunteered at the William Breman Jewish Home and for One Good Deed. Josh will be donating a portion of his Bar Mitzvah gift money to the Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces. FIDF provides for the education and the well-being of the men and women who serve in the Israel Defense Forces, as well as the families of fallen soldiers.

Emilia Rebecca Deino (Rivka) will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on February 14, 2015 – 25 Shevat 5775. She is the daughter of Esther and Jack Deino. Emilia’s Bat Mitzvah parasha is Mishpatim. She is a 7th grader at Dickerson Middle School. Emilia has been a student in Etz Chaim’s Religious School for 2 years. Her hobbies and interests include magic, sports and music.

Emilia’s D’var Torah quote is “By training ourselves to perform mitzvot, we learn the values and views of what it means to be a Jew.” For her mitzvah project, a portion of Emilia’s Bat Mitzvah money will be donated to the IDF to help defend Israel and show appreciation to our soldiers.

Grant Chernau will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on February 21, 2015 – 2 Adar 5775. He is the son of Lauren and Marc Chernau. Grant’s Bar Mitzvah parasha is Terumah. He is a 7th grader at Hightower Trail Middle School. Grant has been a student in Etz Chaim’s Religious School for 8 years and attended Etz Chaim’s Preschool for 1 year. His hobbies and interests include music, playing guitar and keyboard, reading, soccer and hanging out with friends.

Grant’s D’var Torah quote is “God’s presence is not just found in a building. It is found in the hearts and souls of the people who fashion and sanctify the building.” For his mitzvah project, Grant is purchasing and collecting books to be donated to local school libraries in need.

Jordan Rose McGrath will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on February 28, 2015 – 9 Adar 5775. She is the daughter of Robin and Kevin McGrath. Jordan’s Bat Mitzvah parasha is Tetzaveh. She is a 7th grader at The Howard School. Jordan attended The Epstein School for 7 years and The Greenfield Hebrew Academy for 2 years. Her hobbies and interests include volleyball, fashion and anything that sparkles!

Jordan’s D’var Torah quote is “These are the garments that they shall make: a breastplate, an ephod, a robe, a knitted tunic, a turban and a belt. Make them as sacred garments for Aharon, your brother, and his sons that they shall be priests to Me.” Shemot 28:4. For her mitzvah project, Jordan is collecting used cell phones and donating them to “Cell Phones for Soldiers,” a non-profit organization dedicated to providing cost-free communication services to active-duty military members and veterans.

A hearty Mazal Tov to these studentscelebrating their B’nai Mitzvah!

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The Sisterhood ScoopMinyan Makers – if you are available to help make minyan on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm, even if it is just once per year, please let us know. Contact Nancy Gorod for our schedule – [email protected].

Centerpiece Rental Consider using our beautiful new topiary centerpieces for your Friday night dinner, Kiddush luncheon or Saturday evening affair. For more information, contact the Gift Shop.

JNF Trees for Israel Honor someone special by purchasing a tree in the Etz Chaim Sisterhood grove. Contact the Judaica and Gift Shop, 770-973-0137 ext. 124 for more information.

For more information about Sisterhood please contact:

Erica Driver 678-643-1991 [email protected]

or

Linda Berch 678-357-1005 [email protected]

Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook or at etzchaim.net

It has been a great start to a great New Year. Who can think of a better way to begin the year than with our very own Sisterhood Shabbat. We were joined by so many Sisterhood members who each played an integral part in making it such a special morning. It is something our Sisterhood members look forward to each year; as always we had a Grand Slam. Congratulations to our Volunteer of the Year, Dana Greenberg, who gives of her time to do all of the bookkeeping for the Judaica and Gifts Shop. A big round of applause to Ellen Spandorfer and Lisa Flagel for such a wonderful program and for making it so warm and inviting. And thanks to our Rabbis for graciously permitting the women of Etz Chaim to take over the bimah.

Thank you to Suzanne Rivchun for hosting our February Book Club. Please save the date for our next book club on March 8th.

A special thank you goes to all the ladies who knitted many, many scarves and hats for those who are less fortunate. These pieces were all sent to MUST Ministries. This annual program could not be done without this group of women. Grace Graiser coordinated and guided many of the women in helping us, once again, dropping off several bags full of these items. Thank you to these ladies: Grace Graiser, Helen Alperin, Ellen Davison,Doris Goodman, Susan Kaye, Sydelle Silberstein and Pam Tinter.

We are looking forward to our first joint Sisterhood/USY Challah Day on Sunday, February 8th, at 2:00 p.m., to be shared by all generations – from our grandmothers and mothers to daughters and granddaughters. What a great way to share the afternoon with our loved ones and to have some one -on-one time learning to bake challah. Each family will take home one challah and hand made challah cover. Please see page 11 for more information and to RSVP by 2/2, so we have enough ingredients for everyone.

Our next Shalom in the Home is Monday, February 9th, at the home of Cheryl Miller. There are only two more discussions left. Come join Rabbi Lewis; you don’t want to miss it. See ad on page 8 or contact Beth Weiss at [email protected] for further information.

Please join us in unity with the Women of the Wall as we celebrate Rosh Chodesh Adar on Friday, February 20th. Services begin at 7 a.m. in the chapel and are followed by a light breakfast.

Please save the date for our upcoming Southern Regional Conference April 26 -28 in Nashville. We hope that many of you will attend. It is a wonderful way to catch up with our neighboring Sisterhoods in our region. If you haven’t been to one, please consider going. We would love to have the representation of our Sisterhood and to learn and gab with other Sisterhoods. Look for more information in the March Voice of Chaim.

Please keep our Judaica & Gifts Shop in mind for all your mitzvah and wedding gift needs (many are pre wrapped for your convenience). You can even stop by and start a registry. The shop is now open during religious school hours, Tuesdays 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. and Sundays 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

We are always looking for volunteers to get involved in Sisterhood. If you are interested, please contact Erica Driver 678-643-1991 ([email protected]) or Linda Berch 678-357-1005 ([email protected]). If you want to feel connected, get involved, have fun and meet people, this is for you.

Erica & LindaAnyone wishing an Aliyah

should contact Bob Frohlich at

[email protected] or 770-579-1752

ATTENTION ETZ CHAIM MEMBERSIf you are planning to be away for an extended amount of time, please inform the office.


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As the newly elected co-President of the Etz Chaim Men’s Club, I am excited and honored to be carrying on our great tradition of fun events for our members, and the congregation at large, and the volunteer work that we do both at Etz Chaim and throughout the Atlanta community.

While we will be continuing many of our most popular events in 2015, such as Steak in the Sukkah, the World Wide Wrap and our regular “Best Breakfast in Town”, we will be introducing many new events that we hope will become just as popular. In order to accomplish this goal, I am appealing to all of you who have missed out on the fun and comradery over the past few years.

Recognizing that we are all very busy with work, kids and other activities, I would like to appeal to all of the men in the Congregation to try us out this year. If you have never been to a Men’s Club sponsored event, come to just one before the summer. If you have been to an event, volunteer for one before the summer. In order to continue the great work that we do in the synagogue and beyond, we need your help and participation.

World Wide Wrap with Breakfast February 1

Men’s Club Retreat at Ramah Darom February 6-8

Spaghetti Dinner with Sisterhood March 17

Hawks Game with USY March 22

Men’s Club Shabbat March 28

Best Breakfast in TownTM April 12

Yom Hashoah April 15

For more information, contact Mark Isbitts at [email protected] or Jay Givarz at [email protected].

Come out and enjoy Your Men’s Club!

Men’s Club UpdateMEN’S CLUB is a vital part of our congregation. Our ongoing programs include:

• Supporting the synagogue’s daily minyan

• Sponsoring the annual Lag B’Omer Picnic and the Labor Day cookout

• Laying tefillin for the World Wide Wrap with our Hebrew School kids

• Providing scholarships to Etz Chaim teens through the Bob Goldman Fund

• Men’s Club Shabbat

• Sponsoring the Anshei Darom weekend retreat for members at Camp Ramah

• Greater Atlanta Synagogue Softball League

• Set-up and usher for High Holiday Services

• Supports the Holocaust Memorial Garden

Our goals are to provide our members with opportunities to meet other members and make new and lasting friendships, support our community, and have some fun in the process.

JOIN MEN’S CLUB and make a difference in our Etz Chaim community!

GET ON THE LIST! Contact Mark Isbitts at [email protected] or Jay Givarz at [email protected] for information.

Family Member in HospitalOur Rabbis have asked that you notify the office in the event of a family member’s hospital stay or

serious illness.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR EVENING MINYAN –

Sunday through Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

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Etz Chaim members Amanda Miller, Alex Lewin and Abbie Wilson march with Walton H.S. Band in the Rose Parade.


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Bereavement Services Offered to Congregants

Etz Chaim’s Chesed Committee will offer to provide meals of consolation to members. This meal is traditionally a dairy meal eaten by mourners upon their return home from the funeral. It includes whole hard-boiled eggs, symbolizing the continuity of life. This service provided by the Chesed Committee allows the family and friends who normally provide the meal to attend the funeral themselves and give emotional support to the bereaved. Members attending out of town funerals, who sit shiva or hold a memorial service in Atlanta, will be offered a fruit tray.

In order to bring standardized, caring service to each member, Etz Chaim is modeling its procedures after those of Temple Sinai’s successful Kesher Committee. Contributions made to the Chesed Fund will help to fund these services. Teams are currently being formed for these purposes.

Anyone wanting more information, or wanting to assist in performing these mitzvot, please contact Cindy Lewis at 770-977-0240, Julie Kleinman at 770-992-1231 or Felicia Berne at 770-399-0090.

Your cooperation please!The disabled parking spots are reserved for the exclusive use of those with permits. These spaces are NOT to be used by ANYONE else at ANYTIME. There is NO parking under the Education Wing overhang. It is a fire code violation.

Family Member in HospitalOur rabbis have asked that you notify the office in the event of a family member’s hospital stay or serious illness.

February YahrzeitsMemorialize a loved one with a Brick in our Holocaust Garden or a Plaque on our Yahrzeit Wall.

For information, please contact the synagogue office.

*February 1 William Galin 12 Shevat February 1 Morris Levy 12 Shevat February 1 Rosa Lee Danneman 12 Shevat February 1 Christopher Hassey 12 Shevat February 1 Rubin Palant 12 Shevat February 2 Rose Wexler 13 Shevat February 2 Beryl Harrison 13 Shevat February 2 Bernard Levit 13 Shevat February 2 Louise Hillebrand 13 Shevat February 2 Sam Szeftel 13 Shevat*February 3 Sarah Graiser 14 Shevat February 3 Jeanette Katz 14 Shevat February 3 Charles Wexler 14 Shevat February 4 Eddie Masters 15 Shevat*February 4 Sidney Rosenthal 15 Shevat*February 4 Mildred Sherr 15 Shevat February 4 Bernice Mudrick 15 Shevat*February 4 Ruth Richman 15 Shevat*February 4 Donald Sencer 15 Shevat February 4 Herman Davis 15 Shevat February 5 Sylvia Grossman 16 Shevat February 5 Sandy Zelony 16 Shevat February 5 Sarah Farkas 16 Shevat February 6 Samuel Scopp 17 Shevat February 6 Sidney Itzkowitz 17 Shevat*February 7 Gitla Welt 18 Shevat*February 7 Selda K. Slater 18 Shevat February 7 Sylvia Berman 18 Shevat*February 8 Annette Krugman 19 Shevat February 8 Elsie Simon 19 Shevat February 8 Bernard Mezritch 19 Shevat February 8 Anne Leibowitz 19 Shevat February 9 Bernard Levine 20 Shevat February 9 Dorothy Smith 20 Shevat February 10 Harry Landerman 21 Shevat*February 10 Morris Wachter 21 Shevat*February 10 Grace King 21 Shevat February 10 Emery Gray 21 Shevat*February 10 Jeffrey Donner 21 Shevat*February 11 Gertrude Weis 22 Shevat February 11 Miriam Kaye 22 Shevat February 11 Marcus Smith 22 Shevat*February 11 Philip Slomovitz 22 Shevat February 11 Jerome Karp 22 Shevat February 11 Roberta Dikeman 22 Shevat February 12 Leon Smith 23 Shevat February 12 Rosalind Harrison 23 Shevat February 12 Marcia Wolpert 23 Shevat*February 12 Jack Agrow 23 Shevat*February 12 Frieda Mintz 23 Shevat*February 13 Larry Travis 24 Shevat February 13 Jesse Marlin 24 Shevat February 13 Louis Simon 24 Shevat February 14 Gertrude Wilensky 25 Shevat February 14 William Reiss 25 Shevat February 14 Joel Dranove 25 Shevat*February 14 Harry Lutzky 25 Shevat February 14 William Bernstein 25 Shevat February 14 Jerome Sacks 25 Shevat February 15 Bob Gordon 26 Shevat February 15 Harry Shrago 26 Shevat February 15 Beck Trommer 26 Shevat February 15 Simon Farkas 26 Shevat February 15 Leon Epstein 26 Shevat February 15 Beverly Isaac 26 Shevat February 15 Sheila Zager 26 Shevat February 15 Hermine Bachrach 26 Shevat

February 15 Nathan Greenstein 26 Shevat February 16 Pauline (Pia) Crystal 27 Shevat February 16 Cynthia Freeman 27 Shevat February 16 Pearl Kent 27 Shevat February 16 Sally Lebowitz 27 Shevat February 16 Estelle Weinberger 27 Shevat February 17 Clara Beker 28 Shevat February 17 Arnold Safran 28 Shevat*February 17 Shirley Rappaport 28 Shevat February 17 Herbert Sackett 28 Shevat*February 18 Bernard Seidman 29 Shevat February 18 Sadie Feinberg 29 Shevat February 18 Lillian Cohen 29 Shevat February 18 Herbert B. Zuckerman 29 Shevat*February 18 Deborah Cohen 29 Shevat February 19 Leonard Klein 30 Shevat February 19 Marjorie Shuster 30 Shevat February 20 Andrea Taratoot 1 Adar February 20 Martin Sternbach 1 Adar*February 20 Antonia Weitz 1 Adar February 20 Frances Sender 1 Adar February 20 Leah Bodner 1 Adar February 20 Jeanette Karp 1 Adar*February 21 Donia Freiman 2 Adar*February 21 Ida Cheslin 2 Adar*February 21 Mitchell Safran 2 Adar February 21 Harriet Shapiro 2 Adar February 21 Rose Etscovitz 2 Adar*February 21 Mae Bander 2 Adar February 21 Mildred “Millie” Cohen 2 Adar February 21 Samuel Shafferman 2 Adar February 21 Mary Levine 2 Adar February 21 Bernice Weinstein 2 Adar February 22 Dorothy Haskins 3 Adar February 22 Ralph Geldbart 3 Adar February 22 Leona Weitz 3 Adar*February 22 Sol Freedman 3 Adar February 22 Marcia Mezritch 3 Adar February 22 Erwin “Ernie” Friedman 3 Adar February 22 Tessie Rosen 3 Adar*February 22 Perry Schulberg 3 Adar February 22 Samuel Bock 3 Adar*February 23 Albert Lewis 4 Adar February 23 Isidore Lewis 4 Adar*February 24 Phil Cohen 5 Adar February 24 Tobie Schneider 5 Adar*February 24 Phyllis Jacobs 5 Adar February 25 Melinda Stern 6 Adar February 25 Nathan Shectman 6 Adar February 25 Sarah Coplon 6 Adar February 25 Zelda Zlotin 6 Adar*February 25 Harriet R. Miller 6 Adar February 25 Lou Martin 6 Adar*February 26 Robert Rosenthal 7 Adar February 26 Herbert Berke 7 Adar February 26 Dora Moog 7 Adar February 26 Dora Ptashkin 7 Adar*February 26 Manuel N. Fineman 7 Adar February 26 Harvey Cohen 7 Adar February 27 Leona Marinoff 8 Adar*February 27 Henry Breier 8 Adar February 27 Emanuel Walter 8 Adar*February 28 Eve Greenstein 9 Adar February 28 Jack Schwartz 9 Adar February 28 Paul Shuster 9 Adar*February 28 Anne Leonard 9 Adar February 28 Lester Rosen 9 Adar

*Denotes a memorial plaque in our sanctuary to be lit on the day of the Yahrzeit and on all Yizkor holidays.


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Why not try one of these new books now out on display in the Etz Chaim Library?

An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris. Chosen as one of the best books of the year in 2014, this gripping historical spy thriller reanimates the Dreyfus affair.

For fans of Ruby, the Rabbi’s Wife Mysteries, we now have books #5 & #6 in the series: Which Big Giver Stole the Chopped Liver and Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Choir. If you have not tried Sharon Kahn’s “kosher cozy” mysteries yet, start with the first fun book in the series: Fax me a Bagel.

The Mapmaker’s Daughter by Laurel Corona is an exciting story of exile and love. It plunges readers back to the 1400’s for a riveting tale set against the backdrop of the Spanish Inquisition and the expulsion of the Jews from Spain.

For children try these:

Sam and Charlie (and Sam too!) by Leslie Kimmelman (for Grades 1-3). This early chapter book has 5 stories about the new friendship of Jewish kids Sam, Charlie, and Charlie’s little sister Sam.

Ellis Island: An Interactive History Adventure (for Grades 3-5). This “choose your own adventure” story entices young readers to decide what happens to immigrants to the U.S. at the turn of the 20th century.

Young people love these “You Choose” books.

Stop by the Etz Chaim Library anytime and follow the self check-out instructions on the wall near the book return basket. Or stop by on a Sunday morning when there is Religious School for assistance finding and checking out books.

ETZ CHAIM LIBRARY NEWS

LOOKING FOR A GOOD BOOK TO READ THIS WINTER?

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Continues on page 34

GENERAL FUND

Mr. and Mrs. Ross Stemer To be used for the purpose of renovating the chapel

Rick and Peggy BernsteinIn memory of my beloved father, Milton Ginsburg

Arlene SelmanTo the Robbins Family, in memory of Frances Robbins

Barry DreayerTo Sandy Bailey in memory of Marcia Karol. So sorry to hear about your mom. May her memory be for a blessing

Carol and Don VogelIn honor of the wonderful community Chanukah celebration

Cindy SedranTo Sandy Bailey in memory of Marcia Karol. Sorry about your loss. Cherish those very special memories.

Denise Tischler and FamilyTo Suzanna Fox in memory of Warner Fox. The thoughts and prayers of the Campbell Family are with the Fox Family.

Dr. Grant L. CampbellTo Norman Radow in memory of Paul Radow. Norm, I am sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Our prayers are with you.

Drew KlepchickIn memory of Jackie Berman

Irwin and Debbie BermanIn loving memory of Edward Fortas

Jan & Paul Wachter and Mildred WachterTo Mollie and Doug Robbins and family in memory of Frances Robbins.

Jan, Lee, Karen, and Michael SteinIn loving memory of Maurice Bernstein on his yahrzeit

To David Barrack and family in memory of your loving mother and grandmother, Hilda Barrack. We are so sorry for you loss.

Jerry and Selma BernsteinIn memory of Frances H. Schneider

Karl SchneiderTo David Barrack in memory of Hilda Barrack. May your memories be a source of strength.

Lauralee and Steve BernsteinIn memory of Ed Lemer on his yahrzeit

Lawrence LemerTo Sandy Bailey in memory of Marcia Karol. Sandy, my thoughts are with you.

Lenora BuchalterTo Mollie and Doug Robbins in memory of Frances Robbins. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

To Norman Radow in memory of Paul Radow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Lillie and Michael AxelrodIn memory of Evelyn Ebel

Lynn SustakTo Mollie and Doug Robbins in memory of your beloved mother, Frances Robbins

Michael Gordon

To the Robbins Family in memory of your beloved mother, Frances Robbins

Paul CrawfordTo Sandy Bailey in memory of Marcia Karol. May the memories of your mother bring you much comfort in this time of sorrow.

To Norman Radow in memory of Paul Radow. May the memories of your father bring you much comfort in this time of sorrow.

In memory of Gertrude OlensSam and Lisa Olens

RABBI LEWIS DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn memory of our father, grandfather and great grandfather, Saul Stickgold, on his yahrzeit

Allan and Vivian LevineTo Rabbi Lewis, on behalf of my entire family, I want to express my sincerest appreciation for the beautiful service you lead for Josh’s Bar Mitzvah.

Cindy KarolIn memory of my perfect wife, Dora

Eddie BergerIn memory of our father and grandfather, Harold Stiller. We miss you.

Ellen, John, Rebecca, and Joshua JarrettIn memory of a wonderful mother, Dora Berger. We miss you.

Jerry and Iris SilverIn memory of our loving sister and aunt, Judith Ann Baer.

Susie, Joey, Judy, Neal, and Scott MoskowitzIn loving memory of my mother, Diana Regitsky

Jon RegitskyIn honor of my precious grandson, Tanner Froy, on his first birthday. May you continue to grow and thrive, and may a cure for CDKLS come soon. HOPE - LOVE - CURE!

Marsha ConnerOn the loss of Thelma Donner, beloved mother of Melissa Goodman. My love and thoughts are with you.

On the loss of Marcia Karol, beloved mother of Sandy Bailey and Richard Karol.My love and thoughts are with you.

Nina SchlachterIn honor of Rabbi Shalom Lewis in friendship

Roman and Rena PyrzakIn honor of Carly’s Bat Mitzvah

In appreciation of Rabbi Lewis for the awesome speech at Carly’s Bat Mitzvah. It gave Ron’s parents something to think about.

Ron and Shari JudenbergIn memory of my mother, Fannie Estroff Mirsky, on her yahrzeit

Sally KaplanBaruch Hashem. Psalms 103:3

Sherry AdamsIn loving memory of Frances Robbins, my friend and study partner. You will be missed.

Sherry AdamsIn memory of my mom, Shirley Rivchun, on her yahrzeit and Ron Toron on his Yahrzeit – two people who make you aspire to want to be a better person

Suzanne Rivchun

RABBI LEWIS ENDOWMENT FUNDIn memory of Dorothy Renyi. You are always missed.

Dennis and Deborah RenyiIn memory of my beloved husband, Irving Buchalter, on his yahrzeit

Lenora Buchalter

RABBI KERBEL DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn memory of Jane Mittel

Carol and Michael MittelIn honor of Carly’s Bat Mitzvah

Ron and Shari Judenberg

LINDA H. WEINROTH EDUCATION FUNDIn memory of Thelma and Bernard Lehman

Bob and Barbara LehmanIn honor of Aaron Hevenstone on the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of his Bar Mitzvah

Cantor Steve and Kathy HevenstoneIn memory of Florence Goldfarb

Fern HellerIn memory of Mae Reich on her yahrzeit

John and Joanne ReicherIn honor of Eileen and Ken Schlenker. Dear Bubbe and Pop Pop Schlenker, Mazal Tov on your anniversary. We love you!

Lisa, David, Marni, and Benjamin Breakstone

ROBERT KLEIN MEMORIAL CHESED FUNDIn memory of our beloved mother, Reva Epstein

Barney and Ellen EpsteinTo Peggy Freedman in memory of Harold Mosinger. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time, Peggy.

Stan and Judy Fineman

YOUTH FUNDTo David Barrack in memory of your beloved mother, Hilda Barrack. We are so sorry for your loss.

Brian and Marnie NadolneTo Denise and Spencer Gelernter, thank you for your Southern hospitality and hosting our daughters, Sarah Sigel and Brittany Sacks.

The Sigel and Sacks Families

RADOW YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUNDTo Norman Radow in memory of Paul Radow. We were saddened to learn of the passing of your father, Paul. His memory will bring you many blessings.

Jeff and Jessica BrownTo Norman Radow in memory of your father, Paul Radow. We are really sorry for your loss.

Linda and Abe SchearIn memory of Rhonda Knowles

Loretta WeissTo Norman Radow in memory of your beloved father, Paul Radow

Michael and Ellen Chalef

PRESCHOOL FUNDIn memory of Linda Aronstein

David Aronstein

Tzedakah | vesmContributions received from December 6, 2014 – January 7, 2015

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Continued from page 33

Tzedakah | vesmContributions received from December 6, 2014 – January 7, 2015

In honor of my aliyah on December 13Hank Needle

In honor of Luci and Stan Sunshine. Mazal Tov on the birth of your new grandson, Leo Asher Sunshine.

Yaron and Robin Brill

PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUND FUNDTo Karen Needle, wishing you a very speedy recovery

Denise TischlerIn loving memory of Charlie Jassen, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather. We miss you every day but know you are always watching over us.

Karen NeedleTo David Barrack and family in memory of Hilda Barrack. May your fond memories help you through this difficult time.

Roz ReissTo Norman Radow in memory of Paul Radow. Please accept our condolences on the passing of your dear father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

In honor of Hannah Wittenstein. Mazal tov on the occasion of your becoming a Bat Mitzvah.

Stan and Judy FinemanTo Karen Needle, wishing you a speedy recovery

Suzanne Rivchun

COLLEGE CONNECTION FUNDIn memory of Harry Phillips, beloved father and grandfather

Elaine and Jay Schwartz and Family

PHILLIP MICHAEL SILVERMAN MEMORIAL ENDOWMENTTo Damon Vance in memory of your sister, Dana Vance. We are so very sorry for your family. May her memories be a comfort in the months and years to come.

In memory of our grandparents, Lee and Sydney Silverman, on their yahrzeits. We love you, miss you and are thinking of you.

Alan, Bonnie, and Laura SilvermanTo Lois Blonder, we are saying mi shebeirach for Michael and sending positive thoughts to you and the entire family.

Alan and Bonnie SilvermanIn loving memory of our parents, Lee and Sidney Silverman

To Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Freedman in memory of your mother, Virginia Jennaro. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.

To Michael Blonder, sending you love and positive thoughts!

In loving memory of our mother, Lee S. Silverman, on her yahrzeit. You are in our hearts forever.

Bob and Eileen SilvermanIn memory of Milton Chasin. You are always with us.

Dennis and Deborah RenyiIn memory of Marcia Karol, mother of Sandy Bailey and Rich Karol. Our deepest sympathies on your loss. May her memory be for a blessing.

Joe and Pam Ziskend

To John Karp in memory of your beloved brother-in-law, Marvin Finkelstein. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We are glad you were able to get to spend some time with him before he passed away.

Marvin and Bobbi Shams

CYNTHIA R. FREEMAN MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUNDIn loving memory of my mother, Rita Freeman

Alan and Lisa FreemanTo Susan and Brett Ullman and Family in memory of Frances Robbins. We are so sorry for your loss. Frances will be deeply missed.

Bryan and Jill UllmanIn loving memory of my mother, Rita Freeman, on her yahrzeit

Debbie RobbinsIn memory of my mother, Rita Freeman. She was a wonderful person.

In memory of Alan Danis, father of Ken Danis

In memory of Cynthia Freeman, a wonderful person. She has been missed.

Joe FreemanTo Mollie and Doug Robbins in loving memory of your sweet mother, Frances Robbins

To Susan and Brett Ullman in loving memory of your sweet mother, Frances Robbins

To Kevin and Debbie Robbins in loving memory of your sweet mother, Frances Robbins

Lori BrickmanTo Ken Danis in memory of Alan Danis. May all of the wonderful memories of your father/grandfather bring you comfort.

Warren and Felicia Berne

MORRIS FRANK SACRED TExT FUNDIn loving memory of Betty Cohn. All our love.

In loving memory of Leonard Cohn. All our love.

In loving memory of Morry Frank. All our love. Candy, David, and Jason Frank

In loving memory of my beloved father, Herman Nathan Davis

To Doug Cohen in memory of your mother, Sylvia Cohen

Fred Davis

KAZER-LIPSON LIBRARY FUNDTo Norman Radow in memory of your beloved father, Paul Radow

To Sandy Bailey in memory of your beloved mother, Marcia Karol

Stan and Luci SunshineIn loving memory of my father, Walter Low

Steven Low

BUILDING ENHANCEMENT FUNDTo Debbie and Kevin Robbins in memory of Frances Robbins. We are so sorry for your loss. Frances will be deeply missed.

To Mollie and Doug Robbins in memory of Frances Robbins. We are so sorry for your loss. Frances will be deeply missed.

Bryan and Jill Ullman

In loving memory of my grandmother, Ida Stern, on her yahrzeit

Myra SheftelIn appreciation of the Lilmode Committee for outstanding programming and commitment to the shul. Thank you.

Suzanne Rivchun

WILENSKY MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUNDIn honor of Barbara Wilensky, to a special friend on a special birthday!

Steve and Joanie King

SOCIAL ACTION FUNDIn honor of Rick Golsen. A very happy 60th birthday! Stay well and happy!

Allan and Lori StruletzIn memory of Audrey Cohen

Art and Liz CohenIn memory of Morris Shapiro. A decade has gone by and we miss you. Love,

Debbi, Randy, Jeremy, and Brian ChartashTo Susan Ullman and the Robbins Family in memory of Frances Robbins

To Melissa Goodman in memory of your mother, Thelma Donner

Suzanne Rivchun

KITCHEN FUNDIn memory of Sandra Sandrowitz

Lee and Debbie ElfenbeinIn loving memory of our mother, Marcia Karol

Sandy Bailey and Rich KarolTo Sandy Bailey, wishing your parents a speedy recovery

Suzanne Rivchun

BOB GOLDMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUNDIn memory of Phil Bander, loving husband, father and grandfather

In memory of Norman Bander, loving husband, father, brother and grandfather

Ina R. Travis

SISTERHOOD FUNDIn memory of Sandy Bailey’s mother, Marcia Karol. So sorry for your loss.

A speedy recovery to Karen Needle. Wishing you healing, love and hugs.

A speedy recovery to Bob Schultz. Wishing you good health and a continued speedy recovery.

Cindee and Alberto SapoznikIn memory of our wonderful nana and mom, Selda K. Slater, that we love so much.

The Sapoznik FamilyTo Sandy Bailey, in memory of Marcia Karol. So sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.

Michael and Ellen Chalef

SISTERHOOD ENDOWMENT FUNDTo Sandy Bailey in memory of your beloved mother, Marcia Karol

Chuck and Marsha Bernstein


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Questions about purchasing a cemetery plot??? Call Bob Bachrach 770.973.0137

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This advertising space can be yours!

For more information, contact Bernice Isaac at the synagogue

office: 770-973-0137.

For Rent!


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Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, corporate, weddings, school events, and holiday parties.

For contact information: Cathy Schwartz 404-931-5779 Joy Hoffmann 770-855-6682


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For more information on this space, please contact Bernice Isaac in the synagogue office at 770-973-0137

or [email protected].

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Robert L. Bachrach Executive Director & COO Debbie Deutsch Director of Education Perry Birbrager Youth Director Aram Blankenship Facilities ManagerSu BerlandNewsletter Production

OfficersCheryl Cohen-Miller PresidentTodd Surden Executive VPJohn Flagel Chief Financial OfficerRobin D. Brill Fundraising VP Jamie Lyons Religion Co-VP David Wilson Religion Co-VP David Levin Education Co-VP Adam Buxbaum Education Co-VPAllison Saffran Engagement Co-VPDenise Gelernter Engagement Co-VPScott Rittenberg Immediate Past President and Parliamentarian

TrusteesSheldon Berch Marsha Bernstein Larry Brown Amy Charles Joe Cohen Linda Diamond Randy Figur Amanda Flaks Harris Fogel Bob Frohlich Barry Gang Nancy Gardner Mitchell Grey Shari JudenbergRenee Kaplan Stan Kaufman Esti Kleinman David Landau Lauren Levetan Noah Levine Norman Marinoff Lisa Mark Safa Nooromid Lisa Olens Dani Oren Ian Platt Elaine Schwartz Ellen SpandorferJosh Vexler Beth Weiss

Past PresidentsScott RittenbergStephen Friedman Irwin BermanBob BachrachJudy FinemanNorman RadowDebbie MilsteinSue RothsteinDavid WittKen SchlenkerGeorge PristachRichard SmithAllen ShulmanNoah LevineBarry Forrest z”lDavid TinkelmanEllis AbramsStephen King

OrganizationsErica Driver Linda Berch Sisterhood Co-PresidentsMark Isbitts Jay Givarz Men’s Club Co-PresidentsAvi Lyons USY President

Congregation Etz Chaim1190 Indian Hills Parkway

Marietta, GA 30068 Phone 770.973.0137 • Fax 770.977.0829

Religious School 770.977.4148Preschool 770.977.3384

www.etzchaim.net

visit our website www.etzchaim.net for the e-mails of our professional staff and lay leaders

Shalom J. Lewis, RabbiPaul D. Kerbel, Rabbi

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February 2015 Voice of Chaim