Charlotte Jewish News August 2015 by The Charlotte Jewish News

An Affiliate of the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte

Vol. 37, No. 7

Av-Elul 5775

August 2015

LARGEST CAMPAIGN IN JEWISH FEDERATION HISTORY Annual Giving Total = $3,762,792 as of July 13, 2015 The last pledge came in at 11:55 PM on June 30 – five minutes to spare to secure a $35,000 Matching Gift from The Leon Levine Foundation and meet the largest Annual Giving Goal in the history of the Jewish Federation $3,700,000. “The suspense was killing me, but I went to sleep. Of course, I was up with the birds to check. These last few days have been wild. They showed me we have an incredibly committed team. Thank you all,” said Holly Levinson, President. In an email to the Federation Board and Campaign Leadership, Alison Lerner, 2015 Campaign Chair, said: “We reached our goal! With minutes to spare before the midnight deadline to receive the Levine Match, our Board, our Campaign Team and many of our passionate donors stepped up, made calls, made donations, and made this happen. Thank you all for your dedication, your time, your energy and your money. This

$3,762,792

as of July 13, 2015

WAS RAISED BY

1600 donors and 183 campaign volunteers was truly a team effort and an incredibly inspiring one for me. I am grateful to be a member of this wonderful community.” Thank you to all of our generous donors and volunteers for their gifts of time and resources for the 2015 Campaign. We appreciate the entire 2015 Campaign Team for its extraordinary efforts in completing, meeting and exceeding the 2015 campaign goal of $3,700,000. We also applaud the efforts of our 2014-2015

Board of Trustees for its leadership and encouragement during this campaign. Special thanks go to Alison Lerner, 2015 Campaign Chair; Tracy Brown, Major Gifts Chair; Adrienne Gossett and Dale Polsky, Lion of Judah Co-Chairs; Jill Halverstam and Stacey Schanzlin, Pomegranate Society Co-Chairs; Zach Schwartz and Julie Sheffer, Impact 365 Co-Chairs; Marcie Jacobs and Jeff Turk, Super Sunday Co-Chairs; Gail Baron, Risa

Thank You

Miller and David Van Glish, Chairs of the Campaign Teams; and Rich Osborne, Chair of Federation’s Create a Jewish Legacy Team. 2015 Campaign Highlights: A matching gift pool of $80,000 was secured to motivate donors to make new and increased gifts. We thank Howard Levine, The Leon Levine Foundation, Larry Schwartz, and Eric and Lori Sklut for their vision and philanthropic leadership – their matching gifts inspired our community to reach an extraordinary goal. Other highlights include: * six new or recovered Major Donor Families ($10,000 per household) * six new or recovered Lions of

Judah ($5,000 to Women’s Philanthropy) * 38 new “Create a Jewish Legacy” donors * Increased gifts outnumbered decreases 3:1. * Team competitions encouraged solicitors to complete their cards in a timely manner and to meet face- to-face with community members. To learn more about how you can volunteer for the 2016 Campaign, please contact Sue Littauer. Director of Development; or Tair Giudice, Director of Outreach and Engagement, at the Federation office: 704-944-6757; sue.littauer@ jewishcharlotte.org or tair.giudice@jewishcharlotte.org. Y

Former Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke to Headline The Echo Foundation Annual Student Dialogue and Awards Gala hon Theater at Spirit Square. He will also have a dialogue that morning with area high school students – one for which they will be well prepared. More than 2,500 area students

5007 Providence Road, Suite #112 Charlotte, NC 28226 Change Service Requested

Former Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will be honored at The Echo Foundation 17th Annual Awards Gala with the first Levine Medal For Life on Thursday, September 17 at the McGlo-

will soon begin studying a curriculum – a collection of articles, interviews, videos, study questions and more – created by nine high school Echo student interns with guidance from area banking professionals and university professors. Student Interns are chosen each year based on their interest in the subject matter, their dedication to excellence in education, and their commitment to making a difference. The curriculum is available at no charge to individuals, schools, and organizations via the Echo website. The Echo Foundation chooses area students each year to build a curriculum that focuses on world humanitarians and global leaders. Dr. Paul Farmer, co-founder of Partners in Health, and Echo Honorary Chair and Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel have been the focus of past curricula. This academic year, the focus is on Bernanke and the power of economics to shape democracy. The 17th annual project includes a dialogue with some 700 students from Charlotte area public, private, and home schools scheduled for September 17 at 9:30 AM at Myers Park High School. Participating students will

study the curriculum to prepare for Bernanke’s visit. “The link between finance and humanitarianism may not be immediately evident,” said Stephanie Ansaldo, The Echo Foundation president. “But without a stable economy, people suffer. Ben Bernanke helped reduce the impact of the global financial crisis in 2008. Without his vision and leadership, the impact could have been far worse.” The students who developed the curriculum make the lessons entertaining. They get to compile the information they find interesting. In addition to the weighty economic matters the curriculum covers, there are fun facts about Bernanke. For instance, it is seldom reported that he won the S.C. state spelling bee when he was 11. There is also a section on personal financial literacy for teens, including sections on credit scores, the power of compound interest and avoiding fraud and scams. Since 1997, some 736,000 students have been exposed to Echo’s mission through its programs that promote fighting against indifference. Many students who have participated in Echo projects have pursued ca-

Ben Bernanke reers in science and medicine, the arts, education, social activism and in the nonprofit sector. Last year, Echo provided approximately 22,000 students with the opportunity to study its curriculum and program materials. The Annual Echo Award Ceremony will be at 6 PM on September 17 at McGlohon Theater. Bernanke will deliver the keynote, and awards will be presented immediately following his remarks. Bernanke will accept the inaugural Sandra and Leon Levine Medal For Life Award. (Continued on page 16)

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The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 2

JEWISH FEDERATION NEWS

L’Hitraot, Not Good-bye By Adi Rodavsky, 2014-2015 Community Shlicha I can’t believe a year went by so quickly. It seems like only yesterday I came to Charlotte for the very first time. I met so many wonderful people during this year and while I am certain I taught a lot about Israel, I learned just as much about life in the United States. During this year, I had the privilege of working with individuals from all ages, from kindergarten kids to my lovely Oasis group. I visited many public and private schools in Mecklenburg County as well as in Union County. My visits to those schools helped me teach many pupils about Israel and also to have a wonderful time learning from them and from their teachers. I had many expectations and dreams before coming to Charlotte and I feel they have all come

Our New Israeli Shlicha

Inbal Ozeri Adi Rodavsky, center, with some of the friends she made here in Charlotte.

true above and beyond. I had a great time spending all the holidays with my host families and the friends that I made here, who all made Charlotte my home away from home.

SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING FOR AUGUST 2015 Friday, August 7, 8:03 PM Friday, August 14, 7:56 PM Friday, August 21, 7:47 PM Friday, August 28, 7:38 PM

I want to thank everyone for making my time here so memorable. First and foremost, I’d like to thank the staff of the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, a team of devoted, passionate ladies who looked after me and cared for me every single day. I would also like to thank my host families, Risa and David Miller, Elise and Jaime Kosofsky, and Shana and Oscar Suris, for letting me into their homes and their lives and for making sure I had everything I needed and never felt lonely. I would also like to thank everyone who worked with me and let me teach them and learn from them. I feel that this year has been the most meaningful one of my life, mostly because of the people who truly made is special. I wish all of you the best and I hope to visit you soon. Y

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Office 704-944-6765 FAX 704-365-4507 email: charlottejewishnews@shalomcharlotte.org An Affiliate of the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte Amy Krakovitz - Editor Advertising Sales Reps: Jodi Valenstein, 704-609-0950 or Scott Moskowitz, 704-906-2474 Art Director, Erin Bronkar ebronkar@carolina.rr.com CJN Editorial Board Chair - Bob Davis Members: Bob Abel, Evelyn Berger, David Delfiner, Ann Langman, Linda Levy The CJN does not assume responsibility for the quality or kasruth of any product or service advertised. Publishing of a paid political advertisement does not constitute an endorsement of any candidate, political party or position by this newspaper, the Federation or any employees.

Published monthly except July An affliate of:

By Inbal Ozeri, 2015-2016 Community Shlicha My name is Inbal Ozeri, and I will be your new Shlicha. I feel honored and excited to become a part of your community for this upcoming year. I just can’t wait. Until then, here’s a little information about me. I’m 22 years old, I was born in Tel Aviv, grew up in a lovely Yishuv called Kochav Yair. It is a small community located northeast of Tel Aviv. Growing up in my Yishuv, everybody knows everybody, the closest city is 10 minutes away by car and children run around alone even at night. It is a place surrounded by green trees and natural beauty. I feel very fortunate to have grown up here. My father is a wonderful and amazing man. His name is Ilan. The meaning of his name is “a tree.” My father has the deep and powerful roots that hold our family together tightly. My father’s parents immigrated to Israel when they were adolescents from Yemen. My mother, Efrat, passed away when I was seven years old from breast cancer. I have many fond memories of her and she was an

incredible mom. My mother’s parent immigrated to Israel from Iraq. I have one younger sister, her name is Sharon and she is 19 years old. She is currently serving in the IDF. Sharon is very different than me. She doesn’t look like me at all, our personalities are completely opposite, and that is the beauty of my family. My dad always says he loves the fact that we’re so different, because it gives him challenges and opportunities as a parent. I’m always curious about her and I guess that’s one of the many reasons why we are not only sisters, but friends too. When I served the IDF, I was a network administrator at the Hatmar Efraim Army base. The base is located outside of the “green line” in a very sensitive and complex part of Israel. My specialty was computer management or “IT” support. I think all Jews, even outside of Israel should join the IDF. It is a special and unique experience. No place else in the world, would an 18 year old in a short amount of time, be given the enormous responsibility and opportunity to protect their homeland. I currently live and work at a youth village called Wizo Gan VaNof as the learning coordinator. I help the boarding school students raise their average scores and improve their chances to acquire their matriculation certificate. I am fluent in Spanish and I am also a Latin dance instructor. I love dancing. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you when I arrive in Charlotte. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have. You can reach me at shaliach@jewishcharlotte.org. Until we meet, l’hitraot.Y

CONTENTS

Jewish Community Center .........pp. 14-15

Federation News...............................pp. 1-3

Schools....................................pp. 20, 22, 25

Levine-Sklut Judaic Library ................p. 4

Dining Out............................................p. 23

Synagogues/Congregations .............pp. 5-7

Women’s News .....................................p. 25

Jewish Family Services .........................p. 8

Youth Visions .......................................p. 26

Community News.........pp. 9-13, 16, 19, 20

Mazel Tov .............................................p. 27

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The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 3

JEWISH FEDERATION NEWS

P2G Mission to Israel - March 27-April 6, 2016 20 Year Celebration of Partnership2Gether Be a part of a mission that will unite and inspire you to become part of a greater Jewish family – connect, bond, and experience Israel as a unified community. The Charlotte Jewish Federation is proud to announce our Partnership2Gether mission to Israel and Hadera-Eiron as part of our 20th year celebration of Partnership2Gether (P2G). P2G is an international program of the Jewish Agency for Israel, which links communities in the Diaspora with specific regions and communities in Israel. The P2G mission will take place March 27 – April 4, 2016. Cost is $2,000* land costs only (includes hotel, double occupancy). Optional three-day extension, April 4–7, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Partnership2Gether. Cost is an additional $1,990 (includes hotel, double occupancy). Applications are available in the Federation office. Application deadline is November 13. The Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte Partnership To-

gether (P2G) has been connecting Charlotte with Hadera for the past several years. In addition to our Israeli community, Charlotte is part of an American Southeast Consortium which includes the following Southeastern cities: Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville, TN; Charleston, SC; Fort Myers, Pinellas, and Jacksonville, FL; and Richmond, VA. Participants will be able to create their own itineraries, choosing activities from four different tracks focusing on adventure, politics, security issues, history, and first-time experiences, as well as high tech arts, culture, and cuisine. The trip also includes a three-day optional extension with activities that celebrate the 20th anniversary of Partnership2Gether. Participants will have the opportunity to see the impact of over a dozen different partnerships in the north, south, and central regions of Israel, including Hadera-Eiron. This mission will provide a spe-

cial opportunity for our Charlotte Jewish community to share an Israel experience with our extended family in Israel as well as with our Southeast American family that will create new bonds of friendship and understanding in Israel and at home. For more information please contact Tal Stein, Director of Community Relations and Israel Affairs at 704-944-6751 or tal.stein@jewishcharlotte.org.Y *includes $500 subsidy from the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte

Local Band Creates Cooperative CD with Israeli Musicians Though they live half a world apart and have never met, members of the bands The Ruach and Alila are now musical partners, so to speak. The Ruach calls Charlotte home; Alila hails from Hadera - Eiron. Their music is nothing alike. The Ruach, a rock band whose musical influences include rock, rockabilly, country, and gospel, sets traditional Shabbat prayers to their original music. Alila calls its music “ethno-fusion,” an instrumental combination of jazz, klezmer, and Middle Eastern stylings. Both bands are among the 16 contributors to Music2Gether, a new CD of original music by Jewish artists from communities in the Southeastern U.S. and the Hadera-Eiron region of Israel. Music2Gether is a collaborative project developed through the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Partnership2Gether (P2G), a unique initiative of the Jewish Agency for Israel that seeks to strengthen connections

between Jewish communities around the world with specific cities and regions in Israel. The Hadera-Eiron region partners with ten Jewish Federations in the Southeast United States including Charlotte as well as the cities of Chattanooga, Knoxville, and, Nashville, TN as well as Flagler and Volusia Counties, Lee and Charlotte Counties, Jacksonville, and Pinellas County, FL, Richmond VA and Charleston, SC. P2G Projects such as Music2Gether generate ongoing relationships among the participating communities which strengthen Jewish identity, promote social involvement and interaction, and provide an avenue for the expression of care, commitment, and love between the participating communities. The CD is the culmination of a project initiated last year by Nashville singer/songwriter/producer Russell Wolff and Israeli musician/producer, Ofer BenZion. Wolff has worked with a

Current performing members of the band RUACH are pictured: From Left to Right Dan Ruda, Nancy Good and Peter Levinson. Not Pictured: Aly Lerner, Dean Adelman, Franklin Kaunitz and Terry Wallach

wide variety of musicians, from LL Cool J to Martina McBride, and he is a voting member of the Grammys. Ben-Zion is a wellknown Israeli musician and producer, and owner of two music schools. Produced in Israel, the CD has 16 songs: seven composed by Israelis and nine by U.S. songwriters. When asked how the songs were selected, Wolff responded, “We got an overwhelming number of excellent submissions. Selecting the music that fit best together for this collection – that was the hardest part.” Music2Gether (M2G) is an eclectic mix of music that includes folk, country, jazz, klezmer, hiphop … and The Ruach’s hard hitting, full-on rock version of Shalom Aleichem, performed by current and past Ruach members including Jill Levinson, Nancy Good, Peter Levinson, Dan Ruda, and David Krusch. All of the artists showcased on the CD have donated their time and talent. The Ruach was born out of Temple Israel, and performs there on the third Friday night of each month to lead Shabbat services and, once a year for “Rock Hashanah.” When they aren’t playing at Temple Israel, they are available to play for other congregations for their Friday night services or other events. In talking about the band and why they play, The Ruach’s lead guitarist, Peter Levinson said, “Our goal is to share the joys of Judaism through modern music and keep the religion relevant in today’s world.” He went on to say, “Our music is trans-denominational. It speaks to all Jews, no matter which part of the faith you affiliate with.” Despite the inevitable cultural variations, Ben-Zion said “music

is an international language. I believe that through its internationality, we can create a bridge that merges all those differences in to an amazing statement of unity which is so important for both our communities. This is a great project and I hope more will come in the future.” Kosher Cutsour Music2Together CD is now being sold at the Federation office with a suggested donation of $18. All proceeds go directly to Charlotte’s Partnership Together Program. Please contact Tal

Stein, Director of community relations and Israel affairs at tal.stein@jewishcharlotte.org or 704-944-6751 for more information or to purchase a CD. Y

Luck doesn’t buy & sell homes... Experience does! Buying... Selling... Relocating... Connecting people to the Jewish Community Since 1972

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 4

Levine-Sklut Judaic Library and Resource Center From Sinai to Seinfeld Applications for the 2016 Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte Impact and Innovation Fund are now available. The Jewish Federation’s Impact and Innovation Fund distributes grants that are intended to inspire individuals, organizations, synagogues, and agencies to provide innovative and impactful engagement opportunities for the greater Charlotte Jewish community. For more information or to receive an application, please contact the Federation ofﬁce, 704.944.6757 www.jewishcharlotte.org

Are you considering furthering your Jewish education? Are you looking for teachers who will challenge you to think outside the box? Then The Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning is what you’ve been looking for. With new class offerings, there is something for everyone. Classes begin mid-September. Registration is now open. Sign up today. Registration for fall classes and course information is available at www.lsjl.com under the Melton tab.Y

Books for All The Levine-Sklut Judaic Library and Resource is very proud to provide books for the whole community. There is a lot to be excited about this summer from the library. * The library has distributed over 1,000 gently-used books to the students and parents of Shalom Park Freedom School. Students are thrilled to select their own books to keep forever through the “6 Weeks! 6 Books” program. * Everyone loves to read while relaxing around the pool. This summer, the Library has set up

“Take a Book-Give a Book” at the pool. There are lots of wonderful things to read and all for free. * Children of all ages are enjoying the library’s summer reading challenge program called Read Like A Pirate. As children read books, they discover where the treasure is on their puzzle map and they win prizes from our amazing treasure box. * Can you believe that the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library provides 21 story times per week during the summer? * New books arriving

every week. Please come see what the library has to offer you this summer. Y

Library volunteer Bob Jacobson with a Freedom School scholar.

Aaarrrrrggh, mateys, read like a pirate!

Adam loves to read.

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 5

&CONGREGATIONS

SYNAGOGUES

Open House for Temple Kol Ami Religious School Anyone interested in enrolling their child in the Temple Kol Ami Religious School is invited to an open house on August 23 from 10 AM-12 noon at Ivybrook Academy in Fort Mill, SC. We will have an ice cream social and would be happy to give you a tour of our beautiful facility. The TKA Religious School has been in existence for five years and has grown every year under the leadership of our director Michelle Levin Jones-Silva and a group of very dedicated and qualified teachers (many of whom have bachelors in education). We now have over twenty students who love coming to Sunday school to see their friends and learn about Judaism in a warm and nurturing environment. At TKA Religious School, one of our most important missions is to help our students

solidify their Jewish identity in a small Southern Jewish community. Our Religious School meets on Sundays from 10 AM-12 PM at Ivybrook. You do not have to be a TKA member to enroll your child (but we would love you to be!). It doesn’t matter if your child has previously been in a religious school or not, we will find the right place for him or her. We are also hoping to start a Torah Tots class this coming year as well. Classes are slated to start immedi-

ately after the High Holidays. Ivybrook Academy is located at 873 Dave Gibson Blvd, Fort Mill, SC 29708 and is convenient to all over the Greater York County/Ballantyne area. For more information, please check out our website www.templekolamisc.org or feel free to contact us at tka.religiousschool@ gmail.com. We hope you will invest in your child’s Jewish education and identity and look forward to meeting you all soon. Y

Temple Kol Ami religious school.

It is Not Too Soon to Add the High Holidays to Your Calendar How many times have you put a doctor appointment on your calendar and realized afterward it’s a Jewish holiday? We know the high holidays and fall festivals are priorities but unless we schedule the times and places and services in our calendars, other things fill that space. We hope you take the time to see what Temple Beth El has to offer. Pull out your smart phone, login to Outlook or grab your paper calendar so that we can meet and greet and pray for the best year possible – 5776 is almost here. High Holiday Service Schedule at Temple Beth El Saturday, September 5, 10 PM Selichot Service Sunday, September 13, 8 PM Erev Rosh Hashana Service Monday, September 13, 8:30 AM - Family Rosh Hashana

Service; Early Rosh Hashana Service; 11 AM - Late Rosh Hashana Service Friday, September 18, 7 PM Shabbat Shuva Service of Reflection Sunday, September 20, 10:30 AM - Community Memorial Service at Hebrew Cemetery Tuesday, September 22, 6:30 PM - Kol Nidre Wednesday, September 23, 8:30 AM - Family Yom Kippur Service; Early Yom Kippur Service; 11 AM - Late Yom Kippur Service; 1:30 PM - Adult Study, Meditation, and Torah Yoga; 3:30 PM - Yizkor, Healing, and Concluding Service Sunday, September 27, 7 PM Erev Sukkot Monday, September 28, 11 AM Sukkot Service Sunday, October 4, 6 PM - Erev

Simchat Torah Monday, October 5, 11 AM Sh’mini Atzeret Service with Yizkor Please call Temple Beth El at 704-366-1948 for more information about celebrating the High Holidays and Fall festivals. Y

“Love Me Madly” by local author Resa Goldberg

BOOK LAUNCH EVENT Mugs Coffee, 5126 Park Rd. Thursday, August 27, 7-9 PM A portion of the proceeds from this evening’s book sales will be donated to Safe Alliance Charlotte.

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 6

Annual Wildacres Retreat Over Labor Day Weekend Larry Horowitz, CLU, ChFC L2 Financial 5950 Fairview Road, Suite 608 Charlotte, NC 28210 (704) 556-9982, Fax (704) 369-2918 www.L2financial.com www.L2financial.com Helping in the CREATION, PRESERVATION & DISTRIBUTION of your Estate Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through H. Beck, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. H. Beck, Inc. and L2 Financial are not affiliated.

It is not too early to start planning your Labor Day weekend trip to Wildacres for Temple Beth El’s Annual Retreat. Each year we escape to the mountains, where we eat, drink, learn, play, pray, and eat some more. * Meaningful and engaging Shabbat and Havdalah with tree canopy as our synagogue * Special activities for kids, adults, and families together * Lingering afternoons chatting over a glass of wine gazing at the Blue Ridge Mountains * S’mores over the campfire with stories and songs * Lots and lots and lots of conversations, food, and drink There is always plenty of time

for relaxation, spending time with family, kibitzing with friends, making new connections, and exploring the beauty of the mountains and the beauty of our community. Register early and be part of the planning. What and where is Wildacres? Nestled atop Pompey’s Knob in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wildacres is located 112 miles from Shalom Park. Wildacres was dedicated by I.D. and Madolyn Blumenthal to the betterment of human relations and interfaith dialogue. It is our tradition at Temple Beth El to gather as a family – young and old – singles and families – Jewish and interfaith –

friends we’ve known forever and friends we haven’t yet met – each Labor Day weekend to celebrate community together. We hope you’ll join us. Visit the Temple Beth El website at www.templebethel.org and view the Calendar for registration details. Questions? Contact the Temple office at 704366-1948. Y

Celebrate Charlotte Pride 2015 with Temple Beth El Temple Beth El is proud to support our LGBTQ community and participate in the largest Pride event in the Carolinas. We invite the entire Jewish community to join us for two special Pride events: - Charlotte Pride Interfaith Service Sunday, August 9, 4 PM at Caldwell Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1609 E. Fifth Street, where we will celebrate the dig-

nity, worth, and value of all people. - Shabbat Outdoor Morning Service, Saturday August 15, 9 AM at Charlotte Pride on S. Tyron Street in Uptown, where we will celebrate friendship, inclusion, community, and Shabbat. Contact Temple Beth El at 704366-1948 for additional information. Y

Out of the Shul, into the World This summer, the members of Temple Or Olam have taken some time to reflect on our community’s purpose; to reconsider what our intentions are. Polling the membership, organizing community meetings, brainstorming what

we want and need was instrumental to that process. The results have been interesting. Members spoke about their spiritual lives at shul; how important it was to feel that everyone walked into services carrying true Shabbat joy into the room, ready to engage in prayer as only a hopeful and positively-minded community can. But they also spoke a great deal about the need to have a communal life outside the shul space, in the world. Much attention was given to the issue of how the community defined itself – not by a particular set of four walls, and not about its size. “It needs to be about what we do,” one member said. “About who we are, not where we meet.” And another, who is married to a transgender individual said: “This is the first place we’ve gone where we don’t need to hide who we are.” So what did our members want? There was a deep attention to maximizing our tikkun olam efforts and minimizing fundraising. All sorts of potential projects emerged, from supporting an interfaith community garden project that hopes to supply food deserts with organic produce to spending our Pesach packing and packaging food for distressed and hungry populations worldwide. We talked about making a deter-

mined effort to help with the maintenance of our host church and building and contributing birdhouses to a wildlife refuge one of our members has been involved in maintaining. Education also leapt out of the surveys and group conversations; our members want to study, to learn. Topics ranged from mysticism in Judaism to the building a model of the Tabernacle and studying the texts that describe our first, and mobile sanctuary. Afterlife is not just Christian and reincarnation is not just Eastern: What happens when we explore Jewish views of life after death? What other ways could we get into the world? On Rosh Hashanah, a walk in a nearby park will be part of our prayerful celebration of the New Year and the birth of all creation. At Sukkot, we plan a retreat on a lake. Members will camp under the stars and study Torah. Many of our education programs may be taking place in people’s living rooms, outside on the porch, and in green spaces and places. We learned that we all need our Jewish practice to extend itself into our homes, into our parks, into our real world. It’s good to listen to each other and learn. Summer was a good time to do that. Now, we will begin our planning for a new year. While we will meet in shul, we will leave it, too, to go out into the world – Jewishly. Y

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 7

The Month of Elul - Inventory Season month. The theme of Elul is return to your essential self — a.k.a. Teshuva — helped along by prayer and charity. “The King is in the field,” is associated with this month, which refers to God being in the field with us and willing to embrace each of us just the way we are. It also means that the Godly spark within each of us is much more accessible, as long as we search for it. Some key customs for the month of Elul:

* Each day (except Shabbat), a shofar is blown after the morning services. It's a wake-up call to spiritually prepare for Rosh Hashanah. * When writing a letter, we sign off, “May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year.” * We add Chapter 27 of Psalms to the morning and afternoon daily prayers. * The Baal Shem Tov began a custom of saying three additional chapters of Psalms, sequentially, each day from the first of Elul

until Yom Kippur — when the remainder of Psalms is completed. * We increase our deeds of charity, kindness, and friendship towards others. * This is a good time to have your tefillin and mezuzot inspected by a scribe to ensure that they are still in good condition. Selichot Selichot are prayers to God that ask forgiveness. Sephardic Jews recite special Selichot early every morning of Elul (except for Shabbat). Ashkenazic Jews begin these Selichot shortly after midnight on the Sunday

New Board at Ohr HaTorah

Congregation Ohr HaTorah is dedicated to providing every Jew regardless of background, philosophy or level of commitment, an open door environment for strengthening and enhancing Jewish family life. Ohr HaTorah serves individuals and families looking for an anchor and nonjudgmental, accepting, personalized Jewish experience. Ohr HaTorah is truly a home away

from home for everyone who walks through its doors. Ohr HaTorah’s vision is to raise Jewish awareness in our community by bringing Jewish educational opportunities to the Greater Charlotte Jewish community with programs like the JLI (Jewish Learning Institute), Shabbatons, international speakers and local programs like the public menorah lightings at SouthPark.

Elul, the last month of the Jewish year, is a time to review the past and look at where you’ve come in life. It’s a preparation for the upcoming “Days of Awe” — Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur — when we resolve to do better this year than last. This the month of Elul begins on Sunday, August 16, with Rosh Chodesh on the 15th and 16th. There are many beautiful customs that are observed during Elul which are designed to get us in touch with the theme of this

Congregation Ohr HaTorah has elected Barry Klemons as its new president, Brad Rabinowitz is now vice president, and the board has added three new members to its ranks: Ellen Engelhardt, Eric Lerner, and Fred Shporer. They join Philip Stark (immediate past president), Dave Cantor, Nadine Oudmayer, and Penny Lipsitz

who serve with them on Ohr HaTorah’s board. The focus of the new term will be the expansion of the synagogue with a new women’s Mikvah that will be completed in August and the planning of a new sanctuary and social hall that will be added to the existing building on Sardis Road.

morning before Rosh Hashanah — unless this start date doesn’t allow for a minimum of four days of Selichot, in which case, they start Selichot on the Sunday morning before that. This year we will begin Selichot at Ohr HaTorah on Saturday, September 5, a little past mid-night. Selichot are then recited daily before the morning prayers (except on Shabbat) until Rosh Hashanah. Many continue reciting Selichot until Yom Kippur. Y

Ohr HaTorah has daily worship services each morning and evening. For more information please visit www.chabadnc.org. Or call us at 704-366-3984.Y

Temple Solel Finds Its Path in Fort Mill In December of 2011, 14 people gathered in a living room and determined to form their own synagogue in Fort Mill to worship as Reform Jews. Our goal is to follow the precepts of Jewish values, focusing on inclusion and interfaith families or relationships, in support of the commandment of Tikkun Olam - Healing the World. Thus the congregation of Temple Solel was formed, with the first service celebrated in February 2012. Solel translates as “pathway” or “pathfinder.” Since that time, this path we’ve taken has resulted in work with more than 10 charities, with contributions focused locally, for the improvement of our local community. Our chosen path has led us to working with: * The Children’s Attention Home, with ongoing member visits, working with the children there to support and share the vision of a stable life and working directly in accordance with the Attention Home’s mission to service abused, abandoned and neglected children in SC. * The Palmetto School, Grades K-8, continuing to serve the children from the Attention Home. * Our “Second Friday” food drives for the Fort Mill Care Center, capped by the annual Yom Kippur collection, which have allowed us to contribute over 2,200 pounds of food which is distributed directly to the York County Community. * Posting a team for three consecutive years to walk in the Crohns and Colitis fundraiser. * Assisting with food preparation for the annual Mother/Daughter luncheon at Unity Presbyterian Church, which raises thousands of dollars Temple Solel offers a religious education program as well, affiliated with the Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL), led by a strong and talented director. Weekly classes are offered starting from pre-school age. That school has shepherded three young people to full membership in the Jewish

community. Those young people each developed their B’nai Mitzvot projects, which included coat drives, library organization, and raising awareness of childhood cancer. Each project connected the youth of our Temple to our mission of Social Action and improvement in a very personal way. Our Temple continues to grow. Starting with the original 14 founders, we now have 46 members and have had two baby naming ceremonies to welcome our littlest members into the covenant. Temple Solel engages and connects with our congregation on numerous levels: sponsoring a Havdalah Service with guest Rabbi Miri Gold, a key representative in the pluralist Reform movement in Israel, in addition to hosting a “Virtual Trip of Israel,” and educational movie night of “Israel Inside - How a Small Country Makes a Big Difference.” We use all modes of social media to keep our community informed about key events, celebrations and movements. We have a user-friendly website containing calendars of events, directions to services, and key contact information to enable members and interested parties to get involved in programs offered by Temple Solel. Our community outreach continues to explore numerous outlets as well. We hold services twice a month, at St. Phillip Neri, with whom we enjoy a close working relationship. Their hospitality and welcoming atmosphere fosters a nurturing environment for us. We join with Unity Presbyterian in Fort Mill, with the Men’s Breakfast and the annual Mother/ Daughter luncheon. We are a regular contributor to the Fort Mill Times “Words of Faith” column, and we have participated in the Sun City Yard sales and the Baxter bake sale, as internal fundraisers. This past year we had a community Menorah lighting for Hanukkah, which we look to con-

tinue and expand. Our membership may be small, but we are strongly focused in support of our Tikkun Olam projects, and our impact is felt in our community. As our organization matures, we continue to welcome all individuals who wish to worship God and improve the world in which we live. Y

Temple Solel Service in March 2015, led by Edie Yakutis, Ashley and Julia Fox.

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 8

Jewish Family Services

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Annual Family to Family Campaign Kicks Off in August The people Jewish Family Services supports want a life of security, happiness, and independence … just like you. But something has challenged their resources and capacity to resolve the situation alone. Jewish Family Services provides the help that individuals and families need when facing these challenges. JFS plays an integral part in the lives of countless families in the Charlotte area. From therapeutic groups for adults facing relationship issues, to counseling for a pre-teen starting middle school, to parenting classes and workshops for families, to providing companionship for a senior living with Alzheimer’s, the positive and pervasive impact of JFS can be felt everywhere. Financial assistance, counseling, senior outreach, and family life education are just some of the ways that Jewish Family Services uses your gift to restore hope, dig-

Thank you to the following people who contributed their time to Jewish Family Services in May. Volunteers: Sydney Abeshaus, Shannon Alpert, Ben & Susan Aizenman, Linda Babich, Stacy Baum, Mariah Bernanke, Sheldon Bobrow, Marcia Borden, Ruth Brandt, Katrina Burton-Nic, Ilene Cantor, Bill Cassell, Stacey Cohen, Jennifer & Hollis Collman, Elana Congress, Alicia

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Donations to Jewish Family Services in May 2015 HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO Harry and Lois Simpson from Lynn and Myron Slutsky Marshall and Barbara Rosenfeld from Ann Langman Sam and Ollie Polk from Stuart and Ellen Fligel, Alvin and Rachel Goodman, Stuart and Carolyn Hennes, Marion and David Kronovet, Edwin and Jill Newman, Mark and Harriet Perlin, Mark and Linda Rothman, Marvin and Anita Shapiro, Michael and Judie Van Glish HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO Marc Lewin from Adam and Marissa Brooks

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nity, and meaning when life’s struggles appear insurmountable. Your tax-deductible gift to the annual Family to Family campaign makes a local, personal and enduring impact by improving the lives of people facing financial instability, emotional, and mental health issues and the numerous other challenges that each of us encounters throughout our lives. This month, volunteers will

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IN MEMORY OF David Meltsner to Brian Meltsner and family from Stuart and Carolyn Hennes, Elise Menaker Janet Jaffa to the Rosen family from Alan and Lee Blumenthal, Jeff and Wendy Kornegay, Marion and David Kronovet, Gary and Maxine Silverstein Irene Sfreddo to Nancy Bennett from Monty Bennett Joe Weinstein to Sandra Weinstein from Celia Mandel Mark Bernstein to the Bernstein family from Paul and Lynn Edelstein, Marion and David Kronovet, Mark and Harriet Perlin The mother of Helene Levine from Stuart and Carolyn Hennes, Elise Menaker The mother of Esther Kaufmann to Judie Van Glish from Irv and Sharon Shapiro Y

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 9

Community News A Legacy of Giving: Bill Gorelick “I’ve always had a love for Charlotte and for the Jewish community,” shares Bill Gorelick, one of Shalom Park’s founders, a businessman and a devoted philanthropist. “I often say, the best thing that ever happened to me was that my parents moved to Charlotte before I was born.” His parents, Annie and Israel Gorelick, were childhood sweethearts in their shtetl in Russia during the pogroms. Bill’s parents emigrated separately, and were married in Guatemala, where his father supplied people working in the silver mines. After moving to New York City, and then to Gaffney, SC, his parents settled in Charlotte, where they ran a shoe store on E. Trade Street (where Time Warner Arena stands today.) “It takes an adventurous and entrepreneurial spirit to go to a country where you don’t know the language,” says Bill. There were 75 Jewish families and one synagogue in Charlotte in 1933 when Bill’s parents arrived with their son, Shelton. Bill, born a year later, would attend Elizabeth (Traditional) Elementary, Alexander Graham Junior High (where the Dowd YMCA now stands), and Central High. There were only two Jews in his high school graduating class of 400. Bill studied at Chapel Hill, and then transferred to the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated with a degree from Wharton Business School. Bill maintains that the values his parents passed on were family first, then education, and a strong work ethic. Bill met his b’shert, his destiny, Patty, through mutual friends. Six years his junior and studying at Women’s College in Greensboro, Patty tried to get Bill to date her older friends, but Bill demurred. He finally convinced her to go out with him. Bill suggests that b’shert also describes the confluence of events that brought about Shalom Park. In the early 1980s, Temple Israel was seeking to move to the suburbs, Temple Beth El needed new facilities, the Hebrew Day School needed a permanent home, and the Amity Club (the predecessor to the JCC) had just suffered a

of other organizations integral to our community. “To go from here to there, you need to put gas in the tank,” quips Bill. On a more serious note, he adds, “Across all generations, we need to come together to sustain the future of Shalom Park.” We hope that, like Bill and

Patty and Bill Gorelick

calamitous fire. Morris Speizman from Temple Israel and Mark Bernstein from Temple Beth El had a vision that, as Bill puts it, “the Jewish community should be together.” By chance, Sam Lerner, in the apartment business, identified land adjacent to undeveloped land on Providence Road that Temple Beth El already owned. On June 11, 1979, twenty-two Shalom Park founders met at Leon Levine’s offices to unify support for Shalom Park. Herman Blumenthal, one of the first major donors to Shalom Park, asked Bill Gorelick to serve as the Phase I Shalom Park Building Chair. Bill, already active in civic and religious life, was helping to grow CMC Finance Group, a family business offering consumer credit when credit cards were in their infancy. With dozens of brick and mortar offices, Bill understood finance and construction. “There were a lot of political obstacles to founding Shalom Park,” says Bill. “Organizations were afraid of giving up their independence. Some individuals said we were trying to form a ghetto. It took the strength of a good team, pulling for the same purpose, with the talent and financial wherewithal to get it done,” explains Bill. “Don Dixon, a retired executive from Arthur Anderson, is an ‘unsung hero’ who, along with Mark Bernstein,

played a large part in building consensus.” Bill stayed engaged through Phase II, when an additional 150,000 square feet was added in the mid-1990s. Butch Rosen, former Executive Director of the Foundation of Shalom Park, remarks, “Bill’s legacy to Shalom Park will be his passionate input about the look and feel of the place.” Todd Gorelick, Bill’s eldest son, concurs. “Dad feels a deep sense of pride in what the founders created, and wants to see Shalom Park always shine.” “Bill has been absolutely unselfish with his time and energy,” adds Harry Lerner, fellow Temple Israel congregant and Shalom Park founder. “He never suggests anything that he will not back 100%. He has set a beautiful example for his own family and for the Jewish community.” “Bill is incredibly generous financially, but also with his time and creativity. We all benefited greatly from his devotion to Shalom Park,” reflects Hal Levinson, Building Co-Chair of Phase II. Today, the work of the Foundation of Shalom Park continues. The Foundation maintains the facilities (excluding the temples) and the grounds and provides security for the entire Park. Through their legacy giving, Bill and Patty Gorelick are investing in the longterm success of Shalom Park and

Karen Yanofsky, an attorney from Washington, DC, came to Park Road Books in Charlotte to promote her new collection of essays, “Good Luck with That Thing You’re Doing.” She read a selection about summers on the beach in North Carolina. The book is available at Park Road Books or on Amazon.

Patty Gorelick, your commitment to Shalom Park remains strong. For more information about how to make a legacy gift that will not impact your current finances, please contact H. Kevin Levine, Executive Director, Foundation of Shalom Park, 704-944-6840 or hklevine@shalomcharlotte.org.Y

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The Charlotte Jewish News -August 2015 - Page 10

Combining the Corporate with the Communal Spelled Success for LJCC Outgoing CEO Phil Berman By Amy Krakovitz It seems as though Phil Berman was groomed for the position as CEO of the Levine JCC from his earliest years. “My grandfather gave me a love and passion for Judaism, for tikkun olam, and mitzvot. At the same time, he en-

couraged me to be competitive and successful in school and in business,” Berman says. These two qualities were just what the Levine JCC needed in 2006 when Berman was asked to come out of retirement (he had sold his business in 2000) and

serve as interim director. Having been on the Levine JCC board for many years, he was familiar with both the workings of the J and the complexities of the Shalom Park Partnership. Add to that his business acumen, and you’ve got the perfect storm.

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“Phil stepped into a void at the LJCC at a time when we needed him most,” says Roni Fishkin, who was on the LJCC board and president when Berman became interim executive director in 2005. “No one could have anticipated the upward trajectory that he began and the community will always be grateful for his leadership and service to our Jewish home.” And what was this “upward trajectory”? During Berman’s tenure as CEO of the LJCC, membership and revenues doubled; Jewish membership increased 40%. “The success of the LJCC has trickled down to other organizations on Shalom Park,” says David Van Glish, who was LJCC board president from 2011-13, “and has improved the Park in general.” Van Glish continues, “While Phil had a responsibility to do what was best for the LJCC, he always looked at the bigger picture and how the decisions of the J affected the entire park. As president of the LJCC, I saw firsthand how Phil would constantly wear the ‘community hat’ in terms of his decision making.” “He made the tough decisions,” Eric Sklut, who was LJCC president 1996-98, agrees. “Coming from a corporate rather than a communal background, Phil was just what the J needed at the time. He was successful at pruning what didn’t work and improving and adding things that did work. Phil has a distinct way of capturing the vision of the Park and addressing customer needs.” This combination of community and corporate abilities aren’t the only seemingly exclusive qualities that exist symbiotically in Berman. Sklut adds, “Phil has both a sense of philanthropy and keen understanding of the partnership.” Sue Worrel, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, says, “His most special quality is his ability to make tough decisions and to be compassionate and caring as warranted. He never loses his unique capacity to see both the business and the human side of things.” And Berman’s staff agrees that he is able to encompass many facets of strong leadership. “People are successful under Phil’s leadership because he expects so much of his staff while at the same time providing the resources needed to hit the mark,” LJCC senior director of sports and fitness, Jen Lahn, expresses about Berman. Anna Gunsher, senior director, family life at the LJCC adds, “Phil pushed us all to think outside our comfort zones and he had the faith in his staff to

Phil Berman

know we could accomplish great things.” But growing programs and developing staff are only the beginning of Berman’s philosophy about the LJCC. “What I wanted for the J,” Berman declares, “is a culture of fun. This should feel like home. When you walk in the door, I want people to say, ‘I love being here’ or ‘This is great.’ Kids meet friends here. It’s a safe place. It’s a place to make connections. “You think we’re just the Chosen People,” Berman continues. “We’re also the Choosing People. And as CEO of the J, I want your choice to be with the Chosen.” While Berman will be going on to other great adventures in the corporate world, he leaves the LJCC with a new future. The LJCC Capital Campaign will help build a new pool with zero entry, a larger shallow area, and a faster slide; more shade on the pool deck; a new group class space in the fitness center; expanded and improved locker rooms; a new climate control system; refurbishing of fitness surfaces, racquetball courts, the pavilion, and other sports areas; improvements to Camp Mindy have already been completed. And a $3.6 million dollar matching pledge from the Levine-Sklut families will create an endowment for the future. “Personally, I will deeply miss Phil spontaneously bursting through my office door on a regular basis,” adds Worrel. “I will miss his support.” Fishkin sees the big picture of Berman’s leaving: “Generations of Jewish families will be the beneficiaries of Phil’s commitment and dedication.” But Berman himself had only these words to say about his tenure at the Levine JCC: “It’s been a privilege.” Y

“God casts the die, not the dice.” –Albert Einstein

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 11

Blumenthal Memorial Garden Offers Peaceful Sanctuary for Hebrew Cemetery Visitors By Brian Yesowitch, Board President, Hebrew Cemetery Association Psalm 115 includes the verse: “Ha-shamayim, shamayim L’Adonai vha-aretz natan livney adam.” “As for the heavens, the heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth is given to mankind.” This verse is recited several times during year as a part of the Hallel “praise” prayers. We at the Hebrew Cemetery Association have been working diligently to ensure that the earth our cemetery inhabits will always be a dignified final resting place for Charlotte area Jews. Through the generosity of concerned families like the Blumenthal family, along with countless volunteer hours by groups ranging from the Federation’s Bernstein Leadership Group, the area temples, and others, our cemetery has become a beautifully landscaped institution of which the entire community can be proud. One tradition associated with Jewish cemeteries is that flowers are not permitted. In the Charlotte Hebrew Cemetery, we have become very creative with attractive grasses, flowering bushes, and trees with a great deal of color and fragrance. The Blumenthal Memorial Garden was completed last

Stained glass hosta.

Monkey grass bed beneath the river oak.

fall, so this summer is the first opportunity to experience the beauty of this generous gift to the community by one of its most philanthropic families. The Blumenthal Garden project was planned and executed by DeSignia Landscaping in Charlotte with input and instructions about Jewish tradition from our community’s outstanding rabbis, along with leadership provided by Grounds Chairman Bill Gorelick and his committee. The Blumenthal Memorial Garden, in its first phase, connects five beds of beautiful and fragrant landscaping. It was designed to present a different experience to visitors in each of the four seasons. When one enters the Blumenthal Memorial Garden, in any season, there is color and fragrance. The Little Leaf Shrubs (buxus microphylla) will grow over the years to form a hedgerow. The trees in this garden include a Deodore Cedar, River Birch trees (also called paper birch – because of its paper like bark) and Kousa Dogwoods.

Another eye catcher in the garden is the bed of pink blooming grass commonly known as Muhley grass. Visitors have likened its unique beauty to “pink clouds.” Also flowering in August are our Knockout Rose bushes. Our Japanese iris plants flowered in the spring, but the leaves are the main attraction. The garden’s Crepe Myrtle was an existing tree in our cemetery. It will also flower in late August. The Kaleidoscope Abelia plants beneath the Crepe Myrtle have contrasting colors in their stems, flowers, and leaves. They also attract butterflies. The other beds include Forest Pansy, Azaleas, heavenly bamboo, hydrangeas, all coming together to add beauty, fragrance, and peace to the cemetery visitors’ experiences. There is so much to share about the natural improvements the cemetery has added. The best way to experience and enjoy its beauty is to go and visit the cemetery during our normal operating hours. We have had several groups arrange tours with our director, Sandra Goldman. They are available on request for your temple, garden club, mah-jongg group, or other organization. Please mark your calendar for Sunday, September 20 at 10:30

AM for our Annual Memorial Service on the cemetery grounds. Last year, the service was led by twelve clergy members representing seven area congregations. All are welcome. Membership to our Hebrew Cemetery Association is an affordable $72 annually. It always pays to pre-plan your funeral expenses. Contact our Director, Sandra Goldman, to receive information on plot availability and pricing. Additionally, our community supports needy individuals with reduced cemetery fees during their time of loss. You can make a contribution of any amount to the Steinberger Funeral Assistance Fund on our website www.hebrewcemetery.org or by contacting our Director Sandra Goldman at 704-576-1859 or director@hebrewcemetery.org. Don’t forget to “like” our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Hebrew-

Cemetery. Our Throwback Thursday posts have gotten so popular; they will be featured in the September issue of Charlotte Magazine. “The heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth is given to mankind.” In the spirit of the Psalm, I would suggest that the cemetery belongs to you. Please consider making a legacy commitment to our Hebrew Cemetery through the Create Your Jewish Legacy program. It is a very simple process and we can help you add the Cemetery Association to your legacy and estate plan. Visitors are welcome in all four seasons at our Hebrew Cemetery. I hope learning about the Blumenthal Memorial Garden has given you a reason to visit soon. Y

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The New Cub Scout Adventure Begins at the Levine JCC The Cub Scout Program has been redesigned to be more “appealing, exciting, and culturally relevant to today’s youth and families.” The five objectives are character development, participatory citizenship, personal fitness, outdoor skills, and leadership. The focus is on learning by doing. The advancement program has been simplified to maximize fun and personal involvement. To reach the ranks of Tiger, Wolf, and Bear, boys will complete seven “adventures” for which they will receive “adventure” belt loops. They earn “adventure” pins to reach Webelos and Arrow of Light ranks. Cub Scouting is for boys from first through fifth grades, and is family-oriented at each step along the trail. Why join Cub Scouting at the JCC, as opposed to a unit near your home or one that recruits at your child’s school? Those may work fine, but be aware that most

Packs meet at local churches, not at the school where the initial contact is made. This occasionally presents unanticipated obstacles. Most church-sponsored units are excellent and attempt to accommodate diversity among their Scouts. However, some sponsors perceive Scouting as an extension of their ministry, and situations arise which are awkward for the boys and their families. Consider Cub Scouts at Shalom Park, where

your child already goes to camp, already has friends, etc. Scouting has been absent from the J for several years, and we would like to fix that. To make this a successful effort, we need a sufficient number of boys in the various grade levels to have viable numbers (410 boys per den/grade). Meetings are normally once a week, usually from 4-5:30 Sunday afternoons. Leadership is shared by parents, with excellent support and training provided by volunteers and professionals in the Charlotte community. It would be especially beneficial if you talked to your son’s friends and plan on doing this as a group. For more information, please call David Lintz at 704-451-4411 or email dlintz43@gmail.com and join us for an informational meeting at Camp Mindy on Thursday, August 27, from 7-8:30 PM.Y

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The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 12

Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community Distributes $69,000 in Grants to Support Legacy Effort The Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community (FCJC) distributed $69,000 of unrestricted incentive grants to nine Jewish community partner organizations for reaching their second year legacy goals. These goals, established as part of FCJC’s Create Your Jewish Legacy (CJL) initiative are rewards based on the number of legacy commitments received by each organization from March 1, 2014 through April 30, 2015. The five organizations receiving grants of $9,000 were Jewish Family Services, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, Levine Jewish Community Cen-

ter, Temple Beth El, and Temple Israel. Receiving grants of $6,000 were Charlotte Jewish Day School, Charlotte Jewish Preschool, Congregation Ohr HaTorah, and Hebrew Cemetery Association. “We at FCJC are thrilled with the success of our CJL initiative,” said Judy August, FCJC’s Board Chair. “There is great enthusiasm and cooperation from our participating Jewish organizations that has been met by the passion and generosity of our donor community. We are truly creating a culture of legacy giving that will be a positive and impactful force for

generations to come.” Since CJL’s inception over 490 unique legacies have been created by 231 individuals and families with a future value in excess of $11.4 million. The CJL initiative was created to foster a culture of legacy giving throughout Charlotte’s Jewish community. In collaboration with ten community partner organizations, FCJC works closely with teams established by each organization. These teams receive training and support from FCJC to assist with the marketing and implementation of their legacy efforts. The initiative is funded prima-

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rily through FCJC’s annual budget in collaboration with the Harold Grinspoon’s Life & Legacy initiative, as well as additional support from JFNA and local community funders. Each of the participating community partner organizations also contribute financially. “It is exciting to accomplish all of this while at the same time providing $150,000 of unrestricted funding to our community partners over the past two years,” added Phil Warshauer, FCJC’s Executive Director. “This success is attributable to the hard work and leadership of our CJL Coordinator, Nancy Kipnis, the commit-

ment of our participating community partners and donors who believe in the future of Charlotte’s Jewish community.” On May 1, the CJL initiative entered Phase 2 with a continued focus on legacy commitments and additional emphasis on donor stewardship and recognition. An additional two-year commitment was received by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation to continue to support FCJC’s legacy effort. “Charlotte was one of the first communities to successfully complete the Life and Legacy pilot program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation,” said Arlene Schiff, National Director of the Grinspoon’s Life and Legacy Program. “You are also the second community to participate in our expanded partnership. You have begun to change the language and landscape of giving in your community and you have done so by working cooperatively.” Y

(Geared for preschoolers 2 and up)

CELEBRATE Rosh Hashanah with PJ Library PICK a variety of luscious apples at a family friendly orchard

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Sunday, September 6 10:00 am Carrigan Farms, Mooresville, NC $5 per person (children under 2 are free) Includes hayride, tour, cider tasting and half a peck of apples to take home!

www.NEXTGENCharlotte.org (RSVP Required by Sept 2) Questions??? Contact Tair Giudice, Director of Outreach & Engagement tair.giudice@jewishcharlotte.org 704.944.6759

Our Jewish Community’s Newest Legacy Gifts We thank the following individuals/families who have recently informed our community, through Foundation for the Charlotte Jewish Community (FCJC) or one of the ten Create Your Jewish Legacy community partners, that they have created a legacy gift to support the future of Charlotte’s Jewish community or added an organization to their legacy plan. There are now 317 individuals/families throughout our Jewish community who have included a local Jewish organization in their legacy plans creating 645 unique legacies. Charlotte’s Jewish community now has estimated future gifts of more than $24 million. We welcome our newest donors into our community’s Book of Life Society:

Anonymous (1) Melvin W. and Caren N. Frank Laura Milgrim Nadine and Arthur Oudmayer Ruth S. Silverman

Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 13

Moishe House August Events Moishe House Charlotte celebrates its second birthday this August with a host of fun events. Moishe House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting community among Jewish young adults in their twenties and early thirties. It seeks to fill the void that often exists after graduating college and prior to settling down. The organization, with 76 houses in 17 countries, brings together Jewish adults who live together and plan local programs, both home-based and external, for other young Jewish adults. Moishe House Charlotte began in August 2013 and has hosted over 100 events ranging from service projects to social events to Jewish learning and more. Its current residents are Elana Congress, Audrey Singer, Danielle Soowal, Matt Hirschl, and Tahis Haloulos. We

are looking for another roommate to move in this fall—if you’re Jewish, aged 22-30, awesome, and looking to move into the house, email us at mohocharlotte@ gmail.com for more information. Read on to see what we’re up to for August. 1. Ask the Rabbis - The Boundaries of Jewish Identity - Tuesday August 4 at 7:30 PM at Moishe House August’s “Ask the Rabbis” will be a panel-like discussion in which a few of our terrific Charlotte rabbis briefly gives his/her perspective on the chosen topic The Boundaries of Jewish Identity. Would someone still be able to call themselves Jewish if they were not born Jewish? Do they need the community’s approval, or can they just identity as Jewish as they see themselves? Following

their presentations, we will open the floor for discussion and questions. 2. Alive After Five - Thursday, August 13 at 6:30 PM at the Epicenter, 210 E. Trade Street Because we had so much fun meeting up for Alive After Five in June, we want to do it again during the last month of its summer series. We will meet on the rooftop in between the main stage and the bar area. We can’t wait to see you all there. 3. Diana’s Housewarming Party - Saturday, August 15 at 6:30 PM at Diana’s House Missing Diana? So are we … so let’s go see her new place. Wear your swimsuit and we can enjoy a relaxing Saturday night by the pool ending with havdalah. House warming gifts in the form of adult beverages are greatly appreciated.

Email mohocharlotte@gmail.com for address. 4. Mint Museum Uptown Tour - Wednesday, August 19 at 7 PM at Mint Museum Uptown, 500 South Tryon St., Charlotte An internationally-renowned institution, The Mint Museum is dedicated to inspiring, publishing, and protecting important works of art and design from all over the global art community. Mint Museum Uptown houses outstanding collections of American, contemporary, and European art. Each Wednesday evening, admission to the museum is free, so join the Moishe House for a tour. Make sure to meet us at the entrance to the museum at 7 PM sharp. 5. Peculiar Rabbit 2nd Anniversary - Thursday, August 27 from 7-9 PM Did you hear? Moishe House Charlotte is celebrating its second anniver-

Lisa Jenkins – Saving Stones in Israel and Belmont By Melinda Skutnick As Gastonia Temple Emanuel member Lisa Jenkins embarked upon a five-month conservation practicum in Israel two years ago, she had little idea that her learned skills would find a practical purpose in downtown Belmont. Chosen to study in the “Saving the Stones” program funded by the International Conservation Center, UNESCO, and The Israel Antiquities Authority, Jenkins – a Belmont, NC, resident – joined a team of preservationists from inter-disciplinary backgrounds in Akko (old Acre), Israel. The program teaches preservation and conservation techniques, giving students valuable hands-on experience working on the preservation of antiquities across Israel. It was this applied training that led Jenkins to a recent restoration project in Belmont – recapturing the deep olives, gold tones, and fine stencil work of the faded and aging 1920s Wells Fargo bank

ceiling on Main Street. “Just like I was taught, I tried to go about the project at Wells Fargo with as much information and research as possible in order to replicate what the original artist did,” said Jenkins, noting one of the most important lessons she gained from her mentor, Shay Farkash, the top conservator of decorative paintings in Israel. “When you see a restoration project, you have to approach it with integrity, meaning following as much as possible the same steps as the artist did.” In Akko, Jenkins and her fellow program participants worked toward the preservation of ruins throughout the recognized world heritage site. Among international students from varying disciplines, Jenkins said she studied the conservation of wall paintings, specifically helping restore a decorative fresco in a Syrian synagogue in Jerusalem, which was painted over with beige paint long ago.

“Throughout Akko, you could see your presence there was needed,” she noted, “to help keep both the Arab and Israeli cultures alive for future generations.” The need to preserve the old city, however, was not all Jenkins noticed. She also witnessed the region’s internal struggles. “Right in front of you, first-hand, was the Israeli-Arab conflict.” That conflict was discovered in tales of Akko as well as art. In an effort to revitalize the old city, doors were repainted turquoise – a perfect metaphor to what the city is, the blend of traditional Arab (green) and Jewish (blue). Turquoise symbolizes the two cultures living together in this city on the sea. Jenkins returned to Belmont with stories of history, antiquities and traditions in addition to her newly-learned preservation techniques. In May 2015, she used her Israel-gained knowledge to tackle the Wells Fargo bank proj-

ect, recapturing the grand entrance’s original beauty. Restoration of the 1920s decorative ceiling extended through late July; Jenkins was only able to work during non-bank hours. However, this local decorative painter and color stylist looks forward to utilizing her skills gained along the Mediterranean Sea for

sary. Join us at the Peculiar Rabbit, the locale where the founding MoHo CLT members met for the first time. The Peculiar Rabbit is located in Plaza-Midwood, with a great rooftop bar ideal for enjoying apps and drinks, with views of the Charlotte skyline. To learn more about Moishe House Charlotte, visit our website (www.moishehouse.org/houses/ charlotte), like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/MoisheHouseCharlotte) or e-mail us at mohocharlotte@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you soon. Y

more projects. Added Jenkins, who has 15 years of experience working in the paint and color industry, “I knew I wanted to do something more than be just a tourist in Israel and this program was the exact right fit.” To contact Jenkins for color consulting or painting, email her at lisajenkinscolor@gmail.com.Y

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Clockwise from top left: Wells Fargo ceiling; Jenkins painting in the Well Fargo building; Jenkins studying in Israel; a Syrian synagogue resotration.

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 16

Joint Session of NC General Assembly Honoring Survivors of Dachau on the 70th Anniversary of the Liberation

Bernanke to Receive Leon Levine Medal for Life from Echo Foundation

By Jacob Katzenstein I was probably the youngest person participating in the joint session of the General Assembly on April 29. I wanted to be present when a group of people I admire saw their lives come full circle. It was the 70th anniversary of the Liberation of Dachau and the legislators were honoring members of the U.S. Army and Holocaust survivors. Legislators read a special resolution making North Carolina a part of history. The Resolution stated, “The General Assembly of NC honors the courage, memories, and sacrifices of victims of the Holocaust, including those who perished in and those who survived Nazi concentration camps, including Dachau.” At the event I got to meet George Rose, who was among the first soldiers to walk through the gates of Dachau and rescue Jewish survivors. He said, “We went through the main gate and that’s when we saw all the boxcars and bodies thrown one on top of another. Also a wall with bodies like rag dolls laying against it. At first it was quiet, but when the prisoners realized who we were they started shouting, ‘Americans’ and slowly started to come out of the cells. I couldn’t believe the condition they were in, barely skeletons in rags with distended stomachs.

That evening, Thomas W. Ross, president of the 17-campus University of North Carolina system, will receive the Echo Award Against Indifference for his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and open access to excellent education. Individual tickets ($300 per person for the award ceremony and gala reception) are on sale now. A limited number of $65 tickets for the Awards Ceremony only will be on sale August 1 through Blumenthal Performing Arts Center Box Office - 704-3721000 or .www.blumenthalarts.org. Sponsorships, ranging from $10,000 - $25,000 are available now by calling the Echo Foundation at 704-347-3844. About Ben Bernanke Dr. Ben Bernanke is a distinguished fellow in residence with the economic studies program at the Brookings Institution. He also serves as an outside senior advisor to Citadel. From 2006 through 2014, he was chairman of the Federal Reserve System. Bernanke is best known for helping avoid a global economic disaster during the 2008 financial crisis. Before his appointment as chairman, Bernanke was Chairman of the President’s Council of Economic Advisers. He has taught economics and public affairs at

Jacob Katzenstein with George Rose.

We were only there a few hours and then we were relieved by Headquarters and the medics and moved on. I was 18 years old at this time. But it is something I will never forget.” I am 18 years old now. I am also Jewish, so this all meant a lot to me. Watching my dear friend Morris Glass get very emotional was a bit overwhelming. Morris had been a prisoner at Dachau. He is a hero to me. I listened to Morris say that Mr. Rose is a hero to him. There was something so incredible about being a part of this reunion that’s hard to put into words. I just know that I’m fortu-

nate to be able to meet liberators and survivors and I feel a responsibility to share their experiences with others who will not have an opportunity like this. Morris was a kid when the Nazis took him prisoner. He’s 87 now. I hope people don’t forget what happened. I hope it never happens again.Y Editor’s Note: Some people may remember Jacob from when he was a student at The Charlotte Jewish Preschool. He is now lives in Raleigh and will be starting his first year at East Carolina University in the fall. His father blows the shofar for High Holy Days at Temple Beth El every year.

(Continued from page 1)

2015 2015

Princeton University, Stanford University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Bernanke was born in Augusta, GA, and grew up in Dillon, SC. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University (summa cum laude) and a Ph.D. in economics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Read more about Bernanke at http://www.brookings.edu/experts/bernankeb. Sandra and Leon Levine Medal For Life The Sandra and Leon Levine Medal For Life honors those who unleash the powerful possibility of immense goodness as they come to realize the impact of dreams turned into action. They have chosen to take risks within their own sphere of influence – to challenge, nurture, and give life to productive change thereby expanding the dignity of all humankind. These visionaries have used their talent and resources in the service of compelling work designed to shape a more just and humane world. Y

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 19

Shalom Park Garden Selects Site and Designer By Mike Arnholt A site has been selected for Shalom Park Community Garden, and a designer has been chosen for the project. Bobbie Mabe of Charlotte was selected from among three landscape designers who submitted plans for the garden, which is funded by a grant that’s part of The Shalom Park Environmental Initiative. The garden will be built in the grassy area to the right of the entrance to Levine-Sklut Library. Mabe is the owner of Growth Through Gardening, a company that specializes in horticultural therapy. For the past two years she worked as the school gardener at Garinger High School where she developed an urban farm, a school garden, and developed a curriculum that crossed gardening activities with a spectrum of traditional classroom subjects. Mabe said she went to Garinger to help students that seemed forgotten. “The change has been unbelievable,” she said. “I was surprised by the impact gardening has on learning.” Education will be the primary purpose of the community garden as well, said Bette Andrews, chairwoman of the Shalom Park Environmental Initiative. “Once the garden is up and running it will become a hub for Jewish and environmental learning for all ages to raise awareness of our obligation to preserve the planet.” Garden programming will reach out to people of all ages throughout the Jewish community, including those with disabilities. Andrews said she is thrilled with the strides that have been made in few short months in the initiative to reduce the park’s carbon footprint. “We have devel-

“The wisdom of the wise and the experience of the ages are perpetuated by quotations.” –Benjamin Disraeli

Mabe’s design includes a variety of ornamental plants, trellises, raised beds for growing vegetables, seating, and work spaces. It also features plants with biblical significance in Jewish festivals. Construction is scheduled to begin in late August. Y

Committee members at the site of the future Shalom Park Community Garden. Left to right: Louise Frumkin, Pamela Bernstein, Candice Serbin, (committee chair), Mike Arnholt, Yonatan Thull, and garden designer Bobbie Mabe.

oped a logo and brand, Shalom Green, which will soon be visible across Shalom Park and on social media. The garden is really coming together. It’s amazing what a group of truly committed community members can achieve in a

short amount of time.” Adult volunteers and students will maintain and sustain the garden while learning Jewish values and providing fresh produce in support of Jewish Family Services and other Charlotte food banks.

Want to help? We need adult and teen volunteers to help build the garden. The work will include: *Building beds *Laying mulch *Building borders *Planting trees and shrubs *Filling raised beds *Planting raised beds *Staining wood *Maintaining the garden If you can help, e-mail Yonatan Thull at catalyst.ahelpinghand@gmail.com or call 704-644-9026.

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 20

Charlotte Jewish Film Festival: Take 2 It was a simple decision 11 years ago – screen a couple of movies over a weekend and see if the community shows any interest. And with that insightful idea, the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival (CJFF) was born. Over the last decade, the CJFF has become one of the premiere cultural events in the region that now offers year round programming (28 events expected in 2015). While Hadassah and the Levine JCC (LJCC) have provided the incredible support skeleton from which it has worked from, the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival has always been run by an all-volunteer staff (including its director), making its annual growth and success all the more remarkable. Because of the size, scope, and budget of its programming, the CJFF has taken the next logical step in its development – hiring a paid, part-time director. After careful consideration, Hadassah and the Levine JCC have decided that the position will fall under the LJCC’s Visual and Performing Arts umbrella and be supervised by its director, Susan Cherin Gundersheim. Benjamin Schwartz, who has been involved with the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival since 2013, was recently hired as the CJFF Director under this new organizational model. “I am very grateful and appreciative of this opportunity” said Schwartz. “Debby Block, Jodi

School The Giver - and Receivers - of Jewish Tradition

Former Film Festival directors Benjamin Schwartz, Jeff Turk, and Rick Willenzik.

Greenwald, Jeff Turk, and Rick Willenzik have created this incredible leadership legacy and I am very excited about getting the chance to continue working with the amazing CJFF team. Together, I am quite confident that we will be able to meet the challenges of keeping the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival’s positive momentum moving forward.” While the organizational structure is now a little different, the end product will be the same - the CJFF will bring the community films and value added programming that will make you laugh, cry, think and feel. Please be sure to check out the just released details of the CJFF’s 2nd Annual FallFlicks’ lineup on page 16 or at charlottejewishfilm.com. Y

This is an excerpt from a speech given by Amy Vitner, President of the Charlotte Jewish Day School Board of Directors, at Graduation. On behalf of our Board of Directors, it is my honor to welcome you here tonight to the Charlotte Jewish Day School’s Graduation Ceremony in celebration of the Class of 2015. Not only do we celebrate our 22 graduates, we celebrate the many accomplishments of our alumni; we celebrate our parents who entrust us with their children every day, and for the second year in a row achieved 100% participation in annual fund giving; we celebrate our 48 legacy donors who have made an incredible commitment to secure the future sustainability of our school; we celebrate our PTO for coordinating fun and engaging activities for our families; and last but not least, we celebrate our teachers who impart knowledge, critical thinking skills, and a Judaic foundation that will last a life time.

If you have read the book The Giver by Lois Lowry, you are familiar with the story of a society where its citizens lead a very peaceful, content, and functional existence with no war or suffering. There is a catch. To maintain this existence, centuries of knowledge, history, art, music, and any information without a practical purpose has been eliminated. Even eyesight has been altered to see only black and white. For the people of this world, life is pretty boring, but nobody knows what they are missing. There is one exception, and that is The Giver, who serves as the repository for all of humanity’s passions, history, and knowledge, both good and bad, and is responsible for passing all of this information on to a single person known as The Receiver. As the Giver begins to transfer information to The Receiver, something begins to happen. The Receiver begins feel more deeply. Instead of seeing in black and white, the Receiver begins to see in color. For the Receiver of the world’s knowledge and history, life takes on a whole new level of significance and purpose. (Continued on page 25)

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 22

CJP’s Focus for the Year Ahead students and staff. Annual Fund. We hope to share By Andy Tucker, CJP Board Lastly, I aim for the Board to with your how the Annual Fund President As we begin to think about our revisit our Strategic Plan to focus dollars work to enrich the experifuture at CJP, we recognize this as on some goals that will increase ences of our children. Many thanks for all of your a time of great change, all of transparency at CJP. For example, which will strengthen our school I hope to put in place a means by support-form volunteer efforts to and maintain its focus on nurtur- which teachers, staff, parents, and Annual Fund participation. Withing our children in an environ- Board members can get feedback out the commitment from everyment that emphasizes Jewish about our experiences at CJP. Ad- one in our community, CJP would values. While change can some- ditionally, I hope to implement a not be the incredible preschool times be daunting, our commit- system by which we continue to that it is. Y ment to excellence is unwavering, engage our families after they and that commitment serves as a leave CJP. Inquiring about our bright beacon for the year ahead. graduates’ experiences in the first With a strong Board of Direc- years of elementary school will tors, I hope that we can continue help us to see how well we are to create transparency among our preparing our little ones for what school constituents, specifically lies ahead. I also want to ensure the Board, staff, and parents. that our families continue to see Open, clear communication and themselves as partners in our efopportunities to provide feedback forts to educate our children, so it are critical to the evolution of any is important to me that we comorganization, and particularly the municate the “how” and “why” of growth of an institution that is some yearly events, such as the cultivating the leaders of tomorrow. It is also important for the members of the Board to seize opportunities to interact with our school’s staff in order to support the staff’s devotion to our children. Again, communication is key in understanding our school’s needs and what better way to determine CJP’s needs than to ask our staff? I would like for our Board not only to support all of our school’s efforts but also to be a visible presence in our school in ways that enhance the experience for both Grandparents’ Day at CJP, with Morah Rachel Berendt and her parents, Paula and Richard Klein.

CJP Board Selects New Executive Director

On behalf of the Charlotte Jewish Preschool’s Board of Directors, we are thrilled to announce that Lisa Shporer began as the new Executive Director of CJP on July 15. Lisa comes to us most recently from Child Care Resources, Inc. where she served as a Project Coordinator for Early Childhood Directors Leadership Institute. In this role, Lisa developed statewide initiatives focused on creating programs that connect preschool Executive Directors across the state in order for them to develop a learning community in which they share resources and work collaboratively. Lisa’s prior role with Child Care Resources was as a Project Manager for the Directors Leadership Academy. Prior to her positions with Child Care Resources, Lisa serves as the Executive Director of Charlotte At Play, A Child’s Museum, and was the Assistant Director of the Jewish Preschool on Sardis. Lisa holds an MBA from Bryant College in Smithfield, RI and a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Framingham State College. Lisa’s passion for early childhood education can be seen Fun every day at CJP.

Lisa Shporer

throughout her career; combined with strong business acumen and strong Jewish foundation, Lisa is a perfect addition to our leadership. Lisa will host a variety of meet and greet opportunities for our staff, families and other members of the CJP community later this summer. Please join us in welcoming Lisa to our CJP family. Y

The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 23

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The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 25

CJDS: The Giver of Jewish Tradition

Summer Fun at the Jewish Preschool on Sardis

(Continued from page 20)

Micka making a splash Music time for Mason and Jacob

Sarah enjoying bubbles with Atomz Lab

Gavi, Lucie, Mussi, Asher, Porter and Malcolm in the bounce house

This seems to be quite a precarious position for society to give a single person the sole responsibility for all of the world’s knowledge. But it struck me that in our own Jewish culture, we tend to do precisely that. Deep understanding and study of Torah, the Hebrew language, customs, and rituals are primarily the responsibility of Rabbis and a few educated Jews. Many of us self-label ourselves as “cultural” Jews, limiting our Jewish knowledge to the major holidays and Bubbe’s kugel recipe. We do our best to pass on our cultural traditions, but we often do so without the context or understanding of the meaning behind them. Over time, these traditions begin to fade. At CJDS, we are reversing this trend as our children return home with the knowledge that brings meaning and context to old traditions whether it’s leading a Passover Seder, lighting of Shabbat candles, or explaining the weekly Parsha. This year over 30 children participated in the reading of Tehillim after school. Kids voluntarily wanting to stay after school to read prayers? Why? Well, when asked that question, one student responded without hesitating, “I have so much in my life. This is just one thing I can do to say thank you to God.” In another example, a CJDS alum reported back how her Birthright experience was different than many of her peers on that same trip. The feelings that she had in visiting the Kotel and other holy sites were incredibly meaningful in a way the others could not grasp. She attributed her elevated

experience to the knowledge that she received from her time at CJDS. Every year, Mariashi receives dozens of emails, letters, and stories of how CJDS has had an impact on individuals, families, and within our Jewish community. To paraphrase Justin Timberlake, “We’re bringing Jewish back.” Over and over we see that CJDS students do not just function as Jews going through the motions, but experience Judaism in full blown high definition color. And even better, while tonight we celebrate our own 22 Receivers of knowledge, we also celebrate that our graduates have proven themselves as worthy Givers ensuring that this knowledge will be passed on. My hope is that the gift of knowledge that our children have received continues to be nurtured. We are fortunate to live in a vibrant Jewish community with excellent synagogues, youth programs, and activities that allow for many Jewish experiences that are both meaningful and fun. Active participation in this community will not only build on the foundational knowledge received while at CJDS, but will provide a platform for your children to share their knowledge with others. So tonight, in addition to honoring our Graduates, we celebrate the cycle of the receiving and giving of knowledge. To the class of 2015 – Mazel Tov! We know that you have been given the tools to be successful in whatever direction life takes you and we know you will always make us proud. Y

Women’s News Hadassah’s Israeli Products Fair Win a Trip to Israel! The 2nd Annual Israeli Products Fair will be presented by the Charlotte Chpater of Hadassah on Sunday, November 22, from 10 AM-2 PM in the Sam Lerner Center for Cultural Arts, Main Street, and the Weinberg Activity Center of the Levine JCC on Shalom Park. The fair will feature exclusively made in Israel products, fantastic raffles prizes, including a trip to Israel for two, and much more. Stay tuned for more information on how you can enter and win. Want a table to sell your Israeli products? Do you want to volunteer at the fair? Do you want to be recognized as a local business sponsor in our vendor corner? Contact Stacy Baum at 704-808-0423 or by email at schree@carolina.rr.com for more information. We expect more than 500 people to attend this year, so don’t miss out. Be part of a movement to promote and support Israel. Y

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The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 26

Youth Visions Hebrew Highlights It’s time to check out all of the new and exciting programs at Hebrew High for 5776. Our theme for the first session is “Loving Jewish - Exploring Your Jewish Identity.” All of our electives this session will provide ways for students to define their place in the Jewish community. There will be great new electives, amazing special programs and an outstanding retreat. Here are just a few of the elective highlights: Portrait of an Artist In “Portrait of an Artist,” the class will take art to a whole new level. Using the work of Israeli artist Hanoch Piven as a model, students will take everyday objects and create self-portraits in 3D. These “selfies” will reflect the students’ Jewish identities. The teens will express themselves through fun and playfulness by reinventing the meaning of regular objects and using these objects to tell their own stories. The class will be a journey of selfawareness and Jewish identity in living color. Meals and Memories Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone has a memory to share. Everyone has a favorite family recipe. Students in “Meals and Memories” will be sharing stories, making memories, and creating wonders in the kitchen based on the Holocaust Survivors Cookbook. While working on great Jewish recipes provided by the families of survivors, the class will hear the stories of the amazing men and women who were able to survive the horror of the Holocaust. Each story told, each memory made, and each recipe created will be a tribute to Jewish bravery and survival. The delicious recipes will include: potato knishes, spiced nuts, kugels, and desserts. Trees, Earth, and Torah Judaism Goes Green (with Mr. Green). Students in this class will be exposed to Ju-

daism’s long-standing tradition of caring for the earth. The group will explore environmental issues through a Jewish lens. Learning will lead to action as the class supports the effort to make our own Jewish community more “green.” Students in the class will be at the forefront of the movement for “shmirat ha’adamah” (protection and renewal of the earth) here at Shalom Park. Post Confirmation Re-Boot This is Post Confirmation (for all 11th and 12th graders) with a new twist. Spearheaded by Cantor Bernard, the class will invite clergy and community leaders to teach short units on subjects they and the students are passionate about. Come to class and share your interests, world view, and opinions with the people who make the Charlotte Jewish community a model for modern Jewish life. Hebrew for Credit I,II, III, and IV We are pleased to offer an even higher level of Modern Hebrew language for High School credit as an option for our Hebrew High students. This class has been accepted by the CMS and Union County school districts (more districts are in the planning). The curriculum was developed especially for Jewish teens living in the Diaspora who are interested in learning Hebrew as it is spoken in Israel. The class will be punctuated with Israeli songs, films, and Shabbaton experiences with Israelis to give the students a chance to try out their Hebrew skills in as close to a natural environment as possible. Participation in Hebrew High is a requirement for all madrichim and tutors at the Temple Israel and Beth El Religious Schools. Enroll your 8th through 12th grade students today. Don’t let them miss out on the Hebrew High experience. For more information call Roz at 704-944-6782 or email rcooper@shalomcharlotte.org. Hebrew High! It’s the place to be on Wednesday nights! Y

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Come Play!

WHO: For ages 0 - 2 and their caregivers WHEN: Wednesday Mornings, 9:30 - 10:30 am* WHERE: Family Place at the Levine JCC *beginning August 12

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The Charlotte Jewish News - August 2015 - Page 27

Mazel Tov & Congratulations Cary Bernstein Recognized as One of Mecklenburg’s 50 Most Influential Women For seven years, The Mecklenburg Times has selected the area’s 50 Most Influential Women. This year, Cary Bernstein was included in the prestigious group. Through Spay Neuter Charlotte, the organization Bernstein founded in 2010, she has made a difference in the lives of more than 27,000 dogs and cats, and saved thousands more of their potential offspring from the possibility of death by euthanasia. Bernstein decided to start the foundation after chairing the board of the Humane Society of Charlotte and learning the magnitude of the problem of unwanted or stray animals in the Charlotte area. Spay Neuter Charlotte also provides low-cost health care for pets whose owners can’t afford a private veterinarian. The editors of The Mecklenburg Times asked her what led her to start Spay Neuter Charlotte and when the program started. Bernstein responded: “I founded Spay

Neuter Charlotte out of a concern about how our community treats homeless dogs and cats. Until recently, the City of Charlotte was euthanizing 15,000 healthy dogs and cats each year because there wasn’t enough room at the shelters to keep them. In addition to increasing pet adoptions, the most effective way to address the problem is providing affordable and accessible spay-neuter services to control animal reproduction. That realization led me to found Spay Neuter Charlotte, a non-profit organization affiliated with the Humane Alliance, one of the preeminent spay-neuter programs in the country. We have grown to be a $1.2 million organization with 25 employees. We have fixed 27,000 dogs and cats and provided basic medical care to 10,000 patients. We have two clinics, in NODA and in Pineville, and are exploring the possibility for a third in Mooresville.” When asked what inspires her,

with every day.” Bernstein was asked how she defines “satisfaction,” and she said, “To me satisfaction is the tremendous amount of confidence I have in our staff, knowing that every day we are providing exemplary medical services and cus-

“NEWCOMER SCHMOOZE” Cary Bernstein (photo courtesy Spay Neuter Charlotte)

she answered: “I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to make a real difference in animal welfare, an issue of great importance to me and this community. I love what I do and know how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to work every day for a cause that I believe in. My greatest inspirations are the amazing clients we serve and the amazing staff I work

Charlotte’s Adam Flitton Competing for World Beauty Fashion and Fitness Title By Beth Cherryman A 28-year-old man originally from Carpenders Park competed for the World Beauty Fashion and Fitness title in the O2 London. Adam Flitton, a former pupil of Frithwood School in Northwood, took up cheerleading when his family moved to Charlotte, NC, in 1992 and received scholarships for college due to his success. Mum Cherie, 56, said her son often gets mistaken for Channing Tatum when he’s out and about. She said: “He’s done a lot of competitions in America, but he finds it hard to get to the top because some competitors used steroids. “He’s very dedicated and he perseveres. “We moved to America when he was five. He never would have done cheerleading in England, but he competed in World Team America. “Even now he works in the school system teaching children gymnastics. “He’s got a good chance in this competition, he recently got first place at a similar competition in the States.” The Flittons moved across the pond in the early 90s after Adam’s dad John, now 61, a jewelery engraver, accepted a job in Charlotte. Adam, who hopes the competition will help his modelling ca-

reer, will take part in other World Beauty Fashion and Fitness in Las Vegas and New York. The 28-year-old has given special advice to Cherie to help her slim down. Cherie said: “I’ve lost more than 67 pounds through Adam helping me with my meal plans and him making me an exercise program for the gym. “With his help I hope to continue this year and lose another 50 pounds.”

tomer care to our patients and clients while at the same time making a true impact on the number of homeless animals in our community.” Bernstein’s responses reprinted with permission from The Mecklenburg Times.Y

New City, New Friends, New Way of Life

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2015 11:00 am - 12:00 pm WEINBERG CENTER at the Levine Jewish Community Center