A-list crowd helps Hillel Event Exceed Goal
Jaffe’s Jewish Jive
By Marcia Jaffe | mjaffe@atljewishtimes.com
Campus SuperStar, benefiting Hillels of Georgia, wrapped up its 12th year March 31 at the Buckhead Theatre by raising more than $100,000, $40,000 over goal, and honoring Staci Brill and Billy Bauman for their years of volunteer service and their passionate efforts to help secure Jewish continuity in Atlanta.
The dinner hour featured two rooms of gourmet bounty prepared by Kosher Catering 613, located at the Marcus Hillel Center at Emory University. Barbecue brisket, orzo salad, passed sushi, gourmet deli sandwiches, apricot chicken sliders and roasted vegetables preceded the gourmet popcorn and brownie/cookie bars.
More important, the event brought out a superstar list of Atlanta’s charitable and involved A-listers that blended generations.
“I’m delighted to be at this community gathering to honor Hillel, who fed my grandchildren all over the country,” Harry Maziar said.
Honoree Bauman, Dothan’s favorite son, glowed. “I am overwhelmed by the response of those who came out tonight since this was the third major event this week [after the Federation Exchange event March 30 and Davis Academy community celebration March 28]. It is unbelievable.”
Steve Oppenheimer, the sponsorship chairman, said: “As past president of Hillels of Georgia, it’s great to see the community turn out to benefit building Jewish life on our campuses. We are indeed fortunate to have Staci and Billy.”
Superdad and youthful leader Ronnie Agami said, “It’s wonderful to have people who care about Hillel and do what counts.”
For the show, eight finalists competed in a live voice competition a la “American Idol”. This year’s finalists came from Georgia universities and colleges including Emory, Georgia Tech, Kennesaw State and the University of Georgia. They performed for a panel of industry judges in front of an audience of 600 people.
Teralyn Griffin of UGA was crowned Campus SuperStar 2015 and won $5,000. David Porter of Georgia State received $500 as runner-up.
Shawn Skolky of the Emory University School of Law also received $500 as the second runner-up. Skolky, who was back for his third and last chance at Campus SuperStar, was my fav and crooned like Michael Bublé.
The rest of the five finalists, who were all truly amazing, received $250 each.
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