Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. XCV NO. 10, April 30, 2020

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VOL. XCV NO. 10 | SENIOR LIVING & REAL ESTATE

APRIL 30, 2020 | 6 IYAR 5780

BUSINESS AND REAL ESTATE DURING COVID-19 CRISIS

AJT EXCLUSIVE MARCUS TALKS ABOUT COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS DAMAGES AND HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE

INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST DR. BLASS WEIGHS PROBABLE VS. POSSIBLE IN LIGHT OF REOPENING GEORGIA

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Contributors This Week BOB BAHR CHANA SHAPIRO DAVE SCHECHTER DEBBIE SONENSHINE EYDIE KOONIN FLORA ROSEFSKY FREDA MEYER JAN JABEN-EILON JEREMY KATZ JIMMY BARON LAURA SHILLING MARCIA CALLER JAFFE MELANIE WHITE RACHEL STEIN ROBIN BLASS SHAINDLE SCHMUCKLER TERRY SEGAL

THIS WEEK Old School Business This week we bring you our business, real estate and senior living issue. We talk with real estate agents, business leaders and entrepreneurs about how their markets have been affected by the global health crisis. Among those lending their business acumen to the effort to save lives is Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot, who is helping guide and fund major efforts locally and nationwide in the treatment of the COVID-19 virus and the economic fallout from it.

Talking investments in the future, we catch up with a stockbroker about the volatile market. In our real estate section, agents share how they advise clients during this time and their analysis of current trends. We have articles about diverse real estate, from what millennials seek in new homes to the luxury condo market in Sandy Springs.

Also in our news section and throughout the paper we explore various aspects of the COVID-19 crisis, from funding for small businesses to how some local doctors are serving on the front lines in the battle against the pandemic.

Seniors are the building blocks of family life and our community. Still, during the COVID-19 health crisis, they are

also our most vulnerable. Our stories in this issue focus on their health and safety concerns, home life, how they navigate technology and grandparent remotely.

We explore what social distancing means to a population sheltering in place more than any other demographic to protect their health, whether in senior living facilities or at home.

We asked Holocaust survivors how their experiences during World War II relate to this period of confinement and uncertainty and learn how they cope with the current crisis in light of their traumatic past.

The life of a sassy Jewish widow and her chauffeur, captured in the iconic Southern drama “Driving Miss Daisy,” is back in the news with the sale of the Druid Hills home that inspired the blockbuster film and Broadway play.

For our next issue, we pay tribute to a hero in her own right – Mom – in our staycation, and spa and beauty issue.

Even if you start venturing from home, you don’t have to go far to find a local getaway. Plus read about spa and beauty treatments you can do at home if you’re not ready yet for a salon visit. Stay safe and healthy dear readers. ì

Cover image: Bernie Marcus has his finger on the pulse of national COVID-19 discussions when it comes to helping small businesses and providing potentially life-saving drug treatment.

CONTENTS NEWS ������������������������������������������������� 6 ISRAEL NEWS ������������������������������� 18 OPINION ����������������������������������������� 20 THE LOWDOWN ���������������������������� 23 BUSINESS ��������������������������������������� 24 REAL ESTATE ������������������������������� 29 CHAI STYLE ����������������������������������� 35 SENIOR LIVING ���������������������������� 38 ART ��������������������������������������������������� 44 CALENDAR ������������������������������������� 46 COMMUNITY ��������������������������������� 50 SIMCHAS ���������������������������������������� 52 OY VEY �������������������������������������������� 54 BRAIN FOOD ���������������������������������� 55 NEW MOON MEDITATIONS ����� 56 OBITUARIES ���������������������������������� 57 CLOSING THOUGHTS ����������������� 60

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ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 5

NEWS Why Bernie Marcus Backs Campaign Behind Hydroxychloroquine Drug

By Dave Schechter Among the controversies arising from the federal response to COVID-19 is the debate over hydroxychloroquine, a drug touted by President Donald Trump, despite its lack of approval by the Food and Drug Administration to treat the virus.

The group behind a campaign promoting hydroxychloroquine is the Job Creators Network, founded in June 2011 by Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot and a major contributor to Trump’s 2016 election campaign.

The FDA has given doctors emergency authorization for limited “off label” use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients under limited circumstances.

Marcus, whose philanthropy has included hundreds of millions of dollars for medical research and health care institutions, had his reasons for backing a campaign on behalf of an unapproved drug.

He told the AJT, “I became involved in the Job Creators Network campaign advocating wider use of hydroxychloroquine for one reason, to get something out there that might work and had been successful in treating other illnesses. Now, we’ve found that it does have possibilities to achieve results on some people, but those with underlying conditions should stay away,” he said.

Marcus and JCN also played a role in shaping the portion of the $2.2 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill enacted in late March that provided $349 billion for small businesses. According to a tax filing, the mission of the Job Creators Network, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit under the federal tax code, is to “educate Americans on the vital role of free enterprise in creating jobs that will spur innovation and help ensure America’s future economic success.”

On March 26, JCN launched an online petition drive, along with Facebook ads and blast text messages, calling on Trump to “cut the red tape” and make hydroxychloroquine available. A related entity, the Job Creators Network Foundation, was listed as sponsor of the campaign, along with another nonprofit, Physicians for Reform. The campaign was amplified by Fox News Channel hosts with some of the largest cable news audiences.

The petition told doctors that their signatures “will go directly to President Trump,” and it urged the president to “protect physician autonomy and medical decision-making as we stand in harm’s way to 6 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The FDA has given doctors emergency authorization for limited “off label” use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients under limited circumstances.

care for the American public.

“There is clear and ever-mounting evidence that the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine can significantly help patients who contract coronavirus,” the petition stated.

On April 6, Trump said, “I’m not a doctor. But I have common sense. The FDA feels good about it. As you know, they’ve approved it, they gave it a rapid approval, and the reason [is] because it’s been out there for a long time, and they know the side effects and they also know the potential.”

There are no FDA-approved antiviral drugs to treat COVID-19 (the scientific designation SARS-CoV-2 stands for “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2”).

When it issued COVID-19 treatment guidelines on April 21, a panel assembled by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases recommended against use of a combination of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin, an antibiotic, for the treatment of COVID-19 because of potential serious heart problems.

Chloroquine was developed in the 1930s to fight malaria, and hydroxychloroquine, which has fewer side effects, was developed during World War II. Hydroxychloroquine has FDA approval to treat autoimmune conditions such as lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis and other arthritic ailments. Pharmacists say the push to stockpile the drug has led to scarcity in some places and has driven up its price.

The FDA has given doctors emergency authorization for limited “off label” use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients under limited circumstances, even though the drugs have not met the scientific standard for approval for that purpose, which includes peer-reviewed random clinical trials. In announcing a donation to the national stockpile of hydroxychloroquine, the federal Department of Health and Human Services said March 29 that “clinical trials are needed to provide

scientific evidence that these treatments are effective.”

As of April 22, the website clinicaltrials. gov listed nearly 800 clinical trials related to COVID-19, 120 of which involved hydroxychloroquine.

Marcus was critical of the drug approval process. “The FDA has had the opportunity to loosen controls in the last few years for new drugs to be introduced to the market, but they have been slow. The influence of the President has sped things up to get drugs out there faster, as long as there is a strong feeling that it is not harmful to most people,” he told the AJT. “It will be interesting to watch the FDA in the future. Will they change the process to the speed with which they are signing off on things during this pandemic? I hope they will continue to bring effective drugs to the market sooner rather than later. Many drugs that probably would be effective with extra caution have been kept off the market for too long. Doctors should have the ability to rely on their expertise and their knowledge of their patients to make the decision whether or not to use a drug, just like they always have.”

Asked to evaluate the federal response to COVID-19, including by the White House, Marcus told the AJT: “I am concerned about both the health safety and the economic safety of this country. As I said publicly on television, the impeachment had occupied everyone’s minds. Congress, both the Democrats and the Republicans, was focused on getting rid of the President.”

The House of Representatives began impeachment hearings on Dec. 4, 2019 and sent two articles of impeachment to the Senate on Jan. 15, 2020. The Senate voted on Feb. 5 to acquit Trump on both articles of impeachment.

China reported a coronavirus to the World Health Organization on Dec. 31. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued its first warning on Jan. 8. The first confirmed COVID-19 case in the U.S., in Washington state, was reported on Jan. 20.

Trump made his first public comment on Jan. 22, telling CNBC, “We have it totally under control. It’s one person coming in from China. We have it under control. It’s going to be just fine.”

Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director

of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, told the New York Times on Feb. 2, “It’s very, very transmissible, and it almost certainly is going to be a pandemic. But will it be catastrophic? I don’t know.”

The U.S. recorded its first coronavirus death on Feb. 29.

Marcus said, “In the meantime, Trump made the key decision to stop planes from coming in from China, which probably saved hundreds of thousands of lives. The press was not open to talking about this.

And many political leaders and editorial boards said it was the wrong thing to do. In their minds, nothing he does is right.”

Trump announced restrictions on travel from China on Jan. 31. The New York Times and other news organizations have reported that in the two months after that announcement, 40,000 people flew from China to the United States, including thousands from the city of Wuhan, where COVID-19 is believed to have originated. ì [Note: Marcus is the father of AJT publisher Michael Morris.]

NEWS

Marcus Assesses Damage to Small Business During COVID-19

by Dave Schechter Bernie Marcus’ diagnosis is that the economic heart of America, its small businesses, have been severely damaged by COVID-19. His prescription includes applying a dose of caution before flinging open doors that were forced closed by the coronavirus threat.

“Many medium and small businesses are not going to be able to reopen. If they do, they will not have the cash flow to sustain. I believe the percentage will be as much as 20 percent,” Marcus told the AJT. “I hope I am not being overly pessimistic.

All indications are that I am not. I do have a strong opinion that we should not open businesses until we have some semblance of coronavirus control, and enough tests available to see who is asymptomatically carrying it.”

Marcus has backed efforts to shore up the finances of small business owners so that, when they resume operations, they retain their most valuable asset: the people who work for them.

To that end Marcus, a co-founder of The Home Depot, and the Job Creators Network that originated in 2011, played a role in crafting the $349 billion Payroll Protection Program included in the $2.2 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill passed

by Congress and signed into law in late March.

The PPP money was allocated so quickly that Congress passed and President Donald Trump signed a second stimulus package, this one for $484 billion, including $310 billion more earmarked for small business.

Dana Neiger is co-owner of HIVE Talent Acquisition Firm, a three-year-old Atlanta business that assists job seekers and companies looking to hire, helps young people doing internships find full-time employment, and provides human resources consulting for small- or mediumsized businesses that may not have an inhouse human resources department.

HIVE was ready to move into newly leased and customized office space when COVID-19 put a crimp in those plans. Neiger applied for aid through the PPP but was not among

Sanctuary of Temple Kehillat Chaim located in Roswell, Ga. Stained glass artwork by Flora Rosefsky.

the recipients. HIVE has eight employees – two of whom have been furloughed. “I had to furlough people because I did not get the money,” Neiger said.

HIVE has reapplied, hoping to receive PPP assistance in the second round of funding and rehire the two furloughed employees. “We are trying to do right by our people,” said Neiger, a member of Temple Emanu-El. Temple Kehillat Chaim in Roswell was successful in its PPP application, which meant that it will be able to keep its paid staff, which number five and a-half positions. “We were determined not to lay anyone off,” said a relieved congregation president Alan Abrams.

In the meantime, Marcus foresees difficult decisions ahead. “I think every business owner has to define for themselves what provisions to put into operation to protect their employees and their customers. A major drawback is if they open too soon, the trial lawyers are ready to pounce. There is no liability protection given by the government for small businesses to take that risk,” Marcus said. “I think that every business owner over the last month has been thinking of a date to open. They have to weigh the consequences, negative and positive. There is risk involved no matter which way they go. People are anxious to get back to work.

But a resurgence is potentially out there.

Each member of the business community has to make a judgment decision.”

Marcus is a steadfast cheerleader for that segment of the economy. “I want to remind everyone how critically important small businesses are. Half of the businesses and half of the jobs are related to small businesses. You can understand how this

Dana Neiger, co-owner of an Atlanta small business, would use PPP funds to rehire two furloughed workers. “We are trying to do right by our people,” said Neiger, coowner of HIVE Talent Acquisition Firm.

impacts the economy,” he said.

According to a tax filing, the mission of the Job Creators Network, a nonprofit under the federal tax code, is to “educate Americans on the vital role of free enterprise in creating jobs that will spur innovation and help ensure America’s future economic success.”

During the past several weeks, Marcus has reminded interviewers that there are some 30 million small businesses in the country, employing 60 million to 70 million people. Appearing April 6 on Fox Business, Marcus said, yes, you have to worry about the airline industry and the airplane manufacturing business, but “if we don’t have the small businesses, we have no economy in the United States.”

When the U.S. House of Representatives issued its version of what became the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, Marcus thought it paid insufficient attention to the needs of small business and engaged with JCN to fix what he saw as a shortcoming.

“JCN played a role in the CARES package, especially the Paycheck Protection Program and advised Mnuchin, Rubio, Collins, and McConnell,” Marcus told the AJT, referring to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin; Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla.; Sen. Susan Collin, R-Me., and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. Rubio and Collins were among the Republican senators who developed the plan. “We continue to represent small businesses to try to get as much help for them as possible. This is important,” said Marcus.

Beyond his prominence as a businessman and philanthropist, Marcus has been a major contributor to conservative causes, including Trump’s 2016 presiden-

tial campaign. His relationship with the president is such that Trump last year recorded an effusive birthday greeting from aboard Air Force One that was played at Marcus’ 90th birthday party at the Georgia Aquarium.

The CARES Act defined a small business as one that employs fewer than 500 employees at a single location. The loans were available also to partnerships, nonprofits, sole proprietors, independent contractors, and so-called “gig workers.”

Eligible businesses could borrow up to 2 1/2 times their payroll, to a maximum of $10 million, with the funds designated to cover eight weeks of payroll, as well as rent, utilities and mortgage interest. Compensation beyond an annual salary of $100,000 was excluded.

The 1 percent loans, guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, come due in two years but will be forgiven if the borrower meets criteria that include spending 75 percent of the funds on payroll during the two-month period.

According to the SBA, as of April 16, 4,975 lenders had made more than 1.66 million loans, totaling nearly $342.3 billion, with the average loan being $206,000.

The SBA broke down the loan amounts awarded: 74 percent were for less than $150,000; 13.4 percent were $150,000 to $350,000; 8.4 percent were $350,000 to $1 million; 2.4 percent were $1 million to $2 million; 1.3 percent were $2 million-$5 million; and 0.27 percent were more than $5 million.

The industries receiving the largest shares of the money were: construction, 13.1 percent; professional, scientific, and technical services, 12.6 percent; manufacturing, 11.9 percent; health care and social assistance, 11.6 percent; and accommodation and food service, 8.9 percent.

In Georgia, 48,332 loan applications were approved, totaling nearly $9.5 billion, according to the SBA. Not all of the money has reached the recipients yet.

Even with the anticipated loss of small businesses that do not recover from COVID-19, Marcus retains a measure of optimism. “We should all be concerned and want to see the economy back to where it was before and people fully employed. I believe if every precaution is taken, if we find a way to do it, it will be like the sunrise, slow at first, but leading to a brighter day. This is critical to all Americans,” he told the AJT. ì [Note: Marcus is the father of AJT publisher Michael Morris.]

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 7

NEWS

Berman Commons' New Director Announces Employee Positive for COVID-19

By Dave Schechter On the same day that Jewish HomeLife announced a new executive director at Berman Commons, residents and their families were informed that an employee of the assisted living facility had tested positive for COVID-19.

The appointment of Cheryl Chambers as executive director was announced in the morning of April 22.

Several hours later, Chambers wrote to residents and their families that on April 21 “an asymptomatic team member on our assisted living floor tested positive” for the coronavirus. Asymptomatic means that the individual showed no symptoms of the virus.

“This individual has been wearing appropriate PPE [personal protective equipment] for the past several weeks, and the last shift worked was April 17th,” Chambers wrote. “We do not believe this team member had any direct exposure to our residents. However, in

an abundance of caution, we want to be sure.

“Therefore, today we are testing all residents who had any contact with this team member in the last 14 days, regardless of symptoms. We are also testing any team members who worked directly with this individual over the last 14 days,” she stated.

“When we have the results, we will contact any individual residents and families directly impacted first, then send a communication to all the families. If you do not hear from our clinical team personally, then your loved one has not been impacted.”

Berman Commons has a 32-resident memory care unit and 58 assistedliving apartments, as well as 110 employees.

Thus far, no resident of the assisted living section has tested positive for COVID-19.

On March 26, an employee who worked in the memory care unit on

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weekends — and had not been in the residential facilities are in their 80s building the previous 11 days — report- and 90s. Jewish HomeLife also employs ed that she had tested positive for CO- about 450 people at its facilities.

In announcing Chambers’ apVID-19. At the time, five residents of the pointment, Jeff memory care Gopen, chief unit had been operating oftested after ficer of Jewdeveloping ish HomeLife, elevated temwrote to resiperatures, a dents and famsymptom of ilies: “Today I COVID-19. Four received a resof those tests ignation letter came back from Executive positive. As of Director Rhett April 17, only Scircle. We apone of the four preciate all he continued to did to improve test positive.

Already the director of assisted living services care, services On March for Jewish HomeLife, Cheryl Chambers now and outcomes 28, six emis executive director at Berman Commons. since joining ployees whose the Jewish HomeLife family two years work put them in contact with the ago.” memory care unit tested positive. As of A JHL spokeswoman said that ScirApril 22, all six were reported to have cle’s resignation was “absolutely not” recovered. related to the COVID-19 incidents in Visitors, including family memMarch. bers, already had been barred from Gopen said that Chambers, already Berman Commons at the time of the JHL’s director of assisted living services, March outbreak. In response, comwould become executive director for Bermunal meals and activities were susman Commons, as she has been at the pended and residents asked not to leave Cohen Home, their apartalso an assisted ments. The use living facility. of PPE by Ber“Cheryl man Commons has been front staff also was and center in increased, as all Berman was cleaning Commons opthroughout erations for the residence. the past four In her months, parApril 22 noticularly durtice, Chambers ing our efforts wrote, “We are to reduce the hopeful that spread of COour strict infection control The new executive director “has been front and center VID-19 in this c o m m u n i t y. protocols, inin all Berman Commons operations for the past four She is well-remonths, particularly during our efforts to reduce cluding the frethe spread of COVID-19 in this community,” said spected by the quent cleaning Jewish HomeLife chief operating officer Jeff Gopen. team members and anti-viral and residents,” Gopen said. spraying, and our constant and approIn March, a letter to residents and priate usage of PPE, will reduce our risk families from Gopen and Harley Tabak, of additional spread.”

JHL’s president and CEO, praised ChamOn any given day JHL cares for bers and nurse practitioner Kara Gold about 400 people in residential facilifor their efforts to find COVID-19 testties located at three sites in the Atlanta ing kits at a time when a shortage made area, and about 300 living in private them an in-demand item throughout residences. Its clients range in age from the state. ì 62 to the 100s. The vast majority in the

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 9

NEWS

GeorgiaALIVE Pushes Health Safety

By Bob Bahr A newly formed committee of influential Atlanta leaders, including The Temple’s Rabbi Peter Berg, is calling for a cautious approach to returning to normal business and social life in the city.

The group, GeorgiaALIVE, which was formed less than three weeks ago, has among its aims to promote safe sheltering in place and reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Despite what Rabbi Berg acknowledges as the desire to return to a more active life, he said that now is not the time to abandon efforts to keep everyone safe.

“Eventually I want everyone to go back to work and I desperately want to fill the pews at The Temple again – but safety, pikuah nefesh, the saving of lives, is our highest value. Our most significant responsibility is to save life and go out of our way to prevent disease and death.”

The new group, which lists the president of Emory University and the head football coach of Georgia Tech among its supporters, aims to raise public awareness.

10 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

A number of local celebrities such as NASCAR driver Chase Elliott and the Atlanta-based novelist Emily Griffin have signed on to help promote the initiative.

Also among those supporting the organization is the sports talk show host and media personality, Stephen “Steak” Shapiro.

While he admits that the present situation that keeps so many people at home is extremely stressful, he also believes that each person needs to make the right decision to protect themselves.

“GeorgiaALIVE’s mission is to tell people to do the right thing,” Shapiro said. “People need to be incredibly diligent in their health and safety and be incredibly focused on making their own decisions on what they believe is right for their community. And so, you know, separate of everything else, the question is, how does the community galvanize and make really smart health decisions.

The new organization has the support of local businesses such as Aaron’s, Inc., and the Georgia Aquarium. The AJT donated advertising and SalesLoft, a sales promotion company, donated space

GeorgiaALIVE’s media campaign features ads by such figures as Atlanta talk show host Steak Shapiro.

Rabbi Peter Berg of The Temple has been one of the key figures in the GeorgiaALIVE initiative.

on eight outdoor advertising signs this lax restrictions in four to six weeks,” he argued. “I now fear we will see an inweek.

GeorgiaALIVE does not support the crease of COVID-19 positive cases in a decision last Monday by Gov. Brian Kemp month’s time and we will begin round to begin reopening movie theaters, res- two of shelter in place. We are not ready taurants, and a limited number of other to put our hands into bowling balls or get businesses beginning this week. Tech manicures.”

Shapiro, who has built a locally proentrepreneur Bill Trimble, founder and CEO of GeorgiaALIVE, was wary of mak- duced weekend television program in the ing the issue of keeping Georgian safe a last few years into a popular guide to dining out in the city, has had to readjust to political one.

“I think we all have to be careful not the economics of a new situation.

Just this week the National Resto politicize this” he said. “And I don’t want that to come across as naive sound- taurant Association announced that the nation’s ing because evrestaurant inerything is podustry has lost liticized in our two-thirds of country today. its workforce.

However, death Restaurants, from COVID-19 they said, lost disease should $30 billion in not be political.

March and are The economic estimated to devastation lose $50 billion and hardship in April. By the on individuals Part of GeorgiaALIVE’s mission is to encourage end of 2020 the and businesses the continuation of shelter in place programs. industry could caused by this lose as much as $240 billion. What they pandemic should not be political.”

Still, a number of local leaders, in- called the nation’s second-largest private cluding Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bot- employer is expected to make a slow toms, indicated they were not consulted recovery whatever political and public prior to the announcement and were health officials recommend. Shapiro becaught off guard by the governor’s deci- lieves some of the most critical decisions sion. Rabbi Berg, who closed The Temple are ahead.

“How does the community galvanize in mid March and has been communicating with the congregation online and and make really smart health decisions? from a makeshift television studio in his We’ve had a great three, four weeks of living room, was highly critical of the trying to support each other. So at least the good news is we’ve been doing the governor’s decision “Shelter in place is working – we right thing. We need to continue to do could have easily made this move to re- that.” ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 11

NEWS

Ahavath Achim Hires New Associate Rabbi

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Ahavath Achim went through a rigorous selection process that was coorAhavath Achim Synagogue will have dinated with The Rabbinical Assembly a new associate rabbi starting July 1, ac- and Jewish Theological Seminary in New cording to president Mark Cohen. He said York. The synagogue also implemented a detailed internal process the synagogue secured an that involved congregaagreement with Rabbi tional surveys, interviews Sam Blustin to assume the with clergy, staff and lay role this summer. leaders, and then trav“Rabbi Sam brings eled to JTS in New York great wisdom, skill and for face-to-face interviews spiritual depth to our with rabbinical candicommunity, rounding off dates. a very dynamic clergy Attorney Larry Gold, team led by Rabbi Lauwho chaired the search rence Rosenthal and with committee, said. “When the continued presence we met Rabbi Blustin and support of Rabbi Neil during those interviews, Sandler. As is evident in we were immediately imhis resume and was clear Minnesota native Rabbi pressed with his rabbinic during his visit, Rabbi Sam Blustin will join skills, buoyant personalSam has spent many Ahavath Achim this July ity, his love of music and years exploring his own as associate rabbi. calm demeanor. When we spiritual life and how to share his teachings, learning and gifts brought Rabbi Blustin down for a Shabwith others. We are glad that he will be bat weekend experience, he was simply joining our spiritual family as he moves fabulous, and everyone who met him into this next stage of his wisdom-seek- came away with enthusiastic comments.

We feel very blessed to have found such a ing voyage.”

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Ahavath Achim is one of the oldest synagogues in Atlanta.

wonderful young rabbi to join our team.” munity of purposeful belonging.”

Ahavath Achim Vice President Gary Along his own journey, Blustin served as the gabbai for the Women’s League Alembik added, “Blustin brings a new, Seminary Synagogue and the youth di- youthful, fresh energy and perspective in rector at Ansche Chesed, a Conservative being able to connect with congregants. synagogue in Manhattan. He co-founded He is also thoughtful and intellectual.”

Shira b’Dira, a monthly traditional egali- Alembik notes that Blustin has already tarian singing and prayer community, started popular Zoom sessions after sunand started Shomer Achi, a group for down on Saturday nights in which he male-identified rabbinical and cantorial shares music, learning and spirituality.

Blustin said that he intends to comstudents at JTS to discuss how masculinity plays a role in how they lead and how bine his talents in text study and counseling, and welcomes the challenges of being they can be a better ally for women.

Blustin, originally from Minne- a pulpit rabbi. “This allows me to put my apolis, is also a musician, composer and stamp on the congregation, sharing consongwriter, composing mainly for litur- gregants’ highs and lows, and contributgical settings. His thesis topic was on the ing to the musical piece of our journey. I theory and art of creating meaningful also want to specifically welcome the intergenerational layers of Ahavath Achim.” prayer experiences.

Blustin, who had only previously Cohen furthered, “Like the work of all [our] clergy, Rabbi Blustin’s portfolio just passed through the Atlanta airport, will be dynamic. However, with Rabbi participated in several Passover programs at Camp Ramah Rosenthal’s partnerDarom in North Georship, Rabbi Blustin will gia. “I do love Southern be focusing on our conaccents and can’t wait gregation’s spiritual life, to experience the good delving into how we sing Atlanta weather.” In his together, pray together, spare time, he might be learn together and pass found on the golf course on the values and love for (scratch scoring), tennis Judaism to the next gencourts or playing ultieration. With full support mate Frisbee. of our board of directors, Note that two former we welcome Rabbi Sam longtime Ahavath Achim to our community and rabbis, Arnold Goodman look forward to his inand Neil Sandler, also volvement in our quest to The new associate rabbi hailed from Minneapolis. createk a community that will round out a clergy Blustin said, “We have to honors and supports spiriteam led by Senior Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal. conclude that Minnesota tual journeys.

Rosenthal, the senior rabbi, said, “I puts out good rabbis!” ì am excited about the gifts, talents and Ahavath Achim (Congregation of passion that Rabbi Blustin will bring to Ahavath Achim and look forward to our Brotherly Love) is located at 600 Peachtree partnership in building a spiritual com- Battle Avenue.

NEWS

Blass Weighs the Probable Versus the Possible

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Dr. Mitchell Blass recently shared his firsthand front-line hospital and private office experiences with the AJT. As COVID news changes hourly and in light of Gov. Brian Kemp’s decision to reopen Georgia businesses, Blass furthers his very timely discussion on trends he is seeing, levels of intense cleaning and peering over the horizon.

Blass: The volume in the hospitals I am on staff at [Northside and Emory Saint Joseph’s] continues to decrease over time.

The additional beds are no longer full. We have adequate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). We are able to test for active infection with a COVID PCR and to detect antibody response with a COVID IgG (Immunoglobulin G) test. Both are available with rapid turnaround times.

Jaffe: Does Gov. Brian Kemp deserve Jaffe: Last month you had 60 COVID patients, then 12 two weeks ago. Now the swift backlash for opening too soon?

Bowling alleys, what? tattoo parlors?

Blass: The volBlass: I preume of COVID pafer to stay out of tients is decreasing politics. That being steadily over time. I said, there is a delihave only seen eight cate balance that additional patients we must be mindful since we last spoke. of: 1. Concern about I do anticipate that potential spread COVID will remain of COVID and the ever-present worldpotential risks to wide for a very long the health of our time. Smallpox is the local community; only infectious dis2. Concerns about ease which has been Blass is convinced that the healthcare the economic con100 percent eradisystem is better prepared to sequences of a concated by vaccination. handle future COVID cases. tinued lockdown; Jaffe: What is the outlook for a sam- and 3. Concern about civil liberties of the ple COVID patient who was on a ventila- American people. It is OK for all three to tor four weeks ago and is now recovering exist at once and finding that right balance for any state is a challenge. at home?

We must consider the possibility that Blass: Thankfully he is home and continues to recover. He is getting stron- close contact between individuals, such ger each day. However, his COVID PCR as in nursing facilities, hospitals, work [polymerase chain reaction] test remains and even together in our homes, may be positive. This implies that he may still a contributing factor to the spread of CObe contagious to others, and therefore is VID. Whereas when we are out of doors, for a number of reasons, there may, in self-quarantined at home. fact, be less of an opportunity for the viJaffe: Are the added hospital beds rus to be transmitted directly from one person to another. overflowing with COVID patients?

Representing the major providers: Medicare Advantage, MedSupps, Prescription Drug Coverage Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Dental & Vision Final Expense Life Insurance

Jaffe: Can we ease up on cleaning our groceries, and boxes?

Blass: It is important to continue to be mindful of the difference between what is possible and what is probable.

Presently, the likelihood of an individual acquiring COVID from mail, groceries and parcels is far less likely than from forgetting to wash their hands and then touching their face. I think it is very reasonable to wash fresh fruits and vegetables.

Jaffe: What is your best hunch on what COVID will look like this winter?

Blass: I think one of the biggest challenges we will face, healthcare providers and patients, will be that the initial symptoms of COVID and seasonal influenza are often very similar; AND there will be individuals that have both concurrently.

Fortunately, there are now rapid and accurate point of care tests available for both COVID and influenza.

I strongly encourage everyone to have a seasonal influenza vaccination.

Jaffe: Some are scared to consume

takeout food.

Blass: I have been watching the pandemic very closely. I am not convinced that there are any cases of foodborne acquisition.

Jaffe: If you’ve learned one thing from this, it would be?

Blass: Healthcare providers are vastly more prepared today than in January.

We have a better understanding of the initial signs and symptoms as well as of infection control measures required in the healthcare setting.

Our hospitals are better prepared from the patient’s ER arrival through discharge. We have adequate PPE, rapid testing for both active disease (PCR) and immunity (antibody). We are learning more every day about treatment options.

No one hopes there will be a second wave, however I have confidence that the healthcare system is more prepared if it should happen.

Today I was tested for COVID IgG antibodies measuring my exposure without ever developing symptoms. Stay tuned. ì

MEDICAR

& YOU

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NO FEE or obligation to review your Health & Life Insurance options Contact Bob Smith at

404-593-9663

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From Obamacare to Trumpcare to BobcaresSM ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 13

NEWS

JFGA's Emergency Response Fund Reaches $3.8 M

By Dave Schechter An anonymous donation of $500,000 has propelled the COVID-19 emergency fund established by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta to $3.8 million.

The half-million-dollar donation was double the largest donation previously received. More than 600 people have contributed to fund, with the smallest donation being $5.

The overall figure includes the $851,000 in grants already announced April 3 to organizations directly serving individuals in the community: Jewish HomeLife, Jewish Interest Free Loan of Atlanta, Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta; Jewish Family & Career Services, and the discretionary funds of rabbis.

The Federation announced April 28 that an additional allocation of $22,000 to provide health care coverage for employees furloughed from Atlanta Jewish Academy.

Those grants were made based on projections of the organizations’ financial needs over the next 90 days. As the COVID-19 crisis continues, communal organizations tell the AJT that they are constantly reassessing their plans.

Renee Kutner, Federation’s vice president of marketing and leadership, said that as JFGA surveys these organizations, decisions will be made about when to make the next round of grants.

The largest grant in the first round, $273,000, was made to Jewish HomeLife, which operates senior care facilities and provides home services.

The Federation reports that those funds helped purchase: 1,782 N95 masks 3,050 surgical masks 5,470 gowns 50-plus cases of gloves 8 cases of disinfectant spray per week on average 3 cases of hand sanitizer per week on average Funds for five people to screen JHL staff and residents entering its buildings, at a cost of about $15,000 per person, per month.

Harley Tabak, president and CEO of Jewish HomeLife, told the AJT: “Thanks to the diligence of Jewish HomeLife staff, we have found PPE (personal protective equipment) from different parts of the United States and China. It has been very challenging getting enough of what we think we might need, and prices have gone up dramatically because of the demand. The 14 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The Federation’s Emergency Response Fund has raised nearly $3.7 million.

Federation grant from the COVID campaign will help pay for most of the PPE needed for our team members over the next 90 days.”

Jewish HomeLife also received a critical piece of assistance from the family of a resident, who asked not to be identified, in securing and transporting a large shipment of PPE from China for use at Berman Commons.

On any given day, Jewish HomeLife cares for about 400 people in its residential facilities and about 300 living in private residences. Its clients range in age from 62 to the 100s. The vast majority in the residential facilities are in their 80s and 90s. JHL also employs about 450 people at its facilities.

JFLA received $174,000 “to expand capacity (through staffing and loan dollars) to meet increased loan demand for members of the Jewish community.”

The MJCCA received two allocations in response to job cuts totaling more than half of its staff: $102,000 to fund three months of health insurance for furloughed workers and $32,000 to do the same for laid off workers.

JF&CS received three allocations: $100,000 to meet increased financial needs in the Jewish community, $70,000 to support mental health services, and $50,000 to fund the purchase of food and meet administrative costs in its food pantry operation.

At the time, Terri Bonoff, CEO of the agency, said: “JF&CS is enormously grateful for the funds allocated, allowing us to meet the growing needs in our community. … This virus strikes randomly and leaves carnage in its path. We are in this together. We will use these funds to make sure people in our community have the food and resources to get through this time and can access critical mental health support.”

An allocation of $50,000 was designated to bolster the discretionary funds available to rabbis to aid members of their synagogues. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 15

NEWS

Local Nonprofits Receive a Lifeline With Payroll Funds

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

provide additional funding. According to Anderson, the replenished program Bank loans backed by government was probably going to run out within stimulus money, targeted to protect days, as well. She was recommending payrolls stymied by the coronavirus that congregations and other nonprofpandemic, are trickling its that didn’t receive into Atlanta’s Jewish funds through the first nonprofits. But so far, round should immedino one knows exactly ately reapply. how much the commuThe application nity will secure. experience of Atlanta “There’s no direct nonprofits has varied survey of who has apquite a bit, partly as a plied, who is waiting result of the banks they for approval and who applied through. Marty has received money,” Gilbert, executive disaid Leslie Anderson, rector of Congregation executive director of Etz Chaim, said his synthe Jewish Community agogue had a relationRelations Council of ship with Synovus, a The Paycheck Protection Atlanta. But Anderson smaller regional bank.

Program is a lifeline for many is working with the “We applied the first nonprofits, according to Leslie Jewish Federation of day. It took us about Anderson, executive director Greater Atlanta to scithree or four days to of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Atlanta. entifically capture that receive a follow-up and information, she told the AJT April 24. then a couple of days later, our applicaIt was the same day that a second infu- tion was approved,” he said. On April 18, sion of government-backed money was he received the paperwork to sign and expected to be available for application two days later, the money was in the by nonprofits. bank.

That additional $310 billion for the “I’m in contact with other executive Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fol- directors,” he said. “Almost everyone lows the initial $350 billion allocated as applied, but not every congregation got part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and money.”

Economic Security (CARES) Act that Gabby Leon Spatt, executive direcwas signed into law by President Don- tor of The Blue Dove Foundation, signed ald Trump in mid-March. The funding her organization’s approved documents was designed to help keep workers em- on April 21. The foundation is an Atlanployed amid the pandemic and econom- ta-based nonprofit focused on mental ic downturn. The initiative provided 100 health and substance abuse education, percent federally guaranteed loans to awareness and outreach through a Jewsmall businesses and nonprofits. ish lens.

The initial $350 billion was spoken Other Jewish nonprofits whose for immediately, forcing Congress to loan applications were either applied,

approved or who already received their families and asked about charging them funding through the PPP include the 50 percent of the tuition,” Gilbert exJewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, plained. “Initially we thought we’d pay Hillels of Georgia, Jewish HomeLife, The the teachers 50 percent. But because of Epstein School, Atlanta Jewish Acad- the loan, we’re able to pay the preschool teachers 100 percent emy, Ahavath Achim through the end of Synagogue and the the school year, which William Breman Jewends in May.” The same ish Heritage Museum. applied to the religious Jewish Family & Career school, he said. MoreServices of Atlanta over, he’s able to keep said it had applied but all of his administrahad not yet heard back tive staff. from its bank.

“We may have The PPP loans hard decisions going could be used for opforward.” Gilbert acerational costs includknowledged the help of ing payroll expenses; congregation president health benefits; paid, Linda Pollock, CFO Bilsick, medical/fam“It allowed us to do the right ly Balser and executive ily leave and insurance thing by our people,” Marty vice president Jamie premiums; mortgage Gilbert, executive director of interest; rent pay- Congregation Etz Chaim, said of the Platt-Lyons. “We don’t ments; and interest on government-backed loan program. know how people will be impacted in the fudebt incurred before the covered period. In addition, if the or- ture, but this makes it easier to keep evganizations meet certain requirements, eryone whole. It buys us some time. I’m they can qualify to have a portion of happy this [funding] was available to us.

It allowed us to do the right thing by our their loan forgiven.

“It’s my impression that this fund- people.”

In fact, the PPP funding “is meant ing is a lifeline for a lot of organizaas a stopgap measure and will serve that tions,” Anderson said.

Etz Chaim’s Gilbert explained that purpose,” Anderson said. “It’s not a boon the PPP funds his congregation received to Jewish organizations, but it will allow will cover most of its payroll for the year them to not lose more ground” as the ending June 30. “We’ll be able to pay all economy stumbles forward in the afterof our people through the end of the fis- math of the pandemic.

“The larger issue will be that becal year,” he said. For instance, the congregation’s preschool closed on March cause of the economy, donations will be 15. It has since been replaced with an on- down, both on an individual and corpoline Zoom program for the kids, mean- rate level. The state budget will be cut.

Yet, demand will remain high. There are ing the teachers are still working.

“The question was, how do you still going to be challenges over the next charge tuition? We approached the year,” Anderson added. ì

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NEWS

Cats Large and Small Can Contract COVID-19

By Bob Bahr Cat owners who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 and are in self-quarantine may want to avoid cuddling up to the family cat. Based on very limited evidence from public health researchers there is a danger that household pets, particularly cats, can be infected by their owners. But there’s no evidence, at present, that the cats with an active infection can pass it to humans.

According to Dr. Robert Schick, a veterinary specialist at the BluePearl Pet Hospital in Sandy Springs, the family cat may want to think twice about getting close.

“If you have the COVID-19 virus,” he said, “it is your cat who should be worried.”

On April 22, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the federal National Veterinary Services Laboratory reported COVID-19 in two pet cats in New York. They are the first pets in the United States to test positive.

However, family pets are not considered a danger in transmitting the COVID-19 virus to human. Responding to the CDC and federal animal lab announcement, the American Veterinary Medical Association said in a press release, “Currently we have no information that suggests that pets might be a source of infection for people with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.”

Earlier, research released on March 31 at the Harbin Veterinary Research Institute in northern China showed that when five cats were given large dozes of COVID-19, six days later they had the virus in their upper respiratory systems.

When three of the infected cats were put in a cage with uninfected felines, they infected at least one of them. The report prompted the World Health Organization to take a closer look at the relationship between human, animals and the virus.

In a widely reported incident on April 6, a four-year-old Malayan tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York City was shown to have COVID-19. The zoo, which has been closed to the public since mid-March, announced that the animal had apparently contracted the disease from a zookeeper who tested positive. Additionally, the tiger’s sister, two Amur tigers and three African lions also showed symptoms.

Then, on April 22, the New York zoo announced that four more tigers and three lions tested positive for coronavirus.

In response to the original report from the New York zoo, the director of Zoo Atlanta, Raymond King, was quick to reassure the public that there was no evidence that any zoo animals here have been infected.

Nonetheless, the Atlanta zoo, which has been closed to the public since March

A Malayan tiger at the Bronx Zoo caught COVID-19 virus from zookeeper.

Some cat owners in China have created face masks for their cats.

Researchers in China reported this month that house cats can pass the virus to each other, but apparently, not to humans.

14, stepped up measures to protect their big cats from infection by the zoo staff.

“We have put in place additional preventative measures such as Personal Protective Equipment for team members working with our large cats, similar to what the teams always do when working with the non-human primates,” a written statement noted last week.

According to researchers, the reason cats of any size and humans catch the coronavirus is because both have similar receptor cells in their respiratory tracts. The virus gets inside those cells and infects them, and the infected cells replicate.

A report from the British Veterinary Association found that cats can also act as fomites, a scientific term which described how the virus can linger on the fur of cats who have been exposed to people with an active infection. Even though the cat is not infected, the virus can be transmitted when they are petted in this way. The danger of touching a cat with the virus on its fur is thought to be the same as when the virus lingers on doorknobs or grocery shopping carts.

At the BluePearl in Sandy Springs, an emergency clinic that serves the public 24/7 as well as being a specialized treatment center, extraordinary precautions have been taken to protect the staff and doctors.

According to Dr. Schick, animal owners must remain in their automobiles, in an assigned parking space when bringing in an animal for treatment. Everyone who works in the building wears protective clothing, and if an animal is coming from a home where there is a coronavirus infection, the animal is bathed in a special solution and isolated.

When Dr. Schick has to meet with the owners in a treatment room, there’s a barrier between him and the animal's owners.

“We do have a setup where we have a plastic shower curtain from my house, actually, believe it or not,” he said. “The animal is

on one side of the exam table. On the other side, the shower curtain, between us and the owners.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service on April 6 noted that those sick with the virus should avoid contact with their pets just as they would other people.

“It is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals

until more information is known about the virus,” the advisory stated. “When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets.” ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 17

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

Some of the 5,000 people who sent in videos singing Coldplay’s “Fix You” for the Koolulam singing initiative.

Thousands Sing From Home for Global Chorus

Koolulam, a Tel Aviv-based music project, drew over 5,000 people from 66 different countries to participate in a virtual global song medley after the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to cancel mass live events.

“We got videos from Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, Australia, from all over the world,” said Michal Shahaf, a Koolulam co-founder and the group’s CEO. “I’ll tell you the truth, I could never have guessed we would get so far and I’m so glad we reached so many people.”

Singing “Fix You” by Coldplay, the event included people of all ages singing from their homes, an airplane cockpit, offices and backyards.

Today in Israeli History April 30, 2012: Historian and Revisionist Zionist leader Benzion Netanyahu, the father of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Entebbe hero Yonatan Netanyahu, dies at home in Jerusalem at age 102.

May 1, 1987: Shahar Pe’er, Israel’s highest-ranking tennis player, male or female, of all time, is born in Jerusalem.

A two-time Grand Slam quarterfinalist, she peaks at No. 11 in the world rankings in 2011.

May 2, 1921: Writer Yosef Haim Brenner, a pioneer of modern Hebrew literature and a founder of the Histadrut labor federation, is among six people killed on the second day of Arab-Jewish violence around Jaffa.

May 3, 1882: Russian Czar Alexander III continues tightening restrictions on his empire’s Jews by enacting the May Laws, part of an anti-Jewish crackdown after the assassination of Alexander II in March 1881.

May 4, 1994: Israeli and PLO of18 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Koolulam creates mass singing events of hundreds or thousands of people. Everyone learns different parts of songs and it is recorded during a single evening.

Knowing these events wouldn’t be possible during the pandemic, the Koolulam team chose a song that would bring hope and connect to the situation, Shahaf said.

He added that this initiative was self-funded, rather than having costs covered through private funders, as in the past.

“The song talks about that even in the darkest moments, we can still see the light, and this is what we’re trying to say,” she said. “This situation is worldwide, everyone is suffering, but you can still find places and things that show us the way. They may have taken our freedom but not our heart or love or friendships, or the things that matter.

That’s what we tried to show in the video.”

The team came up with the plan when they were quarantining in their homes, after an event in Mexico was canceled three hours before showtime.

Participants chose their vocal range and were then taught each part via a video.

They had a week to send in videos, along with a message about their hopes during the quarantine.

“The whole meaning of Koolulam is getting together, and I think it will take a ficials sign an autonomy agreement in Cairo for the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area. Part of the Oslo process, the deal is the first to grant the Palestinians some autonomy.

President Ronald Reagan and West German Chancellor Helmut Kohl visit the military cemetery in Bitburg.

May 5, 1985: President Ronald Reagan visits the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, then delivers a speech on German-American reconciliation at the military cemetery in Bitburg, where more than 2,000 Nazi SS soldiers are buried.

May 6, 1951: Visiting the United States to promote Israel Bonds, Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion arrives in Knoxville, Tennessee, for a twoday tour of Tennessee Valley Authority dams and other facilities.

long time until we can physically meet,” Shahaf said. “For now, we’ll keep doing what we can.”

Israeli Firm Hopeful as it Treats COVID-19

An Israeli company, Pluristem Therapeutics, is hopeful that a single placenta will be able to treat 20,000 coronavirus patients with cell therapy. Some of their first patients have shown improvement and their company’s shares have skyrocketed, The Times of Israel reported.

Scientists use placentas to grow smart cells, which are programmed to secrete therapeutic proteins into the bodies of sick people. Pluristem just treated its first American COVID-19 patients and treated seven Israelis.

On April 7, the company reported that all seven Israelis had survived and three were on track to be moved off ventilators, with one showing respiratory deterioration.

Two of the four patients who had multiple organ failure showed recovery and respiratory improvement.

This treatment doesn’t constitute a clinical trial, but the company CEO and president Yaky Yanay said a trial is expected to come soon and hopes that “approval can

May 7, 1983: Abu Musa leads four other senior PLO officers in declaring a revolt in Lebanon against PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat, who is in Tunisia while Israel is waging war in Lebanon against Palestinian forces.

May 8, 1936: Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, who fled his country six days earlier as Italian invaders advanced, reaches Haifa. He regains his throne after World War II, and Ethiopia in 1956 becomes the second African country to recognize Israel.

May 9, 1942: Chaim Weizmann, the president of the Jewish Agency, urges delegates from 17 nations at a special Zionist Congress in New York to press the Allied powers to open Palestine to Jewish immigrants.

May 10, 1948: Golda Meir travels in disguise to Amman to meet with King Abdullah in the hope of keeping Transjordan out of the forthcoming war against Israel. But the king says he must go along with his Arab neighbors.

May 11, 1949: The U.N. General Assembly votes 37-12 with nine abstentions

be very fast.” Once treatment is approved, “We can manufacture cells to treat thousands very quickly,” he said.

While other experts are cautious about the optimism of new treatments for the virus, Yanay said this innovation will save lives. “I think this will have a huge impact because currently the battle is in the ICUs,” he said. “We need to take people off ventilation machines and get them out of ICUs.” Yanay stated that Haifa-based Pluristem will continue to treat people using patient-by-patient approvals, while working as quickly as possible for full approval by regulators.

“We are receiving many inquiries and requests for treatment from health care providers and families worldwide,” he said. “In parallel with our planned clinical trial, we expect to continue treating patients under compassionate use through the appropriate regulatory clearances in the United States and Israel, as well as expanding treatment under compassionate use in other countries.

“Our main focus remains, however, the initiation of a multinational clinical study,” he said. “Cell therapy is a very good candidate to tackle a complex disease that is attacking several organs.” ì to admit Israel as the 59th U.N. member on Israel’s third application. The Security Council rejected bids in May and December 1948.

May 12, 1965: Israel and West Germany exchange notes establishing official diplomatic relations, completing a process of increasing connections that began with Israel’s acceptance of Holocaust reparations in 1952.

May 13, 1975: The United States and Israel sign a wide-ranging economic agreement focusing on four areas: industrial cooperation; elimination of double income taxation; loan guarantees for investments in Israel; and increased trade.

May 14, 1947: Soviet Foreign Minister Andrei Gromyko addresses a special U.N. session on Palestine and calls for one state shared by Jews and Arabs. But he says the Soviet Union could support partition if it’s necessary for peace.

Items are provided by the Center for Israel Education (www.israeled.org), where you can find more details.

ISRAEL NEWS Netanyahu Remains PM in New Israel Government for Now the Yamina party, headed by Naftali Bennett and Ayelet Shaked, will join the coIn the complicated coalition agree- alition.

Yohanan Plesner, president of the ment on a new government that was announced April 20, Israelis on all sides Israel Democracy Institute, called it the found something to like and dislike. Ba- “most bloated government in history.”

And, in light of the counsically, Benjamin Netantry’s highest unemployyahu will remain prime ment rate, due to the minister for 18 months coronavirus, the large before passing the role number of government to Blue and White leadministers is “immoral.” er Benny Gantz for the Still, Plesner, in a next 1 ½ years. briefing to the press, Overall, Israeli stated that the coalivoters, strained by tion agreement brings restrictions on their an end to the politimovements and an cal deadlock that has economy struggling plagued the country for from the coronavirus 1 ½ years. As a result pandemic, breathed a of repeated, inconclusigh of relief at the outsive elections, there’s come. Fourth elections, only been an interim at least for now, don’t “No one received the perfect government headed by appear on the horizon. outcome,” said former Atlantan caretaker prime minis“Like all unity govRachel Broyde now living in Israel. ter Netanyahu. Plesner ernments, both sides compromised, and no one received the also called the announcement of a unity perfect outcome,” former Atlantan Ra- government a “democratic ceasefire. chel Broyde told the AJT. “While there are Both sides have reasons to be satisfied always frustrated voters, ultimately this and both sides gave up on elements they coalition agreement creates a working didn’t want to.”

Reflecting the deep distrust between (albeit large) government. A fourth round of elections would be untenable at this Netanyahu and his former opponent Gantz, the agreement will require the time.”

Now living in Israel and currently Knesset to vote to create an office of writing a thesis about Israeli lobbying deputy, or designated, prime minister. laws, Broyde worked for the Likud party That’s because the agreement is based on the rotation between Netanyahu and for about a year.

Gantz. Indeed, accordShe was referring ing to Plesner, when to the fact that the new the new government is government will include sworn in by the Knesset, 32 cabinet ministers, or legislature, two prime split evenly between ministers will be sworn the Likud party and the in at once.

Blue and White party.

Another effort to After six months, that ensure the rotation in number will rise to an the coalition agreement unprecedented 36. is cited by Richard S. The actual coalition Walter, vice president may eventually include of curriculum and outanywhere from 72 to reach at the Center for 78 members. Initially, Israel Education in Atonly Blue and White’s lanta. “Any attempt by 15 Knesset members Netanyahu to dissolve and Likud’s 36 will ink the government triggers the deal. However, if as If Netanyahu dissolves the new government, Gantz would both Gantz becoming expected, the religious automatically become prime prime minister followed parties, two of the Labor minister, according to Richard by immediate new elecParty’s members, and S. Walter, vice president of tions in six months.” two former renegade curriculum and outreach at the Moreover, “there would members of the Blue Center for Israel Education. be immediate new elecand White bloc sign on, that would result in 72. Many doubt that tions if the court disqualifies Netanyahu

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

from serving as prime minister in the first six months,” he said.

Although it’s doubtful the Israeli supreme court would rule to disqualify Netanyahu, the fact that he’s facing fraud, breach of trust and bribery charges and a delayed May 24 corruption trial raises that possibility. In three successive elections, Gantz had promised not to enter a government led by an indicted prime minister. Gantz has said that he changed his mind because of the emergency situation the country faced under the coronavirus pandemic.

Gantz made other compromises. According to the coalition agreement, for six months the government would only pass legislation to enable the country to return to business. The only exception is that as of July 1, the cabinet and Knesset could start discussing a possible annexation of part of the West Bank, under an agreement with U.S. President Donald Trump. Gantz is on record against any unilateral annexation.

Walter pointed out that Gantz suc-

ceeded in getting some of his demands met. “Gantz got Netanyahu to agree that the sole focus of the government will be fighting the coronavirus for the first six months,” he said. In addition, Gantz is getting to appoint a justice minister, which he considered essential to protect the judiciary as Netanyahu continues his fight against the corruption charges. Gantz also is able to promote an Arab minister to be minister of minority affairs, Walter said.

In the first half of the intended three-year government, in addition to serving as the designated prime minister, Gantz will head the Ministry of Defense.

His fellow Blue and White party member Gabi Ashkenazi will serve as minister of foreign affairs.

Noting that reading the agreement “upset” his stomach and was “hard to digest,” Plesner said the 14-page document lacks vision, substance and policy priorities. “It’s void of content.”

Still, Israeli voters can now focus on recovering from the pandemic, rather than the ongoing political angst. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 19

OPINION ‘Til Blue Skies Drive the Dark Clouds Away Before the storms rolled through a couple of Sunday nights ago, I went outside to survey my kingdom.

To protect my health I am Dave Schechter barred from From Where I Sit leaving the premises, other than the occasional walk around the block, so my kingdom extends from where our driveway meets the street to the backyard fence.

On this night, a couple of hours before sunset, I watched the sky darken early as the clouds moved briskly and the trees swayed in a stiff wind out of the southwest. And I listened to the birds.

When you live in an urban or suburban environment, the light from houses and streetlights can obscure the stars in the night sky. Likewise, the din from the interstate about a mile away usually competes with nature’s soundtrack. Until recently, that is, when the volume of traffic receded, making it easier to hear the chorus, including the owl at night. I had not thought much about this until the afternoon I used my phone to take my mother and sister, who live in downtown Chicago, on a tour of our back yard: the kiwi plant draped over a basketball hoop, an azalea in bloom, bees buzzing about the blueberry bushes, the blackberry and raspberry vines appearing healthy, and the tomato, basil, eggplant, and corn growing steadily upward in the garden box.

My mother, who currently is restricted to her apartment on the 43rd floor of a senior residence, asked that I stop talking so that they could better hear the birds chirping in the background. So I propped up the phone on a table and left her with a view of the yard and the natural sound of its inhabitants.

Therein lies one of the likely lessons of our current situation, discovering the value in things we otherwise might take for granted.

One thing that no one will take for granted moving forward is health, personal as well as that of family and friends.

Any such inclination I might have had ended about a year ago with a cancer diagnosis. I freely express gratitude for the skills of my surgeon and the dedication and good humor of the nurses who administer my treatments.

20 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

By chance, my wife discovered an unopened N95 mask in our carport shed.

I donated it to my regular nurse. When she called to say thank you, I replied that it was in my best interest that she be healthy.

In the aftermath of 9/11, Americans heralded the “first responders,” the police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians who rushed toward the collapsed World Trade Center towers in New York City.

Today, the talk is of “front line workers,” particularly the nurses, doctors and the less-heralded hospital employees, from the laboratory techs to the maintenance crews, who quite literally work in harm’s way.

The cheers for these men and women, in their nondescript scrubs with plastic name tags, that have echoed nightly in midtown Atlanta, are at least (if not more) deserved than those usually reserved for “heroes” who kick, hit, throw, carry and shoot a ball.

Since the second week of March, most of my working hours have been spent in my office writing articles about the impact of COVID-19 on the Jewish community. Meanwhile, my two canine co-workers, happy to leave the daily tumult to the humans, behave as if my primary role is to open and close the sliding glass door to the back yard and to serve their dinner on time.

That “dark, ominous, threatening storm cloud,” as I called COVID-19 in my last column, has yet to pass, and remains a threat, irrespective of those who behave as if they can talk this peril into the past tense.

When Queen Elizabeth II addressed the subjects of her realm about COVID-19, no one missed the significance of her saying “We will meet again,” invoking the 1939 song “We’ll Meet Again,” made popular by the singer Vera Lynn, which served as an anthem of hope as Britain endured its darkest hours of World War II. The relevance of the lyrics in our current situation is inescapable: We’ll meet again Don’t know where, don’t know when But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day Keep smiling through Just like you always do ‘Til the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away. ì

OPINION

Call to Preserve Jewish Atlanta’s Response

Atlanta Jewish Federation records, Ida Pearle and Joseph Cuba Archives for Southern Jewish History at The Breman Museum // The Morris Hirsch Clinic, circa 1950. In

1911, Morris Hirsch, a founder of The Temple, established the clinic, providing outpatient medical services to the less fortunate. In 1956, the clinic became The Ben Massell Dental Clinic, providing free dental care to those in need.

The Ida the Jewish community coped and overcame Pearle and challenges today can help future generations Joseph Cuba better prepare for similar episodes that will Archives for inevitably arise years from now.

The Jewish community of Atlanta Southern Jewish History at is strong and resilient. It has overcome The Breman numerous past challenges and COVID-19 Museum, the will be no different. The community relargest reposi- sponse to the crisis is remarkable and tory for Jewish already worthy of documenting. Jewish Jeremy Katz research in the Atlantans should take pride in raising region, is call- millions of dollars overnight for the COing on the Jewish community of Atlanta to VID-19 Emergency Response Fund, orgapreserve the history we are all currently liv- nizing volunteers to deliver groceries to those most at-risk, and the countless oring through.

People typically do not assign historic ganizations that have quickly adapted to value to the items we create through our the new normal by making rich content daily activities until many years later. All too available through virtual platforms in oroften, important records get tossed away or der to keep us culturally enriched while safely observing social lost in the clutter of our distancing. busy lives. When hisIt is the mission tory is misplaced, future of the William Breman generations lose the Jewish Heritage Museability to interpret and um to connect people to learn from our experiJewish history, culture ences. and arts. As The Breman This is a call to all Museum is temporarmembers of the Jewish ily closed to help flatten community: Rabbis, Joseph Franco Papers, Ida Pearle and Joseph preserve your sermons; Cuba Archives for Southern Jewish History the curve, all donations Jewish professionals, at The Breman Museum // Atlantan Joseph must be made electronidocument the work of Franco, right, and actor John McBride cally. To offer physical dressed in Renaissance costumes for objects, please send imyour organizations; and a documentary made in 1950 by the ages and dimensions. lay leaders, keep a jourCDC for use in medical schools and An appointment will be nal of your thoughts and hospitals about the Italian doctor made to transfer objects actions. These are sigwho invented the word “influenza.” to the archives when it is nificant items with real historic value. Some of the most accessed safe to do so.

Thank you for being historically conmaterials in the archives at The Breman Museum are meeting minutes, bulletins, cor- scious while we live through unprecedented respondence and diaries. They help research- times. Stay safe and healthy. ì To help with this mission and aid the ers gain insight into the operations of organizations and the worldview of people living preservation effort, contact Jeremy Katz, senior through times of crisis. Understanding how director of archives, at jrkatz@thebreman.org.

Seventy-one years after Israel fought for its independence, Magen David Adom is helping the country battle a different enemy.

The coronavirus pandemic is indeed a war. Even if Israel can keep mortality rates for those infected to 1 percent, it will still mean the death of more than 30,000 people — more than all of Israel’s wars combined.

Magen David Adom has been on the front lines against the coronavirus, but the fight has taken an extraordinary toll on MDA’s resources. We need your support to keep saving lives. Observe Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s independence day, by keeping the people of Israel strong.

Give today to our Coronavirus Emergency Campaign at afmda.org/corona-campaign

afmda.org/corona-campaign ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 21

OPINION

Publisher's Note There is light at the end of the tunnel. It is not too bright quite yet, but we are at least beginning to talk about the when and how we will get Michael A. Morris back to normal Publisher (no comment on Georgia’s timetable specifically). Like all crises of this magnitude, it will take time, patience, perseverance and an adjustment. I do personally believe that we will normalize more quickly than usual. I do believe the economy will come back more quickly than from a typical recession.

Why will we normalize more quickly? Because we have not been under duress for an extended period of time, like from World War II or from the Great Depression. We have not gotten set in our patterns over months or years. Instead, we are all itching to get back to the things we love to do, and there is not rampant destruction around us. I think most of us are sitting at the start line awaiting the signal to begin again.

Why will the economy bounce back more quickly than normal? Again, we have not been in this hiatus for a significant period of time. While some businesses, tragically, will not return, most are still poised to reopen as soon as it is safe. Many, possibly most (but not all) of the unemployed, furloughed and laid off have positions waiting for them.

The economy has experienced a hiccup, not a long-term, tragically disruptive halt. The economy hit a brick wall, not because of typical economic cyclicality, but because of an external threat. We do not have to counter a mounting tsunami surge that has been building slowly and dragging us down with significant cycli-

22 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

cal momentum behind it. We have the potential to go back to normal with relative speed and alacrity.

But that, my friends, is just one person’s opinion.

The past six weeks have challenged almost all of us. Only a few people have experienced a similar phenomenon, and that would have been in excess of 75 years ago. For some of us, this period has been more traumatic than for others; therefore, I don’t want to suggest there have been any silver linings. However, in the future, I do want to be able to look at some of the positive things that have occurred or that I have been able to accomplish.

I have been able to spend quality time with my kids that I have often postponed because of a busy schedule.

We have played games together, cooked and, of course, taken long walks. This is time spent that I will never regret, and it will most likely never come to pass again. I can only hope that my dog understands that I have not moved back home permanently! I know he will miss his hourly walks (or maybe he will breath a sigh of relief). In addition, I am eating healthier than I have in years. I am exercising more and taking long walks that give me the opportunity to think and regroup, but alas, I just might be having an extra drink or two at night. One thing I certainly have enjoyed: I have connected (by telephone) with cousins and friends I have not spoken to in years; let’s call it a virtual family reunion. I do admit, I am ready to eat out, visit my parents and take a trip (further than the nearest grocery store)! But I hope, years from now, I can remember more of these things than some of the tougher decisions that had to be made over the past few weeks. Stay safe. Stay healthy. We are nearing the end of this tunnel. I saw a sign in my neighborhood I particularly enjoyed: What a year this week has been! ì

The Lowdown I Bet You Didn’t Know …

Clark Howard

Atlanta is chock full of interesting movers and shakers, some bent on creativity, empire building, activism, some on just plain having fun and living the good life. Lean in to hear some off the cuff remarks about what makes Clark Howard tick.

Native Atlantan Howard is a household name as he shares his professional and personal life as a consumer advocate, family man, cancer survivor, radio personality, columnist, and all-around good guy.

From silver spoon to penny pincher, he describes his journey of growing up in a prominent Atlanta family when finances devolved, prompting him to get to work at an early age and understand the value of money. Selling his travel agency and retiring at 31, Clark entered the spotlight as a consumer action advocate, New York Times best-selling author and talk show host, doling out practical advice as a money expert.

A member of the National Radio Hall of Fame, Howard analyzes everyday calculations such as where to order eyeglasses, how he bought his wife’s diamond ring (Costco), and “fast food math,” the efficiency of combining patties from two burgers.

He is involved in the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Christmas Kids Gift Drive and the Georgia State Defense Force. Whether on the Howard Stern show or shopping at CVS, he is always gracious to fans. Many were disappointed when he declined to run for mayor.

He is now obsessed with his fitness tracker’s step count, pacing the house at night to hit his daily target.

Learn more about this local celeb.

Jaffe: Truly the best bargain I ever landed was…

Howard: Atlanta to Honolulu for $176 round-trip on United Airlines in 1997.

Jaffe: The best advice my dad gave me …

Howard: Life is 99 rounds. Sometimes you get knocked down. Lick your wounds, get back up and go on.

Jaffe: The last time I cried …

Howard: When my grandson was born. He is at preschool at the Marcus Jewish Community Center where my daughter was as a child and where I was also as a baby.

Jaffe: If I had one more talent…

Howard: I would play NFL football.

Jaffe: My most exotic vacation... vacation...

Howard: Traversing South Africa. I traveled from Port Elizabeth to a game reserve called Hlosi, then along the Garden Route and on to Cape Town and Camps Bay. Jaffe: I have been told I look like …

Howard: Jerry Seinfeld.

Jaffe: The last time I danced …

Howard: At my wedding.

Nobody ever wants to see me dance or hear me sing.

Jaffe: My most unusual job was …

Howard: Working in collections for IBM to pay my way through grad school. I was surprisingly good as a bill collector.

Jaffe: My kids say …

Howard: I am too cheap and have the worst jokes.

Jaffe: My last fashion disaster …

Howard: Happens today and every day. I dress with zero fashion and usually wear what my staff describes as the “Clark A-form.”ì Reported by Marcia Caller Jaffe ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 23

BUSINESS Investing During a Coronavirus Pandemic

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

say the world is without risk, nor to suggest that the market has reached its bottom. It is impossible to know…”

Some check the market indexes upon arising and throughout the day.

Level-headed milNerves abound as lennial Kenny Baer, a we all know the quesCertified Financial Plantions: How long will this ner with Baer Wealth last? Will the dollar be Management in Maridevalued? Should I invest etta, has been published in Zoom, jigsaw puzzles, in Investment Advisor aviation, online educaMagazine, NerdWallet, tion, oil?

Ignites, FundFire, and In his shareholder Chattahoochee Plantaletter, Larry Fink, CEO tion Living. He weighs in: of BlackRock, stated, “Resilience is about much Jaffe: Have your climore than withstanding ents been calling you for a sudden shock to marreassurance? kets – it also means unKen Baer quotes Nobel Laureate Baer: I wouldn’t derstanding and addressPaul Samuelson, saying investing say an avalanche, but ing long-term structural should be more of a long game changes. … The world will instead of a quest for a quick return. certainly we are getting concerned callers. To alget through this crisis.

The economy will recover. And for those leviate fears, we show that volatility like we investors who keep their eyes not on the are currently experiencing was modeled in shaky ground at our feet, but on the horizon the original financial plan. We stress test ahead, there are tremendous opportunities the plan against current market conditions. to be had in today’s markets. … That is not to We are also sending out weekly emails and

24 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

market is now very irrational, literally going down 2,000 points in one day, up 3,000 the next, then down 2000, with no apparent reason, no major breaking news to justify it.

“The best minds Jaffe: How do you reon Wall Street cannot spond to alternate stratepredict what the market gies?

Metals? Betting is going to do today or against the market? tomorrow, they cannot Baer: That is gameven say why it did what bling, not investing. We it did yesterday. firmly believe that capi“I think computers tal markets will reward using ‘algorithms’ are long term investors. I am responsible for making reminded of my favorite these big moves, based on quote by Nobel Laureate arcane data no one else Paul Samuelson, “Investunderstands. One day, ing should be more like Apple’s iPhone manufacwatching paint dry or Amateur active investor turing plants and stores watching grass grow. If Reg Regenstein muses that in China were closed beyou want excitement, current market fluctuation and cause of the coronavirus, take $800 and go to Las unpredictability might present the buying opportunity of a and the stock price was Vegas.” lifetime, or maybe a selling one. up over $3. It has sunk Metals have an extremely high volatility and low expected since then, but it was insane that it held return; it is not something that we believe in. up for so long, being largely dependent on China.”

Regenstein throws out a strategy for Jaffe: Does it make sense to invest in companies now like cleaning products or portfolio protection without selling stocks and paying a capital gains tax. “Bet some delivery services?

Baer: It always makes sense to invest in money that the market will go down. You good companies with good long-term out- can do this by ‘selling short’ stock indexes, look. Does it make sense to buy those com- that track the Dow Jones Industrial Average, panies today because you think they are in the Nasdaq, and the S&P 500.

This means, theoretically, if an average a good position to take advantage of what is happening with COVID-19? No, all the declines by 10 percent and you are short, benefit those companies expect to gain has you will make 10 percent on your shorts, but been factored into the current price. The you have to be nimble and ready to cover “market” is all-knowing, all of the informa- your short before the market bounces back, tion publicly available goes into the current which it could do very rapidly.”

He continues, “Most brokerage firms price of the company or stock. are advising their clients to ride out the curJaffe: If a stock is in free fall, how do rent plunge, and they may be right. But I suspect that they have instructed their brokers you decide when to cash out?

Baer: If you own individual stocks, the NOT to encourage people to sell, or short best question to ask is: “Why did I buy that stocks, because this would accelerate the stock in the first place?” If that reason is still plunge. This may well be the buying opporvalid at a lesser price, there is no reason to tunity of a lifetime.” Regenstein poses that sell. Based on your situation, you should depressed stocks such as Apple, Home Deconsider buying more. If you bought the pot, Microsoft, Disney and other great comstock and the reasons for your purchase panies have been beaten down and should have changed due to some underlying issue, recover quickly after this. “Some moments I think the market is about to recover, others, then you should have already sold.

Another good quote is: “The market I think it will reach new lows.” can remain irrational longer than you can Note that Regenstein is an amateur remain solvent.” Essentially you might be the only person in the world who really and suggests checking with financial adviknows that XYZ company should be at $100 sors before taking action: “Just saying, there per share. Just because you think it, doesn’t may be choices out here.”

In a March 31 Atlanta Business Chronimean it will ever get there. cle, article Genesis Capital founder Jonathan On the other hand, private investor Goldman mused, “We will look back on this Reg Regenstein, who constantly studies the as a 1,000-year flood.” ì markets, said several days ago, “The stock hosting live webinars. During these times, I would rather over communicate. We are providing the prescription (information), but letting the client decide on the dosage.

BUSINESS

Managing Money Remotely

By Laura Schilling The wealth management industry is finding creative ways to connect with our clients during this time of social distancing. Instead of seeing our clients face-toface, most advisors use FaceTime, Skype, Webex or a Zoom-like technology to conduct business meetings remotely, trying to keep them as personal as possible.

Advisors are also helping their clients navigate the Coronovirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. There is an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) that typically guarantees a $10,000 payment (and you do not have to pay it back). Due to the fact that so many people are applying, they have run out of funding. If you qualify, we recommend submitting your application in case they make more money available.

The Payroll Protection Program (PPP) is a great program for those that have employees. Even if you are self-employed, you may apply. This program has rules on whether the money you receive is forgiven or not. However, this program

also ran out of money within days of accepting applications. The PPP requires you to apply through a bank. If you have a banking relationship, we recommend reaching out to the bank. If you do not, we recommend building a relationship now with a community bank to help submit your application in case a second round of money opens up. Advisors are helping their clients complete the forms as well as working with their bankers to make sure the questions are answered accurately.

As you know, the markets are volatile now. Before COVID-19 the market was looking very strong. Now that COVID-19 brings such uncertainty in how long people will be working from home, unemployment figures are up and businesses are losing money, the market has dropped materially. Interest rates and oil prices dropping have been big factors too.

Advisors are trying to stop clients from panicking and leaving the markets at a low. You will hear many advisors talking about not timing the market. If clients are now finding themselves unemployed, how large is their rainy day

fund? Do they need liquidity? How is their risk tolerance?

On the other hand, when the market is down, it is a buying opportunity. So advisors are assisting their clients in what to purchase. Advisors are doing a lot of dollar cost averaging since no one knows when the market low is at this point.

Dollar-cost averaging is buying an investment a little at a time.

Advisors are also informing clients to update their estate planning documents and/or get estate planning documents if they do not have any yet. A lot of states have allowed attorneys to start signing estate planning documents (last will and testaments, trusts, financial

powers of attorney and advance directives for health care) remotely. Each state has its own rules to navigate. Georgia is allowing us to do remote estate tax document signings. Attorneys are setting-up Zooms with the clients, two disinterested witnesses (no one named in the documents, usually members of our team) witnesses and the attorney/notary. Once the client signs in front of all of us on Zoom, the documents are scanned and each person witnesses and notarizes at their remote location. The negative is that after the shelter-in-place is over, we will need to re-sign the documents again in person. The positive is for those who do not have estate documents, we can finalize them during this time.

If you are unsure what to do with the government loans, you are worried about the market volatility and/or need estate planning documents, you should reach out to an advisor today. ĂŹ Laura K Schilling is a wealth manager, estate planning attorney and owner of Financial Innovations, www.financialinnovations.biz and www.estateinnovations.biz.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 25

BUSINESS

Former Israeli Soldier Sells Sanitizer

By Chana Shapiro Sometimes it’s all about having the right knowledge in the right place at the right time. That’s what happened to Jacques Elfersy upon learning of the dwindling supply of hand sanitizers as COVID-19 rapidly spread. He hoped he could use the chemical components of his company’s standard products to create a hand sanitizer that would prevent contamination.

Elfersy’s Atlanta-based international business, SiShield Technologies, focuses on the research and development of antimicrobial products, which are long-lasting, odor-free, alcohol-free and invisible. These water-based products are used in home building, consumer packaging, textiles, hospitals, schools and environmental remediation.

With the alarming shortage of available sanitizing products, SiShield began receiving calls asking if they made anything on a personal-use scale that would be effective against COVID-19.

SiShield had never made hand sanitizers, nor was it on its “to do” list; howev-

26 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Two or three squirts of Mistify rubbed into your hands before they touch germs will last for eight full hours, even if you wash your hands during that time, Elfersy said.

er, in response to the emergency, Elfersy hoped he could invent something quickly that was different from what was already on the market.

“I realized that everybody must focus on hand-washing, but what if it would be a long time before you could

Elfersy was an Israeli soldier before becoming a chemical engineer.

get somewhere to wash your hands?”

Elfersy directed SiShield to access and tweak its formulas to provide a solution. “I welcomed the challenge to see if I could produce something unique, based on our company’s expertise. We decided to immediately work on a new protective sanitizer.”

His wife, Amy, owner of Aimee Jewelry and Fine Art Gallery, cleverly named the invention “Mistify.”

“Some of the places we service are surprising,” Elfersy said, laughing. “We now work with businesses in Dubai and Egypt, and they know I’m a Jew. It doesn’t matter because I help them. They use our expertise to create products locally.”

But what’s so special about creditcard-sized Mistify?

Elfersy explained. “Two or three squirts of Mistify rubbed into your hands before they touch germs will last for eight full hours, even if you wash your hands during that time. With that length of effectiveness, you can prevent a full day of contamination and cross-contamination.

It’s odorless, with no sticky residue.” With a smile, he added, “It’s non-abrasive and also a skin moisturizer that prevents dryness, and each container provides 50 uses!”

Elfersy’s journey into chemistry and related inventions seems to be as destined as his new product.

He grew up in Morocco in a traditional Jewish family as one of nine children. As a pre-teen in 1962, Elfersy, his parents, eight siblings and grandfather managed to immigrate to Israel, where they settled in Petach Tikva. He studied mathematics and economics at Hebrew University, but his studies were interrupted when he served in the Yom Kip-

pur War. In 1974, he joined his brother in Canada, where he studied civil engineering at McGill University in Montreal, eventually becoming a Canadian citizen and always maintaining his strong Jewish connections and observance.

In 1974, at a Jewish-Israeli social event in Montreal, Elfersy met Amy Rothstein, a native New Yorker who had moved to Canada to teach French in two Jewish day schools. In less than a year they were engaged. They married in 1976 in New York and returned to Montreal where Amy taught and Jacques worked as a project manager at a major design and steel fabrication company.

That is until 1985, when the challenging climate and even more challenging politics led the couple to leave Canada. A week before Purim, with their 3-year-old son, they moved to Atlanta, which they had visited on occasion. They loved the social ambiance, beauty and temperate weather, soon becoming active members of the Sephardic Congregation Ner Hamizrach.

In Atlanta, Elfersy was first employed as a project manager by a subsidiary of Dow Corning, where he immersed himself in the chemical side of engineering. In 2002 he started his own company, SiShield Technologies, which incorporates the unique properties of silicone.

Along the way, he developed seven patents and, without advertising, grew an international clientele, including Hong Kong, China and Korea.

Devastating events often lead to unforeseen discoveries, and timing can be crucial. The arc of Elfersy’s life proves it. ì Mistify sanitizer can be purchased at SiShield.com or by calling 404-636-8900.

BUSINESS

Mattress Company Shifts to Make Masks In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jewish family-owned Colgate Mattress, based in Atlanta, has shifted the focus of some of its factory employees from handcrafting crib mattresses to creating masks to be donated to Shepherd Center.

The masks are a collaborative effort across the company, including hospital outreach, mask design, sewing and manufacturing. Together, the Colgate family expected to donate about 3,000 masks by mid-April.

“When COVID-19 began impacting our community, we knew we had to help,” said Colgate Mattress Vice President Richard Wolkin. “As a manufacturing facility, we have the unique ability to repurpose some of our supplies for masks. We have worked tirelessly to manufacture a mask that can be utilized to better protect our community.”

Colgate Mattress, believed to be the nation’s oldest family-owned manufacturer of crib mattresses and accessories, is committed to supporting its local

Bethany Diver, Shepherd Center’s supply chain manager, center, holds masks donated by Colgate Mattress. She is joined by Jamie Shepherd, Shepherd COO; Mimi Wolkin and husband Richard, vice president of Colgate Mattress.

Atlanta community in response to the shortages of personal protective equip-

ment (PPE) for healthcare workers.

Shepherd Center is a private, not-

for-profit hospital specializing in medical treatment, research and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury; brain injury; stroke; multiple sclerosis; spine and chronic pain; and other neuromuscular conditions.

Over the course of three days, Colgate Mattress developed a mask prototype and accelerated manufacturing efforts to produce about 500 masks a day.

“We’re grateful for and inspired by local businesses such as Colgate who have pivoted on their own business model to help organizations during this time,” said Sarah Morrison, president and CEO of Shepherd Center. “We’re grateful to Colgate for committing to keeping our community safer.

Community support is always vital, but even more so during this challenging time.”

Wolkin said of Colgate Mattress, “We’ve been a part of the Atlanta community for 65 years. Through our maskmaking efforts, we’re honored to give back to the community that has given us so much in a small way.” ì

Lawyer Named Volunteer of the Year that arise during Tax Attorney audit and during Richard C. Litwin protest and appeal of Litwin Law was to the Georgia Tax named as a 2019 Pro Tribunal and to loBono Partnership of cal governments.

Atlanta Volunteer of For over 30 years, the Year. and as a recognized Litwin was one Super Lawyer since of six attorneys 2008, Litwin has derecognized for outvoted his practice to standing volunteer multistate tax, state pro bono efforts, and local tax, and at PBPA’s March 11 tax controversies. reception at King He has chaired the & Spalding. PBPA Atlanta Bar Assomatches attorneys ciation Tax Law Sec(based on their partion and State Bar ticular expertise) of Georgia’s Taxawith local nontion Law Section profits in need of Richard Litwin was named the and co-moderates free legal counsel.

PBPA Volunteer of the Year. the Georgia DepartThrough PBPA, Litwin helped nonprofits facing state and ment of Revenue/Tax Bar Liaison Comlocal tax issues. He represents individu- mittee.

Litwin and his family – wife Pam, and als and businesses in state and local tax daughters Meryl and Kara – have been matters.

Litwin deals with a variety of issues members of Temple Sinai since 1997. ì

L’chaim, we are now open full time and following all CDC and ADA updated Covid-19 recommendations.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 27

BUSINESS

SCORE Volunteer Mentors Small Businesses Former Sandy Springs restaurateur Bruce Alterman is using his business acumen to guide other small businesses during the global health crisis. As a volunteer with SCORE, the nonprofit arm of the Small Business Association, he is offering mentoring services to restaurateurs, business owners and those considering opening a business. SCORE is believed to be the nation’s largest network of experienced volunteers, mostly business executives, business owners and retired business executives who want to share their knowledge with others.

“Most people who contact SCORE are just starting out with their business and are seeking direction about where to go next,” Alterman said. “This is my opportunity to help them and share what I’ve learned over my career. All of the people I work with are so appreciative.”

In two weeks alone, despite significant changes in local economies, Alterman said seven of his virtual mentoring sessions have been with people interested in bringing more business to

28 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Bruce Alterman is a volunteer mentor during COVID-19 through SCORE.

the area, including a couple who want to open a new restaurant.

“Never in a million years would I

have dreamed that we would be where we are today,” he said.

Bruce and his wife, Sally, formerly

owned and operated The Brickery Grill & Bar. For 24 years, the Sandy Springs institution employed 40 people and served more than 2,000 customers a week. It was a community gathering place with long-term customers. During that time, Bruce was also extremely active in the Sandy Springs community, volunteering with various groups and organizations and serving on the Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism board of directors.

When the couple lost their lease in 2015 and closed The Brickery, they enjoyed retirement for a short while, but Bruce started missing working with the public, helping people and being involved in his community.

He heard about SCORE through his father-in-law, who had volunteered with the organization, and decided to get involved. Through his volunteer work with SCORE, Alterman has mentored more than 100 people in the community, including brothers Bruce and Scott Bogartz, owners of Bogartz Food Artz. ì

REAL ESTATE Realtor Weighs in on Young Families, New Homes

Dark Rush Photography // Architect Brant Goodman was commended

by the Sauls for his attention to detail in carrying out their vision.

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Marshall Saul, a native Atlantan who went to Greenfield Hebrew Academy and Riverwood High School, now works as a realtor with Atlanta-based boutique brokerage Beacham & Company. He is constantly evaluating property and opportunities for himself and his clients with a discerning pulse on what local markets have to offer. Wife Terri, a project manager with an architectural signage company, was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. They now reside in Chamblee with their 2-year-old daughter Olivia and wheaten terrier poodle, Jozy. “We’ve experienced a depressed amount of inventory over these last several years that still continues today,” Marshall Saul said. “However, Atlanta remains full of great, transitional neighborhoods that offer young families the opportunity to purchase a home suited for tear-down, hire an architect and work with a custom builder to develop their dream home. Buyers are essentially concluding if they can’t find what they are looking for in a resale home, why not just create it themselves?” He does go on to caution, “Of course, like most things, easier said than done.”

Saul made the bold decision at 27 to purchase a vacant lot in Brookhaven for the purpose of building a custom home for him and Terri. He quickly became immersed in all aspects of the design-build process and although challenging, ultimately decided this was a professional niche he wished to carve out. Saul has since aligned with several builder-developers on speculative and custom homes. His current main area of focus is the Chamblee-Brookhaven market.

“Sexton Woods, Ashford Park, Drew Valley and Nancy Creek Heights, among

Goodman Design // The Sauls wanted a playroom with an

abundance of windows looking out to the rear yard.

to detail,” Saul said. other well-established Dark Rush Photography // Terri and “His professionalism Chamblee-Brookhaven Marshall Saul enjoy their front and confidence gave neighborhoods, all porch swing. They wanted a custom us a great sense of ease make for attractive design with a modern farmhouse look with added elements of coastal in the early planning locations for young inspiration and clean lines. stages and continued families looking for new construction,” he said. “There are multiple throughout the project.”

Goodman recalled, “There was initial parks, trails, good schools and these areas are centrally located close to nearby retail conversation about creating a welcomand dining. The Chamblee-Brookhaven cor- ing sense of place and allowing the house ridor has shown a significant amount of to be a reflection of the way the Sauls live. commercial development over the last sev- The keeping room off the kitchen allows eral years and residential new construction for a great place for kids while parents are nearby; and the open concept along with has been quick to follow.”

In 2017, Saul struck out to build again lots of windows to the rear yard provide and approached architect Brant Goodman good visibility. We strove to establish good (Goodman Design) to consult and design indoor/outdoor connections to allow for an a home to best use his new lot’s site condi- abundance of natural light. It is always imtions. “Brant is an extremely knowledge- portant for architecture and nature to work able architect with exceptional attention in harmony.”

Goodman Design // The main level open floor plan scopes from the kitchen into the dining area and playroom using a neutral color palette with light and airy flooring, materials and fabrics.

Saul shared, “We designed the home in the midst of the Chip and Joanna HGTV craze, so we couldn’t help but be inspired by the modern farmhouse look with some added elements of coastal inspiration. We went for clean lines and transitional details, utilizing a neutral color palette along with light and airy flooring, materials and fabrics.” Saul shared the importance of collaborating with an architect and designer who can help execute a clear-cut vision and maintain design fluidity throughout.

“The overall goal was to ensure a seamless blend between the architectural details and finishes with our own vibe of furniture, art and interior design.”

Saul believes this goal to be similar to that of many young families when developing their own plans for new construction.

“Typically, at least four to five bedrooms total and additional flex bedroom-living space on the main level are preferred. This has everything to do with how we now naturally interact and entertain. An open space that can easily transition from kitchen to family room is essentially a must for the ideal new construction home. Home offices and covered outdoor patios or porches are becoming standard to show up on most new floorplans as well,” he said.

“Some people truly enjoy the process of designing and building their home and appreciate living in a home they have customized for themselves. However, there’s no doubt building a custom home requires a ton of work with hundreds of steps and decisions to be made along the way. That being said, if you educate yourself, assemble the right team (more specifically the right realtor) and remain realistic with your expectations, building a custom home can be an extremely rewarding experience.”ì ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 29

REAL ESTATE

Developers Take Leap Forward in Sandy Springs

This luxury condo project in Sandy Springs will include 30 units with six units per floor, starting in the $900s.

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Two retired developers decided to fill a multi-family residential market void in popular downtown Sandy Springs. They are Gary Unell, a retired residential developer and builder of high-end homes in the Sandy Springs area for 40 years, and Eddie Goldberg, a retired former banker and developer of communities in Sandy Springs and Charleston, S.C. They have teamed up for

30 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Developers Gary Unell and Eddie Goldberg study plans for their new condo project just outside I-285 in Sandy Springs.

a special project that will set a new standard in downtown Sandy Springs.

Goldberg noted, “I have been consulting and brainstorming with Gary for about 10 years to develop a luxury condo in downtown Sandy Springs. Finally, this past fall, the idea crystallized and property near the intersection of Cliftwood Drive and Sandy Springs Circle (just south of The Springs Cinema & Taphouse) was put under contract, and we sprang into action.”

Unell and Goldberg hired local architect Brooks Hall, who has a small firm specializing in and working with developers in the Atlanta area. Previously Hall was with Smallwood, Reynolds, a large firm, where he was chief designer for Asian projects.

Unell said, “We wanted the building to be a steel and concrete structure with a brick exterior versus wood framing, which allows structurally vibration and lower quality sound control.” The building is envisioned for residents who want an urban feel, but don’t want to move to Buckhead, Midtown or downtown Atlanta. “The sizes of units will vary from about 2,200 square feet up to 3,400 square feet. In addition, each unit will include a covered porch with an optional fireplace, optional grill and vent hood. The porches will average about 275 square feet with expansive glass doors between the porch and the interior area.”

Units this size are new for downtown Sandy Springs and are rare in the condo market without combining smaller units. Unell and Goldberg said they intended to satisfy the needs of people like themselves who have grown tired of maintaining large houses and are ready to simplify their lives. The building’s floor plans will rival those of ultra-luxury units located in other metro Atlanta neighborhoods, but the developers believe they can complete their project at prices below those in Buckhead, with all the benefits of living in Sandy Springs. They point out the rapidly increasing number of independent shops and boutiques, highly-rated restaurants within walking distance of their location, and a range of grocery shopping options including Whole Foods, a movie theater, Kroger, Marshalls, even Dollar Tree within a block, and the Sandy Springs Farmer’s Market, and the entire City Springs municipal and arts complex nearby. The site also provides easy access to I-285, Ga. 400, area malls, Northside, Emory Saint Joseph’s, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospitals, the Sandy Springs library, at least three synagogues, and office space in Sandy Springs and the Perimeter area.

The project, as of this writing, is in the zoning process. Due to the consequences of coronavirus social distancing, zoning meetings have been postponed.

Goldberg said, “Hopefully very soon we will have the full support of the town of Sandy Springs. We have already received over 10 reservations. Appropriate and sophisticated names are under consideration.” Soon, the hard work will begin for Goldberg and Unell, who hope to introduce the building to the public by mid-2021, with availability for occupancy in the spring of 2022.

Features are to include concierge services, an exercise facility, a simulated golf room, a plunge pool and a community room, covered owner and guest parking. Units will start in the $900s. Plans call for a total of 30 units with six units on each of the five floors of flats. Two additional floors would be for amenities and parking. Potentially the penthouse level will have an elevated ceiling height. Public space will be included on the concierge level. There will be ample room for bridge, mahjong, and trivia games, private family gatherings and socializing.

Feeling confident that they can build the right building at the right time, both developers are currently planning to be residents of their new project. Just imagine walking to the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival!ì

REAL ESTATE

Levy Parlays Accounting into Real Estate Career

Rendering of the new Watkins 55+ apartment development, Annabelle on Main, on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Duluth.

By Marcia Caller Jaffe Miami Beach native Jay Levy made his way to Atlanta as a young man, celebrating his bar mitzvah at Congregation Shearith Israel and settling in Clarkston with his family. He found his career fit in real estate after a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in taxation from Georgia State University, headed for the world of balance sheets and finance. Levy is currently the president of Wilwat Properties, Inc., the real estate subsidiary of Watkins Associated Industries, having joined the company in 2014. He oversees all the strategic planning and day-to-day operations for Watkins Real Estate Group.

“I would not label myself a ‘superstar’ versus a steady plodder," he said. Levy’s experience in all facets of commercial real estate investment, management and development spans 30 years. He began his professional career in the tax group of the Atlanta office of Arthur Andersen & Co. He then joined Ewing Southeast Realty, an Atlanta-based real estate management and brokerage firm, as chief financial officer.

In 1995, Levy joined IRT Property Company (NYSE: IRT), an Atlanta-based REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust). During his years with IRT, Levy served in various roles such as chief accounting officer and treasurer, ultimately becoming the CFO. In February 2003, IRT was acquired

by Miami-based Equity One (NYSE: EQY) REIT. Levy was an integral part of the merger, playing a lead role in the negotiations and subsequent integration of the two companies.

Following the merger, he served as the executive vice president, asset manager for Equity One's portfolio of retail shopping centers in the Southeast U.S. He directed all aspects of property manage-

Jay Levy parlayed a career in accounting and finance into real estate management.

ment, leasing and development for Equity One in the region, consisting of 88 retail shopping centers.

Watkins is a real estate development and management firm focusing on commercial, retail and multi-family properties. On the multifamily side, their developments are garden style communities with 300-plus units.

“I have worked on the retail side of commercial real estate, mostly grocery anchored shopping centers. When on the accounting and finance side, I didn’t have much opportunity to interact with tenants and leasing. My time with Equity One allowed me to work with all facets of real estate.”

When it comes to how internet shopping has affected the mix, Levy noted that instead of large 40,000 square feet of local shop tenants “today we build 12 to 14,000 square feet and lease to service tenants such as hair salons, insurance agencies and restaurants with very few hard and soft good products.”

More on the shopping center side, “we have been very active developing Publix anchored centers in Orlando, Atlanta and Alabama. Just last month we opened a new Publix center in Buford. Two more are in development in Statesboro, Ga., and Lakeland, Fla.,” Levy said.

“One of the most exciting new projects is a 55+ active adult community in Duluth, where we just sold the adjoining land to grocer Lidl within walking distance.”

In terms of the effect of the coronavirus, Levy is somewhere between “stop” and “pause” while banks settle on new strategies. “Day-to-day it’s hands on. We employ 17 people operating over 680 apartment units. Four under development, six Publix shopping centers, as well as several singletenant projects under development. We are ‘full speed ahead.’”

When asked what advice he would

Watkins Real Estate Group’s Sixes Ridge Apartments with 340 units at I-575 and Holly Springs Parkway.

proffer to young entrepreneurs, Levy said, “Much of real estate is about personal relationships. I never believed in burning bridges. Also, for ‘up and comers,’ I would advise to take time outside of work to follow up and study what one has seen during the day.” At a recent real estate convention, Levy was influenced and inspired (after reading the New York Times best-selling book “Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profit, Passion, and Purpose”)

by Tony Hsieh, the CEO of Zappos, about his mission to make and keep customers happy.

Keeping numbers in the family, Levy is married to Debbie Levy, who works in the accounting department for Jewish Family & Career Services. “She is a great organizer, connector and accountant.”

Levy also enjoys trips to Bagelicious in East Cobb, dashing around in his 1971 British racing green MGB.ì

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ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 31

REAL ESTATE

Residential Real Estate During COVID-19

By Debbie Sonenshine Residential real estate has been deemed an essential business by federal, state and local authorities. The reasoning is that housing is not only vital to our economy, but a basic survival need along with food and healthcare. That said, real estate professionals are taking extra steps to protect the lives of their clients, the public and themselves.

Many of our activities are now being conducted virtually through professional photography, recorded home tours and live video conferencing. Paperwork is being completed using electronic signatures and some closings are happening via video conferencing.

When a closing requires the physical presence of the parties, only those who are required are allowed to attend and extra precautions are being taken to ensure proper social distancing and hygiene. The adjustments required during these difficult times will likely become

the new normal moving forward.

This situation is very different than what happened to residential real estate in 200809. While the market is being severely disrupted by the COVID-19 virus, we do not expect to see a decline in home values.

Buyer demand remains high and home inventory is near historic lows. The two big unknowns are the impact of furloughs, layoffs and unemployment on buyer demand, and how long we will continue to

experience 30year mortgage interest rates below 4 percent.

A question that I am getting a lot recently is whether now is a good time to list a home.

In most cases the answer is yes, primarily due to the high buyer demand. However, we are taking extra steps to ensure that everyone remains well. For occupied properties, we are requiring that the potential buyer has been preapproved if they are planning to obtain a mortgage or provide proof-of-funds if

they are paying cash, prior to scheduling a showing. Buyers are being asked a series of questions and asked to sign a form verifying that they are not currently experiencing virus symptoms or have been in recent contact with someone with the virus. Sellers are being asked to turn on all the lights, unlock doors, open draperies and blinds, and vacate the property prior to the showing. During the showing, the objective is to touch as little as possible and to use antibacterial wipes on anything that has been touched. Hand sanitizing before and after by everyone is essential.

Bottom line, while some activities such as open houses will be paused until the risk has passed, we are still listing and selling homes, albeit a little differently, during the pandemic.

Debbie Sonenshine is with Coldwell Banker residential brokerage and can be reached at Debbie@SonenshineTeam.com, www.SonenshineTeam.com.

Roller Coaster Ride

By Robin Blass What a roller coaster ride this has been! It took off fast, and I wasn’t quite sure what was coming next or if it this ride would ever stop. By that I mean, all of the sudden I had four deals that were under contract and suddenly they had fallen apart. One was an all-cash deal, and the buyer lost his money in the stock market and was not comfortable closing; the second deal the buyer lost his job and no longer qualified for the loan; the third

exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, please do not enter this home.

During COVID-19, I am still seeing bidding wars on some listings, new listings are coming on the market, and properties are closing. Mortgage rates are at the lowest they have been in years.

Appraisers are now allowed to complete appraisals without entering the property by taking pictures of the outside and doing drive-by appraisals. Lending institutes are allowing DocuSign signatures instead of actual signatures. Closing attorneys are practicing social distancing and closings are happening in the parking lots of offices and personal home garages.

Real estate is and will always be a people business, building relationships.

My hope is that we when return to some kind of normalcy, we take the lessons we’ve learned and are able to help our clients in new and better ways! Please stay safe.

contract, the buyer simply got cold feet about the economy and terminated; and the fourth, the buyer was furloughed and was no longer confident about purchasing at this time.

That was the first seven to 10 days, then I came to the realization the real estate market is going to continue to operate! Buyers and sellers are still going to buy and sell. The difference is now we practice SAFE real estate. All my listings have masks, gloves, booties and sanitizing wipes. I’ve placed signs with clear in-

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structions to wear all protective gear before entering and to not touch any light switches or door handles while touring the home. In the listing services, I’ve added remarks stating that if anyone is

Robin Blass is an agent with Coldwell Banker, a No. 1 agent Coldwell Banker Atlanta in 2018 and the Perimeter office 1992 to 2018, and a Top 10 of the Atlanta Realtors Association 2018. She can be reached at www.robinblass.com or robinblass@ blassprop.com.

REAL ESTATE

Business Unusual

By Eydie Koonin The coronovirus is having a profound impact on everyone around the world. To conform with the Shelter in Place order, I am hunkering down with my husband, 84-year-old mother, pregnant daughter and son-in-law. I’m actually enjoying cooking three squares a day and doting over my family.

In the evenings we’re enjoying the same activities as most families now, solving jigsaw puzzles, playing cards, binge watching Netflix and online mahjong, which my mom has found to help her maintain a semblance of a social life.

Real estate sales, mortgage lending and closings are considered essential businesses in Georgia, so we are “open for business,” but the real estate industry is experiencing “business unusual.”

Starting in March when it became clear that this major crisis was hitting our homeland, I could tell immediately that everything I knew before was going

to change. To serve my clients during this pandemic, I’ve dedicated several hours a day on Zoom calls with brokers, agents, closing attorneys, insurance agents and mortgage lenders to educate myself

on the most updated information and changes to their policies. While interest rates remain extremely low, lenders are now requiring higher credit scores to qualify for loans and larger down payments for jumbo loans.

When I go on a listing appointment, I ask the seller to prepare by having all the lights on and doors opened, while I’m wearing protective gear that enables me to walk around the house independently of the seller. After viewing the property, I leave my marketing materials and exit the house. Upon returning to my home, I hop on a FaceTime or Zoom call with my client so I can make my formal presentation.

It’s “business unusual” also when I’m showing one of my listings. Before entering the property, I put on my latex gloves and face mask, then I turn on all the lights and open the doors. In this COVID-19 era I greet the prospective buyers outside of the home and give them a verbal overview to the property. Normally, I

would go in and tour them through the house. Today I brief them and let them wander through the home to respect the social distancing guidelines. I meet them back at the front door to highlight the features or answer any questions they might have.

No longer are the days of driving buyers in the car, walking with them through every room, stopping for lunch on a full day of showings and meeting together at my office to sign paperwork.

For my buyers, nothing is better than helping them find a house that becomes their home and for my sellers, helping them move on to the next chapter in their lives.

This is the new reality until we have the vaccine. Stay safe and stay healthy.

Eydie Koonin is a realtor with Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty and lifetime member of the Multi-Million Dollar Sales Club, eydiekoonin@atlantafinehomes.com.

Spring Selling Season

By Melanie White Every real estate agent looks forward to the spring selling season in Atlanta! Spring is when families really kick into high gear to sell and purchase homes before the next school year. The selling season often starts at the end of February or beginning of March, which is exactly when the coronavirus struck our city and our market. The fear we all felt as we watched the stock market take its biggest plunge since 1987 was astounding. Even though the interest rate was cut in an effort to curtail the hit, we saw many deals fall through in response.

That was in early March, and since then we have been seeing things pick up. Buyer activity is down but has not stopped! The interest rates are very desirable and there is less competition with other buyers. Sellers are a bit more reluctant now than buyers.

New contracts written and new listings taken have declined about 45 percent.

Some buyers are unsure of the market, and sellers are unsure of letting people tour their homes. However, we have not yet seen a decline in prices.

Agents are considered to be essen-

tial; we help people find their homes to be able to “shelter in place.” We are conducting “business as usual,” just in a different way. I held an open house in early March and greeted everyone at the door with a pump of anti-bacterial soap and a spray bottle of alcohol and water to clean the bottom of their shoes

before putting on shoe guards. There were quite a few lookers but since then the physical showings have been few and far between.

Our new normal is ramping up everything virtual: virtual tours, virtual showings and open houses. If there is a physical showing, I make sure the buy-

er is pre-qualified, a serious looker, and I actually ask if they are healthy.

Before the pandemic hit, people made plans to move, whether for a bigger home, smaller home, first home, or job-related moves. These people need to continue moving forward with their move. We have adopted plenty of special stipulations to adapt to the situation. Loans continue to be processed, although at an arm’s length and in a totally digital way. Closing attorneys are still able to get us to the closing table, but that too looks different, with electronic signatures and most recently the ability to notarize electronically. Like many changes in our lives, the way we shop for homes is changing as well.

The Atlanta spring market was already underway and I am hopeful that, come July or August, we will be right back in full swing with little decline in prices in the market.

Stay positive and be well.

Melanie White is a certified residential specialist with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and a life member of the Multi-Million Dollar Club, realtor. melaniewhite@gmail.com, melanie@ melsellsatl.com or melsellsatl.com.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 33

REAL ESTATE

Uncharted Waters

By Jimmy Baron This seismic shift in how we live our lives seems to change by the hour, yet time also seems to stand still. The stock market is like a Six Flags ride; thousands of businesses have either temporarily or permanently closed; and the number of unemployment claims breaks its own record seemingly each week.

As a real estate professional, I am asked daily how this has affected not only property values, but also the actual enterprise of conducting the business of showing and selling homes.

First, we don’t really know how COVID-19 has affected property values simply because there’s a lag in that data which typically doesn’t show up for months. Prior to mid-March we were enjoying a brisk and healthy spring in Atlanta, with home values holding strong in most sectors (with the exception of some of the higher-end categories). Fannie Mae is predicting a 10 to 15 percent drop in home values this year, but those are national projections and real estate is a very local thing.

And fortunately, Atlanta tends to generally have stronger numbers than the national average, all things being equal.

Real estate statistics, though, are directly tied to employment numbers, so as that story continues to be told we will see a clearer picture as it relates to home sales. BUT this is not like 2008 as some have suggested. In 2008, the real estate market was the actual cause of the economic collapse. It’s a bit different now and home sales are expected to recover strongly depending on how long this lasts, which is, of course, the question nobody can answer.

Are there still buyers out there? Absolutely. Many industries have not been affected and those jobs remain secure.

Likewise, this is traditionally the time of year people move who have been transferred, and they are still in the process.

Or perhaps it’s someone who sold their home prior to COVID and they still need 34 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

to find a new property. Or maybe they need to get their kids in a new school district prior to fall (remember that thing called school?). One thing is for sure though, there are no “tire kickers” in the mix. If someone wants to see property in this environment, they are definitely serious.

But it would be disingenuous to say the buyer pool is still strong. It has definitely shrunk and has become more of a buyer’s market. Showings are down as well as homes being put under contract, especially in the luxury home category where jumbo loans have been dropped by many lenders and the terms have become often brutal.

In addition, the actual process of showing homes is a new world.

Sellers are being asked to leave all lights on and interior doors open to minimize the need for buyers to touch surfaces. And likewise, home tours involve masks, gloves, booties and disinfectant wipes.

Many agents are providing video tours as well, although it is not eliminating the need for buyers to eventually do a physical visit.

Some sellers who are elderly or have underlying health issues have completely taken their homes off the market as they understandably don’t want strangers in their home, nor do they want to leave for showings.

We are in uncharted waters in every corner of our lives, and real estate is no different. Each day brings new information and circumstances and all we can do is have patience, be smart, pray and make good decisions. Now more than ever, though, if you are seriously considering selling or buying, speak with a real estate professional you trust. We are here to help you make wise decisions and our advice is free!

Jimmy Baron is a top 3 individual agent with Keller Williams First Atlanta, top 5 percent with Atlanta Board of Realtors, a member of Keller Williams Agent Leadership Council and Keller Williams Luxury International.

The expansive great room sectional is by Bernhardt. The two ceramic masks are

by Andy Narisse and required unique custom installation. The pair of oatmeal macramé poofs is by Stanton. The cocktail table is by Four Hands.

Chai Style Home

Photo credit Duane Stork // Amy and Bruce Edelstein snuggle

with goldendoodle Chance. Two other dogs, Max Baer, (the Jewish boxer), and Moses romp in the house and yard.

Empty Nesters Bring Young Energy After 20 years in Sandy Springs, Amy and Bruce doesn’t fall far from the tree. “I always loved the way Edelstein envisioned a new beginning for their empty my mother mixed styles, a contemporary sofa and an nest. Alas, they leveled a 1940s brick ranch/duplex with- antique chair. A glass-topped dining table with a metal in a two-block walk to downtown Decatur and all that base surrounded by vintage dining chairs. The result it offers. Enter builder Arlene Dean, interior designer was both beautiful and interesting,” Amy said.

Jeremy Jones, goldendoodles Moses and Chance, and boxer Max Baer. Note that the pups have their own builtMarcia: What personality were you looking to esin kennel when they’re not lazing around tablish here? their fenced-in yard or cushy family sofas.

Bruce: I wanted an open, entertainPowerful combinations align with ment-friendly space. We also committed to Bruce’s own photography, Amy’s gallery an ecologically sound, silver-certified green experience, and her late grandmother structure. I enjoy the openness and being Brown’s mid-century modern furniture. able to look outside from large windows to The finished structure is 3,800 square enjoy the views. feet in the main house; and the charming Amy: I love a “Napa Valley” vibe. Then guest house adds another 600. “We brought Jeremy’s pulled together display boards and in our experience from owning other fabrics and masterfully made our eclectic homes to align textures and details with Marcia art collection and furniture work together. our lifestyle,” said Amy, a Keller Williams Caller Jaffe First Atlanta agent. “It might be Howard Marcia: Jeremy, what was your role?

Finster, Polly Cook, Bernhardt, R.A. Miller or Grecian Jeremy: The Edelsteins wanted a casual feel. That’s urns converted into lamps. And amazingly we bought in why you see no formal dining room. Amy and I shopped February, closed in July, and completed construction in for some new pieces to integrate into her past collection under six months.” from her years of working in the art business. She defiNote that Amy’s parents, Joan and Donald Brown, nitely has an eye for art. Her grandmothers had fabuwere the subjects of the first Chai Style Home featured lous things like the crystal candelabra and 1960s Herin the Atlanta Jewish Times in February 2015. The apple man Miller furniture that we used or recovered. Amy

and Bruce like the hunt to find unique pieces on their own.

Marcia: What are some of your unusual pieces that “make it happen” in here?

Amy: The shark jawbone over the master bed was a surprise for Bruce, a periodontist who has collected shark’s teeth for decades. The base of the dining room table from Restoration Hardware is concrete and is tremendously heavy. The 8-foot railroad tie in the great room is from building materials from an old cabin.

Artwise, I treasure Michael Venezia’s “The Pears” in the front entrance, Ferdinand Rosa’s abstracts, and Dawne Raulet’s “Swing Dress.” Robert Sherer did “The Bride” in the master bedroom. We smuggled these original paintings from Cuba. “Taxi Cab” is a fun one. Michael Sherrill’s funky teapot adorns the bar.

Jeremy and I serendipitously found “Queen of Hearts,” the paper and metal sculpture in my study.

The hall tree in the entrance is a family heirloom. I rescued this brass menorah from the clearance table at Boxwoods.

Bruce: The headliners here are the pair of masks

by Andy Narisse, emeritus head of ceramics at the University of Georgia. They are super heavy, and we had to have a custom installation and mountings to stabilize them.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 35

CHAI STYLE The ethereal Dawne Raulet oil “Swing Dress,” in mood-setting shades of celery and chartreuse, is positioned alongside a Venetian ochre glass bowl.

The light filled sunroom boasts a navy rope rug, R.A. Miller’s “American Flag,” and a couch by Smith & Hawken.

Marcia: Who are some of your resources?

Jeremy: Some of the distinctly stylized furniture, like the master nightstands and cocktail table, are from Four Hands. The oatmeal macramé poofs are from Stanton, and the leather wing chair is from Uttermost. We have several rugs from Jaipur like the outdoor navy area rope rug in the screened porch and the tangerine one in the guesthouse. We pulled in some Neiman Marcus pieces too. The Chippendale-style gold metal study chair

by Lelievre is covered in French mohair.

We primarily went for muted tones, but added splashes of color with Sherwin Williams’ “Bottle Green” paint in the guest powder room, “Dorian Gray” and

“Hombre” gray tones upstairs extended to the ceiling.

Other preferred suppliers were Ferguson (plumbing) and Construction Resources.

Marcia: What is unique about the kitchen?

Bruce: We wanted a livable kitchen with a utilitarian butler’s pantry. Hidden appliances were important.

The countertops are Silestone quartz and the floors are white oak. The backsplash tile is water jet mosaic, “wood look” porcelain with white carrara marble and black granite by Walker Zanger.

Marcia: Share your passion for photography.

Lacrosse player son Reid’s room has a “buttoned up” look with navy block plaid.

The couple wanted an informal dining area. The heavy concrete dining base is from Restoration Hardware.

The chandelier is Circa. The candelabrum is from Amy’s grandmother. California artist Deborah Fritts did the custom ceramic sculpture of the couple.

36 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

CHAI STYLE Amy and interior designer Jeremy Jones found this 3D metal sculpture “Queen of Hearts” locally.

Over the master bed is the jawbone of a shark. Note that the designer used two tones of paint to tie in the ceiling.

Bruce: When I was around 10, I started developing film in my parent’s basement. We had a dark room in our previous Sandy Springs home. Basically I’ve had a love affair with film which shifted when things went digital. Most of my works here are black and white landscapes and travel scenes that inspired me from places like Tybee Island, the Chattahoochee River, and the Galapagos Islands.

Marcia: Describe the detached “guest” carriage house.

Amy: Thinking about the future, we wanted our now college-aged kids to be able to have their own space when they come home. In there, we have some fun with the Surya tangerine rug and my grandmother’s recovered vintage pieces from her lake house. The Jules Burt piece from Virginia-Highland lends frivolity.

Marcia: So you have a photograph with Oprah?

Amy: Bruce was featured on her show in 1994 as one of America’s Most Eligible Bachelors; but as you can see, that status didn’t last long!ì

The detached guest/carriage house contains grandmother Hannah Brown’s mid-century modern furniture and this lively rug from Surya. Bruce’s photography abounds.

Bruce poses in front of his evocative landscape photography. Before digitalization, he did his own development.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 37

SENIOR LIVING Families Struggle to Connect With Isolated Elders patients are accepting of their own mortal- tion that is prone to isolation anyway, but advocate becomes more challenging. Both my phone has been ringing off the hook,” Kriseman and Rudisch suggest that families ity.” establish relationships with specific staff Retired Atlanta attorney Cindy Smith He pointed to patients in their 70s and she said. misses her best friend.

Nancy Kriseman, a licensed clinical so- members at those centers with whom they 80s who have lost both parents, a spouse Smith hasn’t seen her 94-year-old fa- and their siblings and “the idea of death isn’t cial worker who specializes in working with can check in regularly.

If a family member has a concern with ther, Morton, in more than a week. She so anxiety provoking. One patient of mine older people and their families, suggests lives near Emory. Her father lives in The realized that she survived those deaths and that there could be an increase in suicides the facility itself, as in normal times, they can Piedmont in Buckhead, a senior living com- she understands that her family will be able among the elderly as a result of the coro- call the Georgia Office of the State Long-Term munity. to make it without her. While this realiza- navirus pandemic. “I could see passive sui- Care Ombudsman at 1-866-552-4464, then Morton is doing fine. He’s healthy tion is on some level sad to her, it has also cides, in which the person gives up,” Krise- choose option 5. Because of the coronavirus, Ombudsman Melanie McNeil told the AJT and Smith says there are no reports of any reduced her anxiety.” man said. that instead of their regcoronavirus cases in her That’s why she On the other hand, ular quarterly visits to father’s building. But evhe sees some younger thinks it’s imperative long-term care facilities, ery Thursday Smith and patients who are at less for families to reach out her office’s representaher father used to attend risk of dying from coro- to their elderly family tives are calling them the symphony. “We were navirus and “they’re members in very specific once every two weeks to symphony partners,” very anxious about it. In ways. Author of “Meancheck on them. she said. “He was my many cases, it is related ingful Connections: PosiAnother piece of Scrabble partner, too. to their personal life his- tive Ways To Be Together advice for family memWe miss that.” She’s not tories and pre-existing When A Loved One Has bers is to discourage allowed to even visit Kriseman emotional conflicts. If Dementia,” the elderly from watchhim. “I thought we could one has a deep sense of understands that it’s ing the news all day. take walks together, emotional damage or a challenging sometimes “People can forget and but he’s being discourprior history of trauma, to have daily phone not forget” what they’re aged from seeing other this may translate into a call with elderly family hearing, Rudisch states, people.” greater sense of physical members. referring specifically to Many Atlanta Jew“What do I say vulnerability and fragilNancy Kriseman, LCSW, advises This could be an opportunity family members to send cards or boxes those with some level ish families with elderly when I call every day? ity in the face of the very for growth and affirmation, containing “reminiscing activities” of dementia.

“Maybe members living in seLet’s say a prayer toreal threat of COVID 19,” suggests Dr. Bruce Rudisch. to their elderly family members. they lose articulate vernior living facilities are gether, or let’s talk about said Rudisch. experiencing similar heart-wrenching sepaSome of Rudisch’s patients are con- a favorite time we had together,” she said. bal memory, but not emotional memory of rations. fined to their rooms, similar to Morton “Remind them by showing pictures of fam- what they are exposed to on the news. Some Many of Dr. Bruce Rudisch’s patients Smith -- not one of his patients -- where The ily members on video or talk about recipes. might imagine that a parent doesn’t remember bad news, but they can be taking it in are medically unwell. In one case he de- Piedmont at Buckhead is delivering food Each call can focus on a different subject.” scribed a patient’s son who is unable to visit three times a day as well as puzzles to the If the elderly person has cognitive is- emotionally and unconsciously.”

One thing that is helpful for family his elderly mother. “She’s anxious and her residents. Rather than in-person meetings sues, he or she may worry about the family. son feels very guilty that he can’t help her,” with his patients, 90 percent of Rudisch’s “Tell them what we’re doing to take care of members, Rudisch says, “is to help normalsaid the trained geriatric psychiatrist. “It consultations are via video conference. The ourselves, so we can take care of you,” she ize the feelings someone is having. Acwould be a comfort to be with her and hold remaining 10 percent are on the telephone. suggests. She also advises family members knowledge what they’re feeling. Acknowlher hand, but he can’t now. He told me that “The American Psychiatric Association, the to send cards or “grab-and-go” boxes in edgement and validation can help to reduce ‘my mother helped me all my life and now I mental health community and Medicare which family members can send objects anxiety. For a family member who cannot can’t help her.’” have come together around supporting tele- that represent the elderly person’s favorite be in physical contact with an isolated According to Rudisch, social isolation health,” he said. hobbies, like garden- loved one such as an elderly parent, feeling and loneliness among the elderly are real ing. To one client who guilty is a natural response and can even be Dr. Melissa problems, even without the coronavirus Black, a geriatrician was a mechanic, she thought of as a measure of their love. It is a pandemic. “People who suffer from social who provides direct sent little tools. Anoth- sign of healthy attachment.”

He points out that crises like this panisolation are at greater risk of illnesses. I primary care, also er client liked birds, so worry about the elderly particularly, al- provides “video visshe bought a book that demic, for some, can have a positive side. “It though I worry less if they are coupled or its,” or consultations plays bird songs. Krise- can be an opportunity for growth and affirhave close family members to support them over the telephone, man calls these “remi- mation for some. One way to cope with this is to reach out and help someone, perhaps either by phone or video.” niscing activities.” but sometimes she In general, Rudisch is seeing a whole still needs to visit inFamily members in the community. Helping someone else is spectrum of responses to the coronavirus person to take bloodwith elderly in con- often the best anecdote to the natural feelthat has shut people into their homes and work or provide a gregate living centers ings of helplessness that many are feeling in has essentially deprived them of their nor- physical exam.

– which can include in- response to COVID 19.”

Apparently, Morton Smith intuitively mal social interactions. “It is important to dependent living, nursDirect primary Morton Smith and his daughter, note that the responses don’t necessarily care, Black explains, ing homes and assisted understood this. Responsible for the emCindy, were symphony and Scrabble correlate with an individual’s objective risk is independent of living – are generally ployee holiday gift fund at The Piedmont, partners before coronavirus. of death should they contract the coronavi- any insurance with the eyes and ears who his daughter told the AJT that he just initirus. Some elderly who are at high risk are patients paying a monthly fee. The average alert staff if their loved ones are having is- ated a collection to help employees who are particularly less anxious about the illness age of her patients is 75 to 80, although the sues. When these family members can’t providing care to residents under the curthan one might expect. In some cases, older range is 65 to 105. “This is a patient popula- actually visit their loved one, being their rent stressful conditions. ì

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

38 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

SENIOR LIVING

How Jewish Seniors Navigate Technology

By Flora Rosefsky Forced by today’s novel COVID-19 pandemic to stay at home, Jewish seniors are turning to digital technology more than ever before to stay connected.

Even before the health crisis, Americans ages 65 and older were internet users, according to a Pew Research Center study last year. And a little over half of that age group were also smartphone owners, the study found.

Some people in their 70s or older might agree with Tobyanne Sidman who said that “today the world assumes that every method of communication that people want to use is on a computer or cell phone.” Her grandchildren’s preference for text messaging makes her yearn for the days when people exclusively spoke on landline telephones to keep in touch.

Sidman said she considers herself “to be in pre-kindergarten when it comes to computers.” She told the AJT that the only things she knows how to do is turn on her desktop computer to read and send emails and she recently learned how to use Zoom for a family seder. Instead of using website chat rooms or following written directions, a friend she pays helps her once or twice a month to handle any computer issues that come up. Because of COVID-19, her friend works with her by telephone. Sidman told the AJT she may need to learn to use FaceTime on her iPhone, which would combine seeing her family and hearing their voices at the same time.

Keeping in close contact with her family is also important for Donna Salus. She checks in with her young grandchildren by using FaceTime on her iPad about twice a day, talking to them, watching them play with toys, asking what they had for breakfast. On March 18 her Hebrew class at Congregation Beth Shalom went online through Zoom. This required a Google search for “app store,” and then to download the Zoom app, which she said gave clear instructions on how to sign in for Zoom sessions when invited. She said Zoom is “a great way to continue attending Hebrew classes, a book club with friends, Peach State Stitchers meetings and enjoying a family seder.”

When family, neighbors or friends can no longer stop over to help, or when computer popup messages read like Greek, it may be time to call a professional like Nathaniel Lack, owner of Computer House Calls, who has catered to the Atlanta Jewish community for over 30 years. With over 5,000 clients in the metro Atlanta area, Lack

Nathaniel Lack follows CDC guidelines for computer house calls.

notes that a majority of his clients are over 50 and Jewish. According to Lack, customer needs vary dramatically, with some contacting him almost weekly while others call every few years.

“The first thing people do is jump to conclusions when the computer acts up.

They think it must be a virus. But nine out of 10 times, it is often something else.” He says for seniors, “some common technical issues may include misfiled documents, settings changes that alter computer behavior, and, yes, malware caused by accidentally clicking fake webpage warnings about viruses and other scams targeting seniors.”

Lack considers himself a “computer therapist” rather than a techie because he “reduces anxiety while solving problems.”

During the current pandemic, Lack observes that many calls come from people now working remotely from home where they remain quarantined. Others use their technology to stay connected to friends and family, which for seniors can be essential to easing anxiety and stress. One client in his 90s who lives in an assisted living home continues sending emails to grandchildren in South Africa.

For Lack’s house calls today, he wears a mask made from a kippah like others he’s crafted from his children’s b’nai mitzvah collection, to have a new one for each visit.

He follows CDC guideline for hygiene, sanitizes before and after leaving a home, and keeps a safe distance from the customers, for their safety and his. For many problems, Lack said he offers remote help using TeamViewer remote desktop software when a home visit is not necessary.

Following today’s CDC stay at home guidelines, seniors can still remain in touch with loved ones even without IT devices.

There are still telephones with numbers to push. Yet, seniors of all ages will probably be using FaceTime and other IT devices more in the future, if only to stay well connected to their families and friends.ì ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 39

SENIOR LIVING

Home Care Offers Option for Senior Living During COVID-19

By Paula Baroff

Levy said. There was one scenario where a client had a hip replacement done, and inFor many families, how to care for stead of going to a rehab facility, her doctor older relatives has become a major focus recommended she stay home.

Some people have takof their COVID-19 panen loved ones out of their sedemic discourse. With nior living facility for a few nursing and assisted living weeks because of the panhomes hit hard by the videmic: “That’s where home rus, people are wondering care has really stepped up, what the best choice is to because we can be a temkeep their older relatives porary solution or a permasafe. “We’re seeing a lot of nent one,” Levy said. situations where families Understanding famiare trying to decide what lies’ concerns, Levy said to do with their loved one the industry has had a when home care may not huge focus on keeping embe their first option,” said Daniel Levy, director of Daniel Levy, owner of Ad- Advantage Private Home Care, ployees and clients safe. says home care has the ability “Of course we’re following vantage Private Home to be a temporary or permanent all the CDC regulations,” Care. He added that knowoption during the pandemic. he said. Those protocols ing you’re able to control the environment your loved one is in is include temperature checks and ensuring employees have the right personal protecmore important than ever.

Doctors are now recommending that tive equipment. Advantage also checks in people who may otherwise have gone to with families to make sure their staff will care facilities should stay home instead, be in a safe environment.

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Nancy Kriseman, who runs a geriatric being able to be with the caregiver.

“It’s sad that we’re finally paying atconsulting service, said there are pros and cons to both at home care and senior living tention to our elders,” she said.

Bebe Bryan is executive director of facilities. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, The One Group, which there are many factors to provides medical and nonconsider when choosing medical home care with housing, such as demenJewish HomeLife. She said tia, Kriseman said. If your the largest change she’s relative has dementia, you seen because of the panmay not be able to check in demic is that their services with them and will need to that used to drive clients rely on the caregivers, she to appointments and marsaid. “It can be a little conkets have been put on hold fusing and also difficult for until the pandemic is over, families to manage.” She as that group is sheltering pointed out that if somebody needs 24/7 at-home Bebe Bryan, director of The One in place. “We do a lot of Group, said Jewish HomeLife work with the Holocaust care, they would have mulhas been ahead of the curve survivor program at Jewtiple caregivers coming to on COVID-19 precautions. ish Family & Career Servicthe home.

“The issue with the COVID situation, es, and I’ve just seen a big stop on all those for people living with a family member at people that use us for running errands, home, you have to hope the caregivers are driving to appointments.”

She has also seen a difference in taking good care of themselves,” she said.

At good quality assisted living facilities, she families who used to be resistant to havsaid there is more oversight for COVID-19 ing fewer caregivers being more flexible as they don’t want so many people in and out protocols in place.

When choosing either assisted living of the home. “We’re operating with tighter facilities or at home care, Kriseman helps teams, if you will,” Bryan said. “We started clients find high-quality companies. “What providing our people early on with masks I usually recommend for families that are and gloves and all of that. We put all of that keeping somebody at home, because that’s into effect much sooner than it was a rewhat they usually choose to do, you get an quirement.” The protocol they practice in agency that has care management incorpo- the skilled nursing facility is the same as they practice in the home, rated into home care. Then she said. you have a case manager Family members are who oversees a set amount seeing their loved ones of caregivers going into less, so caregivers have the those peoples’ homes. You added responsibility of also want to have a home attending to their clients’ care agency that uses LPNs emotional needs. “Our and RNs.” Licensed praccaregivers are so sweet; a tical nurses (LPNs) have lot of them are doing Facesome nursing education time with their clients,” and often a certificate, and she said. registered nurses (RNs) Bryan has had people have a minimum two- or Nancy Kriseman recommended reaching out to her who three-year diploma and choosing high-quality home don’t even live in Atlanta expanded roles. care that uses LPNs or RNs. with questions about the Kriseman is not taking any new clients, but she’s gotten calls virus. “There’s just a lot of unknowns out from clients that are already enrolled who there. People reach out to whoever they are worried about family members during know in healthcare,” she said. She refers the pandemic. She spoke with a client yes- people to the Jewish HomeLife website, terday who, because of virus concerns, is which has more information about CDC unable to see her mother as often. “I gave guidelines and other resources. “I am so her a whole list of things she should make happy to be affiliated with Jewish HomeLife sure the caregiver is doing. One is taking because they are all about the care of our notes every shift,” Kriseman said. “I gave community. They are completely supporther some ideas on how to work in partner- ive. Whatever it is we need, we’ve been ship with the caregiver without actually ahead of the curve with everything.” ì

SENIOR LIVING

Grandparenting During COVID-19 Grandparenting with COVID-19 stay-at-home mandates to be safe and to remain virus-free necessitates finding new ways to stay connected to our grandchildren. The Zoom seder, a first for our family, was replicated across metro Atlanta and our world. Sitting in front of computers or Flora Rosefsky iPads, the best part was seeing and hearing all four children, their spouses, girlfriend, and all eight grandchildren participate. Why was that night so different, words from the haggadah’s Four Questions, resonated in our COVID-19 seder. A family being all together is not as common as it was when I grew up, where relatives lived close by. Today, our family lives in places such as Northern Westchester, New York City and nearby in metro Atlanta, but still not within walking distance.

Connecting with our grandchildren now occurs on an almost daily basis. Our son from NYC calls us almost every night to see how we’re doing. His children, ages 14 and 16, show us what projects they’ve created such as the pinball machine a granddaughter made for her brother’s March birthday using carboard boxes, pencils and rubber bands. We spend time watching our son and grandson playing competitive pingpong on their apartment’s dining room table. Although we cannot physically give hugs and kisses, we always end our iPhone FaceTime visits with saying how much we love each other, never taking those words for granted.

As a grandparent, I still can enjoy sharing stories from the past with the next generation. As one example, I use the phone to tell my grandchildren about the times my grandfather Bernhard, a barber on the Lower East Side of NYC, would visit my home on Long Island. Those Sundays, my Dad, brother, Uncle Bob and his two sons lined up downstairs in the basement for monthly haircuts. Today we laugh when the children show us their COVID-19 hair in a text message where, in Bedford Hills, after watching a YouTube on how to cut hair, our daughter cut her husband’s hair, but also gave trims to our two grandsons – ages 22 and 24.

Locally, grandparenting with three grandchildren living in metro Atlanta remains strong. Eldest granddaughter, age 23, does our grocery shopping, being careful to wear a mask, dropping off the food by our door. Six or more feet apart, we wave hello and blow kisses. One Sunday afternoon, we got a surprise visit from our 7-yearold granddaughter. We watched her ride circles around our apartment breezeway on her new birthday scooter, through colorful bubbles that her Mom, our daughter, blew in her path. My husband and I sat outside on staircase steps 6 feet or more away from our visitors. This was a moment of grandparent naches (good fortune) following COVID-19 protocol to keep our distance. The 15-minute grandparent breezeway visit soon ended.

If I read a particular article in the AJT or AJC, I will cut it out and mail it to a grandchild or child who might appreciate reading it. I could take a photo or scan it to send as an attachment, but how nice it may still be to open up a card or envelope with a hand-written note

Before COVID-19, granddaughter Heidi enjoyed painting lesson with grandma.

Zoom screenshot shows family staying in touch earlier this month.

from Grandma.

In this new normal, Bernie and I wash our hands with soap and water for the recommended 20 seconds, while I sing the “Happy Birthday” song to myself two times.

There is no question that we miss personal physical connections or family traditional holiday meals together, but we need to remember this kind of social distance grandparenting hopefully will be temporary.

Bonds grandparents make with grandchildren can still be strong.

What will grandchildren remember most of their grandparents during COVID-19? I think they will feel the same unconditional love that grandparents freely give year-round. We, as grandparents, can still be good listeners, taking time to know what’s going on in our grandchildren’s lives, at any age. Staying in touch with grandchildren, whether we are using FaceTime, texting messages, or without that technology, perhaps using a landline telephone, we still can capture the joy of being a grandparent while being a positive presence in their lives. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 41

SENIOR LIVING

How Arbor is Tackling Coronavirus

By Freda Meyer While the COVID-19 crisis has hit many businesses hard, it’s no secret that the senior living industry has been particularly challenged. However, by focusing on our top priority – providing the best possible care that keeps our residents healthy, active and safe – we believe The Arbor Company remains in a good position during this pandemic and beyond.

Seniors are Hardest Hit Solana East Cobb and Arbor Terrace of East Cobb, based in Marietta, offer assisted living and memory care for seniors. (Memory care is assisted living for those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.) As we’ve all heard on the news, seniors represent the most vulnerable population for COVID-19. While patients of any age can become critically ill, older adults are at higher risk. Those with underlying conditions like heart disease, lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or suppressed immune systems are even more likely to become ill, more likely to require

42 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The exterior of Solana East Cibb.

hospitalization, and more likely to die from the virus.

Our priority has always been the health and safety of our residents and staff, so we take matters like this pandemic very seriously.

We have put many proactive measures in place to keep our residents as safe as possible during the outbreak. Visitors are not permitted until further notice, with the exception of extreme or emergency situations, and we’re screening all health care provid-

ers who enter our communities. We’ve also implemented additional cleaning procedures and adjusted our dining room operations to help reduce the threat of infection.

Our staff members are wearing personal protection equipment (PPE), keeping their distance as much as possible, and of course, washing their hands frequently.

Is Senior Living Right Choice?

Even though we’ve postponed tours due to our current restrictions on visitors,

we are adapting. We offer virtual tours to prospective residents and their families.

Our websites provide plenty of useful information that will give you a good feel for our communities before visiting. And our senior care counselors are available by phone or videoconferencing to discuss your specific concerns and to answer your questions.

Remember that, in choosing senior living, you’re likely to make the best decision if you begin looking at options well before the need is urgent.

We are also continuing to offer fun and informative events, open to the community, now in a virtual format. We partner with experts in related fields of interest to seniors, such as eldercare attorneys and retirement and financial planning experts, to bring useful information via webinars and other virtual formats. Visit our Facebook pages to learn about upcoming events. ì Freda Meyer is executive director of The Solana East Cobb. It is operated, along with Arbor Terrace of East Cobb, by The Arbor Company, an Atlanta-based company with more than 30 years of experience.

SENIOR LIVING

COVID-19 Stress Tests Holocaust Survivors

By Dave Schechter

my time in the attic to now. It’s like comparing a Motel 6 to the Ritz. In the attic, “I am scared that I’m going to die it was cold with only a pot-bellied stove to from depression, all by myself and no- keep the front of us warm. We didn’t have body will know about it, and this is how a phone. We couldn’t talk to our friends. my story is going to end. I’ve survived the There was hardly any food. Now, though Holocaust and I’ve seen the world at its I have to stay inside, I have a lovely apartment, plenty to eat, worst. This is not how and a television. I don’t it’s supposed to end.” have to worry about a Those plaintive truck coming to get us words, spoken by a at our house and no woman in her early 90s one is shooting at us. who hid from the NaIt’s an awful time now, zis as a teen in eastern but you can’t compare Europe, were shared then and now,” said by a case manager Forehand, a speaker in from Jewish Family & the William Breman Career Services, who Jewish Heritage Musetook care not to divulge um’s “Bearing Witness” any further identifying series. information about her JF&CS describes client. the services it provides For Holocaust sur“It’s an awful time now, but you can’t compare then and now,” said survivors as “personvivors, including some Holocaust survivor Bebe Forehand. centered and traumawho later lived under Communist rule, COVID-19 has brought a informed,” recognizing that every survimixed bag of old traumas sparked anew, vor’s experience was different. “We treat depression and anxiety, isolation and fear, each of them individually. We look at but also reminders of the traits that sus- what they need,” said Anat Granath, a litained them through difficult periods in censed master social worker with 15 years of experience at JF&CS aiding Holocaust their lives.

“Some are faring quite well. It’s a survivors.

Since JF&CS halted in-person work in very resilient group. To have survived the Holocaust, you had to show tremendous mid-March, Granath has stayed in touch resilience,” said Amy Neuman, JF&CS’s with her clients by phone, email, and for Holocaust services program manager. those able, videoconferencing. “Initially, there was a lot of re“Some clients have a lot silience, ‘We’ve been of trouble. It’s getting through wars and we worse as the weeks go can do this. We have on, as people are forced food. We have phones.’ to stay home. There are Justifying to themsome that are re-trauselves that this situamatized, bringing back tion is so much better. memories of forced ‘We have survived so confinement, whether much worse than this.’ they were in ghettos or The last week or two hiding somewhere or I’m hearing more frusin camps. tration, high levels of “People we’ve anxiety, depression,” never seen expressing she said. COVID-19 depression and anxiety has brought some are now on our radar,” “We listen. We listen a lot. That’s survivors “dreams of Neuman said. “Case what we can do. We talk to them. the past, . . . feelings managers are checkWe also let them know that, unlike the Holocaust, the whole world is that they haven’t even ing much more than suffering from this,” said JF&CS thought about in over they did before the pancase manager Anat Granath. five decades,” and, in demic.”

Bebe Forehand, sometimes referred some cases, nightmares.

Case managers Granath and Emily to as the “Anne Frank of Belgium” because of the three years that she and her family Papera check on their clients’ access to spent hiding in a 12-by-14-foot attic, finds food, medication and personal supplies, perspective in the past. “You can’t compare as well as their capability to access pro-

gramming that JF&CS makes available slovakia who survived the Theresienstadt and Auschwitz concentration camps, and online.

“We listen,” Granath said. “We listen was to have been the keynote speaker.

A client from the former Soviet a lot. That’s what we can do. We talk to them. We also let them know that, unlike Union, who survived the Holocaust, told the Holocaust, the whole world is suffer- Granath how the April 1986 meltdown of ing from this. There’s not really discrimi- the nuclear reactor at Chernobyl, in the former Ukrainian Sonation of age, of genviet Socialist Republic, der, of religion. Yes, the led to issues of food elderly are in the highinsecurity and distrust risk group. But the viof government staterus is not against the ments. elderly. We talk about “They’re very rehow around the world, sourceful, the survipeople are coming tovors from the former gether to protect the elSoviet Union,” exderly. I try to give them changing information some comfort in that,” on how to make masks, she said. how to make disinfecJF&CS has the tants, and what works names of about 210 surif soap is not available, vivors in its database, Granath said. Life unbut Neuman thinks “It’s a very resilient group. To der Communism made there maybe closer to have survived the Holocaust you had to show tremendous them more able “to be 300 in the Atlanta area resilience,” said Amy Neuman, creative at an older age and elsewhere in GeorJF&CS program manager of than some of the cligia. Even as their overservices for Holocaust survivors. ents who left Europe as all number continues to decline, JF&CS continues to enroll Ho- teens and then lived in the United States, locaust survivors in its programs, includ- with all that we have here.”

Food insecurity has not been a probing newcomers who have moved to Georgia to be closer to their adult children and lem for most of the survivors. “Fortunateothers who may not have needed those ly, many of them have family in town and some of them live in buildings with services until now.

Of 136 survivors currently receiving congregant meals,” and if that service essential services and case management has been suspended, meals are brought from JF&CS, 75 percent are from the for- to their rooms. “We haven’t found many mer Soviet Union. They generally are in that need our food service,” Neuman their late 70s and early 80s, on average said. “We have many clients that get several years younger than those from home care, who get house cleaning. We Eastern Europe. When added to survivors want to make sure that services have not JF&CS helps through a national program been discontinued by the vendor. We providing home care services and those have some that have stopped services who access social programming or repa- by their own choosing, who don’t want rations assistance, the agency has served people in their homes.”

Neuman paraphrased the worries more than 200 Holocaust survivors in its expressed by survivors who live alone current fiscal year, Neuman said.

Funding for JF&CS services comes or are restricted to their apartments in from the Conference on Jewish Material senior residences that have barred even Claims Against Germany, the Harry and family visits. “We don’t know if we’ll ever Jeanette Weinberg Holocaust Survivors see our families again. Will we be able to Emergency Assistance Fund, and the Ho- leave our apartments again? I don’t know locaust Survivor Support Fund of the Jew- if I will ever see you again,” meaning the case managers. ish Federation of Greater Atlanta.

Asked what the community can do COVID-19 forced cancellation of the April 19 annual Yom Hashoah observance, to aid the survivors during the COVID-19 sponsored by Eternal Life-Hemshech at crisis, Granath said, “If you know an elder, the Memorial to The Six Million at Green- if it’s your neighbor, . . . pick up the phone wood Ceretery. Eternal Life-Hemshech and not only once, but call them again. All and The Breman Museum, a co-sponsor, we can do is let them know that they are have posted online recorded remarks by not alone. We are all going through this Ilse Eichner Reiner, a native of Czecho- together.” ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 43

ART ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ House for Sale in Druid Hills

By Bob Bahr If you have a hankering to be a part of theatrical history and have a few million dollars burning a hole in your pocket, you might consider making an offer on a home in the Druid Hills neighborhood. The 6,000-squarefoot French provincial structure, which lists for $2.7 million, helped to inspire the Broadway play and motion picture, “Driving Miss Daisy.”

The house, which has six bedrooms and five bathrooms, was built for Alfred and Clementine Montag in 1915 at 850 Oakdale Road.

The Montags, well-to-do members of The Temple in Atlanta, were the uncle and aunt of Alfred Uhry, who wrote “Driving Miss Daisy” about his grandmother, Lena Fox. He set the play in the imaginary setting of the Montags impressive home.

Uhry wrote in an article for the New York Times in 1988 about the Atlanta premiere of the play that mentions the house.

He describes it during a tour of the city he took with a number of visitors from New York.

“The New York people pile into the van for a sightseeing trip,” he wrote in The New

44 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

The “Driving Miss Daisy’ house was originally built in 1915 for a prominent Atlanta Jewish family.

Hollywood’s version of the “Driving Miss Daisy” house with Jessica Tandy as Daisy Werthan playing mahjong with friends.

York Times. “Most of them have never been to Atlanta, so I try to hit everything. The highlight is Aunt Clemmie’s house. This is where I set the play in my mind.”

The play, which won Uhry a Pulitzer Prize and ran initially on Broadway for three years, tells the story of a 25-year friendship from the late 1940s to the early 1970s between an aging Southern Jewish matron, Daisy Werthan, and her chauffeur, Hoke Colburn, who is African American.

It recalls a difficult era of racial tension and desegregation that has long resonated with Atlanta Jewish audiences, beginning with the first production here over 40 years ago. Uhry described the reception of one of the first Atlanta performances, which benefitted The Temple. He recalled for The New

York Times in 1988 that the rabbi of The Temple at the time, Alvin Sugarman, who grew up in Atlanta, was particularly emotional.

“The rabbi comes up on the stage, embraces me and is moved to tears when he speaks about the play,” Uhry commented in 1988. “I credit this not to my writing, but to the fact that the whole audience had lived through what I wrote about. They all know how it feels to be Southern and Jewish.”

The playwright, who has lived in New York City most of his adult life, grew up in a home across from the Druid Hills Golf Club.

As close as the family lived to the club, it was off limits to Jews during a time when there were restrictions on membership.

“Driving Miss Daisy” is the best-known work in a trilogy about Jewish Atlanta dur-

ing the 20th century that Uhry has written.

He also wrote “Parade,” a play with music that was created about the trial and lynching of Leo Frank in the three years from 1913 to 1915.

“Parade” was last performed in Atlanta in 2017 at the Alliance Theatre in celebration of the 150th anniversary of The Temple, where Uhry’s family and his grandmother and grandfather’s families were members.

The third of the plays in the trilogy is “The Last Night of Ballyhoo,” which enjoyed a sold-out run at the Stage Door Players theater in Dunwoody last year.

“Driving Miss Daisy” was made into a critically acclaimed motion picture in 1989 starring Jessica Tandy as Daisy and Morgan Freeman, who had starred in the original production, as her chauffeur, Hoke. The film won four Academy Awards, including best actress for Tandy and best adapted screenplay for Uhry.ì For the motion picture of “Driving Miss Daisy,” the producers passed on the Oakdale Road home that is now for sale, and chose three different locations for filming, including one at 822 Lullwater Road.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 45

APRIL 30-MAY 31

CALENDAR Virtual Classes and Events:

SUNDAY, MAY 3 JumpSpark Presents Staying Strong Women’s Celebration, Virtual Group – From 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Coming together as a community is a key to staying strong in this new reality. JumpSpark’s Strong Women Fellowship will celebrate its year together and participate in an interactive presentation from keynote speaker Dana Marlowe from I Support the Girls. For more information, annie.fortnow@jumpsparkatl.org.

for any woman experiencing infertility. For more information and to register, www.bit.ly/2Vmts7j.

FRIDAY, MAY 8 THURSDAY, APRIL 30 Cookin’ with Rabbi Ari – Live Online Thursdays, from 8 to 9 p.m. Intown Jewish Academy classes and programs are designed to educate and inspire you. For more information and to register, www.bit. ly/2VF0ezB.

FRIDAY, MAY 1 Jewish Spirituality & Mysticism – From 9:30 to 11 a.m. Join Rabbi Hirshy for a weekly class on Jewish spirituality, mysticism and how to apply them to your personal growth in a meaningful way.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2KkZ5Yo.

Walking 4 Friendship – From 3 to 4:30 p.m. Join people from across Atlanta and Connect for Friendship.

Connect4Friendship is an amazing opportunity to connect with those isolated during COVID-19 while at the same time raising crucial funds for Friendship Circle and awareness for individuals with special needs. Join in promoting an inclusive community that welcomes and nurtures all abilities. For more information, www.bit.ly/3agqSnr. Researching Family History in Israel – From 2 to 3:30 p.m. Join us for a virtual meeting with Garri Regev, past president of the Israel Genealogy Research Association, as she discusses the IGRA database and demonstrates how to use this genealogical research tool. For more information, email JewishGenealogy@JGSG.org.

JF&CS Presents Parenting Young Kids in a Pandemic Support Group – From 1 to 2 p.m. Tips and strategies for parenting during this extremely challenging time of upheaval and change. For more information, uzusman@jfcsatl.org.

Congregation Beth Shalom’s Preschool Shabbat Sing Live with Rabbi Mark – Fridays at 1 p.m. Join Rabbi Mark and the Alefbet Preschool for an interactive Shabbat Sing on ZOOM. Join in the fun and learn about Shabbat. For more information, www.bit.ly/2ypCfwd.

46 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Talmud Tuesday – Live Online – Tuesdays from 8 to 9 p.m. Intown Jewish Academy classes and programs are designed to educate and inspire.

Join the Zoom link at www.bit. ly/2VTRp59.

Yoga for Shabbat Live Stream - From 4 to 5 p.m. Join congregant and yoga instructor Paula Coplon for a relaxing live-stream yoga/meditation before Shabbat begins each Friday afternoon. The entire community is welcome to check it out on Etz Chaim’s Facebook page, www.bit. ly/3cszQj2.

Torah Studies – Live Wednesdays from 8 to 9 p.m. Intown Jewish Academy classes and programs are designed to educate and inspire with this deep analysis of the Torah portion. Join the Zoom link at www. bit.ly/2VkBLjZ.

MONDAY, MAY 11

SUNDAY, MAY 17

Maamar Monday – Live Online – Mondays at 1 p.m. Intown Jewish Academy classes and programs are designed to educate and inspire you. Join in at www.bit.ly/2KdYcRH

Jewish Fertility Foundation North Fulton Support Group – From 6 to 8 p.m. Free for any woman experiencing infertility. All virtual support groups are led by a licensed social worker. For more information and to register, www.bit.ly/2Vmts7j.

TUESDAY, MAY 12 JF&CS Presents College Student Transitions Therapy Group – From 3 to 4:30 p.m. A virtual therapy group for all college students impacted by COVID-19. This group will provide the opportunity to connect over the unique fears, transitions and obstacles you are facing collectively as college students during this time of so many unknowns. This group will help you navigate these changes and to give you the support that you need to adjust to this “new normal.” For more information and to register, jstepansky@jfcsatl.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13

MONDAY, MAY 18 Beyond Words: Understanding the Depth of Prayer – From noon to 1 p.m. Join Congregation Etz Chaim for a weekly virtual Lunch & Learn with congregant Miriam Rosenbaum. The entire community is welcome to join the live-streaming Zoom class, www.bit.ly/2z8wVxv.

TUESDAY, MAY 26 Jewish Fertility Foundation Toco Hills Support Group (Virtual) – From 7:30

Find more events and submit items for our online and print calendars at:

www.atlantajewishconnector.com

TUESDAY, MAY 5 Jewish Fertility Foundation Toco Hills Support Group (Virtual) – From 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. All support groups are led by a licensed social worker. Free

Calendar sponsored by the Atlanta Jewish Connector, an initiative of the AJT. In order to be considered for the print edition, please submit events three to four weeks in advance. Contact community relations director, Jen Evans, for more information at jen@atljewishtimes.com.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES Acharei Kedoshim Friday, May 1, 2020, light Shabbat candles at 8:03 p.m.

Saturday, May 2, 2020, Shabbat ends at 9:02 p.m.

Emor Friday, May 8, 2020, light Shabbat candles at 8:09 p.m.

Saturday, May 9, 2020, Shabbat ends at 9:08 p.m.

to 9 p.m. for any woman experiencing infertility. All support groups are led by a licensed social worker.

Free. For more information and to register, https://bit.ly/2Vmts7j.

SUNDAY, MAY 31 Breaking Through Brick Walls in Your Genealogy – From 2 to 3:30 p.m. past president of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Georgia and long-time researcher Gary Palgon will hold a workshop to help break through our brick walls. Learn about your family history with Palgon, who has worked with a variety of special interest groups with JewishGen and published more than a dozen family tree books. For more information, JewishGenealogy@ JGSG.org.

ONGOING: Chabad.org Presents Jewish Kids Activities Online – Jewish art projects, videos, games, activities and more.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2UgUFId. In the City Camps Presents - Virtual Camp – Every weekday afternoon from 3:30 to 4 p.m. In an effort to keep the community connected, they are giving their campers opportunities to see one another.

To watch and join in, www.bit. ly/2xhGR71.

Jewish Spirituality & Mysticism – Join Rabbi Hirshy for a weekly class on Jewish spirituality, mysticism and how to apply them to your personal growth in a meaningful way.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2wmSBFp. MJCCA Day Camps – Weekdays, 9 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Check in for weekday live activity sessions on

their Facebook page. To participate and for more information, www. bit.ly/2wvLOcn. MJCCA Fitness – MJCCA will be posting daily workouts and conducting live workouts on the Fitness Facebook page. They also have a free option to help keep you active and working out at home. For more information, www.bit.ly/2WHcSQz. MJCCA Book Festival – Click to view MJCCA’s upcoming Book Festival virtual events, www.bit. ly/3bk1mi7.

MJCCA Athletics –The – MJCCA Athletics program encourages kids to stay active at home while school is out for an extended period of time. Action for Healthy Kids, a nonprofit organization that promotes a focus on health, fitness and wellness in schools, has provided some amazing resources to keep kids happy, engaged and focused on their overall health while at home. Click for activities to do at home for MJCCA’s Game On Activity Library, www.bit. ly/2wzY5MO.

you can work on at home to keep your swimming abilities top notch.

Please see our swim skills guide that describes exercises for your child’s ability along with a picture.

For more information, www.bit. ly/3bmmlRC. PJ Library is Going Viral! – Mondays at 9:30 a.m., Tuesdays through Fridays at 9 a.m., and every afternoon at 2 p.m. PJ Library is bringing to you fun, crafts, stories, Q&As, scavenger hunts, food demos and so much more every morning and every afternoon. To join in and for more information, www.bit.ly/2WzFFqh.

MJCCA Aquatics – A few things that

Anti-Defamation League –The – Coronavirus Surfaces Fear, Stereotypes and Scapegoating: A blog post from ADL to help provide accurate information, explore emotions, and, most importantly, play a role in reducing stereotyping and scapegoating. To read more, www.bit. ly/3dp5a3t.

Repair the World – Repair the World welcomes you to sign up for its programming. Join them from the comfort of your home for a discussion on compassionate care for ourselves and our community.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2xhUsv5.

Virtual Hillel Connections – If you’re looking for community, connection and meaningful learning opportunities, or if you’re just bored and need a distraction during coronavirus cancellations, then you’ve come to the right place. Hillel has virtual meetups and online gatherings that bring you together with Jewish and Jew-ish students from around the world in real time! For more information: www.bit.ly/3af7wjA.

MJCCA BBYO – Tune in to BBYO On Demand, a brand-new virtual experience for teens worldwide. Enjoy amazing programming and global events. Some of the sessions will even be led by our very own Greater Atlanta Region BBYO members.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2QFlCD2.

MJCCA Blonder Department for Special Needs – Please stay tuned to the Blonder Family Department for Special Needs Facebook group for daily activities, chats, workouts and more. For more information, www.bit.ly/2Jmpl4x.

Community Services:

Virtual Senior Center Zumba Class – DeKalb County Department of Human Services has put together a Virtual Senior Zumba Class video. To watch and join in, www.bit. ly/39hEVsl. Please send Virtual Classes & Events to jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Atlanta Community Food Bank Text for Help SMS Function –The – Atlanta Community Food Bank’s mission to provide nutritious food to the people who need it has reached a major milestone toward access to food for all. For more information, www.acfb.org.

Atlanta Jewish Music Festival Updates – Atlanta Jewish Music Festival Updates – Music is a powerful force. It heals and brings people together during this time. To listen, www.spoti.fi/2Uuq7BB. For information about the AJMF, www.atlantajmf.org.

Atlanta Restaurants Offering Curbside Pickup and Delivery – Atlanta has limited dine-in service, with takeout and delivery and online gift card and merchandise purchases still the reality for many restaurants. Owners and chefs, the Georgia Restaurant Association and state and local legislators are pushing for financial assistance and relief for the state’s restaurant industry. For a continually updated list of Atlanta restaurants offering food delivery service and curbside pick-up, www.bit.ly/2Uyg1zl.

Creating Connected Communities – In addition to collecting new and gently used books to give to kids at future programs, they are also currently partnering with places ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 47

helping to distribute books to kids and families who are stuck at home while self-quarantining. If you have books to donate, please contact Stefanie Foree. CCC needs LEGOs. They are collecting new or used LEGOs so the kids at their programs can make more amazing creations.

If you’re cleaning out a gift closet and have NEW toys that your kids are never going to use, CCC can use them. They are always accepting donations of new and unopened toys for their gift store at Amy’s Holiday Party. CCC needs small gift items to give to the adults who attend Amy’s Holiday Party. For more information, tara@cccprojects.org or Stefanie, stefani@cccprojects. org.

Israel American Council – IAC @ Home brings you the most innovative content online while continuing to build a national community with Israel at heart. With activities for kids, teens, young professionals and adults, you can stay connected to Hebrew, Israeli and Jewish heritage, online activism and to one another. IAC @Home lets you enjoy a coast-to-coast community right from your own home. For more information, www.bit.ly/3bpDxWI. JF&CS - Emergency Financial Assistance – JF&CS is there to provide emergency assistance for individuals and families. Please call 770-6779389 to get assistance. For more information, www.bit.ly/2wo5qzj.

JF&CS F&CS - Telehealth Counseling Services – Now offering telehealth options via phone or videoconference for current and new clients to help our community during this crisis.

For more information about their therapy services or to make a telehealth appointment email therapy@jfcsatl.org or call 770-677-9474.

JF&CS - Telehealth Older Adult Services – Telehealth older adult services Aviv older adult staff are there to help provide resources, care plans, and support for you and your family. Call AgeWell at 1-866-AGEWELL 1-866-243-9355 to find out how they can help. For more information, www.bit.ly/2wo5qzj.

Jewish Federation of Great Atlanta COVID-19 Resources – The unsettling, fast-moving and unpredictable world of life with COVID-19 is upon us. As we’re all discovering, a worldwide pandemic disrupts ev48 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

eryone on an unprecedented scale.

For updates and more information, www.bit.ly/3ahrNVM. Marcus JCC Updates – The Marcus JCC is closed until it is deemed safe to open. In addition, The Weinstein School, The Schiff School, The Sunshine School and the Club J AfterSchool Program are also closed.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2QEAuRX. My Jewish Learning – Jewish learning resources to get you through these difficult days. For more information, www.bit.ly/3bms5dQ. YMCA of Metro Atlanta Outreach – The YMCA is activating all branch locations to deliver childcare for thousands of healthcare workers and emergency responders. They are distributing meals for early learners, families and seniors at YMCA sites and working with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to expand food pantries and offer food distribution to the community. The YMCA has implemented Operation R.E.A.C.H. to engage our seniors and vulnerable groups during this difficult time, activating resources and support to keep them connected and healthy. For more information, www.bit.ly/3aCHjM7.

Please send Community Service Opportunities to jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Synagogue Live Streaming Services:

Ahavath Achim Synagogue – Participate in services live from your computer. Ahavath Achim’s Services are broadcasted from the main sanctuary and Ellman Chapel. Open to members and the community. To watch and for more information, www.bit.ly/33EJfAU. Congregation Beth Shalom’s Virtual Services – Fridays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. For more information, www.bit.ly/3aDdUkX.

here, www.the-temple.org.

Please send Synagogue and Temple Streaming Services to jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Volunteer Opportunities: Creating Connected Communities: www.bit.ly/3bekKNI

Congregation Etz Chaim’s Virtual Morning Minyan and Shabbat Services – Sunday through Friday at 8 a.m. Join Rabbi Daniel Dorsch for live-streaming daily morning minyan and Shabbat morning services. To call in to Shabbat morning services, dial 646-558-8656. When prompted for the meeting ID, enter 365 561 931. For more information, www.bit.ly/2xhKjP1.

Ways to Help Through CCC: www.bit. ly/2vAXqdN

Virtual Wednesday Evening Minyan – Etz Chaim’s Sababa USY invites you to join them for Wednesday evening minyan at 6:30 p.m.

They welcome the community to remotely daven with them for this virtual Mincha/Ma’ariv service.

To join in and for more information, www.bit.ly/2UJc4s3.

Package and Deliver Meals Through Open Hand Atlanta: www.openhandatlanta.org/volunteer

Congregation Shearith Israel – Zoom Service Servicess – Daily and Shabbat services will continue at regular times in a virtual manner. They are counting participants in these live Zoom services as part of a minyan, or prayer quorum, allowing members to recite full prayer services including Mourner’s Kaddish. To participate via phone, dial 929-205-6099 and then enter the meeting code 404 873 743. To be a part of services, visit the following Zoom link: www.bit.ly/2wnFWlD. Temple Emanu-El Live Stream Services – Temple Emanu-El will have live stream Shabbat services on Friday night and Saturday morning. For more information and to view services, www.bit. ly/2JdsZxa Temple Sinai Live Streaming Services – Erev Shabbat, Fridays at 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Service, Saturdays at 10 a.m. and Bar/Bat Mitzvah Services Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Join in, www.bit.ly/2VmrQdN. The Temple Live Streaming Services – Find live streaming services

Become a Virtual Tutor: www.mindbubble.org Donate for Emergency Groceries: www.pawkids.org Provide rovide a Meal to Homeless Women: www.rebeccastent.org.

Package and deliver meals through Concrete Jungle: www.concretejungle.org/ The Atlanta Public Schools need help delivering food on bus routes as well as food distribution sites in kitchens and drive through lines.

For more information, www./bit. ly/2Uk7lga.

JFCS Kosher Food Pantry: www.jfcsatl.org.

Repair The World Resource – A one-page resource for caring for the sick in the time of crisis.

For more information, www.bit. ly/2JamMlQ. Cards & Care Packages for Jewish HomeLife Staff: www.bit. ly/2WDncsY and www.bit. ly/2WDncsY Second Helpings Volunteer Opportunities: www.bit.ly/2UpkxQE Help with COVID-19 – A list of additional volunteer opportunities: www.helpwithcovid.com Please send Volunteer Opportunities to jen@atljewishtimes.com.

Check the Atlanta Jewish Connector for updates: www.atlantajewishconnector.com.

Connector Chatter Directory Spotlight

www.atlantajewishconnector.com

Atlanta Jewish Music Festival In conversation with Joe Alterman How long has your organization been in Atlanta?

The Atlanta Jewish Music Festival was founded in 2009 by Russell Gottschalk, who led the organization for nine years. I became executive director in the summer of 2018, and my passion for music history, my background as a professional jazz musician and my love and fascination surrounding the question, “What is Jewish Music?” became my guiding lights.

How do you cater to young members?

Being that we seek to showcase the contributions Jews have made to the music world, each concert caters to a different audience. So, that “Lawrence” concert, for example, brought out close to 300 young adults. In addition, AJMF has taken on throwing the annual Jewish Christmas Eve Party, something we did for the first time last year and will continue to do each year. For the event, I hired a DJ to play music most young adults associate with bar mitzvah parties, got a Chinese food buffett, and called the event “The Egg Drop,” holding it at Smith’s Olde Bar. That event was at capacity with over 400 young Jews all together that evening!

Where do you see your organization in 10 years?

We did, unfortunately, have to cancel this year’s Spring Showcase because of COVID-19 but, as we seek to move the timing of our yearly festival to late August (after school starts but before Labor Day) we are hoping we will be able to move forward with the festival weekend scheduled for the weekend of Aug. 20. Looking into the future, our goal will always be quality and thoughtful curation. I wish I could divulge more about our future right now, but we have a big, exciting announcement coming soon, so we hope you will all stay tuned over the next couple of months!

Balloons Over Atlanta

Chabad of North Fulton

In conversation with Gayle Rubenstein How long has your organization been in Atlanta?

Since the 70s, but we have owned it since the early 90s. We are the first balloon delivery service in Atlanta. We started on Peachtree Street in a tiny shop by Rick Adams in 1979.

We bought the business from him in1993 and introduced more events and décor and mitzvahs and got well known in the corporate arena.

How do you cater to young members?

This past year we did a mixer with Federation for people in their 20s and 30s and we just partnered with PJ Library for a great event. A lot of our clients are celebrating their children and we take great pride in those events and making them a special experience. For young adults and parents, it means a lot to them that they can trust us as a company to guide them through traditional celebrations while still creating unique and fresh event experiences.

Where do you see your organization in 10 years?

We’re continuing to expand our event planning side of the business and we like to stay ahead of the pack on decor trends for our clients. In 10 years, we see ourselves with a continued solid relationship with the community and with a reputation as a well-rounded decor and event company. Community is one of our corporate values so the traditions of giving back to our community will continue to be a big part of our future.

In conversation with Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz How long has your organization been in Atlanta?

We got started in August 1998. So we have been here for almost 22 years.

How do you cater to young members?

We reach out to teens and youth through various ways.

We run Jewish clubs at the local middle schools, run a local chapter of CTeen (the national Chabad teen outreach initiative), and various other engagements via personal contact and social media.

Where do you see your organization in 10 years?

Hopefully as a continued leader In nurturing Jewish life in North Fulton.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 49

COMMUNITY MJCCA Book Festival in Your Living Room

By Marcia Caller Jaffe While we are adjusting socially and culturally to the “new normal,” how delightful that Pam Morton, director of author events for the Book Festival of the MJCCA, and the festival folks devised new free programming to get us through the laying low times.

The Book Festival of the MJCCA in Your Living Room LIVE on Zoom begins April 27.

“This unprecedented time has presented us with the unique challenge of coming up with new and innovative ways to present culturally relevant programming that will both entertain and enlighten our community,” Morton said.

“As there is a plethora of online content available right now, we are curating these programs very carefully in order to offer topics that make the most sense and will be of most interest while we shelter in place.”

Here she supplies the specifics: AJT: How did this new virtual model come into play?

50 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Photo by Michelle Watson, Catchlight Group // Learn about the conspiracy to kill

Abraham Lincoln from author Brad Meltzer four years before his assassination.

Morton: We had already scheduled many spring and early summer in-person events when we began hearing about COVID-19 and the possibility of business and school closures. By the time we had to close the MJCCA, most of those authors had already postponed to the fall or were in the process of making decisions about their tours, which were subsequently cancelled. In addition, several of the books scheduled for June releases have been moved to the fall.

We tried to pivot to virtual events as quickly as possible in order to offer our

Photo by Andrea Cipriani Mecchi //

Follow along in the kitchen as Paula Shoyer demonstrates how to create kosher recipes with food already in the refrigerator or pantry.

community compelling online content that would create some sense of normalcy. Thus, Book Festival of the MJCCA in Your Living Room! We hosted two in March and they were both successes.

We learn something new following each program and are continuing to hone and perfect the process.

streaming services, the audience has the opportunity to use the chat feature to type in questions throughout. Holly also fields the Q&A with the author. The audience will be able to ask questions as it comes to them during the program.

The programs are scheduled to last 45 to 60 minutes, including the preamble, interview, and audience Q&A. All events at the present time are free and open to the public. Register on our website https://www.atlantajcc.org/.

Click on Arts & Culture to reserve a spot in the meeting. All events include links to

Jennifer Weiner's new novel explores friendship and forgiveness.

AJT: How will the lectures work?

Morton: CNN’s Holly Firfer will host and welcome everyone, introduce the authors, and conduct the “in conversation.” With Zoom, as with many of these

COMMUNITY purchase the books from our partner and official bookseller, A Cappella Books.

AJT: When will the future schedule be determined?

Morton: That’s the million-dollar question! As with everything in the world right now, we are taking it one step at a time and will make decisions as soon as we have guidelines from the CDC and state officials, and our own MJCCA leadership and board. We look forward to the day when we can all be together again in our theater and other JCC venues for inperson events.

I suspect we will never take these types of moments for granted ever again.

The lineup: 4 p.m. Monday, April 27 Paula Shoyer, “The Healthy Jewish Kitchen” Shoyer, known as “the kosher baker,” joins us “in the kitchen” for a tutorial on creating delicious recipes out of food already in your refrigerator and pantry.

Follow along in your own kitchen or just sit back and watch delicious happen! Tips on how to buy and use produce strategically, getting the most out of your grocery store trips, creating dishes without a recipe, and swaps for ingredients you might not have on-hand.

Summer” is a sparkling novel about the complexities of female relationships, the pitfalls of living out loud and online, and the resilience of the human heart.

8 p.m. Tuesday, May 12 Brad Meltzer, “The Lincoln Conspiracy” History Channel host and best-selling author Meltzer brings us his wit and historical knowledge in his latest nonfiction book.

Everyone knows about Abraham Lincoln’s assassination in 1865, but there was also a conspiracy to kill him years earlier in 1861, literally on his way to Washington for his first inauguration.

The plot was foiled thanks to a detective who infiltrated the group with undercover agents, including one of the first female private detectives in America.

Had the assassination succeeded, there would have been no Lincoln presidency, and the Civil War would’ve had a potentially different ending. ì

8 p.m. Thursday, May 7 Jennifer Weiner, “Big Summer” Weiner, the number one New York Times best-selling author (“Good In Bed,” “In Her Shoes”), returns with an unforgettable novel about friendship and forgiveness during a disastrous wedding on picturesque Cape Cod. “Big Summer” is about a young woman coming into her own in New York City while managing her new status as a plus-sized Instagram influencer.

From self-doubt to toxic friendships to smoking hot love scenes, “Big ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 51

SIMCHAS Zoom Mitzvah

By Roni Robbins

was sure we could figure out something meaningful.”

The tongue-in-cheek email invitaDespite the global health crisis, the Lipson family refused to postpone 12-year- tion, alone, was enough to elicit a chuckle old Rory’s bat mitzvah. While not the des- from those invited, while it set the mood tination bat mitzvah originally planned, for the event. “Please wear bright, spring they got creative to make those attending colors. Think of this as the dress code for

by Zoom videoconferencing April 6 feel as the event. Please download the Zoom app if they were attending a synagogue service on the device you plan on using to parinstead of watching a well-dressed family ticipate in the service … Think of this step orchestrate the coming-of-age ceremony as mapping out the directions to a new synagogue. Please join this Zoom link at in their Toco Hills foyer.

“I thought I’d have Jerusalem stone around 10:50 a.m. ET. You will be placed as the backdrop,” said Rory’s Mom, Les- into a virtual waiting room until right lie. Rory’s bat mitzvah was supposed to before 11 a.m. ET. Think of this as getting be in Israel with 18 people. When the to the service early enough to get a good Jewish state began restricting visitors, re- seat or find parking.”

There are similar instructions for quiring them to be in quarantine for two weeks upon arrival into the country, the muting and unmuting (synagogue etiLipsons cancelled those plans. Next, they quette), the downloadable guide (siddur), considered a bat mitzvah on Amelia Is- request to take selfies (roving photographer) and use land, Fla., where the chat functhe family had tion to leave vacationed bemessages for fore. Social disRory (signing a tancing rules guest book or prevented that signing board). from happening What those either, so they who tuned into resigned themthe Zoom cerselves to continThe Lipson family set up a makeshift bimah in their foyer flanked by floral arrangements and emony saw was ue the ceremony got dressed up for the occasion. They asked guests the family of in their home attending via Zoom to wear bright, spring colors. four – Rory, Les– with a little inlie, Aaron and Karen – dressed in their genuity.

Postponing the event was not an op- synagogue finest, at a table with a raised tion, Leslie Lipson said. “Part of it is our platform flanked by floral arrangements. religious belief that when it’s the 12th It was a scene similar to what you might birthday for a girl or 13th for a boy you see on the bimah for a traditional bat are a bar or bat mitzvah. Also I wanted mitzvah. “We were going for a more to teach our kids that it’s not an obliga- formal look, not just FaceTiming on the tion or opportunity to put off. We don’t couch having a bat mitzvah,” Leslie said.

By setting the scene through the know what the future holds,” she said. “I

Rabbi Adam Starr of Congregation Ohr HaTorah gave a d’var Torah at the end of the service.

email invitation, not just a 10-minute video, she hoped the guests felt like they were really attending the ceremony.

“This is the dress code, parking, getting a siddur, … the goal was to enhance the experience by making it analogous to a synagogue service.”

In addition, the family added a few prayers appropriate for the times about unity, health, hope, doubt and remaining positive during a pandemic. Leslie said she received comments about the Zoom bat mitzvah afterwards that the ceremony was “what the community needed.”

And “it changed the outlook on a COVID Monday.”

Unlike a traditional bat mitzvah, the technology allowed a more personal connection with guests. At the end of the service, Rabbi Adam Starr of the family’s synagogogue, Congregation Ohr HaTorah, offered a d’var Torah and guests

could give a blessing for Rory.

“I was disappointed at first,” Rory said last week, a few days after the ceremony. “I really wanted to celebrate with family and friends and read from the Torah. It wasn’t the same” having a ceremony in her home, she said. But she felt greatly supported by the more than 200 people who witnessed her reading her Torah portion, while not from the physical Torah. “I really thought it was a meaningful experience,” she said. And she’s looking forward to having a party in 2021 with her friends and family. Of coronavirus, preventing her from experiencing Israel over spring break and having a more traditional bat mitzvah, she said, “It’s pretty disappointing, but we are making the best of it. It still brings me joy to have quality family time and I try to call all my friends twice a day. They are supportive and kind.” ì

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52 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

SIMCHAS SIMCHA SPOTLIGHT

Happy Birthday Syd Green

Syd Green recently celebrated her 94th birthday, an age she’s never been before in an age none of us have ever experienced. Fortunately, Green has gotten to know Lynn Podber over the last four years during their pairing through Jewish Family & Career Services’ One Good Deed program. Since 2006, One Good Deed has matched more than 400 older adults with community volunteers. These friendly visitors bring companionship and joy to seniors and help reduce loneliness, help older adults maintain their independence, and remain in their own homes.

Podber couldn’t imagine Green’s 94th birthday without celebrating “together,” so Podber and her daughter, Wendy, delivered a birthday bag to Jewish HomeLife’s The Jewish Tower in Buckhead, dropping off the package outside the entrance for Green. They stood outside the entrance watching Green pick it up – honoring all social distancing rules – and celebrating her birthday!

Jewish HomeLife and JF&CS are both proud partners of AgeWell Atlanta, a collaborative partnership to help older adults and caregivers navigate the aging process. The partnership also includes the Marcus JCC and the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. Together, they provide a continuum of services and support to meet the needs of older adults and their caregivers.

Engagement Announcement Cohen-Finkelstein

Barry Cohen and Anita Rainwater of Marietta, Ga., Suzanne Merrall of Rochester, N.Y., and Michael and Sharon Finkelstein of Scottsdale, Ariz., announce the engagement of their children Matthew Joshua Cohen and Karin Amy Finkelstein.

Cohen is the grandson of the late Martin and Mildred Cohen of Atlanta, and Lorraine Merrall and the late Seymour Merrrall of Rochester, N.Y. The future groom graduated from Walton High School in East Cobb. He went on to study at Emory University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry with a minor in public health. He earned his dental degree from the Dental College of Georgia and completed a Masters of Dental Science and Orthodontics at University of Rochester Eastman Institute for Oral Health. He works as an orthodontist with his father, Barry Cohen at Cohen Orthodontics in Dunwoody and Smyrna.

Finkelstein is the granddaughter of Jack and Elaine Finkelstein of Garden Grove, Calif., and the late Edward and Clara Shinder of Long Beach, Calif.

The bride-to-be graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts in Jewish studies and communication and a minor in business. She earned her master’s in elementary education from Arizona State University. She is a financial consultant with Charles Schwab in Sandy Springs.

An October wedding is planned in Atlanta.

Have something to celebrate?

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Share it with your community with free AJT simcha announcements.

Send info to submissions@atljewishtimes.com submissions@atljewishtimes.com..

Happy Birthday Ruth Lewis

Ruth Lewis recently turned 95 April 18, and her daughters and the staff at the Renaissance on Peachtree, where she and her husband Ken live, found a way for the family to wish her a happy birthday. The staff brought them out onto a second-story balcony. Down below, her three daughters, Judi Schnitzer, Sue Heavlin and Carol Salmons, gathered with two sons-in-law, three of her five grandchildren and five of her great-grandchildren and cheered and serenaded Ruth with “Happy Birthday.”

Ruth and Ken have been married 73 years. Ken turned 96 three days earlier. They moved to the Renaissance a little over a year ago after living in Roswell for 15 years. They moved to Atlanta from Philadelphia to join two daughters, a son-in-law and four of their grandchildren.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 53

OY VEY

JEWISH JOKE OF THE WEEK

OY VEY! HAVE I GOT A PROBLEM... adees” surrounding Dear Rachel, e with a crew of “chick wif use ho me l-ti ful a s t somehow, to my Once upon a time, I wa I didn’t believe them. Bu fly, uld wo rs” yea ese “th d it happened. Shaking me. When everyone sai I am left wondering how d an , ool sch in all are es to do now that I’ve incredulity, my little on hands, wondering what my on e tim h wit es elin sid my head, I am left on the . of) rt (so g my home and growup grown my days, content, tendin gh ou thr ved mo d an nute used to be acI got married young enly, where my every mi dd Su . ma em dil a h wit ed se hours I feel bored ing family. Now I am fac in front of me. During the t ou h etc str t tha e tim of I know what to do to counted for, I have gaps my potential. So, how do ng lizi uti t no of se sen a by l health field sounds and unfulfilled, nudged ool. A degree in the menta sch to k bac go ld cou I , ks at that option. The fill those gaps? Of course logy. But a part of me bal cho psy or rk wo ial soc of sounds like torture. appealing; I love the idea taking tests, … YIKES! It rk, wo me ho ng doi s, sse , there is … gulp …WORK! idea of sitting through cla d then, after I graduate An t? ou day d an in the house full time? (I How do kids do that day mother working out of d an e wif a of a ide the OUT!) Whoever came up with wife-mother who needed er a man or a dissatisfied eith s les calling wa it t edu tha sch e s’ tur kid ven my would events that arise on the ut abo at wh ng, rki parents are invited to If I’m in school or wo and “special days” when ys pla ir the at t sen pre t seeing me would be for a parent? I want to be o a sea of parents and no int g kin loo en ldr chi mother, and I’m concome. The thought of my available as a wife and be to nt wa I . me for d an goal. devastating – for them er me from my primary ree and a career would det deg a ing rsu pu t tha cerned Any advice?

Signed, At A Crossroads

Dear A.A.C, I think your aspiration to be there for your husband and children is beautiful and sorely lacking in our modern “ME” era.

But you certainly need to tend to your own needs also. Boredom and a lack of personal satisfaction can lead to depression, creating an unhealthy situation for you and the family you want to tend and nurture.

Since you don’t want to pursue options that would consume too much of your time and energy, thereby detracting from your family, let’s explore some other possibilities.

Would you consider going back to school part-time? Perhaps taking a course or two at a time wouldn’t be overwhelming, enabling you to pursue your personal goals while not detracting from your family.

Would a course in life coaching appeal to you? It is much less time consuming and will give you that one-on-one interaction that you seek. As a life coach, you will have the tools to empower your clients to realize their potential. This can be very rewarding.

If you don’t necessarily need a career, what about filling the gaps with volunteer work?

Depending on the niche that suits you, there are children’s hospitals and geriatric facilities, your synagogue, your children’s school. … Volunteers are ALWAYS in high demand and can give so much. Anyone who volunteers in a meaningful way knows that the dividends are inestimable – you receive much more than you give.

Is there a talent or hobby you would like to pursue but have shelved over the years due to family considerations? Do you find time for regular exercise?

Transition periods are challenging. Your life was sailing along in one direction and suddenly, it swerved off course. Now you must navigate a new path.

But new times can be exciting and exhilarating. Think of it as a chance to discover a whole new you – and embrace it!

Wishing you the best, Rachel Atlanta Jewish Times Advice Column Got a problem? Email Rachel Stein at oyvey@atljewishtimes.com, describing your problem in 250 words or less. We want to hear from you and get helpful suggestions for your situation at the same time!

54 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

Joshua is out shopping when he bumps into his friend Sam outside the jewelry store. Sam has a small gift-wrapped box in his hand.

“Hi Sam,” Joshua says, “what have you been buying, may I ask?”

“Well, to tell you the truth,” Sam replies, “it’s my Miriam’s 70th birthday tomorrow and when I asked her what she wanted for her birthday, she said, ‘Oh, I’ll leave it up to you, darling, but how about something with lots of diamonds in it?’”

“So, tell me already, what did you buy her?” Joshua asks.

“I bought her two packs of bridge cards.”

Joke provided by David Minkoff www.awordinyoureye.com

YIDDISH WORD OF THE WEEK Tummler

‫טומלער‬‎ An entertainer or master of ceremonies, especially one who encourages audience interaction (‫טומלער‬‎, tumler, from ‫טומלען‬‎, tumlen, "make a racket"; cf. German: (sich) tummeln, "go among people" or "cavort"; OED

BRAIN FOOD

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32. Large creatures that saved some Hobbits 33. "What ___ saying?"

34. Tilling tools 39. "Blazing Saddles" actress Madeline 41. Car dealer's incentive 44. "Spartacus" director 46. American Jews have two of them 48. Total 50. Settings of some TV dramas 51. Manischewitz hexagon 54. "___ big deal" 55. Sounding like one has a cold, say 56. ___ Gadya 57. Hearty's companion 58. Longtime enemy of Wonder Woman 60. "What have I done?!"

63. Platt of note 64. "X-Men" producer Arad 65. Hat-rack part

Tabernacle item?

52. Rhoda's sister on "Rhoda" 1. Pre-World Series event, for 53. Animated chipmunk short 56. Blackens, as ribs 5. "CSI: Miami" actress Eva 59. Length of the Torah?

10. Created 61. "Give ___ go!"

14. A dollar is almost equal to 62. Dancer-turned-spy Mata one 63. What Pharaoh hoped to do 15. Golden and teen follower after Moses split the sea?

16. Longtime Israeli ambassador 66. A Baldwin to Washington 67. Alternative to Dasani or Deer 17. What Aaron might have done Park when Moses smacked a rock?

68. Smoker in Sicily?

19. Mount where Moshe died 69. Word before job or calendar 20. The first O of O-O-O 70. Mets outfielder Brandon 21. Grammy winner India.

71. Rock field: Abbr.

22. Most wearers of phylacteries 23. Show scorn, in a way 25. Hot spots DOWN 28. What Joseph may have done 1. Natural homes when thinking about Esau's 2. Werewolf teacher of Potter pursuit of Jacob?

3. The Ibn Ezra translates "tzefar33. Fan sounds dea" as not frogs, but these 35. "Red October," for one 4. Drunk 36. Inky black, in poetry 5. "Oz" lion Bert 37. It merged with Time Warner 6. Bias against seniors 38. AMEX listing 7. Fixes, as leftovers 40. He held up the arms of 8. Israeli mentalist Geller Moses 9. Ballpark figure, briefly 42. AI game competitor 10. Older son of Yosef 43. Go hunting for 11. Biblical homicide victim 45. ___ in "uncle" 12. 1993 film in which Kevin 47. What one does in a Yeshiva Kline played the president 49. What Betzalel did regarding a 13. Seth's first son

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Rabbi James Lebeau of the Shibuya-Ku, Japan, Jewish community. “Our children need to learn the mitzvah of gemilut chasadim (deeds of loving-kindness) and there can be no better way than to urge them to respond to a tragedy such as the Kobe earthquake,” the rabbi wrote. ì Representatives from the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) visited Atlanta as part of a national campaign to train local resettlement workers in immigration law and help immigrants complete their naturalization. HIAS and Jewish Family Services coordinated the local project, which attracted about 150 Russians. “It’s beautiful to see these people want to become citizens,” said Dale Millman, coordinator of acculturation programs for the Atlanta Jewish Community Center.

15 Years Ago// April 29, 2005 ì A pilot project for non-Jewish mothers raising Jewish children began, called Mothers Circle. The program was a casual drop-in series of free monthly events such as coffee gatherings and movie nights. Alvin Sugarman, The Temple’s rabbi emeritus, served as the group’s spiritual advisor. “I see the group as a sanctuary in which to exchange ideas and experiences,” said Laila Berland, a non-Jewish mother raising Jewish children who attended Temple Emanu-El. ì Adam and Heather Blank announced the birth of their son, Aaron Samuel, Oct. 20, 2004. A brit milah was performed by Dr. Mark Safra at the Blank home, with Rabbi Mario Karpuj officiating. Aaron was given the HeSam Massell joined brew name Aharon Shlomo in memory of his great-grandparents, Lee and Ann about 15 other mayors Samuel; great- grandfather, Stanley Weintraub; and great-great-grandfather, from the U.S. on Aaron Flank. a visit to Israel.

50 Years Ago //May 1, 1970 ì Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Rich and Dr. and Mrs. Herschel Isaacson, all of Atlanta, invited their relatives and friends to attend the b’nai mitzvah of their sons, Alan Rich and Keith Isaacson, May 2 at Ahavath Achim Synagogue. A kiddush followed the service. ì Atlanta’s Mayor Sam Massell left for a visit to Israel. He joined about 15 other mayors from throughout the country as guests of the Israeli govern25 Years Ago// April 28, 1995 ment, including mayors from Nashville and Houston. While visiting, the mayì Students at The Epstein School raised $300 to help the Jewish community in Kobe, ors spoke with top government and municipal officials and toured historical sites and tenJapan, rebuild its synagogue after suffering earthquake damage earlier in the year. Repairs on sion areas. Massell was accompanied on the trip by his wife. ì the synagogue totaled more than $100,000, according to a thank you letter to the school from ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 55

NEW MOON MEDITATIONS Iyar: Walking the Path Toward Holiness Rosh Chodesh Iyar spans two days, April 24-25. The acronym for Iyar is alef-yud-resh, “I am G-d your healer,” from the book of Exodus 15:26. This Dr. Terry Segal is Divine timing New Moon Meditations to be reminded that we are not alone. During the pandemic of COVID-19, this phrase has the potential to offer great comfort to us all, those who are healthy and praying to stay that way, those who are ill or fear becoming ill, as well as those who are grieving the loss of loved ones who have succumbed to illness. When we say, “We are all in this together,” we must remember to include the presence of Hashem.

Our task this month is to refine and purify our souls in preparation to receive the Torah on Shavuot. It’s the same theme as it is every year at this time. But is our

56 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

world the same as it’s always been? Are we the same? Of course not.

Everything has changed, from the way we conduct business to how we greet one another. So where and how do we begin to rise to this task? Many are depleted and can’t think about such matters. But there has never been a more important time to transform our animalistic nature to G-dliness. When we’re at our most vulnerable, lives and hearts cracked open, is when G-d’s light has a gap through which to shine and illuminate our souls. Now is certainly that time.

During the seven weeks of the counting of the Omer, from Pesach to Shavuot, we’re provided with a structure for refining our souls through the seven middot (universal virtues or attributes of G-d). For each week on the calendar, begun at sundown on April 9, and ending at sundown May 28, we can contemplate various ways to practice and integrate each quality. If you’re starting late, do each of them on your own timeline.

The seven middot are: kindness/ chesed (living in service to G-d, loving one

another); severity/gevurah (being disciplined, with high expectations of self/others); harmony/tiferet (integrating kindness with severity and adding compassion); perseverance/netzach (not giving up); humility/hod (being humble); foundation/ yesod (giving of time, energy, money); and royalty/malchut (serving G-d through all middot).

The process is like paint-by-numbers, with layers of light and dark creating depth, until the full picture becomes clear. We have guidance, but each of us is required to take the steps alone, toward the completed act, which is arriving at Shavuot, humbled to receive the gifts of Torah.

Since it may be daunting to add one more thing to your very full lists at this time, consider focusing on the middot while engaged in an act of self-care. In what ways are you already caring for yourself? Are you taking long baths or long walks? Are you listening to music? Are you sitting on the ground in the sun? Are you doing jigsaw puzzles? Each week meditate on the virtue while doing one of those things.

Many people are calming themselves

by taking baths. Epsom salt baths help to relax muscles, allow your body to absorb the salt, which is magnesium, and to detox. Don’t soak for more than about 20 minutes or you’ll reabsorb everything you just released. Be sure to check with your doctor if you have a skin condition before adding this or essential oils to your bathwater. Long walks help keep our qi, or life force, activated, circulating our blood and releasing endorphins. Music invites our minds to rest and ride on the waves of the notes. Grounding connects us to Mother Earth, and sunshine provides direct vitamin D. Jigsaw puzzles permit us to narrow our focus. They make the large, overwhelming world, small. Things fit together and form a larger picture. We know what the completed picture looks like on the box, before we begin, unlike life right now.

Meditation Focus: Rather than viewing the changing structures in government, education, family and the economy as a “break down,” view it as an opportunity to “break through.” Elevate your spirit by mindfully practicing these seven middot. ì

OBITUARIES

Lenore Epstein

Norman Joel Greenberg

Lenore Epstein, age 82, passed away April 7, 2020. Born in Richmond Hills, N.Y., she was the beloved daughter of the late Betty and Isidore “Chic” Lupescu. Lenore was a devoted wife to the love of her life, and is survived by her husband of 62 years, Preston H. Epstein. She was the adored mother of Jeffrey M. Epstein, Susan E. Heidt and Jonathan A. Epstein, and is survived by son-in-law Ronald, daughter-in-law Laura and six grandchildren, Michelle, Danielle, Jamie, Rachel, David and Isla.

Lenore Epstein and Preston were high-school sweethearts. They married in Verona, Italy, which kickstarted Lenore’s passion for travel, which she indulged throughout her life. So high-energy, she combined being a homemaker and true matriarch of the family with both entrepreneurial flairs having started and run various businesses in Jacksonville, Fla., and Birmingham, Ala., including with Preston running Celebrated Experiences.

She had a passion for philanthropic and community work. She was a board member of Community Kitchens of Birmingham, a board member of ORT, an active fundraiser for the N.E. Miles Jewish Day School in Birmingham, and was involved with many synagogue organizations and many other charitable organizations.

Warmly loved and admired by all who knew her, she will be remembered for her strength, warmth, humor and caring nature. For the past 12 years Lenore was a resident of Atlanta, Ga. She passed away having survived multiple cancers and suffered from dementia.

Funeral services will be private. To express condolences and/or make donations, the family asks that you contact those charities devoted to feeding those in need during these difficult times. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Norman Joel Greenberg, 76, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away peacefully April 8, 2020.

Norman had an unrivaled fighting spirit throughout the years and will be greatly missed.

Norman was a native Atlantan, attended Grady High School and the University of Georgia. He was predeceased by his parents Sonny Greenberg and Pauline Greenberg Gouse.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Sherrie Greenberg, their children Jeff and Leslie Greenberg, Todd and Laurie Greenberg and Cary Greenberg. He was a one of a kind Poppy to his five grandchildren Andrew, Maxwell, Brett, Conner and Taylor. He is also survived by his sister Gloria Cohen of Columbus, Ga. The family would like to give their utmost thanks and gratitude to the team at Piedmont Hospital and Piedmont Heart Institute. Additionally, his family would like to thank Weinstein Hospice for the great care and devotion given by Nolan Teter and Carla Polikov. Likewise, a special thanks to his caregiver Desmond Tucker.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Weinstein Hospice, 3150 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, Ga. 30327.

A private graveside service was held April 10 at Arlington Memorial Park.

82, Atlanta

Roslyn Goldberg 95, Atlanta

Roslyn Goldberg, 95, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away peacefully April 20, 2020. Born September 24, 1924, in New York, N.Y. to Helen and Abraham Fingerhut, she grew up in Woodmere on Long Island. She graduated as a member of the basketball team and best dressed at Lawrence High School. Following high school, she attended Syracuse University, where she continued her basketball career and met the love of her life, Seymour Goldberg, who she married in 1944.

Roz and Sy, as they were known to everyone, moved to Woodmere, N.Y., where they had a daughter, Claire. While working as a bookkeeper, Roz tirelessly raised money for various Jewish organizations including Hebrew National Orphan Home and Sam Fields YMHA in New York. She was an integral part of both Congregation Shearith Israel and Congregation Beth Tefillah in Atlanta. In 1980, Roz and Sy moved to Atlanta to be close to family and their three grandchildren Adina, Michael and Alex. The couple flourished in the South, and made a life enriched with family, friends, celebrations and travel.

Roz was a magnet and confidant to her friends of all ages. Everyone sought her out due to her extraordinarily kind nature and wise advice. She was an eternal optimist and had a gift for putting people together and introducing her diverse friends to each other. Her social calendar was one to be envied: dinners, theater, mahjong tournaments and movie clubs.

Her days and nights were filled with outings and lots of laughter, … and fashion. Roz carried her high school title with her and was a “Fashionista Extraordinaire” until the last moment. Each and every day, Roz “dressed to the nines” and looked gorgeous whether she was staying home or going out. Her accessories and shoes were perfectly coordinated with her outfits, accentuated by her signature hairstyle and manicured nails. However, what really defined her life was her family.

Her daughter Claire was her pride and joy, and her love grew exponentially when Adina, Michael and Alex were born. Her grandchildren were her whole life. She and Sy never missed a birthday party, a piano recital, a baseball game, an honors ceremony, or a chance to be together for anything and everything. Her great-grandchildren continued to reap the benefits, joy and luck of having such an involved GiGi. Roz was predeceased in death by her husband of 50 years Sy, and is lovingly survived by daughter Claire (Howard) Peck; grandchildren Adina Kalish, Michael (Dara) Kalish, Alex (Jessica) Kalish; great-grandchildren Talia and Ryan Neufeld, Stella and Sy Kalish, Shane and Ruby Kalish; sisters-in-law Norma Goldberg and Lois Goldberg; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Contributions in memory of Roslyn can be made to Jewish Family & Career Services, Atlanta Scholars Kollel, Congregation Beth Tefillah, and The William Breman Jewish Home.

Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

76, Atlanta

Vivian Rosenfeld Greene 82, Atlanta

“Vivacious” Vivian Rosenfeld Greene, 82, born Sept.

19, 1937, in Atlanta, Ga., passed away peacefully at Berman Commons Memory Care center March 8, 2020.

A second-generation native Atlantan, Vivian was the daughter of the late E. David and Fannie Rosenfeld, and sister to the late Robert Rosenfeld.

Vivian attended Sophie Newcomb College of Tulane University and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Emory University. Vivian was an avid performer and became the premier Israeli folk dance teacher in Atlanta, instructing children and adults alike throughout the city for decades. She led her family with her first husband to become the dancing troupe, The Miller Family Israeli Folk Dancers, which performed for a variety of festivals and functions throughout the Southeast for several years.

Vivian worked in many industries, including as an advertising executive and a salesperson. She loved travel, so becoming a travel agent allowed her the wherewithal to explore near and far. She loved to learn about new customs, foods, and, of course, dances. She was not shy about engaging in conversations with the “natives” and squeezing as much joy out of trips as possible.

Vivian met her match when she married Bob Greene. Their 37-year relationship made both of them better people, and they both were so lucky to have found each other and enjoy life to its fullest together. Their shared sense of humor and desire to dance, travel and find laughter everywhere were uplifting to all who knew them. Though Vivian’s love of Israel and Judaism was always expressed through song and dance, more recently she became more religiously observant and gained much from synagogue attendance and participating in lectures by various rabbis. She would observe Shabbat and would spend her afternoons reading a variety of Jewish texts. Whenever there was a family crisis, Vivian would send those suffering some Jewish book, article or sermon apropos to the situation. Doing so she let her family members know how much she loved them.

She is survived by her loving husband Bob; her son and daughter-in-law Neal and Denise Miller; daughter Ann Tamli; stepson and stepdaughter-in-law Gary and Sally Greene; stepdaughter Debby Greene; stepdaughter and stepson-in-law Ruth and George Cohen; a combined 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Graveside services for immediate family were held at Crest Lawn Memorial Cemetery April 10. Rabbi Mark Zimmerman of Congregation Beth Shalom officiated. You may view a recording of the funeral service using the following URL https://www.facebook.com/dresslersjewishfuneralcare/.

As social distancing is currently in place due to COVID-19, instead of in-person condolence calls, please share your memories and pictures of Vivian on the Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care Guestbook. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, CDC Foundation, or Congregation Beth Shalom.

Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 57

OBITUARIES

Liselotte Grogin

Max Olim

Liselotte “Lee” Grogin passed away peacefully Sunday, April 12, at the age of 101. She was preceded in death by her husband David, sister Margot, and two loving sons Steven and Allen. She was born in Bern, Switzerland, July 13, 1918, while her parents Albert and Frieda (Hammer) Goldstein awaited repatriation to Germany after a World War I officer exchange with the French.

After the “Great War” her family moved to Leipzig where she lived until marrying and moving to Berlin. Using their Swiss and Czech birth certificates as shields to keep the SS out of their apartment during Kristallnacht, they sheltered German Jewish families, many of whom had been beaten and lost members during the night. A year later, her and Georg’s birth certificates provided them the ability to reach the U.S. on Aug. 1, 1939, long after German immigration was banned.

Once in New York, she got divorced to pursue her childhood dream of marrying one of the “tall, dark, handsome, rich” Jewish men that were rumored in Leipzig to line the streets of New York. Proudly getting “three out of four,” she married David and had two “tall, dark, handsome sons.” For over 30 years she operated Barnett and Son jewelry shop with David in Manhattan. Memorable clients included John Lennon and Yoko Ono, to whom she personally delivered custom-made wedding jewelry. She retired soon after David passed in 1975. But her natural ability at sales brought her back to work, spending a number of years at Tiffany & Co., where she earned many Salesperson of the Month awards at their silver counter.

Eventually the New York summers were no longer worth the trouble, and she moved to Florida year-round where she lived self-sufficiently until the age of 98. During these years, she regularly drove family and friends to their appointments, dog-sat, house-sat, and nurtured all around her. Socially active, beloved by all, and a regular fixture at the night spots of Aventura, where her close friends would gather to drink and dance each week.

In 2017, she moved to an assisted living home in Atlanta near her grandson, where she was again loved by all who met her. She is survived by her loving niece Elisheva Ben Sheffer (Gidon); two grandsons Norman (Traci) and Spencer (Lisa); and four great-granddaughters.

Donations should be made to The William Breman Jewish Home, 3150 Howell Mill Rd, Atlanta, GA. 30327. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Max Olim passed away April 21, 2020, at the age of 76. Born in Birmingham, Ala., Max graduated from Shades Valley High School in Birmingham and went on to earn his bachelors and law degree at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

Max moved to Atlanta in 1968 and lived in the broader Atlanta area for over 52 years. Max loved eating, traveling and watching University of Alabama football. More than anything, he loved spending time with his family, especially his wife, children and grandchildren.

Max was very active in the community, serving as president of Gate City Lodge, B’nai B’rith of Georgia, and the real estate section of the Atlanta Bar Association. Max is also a veteran, having served in the U.S. Coast Guard.

Max was born Sept. 15, 1943, and was the son of Milton and Sadie Olim. He is survived by his wife, the love of his life for 50 years, Ann Olim; two sons and two daughters-in- law Lenny and Allison and Matthew and Debbie Olim; grandchildren Sari, Gordon, Cole, Stella, Mason and Ethan Olim. Max is also survived by his sisters Bailey Olim and Goldie Weiss as well as brother and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held April 22 at Arlington Cemetery. Sign online guest book, www.edressler.com. Donations may be made in memory of Max to Weinstein Hospice or Congregation B’nai Torah. Arrangements by Dresslers Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

101, Atlanta

Benjamin Landey 79, Valdosta

Benjamin Landey, a beloved “one of a kind,” and larger-than-life character, passed away April 7, 2020, at age 79 after battling pancreatic cancer. Benjie, as known by family and close friends, entered the world May 12, 1940 in Valdosta, Ga. Ben lived his life “all in!”

His dedication to family, enthusiasm for learning, and deep passion for music will always be admired. If you heard a guitar strumming or piano playing with Israeli and American folk songs led and taught by Ben, you knew he was in his element. If you wanted a humorous study partner or a gregarious conversationalist, you could count on Ben. His soul was nourished by his connection to the Jewish people and to the land of Israel.

As a brilliant immigration attorney, Ben achieved unheard of results dedicated to defending the rights of illegal immigrants – often pro-bono – hoping to escape persecution or seeking a better life in the United States. If the law didn’t appear on his client’s side, he fashioned new legal theories. If the facts didn’t support his client’s case, he dug deeper until he found the solution. Ben made friends and schmoozed with judges and prosecutors who greatly admired his honesty and integrity for the law. Spending his life contributing actively to others, he felt he never did enough for the world. He was a true idealist in every sense.

Ben is survived by his wife of 55 years, Faye Hite Landey; daughters Leah (Ted) Blum and Sharon (Adam) Clark; grandchildren Josh, Abby and Evan Blum and Skyler Clark; sister Judy Landey (Marty Kleinman); aunts Shirley (Donald) Reisman and Esther Margol; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

We deeply miss the laughter of our Dad/husband/uncle/grandfather/brother, his larger-than-life presence, his humor, his love of family, and how supportive and proud he was of all of his family. We hope to follow in his footsteps, how genuinely positive he lived his life. We will forever smile when we remember his favorite meal: A hot bowl of chili, chicken pot pie, chocolate chip cookies, and hot chocolate pudding.

In Ben’s memory, donations may be made to the scholarship fund of his cherished Camp Judaea in Hendersonville, N.C., where he served as its first song leader in 1961. Please call CJ’s development director Alyson Lev, 954-937-3993 or log on to Campjudaea.org . Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

58 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

76, Atlanta

Bertram Robinson 97, Raleigh, N.C.

Bertram Robinson, 97, of Raleigh, N.C., passed away April 6, 2020. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Anna and Aaron Rabinowiz. Bert had a long career in accounting and founded the firm, Robinson, Rabinowitz & Bernstein, P.C. He loved to travel, socialize, play tennis, and spend time with his loving family.

Dad always had a smile on his face, and we’ll miss his enthusiasm for life. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his four sisters.

He is survived by his wife Ina, and their two daughters Marian Robinson (Sue Vahrenkamp) of New York City and Randie (Mitch) Weisberg of Raleigh, N.C.; and grandson Keith Weisberg of New York City, as well as several nephews and nieces.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either the Chabad in Atlanta, https:// www.bethtefillah.org/about-us, or Raleigh, www.jewishraleigh.org/templates/articlecco_ cdo/aid/4647269/jewish/Donate.htm.

‫זיכרונה‬ ‫לברכה‬

OBITUARIES

Charlotte B. Sherman 91, Atlanta

Charlotte Sherman, loving mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully April 17, 2020.

Charlotte was born in Warrensburg, Mo., the only child of Sam and Pauline Bernstein. She met and married her life partner Robert E. Lee Sherman in Kansas City, Mo., in 1954. They made their home in Cincinnati, Ohio, for 20 years before moving to Atlanta and joining Temple Sinai.

Charlotte was predeceased by her husband Bob and by her son-in-law Donald Burke II. She is survived by her daughters Sydne Cooper and Barri Burke; son-in-law Neal Cooper; and two grandchildren Alexandra Rose Burke and Sol Robert Cooper.

A private graveside service was held April 19 at Crestlawn Memorial Park with Rabbi Binyomin Friedman officiating. Please sign the online guestbook at www. dresslerjewishfunerals.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Women’s American ORT, Temple Sinai or Congregation Ariel. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999

Edith Waronker 95, Atlanta

Edith Waronker, 95, passed away peacefully April 24, 2020, in Atlanta, Ga. She was born in New York, N.Y., Nov. 27, 1924, to Teddy and Sophie Newman. At age 2, Edith, her brother Herman, and her parents moved to Atlanta where she grew up and later married Jay Waronker of blessed memory and raised their two sons, Harold and Steve.

After Jay’s untimely death in 1960, Edith began a long and meaningful career at the Ahavath Achim Synagogue where she proudly called herself Rabbi Harry Epstein’s “secretary.” When Rabbi Epstein retired, Edith continued as assistant to Rabbi Arnold Goodman for many more years.

Edith’s death was sadly preceded by the death of her beloved grandson Brian Waronker of blessed memory. Edith is survived by her children, Harold and Sue Waronker and Dr. Steve and Mitzi Waronker; grandchildren Joni and Adam Maroney, Mindy and Matt Coleman, Jeffrey Waronker and fiancee Susannah Felton; three great-grandchildren Cameron and Meredith Maroney, and Mitchell Coleman; and 11 cherished nieces and nephews.

Edith enjoyed many years of mahjong with good friends. She will be missed by the many lives she touched over the many years she lived. Private graveside services were held April 26 at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Brian Waronker Memorial Fund for Addiction and Recovery at Temple Sinai, Ahavath Achim Synagogue or The William Breman Jewish Home.

Death Notice:

Lucille Poch, mother of Temple Sinai member Gary (Debra) Poch, died Tuesday, April 21. Due to the pandemic, the family memorial service was held virtually by Lucille’s congregation in Florida April 26.

Lucille will also be remembered lovingly by her daughter Sharon Poch and her granddaughters, Katherine and Maddie.

Those wishing to express condolences may send a note of sympathy to Gary and Debra at 4220 Exeter Close NW, Atlanta, Ga. 30327

Obituaries in the AJT are written and paid for by the families; contact Managing Publisher Kaylene Ladinsky at kaylene@atljewishtimes.com or 404-883-2130, ext. 100, for details about submission, rates and payments. Death notices, which provide basic details, are free and run as space is available; send submissions to editor@atljewishtimes.com.

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 59

CLOSING THOUGHTS I Am Not Looking No, I am not looking for a beautiful, decked out, senior adult or senior citizen living facility.

However you refer to them, I really am not Shaindle moved by their beauty, their Schmuckler creative archiShaindle’s Shpiel tecture, their perfectly kept lawns, their swimming pools, their shopping at the mall trips in little buses, all their activities and programs (my own mom, z”l, was the Purim queen at her Delray Beach home), their tennis courts or their golf courses. I don’t even play golf, for goodness sakes, and to be truthful, I don’t see myself wearing a bathing suit anytime soon.

F.Y.I.: I am a Purim queen each year as I lead The Weinstein School preschool in their Purim parade. This is infinitely more exciting.

Why, you ask, am I not looking?

60 | APRIL 30, 2020 ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES

First of all, and actually most of all, living in the land of denial as I happily do, the why you ask is an easy one to respond to: I do not identify myself as a senior, and certainly not as elderly. Well, not where I live my life, I’m not. I am not any age. I am simply and comfortably me. Life is so much more interesting in my neck of the woods. Denial has everything anyone would want in life.

Do you realize the moment you admit you are a senior citizen there is a certain look, a certain way you are addressed, sometimes spoken to in a voice too loud and too slow? It is crazy-making.

And who says I am in the later stage of life? I am in a stage, but who knows if it’s earlier or later? I prefer not to label it at all.

In case you are wondering how to identify a senior citizen, and in case you require a translation, here it is: Senior citizens are also known as elderly persons or simply as seniors. Categorically, a senior citizen is a social demographic based on age. Someone who is 35, for example, cannot be a senior.

Being a senior citizen typically means that a person is at the age in which they retire from work. They are transitioned from a working adult to a retiree.

I bristle at the word elderly. My grandparents were elderly; I am not elderly.

It is true, if I were to move from denial to reality, I could get so many discounts handed to me. I don’t really need the seat on the bus (I have not even been on a bus in ages; just thought I’d throw this in).

OK, you may say, Shaindle, you are such an ahktion (stubborn). Why not think of it as being wiser with age, being freer with age? Nope, tried it, can’t do it.

Shaindle, how about considering all the discounts and money you would save?

Nope, tried it, can’t do it.

Shaindle, how about considering all the respect you would garner? Are you kidding me, if I have to wait to be identified as a senior, or elderly, to garner respect, what a foolish life I would have led. Am I right, or am I right?

Our own government is not sure when one should be considered a senior citizen or elderly. According to Medicare, a senior is 65 years old or older. However, Social Security benefits are eligible for seniors starting at 62, even though the Social Security office reports that 67 is the age of retirement. Yet if you are 55 and you visit an Arby’s or Mc-

Donald’s, you can get a senior discount. By the way, Burger King requires you to be at least 60.

Now I ask you, why even get involved in such narishkeit (craziness)?

Do I have children who are the same age as I am? Well, in a manner of speaking, I suppose I do. Of course, my 10 grandchildren would laugh at this, however, my mantra is let them laugh; it does not stop me from adoring them. Knowing how much I do care for and about my ‘babies,’ why would I live in a place where they are not welcome? Oy, this would be enough to age me on the spot.

My actual residence is in a beautiful country-feeling community. Lots of different ages, children, teens, a school, a lake, trails, tennis courts, so many ethnicities, cultures, and let me not forget the deer.

And best of all, my 10 ‘babies’ can stay with me as many times as they wish, and for as long as they wish.

Why would I look for anything else?

Besides, should we decide to make such a move, I would have to leave my beloved land of denial.

Are you kidding me? My dear readers, this will never happen. ì

ATLANTA JEWISH TIMES APRIL 30, 2020 | 61

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