Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. 99 NO. 16, August 31, 2024

MITZVAHS

Rosh HaShanah at Brook Run Park

October 3, 2024

11:30am-12:00pm - Service for Young Children (Ages 0-8)

Free & Open to the Community

12:15pm-1:45pm - Casual Service

Tickets Available

Yom Kippur at Temple Emanu-El

October 12, 20242

9:00am-9:30am - Service for Young Children (Ages 0-8)

Free & Open to the Community

10:15am-11:45am - Casual Service

Tickets Available

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DEBBIE DIAMOND

MARCIA CALLER JAFFE

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Leo Frank’s Yahrzeit Connects Past to Present

Wittenstein, representing the Anti-Defamation League, called for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to refer the Frank case to the office that revisits old cases.

By Dave Schechter

Speakers at the annual Leo Frank memorial service drew a direct line from his lynching in a Marietta woods on Aug. 17, 1915, to events in the current day.

Among them, last year, when the name of Leo Frank was invoked in anti-Jewish leaflets thrown into driveways in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody, and by neo-Nazis who marched outside an East Cobb synagogue carrying signs that declared “Leo Frank was a child killer.”

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The yahrzeit service, usually held in sweltering heat at the site of a historical marker along Roswell Road near the lynching site, this year was held Aug. 18 in more comfortable surroundings, in the sanctuary of Temple Kol Emeth in Marietta.

Rabbi Steve Lebow told an audience of more than 200 people in the Kol Emeth sanctuary: “Leo Frank’s exoneration still matters because we cannot make our future good until we have made our past right.”

Robert Wittenstein, representing the Anti-Defamation League, recalled how, as a girl, his grandmother was put on a train to Birmingham, Ala., “because there were pogroms in Atlanta,” mobs seeking out Jewish business in Atlanta, as Jews who, after generations thought themselves assimilated but suddenly faced terror in “an atmosphere of hostility that was reminiscent of the old country.”

Wittenstein, whose father, Charles Wittenstein, was active in the effort that secured a pardon for Frank in the 1980s, called for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to refer the Frank case to the office that revisits old cases.

Willis may have other pressing cases before her, “but there has to be bandwidth for this, it’s really important,” he said.

Frank, a 29-year-old, Texas-born transplant from New York, was the superintendent of the National Pencil Company factory in downtown Atlanta. On April 26, 1913, which was Confederate Memorial Day, 13-year-old Mary Phagan, an employee from Marietta, came to pick up $1.20 owed her for work done the previous week. Her body was discovered early the next morning in the factory basement. Three days later, Frank was arrested and charged with murder.

He was convicted on Aug. 25, 1913, sentenced to death, and sent to the state prison in Milledgeville to await execution. His appeals, including to the Supreme Court of the United States, were denied. “The trial was marred by witnesses who were coached, forensic evidence that was suppressed, and testimony that was ac-

Temple Kol Emeth Rabbi Steve Lebow speaks during the Leo Frank memorial service.

Robert

Former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes is pictured speaking at the Leo Frank memorial service at Temple Kol Emeth.

tually perjury,” Lebow said.

Frank was kidnapped from the state prison in Milledgeville and driven to the Marietta woods by a cabal of men — including prominent citizens of Cobb County — angered that Gov. John Slaton had commuted the death sentence to life in prison.

The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles in December 1983 rejected an appeal of Frank’s conviction, saying that his innocence could not be established without doubt.

On March 11, 1986, the board granted a posthumous pardon “without attempting to address the question of guilt or innocence and in recognition of the state’s failure to protect the person of Leo M. Frank and thereby preserve his opportunity for continued legal appeal of his conviction, and in recognition of the state’s failure to bring his killers to justice, and as an effort to heal old wounds.”

Former Gov. Roy Barnes, who has advocated for Frank to be exonerated, said: “There is no doubt in my mind that Leo Frank was and is not guilty and was innocent of the crime in which he was accused. The evidence is overwhelming.”

Barnes named prominent members of the cabal — some whose descendants are residents of Cobb County today — that planned and carried out the kidnapping and lynching, including his wife’s grandfather. He called the plot “a secret that was not spoken” in the years after.

A piece of African American history

that pre-dated Leo Frank also was part of the memorial service, that of an estimated 570-plus Black people were lynched in Georgia between 1880 to 1946. One was John Bailey.

Bailey was arrested on Thursday, March 15, 1900, in Marietta for allegedly assaulting a 15-year-old white girl. He was arraigned on March 17 and was ordered held pending trial.

But on Sunday, March 18, a mob of 100 masked white men dragged him from the jail to the Marietta Square, where he was lynched. The wire apparently broke and he fell to the ground, where he then was shot 10 times, and his skull struck by a crowbar. Bailey was taken back to the jail, where he died two days later.

No one came forward to claim a reward for information. No one was held accountable. The young woman lived her life out in Cobb County and died in 1960.

Now the Cobb County Remembrance Coalition plans events to remember Bailey and, with the help of the Equal Justice Initiative, based in Montgomery, Ala., plans to erect a memorial marker to Bailey in Marietta next March.

“We want to put a face on Mr. Bailey and give him a life,” said Beverly Jackson, of the Remembrance Coalition.

Lebow also spoke of then and now, saying, “It needs to be emphasized that the Marietta of today, the Cobb Country of today, is a far, far different place than it was a century ago.” ì

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The Leo Frank lynching memorial historical marker

JNF Dinner Spotlights Impact of Volunteers

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Michael Miller hosted Jewish National Fund’s dinner on Wednesday, Aug. 7, to recognize community members who had volunteered in Israel post-Oct. 7. During the outdoor dinner, volunteers shared their experiences, ranging from agricultural support to rebuilding ravaged communities.

During the preprogram, retired gastroenterologist Dr. Steve Morris told the AJT, “My group picked tomatoes, packaged vegetables, and rebuilt picnic tables for a damaged moshav. Farmers were very appreciative as volunteer efforts helped replace the Thai workers who did not come back for their jobs. Thus, the farmers were able to salvage around 40 percent of their crops.”

Gracious host Miller explained that it was essential to share these stories to illustrate “we heard the cries from Oct. 7 … these volunteers travel 6,000 miles to show Israel that they care. We will never give up, no matter how badly we’re treated.”

Miller then spoke of the upcoming JNF Conference in Dallas on Nov. 14. He

said, “This will be like the Jewish Olympics … 2,500 people and top-notch speakers!”

Miller held up a cookbook by Osi, an Israeli housewife who cooks for tourists, and shared that the Mediterranean style dinner was prepared from recipes in her book. Later in the program, Miller presented JNF Greater Atlanta Execu-

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tive Director Beth Gluck with a surprise birthday gift.

Mark Kopkin, president of Jewish National Fund-USA Atlanta Board of Directors, relayed that the volunteers all shared that their trips were life changing experiences. Kopkin himself visited Israel in March with 11 others from Atlanta. He shared the emotion of his guide who

was stunned that so many “stupid” (but not really) folks would come into a war zone.”

Kopkin further explained that Thai workers didn’t return for fear of repercussions from Iran. He said, “Just think of the power if 1,000 people come in four days, for example, to paint, clear, farm, and bear witness.”

Host Michael Miller spoke of a wonderful sabra housewife, Osi, who prepares meals for travelers, and created this cookbook. The delicious dinner was based on these recipes.

JNF Director Beth Gluck was surprised with a birthday gift from Miller. Retired docs Steve Morris and Paul Scheinberg are “all in” for picking, packing and reconstructing.

JNF President Mark Kopkin

Later in the program, Kopkin talked about JNF’s successful efforts in redistributing populations from the center of the country to the north and south. He stated, “These other areas are less expensive for young couples to live; thus, JNF fills in with schools and hospitals … we want to build back bigger, better, stronger. Post-Oct. 7 … these [victims] are our friends, lone soldiers, special needs, unemployed, all needs to be reimagined.” He closed with the lesson of the reminder that “Hatikvah” means “hope.”

Pediatrician and volunteer Dr. Jeff Hopkins spoke of his “most meaningful experience” and reminded that JNF is “not just about trees.”

Swiss-born Dr. Marc Salzberg, who has been to Israel 50 to 60 times, wanted his children to experience the enrichment of volunteering. He said, “Left, right … government, politics is irrelevant … in spite of the [tragic] festival site, cemeteries, and sadness, there is always optimism, laughter, Israeli dancing.”

Helaine Sugarman has been to Israel 15 times, including her more recent first volunteer experience where she worked with evacuees in the south. She empha-

Dr. Jeff Hopkins, pediatrician, shared his volunteer experience.

sized, “Even if you’ve gone, go again.”

Jackie Goldstein, president of the local JNF Women for Israel, announced the March 2, 2025, Breakfast for Dinner annual JNF event -- with the location change to the Intercontinental Hotel -- has the ability to expand to 600-plus. Tickets are $26, with the consideration of sponsoring a table.

After the program, Elya Courtney, 26, told the AJT about her volunteer trip last May. Courtney, a Master of Public Health at the Atlanta Centers for Disease Control in the field of newborn screening, described her trip as “impactful. We were cleaning up an older woman’s yard. She was ‘bawling’ and Facetimed her husband showing the help we provided; and he was weeping also.”

Retired pulmonologist Dr. Paul Scheinberg was scheduled to leave for Israel Aug. 14 and proactively changed his travel schedule since some airlines have cancelled flights into Tel Aviv. He said, “I got an Air France flight through London. I will spend four days on my own, then attach to the National JNF Mission where I will be picking, packing, sorting, and making lunches. I’m all in.” ì

spoke about JNF’s vital role in rebuilding better and stronger.

Acho: Greater Understanding Leads to Compassion

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

The Temple on Peachtree attracted more than 900 people “equaling High Holiday attendance,” according to Senior Rabbi Peter Berg, to see former NFL player Emmanuel Acho’s discussion, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew,” on Sunday, Aug. 19. Also appearing was the Rev. John Vaughn, Ebenezer Baptist Church pastor.

Wearing many hats including his well viewed video series, Acho also promoted his bestselling book on the same topic with coauthor Israeli Noa Tisby, actress and activist.

Interestingly, the book was published in 2021 prior to Oct. 7. Acho’s message was to take action at the neighborhood level “to change the world” where people speak to each other about sensitive topics like race and antisemitism.

One of his thorny topics was the “Jews in power” trope. He said, “Both my agents were Jewish, both my team owners were Jewish, soooooo.”

Another issue for Acho is how Blacks may lump Jews into “playing the white card,” as he tells others, “If you think Jews

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are all white, go visit Israel.”

He then recalled, “There I was eating sushi at 10 p.m. at an L.A. restaurant, I was verbally attacked … and knew the feeling of being singled out as Jewish (by

association) and labeled a Zionist.”

He also took on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusive (DEI) movement by saying, “It’s sometimes about optics and not outcomes … a group of men making deci-

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The Rev. Vaughn chilled the audience by sharing that his own children are currently students at Columbia University and Bard College as “they are the Fergu-

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(From left) Emanuel Acho, two-time Emmy Award winner, appeared at The Temple on Aug. 19 as the Rev. John Vaughn looks on.

Young fans Erica and Mark Fisher hold Acho’s book.

Event organizer Maggie Gallant (center) received kudos from her gal pals after the event.

son Generation with friends who support Gaza” as a cocktail for disaster, unlike the reverend himself who grew up with Jewish neighbors in Worcester, Mass.

Acho, just 33, spoke of George Floyd’s death as being a defining moment for himself, in that he wished others had understood and reached out. He related, “Even if you don’t know what to say after something like that and Oct. 7 happens, just check in and say, ‘Are you OK?’”

Rabbi Berg recognized Maggie Gallant Isenberg and her Superjuice public relations agency for developing the event and securing sponsorship from the Arthur Blank Foundation. Berg, ever agile with comedy, mentioned the positive idea of having non-Jews for Shabbat dinner “as long as they don’t’ mind sitting for seven hours.”

Berg also jocularly told the mixed audience that that night’s crowd was similar to the attendance The Temple regularly attracts on Friday nights.

Community leader Linda Selig initiated Acho as a member of The White Rose Society, which developed out of a group of non-violent, non-Jewish German students who attempted to defend Jews against Hitler in 1941 but were eventually executed.

Acho, whose father is a preacher, concluded, “Healing begins on the micro level. Kids see what parents do, no mat-

ter what you say.” He revealed that he considers his own platform similar to preaching behind a pulpit, “I just take the cayenne pepper off to make it easy to digest. I quote Moses or Paul, Old or New Testament. The fire is in my bones. Truth, grace and love.”

Afterwards, newlyweds Erica and Mark Fisher told the AJT that they came because they were fans of Acho’s work on ESPN and had seen his conversation sessions with both a Palestinian woman and Noa Tisby. “That fact that he brought so many people out was wonderful.”

Audience member Steve Oppenheimer noted, “It’s important that people begin looking away from the echo chambers of social media and talk to one another, particularly about topics that push us away from one another.”

Temple member Laura Doman was not as effuse. “I think there were missed opportunities to talk about the impact of Acho’s work within the African American, Muslim, and other minority communities, as well as among white Christians. When you’re preaching to the choir, the focus is on experiences we know only too well. I’m more concerned whether other communities truly care about antisemitism and preach against it, and more importantly, whether or not they will do something about it. Especially when no Jewish audience is present to witness it.” ì

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More than 900 community members filled The Temple pews on Aug. 18.

Linda’s Ride: A Journey of Healing and Hope

By Sharon Gelbach

A mountain blizzard in Washington State, sizzling 113-degree heat in Death Valley, powerful prairie winds — these were just some of the extremes that Elliott Segal encountered on his 45-day, cross-country motorcycle ride. For Segal, the almost 10,000-mile trip and fundraiser for Meir Panim and IDF soldiers was a meaningful way to honor the memory of his beloved wife, Linda.

The idea to ride across the United States on his bike first occurred to Segal shortly after his Linda’s passing, in May 2023. “I was destroyed and wanted to get away for as long as I could.” But after a nine-day motorcycle trip from his home in Atlanta to his sister in San Francisco, he realized that his grief was still too raw and that he needed time to process.

The plan resurfaced this past February. After donating to Meir Panim on behalf of IDF soldiers, it occurred to him that he could do better than that. So, he contacted the organization and outlined his initiative to circumnavigate the U.S. and encourage donors to sponsor him by

the mile. Meir Panim set up a website and Segal began to solicit donations, raising a tidy sum even before the ride began.

“I knew it was going to be tough for me emotionally because Linda and I had ridden in a lot of the places I would be passing through. But I felt that it had

meaning and worth and value – to honor my wife and raise money for the IDF,” Segal shared.

A Love for Israel

In their 44 years together, Elliott and Linda raised two beautiful daughters and

had three grandchildren. They shared a passion for helping others – Elliott through his chiropractic practice and Linda as a devoted midwife who brought thousands of babies into the world. They fulfilled their love of the great outdoors through biking and camping all over the

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Elliott and Linda Segal Elliott Segal crisscrossed the country on his motorcycle to honor his late wife, Linda.

Elliott Segal memorialized his late wife, Linda, with a 10,000-mile motorcycle trip and fundraiser.

country. After her family, Linda’s greatest love was Israel, and she demonstrated that love repeatedly through her generous giving to charities in Israel. “Her inspiration and example made the ride a reality,” Segal said.

He faced a few setbacks before starting. First, two of his buddies, with whom he’d originally planned to make the ride, dropped out, due to medical and logistical reasons. And as a retired chiropractor, Segal understood the importance of a motorcycle with good suspension to avoid aches and stiffness. Just four days before leaving, he traded in his old bike and bought a brand-new Harley Davidson, which would become his trusted companion, taking him through tree-canopied mountain passes, dusty side roads and interstate highways with 18-wheelers whizzing past him.

Segal started Linda’s Ride on May 20, the day after his wife’s unveiling, following her first yahrzeit. He took a journal with him, logging his location, thoughts and experiences, and also kept a gratitude journal. “I took some pictures here and there, but not too much. When you’re on a motorcycle, you can’t just snap pictures like a Japanese tourist,” he smiled.

Segal trained for almost three months prior to the ride, working out, swimming and lifting weights. During the ride, he kept himself in shape with a daily stretching-calisthenics regimen. His plan was to get off the bike every so often to take a 10-minute walk and regain circulation, and on most days, he was able to do that whenever he stopped for gas or to buy something to eat.

But there were times when he needed to make progress and had to keep riding for several hours at a stretch. Driving home eastward, through the southern states of Arizona, New Mexico, and across Texas and Oklahoma, it was so hot, he had to get up at 3 a.m. He’d start when it was still relatively cool, until 10 a.m. when, after several hours of one-handed riding (his other hand was shielding his eyes from the sun), he would check into a hotel to catch up on his sleep.

“When I was really tired and getting sick of the ride, I’d remember what I was doing it all for, Israel’s soldiers and honoring my wife,” he said.

Stops on the Way

With a passion for American history as well as being a U.S. Army veteran, Segal made a stop at the Virginia Military Academy. Moving north, he came to Gettysburg where he walked the infamous battlefield of Pickett’s Charge. His next stop was West Point, where he met an Is-

raeli couple, both IDF soldiers. Dressed as he was in his motorcycle boots and jacket, Segal describes himself as “not having the appearance of your typical American Jew.” He was delighted to surprise the Israelis with the fact of his Jewish identity, along with his fundraiser for the IDF.

Since Segal observes Shabbat, he had planned on stopping every Friday in a different community, where he hoped to receive permission to address the congregation about his ride and mission.

He spent his first Shabbat of the ride in Fairfax, Va. He was put up by the local Chabad rabbi and invited to speak at the Shabbat morning kiddush, where he was very well received. The following Friday, in Maine, he made his rounds to all the shuls in the vicinity but was disappointed to find that they were all on vacation. “That was essentially the situation I encountered across the country,” Segal said, with the exception of the Chabad rabbi in Olympia, Wash. “The rabbi apologized, saying that the congregation was so small, they wouldn’t be holding a service, but he invited me over anyway, saying he’d love to meet me.”

Moments of Reflection

Segal’s ride took him through some breathtaking scenes in nature, with moments that he describes as “truly extraordinary” — observing eagles in flight, catching sight of a herd of mother elks with their calves and yearlings, and seeing the northern states of Vermont and New Hampshire for the first time. On the other hand, he found parts of the trip emotionally bittersweet, such as traversing the states where he had ridden with Linda in the past. The overall experience, though, was one of healing. “Linda was, and still is, my soulmate. Sometimes I’d talk to her about the ride and about the memories we had together.”

Segal talks about a deep feeling of gratitude that he felt, “just for being allowed to take this ride, to do what I did, and see what I saw.”

Trip to Israel

As the road stretches out ahead of him, Segal’s journey is far from over. With Linda’s memory fueling his spirit, he continues to seek new horizons, driven by the purpose of helping others and finding meaning. He’s currently looking forward to visiting Israel in September, when he will volunteer his chiropractic services to Israel’s soldiers.

“I feel that if I won’t be busy with something that has meaning, I’ll just whither up and die. It’s a priority for me to keep on going and to keep on giving,” he said. ì

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Art Exhibit was ‘Twice as Weiss’

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Joan Weiss of Dunwoody and Sharon Weiss of Sandy Springs are not related. Maybe they are kindred spirit muses in Atlanta’s active art scene. Viewers were in for a double treat as both Weisses' works have been exhibited for the month of August at the Sandy Springs Library.

In the exhibit are oil, acrylic, pastel and watercolors, along with collages and mixed media in representational and abstract styles. The artists actually met when Joan took an art class taught by Sharon at the Spruill Arts Center and continued their relationship as members of the Dunwoody Fine Art Association.

Sharon works in pastel, oil, watercolor, watercolor pencil, pen and ink. She is known for vibrant food paintings on glass, silver, and ceramic plates where the fruits and vegetables are more “real” than reality. She enjoys painting landscapes from trips to national parks, fall foliage, and European buildings as well as close-ups of flowers, children and pet portraits, in addition to her food portraits. Some paintings seem “good enough to eat” among those on display at

the library:

“Strawberries on Silver,” “Red and Black Plums,” “Water Lily on Pond,” and “Golden Marsh.”

Growing up in Los Angeles, Sharon received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with honors and teaching credential from UCLA, an art school which concen-

trated on teaching the student to see nature, light, and color as part of the creative process. She is a Member of Excellence of the Southeastern Pastel Society and pub-

Two Weiss artists, (from left) Joan and Sharon, where Mississippi talent meets Los Angeles creativity.

Sharon Weiss’ “Water Lily on Pond” is her expression of nature.

course work at UCLA focused on seeing nature, portrayed here in her “Golden Marsh.”

licity chair for the Dunwoody Fine Art Association. Her work has won awards and been included in many juried group shows. In addition, she received the Best of Faculty Award at the first student and faculty exhibit at the Spruill Gallery and has participated in shows at the Swan Coach House Gallery and Sights and Insights at the Chastain Gallery.

Sharon began teaching workshops in 2003 at the Spruill Arts Center in Dunwoody. With a full-time corporate job designing health care software, she initially taught weekend workshops. She incorporates the structure and organization from the business world in her approach to teaching by providing detailed written steps and examples. She individualizes instruction and coaches students to develop their own style. By using this structured training approach from the corporate world, students build the skills to express themselves in creating original artwork.

Joan discovered the artist within after raising her own children and re-

A Place to Call Home

tiring after a 30-year career teaching Spanish. After she started taking classes at the Spruill Arts Center, she surprised herself when her work was accepted into juried shows and won awards. She won first place in the student category in the first Spruill student and faculty exhibit, has had work purchased by the Spruill Board, and has continued to learn and expand using acrylic paint, collage, and mixed media in representational and abstract styles.

Raised in the Mississippi Delta, Joan has an emotional response to her Southern life there. Through her art, she attempts to communicate the images, emotions, and memories that place evokes. Some of her works on display are: “Montmartre” (acrylic on canvas), “The Right Path Three” (mixed media collage on paper), “Green Triad” (collage), and “Thinking about the Future” (collage).

The Sandy Springs Library is located at 296 Mt. Vernon Highway. It is open seven days a week and admission is free. ì

Congregation Ariel, located in beautiful Dunwoody welcomes Jews of all ages, stages and backgrounds. Join us for daily minyanim, classes with Rabbis and one-on-one learning. Ariel is also partnered with the Atlanta Scholars Kollel, hosting classes, workshops, and study groups. Ariel’s youth groups are full of energy and learning for all ages. The Dunwoody Branch of B’nai Akiva calls Ariel home and brings with them meaningful and exciting programming. Our growing campus includes a modern sanctuary, social hall, an elegant women’s mikvah, and Keilim mikvah.

Congregation Ariel, a warm community in Dunwoody. Wishes you a Shana Tova.

“Strawberries on Silver” is an example of food portraits.

Sharon’s

Home Sweet Home with the Zimmermans

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

Adam Zimmerman, co-owner of A-Z Drainage Solutions, moves heaven and earth every day for a living. Joined by his wife, Maia, who runs the intricacies of the office, along with their team of talent which includes Adam’s identical twin, Robert (Bobby), this family-owned dream team of skilled professionals beautifies homes and solves mother nature’s most challenging issues at lightning speed.

Driven by excellence, A-Z Drainage Solutions is in a league of its own. A highly specialized field, they strategically solve the unpredictable challenges of unwanted water and rainstorms and are in the business of taking care of exterior needs, waterproofing, while environmentally and structurally beautifying one’s home, impacting erosion, hardscaping, landscaping and protecting it all.

Adam and Maia, both natives of Atlanta who grew up in Johns Creek, are prepared to tackle the hardest of drainage issues, leaving homes ready to weather a storm. Adam shared, “I started A-Z after years working with a waterproofing company and the entrepreneur in me said I can do this in an honest yet still profitable way.”

Maia added, “I left my job in corporate America, as we started our business and took a leap of faith and have humbly, happily, and gratefully never looked back.”

The Zimmermans chose the name A-Z Drainage Solutions (which also stands for their daughter, Avery’s, initials) to include their extensive services under one roof making their slogan, “We’ve got you covered from A-Z.” A to Z provides an integrated approach addressing exterior drainage systems, retain-

ing walls, downspouts, dry creek beds, earth swale, hardscaping, landscaping, catch basins, French drains, load bearing walls, retaining walls, waterproofing, fire pits, paver patios, custom stonework and more.

Accolades pour in from grateful customers plus experts, including Lauren Wayne, president of ARIES, Inc, a well-known structural engineer, expert witness, and consultant who stated, “A to Z drainage offers excellent customer service and attention to detail. I first came across their work on one of my jobs and asked who installed the drainage. Ever since, I have been referring work to Adam, and Maia is one of the most attentive people I’ve worked with. Anytime I have a question they are both very re-

sponsive. Adam and Maia are trustworthy professionals that can handle any landscaping and drainage projects.”

The Zimmermans met later in life through mutual friends, and both are involved in day-to-day activities, along with Bobby who is deservingly credited for and runs their landscaping division, does estimates, manages projects, and is a minority owner of the company. Maia oversees customer relations, scheduling, business administration and Adam orchestrates estimates, projects, and customer relations on site. A-Z takes pride in setting the standard and their work speaks for itself. Maia added, “Since this is a family business, everyone on our team is family devoted to customers. Francisco and Misael are brothers ready with solid solutions along with their cousin, Nilson, and Miguel Sr. and Miguel Jr., a father-son duo, with a combined 32 years of experience in the waterproofing industry.”

Adam said, “Our most challenging projects involve complete yard renovations, which encompass overhauling every aspect including grading, grass, walls, drainage, and plants. These projects require constant communication, permitting, and close monitoring of multiple elements. Our company takes great pride in both complex jobs and simple ones, as they fulfill the functional needs of our customers and enhance their home’s beauty.”

Adam cautioned, “Water can cause serious issues to the foundations of

homes, leading to major problems if not addressed. Adding proper drainage to homes can help preserve the structural integrity of your home, which is often the biggest investment people make. For example, just two inches of water standing in a 2,000-square-foot home can result in $21,000 in total losses and water damage repair.”

He advised, “Keep an eye on standing water near the foundation and yard’s slope, especially if water flows toward the home, it can cause problems. Be aware of the foundation type if your home has block walls, while poured foundation walls have fewer problems. Look for bowing baseboards, wet carpet, and musty smells if your home has a crawlspace. Our top priority is to prevent water from entering the home and to ensure that any water is directed away from it. Homes commonly experience some form of water intrusion or erosion within the first 20 years of being built, often sooner.”

On a final note, Adam added, “We don’t just solve drainage or structural problems of homes, we build lasting relationships. Our team provides reliable, high-quality service that homeowners can trust. Watching people’s faces when they see the finished product is our reward and calls after heavy rain to tell us it worked like we said it would inspire us. We work hard because we take pride in our work and believe in doing something right the very first time.”

For more information, please visit www.a-zdrainagesolutions.com. ì

A beautiful full front yard renovation by A-Z Drainage Solutions equipped with three retaining walls, a dry creek bed with a catch basin, tying in and burying all downspouts to run off at negative grade in the backyard, plants, and trees.

Adam and Maia Zimmerman with Nilson, Francisco, Misael, and Bobby work together seamlessly.

Grand Tasting Alpharetta Serves Up Deliciousness

By Debbie Diamond

Attendees from throughout Atlanta savored another year of delicious food and lively music during a memorable evening for the Grand Tasting Alpharetta event at The Hotel at Avalon, held on Aug. 8.

Presented by Taste of Atlanta, owned by Savannah native and longtime Atlantan Dale Gordon DeSena, the culinary event showcased more than 25 of Alpharetta’s top chefs and the city’s finest restaurants, including Rina Middle Eastern Street Food, Colletta, Oak Steakhouse, Up on the Roof, Delbar Middle Eastern, Foundation Social Eatery and South City Kitchen.

More than 1,000 attendees took part in the festivities, which included diverse and unlimited tastings, decadent desserts, craft cocktails, beer, wine and an assortment of beverages. In addition, live culinary demonstrations took place throughout the night, and music from an electric violinist and Lilac Wine, a popular local band, energized the night and kept the participants on their feet.

According to DeSena, “Taste of Atlanta was the perfect event to pair delicious food and beverages with an opportunity to support our charity partners.”

Local nonprofit recipients included the North Fulton Community Charities, Giving Kitchen, and Second Helpings Atlanta. Attendees brought nonperishable items for donation to North Fulton Community Charities and were eligible to enter a raffle for an opportunity to win a Taste of Atlanta culinary prize.

Guests also had the opportunity to vote for their favorite food, beverage, and dessert of the evening. This year,

Cattle Shed won “Best Taste” for their Wagyu burger served on a brioche bun.

Crave Cookies was selected “Best Dessert” for their chocolate chip cookie, the Brookie, and Death by Red Velvet. “Best Beverage” was awarded to Bulleit Bourbon for their small batch bourbon and the many distinctive cocktails offered that night.

The city of Alpharetta has embraced

the culinary event in full force. According to Janet Rodgers, president and CEO of the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau, “We had an awesome evening at the Grand Tasting Alpharetta. The atmosphere was very fun and friendly with live music, delicious eats and plenty of drink options. There was an abundance of smiles from enthusiastic vendors and excited attendees. Every aspect of the

evening was well organized, and we look forward to welcoming this event back to Alpharetta next year.”

Grand Tasting Alpharetta is presented by Taste of Atlanta in partnership with Awesome Alpharetta and the City of Alpharetta. Next up for the organization is Grand Tasting Midtown, which will take place on Thursday, Oct. 17, at the Epicurean Hotel in Midtown. ì

Bulleit Bourbon earned the “Best Beverage” award. Drinks included Hotlanta Peach and Ruby & Rye.

Attendees selected Cattle Shed as “Best Taste” winner of the night.

Crave Cookies took home the award for “Best Dessert.”

Phillips Elected Chairman of Americans for a Safe Israel

Moshe Phillips, a veteran pro-Israel activist and author, has been elected National Chairman of Americans for a Safe

Today in Israeli History

Aug. 31, 1947: The U.N. Special Committee on Palestine, formed four months earlier to investigate violence and recommend the next political steps for the British-administered region, meets for the final time. Its majority report recommends partition.

Yosef Zaritsky destroyed this painting, “Oztma” (“Might”), after the special exhibition for Israel’s 10th anniversary in 1958. Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion expressed his dislike for the work.

Sept. 1, 1891: Painter Yosef Zaritsky is born near Kyiv. He moves to the Land of Israel in 1923. He is one of the founders of the Ofakim Hadashim (New Horizons) movement, which emphasizes universality and the abstract.

Sept. 2, 1953: Israel starts work on a project to divert some of the water of the Jordan River at the B’not Yaakov Bridge in the north to irrigate the Negev and generate electricity. Syria’s protests quickly halt the project.

Sept. 3, 2011: More than 450,000 Israelis take to the streets to demand social justice and relief from the high cost of living in the March of the Million, believed to be Israel’s largest-yet demonstration.

Israel (AFSI).

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

“At this critical moment for Israel and the Jewish people, it’s vital for friends of Israel to speak out,” Phillips said. “In the months ahead, AFSI will play a leading role in pro-Israel activism from coast to coast.”

A past board member of the American Zionist Movement, Phillips previously served as National Director of the U.S. division of Herut, and on the staff of CAMERA (Philadelphia). He also was a delegate to the 2020 World Zionist Congress, and editor of The Challenger, the publication of the Tagar Zionist Youth Movement.

Phillips’s op-eds and letters have been published widely in the United States and Israel, including in the Jerusalem Post, Washington Jewish Week, Philadelphia Jewish Exponent, Israel National News - Arutz Sheva, Algemeiner, Jewish Press, Connecticut Jewish Ledger, Five Towns Jewish Times, Baltimore Jewish Times, and Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle, among many other publications.

Compiled by AJT Staff

A 100-shekel note depicts Leah Goldberg. The new Israeli shekel replaced the Israeli shekel five years after that biblically named currency replaced the Israeli pound.

Sept. 4, 1985: The new Israeli shekel becomes the official currency. It is worth 1,000 of the old shekels, which became Israel’s currency five years earlier but are being replaced under an economic stabilization plan.

Sept. 5, 1978: President Jimmy Carter convenes Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and their teams at a Maryland retreat to hammer out a peace plan, the Camp David Accords.

Sept. 6, 2007: In Operation Orchard, eight Israeli aircraft destroy a suspected nuclear reactor, built with North Korean help, at the military site of Al Kibar in northeastern Syria. The U.S. government knows about the secret mission.

The National Library of Israel has been gifted an original David Moss Haggadah // Photo Credit: 2024 David Moss courtesy Bet Alpha Editions

Original David Moss Haggadah Gifted to National Library of Israel

The National Library of Israel (NLI) is thrilled to announce it has received the original version of a modern masterpiece of Hebrew manuscript illumination as a gift from Trudy Elbaum Gottesman and Robert Gottesman. Created by renowned Judaica artist David Moss, the Haggadah is a large-format, handwritten and handilluminated rendition of the classical Pass-

Sept. 7, 1865: Rabbi Abraham Isaac HaCohen Kook, who promotes religious Zionism and writes acclaimed religious books, is born in Latvia. He serves as the first Ashkenazi chief rabbi of Palestine from 1921 to 1935.

Sept. 8, 1908: Liberal Orthodox theologian Eliezer Berkovits is born in Nagyvarad, Transylvania. He serves as a rabbi and teaches in Germany, England, Australia and the United States until he retires to Israel in 1975.

Sept. 9, 1993: Four days before they sign the self-rule agreement of the Oslo Accords in Washington, the Palestine Liberation Organization and Israel formally recognize each other’s existence with an exchange of letters.

Uri Avnery served in the Irgun and fought in the War of Independence before embracing the coexistence of Israeli and Palestinian states. // Knesset

Sept. 10, 1923: Three-time Knesset member Uri Avnery, who founds the Gush Shalom peace movement, is born in Germany. He fights in the 1948 war, then advocates a partnership with the Arab national movement.

Sept. 11, 1921: Moshav Nahalal, a new kind of agricultural settlement combining a kibbutz’s communal principles with private land ownership, is founded in the Jezreel Valley between Haifa and Afula.

over Seder liturgy in a traditional style. The volume headlined Sotheby’s recent sale of Important Judaica.

In his book, “The Jewish Way,” Rabbi Irving Greenberg, called the Moss Haggadah, “A magnificent work of art, possibly the most beautiful Haggadah of all times…” and Bible scholar, the late Rabbi Moshe Greenberg (z”l) wrote: “The illuminations of the Moss Haggadah are a stunning revelation of the layers of Jewish history present in the text … But it is quite impossible to convey the delight experienced by the eye and the mind at virtually every turn of the page of this magnificent manuscript, the creation of an artist steeped in Jewish lore and uniquely capable of suggesting its riches.”

Dr. Raquel Ukeles, Head of Collections at the National Library of Israel, said, “We are beyond delighted to have received this important work. The Moss Haggadah represents a highpoint for contemporary Judaic artwork and the 20th century revival of Hebrew calligraphic arts, in which David Moss played – and continues to play – a pivotal role.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

Sept. 12, 1977: Singer, composer and producer Idan Raichel is born in Kfar Saba. His music incorporates Middle Eastern, Ethiopian and other sounds through the awardwinning Idan Raichel Project.

Sept. 13, 1993: President Bill Clinton holds a White House signing ceremony for the Oslo Accords between the Israelis and Palestinians. Israel’s Yitzhak Rabin and the PLO’s Yasser Arafat famously shake hands.

Sept. 14, 2014: Abdel Rahman Zuabi dies at 82. A judge on the Nazareth District Court for 20 years, he becomes the first Arab justice on Israel’s Supreme Court when he fills a nine-month vacancy in 1999.

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

Moshe Phillips has been elected National Chairman of Americans for a Safe Israel.

Idan Raichel, shown at the president’s residence in 2019, has recorded albums with the Idan Raichel Project collective and as a solo artist. // By Mark Neyman, Israeli Government Press Office, CC BY-SA 3.0

ISRAEL

IDF Rescues Hostage from Tunnel in South Gaza

By TOI and Agencies

Farhan al-Qadi, 52, Bedouin father of 11, was found by special forces in ‘brave and complex’ operation, army says, declining to reveal further details of the raid.

Israeli hostage Farhan al-Qadi was safely rescued by IDF special forces from Hamas captivity in one of the terror group’s tunnels in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday after more than 10 months in captivity, the military announced.

Al-Qadi, 52, was found inside a tunnel by commandos of the Israeli Navy’s Shayetet 13 unit and troops of the elite Yahalom combat engineering unit, the military said. The operation was led by the Israel Defense Forces’ Southern Command, the Shin Bet security agency, and the IDF’s 162nd Division.

The IDF said that further details could not immediately be published, “due to issues of the security of our hostages, the security of our forces, and the security of the state.”

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari described the operation as “brave

and complex,” and based on precise intelligence.

“This morning, Shayetet 13 troops, the Yahalom unit, and the Shin Bet, rescued Farhan alive from a tunnel in southern Gaza,” he said in a press conference.

Hagari denied rumors that al-Qadi managed to escape the tunnel in which he was held, saying that troops “rescued Farhan from underground, he met our forces underground.”

Al-Qadi was not discovered by Israeli special forces “by chance” as some reports described, although there was no pre-planned operation to specifically rescue him, military sources said.

The IDF had been operating in an area of the southern Gaza Strip for several days, with the assumption that hostages could be held in the area. The Shayetet 13 commandos and Shin Bet agents began to slowly search a tunnel complex in the area, where they then discovered al-Qadi.

Al-Qadi was alone in the tunnel where the special forces located him. No other hostages or Hamas terrorists were alongside him, and troops did not face any resistance. ì

Hostage Farhan al-Qadi arrives at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba, Aug. 27, 2024 // Photo Credit: Israel Defense Forces/Times of Israel

Hostage Farhan al-Qadi meets with the commander of the 162nd Division, Brig. Gen. Itzik Cohen, moments after being rescued from a tunnel in the southern Gaza Strip, Aug. 27, 2024 // Photo Credit: Israel Defense Forces/Times of Israel

Israel Scores Big in Little League World Series

David Ostrowsky

Most of them are too young to remember when Israel went on its magical 2017 World Baseball Classic run. After all, the 14 members of Israel’s U12 Little League team were between three and five years old when Israel established itself as a legitimate contender on the world stage.

But this summer, this talented group of young ballplayers authored their own chapter in Israeli baseball history by coming two wins away from securing the country’s first-ever berth in the Little League World Series, held in Williamsport, Penn.

In mid-July, the Israeli squad steamrolled their way through the competition in the Little League Europe-Africa Region Qualifying Tournament in Kutno, Poland, outscoring opponents by a whopping 77-3 margin in their immaculate 5-0 run. During a stretch of dominant wins over Ukraine, Estonia, Poland, and Croatia and a 6-5 thriller over France, Israel’s pitching staff yielded merely five hits while the imposing lineup belted four homers. By virtue of reeling off a 5-0 record in the seven-team qualifying round, Israel emerged as one of two teams (Lithuania being the other one) to advance to the Regional Field for a shot at Williamsport.

Ultimately, the Czech Republic prevailed in Regionals for a second consecutive summer by knocking off Germany to represent Europe-Africa in the Little League World Series, but Israel clearly demonstrated that it belonged among such elite teams. With the backing of political luminaries such as former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and current Israeli President Isaac Herzog as well as Orthodox Jewish pitcher Jacob Steinmetz of the Arizona Diamondbacks organization, who inspired the boys with a video message, Israel scored victories over South Africa (11-4) and Spain (7-4), before eventually falling to Germany, 122, in the semi-final elimination round.

“We made changes to our local league for years to get these players to the highest level possible,” explained Ken Sachs, commissioner of Israel Little League, when speaking to the AJT earlier this month. “This was a plan put in place by former national team player Ophir

Katz and myself a few years ago, knowing the best way to improve our program inside Israel was to start getting the kids into a more baseball-like program from a younger age.

“We worked with the board to restructure the leagues and put rules into place that emphasized development over winning at younger ages with the hope that this would be the beginning of pushing all of our national teams to higher levels.”

Apparently, the plan has worked. Israel boasts an imposing lineup, anchored in large part by sluggers Lior Margulis and Moshe Carmen, the latter of whom socked a 250-foot moonshot during a regular season game at his home ballpark in Efrat that has become the stuff of legend in his hometown. As is the case for the entire Israeli youth baseball program, the future is bright for the 12-yearold Carmen, who became the first youth league player (ages 12-15) to clear the left field fence at Efrat’s ballpark before following up his prodigious regular season blast by going deep four times in Poland.

Meanwhile, the pitching staff con-

sisted of a rock-steady rotation that included Margulis, Roei Malka, Yitzy Kralek, Itiel Holtz, and Eitan Weiss. Some are fireballers, others more finesse pitchers. All played a crucial role in Israel having a nice run during the program’s second go-round in the LL European Qualifiers. (Summer 2024 marks the fourth year of the current iteration of Little League in Israel, but because of COVID and the war in Ukraine, this is only the second time Israel appeared in the Little League European Qualifiers.)

“We saw last year that we could compete in the qualifying tournament and that we were not too far away from competing in the main tournament,” added Sachs, who’s also a longtime coach in Israel and board member of the Israel Association of Baseball. “I personally felt we had a 60/40 chance to make the main tournament before we arrived this year.”

Keeping the kids focused on making the main tourney while living abroad for two weeks – not to mention monitoring the pitching staff’s workload, which is no easy task in Little League as there are stringent pitch limits – fell on the shoul-

ders of head coach Michael Levy, who was assisted by David Weiss, an expert at in-game strategy, and team manager Mordechai Holtz, who deftly managed tricky logistics that ended up including scheduling games around Shabbat and ensuring that kosher food received from the Warshaw Chabad was properly refrigerated.

“He [Levy] infuses the mental aspect of the game into his coaching style and philosophy to get the max out of the players’ potential on and off the field. He clearly did this in Poland,” Sachs commented about his head coach who has a master’s degree in sports psychology and is a mental performance coach back in Israel.

For good measure, following the Israeli Little Leaguers’ impressive showing in Poland last month, Israel also proved victorious in the recent U-23 Baseball Euro Qualifier in Zurich, Switzerland, to secure its place at next summer’s U-23 Baseball European Championship in Trebic, Czechia. Perhaps, it will be an appearance that will coincide with Israel Little League’s debut in Williamsport. ì

Jewish sports fans around the world paid close attention to the Israel Little Leaguers this summer as the boys came within a couple games of reaching the Little League World Series in Williamsport // Photo Credit: Team Israel Social Media

Jewish Athletes Shine at Paris Olympics

By David Ostrowsky

It may take years, even decades, to fully appreciate the spectacular feats accomplished by Jewish and Israeli Olympians in the 2024 Paris Games. It was an Olympics in which Jewish athletes from the United States, Israel, and Australia earned 18 medals (six golds, seven silvers, five bronzes). Only 15 other nations took home more hardware from this year’s Summer Olympics. For Israel in particular, the 2024 Paris Games goes down in the record books as the country’s most glorious Olympics: its grand total of seven medals (three of which were earned on a single day, Aug. 3) represented a high watermark in Israeli Olympic history.

While the stories of the Israeli men’s soccer team, Claire Weinstein, and Jessica and Noemie Fox were chronicled in past editions of the AJT, the following world-class athletes are among the dozens of Jewish and Israeli Olympians who represented their home countries with distinction ... while millions around the world were watching.

Amit Elor

Making her Olympic debut, U.S. wrestler Amit Elor, 20, didn’t just win a gold medal in the women’s 68-kilogram weight class division. When she knocked off Kyrgyzstan’s Meerim Zhumanazarova 3-0 in the final at Arena Champ-de-Mars earlier this month, Elor became the all-time youngest U.S. gold medalist in wrestling, male or female, and continued a remarkable personal streak of not having dropped a single match, at any weight class, since the Under-17 World Championships in 2019.

Elor, the daughter of Israeli immigrants and the youngest of six siblings who took up wrestling when she was a preschooler watching her older brother’s practices, surely would have competed in the Tokyo Games but by virtue of her Jan. 1, 2004, birthday, missed the cutoff for the 2020 Summer Olympics by a single day. And while she certainly made the most of what promises to be the first of many Olympic experiences, her journey to the world’s grandest stage for athletic competition was rife with great tumult as one of her brothers was murdered in 2018 while her dad passed away in 2022.

More recently, following the Oct. 7 attacks, Elor, who has a considerable social media presence, put up a few apolitical messages meant to convey optimism. Such seemingly innocuous posts were met with a rash of antisemitic remarks and even death threats, prompting her to refrain from articulating her heartfelt messages on said platform.

“I was shocked by the Oct. 7 brutal Hamas attack and deeply saddened and concerned about everything that followed,” Elor told Israeli news source, Ynet. “The enormous pain, suffering, and loss is unbearable. If my wrestling at the Olympics can bring even just a little joy in Israel, it will make all the hard work and sacrifices worth it and extra special. I am an American proudly wrestling for the U.S., but in my heart, I am also wrestling for Israel.”

Nevertheless, Elor, who in the wake of the Olympics has felt more empowered to speak out against antisemitism via social media, persevered to make Jew-

ish sports history by establishing herself as the world’s greatest freestyle wrestler in the 68-kilogram weight division.

Tom Reuveny

Unlike the narrative surrounding Elor, the Israel Olympic Committee harbored no such lofty expectations for Israeli windsurfer Tom Reuveny. Yet the 24-year-old Rosh Ha’Ayin native ended up earning a gold medal in the men’s windsurfing iQFoil event, which by his estimation, was the first time he had won a competition since the World Youth Championship in 2017. Reuveny, coached by Israel’s first gold medalist, Gal Fridman, also a windsurfing champion, stayed the course amidst rapidly changing wind conditions to eclipse Australia’s Grae Morris and Luuc van Opzeeland from the Netherlands for the top prize.

Speaking at a press conference after arriving home from the Olympics at Ben Gurion Airport, Reuveny acknowledged that the ongoing war was on his brain during his finest moment in the competition.

“I really remember myself, just before the deciding final race, I thought about the whole State of Israel, I knew that the gold would not just be for me,” he said. “There are so many soldiers who have been called together to protect us, and thanks to them I am here right now.

“I want to offer a warm embrace to the families of the fallen [soldiers], that also thanks to them I’m even standing here and thanks to them we were even able to go to this Olympics.”

In what turned out to be a banner event for Israel, Reuveny’s teammate,

Sharon Kantor, 21, took home a silver medal in the women’s windsurfing event.

Jackie Dubrovich and Maia Weintraub

The gold medal-winning U.S. women’s foil team had a vibrant Jewish presence as Jackie Dubrovich and Maia Weintraub comprised half of this year’s squad. After reaching the semifinals in the last five world championships and getting silver in the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, the United States women’s foil fencers won the program’s first-ever Olympic gold in Paris by beating Italy, 45-39, on Aug. 1. While the Paris Games marked the inaugural Olympic run for Weintraub, who deferred her final year at Princeton University to prepare, the gold medal was especially sweet for Dubrovich, a former student-athlete at Columbia University who recently stepped aside from her day job as a marketing account strategist to train, as she was part of a U.S. team that fell just short of medaling during the Tokyo Summer Games in 2021. Furthermore, Dubrovich, ranked 11th in the world by the International Fencing Federation (FIE), was able to shake off a disappointing exit in the round of 32 during the individual foil competition earlier in the week.

It’s interesting to note that at least for America, fencing remains an Olympic sport that has an exceptionally high participation rate among Jewish athletes: including Dubrovich and Weintraub, six of the 20 members on the U.S. team are Jewish or belong to Jewish families while legendary Olympic U.S. coach Yury Gelman also happens to be Jewish.

ì

Lauren Scruggs, Maia Weintraub, and Jackie Dubrovich of Team USA celebrate winning against Italy during the fencing women’s foil team gold medal match at the Paris Olympics, Aug. 1, 2024 // Photo Credit: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images via JTA/Times of Israel

There was an exceptional number of inspiring Olympic stories this summer, none more so than that of Jewish wrestler and well-spoken social activist, Amit Elor // Photo Credit: Team Israel Social Media

Gold medalist Tom Reuveny of Team Israel arrives home from the 2024 Paris Olympics, at Ben Gurion Airport on Aug. 12, 2024 // Photo Credit: Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90/Times of Israel

History Has a Long Memory

Dave Schechter From Where I Sit

“I used to joke that there were no good days left on the calendar. I now say it without humor. Every date is filled with what one people consider an atrocity committed by the other. Every discussion/debate/ argument is framed by what happened in (pick a year). There is no end to the history invoked.”

Those words, from my first AJT column, published in February 2015, were written about Israel and the Palestinians, but they apply to Northern Ireland, as well.

The Rev. Gary Mason grew up in Belfast during “The Troubles” — three decades of sectarian violence with nationalist overtones that plagued Northern Ireland from 1968 to 1998, involving Catholic and Protestant militias, and British troops and security forces.

Speaking at Congregation Shearith Israel, he traced the origin of the hostilities back to the Battle of Boyne in 1690. History has a long memory.

Mason rejected the messages of hate that marked his upbringing and invested his Methodist ministry

in efforts to end the conflict, finally achieved with the 1998 signing of the “Good Friday Agreement.”

In those three decades, 3,720 people were killed and more than 47,500 injured, the casualties of 16,000 bombings and nearly 37,000 shootings.

An end to “The Troubles” was negotiated when the combatants decided that the status quo could not be maintained and that this was not the legacy they wanted to bequeath to their children and grandchildren, Mason said.

A piece of paper — the product of two years of intense negotiations, aided by the United States — could not ease the grief, nor change competing narratives of history, but it largely stopped the killing and, in that context, was a blessing.

The umbrella for Mason’s work today is “Rethinking Conflict,” a conflict transformation organization that he founded a decade ago. In addition to being an adjunct professor at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University since 2015, Mason maintains relationships with the Carter Center and the King Center, and has preached at numerous area churches.

From his base in Belfast, Mason travels thousands of miles annually, sharing his experience with “The Troubles” and the “Good Friday Agreement” with those living in conflicts elsewhere.

Mason, who does not wear rose-colored glasses, told the Shearith Israel audience, “This is not a blueprint for the Middle East,” but there were “things we got right and wrong that may have applicability.”

“Does the G-d of Abraham want his disciples to kill each other?” he asked. “People have hated in the name of the G-d of love. People have killed in the name of the G-d of life.”

[Yes, I listened to a lot of U2 while writing this column.]

“Most conflicts invariably involve land, identity, and religion,” Mason said. That was true in Northern Ireland. It is true between Israel and the Palestinians.

In both conflicts, history and memory were weaponized, becoming a cudgel more than a guidepost. “Memory becomes a form of resistance” — resistance to compromise, to change, to a future different than the past and the present, Mason said.

Even as details of the “Good Friday Agreement” were implemented, something was missing. “We still don’t have the framework for how to deal with the past,” he said.

Murals on walls in Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods in Belfast are intended to make sure no one forgets. “The tales of what the other side did to us,” Mason observed. “Never what we did to them.”

Mason cautioned that addressing the Israel-Palestinian conflict as a technical problem is “a strategy that fails to address grievances, beliefs, and ideology that characterize the Middle East.”

One lesson learned in Northern Ireland was that “If you’re going to have a peace process, you have to bring in your extremists,” said Mason, who hosts Israeli and Palestinian delegations to expose them to what is possible. “Negotiating with your enemy is sometimes easier than negotiating with your tribe.”

He introduces young (20s and 30s) Israelis and Palestinians to British and Irish activists of that age cohort, to “empower them not to make the same mistakes” as their elders.

If you had bet during the 1980s which of three seemingly intransigent conflicts — Israel and the Palestinians, apartheid in South Africa, and “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland — would remain four decades later, it would have been the latter, Mason said.

Israelis and Palestinians say, “we can’t trust each other,” but “You can’t keep using trust as a reason for not beginning the process,” he said, explaining that in Northern Ireland it took several years to build a base of trust on which to begin negotiations.

That process cannot begin under the present circumstances. In a time of war, just “trying to maintain relationships is an act of dignity,” he said.

The headline on that first AJT column read “Not in My Lifetime.” Near the end I wrote: “With each passing generation, the timeline for peace — even as its definition is debated — moves further out. Today’s children have been fated by history to an adversarial relationship. A generation not yet born will have to find a way out.”

I still feel that way, unfortunately. ì

Letters to the Editor

The AJT welcomes your letters. If you would like your letter to be published, please write 200 words or less, include your name, phone number and email, and send it to kaylene@atljewishtimes.com.

Letter to the Editor,

Kimball Shinkoskey is outraged that more Gazan than Israeli civilians have died in the current war. All civilian casualties are tragic. However, it was Hamas that started the war, and Hezbollah that started firing a day later. Gazans elected Hamas and celebrated its atrocities. Hamas fires from mosques, schools, and hospitals. Hamas built hundreds of miles of terror tunnels, but no civilian bomb shelters. In contrast, Israel kept its casualties low through Iron Dome and bomb shelters. Shinkoskey should direct their anger at Hamas and Hezbollah, not Israel.

John Spencer, head of Urban Warfare at West Point, notes that Israel tries harder than any other country to avoid civilian casualties. The civilian to combatant ratio is lower in this war than others, even if Hamas’ casualty claims are correct. There is an intensely hostile microscope on Israel. The recent Saudi-Houthi war claimed over 370,000 lives, that in Syria over 500,000 people, and that in Tigray between 150 and 600,000 people. The casualty count is not a focus there.

In no other conflict, is such a free pass given to the side that started the war, nor so much demonization directed at a small country fighting for survival.

Doron Lubinsky, Atlanta, GA

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As a letter to the editor, we proof for spelling and grammatical errors only. We do not edit nor vet the information the letter contains. The individual signing the letter is accountable for what they share.

Letter to the Editor,

Kimball Shinkosky apparently does not understand the rules of war. Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel and Hezbollah’s bombing of the soccer field at Majdal Shams were war crimes because civilians were deliberately targeted. In contrast, Israel goes to great lengths to avoid killing or injuring civilians.

Unfortunately, Hamas’ having embedded its extensive network of terror tunnels, built at a cost of $1,000,000,000, among the Gaza populace, turned the people of Gaza into human shields. By connecting the tunnels to schools, hospitals, mosques, businesses, and residences where munitions are stored, where Hamas combatants hold strategic planning sessions, near missile launching pads,  Hamas has made Israel’s exemplary attempts to avoid civilian casualties guaranteed to be less than 100% effective.

https://mwi.westpoint.edu/gazas-underground-hamass-entire-politico-militarystrategy-rests-on-its-tunnels/

And all the calls for ceasefires, with President Biden calling on Israel not to launch a full-scale attack on Hamas’ stronghold in Rafah and delaying arms shipments to Israel, have made it more likely that Hamas will live to fulfill its promise to inflict a thousand October 7’s on Israel.

https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/17/opinions/israel-gaza-hamas-war-us-armsspencer/index.html

Toby F. Block, Atlanta, GA

Local Hadassah Members Attend National Conference Living Links Names Bowman Managing Director

The USC Shoah Foundation and Living Links have named Mollie Bowman managing director of Living Links, the first national organization created to engage and empower third generation (3G) descendants of Holocaust survivors.

An estimated one million grandchildren of Holocaust survivors live in the United States. At a time when the number of Holocaust survivors is dwindling and antisemitism is on the rise, 3Gs are uniquely qualified to offer personal accounts about how unchecked hate led to the Holocaust.

In her role, Bowman has overall strategic and operational responsibility for building the new organization and meeting three core programmatic goals: advancing the 3G movement nationwide, developing educational programming and partnerships, and supporting 3G networks in responding to events that impact targets of hate and bigotry.

the helm to develop the first nationwide organization devoted to empowering 3Gs and helping them bring their compelling family experiences into the public discourse.”

It was evident the moment one walked into the Hadassah National Conference in Las Vegas, from July 2830, that love for Israel is woven into the fabric of Hadassah. Today, Hadassah programs promote a deeper understanding and connection to Israel, while their advocacy efforts support Israel’s security. Hadassah Medical Organization laid the groundwork for Israel’s health care system and has always taken on the challenge and the joy of connecting generations of Jews to Israel. Hadassah continues to advocate for the rights of Jewish people around the world and fosters partnerships.

There were more than 400 attendees at the conference, including doctors, health professionals, and students from Hadassah’s Youth Aliyah Villages. Their stories not only brought home the reality of the conflict in Israel, but their very personal experiences with injuries, family members on the front lines and how Hadassah Hospital has responded to the influx of injured soldiers and civilians and the massive need for psychological support. Speakers included Montana Tucker, U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan, Suzi Weiss-Fischman, Dr. Omri Sender

and Emily Austin.

Hadassah Southeastern Region President Paula Zucker explains, “At the conference Hadassah amended some policy statements and then proudly adopted new ones: denouncing efforts to exclude Jews and Zionists, safeguarding the whole spectrum of reproductive health care, and ending the silence on genderbased violence.”

“Hadassah women turn Jewish values into action, working to build a healthier, safer and more equitable world,” says Simone Wilker, advocacy chair for the Southeastern Region.

Returning from the conference, Hadassah Greater Atlanta is beginning its new campaign, GET OUT THE VOTE 2024 to encourage people of all ages to register to vote and to know where and when to cast their vote. Every single vote and voice matters. Hadassah encourages each person to make them count and help others to do the same. To be clear, Hadassah is passionate, not partisan. For information regarding the work that Hadassah accomplishes in Israel and around the world, please go to www.hadassah.org.

Compiled by AJT Staff

“Mollie brings professional experience with leading nonprofits and corporate entities, as well as excellence in strategic thinking and program management to Living Links,” said Catherine E. Clark, USC Shoah Foundation Senior Director of Programs. “The USC Shoah Foundation brings 30 years of educational and organizational expertise to this visionary partnership and a strong commitment to help build Living Links. We are proud to work closely with Mollie at

Bowman assumes her role as the USC Shoah Foundation marks its 30th anniversary and continues to strengthen connections with descendants of Holocaust survivors. The grandchildren of survivors are the last living links to their grandparents’ eyewitness accounts of a dark chapter in history. By sharing these stories, especially in classrooms, 3Gs have a tangible means to educate and mobilize against hatred.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Notte Wins Golf Junior Championship

Zachary Notte, a senior at The Weber School, recently won the Dunwoody Country Club Junior Golf Championship. Notte shot a 73 on day one of the tournament and shot a 74 on day two.

Notte’s most recent golfing win adds to his impressive resume, including winning gold at the JCC Maccabi Games in 2019 and 2022. Notte, who plays varsity golf for Weber, made the varsity team at North Springs as a freshman and was the only member of Area 4-5A to individually qualify for the Georgia High School Association Golf Sectional Championship. Notte began playing golf at the age of 5. Compiled by AJT Staff

Zachary Notte won the Dunwoody Country Club Junior Golf Championship.

Mollie Bowman has been named managing director of Living Links, the first national organization created to engage and empower third generation (3G) descendants of Holocaust survivors.

Hadassah National Conference 2024 attendees from Atlanta and the surrounding areas: (from left) Hana Landesman, Joyce Rabin, Rhonda Kaplan Katz, Michele Weiner-Merbaum, Diane Taub, Ellen Weinstein, Linda Hakerem, Melanie Frank, Sue Moye, and in the picture frame, Atlantan Paula Zucker, President, Southeastern Region of Hadassah.

STYLE

SIMCHAS

Cookies Beat Out Cake for the New Koodens

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

On May 25, 2024, 225 guests gathered to witness Amanda Abes marry Elliot Kooden amid sparkly silver attendants and a specialty “KOO-kie” bar as the perfect way to end the meal.

The couple had “history” and peripherally knew each other growing up as Amanda was friends with Elliot’s cousin, but they had never formally met. Running

into each other in the fall of 2021 at the Battery, Elliot asked her out the next week via direct message on Instagram. They began dating and got engaged at the Battery in March 2023 -- back to the spot where they first saw each other. Elliot made sure to arrange that the entire immediate family was there to celebrate after she said “yes.”

Amanda graduated from the University of Florida before attending the Medical University of South Carolina, earning

a Doctorate in occupational therapy. She works as an OT at Emory St. Joseph’s Hospital. Elliot grew up in Savannah, graduated from the University of Alabama, and works in wine sales for United Distributors.

The wedding was planned by the bride and mom, Julie, with the help of JDV Occasions, wedding planners Amy Ackerman and Casey Esloon. The venue was an “easy choice” as Amanda wanted

a ballroom setting; and with her parents in the restaurant business (DASH Hospitality), they wanted a venue where they knew the food and service would be “top notch.” They chose Flourish in Buckhead to meet these criteria.

The reception music was selected by Elliot as he liked the band that played at his brother’s wedding six years ago. ATL Groove Factory was chosen to bring the atmosphere the couple wanted – a true

The crowd of 225 cheered on the couple.

nonstop celebration. The first dance was to “Amanda” by Boston. The meal was a seated dinner beginning with a gem lettuce salad served with a gruyere and artichoke tart. Guests could choose between beef short ribs, miso cod in a coconut curry sauce, or a fried oyster mushroom chop served over sweet potato puree. There was also an “after” party at the venue with a late-night menu of chicken fingers, soft pretzels, pizza and fries.

The bride’s dress was Blue Willow by Anne Barge Design found at The White Magnolia. There were 11 bridesmaids who chose their own dresses in varying shades of silver “with sparkle.” There were eight groomsmen. The venue provided the décor and florals which were all in white. The couple are not fans of cake, so they chose a dessert to suit their taste -- a “KOO-kie” bar with over 30 different kinds of cookies from the couple’s favorite places. Some were custom designed with their wedding logo.

Temple Sinai Rabbi Ron Segal officiated. He was touched by how many family heirlooms were woven into the ceremony. The couple used Amanda’s late grandfather’s (Sam Mislow) tallis to form the chuppah, and the Kooden’s family tallis

in which they were wrapped. The kiddish cup is also a Mislow family heirloom made by Amanda’s great-grandfather in Russia. The gold wedding ring Amanda wore for the ceremony had been used by generations of women in her family; and Elliot’s ring was made with a piece of his late grandfather’s ring (Lewis Kooden).

Elliot told the AJT, “What I like most about Amanda is that she is intelligent and puts up with my picky eating habits and obsession over the Crimson Tide. She also hates all potatoes, so I never have to share my French fries with her.”

Amanda replied, “What I like most about Elliot is his caring soul, his goofy spirit, red hair, and that he brings home great wine.”

For a romantic honeymoon, Amanda and Elliot took a nine-day cruise to Italy, Spain, and France … hoping cookies would be served with the bill of fare.

Parents are illustrious restaurant entrepreneurs Julie and David Abes, and Joanne and Michael Kooden from Tybee Island, Ga. Upon “giving his daughter away” in marriage, David said, “It was amazing to see Amanda on her wedding day glowing in happiness. One of the best days of being a father.” ì

The Abes and Koodens share the chuppah.

The attendants all chose their own sparkling silver dresses.

Amanda and Elliot got together the modern way, through a direct message on Instagram // All photos by Jamie Reichman of Reichman Photography

DASH Hospitality restaurateurs Julie and David walked Amanda down the aisle.

Attorney & Vet Unite Over Doggie Cocktails

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Atlantans Dr. Stefanie Seidman and Ben Levy chose coastal Charleston to dance the night away with 240 friends and family at the Charleston Harbor Resort at Patriots Point following a ceremony at Chabad of Charleston on May 26. The ceremony was co-officiated by Rabbis Yossi Refson of Chabad of Charleston and Michoel Refson of Chabad of Athens.

Stefanie grew up in Charleston and attended Clemson University and the University of Georgia School of Veterinary Medicine, but their paths in Athens had not yet overlapped while Ben attended the University of Georgia for both undergraduate and law studies. Both Ste-

fanie and Ben have a wonderful relationship with the “Rabbis Refson” brothers.

Ben and Stefanie first matched on a dating website in March 2020, but COVID struck, and they “just never really got together” until September 2022, when they both were on the dating app Hinge and matched again. They got engaged six months later in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, with both families secretly watching from a balcony while Ben proposed on the beach. Champagne and cheers followed, and wedding planning began.

During the ceremony, the Honorable Judge Scott McAfee of Fulton County Superior Court played Hatikvah on the cello while everyone stood and sang in honor

of Israel and the Jewish people during the difficult months after Oct. 7. Judge McAfee and Ben have been close friends since their law school days at UGA. Israeli style hors d’oeuvres by Neptune’s Kosher Catering of Myrtle Beach were served after the ceremony, before guests were shuttled to the Charleston Harbor Resort followed by a seated dinner.

Stefanie’s dress was a lace bustier bodice with “column fit” created by designer Rue de Seine, as a lace masterpiece. Her great-grandmother’s pearl earrings and necklace completed the classic, elegant touch. The bridesmaids wore sky blue long gowns and sister, Nicki Seidman Biesold, was Matron of Honor.

Ben and the groomsmen wore black

tuxedos, and Best Man was Itay Yarden. “Something special” was one of Ben’s best female friends, Tamar Gez, an Israeli emissary he met years ago in Atlanta and who now lives in Israel, flew in to be one of Ben’s attendants. She wore a long black gown. Friends and relatives came from all parts of the United States; and two couples flew in from Israel. Since Ben has served on the Friends of Israeli Defense Forces Southeast Division board for the past eight years, Ben and Stefanie feel a strong connection to Israel.

The covered pavilion had tables set with white and blue hydrangeas, roses and touches of eucalyptus created by Tiger Lily Wedding Florist of Charleston. Chandeliers were supplied by Quoizel Lighting,

Stefanie and Ben are devoted to their dogs, Manny and Cappy // All photos by Sloan Bragg

where Stefanie’s father is CEO. Their first dance was “Biblical” by Calum Scott. The cake was vanilla with butter cream frosting, adorned with gold Shetland Sheepdog figurines. Since their two Shelties, Manny and Cappy, could not attend the wedding, the “gold” Shelties made their presence known along with two signature drinks: “the Manny,” a vodka, lemonade, and mint cocktail, and “the Cappy,” a rum and Coke with lime cocktail. At the end of the reception, Ben and Stefanie exited in a “just married” golf cart amid a sea of bubbles.

About Ben, Stefanie said, “He is genuine, kind, driven, passionate, hard-working, handsome, the best dog dad, and is an overall mensch.”

Of Stefanie, Ben stated, “She’s sweet, compassionate, considerate and thoughtful to her friends, smarter than me, a

veterinarian and surgeon who is truly dedicated to her patients. We have many favorite things in common -- traveling, college football, and live music.”

Parents are Sue and Bob Levy of Peachtree Corners, and Karen and Rick Seidman of Mount Pleasant, S.C. Ben is the grandson of the late Helen and Izak Weingarten and Violette and Elie Levy. Stefanie is the granddaughter of Barbara Epstein, Boca Raton, Fla., and the late Stanley Seidman, and Helen and Stanley Slavin, Long Island, N.Y.

Younesse Alami of Younesse Events of Charleston was the wedding planner. After a honeymoon in Belize, the couple will be back in Atlanta where Dr. Seidman is a veterinarian at VCA Midtown Animal Hospital and Ben is a personal injury attorney with the Wetherington Law Firm. ì

The happy couple exited the chuppah to mazel tov cheers.

The attendants wore light blue long gowns and tuxedos.

Signature cocktails were named after the couple’s two pups.

Above: The Levys (left) and Seidmans were thrilled to join families.

Below: Ben davened with emotion prior to the ceremony.

The room in white decor was elevated by a wood beamed ceiling.

Hopak/Kozatsky Dancing Ramps Up Wedding

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Samantha Morton met Billy Schlesinger at a Shabbat dinner in Toco Hills. Their journey led them to the industrial setting at Midtown’s Bishop Station on June 23 where 120 guests toasted to their marriage.

Samantha said, “We were so lucky to have our best friends fly in from all over

-- even as far as Brazil. They propped us up the entire weekend and especially on the wedding day. We felt very loved.”

The venue was one upon which the parents could all agree. Samantha values old buildings, and Bishop Station was perfectly renovated to showcase its original barrel ceiling. She was also drawn to the courtyard, particularly “feeling enclosed while still being outside.”

Samantha’s dress was a bespoke tailor-made gown. Post-ceremony, she changed into a dress by Zimmerman. Billy also had to change clothes part way into the dancing after the crowd encouraged him to tear open his shirt. At one point, Billy’s dress shirt was hanging from the ceiling rafters. “I wanted to set the tone and bring the energy to the dance floor,” said Billy.

Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman served as the Mesader Kedushin and Rabbi Ari Sollish narrated the Jewish traditions as master of ceremonies. The couple valued the spiritual energy created with the help of so many rabbis and community members. With temperatures hovering above 90, Rabbi Schusterman opted to forgo a traditional speech under the chuppah. Later, he sent the couple his prepared

Rabbi Ari Sollish explains the beauty and meaning behind the chuppah.

thoughts relaying how the week’s parsha was about the spies not being allowed to enter the Promised Land. The notes read, “As a result, they had to wander in the desert for another 38 years. Billy and Samantha, you have been on your own journey, but now, you both have courage in you. You have the maturity -- enter into the Promised Land with joy, faith, confidence and fun.”

Rabbi Schusterman paid a special acknowledgement to the bride’s grandmother, Belle Brodsky (OBM), as a hawk landed right above the chuppah. The mother of the bride, Lisa, added, “I believe that loved ones who have passed away ‘visit’ as birds.”

The couple’s first dance was to “When I’m Smiling and Astride You,” by Father John Misty, followed by a surprise choreographed dance to “Habib Galbi” by A-WA, an Israeli-Yemenite band. For the “shtick,” the men danced their hearts out.

Samantha’s brother tried his own hand at the Hopak/Kozatsky dance. A family friend, Richard Soloman, did multiple forward rolls on his head. Samantha said, “Our absolute favorite part was when the photographer put down his camera and danced for us. Another favorite detail was our guestbook - we had an old rotary phone with a built-in recording device. People then left voice messages for us - in English, French, Hebrew, and Russian.”

Parents are Drs. Lisa and Peter Morton, Mattie Schlesinger and the late Alan

Schlesinger. Samantha appreciated her mom, Lisa’s, wisdom when she intervened earlier that weekend. Samantha intended to set up the rehearsal (Shabbat) dinner solo. On the to-do list was “pick up rentals, buy flowers, set linens, arrange table settings, candles and vases.”

Samantha revealed, “My mom, much more realistic than me, secretly paid the vendor to deliver the rentals and set the tables. I was left with the fun, creative task of assembling the vases. I really underestimated undertaking that alone. My mom truly saved the dinner!”

Samantha, 32, graduated Riverwood High School before earning a degree at the University of Georgia, and later a graduate degree at Georgia Tech. She currently works as a consultant in highperformance building technologies. Billy, 31, went to Florida State University and works in supply-chain logistics while studying for his master’s in the same subject.

Off to a honeymoon in Iceland, Billy concluded, “I finally understood the mental burden of planning such a big event the week leading up to the wedding. I was glad we got to take a vacation and absorb everything that just took place. We spent every day exploring the island. Waterfalls, rock formations, glaciers, craters, lava fields, wildlife, more waterfalls, and geothermal pools. There was endless adventure.” ì

Billy and Samantha under the chuppah // All photos by Zalmy Berkowitz

Top Left: Mattie walking Billy down the aisle.

Top Right: Guests took shade with parasols and umbrellas.

Below: Brother of the bride, Jonathon, and rabbis dancing on the men’s side.

Guests leave messages for the bride and groom on a rotary phone.

The hora got the guests fired up!

When a Rabba’s Son Becomes a Man …

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

On May 11, 2024, at Congregation Etz Chaim in Marietta, Rabba Amanda Veazey Flaks and Joseph Flaks blessed their son, Ari, on becoming a bar mitzvah and spoke of his meaningful accomplishments and dedication to Yiddishkeit.

As Ari’s mom and an ordained rabbi, Amanda Veazey Flaks decided early in the mitzvah preparation process to “be his mom” rather than “his rabbi.” She stated, “We are so lucky to have a team of incredible rabbis; and I was able to fully focus on my duties as mom and host.”

Ari’s parsha was Kedoshim where he

connected with the concepts in the parsha that discussed leaving the edges of the fields ripe with food so the poor could come eat. Ari has donated his time and resources to several organizations that help feed the hungry and improve food security. Out of respect for the dignity of the recipients, Ari is not disclosing the name of his mitzvah project recipient but noted that the organization is local and focused on eliminating hunger. Ari’s speech focused particularly on “loving the stranger as yourself” and leaving the corners of the farmlands for those who are hungry to partake.

Ari suffered a concussion in Febru-

ary, and his studies took a back seat to healing. Ari expressed how kind and supportive people had been to him during his recovery period. Rabba Veazey Flaks said, “We engaged an incredible tutor who was a godsend to Ari as he navigated Ari’s concussion recovery.”

Rabba Veazey Flaks said, “The service was a beautiful, collective effort between Ari, our family, and friends.” Rabbi Daniel Dorsch offered some sentimental anecdotes about meeting Ari and the Flaks family when Dorsch joined the congregation in 2017 and noted the family’s dedication to community. He praised Ari’s tenacity and kindness.

To bring forth great energy and sentiment, Ari davened with the trffillsn of his paternal great-grandfather, Cantor Shlomo Flaks, in the days leading up to the bar mitzvah service. Shlomo Flaks was a cantor who immigrated to the United States as Hitler rose to power in his adopted hometown of Amsterdam. Shlomo later returned to Europe during the war and helped rescue more of his family members.

The unofficial theme of the service was a dedication and recognition of the State of Israel. Ari designed his kipot with Lions of Judah and asked the family to wear the bright warm blue hue found in

The family held the Torah in L’dor v’dor style.

the Israeli flag. Rabba Veazey Flak’s dress was handmade in Nigeria by Ray Darten, an organization that supports African women and their families with westerncut designs in traditional African prints and hat from a milliner in Israel. Ari’s sister, Margot's, dress was by Tahari. The men’s suits were off the rack.

All the weekend events were held at Etz Chaim including a Shabbos dinner catered by Bagelicious. To manage some drama and extra “spice” to the weekend, they had a venue change for the party less than 48 hours before the mitzvah. Rabba Veazey Flaks stated, “We were planning to host the party at our home but moved to our synagogue at the last minute. We hosted our family and friends for a night

of ‘giant’ games (like Jenga, axe throwing, checkers), a Mediterranean dinner catered by a private chef, and an epic slideshow after Havdalah by Ari’s dad.”

Guests from Washington, D.C., North Carolina, New York, Portland, Nashville, and across Georgia were hosted, along with folks streaming via Zoom from Israel and across the United States.

Ari is a student at Dickerson Middle School in East Cobb. His hobbies include playing video games, spending time with friends, traveling with family, swimming, and working with animals (especially cats).

Looking back, Ari concluded, “It is really cool that I now get to count in minyan!” ì

Proud “grands” were Arthur Flaks, Joan Flaks, Ari, Elaine Veazey, Ari’s paternal grandfather and grandmother and maternal grandmother.

The blue Mazel Tov lawn decorations brightened the neighborhood.

Above: Ari Flaks is proud that he can now count as a man in minyan.

Below: Ari posses with sister, Margot. Blue was the dress code and color theme to honor and recognize the state of Israel.

Rabba Amanda Veazey Flaks was happily just mom and hostess for the weekend, leaving Ari’s preparation for the tutor.

Dad Joseph Flaks led the Havdalah service Saturday evening.

Glazerman Gets Two Wows at Bat Mitzvah

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Taylor Middle School student Hannah Glazerman parlayed her interest in art into her bat mitzvah party at the Hudgens Center after her service at Congregation Gesher L’Torah with Rabbi Michael Bernstein.

Hannah’s parshat was Tetzaveh; and for her mitzvah project, she made and sold jewelry to raise donations for The

Rally Foundation and Camp Sunshine, both benefiting childhood cancer patients.

The Hudgens Center venue allowed adult guests to be in a separate event space from the kids’ party room. Parents, Jaime and Rich Glazerman, said, “The adults loved it, and many mentioned how great it was to be able to hold conversations. It allowed the décor to plant art sessions at various points during the night that Rachel Goldschein (Gold Events by Rachel)

helped organize and escort our guests to the sessions. We also brought in babysitters that attended to children under eight and enjoy the kids’ museum side of the venue.”

Not to be “outshone,” Hannah wore a sparkling blue hombre dress and rhinestone sparkly sneakers to match.

Proof of the Pudding catered an assortment of appetizers and a buffet that was thoughtfully selected for guests with various dietary needs. Hands on Han-

nah came to the tasting to help select the menu. Party favor cookies were from Brookline Bakery, designed with watercolor art palette cookies along with a brush to decorate.

Horizon DJ, Keith Schroder, kept the kids and adults moving all night. Hannah wanted the younger generation to have fun playing games, followed by the dance party. Jaime and Hannah created the easel place cards and acrylic sign-in board,

The Glazerman family was pleased that both the younger guests and adults had some separate spaces to enjoy the evening.

while Hannah designed her logo. Robin Zussman’s Paper Matters supplied the invitations, kippot, and hospitality bags.

Father, Rich, commented, “Hannah is very grounded and has a good sense of who she is.”

Jaime felt the weekend went smoothly. “It was Hannah-centered and carefully thought out for all our guests to enjoy.”

Design/decorator guru Goldschein shared the details, “When I initially met with Jaime, she expressed her daughter Hannah’s love of art. She and Hannah wanted to incorporate some of the artistic pieces she had created throughout the years. We displayed her paper art by adding borders and foam board to the back which stood on easels at the entrance of the venue and social rooms. Hannah’s small canvases were displayed in an acrylic cube box with colored pencils and colorful florals, and a sign stating ‘create’ as centerpieces in the kids’ area.”

Goldschein thinks all party rooms

should have at least one “WOW.” For the Glazermans, she provided two. Jaime gave Rachel free rein to create, so she started brainstorming and researching what would give this party space the “WOW.”

She came up with displaying balloons in different sizes that would mimic paint being squeezed out of an oversized paint tube. Goldshein’s tube was created by using HVAC-galvanized metal and stepping on one of the ends to give it the pinched sealed edge. The balloons were then placed on a stand with the tube on top. The second “WOW,” was beautiful shimmery fabric placed on a tall stand, “pouring” out of a paint can. The height and shine looked flowing and authentic as it was placed in between the paint tubes looking into the room. The table linens alternated in primary colors to add dimension and variety. Rachel concluded, “There is nothing more satisfying than exceeding my client’s expectations and giving them a memory to last a lifetime.” ì

This fun “paint tube” with Hannah’s favorite color, purple, featured balloon bubbles to greet guests.

Goldschein designed the Hudgens Center to be colorful and artsy to mirror Hannah’s hobbies.

Designer Rachel Goldschein was all in to carry out Hannah’s wishes with “spilling” effects, pouring paint and purple balloons.

Above: Brookline Bakery created an art palette template cookie with a small paint brush and an edible sheet for the guests to use and color.

Below: Florals and colored pencils adorned the art brush and pencil holder with a resin palette.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s with South African Style

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Nutritionist and cookbook author Sheryl Westerman lets her creativity flow to plan and execute lively parties for “her best girlfriends.”

This year, 28 classy gals showed up on Aug. 3 in their fanciest pearls, diamond tiaras, little black dresses, chignon hair twists, and elongated cigarette holders to channel their best Audrey “Hepburnowitzes” as the ingénue high class “call girl” in the 1961 movie, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

Sheryl said, “Every year, I think of a theme and go with it. I have done a party ‘let’s make lemonade out of lemons’ where everything was served in lemon dishes. Then, there was my Valentine party. So

much great décor! I want to create special memories for my amazing girlfriends. Now they want a theme party every year. I enjoy just having the girls!”

Sheryl began with about four months of preparation. She knew she wanted to only use the famous Tiffany blue and white from the eponymous store which she visited, especially trying to recreate their flagship store in New York where they also have a restaurant. Thus, the Westerman home had model mannequin busts on with jewelry on display, while everything was draped in “Tiffany” blue and white.

The menu, which Westerman deemed “elegant,” was a mega-sized charcuterie board, English party sandwiches (no crust on the bread -- filled with smoked salmon

and cream cheese, grated cheddar and tomato and basil, mayonnaise, cucumber and cream cheese), egg frittatas, mushroom and asparagus quiche, tossed green salad, fruit platter with fresh mangoes, pineapple leeches, coconut, and kiwi, an assortment of South African candies and a cinnamon bun cake, English scones, clotted cream and assorted jams, cheesecake, champagne and orange juice, assorted teas, coffee, and honey tea sticks.

Guest and retired caterer extraordinaire Sandra Bank prepared the scones, while her sister-in-law, Janice Bank, made the sandwiches. Sandra related, “Everyone shows up for Sheryl because she shows up for everyone as a kind and caring friend. For the party, she put her husband to work with setting up; and she must have

gone to Amazon and Home Goods weeks before to coordinate the details down to the bathroom hand towels. She is very proud of her home and magnificent manicured garden.”

One of the handful of non-South African guests, Suzanne Eisenberg, said, “It was lots of fun. Sheryl outdid herself with the décor. There were Tiffany boxes and bags, and pictures of Audrey used throughout. Tiffany-style necklaces were displayed strategically. Champagne and Aperol spritzers were flowing. Each ‘Audrey’ was sent home with a party favor!”

Blonde “Audrey” Lana Imerman stated, “It was a fabulous ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’-themed brunch. We enjoyed Sheryl’s impeccable décor with fastidious

Guests were eager to answer quiz questions and win prizes.

attention to detail. She has the knack of creating an innate sense of community, bringing everyone together in such a warm manner. This was a much-anticipated event, and it certainly met everyone’s high expectations.”

Looking back, Sheryl thought it all went well, “Everyone left with small Tiffany box gift, and I put a blue tweezer in each box. Everyone dressed up and made a huge effort. It created a lot of excitement and good atmosphere.”

Hats off to Westerman whose infectious joy is “wider than a mile” -- from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” famous song, “Moon River.” ì

Breakfast at Tiffany’s To-Go Box

Before attending, guests were told to watch the movie to play for prizes as Sheryl posed questions. Here is a sampling:

1. Who was initially supposed to play the main female character? Marilyn Monroe

2. Who was the leading male actor? George Peppard

3. How much money did Holly Golightly get when she went “to the powder room”? $50

4. What gift did Holly give Paul? A typewriter ribbon

5. What did Paul give Holly from Tiffany’s? A ring from a crackerjack box (he could only afford $10 so Tiffany engraved the ring)

6. How old was Audrey Hepburn when the movie was shot? 31

Hostess Sheryl Westerman wore a black long layered chiffon skirt, sheer lace top, dazzling belt and loads of pearls.

Westerman’s setting attended to details of the store and movie.

Nadia Bilchik, Sheryl, and Suzanne Eisenberg went “all out” to channel Audrey. A saucy Sandra Bank (left) made the scones while her sister-in-law, Janice Bank, prepared the sandwiches.

Above: The desserts had a South African and British flare.

Below: Home mantels were adorned with busts of jewelry.

Atlanta Harpist Elevates Occasions

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

The mere image of a harp stirs emotions. Using a harpist at a simcha is a direct way to enhance the mood and get the attention of guests. Atlantan Lisa Handman is trained to do just that.

Ancient harps were recorded as far back as 3,500 B.C. Mesopotamia (now Iraq), and later in Egypt and China. They have symbolic and political traditions, especially in Ireland. It is the national instrument of Paraguay. In Christianity, heaven is depicted with a harp. Above all are images of King David holding a harp and displayed as a sculpture outside his eponymous tomb in Jerusalem.

The talented Handman received her first harp as a bat mitzvah gift. She recalled, “My grandparents bought me my

first harp for my bat mitzvah present. Harp teachers were pretty scarce back then, but my mother found a teacher about a half hour away from our house in New Jersey. I knew from the time I started playing the harp that it was going to be my career.”

After that initial year, she studied at Manhattan School of Music Prep Division and continued throughout high school. Her bachelor’s degree is in music education with a concentration in harp and minor in piano. She explained, “As a musician, you have to wear many hats to make a living. It was difficult in the beginning to find enough work to sustain myself, so I went back to school and got an M.S. degree in computer science. I still performed and taught throughout my corporate career and was able to take the plunge back into music full-time in 1996. I have never looked back on that decision!”

The sheer mass of a harp is daunting. They come in different sizes, brands, weights and types. Usually, one starts on a lever harp that is smaller and less expensive. There are rentals and lease/purchases of levers. The starting price for a lever harp is around $4,000. The levers on this harp raise the pitch by a half-step, so one can achieve sharps and flats.

Pedal harps are more expensive and larger. The largest pedal harp has 47 strings and has an average weight of 79 pounds. Prices range from $12,000 to $80,000. Handman elaborated, “I just think of it as buying a car. I own 12 harps (four pedal and eight lever) and rent some out to students. Some of the woods used to manufacture harps are maple, walnut, spruce, bubinga, cherry. The type of wood affects the sound. Pedal harps are all hand

carved. Gold harps are rare these days, due to the expense. I do own two older gold pedal harps that are over 100 years old. Unlike violins, harps do not get better with age, and usually need major work after a number of years. My electric harp is quite unique and gives me the ability to perform for large audiences.”

Handman is able to transport the harp alone with the aid of a harp cart, all of which fits into her minivan. She has also performed on movie sets, for TV programs, symphonies, and radio.

Playing professionally for many years, she has developed a vast repertoire of thousands of songs – anything from classical to contemporary to rock ‘n roll to Jewish music to country. Some of her most requested songs are “Stairway to Heaven,” “Clair de Lune,” “A Thousand

The Georgia Aquarium provided a picturesque backdrop for Lisa Handman to perform.

Years,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Canon in D.” Additionally, in her extensive Jewish collection, she plays “Dodi Li,” “Erev Shel Shoshanim,” and “Siman Tov.”

Now, Handman would say she is a full-time performing and teaching musician. She wears sophisticated gowns for performances -- weddings, mitzvahs, corporate events, parties, grand openings, proposals, funerals, receptions, and more. She travels throughout the Southeast with her harp and was the warm-up artist for Ray Charles at a special dinner.

Harpists must pay special attention to physical factors and the condition of their fingers. Handman noted, “My fingers have been callused for years, but do crack with the amount of playing that I do, and

weather conditions. It’s important to balance the harp on your right shoulder and pluck with four fingers on each hand at a certain position. You don’t use the pinkies due to lack of strength.”

The harp needs to be tuned every day and every time it is moved.

Handman’s performance fees start at $450 for acoustic harp or $550 for electric harp.

She concluded, “My mother always wanted to play the harp, and since that never happened, she wanted her daughter to study the instrument. This is, of course, what any good Jewish mother would want!”

For more information, please contact: lisa@harpnotes.com. ì

Lisa elevates the romanticism at a wedding. Note her use of the foot pedal.

Handman performed at the swanky High Tea at the Hotel St. Regis.

Simcha Announcements

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Births, B’nai Mitzvah, Engagements, Weddings, Anniversaries, Special Birthdays and more ... Share it with your community with free AJT simcha announcements. Send info to submissions@atljewishtimes.com.

Wedding AnnouncementDaitch – Blue

Alexandrea Daitch married Adam Blue on June 16, 2024. The ceremony was held in Augusta, Ga., at the Enterprise Mill. They originally met in 2012 while counselors at Camp Ramah in Clayton, Ga. They reunited in 2023, and the rest is history.

Her parents are Lisa and Fred Daitch of Augusta, Ga. His parents are Leann and Michael Blue of Deerfield, Ill.

Alexandrea has her master’s degree in education from Augusta University and works for the DeKalb school system. Adam has his master’s degree from George Washington University and works for the Jewish nonprofit Stand With Us.

They live in Morningside with their two dogs, Bayla and Blitz.

Temple Sinai Visiting Scholar Emphasizes Relationships

By Bob Bahr

For its latest scholar-in-residence program, Temple Sinai welcomed Betsy Stone, a psychologist who often consults with synagogues and other important organizations and institutions in the American Jewish world. The visit over a Shabbat earlier this month was an opportunity for the congregants and staff at the Sandy Springs synagogue to explore how they relate to one another, how they interact across the generational divide and how they encounter many of the social and psychological issues that have become so important over the last year.

In a short Friday night sermon that served to keynote the visit, she elaborated on her understanding of the central teachings of Jewish belief that, for her, is about how we treat one another.

“The central teaching of Torah isn’t actually about G-d. It’s about human relationships. I’m a shrink. It’s about tzedakah and caring for people who need what I have.” she said. “It’s about kindness and compassion and altruism, which are all different.”

In a follow-up interview, she emphasized her understanding of how much time the Torah and our religious sages

“Refuah Shlema,” Betsy Stone’s book on how we grow as individuals, was published last year.

spend on how we build relationships that strengthen us as human beings. Much of the Talmud and the teachings of the Torah, as she understands them, are about creating understanding.

“We spend huge amounts of time trying to create spaces and create understandings of why and how we can be

Excitement at Temple Kol Emeth: A Conversation with Rabbi Chase Foster

Interviewer: Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Rabbi Chase Foster, the new Senior Rabbi at Temple Kol Emeth. Rabbi Foster brings a fresh vision to this community, which has been a hub of Jewish life in Cobb County for over four decades. We’ll be discussing exciting new initiatives in the works and how he aims to build on TKE’s rich legacy. Rabbi Foster, thank you for joining me today!

Rabbi Foster: Of course. Thanks for listening.

Interviewer: Rabbi Foster, you’ve mentioned that when anyone steps into Temple Kol Emeth, they immediately feel the warmth and hospitality of the community. Could you tell us about your vision for TKE and how you plan to contribute to its vibrant atmosphere?

Rabbi Foster: It’s an honor to serve TKE. When I first met the congregation, I was struck by the incredible kindness of the people. My vision is to build on this

foundation of care and sincerity, creating a community that places people and relationships at the center. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel not just welcomed, but truly at home.

Interviewer: Temple Kol Emeth has a rich 42-year history. How do you plan to build on this legacy?

Rabbi Foster: The seven founding families and our longest-tenured members inspire me. Their legacy of innovation and inclusion will always be at our core. That is why we need to be responsive to the needs of our booming youngfamilies cohort, while also ensuring our senior members have what they need.

This is a “yes, and” moment, where we must ensure that everyone feels engaged and supported.

Interviewer: Could you share some specific initiatives you’re most excited about for the upcoming year?

Rabbi Foster: Absolutely! We’re revitalizing our educational programs, led by Rabbi Daniel Alter, to ensure that our youth not only build strong Jewish identities but also form lasting connections with each other and the community. We’re also creating sensory, toddler, and nursing spaces for the High Holy Days and expanding programs that enrich our spiritual life with music, support our

wider community, and foster a sense of belonging.

Interviewer: What excites you most about the future of Temple Kol Emeth?

Rabbi Foster: The potential here is boundless. The energy and enthusiasm I’ve seen since joining TKE are inspiring. I believe a sacred community grounded in Jewish wisdom can address many of society’s greatest challenges, like loneliness, divisiveness, and extremism. We’re committed to overcoming these problems and the solution will truly be a team effort.

Paid Content by Temple Kol Emeth

Psychologist Betsy Stone visited Temple Sinai for a scholar-in-residence Shabbat.

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

Communication and its importance in human relationships was one of Betsy Stone’s important topics.

kind to each other, be connected to each other. How to treat each other with kavod, honorably. Jewish history and Jewish writings are rife with questions about how … we connect with other people in deep ways.”

In helping the synagogue answer some of the questions surrounding relationships, most of her time at Temple Sinai was spent, not in preaching and teaching, but in the synagogue’s outsized sanctuary listening, in relatively small groups, to parents and their children, educators, and staff as they wrestled with issues of contemporary importance. She believes that too often today we approach our conversations with a desire to convert others to our point of view rather than to truly hear them. She believes that such an approach undermines instead of enhancing how we see one another.

“We very often approach arguments and disagreements from the point of view of, ‘I want to win’ as opposed to ‘I want to connect.’ They’re very different than, ‘I want to know you.’ In many spaces and I don’t mean just the Jewish world, if I need to win, I’m willing to have you lose.”

Stone, who holds a PhD in psychology, frequently consults with organizations that want to improve how they communicate internally as well as with their constituencies. She’s done work with Hillel, Hebrew Union College and the Central Conference of American Rabbis, and such locally based groups as the Blue Dove Foundation and the Jewish Grandparents Network. She frequently writes for the website blog of the Times of Israel and Jewish Philanthropy, Last year, just before the High Holidays, she

self-published a collection of these writings entitled, “Refuah Shlema: Reflections on Healing and Growth.”

In the book she wrote about how in years past, as is the Jewish teaching, she used the days just before Yom Kippur to apologize to those she might have inadvertently wronged or alienated in some way. But in a new attempt to rebuild her relationships, she took a different tack.

“I tried something new,” she pointed out. “I went to those same people and told them the ways they are blessings in my life. I talked or wrote or emailed about their generosity, their kindness, the ways they impact me and the world around them … I told my granddaughters about their laughter and hugs. I told my kids how their love – for us and for each other – sustains me. I told my husband how he supports me and pushes me.”

As we approach the New Year and the Day of Atonement which demand a certain sense of self-awareness and introspection, she feels we need to be more positive. Despite the prayers and readings that we utter during our worship that castigate us for our shortcomings, she believes we should also spend considerable time dwelling on our strengths.

“I think that I would like us to include in our tapping on our chest, as we sit in prayer, a real sense of who we are and how I am created. What assets has G-d given me? We tend to spend a lot of time thinking about what’s wrong with us. I’m not sure how much we might be advanced by thinking more about how we are made in a positive way. What do I have that helps me to creates an opportunity for me to give to the world?” ì

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

ASSOCIATION

Atlanta Rabbinical Association 1589 Peachtree Street, Atlanta 30309 404-873-1731

www.atlrabbis.org

Atlanta Rabbinical Association is a professional organization for local rabbis. ARA is led by Rabbi Alexandria ShuvalWeiner and Rabbi Joshua Lesser.

COMMUNITY MIKVAH

Metro Atlanta Community Mikvah (MACoM)

700-A Mount Vernon Highway Atlanta 30328

404-549-9679

www.atlantamikvah.org

MACoM is a community mikvah that provides a safe, sensitive, welcoming, halachic and beautiful environment for Jewish ritual immersion and conversion, Torah awareness, healing and wellness.

CHABAD

Chabad of Athens-UGA 1491 S. Lumpkin Street, Athens 30605 706-369-1289

www.jewishdawgs.com

Serving students at the University of Georgia and surrounding colleges, Chabad of Athens- UGA is a Jewish student center providing social, educational, recreational, and spiritual programming for students.

Chabad of Cobb 4450 Lower Roswell Road Marietta 30068 770-565-4412

www.chabadofcobb.com

Chabad of Cobb is more than just a synagogue. It is a home for any Jew looking for a warm and spiritual place to grow. At Chabad, everybody is welcome.

Chabad of Downtown Universities 471 10th Street NW, Atlanta 30318 678-304-8672 www.chabaddtu.com

Chabad prides itself on creating a home away from home for Jewish students at Georgia Tech and Georgia State. Through diverse and dynamic programming, Chabad offers weekly Shabbat services and dinners, trips, social events, and engaging Jewish educational opportunities.

Chabad of Dunwoody 4534 Village Springs Run Dunwoody 30338 347-770-2414 www.chabaddunwoody.com

Chabad of Dunwoody is a center for all things Jewish in Dunwoody. From Holiday events to teen programs, Chabad of Dunwoody ensures that everyone has an opportunity to connect to their heritage in a warm, dynamic and uplifting way.

Chabad of Emory 1526 N. Decatur Road, Atlanta 30307 404-441-3199

ww.chabademory.org

Chabad Emory is a space where students socialize in a comfortable homelike setting with great friends, superb food, and stimulating discussion.

Chabad of Forsyth 795 Brannon Road, Cumming 30041 www.jewishforsyth.org 470-253-7111

Chabad of events, programs, and Forsyth is the outreach branch for North Georgia. A warm and inviting community, experience Chabad Forsyth’s services.

Chabad Global Network - Georgia 5180 Roswell Road, Atlanta GA 30342 470-433-0770 www.chabadga.com

Chabad of Georgia regional headquarters serves as the comprehensive umbrella organization encompassing the robust network of Chabad operations throughout the state. It supports the growth of new centers, develops resources for centralized programs, and provides the foundation for the entire region’s Chabad activities.

Chabad of Gwinnett

Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett 2651 Smith Point Drive, Suite B Peachtree Corners 30092 678-595-0196 www.chabadofgwinnett.org

Serving the Jewish communities of Gwinnett and Hall counties, Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett is committed to providing every Jew of the area the opportunity to celebrate Jewish programs that nurture connection, belonging, cultural fulfillment, and spiritual growth.

Chabad of Hall County Gainesville 30504 770-906-4970 www.JewishHall.com

Nestled in the mountains of Northeast Georgia, Chabad of Hall opened in 2022 to create a home for local Jewish life. Its mission is to create a warm and welcoming environment for every Jew, regardless of affiliation or background. With holiday programs, adult education, and youth events, Chabad of Hall has something for everyone in the community.

Chabad Intown 730 Ponce de Leon Place NE Atlanta 30306

404-898-0434

www.chabadintown.org

Chabad Intown provides opportunities to learn about and experience Jewish tradition and heritage through Intown Jewish Preschool, Mommy and Me, Intown Hebrew School, Intown Jewish Academy and Young Jewish Professionals.

Chabad Israeli Center Atlanta 4276 Chamblee Dunwoody Road Atlanta 30341 404-252-9508 www.cicatlanta.com

Chabad Israeli Center offers summer camp, winter break camp, ulpan, Judaica and more.

Chabad Lubavitch of Georgia 5065 High Point Road, Atlanta 30342 404-843-2464 www.chabadatlanta.com

Chabad of Georgia offers youth services and programming, adult education, Chaya Mushka Children’s Preschool, special needs activities for children and adults and summer and winter camps.

Chabad of Kennesaw 1480 Shiloh Road NW, Suite 500 Kennesaw 30144 770-400-9255 www.chabadkennesaw.org

Chabad of Kennesaw’s presence spans from Kennesaw State University to local education, services and more.

Chabad of North Fulton 10180 Jones Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022 770-410-9000 www.chabadnf.org

Chabad of North Fulton serves the growing Jewish communities in North Fulton, including Alpharetta, Crabapple, Duluth, Johns Creek, Milton, and Roswell. Satellite offices are in Roswell and Alpharetta.

Chabad of Peachtree City 632 Dogwood Trail, Tyrone 30290 678-595-0199 www.chabadsouthside.com

Serving Jewish Atlanta’s south side, Chabad of Peachtree City offers Shabbat services, holiday programs, classes for adults and children, hospital visits, lifecycle events, and one-on-one guidance.

Chabad of Toco Hills 1985 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-337-6116 www.chabadtoco.com

Chabad of Toco Hills is a young and vibrant shul that opened in 2016. CTH is open to people of all backgrounds, with a special focus on young families. Join CTH for services, family holiday celebrations, youth classes and men’s and women’s events.

Congregation Beth Israel 795 Branning Road, Cumming 30041 470-253-7111

www.jewishforsyth.org

Preschool, Hebrew school, Shabbat dinners, and adult education are available at Congregation Beth Israel, located together with Chabad Forsyth.

Congregation Beth Tefillah 5065 High Point Road, Atlanta 30342 404-843-2464

www.bethtefillah.org

Congregation Beth Tefillah is a synagogue and center of learning for Jews of all backgrounds. Affiliated with Chabad of Georgia, CBT’s mission is to engender a feeling of comfort and belonging in all Jews.

CONSERVATIVE

Ahavath Achim Synagogue

600 Peachtree Battle Avenue

Atlanta 30327

404-355-5222

www.aasynagogue.org

Ahavath Achim cultivates a Jewish community of purposeful belonging. Inspiring and supporting spiritual journeys by deepening relationships with one another. Ahavath Achim creates a vibrant, inclusive, spiritual community that empowers individuals to connect Jewishly beyond themselves. AA embraces interfaith families who desire to be part of its Jewish community.

Congregation Beth Shalom

5303 Winters Chapel Road

Dunwoody 30360

770-399-5300

www.bethshalom.net

Congregation Beth Shalom is an egalitarian inclusive, spiritual Jewish community, providing a warm, nurturing environment where we pray, learn, educate and perpetuate Torah and Jewish values, while serving the greater communit

Congregation B’nai Torah

700 Mt. Vernon Highway NE Sandy Springs 30328

404-257-0537

www.bnaitorah.org

Congregation B’nai Torah’s authentic and welcoming community helps you deepen your relationships with others who share your values and with God. We are committed to creating modern and meaningful experiences that are based in our rich traditions. Our accredited preschool grows Jewish minds and hearts for the youngest in our community and is open to nonmembers. Join us for services any time. Our Purim, Hanukkah and Simchat Torah celebrations, as well as our High Holiday Essentials services are open to all and free to attend.

Congregation Etz Chaim

1190 Indian Hills Parkway

Marietta 30068

www.etzchaim.net

For over 40 years, Etz Chaim has been creating meaningful Jewish experiences in the northern suburbs of Atlanta in East Cobb, Marietta. The congregation is an inclusive and engaging egalitarian Conservative shul creating multigenerational connections. See why Rabbi Dorsch calls Etz Chaim “The Shul with the Neshama (soul) of the South.”

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

Congregation Gesher L’Torah

4320 Kimball Bridge Road Alpharetta 30022

770-777-4009

www.wearegesher.org

Gesher L’Torah prides itself on catering to members, no matter their personal experience or background: Traditional or not traditional, interfaith families, Jewish by choice, or exploring Jewish life.

Congregation Or Hadash

7460 Trowbridge Road

Sandy Springs 30328 404-250-3338 www.or-hadash.org

Or Hadash is an egalitarian Conservative congregation dedicated to providing a warm and welcoming Jewish environment in which to build spiritual and social connections through prayer, learning, music and tikkun olam. We believe that a caring community is a holy community.

Congregation Shearith Israel 1180 University Drive Atlanta 30306 404-873-1743 www.shearithisrael.com

With more than 110 years of history, Congregation Shearith Israel has entered its next chapter. Shearith Israel is an egalitarian Conservative synagogue devoted to spiritual and religious enrichment, Jewish education and community. Shearith Israel closely follows Jewish tradition while having the insights of modern thought.

NON DENOMINATIONAL

Congregation Shema Yisrael - The Open Synagogue

7100 Stonington Drive, Atlanta 30328 404-255-7955 www.shemaweb.org

The Shema Yisrael mission is to be a synagogue embracing all that is Jewish by seeking to nurture an inclusive and caring spiritual community reflecting Klal Yisrael (The Peoplehood of Israel). Shema Yisrael is dedicated to the premise that “we can worship G-d in holiness only as we serve one another in love.”

BETH SHALOM

Serving metro Atlanta including Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Peachtree Corners, Roswell, and Alpharetta. Enriching

through community, lifelong Jewish learning and spiritual growth.

The

SYNAGOGUE

GUIDE

Guardians of the Torah

P.O. Box 767981, Roswell 30076 770-286-3477

www.guardiansofthetorah.org

Guardians of the Torah is a congregation without walls that is open to all. Guardians of the Torah is also an organization that supports police and other public safety officers and first responders in need of spiritual support. They profess devotion to G-d, and commitment to studying Torah.

ORTHODOX

Congregation Anshi S’Fard 1324 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta 30306

404-969-6763

www.anshisfard.org

Anshi includes a wide array of professionals, artisans, and academics, singles, families, Holocaust survivors, grandparents and retirees.

Congregation Ariel 5237 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody 30338 770-390-9071

www.congariel.org

An Orthodox community in beautiful Dunwoody, the Ariel family welcomes Jews of all ages, stages and backgrounds. Join for daily minyanim, classes with rabbis, one-on-one learning, youth groups for tots to teens, as well as study groups and workshops co-hosted with the Atlanta Scholars Kollel. The growing campus includes a modern sanctuary, social hall, tevilas keilim mikvah, and elegant women’s mikvah.

Congregation Beth Itzhak 6030 Goodwood Boulevard Norcross 30093 678-200-8897 www.facebook.com/BeitItzkhak

Congregation Beth Jacob 1855 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-633-0551 www.bethjacobatlanta.org

Beth Jacob Atlanta is truly the Orthodox synagogue for all Jews. Beth Jacob aims to inspire and motivate individuals and families at all levels of observance to strengthen their Jewish connection. The Atlanta Scholars Kollel and Beth Jacob co-host study groups and workshops, presenting timely topics with a Jewish perspective.

Congregation Ner Hamizrach 1858 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-315-9020

www.nerhamizrach.org

Congregation Ner Hamizrach was founded in 1991 to serve the spiritual needs of the growing Sephardic Jewish population in Atlanta. The synagogue is home to a warm and welcoming kehilla, steeped in the Sephardic tradition of nusach Edot Hamizrach. Ner Hamizrach is a strong leader in the Atlanta Orthodox Jewish Community.

Congregation Netzach Israel 1985 Lavista Road NE, Atlanta 30329

www.netzachisrael.org

Email us for more information: office@ netzachisrael.org

Congregation Shaarei

Shamayim

1600 Mount Mariah Road NE Atlanta 30329

404-417-0472

www.shaareishamayim.com

Atlanta’s Modern Orthodox Shul. It is a vibrant, welcoming congregation devoted to increasing observance, knowledge, and spirituality under the guidance of Rabbi Mark Hillel Kunis. They are dedicated to acts of Chesed while finding an ever increasing closeness to each other and Hashem.

Kesher Torah Atlanta 5075 Roswell Road NE Atlanta 30342 470-746-6627

www.keshertorahatlanta.org

Kesher Torah means “connection,” and that is exactly what we are: a warm and diverse community, a place for ALL Jews. Its mission is to inspire people to make themselves and their lives better through the wisdom of the Torah. This diverse congregation follows Orthodox traditions.

New Toco Shul

2003 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329

770-765-7485

www.newtocoshul.com

New Toco Shul was founded on the ideas that every individual has unique abilities and perspectives, that each person is obligated to share their talents with others, and that the community is strongest when members contribute to its success and well-being. Rabbinic and lay partners work together to provide a platform for sophisticated and nuanced Torah, reflective and meaningful Tefillah, and enriching Gemilut Chassadim.

Ohr Hatorah of Toco Hills 2056 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329

404-315-1417

www.ohrhatorahatl.org

Ohr Hatorah’s mission is to inspire people to make themselves and their lives better through the wisdom of the Torah. The diverse congregation follows Orthodox traditions.

RECONSTRUCTIONIST

Congregation Bet Haverim 2074 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329

404-315-6446

www.congregationbethaverim.org

Congregation Bet Haverim is a Reconstructionist synagogue founded by lesbians and gay men and embracing all Jews and their loved ones. Shabbat services include Erev Shabbat with music from our chorus, tot Shabbat for little ones, a chant service, and a monthly Shabbat dinner. We also offer Parent ’n’ Me and Sing ’n’ Play programs for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

REFORM

Congregation B’nai Israel 1633 Highway 54E, Jonesboro 30238 678-817-7162

www.bnai-israel.net

The mission of Congregation B’nai Israel is to welcome and to engage Jews with open minds and open hearts. It is a warm and caring multi-generational Jewish community for Jews and interfaith families on the southside of Atlanta. If you’re seeking a joyful connection to the southside Atlanta Jewish community, you are welcome here.

Congregation Dor Tamid 11165 Parsons Road, Johns Creek 30097 770-623-8860

www.dortamid.org

A Reform synagogue serving the Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Greater North Fulton, South Forsyth and Gwinnett area founded to create meaningful and enduring religious experiences for members and their families. Dor Tamid actively welcomes all families and individuals interested in participating in Jewish life and in the community of the congregation.

Congregation Ner Tamid 1349 Old Highway 41, Suite 220 Marietta 30060 678-264-8575

www.mynertamid.info

Congregation Ner Tamid is a growing Reform synagogue serving West Cobb, South Cobb, Paulding, Kennesaw, Acworth and surrounding areas. Offering a warm, welcoming environment dedicated to honoring the traditions of our heritage, while creating a Jewish experience that is relevant to today’s society.

Rodeph Sholom Congregation

406 East 1st Street, Rome 30161 706-291-6315

www.rodephsholomrome.org

The congregation strives to help you feel immediately at home and welcome at Rodeph Sholom in Rome, GA. With rabbi-led services and Torah study throughout the year for High Holidays and Shabbat, see and feel the warmth of a small congregation where one will never feel lost in a crowd, and participation can truly make a difference. Rodeph Sholom, NW Georgia’s only synagogue, is located midway between Atlanta and Chattanooga.

Shalom b'Harim

3415 Stancil Road Gainesville, GA 30506

561-251-8075

shalombharim.org

Presenting monthly Shabbat services as well as High Holidays services and an annual Passover Seder, primarily in the Reform and Conservative traditions. Strongly committed to Tikkun Olam activities. We are an exclusive, not exclusive, unaffiliated synagogue with no dues structure. Our participants are Reform, Conservative and Orthodox from both Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions.

Temple Beth David

1885 McGee Road SW, Snellville 30078 770-978-3916

www.tbdga.org

Temple Beth David began in 1981 as the first formal Jewish presence in Gwinnett County. TBD provides a continuing spirit of worship and service that does not sacrifice family closeness. TBD offers weekly services, holiday celebrations, life cycle events and educational programs.

Temple Beth Tikvah

9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 30075 770-642-0434

www.bethtikvah.com

Temple Beth Tikvah’s proud history of inclusion, ritual, and support is paving the way to an exciting future. Get to know Temple Beth Tikvah and become a part of the rich experiences available.

Temple Emanu-El

1580 Spalding Drive Atlanta 30350

770-395-1340

www.templeemanuelatlanta.org

Everyone knows that Temple EmanuEl is more than just a Reform congregation. It is a warm, caring neighborhood synagogue focused on transforming the local community. Embodying the Jewish values of audacious hospitality and authentic companionship. It is building a congregation of thoughtleaders, spiritual seekers, and engaged Jewish change- makers.

Temple Kehillat Chaim

1145 Green Street, Roswell 30075 770-641-8630

www.kehillatchaim.org

Temple Kehillat Chaim, which means Community of Life, is a Jewish Reform congregation located in Historic Roswell. Seeking to meet the spiritual, educational, cultural and social needs of members.

Temple Kol Emeth

1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 30062 770-973-3533

www.kolemeth.net

Temple Kol Emeth is home to an inclusive and diverse Jewish congregation that respects individuality while lifting the voices of its members to strengthen the greater community. Nurture your Jewish identity with energizing and inspiring leadership, spiritual music, and engaging programming that adds meaning in your life.

Temple Sinai

5645 Dupree Drive Sandy Springs 30327

404-252-3073

www.templesinaiatlanta.org

Temple Sinai is a vibrant Reform congregation in Sandy Springs that values lifelong Jewish learning, a warm spirit of community, a sense of inclusivity, and active participation in Jewish life. The community serves as a center of Jewish life and as an extended, caring family for which it provides a Jewish context for life experiences.

The Temple 1589 Peachtree Street Atlanta 30309

404-873-1731

www.the-temple.org

The Temple, founded in 1867, blends tradition with innovation to create a vibrant and warm atmosphere that is inviting to all who walk through its famous red doors on Peachtree Street. In addition to upholding The Temple’s deep-seated roots within the greater Atlanta community, The Temple’s clergy and staff have dedicated themselves to engaging with each congregant.

SEPHARDIC

Congregation Ner Hamizrach 1858 Lavista Road NE, Atlanta 30329 404-315-9020 www.nerhamizrach.com

Congregation Ner Hamizrach was founded in 1991 to serve the spiritual needs of the growing Sephardic Jewish population in Atlanta. The synagogue is home to a warm and welcoming kehilla, steeped in the Sephardic tradition of nusach Edot Hamizrach. Ner Hamizrach is a strong leader in the Atlanta Orthodox Jewish community.

Congregation Or VeShalom 1681 N. Druid Hills Road NE Atlanta 30319

404-633-1737

www.orveshalom.org

Congregation Or VeShalom is a Sephardic synagogue in Brookhaven. At 400 families strong, it is dedicated to the spiritual and intellectual growth of members. Building on over 100 years of tradition, Congregation Or VeShalom embraces its history and envision a strong future with innovative programming. Come and experience the Sephardic warmth, culture and welcoming community.

MOHELS

Atlanta Circumcision 516-510-2436 www.atlantacircumcision.com

Atlanta Mohel 404-606-0468 www.atlantamohel.com

Mohel Atlanta - Rabbi Ariel Asa 404-271-8672 www.mohelatlanta.com Mohel Georgia 404-931-6449 www.mohelga.com

Simple Circumcision 412-508-0914 www.simplecircumcision.com

The Georgia Mohel 770-765-2747 www.georgiamohel.com

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Atlanta Kosher Commission 1855 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-634-4063 www.kosheratlanta.org

AKC is an Orthodox community-based non- profit kosher supervising agency founded in the 1970s by Rabbi Emanuel Feldman. The Atlanta Kashruth Commission currently certifies over 150 companies in the Southeast and beyond, including manufacturing facilities, bakeries, supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, and caterers throughout the country.

Atlanta Scholars Kollel 1959 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-321-4085 www.atlantakollel.org

The Atlanta Scholars Kollel invites you to meet, learn with and get to know them. The Kollel is a group of rabbis and families in Georgia who have dedicated themselves to promoting Jewish identity through Jewish knowledge. Both students and teachers, every morning as they study Talmud together as a group and then head out to the community at large to teach about Judaism to high school and college students, professionals and retirees. “We are nonjudgmental, knowledgeable, funny, inspiring and relevant.”

Rabbi Barry Altmark Birmingham, Alabama 205-870-1883 www.deepsouthrabbi.com

Rabbi Altmark performs interfaith and Jewish weddings as well as bar and bat mitzvahs in Atlanta, Nashville, Alabama, and Mississippi. He is a Rabbi for interfaith and Jewish weddings and bar and bat mitzvahs.

Rabbis Barry and Michele Selvin Coffsky Marietta 770-314-0232

www.atlantarabbis.com

Rabbi Coffsky and Rabbi Selvin Coffsky officiate weddings, baby namings, private bar and bat mitzvahs, memorial services, and special needs bar and bat mitzvahs, as well as make hospital visits. They provide independent Jewish services and perform interfaith and retirement community outreach. *

Rabbi Sol Agin, DD rabbisolagin@gmail.com

Dunwoody and surrounding communities 239-560-5582

Rabbi Agin performs Jewish and interfaith weddings, as well as bar and bat mitzvah preparations, baby namings and funeral and memorial services. He is a collaborative, passionate, and committed spiritual leader who engages congregants and community members through his impactful work in congregations, hospital/hospice settings, foundations, and civic organizations.

The Sukkah Project 2317 Grand Park Dr #2A Grand Junction, Colorado 81505 844-478-5568 www.sukkot.com

Since 5757 (1996) our Klutz-Proof Sukkah kits have enabled thousands of families, congregations, and schools to build sturdy, affordable sukkot in a variety of sizes and styles. Its sukkah kits require no construction skill or expertise and are designed with the novice builder in mind.

The Torah Center 5180 Roswell Road Atlanta 30342 404-333-8554

www.TheTorahCenterAtl.org

Using a combination of in-person programming and virtual study, The Torah Center gives all who seek the opportunity to connect with the rich and timeless heritage of Torah study. They have created a space where you will be comfortable leaning, exploring, questioning, and growing.

HOLIDAY FLAVORS

Gilmer Dishes New & Traditional Holiday Foods

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Native Atlantan Steve Gilmer, owner of Kosher Gourmet on Briarcliff, has proven to be a steady, customer serviceoriented purveyor of prepared kosher cuisine, deli counter food, and kosher shelf items, including a grand selection of fine kosher wines. Now with the High Holidays fast approaching, Gilmer offers many of the standards associated with tradition, but also some novelle cuisine options.

Regarding upcoming High Holiday tables, Gilmer recommends apples and honey, and round raisin challah. He continued, “There should be a sweet carrot dish like carrot cake or carrot side dishes, popular tzimmes, which is cut up carrots boiled with sweet potatoes, honey, and raisins. We offer whole wheat challah … even chocolate chip and multigrain. These are typically round for the High Holidays, but we have many of the same items every Sabbath.”

people and be easy to warm and still taste good. We also make gluten-free variations of foods and other specialty items for the variety of needs that people have these days.”

menu with matzoh ball soup, brisket, kugels, potatoes, baked or grilled chicken, and stuffed cabbage.

Prior to the fast, Gilmer recommends bland foods that are filling -- roasted

TOCO HILLS (404) 329-5000

WEST PACES (404) 266-0123

chicken, potatoes, vegetables, and bread. Kosher Gourmet’s recipes come from a variety of places. Many target those who like the “standards” and want to know what to expect. Gilmer adds new recipes acquired from customers and social media. He explained, “Our recipes have to work for a large number of

There are two categories: items that are pre-made and available every week in the food case like schnitzel, fried or grilled chicken, stuffed cabbage, classic soups, grilled vegetables, sesame noodles, chickpea salad, chopped liver, and Israeli salads. For holiday menus available for pre-ordering, Gilmer suggests a classic

ROSH HASHANAH

OCTOBER 2ND THROUGH 4TH

/ SOUP /

Mushroom Barley • Chicken Noodle • Matzo Balls

/ APPETIZERS /

Gefilte Fish • Stuffed Cabbage Rolls • Chopped Chicken Liver

/ ENTREES /

Goldbergs Famous Brisket & Gravy

Bubbe’s Roasted Chicken Quarters

/ SIDE DISHES /

Mashed Potatoes • Green Beans • Garden Salad

Maple Sweet Potatoes Kale Salad w/Maple VinaigretteNEW!

/ KUGELS /

Potato KugelNEW! • Sweet Noodle Kugel

/ DESSERT /

Rugelach Assortment • Honey Pound Cake

Babka: Chocolate or Cinnamon

Matzo Toffee • Chocolate Torte

/ GOLDBERGS CHALLAH / Plain or Raisin Round • (One size only - 2lb)

Shanah Tovah

For catering a private Simcha, Kosher Gourmet custom designs the menu. Think of a younger client who wants kale salad, chicken marsala, chicken piccata, quinoa, then classics like wieners in a blanket, beef roast or turkey sliced in front of the client.

Also in style are charcuterie boards, carving stations, and fresh spinach mixed with nuts and cranberries are also

Steve Gilmer, owner of Kosher Gourmet, shares some helpful tips for hosting this High Holiday season.

For lifecycle events, Gilmer recommends serving a meat tray or dairy deli tray.

popular. Gilmer stated, “Any kind of item that a client would like, we can make, and we can make it as fancy and modern or classic- traditional as desired.”

For deli “to go” business, they cure and cook corned beef and pastrami, roast beef, breads, bagels, salads all made on site. Other bakery products are imported from Montreal and Fairlawn, N.J. For lifecycle events, Kosher Gourmet offers meat or dairy deli trays, bagels and cream cheese and salads including lox, whitefish salad, pinwheels, and wraps. Kosher Gourmet also caters for shiva meals, bar and bat mitzvahs, brisses, and weddings.

Gilmer grew up near Morningside on Lenox Circle. He recalls a great childhood with two Holocaust survivor parents and attended Atlanta Jewish Academy and then Grady High School. Gilmer’s father started Fred’s Deli. When he passed away, Gilmer took over in 1977 and aggrandized the business. Not only are Jewish holidays big for Kosher Gourmet. Gilmer said “Thanksgiving, Super Bowl, Chanukah, Purim, and any occasion for people gathering to eat delicious foods. I have my business and it’s increasing.”

HOLIDAY FLAVORS

For breaking the fast, Gilmer suggests schmear platters: bagels, whitefish salad, tuna, egg salad, smoked fish, lox.

Gilmer’s personal life is hectic and “unbalanced.” He rises early to open and ensure that orders are filled correctly. He anticipates what items are needed for each season and manages a staff of 20. Outside of work, Gilmer follows sports and is active in Congregations Beth Jacob and Ohr HaTorah. He stated, “My social circle is very broad. I grew up in Atlanta and have serviced the Jewish community for decades. I have customers all over the Southeast and vendors from all over the world.”

Kosher Gourmet carries the largest selection of kosher wines in Atlanta -from Israel, California, Spain, Argentina, France, New Zealand, Chile, and Italy.

Keeping kosher by the numbers, Gilmer estimates that “only one to two percent of the Atlanta Jewish community buys kosher food. Some have kosher food for the holidays even if they don’t keep kosher year-round.”

Kosher Gourmet is located at 2153 Briarcliff Road. 404-636-1114. ì

Gilmer’s Carrot Kugel

Ingredients:

2 cups brown sugar

2½ cups flour

2 tsp baking powder

2 tsp baking soda

1½ cups oil

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

2 tsp lemon juice

2 tsp water

3 cups grated carrots

Directions:

Grate the carrots first, then add the rest. Mix well. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Makes one large kugel perfect for any holiday, especially Rosh Hashanah.

7460 Trowbridge Road, Sandy Springs

Experience Or Hadash Join Us for the High Holidays & Beyond

We believe that each person has a divine spark of light inside We invite you to bring your authenic self to Or Hadash!

September 29, 10am-noonReverse Tashlich - Join our community waterfront cleanup at Morgan Falls This is a great activity for all ages

October 5, 9am - Rosh HaShanah Day Two ServicesA meaningful service focusing on themes of healing, sanctuary, and the power of community Open to all

September 28, 8pm - Selichot & Havdalah - Enjoy an evening of music, havdalah, and desserts with Dr Amy and our davening team Prepare your hearts and souls for Selichot and the High Holy Days

October 11, 5:30pm - Family-Friendly Kol Nidre ServiceExplore the melodies of a spiritually-fulfilling and sacred service for those with earlier bedtimes.

Weekly, 6:30pm - Kabbalat Shabbat Services - Step out of your busy week and into a relaxing Shabbat with song, prayer, and community.

Scan the QR Code for details about Or Hadash’s High Holiday events

Jewish Learning for Grades K-7 Skills for a Joyful & Vibrant Life

We teach a traditional Hebrew school curriculum but also focus on children’s spiritual growth and development. Skills include: Calming Your Thoughts - Seeking Insights - Valuing Viewpoints All Jewish community members are welcome. Email amy@or-hadash.org

Farmers & Fishermen’s Flavorful Recipes for the New Year

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

As Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur approach, Farmers & Fishermen is busy helping customers prepare for a delicious and nutritious New Year. Chef Madeline, the seasoned culinary expert at Farmers & Fishermen, created a tasteful and mouthwatering selection of recipes that will help to make your holiday meal a festive one.

According to Kirk Halpern, CEO and founder of Farmers & Fishermen, “The holidays continue to remind us about the importance of family, and we sincerely look forward to helping the community usher in the new year in a flavorful manner. We are grateful that we can make a difference providing irresistible recipes that will become a part of your family’s holiday meals. It’s a busy time for us as we present ways to make your gathering even more memorable and we are honored to do so.”

Ben Halpern, executive vice president, adds, “As we gather and dine with our families and friends around the table, this timely message of hope and togetherness celebrates holiday traditions which are blended with fragrant flavors. Farmers & Fishermen wishes everyone a sweet, happy, and healthy year to come, and we hope the new year is one of shared blessings around the world.”  www.FarmersAndFishermen.com ì

Rosh Hashanah Tomahawk Roast

Ingredients:

For the Smoker:

one 7-Bone Farmers & Fishermen USDA Prime Tomahawk Rack

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon Aleppo pepper

1/4 cup Kinders Prime Rib Seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

Pre-heat your smoker to 250 Degrees Fahrenheit. We are using a Traeger with a mix of Hickory and Applewood Pellets.

While your smoker is heating up, season your Farmers & Fishermen USDA Prime Tomahawk Rack. First trim any excess fat. In a small bowl mix together seasonings. Rub the Tomahawk Rack with olive oil and season generously with your seasoning mix.

Place the meat directly on the grill grate, fat side up. Close the lid and allow to smoke for two hours.

While the meat is smoking begin the herb pomegranate reduction:

1/4-piece large Vidalia onion

2 cloves peeled garlic

1 teaspoon ground mustard

2 sprigs thyme

2” sprig rosemary

1.5 tablespoons orange blossom honey

2 16oz bottles pomegranate juice

Using a micropolane or box grater, grate the onion and garlic into a medium heavy

bottomed pot, making sure to keep all of the juices and pulp. Add in the remaining ingredients, stirring gently. Place on the stove over low heat and allow to gently reduce for about two to three hours. Do not boil. Be sure to stir occasionally and remove from the heat when the consistency becomes thick and glossy. Can be served warm or at room temperature like a balsamic glaze.

Create your Basting Liquid:

12 oz can of your favorite beer

2 tablespoons Kinders Prime Rib Seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend)

1 tablespoon Aleppo pepper

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard

Combine all ingredients in a small pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium and simmer 20 minutes. Set aside until it’s time to baste your Farmers & Fishermen USDA Prime Tomahawk Rack. At about two hours you should check to see if your bark has formed on the outside of the meat, it should look golden brown and be dry to the touch. At this point you can use your basting liquid, gently brushing it across the top side of the meat. Repeat this process again in one hour.

Smoke for a total of 3½ to four hours or until the internal temperature reaches 125130F for rare, 135F for medium-tare. Do not overcook.

Remove to a cutting board and tent with foil for 20-30 minutes. Slice and serve.

Side Dishes

Roasted Potatoes:

1 bag honey gold potatoes, washed and cut an x into the top of each 1/4 cup olive oil

3 cloves garlic

1.5 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon dried rubbed sage

1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper

1.5 teaspoons kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Mix all herbs and spices into olive oil. Pour over top of the cut potatoes, coating thoroughly. Place on a baking sheet in a pre-heated oven at 350F. Roast 15-20 minutes or until tender and golden brown.

Honey Roasted Carrots:

1 bundle organic carrots with tops (can also use baby carrots or multi-colored carrots) 1/4 cup honey

Salt and pepper to taste

Bring a pot of salted water to boil.

Trim carrots, peel and cut in half.

Drop the carrots in the boiling water for two to three minutes.

Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove carrots and place in a bowl of ice water. Dry the carrots using paper towels. Place on a baking sheet, season with salt, pepper and honey. Roast at 350F for about 10 minutes, until carrots are tender and golden brown.

Yom Kippur Hot Smoked Patagonian Salmon Board

Ingredients:

1 fillet Farmers & Fishermen Direct Shipped Fresh Patagonian Salmon Fillet

¾ large Vidalia onion, chopped

1 each lemon, cut into slices

5 sprigs fresh dill

2 sprigs fresh thyme

1 sprig fresh rosemary

2 teaspoons cracked black pepper

6 cloves garlic, smashed

1.5 cups brown sugar, packed

½ cup kosher salt

4 quarts water

1 large roasting pan or a disposable aluminum hotel pan from the grocery store. It needs to be able to fit all the liquid along with the Patagonian Salmon Fillet. Seasonings to have on hand: salt, pepper and paprika

For the board:

Arugula

Heirloom cherry tomatoes

Cucumbers

Capers

Assorted cream cheese flavors

Bagels

Challah

Finely diced red onion

Fresh lemon, wedges or slices

Directions:

Create your wet brine: Add onion, lemon, herbs, spices, garlic, sugar and salt to the roasting pan or disposable aluminum pan. Pour in water and using a whisk, gently mix together the ingredients until the salt and sugar are dissolved.

Place your Farmers & Fishermen Patagonian Salmon Fillet into the wet brine. Place in your refrigerator for three hours.

After three hours pull the salmon, rinse with cool running water and pat dry with paper towels.

Place on a greased roasting rack or broiler pan. Season lightly with salt, pepper and paprika. Put back in the refrigerator for one hour.

Have your Traeger pre-heated to 225F, place the roasting rack or broiler pan directly on the grill grates. Smoke for one hour or until the internal temperature hits 135F. When the salmon is done, allow to rest 15 minutes and then gently transfer to a display board or platter. Arrange all of your toppings and ingredients, you can do this as a centerpiece to your dining room table or create a mini buffet using lovely bowls and spoons.

Holiday Cooking Event Highlights Gastroenterology

Hadassah Greater Atlanta’s Metulla group hosted a Rosh Hashanah cooking event on Aug. 14 at the home of Michele Weiner-Merbaum, to learn about eating right and new frontiers in gastroenterology at Hadassah Medical Organization.

Dr. David Hakimian, a senior gastroenterologist at Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, spoke in an interview on Hadassah On Call. Dr. Hakimian tells all his patients, “Eat fresh food. Eat healthy food. Do not eat processed food. This will prevent so many gastrointestinal diseases that affect not only the stomach, but the esophagus, small intestines, colon, rectum, pancreas, gall bladder, bile duct, and liver.”

The investigation of the human microbiome is one of the new leading edge research studies in the gastroenterology department at Hadassah Medical Center in Israel. Dr. Hakimian is examining the stools of women with irritable bowel disease who are about to give birth.

Simone Wilker, advocacy chair for Hadassah Greater Atlanta asks, “Can this disorder be transferred to the baby through the mother’s microbiome?” If the answer is found to be “yes,” Dr. Ha-

“Cooking with Michele” Chef Michele Weiner-Merbaum displays the treats that the Hadassah members prepared for a beautiful healthy Rosh Hashanah table.

kimian is hoping that by studying the microbiome of the mother, he will develop, before the delivery, a personalized treatment for the mother so that she can avoid passing this condition to her newborn.

“Cooking with Michele!” followed, using healthy guidelines, to prepare several delights. Michele Weiner-Merbaum, National Hadassah portfolio holder, past president of both Hadassah Southeastern Region and Hadassah Greater Atlanta and an accomplished chef, graciously provided her kitchen and expertise for the event. Everyone’s favorite, especially for the New Year, was Rosh Hashanah Apple Rosettes. It was a great hands-on cooking experience, and everyone was excited to go home and prepare these treats for the holidays.

Hadassah Greater Atlanta members are proud to support the Hadassah Medical Centers in Israel which combines the skill of more than 5,060 health care professionals to bring health and hope to the people of the region and far beyond. Hadassah extends its hand to all. Go to www.hadassah.org to learn more. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Rosh Hashanah Apple Rosettes

Ingredients:

Red apples

Apricot jam

Puffed pastry

Directions:

Set over to 350 degrees.

Thaw the puff pastry at room temperature. It should take about 20-30 minutes.

Cut the apples in half, remove the core and cut the apples in paper-thin slices. Leave the peel so it will give the red color to your roses.

Unwrap the puff pastry over lightly floured counter. Using a rolling pin stretch the dough into a rectangular shape of about 12” x 9” (30 x 22 cm).

Cut the dough into six strips.

Spread a thin layer of preserve on each strip of dough.

Arrange the apple slices on the dough, overlapping one another and make sure the top (skin side) of the slices sticks a little out of the strip.

Fold up the bottom part of the dough.

Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough, keeping the apple slices in place. Seal the edge at the end, pressing with your finger, and place in a regular muffin cup. No need to grease the muffin mold.

Bake at 350º F until fully cooked.

Recipe by Michele Weiner-Merbaum

Learning about healthy eating while preparing foods for Rosh Hashanah are: (from left) Stephanie Pure, Randi Mazer, Barbara Kaplan, Rene Montaigne, Chef Michele Weiner-Merbaum, Linda Weinroth, Terry Nordin, Nancy Schwartz, Mindy Cohen, Judy Bart, Janice Liederman, Amy Mittelberg, Laringa Rush

(From left) Hadassah Greater Atlanta Leadership Stars: Nancy Schwartz, President, Hadassah Greater Atlanta, Michele Weiner-Merbaum, Terry Nordin, President, Hadassah Metulla Group.

HOLIDAY FLAVORS

Sephardic Apple Almond Cake - Tishpishti

Submitted by Bob Bahr

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar

1 1/2 cups unsweetened apple juice

Zest from 1 medium lemon 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

4 tablespoons apple brandy (optional)

For the Cake:

4 large eggs  3/4 cup sugar  1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup vegetable oil

2 1/2 cups almond flour

1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts  2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

2 medium apples, grated

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9” x 13” baking pan with parchment paper so it overlaps the sides, spray with nonstick cooking spray.

For the Syrup: Simmer sugar, apple juice, and lemon zest until syrup reaches 240 degrees F. Remove syrup from heat and add lemon juice and applejack. Set aside and allow to cool to room temperature.

For the Cake: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine eggs, sugar, and salt. Using a whisk attachment, whip on high until eggs become thick, pale, and ribbons, about 10 minutes.

With mixer running on medium, slowly drizzle in oil in a thin stream until fully incorporated and thick.

Using a flexible rubber spatula, fold in almond flour, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined.

Fold in grated apple. Pour batter into prepared pan and gently tap on the counter to evenly distribute. Bake until golden brown and top of cake bounces back to the touch, about 50 minutes.

While cake is still warm, loosen exposed short sides of cake from pan. Using parchment paper as a handle, lift cake out of pan and onto a cutting board. Cut cake into diamond shapes by making a series of diagonal slices in one direction across the cake, then making another series of diagonal slices in the opposite direction.

Lift sliced cake, again using parchment, and return to pan. Strain syrup over warm cake using a mesh strainer, allow 1 hour for cake to fully absorb syrup.

We invite members of the community to nominate those under the age of 18 who they believe are Jewish Atlanta’s rising leaders in academics, religious and family life, as well as community action.

A nominee must be Jewish, at least 10 years old and must not have turned 18 before October 31, 2024. You can nominate yourself, a friend, student or your child - anyone who meets the criteria. Nominees are judged on their academic and community achievements as an active member of Jewish Atlanta.

HOLIDAY FLAVORS

Romaniote Cheese Pastries - Tiropitakia

Submitted by Bob Bahr

The Romaniote Jews are the ancient residents of Greece, having arrived during Roman times. They spoke Yevanic, a Greek dialect written using the Hebrew alphabet. Over the centuries, they lived in close community with Sephardic Jews who arrived in Greece after their expulsion from Spain in the late 15th century. Both communities were decimated by the Holocaust.

The last surviving Romaniote synagogue in America is Kehila Kedosha Janina, located on the Lower East Side of New York which was built in 1927.

Ingredients:

8 oz feta cheese

1 large egg

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

1 Tbsp chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted or substitute with non-dairy butter or oil

8 oz prepared phyllo pastry sheets (about 18 sheets cut so that are 9” X 14” each)

1/4 cup sesame seeds

1/3 cup honey

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

In a bowl, combine the feta, egg, yogurt and 1 Tbsp chopped mint. Set aside your filling. Unwrap your phyllo. Brush the top of the sheet with melted butter. As you form the pastries, keep the phyllo moist by covering with a lightly damp cloth.

Place 1 Tbsp of the feta filling into the bottom center of the sheet, horizontally, leaving about ½ an inch from the bottom. Fold the right side a third over the filling, then fold the opposite left side over the filling, and the phyllo will now be a long strip about 3” wide and 14” long.

Fold the bottom corner up and over the mixture, forming a triangle and encasing the filling. Continue to fold the triangle upon itself, from side to side, until you’ve used the entire sheet of phyllo.

Brush all of the formed triangles with melted butter and sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until deep golden brown After baking, drizzle warm honey over the triangles and serve.

Farmer’s Market Vegetable Egg Frittatas

Submitted by Added Touch Catering

Breaking the Fast is elevated to the next level and can be ready in no time with these make-ahead frittatas. What we love about these “farmer’s market” egg bakes is that you can truly add any veggies or cheeses to the base (aka … clean out your kitchen!) but we are happy to share our “added touch” for making this brunch favorite! If you want to see more of what we’ve got cooking, follow us @ AddedTouchATL.

Ingredients:

(for frittatas – yields 12)

1 cup zucchini, small diced

1 cup yellow squash, small diced

¾ cup red onions, small diced

¾ cup colored peppers, small diced

4 cups fresh baby spinach

12 grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded

11 large eggs

¾ cup heavy cream

1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp. salt

¼ tsp. pepper

1 tbsp. PAM spray or butter

½ cup sundried tomatoes in oil, julienned

7 tbsp. basil oil (recipe below)

(for basil oil – yields 1 pint)

5 ½ cups fresh basil

1 clove fresh garlic

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil

¾ cup vegetable oil

1 tsp. salt

¼ tsp. pepper

Directions:

Preheat still oven to 325˚F. (to make basil oil):

Boil a large pot of salted water (water should taste briny). Prepare a large bowl of ice water and place near stove. Blanch basil by dropping it into boiling water for 3 seconds then immediately shock in bowl of ice water. Squeeze all excess water out of basil. Blend basil, 1 tsp. salt, and remaining ingredients in an electric blender. (to make frittatas):

Heat 1 tbsp. of olive oil in a large sauté pan on medium/high heat. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, colored peppers and red onion. Sauté for 4 minutes. Add baby spinach and sauté for 2 more minutes until spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and cool vegetable mixture on a sheet pan.

Blend eggs, heavy cream, 1 tsp. salt, and 1 tbsp. basil oil (set aside remaining basil oil to garnish later) until smooth.

Lay out 12 foil cups on a half sheet pan and grease each cup with PAM spray or butter. Divide the vegetable mixture, feta and cheddar evenly into each cup. Top off with egg mixture leaving about ¼ in. of space. Add two (2) tomato halves into each cup. Bake for 15 minutes or until set. Let frittatas cool for about 10 minutes before removing from baking tin. Serve warm or refrigerate to serve the next day.

To reheat: Preheat still oven to 350˚F. Heat uncovered 10-15 minutes or until warm. (garnish before serving):

Drizzle ½ tbsp. of basil oil onto each frittata, top with a small bundle of sundried tomatoes. Add leftover fresh basil flowers and cherry tomatoes to garnish.

Chai Style Art

Artist, Therapist, Biker, Big Thinker

Marcia Caller Jaffe

Whether it’s a fluttering bird, a portrait of Leonard Cohen, or poignant clowns, artist Karen Schwartz’s interpretation would most likely be super-sized. At her midtown “hip” King Plow or home studio, native New Yorker Schwartz internalized blockbuster art shows in the '70s at the Museum of Modern Art that shaped her 20th century sensibilities.

She said, “I work large. I’m a very physical painter. I think of painting as a sport -- often changing positions, climbing ladders, on chairs, shifting surfaces from wall to floor. I enjoy working outside because I can make even more of a mess, throwing and spraying paints and ink, and hosing down paintings to subtract content -- all with abandon.”

Dr. Schwartz had just returned from a bike trip through Italy when she treated us to a tour of her studios and Druid Hills home.

Jaffe: How did all this inspiration

find you?

Schwartz: I’m not formally trained, nor have I attended art school. I was highly exposed to art growing up in New York City. My mother had to drag us to museums; after a while that kind of exposure took root. I learned that I could draw what I see. I carried an SLR camera everywhere, especially when traveling. Then we replaced bulky cameras with iPhones. Influenced by photojournalism and the fine eyes of photographers like Cartier Bresson, Alfred Stieglitz, Walker Evans, and Berenice Abbott, I drew faces from photos I took with a telephoto lens of people on the street.

Jaffe: So as an adult?

Schwartz: I’ve been fortunate to have encouraging mentors and artist friends who appreciated my particular expressive style in structured learning experiences. I worked through an artist atelier led by Michael David and drawing intensives run by the New York Studio School. I was graced with instruction to “look and see” but not “how to do.” I found my own way. My father once told a friend of mine that I’m most free and brave when painting. I think that’s true.

Jaffe: What are some titles of your

work?

Schwartz: “Spokes, 2022”; “Go Fly a Kite”; “Mother”; “The Universe is Expanding”; and “Phoenix of Sheepshead Bay” are some lively ones that reflect my penchant for being in motion and capturing it.

Jaffe: How does being a therapist dovetail into your art?

Schwartz: Being a psychoanalytic psychotherapist and an artist generates lots of cross pollination. I think of both as dialogic, relational and creative processes of making meaning or making sense, which is a distinctly human imperative. One can come to know what something is or means by drawing it. I come to know what I’m thinking, but not necessarily aware of thinking or feeling through painting. Drawing and painting are non-verbal ways of thinking, looking hard, and the impulse to make marks however possible.

Jaffe: What does this mean in lay terms?

Schwartz: The painting surface acquires a separate life of its own and talks back. In my mind, this is comparable to sitting with a patient and creating a conversational exchange. The clinical dia-

logue in its verbal and non-verbal dimensions is the canvas, on which a relational process dedicated to the agenda of the patient, can come into being, take form, and hold jointly constructed meanings.

Jaffe: You have large space working studios.

Schwartz: I work on many pieces of different scales concurrently. I pull prints on paper off wet surfaces of large paintings to start drawings or smaller paintings on paper. I incorporate debris from the art making process, along with my own photographs and torn bits of drawings, into the large paintings.

Jaffe: Your ideas come from where?

Schwartz: Inspiration comes from the work of artists in galleries or museum shows here or in New York City, my natural surroundings, the play of light on surfaces, my own photographs, and the human face and figure. I drew from live models until COVID when I lived parttime in a family beach cottage with my husband … in relative isolation. The result was a series of semi-abstract works on paper, my mother’s garden, seagulls and other sea birds. These were done outdoors through several seasons on the ground, as I had no studio.

Avid cyclist Karen Schwartz poses in her home studio in front of her interpretations of Malcolm X, violinist Yasha Haifetz, and several of her floral works // All photos by Howard Mendel

Jaffe: Malcolm X, John Lewis, Leonard Cohen, Golda Meir have what in common? Describe your wide range of portrait subjects.

Schwartz: They are usually of family members, hired models or from photos in the public domain from newspapers or magazines of iconic or newsworthy figures, even “zoomed in” photos of faces I excerpt from TV or film. I choose whom to paint on aesthetic grounds, not because of who the person is. I’ve got to be grabbed by their face. Sometimes I paint famous people without knowing much about them, because I’ve been captivated by their expression or facial features. I come to learn about them through collecting photos, spending time with them in that way, and then coming to know them through looking and making marks to recreate my subjects on the painting surface.

Jaffe:  Last word.

Schwartz: I’m really about free gestures of abstract expressionism, the distorted, multiple, simultaneous perspectives of Picasso, the flattened perspective of Matisse. I believe that without thinking it explicitly, I came to accept experimentation as critical to self-expression.

Schwartz is represented by Jennifer Balcos Gallery of Palm Beach, Fla., and Atlanta. Instagram: @kschwartz_art ì

Above: Dining room wood table fabricated from a single tree and metal chandelier shaped like tree branches and birds. Panel print by Vermont printmaker Sarah Amos.

Right: Thornton Dial’s works on paper depict himself as a tiger.

Left: The Schwartz sunroom houses a love of plants focused on two sepia toned photos by Edward Curtis, photographer of American West.

Schwartz sees painting as a form of physicality as she climbs, moves things around and is shown here maximizing the floor space.

Above: The sitting room has an original bird painting by Tom Swanston from his Sandhill Crane series. Above is a white molded chandelier.

Below: Mixed media painting entitled “Mom’s Pillow,” fabricated using a disintegrating hand-painted throw pillow cover, oil paint and pastel by Schwartz.

Above: Schwartz’s paintings side by side: (left) “Go Fly A Kite” and (right)“The Universe is Expanding.”

Below: Two of Schwartz’s large works: “Neither Fish Nor Fowl” and “Mask.”

CALENDAR

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Israel Virtual Tours: Let’s GATHER

Together to Re-Discover the Land of Israel after October 7th - 9:30 - 11 a.m.

We are thrilled to announce an upcoming series of three virtual tours in Israel hosted by the Atlanta Israel Coalition (AIC) and the Jewish Interest-Free Loan Association of Georgia (JIFLA), featuring tour guide David Sussman. Get the Virtual Link at https://tinyurl.com/pakkv7h8.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Apple Picking and Picnic Lunch - 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join Congregation Or Ve Shalom for a fun morning of picking apples, visiting the petting zoo and more. Bring your lunch and join us for a picnic. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/38ar3eww.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/4sykyvvf.

2024-2025 AJC Atlanta Board of Councilors - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. In these critical times, it is crucial we speak with a powerful voice to educate the world about the dangers of antisemitism, protect Israel, and safeguard the rights and freedoms of all people. As a valued AJC leader, you will play a pivotal role in helping to advance our mission and defend our values. Our board meetings are an opportunity to gather with one another, learn from experts and guest speakers, and take action. Learn more at https://bit.ly/4eanZqI.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/23rs3wch.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/2yv3vxk6.

Music & Play – 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Let’s ignite curiosity with the magic of music and play! Kickstart your day with a dynamic music and movement class led by Here We Grow. Following music, Nurture will guide themed sensory play and art adventures. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mr329czs.

SEPTEMBER 1-13

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Superhero 5K and Fun Run - 8 a.m. Join us for a 5K and Kids Fun Run in support of Temple Kehillat Chaim, Kibbutz Be’eri and the Roswell community. Flat course along the river - walkers and runners welcome, perfect for families! Local vendors will be onsite at the start/finish line for a fun and festive morning! Register at https://tinyurl. com/2s4fxjkx.

Mensch Makers – 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Introducing Mensch Makers, a program from Nurture and The Davis Academy, where preschoolers, ages 3-5, alongside their parents or caregivers, dive into the essence of tikkun olam, repairing the world. During this four-week series, families will explore food insecurity in Atlanta, visit a local retirement community and engage in a service-learning series highlighting Jewish values.  Find out more at https://tinyurl. com/4wj8ehjc.

Grandparents Day at The Breman - 12 to 2:30 p.m. PJ Library Storytelling Session Kicks off the afternoon with a captivating storytelling session hosted by PJ Library. Children and their grandparents will gather to listen to enchanting tales that spark imagination and foster a love for reading. The stories will be tailored for children aged 2 and older, ensuring an engaging and age-appropriate experience for all attendees. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/bdh7msrz.

Cub Scout Pack 1818 Raingutter Regatta Fall Kickoff - 3 to 5 p.m. Join Cub Scout Pack 1818 for an afternoon of fun as we build and race mini-boats in our annual “Raingutter Regatta,” play Scout-themed games, and introduce Scouts and their families to the activities, members, and den leaders for this year! New families will have the opportunity to meet current members, learn about our pack events, and register now for our Pack -- “Scouting with a Jewish Twist!” Snacks and drinks will be provided. RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/2734xsh4.

Pop Up NYC Kosher Deli in Gainesville, GA - 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. For the first time in Hall County! Have you been craving that delicious deli sandwich? The Pop-Up NY Kosher Deli is coming to town! Get your pastrami or corned beef sandwich with all the sides. Reserve at https://tinyurl.com/ bx44kzk7.

Keshet - North Fulton - 4 to 5:30 p.m. Join IAC for a true Israeli experience! We will meet for fun, learning, and of course community! We would like to open a few groups. Please register at https://bit. ly/3Rlcxi0 if you would like your child to be part of the Keshet family. Please indicate your child’s age.

CTeen Intown Atlanta Kickoff! - 5:30 p.m.

Join CTeen Intown Atlanta for an awesome Kickoff event! BBQ + Game truck fun! With CTeen you don’t just have the time of your life – you actually take part in making this world a better place by giving back to your community. You put smiles on people’s faces while chilling with friends and making some new ones. When you are at CTeen you are always helping people, growing, learning new things, and having a blast! Register at https://tinyurl.com/nkua2c38.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/prs2wz7.

Election 2024: A Jewish View of the Hot-Button Issues – 7:30 to 9 p.m. Election season is in full swing and the biggest issues facing our country are front and center. In this new series The Torah Center Atlanta cuts through the politics to examine five critical issues through the non-partisan lens of Torah wisdom. Join us in spirited discussion as we delve into Jewish teachings to help navigate today’s increasingly divisive political landscape leading up to this historic election. Be an informed Jew. Be an engaged citizen. Be a part of a constructive conversation about the issues that matter! Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/mpbujtt8.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/4mstvv3x.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Shoftim

Friday, September 6 Light Candles at: 7:38 PM

Saturday, September 7 Shabbat Ends: 8:32 PM

Torah Reading: Ki Teitzei

Friday, September 13 Light Candles at: 7:28 PM

Saturday, September 14 Shabbat Ends: 8:22 PM

NCJW Atlanta Section Board Meeting – 12 to 1:30 p.m. Monthly board meeting of the NCJW Atlanta Section. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/ynhv84fx.

Fall Impact Forum – 12 to 1:30 p.m. JWFA’s fall Impact Forum luncheon features a keynote speaker and the latest updates on JWFA grantees. This program is open to all JWFA Trustees, Associate-level donors and members of the current ACT cohort. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/yzy2dp8e.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/4sykyvvf.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/23rs3wch.

Fighting Antisemitism: Where We Are and Where We Need to Go - 1 to 2 p.m.

The world’s oldest hatred is surging. The Jewish community is scrambling. What lessons can we learn from the past to ensure a better future? In this virtual panel, four Jewish leaders with deep experience fighting anti-Semitism will offer their insights on the best path forward. Get the Zoom link by visiting https://tinyurl.com/ ydhzu682.

Empowering Parents: Helping Teens Navigate Social Media and Antisemitism - 7 to 9 p.m. In today’s world, the war in Israel is playing out as much on social media as it is on the battlefield. This workshop aims to help parents support their teens in being responsible consumers of social media, addressing questions like: When should you engage in online discussions and when is it better to unfollow? When does content criticizing Israel cross the line into antisemitism? How can you take care of your mental health while online? We welcome Yoni Buckman from Jewish Unpacked back to Atlanta to lead this engaging and interactive workshop for parents of teens and young adults. Receive more information at https://tinyurl. com/3dmtzhd7.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Daily Shofar Blasts on Main Street - 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar. or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/2yv3vxk6.

Music & Play – 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Let’s ignite curiosity with the magic of music and play! Kickstart your day with a dynamic music and movement class led by Here We Grow. Following music, Nurture will guide themed sensory play and art adventures. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mr329czs.

Shabbat, Me, & Rabbi G - 5 to 5:30 p.m. Join us in the JCC lobby for this fun monthly Shabbat celebration with Rabbi G! Children will enjoy Shabbat songs, blessings, challah and grape juice with their friends. All are welcome to this free and open event! Learn more at https://bit.ly/3sknPdh.

KEEPING IT KOSHER

Fresh Tropical Salad

This salad is magical and special on its own. Just the combination and flavors of all the components make for the most refreshing and vibrant addition to your shalosh seudos spread. One of the best ways to stay hydrated during a fast is to eat fresh fruit beforehand, so this salad definitely fits the bill. For a dairy version, take it up a notch by adding some fresh mozzarella cubes or crumbly feta. For a meat version, make it into a full meal by topping with some grilled chicken slices for a restaurant-grade salad.

Ingredients

Salad

2 hearts romaine lettuce, chopped

2 Persian cucumbers, sliced

6 to 8 strawberries, sliced

1 mango, peeled and diced

1 avocado, peeled and sliced

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

1 radish, thinly sliced

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing

1/3 cup orange juice

1/4 cup Tuscanini Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

1 tablespoon Tuscanini White Wine Vinegar

2 teaspoons Haddar Dijon Mustard

2 teaspoons Gefen Honey

1 cube Gefen Frozen Garlic

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Add romaine lettuce to a large bowl and top with cucumbers, strawberries, mango, avocado, pomegranate seeds, radish and red onion.

2. Combine all dressing ingredients in a glass jar and whisk or shake until combined. Taste and season with additional salt if necessary.

3. Drizzle with dressing right before serving.

Recipe by Vera Newman

source: Kosher.com

The Army

Rabbi Landau was, as usual, standing near the synagogue exit shaking hands as his congregation left. But as Max was leaving, Rabbi Landau grabbed his hand, pulled him aside, and said, “Max, I think you need to join the Army of G-d!”

“But I’m already in G-d’s army, Rabbi,” said Max.

“So how come I don’t see you in shul except on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?” asked Rabbi Landau.

Max leaned in and whispered, “I’m in the secret service.”

YIDDISH WORD

Umglick shammer

n. A person who pretends to have bad luck in order to elicit pity and win favors.

“What an unglick shammer that Milton is. He’s told me three times now that his bubbe passed away, when we all know she’s the picture of health in Boca Raton.”

From the Yiddish “unglick,” meaning “an unluck person.”

Chabad

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

Difficulty Level: Medium

ACROSS

1. Part of Chabad?

6. Fed. property overseer

9. ___ Shem Tov

13. Give a dvar Torah, e.g. 14. Some batteries

15. Jewish prohibition

17. First Chabad 73-Across 18. Style of Chabad

20. Two-time loser to D.D.E.

22. Affront, slangily

23. Like Esau

24. Notable Chabad locale

30. Fishy source of omega-3 fatty acids

31. Most fastidious

35. Kill, in the Bible

36. Little, in Glasgow

38. City with the third largest Jewish population in Australia

39. These, in Paris

40. Part of Chabad?

43. A name doubled before “shir daberi”

44. Warriors are sometimes victorious in one

46. Uncle, in Mexico

47. Need for matzah

48. Dark ___ (ginger beer cocktail)

51. Disney’s Lady, for one

53. Notable Chabad locale

55. Jehoshaphat’s father

58. One-million connection?

59. Actor Mineo of “Exodus”

BRAIN FOOD

60. Notable Chabad locale

64. Essential Chabad work by 17-Across

68. One can produce an ace

69. Coca-Cola sparkling water brand

70. Have ___ (get off the hook)

71. Part of Chabad?

72. Shicker

73. Prominent Chabad figure, with “The”

DOWN

1. Squeezing snake

2. “Nonvirtual” initialism added to the OED in 2016

3. Turner of a rebellion

4. Corroded

5. “Dont Come Around ___ More” (Tom Petty hit)

6. ___ Izzy

7. Meccan, for one

8. Give out, as a task

9. Ballpoint brand

10. Dip for an annual Jewish (sad) sandwich

11. Word with “Trei” in Tanach

12. Carrot on a stick, e.g.

16. Disencumber

19. Winner of the 1968 U.S. Open

21. Spit for a kebab

24. Diagnostic image, for short

25. Kings and queens, but not rooks

26. Where one might do some acting

27. Orange-nosed Sesame Street resident

28. Andalusian appetizer

29. Sault ___ Marie, Ont.

32. Gemara which discusses string theory?

33. Downing or Smoleskin

34. How some things are disguised

37. Make like Sandler

40. Give a hoot

41. Sound from Moses’ staff?

42. Acts despondent

45. Thumbs downs

47. Like much of the highway to Key West

49. 1007, in 1007

50. Busybodies

52. Cinematic smash hit featuring the Navi

54. Kind of chip

55. Michaels and Roker

56. Was litigious

57. Magic-spell opener

61. Gardner who played Sarah in “The Bible”

62. Look into a candidate

63. Common garb for a Chabadnik

65. ___ Hill, in San Francisco or Boston

66. “___ Nub”, song in the original “Return of the Jedi”

67. Had some lox, e.g.

OBITUARIES

Sidney Cecil Berger

98, Atlanta

Sidney Cecil Berger, 98, died peacefully on Aug. 7, 2024. Sidney was born at Piedmont Hospital Feb. 8, 1926 and was raised in the Grant Park area of Atlanta, Ga.

Sidney attended Boys High. He joined the Civil Defense when he was 16. He enlisted in the Army infantry during WWII serving in Patton’s Army in Europe where as a Sergeant he earned the Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and 3 Bronze Battle Stars.

After the war he met the love of his life Beverly Gotlieb and married February 15th, 1948.

Sidney was a true family man and hands on loving father. He coached his children’s sports teams and was always involved in their lives. He was a devoted member and was confirmed at the Ahavath Achim Synagogue and he shared his love of Judaism with his entire family.

He was a valued member of the Fulton Lodge for 72 years as a Freemason in Atlanta, Sidney proudly received his 50-year Masonic apron, following his father’s footsteps as a Shriner.

Sidney’s life was defined by his love for his family, his friends, his self-made business accomplishments, and his kindness towards everyone he met. Sidney always had a smile on his face and is remembered for his generosity, integrity and honor. He touched the lives of all that knew him. Sidney was a true Mensch.

Although his life was celebrated as a successful real estate developer, supportive business mentor, and he was marked with many achievements, he would always say that Beverly and his family were the best thing about his life.

Sidney is predeceased by his parents Joseph and Minnie Berger, his two brothers Eddie and Nathan, and his wife Beverly Gotlieb Berger.

Survivors include daughter Rosalind Gamba, sons Michael Berger & Joseph Berger (Debra); grandchildren Seth Gamba (Leah), Jay Gamba, Julia Berger Terry (Walt), and Dana Berger Kirschner (Josh); great grandchildren Carl, Thomas, Daniel, & Tyler Gamba; Jordan & Sydney Kirschner; Emily, Anderson, & Parker Terry; Brother-in-law Edward Gotlieb (Jackie); along with many nieces and nephews.

To commemorate Sidney’s incredible life journey and to celebrate the love he spread, a graveside service was held in his honor Sunday, Aug. 11th, 10:30am at Greenwood Cemetery, 1173 Cascade Circle, Atlanta, GA 30311. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Temple Online Payments - The Temple (the-temple.org) or Temple Sinai Online Payments - Temple Sinai (templesinaiatlanta.org).  Funeral arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care 770-451-4999.

Joyce Prystowsky Berger 95, Atlanta

Joyce Prystowsky Berger passed away on June 24, 2024. The youngest of four, she was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina to the parents of Raye and Moshe Prystowsky. Joyce’s childhood was filled with the laughter and love of her two brothers, Arnold and Harry Prystowsky and her sister Kate Prystowsky (Robbins) as well as her many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Joyce was predeceased by her husband of 57 years, A. Albert Berger. Joyce moved to Atlanta to marry Al where they raised their four surviving children, Bruce Berger, Edward Berger (Susan), Raye Ida Gray and Marsha Berger (Robert Brochstein). She is the beloved grandmother of Rachel, Michael, Sophie, Maddy, Daniel, Winston and Nate. If you asked any of her grandkids who her favorite was, they would all say, “I was” because that is the way she made them (and everyone) feel.

Joyce created beautiful family memories and instilled a love of Judaism with Shabbat dinners and the holidays always at her home. She valued her weekly Bible study classes at her synagogue as well as her Mahjongg games with her wide circle of treasured friends. She introduced her family to Sullivan’s Island, SC and spent many happy summer vacations with the entire family in tow sharing stories and memories with her grandchildren so that they would always know “who they were and where they came from”. She was an avid learner, funny, warm and never met a stranger. Joyce genuinely embodied Aishes Chayil, as she was truly generous of heart and spirit.

A graveyard service was held at Crest Lawn Cemetery on June 25, 2024, officiated by Rabbi Ilan Feldman. Please make contributions to Congregation Beth Jacob, 404633-0551 www.bethjacobatlanta.org or Friendship Circle of Atlanta, 404-618-5777 fcatlanta.org

Dr. Eugene D. Davidson 84, Atlanta

Dr. Eugene D. Davidson (Gene), 84, of Atlanta passed away at his home on July 31 with his loving wife, Linda, by his side. Renowned surgeon, loving husband, father, grandfather and Renaissance man, Gene was known for his brilliant mind, encyclopedic knowledge, notable wine cellar, and carefully curated works of art. There was no field that didn’t interest him. He was the Siri, Google and AI for his family and friends. His unique sense of humor emerged in a variety of ways including his hilarious use of authentic-sounding dialects. Gene spent years skiing and hiking in Snowmass, Colo., and golfing around the globe. He and Linda toured the world, but the highlight of his life was enjoying his children and precious grandchildren at home and in locations like Colorado, New York, California and Argentina, (home to two grandchildren).

Gene’s list of friends is legendary, as reflected in the number of celebratory occasions the couple delighted in attending. Born in New York in 1940 to Eva and George Davidson, Gene grew up in Toledo. He graduated from the University of Michigan and Case Western University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, where he completed his internship and residency. He served in the Army at US Kenner Army Hospital, Ft. Lee, Virginia for 2 years and then relocated to Emory University in Atlanta as a faculty member. His 37-year medical career in Atlanta was remarkable. There he served as a general surgeon and Chief of Staff, Chief of Surgery and interim President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Hospital, earning him the respect and love of all who crossed his path. Past President of the Atlantic Surgical Association, Gene was a board member of Mercy Care of St. Joseph’s and chaired several important committees. He traveled throughout the country giving talks and authored multiple articles in medical journals. Throughout his career and long after retirement, Gene was the go-to medical expert for his many friends and family members.

Never impatient, always caring when called upon, he immediately returned calls, constantly appreciating the opportunity to help. In addition to his wife Linda Newman Davidson, he is survived by sons Jeffrey of Los Angeles, Eric of Redondo Beach; daughter Laura of Atlanta; grandchildren Penny and Sam Davidson of Redondo Beach and Sophia and Delphina Sann of Argentina; brother Martin of Toledo; cousins Connie Royce Reed Wiere of Thousand Oaks, CA and Leslie Royce Resnik of Cleveland, OH; nieces and nephews and his canine companion Charlie. Funeral services were held Monday, August 5, 10 a.m. at The Temple, 1589 Peachtree St. NE, 30309.  In lieu of flowers, friends who wish may donate in Dr. Eugene Davidson’s memory to Case Western Reserve Medical School or to a charity of their choice.  Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Michael Pomerantz

79, Atlanta

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Michael Pomerantz who succumbed to his eleven-year battle with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. He will be fondly remembered by many whose lives he touched.  He was born in Aylesbury, England on November 25, 1944, before moving to the Bronx as an infant. He spent his youth in New York and met his wife of 57 years, Ann, while there.

They moved to Georgia in 1969 after being drafted and stationed at Ft. Benning in Columbus. Upon completion of his service, Michael and Ann moved to Atlanta where Michael began his 30year career with Rich’s Department Store. They put down their roots and created their family in Atlanta and have been here ever since. After retirement, Michael’s days were filled with spending time with Ann, travel, tennis, lunch with friends, Braves games, and grandchildren. He will be missed by all of those who were fortunate enough to know him.  He is survived by his wife Ann, his children David (Michelle) Pomerantz, Ross (Sonia) Pomerantz, Bryan Pomerantz, and Lisa (Adam) Weinbaum, his grandchildren Ethan and Reece Pomerantz and Alex, Sidney, and Casey Weinbaum and step-grandchildren Matt, Skye, and Morgan Hill, and his sister Sharon (Mitch) Gross.  The graveside service was held 1:00 pm on Friday, Aug. 16, 2024 at Arlington Memorial Park, Atlanta, Ga.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to American Cancer Society Hope Lodge Atlanta at www.raiseyourway.donordrive.com. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Louise Bobo Sinkoe 96, Atlanta

Louise Bobo Sinkoe, 96, of Atlanta passed away peacefully on Aug. 13, 2024.  Louise was born and raised in Atlanta.  She was devoted to her family, spending most of her time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her son, Ralph Sinkoe, and her husband, Aaron Sinkoe.  Survivors include: children, Peggy and Howard Ginsburg, David and Shana Sinkoe, and Rita Sinkoe-Botnick and Randy Botnick; grandchildren, Raphael Ginsburg and Frances Klein, Avraham and Sarah Ginsburg, Ilana and Thomas Hrozenzik, Shoshana Ginsburg, Leona Sinkoe, Jacob Botnick and Josh Botnick; and great-grandchildren, Joseph, Aaron, Samuel, and Benjamin. Graveside services were held 10:00 am, Aug. 15, at Greenwood Cemetery.  Donations may be made to Congregation Beth Jacob.  Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Obituaries in the AJT are written and paid for by the families; contact Editor and 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.

CLOSING THOUGHTS A Modern Day Fable

Shaindle

Schmuckler

Shaindle’s Shpiel

Once upon a time, not so many moons and suns ago, there existed a vast, far away kingdom. In this far away kingdom, the sun shone and, along with the rain, kept the beauty of nature that envel-

oped the flourishing kingdom. This kingdom was located in a land called Roswell, Ga. Within this kingdom lived deer and squirrels and geese (oh my!).

The kingdom was filled with many interesting and beautiful creatures. In this far off land there also lived many varieties of beautiful birds. The songs of the birds could be heard throughout the entire kingdom. All the inhabitants of the kingdom loved melodies. In this pristine land of Roswell, every living creature lived in harmony. Every living creature treated each other with respect for their diversity, because differences were the norm. They all lived in peace and harmony.

They all shared the food available to them.

One day, they awoke from a delightfully restful sleep to a sound so loud and unfamiliar it caused a panic within their land. Songs of the birds suddenly took on what sounded like “help us, our trees are wobbling.” All the other creatures were terribly confused by these foreign sounds. They looked at each other with stunned and frightened eyes. They walked around in circles being sure not to lose sight of each other. All their ears were on high alert, listening intently to the cries of the birds, trying to make sense of what made no sense to them.

Slowly, the sounds increased. These sounds became much louder and more consistent. Slowly, day by day, something unrecognizable to them began to emerge. They had no language to describe this new growth. Quickly they learned whatever was popping up was not edible. The creatures causing these sounds were foreign and unrecognizable to them. Indeed, the proliferation of whomever or whatever they were caused much of their food to disappear.

Fast forward to today, the year 2024. The life of all these deer and squirrels and geese (oh my!), including the high-flying life of the birds, became very challenging, almost

impossible. The number of animals and living creatures, and many of their friends and family were forced to find other kingdoms. The ones remaining learned to be grateful for the little they did have.

And what and who were all these invaders who took little notice of them? Invaders who were actually quite displeased by these other living “things.” These invaders referred to themselves as humans. They called themselves residents and homeowners. Each home was referred to as the homeowner’s castle. They replaced the beautiful centuriesold growth with manicured lawns. These homeowners planted what appeared to be odd-looking flowers and bushes. The homeowners did everything they could conjure up to keep the original inhabitants away from their property and away from their castles. These humans created sprays and pellets which could keep deer away, preventing them from the very foods needed to survive.

The animals and their friends found ways to survive in this new world. They became accustomed to sharing the road with humans and their pets, to sharing the only sustenance available to them, grass and flowers. They learned to eat foods that were foreign to them.

One day, just a week ago, my dog, Ari, encountered a teenage deer munching on our grass. (Yes, I admit, I am a homeowner, and I do see my home as my castle). They were a mere four or five feet from each other. They looked in each other’s eyes. I am not sure, but I think Ari recognized that the deer was hungry; he could see the deer’s rib cage. As Ari drew closer to the deer, I believe I heard Ari tell the deer he was welcome to eat until he no longer felt hungry. Of course, I wasn’t as happy when Ari suggested the deer bring his hungry friends for a feast whenever they felt hungry. I was so proud of Ari’s compassion I did not wince at the invitation. The grass, bushes and flowers would eventually grow again.

Why is it that animals can be kind to each other? The animals in the Roswell kingdom were able to share what was left of their bounty. Why is it they chose to adjust, as well as they could, to this new normal? Why is it they didn’t resort to calling each other horrible names? Why is it they found ways to coexist? Why is it our human species cannot? We all have the capacity for love, for compassion and understanding -- let’s make the commitment to dig deep down and access it all. ì

AExplore.

t Canterbury Court senior living community, life can take you wherever you’d like to go. Our expanded 14-acre campus offers new elegantly finished and customizable apartment homes, enhanced amenities and services, beautiful gardens and lush green spaces, and plenty of cultural and social opportunities. All with the peace of mind of a continuum of care, if ever needed. With all this awaiting you, what are you waiting for?

To learn more and to schedule a personal tour, contact us today at 404-905-2444, visit CanterburyCourt.org/Explore, or scan the QR code.

Please join us for a luncheon celebrating the One Good Deed program. Since 2006, the One Good Deed program has matched more than 500 independent older adults with volunteers to build meaningful and lasting friendships. Show your support and appreciation for their impact on our community.

Honoring

Marty Halpern, Founder

Sharon Spiegelman, Founding Director

September 19, 2024 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Temple Sinai 5645 Dupree Dr NW

Tickets: $54 | jfcsatl.org/ogd18 Sponsorship opportunities available

One Good Deed is a program of Aviv Older Adult Services of Jewish Family & Career Services.

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