Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. 99 NO. 13, July 31, 2024

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Jewish Dems Praise Biden’s Decision to Drop Out

By Dave Schechter

The anxiety suffered by Jewish Democrats in Atlanta since President Joe Biden’s abysmal performance in the presidential debate on the night of June 27 abated somewhat on the afternoon of July 21 when Biden abandoned his quest for re-election.

At the same time, they began to embrace the likelihood that when the Democratic National Convention convenes Aug. 19 in Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris will become the party’s standard bearer in the November election.

The news that the 81-year-old Biden had withdrawn and subsequently endorsed Harris injected a measure of hope and enthusiasm in a campaign that was lacking in both since that dismal debate night.

On the same day, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution provided Democrats with a reality check, releasing a poll that showed former President Donald Trump holding a five-percentage point lead over Harris. The survey of 1,000 likely Geor-

gia voters was conducted July 9-18 by the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs. In the same poll, Trump held a three-point edge over Biden. The poll’s margin of error was 3.1 percentage points.

With 107 days until the general election on Nov. 5, Jewish Democrats locally praised Biden’s decision and the pivot toward Harris.

Georgia Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Pres. Biden’s record and decades of service to the country are extraordinary and historic. Thank you, @POTUS. Vice President Harris is now absolutely the right candidate to defeat Donald Trump and unite our country. @KamalaHarris is prepared, ready to win, & has my full support.”

Michael Rosenzweig, a board member of the Democratic Majority for Israel, said: “President Biden acted courageously and put the nation’s interests above his own . . . Ever since the debate, all attention had been focused on him, and the question whether he was still fit for office, rather than on the truly terrifying prospect of another Trump presidency. Biden understood that wasn’t going to

U.S. President Joe Biden officially dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris // Photo Credit: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images/JTA

Democratic state Rep. Esther Panitch shared her support for President Biden and Vice President Harris.

change, that the relentless scrutiny of his every word and gesture would have continued, distracting voters from who and what Trump is. By stepping aside, he ensures that the campaign will now focus on the stark binary choice voters must make.”

Rosenzweig praised Biden’s endorsement of Harris, “which gives the Democratic Party the chance to unite quickly behind her rather than have another month of intra-party drama that would continue to keep the spotlight off of Trump. While it’s too early to know whether the party will embrace that opportunity, one hopes that we’ll see all the other potential candidates quickly rally around Harris, so that the focus for the rest of the campaign can be on Trump and the existential threat he poses to our country.”

Democratic state Rep. Esther Panitch said in a statement: “President Biden has led with integrity and character and has been the most successful President in recent memory. I am grateful for the Biden-Harris administration and their unwavering support of Israel and the American Jewish community. This is the only ticket that will preserve the rights of Jewish women. I support Vice President Harris for President and look forward to seeing second gentleman Doug Emhoff make history as the first Jewish spouse of a president.”

Former Fulton County Commission Chair John Eaves agreed. “His decision to step down and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee is a testament to his commitment to unity and progress. This endorsement is particularly important for the Jewish community as Vice President Harris has shown strong support for Israel and has a proven track record of advocating for equality and justice for all,” Eaves said.

G. Scott Rafshoon, the Georgia chair of J Street — which describes itself as “pro-Israel, pro-peace, pro-democracy” — echoed other Jewish Democrats. “Like J Street, I applaud President Biden’s selfless decision to abandon his quest for

reelection. President Biden has been an outstanding president — standing up for democracy at home and abroad and championing issues that represent the values and beliefs held by most Americans, including most American Jews. He has been a tremendous friend to Israel while at the same time standing up to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s anti-democratic reforms and advocating for the humanity of Israelis and Palestinians. President Biden understands there is no greater imperative than defeating Donald Trump and his decision was clearly made to boost that effort.”

Sam Olens, a Republican and the first Jew to win a statewide partisan race, said he expects that Trump and his vice-presidential nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, “will follow the same playbook, attacking the vice president for the open border and inflation.” Harris will energize the Democrats’ traditional base, including young voters, he said. Olens, who was elected Georgia’s attorney general in 2010 and re-elected in 2014, suggested that Harris needs to select an experienced running mate, such as Kentucky Sen. Andy Beshear or Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly. “A strong start is essential,” he said. Harris and Emhoff already have a personal connection with Atlanta’s Jewish community. On Oct. 7, 2021, Emhoff nailed a mezuzah on loan from The Temple into the front doorpost of the vice president’s official residence, the Naval Observatory House, in a ceremony led by Rabbi Peter Berg, senior rabbi of The Temple.

At the time, Berg told the AJT: “It was a small private ceremony, a really personal moment,” that included just Harris, Emhoff, and Emhoff’s parents, Barbara and Michael Emhoff, who had not seen their son throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. “They had never seen him in this role in person. That’s why the service was so emotional. The Jewish parents standing there, shepping naches [Yiddish for “deriving pride”] for their son, the second gentleman.” ì

Doug Emhoff would be the first Jewish spouse of a president if Kamala Harris receives the Democratic Party’s nomination and wins the election // Photo Credit: Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images/JTA

Sam Olens, former Georgia attorney general, said Harris will energize the Democrats’ traditional base.

Netanyahu Addresses Congress with Rousing Speech

By Sasha Heller

On July 24, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress and pledged to keep fighting in Gaza until Israel accomplishes “total victory” over Hamas and Iranian proxy terrorist groups.

“We’re not only protecting ourselves, we’re protecting you," he said. “Our enemies are your enemies. Our fight is your fight. And our victory will be your victory.”

Netanyahu’s address was surrounded by controversy regarding Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, and of Netanyahu personally. The Israeli leader has faced mounting pressure from the U.S. and Israel to agree to a deal to release the hostages still held by Hamas in exchange for a ceasefire. Family members of those held hostage have accused the embattled leader of obstructing a potential hostage deal.

Thousands of protesters assembled outside the Capitol to sound off against the speech and the platform given to Ne-

tanyahu by Congress.

A contingent of Democrats and one Republican elected not to attend the

speech in protest of Netanyahu. Vice President Kamala Harris notably said she would not attend but would meet with Netanyahu privately. In his address, Netanyahu thanked President Joe Biden repeatedly and urged

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses a joint session of Congress in Washington, DC on July 24, 2024 //

Photo Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJT

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrives to address a joint session of Congress in Washington, DC on July 24, 2024 //

Photo Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJT

Congress to continue supporting Israel with weapons so the war-torn nation can “finish the job” more efficiently. Netanyahu also thanked former President Donald Trump for his policies toward Israel during his administration.

Regarding the hostages, Netanyahu said, “I will not rest until all their loved ones are home, all of them,” he said. “As we speak, we’re actively engaged in intensive efforts to secure their release. And I’m confident that these efforts can succeed. Some of them are taking place right now.”

Netanyahu said the military campaign will continue “until we destroy Hamas … that’s what total victory means, and we will settle for nothing else.”

He then pleaded to Congress that Is-

rael’s defense against Hamas is a shared battle with America against terrorism in general.

“The mobs in Tehran shout ‘death to Israel’ before they chant ‘death to America.’ For Iran, Israel is first, America is next,” he said. “So, when Israel fights Hamas, we’re fighting Iran. When we fight Hezbollah, we’re fighting Iran. When we fight the Houthis, we’re fighting Iran.”

In closing, Netanyahu continued his vow to win the war in Gaza.

“No matter how long it takes, no matter how difficult the road ahead, Israel will not relent,” he said. “Israel will not bend. We will defend our land. We will defend our people. We will fight until we achieve victory.” ì

Elon Musk is seen ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressing a joint-session of Congress in Washington, DC on July 24, 2024 //

Photo Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJT

Congressman David Scott (D-GA) greets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he arrives to address a joint-session of Congress in Washington, DC on July 24, 2024 // Photo Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJT

Carmit Pelati Katzir, the sister of hostage Elad Katzir in Gaza, is removed from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to a joint session of Congress in Washington, DC on July 24, 2024 // Photo Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJT

Jewish Federation Considers Relocation

By Dave Schechter

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

By next spring, the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta hopes to pull up stakes in Midtown Atlanta and move to Sandy Springs.

The Federation’s new home would be “The Dupree,” a six-story, 149,000-square foot office building purchased earlier this year by philanthropists David and Helen Zalik, which sits on seven acres at the intersection of Dupree and Powers Ferry roads.

An email to Jewish groups sent Wednesday afternoon by the Federation stated: “We are excited to share with you that the Federation board has authorized us to move forward in negotiating favorable lease terms to move our office space to The Dupree.”

The Federation’s address for the past 30 years has been 1440 Spring St. NW, at the intersection of Spring and 18th St. NW. That property is known as the Selig Center, named for real estate devel-

oper Steve Selig, who gifted the land and building to the Federation in 1994.

The Federation email, which was shared with the AJT by sources outside of the Federation, stated that the flagship agency of Jewish Atlanta “expects to stay in our current office space at least for the next several months, with any anticipated move likely happening during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year (April to June 2025).”

Several issues remain outstanding, beyond negotiating lease terms at The Dupree.

One issue concerns the fate of the Federation’s current home, about which the email said: “There have been absolutely no decisions made around what will happen with our existing building, nor do we expect any such decisions in the immediate future.”

Based on previous estimates of its worth, a sale of the three-acre site could net in excess of $25 million.

The Federation’s presence at The Dupree could attract other Jewish organizations to become tenants, occupying a portion of the building. A survey of Atlan-

ta’s major Jewish organizations found at least one willing to go on the record with its potential interest.

“The Dupree is an exciting opportunity, and David Zalik is a visionary who is really doing a mitzvah for Jewish community organizations. We would love to be part of the project and have been exploring ideas,” said Jeffrey Gopen, president and CEO of Jewish HomeLife.

At least two other Jewish organizations expressed to the AJT strong interest in utilizing space at The Dupree, while several others reported either not being interested at present or not having had conversations about the project.

The purchase of The Dupree by the Zaliks for $12 million initially was reported in late May by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, which cited the Zalik’s philanthropic endeavors, but made no mention of the building’s potential Jewish future. Zalik told the Business Chronicle that he intended to move the Zalik Foundation and the Zalik family offices to The Dupree.

An overview of the project recently sent to potential Jewish tenants began: “The Vision: The Dupree will serve as a vibrant center of Jewish life and activity in Sandy Springs. Visitors and tenants will find Jewish community, learning, connection, and collaboration through curated spaces, programs, and amenities.

“The Zaliks purchased the property with the intent to help create a Center for Jewish Life in Sandy Springs, the details of which are a work in progress,” the overview said. “Once the building is seasoned, stabilized, and repositioned,

the Zaliks would be open to donating the property to a new 501(c)(3) that would own and operate The Dupree for the benefit of the Jewish community.”

Potential amenities “may include” a Beit Midrash for Jewish study; a kosher cafe that also would be available to commercial clients, “complimentary access to on-site Jewish educational programs,” access to conference and event facilities, and membership in a co-working space.

The Dupree building overview suggested that the building “could include office space for Jewish non-profit organizations and pro-Israel organizations,” with “Rental rates and tenant amenities offered at a discount to, or otherwise unavailable, in the commercial marketplace.”

The co-working space — “think WeWork or Industrious for Jews to meet and work,” the overview said — would have areas designated “for quiet, focused work” and communal spaces “for collaboration and schmoozing.”

The building would be available to local and national organizations to rent space for meetings, program, and retreats, taking advantage of “state-of-theart” audio/visual capabilities, an on-site catering kitchen, and an on-site support team.

A statement provided to the AJT by the Zalik Foundation said that the Zaliks “are thrilled” to have purchased The Dupree, which “they will help enhance to be a world class center for commercial and philanthropic activity. The Zaliks are thrilled the Federation is considering joining us at The Dupree, where plans

After 30 years in Midtown Atlanta, the Federation could become a tenant in The Dupree building, purchased earlier this year by David and Helen Zalik.

David Zalik, along with wife, Helen, purchased The Dupree building earlier this year.

include the intention to develop a conference and meeting facility to support commercial, philanthropic, and community programming.”

Left unclear is the impact of a Federation move on the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum and its Joseph and Ida Pearle Cuba Community Archives and Genealogy Center. The Breman Museum opened inside the Selig Center in the summer of 1996, funded in large measure by a gift from William Breman to the Federation.

The Federation email said: “The Breman Museum will continue to operate out of the current building for the foreseeable future while any future plans are being determined, and we are committed to ensuring that whatever the future holds, it will provide them with ample time and opportunity to do what is best for their organization.”

The Breman Museum had no immediate comment on what the future would hold.

Other, smaller Jewish organizations also maintain offices in the Spring Street building.

David Zalik is cofounder and CEO of financial technology company GreenSky. Goldman Sachs bought GreenSky in a transaction worth about $2.2 billion in 2022; Zalik joined the bank as a partner. His net worth is estimated at $2.01 billion.

In July 2018, the Atlanta Business Chronicle put a $25 million tag on the Federation’s current home.

The same month, the Federation’s then-CEO and president, Eric Robbins said: “We are committed to staying here,” citing growth in the Jewish community in the Midtown area, and in such neighborhoods as Grant Park, Inman Park, and Morningside. “We are committed to the highest and best use of this facility for the Jewish community.”

The Federation announced in March 2024 that Robbins would be leaving at the end of June, having served for seven years at the helm of the agency. Robbins

Philanthropist Helen Zalik, and husband, David, purchased The Dupree building. The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is eyeing a move to The Dupree in April to June 2025.

was unavailable for comment on this story.

Over the past several years, the Federation had been exploring renovation or rebuilding of its current home.

There was talk of tearing down the current building and constructing on that site a new home for the Federation and the Breman Museum, that also would include a senior residence component, offices for other Jewish organizations, and perhaps theaters for films or music performances.

In July 2019, artist renderings of one vision for a renovated facility were displayed at the Federation’s annual meeting.

Another issue concerns the optics of the Federation leaving the city of Atlanta for the suburbs.

On this matter, the Federation email said: “Is Federation sending a message that they no longer care about Midtown/ Intown? What will the Intown presence look like? Federation remains unwavering in our commitment to ensuring a significant presence for Jewish life in Midtown and other Intown areas. We fund, in whole or part, significant programming throughout the Intown community, most of which does not happen at the Selig Center, and everything will continue.

“For example, as part of our annual support, Federation invests in three Intown Moishe Houses, Young Leadership programming in various venues, PJ Library, OneTable, 18Doors, other Interfaith initiatives, Innovation and Gather Grants, synagogue support and much more. Further, we remain committed to partnering and visioning what additional opportunities could look like Intown as we think about the future of the current Federation building, the future of The Breman Museum, and what other cultural, social, and recreational possibilities exist. These conversations are ongoing, and we look forward to updating you further when we have news to share,” the Federation email said. ì

Birthright Members at Rally are Called to Action

By Bob Bahr

Thousands of Birthright participants heard an urgent plea to stand up for Israel and against antisemitism and Israel’s enemies in what was called a Mega Rally that this writer recently attended in central Israel.

The Jewish young people who were between the ages of 18 and 26 were winding up a 10-day, all-expense paid trip designed to strengthen their connection to Israel and their Jewish identity.

Over the past quarter century, the program has brought more than 850,000 participants just like them from around the world. But putting together this year’s program has been a challenging task. The approximately 15,000 participants this summer not only have encountered a nation shaken by the events of Oct. 7 and riven by political discord, but many have come from an America contending with antisemitism and personal attacks on Jews at college campuses for most of the school year.

Many at the large outdoor gathering are returning to campuses that are likely to see renewed demonstrations against the war in Gaza, and perhaps even more violence. The rally was meant to be a call to action.

The Israel-born CEO of the organization, Gidi Mark, who has worked for the program since its inception nearly a quarter of a century ago, told the young persons there that Israel stands with them.

“We don’t take it for granted that you came to Israel in a time of war,” Mark said. “I know that many of you are experiencing antisemitism, being attacked for supporting Israel, or standing

up for your rights as Jews on campus. These are challenging times, but we are all in this together. You and the people of Israel.”

Among those taking part in the pro-

gram that evening was 19-year-old Heshy Nemer, who grew up in the Toco Hills neighborhood of Atlanta. He’s beginning his second year of studies in biotechnology at Montana State University.

Highlighting the Birthright Mega Event Rally was a performance by Eden Golan of Israel’s acclaimed entry in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest // Photo Credit: Birthright/Mark Nomdar

Five members from an Israel army allfemale tank crew were honored for their heroism during the Oct. 7 Hamas invasion // Photo Credit: Birthright/Mark Nomdar

Birthright Israel CEO Gidi Mark told the young crowd at the Mega Event that Israel stands with them in their confrontation with antisemitism in the world // Photo Credit: Birthright/Mark Nomdar

For Heshy Nemer, an Atlanta college student, his Birthright visit to the Mt. Herzl cemetery of Israel’s heroes has been a profound experience // Photo Credit: Bob Bahr

Even though he grew up in an observant Jewish home and attended a Jewish day school in Atlanta, coming to Israel this summer has been what seemed to him like a wake-up call.

“I feel a connection to my people like I’ve never felt before, a true connection. Now that I’m here, I’ve found people who are similar to me, and they have similar beliefs and similar cultural backgrounds and similar identities. I kind of feel safe in a way that makes sense.”

Before coming to the nighttime event, Nemer spent part of the afternoon at Israel’s national cemetery on Mt. Herzl in Jerusalem, where Israel’s military heroes are buried. Like so many who lost their lives on Oct. 7, many of them are young people. Photographs of their faces are frequently framed by their grave markers. Their bright, youthful countenance on the cold stones hints at what was lost in their passing and the promise of things to come. Walking among these heroes has brought Nemer face-to-face with his future as a Jew.

“When I go to cemeteries back home, they’ve never really hit me like this one. These are people my age -- 19 or 20. And that that could be me. They sacrificed their life for what they believed in. And it makes me question what I’m doing, like, just messing around back home. I go to school and I’m learning, but I am super inspired to do more.”

It was a challenge that resonated frequently at the Birthright rally, which featured heroes large and small. Appearing as part of the program were five members of an Israeli army tank crew, all of them women. They were cited for their bravery as part of a trio of Merkava tanks that

faced down and defeated Hamas fighters at Kibbutz Sufa on Oct. 7. Their successful battle is said to be the first time that an all-female tank crew from a Western nation had engaged in active combat.

Also featured at the rally was Eden Golan, the 20-year-old singer who represented Israel at the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest in Sweden this May. She endured chants, boos and catcalls from pro-Palestinian demonstrators to become a finalist in the competition. Her performance of Israel’s entry, “Hurricane,” finished fifth in the overall competition and placed second in the vote by viewers.

Her performance for the Birthright crowd was a highlight of the evening show, which, with its lights, sound, music, and special effects would not have seemed out of place in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena.

Capping the speeches and calls to take a stand was an appearance by Dr. Miriam Adelson, the widow of Sheldon Adelson, the Las Vegas hotel and casino magnate. Over the past 17 years, the Adelsons contributed an estimated $500 million to keep the Birthright program growing. The contributions by the couple were important additions to the support of program founders like Atlanta’s Bernie Marcus.

She called on the Birthright attendees to be “soldiers” in the social and political battle over Israel when they return home.

“You are our soldiers when something happens to Israel,” Adelson said. “We need people who know our story, who know the 3,000-year-old story that we are all a part of -- who know the reality and the truth about Israel.” ì

The Birthright Mega Event was focused on inspiring a new generation of advocates for Israel // Photo Credit: Birthright/Mark Nomdar

Local GILEE Delegation Returns from Israel

By Sasha Heller

A delegation of 17 Georgia and Tennessee public safety executives and veteran police officials recently returned from Israel after spending two weeks in public safety leadership training with Israel’s premier police executives as part of the 31st annual Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange (GILEE) program.

Among the delegates were state police chiefs, sheriffs, and command staff personnel. The leadership training sessions included best practices and innovative technologies related to public safety. GILEE Director Col. (Ret.) Brent Cummings led the delegation, which included GILEE Founding Director Robbie Friedmann and Associate Director Nadia Borissova, who oversaw operations.

Friedmann, who has led 31 annual delegations to Israel throughout his career, said this year’s trip was different as

“This time, I found a country, a society, and a police force like never before

trauma, vulnerable, in mourning, knowing full well and processing that the war raeli security forces who responded to the brutal attack by Hamas.

A community to inspire each mind and fire each heart.

The delegation visited the site of the old police station in Sderot, which will soon be turned into a memorial // Photo Credit: GILEE

This year’s group toured the 911 Communication Center in Haifa // Photo Credit: GILEE

1,400 vehicles, including those Toyota Hilux and motorcycles the terrorists used in their attack,” he said. “The scale of the atrocities is still hard to comprehend even when the facts are known.”

Amidst the struggle, Friedmann said he also observed a sense of optimism, hope, and strength.

“We also found [an] Israel that is resilient, determined, mission-focused, and even optimistic. These two apparently contradictory features were obvious throughout the entire program. In every police briefing and site visit, we learned about the impact of Oct. 7. We heard from those who were on duty at the Nova Music Festival and in Sderot. We have been to the Sderot police station with many delegations and this time we stood on the ruins of the old building where they will erect a memorial and build a new police station nearby.”

In addition to police, the delegation also met with civic leaders such as the spiritual leader of the Druze community, Sheikh Muafaq Tarif, and Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav.

“Both emphasized perseverance, caring for their communities, and cooperating with the police,” Friedmann said.

Friedmann founded GILEE in 1992 to assist with security preparations in advance of the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. GILEE would continue to assist with Olympic Games security details in Sydney, Salt Lake City, Athens, Beijing, London, and Rio de Janeiro.

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GILEE is centered at the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State. Friedmann explained that the program “is based on the principle of peerto-peer, on-site training. GILEE delivers transformative leadership programs that clearly exemplify community policing and contribute to more effective and civilized policing.”

GILEE Director Cummings elaborated on the program’s objective and its importance to local public safety infrastructure.

“We expose our delegates to policing systems under different cultures, different legal systems and different structures to help enhance their professional leadership development. For example, leadership dilemmas faced by Israel Police executives are relevant to leadership dilemmas our delegates face at home. They learn to recognize challenges and how to better deal with them while forming their own thoughts on how to be better leaders. Our delegates learn important lessons from their peers on how to better serve their own communities.”

After leading 31 delegations, Israel is still finding ways to reveal itself to Friedmann.

“We came to learn and during the program we felt we also came to strengthen. After returning, I felt we were strengthened. That is the professional and civic secret of Israel.”

For more information on GILEE, go to gilee.gsu.edu. ì

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The delegates are pictured outside the Knesset in Jerusalem // Photo Credit: GILEE

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The 109th Yahrzeit service for Leo Frank will be held at Temple Kol Emeth, 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta

Mitzvahs Follow This Family

By Chana Shapiro

Lydia and Norman Schloss were in Israel on Oct. 7 with their daughter Tzippy’s two oldest boys, Gavi and Momo, who were spending their gap year studying at Israeli yeshivas. Gavi had already started yeshiva but Momo wasn’t starting his program until after Sukkot.

On the morning of Oct. 7, Norman was at synagogue services, when Lydia heard sirens and woke Momo to hurry with her into their Jerusalem apartment’s mamad (safe room). The lights were off, and the window and shutters had to remain tightly shut during the siren. Lydia and her grandson sat in pitch black for the requisite 10 minutes after the siren stopped. Norman rushed from shul when the worshippers had been told to return home to shelter. No one knew what was going on.

Later that night, they learned many of the horrific details that had occurred. Communities in Israel immediately started to organize to help in any way possible, initially with a lot of disorgani-

zation, but slowly, toward the end of October, things came together. Norman and Lydia helped pack toiletry bags, blankets, first aid kits, and tie tzizit for the soldiers.

On a WhatsApp group for Englishspeaking volunteers, Lydia saw a post for Challot 4 Chayalim (chayalim is Hebrew for “soldiers”), asking for challah rolls, packed two per bag. That was how she

got her start with Challot 4 Chayalim: she initially baked 200 challah rolls, and Momo helped pack them.

Momo’s program’s start was delayed, but when it finally started at the beginning of November, Lydia was able to get a flight home to Atlanta.

Back in Atlanta, Lydia followed various WhatsApp groups and found Bubbies R Baking. Each week, women in Jerusalem were baking cakes, cookies, and challot and getting them to soldiers on different bases. This baking group was part of a larger group called Hamal Hamatok, which now has six drop-off locations in Jerusalem and 30 branches throughout Israel. Lydia knew that a regular baking commitment was something she could handle because she was used to baking in large quantities, having done a lot of catering, working in camp kitchens, and co-owning The Spicy Peach.

The Schlosses planned to return to Israel in January, and if the war was still going on, she would actively join the baking group. She ordered supplies online to be delivered to their Jerusalem apartment upon her arrival in order to start baking immediately, recruiting her Israeli grandchildren to help with packing and decorating cards that were delivered with the baked goods. (The Schloss’ son, Zev, and his family moved to Israel several years ago.)

From Israel, there has been an ongoing request that challah bakers around the world ask G-d for the safe return of the hostages. Lydia acceded and kept hostage Hersch Polin-Goldberg, in particular, in her thoughts while kneading her challah dough. The family are friends of Zev and Abby Schloss.

Incredibly, by early Thursday afternoon, three full carloads of baked goods were driven from Jerusalem to a distribution center in Ramat Gan. Volunteers, us-

ing a warehouse after hours, organized the baked goods into categories – dairy, parve, gluten free, nut free-- then packed them in boxes, and other volunteers delivered all the baked goods to different bases Friday morning. It was quite a production and continued every week.

Lydia notes, “I would never have thought that receiving these baked goods would make the soldiers so happy. I received numerous messages and calls from soldiers thanking me for these treats. My Hebrew is pretty good, so I was able to understand the messages. Eating a challah and cookies on Shabbat while sitting in your tank, they said, gives them a taste of home.”

Lydia scheduled her week around baking. On Sunday or Monday, she shopped (the baking wasn’t subsidized), baked cakes and cookies on Tuesday, baked 50 challot on Wednesday, and delivered everything to the Jerusalem collection center on Thursday afternoon. Lydia had to adjust some of her tried-and-true American recipes, because the sugar in Israel is coarser, especially the brown sugar. There were weeks where she had a hard time finding the right bread flour, and she finally ordered it directly from one of the manufacturers.

The Schlosses left Israel in February and returned to Atlanta in May. They had hoped that the war would be over by then, but as long as Israeli soldiers were engaged, Lydia kept baking.

When the Schlosses returned to Atlanta in November, there was a tremendous need and request for apartments in Israel for displaced families from the south. Requests were made for basic furniture and linens to furnish empty apartments where the families were temporarily housed.

Lydia elaborates, “Families from the

Lydia Schloss is pictured baking challot.

Norm Schloss is pictured wrapping challot. Soldiers in ambulance enjoying baked treats.

south literally left their homes with nothing. I gave away pillows and linen. Our Jerusalem apartment is in a new complex of seven buildings in the Bakka neighborhood. Some of the apartments are owned by people like us, who don’t live there full time, and we planned to return to it in January.”

Lydia adds, “When we got back to the States, I read a message on the WhatsApp group from a neighbor in our Israel apartment complex requesting the use of an apartment for a former student of hers from Bar Ilan University, with two little boys, and a husband in the army reserves. The family lived in Sderot, which was unsafe, and the family had to leave. I called the neighbor, who told me about the strictly kosher, shomer Shabbat young family. We could accommodate them because we observed the same mitzvot.

“I contacted her, and my Israeli son took her to see the apartment. She was so grateful. She had lived in several places already, moving each time with her boys. She had just gotten them (ages 5 and 3) into school and pre-school in our area and had to leave the apartment where she was staying but wanted to remain in the neighborhood. We have since become friends. She has called me many times and has sent pictures of her boys in our apartment.”

“Their apartment in Sderot did not have a safe room, and they had to get to the basement shelter when a siren went off. In Sderot, they have only 15 seconds to get to a shelter, whereas in Jerusalem we have 90 seconds. She arranged another place to stay for the weeks when we returned to our Israel apartment. We had Shabbat dinner together, and she and her husband came to visit when he was off. It was so nice to make this connection. They finally returned to Sderot for good on Pesach.”

Another mitzvah presented itself to the Schlosses. The Sderot husband is a teacher, and the couple’s English is very good. The family mentioned that they planned to do shilichut (outreach) for a couple of years, to work with Jews in the diaspora. They applied to the World Zion-

ist Organization and were offered a few options, including Dublin, Ireland.

For many years, Lydia’s husband, Norman, has been doing kosher supervision in Ireland for the production of Coca-Cola concentrate for Israel, which is sent to the bottling plant in B’nei Brak. He told all his contacts about the Sderot family, who ended up accepting the Ireland assignment.

Lydia notes, “When they told us that they accepted the position in Ireland and they would be leaving in mid-August, we offered the family to stay again in our Jerusalem apartment because their Sderot lease is up at the end of July. “

Coincidences and mitzvah opportunities seem to follow the Schlosses. An Atlanta neighbor asked if an Israeli friend of hers and her family of five planning to visit Atlanta could stay with the Schlosses for a few days. The request was quickly answered, “Of course.”

When the Israeli friend’s husband had been called back to the army, the family cancelled their Atlanta trip and stayed in Israel. A few weeks later, the Schloss’ neighbor called again, to ask if the James family, Rose Lubin’s Israel host family, could stay with them. Idan and Tamar and their children were from Kibbutz Saad and had to leave because of the war.  The visiting Israeli kids made friends with children in the Atlanta neighborhood, and the family, which “hit it off” with the Schlosses, stayed with them for about six weeks, until their visas expired.

When Norm and Lydia went to Israel, they made a point to visit Idan’s mother and brother who manages the Shoresh vineyards and Judean Hills winery. The Schlosses were given a private tour and wine tasting, an act of affection from their ever-expanding group of Israeli friends.

The Schlosses, who go to Israel three times a year, plan to return to their Jerusalem apartment in September. Lydia muses, “I would love to take notes and pictures from Atlanta with me, when I leave Sept. 24. People can drop off notes or pictures for the soldiers at The Spicy Peach in Toco Hills.” ì

Wrapped cookies with attached notes

Manchester in ‘Funny Girl’ is the Essential Jewish Mother

By Bob Bahr

It has taken 60 years for “Funny Girl” to reach the stage of the Fox Theatre. The 1964 Broadway musical and the 1968 movie version launched Barbra Streisand so firmly into the stratosphere of show business stardom that many thought a production without her would never succeed.

In the original. Streisand dominated almost every moment of the show as Fanny Brice, the brilliant Jewish American comedienne who rises from the immigrant community of the Lower East Side to star in the “Ziegfeld Follies” in the first

decades of the 20th century. The original producer, Ray Stark, was Fanny Brice’s son-in-law.

Melissa Manchester was a teenager when she saw Streisand in that original run. Now, Manchester, a Grammy Award winner who has enjoyed a long and successful singing career, is back as Rose Brice, Fanny’s mother, in the production in Atlanta. Manchester, who saw Streisand’s original performance, remembers it vividly

“I was a very young girl, and she was spectacular, but it was a very different show. This show has been reworked. The book has been reworked by Harvey

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Fierstein. And so, it’s much richer. The characters are more fleshed out. All of the principal characters travel their own journey, and it’s quite a rich feeling.”

Rose Brice, in a sense, represents the rich milieu of the Jewish immigrant life into which her daughter is born. The 2½ million Jewish immigrants who flooded into America from 1880 to the mid-1920s created an environment that unleashed a tidal wave of creativity in American music and popular culture.

Mama Brice and her Jewish friends, who introduce us to her young, talented and irrepressible daughter, trade wisecracks across what would have been in

another time and place a mahjong table. Here, they play cards and kibbitz in Rose’s saloon. In real life, Rose raised Fanny after her marriage mostly fell apart. She is introduced early in this production as the quintessential Jewish mother, played by Manchester, who grew up in a traditional Jewish family.

“Rose Brice was strong and successful,” Manchester emphasizes, “and the thing that is particularly touching is that when you are a mother and a grandmother, as I am, when you have kids and there’s one such as Fanny who has such a gift, you love her differently. You don’t love her more than your other children,

It has been 60 years since “Funny Girl” first appeared on Broadway starring Barbra Streisand

Melissa Manchester (left) is Fanny Brice’s mother, pictured with Katerina McCrimmon as Fanny.

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but you love her differently because she requires a different kind of care along her journey. And that’s really displayed beautifully in ‘Funny Girl.’”

The producers of this new staging of “Funny Girl” have worked hard to establish a contemporary identity for the show. Both the film and stage versions that Streisand made her own during the 1960s have been so firmly fixed in the public mind it has defied repeated attempts to create a production with anyone else.

It was not until 2022 that a revival, with some reworking of Isobel Lennart’s original book, was attempted. Even then, the show had a shaky start, and only took off after the original star, Beanie Feldstein, was replaced by Lea Michele, who went on to play the role for a year and record the original cast recording.

“I am thrilled and filled with gratitude for this beautiful work, this gorgeous score composed by Jule Styne with beautiful words by Bob Merrill. It’s thrilling for audiences to hear these songs that have become part of the American songbook. Audiences get to experience them within a larger context which is ‘Funny Girl.’ It’s so thrilling because you can feel how it jumps out toward the audience.”

That’s despite the fact that the star of a show so strongly rooted in the New York Jewish tradition is Katerina McCrimmon. She is, unlike Streisand, neither Jewish nor a New Yorker.

Still, Manchester believes in the essential environment that is reflected in the production. And she glories in a role that reflects so much of her own accomplishments as a Jewish woman.

“I’m in in the 50th year of my career. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate that milestone. And I’ve brought all of my life’s experience as a working woman and as a mother, to this character, Rose Brice. I think being Jewish is a specific space. An emotional space that brings some grit and verve and joy and excitement and delight into life.” ì

Dr. David Mastro

Grammy Award winner Melissa Manchester celebrates her 50th anniversary in show business.

Halpern Appointed to Second Helpings Board

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

Ben Halpern, executive vice president of Farmers & Fishermen Purveyors, has recently been appointed as a Second Helpings Atlanta Board of Director member devoted to serving food challenged communities.

As a father-and-son family business offering valued food service and home delivery customers with the highest quality meat, seafood, and specialty products, Ben understands what it means to be driven and work hard. He oversees a wide range of business operations at their award-winning business, which has repeatedly been voted a best place to work and one of Georgia’s 40 fastestgrowing companies named by The Atlanta Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG)

According to Paul Clements, director of Second Helpings, “We are thrilled to welcome Ben Halpern to the Second Helpings Atlanta Board of Directors. Over the past few months, Ben has spent considerable time getting to know our organization, our mission, and our dedicated staff. As the executive vice president of Farmers & Fishermen, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the food industry and supply chain logistics—both of which are core to SHA’s model. His commitment to reducing food waste and hunger aligns perfectly with our mission. We look forward to leveraging his expertise to further our impact and continue serving our community more effectively.”

Second Helpings Atlanta is a nonprofit food rescue logistics organization dedicated to reducing hunger and food waste in the metro Atlanta area by rescuing healthy, nutritious, surplus food and distributing it to those in need. A valued non-profit, Second Helpings, a 501(c)(3), has the support of 994 dedicated volunteers and distributed a record-breaking 5.8 million pounds of food -- equivalent to more than 4.8 million meals to a network of more than 100 nonprofit partner agencies who are providing food to families in need throughout the Atlanta metro.

Ben Halpern commented, “I am so honored to be asked to join Second Helpings Atlanta, who is now celebrating their 20th year of service, providing free groceries, produce and meals to those experiencing food insecurity. Their mission is to eliminate hunger and food waste in metro Atlanta by rescuing surplus food and delivering it to those in need. That resonates deeply with Farmers & Fish-

ermen’s dedication to the community at-large who are food-challenged. My father, Kirk Halpern, has always been my role model and taught me my entire life the importance of service to others. He has spent his entire career making a difference and the value of sharing one’s business skills and success to help others grow is a core value.”

Ben continued, “As I learned more about Second Helpings and experiencing what they do, it was a meaningful fit to see how our food industry contacts, and our company could help support and connect them. Together we grow when we combine our knowledge, time and resources, and I am excited to bring my volunteer efforts to such a worthwhile cause.”

Impacting change for the better is a core value of Farmers & Fishermen. Ben is learning from his father, a highly regarded food industry expert who is deeply concerned about impacting change to serve others. Kirk Halpern has been highly recognized by the business community nationally and named one of the “Most Admired CEOs” by The Atlanta Business Chronicle with multiple awards and recognition.

He shared, “Farmers & Fishermen is extremely proud of Ben as is our family for his non-stop dedication to providing

his skills and resources to help others. He has demonstrated at an early age an interest in understanding the real needs of a community, earned his achievements with hard work and cares deeply about applying his knowledge to help others.”

When Ben learned about Second Helpings, he did a deep dive into the importance of the non-profit’s model which collects fresh surplus food from local businesses, taking in donations from grocery stores, restaurants, corporate kitchens and other venues. Then, they match food donations with nonprofit recipients, and deploy volunteers to make daily deliveries across the metro region. This year, Second Helpings Atlanta will rescue and redistribute four million pounds of food, resulting in 3.3 million meals being provided.

According to Second Helpings, “Today in Atlanta, one in nine people, including one in seven children, are food insecure. These individuals lack reliable access to enough food to stay healthy, and don’t know where their next meal will come from. Food insecurity is a threat to public health, as it is linked with poor nutrition, chronic illness, depression and anxiety. These outcomes are unacceptable, especially when you consider that up to 40 percent of all food produced in the United States goes uneaten, resulting

in wasted resources and wasted opportunities to feed families.”

When Farmers & Fishermen launched in 2019, the company faced the most challenging time in the food industry. Farmers & Fishermen pivoted during the pandemic and helped lift other businesses along the way. Overnight, Kirk Halpern shifted their focus from restaurant delivery to save their employees jobs, furloughed no one, hired his employee’s family and Ben learned the business at record speed.

Now, Ben Halpern, young and ready, is prepared as a dedicated volunteer, and has received additional praise for his leadership skills. He was awarded “The 40 under 40 Award” by The Gwinnett Chamber, as well as recognized by the Atlanta Jewish Times for his business acumen and community service. Ben also serves as a member of the board of trustees for Temple Emanu-El helping to focus attention and efforts on inclusion. As a driven graduate from Tulane University with a double major in business management and marketing, he hopes to make a significant difference with his role at Second Helpings.

For more information, visit www. SecondHelpingsAtlanta.org or follow on Facebook and Instagram and www.farmersandfishermen.com. ì

Second Helpings Atlanta’s mission is to end hunger by ending food waste.

Ben Halpern, vice president of Farmers & Fishermen, has been appointed to Second Helpings Atlanta Board of Directors.

Second Helpings Atlanta volunteers drive more than 10,000 food rescue routes annually.

In 2023, Second Helpings Atlanta distributed 5.8 million pounds of food, the equivalent of more than 4.8 million meals.

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Tzofim Chetz V’Keshet (CVK) is currently providing Jewish teens from America and the U.K. with a transformative 25-day adventure in Israel // Photo Credit: CVK

CVK Sends Jewish Teens to Israel

Tzofim Chetz V’Keshet (CVK) is currently providing Jewish teens from America and the U.K. with a transformative 25-day adventure in Israel. Even with the ongoing conflict with Hamas and He-

Today in Israeli History

July 31, 1988: Jordan’s King Hussein announces that he is dropping claims to the West Bank, although he seeks to retain influence over Jerusalem. King Abdullah I annexed the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1950.

SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Aug. 1, 2016: Composer and ethnomusicologist Andre Hajdu dies at 84. Born in Hungary, he first visited Israel in 1966, moved to Jerusalem that year, and taught at the Tel Aviv Music Academy and Bar-Ilan University.

Aug. 2, 1968: Oil first reaches Haifa on the Mediterranean Sea from Eilat on the Red Sea through a land pipeline. The overland connection between Israel’s largest ports provides an alternative to the Suez Canal, closed to Israeli shipping.

Aug. 3, 1981: An excavation on the eastern side of Jerusalem’s City of David is suspended amid attacks by Haredi Jews, most of them from the anti-Zionist Neturei Karta. The site reportedly includes a Jewish cemetery.

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

zbollah, these teens have dedicated their summer to making a major impact in Israel.

“These teens are exploring Israel, making lifelong connections, and growing in ways they never imagined,” Hani Reuveni, CVK National Director, said.

This summer, 21 teens from the U.S. and U.K. and 20 Israeli scouts are diving into Israel’s rich history and culture. Highlights include climbing Masada, visiting Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, connecting with the Druze community in Isfiya, and visiting Yad Vashem. The Western Wall has been a particularly moving experience for many.

Teens also volunteer in southern Israel and participate in a five-day “Gadna” pre-military training. Despite regional tensions, parents have found reassurance in CVK’s meticulous planning. Shira, a parent, shares, “Our daughter is having the time of her life.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

Aug. 4, 1920: Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, a Jewish Theological Seminary professor, publishes “A Program for the Reconstruction of Judaism” in the Menorah Journal. He emphasizes Zionism as a key component for American Judaism.

Aug. 5, 1995: Composer Menachem Avidom dies at 87. A Russian native, he became an innovator in fusing Middle Eastern and European musical theories, beginning in 1944, and thus paved the way for Mizrahi musicians.

Aug. 6, 1923: Meeting in Carlsbad, Czechoslovakia, the 13th Zionist Congress opens to discuss details about the British Mandate for Palestine and the Palestine Zionist Executive, which guides Jewish immigration and settlement.

Aug. 7, 1970: A cease-fire ends the War of Attrition, in which Egypt shelled Israel’s positions along the Suez Canal and the countries engaged in aerial battles and commando raids. The fighting ramped up in March 1969.

Aug. 8, 1924: Lia Van Leer, a pioneer in Israeli film appreciation and creation, is born in Beltsy, Romania (now Moldova). She and husband Wim Van Leer create the Israel Film Archive, and she starts the Jerusalem Film Festival.

NBA Vets Sweetney, Curry Visit United Hatzalah

Former NBA players Michael Sweetney and Eddy Curry recently visited the United Hatzalah headquarters in Jerusalem as part of Athletes for Israel.

Aug. 9, 1982: Two Palestinian terrorists, believed to be part of the Abu Nidal organization, kill six people and wound 22 others in an attack with grenades and machine guns on a Jewish eatery in Paris, Chez Jo Goldenberg.

Aug. 10, 1979: Economist David Horowitz, the founder of the Bank of Israel, dies at 80. The first director-general of the Israeli Ministry of Finance, he lobbied for a central bank, and when it was launched in 1954, he was its first governor.

As the president of the World Zionist Organization, Chaim Weizmann pushed for the formation of a Jewish Agency representative of all world Jewry. // By Hans Pinn, National Photo Collection of Israel, CC BY-SA 3.0

Aug. 11, 1929: The 16th Zionist Congress ratifies a broadly representative Jewish Agency for Palestine on a vote of 231-4. The World Zionist Organization spent seven years negotiating the rules allowing a role for nonZionists.

Aug. 12, 1991: Yeruham Cohen dies at 75. During truce negotiations with a surrounded Egyptian army in the Negev in 1948, Cohen became friendly with Egypt’s Gamal Abdel Nasser. They supposedly kept in contact for years.

Sweetney, known for his career with the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls, was impressed by the efficiency of United Hatzalah’s emergency medical services and the dedication of its 7,000 volunteer responders who are ready at all times to drop everything to save lives.

“It’s awesome work,” Sweetney said. “Seeing how everyone works together to save lives and doing so while arriving at the scene so quickly is remarkable. You have my support; keep going, I’m behind you and I’m here for you.”

Curry, who had a successful career with teams like the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat, followed in Sweetney’s footsteps, expressing his admiration for the organization’s work.

“I came here because I heard about the incredible things you guys are doing for humanity,” Curry noted. “I just wanted to see it for myself, and I’m completely blown away.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

Aug. 13, 1995: Aharon Barak, a Supreme Court justice since 1978, is appointed to serve as the court’s president. He expands the court’s power, especially in reviewing government and military actions and in protecting civil liberties.

Aug. 14, 1910: Nathan Alterman, a poet, journalist, author and playwright, is born in Warsaw. He moves to Tel Aviv with his family in 1925. One of his poems, “The Silver Platter,” is standard on Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day.

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

Michael Sweetney (seated on motorcycle) recently visited the United Hatzalah headquarters in Jerusalem // Photo Credit: United Hatzalah

Israel Prize-winning composer Andre Hajdu works in his Jerusalem home. // By Booradley0212, own work, CC BY-

The 13th Zionist Congress meets in Carlsbad, Czechoslovakia, in 1923.

Supreme Court President Aharon Barak welcomes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his office in Jerusalem in October 1997. // By Amos Ben Gershom, Israeli Government Press Office, CC BY-SA 3.0

Kibbutz Be’eri Still Recovering After Attack

By Bob Bahr

There is a strange silence in Kibbutz Be’eri these days. As this writer walked down the silent streets of the settlement that was ravaged by some 300 Hamas terrorists last October, a young skinny, stray cat approaches, maybe looking for a hand-out. But nothing else stirs among the burned-out homes here.

The kibbutz, which is just a few miles from the Gaza border, was hit hard. The debris from inside the homes, along with broken furniture and twisted carpets litter what was once a green space, a front yard. Before the Israeli army regained control of the community late in the afternoon, 125 homes were either damaged or destroyed.

Strands of yellow security tape encircle a number of the homes. Here and there a banner identifies the residents who were shot that day or were incinerated by high temperature grenades. Some bodies were so badly disfigured that it took over a month of forensic analysis to identify them.

Steve Oppenheimer, who has long been active in high profile community fundraising efforts in Atlanta, was also on the visit here. He’s made dozens of trips to Israel, but his visit to this community recalled for him the helplessness Jews felt as they faced the Holocaust. His visit to Be’eri has been what he describes as the “most profound experience” he’s ever had.

“As I looked at the banners on these homes, of the pictures of those who had died, I was able to connect with them, in my own way, as people. And I felt so much sorrow in thinking about these people. It’s worse than what the media could convey. And I began to understand a little better of what they had gone through.”

Oppenheimer was part of a mission to Israel organized late in June by The Birthright Foundation for some of their most important financial supporters. There have been about a half dozen of these Birthright Foundation trips here for contributors in the last 10 months. A visit to Kibbutz Be’eri and the neighboring site of the Nova Music Festival, a couple of miles away has become for many a kind of pilgrimage of discovery.

With us, as we walked down these deserted streets together, was Rami Gold, a survivor of the Oct. 7 attack. A Tavor Israeli assault rifle was strapped across his chest.

Gold received a shrapnel wound to his leg, but he survived the attack by barricading himself in a concrete bomb

shelter. His wife and other family members were also spared. More than a hundred residents were killed here, another 30 were kidnapped and taken back to the Gaza Strip as hostages. Some of those who lost their lives were, ironically, peace activists who employed some of the 18,000 residents of Gaza who worked as day laborers in Israel.

Gold and his wife are part of roughly 50 residents who have returned to begin to put their lives back together. But for many others who have left the kibbutz, even a visit to what is left of there is still too painful to contemplate. For those like Gold who are back, support has poured in from across the Jewish world.

He and several other residents were invited to lead the Israel Independence

Day Parade in New York City in May. For 10 days afterwards, he was a featured speaker at programs around the city. Getting away from this place and experiencing what he describes as the “the hugs and the warmth” of other Jews has helped him to recover. The contacts that Gold has made over that time have helped him soothe some of the psychological pain that he carries with him to this day.

“I understood we’re not alone anymore,” Gold says. “We have all of these Jews around the world with us. And it has been a great experience. We’ve established relationships. Beautiful Jews have come from all over Europe, North America, and I’m proud of it. A team of volunteers is coming next week to bring us new mezuzahs for our homes.”

For Oppenheimer, too, the experience of being in this place where so much has been lost, the Birthright Foundation trip has been life affirming. Last year, the organization raised $85 million, a record, to finance trips to Israel for young Jews to experience Israel at this crucial moment in history. After this trip, Oppenheimer is determined to do more.

“I’m doubling down,” Oppenheimer said. “We have so much work to do and I’m absolutely up for it. We need to get as many young adults as we can to Israel. I want to make sure this great American diaspora strengthens itself and becomes stronger. People in the community need to come together and realize the commonalities that we have. Our common history is our great strength.”ì

The Nova Music Festival site, just a couple of miles from Kibbutz Be’eri, has become a memorial to the more than 300 Israelis who died there.

The homes and buildings of Kibbutz Be’eri that were destroyed on Oct. 7 remain as they were that day.

Several of the homes that were destroyed by Hamas carry banners describing the residents who died there.

Steve Oppenheimer, left, with Gidi Mark, CEO of Birthright, was part of a Birthright mission to Israel that visited Kibbutz Be’eri and the Nova Music Festival sites.

Rami Gold is part of about 50 residents of Kibbutz Be’eri who survived the Oct. 7 attack and have returned to their homes.

Focus is on the Pitch for Israel Men’s Soccer

David Ostrowsky

Even before the games began, the Israel men’s soccer team faced imposing headwinds.

It was less than a week before Israel squared off against Mali in opening group play competition of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games -- the blue-and-white’s first Olympic appearance since the 1976 Games in Montreal and one that they secured after reaching the semifinals of the UEFA European U-21 Championship last summer – that soccer’s global governing body, FIFA, cleared the Israel Under-23 men’s soccer team for Paris following a Palestinian bid to temporarily bar Israel from participating. But ultimately, FIFA Council, the organization’s top executive body, decided to postpone ruling on Palestinian soccer officials’ impassioned plea to remove Israel from global soccer competition until after the Olympics.

Then, there was the not-so-minor on-field development of the Israel Football Association (IFA) revealing that Israel starting goalie Daniel Peretz had suffered a muscle tendon injury in his thigh and would be shelved for the Paris Olympics. “It’s not easy to be this close to realizing your dream and then to hear you won’t be able to experience it, at least not this time,” said the 24-year-old Peretz, formerly of Maccabi Tel Aviv, in an IFA press release. (Because club teams don’t have to allow their elite players to partake in Olympic competition, the Olympics rolls out an under-23 competition in which the 16 teams are allotted three over-age roster spots; joining Peretz on Israel’s over-23 contingent were Sean Goldberg and Omri Gandelman.)

Yet in the wake of geopolitical issues seeping into FIFA and disheartening injury setback – in addition to Peretz, forward Manor Solomon has been sidelined since October with knee issues --- Israel prevailed to have a strong showing in its opening Group D match, playing Mali, a majority Muslim nation, to a 1-1 draw at the open-air Parc des Princes stadium in Paris last Wednesday night. In front of throngs of Israeli flag-waving countrymen and French Jews – as well as dignitaries such as President Isaac Herzog and Minister of Culture and Sports Miki Zohar

– Israel, currently No. 78 in FIFA’s men’s world rankings, held its own in a scoreless first half before Mali defender Hamidou Diallo booted the ball into his own net shortly after intermission, only to see his teammate Cheickna Doumbia bang home the equalizer five minutes later.

By virtue of the 1-1 tie, Israel, whose Olympic soccer track record consists of quarterfinals appearances in the 1968 and 1976 Games, received a point heading into its second Group D match against Paraguay on Saturday evening in continuation of the opening 16-team round-robin competition. During roundrobin play, the 16 participating nations are divided into four groups with each team competing against the others in its grouping; the top two squads from each cluster advance to the final knockout stage that kicks off Aug. 2.

“Mixed feelings,” Israeli head coach Guy Luzon remarked following his team’s opening match, actually held prior to the much-ballyhooed opening ceremony. “We played against a very physical team, and it was not easy for us defensively. Offensively, we created decent chances to score a goal and we should have been calmer when we tried to finish. I think

that once I added more midfielders it helped us score. I expect more from the team and more from myself. There are no free meals and no honeymoon, you have to suffer to get points.

“I’ve been a coach for over 20 years, and this is the most exciting game of my life with all of the Israeli flags and all of the Jewish people who came to support us.”

Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Osher Davida added: “I think it’s a bit of a miss because we could have won. This is not a bad result, because on paper everyone thought that we would lose, but we showed that we are at the same level as they are.”

Sadly, Israel’s first Olympic soccer game in nearly a half century was also noteworthy for an outpouring of jeers during the pregame rendition of “Hatikvah,” the Israeli national anthem, the continuation of which occurred seemingly every time an Israeli player toed the ball. While disappointing, this reaction didn’t come as a surprise for an Israeli squad that arrived in France under a robust police escort and has since grown accustomed to the ubiquitous presence of pro-Palestine protesters.

“Bring on the loudest protests,” Lu-

zon said during a press conference preceding the opener against Mali. “They will make us try harder.”

Several days later against Paraguay – a match that was also marred by further displays of antisemitic crowd behavior -- Israel continued to sorely miss their starting netminder Peretz as they fell 4-2 to remain winless thus far in Paris. After Paraguay jumped out to a 1-0 first-half advantage, Israel soon answered early in the second half as midfielder Omri Gandelman tied things up 1-1 at the 53-minute mark. With Paraguay clinging to a 2-1 lead in the waning minutes of regulation, Israel once again responded when midfielder Oscar Gloukh converted a penalty kick to force the 2-2 tie. The match didn’t stay tied for long. Three minutes into stoppage time, Paraguay’s Fabian Balbuena netted the go-ahead goal before his teammate Marcelo Fernandez tallied an insurance goal, his second of the evening.

When the 14 minutes of stoppage time whittled down to all zeroes, Israel was left with an 0-1-1 record going into its final Group D match against heavily favored Japan, currently ranked No. 18 by FIFA, in search of its third all-time Olympic win. ì

For the first time since the 1976 Summer Games in Montreal, Israel’s soccer program was invited to participate in the Olympics // Photo Credit: Summer 2024 Olympics Social Media

Led by All-Stars, Braves Battle Through Injuries

By David Ostrowsky

Unlike last summer’s Atlanta-centric All-Star Game when the Atlanta Braves sent an eight-man contingent to Seattle, this year’s Midsummer Classic had a more muted Braves presence. The quartet of Atlanta All-Stars sent to scorching hot Arlington, Texas, none of whom were part of last July’s festivities, included Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, Marcell Ozuna, and Max Fried, who was a last-minute injury replacement to the NL squad once the Philadelphia Phillies’ Ranger Suárez bowed out with back spasms. While the NL All-Star roster was loaded with eight Phillies and highlighted by the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani, Atlanta was well represented with its four-player contingent – whittled down to three with Sale not pitching – primarily because of Fried’s solid second inning outing.

After not pitching during his first All-Star Game, held in his Los Angeles hometown amidst his Cy Young runnerup 2022 season, Fried saw his first AllStar game action when he was called in to relieve NL starter Paul Skenes in the bottom of the second at Arlington’s enclosed and climate-controlled Globe Life Field. It didn’t start particularly promising. After walking Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez – an opponent from the 2021 World Series -- to lead off the frame, Atlanta’s southpaw settled down to retire the next three batters (Jose Ramirez, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Adley Rutschman) in order. Per Fried’s track record this season, he wasn’t overpowering, but was ever efficient in retiring the side on 10 pitches by inducing a flyout from Ramirez and a pair of harmless ground balls from Guerrero Jr. and Rutschman.

“It was definitely a lot of emotions,” said Fried about his All-Star debut in front of 39,343 perspiring hardcore baseball enthusiasts who ended up seeing the American League secure a 5-3 win. “A ton of energy in the building. To be able to go out there and face some of the best hitters in the game, it was a lot of fun. . . . At the end of the day, it’s an exhibition. It was a fun experience. It’s a bucket list item for sure being able to go and pitch in an All-Star Game and I’ll definitely remember it forever.”

When asked if there was any chance of coming out for another inning of work given the low pitch count, Fried responded, “No chance. I knew it was one inning. I was done. I was happy that they were

swinging, I was getting early contact, and I got some outs. That was it.”

Upon returning from the All-Star break a couple days later, Fried was back at Truist Park working out when he felt “a little bit of a slight burning” in his forearm; the next day, an MRI indicated that while everything was sound structurally, he had irritated a sensory nerve and developed forearm neuritis. It was, according to Fried, “a freak accident,” but one that would still require a 15-day stint on the injured list. Fortunately, it appears that the Braves averted a disaster as their veteran lefty was throwing long toss at Citi Field on Sunday morning before the Braves took on the Mets and may very well return in early August.

Apparently, the injury may have surfaced on the weekend prior to the break when he was getting loose doing arm circles as part of his pregame routine. At the time, it seemed like merely general soreness – no pitcher at this point in the season feels 100 percent – and Fried didn’t think much of it. And it was certainly an afterthought when his boss, Alex Anthopolous, Braves’ president of baseball operations, broke the news that he was an All-Star injury replacement three days before the actual game.

“Basically, I woke up and I had a couple missed calls because we were on the West Coast and he [Anthopolous] was on the East. I was kind of uncertain and gave him a call and he said, ‘hey, we just got a call that you’re selected to the AllStar team, do you want to go?’” recalled Fried, who 15 years ago was pitching for the 2009 Maccabiah Games Team USA Juniors baseball team that won a gold medal in Israel, the day before the AllStar Game.

“I was like, ‘yeah, definitely not against it.’ It was a really cool moment. It was really nice to get that pleasant surprise. I was unfortunately unable to pitch the last time just because of the way things lined up with my start. To be able to run in from the bullpen and throw an inning in this kind of environment, it will be really cool.

“It’s an honor to be able to be around this caliber of players and just to be here and be a part of this game. You never take it for granted. Definitely wasn’t expecting it, especially with how late it was.”

Fried may have been a bit surprised by his late addition to the NL roster, but other All-Stars, including former teammate Freddie Freeman were not.

“It makes sense,” said Freeman. “He [Fried] has been one of the best pitchers in the game for a long time. He’s having a great season again.”

Added Sale, “His [Fried] preparation, as a whole, with not only what he does in the training room and the weight room but how his scouting reports are, how in depth he is for what he’s going to throw to who, when he’s going to throw it – that is wildly impressive.”

After Fried’s clean inning, López was called in to face Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez with two outs in the sixth. The Braves’ unexpected ace this year, now dealing with his own injury bug, blew away Perez on four pitches, while his rotation mate Sale captured the veteran’s first All-Star performance on the handy iPhone. In the top of the seventh, Ozuna, who participated in the prior evening’s home run derby, pinch hit for Ohtani with two outs and runners on first and second but grounded out deep into the hole at shortstop to end the NL’s threat of cutting into the two-run deficit.

Because he had recently started in San Diego leading up to the All-Star Game, Sale was a spectator at his eighth All-Star Game. Still, this year’s game held

special significance as his last All-Star Game hadn’t been since 2018, meaning this was the first one in which his three sons (age 4, 7, and 14) were all around and able to appreciate, alongside his wife and father, who attended Sale’s seven consecutive All-Star Games from 2012-2018.

Meanwhile the Braves, headlined by the All-Star trio of Sale, Fried, and López -- representing the first time Atlanta sent three pitchers to the Midsummer Classic since 1997 – continue to be snakebit by a seeming non-stop barrage of injuries. They remain a long shot to catch the Phillies for the NL East flag but are nevertheless squarely in the mix for a Wild Card berth in the anything-can-happen MLB postseason. And of course, looking ahead to next summer when Atlanta hosts the 95th Midsummer Classic, the hope is that the Braves will be spared the onslaught of injuries that have plagued them this star-crossed season so that their organizational depth, the bedrock of a franchise built to contend throughout the balance of the decade, is on full display.

“You look at that Atlanta roster,” noted Colorado Rockies All-Star infielder Ryan McMahon, “they’ve got 26 guys who could be an All-Star basically any year.” ì

Pitching in his first All-Star Game, Max Fried showed baseball fans across America why he is a perennial Cy Young candidate for Atlanta // Photo Credit: Atlanta Braves

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A Tragic Postscript to Atlanta’s Hostage Vigil

Editor’s

Note: Aug.1 will be day #300 for those still held hostage in Gaza.

Shani Segal and Yael Nidam noticed that something was amiss as they looked over the Shabbat table set up in the social hall of the Ahavath Achim Synagogue on Oct. 30.

Attached to every chair was a photograph of an Israeli kidnapped on Oct. 7, when Hamas-led terrorists attacked kibbutzim, towns, and a music festival in the “Gaza envelope” of southern Israel.

The chairs bearing images of Rimon Kirsht and Yagev Buchstav were apart.

Kirsht’s cousin, Shani Segal, and her sister-in-law, Yael Nidam, rearranged the chairs so that the husband and wife were seated together. For good measure, they also moved a chair displaying a photo of a kidnapped friend of Kirsht and Buchstav.

A little later, seated on the synagogue bimah, Segal said: “We always hear about southern hospitality — and the brisket. I just want to say to everyone here, thank you from all of us. You know the past three weeks have been horrible but it feels like home, so thank you."

She was thanking the nearly 2,000 people who turned out for a vigil in support of the hostages.

Kirsht, 36, and Buchstav, 34, were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim.

Kirsht “has the craziest agriculture hands,” Segal said, laughing, contrasting her own inability to keep a plant alive with that of her cousin. Segal said that she and Buchstav “think that music is air to our lungs.” The couple cared for injured animals and he also restored broken musical instruments.

Earlier that day, Hamas had released a video of three women hostages, Kirsht among them. “This has been a true roller coaster. The moment we saw the video we felt, she’s alive. For three weeks we did not know if she’s alive or dead,” Segal said. “When the night comes down . . . you start to think, she should not be there.”

None of them should have been there, not one of the 250 men, women, and children kidnapped on Oct. 7.

None of them should still be there, not one of the 115 men, women, and chil-

dren — more than one-third of them believed dead — still being held in Gaza.

A series of intelligence and military failures, and policy decisions that reach to the prime minister’s desk, contributed to what Israelis refer to as the “Black Sabbath.”

Segal and Nidam Kirsht were part of a delegation of six hostage relatives, two each representing three families, who came to Atlanta as part of a U.S. tour. Day after day and night after night, they appealed to anyone who would listen.

Earlier in the day, six family members were scheduled to speak at the Atlanta Press Club. I had been given their names in advance, but two were substituted before coming to Atlanta.

I was stunned when the two substitutes turned out to be members of my extended family, from a branch on my family tree that traces back to my greatgrandfather’s twin brother.

Seven family members were kidnapped and three were murdered when terrorists attacked Kibbutz Be’eri.

Six of those kidnapped — women and children from three generations — were freed Nov. 25 in an exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

The seventh, Tal Shoham, remains a hostage. He turned 39 years old in Gaza. His wife, Adi, and their children, 8-yearold Naveh and 4-year-old Yahel, survived 50 days as hostages. Adi recently posted a page filled with the questions that Naveh and Yahel ask about when their father will return. It is heartbreaking.

Kirsht was freed in a Nov. 28 exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. You may remember the video of Kirsht, clad in pink pajamas, defiantly staring down an armed, masked, and uniformed Hamas terrorist, before putting an arm around another released hostage and walking to a Red Cross vehicle.

Unfortunately, there will be no joyous reunion of husband and wife. On July 22, Israel confirmed the deaths in Gaza of Buchstav and another hostage, Alex Dancyg. Hamas said in March that Buchstav died from a lack of food and medication, a claim not verified by the Israel Defense Forces.

Hearing that news, I immediately thought of Segal and Nidam and their appeals to Atlanta’s Jewish community.

Rimon Kirsht said of her late husband: “Yagev was a good soul, sensitive, beautiful, and enchanting.” Buchstav’s memory will be a blessing to his family and friends. ì

Dave Schechter From Where I Sit

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,

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Gun Removal for Georgia Abusers

During the end of June, the United States Supreme Court decided U.S. v. Rahimi and upheld the existing law that prohibits individuals who are subject to family violence protective orders from possessing firearms.

Vicky Ogawa Kimbrell, an attorney with Georgia Legal Services Program said, “Despite this law, guns are often being left in the hands of abusers after they have been found to have abused a family member. This can have deadly consequences both for affected families and the general public. Even if you don’t think this law affects you because you aren’t a victim of family violence, researchers found that 68% of mass shooters from 2014-2019 either killed family members or had a history of family violence.”

In 2022, 81% of family violence homicide victims in Georgia were killed by their abusers using a gun. A Johns Hopkins study said a family violence assault involving firearms is 12 times more likely to result in death than one that does not involve a gun.  And while family violence happens everywhere, rural women may be more at risk, given the scarcity of family violence services in rural areas.

Some of our local judges, lawyers, and law enforcement officials are diligent about enforcing the law that guns be removed from abusers.  Other courts are reluctant to specify in the protective order that guns be removed.  And even when the judge specifies that the abuser is not to possess a firearm, confiscating and storing weapons for the duration of the order doesn’t always happen.

Ms. Vicky Ogawa Kimbrell is a trailblazing advocate for Georgians. She was awarded the 24th Annual Justice Robert Benham Award for Community Service. As the first Asian-American admitted to the Georgia bar and the Director of the Family Law Unit at Georgia Legal Services Program (www.glsp.org), Ms. Kimbrell has dedicated her career to fighting for marginalized individuals. Her work includes litigating on behalf of women and children denied healthcare, supporting parents with children in foster care, and defending tenants facing eviction from public housing.

Ms. Garet Hayes Duff, Atlanta

Letter to the editor, SCOTUS Immunity Ruling

If all presidents now enjoy blanket immunity for any ‘Official Act’ committed in office, Joe Biden could very well order Donald Trump’s summary execution. He’s been legally adjudged guilty of inciting insurrection, and his declared plans to politicize wide swathes of government present a clear and present danger to our constitution, which Biden swore to defend upon taking office. Detailing Seal Team Six to ‘sanction’ a candidate who’s admitted he wants to be a dictator sounds far more within the bounds of ‘Official Acts’ than the fake elector scheme Trump is now claiming that assault on - and affront to - our democracy qualified as.

Donald Ingram, Atlanta

Disclamer to our readers:

This section of the newspaper is a forum for our community to share thoughts, concerns and opinions as open letters to the community or directly to the newspaper. 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,

Everyone is Labeled “Anti-Semitic” But Nobody is Labeled “Philosemitic”

In The Modern Traditional Mass Media of Capitalist Newspapers, Capitalist Television Stations, Capitalist Police Stations, Capitalist Radio Stations and Capitalist Internet News Sources, everyone is labelled “Anti-Semitic” But Nobody is labelled ProSemitic Or Philosemitic.

The word “Semitic” was coined by German orientalist August Ludwig von Schlözer in 1781 to designate the Semitic group of languages—Aramaic, Arabic, Hebrew and others—allegedly spoken by the descendants of Biblical figure Sem, Noah’s Son. Philosemitism, also called Judeophilia, is “defense, love, or admiration of Jews and Judaism”. American-Jewish historian Daniel Cohen of the Vienna Wiesenthal Institute for Holocaust Studies has asserted that philosemitism “can indeed easily recycle antisemitic themes, recreate Jewish otherness, or strategically compensate for Holocaust guilt.” Wikipedia. In other words, a philosemite is a “Jew-lover” or “Jewfriend”. The 19th-century philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, described himself as an “anti-anti-Semite.”

Philosemitism is a special interest in, respect for, or admiration for Jewish people, Jewish history, or Jewish stereotypes. By depicting “ideal” characteristics of Jews, Philosemitism creates a “model minority” myth, relying on and perpetuating stereotypes of Jewish traits and values.

Antisemitism (also spelled anti-Semitism or anti-Semitism) [a] is hostility to, prejudice towards, or discrimination against, Jews. Primarily, anti-Semitic tendencies may be motivated by negative sentiment towards Jews as a people or by negative sentiment towards Jews regarding Judaism. [Wikipedia]

Both left and right are guilty of promoting a ‘good Jews’ and ‘bad Jews’ division. All Jews should refuse to play along. [When antisemitism goes hand in hand with Philosemitism. Keith Kahn-Harris 02/11/2011]

Jane Wallace, Riverwood Bronx

Letter to the editor,

I regret that I ever went to college. Education is useless in today’s world.

There is little to no prosecution of white-collar crime, or blue-collar crime for that matter. Both pay much better than book learning, honesty and hard work.

Meanwhile, the hot civil war between Republicans and Democrats announced recently by the Heritage Foundation is just about to get underway, and I’m totally unprepared. After graduating from high school, I should have just gone out and bought a bunch of guns instead of spending a lot of time in the university library.

Worse yet, I’m an Independent. I don’t know which party I dislike more. The Republican party won’t allow the wealthy to pay a dime more in taxes while the middle class and working poor sink deeper into poverty. The Democrat party is pursuing a religious war against Muslim civilians in Gaza and is opening a clear pathway to a wider regional war. I’m for religious freedom, not a medieval-style crusade to support Jewish dominance over the entire Muslim Middle East.

Kimball Shinkoskey, Woods Cross, Utah

Silverboard Steps into ORT Leadership OneTable Celebrates Decade of Impact

Kenny Silverboard has joined ORT America as Director, Southeast Region/Atlanta.

ORT America has announced the hiring of Kenny Silverboard as Director, Southeast Region/Atlanta.

Silverboard is an Atlanta native and attended Georgia State University. Twenty years ago, he transitioned from for-profit sales/sales management to the Jewish non-profit sector. Since 2014, he has served as Director of the Business and Professional Division at the Jewish

Federation of Greater Atlanta.

His volunteer work with Maccabi USA has taken him to Israel numerous times, as well as to Argentina and Mexico.

Kenny and his wife, Brenda, live in Roswell and have two adult daughters and two wonderful sons-in-law.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Through COVID, the attack on Oct. 7, and more, Shabbat has been a space for reflection and community for hundreds of thousands.

OneTable, a North American nonprofit organization that empowers people in their 20s and 30s to envision new rituals and build community through Shabbat dinner, highlighted the organization’s decade of impact since its inception in the summer of 2014.

“Like love, Shabbat is an ever-replenishing resource for living a life of meaning and connection,” said OneTable cofounder and CEO Aliza Kline. “Over the past 10 years, our lives have been turned upside down many times over — and OneTable Shabbat has been a constant. During COVID, when every day felt similar, Shabbat reminded us what day of the

week it was.”

OneTable reached these milestones in just 10 years:

Dinner Reservations: 1 million+ (1,054,000)

Dinners: 137,600

Locations: 700+

Total Participants: 270,000 (2020) Launched Powered By OneTable, adapting and customizing its technology and peer engagement model for other organizations (2023) Expanded to 50ish+/new generations with OneTable Together

Hadassah Pool Party Touts Hydrotherapy Benefits

Hadassah Greater Atlanta’s Ketura Group members experienced a joyful water workout to recognize Hydrotherapy, one of the many treatments in the NEW Hadassah Medical Organization’s (HMO) Gandel Rehabilitation Center in Jerusalem, with a pool party on July 14.

“Even before the war, the need for rehabilitation services in Jerusalem was acute, but now it’s vital,” said Rosalie Agrow, president of the Ketura Group of Hadassah Greater Atlanta.

Hadassah is proud to announce the recent opening of the Gandel Rehabilitation Center which offers a host of special treatments along with physical and occupational therapy, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and more. There will be a PTSD center and rehabilitation for neurological problems caused by brain, spi-

nal cord, and nervous system injuries.

“The first patients, all of whom were wounded in the war, began their journey in the new Gandel Center,” explains Simone Wilker, Zionist Affairs Chair.

To highlight the new hydrotherapy wing of the Gandel Rehabilitation Center, Hadassah members and associates experienced the benefits of hydrotherapy while exercising and dancing to Israeli music in the pool at a party at the home of Leora and Herb Wollner. The participants could see that water aerobics offers several advantages. Hydrotherapy can ease pain and promote strength. It’s also a form of relaxation.

Among the state-of-the-art advances at Hadassah’s Gandel Center is a therapeutic swimming pool with a modular floor that adapts to each patient’s needs.

The temperature-controlled pool treats a variety of patients healing from traumatic injuries and suffering from chronic pain to help them improve motor skills, strength, and agility.

With the support from Hadassah members here in Atlanta, 150 patients

will be able to receive hydrotherapy each day at the Gandel Rehabilitation Center. Go to www.Hadassah.org to make a donation which will have a direct impact for many Israelis, but especially our wounded heroes and heroines of the war. Compiled by AJT Staff

Compiled by AJT Staff

Making a splash at Hadassah Greater Atlanta’s Ketura Group pool party are: (from left) Suzy Wilner, Fran Redisch, Berna Levine, Arlene Glass, Rosalie Agrow, Leora Wollner, and Susan Adair

Million Meal Pack Initiative set for Sept. 21

place on Saturday, Sept. 21.

The Atlanta Hawks and State Farm have jointly announced this year’s Million Meal Pack initiative, which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21 at the award-winning State Farm Arena. The Million Meal Pack is the team’s largest service initiative of the year, which will require the largest number of volunteers ever with availability for 6,000 volunteers to help assemble one million meals throughout the day.

These meals will have a direct impact in local Atlanta communities as they are distributed throughout the metro area with the operational support of U.S. Hunger, a hunger relief organization with innovative programs designed to help feed people struggling with food insecurity. According to the Atlanta Community Food Bank, one in nine Georgians are food insecure including one in eight children.

Volunteer registration is open to the public at Hawks.com/mealpack. After completing a volunteer shift, participants will be invited to take part in an exclusive volunteer-only celebration on State Farm Drive that will have games, refreshments and music.

As part of this one-day initiative, the Hawks and State Farm are asking employee and community groups, schools, churches, sororities, fraternities, and local businesses, along with individuals ages five and up to register for one or more shifts on Saturday, Sept. 21. Those in attendance will be volunteering alongside influencers and notables from the worlds of sports, entertainment, government and business during an exciting day full of fun, music, food, performances, free swag and more, all suitable for the entire family. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Beth Shalom to Host Film Screening & Discussion

Join Federation, Secure Community Network and Congregation Beth Shalom at 6:30 p.m., Aug. 12, for a film screening of HBO’s “A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting” to experience the incredible resilience of the Pennsylvania Jewish community following the deadliest massacre of American Jews.

This event is $10, and all proceeds will go toward the safety and security of the community through the LiveSecure Initiative. The film is approximately 80 minutes long and will be followed by a panel discussion featuring survivors and security experts.

This event aims to foster a better understanding of, and the importance of, maintaining the safety and security of

our community.

The post-film panel discussion will feature Brian Davis, community security director; Lindsay Kopecky, vice president of the Atlanta Jewish Foundation and former Tree of Life member; Bradley Orsini, senior national security advisor, Secure Community Network; and Stephen Weiss, survivor of the attack.

Attendees are invited to stay for a special Tisha B’av service after the program.

Registration is required for attendance. For more information and to register for the event, please visit https:// jewishatlanta.org/event/tree-of-life/

Compiled by AJT Staff

Join Federation, Secure Community Network and Congregation Beth Shalom at 6:30 p.m., Aug. 12, for a film screening of HBO’s “A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting.”

FAMILY HELPING FAMILIES

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The Atlanta Hawks and State Farm have jointly announced this year’s Million Meal Pack initiative will take

BACK TO SCHOOL

Indoor Mini-City & Playground Opens in Buckhead

By Robyn Gerson

In the heart of Buckhead, word is spreading like wildfire about a 4,700 square-foot magical kid-sized city where imaginations can run wild. Thanks to a fateful rainy day and no place fun to go, serial entrepreneur Roi Shlomo was inspired by his two-and-a-half-year-old daughter Giselle, to create Kids Avenue so she (and other children) would have a soft-indoor place to play, learn and pretend.

Shlomo said, “Kids Avenue represents the first time in my life I’ve opened a business without having profit in mind. It was strictly love for my daughter and the community as I knew parents would value a special place like this for their kids. We are thanked non-stop, and parents are driving from all over the Southeast and the response has been a dream, now turned reality.”

Raised in a small village in Israel, Shlomo, a dreamer since childhood, as a young boy in second grade took cucumbers from his mother’s refrigera-

tor, cleaned and sold them door-to-door to their neighbors. As he grew up, next came street fairs, selling clothes on the beach, and Roi was always selling something.

After the military, Shlomo moved

to the United States, a friend who was in Houston offered him a job on an ice cream truck driving the streets of Houston. At 21, he moved to Baltimore, then New York and when he was out of money, began working in Soho selling henna

tattoos for five years and jewelry on the streets. He saved enough money to move to Atlanta and opened one kiosk in North Point Mall selling aromatherapy items. Before he knew it, Roi had opened 13 more mall kiosks.

A soft playground indoors awaits kids and a pretend campground // Photo Credit: @atlphotos

Founder and creator, Roi Shlomo, and daughter, Giselle, who inspired the indoor playground and kid-sized city // Photo Credit: @atlphotos Shopping at the grocery store is much more fun when it’s kid-sized!

BACK TO SCHOOL

A serial entrepreneur, Shlomo then launched Yogli Mogli in Sandy Springs, and said, “With every business, I always look for what’s missing in the market. I don’t jump on trends, and I want to be the first. I opened Yogli Mogli and in two years opened 27 locations in five different states. Timing is everything, and it was a good product.”

Shlomo wanted a casual lunch place and couldn’t find one and created Kale Me Crazy. He commented, “I started eating healthy and decided to eat kale. Since my biggest struggle was to find healthy food in a casual environment, I opened a fast-food healthy concept focusing on super foods.”

Kids Avenue was Shlomo’s first entry in the kids’ market. He shared, “My daughter, Giselle, is an amazing little girl, and she changed my life. This is the first time I’m grounded and as I was adjusting to this new lifestyle, I was looking for things to do with her. The first thing I noticed was all the playgrounds targeted olderage kids and her age group 0 to 7 was underserved. On a rainy weekend I was stuck in the house and didn’t have anywhere to go. I decided to create an indoor playground in a pretend city. She loved the soft play in the mall area, and I decided to combine fun stuff with a sensory experience all in one place.”

He added, “I owned an event space in Buckhead and converted it into the kid’s world and haven. Parents must always accompany and stay with children. It’s a great opportunity for parents to teach their kids real world activities. They can play in a grocery store, hair salon, dentist’s office, a bakery, ride foot propelled cars, sliding rock, popular slide, make pretend pizzas in the pizza parlor and other kid-sized, real-life experiences. When the kids walk in, they are so excited, and regulars come back over and over.”

The response was overnight insanity with 26,000 Instagram impressions and now more than 600,000 views. Parents can reserve a two-hour time slot and book it online and there is a limited capacity for the best experience. As with all playgrounds, Kids Avenue requires parents to stay and play alongside their children to supervise them and ensure a safe and happy experience. Visit Kids Avenue at www.kidsavenueatlanta. com. ì

A giant smile at the Dentist’s office makes real life tooth brushing fun!

BACK TO SCHOOL

PR Guru to Bring ‘Uncomfortable’ Talk to The Temple

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Maggie Gallant Isenberg, head of Superjuice public relations agency, is making important things happen.

She said, “I believe Jews have the worst PR in the world! I’ve always wanted to take that on in some way, and when I began listening to the now best-selling book, ‘Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew,’ by Emmanuel Acho and Noa Tishby, I could see just how I could do it.”

She shared with Senior Temple Rabbi Peter Berg the idea to bring Acho to Atlanta for a conversation and include a clergy member of Ebenezer Baptist Church (the Rev. Dr. John H. Vaugn) to talk about how seeing the rise in antisemitism in the Black community prompted him to write this next book on antisemitism.

She wanted that conversation to not only be in Atlanta, but specifically in the sanctuary of The Temple which was bombed in 1958 because of the congregation’s commitment to the civil rights movement and specifically, then Rabbi Jacob Rothschild’s friendship with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.   Rabbi Berg did invite Ebenezer Baptist Church so that all could gather with “open hearts and open minds” to talk about the questions in the minds of

members of the Black community that they may have felt too uncomfortable to ask of Jewish people. Isenberg continued, “I believe in the power of communication, and I believe that this event, with

Maggie Gallant Isenberg believes in supporting projects in which her agency can have an impact.

enthusiastic partners that now include the American Jewish Committee, the Black Jewish Coalition and the ADL, can show the rest of the country what happens when you have the courage to stop

WHERE WILL WONDER LEAD YOU?

Sophie University of Rhode Island

“I’m so grateful that Walker has been so accommodating for activities in and out of school I’ve been able to pursue multiple passions of mine with so much support from my teachers and coaches!”

Gavin Texas A&M

“Walker has taught me from a young age how to analyze situations, how to correctly approach them and how to resolve things.”

Shawn MIT

“Walker has pushed me to be curious, giving me the resources to always ask why while leaving me with more to wonder about.”

Maggie Gallant Isenberg runs Superjuice agency with an impressive entertainment portfolio.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Aug. 18.

the yelling (whether it’s online or at protests) and start listening to each other.”

Super networker Isenberg initially brought this idea to Arthur Blank, cofounder of Home Depot and the owner of the Atlanta Falcons, and noted that his team responded within the hour and offered to underwrite the whole event. Maggie told her friends, “If Arthur Blank said ‘yes’ to supporting this event, then not only would I go to a Falcons game, but I would paint my face … oh well!"

Isenberg’s agency, Superjuice, devotes time to advocacy when she knows that her agency can uniquely make an impact. Featured clients include HGTV, Hulu - specifically the Kardashians’ reality TV franchise and other reality series, Dylan’s Candy Bar, The Peach Truck, SURI (short for “Sustainable Rituals,” this is the world’s first sustainable sonic toothbrush that just launched in the U.S.) and The Healer’s Collection among others.

She has offices here in Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles. Isenberg founded the agency out of a Hollywood talent agency (IAG) in 2016; but in December of last year, she bought back the agency and is now a certified woman-owned business.

She declared, “Our mission is only representing brands and entertainment companies we are truly obsessed with. Being the founder of an agency -- especially one whose clients are in the entertainment industry -- means long hours and a lot of work that may seem glamorous, but behind the scenes is not so much. It is my hope that my kids are inspired to one day find a job that they love as much as I do, and they give it their all.”

Isenberg grew up in Atlanta and spent 13 years at The Westminster Schools and went to college at George Washington University on a Presidential Arts Scholarship in musical theater. Though once she was there, she changed from musical theatre to a major in public relations (which she had to “invent”) as an interdisciplinary major. Today, her daughter goes to The Davis Academy and her stepdaughter is at Milton High School and stepson is off to Georgia College and State University in the fall. Her husband, Jason, is an attorney.

The event is scheduled for Aug. 18. Doors open at 5:50 p.m. for a 6 p.m. start. To RSVP, visit the-temple.org/acho ì

“Fall” into The Alefbet Preschool and Gilner Religious School at Congregation Beth Shalom this Fall!

Emanuel Acho, a two-time Emmy Award winner host, Fox Sports analyst, and TED speaker will appear at The Temple on

Hirsh Joins ‘Jerks’ for Good Cause

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Local theatre “macher” Mira Hirsh performed with The Jerks band July 19 and 20 at Center Stage Atlanta to benefit Songs for Kids, which provides music mentorship and interactive programming for children and young adults with

disabilities, illnesses, and injuries.

Their focus is on creative expression, encouraging exploration in a safe space, while never losing sight of the fun. Songs For Kids Center functions to offer these “special” children the opportunities to take lessons, write and record music, enjoy a performance, or put on their own

show. The Songs For Kids Center respects and honors life challenges while fostering a sense of normalcy. Kids can be kids, and nurture and develop their love of music throughout the year. Event tickets were marketed as “Pay What You Can.”

Hirsch connected with The Jerks through retired accountant Mark Podhorzer, a band member. She recalled, “Mark was talking to Barry Abrams –another Jewish Jerks member, about the upcoming event. I expressed that I would like to join them, and they invited me to suggest some songs and come to practice. These guys have played the event since its inception. This will be their 13th appearance, so I’m really honored to be part of their performance this year.”

If Hirsh’s name sounds familiar, it’s because she has directed many meaningful local plays: “Indecent,” and “My Name is Asher Lev” at Theatrical Outfit; “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” with Synchronicity Theatre; “Camelot” at Atlanta Lyric Theatre; and “Anne Frank: Within and Without” at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

In terms of the event, she explained, “The theme of the evening is ‘90s songs,’ and I played keyboard and singing two songs – one as lead singer – Sarah McLachlan’s ‘Possession,’ and one as backup – Fastball’s ‘The Way.’ To be honest, we’ve only had one rehearsal together, but these guys have been playing together for years, so they’re pros. I’m only slightly nervous.”

Hirsh earned a theatre degree from the University of Denver before moving back to Atlanta where she worked as an actor, teacher, public relations and marketing assistant, education director, and theatre artistic director in addition to directing.

Hirsh, a self-described alto, laughed while sharing, “I would describe my voice as loud. I have a strong belt, but I wish I had more range. I enjoy singing a lot of singer/songwriter-type songs, standards and Broadway. I’ve always enjoyed playing the piano and singing to entertain myself, which used to drive my siblings crazy when we were growing up. Whenever I have the house to myself, you can usually find me at the piano.”

Josh Rifkind, executive director of the Songs for Kids Foundation, was Podhorz’s client for almost 30 years. The Jerks started in 2001 with four guys (Brett Clay, Glen Gurevitch, David Soloway) and Podhorzer playing basketball. During the next few years, the four grew to the current email list of over 40.

Podhorzer revealed, “At some point we decided that our group needed a name, like all gangs do. Since the games were played on Pangborn Circle, and we were a bunch of jerks, we called ourselves the ‘Pangborn Circle Jerks’ (or ‘PCJ’ for short). Brett started learning the guitar and invited those who could play music (and even some who couldn’t) to join him on his porch to jam. Eventually, nonbasketball players, but good musicians, joined in the fun. Through Rifkind, I knew about the Songs For Kids fundraiser and suggested performing at Smith’s Olde Bar (in 2012).”

Although retired professionally, Podhorzer continues to do the bookkeeping for Songs For Kids. He explained, “I have seen the effort Josh puts in and the results he gets. The joy on the faces of the kids who learn how to play an instrument or perform a song they love, is worth its weight in gold. Some of the kids have performed at local festivals such as Shaky Knees.”

Hirsh has directed many noteworthy plays on the Atlanta drama scene.

Mira Hirsh, at the piano, joined the Jerks for a few numbers to help raise money for Songs for Kids.

The Jerks completed their 13th appearance for Songs for Kids charity.

Photo by Kim Kenney

Gennadi Nedvigin

A New ‘Boss’ is in the House

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Clothes are not “just clothes” if you ask Lisa Crossley, CEO of GIRLSTRONG, where empowerment is the key. She declared, “Fashion plays a significant role in shaping our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us. It has been a powerful tool for female empowerment throughout history, allowing women to express themselves authentically, challenge stereotypes, and redefine what it means to be both feminine and empowered … If you wear anything from my GIRLSTRONG collections, people will stop you and make comments all day long. Love that. I challenge you to wear it and someone doesn’t stop and compliment you.”

GIRLSTRONG garments are manufactured in the U.S., South America, Europe and Asia, are competitively and priced with similar quality to Athleta, Lululemon, Alo Yoga, and Fabletics. Their tees are $33-$38, leggings $83-$87, Hoodies $55-$89.

Other than all the trimmings about female empowerment, what makes the clothes themselves special, per Crossley, “Our leggings, sports bras, rash guards are all buttery soft, second skin, very flattering, holds you in all the right places, super sexy, because we all want to feel strong and sexy, and we have all the colors and designs that everyone else offers as well as designs you won’t find anywhere else. We have these beautiful avatars, inspired by the runway. One of our designers is a fashion SCAD grad and designed a line of these gorgeous runway avatars -- they are on several hoodies and tees.”

Crossley has experience in the beauty and fashion industry, working with brands and iconic designers and their fragrances, like Gucci, YSL, Dior, Chanel, and Givenchy while working at Belk’s in Florida as a teen. She grew in the industry, advancing in sales and marketing, traveling, working with some of the largest U.S. retailers, like Neiman’s, Saks, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom and for some of the biggest designers in the world: Calvin Klein, Vera Wang, LVMH.

She recalled, “Over the years I naturally developed an eye and vision for design and fashion, how can you not after being inspired and surrounded by it your entire life? I treasure a photo of me with Bob Mackie.”

GIRLSTRONG deals in E-commerce, focusing on a website that ships glob-

This stunning green T-shirt from GIRLSTRONG is bound to attract positive comments.

ally, and plans to work its way into retail stores very soon. They have ambassadors around the country who promote their clothing and employ freelance designers, website, marketing, and social media experts. They also have an advisory board of influential women, like Mrs. Tennessee USA Whitney Reynolds.

In terms of tikkun olam and giving back to the community, Crossley said, “Even as a kid, with great, supportive, loving parents, my Jewish mama, Gloria, still makes me cry because she passed a few years ago, she was my biggest cheerleader; and how can you fail with so much love and support? My mother was passionate about giving back to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, so on the website, GIRLSTRONG gives back as a legacy in her honor.”

Crossley concluded by quoting Vogue Magazine, “It’s hard not to attach meaning and emotional weight to clothing; what you wear not only reflects who you are and how you carry yourself, but also who you want to be. Few people are as attuned to this nuance as women’s designers, who draw on deeply personal experiences—individually but also collectively—to imbue their work with an acknowledgment of a woman’s unique perspective navigating the world.”

“When we feel good as women, the world benefits,” says Crossley. “The lifestyle brand, GIRLSTRONG, is all about showing up in our best capacity. Fashion can empower women in many ways, including as a tool for activism, a way to express identity, and a way to feel confident. Every woman deserves to feel em-

This clever design is “tongue and cheek” and full of fun

powered, strong, and confident in every facet of life.”

Crossley announced GIRLSTRONG’s partnership benefiting Girls on the Run Georgia, set for 1 to 3 p.m., Oct. 15, at Stel-

This two-piece outfit by GIRLSTRONG feels buttery and “holds in all the right places.”

lar Bodies Buckhead Court. Tickets are $35 and include a T-shirt. Light bites and drinks will be served. TV personality Whitney Reynolds will be the featured guest. ì

COLLEGE

SDT Marks 100 Years on UGA Campus

By Fran M. Putney

This year marked a major milestone for the University of Georgia chapter of Sigma Delta Tau, as the Jewish sorority marked its 100th year on the Athens campus. The celebration in April proved, with its turnout of 87 women of all ages, that the friendships and connections made within the organization during the college years can last a lifetime.

Nine women started UGA’s chapter in 1924, making it the sixth chapter to be colonized after SDT’s founding in 1917 at Cornell University. Today, almost 200 UGA students who hail from Georgia and beyond are current chapter sisters, with the pledge classes having grown to more than 60 each year.

These days the “rush” process at UGA, where there are 23 sororities and 36 fraternities, is described as a “very competitive environment,” related UGA SDT chapter advisor Gerilyn Flaxman, herself a SDT sister from the pledge class of 1988.

In earlier years especially, many

students found joining a Jewish sorority provided a welcoming and accepting place in the small Southern college town

GLOBAL

where some felt different for being Jewish. There was a time when SDT, as a Jewish sorority, wasn’t even allowed to recruit at the same time as the others on campus, says Flaxman, whose day job is director of corporate partnerships and account management at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Judy Altman (SDT pledge class of 1961) shared that in her day, Jewish students weren’t even allowed to join other sororities. “That’s just the way it was,” she said.

For Altman, who grew up in Savannah, joining SDT “was a way of connecting with my Jewish friends. I was always very shy and never thought I knew how to talk to boys. I kind of grew up and matured there in a good way.”

SDT’s very first house was located on Milledge Avenue, known as UGA’s Greek Row, but Altman was among the first to live in the current house, a mid-century modern design finished in 1960 and located on Lumpkin Street. It houses up to 42 women. Altman lived there for three years. Now because SDT has so many more members, most women live in the house just during their sophomore year.

In what would become a family legacy, Judy’s three daughters and granddaughter, Shoshana (pledge class of 2022), would all become SDT sisters.

By the time daughter, Shelly (Katz), was a freshman in 1989, Jewish students had more choices in Greek organizations than Judy had in the early ‘60s. While her mother didn’t pressure her to rush SDT, Katz said, “There was something about

being where my mom was that was really appealing to me.” Taking part in the Jewish traditions such as saying hamotzi and celebrating the holidays with her sorority sisters felt comforting and familiar as well.

One of the things Katz loved during her time in the house was something called the “sleeping porch.” Not really a porch at all, it was a large open room filled with beds where most of the women slept. Katz described it as very dark with fans. “It was the best sleep ever,” she recalled. But in 2019, the sleeping porch became a large study room. It was good timing since such a sleeping room with so many people would have become unusable during the COVID pandemic.

As Greek life can provide students with leadership opportunities, Katz, whose career is now that of an event planner, participated on the board and was a Pearl Mom, who assists the Pledge Mom (who then was Gerilyn Flaxman). The next year, Katz became the Pledge Mom helping the recruits through the pledging and initiation process, she explained.

Over time, Greek life has shifted from once a mostly social experience, to today placing greater emphasis on philanthropy and community service. Nationally, SDT supports two organizations: Jewish Women International and Prevent Child Abuse America. Locally, Georgia’s SDT sisters are active in nonprofits such as the Athens homeless shelter and literacy projects for kids.

UGA’s SDT chapter has often raised

Eighty-seven SDT sisters of all ages attended the chapter’s 100th year celebration.

A family legacy: (from left) Marla Altman Gold (PC 1994), Alisa Altman Topor (PC 1996), Judy Plotkin Altman (PC 1961), Shelly Altman Katz (PC 1989) and Shoshana Katz (PC 2022) at the 100th year celebration at the Sigma Delta Tau house in Athens in April 2024.

Jenna Schaffer led last year’s Greek Grind event that raised a record-breaking amount benefiting Prevent Child Abuse America.

the most money for the national philanthropy projects, according to Flaxman. Last year, Jenna Schaffer (pledge class of 2021) headed up the effort, a dance competition called the Greek Grind, that raised more than $130,000 for the PCAA.

For her part, Schaffer, a Johns Creek High School graduate and now a rising senior at UGA, knew that she wanted to be part of the active Greek life scene at Georgia, but as somewhat shy, she found the rush process of visiting the many different houses to be somewhat intimidating. Though her mom had been an SDT sister, Schaffer wasn’t sure she wanted a Jewish sorority, but found SDT to be the best fit after all, with it being both welcoming and “a good network of girls both academically and socially.”

After first serving on the general board, Schaffer discovered she had a “passion for planning,” which led to her to become the fall parent coordinator. The next year she was selected for the Executive Board, as vice president of philanthropy.

“One of my favorite parts about college was being in that position and getting the whole sorority interested in community service and giving back while raising a lot of money with everyone’s support,” Schaffer said of her role in the Greek Grind event that raised the record-breaking amount for the preventing child abuse organization.

Flaxman described SDT’s centennial celebration in April as “mindblowing” with such a great showing from women in their 80s down to current members. “People were genuinely happy to be there and reconnect. It was just sheer joy and really sweet,” Flaxman said.

Though many things have changed, Flaxman says, “We’re still home for Jewish women who want a Jewish connection.” Looking ahead, a fundraising campaign has begun to make interior design improvements to the SDT house.

Flaxman encourages SDT alumni to update their information by visiting: www.sigmadeltatau.org/member-experience/alumnae-members/update-your-information/.

Additionally, as the new school year is soon to begin, Flaxman offers anyone interested in recruitment or SDT to contact: UGASDTVPrecruitment@gmail.com. ì

TAKE IN THE RAYS. SPOT FISH YOU HAVEN’T SEEN. GET SPLASHED BY DOLPHINS.

SEE THE TOOTHY AFRICAN TIGERFISH.

ENJOY A WHOLE

SUMMER NEW OF

ALL-NEW EXPERIENCES

ALL SUMMER LONG AT

COLLEGE

Tolk’s Rental Outfitter Targets College Move-ins

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Jerry Tolk, owner and operator of Atlanta-based Rental Outfitter helps renters and property owners transform houses or apartments into smart, functional living spaces.

Tolk, an army medic/veteran with a professional background in health and science communications, also targets campus move-ins and those who move out of school-furnished housing and into first apartments.

He explained, “You want your stu

COLLEGE

Hathaway Home Services,” where agents help people find investment properties. Rental Outfitter also sells furnishing packages to residential real estate investors, long-term rental tenants and Airbnb’s, in addition to college students, clients of divorce attorneys, visiting nurses, and executives on temporary assignments here.

Tolk mentioned, “Airbnb, VRBO, or other types of rental property owners want their rentals to create experiences that lead to five-star reviews, which increases occupancy rates and allows them to command higher prices. Our goal is to provide a turn-key service to help these rental property investments perform better.”

In addition to furniture, cooking setups, entertainment spaces, coordinating art, appliances, and TV’s, they look to add small touches like a one-button latte machine, or bicycles with baskets.

Tolk explained one of his sweet spots: college students entering their junior and senior years at Atlanta-area colleges like Georgia Tech, Emory, University of Georgia, Kennesaw, and Oglethorpe who need cost-effective solutions for their new apartments.

Rental Outfitter’s college bedroom packages include installation of all essentials (bed, headboard, mattress, nightstand, rug, desk/chair, lamp, trash bin, and more) for $950 plus tax. Full dining rooms are available for under $1,000. They handle all aspects of purchasing, logistics, delivery, assembly, and setup.

When they’re done, apartments are move-in ready.

The Rental Outfitter purchasing process professes to be super easy. They begin with a 30-minute interview to get the details and specifications. Then, one of their three part-time designers creates an all-inclusive quote within one to two days, including pictures of the furniture, a complete list of items, and the target installation day. They refine the design until the customer is satisfied. Upon signature and a 50 percent deposit, they order and ship the furniture to their insured and temperature-controlled warehouse in Doraville and confirm the delivery and installation date. On installation day, the remaining balance is due.

Their insured teams deliver, assemble, and arrange everything in the new home. The process can take eight to 10 hours. They conduct a live walk-through if the owner or tenant is on-site or a video walk-through.

Tolk concluded, “We are not finished until the customer is happy.”

Also, clients retain their own creativity in having input into their space.

If customers no longer want the furniture when their housing lease is up, Rental Outfitter will donate it to a charity.

“Basically, Rental Outfitter customers can own better quality furniture for less than renting, even for just 10-12 months,” said Tolk.

The Tolks attend Temple Emanu-El and Chabad of North Fulton. ì

Rental Outfitter has designers who allow the customer to have creative input into the final décor.

Ginsberg’s New Food Truck is in Wild Heaven

By Bob Bahr

If you were creating a burger Hall of Fame, chef Todd Ginsberg’s creations would be right up there with the late and lamented Annie’s Ghetto Burger, Holeman and Finch Late Night Cheeseburger and the Classic Double at NFA in the Chevron Station at Dunwoody Village.

Ginsberg’s Bocato Burger, created for the Atlanta restaurant, helped launch him years ago as a chef to be followed. It was a role he perfected at The General Muir where his Double Stack joined his beef brisket as standouts in the heady competition for the best beef on a bun.

The Double Stack, which was created from a custom grind of chuck, short rib and brisket debuted at the popular Emory restaurant. It was later added to Fred’s Meat and Bread, the Summerhill BBQ spot named after Fred Johnson who, with his wife, Jennifer, who in addition to the General Muir’s two locations, have also created such Atlanta successes as Yalla, the West Egg Cafe and TGM Bread.

Now Ginsberg has gone into busi-

ness for himself, taking his finely honed craft of burger making to a new food truck in Decatur. The sleek, 20-foot-long trailer is parked just outside the front door of Wild Heaven Beer in Avondale Estates, which, this year is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Two

Over

The co-owners of the restaurant, Nick Purdey and Eric Johnson, were looking to upgrade their food offerings. Their Civilization Barleywine and Emergency Drinking Beer were standouts in an award-winning brewery and barrel aging program. Ginsberg’s new truck, called his Refresher at Wild Heaven, became a joint venture. Ginsberg says he has made the new operation more than just a burger joint.

“I don’t want to have just burgers. I want to have several things that people can snack on, that are shareable, right? So, I told them about the menu concept that was very burger-centric, but also focused around the experience of being at Wild Heaven Brewery and being with friends and family. And that’s what Ginsberg’s Refresher is right now.”

It’s similar to the arrangement Wild Heaven has with the El Tesoro Mexican restaurant in the West End and Fox Brothers Bar-B-Q in Toco Hills.

When this writer recently visited, the veteran chef was tending to a smoker, just beside the truck, turning a watchful eye on several sides of salmon for his smoked fish dip. The creation blends the fish with chipotle cream cheese, red onion, and capers to make a satisfying appetizer served on a crudité platter of chips and fresh veggies. That day, his young son, wrapped in an oversized apron, was at his elbow picking up a few of the finer points of fish smoking from the old pro.

Five more small plates round out the starters, including crispy oyster sliders served with Vietnamese slaw, Fresno peppers and caramel aioli. There’s an Asian-influenced glass noodle salad with a tamarind dressing and crispy and spicy hot chicken wings.

Beside the cheeseburger, the food

truck star that is served smashed on a sesame seed bun with pickle chips and mayo, there is also a Good Burger. For the health conscious, it’s an Impossible plant-based burger sandwich. There’s also a quarter pound hot dog smothered in brisket burnt ends, marinated onions, pickles and barbeque sauce, a chicken Philly sandwich on a hoagie bun and a fried fish sandwich. It’s a simple menu that Ginsberg hopes will carry you back to a time when sandwich making was more of a homegrown art form.

“I want the fish sandwich and I want the burger to remind you of all the fish sandwiches and burgers that you had growing up, but even better than you remember them. These are sandwiches which are an ode to the best that I can create. And something that I want people to remember. I want them saying, oh, my G-d, it reminds me of when I was kid, but this adult version is just so much better, it makes me happy eating it.”

Paired with one of a dozen or so freshly brewed beers, and seated at one of the generously sized, well-spaced tables on the outdoor patio, almost any of the nearly dozen or so items are a good choice. Although much of the ambiance here is built around the brews, Ginsberg is quick to point out that this new venture is more than just about snacking and drinking.

“This is not a bar. This is a brewery. It’s a much different experience. People are coming here, specifically, to be part of the community. It’s such a unique place.”

What Ginsberg hopes is that on a breezy and balmy summer night, an evening spent outdoors in this quiet corner of the city beside his new Refresher Food Truck can be truly refreshing. ì

Ginsberg’s Refresher Food Truck is located just outside the entrance to Wild Heaven Brewery, which also has a spacious outdoor patio.

Occasionally, chef Todd Ginsberg brings his young son along to soak up some of finer points of his food philosophy.

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Atlanta Jewish Times has an immediate, in-office FULL TIME opening for an experienced administrative professional. Must be a quick learner who is highly organized, able to multitask in a fast-paced environment, and provide support at the executive level. Duties include assisting the company’s owner and president in day-to-day tasks; meetings; spreadsheets; maintaining calendars and scheduling appointments; handling phone calls and correspondence; in various projects and community events as needed.

Requirements Work experience as an Executive Assistant, or similar role. Strong MS Word and Excel skills Ability to work independently. Familiarity with database management. Outstanding organizational and time management skills. Excellent verbal and written communications skills. Discretion and confidentiality. $25k-$35k annually.

DINING

Pendolino is Chastain’s New-ish Neighborhood Spot

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Restaurant industry veteran Kevin Maxey carries quite the resume for having selected a “neighborhood” at the juncture of Buckhead meeting Sandy Springs.

Maxey counts his experience at Tom Collicchio’s Gramercy Tavern and Craft (wasn’t there a Craft attempt here on Peachtree east of the Waldorf?), as well as the Ford Fry group locally. Here, his Pendolino is “white walled casual” with an air of sophistication, maybe because of the marble floor, and attention to detail, fresh flowers, and lighting. The flowing curtains lend a coastal feel with green tile and darker mill work. The booth upholstery is lush in light mossy olive green in vertical panels back-to-back in the dining room.

Speaking of olives, Pendolino relates to the manually cultivated old Italian tree variety with swooping pendulous branches and high fruit production. Its olives can be used for black or green table olives, and to make mild to fruity olive oil. (Pendolino is also an Italian high-speed train which is noted, but not related.)

The first appetizer on the menu is Marinated Olives in citrus and pecorino cheese ($9). Our table ordered the eggplant marinara ($14) with buffalo ricotta, focaccia, and mint, though ours was topped with basil leaves; and the server explained that the mint was in the sauce. There are four other appetizers including cheesy garlic bread. Our cocktails ($14) began with Sparkling Lambrusco Emila Romagna Lini 910 Rose NY and a Mama Mia citrus vodka, prosecco, grapefruit soda combo.

The next intriguing course is Pizette, petite pizzas in three varieties -- all puffy, cheesy and crispy from the wood-fired oven. We went with asparagus on preserved lemon, though the current menu lists the vegetarian option as Bianca with garlic crema, spinach, and mushroom also with the intense lemon which makes the dish sing.

Next is a handful of creative salads, small plates and sides. Our best dish was the pink snapper crudo ($17) with citrus, sea fennel, pine nuts. For “foodies” who get into the weeds, sea fennel is also known as rock sapphire, an edible wild coastal plant grown in Micronesia, Europe, Africa, and Asia, sometimes pickled or made hot and spicy, but not in this case. The little gems Caesar salad was crunchy and fresh, but without much bite of promised anchovy, then topped with homemade croutons. An interesting future choice would be the burrata

wood-roasted carrots in pistachio pesto ($15). The house salad features oregano vinaigrette and ricotta.

For the entrée, the roasted halibut ($35) on lima beans and crispy artichoke was thick and fleshy and was just as good the next day as leftovers. A more current menu features swordfish steak puttanesca with garlic confit and sweet peppers. For those sheltered waifs, “puttanesca” is Italian for “a naughty lady of the evening,” literally translated as “stinking.” Another alluring vegetarian option would be ricotta ravilo with roasted zucchini, basil, and parmigiano.

Ending on a dolci sweet note, the tiramisu is a safe, not very daring, bet ($8). Two other options: Meyer lemon cake with vanilla ganache, and Spumoni semi frido with pistachio and morello cherry. Again, for a finer point, tiramisu means “cheer me up.”

Pendolino scores points for wellpaced service. A manager is visible stopping at tables to get feedback. She was able to answer menu and ingredient questions and knew when to get out of the way. Our server was attentive and got “the goods” out quickly enough and paced the courses.

To enhance the European feel, Pendolino’s patio was under cheery umbrellas with light wood barrel-shaped chairs, director’s chairs, and more rattan chairs under an awning adjacent to the building, all serving a youngish jovial crowd of 50, where the other 119 were seated indoors. The indoor bar with fresh flowers is vertical and lined up alongside the banquettes.

We are always happy with free driveup parking with very little walk.

Pendolino is located at 4600 Roswell Road, close to the recently closed Sprouts, soon to be Trader Joe’s. 404-937-3057. ì

Eggplant marinara buffalo ricotta, focaccia, mint pesto, fresh basil sprigs alongside Caesar little gems, anchovy dressing, and croutons were the second course.

Pizzette petit pizza from the wood-fired oven was adorned with asparagus, preserved lemon, mozzarella, and squash blossom ($17).

Alaskan halibut and butter beans were topped with a crispy artichoke ($36). Outdoor dining for 50 makes for a European landscape.

The interior seats 119 and is accented by moss green banquettes.

Pink snapper crudo citrus with sea fennel and pine nuts was a unique combination ($17).

Chai Style Home

Cultural Collection Springs from Texture & Tradition

Marcia Caller Jaffe

From a far away, transcontinental 8,000 miles come both Moriya and Trevor Jackson and their treasure trove of art -- to which they feel connected -- often historical, representational, or shamanistic.

South African art is among the oldest in the world, like Bushman art discovered in caves. Local tribal art may include dancing figures, references to magic, crafts, social issues, and animal images. We see a lot of earthy and warm tones, plus red, white, gray, and black palettes.

Moriya added, “Our collection also includes [pieces] created by our talented daughters, including African traditional bead work, sculpture, and objects like African pillow rests.”

Trevor notes a thread in their collection of painted art being particularly inclusive of the female face.

Residing in Brookhaven with black “lab” mix Thandi, meaning “beautiful one” in Zulu, the Jacksons used a deep chocolate paint color to make the art “zing,” along with a dramatic curved entrance wall to capture the wondering eye.

Marcia: How and where did you amass your art, and how does that relate to your emigration journey to the U.S.? You brought all the art from there with you?

Trevor: Most of our art was collected from Cape Town galleries which we brought with us together with indigenous African artifacts accumulated from South Africa. A part of our collection includes intricate Ndebele (African Tribe) beadwork for women’s and children’s ceremonial skirts, as well as a collection of Zulu and Xhosa headrests used as traveling “pillows.” Note that the Zulu people are the largest ethnic group in South Africa (around 14 million people chiefly from the Northern Nguni); and the Xhosa are a Bantu people who were known for herding and hunting.

Moriya: Our collection of antique sterling silver miniature spoons, vesta

boxes, cigarette cases, fob watches and ink wells are on display also … much inherited from our parents.

Marcia: Who are your favorite artists?

Trevor: Robert Slingsby, a multi-disciplinary artist focused on traditional African art and culture reflecting geometry and spirituality in a contemporary style. His work stems chiefly from East Africa’s Omo Valley and Namibia. He uses a multi-disciplinary approach -- painting, working in bronze, stone, wood, steel, glass and charcoal.

Hardy Botha, whose miniature circus act paintings are intriguing; and my late father-in-law, Morris Adler, whose wooden sculptures express movement and character, both of which have a special place in our home.

Moriya: The Pieter van der Westhuizen original oil of a women’s face on the lounge wall was purchased at an auction in Cape Town and is one of our treasures. The other female art works are by Thelma Chiat, who generally did not sell her art; and the other large portrait is by Hannetjie de Clerq, one of her earlier

works, also bought from a gallery in Cape Town.

We have also bought art locally from some Bennett Street Galleries where we chose this dramatic gold “scene stealer” by Mexican artist Paola, who has a painting in the Mexican National Museum.

Marcia: Share what your daughters contributed and their artistic journey.

Moriya: Our three daughters are all accomplished artists who all graduated from top art colleges. The eldest, Kim, a painter, the middle, Martine, a ceramist and clay sculptor, both graduated cum laude from the University of Cape Town. Marissa, the youngest, graduated from the School of Visual Arts in New York with photography as her major.

Kim Jade Jackson graduated from Michaelis, the art college at the University of Cape Town. She painted the large vertical oil in the living room in 1998. (Kim Jade was featured in the Atlanta Jewish Times Chai Style column Jan. 28, 2022).

The photograph of the young girl holding a flower was styled and taken by daughter Marissa as part of her graduat-

Moriya and Trevor Jackson relax with Thandi; (behind) Robert Slingsby’s contemporary inuendo of Bushman art (1988). Painting of a lady in blue dress, watercolor by Hannetjie de Clerq. The family’s silver collection is ensembled with works by Pieter van der Westhuizen and Thelma Chait // All Photos by Howard Mendel

ing portfolio.

Marcia: You are in the countertop business. How does that play into this house?

Trevor: My business is CMG Granite LLC. The countertop movement today has moved from granite to 90 percent quartz because the latter has become so user-friendly, in that it is virtually stain-resistant which provides low maintenance. Quartz also offers almost identical marble “lookalikes” as well as subtle cool white, cream and grey tones which coordinate well with current cabinet shades.

Marcia: Why the deep chocolate walls?

Trevor: The chocolate brown walls in the entrance foyer, hall, and dining room were ostensibly selected to reflect the African beadwork on the wall as well as the Succuri granite-veined dining room table which was made specifically for us by my factory.

Marcia: You are a residential realtor?

Moriya: I’ve been with Sotheby’s for over 18 years

Above: The two painted ceramic sculptures frame a shelf displaying a head rest and African artifacts.

Right: The foyer displays a cylinder with rocks, sticks; (above) framed creation of printer blocks compiled by Barbara and Trevor Jackson (1977).

Below: A Robert Slingsby 1989 abstract of a “future man” sitting atop of a ceremonial bull.

Left: Moriya standing in bedroom by art of three feathered women at the Moulin Rouge by Jacque Cobbry.

CHAI STYLE

helping clients buy and sell homes in the Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Buckhead, East Cobb and Alpharetta areas.

Marcia: Last word…

Trevor: It is an unbeknownst idiosyncrasy that I came to realize that most of our paintings are of female faces.

Moriya: Maybe it’s because you are surrounded by daughters! ì

Above: Oil by Mexican artist Paola of a woman holding a fish covered in gold leaf. (Below) Antique hand carved Chinese console displaying Zulu headrests, West African bronze artifacts and ceramic sculpture by Barbara Jackson.

Below: The two paintings on the one dining room wall are prints by Hundertwasser; the piece on the left depicts a bird in foliage and on the right is a cathedral in Marrakech. The table top is custom granite from Trevor’s factory.

Above: Trevor stands by daughter artist Kim Jade Jackson’s vertical oil painted in 1998 and (left) Oil by Stefan Raubenheimer.

Below: Photograph of a young girl holding a flower was styled and taken by the Jacksons’ daughter, Marissa, as part of her final photographic portfolio.

CALENDAR

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1

Self Defense for Women and Teen Girls - 7 to 9 p.m. We live in scary times! That is why CDT Sisterhood and Social Action are offering a 2-part class for women and teen girls on how to be aware of their surroundings and defend themselves if necessary. Offered by a Jewish couple who own an elite security firm, all proceeds will go to their non-profit that helps people around the world. Must attend the first session to attend the second session. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/y49vyyuj.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2

Kabbalat Panim Shabbat Service5:45 to 8 p.m. Once a month at Congregation Dor Tamid will gather for a Kabbalat Panim, an Oneg Shabbat before services at 5:45 p.m. We will then move to the sanctuary to welcome in Shabbat together at 6:15 p.m. Learn more at https://bit.ly/4caRiaZ.

Olympics-Themed Family Shabbat Service - 7 p.m. Celebrate the Paris Olympics with a Temple Kehillat Chaim Family Shabbat which is an Olympics-themed dinner and service. Please sign up at https://tinyurl. com/4vxx6cfj

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4

Blood Drive - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Do the mitzvah of donating blood at Ahavath Achim Synagogue’s quarterly Blood Drive. Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. The need for blood is constant! The quarterly Blood Drive is sponsored by Ahavath Achim Synagogue, Congregation Shearith Israel, Congregation Or VeShalom, Atlanta Jewish War Veterans Post 112, and Fulton Masonic Lodge No. 216. Sign up to donate at https://tinyurl.com/e5xuumr5.

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 InterestFree Loan Association of Georgia (JIFLA), featuring tour guide David Sussman. Get the Virtual Link at https:// tinyurl.com/pakkv7h8.

Art Talk Featuring Julian Cox - 2 to 3:30 p.m. Julian Cox, Deputy Director and Chief Curator, the Art Gallery of Ontario will discuss Ruth-Marion Baruch and her unique place in photo history and curating her work into the 2017 exhibition: "The Summer of Love Experience: Art, Fashion, and Rock & Roll." Find out more information at Breman by visiting https://tinyurl. com/4zyz4p5b.

AUGUST 1-14

Self Defense for Women and Teen Girls - 3 to 5 p.m. We live in scary times! That is why CDT Sisterhood and Social Action are offering a 2-part class for women and teen girls on how to be aware of their surroundings and defend themselves if necessary. Offered by a Jewish couple who own an elite security firm, all proceeds will go to their non-profit that helps people around the world. Must attend the first session to attend the second session. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/y49vyyuj.

MONDAY, AUGUST 5

Ancient Wisdom for Your Life – 8 to 9 p.m. Join Chabad of Fulton for a weekly journey into the Torah’s relevance. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/3vpn24m5.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6

Brain Health Bootcamp – 11 a.m.to 1 p.m. Join a fun, social class to strengthen your mind and body to stay sharp! With age serving as the greatest risk factor for cognitive impairment or memory loss, JF&CS is taking action with the Brain Health Bootcamp. The first of its kind in Atlanta, it is designed to provide memory enhancement techniques through cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, education, and socialization. Join by visiting https://bit. ly/451GNDC.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7

Jewish Women’s Torah and Tea - 7:45 to 8:45 p.m. Join the Jewish Women’s Circle of Decatur for a weekly discussion on the Parsha and contemporary Jewish issues. Find out more at https:// bit.ly/3T8oR4B.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8

Melissa Urban, The New Whole 30 - 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Do you struggle with cravings, blood sugar regulation, inflammation, fatigue, digestive issues, pain, or other symptoms? The Whole30 can help you discover the foods that are holding you back—in just 30 days. Join the MJCCA Book Festival by purchasing tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/2c42bh83.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9

Dive Into Shabbat - 5 to 7 p.m. Celebrate Shabbat with family and friends at the MJCCA outdoor pool and splash pad. Bring your own picnic or purchase refreshments at the Snack Bar. Open swim begins at 5 pm followed by Shabbat songs and blessings with Rabbi Glusman at 6:00 pm. Free ice pops, challah, and grape juice are provided! Bring your friends and enjoy this unique Shabbat celebration. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/5djf3h4y.

Tot Shabbat - 6 to 8 p.m. Tot Shabbat is a Shabbat Program geared for children (second grade and younger) to laugh, meet new children, make new friends, and explore the wonders of Judaism in an exciting fun way! The service is filled with songs, prayers, blessings, stories, snacks, and a place where a kid can be a kid when they pray to God. This Congregation Dor Tamid service meets on selected Friday nights throughout the year at 6:00 pm. Each service is followed by a pot-luck Shabbat dinner. RSVP at https://bit. ly/3KW9PMj.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11

Tu B’Av: A Morning of Love and Compassion - 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Couples and families with young children invited to join Nurture and Honeymoon Israel as we celebrate Tu B’Av (the Jewish Day of Love) with the residents at Berman Commons. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/ya3wu8zv.

together Post-abortion Comfort Care Kits. Find out more at https://tinyurl. com/yrym7bwy.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Matot-Massei

Friday, August 2 Light Candles at: 8:19 PM

Saturday, August 3 Shabbat Ends: 9:16 PM

Torah Reading: Devarim

Friday, August 9 Light Candles at: 8:12 PM

Saturday, August 10 Shabbat Ends: 9:09 PM

Cub Scout Pack 1818 August Games and Gaga Meet and Greet - 3 to 5 p.m. Boys and girls and their families, grades K-5 are invited to join Cub Scout Pack 1818 for an afternoon of fun, food, Gaga, and games as you learn about “Scouting with a Jewish Twist.” RSVP by visiting https://tinyurl.com/4cassccu.

MONDAY, AUGUST 12

Tisha B’Av at Etz Chaim - 9:30 to 10:30 p.m. Join Etz Chaim for our community Tisha B’Av commemoration for prayer, learning, pre-fast nosh, and the chanting of Eicha (Lamentations). RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/453d4s8a.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 13

NCJW/ATL Mitzvah in Motion – 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. We will be meeting at the NCJW office to make sandwiches for The Sandwich Project and to put

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14

Hadassah Ketura Bunco Party - 1 to 4 p.m. Roll the dice and have fun, make new friends, chat and laugh. Easy game, you do not even need to know how to play! RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/mr3xcfyf.

You are Invited to TURN YOUR ANXIETY INTO ACTION at our Opening Meeting and Get-Out-The-Vote Fair

We the People Don’t Stand Idly By Tuesday, August 20, 2024 l 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Ahavath Achim Synagogue 600 Peachtree Battle Ave NW, Atlanta

SPEAKERS WILL INCLUDE: Andrea Young • Valerie Habif • Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal

No cost to attend but registration is required at https://ncjwatlanta.org/events/opening-general-meeting-2/

Please bring first-class postage stamps for our Get-Out-The-Vote effort!

Get-Out-The-Vote Fair participants: ACLU of Georgia H Asian Americans Advancing Justice League of Women Voters Multifaith Initiative to End Mass Incarceration (EMI) Regulate Guns NOT Women H VoteRiders Young Voter Project ... and more!

KEEPING IT KOSHER

Fudgy Chocolate Cupcakes

This simple chocolate cupcake recipe, made from everyday ingredients, will become your new basic!

Ingredients

3 eggs

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 and 1/4 teaspoons Gefen Baking Powder

1/3 cup oil

1 tablespoon vanilla sugar

1/2 cup orange juice

1 teaspoon coffee dissolved in 1 teaspoon hot water

1/2 cup Gefen Cocoa

3/4 cup Glicks Flour

1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugars, and oil until completely smooth.

3. Add the orange juice and coffee and mix well.

4. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Stir in the chocolate chips.

6. Pour or spoon the batter into lined cupcake pans, filling them only halfway.

7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Recipe by Leah Klein source: Kosher.com

JOKE

The Doctor

Lionel takes his wife, Freda, to their doctor for a checkup. After the doctor finishes examining Freda, he takes Lionel aside and says, “I don’t like the look of your wife at all.”

“I don’t either, doctor,” says Lionel, “but she’s really good with the children and she’s a great cook.”

YIDDISH WORD

Schmendrink

n. A ludicrous, super-sweet cocktail.

“That’s Carl’s fifth schmendrink of the night. Boy, he’s going to feel that in the morning.”

From the Yiddish “schmendrick,” meaning “a fool.”

Big Bats

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

ACROSS

1. South Israel

6. Split hair pieces

10. Digital blockchain artwork

14. Replacement in the trunk 15. “Follow closely, Fido!”

16. Wife of Zeus

17. He sounds like a Kohen-Shofet?

19. A real schlump

20. Went below 1%

21. Yeshiva title

23. 8 1/2” x 11” page size: Abbr.

24. Block a shot

27. He stood up in respect for the elderly rabbi?

29. ___ for effort

30. Etsy transaction, e.g.

32. Gapes

33. Biden’s is almost up

35. Words with tear or roll

36. Fragrant yellow flower

37. “Say birkat hamazon, Yona!”

40. Some baseball games end with them

41. “American Pie” singer McLean

42. Part of a children’s game

45. Spots with indoor trees, perhaps

46. Bits

48. “Before,” when placed before

49. Young wife of Boaz?

51. Animal that goes “pop”

53. ___Lanka

54. Org. for Biden in 2020 (and maybe 2024?)

55. Zip about

56. 11,000-foot Sicilian peak

58. He really gels with the bochrim?

63. Breeds or varieties

64. Prophetic sign

65. “’Have ___ myself clear?”

66. Grateful Dead bassist Phil

67. Prefix meaning “alien”

68. Colorado resort town

DOWN

1. Org. that might deal with leaks

2. Org. that might deal with leaks

3. Fish with long, narrow jaws

4. Disappear, bit by bit

5. It’s ghetto is now a popular (Jewish) vacation destination

6. The longest serving leader in Jewish history

7. Homer’s neighbor

8. Brut alternative

9. It’s slippery

10. Org. for top-notch H.S. students

11. Top students (and top hobbits) might be part of them

12. Communist leader Leon

13. Buffalo NHL team

18. Family of the future

22. Got going

24. Splinter, e.g.

25. Haifa to Tsfat dir.

26. Not the most popular character from “The Phantom Menace”

27. Fun Factory clay

28. Dijon alternative

31. Coulter or Curry

34. It’s the reel thing?

36. Like a guess of 90 when the answer is 100

38. Listened

39. Spammer, perhaps

40. Alarm

43. Dr. who prescribes Beats headphones

44. Shocking fish

45. Rappel

46. “My package is here!”

47. Belgrade’s republic

50. Remove from a carton

52. Tiny physical elements

55. Bond baddie, of 1962

57. Erev Tisha B’Av dip

59. Kylo who might be even less popular than 26-Down

60. You might look forward to one on Shabbat

61. ‘50s pres. monogram

62. Schumer’s abbr.

OBITUARIES

Simmy Saroff Barrocas 55, Potomac, Md.

Simmy Saroff Barrocas, 55, of Potomac, Md., passed away after a long battle with breast cancer on July 20, 2024, in Potomac, Md.

The burial was held at Greenwood Cemetery in Atlanta, GA on Tuesday, July 23, at 2 p.m.

Simmy was born in Knoxville, Tenn., to Sylvia and Leon Saroff on April 24, 1969. She attended Bearden High School and graduated in 1987. She then attended the University of Alabama, where she earned a BA in education. Professionally and personally, Simmy’s mission in life was to make our world a better place. She worked as a compliance officer at Navigate Affordable Housing in Birmingham, Ala., for over 20 years, ensuring accessible, affordable housing options. After moving to Potomac, her full-time job was managing her husband and son (no easy task at times). Simmy enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Simmy was a passionate, active community leader volunteering and serving on the boards of many non-profit organizations, including, N.E Miles Jewish Day School, Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama (HICA), Birmingham Federation and Collat Jewish Family Services. Most recently she was involved with Mothers Against College Antisemitism, marching in D.C. last fall.

Simmy’s purpose-filled life was driven by her faith in Judaism. She lived her faith, observing Shabbat and the High Holidays, as well as participating in the Birmingham Temple Beth EL Sisterhood, and providing a Jewish Day School education for her son, Lyle. Along with Phillip, she continued to follow Jewish traditions of giving charity and preparing wonderful holiday meals.

Simmy was loyal and fiercely protective of her friends and family, often wanting to kick someone’s butt if they hurt them. Simmy was a fighter, a warrior, not just over the battle of cancer that took her life but in everything she did.

Simmy loved people. She was warm, friendly, and engaging and made others feel special, noticed and heard. She would walk into a room and start a conversation with anyone, stranger or not. However, that person had to be careful as she could identify anyone as a target donor for one of her charitable organizations.

Simmy is survived by her husband, Phillip, and her son, Lyle, as well as her siblings, Melanie Saroff Collie, Dina Saroff Mirsky (Arie), Rebecca Saroff Bruce (Michael) and Mark David Saroff. Simmy had many nieces and nephews – Rachel Bruce Santana (Alex), William Bruce, Micheal Mirsky (Ashira), Avital Mirsky Friedman (Zvi), Chaskin Saroff, Sanderson Saroff, Hannah Saroff Fetterman (Jacob), Benjamin Cohen, Aaron Barrocas, Hayden Barrocas, Shoshana Cohen, Max Barrocas, Jordan Barrocas, Emmett Cohen and Axel Barrocas. Simmy is survived by Phillip’s family who loved her like a daughter and sister. They are Dr. Albert and Maxine Barrocas, Natalie and Michael Cohen, Lane and Kerrie Barrocas, and Isaac and Stephanie Barrocas. She was preceded in death by her mom, Sylvia Chaskin Saroff, and her dad, Leon Saroff.

Now her fight is over. She is in heaven meeting new people, hugging friends and family, and will always be looking out for us. Rest in Peace Baby! Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770.451.4999.

James Wayne Byrd 76, Macon

James Wayne Byrd, paint company executive and beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, passed away on July 29 at the age of 76. Born on Dec. 20, 1947, in Macon, Wayne dropped out of Middle Georgia College to enlist in United States Army, serving in the Vietnam War during the Tet Offensive (1967-68). He valued his service highly, attaining the rank of Sergeant and serving as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division. He earned the Bronze Star and many other military honors and commendations.

After his discharge, Wayne moved to Atlanta, where he met and married Elaine Pachter in 1972. Wayne and Elaine enjoyed an uncommonly close, loving marriage for over 52 years. Wayne converted to Judaism at the Ahavath Achim Synagogue and years later became a Bar Mitzvah. In his 40-plus years in the paint industry, Wayne won numerous sales awards and commendations, selling millions of dollars in paint. He enjoyed mentoring other salespeople. However, his most cherished role was being a husband and father. He was a constant presence in his children's lives, coaching sports teams and offering his distinct brand of quiet fatherly wisdom.

Wayne was loved by his friends and family for his patience, kindness, and laid-back demeanor. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Thera Ann and Vernon Byrd, and his in-laws, Louis and Lillian Pachter. He is survived by his wife, Elaine, his sons, Brian and Jeff, daughter-in-law, Marketa, grandsons, Jack and Danny, brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Susan, and niece, Kelly Alexander, her husband Andrew Davidson.

A funeral service will be held on Aug. 1, 2024, 10:00 a.m., at Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 3734 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30341. Donations in honor of Wayne Byrd may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research: www.michaeljfox.org.

Flora Lee Kout 85,

Atlanta

Lee Kout passed away on Monday, July 22, at the age of 85.

While known as Lee Kout to everyone in Atlanta, her birth name was Flora Lee Bandalin, a bit of an unusual name for a nice Jewish girl from the south side of Chicago. Her Chicago family and friends called her Flossie. She used the move to the deep south in 1973 to change her moniker to Lee. We could always tell how long someone knew her by what they called her.

Married for 60 wonderful years to Gene Kout, who we lost in 2019, their two sons, Steve and Gary, gave them four amazing and beautiful granddaughters – Andrea Kout Sick, Jessica Kout, Simmy Penn-Kout (named for Lee’s mother), and Samara Penn-Kout. She was also dearly loved by her daughters-in-law, Teresa Kout and Jeanine Castaldo.

Lee and Gene had an extended family of close and dear friends in Atlanta and around the country. While the first introductions to Lee and Gene were often confusing (Lee/Leigh? Gene/ Jean? Which is which?) everyone who met them instantly became friends. While the list of close friends is long, of particular depth and meaning were their 50-plus year friendships with Barbara and Mel Abend, Carol and Bob Nemo, and Sally and Charles Neustadt. Lee was one of those people who ran into someone she knew everywhere she went, much to the amazement and amusement of her granddaughters.

Very pretty and incredibly smart, Lee taught high school in Chicago after graduating from the University of Chicago at the age of 19. Her career included other roles that benefited from her intellect, including managing a top interior design firm in Atlanta for many years, followed by a very long and successful career in real estate, culminating in her receiving the Crystal Phoenix award from the Atlanta Board of Realtors for 20-plus years as a top Realtor.

Lee and Gene loved to travel the country and the world, always either with family and/or friends, or to visit family and friends. Lee and Gene enjoyed a short but wonderful retirement in Ashland, Ore., near Gary and his family before Gene’s passing and the onset of Lee’s battle with dementia.

Lee was also predeceased by her mother, Simmy Levin Bandalin, who she lost at age 14 to breast cancer, and her father, Roy Bandalin, and stepmother, Marian Bandalin.

Loved by many and liked by all, Lee will be sorely missed and long remembered. In her memory, Steve and his wife, Teresa, and Gary and his wife, Jeanine, ask that you consider a donation to the William Breman Jewish Home (Jewish HomeLife) or the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Henry Leibowitz

84, Atlanta

Henry Leibowitz’s life was defined by his love for his family and friends, his work, and his art. He was a lifelong tinkerer, career orthodontist and talented potter. His hands were his gift, and they could fix anything with duct tape and super glue.

Henry was a loving husband to Harriet for 60 years. They enjoyed a beautiful life filled with shared passions and individual artistic endeavors. They shared mutual respect and many laughs. Henry was her biggest fan, and she was his.

He was the adoring father of Mark, Scott, and Gayle. He was Poppy to Jack, Raya, Luke, Kol and Emma. He was a friend, teacher, and mentor to many.

Harriet and Henry lived among his pots, bowls, and vases and her photography in the home where they raised their children. They enjoyed lively dinners with friends, travels with their family, art shows and happenings around the city.

Throughout a celebrated orthodontic career, Henry loved to see his good work shine in the confident smiles of his patients. He poured himself into pottery, gifting his work to friends and family. Like everything he did, he was a quick study and disciplined artisan.

A great storyteller, Henry shared his insights with his family and friends and took great interest in their lives as well. Henry was known for his quick sense of humor and his sense of wonder and curiosity. He was a lifelong learner. An Eagle Scout, Henry could tie knots, build things up and break them down. He was creative, quirky, interested and interesting, and at times lovingly irreverent. He was wise to the world around him and could eloquently and with humor call someone out.

Henry was born and raised in Ocala, Fla. They were one of only two Jewish families, and their kosher meat was brought in on a Greyhound bus. A young Henry thought that everyone got their meat at the Greyhound bus station.

Henry came to Atlanta to attend Emory University as an undergraduate and as a dental student. It was during this time that he met and later married Harriet. Upon Henry’s graduating dental school, they moved to Boston where he completed his postgraduate training in orthodontics at Tufts University School of Medical Dentistry. After finishing, they moved back to Atlanta where he had a thriving orthodontics practice and raised his family.

Although his life was marked by accomplishments and achievements, he would often tell his friends that Harriet and his family were the best thing about his life. Henry is survived by his wife Harriet, his children Mark (Christi) Leibowitz, Scott (Jennifer) Leibowitz, Gayle Schwartz, his grandchildren Jack, Raya, Luke, Kol, Emma, and his sister Roslyn “Bunny” Weinstein, along with many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Rose and Bob Leibowitz and his brother, Alan (Rozi) Leibowitz. Arrangements by 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

The Concept of Yeshiva has a Rich History

Rabbi Richard Baroff DD

Like many terms in Judaism, the word “yeshivah" resonates with many related meanings. Literally, yeshivah refers to “the act of sitting,” which for Jews means the act of studying -- sort of like for Zen Buddhists the act of sitting (Zazen) means meditating. What else would Jews do, especially in the Ashkenazic world, when they get together but study Torah? And by Torah what is meant is not just the Written Torah (the Five Books of Moses), but the Oral Torah (primarily the Talmud). Therefore, probably the most common understanding of the word yeshiva is the place where Orthodox young men who are rabbinical students gather to study Talmudic literature and tangential subjects. Throughout Europe over the

centuries, especially in Eastern Europe, yeshivas became prominent. In Yiddish, a young rabbi-to-be would be known as a "yeshivah bachur."

A yeshiva student might look forward to "semikha" (Hebrew for “support”) which took the form of an older man placing his hands on the head or shoulders of the younger, and through this laying on of hands transmitting authority from one generation to another. This tradition goes back well over 3,000 years: the Bible teaches us that Moses passed on the mantle of leadership to Joshua in this way. Semikha continued for many centuries into the early rabbinical era but was then discontinued. This tradition was brought back to life in the late Middle Ages. At yeshivah graduation, a "bachur" is ordained-receiving semikha. Sometimes, in the traditional world, semikha is granted privately. Reform and Conservative rabbis and other non-Orthodox graduates also receive semikha upon ordination.

What of Yeshiva University? Clearly the word yeshivah describes a college

or, in this case, a university wherein the study of the Talmud and related material is central. However, in the case of Yeshiva University, many other subjects, secular in nature, are also offered: the hard and social sciences, liberal arts, medicine and education, for example. Yeshiva University began as a Talmudic academy and later a rabbinical seminary was added in the 19th century; in the 20th century, these institutions were brought together into the creation of Yeshiva College, which then developed into a university.

The word yeshivah describes schools for elementary students, and (as here in Atlanta) high school students. Usually, these institutions are day schools where children or young adults learn Jewish and secular subjects. Sometimes the Hebrew term "yeshivah ketana" (little yeshiva) is used for schools for children.

The history of yeshivot (plural for yeshiva) is very old. There were prominent yeshivas is both the Land of Israel and in Babylonia in ancient times and often these academies stood for centuries.

In Eretz Yisrael, the ancient rabbinic leaders of schools of learning included Hillel, Yochanan ben Zakkai, Akiva, and Judah Hanasi. Out of this great tradition, the Mishnah was produced. Later in Israel, as a commentary on the Mishnah, the Jerusalem Talmud came to be. All in all, in Jerusalem and in the north near the Sea of Galilee, these academies flourished for well over 1,000 years.

Unfortunately, the issue of antisemitism in colleges and universities has again become a salient problem over the past year, as Israel responds to the Hamas pogrom of Oct. 7, 2023. In particular, the American Jewish community grows more and more alarmed at the overt hatred of Jews evident at many well-known academic institutions, and the lackluster response of school administrators to this challenge. Our struggles as a people to be fully accepted, which we had thought were in the past, apparently are not. Part of the answer may be to continue to create our own schools, such as the Yeshivah, as we have done for thousands of years. ì

HURRY - CLOSES SEPT. 9

Discover patterns in the world through fun and interactive experiences.

• Navigate a 1,700 square-foot mirror maze

• Find patterns using projections and a two-way mirror

• Expose the mathematical patterns in nature

• Compose your own music using symmetry