Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. XCIX NO. 12, June 30, 2023

A Match Made in Atlanta

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Netflix Matchmaker Connects with Local Fans

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Chabad Intown Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman knows how to reach an audience and produce topical and meaningful programs. The evening of June 14 delivered an electric crowd of mostly, but not exclusively, young professionals who came to adore, be photographed with, and learn from, arguably the world’s most famous matchmaker, Aleeza Ben Shalom, who has been raking in the accolades from her current Netflix series, “Jewish Matchmaking.”

Since ticket response was so overwhelming, Shusterman and his Young Jewish Professionals group had to change venues to the Tara Theatre to be able to accommodate the crowd of 450. Atlanta was the final stop of Ben Shalom’s whirlwind 10-city tour.

Coincidentally, Schusterman’s daughter, Sara, had just become engaged to a young man from Canada through a matchmaker. Mom, Dina Schusterman, explained during the pre-function mixer, “Going through a matchmaker is a very safe process…it doesn’t have to be a professional matchmaker. Can be a cousin or a friend who knows someone who knows someone…a few degrees of Jewish separation. When I met my husband, we met four times, before becoming engaged, now, 10-20 meetings before a decision is OK.”

Married couples who were fans of the show came to mingle as well. Jennifer and Brian Steinberg brought their 20-year-old daughter, Aubrey, a student at the University of Tennessee, to hear Ben Shalom. Brian Steinberg mentioned a personal connection when he attended the University of Delaware and knew Aleeza’s husband, plus Jennifer Steinberg said, “We found her so sincere, warm and friendly.”

Family attorney and mediator Pia (Koslow) and husband, Tal Frank, said, “I loved her personality and how she built trust with the clients while remaining focused and interested.”

Singles Risa Polokoff and Danielle Lifshitz said they were looking to meet men who were family-oriented with good values in the 30-38 age group. Lifshitz later appeared on the stage panel stating that her perfect match had to speak fluent Hebrew.

Rabbi Chanan Rose and wife, Chaya, who head up the Intown Jewish Academy, said, “I like that the subject of matchmaking is so current as it emphasizes a

Jewish tradition by bringing in spiritual practices; but some of the recent other Netflix specials don’t necessarily show positivity or correctly portray observant

Jewish life.”

Max Stevens, a 38-year-old polo player and CEO of food waste recycling business, Organic Matters, explained, al-

though he would soon be on the dating market, he was in the process of an Orthodox conversion (because of his mother’s partially Jewish ancestry). He noted,

Brian and Jennifer Friedman accompanied daughter, Aubrey, who is 20.

Aleeza Ben Shalom with AJT writer Marcia Caller Jaffe.

Rabbi Chanan and Chaya Rose are happy that the ancient tradition of matchmaking is being popularized, but caution against Netflix having sensationalized portrayals in other shows.

Rabbi Leivy Lapidus chatted with Max Stevens about his conversion in process.

Singles Danielle Lifshitz and Risa Polokoff want to meet men with good family values.

Aleeza Ben Shalom (center) was on stage revealing the panel’s innermost thoughts about finding spouses and empowering the audience to be connectors // Photo Credit: Sara Shusterman

Aleeza Ben Shalom on stage //

Photo Credit: Sara Shusterman

Caroline Goldstein and Rebecca Streetman had a great time at the show.

“When I have done that, I will then look for a woman who fits into that lifestyle.”

Moving inside the theater, Rabbi Rose stated that swiping on apps can be ghastly.

“Matchmaking is related to ancient wisdom and pertinent today. In the Talmud, couples coming together are as difficult as splitting two seas requiring mutual selflessness.”

A hyper, energetic Ben Shalom took the stage with a rousing, “Hello, Y’all!”

She proceeded to explain the circumstances of her own young adulthood, finding her way to observant Judaism, living in sandy Arad, Israel, by the Dead Sea, and, ultimately, finding her career.

She said, “Living Jewishly has four top components: keeping kosher, dressing modestly, prayer, and observing

Shabbat…even in small steps.” Her matchmaking business was incorporated in 2013, and she detailed, “During the pandemic and the popularity of ‘Indian Matchmaking’…I got the call from Netflix. They were amazingly accommodating, having religious advisors on staff, and bringing kosher food and schlepping pots in suitcases to shoots in places like Jackson Hole, Wyo.”

Shelbelle Lapidus and Ben Shalom brought up a panel of four as they interviewed and fielded audience questions. Ben Shalom laughed and quizzed, “Are you Flex or Fixed?” and “Specific is Terrific” in a crash course for the audience to all become matchmakers.

The afterparty continued in the theatre lobby with food from the Spicy Peach. ì

Dina Schusterman is flanked by her daughters, with Aleeza Ben Shalom in the center, as daughter, Sara (left), is headed for marriage in several weeks.

A crowd of approximately 450 gathered for the unique event // Photo Credit: Sara Shusterman

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Antisemites Spew Hatred Outside Cobb Synagogue

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

In an apparent escalation from spreading their flyers on neighborhood driveways, right-wing groups including the Goyim Defense League are now displaying their hatred in front of synagogues.

On a warm Shabbat afternoon, June 24, a handful of extremists carrying swastika flags and hateful messages against Jews, paraded in front of Chabad of Cobb on Lower Roswell Road. Cobb County Police stood between the hate mongers and the synagogue where congregants were enjoying afternoon Shabbat services.

The night before, apparently the same group of extremists protested outside Temple Beth Israel in downtown Macon, even using a bullhorn. The next day, hundreds of people congregated outside the temple to stand against antisemitism.

In Cobb County, those protesting the antisemitic extremists didn’t wait. They gathered across the street during the “rally” of extremists, taking photographs and videos and yelling at the handful of rightwingers standing in front of Chabad of Cobb. From those videos, it appeared that the extremists barely outnumbered the Cobb police who stood between them and the building and were far outnumbered by those protesting the flags displaying swastikas and other propaganda.

Those shouting at the neo-Nazi and right-wing extremists were heard screaming, “go home, Nazi trash,” as well as taunting and cursing the antisemites.

The message from Chabad of Cobb Rabbi Ephraim Silverman was more temperate. “We are extremely appreciative and thankful for the outpouring of support and concern from all segments of the community. We have been in communication with Cobb County officials, who have identified these individuals as part of a small group that travel around the country in order to spread their hateful message. Their goal is to provoke the Jewish community into helping them spread their message via social media posts etc.”

He told the AJT that he didn’t know who actually called the Cobb County police, but he said he “did not sense any fear at all from anyone” at the service.

He added that “East Cobb has been a wonderful home to a flourishing Jewish community for many years. These individuals do not represent the sentiments of the citizens of East Cobb. We are working closely with Cobb County officials and the Police Department to ensure the security and safety of our campus. There

is no threat whatsoever at this time.”

Indeed, the next day, Chabad of Cobb held an open house for the families of its Camp Gan Izzy which was scheduled to start Monday, June 26. One camp employee said she was not nervous about going to the synagogue, “just disappointed that antisemitism is still so present in the world we live in today.”

And the protests in front of Chabad of Cobb on Saturday were not the only examples of antisemitism in the Atlanta area or the state this past weekend. Residents of Sandy Springs found antisemitic and anti-LGBTQ flyers in their driveways over the weekend, an occurrence that has repeated both in Sandy Springs and other neighborhoods around the metro area.

In a message to his members, Congregation Etz Chaim Rabbi Daniel Dorsch acknowledged that many who had contacted him “were unsettled by the sight of Neo-Nazis in front of a synagogue….This gathering deliberately took place in front of a synagogue with the intent to intimidate Jews.”

He assured his congregants that the Anti-Defamation League and the Secure

Community Network, which is the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America, are monitoring antisemitic acts nationally. “We routinely receive updates about potential antisemitic activities in the greater community as we did in this situation,” confirming reports in some media that Jewish institutions in Atlanta had been forewarned about possible antisemitic actions this weekend.

Local rabbis were not the only ones who responded to the latest examples of antisemitism. Both Democratic and Republican local and state leaders condemned the antisemitic acts. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp stated that “there is absolutely no place for this hate and antisemitism in our state. I share in the outrage over this shameful act.”

Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock tweeted, “This has got to stop. We must all raise our voices loudly against this vile hate.” Fellow Sen. Jonathan Ossoff stated that “Georgia’s Jewish community will never be intimidated by anti-Semitism… All Georgians are united in our rejection of bigotry and hate.”

Both Jews and non-Jews flooded social media platforms with messages of support for the Jewish community and condemnations of the antisemitism. One person expressed how “sorry” she was, adding that “they are getting louder and bolder.”

But not everyone agrees on the response to the antisemitic extremists. “I think it is better that they don’t give [stet] a lot of press coverage. It hurts their cause to be ignored.”

Similarly, in her message criticizing the extremists, Georgia Rep. Esther Panitch urged, “Please do not engage with these unhinged maniacs as they are obviously unwell.”

Many complained that the police didn’t stop those expressing hatred in front of the East Cobb synagogue. But Panitch responded, “To those who are upset the police aren’t doing anything, I would say I’m just as frustrated as everyone else who feels like these white supremacists/ Nazis appear to be getting away with their vile speech. But that speech alone is protected under the First Amendment.”

Cheryl Feingold Dorchinsky, co-

Anti-Jewish protesters assembled in front of Chabad of Cobb.

administrator of online group Jewish Moms of Atlanta and executive director of the Atlanta Israel Coalition, has another strategy, refusing to name the group most associated with the frequent flyers and recent rallies. “The founder of this fringe extremist group is a failed actor who is desperate for money and atten-

tion. He fled California for Florida, but they tightened the laws there and made it clear that he and his fellow hateful Nazis were not welcome. We cannot let these bigots continue bringing their hate to Georgia. We must stand up and make it clear that their message of intolerance and bigotry has no place in our state.” ì

This image was taken outside of Chabad of Cobb on June 24 as antisemitic protesters gathered.

Right-wing extremists protested outside in front of Chabad of Cobb on June 24.

While the support rally scheduled for Monday night at Chabad of Cobb was officially cancelled, several community members still showed up; and a security guard was noticeably present outside of Camp Gan Izzy as well // Photo Credit: Lena Robbins

CDC Director Passes Torch to Dr. Cohen

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Dr. Rochelle Walensky will soon pass the directorship of the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to Dr. Mandy Cohen, in a not-sounusual line of Jewish appointees such as Dr. Jeffrey Koplan, Dr. Tom Friedan, Dr. Richard Besser (acting), and Dr. Anne Schuchat (CDC deputy director).

After the recent White House announcement, Cohen was featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution clad in a red scoop neck sweater wearing a singular Chai necklace. Religion aside, Cohen, 44, has held several high-profile government jobs, most recently as secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services from 2017 until last year.

Walensky, 54, who will exit the post on June 30, announced her resignation while Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Atlanta as a college commencement speaker. Gracious and poised, Walensky appeared last spring for the Jewish Women’s Fund of Atlanta

at The Temple on Peachtree where she spoke of consulting her rabbi often and her very difficult role as the face of CO-

VID. Cohen will have her work cut out for her as Walensky recently boldly revealed CDC organizational flaws in public mis

takes from testing to data to communications, and the need for more self-scrutiny. Mandy Cohen was raised in Baldwin

Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the outgoing director of the CDC, will be replaced by Dr. Mandy Cohen.

Dr. Mandy Cohen will take over as head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from Dr. Rochelle Walensky.

Hamlet, Hempstead, N.Y., by an emergency room nurse practitioner (mother) and a junior high guidance counselor (father) in the New York City School system. She earned a bachelor’s degree in policy and analysis from Cornell University, then her medical degree from Yale University in 2005, and a graduate degree from the Harvard University T. H. Chan School of Public Health.

After her residency in Boston, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked in a variety of roles in veteran’s and women’s services, and with Doctors for Obama. In 2013, she was hired as a senior adviser by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which led to roles in Children’s Healthcare Insurance Programs, and the federally facilitated Marketplace. In 2014, while in the last trimester of pregnancy, she advocated in front of Congress for maternity coverage in the Affordable Care Act. At the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, in 2017, she oversaw 16,000 employees and dealt with crises like the opioid epidemic and the COVID-19 pandemic. She was credited with reducing costs and improving public health, and declines in overdose deaths in a wide swath of projects. In 2020, the Raleigh Observer named her “Tarheel of the Year.”

Many public officials like Cohen who

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navigated and served by using day-to-day data in unchartered pandemic waters were often deciding on and defending some controversial topics like school closures, the efficacy of face masks, teacher safety, colleges resuming in-person classes, stay-at-home orders, troubling metrics, activating testing sites, dealing with former President Trump’s tweets, and protocols in nursing homes.

Dr. Mandy Krauthamer added her Cohen surname when she married Samuel Cohen, a health care regulatory attorney from Philadelphia. The two met in Boston while he was attending Harvard Law School. They have two daughters. The family belongs to (Conservative) Beth Meyer Synagogue in Raleigh, and she was recognized by the local Jewish Federation as a Lion of Judah in 2018.

No statement has been made yet if the family plans to relocate to Atlanta.

Suffice it to say that Cohen is more qualified than most of her predecessors because of her background in public health and government agencies and is no “shrinking stethoscope” when it comes to making decisions and the use of her academia to make practical changes.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper referred to Cohen as “brilliant, talented and a battle tested leader.”

She will serve as a President Joe Biden appointee. ì

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Israeli Researchers Score Autism Research Breakthrough

By Bob Bahr

Researchers in Israel have published what they believe is a breakthrough in developing a potential treatment for autism. The study, by Dr. Haitham Amal and a research team from Hebrew University in Jerusalem, indicates that there is a direct connection between nitric oxide, a common neurotransmitter in the brain and autism.

The study, which was conducted using mice as test subjects, showed that as levels of nitric oxide increased in the brain of the mice, indicators for the presence of autism also increased. Likewise, behavior that is associated with autism decreases as the level of nitric oxide was lowered “in a controlled manner.”

The research, which was published last month in the peer-reviewed, opensource journal, Advanced Science, is, according to Amal, the first direct connection between levels of nitric oxide and autism.

“By inhibiting the production of nitric oxide on laboratory animals, they became more social and less repetitiveness

was observed in their behavior. Additionally, the animals showed interest in new objects and were less anxious. Finally, the decrease in nitric oxide levels led to a significant improvement in neuronal indices.”

Although the study of nitric oxide goes back to the 18th century, it was only in the late 1980s that scientists first realized the crucial role it plays in the functioning of the human body. Three American scientists shared the 1998 Nobel Prize

for medicine for discovering its importance in the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

More than 30 years ago, Dr. Stanford Snyder at Johns Hopkins University described how small quantities of nitric

Under the Microscope: Creating the Medicine of the Future

In recent decades, medical research has taken massive strides in tackling some of humanity’s most challenging illnesses by combining the powers of modern imaging and pharmaceutical technology with increasingly innovative therapies. Exciting breakthroughs have been achieved in the treatment of myriad cancers by utilizing radiation therapy and highly effective immunotherapy drugs. The development and widespread use of new vaccination technologies played a crucial role in enabling humanity to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. But fully understanding the intricate workings of the brain has remained elusive for researchers and academics.

Over the last several years, remarkable progress has been made in the field of brain sciences, with far-reaching implications for various areas of modern healthcare. These achievements allow the medical community to take ambitious steps in addressing a wide range of neurological conditions and better appreciating how our brains work, or why they sometimes don’t.

On the Edmond J. Safra Givat Ram Campus of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU), the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC) houses some of the world’s leading innovators in neurological research. Attracting worldrenowned scientists, decorated faculty, and next-gen students, ELSC has created a home for increasingly novel projects that are changing the very future of

medicine and human understanding of the body’s most important organ.

ELSC’s mission is to “develop a thriving interface between theory and experimentation in cognitive, biological, and computational neuroscience, paving the way to innovative discoveries in brain research.” Achieving that broad vision relies upon the experience, knowledge, and talents of hundreds of faculty members and staff from disciplines that include neurology, behavioral science, and computer science, among others. While ELSC’s researchers contribute distinct expertise, all rely on state-of-theart equipment in some of the world’s most advanced laboratory and clinical settings.

Biological research at ELSC is primarily focused on developing new therapies to address Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, behavioral and substance addictions, and neurological diseases that affect millions of people around the world. In a recent groundbreaking study, Hebrew University neuroscientists Hermona Soreq and Yonatan Lowenstein reported the discovery of a molecular mechanism which leads to accelerated cognitive deterioration in female patients with Alzheimer’s disease. This study, along with many others taking place at the university, will be instrumental in helping pharmaceutical researchers develop the drugs needed to combat and treat this debilitating condition and improve the lives of countless patients and families in the years

ahead.

Cognitive Science stands as an innovative discipline for researchers and clinicians, with wideranging implications for young and old alike. Researchers work to explain how our brain functions in key areas of acquiring language and speech faculties, perceiving the world around us, decision-making processes, creativity, and awareness of stimuli that can help or harm us. Current research at ELSC is tackling topics such as sensation, perception, and awareness in health and disease; how brains generate and control movement; and the characterization and repair of a diseased brain. The diversity of this research is relevant to a wide range of academic applications, including psychology, linguistics, philosophy, and computer engineering.

The interdisciplinary nature of Cognitive

Science has seen many benefits from advancements in artificial and biological intelligence. The new Hebrew University Center for Computational Medicine recognizes this potential and will dedicate much of its attention to harnessing computational power to better understand and mimic human neurological processes. Providing vital insights into disease genesis and identifying potential targets for therapy and protocols for prevention, the research conducted at the Center will pave the way for the next generation of computationally trained doctors and researchers. By using machine learning, computational medicine offers a more personalized approach by not just addressing an illness or disease but also treating the patient with more individualized and effective care.

The benefit of computational expertise is evident in Prof. Ofra Benny’s lab. She explains, “In recent years we’ve developed a new technology…by using AI (artificial intelligence) and machine learning, we can predict behaviors of cancer cells. This is the kind of really big technological advance that computational biology allows. We can actually help people live longer and have a better quality of life.”

To learn more, please visit www.afhu.org and contact Monica Loebl, AFHU National Director of Development at southeast@afhu.org or 561.750.8585

Paid Content by American Friends of the Hebrew University

There is no cure for autism, nor is there even an accepted test for it.

oxide help brain cells to communicate and function efficiently. Just as in the Israeli research, too much of it can do significant harm. It has been linked to such degenerative diseases as strokes and Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s diseases.

According to a statement released by the researcher, the results were also based on tests that involved human stem cells and blood samples taken from children with autism that were described as low functioning.

If the research can be translated into effective therapies, it would be an extraordinary development in the treatment of autism. So far, a cure for autism, or even an attempt to treat it with a combination of drugs, doesn’t exist. There isn’t even a standardized test to diagnose it.

While physicians are able to treat some of the conditions that are associated with the disorder, like anxiety or aggression, most of the effort to date has been devoted to helping children learn important social and behavioral skills to assist them to function more effectively.

Even that has proved to be difficult, as the numbers of children diagnosed with autism has almost doubled over the past decade. According to the most recent data from the CDC released earlier this year, one in every 36 children was said to be affected by the disorder. In 2018, that number was one in 44. In 2010, it was one in 68. Today, it is the most common developmental disorder in the United States.

Whether the rise in numbers is attributed to better diagnoses or to other factors is uncertain, but in terms of sheer numbers it has been increasingly diffi-

cult to train enough professionals in the field. Just keeping up with the growing number is a challenge in itself.

One who knows that firsthand is Dr. Stormi White, who is the program manager at the Marcus Autism Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and an associate professor in the Emory School of Medicine.

“One of the biggest barriers in identifying children at our earliest ages is usually just systemic issues,” White says. "There are more and more people with autism, but we are not keeping up with the demand for trained specialists. So, people usually have to wait a long time to be seen.”

Another difficulty of translating the Israeli breakthrough into anything approaching a standard treatment are the wide variations in how autism manifests itself. According to White, the quest for a cure is a frustrating task.

“When you have people that have so many different types of strengths and weaknesses, it can be hard from a research perspective to be able to take those findings and replicate them so that you feel really confident that your treatment is working.”

Earlier this year, Dr. Amal received a $400,000 grant from the Philadelphia Eagles Autism Foundation to continue his drug treatment research in nitric oxide.

“I am hopeful that, with our new understanding of the nitric oxide mechanism, we can begin to develop therapeutic drugs and help millions of children and adults living with autism around the world.”

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The Marcus Autism Center’s Dr. Stormi White is concerned about the growing numbers of children with autism

Dr. Haitham Amal believes that understanding how nitric oxide works in the brain is the key to understanding autism.

JCC Maccabi Games Begin July 6 in Israel

By Sasha Heller

The JCC Maccabi Games in Israel, a signature program of JCC Association of North America, will begin July 6, in a continuing celebration of Israel’s 75th anniversary. The global competition, organized by JCC Association of North America and Maccabi World Union, brings athletes from around the world together in Israel for the world’s largest Jewish youth sporting event. More than 1,000 teens hailing from 10 countries will take part in the Olympic-style competition.

The sporting event is merely one part of the program, as once the Games conclude, the participants will travel throughout the country on an immersive cultural enrichment tour. The goal of the learning tour is to “strengthen their commitment to Jewish peoplehood and build meaningful connections with Israel’s land, people, history, and culture,” according to a news release.

This year’s iteration of the Games will mark the return of the competition to Israel for the first time since 2011.

“The JCC Maccabi Games are perhaps the most extraordinary Jewish peoplehood initiative of our time. Drawing teens from JCC communities across North America, Israel, and around the globe, the Games bring us together through competition, service, and a profound encounter with the wider Jewish world,” says Doron Krakow, president and CEO, JCC Association. “To be returning to Israel as part of the ongoing celebration of the country’s 75th anniversary year and the enduring fulfillment of the dream of the modern Zionist movement is a source of enormous pride for all of us.”

JCC Association relied on $5 million of financial support from several organizations to fund the Games, including a $2.6 million contribution from RootOne, which is seeded through The Marcus Foundation and powered by The Jewish Education Project. Mosaic United, the Samueli Foundation, Charles and Lynn Shusterman Family Philanthropies, Seed the Dream Foundation, and other individual and anonymous donors also provided critical financial support for the JCC Maccabi Games.

Among this year’s competitors are teen competitors from Ukraine and, for the first time, Morocco, an Abraham Accords country, whose athletes are participating thanks to JCC Association’s partnership with BBYO.

According to a news release, the 41st JCC Maccabi Games Opening Ceremony

will be live streamed worldwide at 12:30 p.m., July 9. Athletes, coaches, and delegation heads will be celebrated through the music of the internationally celebrated and award winning Shalva Band featuring musicians with disabilities, and Mayoumana, a popular interactive performance group. As has been done since the inaugural JCC Maccabi Games more than four decades ago, the victims of the Mu-

nich Olympic massacre will be honored and remembered in a moving tribute, and together, the entire stadium will join in singing the anthems of the United States, Canada, and Israel; take the JCC Maccabi oath; and watch as an extraordinary Jewish athlete lights the opening torch to kick off the Games.

JCC Maccabi will continue this summer in North America, Aug. 6–11, hosted in

partnership with the David Posnack JCC in Ft. Lauderdale, where an additional 2,000 teens will compete together at the JCC Maccabi Games -- and Access, which is a unique program that makes it possible for Jewish athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities to take part in the Games, instilling a sense of inclusion and positivity in every athlete, their delegations, and the communities they represent. ì

The JCC Maccabi Games in Israel will bring together more than 1,000 teen competitors hailing from 10 countries and four continents // Photo Credit: JCC Association of North America

Hockey is just one of the many sports included in the Olympic-style JCC Maccabi Games in Israel.

The 2023 JCC Maccabi Games will return to Israel for the first time in 11 years as part of Israel’s 75th anniversary // Photo Credit: JCC Association of North America

Shearith Israel Receives Scientists in Synagogues Grant

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

For many consumers of current news, AI is now easily understood as the acronym for artificial intelligence. AI is not, however, easily understood by most readers or viewers of news. Congregation Shearith Israel hopes to rectify that for its members, and perhaps for the wider Atlanta Jewish community.

The intown synagogue has been granted $5,000 by the Scientists in Synagogues program, one of only 15 communities nationwide to receive the grant from Sinai and Synapses and the American Association for the Advancement of Science Dialogue on Science, Ethics and Religion. Shearith Israel is designing its grant programming for the 20232024 year around the intersection of AI and Judaism.

This is the second such grant Shearith Israel received. According to Rabbi Jonathan K. Crane, one of the team members at Shearith Israel who has been involved with the grant application and programming, the congregation received a similar $5,000 grant in 2018-2019. Altruism was the focus for that grant, he told the AJT.

Wolpe, director of the Center for Ethics at Emory University. He is also a professor in the departments of medicine, pediat rics, psychiatry, neuroscience and bio logical behavior, and sociology.

At the end of June, Shearith Israel’s leadership team was to travel to New York City for a workshop hosted by Sci entists and Synagogues to launch the program. In ad dition to the grant, the orga nization is providing guid ance and mentorship to the 15 grantees.

“We’re in close proximity to CDC [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention], Emory University, Georgia State and Georgia Tech. We have all kinds of professionals in the technology, ethics, and medical disciplines,” said Congregation Shearith Israel Rabbi Ari Kaiman

“The project aims to share how some of the most thoughtful scientists in tegrate their Judaism and their scientific work so that they can be role models and ambassadors for productive conversations surrounding Judaism and science,” states the Scientists and Syna

Rabbi Ari Kaiman suggests that it’s not an accident that his congregation is at the forefront of studying the convergence of science and Judaism. “We’re in close proximity to CDC [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention], Emory University, Georgia State and Georgia Tech. We have all kinds of professionals in the technology, ethics, and medical disciplines,” he said. “Several of our congregants are knowledgeable and have been invited to speak” at various engagements.

Crane is the Raymond F. Schinazi Scholar of Bioethics and Jewish Thought at the Ethics Center. He is also a professor of medicine, Emory School of Medicine, and affiliated faculty in the Department of Religion, Emory College of Arts and Sciences. Among the handful of other congregants on the science team that is spearheading the grant programming is Paul Root

Kaiman said Shearith Israel has already kicked off the programming with an overview of AI and its ethical and theological implications. He is also running an experiment, using ChatGPT, “to engage in conversation about prayer and AI.” ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that uses natural language processing to create humanlike conversational dialogue. It is capable of generating responses based on the context and tone of the conversation.

At the first session, the participants asked ChatGPT to provide its version of the Amidah prayer. Kaiman said he was able to interact with the chatbot about the prayer. Participants have been asked to use ChatGPT to write a Jewish prayer for healing. Results will be shared with him, and “if they are good and meaningful, we may bring it for prayer in our shul,” said the rabbi.

AI, according to Crane, is “an extraordinary leap in technology that enables technology to do things that we had only thought about in science fiction and mythology. It is mind boggling how it can analyze and synthesize things that can be helpful or lead us astray.”

And that’s where ethics comes in. “AI is inherently an ethical enterprise. Ethics dovetails with AI,” said Crane. “On the

development side, who is doing the coding, because everyone has his own biases. What data is being fed into it and how will that influence the product? Then, there’s the question of veracity.”

Crane said AI is already being used in the medical arena, as well as in policing, surveillance, and warfare.

As outlined in its grant proposal, Shearith Israel sees its programming in three buckets. In one, noted Crane, there will be conversations with AI experts. In another, there will be workshops geared for members to engage with AI technology, such as the one Kaiman already launched with ChatGPT. Another workshop under consideration is the intersection of AI and Jewish music. The third bucket will be open to audiences and include Torah study.

Acknowledging reality, Rabbi Kaiman said of AI, “We can’t make its existence disappear, so we need to be informed about it. We don’t have a choice but to be forward thinking.”

According to Crane, “there’s great

interest in the congregation about AI. It’s being ripped from the headlines and there’s simmering ongoing concern about these technologies. There’s an underlying uncertainty on what degree it impacts our lives.” There is also a question of whether it’s too late to try to regulate AI. After all, he emphasized, “you can’t put the genie back into the bottle.”

For congregants who are wary of AI, these programs can create “safe spaces to learn about these technologies,” said Crane. “Fear is based on lack on information.”

Another goal of Shearith Israel is to partner with other congregations and institutions with some of its programming and bring the subject to the wider Atlanta Jewish community. To that end, Kaiman said Shearith Israel plans to invite the community to its first external scholar in residence program, Oct. 24, when Rabbi David Zvi Kalman will address AI. Kalman is scholar in residence and director of new media at Shalom Hartman Institute of North America. ì

Congregation Shearith Israel has received a $5,000 grant from the Scientists in Synagogues organization to fund community engagement programs centered around the conversion of Judaism and artificial intelligence.

Speaking of AI, Jonathan K. Crane noted, “you can’t put the genie back into the bottle.”

Paul Root Wolpe, director of the Center for Ethics at Emory University.

A welcome so big, it takes up 14 acres.

Canterbury Court, Atlanta’s original Life Plan community, is expanding its vibrant 14-acre campus. Our new Garden Tower features 105 elegant independent senior living apartment homes, enhanced amenities and services, and more. Open to all faiths, you’ll be surrounded by friendly faces and the peace of mind of a continuum of care, if ever needed. And coming soon, we’ll be offering direct admittance to our brand new Assisted Living and Memory Support neighborhoods.

To learn more and to schedule a personal tour, contact us today at (404) 201-6988 or canterburycourt.org/welcomehome

3750 Peachtree Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30319 canterburycourt.org

Rosenfelt Opens Boutique, and Green, Film Studio

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Philadelphia native Dan Rosenfelt, along with co-founder Michael Hahn, in mid-June opened Electric Owl Studio in south DeKalb County. From his previous recent role at Doraville’s Tri Rail Studios (also alongside Hahn), Rosenfelt brings a storied career from his Los Angeles experience where he managed George Clooney’s Smokehouse Pictures at Warner Bros., The Jim Henson Company, among many other high-profile projects.

Rosenfelt has worked with stars like Brad Pitt, Will Smith, Keanu Reeves, and Angelina Jolie, all of whom, he states, “are amazingly nice people.”

On his career as a producer, Rosenfelt said, “Michael is the real estate guy. I like operations and running the studio -- pulling all the elements together making films.”

Hahn and Rosenfelt are known for their connections to powerhouses like Disney, Warner Bros., Discovery, Sony, Paramount, Lionsgate, Netflix, Apple, and Amazon, the latter with whom they plan to partner on production sustain-

ability efforts.

With the studio’s price tag of $60 million, Rosenfelt is proud of Electric

Owl’s overall efficiency and “green” commitment as the world’s first purposebuilt LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold-certified film and TV studio where they state, “Our mantra of people and planet first guides everything we do, from sustainable design to thoughtful services and care.”

Other unintended community benefits may include the neighborhood-atlarge residents getting high speed fiber

Rosenfelt added, “I am proud of being a leader in this area. Colleagues from around the world are calling for advice on sustainability and advice on things like our connection to solar companies.”

Other “green” factors are 48 EV charging stations, electric golf carts, high efficiency HVAC systems, living walls, rainwater capture and reuse, food dehydrators for landscaping reuse, and composting. Don’t even think about bringing a plastic water bottle on set. The facility sits on 18 acres with six sound stages featuring 3,700 amps of power per stage. The land layout includes wardrobe, The Mill, production offices, and support spaces.

Rosenfelt stated, “Ideally, we are a boutique studio for four to six projects, or doing two large shows at once, or even one giant Marvel-like project…or six to

In terms of the studio name, animal lovers know that owls are considered wise birds who can rotate their necks. In today’s modern energy world, an electric

owl is a device that monitors electricity consumption and power in terms of cost and CO2 emissions.

All industry eyes are on the ongoing writer’s strike. Rosenfelt elaborated, “We are part of a conversation through the Georgia Entertainment Coalition of what change should mean for the writers to get a great deal versus now where they get shut out of residuals from streaming services, and looking ahead at the need to define what will happen with A.I. They are rightfully scared.”

A resident of Dunwoody, Rosenfelt, 48, who is married with two children, ages 16 and 13, reminisced about channeling the young, also-Jewish Steven Spielberg. He recalled, “At age six or seven, after seeing the movie, ‘ET,’ I announced to my parents that I would have a career in making movies just like Spielberg. I truly had an early love of film.”

The staff begins working at Electric Owl (near the Indian Creek MARTA station) on July 1. Rosenfelt, ever a visionary, revealed that plans are underway to open four to six studios around the world beginning with New York in 2025. Then London, then L.A., with all using their sustainability model.

As a point of reference, a total of 366 film and TV productions spent $4 billion in Georgia in 2021, a new record for the state, in a fast-maturing ecosystem, according to an article in the March 2022 Site Selection Insider, entitled, “Electric Owl Studios Comes in for a Landing.” ì

The Electric Owl Studio sits on an 18-acre site and features six sound stages.

Electric Owl Studio co-founders Michael Hahn and Dan Rosenfelt share a proud moment in front of their state-of-theart, LEED Gold-certified film studio.

When you give to Federation, you’re touching the lives of so many.

Thank you! The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta would like to thank the generous members of our community, our leadership, stakeholders, community partners and professional team for helping reach the goals of our 2023 Community Campaign. The lives of so many are improved and changed thanks to you.

“ e welcoming, diverse and vibrant Jewish community of Greater Atlanta is only possible when we come together to make a di erence. Our work transforms the lives of seniors, teens, children, families and so many more. ank you for the part you play.”

-Eric M. Robbins, President & CEO

We are JewishATL

of Greater Atlanta

Center for Jewish Impact CoHosts Diplomatic Salon

The Liaison Office of the Kingdom of Morocco in Israel and Center for Jewish Impact co-hosted a Diplomatic Salon focused on creating opportunities for regional cooperation through water. This cooperation has become possible thanks to normalization agreements, which created new opportunities to strengthen regional partnerships around emerging challenges in sustainability.

The MENA Region, with its harsh climate, is facing significant water scarcity

Today in Israeli History

June 30, 1937: German, Polish and Russian Jews establish Kibbutz Tirat Zvi in the Beit She’an Valley as one of the first religious kibbutzim during the Tower and Stockade effort to expand the borders of a future state.

ISRAEL PRIDE

TODAY IN ISRAELI HISTORY

challenges, requiring innovation to sustain life and promote prosperity in the region. Furthermore, water is considered a sacred element in all Abrahamic religions and has the potential to unite people toward the shared goal of achieving water sustainability. Water bears also a significant potential for investment opportunities that can foster bilateral and regional cooperation between the countries of the region mainly through water technology transfer.

The Diplomatic Salon was a forum for tangible next steps, offering further insight into existing regional cooperation and identifying actionable opportunities for building resilience through water. More than 50 guests participated in the forum, taking place in the FISCHER (FBC & Co) offices in Tel Aviv, including ambassadors, diplomats, private sector, academia, government, and diplomats operating in Israel, Morocco, and the MENA region.

The event, hosted by the head of the Liaison Office of the Kingdom of Morocco to the State of Israel, H.E. Abderrahim Beyyoudh, and Center for Jewish Impact chairman, Robert Singer, featured a panel discussion to discuss knowledge sharing and best practices in water usage, desalination technologies, and water for enhancing business ties and regional cooperation.

en years after he organized the First Zionist Congress. His body is reburied in Jerusalem in 1949.

July 4, 1975: Fourteen people are killed and 62 others are wounded when a bomb built with mortar shells and hidden inside a refrigerator explodes in Jerusalem’s Zion Square. The PLO’s Fatah faction claims responsibility.

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem President Prof. Asher Cohen (left) presented breakthrough virologist, renowned HIV researcher, and Emory University School of Medicine professor, Dr. Raymond F. Schinazi (center) with a prestigious Honorary Doctorate degree. Prof. Tamir Sheafer, Hebrew University rector, is on his right // Photo Credit: Yossi Zamir

Hebrew University Confers Honorary Doctorate Degree to Emory Professor

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem presented breakthrough virologist, renowned HIV researcher, and Emory University School of Medicine professor, Dr. Raymond F. Schinazi, with a prestigious Honorary Doctorate degree during the 86th Board of Governors Meeting on June 12 in Jerusalem.

Dr. Schinazi’s impact on global health is peerless. His breakthrough discoveries

rael have shot across the canal daily for three months.

Yarden Gerbi is Israel’s first judo world champion and won one of a halfdozen Israeli Olympic medals in the sport.

have saved more than 8.5 million lives, including 4 million people with hepatitis C. The vast majority of people with HIV have used one of the drugs he invented. Schinazi established the first HIV laboratory at Emory and was the first to advocate using antiviral “cocktails” to prevent drug resistance. He also was involved in the discovery and development of safe antiviral agents effective against HIV and hepatitis B, as well as a drug with a 98 percent hepatitis C cure rate. More recently, he discovered the use of JAK1/2 inhibitors for the treatment of COVID-19 leading to full approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Schinazi is the Frances Winship Walters Professor of Pediatrics, director of the Division of Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology (LOBP), within the Center for ViroScience and Cure at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where he is working on eliminating HIV, hepatitis B, and other emerging viruses.

Acknowledging the accolade, Schinazi said, “Three generations of my family have supported the mission of this top institution of learning, and I am proud and humbled to receive this prestigious honor for saving so many lives globally.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

care, housing, schooling and other services in Palestine.

July 12, 2006: Hezbollah starts the Second Lebanon War by launching rockets and mortars and ambushing an Israeli patrol across the border, killing three soldiers and abducting two others. A cease-fire goes into effect Aug. 14.

Frederick II, duke of Austria, was known as Frederick the Belligerent or Frederick the Warlike.

July 1, 1244: Frederick II, the duke of Austria, issues a charter extending rights to Jews as a way to boost the economy. The charter serves as a model for medieval Europe. It remains in effect until Austria expels its Jews in 1420.

July 2, 2011: Uri Dvir, a founder of Shvil Yisrael (the Israel National Trail), dies at age 80 in Tel Aviv, where he was born. He planned and initiated the 620-mile hiking path from Kibbutz Dan near Lebanon to Eilat on the Red Sea.

July 3, 1904: Theodor Herzl, known as the “father of modern Zionism,” dies of cardiac sclerosis at age 44 in Edlach, Austria, sev-

Avraham Burg, then the chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel, welcomes immigrants to Israel in 1995.

July 5, 1950: The Knesset passes the Law of Return, offering an open immigration door to all Jews. It formalizes a policy in place since the provisional government revoked British limits on Jewish immigration in May 1948.

July 6, 1973: Otto Klemperer, a German Jewish conductor and composer, dies at age 88 in Zurich. His conversion to Catholicism (he later returned to Judaism) and marriage to a Lutheran didn’t protect him when the Nazis took power.

July 7, 1969: U.N. Secretary-General U Thant says he is considering withdrawing U.N. observers from the Suez Canal zone because of “open warfare” there. Egypt and Is-

July 8, 1989: Yarden Gerbi is born in Kfar Saba. Gerbi wins eight national judo championships and rises to the top of the world rankings. In 2013 she becomes the first Israeli to win a world judo title. In 2016 she wins an Olympic bronze.

July 9, 1967: Leonard Bernstein conducts the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra on Mount Scopus to celebrate the cultural unification of Jerusalem after the June 1967 war. The concert features Mahler’s “Second Symphony.”

July 10, 1957: Yiddish novelist and playwright Sholem Asch dies at age 76 in London. Born in Poland, he first visited Palestine in 1908 and wrote about the Jewish connection to the land. He lived his last two years in Bat Yam.

July 11, 1920: Rebecca Sieff, Vera Weizmann and Edith Eder found the Women’s International Zionist Organization at a London conference. WIZO aims to provide child

July 13, 1978: Egyptian President Anwar Sadat invites Israeli Foreign Minister Ezer Weizman to a meeting in Austria to press for a bilateral peace agreement. Sadat says Israel must withdraw from Sinai, Gaza and the West Bank.

noted for holding extremely antiJewish views.

July 14, 1555: Pope Paul IV issues an antiJewish decree, Cum Nimis Absurdum. The Jews of Rome are forced into a ghetto along the Tiber River. Jews also must wear yellow head coverings and are barred from owning property.

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

(From left) Narjiss Lamarti Sefiani, H.E. Abderrahim Beyyoudh, Robert Singer, Abderrahim El Hafidi //

Photo by Koby Ben Shushan

Pope Paul IV was

Israeli LGBTQ+ Community Verbally Attacked

By Jan Jaben-Eilon

When a member of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government verbally attacked the country’s LGBTQ+ community on June 20, it did not go unnoticed in the North American Jewish LGBTQ+ community.

Yitzhak Pindrus, a senior member of the United Torah Judaism party, claimed the LGBTQ+ community is “the most dangerous thing to the State of Israel – more than Islamic State, more than Hezbollah, more than Hamas,” referring to organizations that Israel considers enemies and threats to its security.

This was only the latest controversial attack against the LGBTQ+ community by Pindrus, or by other members of Netanyahu’s government. Bezalel Smotrich, who leads the Religious Zionist Party and is finance minister, calls himself a “proud homophobe.”

Pindrus also stated, “I don’t just have to prevent the Pride march; I have to prevent the entire movement.” And he is not the only government member who wants to cancel all Pride parades. So does Avi Maoz, who leads the Noam party. Diaspora affairs minister Amichai Chikli has called the Pride parades “vulgar.”

So, it’s not surprising that the U.S. organization that advocates for Israel’s LGBTQ+ community, A Wider Bridge, sponsored a mission of 25 people to Israel in time to join the Jerusalem Pride parade on June 1. According to Ethan Felson, CEO of A Wider Bridge, two Atlantans participated in the mission: State Rep. Sam Park, the first LGBTQ+ state representative, and Malik Brown, who works in the office of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.

Felson, who joined A Wider Bridge three years ago after working for the Jewish Federations of North America and the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, said he is more than familiar with these kinds of controversial remarks by Israeli government officials.

“We are keenly aware that there’s been an increase in not just LGBTQ+ rhetoric but also in violence that inevitably follows,” Felson told the AJT. “As Jews, we know that too often when people say bad things, other people do bad things.”

According to Felson, “there is a sad toxicity to public discourse globally and far too often it is directed at the LGBTQ community. It’s a global phenomenon,” but when it happens in Israel, it is “particularly painful because we love Israel. We hold the Israeli LGBTQ community close to our hearts.”

Not only did A Wider Bridge recently

send a mission to Israel, it is in the midst of a campaign to raise funds for several LGBTQ+ organizations in Israel. As of June 22, the New York-based organization raised $100,000 towards its goal of $180,000. “We are giving impact grants to 18 different LGBTQ organizations.”

Felson noted that the LGBTQ+ communities in Israel and in the U.S. are in alignment. “We face similar threats,” he said.

In fact, the Anti-Defamation League, in partnership with the national LGBTQ+ organization GLAAD, just released its “firstof-its-kind” report that identified more than 350 acts of harassment, vandalism and assault motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ hate and extremism from June 2022 to April 2023 in the U.S.

In his statement announcing the report, ADL CEO and National Director Jona-

than Greenblatt said, “This report provides a sobering snapshot of the deluge of hatred and extremism that the LGBTQ+ community faces every single day. This hatred of the LGBTQ+ community is not isolated, and ADL understands the interconnected nature of extremism. Over a third of these incidents also involved antisemitic tropes and dozens also included racist tropes.”

He added that “roughly half of these incidents involved individuals associated with extremist groups.” As GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis notes, "this new report makes abundantly clear that extremism is escalating against LGBTQ+ people. Targeting people for who they are, or their race or faith, is an attack on fundamental freedoms and the health and wellbeing of all.”

GLAAD is a non-profit organization focused on LGBTQ+ advocacy and cultural

change.

Among the trends the report noted were the target types of attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. These included 138 incidents relating to drag events and performers, 33 incidents relating to schools and educators, 23 incidents relating to healthcare facilities and providers, and 22 incidents relating to government buildings and elected officials.

“The baseless ‘grooming’ conspiracy theory was the most cited anti-LGBTQ+ trope, with at least 191 anti-LGBTQ+ incidents of harassment, vandalism and assault making explicit references to ‘grooming’ or ‘pedophilia.’”

Referring to the attacks on the LGBTQ+ community in Israel and the U.S., Felson added that “thankfully, we live in a society that rejects this brutal and bigoted approach to their lives and loves.”

Malik Brown, who works in the office of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, participated in the mission to Israel sponsored by A Wider Bridge as did Georgia State Rep. Sam Park.

“As Jews, we know that too often when people say bad things, other people do bad things,” said Ethan Felson, CEO of A Wider Bridge.

GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said, “Targeting people for who they are, or their race or faith, is an attack on fundamental freedoms and the health and well-being of all.’”

Attendance at the Pride Parade topped last year by some 50,000. // Guy Yechiely for JTA

JF&CS Hosts Annual Meeting

Greenberg Traurig Atlanta Adds Litigator Jake Evans

On May 19, Jewish Family & Career Services held its 2023 Annual Meeting at The Temple where Rashelle Berry was recognized for her inspiring leadership over the last two years as board chair, and Jon Amsler was voted in as the new board chair.

“We are not the same JF&CS as a result of Rashelle’s leadership,” said CEO Terri Bonoff. “Our board membership has been infused with the vitality she has brought.”

Scott Rittenberg was presented with the Herbert Kohn Meritorious Service Award, which honors one dedicated board member who has made a significant contribution to furthering the mission and goals of the agency through either committee or project related work.

The coveted Stacy G. Fialkow Staff Development & Appreciation Award was awarded to a staff member who has given 47 years of dedicated service to the Ben Massell Dental Clinic: practice manager Barbara Jones.

The Executive Board for the 20232025 term are Amsler, board chair; Deborah Jacobs, vice chair; Kim Kopelman, secretary; Carly Siegel, treasurer; Gennye Krasner, assistant treasurer; Rittenberg, chair, resource development; Todd Surd-

en, chair, board governance; and Berry, immediate past chair.

General board members include Lauren Abes, Rabbi Ruth Abusch-Magder, Sid Besmertnik, Dexter Caffey, Jay Cranman, Ellen Feinsand, Jennifer Feld, Billie Greenberg, Mimi Hall, Ann Kay, Sara Kogon, Bruce Lindemann, David Poline, Victoria Raggs, Phil Ventimiglia, and Suzy Wilner.

“It is an honor to lead this dynamic agency,” said Amsler. “Our world is changing rapidly, but JF&CS is keeping up. We are strong; we are providing badly needed services to our community, and we have the best executive leadership, professionals, donors, and volunteers.”

In Berry’s closing remarks, she shared her personal connection to the meaningful work of JF&CS.

“When my mother’s parents immigrated to the United States after surviving the Holocaust, they were settled by Jewish Family Services,” she said. “I am intimately aware that as we, at JF&CS, work to provide services to our community in need, our clients and volunteers will become the leaders of the next generation. Serving as your board chair has been the true honor and privilege of my life."

Global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP has added first-chair litigator Jake Evans to the Atlanta office as a shareholder in the litigation practice. A former chair of the Georgia State Ethics Commission, Evans joins the firm from the Alpharetta office of Hall Booth Smith, P.C., where he was managing partner.

Evans, who is admitted to practice in Georgia and Florida, is a high-stakes litigator, having tried and argued numerous high-profile cases, including those before the Supreme Court of the United States. His practice consists of complex litigation, including varying business disputes and real estate and public policy litigation. Evans also advises and defends companies responding to government investigations by state attorney general offices, U.S. attorney offices, and other state and federal agencies.

“It is a pleasure to welcome Jake, a

highly experienced trial attorney, as part of our local and national litigation team’s strategic expansion,” said Richard J. Valladares, chair of Greenberg Traurig’s Atlanta Business Litigation Group and administrative shareholder of the firm’s Atlanta office. “He is a significant legal talent, which is evident in his representation of clients in numerous industries and is a valuable asset in our effort to provide exemplary client service.”

“Joining Greenberg Traurig allows me to continue serving clients at the highest level and exponentially grow my practice due, in part, to the firm’s global platform of highly skilled attorneys ready to collaborate on an impressive range of matters in virtually any forum,” Evans said. “I am honored to build on the firm’s stellar legacy and reputation in Atlanta and beyond and to help continue the growth of one of the most dominant litigation groups in the country.”

Jake Evans has joined Greenberg Traurig LLP as a shareholder in the litigation practice.

Melissa DaSilva and Barbara Jones, 2023 Stacy G. Fialkow Staff Development & Appreciation Award winner.

Rashelle Berry, immediate past board chair, with Jon Amsler, board chair.

Terri and Scott Rittenberg, 2023 Herbert Kohn Meritorious Service Award winner.

Atlanta Jews Celebrate Juneteenth

The Jews of Color Mishpacha Project, in partnership with KHAZBAR: An Oasis in Deserts of Jewish Diversity for JOCISM and Serious Allies, hosted the third annual inperson ‘We Are Family’ JOCISM Shabbaton on June 16-18 at The Pearlstone Center, Reisterstown, Md. JOCISM stands for Jews of Color, including Indigenous, Sephardic, and Mizrahi Jews.

Dr. Harriette Wimms, founder of the JOC Mishpacha Project and a Baltimorebased psychologist, Jewish leader, and community organizer, spearheaded the effort. This year, Dr. Wimms collaborated with her

partners, Sabrina Sojourner, and Tamara Fish of KHAZBAR, Rabbi Sandra Lawson, Victoria Raggs, Ammund, Repair the World, and many more organizations, and individuals to create this distinctively vibrant homecoming Shabbaton of freedom, activism, inclusivity, and rest in celebration of Juneteenth for the diverse JOCISM community.

“I felt like it was a love fest!” said one Atlanta attendee. “They provide different observance levels for Shabbat services so that everyone was accommodated, from Orthodox to reconstructionist, and the food

The third annual We Are Family celebration was held June 16-18 at The Pearlstone Center.

was delicious!”

Victoria Raggs, co-ounding executive director of Atlanta Jews of Color Council, added that, to her, Juneteenth is a time for rejoicing and a time for our country to also reckon with a very painful historical legacy that continues to impact our society today. Getting to celebrate the holiday in community with other Jews felt amazing, she said.

The 2023 ‘We Are Family’ JOCISM

Shabbaton was an inter-generational, family-centered event with an additional dedicated space for adults that provided connec-

tions between and among diverse JOCISM members. They achieved their goal to create a community where Jewish people of color of every age, gender, orientation, and denomination, along with other Jews could feel supported, seen, and held in Jewish faith. The Shabbaton integrated spiritual, communal, and religious programming for Jews of Color, and their families and allies.

Atlanta Jews of Color Council members are already looking forward to returning next year.

Compiled by AJT Staff

The We Are Family Juneteenth celebration was an intergenerational, family-centered event that provided connections between and among the diverse community of attendees.

Mendlinger: From Alpharetta to MLB Prospect

When revisiting his experience playing for Team Israel during last March’s World Baseball Classic (WBC), St. Louis Cardinals infield prospect and Alpharetta native Noah Mendlinger admits there were times when it was hard to stay in the moment. Such as when he was playing third base and Puerto Rico manager—and Cardinals great—Yadier Molina was standing nearby. Or when he was manning the hot corner and Venezuela’s Ronald Acuña Jr. strode to the plate.

David Ostrowsky

“I found myself between each pitch looking around and looking at the faces,” said the 5-foot-8, 181-pound third baseman, who, in 2021 signed a minor-league free-agent contract with the Cardinals following his career at Division II Georgia College. “I felt like I was in the real version of ‘MLB: The Show,’ the video game. Between every pitch, your mind can wander a little bit with the crowd there and just looking over into the dugout. It’s definitely hard. You try to lock it in for every pitch. I worked hard at trying to make sure that I could focus my attention and calm my nerves a little bit.”

As it turns out, the 2023 WBC may not be the last time Mendlinger’s on the same diamond with such splashy names.

In what has been a rather improbable rise through the ranks of the Cardinals minor league system, Mendlinger, who got his first taste of pro ball in summer 2021 with Class-A Palm Beach and played the entire following season at High-A Peoria, last month was promoted to Double-A Springfield where, in his third week, he was named Texas League Player of the Week after hitting over .400. Now he’s starting every night at third for the Springfield Cardinals and is two callups away from the big leagues.

“My goal was to always play at the highest level that I could,” Mendlinger, 22, told the Atlanta Jewish Times. “I will say that pro ball was definitely a dream of mine and something I wanted to make happen. Coming out of a little bit of a smaller school, it seemed like a little bit of a reach. It definitely is a dream come true to just look up and play in front of as many fans as we do in some of these awesome stadiums.”

Despite being an All-Region First

Team and All-State Honorable Mention at Alpharetta High School, Mendlinger attracted hardly any attention from Division I schools, and swiftly pivoted to Georgia College in Milledgeville, a program annually in contention for the Division II Men’s College World Series but certainly no breeding ground for one-day MLB stars.

“I think everybody there [Georgia College] had a pretty awesome team collective mindset,” recalled Mendlinger, who lives with his parents in Alpharetta and trains in Marietta during the offseason. “I think you hear at some Division I schools, guys are focused on getting drafted. We knew that some of our highest goals as individuals would be some of the team accomplishments that we put together.

“Milledgeville is not the biggest college town, so we definitely had a good time just sticking to ourselves and hanging out together and enjoying all the things on and off the field.”

Still, as a versatile infielder who can put together quality at-bats, Mendlinger didn’t lose sight of his primary goal. In June 2021, following a phenomenal collegiate season in which he batted .331, he was training at home and looking to transfer to a bigger school when the Cardinals called to invite him to a pre-draft workout at Busch Stadium. If nothing else, it would mean taking batting practice on a big-league field, one in which his childhood heroes, Martín Prado and

Omar Infante, once graced. It proved to be something far more substantial. Mendlinger impressed enough members of the Cardinals front office, in particular, assistant general manager Randy Flores, that the organization ultimately offered him the free-agent contract after not selecting him in the 2021 MLB Draft.

“That was just one of the most unreal experiences of my life,” Mendlinger added. “Something I will never forget, for sure. A dream came true that day.”

The same could be said for the World Baseball Classic. For two very different reasons, joining Team Israel for WBC competition—something he hopes to do again in 2026—carried special meaning. First and foremost, it was a fitting way to pay homage to his late step-grandmother, who had recently passed away, and the rest of his Jewish heritage on his father’s side.

“There were a lot of moments through that whole experience where I tried to take a step back and just think of her [step-grandmother], my family, my Jewish heritage, and a lot of people who have played a part in getting me to where I was on that day,” noted Mendlinger. “There are definitely more people behind the scenes than just her, but it was a pretty fresh scar.”

Meanwhile, the 2023 World Baseball Classic offered the opportunity to play on the global stage—one he passed on last decade when opting for domestic travel tournaments over the Maccabiah Games.

To this day, he looks back on his decision to forgo the Maccabiah Games with some ambiguity…while unequivocally endorsing the experience for the next generation of Jewish ballplayers.

“It’s hard at this point to say that I would change anything in terms of where I’m at right now,” he said. “There were a lot of weekends spent in travel ball games that we chose instead of the Maccabiah Games. It was definitely something that my dad pushed for. I definitely would encourage young kids to do it. Anytime you get to travel and play on a world stage, it’s definitely something that you should take full advantage of.

“I definitely wish I did it as a kid, but I know there were some other sacrifices we had to make in order to make some other things happen. And travel ball was a big deal growing up in terms of development. We went the right route for sure, but I definitely would encourage anybody to do it.”

As for his current career plans—pursuing baseball while putting aside opportunities to use his marketing education— there’s absolutely zero ambivalence.

“Truthfully, after having started my profession outside the confines of the cubicle, I don’t know if I will ever take that step,” said Mendlinger. “I really love working in the game and I could definitely see some coaching down the line in my future. Hopefully I won’t have to step in and look around for another profession anytime soon.” ì

Though he’s been up at Double-A Springfield for less than two months, Alpharetta’s Noah Mendlinger has already made quite the impression on Minor League Baseball.

As a sure-handed infielder who can handle multiple positions, Noah Mendlinger could very well be a utility infielder for the St. Louis Cardinals one day.

Paralympian Tabib and the Importance of Pickleball

By David Ostrowsky

Earlier this month, on the morning of Sunday, June 11, the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, in conjunction with the Israel ParaSport Center, hosted a pickleball tournament in which dozens of young pickleball enthusiasts came out to support the venerable Israeli organization that serves thousands of children and adults living with physical disabilities. Ironically, the keynote speaker, whose talk preceded the tourney, is world renown not for pickleball, but rather for another sport requiring similarly adroit hand-eye coordination, that of wheelchair table tennis.

Before pickleball competition ensued, two-time Paralympian (2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo) Caroline Tabib took the podium to enlighten the audience about her journey to athletic stardom and the noble work being done by the Israel ParaSport Center (formerly known as the Israel Sport Center for the Disabled and a partner agency of the Atlanta Jewish Federation), to which she remains tirelessly devoted.

“I think what amazed me the most was how many young Jewish people are willing to come out on a Sunday morning and participate for a good cause,” Tabib shared with the Atlanta Jewish Times following the event. “They came early just to hear me speak about what the center is all about, our goals, the purpose. This is really something—the sense of community, and how such young adults want to get involved.”

Tabib and her inspiring background may have been the center of attention as she was born with congenital paraplegia, meaning she was paralyzed from the waist down, and started going to hydrotherapy twice per week at age six before picking up table tennis two years later. However, the 16-team tournament would not have come to fruition without the efforts on behalf of NextGen Atlanta Committee members Zoe Starr, Haley Codron, Ariel Stern, Sammi Nozick, and Jessica Mencher, all of whom are active members of Atlanta’s Jewish community. In particular, Starr, who spent months spearheading the initiative alongside Becca Near, Midwest & new initiatives director for The Israel ParaSport Center, knew that the wildly popular sport of pickleball would be a perfect catalyst for piquing the public’s interest.

“I first got involved with the Israel ParaSport Center two years ago when I spent my summer working there,” ex-

On Sunday, June 11, Atlanta’s Jewish community continued its proud tradition of supporting the Israel ParaSport Center when the Marcus Jewish Community Center hosted Paralympic table tennis athlete Caroline Tabib (right) in conjunction with its pickleball tournament // Photo Credit: Israel ParaSport Center

plained Starr, whose father, Todd, is one of the Israel ParaSport Center’s national board members. “It was the best summer of my life getting to interact with all of the athletes at The Center.”

Tabib epitomizes what it means to be an athlete at the Israel ParaSport Center, whose four-acre campus, which lies inside Ramat Gan on the edge of the Yarkon River bordering Tel Aviv, provides rehabilitative and competitive adaptive sport programs for nearly 3,000 Israeli athletes with physical disabilities -- not just because she is gearing up for her third Paralympics next summer in Paris…or because she is ranked sixth in the world; but because, when she was a toddler, doctors expressed little optimism that she’d ever be able to transcend her physical limitations—and now she’s one of the most accomplished table tennis players on the planet.

“You have to be physically strong [for table tennis], but it’s also a lot of strategy and planning,” said Tabib, who, while transitioning from swimming and basic wheelchair control activities to mastering table tennis, also served in the Israeli Air Force and took business school classes, among other endeavors.

Though she was apparently a natural at the sport—at age 12, she was crowned an Israeli champion—her first brush with global competition at a tournament in Italy two years later, while not a particularly gratifying experience, represented a pivotal moment in her then-fledgling career.

“It went really badly,” admitted Tabib. “After I became the Israel champi-

cause I got like three points in the entire tournament. It was then when I decided that I wanted to become more professional and train harder.”

While she’s an internationally ranked table tennis player, Tabib has fairly limited experience with pickleball, given that she resides in Israel where the sport hasn’t caught on like it has stateside. After being on hand for the June 11th pickleball tournament at the MJCCA, does she feel any more inclined to pursue the sport on a competitive level?

“I love the game,” Tabib answered. “It’s really fun to watch. I tried a little bit. Very different from table tennis. You’re using different muscles to play. I don’t think I will play it professionally. I’m not comparing myself to Michael Jordan, but when he tried to do something else other than basketball, it didn’t go so well. I will stick to my table tennis and the things that I know, but I am very interested in bringing this sport to Israel. I don’t think anyone in Israel plays pickleball. If it became a Paralympic sport, I would also be very happy.” ì

on, I thought no one could beat me, I was the best in the world. I was humbled be-

OPINION

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:

Notwithstanding praise from Deborah Lipstadt (Biden’s envoy to fight antisemitism) and some Jewish organizations for the recent White House report (“U.S. Strategy to Fight Antisemitism”), its inclusion of C.A.I.R. (Committee for American Islamic Relations) in this “fight”-- is incredibly naive and is dangerous for the Jewish people --and emasculates the entire strategy. (“Lipstadt Lauds White Antisemitism Report”)

To posit that C.A.I.R. has any interest in fighting antisemitism represents a far-left Orwellian view of inclusivity.

As Egyptian scholar Cynthia Farahat recently wrote: “...C.A.I.R. was labeled by federal prosecutors as an unindicted co-conspirator during the Holy Land Foundation terror finance trial because of C.A.I.R.’s pervasive ties to the Muslim Brotherhood’s ‘Palestine Committee’ which was established in 1988 to support the terrorist group Hamas.” (“The Secret Apparatus: The Muslim Brotherhood’s Industry of Death,” Cynthia Farahat, 2022, page 339).

On May 1, 2022, Johnathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, declared that Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and C.A.I.R. “epitomize the radical Left, the photo inverse of the extreme Right that the ADL has long tracked.”

Mr. Greenblatt continued: “They (JVP, SJP and C.A.I.R.) indisputably and unapologetically regularly denigrate and dehumanize Jews.”

Recently, Zahra Billioo, San Francisco Executive Director of C.A.I.R., claimed all Zionist organizations are “enemies” and are part of “the Islamophobia conspiracy.”

On behalf of C.A.I.R. she also claimed that the IDF trains US police officers to “kill unarmed black men, women and children ”

ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt specifically described Billoo’s C.A.I.R. speech as “textbook vile, antisemitic, conspiracy laden garbage attacking the mainstream Jewish community. It sounds like something you would expect from white supremacists.”

C.A.I.R. was created by the Muslim Brotherhood as a “civil rights” organization to provide legitimacy for its antisemitic goal of eliminating Israel and establishing a Muslim caliphate worldwide. Clearly any “interest” C.A.I.R. expresses in fighting antisemitism is pure taqiya.

To say Ms. Lipstadt is naive concerning C.A.I.R. is a gross understatement. The Jewish people have no greater enemy than C.A.I.R.

C.A.I.R.’s entire history makes clear that it is no more interested in fighting antisemitism than were Joseph Goebbels and Adolf Eichmann -- who are both smiling from the very warm place where they reside -- watching Ms. Lipstadt’s perverse contortions concerning a “fight” against antisemitism that includes C.A.I.R.

Richard Sherman, Margate, Fla.

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:

I agree with William Daroff. The Law of Return is a bedrock of Zionism which means Israel must welcome all people who have suffered discrimination because of their connections to Judaism. That must include people who are not Jewish according to Halakha (Jewish law). Unfortunately, Israel does not have a good track record in dealing with people who have become Israeli citizens, legally, under the Law of Return, although they cannot prove that they were born to Jewish mothers.

Consider the fate of many immigrants to Israel from the former Soviet Union, a significant number of whom are the children of Jewish fathers and non-Jewish mothers. Although this fact was surely well-known before the immigrants had finally succeeded in making it to Israel, there were no plans made for dealing with the problem. Instead of organizing outreach to the “Russians,” the State Rabbinate actually put obstacles in the path of those seeking to convert, demanding that they convince their entire families to convert with them and that they promise to become completely observant Jews as soon as they converted.

As a result, there are hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens whom the Rabbinate does not consider Jewish, meaning that they are denied permission to marry Jews in Israel. However, being unable to marry legally will not stop many of these people from entering into relationships and building families of sabras who won’t be considered Jewish according to Halakha. This is a tragedy not only for immigrants but for the State as well. The nation-state of the Jews needs to maintain its Jewish majority population!

Of course, no one should be forced to convert, but the state should define the requirements that must be met by prospective converts, as well as establishing criteria for certifying who can offer classes on the basics of Judaism and certify that the would-be converts have met the requirements. In fact, in the interest of ensuring that the Jewish citizens of Israel are knowledgeable about Judaism, classes should be offered not only to non-Halakhically Jewish descendants of Jews, but also to children of Jewish mothers who were denied Jewish education by virulently anti-Jewish governments, ardently secular parents, or intermarried parents who chose not to educate their children in either parent’s faith.

Toby F. Block, Atlanta, Ga.

As I Was Saying . . .

“The road ahead will be long and slow, requiring patience and perseverance.”

ing three-week growth.

It is not lost on me that, considering all of the above, I should be grateful to wake up and see the trees outside my bedroom window and hear the early morning chorus of birds. It should not take a heart attack or surgery to appreciate such things but some of us need the proverbial knock upside our heads.

Dave Schechter

From Where I Sit

Those words, which appeared in my May 5 column — “My Heart Attack Has a Nickname” — were the last I wrote, until this column.

At the time, I had hoped that the stent implanted in my left anterior descending artery, the vessel that carries almost half the blood coursing through the body, would be the extent of any surgical intervention.

But the chest pains did not dissipate, so a stress test was ordered. Failing a stress test felt like failing physical education class.

Another procedure determined that, despite the stent functioning as intended, a section of the artery had become even more clogged.

So back into the hospital I went, for a surgeon-controlled coronary artery bypass graft (known by the acronym CABG and referred to as a “cabbage”).

The procedure was described as being “minimally invasive” — if you consider three pencil-sized holes and a fourinch slit cut into your chest minimal — compared with a traditional method that involves cutting through the sternum.

My description of the post-operative pain will be omitted because a child might read this and learn new words.

Now, here I am, more than two months after the April 21 heart attack, back at my desk, taking advantage of a window of energy.

I walk every day, as early in the morning as possible to avoid the heat and humidity. At this point, our neighbors’ two-year-old probably toddles faster, but I hope to eclipse his pace soon.

After today’s constitutional, I came home and napped for two hours. “Lassitude” has become one of my favorite words.

I am eager for the doctors to clear my return to swimming.

I am eating foods that I might not have eaten enough of previously, while avoiding former favorites, including certain Southern fare of the fried persuasion.

I stopped shaving before the June 8 surgery and now display a mangy-look-

While I am grateful for the surgeon’s skill and the nurses’ care, I could not get through this ordeal without the succor provided by my wife, who can add this to a tab that I cannot adequately pay.

The weeks that passed without writing a word were the longest pause I have taken in the eight-plus years that I have written freelance, for the AJT and other publications.

For now, I will resume writing this column and here I want to make mention of something that happened while hospitalized.

After visiting with me for a while one night, one of the nurses in the cardiac intensive care unit gave me a fist bump and told me: “Try to find yourself some grace.”

A couple of days later, when she was working on a different floor, she returned to check on me. She left me with another fist bump and again that advice.

I doubt that she knew I am Jewish and would think of “grace” as a Christian concept, an unmerited and unconditional gift of love, mercy, and forgiveness from G-d, for those who accept Jesus as messiah and savior.

But what, I wondered, does Judaism say about grace?

Sefaria, an online library of Jewish texts, offered this: “Grace is inherently divine and is a gift of G-d’s love. By extension, gracefulness, is the act of embracing G-d’s love of our imperfect selves. Grace is something granted to us, not as a reward for our right actions, but whenever we are able to receive G-d’s love – even when we fear we don’t quite deserve it.”

I consulted two rabbis, both of whom pointed me to the Hebrew word chen (pronounced with that guttural “ch”), the root of which can include meaning “favor, mercy, and graciousness.”

I decided to define grace as “living with gratitude and an effort to move through life with a greater sense of ease” (in other words, don’t sweat the small stuff).

One of the rabbis whom I have known for many years concurred with my understanding and suggested that I “recognize what a lucky s-o-b I am.”

Now that’s a definition I can understand. ì

Drug Shortages Affecting Critical Chemotherapy

America is facing a widespread shortage of several cancer drugs including a pair of drugs that play an important role in chemotherapy treatments. According to the Food and Drug Administration, there are at least 14 cancer drugs that are in short supply.

The shortage of cancer medications is part of an even bigger problem of drug shortages that has been highlighted by Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff. The senator’s office earlier this year released the results of hearings held by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs that show drug shortages were at record levels.

Ossoff is a member of the influential committee that reported 295 drugs in short supply at the end of last year, an increase of 30 percent over the previous 12-month period.

This year, the University of Utah Health Drug Information Service, which tracks drug shortages, reports that so far this year drug shortages are at their highest level since 2014.

The chairs of the committee on which Ossoff serves, Democratic Sen. Gary Peters and Republican Sen. Joni

Ernst, introduced legislation on June 15 that would require the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Health and Human Services to take a closer look at the process of supplying pharmaceuticals in this country. The legislation also is aimed at developing government

plans to help expand the supply chain for important drug treatments.

Shortages of critical drugs has been particularly alarming to oncologists, those physicians who specialize in the treatment of cancer. Among the drugs that have been difficult to find this year is carboplatin, an important primary

Drug shortages are at their highest level in almost 10 years.

Bob Bahr

treatment in cancers of the breast, head and neck, lungs, ovaries, and many leukemias and lymphomas. To preserve their dwindling supplies, some cancer treatment providers have reportedly had to ration doses of the drug by 10 percent or more.

Although cutting doses of the drug in this way doesn’t significantly impact its effectiveness, it points up the concern that cancer treatment specialists have expressed about the shortages.

According to a survey released this month by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of 33 important treatment centers, 93 percent of those surveyed reported shortages of carboplatin. The shortage has been caused, in part, by the difficulty at one manufacturing facility, Intas Pharmaceuticals, in India, over safety concerns that the FDA uncovered during the manufacturing process.

The cancer network also reported that 70 percent of the treatment centers they surveyed had difficulty finding a second chemotherapy treatment, cisplatin. To ease that shortage, the Food and Drug administration recently allowed the temporary importation of an unapproved chemotherapy drug from China.

“This is an unacceptable situation,” according to Dr. Robert Carlson, CEO of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. “We are hearing from oncologists and pharmacists across the country who have to scramble to find appropriate alternatives for treating their patients with cancer right now.”

For physicians like Dr. Kristin Rice, the shortage has forced some difficult choices.

“Every week at my practice, my colleagues and I are now forced to compile

a list of how much cisplatin and carboplatin we have compared to how much we need. Recently, we had more than a dozen patients we can’t treat in the coming weeks with our current supply.”

Among the shortages that could impact cancer patients is doxorubicin, which is important in the treatment of breast cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma; 5-Flourouracil, a treatment for many gastrointestinal cancers; and generic nabPaclitaxel, a commonly used therapy in pancreatic and metastatic breast cancer.

Specialists like Dr. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer and executive vice president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology said the shortage is unprecedented.

“What’s different about this shortage is, I think, it’s just the broad applicability of these drugs, how important they are, you know, globally, in the U.S., in the treatment of many diseases,” she said. “I don’t know of a time that’s worse than this.”

The shortages are part of a troubling pattern that has affected both prescription drug and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. During last winter’s flu and cold season, parents found children’s acetaminophen, like Tylenol, and ibuprofen, like Motrin and Advil, in short supply while others found it difficult to fill prescriptions for children’s antibiotics, such as liquid amoxicillin.

The short supply of Adderall, which is an important drug for children and adults who have ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, has made daily life difficult for many users. Patients with diabetes have also had to scramble for supplies of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which have suddenly become popular for off-label use for weight loss. ì

Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff is part of a long-term Congressional effort to ease drug shortages.

Shortages of two important chemotherapy drugs have affected treatments for many cancer patients.

ADD Treatment is Not Just for Kids Anymore

By Bob Bahr

For more than 40 years, Annie Cooper has practiced psychiatry. For many years, she has been a staff psychiatrist at Piedmont Hospital and maintained an active private practice. During her long and very productive career, she has had ADD, attention deficit disorder.

Like so many with ADD, she first began to notice the difficulty she had concentrating in school when she was a child, growing up in France. On the advice of a teacher, she began taking amphetamines, which, at the time, in France, were sold over the counter. Her symptoms eased, almost overnight.

Like most of those with ADD or ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the condition persisted into adulthood. It was not until the late 1970s when she was doing her residency in psychiatry in America that she really began to understand the condition that she had struggled with for so many years.

“I made my own diagnosis. It wasn’t discussed much then, but I figured it out. Amphetamines were illegal in America, so I had to try to function without them. Drinking tons of coffee, and smoking cigarettes, I was like a lot of people who had difficulty concentrating. We managed with coffee and nicotine.”

It was not until 1994 that a formal diagnosis was adopted by the medical community. Coincidentally, it was the same year that a best seller first appeared about recognizing and coping with the condition in children and adults. It was not until 2013 that a diagnosis for adults first appeared in DSM-5, the American Psychiatric Association’s official diagnostic guide.

In the years since, millions of children have been prescribed Ritalin or Adderall or Vyvanse to control the disorder. But in the last several years, adults are increasingly crowding into doctors’ offices for treatment, particularly in the United States.

Between 2007 and 2016, according to one study, the reported diagnosis for adult ADHD increased by 123 percent, which was an even faster rise than the reported incidence in children. During the last decade, more prescriptions for ADHD have been written for adults than for children. In England, the wait for a psychiatric exam for ADHD in the overburdened National Health Service is five years. The Centers for Disease Control reports that in the U.S., 5 percent of men aged 21 to 25 have the condition.

Along with the rise in treatment statistics, interest in ADHD has mush-

roomed. Videos tagged as #ADHD have been viewed 11 billion times on TikTok, the popular social media video platform. Most of those who posted the short segments were young adults who mentioned having such symptoms such as difficulty in concentrating and in controlling their emotions.

During the pandemic, when medical consultations by video conferencing were encouraged, it became easier to obtain ADHD medications. Several telehealth providers were accused of relaxing their diagnostic procedures in favor of a quick buck.

Part of the problem is that there are too few doctors with the training to do a proper evaluation. Many psychiatrists have even received little or no formal training in specifically diagnosing ADD in adults.

Annie Cooper looks with skepticism

at those primary care physicians and nurse practitioners who feel confident to write a treatment plan without the considerable training it takes to make a final diagnosis. She is particularly wary about evaluating older women who are menopausal and complain about the inability to concentrate properly.

“It’s a lifetime condition, whether it’s recognized early or not, it’s always been there. It’s not always been assessed. It’s not just something that appears in menopause, for example, when you have less estrogen…and you don’t sleep as well. Your sleep is much lighter, and not as restorative. And what is happening is that it’s not ADHD. It is a sleep condition that needs to be addressed.”

Then there is the problem of drug abuse. The medications used to treat ADHD are schedule 2 medications, like oxycodone and fentanyl. Cooper points

out that prescriptions for the drugs cannot be refilled without a consultation with a physician. Some insurance providers will approve a three-month supply, while others say that prescriptions can be written only one month at a time.

The restrictions on writing prescriptions, coupled with the fast growth in adult ADD diagnoses, has created big problems for physicians, like Cooper, who are concerned about getting medication into the hands of people who really need it.

“With electronic records, the physician sends the prescription directly from their computer to the pharmacy’s computer. So, it’s a direct order from the doctor’s office to the pharmacy. And if they don’t have it in stock…it has to be done repeatedly until you have a pharmacy that can fill it. It becomes a medical nightmare. It’s crazy.” ì

There is growing concern that ADD is being diagnosed in adults without a proper psychiatric evaluation.

Annie Cooper became an early expert in the treatment of ADD after struggling with it herself since childhood. Today, more prescriptions are written to treat adults with ADD than children.

Clear Words from ClearWorks Audiology

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Learn how the new technologies we offer can impact your hearing success.

#1. Brain training software for your hearing is now possible.

Some brains need help practicing listening, especially in more challenging listening environments, like a busy restaurant or at a gathering. We now have software designed to exercise and challenge your hearing brain. We collect sound with our ears. However, we understand sound and its meaning with our brains. Brain training for hearing is important and, for some people, absolutely imperative.

#2. Innovative Direct Drive Hearing Aids offer a wider frequency range.

As opposed to traditional hearing aids which use a speaker to emit sound, a direct drive hearing aid vibrates the eardrum with movement rather than sound. This direct movement of the ear drum provides a wider frequency range, and therefore a more natural sound quality and improved speech clarity in quiet and noisy environments. Direct drive hearing aids are designed to provide sound that best mimics the natural ear. In addition to all of that good news, direct drive hearing aids don’t whistle. A hearing aid that doesn’t whistle? That is great new technology!

#3. Extended Wear hearing aids are “heard” but not seen.

An extended wear hearing aid sits and stays in the ear for months at a

Meryl Miller, Doctor of Audiology

time, even when you sleep and shower. Other benefits include no daily maintenance like battery changes or recharging hearing aids, nor cleaning and upkeep. Also, an extended wear hearing aid is completely invisible! They also give you 24/7 sound stimulation which is great for your hearing brain.

#4. Artificial Intelligence makes hearing aids smarter.

Hearing technology has changed dramatically over the past couple decades. Artificial intelligence helps hearing aids make important decisions and act more like our brains in focusing on specific sounds or voices. Many hearing aids now use artificial intelligence to identify speech versus noise and to decide which voice to focus on and listen to. That is some amazing technology!

Call now and let ClearWorks clear up the technology benefits and help you hear well to live a healthier life.

Bluestein Builds Winship Cancer Treatment Center

By Bob Bahr

Emory Healthcare has opened a new, state-of-the-art cancer treatment center that aims to provide a more efficient standard of treatment for both patients and outpatients at Emory’s Midtown Hospital. The Winship Cancer Institute, which adds 450,000 square feet of clinical space at a cost of over $440 million, is the result of more than a decade of planning.

The 17-story structure is built around what Emory officials call five “care communities,” which group a comprehensive series of treatment options around each of the communities.

For Sheryl Bluestein, vice president of operations for Emory Healthcare, the new treatment center represents over 13 years of planning.

“Back in 2010, we began to realize that in order to grow infusion and/or radiation and really be able to see more patients, we needed more space. Ultimately, it took until 2018, when we received a Woodruff Foundation grant for $299 million, that we were able to complete the planning on this new building.”

Bluestein, who grew up in East Cobb as a member of Congregation Etz Chaim, has had considerable experience with the effect that cancer can have on family life. She lost her father to brain cancer in 2007, and, in 2018, her stepfather was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

The completion of the project has come with a considerable degree of personal satisfaction for Bluestein.

“It was one of those projects that I was really able to understand; the mission and the vision and the impact that it would have. I’m so fortunate that I got to work on this project. Like I told my boss when the planning kept me up at night, this is something that will live on after I’m gone. So, it was a really amazing opportunity for me.”

The new facility represents what’s seen as a more effective model for detecting and diagnosing a variety of lifethreatening cancers. It is estimated that of the more than 61,000 patients in Georgia who will be diagnosed with cancer this year, a quarter of them will receive some of their treatment at one of Winship’s locations in metropolitan Atlanta.

Many of them will be seen at the new facility in the care communities that have been brought together in the new facility. The executive director of the Midtown Center, Dr. Suresh Ramalingam, describes the way treatment has been brought together as opening a new

era in the delivery of cancer therapies.

“We’re talking about multidisciplinary care for a specific cancer that is brought about by a team of experts that specialize just in that particular type of cancer. And for all those specialists to see the patient in the patient’s room without the patient having to go from one office to another, one building to another, is a functionality that doesn’t exist in most parts of the country.”

The new building is seen as a major step forward for the Winship Center which has just earned a renewal of its designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center from the National Cancer Institute. It is the only facility in Georgia to earn that prestigious designation.

Emory University president Gregory Fenves was full of praise for the new building.

“The Emory mission is to serve humanity, and this extraordinary new facility embodies our highest ideals and aspirations. Cancer affects nearly every family, and Emory is bringing worldclass medical expertise into this center so that patients get life-changing care and cures,” he said.

According to a recent study by Cary Gross, director of the National Clinical Scholars Program at Yale University, cancer treatments in the United States are estimated to cost more than $200 billion per year. That’s at least four times more than treatments for other common health conditions. That’s also twice the amount that other high-income countries spend on cancer on a per capital basis.

The financial burden on patients is considerable. According to the Mesothelioma Center, 63 percent of cancer pa-

tients face financial hardships after their diagnosis. The lifetime costs of lung cancer treatments, for example, can cost an estimated $282,000 per patient. Eleven of the 12 FDA-approved cancer drugs, according to the Mesothelioma Center, are priced above $100,000 annually.

Despite all the spending in this country, Australia, Finland, Japan, Korea, and Switzerland have lower cancer mortality rates than the U.S. does. After adjusting for smoking rates, Luxembourg, Norway,

and Spain also had lower mortality rates than the U.S.

Bluestein, who oversees the new building, is hopeful that this new approach will pay off.

“We are making very good progress in improving outcomes and providing hope for patients with cancer. We have better treatment options available. We have better tools to diagnose cancer early. And that has called for our care models to be continually updated.” ì

The U.S. spends twice as much per capita than other countries on healthcare but has a higher mortality rate than at least nine other nations.

Sheryl Bluestein, vice president of operations for Emory Healthcare, worked on plans for the new building for more than 13 years.

The new 17-story Winship Cancer Institute in Midtown is aimed at providing more efficient cancer care.

Increasingly, People Live Well with Cancer

Although it may feel like it at the time, receiving a cancer diagnosis is no longer considered an automatic death sentence.

The American Cancer Society reports that although cancer is still the second most common cause of death in the U.S., after heart disease, annual statistics show the risk of dying from cancer in the country has decreased over the past 28 years. In fact, the cancer death rate for men and women combined fell 32 percent from its peak in 1991 to 2019, the most recent year for which data is available.

Jan Jaben-Eilon

“We speak with women about creating a balance between living in the present and still planning for the future,” said Adina Fleischmann, chief services officer at Sharsheret, the national Jewish breast cancer and ovarian cancer organization.

According to the ACS, some of the decrease “appears to be related to an increase in the percentage of people with lung cancer who are living longer after diagnosis, partly because more people are being diagnosed at an early stage of the disease.”

Last year, it was expected that there would be 1.9 million new cancer cases and 609,360 deaths from cancer, or about 1,670 deaths a day.

Thus, millions of Americans have continued to live well with cancer, now considered a chronic disease by many medical professionals. Still, each individual who has been diagnosed, perhaps treated but continues to live with that diagnosis, has to choose how they will live.

And there are choices. Well-meaning friends and relatives will offer advice about one’s diet, natural supplements, even obtaining parking places at a hospital for “inevitable” emergencies, but oncology counselors, psychiatrists, and physicians agree that it is the patient who should make the decisions.

One of those decisions may be as simple as just thanking a person who offers their advice, and immediately ignoring it. “Each person must make their own decisions on what they should eat or do,” states Dr. Wendy Baer, director of psychiatric oncology at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.

Cancer journeys are not easy, not for the patient, their loved ones nor their friends. “It’s hard to expect people to stay positive through the journey. For some people, it’s a fight, but it’s happening in your body. We want to stop the cells from dividing too fast,” Baer said.

There’s a language that has emerged around experiencing a cancer diagnosis,

she added: “a cancer fighting spirit.” She said the chronic condition of cancer can be managed, but she said that the mindset of wanting to “fix it” can be shifted to thinking about how to care for one’s body.

But it’s not only one’s body that is a concern, notes Adina Fleischmann, chief services officer at Sharsheret, the national Jewish breast cancer and ovarian cancer organization. “When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, they often assemble a support toolbox” that can include family members, work colleagues and one’s community.

One of those tools can be one’s relationship with religion or spirituality, which can change over time. “Many aspects of Judaism can play a role throughout someone’s experience with cancer, including the value of community,” Fleischmann said. Some people incorporate Jewish holidays and prayers as part of their tools for coping with cancer.

Fleischmann, who has worked at Sharsheret since 2009, pointed to one program that has helped some Jewish cancer survivors. “We host Pink and Teal challah bakes across the country, providing both education and support opportunities as women connect with their community,” she said.

But one’s spiritual relationship with G-d can also be valuable. “Women call us with spiritual questions such as ‘why me?’ or ‘why now?’ Spiritual questions vary and can change over time for some.”

Founded in 2001, Sharsheret provides emotional support, mental health counseling, education, and financial subsidies. It cultivates community by bringing together women, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals and others through national

webinars that offer expert medical information, healthy living opportunities, and Jewish spirituality connection for thousands of Jewish women.

Sharsheret supports not only women with cancer, however, but the whole family. Fleischmann notes that the BRCA genetic mutation, found in one in every 40 Ashkenazi Jews – 10 times its rate in the general population and which increases the risk of several cancers including breast and ovarian – impacts both women and men.

According to Baer, “all people living with cancer can benefit from emotional support.” In addition, “social connectedness is important for all of us. It may shift over time as to who can be there for us.”

Her advice for living well with cancer includes two levels of three steps each. In the first level, she recommends good quality sleep, regular safe movement, and attention to a healthy diet. In the second level, she recommends finding an oncolo-

gy team you can trust, support people who “get it,” and “working on your mindset: how this journey is part of your life but not all of your life. We figure out a way to live with cancer. It doesn’t go away like poison ivy.”

Baer emphasizes that people “are stronger than we think we are.”

In fact, Fleischmann suggests that people diagnosed with cancer rely on their greatest strengths that existed before the diagnosis. “What are the things that have gotten you through [bad times]? Your cancer diagnosis is likely not the first challenge in your life. Apply your strengths here, too.”

Another important aspect of living well with cancer, said Fleischmann, is understanding that one can “still plan for the future. We speak with women about creating a balance between living in the present and still planning for the future. Make plans. You may need to shift or adjust them. But you should still look ahead.” ì

The American Cancer Society reports that although cancer is still the second most common cause of death in the U.S., after heart disease, annual statistics show the risk of dying from cancer in the country has decreased over the past 28 years.

Peer Program Supports Addiction Recovery

Chabad Intown is expanding its offerings and reach in support of those – Jewish and nonJewish – who struggle with substance use, abuse, and addiction.

Fran Putney

A physical gathering space at Chabad Intown’s center, now situated near the Eastside BeltLine trail, called Jeff’s Place, was created in 2018 to honor the memory of Jeff Kraus, a young man who had found a spiritual home at the Chabad, and tragically died of a drug overdose. In creating Jeff’s Place with the backing of Kraus’s family, Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman said that the goal was to set aside an inviting space to reduce the stigma around addiction, and particularly within the Jewish community.

With addiction, Schusterman explained, there’s a persistent stigma that a person should simply be able to get con-

trol of themselves. “Just stop drinking, just stop using, just get yourself together. It’s not how it works. It’s not the nature of the disease.”

Jeff’s Place has served as a popular location for Alcoholics Anonymous meetings every Sunday evening, often filling the room with as many as 50 to 60

participants in attendance. Chabad hosts but doesn’t facilitate the gatherings. Although the majority of the A.A. participants aren’t Jewish, it doesn’t mean that addiction problems don’t exist in the Jewish community, explained Schusterman, who adds that he regularly fields calls asking for help and advice. But he believes the fact that the programs are held in a Jewish space helps reduce stigma, especially for so many Jews who may not realize that there is support for them within the Jewish community.

A year ago, Chabad received grant funding to hire a program director, Bridgette Duffield, herself in addiction recovery, to spearhead initiatives for Jeff’s Place programming. To that end, Chabad Intown has announced the launch of the Jeff’s Place Peer Matching Support Program, which matches a person in addiction recovery with a peer supporter who, while not a counselor, has received training and must have completed at least one year of sobriety.

The new program gives individuals a one-on-one connection, support, encouragement, as well as a new network, to foster healing.

The peer program is about hope. “That’s what people need,” says Schusterman. “It’s not treatment. It’s not therapy. It’s a friend. You sign up, and we’ll connect you with someone that’s already been there and that can say to you, ‘hey, I’ve been there, done that. Let me be your friend.’ Not even necessarily be their sponsor. Let me help you through this. That’s what it’s about. It’s about letting people know they’re not alone.”

Duffield has also been overseeing Jeff’s Place events, such as holiday parties and a program called Quieting the Silence, described as a recovery awareness

event aimed at people and their loved ones affected by addiction. The next Quieting the Silence program is scheduled for 7 p.m., July 20, at Jeff’s Place. Three speakers from the community will share their personal stories of wisdom and hope. Quieting the Silence is a concept created by the Blue Dove Foundation, a Jewish mental health and addiction initiative.

For her part, Duffield says, “Healing naturally happens when one addresses the root of addiction, which A.A. believes is a ‘spiritual malady’ - your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. But spirituality aside, at Jeff’s Place we celebrate life and bring people together in a safe and welcoming space, while honoring Jewish principles throughout. Jeff’s Place serves as a novel concept for the Southeast and for Chabads.”

The need for addiction recovery support in communities, including Jewish communities, is great, according to Schusterman. His wish list includes the funding to one day hire a rabbi dedicated to support addiction issues and develop what he calls a “proper curriculum” for rabbis and Jewish leaders to be educated about the A.A. Twelve Steps, which is often thought of as Christian based, and learn that its principles can be understood through Jewish spirituality.

In the meantime, Rabbi Chanan Rose, the new director of Chabad’s Intown Jewish Academy, will teach a spiritual recovery course later in the summer at Jeff’s Place. The course will cover A.A.’s Twelve Step program through a Jewish lens. Rabbi Rose previously counseled at the T’Shuvah Center, New York City’s Jewish recovery organization.

For more information about the Jeff’s Place Peer Program, visit: jeffsplaceatlanta.org/peer-support. ì

Attendees at a Quieting the Silence event at Jeff’s Place Café hear personal stories of individuals affected by addiction.

Bridgette Duffield is developing programming for Jeff’s Place to support those in addiction recovery.

Chabad Intown’s Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman says it’s important to reduce the stigma associated with substance use abuse.

Couple Climbs Everest with Monk’s Blessing TRAVEL

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Lana Imerman planned to trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp in 2015. Unfortunately, there was a massive avalanche which caused that trip to be canceled.

She said, “I never thought that I would ever fulfill this life-long dream until Lenny [Silverstein] suggested that we trek together.”

Imerman, who had previously climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and Machu Picchu, found Mt. Everest to be difficult, but not harder than expected. She explained, “Mt. Everest was quite a challenge, both in terms of physical and mental difficulty and altitude.”

Unlike Imerman, Silverstein had no prior experience climbing mountains. They both trained on their own and with a personal trainer. Lenny added, “We worked with an altitude trainer locally who helped experience what 21,500 feet high feels like. He also taught breathing techniques.”

Imerman and Silverstein left Atlanta on March 31 to arrive in Kathmandu (through Doha, Qatar) on April 2. They arrived a day early to start acclimating to the altitude. They met up with their tour group in the afternoon and began training in Kathmandu. The next day, they left early via helicopter to fly to Lukla, elevation 9,337 feet. From Lukla, they commenced their trek up to Mt. Everest Base Camp (EBC), spending the nights in various villages and camps - Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep.

While in Tengboche, they visited the Tengboche Monastery, where they received a monk’s blessing for a safe and successful journey. Imerman recalled, “It was eye-opening to see how the people live off the land. Electricity, for the most part, was non-existent the higher we trekked unless there was some sort of generator or solar panels. The tea houses and camps typically had no heat other than a central wood or dried-yak dung pot stove in a common room. Everything is transported on the backs of humans, yaks, or mules.”

Their trek to base camp took 11 days, including layover days for further acclimation. On those days, they trekked up to higher elevations, then back down for the evening. Along the way to EBC, they climbed Kala Patthar, (altitude of 18,500 feet).

Silverstein stated, “While climbing Kala Patthar, we watched the most amazing sunrise over the summit of Mt. Ever-

est, which literally produced a 360-degree rainbow. Following our descent, we trekked to EBC, with an altitude of 17,500 feet. On Day 1 EBC, we trekked to an ice glacier and climbed it using pickaxes and boot crampons, along with safety ropes. What an experience! The journey down covered three days of trekking, 1012 hours per day. We trekked over dirt paths, stones, boulders, and narrow metal bridges swinging 400 yards over rivers

and valleys.”

The couple chose a highly experienced, Australia-based guide group, Climbing the Seven Summits. With a total of 17 in their group, the tour guides and local sherpas led five climbers up to the summit of Mt. Everest. Of the 12 remaining, five trekked with the couple until just before EBC where they branched off to attempt to climb another mountain peak before going to EBC. The rest of the

group trekked directly to the base camp.

Food is always a travel component. They ate carbs: noodles, pasta, rice and pizza, soups, vegetables, eggs, and porridge. Imerman detailed, “Quantity was a non-issue since we were burning 3,000plus calories daily. The key was to make sure we ate and drank a lot of water since side effects of high altitude are lack of appetite and dehydration. Once at EBC, our accommodation and food were first

Lana Imerman and Lenny Silverstein pose with the Himalayas in the background. Often at night they heard avalanches.

The rainbow sunrise over Everest was a magnificent 360 degrees.

Lenny Silverstein and Lana Imerman trained with tools like ice picks readying for the climb. They trekked 10-12 hours a day.

rate. Private tents were set up for trekkers, and common tents for meals and socialization. The tour guides had awardwinning chefs, and even a barista. While there, we could hear avalanches at night.”

Imerman, a devoted grandmother, is from Johannesburg, South Africa. She is an avid home renovator, enjoys bridge, and tennis. Silverstein is a securities and mergers and acquisitions lawyer at Den-

tons, an international law firm. He is the co-founder and former president of Preferred Apartment Communities, Inc., a NYSE company, and former president of the American Jewish Committee, South-

east Region. Silverstein is also an avid cyclist.

He concluded, “I’m just enjoying the moment for now, although one thing on my bucket list is to travel to space.” ì

Base camp tents at Mt. Everest provided privacy and group accommodation for socialization. Successfully reaching base camp, the couple found award-winning chefs and a barista.

A Jewish New York State of Mind

Need an energy boost this summer? Consider a long weekend in Manhattan to invigorate your mind and soul. Flights are a mere two hours, 15 minutes, and both Delta and Southwest Airlines typically offer reasonable rates. Get ready for the bright lights, Broadway shows, engaging exhibits and diverse dining options. For help in planning your next trip, here are day-by-day recommendations to make planning a busy weekend of art exhibits, Broadway and dining a bit easier.

Day 1 - Arrival

First Stop: AC Hotel

Located in the theatre district, the AC Hotel is modern, spacious, and welcoming. The guest services staff at the front desk are among the best this traveler has experienced anywhere in the world. They are hospitable, thoughtful, knowledgeable, and truly go out of their way to make sure their guests are happy. Devon and Mario, in particular, stand ready to answer any and all questions.

The rooftop bar at the AC Hotel is a favorite for natives and hotel guests alike. Perfect for a nightcap and appetizers, the views from the top are legendary. Boqueria, a restaurant located off the lobby, is lively day and night, and offers Barcelona-style tapas and drinks. The guest rooms are laid out well, and the rooms are among the quietest found in a noisy city. Each room features ceiling-to-floor windows to make the most of city views and a retractable, motorized blackout shade that lowers with the touch of a button.

With its proximity to Broadway and popular sites, reasonable rates and worldclass staff, this lovely hotel is a wonderful base for travelers.

Second Stop: A walk through Times Square

Take in the spectacle that is Times Square during the day. A first visit can be overwhelming with the chaos, bright lights, and endless activity. From street performers to the many stores in the area, Times Square attracts tourists and locals alike. There is M&M’s World, offering every type of M&M possible, along with a myriad of branded tchotchkes for kids (and those young at heart); a huge Sephora for cosmetic and

hair mavens; a large Disney Store filled to the brim with costumes, clothing, and other paraphernalia; and a host of souvenir stores and street vendors hawking T-shirts, hats and fake purses. If you walk through or spend time there, keep your purse close and be aware of your surroundings.

Third Stop: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Madame Tussauds, located in Times Square, offers a wonderful opportunity to get up close and personal with politicians and celebrities and snap a picture with them if you would like – or, at least, with their wax figure. As kitschy as the attraction may sound, tourists and locals alike show up regularly for an hour or so of unadulterated fun. From a gallery devoted to Marvel superheroes to a visit in the Oval Office with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the exhibit is spread over nine floors and typically takes one to two hours.

Fourth Stop: Norma Gastronomia Siciliana

Located on Ninth Avenue in an area known, by some, as “Hell’s Kitchen,” this restaurant offers authentic Sicilian food and wines. This tour group’s knowledgeable waiter (ironically, from Milan) provided background on the particular cuisine of Sicily. Recommendations included the Busiate al pesto Trapanese, which features a Sicilian type of pesto made with almonds instead of pine nuts, fresh tomatoes, organic basil, Sicilian garlic, and “Nocellara” extra virgin olive oil from Sicily. The pasta is a special type of Sicilian linguini that looks like it has been twisted and serrated to provide ample texture to hold the flavorful sauce. Recommended appetizers include the buratta, mix of Sicilian olives, and Rucola e Parmigiano.

The restaurant is cozy, reasonably priced and offers a type of cuisine unavailable in Atlanta.

Day Two

First Stop: “The Sassoons” at The Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum’s latest exhibition, “The Sassoons,” takes visitors through a revealing look at the story of the Sassoon family, an illustrious Sephardic Jewish dynasty who trace their roots back to Baghdad, Iraq, before later emigrating to Mumbai (Bombay), India, and then on to China, England, and a host of other nations. Family members rose to positions of prominence in their respective communities, as well as on a global scale, due to their growing empire, business acumen, philanthropy, and social involvement.

Highlighting the powerful family’s role in trade, art collecting, architectural patronage and civic engagement from the early 19th century through World War II, the exhibit follows four generations of Sassoons and includes information about the involvement of the Sassoon women in business, journalism, and the arts, many of whom had previously gone unacknowledged.

“The Sassoons” features an impressive selection of more than 120 works—paintings, Chinese art, illuminated manuscripts, and Judaica -- amassed by Sassoon family members and borrowed from numerous private and public collections. On display and of particular note are the Hebrew manuscripts from as early as the 12th century, many lavishly decorated; Chinese art and ivory carvings; rare Jewish ceremonial art; and Western masterpieces, including paintings by Thomas Gainsborough and Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, as well as mag-

Second Stop: Shopping along Madison Avenue

Head over to Madison Avenue and take in all the beautiful shops that line this timelessly elegant avenue. The mood here is pleasantly laid back by New York standards. Stop in for an almond pastry or Nutella cookie and latte at Butterfield Market, located at corner of Madison and 85th Street. If you are lucky enough to score a seat on the bench outside, take a minute and observe the stylish Upper East Side set as they partake of their weekend ritual – stopping in the gourmet food shop to pick up groceries, coffee, breakfast, or brunch to go. Dog watching is highly recommended as well! Afterwards, continue walking to the many stores through the 60s, including the city’s flagship Intermix, Bottega Veneta and Prada.

Third Stop: Jewish Deli – it’s NY after all

What’s a trip to New York without a corned beef sandwich on rye and a full sour pickle! Add a bowl of matzo ball soup and that’s nirvana, right? Two options for lunch include Second Avenue Deli (Second Avenue at 77th Street) and Pastrami Queen (Lexington Avenue at 78th Street). This tour group opted for the larger Second Avenue Deli, where the group enjoyed the aforementioned delicacies, along with a potato latke for good measure. Skip the potato latke but order the soup and half-sandwich.

Fourth Stop: Rockefeller Center

Be prepared – Rockefeller Center will be crowded. But the lovely New York City landmark is a “must see,” particularly for any first-time visitor. Take in the ice-skating rink, which converts to a roller-skating rink

nificent portraits by John Singer Sargent of various Sassoon family members.

Debbie Diamond

The lobby of the AC Hotel, located near Times Square.

A portrait of David Sassoon at “The Sassoons,” on view at The Jewish Museum.

What’s a visit to New York without a corned beef sandwich?

in the spring and summer. Named “Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace” after the legendary Los Angeles roller rink from 1979, the rink features live DJs and offers rental skates for $10. For those less adventurous, even observing the skaters is a fun opportunity to get your groove on and join the party.

For those interested in shopping, there is a plethora of upscale stores to suit any style, including Cole Haan, Allen Edmonds, Mulberry, Maje and a three-story FAO Schwartz.

Fifth Stop: Avra 48th Street

Head over to this Greek seafood restaurant (48th Street between Third and Lexington avenues) where the meals are simply prepared, using the freshest fish and best ingredients. Faroe Islands salmon and Hawaiian bigeye tuna were the favorites of the group, along with the appetizer spreads. Sit outside with a glass of wine, friends or family and reflect on your day.

Day Three

First Stop: Museum of Modern Art

There is always an interesting exhibit on display at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and visitors can easily while away the day touring the regular collection at the museum. Through Aug. 12, “Georgia O’Keeffe: To See Takes Time” is on display in MoMA’s third floor south galleries. The exhibit reveals a lesser-known side of O’Keeffe and the process she used to create her art. Using charcoal, watercolor, pastel, and graphite, she explored forms and phenomena—from abstract rhythms to nature’s cycles—across multiple media before creating her final masterpieces. These sequences are featured leading up to several of her pieces on display, enabling visitors to see the pains-

taking process she used to bring her paintings to life.

While at MoMA, be sure to visit the museum’s permanent collection, with works by Matisse, Picasso and Chagall, A half- or full day can be spent just at this one museum. Also, make a stop upon entering the museum to take in “Refik Anadol: Unsupervised.” You will be mesmerized by the shifting colors and 3-D textures that come to life in an AI-generated moving piece that is absolutely captivating.

Second Stop: Trattoria Dell’Arte

Located across the street from Carnegie Hall, the best part about the restaurant is the huge antipasto bar at the front of the restaurant. Choose three or five vegetarian selections and make it a meal. The eggplant caponata, roasted brussel sprouts, roasted red and yellow peppers, and grilled asparagus were delicious. Though simple, this tour group found the antipasto bar much more interesting than the entrees ordered, which were mediocre at best. Other recommended restaurant options in the area include Le Grande Boucherie on 53rd Street and Il Corso on 55th Street.

Third Stop: “Funny Girl” at August Wilson Theatre

When you learn the lead actress in a popular Broadway show is not performing on the night you attend, there is good reason for disappointment. However, Julie Benko, the Thursday night stand-in for Lea Michele, quickly turned the tour group’s initial distress into joy with her comedic chops and beautiful singing voice. The audience was delighted. The story of comedian, actress and singer Fanny Brice is brilliantly recreated in this show. With longtime favorite songs, “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “People,”

and “My Man,” the cast and crew received a standing ovation and the adulation of all those in the audience at curtain call.

Day Four

First Stop: “Leopoldstadt” at Longacre Theatre

Leopoldstadt is a drama written by Tom Stoppard that tells the story leading up to, during and following the German Anschluss into Vienna. Recounted through the eyes of a mostly assimilated Jewish family, the story begins as the family celebrates Christmas, and the audience learns the patriarch has converted to Catholicism. Believing their entry into Viennese society is complete, family members quickly learn that, on the contrary, they, too, would experience the horrors of the Nazi regime. On Kristallnacht, there is a rap on the door and their world quickly falls apart. The play follows the family through 1955 and the fallout is tremendous.

“Leopoldstadt” is based on Stoppard’s personal experience as an older man learning about his own family’s Jewish roots. Four of his grandparents were murdered during the Holocaust. Living in a time when antisemitism has again reared its ugly head, the audience is left with several questions, some existential and many practical. Could this happen again? What role does morality play in saving people from destruction? “Leopoldstadt” is the most nominated play for the upcoming Tony awards and is scheduled to close on July 1. Those interested in seeing this moving drama should make plans to head to Broadway soon before the run is over. Be prepared for a must-see, powerful show.

Third Stop: Quality Bistro

Quality Bistro is a great place to head after a “heavy” drama on Broadway. The mood is lively, and the space is lovely, filled with greenery and flowers, with an actual tree in the middle of the dining room. The food is a modern take on French bistro fare and includes a variety of fish entrees such as salmon, Dover sole, and branzino as well as many cuts of steak. Appetizers offered include Yellowfin tuna tartare, fresh beet salad, French onion soup and a whole chilled artichoke with citrus tarragon aioli. Quality Bistro is part of Quality Branded, which owns many well-known, popular Manhattan restaurants. The restaurant is a wonderful place to stop for dinner during a weekend visit. Be sure to make a reservation.

Fourth Stop: Amorino Gelato Al Natural

For an elevated gelato experience, head to Amorino, a gelato chain based in Paris with a few shops throughout Manhattan. Each gelato is shaped by hand into a rose, each petal gracefully added by the server using a spatula. Customers may choose as many flavors as there are petals on the rose. All ingredients used in the preparation of the gelato are free of preservatives, artificial flavors and flavor enhancers. And what better way to cap off the night than a walk through Times Square eating a beautiful, handcrafted gelato rose!

Day Five

First Stop: Magnolia Bakery

With its first bakery in the West Village, the beloved Magnolia Bakery has grown, probably due to its extraordinary cupcakes and banana pudding. No visit to New York is complete without a stop at this sugar palace, now with eight locations in Manhattan. The line is out the door at most locations, but the wait is worth it once the first cupcake bite is taken. Pick up a dozen on your way home; your friends and family will be eternally grateful.

Second Stop: LaGuardia Airport

Plan to spend a little extra time at the newly renovated airport, with its many new shops and restaurants. You will not believe the transformation. Bright lighting, updated color schemes, and clearly marked signage make the experience much improved from earlier years, and it’s a relatively quick trip to and from midtown hotels.

When a little excitement and a change of scenery are desired, head to New York City. The cultural diversity, range of activities and even just the sights and sounds are simply unmatched. Some call New York City the greatest city on earth. After a weekend visit, exploring any or all neighborhoods, you might just agree. ì

Stop in for an ice cream rose day or night at Amorino.

Through Aug. 12, “Georgia O’Keeffe: To See Takes Time” is on display at MoMA.

From musicals to drama, Broadway has a multitude of shows including “Funny Girl” and “Leopoldstadt.”

Habif’s Trip of a Lifetime

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Over Thanksgiving last year, Sherry Habif set out for the United Arab Emirates to learn about the local people, land, and culture. Out of John F. Kennedy Airport, she flew Etihad Airlines, National Airline of the UAE, 12 hours to the home base of Abu Dhabi to board the Nautica Oceana.

As a Jew she expressed, “I was very comfortable going to the UAE, when I knew that seven of the countries there had signed the Abraham Accords with Israel. UAE is a hot spot for nearby Israelis to travel. I was very surprised how accepted Jews were received especially from Muslims.”

In Abu Dhabi, Habif found the surrounding desert, the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman, the backdrop of the mountains, commanding architecture, and warm people. Other highlights included the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the world’s largest with a gargantuan Persian rug.

She shared, “Tiles on the marble columns and floor, and just the mammoth size, was awe inspiring. Then [we visited] the Presidential Palace, Heritage Village, old homes, and [experienced] Bedouin life. The Louvre/Abu Dhabi, is an outpost of France’s with a concrete light filled roof.” There, she enjoyed lunch at Fouquet’s of Paris, tea at the Emirates Palace Hotel where “Sex and the City” was filmed. Habif exclaimed, “Everything had edible gold on it or in it. The surrounding Abu Dhabi buildings were over 40 stories. Architects were brought in from around the world to construct the biggest, best, and most unusual buildings.”

The next stop was Oman, an independent sultanate with a population of around three million, which had an unpleasant edge. It was revealed to Habif that Oman didn’t sign the Abraham Accords and is not a member of the UAE “because Israel doesn’t recognize Palestine as its capital. Of the 30 Jews on the ship, the six from Israel were not allowed to debark there! Had I known before, I wouldn’t have spent money in their Souks.”

While on board the cruise, Habif helped lead Shabbat Services and mingled with other Jewish cruisers, one of whom was born in Ukraine. Jewish sites in Abu Dhabi were a multi-faith complex: Abrahamic family houses on Saadiyat Island, started in 2019 and still under construction with three different structures -- a synagogue, mosque, and church.

Habif explained, “It was started under the influence of Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Abu Dhabi.”

The Moses Ben Maimon shul is named after the famous Sephardic philosopher. Chabad has a large Jewish presence in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, located about an hour from each other. There is a Kashrut Commission, kosher restaurants, hotel, nursery, and Hebrew

school.

Next up was Bahrain’s Museum, “Vignettes of People.” Habif noted, “Had a fabulous rose water pistachio cake with edible roses, amazing souk, and camel farm…didn’t get too close.” Then it was onto Sir Bani Yas Island, a retreat of the Sheikh’s family, an animal reserve. On a safari truck she saw giraffes, antelopes, oryx, and panthers.

For Habif, Dubai was “where everything is over the top in size, structure, creativity, purpose. I marveled at the Giant Open Gold Picture Frame, over 100 feet in the air with elevators. Habif also visited the Museum of the Future and Dubai Mall, the world’s largest. She laughed, saying, “Shopped till we dropped!”

Habif enjoyed Dubai Global Village saying it was, “ten times larger than Ep-

Sherry Habif enjoyed the Dubai Miracle Garden, seen here with an Emirate plane covered in flowers.

One of Habif’s favorite views was from the Dubai gold frame.

Sherry Habif visited Dubai’s Museum of the Future.

Dubai’s famous Burj Al Arab Hotel.

cot...like Atlanta’s Botanical Gardens,” adding that she was delighted in Dubai Miracle Garden. “Too amazing to describe, larger than Buchart Gardens, British Columbia, and Stellenbosch Gardens in South Africa. Giant animals covered in moss and flowers, an Emirates airplane covered in flowers, a troll village, a lady’s hair made of flowers, ballet dancers,

teacups spinning! Flowers everywhere! Open from December to May and closed during the hot summer.”

In terms of local female modesty practice, Habif said, “I was very sensitive to wearing a head covering in mosques. I bought a long sleeve dress to wear over pants and shirt, out of respect as well as removing shoes. Just like we would ex-

pect a man visiting a synagogue to don a kippah.”

She did observe women driving (upscale) cars and a female served as the manager of the large hotel in which Habif resided.

Contrasting Israel, she found, “Nothing was politically similar, other than there were Israelis living and

working in the UAE. Not the worries about terrorism that Israelis live with. Citizens there certainly can’t talk openly about the royal family and how things are governed.”

Along with wonderful memories, Habif brought back a fancy harem outfit, a camel skin pocketbook, and a UAE doll for her granddaughter. ì

Habif enjoyed high tea and gold decorated foods in Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace Hotel.

Oryxes at the Sir Bani Yas Animal Sanctuary. Sherry Habif covered up modestly, when appropriate, seen here at the Sheik Zayed Mosque.

There’s No Place Like Home TRAVEL

Veteran luxury travel consultant

Judy Udwin has built a world class travel business focusing on her homeland that spans across South Africa. Over the past 25 years, she has organized hundreds of customized safaris and unforgettable itineraries with a personal connection that transforms every trip.

Growing up in Rhodesia, (now Zimbabwe), Udwin recalls, “I had an idyllic childhood. Rhodesia, in those days, was a wonderful country to raise a family. Excellent schools, great climate, safe and with a vibrant Jewish population. Our lives revolved around the Jewish youth movements where lifelong friendships were made and we were tasked with responsibilities that prepared us for later success.”

As things changed, she shared, “Sadly, the politics of the region forced almost all the Jews to leave for greener pastures. In 1979, my husband, Leon, and I arrived in Atlanta, newlywed, and immigrants from Rhodesia. Leon had spent seven years in Israel, and I studied languages at Cape Town University. Once in Atlanta, Leon quickly found a job in his profession as an engineer, and I needed to choose a career path. I decided to use my language skills and entered the exciting field of travel.”

In 1995, the Udwins ventured on a family trip to Zimbabwe and South Africa where they introduced their two daughters to their homeland.

“A family friend in the tourism industry took us off the beaten track to wonderful and exciting safari destinations,” Udwin said. “Seeing my home, through the eyes of my girls, feeling the warmth, the hospitality, and the passion throughout the region, ignited a spark in me to share this experience with others and to support the local economies. It was then that I decided to launch my travel company, Mushinda, focusing exclusively on private, customized travel experiences to Southern and East Africa.  Mushinda is a Shona word meaning “personal attendant to the king.”

With each trip Udwin plans, her goal is to ensure that her clients return having experienced a trip that exceeds their expectations and with memories to last a lifetime. The customized itinerary and

journey typically begin with a phone call months or years in advance of taking flight and she is passionately involved in every aspect. The clients vary from honeymoon couples to retirees, thrill seekers to food and wine-lovers, animal and nature lovers to photo fanatics. In recent years, she has seen an increase in multigenerational family trips. She has many clients who experienced a Mushinda trip, returned home with Africa in their soul and have a deep desire to share their adventures with their extended families. With advanced planning she can secure fabulous private camps for these memorable family retreats.”

Longtime Mushinda client Garrett Van De Grift said, “My favorite is a quote that Judy conveyed to me, and it remains indelibly etched in my travel memories. When I received her proposal for the first trip she coordinated for my family, I asked, ‘how can I know if this pricing is worth it for this trip?’ Udwin replied, ‘Garrett, like my other clients, you work hard, you juggle multiple tasks on any given day, you have to make numerous decisions daily even when on vacation. With my trip, there is only one thing you need to do, and one thing only the entire vacation.’ Udwin then dramatically paused, so I bit and asked, ‘what is that?’

Udwin replied, 'All you have to do when you arrive is remember your name and

everything else will be taken care of.’ She did not exaggerate!”

Mushinda traveler Patty Poline commented, “In 2016, Judy planned a safari trip to Southern Africa for my husband and me. It was a pleasure working with her from beginning to end. We found her to be very professional with excellent attention to detail, follow up, and was one of our favorite vacations. We have continued to stay in touch with Judy always looking forward to a return and enjoying her expertise making everything perfect.”

To explain further, Mushinda is a tour operator, which means that all itineraries are prepared and quoted as a comprehensive package, exclusively crafted for each client’s unique personality and budget. For a family traveling with teenage children, they may include zip lines, stand-up paddleboards, or Segway tours in the vineyards. For those interested in the local cuisine, they might do a walking tour of Cape Town getting to know the history of South Africa through the medium of food – and dishes which reflect the varied cultures.

Udwin said, “I attribute the success of my trips firstly to pairing the right experiences, guides, restaurants, accommodations, with my clients’ desires and, secondly, to my local relationships. I have been working hand in hand with an affiliated agency based in Cape Town for

30 years. One cannot underestimate the importance of having someone to meet you when you land and take care of your needs as well as any unexpected problems. We pride ourselves on taking care of everything – from the transfers to the meals and the guides and the accommodation.”

To keep her finger on the pulse, Udwin personally travels to Africa two or three times a year. Knowing the staff at each of these properties is extremely important. Africa has enormous diversity, types of accommodation, not to mention the finest game viewing in the world. The conservation policies and the guides are outstanding, and their use of open vehicles guarantees the most rewarding game-viewing experiences.

She said, “We know which properties have great managers and passionate staff, which ones have excellent safari guides that can make the African bush come alive, and which camps are a good match. Each property, like the iconic Ellerman House or the historic Mount Nelson in Cape Town, or one of Singita’s luxury safari lodges or a remote bush camp in Botswana, has a unique personality. I pair the client’s personality and budget with those of the properties they will be staying at.”

Udwin adds, “I like to expose my Jewish clients to Southern Africa’s very

Robyn Spizman

Gerson

Judy Udwin, of Mushinda, visits her homeland often to plan tours for travelers to Africa.

A South African safari is the ideal trip for a lifetime adventure.

strong Eastern European and Sephardic Jewish heritage. I may include a Friday night Shabbat service at the Garden’s Shul with their choir, or a visit to the Jewish and Holocaust Museum. We have even helped clients find the graves of deceased family members. In addition to all the wonderful sights and scenes, there is the cultural history of Africa. I want my clients to understand the many forces that have created the melting pot of Africa and the unique cultural heritage of these regions.”

Udwin said, “I suggest that clients visit two safari lodges in different parts of the region. Differing topography and environment mean different animal species. When visiting Southern Africa, I recommend visiting Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the largest sheet of falling water in the world. Cape Town, with its beauty and sophistication, is the perfect ending to this experience.”

She added, “When visiting East Africa, the highlight is the Great Migration

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

with millions of wildebeests, zebra, and associated predators. This, combined with gorilla trekking in the mountains of Rwanda, is a fantastic all round safari destination. To know that in my own small way I am giving back to the wonderful, warm, hospitable people that make up the fabric of Africa. Tourism is a major revenue source for these countries and every visitor that I send enriches the lives of so many.”

Udwin continued, “Mushinda is ready to help you explore Africa. From

the mighty majestic Victoria Falls to the unique Okavango Delta of Botswana, incredible wildlife and wilderness sanctuaries, private game reserves to the magnificent beauty of the Cape in South Africa, we’re prepared to take you on a trip of a lifetime. Even our clients who are world travelers are amazed by the hospitality, luxury and elegance experienced in this region of the world. I am truly humbled to also call it my homeland.”

For more information, visit www. mushinda.com. ì

Elephants are a popular animal to see on a safari.

Giraffes are a stunning addition to the memories you’ll collect while on a safari tour in Southern Africa.

Morocco Offers a Rich Portrait of Its Jewish Past

By Bob Bahr

For the large group of congregants from The Temple who traveled to Morocco last November, it was like a trip back in time. The North African nation, which once was home to a population of 250,000 Sephardic Jews, still retains many of its Jewish landmarks, including a number of old synagogues and cemeteries and the only Jewish museum in the Arab world.

Rabbi Lydia Medwin, who led the trip with The Temple’s senior rabbi, Peter Berg, was impressed with the long tradition of craftsmanship in the country, where Jews were often prominent artisans.

“The old cities like Fez and Marrakesh have these markets that look like you’re back in medieval times. You can visit the tannery and visit the dyers and the metal workers and the tile and the silk makers. I mean, there’s just incredible artistry there.”

The country has a long and rich Jewish history that dates back to the 1st century C.E., when the Romans destroyed the Temple in Jerusalem and decimated the Jewish community there. Morocco became a refuge both from the destruction in Jerusalem and the murderous regime in Rome. Jews even settled in the Atlas Mountains of southern Morocco and integrated themselves into the Berber communities there.

It remained a haven for 2,000 years, despite the Muslim conquest of the country. The Spanish Inquisition, late in the 15th century, led to another massive wave of immigration from the Iberian Peninsula. Jews were accorded the status of dhimmis, who paid a special annual tax but were otherwise allowed to practice

their religion and participate in the social and commercial life of the country.

There were walled Jewish communities, or mellahs, in such cities as Es-

saouira, a city on the western coast of Morocco, where Jews once made up over half of the population, and in the large Mediterranean city of Casablanca, which

became home to more the two dozen synagogues, Jewish schools and institutions. The great Jewish medieval philosopher Moses Maimonides settled in Morocco

Rabbi Peter Berg and Rabbi Lydia Medwin led the Temple’s trip to Morocco.

The Temple in Midtown hosted a trip to Morocco in November of 2022.

Morocco’s

Mohammed

has actively promoted a renewal of Jewish culture

before moving on to Egypt where he became a physician in the royal court.

Today, the burial site of another famous rabbi, Shlomo Bel Hensh, is popular with pilgrims. His tomb, from the 17th century, is seen as a magical place venerated by Moroccans of all religions. When Rabbi Medwin and her Temple tour group visited the tomb, they were impressed by the aura that appears to surround the rabbi’s resting place.

“People will go to these shrines and pray there for something magical to happen in their lives, health, and fertility and all the things that people pray for. But what’s interesting is that those same saints that were Jewish are also visited by Jews and non-Jews alike. So, Muslims will count these saintly people among their own.”

The degree of acceptance Jews enjoyed extended well into the 20th century. But with the rise of Arab nationalism in the 1950s and 1960s, the life of Morocco’s Jews became more precarious. Most of them left.

Today, there are over 900,000 Moroccans in communities in Tel Aviv, Ashdod, and Natanya but only about 4,000 Jews in the North African nation.

In 2020, Morocco signed onto the Trump Administration’s Abrahamic Accords. In exchange for United States support for Morocco’s claim to the Western Sahara, diplomatic ties with Israel were renewed and enlarged.

Just last weekend, Israeli govern-

ment officials visited Morocco to ease visa restriction that will help bring more Moroccans to Israel to work in the construction industry and in hospitals. Israel’s minister of interior and health, Moshe Arbel, hailed the expanded relations between the two nations.

“We are deepening our ties to Morocco and pouring more substance into the peace agreement.”

This year, approximately 200,000 Israelis are expected to visit Morocco, many to renew the cultural and religious ties they left behind more than a half century ago. That’s a big increase from the 70,000 or so that have visited in recent years.

American Jews, like The Temple delegation, are increasingly being lured by the government’s warm welcome, rich Jewish history, and economical tours. The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is planning its own trip to the country in November.

Rabbi Medwin came away impressed with what she feels is a new sense of energy in the small Jewish community that remains today.

“There’s a great sense, from what we could see, of optimism. The king has done an amazing job with infrastructure and the cities are beautiful. But there is a big question about what this progress means to the Jewish community. So, while Morocco has a fabulous Jewish past, we’ll have to see what kind of a Jewish future develops.” ì

King

VI (center)

in his country.

Government officials from Morocco and Israel signed a new agreement on June 18 to ease visa restrictions.

Emory Students Study Jewish Life in Poland

By Bob Bahr

For the first time since it was founded 24 years ago, the Emory University’s Tam Institute for Jewish Studies has sponsored a 10-day trip abroad for students to study Jewish life in Eastern Europe. The trip was led by Ellie Schainker, an Emory history professor with a dual appointment in Jewish studies.

Over a 10-day period, beginning in mid-May, 16 students, many of whom had taken professor Shainker’s course about Jews in Eastern Europe, visited both Krakow and Warsaw in Poland. Both cities were important cultural and religious centers for the large Jewish community, which totaled more than 3.3 million in Poland before the Holocaust. According to Schainker, the goal of the trip was not only to look at the country’s history, but to examine Jewish life today.

“We wanted to take the story of Jewish life to the contemporary moment,” Schainker said, “and to look at Polish Jewish life today. We wanted to really ask questions about memory and memorialization, now, about the effect of the Nazi occupation, and also about Jewish life under communist domination.”

The trip began in Krakow, which is the well-known setting for Steven Spielberg’s 1993 drama, “Schindler’s List.” Because Krakow was occupied early in the war by the Nazis and because it wasn’t bombed, its Jewish quarter and some of its important Jewish buildings and its Jewish ghetto survived.

Today, Krakow is the home of one of the largest Jewish cultural festivals in the world. The festival was started in the 1980s by non-Jews and attracts large numbers of Poles who are attracted to

the klezmer music of the past as well as performances of such musical dramas as “Fiddler On The Roof.”

For Schainker and her students, the success of the festival has been one indication of the new dynamism that is developing around Jewish life in Poland today.

“There is a kind of a breath of new life about Jewish identity, about Jewish pride. The Jews are also working alongside of non-Jewish Poles who are invested in Jewish heritage and Jewish renewal. And so, the combination of that…to me was…really interesting and actually pretty dynamic in terms of when we think of renewal writ large,” Schainker said.

Still, for students like Sasha Rivers, who majored in Jewish studies at Emory and graduated this year, there is no escaping the realization of what was lost during the Holocaust years.

“While I understand the frustration that many Jewish Poles have with the concept that Poland is a Jewish graveyard, this does not change the fact that it is. I think there is still much to be done, not only with Holocaust remembrance and education in Poland, but with postwar reconciliation in general.”

Jewish life in Poland suffered not only through the devastation of the Holocaust but by the official program of antisemitic purges by the Communist government in the post-war years. By 1968, it led to the expulsion of 13,000 Jews, many of whom had to renounce their Polish citizenship to be allowed to leave the country. It was a cruel blow for so many of them, who had survived the Holocaust only to see themselves persecuted yet again.

For Eric Steinberg, who is beginning

his third year at Emory in August, the trip was a real eye-opener.

“I never knew much about the thriving Jewish life in Europe before the war, and I had never stepped foot or even considered visiting Germany, the Czech Republic, or Poland – sites of the Shoah, until just a year ago. So, if there is any aspect of this trip that I know will stick with me, it is that I was able to break through this apathy by confronting Poland’s Jewish past and present firsthand.”

Schainker points out that Poland is developing into one of the most important centers in Europe for the academic discipline of Jewish studies. She and her group visited an institute for Jewish stud-

ies at a local university and had an opportunity to learn alongside students and discuss Jewish studies with them.

In Warsaw, they met with local students who belonged to the local Hillel chapter and had Shabbat dinner with them. The Emory professor believes it’s all part of a major effort by the small Jewish community in Poland to go beyond the memory of the Holocaust there.

“Jews aren’t just about the Holocaust in Poland, there’s this rich culture that is something to celebrate in Poland as well. I think there’s a bit of a nostalgia for the fact that Poland was once a very religiously and ethnically diverse place before the war. I think there’s a more pluralistic vision today of what Poland could be.” ì

Warsaw’s rebuilt Nozik synagogue has become a symbol of the renewal of Jewish life in Poland.

The Jewish Museum in Warsaw chronicles 1,000 years of Jewish history in Poland. Krakow Poland’s Jewish Cultural Festival is one of the largest such events in the world.

Boutique Jewish Tours to Italy

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

It’s not every day that two people meet at a synagogue and decide to form a travel agency.

In 2017, Delores Lazerson and Suzanne Rivchun met at Congregation Etz Chaim where they volunteered and served on various social and educational committees. While conducting a JewishItalian cooking program at Etz Chaim, focusing on the influence of Jewish food on the cuisine of Italy, a light bulb went on when Rivchun and Lazerson were surprised to learn that so many of the participants wanted to travel to Italy with them.

They had already planned a threeweek trip to Tuscany and Umbria, visiting multiple villages and towns where Jewish communities had thrived for millennia.

Rivchun said, “While we were on our Jewish quest learning about Jewish Italian history, we met with many locals and visited towns and synagogues throughout the regions. We were inspired by what we learned and wanted to share this with those who had expressed an interest in coming to Italy with us. This was our motivation to start DnS Boutique Travels, LLC.”

Both Lazerson and Rivchun grew up in New York and moved to Atlanta to pursue careers. Lazerson lived in Marietta for 40 years and recently semi-retired to Sarasota, Fla. Rivchun also semi-retired and has lived in Marietta for 45 years where she pursued a teaching career and then earned a doctorate in chiropractic medicine.

Lazerson’s lust for travel was instilled by her parents. Each year, they would pick a city on which to focus and spend several days exploring points of interest, visiting museums, and experiencing the local cuisine. Rivchun discovered her passion for travel after spending several months traversing throughout Mexico on her own post-college. She then made it her mission to follow her passion and continue traveling.

DnS opts to schedule tours during the cool spring and fall months. Lazerson said, “During the spring, the hills are green and covered with poppy fields, fragrant and fresh vegetables are in abundance. During the fall, the same hills are golden, and they are bountiful with olives, saffron and grapes. Both seasons provide our travelers with wonderful produce that is used during their cooking lessons with local chefs. Our classes are conducted in close proximity to ol-

ive groves and vineyards and on family farms. Following the lessons, our guests enjoy the foods they just prepared,” adding that meals are always accompanied by varieties of local wines.

When conducting Jewish heritage tours, guests are escorted to several hilltop towns and villages scattered throughout the Tuscan and Umbrian regions. Many are “tufa” towns built by the ancient Etruscans, and later used by the Jews who were able to hide in these tunnels during difficult times.

Rivchun elaborated, “There is a very rich history of Jews in Italy that many Americans are not aware of and it’s one of our goals to expose our guests to these beautiful communities, many of which

no longer support active Jewish life."

DnS Boutique tours include farmhouse accommodations, private group ground transportation, all meals, activities and centralized pick-up and drop-off in Florence.

Rivchun concluded, “We conduct our small group tours how we like to travel…immersed in the culture, food, and wine of the region."

For more information, contact dnsboutiquetravels@gmail.com. ì

DnS Boutique Travels Top Travel Tips

• Confirm that your passport is up to date and good for six months prior to your return to the U.S.

• Bring comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes for uneven surfaces.

• Purchase electrical adapters specific to Italy.

• Plan on layering your clothing to easily adapt to weather changes throughout the day. The countryside can be cool in the mornings and late afternoon.

• No need to take more than one checked bag and one carry-on piece of luggage.

• Pack two days of clothing and your medications in your carry-on and utilize packing cubes to save space in your luggage.

A DnS tour group living the good life with wine, pasta, history, and fellowship.

(From left) Suzanne Rivchun and Delores Lazerson met while volunteering at Congregation Etz Chaim.

Rivchun and Lazerson arrange hands-on regional cooking classes included in the tour. DNS tours enjoy the majestic and historic beauty of Italy mostly in the spring and autumn.

The Blues Head West for Boot Camp

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Local therapist Dr. Rick Blue, posed the question, “What 79 and 77-year-old would choose to spend two weeks at an adult boot camp in San Diego, required to rise at 6:30 a.m. and finish at 6 p.m., being active the entire time?”

Blue and his wife, Estee, apparently fit that bill as they returned for their fourth time to Premier Fitness Camp -designed to stretch them to their limits in structured exercise, diet, and wellness. The Carlsbad Omni Hotel and Spa boasts its 400 lush green acres, oversized Jacuzzi tubs, flatscreen TVs, holistic programming, and state-of-the-art equipment, all with seaside luxury, sunshine and saltwater, surf, and good vibes.

There, Blue said, is where “good health and great attitude are part of the culture.”

The camp makes health and fitness highly personal. Health markers, habits, stressors, lifestyle, blood pressure and personality are all factored in. Due to the claim that “99 percent of people who diet will gain back the lost weight plus an extra 10 pounds within a year,” Premier Fitness Camp uses Enneagram categories to understand personality type to gain self-awareness.

The Blues flew into San Diego and made their way into the OMNI La Costa 5 Resort and Spa at Carlsbad where campers have a room in the resort, according to Blue.

“But that’s where it ends. The resort is beautiful, but the boot camp is on the grounds where all campers eat meals together and exercise as a unit. It doesn’t matter what condition one is in. The program adjusts to each person’s needs…but everyone learns every exercise. The fun part of boot camp is hiking, exercising on the beach, and going on field trips when not in the gym. Some of the hikes are difficult and everyone is assessed with fitness tests and bloodwork. No alcohol, no salt, no sugar, no gluten.”

Is it a good value?

Blue says, “Yes, consider a room in a beautiful resort, three meals a day, and a full schedule of exercise and classes. It depends on how one wants to spend leisure time. For us, it is the positivity from campers (only 24 at a time) and staff making this truly a learning experience… it’s worth spending $5,000 for one week on wellness.”

While at the resort, he posted on Facebook grueling workout photos and the day’s chalkboard of meals: blueberry

pancakes with strawberry yogurt and fresh mint, mushroom truffle risotto, grilled chicken, broccolini and pineapple salsa.

Blue is a poster child for senior fitness. In Atlanta, as a senior jogger, he rises at 4:30 a.m. to hit the road most days and posts his results and trophies in various

Example of Premier Fitness Camp Agenda

MOVE session

Nutrition 101

Zumba toning

EAT session: common obstacles to losing weight

Boxing

Circle Up Circuit

Balance and coordination

Cardiff beach hike

Stretch it out

Laundry drop-off

Sample of the food board at Carlsbad

races he enters on weekends. Not coincidentally, he published research on aerobic running as treatment for moderate depression, among many other topics. ì

Cooking demo - falafel fun

Max muscle

THINK session: science behind motivation

The Row House

Breath and core

Slow Flow yoga

Aqua blast

Pilates

Batiquitos Lagoon walk

The fitness camp work out room has each camper learn every exercise.

Estee Blue (left) enjoys personal attention from staff members.

The Blues take a rare break near California flowers.

Estee Blue enjoys hiking while at the Premier Fitness Camp.

Expert Peter Greenberg Looks at Travel Today

By Bob Bahr

Peter Greenberg is one of the most popular travel writers in America. He’s the travel expert for “CBS This Morning” and he does the “Eye on Travel” series for CBS Radio. He also produces and hosts a television series, “The Royal Tour,” for public broadcasting. The series features world leaders giving Greenberg a personal tour of their country.

In 2014, Greenberg spent eight days with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a tour of Israel, an unprecedented concession by the busy leader to a single TV production. Earlier this year, Greenberg was a featured speaker at the Travel and Adventure Show at the Galleria Convention Center. The AJT spoke to him about the busy travel season ahead and some of his favored destinations.

AJT: First, we wanted to know how a travel writer who is always on the go spent his time when the pandemic made travel difficult or impossible?

PG: If there’s one thing the pandemic forced us to do, and I think it was a great thing, it forced us to rediscover our own country. It forced us to rediscover our own communities. I’ve lived in the same building in New York since I was six months old. And I thought I knew my neighborhood. Was I wrong? Because during the pandemic, my wife and I would walk. And because we had the time to do it and we…are not willing to even take a taxi. I learned so much about my own city just by walking and looking. I think there are so many communities and

cities in America that are considered flyover cities that can be done that way because they have so much to offer.

AJT: Now that airports are crowded again, what are some of your favorite foreign destinations?

PG: My basic way of operating is to follow the power of the U.S. dollar. You know, the U.S. dollar is at its strongest point against many foreign currencies in over 20 years, against the South African rand, against the euro, against the British pound, against the Turkish lira, against the Argentinean peso. I mean, what we’re talking about is the effective 30 to 40 percent discount on your real cost of travel just because you’re paying in dollars. We haven’t had that kind of wonderful experience in a long time.

AJT: Prices are high in Israel, though. Are they lower elsewhere in the Mediterranean?

PG: I was recently in Turkey. To give you an idea of the power of the dollar, every time I travel somewhere, I always stop en route to my hotel at a supermarket, and I load up because I will be damned if I use the minibar. In Turkey, I went to the supermarket and my wife and I loaded up, literally, two shopping carts and my total bill was $15. A cab ride from downtown Istanbul to the airport, which is longer than New York to JFK, is $5. They devalued their currency, which means it’s terrible for them. But from a traveler perspective, it’s a great buyer’s market, not just in Turkey, but in all those countries I mentioned. And a

great time to go.

AJT: Where else in the Mediterranean?

PG: Morocco is amazing, Casablanca’s a little overrated, but Fez and, of course, Marrakesh, are amazing. And if you really want to have fun, go to Tangier, and take the shortest flight in the world to Gibraltar. It’s seven and a half minutes. And Gibraltar is amazing. You know, you can use Morocco as a destination. You can also use it as a hub.

AJT: What about Spain? There’s so much history there.

PG: There are the usual suspects of Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. I like northwestern Spain. Nobody ever goes there to the Galicia area. Beautiful. Of course, in the northeastern part of Spain, there’s Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum. Phenom-

enal. And the best time to go is September when many tourists have left and it’s the best weather.

AJT: You were a long-time bachelor who married late in life. That was four years ago, just about nine months before the pandemic. Where did you go on your honeymoon?

PG: Well, I travel 450,000 miles a year. So, when it came time to honeymoon, we stayed home, and we had the best honeymoon. We didn’t have to schlep through an airport, and it was delightful. I have a summerhouse on Fire Island of New York. Thank G-d for my parents who built it. And that’s where we went. And it was the most delightful, peaceful, romantic honeymoon you could ever imagine, because…for the first time in a long time, I didn’t have to get on a plane. ì

Greenberg thinks Turkey is one of the best destinations these days because of its fascinating history and low prices.

One of travel expert Peter Greenberg’s destination picks is Gibraltar, a British outpost since 1713, located on the tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It was once the scene of an epic naval battle.

According to Peter Greenberg, September is best time to visit for northeastern Spain, which features the famous Guggenheim Museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry.

ARTS & CULTURE Curtain Goes Down on Immersive Disney Show

By Debbie Diamond

Almost three months ahead of its anticipated end date, Immersive Disney Animation has shuttered its doors here in Atlanta.

A few ticketholders who had not received the news were met with a sign on the door indicating the production was on a temporary hold due to non-payment by the producer of the show. The general manager of the large 44,000-square-foot facility was at the front of the building, directing visitors to a sign posted at the front door.

The sign read, “We are very sorry to report that as of June 2, Lighthouse Immersive, the producers of Immersive Disney Animation, has not made the payments necessary to keep this venue operational. We are saddened by this very unfortunate turn of events, and we are hopeful the producer will remedy the situation as quickly as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. Please visit www. lighthouseimmersive.com for more information.”

As recently as June 17, the Atlanta Jewish Times spoke to Corey Ross, cofounder, and producer, who gave no indication of problems and was ebullient about the production in Atlanta, one of 13 cities at the time featuring an Immersive Disney show.

When initially contacted about what appeared to be a temporary closing, Ross indicated there were “production issues.” Later, Nick Harkin, a public relations representative, responded to a request for comment with a statement indicating Lighthouse Immersive made the decision to close its production here in Atlanta and stated the current focus is to communicate the closing to guests and issue refunds for ticket purchases. The statement said, “Taking care of our guests is our top priority.”

Productions in Dallas and Houston were also shut down as of June 20. In Los Angeles, the show has been postponed until further notice.

On the Jewish Moms of Atlanta Facebook page, mothers looked for answers. One mom posted her tickets had been rescheduled for July, before learning the show was permanently closed and ticketholders would receive refunds. Several mothers had been looking forward to taking their children to the show and expressed their disappointment.

Staci Erin and her husband had

hoped to surprise their 8-year-old son with tickets to Immersive Disney. According to Erin, “My son did not know about the tickets, but we had planned our weekend around this event. We were definitely disappointed to receive notice that the show had closed.”

Immersive Disney Animation was created to bring the music and artistry

of Disney animated films to life, enabling visitors to feel like they have entered the worlds of their favorite Disney movies. From “Frozen” and “Zootopia” to “The Lion King” and “Peter Pan,” guests at venues interact with their favorite characters throughout the course of the show. Immersive Disney Animation shows are currently being shown

in Boston; Cleveland; Columbus, Ohio; Denver; Detroit; Las Vegas; London; Minneapolis; Nashville; San Antonio; and Tokyo. Lighthouse Immersive has produced world premieres of Immersive Van Gogh, Immersive Frida Kahlo, Immersive King Tut and Immersive Klimt: Revolution in more than 21 North American cities. ì

Immersive Disney Animation has officially closed its Atlanta location // Photo Credit: Kyle Flubacker

Feeling Young, Beachy, and Flush?

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Some of us suburbanites are chasms away from the already “up and coming” vibes in West Midtown. The Howell Mill/ Huff Road thoroughfare, just past the water plant, has risen with transformational multi-family and live/work/play gentrification.

Just past the Huff Road intersection rises the Intermix Building with the Rooftop LOA, a glamorous, yet urban, arrangement of beach, sand, palm trees, patio, fine dining, and expansive views reminiscent of South Beach’s Delano and Shore Club (sans the shore) with over 38,000 square feet.

As it goes with city venues, parking underneath is with the “P” app, and runs about $15 for two hours. Valet is also available at South Beach rates. After calculating which elevator to use, diners are transported to the rooftop. Driver’s licenses are checked. Don’t bring the kids!

LOA (Leave of Absence) is definitely chef-driven and not bashful about pricing. It was encouraging to see such a young vibrant crowd sipping exotic cocktails and affording caviar bling boxes for $95. The ambiance varies as guests are escorted around bends and turns to decide where to land -- outdoors on navy and white striped canvas lounges versus the air conditioned indoors tony space with curved burgundy banquettes getting accolades for its art. The full menu is available outdoors, too.

The restaurant describes itself as coastal opulence, a trifecta of talent. The Pool Club/Cabana accommodates 200 guests and has a 4,000-square-foot “garden-esque” bar, The Groove. The Pool Club opens daily at 11 a.m.

The service was cordial as team members showed up just to pour a sauce or bring fresh utensils. The general manager is visible on the floor and open for comments or requests. The chef’s experience hails from coastal Hilton Head to the Dallas Cowboys Social Club, explaining a ranged mélange.

What we sampled:

Beginnings: Red Snapper Crudo ($23) -- A white to pink solid fresh raw hunk of snapper plated over watermelon and yuzo…shareable but be prepared for thin Serrano pepper slices with “some like it hot” kick. Yellow edible flower petals appeared on various plates as conversation pieces.

Garden: Escarole salad ($18) -- Cress, stone fruit, pignoli, goat cheese and sher-

ry vinaigrette. The firm peaches stood out. Every tiny microgreen was carefully selected and fresh, and somehow the dressing load was a bit light to balance it all together; Fennel salad ($17) -- kale, watermelon radish, citrus supreme. The thin white strips of fennel were subtle.

Land & Sea: Patagonia sea bass ($55) – Sun-dried tomato reduction, baby turnips, white asparagus, kalamata olives. The tomato topping was thick and flavorful. The turnips were a surprisingly nice addition; Crisped tofu Romanesco ($28) -- two rectangles artfully decorated on edamame humus.

Desserts: (All $14) Gianduja chocolate bar -- with honey, hazelnut chocolate, buttermilk; House made banana-colada sorbet. Could have eaten a pint of that!

Other items on the menu that looked special: Strozzapeti Cacio e Pepe ($24) -- pecorina, tri peppercorn, pesto; Farrow with Swiss chard and mascarpone, cauliflower artichoke risotto ($12)

Other dessert choices: Shiso Lovely -- strawberry, lemon, meringue; Milk Man -- deconstructed cheesecake. Why not just have the cheesecake? Ca Phe & donutscoffee, coconut, and dulce de leche.

Option: Leave of Absence Menu -$150 per person for whole table participation.

Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday with items like brioche cinnamon rolls with pecan glaze labeled, “The Grand Sticky Bun of the South.”

The question lingers, where does

LOA fit in Atlanta’s dining scene at this price point? The answer…“In for a penny, in for a pound.” It has an impressive playful staycation feel…especially entertaining young adult visitors or family home from college. Just remember which elevator to take, where you parked, and bring an AMEX. We left before dark and got creative imagining what would happen when the place jazzes up later without us old fogies. A neon sign says, “Swim at your own risque.”

Space is available for private events. If the vibe sounds familiar, the owner, Slater Hospitality, also operates the Ponce City Market Rooftop with 84,000 square feet.

Rooftop LOA is located at 1115 Howell Mill Road. 470-922-3700 ì

The restaurant interior is spacious with a vertical main room, open yet intimate feel.

This Bling Box caviar goes for $95 -- splurge after hard day’s work.

Patagonia sea bass ($55) with sun-dried tomato reduction, baby turnips, white asparagus, kalamata olives. The tomato topping was thick and flavorful; and crisped tofu Romanesco ($28) with two rectangles artfully decorated on edamame humus.

Gianduja chocolate bar with honey, hazelnut chocolate, buttermilk; and house-made banana colada sorbet.

Chai Style Art

Koplan is the King of Arts

Adam Koplan is indeed “all that.”

Marcia

Caller Jaffe

Giving up a New York career as a professional “theatre maker,” he’s back to his Atlanta roots where he serves as director of performing arts at the Westminster School from which he graduated in 1991. There, he performed in a dozen plays and found his home onstage.

Koplan recalled, “Now back as an educator in the arts, the ‘truth and beauty arena,’ what we can accomplish here is transformational.”

Also, as a community leader, Koplan chairs the board of the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum. Spinning all these artsy spheres makes him an impresario indeed.

Take a flying carpet ride on his plug into the city’s art ecosystem.

Jaffe: Share your ties to Atlanta. Koplan: My parents are physicians.

Dad came to Atlanta to join the Public Health Service (as CDC director) and investigate infectious disease outbreaks. I went K-7 to the Hebrew Academy and 8-12 to Westminster. My family belonged (belongs) to Shearith Israel. After high school, I left to pursue my passion in theater to Philly, Paris, Seattle, and, ultimately, Manhattan, where I lived for 17 years before returning here. In 2016, I wanted my kids to enjoy Atlanta’s green space and community feeling. I love the arts, culture, and theater scene here.

Jaffe: Does theatre still have your heart?

Koplan: Like all first loves, there will always be an allure. Live theater, either as audience, teacher, or maker, is absolutely glorious. I must confess that my passions have expanded. I’m more driven by the movement to make arts and culture available and accessible for wide audiences—both generally and especially within the education system.

Jaffe: The Flying Carpet Theater, which you founded was…

Koplan: The company was named on a lark because we never thought it’d live past our maiden production. Some

buddies and I founded the company over 20 years ago predominantly as a vehicle to produce an adaptation of the “Arabian Nights” for the stage, and we took our name from “Arabian Nights” imagery. Our family puppet musical was a hit off-off-Broadway (very “downtown” venues) and then, to my great surprise, the company kept going. Regarding that early musical, we brought back a new version of it here at the Center for Puppetry Arts (2013). In the interim, the songwriter, Robert Lopez, had “popped” both in the puppet world with “Avenue Q” and in family entertainment because of “Frozen” and “Let It Go.” The success of that Center for Puppetry Arts production got us to a real off-Broadway theater, The Atlantic, and then a development deal with Fox Animation.

Jaffe: You are now at your alma mater, Westminster…

Koplan: As director of performing arts, I oversee a team of 21 full-time performing arts teachers in band, orchestra, drama, film, and choral music. We have an additional team of another 20-ish part-timers. Think of the way athletic directors oversee the schedules, budgets, coaches, and resources of a sports pro-

gram. I’m in the parallel role in the fine arts.

Jaffe: How has Westminster evolved compared to when you were a student?

Koplan: Westminster has the same spirit of drive and ambition, but is balanced now with a huge emphasis toward community and a welcoming vibe. The idea of Jewish teachers and a highly supported Jewish affinity club (who named themselves “The Matzoh Ballers”) would have been hard to imagine here in my youth. Also, in January, I’m involved with our “Janmester” trip to Poland (sponsored by Jewish alums). We have an overload of applicants from all ethnicities.

Jaffe: What does chairperson of the Breman board entail?

Koplan: We’ve undertaken a multipronged initiative to transform the institution to a large, dynamic cultural center complete with ongoing lecture series and live music. We’ve long been a museum, an important archive of Georgia and Alabama Jewish communities, and a major source of Georgia’s Holocaust education. The work of the last few years has been to build on this incredible legacy in order to work toward

Adam Koplan, director of performing arts at Westminster School, shares his vision on how creative expression can be transformational in educating students // Photos by Howard Mendel

This original 1920 Vaudeville poster has space in Koplan’s own home.

a Breman as a “big tent hub of culture.”

Jaffe: What art surrounds you in your Morningside home?

Koplan: Picasso’s 1969 texture series – given by my aunt whose college roommate was heir to the Abrams Art Publishing company and was gifted the series. They’re original color offset lithographs on white wove paper from the portfolio, “Portraits Imaginaires” (Imaginary Portraits). In 1969, Picasso received a shipment of painting supplies with packing materials in sheets of brown cardboard. Picasso painted a series of imaginary portraits in brightly colored gouache

Right: These Koplan family treasures, hammered metal coins and Torah plates, are featured in “Great Jewish Portraits in Metal.”

Left: Affable and confident, Adam poses by two works from Picasso’s, “Portraits Imaginaires,” numbered editions. Some French, some American, totaling only 500.

Below: This original 1920s Carter the Great “store card” and limited series reprint of antique Chung Ling Soo posters are a wink from Koplan about his love of the stage.

Above: Original photography by Dan Winters of citrus fruits sits above Koplan’s fireplace.

CHAI STYLE

on the sheets of cardboard. Renowned lithographer Marcel Salinas later collaborated with Picasso to create lithograph plates from those gouache paintings. The lithograph reproduces the texture of the cardboard. (Since Salinas created the plates, it’s technically an “after” Picasso.)

I also enjoy original Vaudeville 1920’s posters and limited series of antique Chung Ling Soo posters. Over the fireplace we have photographs by Dan Winters, who’s known for his eclectic celebrity photos (think of Angelina Jolie in a swarm of bees), and scientific photos and illustrations. More sentimentally, we collect leather masks from an Italian Commedia Del’Arte mask maker (I studied acting with masks for a year in Paris), family treasures like hammered metal coins and Torah plates.

My wife, Nicole, has great taste and collects art deco furniture from New York with green patterns –sometimes she gets a “find” on Craig’s List

Jaffe: Last word...

Koplan: I feel really blessed to have such purpose-driven work. Though, I’m not sure I should be given a “last word” on anything. After all, I did spend a year at French clown school. ì

Above: Adam Koplan chills in the set construction behind the scenes in the Westminster School Theatre.

Below: Koplan’s home in Morningside is “stage” for his own art and family memorabilia.

Art deco furniture from New York was selected by spouse, Nicole. The leather masks from an Italian Commedia del’Arte mask maker are highlighted by two of the limited Picasso editions.

Various Dates

Water for Elephants: Running towards a new life, Jacob Jankowski hitches a ride on a mysterious train. He finds himself in the heart of a traveling circus, the Benzini Bros Most Spectacular Show On Earth, with a new job, a new home, and a new family. "Water for Elephants" will reignite your dreams of running away with the circus. This adventure of love, family, and belonging speaks to us all. Purchase tickets at the Alliance Theater at https://bit.ly/3IU4hkY.

SUNDAY, JULY 2

Kabbalah and Coffee - 10 to 11 a.m. Discuss, explore, and journey with Intown Jewish Academy through the world of Jewish mystical teaching and learn how to apply these profound teachings to your daily life. This ongoing class probes the esoteric through a unique program of English text-based study. No prior Kabbalistic experience required. Learn more at https://bit. ly/3V3sfiE.

MONDAY, JULY 3

Jeff’s Place Café – 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Need a place to host your Mondaymorning business meeting? Looking to meet a friend for breakfast and coffee? Craving some bagels and lox before heading into the office? Come to Chabad Intown and find out more at https://bit. ly/3IRgve6.

THURSDAY, JULY 6

Knit and Crochet Group - 1 to 3 p.m. Join Dor Tamid and crochet and knit beanies for premature babies from home. Find out more at https://bit.ly/3VY3R1j.

SATURDAY, JULY 1

Mike and Amy’s Independence Day Concert - 6:30 p.m. Havdalah, music, ice cream truck, and fireworks at Congregation Dor Tamid. RSVP at https://bit.ly/43NnVrc.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5

FRIDAY, JULY 7

Kabbalah Café – 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. Fuel up your week with the transformative teachings of Kabbalah as you enjoy a gourmet hot breakfast and coffee bar. You’ll study textbased spiritual wisdom that gives you practical guidance to living a healthy and empowered life. Join Beth Tefillah by visiting https://bit. ly/3Ak2BfX.

Torah Study - 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join Rabbi Jordan either on Zoom or inperson at Congregation Dor Tamid and continue an in-depth look at the Book Leviticus. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3WfabkL.

SOJOURN’s Drawing from the Well -12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to experience the magic of inclusive community during Drawing from the Well. Drawing from the Well is SOJOURN’s inclusive weekly meetup for LGBTQ+ Jews and allies. Find out more at https://bit.ly/3ZrKEXi.

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.

Shabbat with Parents! - 7:15 to 9:30 p.m. Young Professionals - Bring 1 or 2 parents to our Shabbat table to show them what you love about Shabbat with the Brookhaven Kollel! Register at https://bit. ly/3p0yDLR.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Chukat-Balak

Friday, June 30, Tamuz 11, 5783 Light Candles at 8:34 PM

Saturday, July 1, Tamuz 12, 5783 Shabbat Ends 9:36 PM

Torah Reading: Pinchas

Friday, July 7, Tamuz 18, 5783 Light Candles at 8:33 PM

Saturday, July 8, Tamuz 19, 5783 Shabbat Ends 9:34 PM

Torah Reading: Matot-Massei

Friday, July 14, Tamuz 25, 5783 Light Candles at 8:31 PM

Saturday, July 15, Tamuz 26, 5783 Shabbat Ends 9:31 PM

SUNDAY, JULY 9

Kabbalah and Coffee - 10 to 11 a.m. Discuss, explore, and journey with Intown Jewish Academy through the world of Jewish mystical teaching and learn how to apply these profound teachings to your daily life. This ongoing class probes the esoteric through a unique program of English text-based study. No prior Kabbalistic experience required. Learn more at https://bit. ly/3V3sfiE.

TUESDAY, JULY 11

Yoga and Meditation - 7 to 9 p.m. Join Congregation Gesher L’Torah for Yoga and Meditation. Ages 13+. Please bring your own mat if you have! Register at https://bit. ly/3WE3wkH.

Guy’s Scotch and Steak Dinner7:30 p.m. Enjoy a guy’s night out poolside with Brookhaven Kolleh Scotch and Steak Dinner! RSVP at https://bit.ly/45V2K83.

THURSDAY, JULY 13

Knit and Crochet Group - 1 to 3 p.m. Join Dor Tamid and crochet and knit beanies for premature babies from home. Find out more at https://bit.ly/3VY3R1j.

FRIDAY, JULY 14

Kabbalah Café – 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. Fuel up your week with the transformative teachings of Kabbalah as you enjoy a gourmet hot breakfast and coffee bar. You’ll study textbased spiritual wisdom that gives you practical guidance to living a healthy and empowered life. Join Beth Tefillah by visiting https://bit. ly/3Ak2BfX.

MONDAY, JULY 10

Jeff’s Place Café – 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Need a place to host your Mondaymorning business meeting? Looking to meet a friend for breakfast and coffee? Craving some bagels and lox before heading into the office? Come to Chabad Intown and find out more at https://bit. ly/3IRgve6.

Brain Health Bootcamp - 1 to 3 p.m. If you are recognizing symptoms of cognitive changes or have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, JFCS fun and social class can help you strengthen your mind and body to stay sharp, especially during these times. Sign up by visiting https://bit.ly/3tPwMs3.

Jaya Ganesh Hosts Open Mic! - 7 to 10 p.m. Jaya Ganesh Hosts Open Mic for her Bat Mitzvah Project at local “Ground & Pound” Find out more at https://bit.ly/3NAjfPO.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12

Torah Study - 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join Rabbi Jordan either on Zoom or inperson at Congregation Dor Tamid and continue an in-depth look at the Book of Leviticus. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3WfabkL.

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.

SOJOURN’s Drawing from the Well -12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to experience the magic of inclusive community during Drawing from the Well. Drawing from the Well is SOJOURN’s inclusive weekly meetup for LGBTQ+ Jews and allies. Find out more at https://bit.ly/3ZrKEXi.

Dive into Shabbat - 5 to 7 p.m. All are invited to celebrate Shabbat at the MJCCA outdoor pool and splash pad! The open swim begins at 5:00 followed by Shabbat songs and blessings with Rabbi G at 6:00 pm followed by grape juice, challah, and ice pops. Bring your own dinner and purchase drinks/treats at the snack bar. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3PfZrm1.

Chunky Coffee Ice Cream

Dessert Tacos

Although tacos usually brings to mind a tomato-y meat sauce dinner (surrounded by Mexican paraphernalia), I decided to try a sweet variation. This taco dessert was a hit! The combination of flavors and textures had all my tasters requesting seconds (of which there were none, because I was the first taster!).

Ingredients

Taco Shells

2 packages fried mini taco shells (I used Del Campos) melted chocolates, for drizzling (I used baking chocolate, white chocolate,and caramel chocolate chips)

1/4 cup crushed pretzels (optional)

Ice Cream

5 eggs, separated

2/3 cup sugar

2 tablespoons vanilla sugar

2 tablespoons coffee granules, dissolved in 2 teaspoons hot water

1 (16-oz./450-g.) container Kineret Non-Dairy Whipped Topping

2 cups crushed chocolate-coated pretzel balls

Directions

Prepare the Ice Cream

1.In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites until frothy, gradually adding sugars until a shiny, stiff snow forms.

2.Add the vanilla sugar, coffee, whipped topping, and the egg yolks, and beat until the mixture is stiff.

3.Gently stir in the crushed chocolate-coated pretzels by hand.

4.Pour ice cream into a container and freeze until firm, at least 24 hours.

Prepare the Taco Shells

1.Place each type of chocolate into a plastic bag and soak in a bowl of boiling water until it melts.

2.Working with one bag at a time, cut off a tiny tip from the corner of the bag and drizzle on the overturned tacos, using a quick back-and-forth motion. Repeat with remaining chocolates; allow chocolate to harden.

To Serve

1.Place two to three mini scoops of ice cream into each taco shell and sprinkle with a bit of crushed pretzels, if desired.

2.Serve with fresh fruit.

Recipe by Faigy Grossman

Styling and Photography by Chavi Feldman

The Newspaper

Moshe was sitting at the breakfast table one Sunday morning reading The New York Times. He had just read an article about a beautiful film star who had announced that she was going to marry a football player who was famous not only for his aggression on and off the field, but also for his lack of IQ and common sense (basically, Rob Gronkowski). In fact, he was “thick as two planks.”

Like many men, Moshe loved hearing his own voice and liked to report aloud stories he read from the paper. So, he turned to his wife, Sadie, and said, “I’ll never understand why the biggest schmucks get the most attractive wives.”

Sadie replied, “Why, thank you, darling.”

YIDDISH WORD

Heymishcamer

n. Someone who tries to pass himself off as just a regular guy but is actually something quite different: a scam artist.

“Beware of Gary. With a smile and a pat on the shoulders, he’ll glad-hand you out of your life’s savings. A real heymischcamer.”

From the Yiddish heymish, meaning “homey or quaint.”

Looks Like He Made It

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

Difficulty Level: Medium

FOLLOW :

ACROSS

1. Two Presidents

6. Jonathan Pollard, once

9. Make challah, e.g.

13. “American Pie” destination

14. Romantically pursue

15. Neglect to mention

16. Insurance company with a very well known jingle by 47-Across

18. Bad points

19. Very capable

20. #1 hit by 47-Across

21. New York hometown of 47-Across

25. I, at ulpan

26. Poetic palindrome

27. Toothpaste-pushing org.

28. Former Swedish cars

30. Possible class for native Swedish speakers, for short

32. Common can material

35. Apt #1 hit for 47-

39. Either of two books of the Apocrypha: Abbr.

40. Forensic focused TV show

41. Repeal a levy

42. Amtrak listing, briefly

44. Dominate, to gamers

46. Frankfurt freezer cubes

47. Singer born June 17, 1943 (with the last name Pincus)

50. Spoof of 20-Across, as sung by Homer Simpson

52. ___ Steve (spelling instruction, three words)

53. “The Time Machine” people

54. Where 47-Across might celebrate his birthday?

58. Chess word

59. It can be behind the eightball

60. More secure

61. What the words “dungeon” and “crustacean” have, when spelled correctly

62. Stat. for Mahomes

63. The Ari’s city

DOWN

1. Michaels and Roker

2. Lions or Tigers, on scoreboards

3. Classics star Gardner

4. It can be precious or heavy

5. Furthest from posh

6. Organized bartering occasions

7. Haifa and Eilat, e.g.

8. Start of many Israeli holidays

9. Southern home of many (former)

Jewish New Yorkers

10. “A Stranger ___ Us” (Lumet film)

11. Protein bar brand

12. Crafts site

17. It’s the path to the Dark Side

20. What a cancelled name often becomes

21. “Now, where ___?”

22. How the Israelites were left after the Torah was given

23. Makeup artists?

24. He played Batman

29. Says “Shalom”, in Western Europe

31. Kirk and Spock, e.g., on the Enterprise

33. Chip-making giant

34. New Zealand mystery writer Marsh

36. Plug-in vehicle, briefly

37. Least cloudy

38. Major Austin, TX festival

43. Stab

45. Start a Shabbos meal, perhaps

47. G major’s middle

48. An “Evolution of Jewish Music” singer

49. Ancient Americans

50. Bit of office correspondence

51. Israeli hero Ramon

54. Pretend to be someone else

55. Like one not hitting shots

56. It may be split at a restaurant

57. Works at a museum?

OBITUARIES Murray Cohen

80, Atlanta

The Cohen family is sad to announce the passing of Murray Cohen, age 80, in Atlanta, Ga. He passed away at his home, surrounded by his immediate family after enduring Lewy body dementia. Murray was born in Montreal, Canada, and lived there until 1977, when he moved to Atlanta with his wife, Roz, and daughters, Elana and Pamela.

Murray had many talents that he was always willing to share with his family and friends. He was an expert in anything mechanical or construction related. He wholeheartedly volunteered his time and talents to many organizations, including The Epstein School, the Dorothy C. Benson Center, Woodland Forest subdivision, and many others. He was the first person to be called for advice and assistance whenever family or friends needed help with anything from fixing a car to building a deck. He arrived with everything needed to tackle a problem, whatever it was, and didn’t leave until everything was fixed to his standards.

Murray loved animals, and throughout his life had a special connection with all of our family pets. When he was young, Murray would bring stray dogs, cats, and even ducks and snakes home. Weekends spent at the family lake-house, which he built, would be filled with a cacophony of laughter and barking dogs.

He will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 59 years (to the day), Rosalyn (Roz) Horovitch Cohen, daughters, Elana Cohen Yoels (Matthew), Pamela Cohen (Steven Fineberg), grandchildren, Sophie Fineberg, Bailee Yoels, Molly Yoels, Scott Fineberg, Levi Fineberg, Camille Yoels, and Brandon Yoels, sister, Mildred Cohen Handelman (Oscar), and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Sophie Schacter Cohen and Max Cohen. A graveside service was held on at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at Arlington Memorial Park. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Rita Harkavy Edlin 94, Atlanta

Rita Harkavy Edlin, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away on June 24, 2023, at the age of 94. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, Rita was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Rita graduated from Walnut Hills High School and the University of Cincinnati. She married her one-and-only Leonard in 1952. Six years later, they moved to Atlanta with three sons, all under five years old, so Leonard could work at Davison’s Department Store. Through her children and her many activities, Rita quickly met dozens of families who warmly welcomed her to Atlanta and most remained close friends ever since.

Known by many as Reetzie, she was the beloved matriarch of her family. She was known for her bright, inquisitive mind and her substantial accomplishments at golf, bridge, bowling, cooking, and worldwide travel. Rita was the repeated women’s golf champion at the Standard Club, president of Atlanta Woman’s Golf Association, an American Contract Bridge League Gold Life Master and organizer of several bowling leagues at Express Lanes. She and Leonard combined their love for bridge, travel, and each other by teaching bridge on luxury cruise ships, making many voyages throughout the world.

Rita is survived by her sons, Shiel (Margo) and Todd (Lori); grandchildren, Adrienne (Jeff Harari), Ari, Carly, Jay, Samantha (Preston Gelman), Allison, Jake and Will. Great-grandchildren, Mia, Zachary, Charlotte, and Sloane. Rita is also survived by sisterin-law, Roz Harkavy, eight nieces/nephews and the Andrew Edlin family.

Rita was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Leonard Edlin, parents, Gussie and Benjamin Harkavy, and brother, Franklyn Harkavy. A special thank you goes to her angelic caregivers, Wendy Moomba and Carla Cole. Their dedication and affection have been a blessing for six years.

Guenther Herman Hecht 95, Alpharetta

Guenther Herman Hecht, 95, of Alpharetta, Ga., passed away on June 15, 2023. Born in Bielefeld, Germany, his family came as refugees prior to WWII. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after graduating high school and went on to study at NYU. In the later years of this career in retail, he became a vice president of Rich’s Department Store which is what brought his family to Georgia.

After retirement, he founded a non-profit food rescue, Second Helpings, in Hilton Head, S.C. It has collected over three million pounds of food and donated it to charities throughout the low country. Then, in 2004, he started another Second Helpings, in Atlanta, which has been just as successful. Guenther loved traveling the world with his wife, bike riding, and swimming.

He is predeceased by his parents, Leo and Herta Hecht, brother, Arthur Hecht, and son, Daniel Hecht. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Louise Hecht, son, Laurence Hecht, grandchildren, Mallori (Curtis) Potts and Amanda (JonEric Krye) Hecht, and great-grandchild, Calvin Potts. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Temple Sinai or Second Helpings Atlanta. The graveside funeral was held on Tuesday, June 20 at CrestLawn Cemetery, Rabbi Brad Levenberg officiating, with a gathering of remembrance at Temple Sinai. Arrangements made by Dressler’s, 770-451-4999.

Sam Kaplan 84, Atlanta

Sam Kaplan, age 84, died June 22, 2023, at his home in Atlanta, Ga. Mr. Kaplan was born on Nov. 6, 1938, in Washington, D.C., to parents, Ruben and Clara Kaplan. He graduated from Calvin Coolidge High School and proudly served two years in the U.S. Army Infantry.

Following his time in the Army, he owned and operated The Copper Penny, a hometown restaurant in Richmond, Va. He later worked as a salesman for both roofing and home security companies. He was known to his friends, family and customers as the consummate salesperson and an eternal optimist. Even people who met him for only a few minutes were struck by his charisma, charm, and friendliness. His optimism lasted through his last days, when he kept the hospital staff entertained with his jokes and by singing the showtunes he loved.

His joyful spirit was a constant source of pleasure and motivation for all who knew him. “I could always turn to my dad when I was having a tough time in medical school,” said his son, Craig, now a physician. “He always came through with encouragement, comfort and advice.”

In his earlier years, Mr. Kaplan was an avid snow skier and motorcycle rider, and even piloted small aircraft. He was also quite the handyman who successfully completed many repair jobs at his home.

Mr. Kaplan loved dining out for special occasions. Nothing was better to him than a Chinese food dinner or a good steak.

He was also a dedicated animal lover, especially cats. He and his wife donated much of their time and resources to feeding and caring for the feral cats in their neighborhood, even taking them to the veterinarian for healthcare at their own expense.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Roxanne Kaplan, and by two sons, Jeff and Craig (husband, Brennan O’Dell) and by four granddaughters Ita, Aliza, Racheli and Esther. The longtime animal lover also left behind his beloved “fur babies,” Annabelle, Fiona, Keesa Jane, and Peaches.

As a memorial, donations may be made to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (www. bestfriends.org) in Moab, Utah. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-9999.

Barbara Smith Pomerance

75, Bethesda, Md.

The ultimate caregiver, cheerleader, adviser, connector, strategist, humorist, performer, entrepreneur, friend, mother, wife and grandmother, Barbara Smith Pomerance died on March 24, 2023, after a five-year battle with lung cancer. She was 75.

Born in Lyons, Ga, she grew up in neighboring Vidalia, home of the sweet onion, and as befit her extraordinary career in public relations, shipped bags of onions to anyone on her it list, leaving a trail of sweetness and fanfare wherever she went.

But onions were only the beginning for Barbara, who focused relentlessly on the sweet amid the bitterness, and especially as she fought cancer. “Here’s to the bittersweet,” she said in a toast at her brother’s wedding more than 50 years ago, a saying that became a family joke but ultimately defined her.

Laser focused on others, she paid great attention to making them feel seen, supported, and special. After she passed, dozens emerged with nearly identical stories –about how Barbara asked about and recalled every detail of their lives to uplift, love and care for them. She thought constantly of how to help others and practice “tikkun olam.” And she seemed to possess superhuman energy and drive for productivity. The ultimate insult was to tell Barbara she looked tired. Her children joked that she considered napping for an hour of weakness.

Unsurprisingly, Barbara made a career of putting others first. As a communications executive, she launched her clients with innovative promotions, partnerships and strategic tactics that earned outsized media coverage.

A steel magnolia, Barbara was so fierce that she navigated the old-boys network of auto dealers as p.r. director of the Washington Auto Show, the largest public show in D.C., elevating it to a world-class, tier-one auto show as the industry’s public policy show. Only Barbara could pull off an event that drew the president of the United States and cabinet members as well as pop culture icons like Herschel Walker and Snooki. And she charmed them all.

“I loved the game of life,” Barbara said with a smile, as her life was ending. “That’s my story … I loved the ride, and I was boosted by it.”

Like Nancy Drew, a favorite childhood character, she approached challenges like a sleuth, from canasta with Atlanta friends to gaming Delta’s SkyMiles system or boxing out anyone who might steal The Washington Auto Show – even after she moved from Rockville, Md. to Atlanta in 1987, she commuted for nearly 30 years for the show, making it, like her, a force to reckon with.

She could do it all. And she could do it in heels, racing home from work to assemble a perfect dinner or whisk her daughter to the mall for a quick excursion.

Barbara’s star first rose in Vidalia, where she flourished even as she stood out. When her teacher called on children to relay their church’s Sunday sermon, Barbara shared the weekly Torah portion her Bubbe taught her when she heard her teacher announce: “Hebrew.” Barbara earned every badge as a Girl Scout Brownie and graduated (much to her competitive chagrin) salutatorian from Vidalia High School, where she excelled in speech and drama and perfected a mean impression of Phyllis Diller. “Do Phyllis Diller!” her father would exclaim, beaming as she summoned an outrageous cackle from her diaphragm.

Barbara attended the University of Florida, where she studied broadcast journalism (inspired by Barbara Walters), performed at Gator Growl, served in Angel Flight, and channeled her caring exuberance as rush chair of Alpha Epsilon Phi.

It’s also where she met her husband of nearly 54 years -- a law student named Leon Pomerance, so gob smacked by her he proposed on the second date. She declined.

But the summer after she graduated, Barbara wed Leon, the love of her life.

She wore an unstructured sack of a gown remarkable only for its wide, square neckline. A dress consultant surveyed Barbara’s figure and determined she should showcase her neck, an anecdote she relayed with her exquisite ability to laugh at herself. In photographs of her wedding day, an ethereal crown of pink roses adorns her face and white lace frames her luminous décolleté, which was, like the rest of her, breathtaking.

She birthed both children without any balm – afraid to tamper with any drugs that might harm them.

And when she fought cancer, she refused to take enough pain pills, claiming her

threshold was high and changing the subject. Really, she traded comfort for presence. She didn’t want to miss anything.

And she didn’t. She celebrated everything. When Barbara became a Delta million miler, despite an ancestral fear of flying she overcame, she tried to host a party in the Delta Sky Lounge or hangar announcing: “Barbara is a million-heir!” Delta said they were proud of her but denied the request.

When her daughter first menstruated, Barbara picked her up from middle school in a car full of balloons, prompting carpoolers to ask about the achievement – and her daughter’s lifelong loathing of helium.

Barbara designed swag for every vacation and gave her children legendary birthday parties – for example, recording commercials at a colleague’s radio station where 10-year-olds made great use of inappropriate sound effects. Her children’s friends gleefully joined Barbara’s escapades – photo Opps with the Chippendales at a 1980s beauty expo, curbside seats at a wrestling match for a sleazy mattress client and manning booths for TEAM Georgia, a safe driving coalition, at Atlanta’s sporting venues. Of TEAM’s original 17 chapters, only Barbara’s endured. The Barbara Smith Pomerance Collection documenting her expertise is housed in the Event Management and Marketing Archives at George Washington University.

But her most impressive feat was the courage, will, faith and grace Barbara demonstrated in her last five years. Through surgery, radiation, chemo, immunotherapy, and the countless pills she kept track of to keep alive and to offset the side effects of each of them, she never complained. She smiled through it. On her last trip to the E.R., she urged her daughter and son-in-law to go out for dinner.

She remained present, intuitive, connected to others and increasingly to G-d and funny as ever.

“Make sure Leon gets my Delta SkyMiles,” she said. And when an orderly took her meal requests the night before she died, she asked for “the works” for breakfast and said, with a smile, “I guess they think I’m going to make it until lunch.”

“Friends and family first,” she mumbled to her family, who initially mistook it for “French fries” – her personal kryptonite. She shook her head and uttered her last words: “Be selfless.”

She lived the definition of holiness – to make the mundane meaningful – and her children aim to honor her legacy: to help more, love more, include people, be present with them, and be selfless.

She leaves behind her husband, Leon Pomerance of Bethesda, Md., brother, Richard (Sandy) Smith of Marietta, son, Mitch Pomerance (Hilary Flynn) of Boston, daughter, Rachel Pomerance (David) Berl and grandchildren, Talia, Josh, Benjamin, and Eden Berl of Bethesda, Md. She also leaves a colossal network of generations of, as she put it, “friends like family,” so that her children’s friends are her friend’s children. She cultivated these relationships so diligently that her spirit lives among them.

Barbara was a longtime member of B’nai Torah, where she served on the board, as well as Beth Tefillah. And she was involved in Atlanta Scholars Kollel, Temima High School and Leadership Sandy Springs.

Donations may be made to a fund in her name for early detection of lung cancer at Lungevity.

OBITUARIES

Jeanette Zbar Rand 96, Atlanta

Jeanette Zbar Rand, 96, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away on Saturday June 17, 2023. Born and raised in Tampa, Fla., she was predeceased by her parents, Phil and Mary Zbar, and her husband of 56 years, Sheldon “Shelly” Rand. She was a dedicated mother to two, grandmother to four and great-grandmother to five.

Jeanette was a spunky, red head who always had a smile on her face and left an impression wherever she went. She was generous, energetic, animated, had Yiddish phrases to spare and was known to turn lemons into lemonade. She was a devoted daddy’s girl, lover of her tchotchkes, an excellent cook and couldn’t pass up a home-grown tomato stand. She was an avid pet lover, who had many dogs throughout her life and most recently, her beloved cat, Allie Mae. Jeanette never met a stranger and was the life of the party…if you could get her there.

Jeanette and Shelly owned and operated a chain of ladies’ clothing stores out of Little Rock, Ark. Upon retirement, they moved back to her beloved Tampa to be closer to her father. There, Jeanette and Shelly spent their time volunteering at various organizations, such as St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tampa Performing Arts and Tampa Tourism. She later settled in Atlanta to be closer to her family.

Most important in Jeanette’s life was her family. She was a selfless matriarch and proud of all the life that she brought to the world - an ever-growing family who adored her presence.

Jeanette is survived by her two daughters, Lisa (Walter) Cohen, Betsy (the late Mark) Dow; grandchildren, Michael (Avital) Cohen, Brian Cohen, David (Julie) Cohen and Greg (Dana) Dow; and great-grandchildren, Gabriella, Maya, Fiona, Ariel, and Philip. A special thank you goes to her angelic caregivers, Maria Ileogben and Josephine Bayode, who lovingly called her “Mama.” Their efforts on her behalf will never be forgotten. Graveside services were held at 10 am, Wednesday, June 21 at Arlington Memorial Park, Sandy Springs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) or the Atlanta Humanity Society. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Scherrer-Diamond Outreach Coordinator

Regine Rosenfelder 92, Atlanta

Regine Rosenfelder, Holocaust Survivor, sister, mom, aunt, grandma and greatgrandma, passed away at her beloved Atlanta home on June 14, 2023. Regine, known to family members as Aunt Gini and Gigi, was born to Sally and Herz Dollman on March 21, 1931, in Antwerp, Belgium. During the World War II Holocaust, a young Regine and several of her family members were placed in hiding in an abandoned train station near the little town of Vicque, France. Constantly on the move, Regine was sheltered in numerous locations, including the children’s homes of Chateaux des Morelles and La Chaumire.

Family members of every generation are well-acquainted with the stories of a young Regine hiking through the woods to obtain bread in the nearby French town, and of making a pot of apple sauce from one huge apple. Arriving in the United States on the ship, SS Washington, with two of her cousins, a 17-year-old Regine lived with her aunt and uncle in the Virginia-Highlands neighborhood of Atlanta.

Quickly learning what English she could in the three months before the school year, Regine was a proud graduate of Bass High School, class of 1950. On her very first weekend as a member of the “New World’s Club,” Regine spotted across the room a handsome young man. Regine and Johnny had a wonderful marriage until his untimely death in 1992.

Holidays were special to Regine, a consummate cook who would feed 20 people at the main table, and grandchildren at the children’s table. Thanksgiving lunches, Fourth of July picnics and birthdays were her favorites. Regine’s youthful appearance and energetic personality belied her age. Her medical providers double checked Regine’s wristband just two weeks before her passing to make certain she was the 92-year-old patient referenced in the medical chart.

Regine was a regular at Congregation Beth Jacob, Hadassah, and Eternal Life Hemshech. She returned to Europe many times, and thoroughly enjoyed her travels. Regine is survived by her children, Cynthia Lessinger (Howard) and Henry Rosenfelder. Her granddaughters, Robyn Lessinger (Steven Aussenberg), Lori Schapiro (Robert) and Karin Alhadeff (Andrew). Her four great-grandchildren, Hayley Alhadeff, Nina Schapiro, Max Aussenberg and Brady Alhadeff. A sister, Suzan Tibor. Several nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families. Special thanks to Regine’s caregiver during the difficult last few days, Candice Morrison.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Regine’s honor to Congregation Beth Jacob (www.bethjacobatlanta.org), Eternal Life Hemshech (eternallifehemshech.org) or Hadassah of Atlanta (www.hadassah.org). Regine lived life to the fullest. May her memory be a blessing. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Robert Silverman 88, Marietta

Robert (Bobby) Silverman was born on Sept. 24, 1934, and passed away on June 14, 2023. Bobby, as he was known, was predeceased by his parents, Lee and Sidney Silverman, grandson, Phillip Michael Silverman, and the love of his life, Eileen Silverman, all of blessed memory.

Bobby and Eileen met when she was 13 and he was 14. Five years later, they married. That marriage lasted for 63 years. They had three sons: Rick (Kathi) San Bruno, Calif. Cary (Judy) Sarasota, Fla., and Alan (Bonnie) Marietta, Ga. They had four grandchildren; Brandon (Lauryn), Charleston, S.C., Jeremy, San Bruno, Calif., Laura, Brooklyn, N.Y., Phillip, OBM and one great-grandchild; Eden, Charleston, S.C.

Bobby graduated from Grady High School in 1952. Bobby excelled in sports at Grady, once being voted as Athlete of the Year in the State of Georgia. He also earned more varsity letters than anyone at Grady, a total of eight in football, basketball, and baseball. After a tryout with the Boston Red Sox, he was offered a contract at 17 years old, but because of the Korean Conflict and the thought of him being drafted, his father would not sign it. Instead, Bobby went to the University of Georgia where he played baseball in his freshman year. An injury ended his baseball playing career, so he transferred to Georgia State University in Atlanta, starting his sophomore year. In 1953, he and Eileen were married. In 1956, Bobby graduated from Georgia State and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He and Eileen moved to Ft. Benning, Ga. where he started his Army service. After his active duty, he was in the reserves until his honorable discharge as a captain in the U.S. Infantry.

In 1959, Bobby began work at Zep Manufacturing Co, where he continued to work for 53 years as a salesman and sales manager. He retired in 2012 and spent a lot of time with his other love and passion, golf. When Eileen passed away in 2017, he lost his best friend and the love of his life.

Any contributions should be made to the Phillip Michael Silverman Memorial Fund at Congregation Etz Chaim, 1190 Indian Hills Pkwy, Marietta, GA 30068, or a charity of one’s choosing. A graveside funeral was held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 16, at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mount Vernon Hwy NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30328. Arrangements by Dressler’s 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 404-8832130, 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

Was It Termites?

Several years ago, we bit the money bullet and built a “folly,” a small outdoor, porchlike structure with four walls, screened windows, and a roof. The entrance to our folly, because of the slope in our backyard, must be reached via a wooden ramp.

Last fall, a man working in our yard knocked at our back door. He pointed to two splintery ramp boards. “Someone’s gonna fall through and break a leg,” he said, ominously. “You better have those boards replaced.”

Grateful that the man had not himself fallen through, we called a workman to replace the two boards. However, the workman advised replacing all the other wooden ramp boards because they, too, felt weak and dangerous. I had visions of unsuspecting rampees falling through, breaking crucial body parts, and holding us responsible for their misfortune. I had two related fears:

would we cause innocent ramp users to need leg casts, and would we get sued for negligence?

The two board replacements were done when it was almost winter—the season in which we don’t use our unheated folly; therefore, we decided the other ramp board work could wait until folly time in the spring.

But a visit from relatives during an unusually balmy winter Sunday found us cavalierly partying in our outdoor folly. Chubby relatives walked up and down the ramp, mentioning that they felt some “weak, shaky boards” underfoot. So, a few days after the fete, we called the repairman to come back to replace all the other old ramp boards.

Here comes the fun part: When he removed the rest of the old boards, he found that the boards were weak and buckling because of the ramp’s deteriorating supporting substructure below. He advised calling our pest control company because it looked like we were providing life-sustaining sustenance to termites that were consuming the ramp’s underlying wooden support.

In general, with few exceptions and ample bug spray, we maintain a neutral policy toward insects, and, anyway, regular ter-

mite inspection is covered in our pest control contract. So how could termites have escaped our pest controller’s detection? We demanded that a termite expert come to witness the company’s supposed dereliction of duty.

A manager came, witnessed, and declared, “You don’t have termites. You have carpenter ants eating the boards that support the ramp.” I, previously a staunch admirer of ant diligence and hierarchical sophistication, instantly became an ant hater. The manager explained that the ground under the ramp structure would have to be covered with cement, so that no carpenter ants could ever again get from their underground home to surface and dine on the wooden ramp supports. After the cementing, the whole ramp substructure needed to be rebuilt, followed by rebuilding the ramp. This required two more workman visits.

When the workman finished, upon receiving our hefty check for cement, wood, and four visits, he pointedly advised, “If you want the best solution, you should build a solid, all-cement ramp.” Here’s an aesthetic question: Would you like a massive polyhedron ramp of cement dominating your backyard? Besides, cement ain’t cheap. We

stuck with wood.

That very evening, I saw a program on PBS claiming that carpenter ants are a favorite food of woodpeckers. Unfortunately, I discovered that you can’t buy hungry woodpeckers on Amazon.

Our ramp is now open for business. The ground under the ramp’s been fully cemented, and a new substructure and ramp have been built.

Many neighbors have carpenter bees, but I learned that no one in our area has carpenter ants masticating on their property; our ramp was the only carpenter ant dining facility in the neighborhood. We consulted sagacious rabbis who were doubtful whether a specific piece of land could be cursed, and, if so, whether the curse could be woodeating ants. With no definite rabbinical directive, we prayed that the malevolent ants would relocate to somewhere where there are lots of ravenous woodpeckers.

Last week, our pest control guy checked our property and noted that we’d rebuilt the ramp. I couldn’t help asking whether he believed a specific piece of property could be carpenter ant cursed. “Dunno,” he answered. “But you better keep your eye on your wooden fence.” ì

Chana Shapiro

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