Beineinu - Summer 2025

Beineinu The newsletter of Ahavath Achim Synagogue • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue •

havath Achim cultivates a Jewish community of A purposeful belonging. We inspire and support spiritual journeys by deepening relationships with

one another. We believe it is at the crossroads of our spiritual paths that life’s purpose and G-d might be found.

Ahavath Achim creates a vibrant, inclusive, spiritual community that empowers individuals to connect Jewishly beyond themselves.

Beineinu… between you and me The Newsletter of Ahavath Achim Synagogue Funded by a grant from The Center Family Foundation

f AhavathAchimSynagogue l @aasynagogueatl y Ahavath Achim Synagogue D www.aasynagogue.org V 404.355.5222 ] 600 Peachtree Battle Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30327 CLERGY Laurence Rosenthal Rabbi Mike Rothbaum Interim Associate Rabbi Neil Sandler Rabbi Emeritus STAFF Barry Herman Executive Director Annsley Klehr Interim Director of Education Jackie Nix Director of Development Lauren Dube Director of Marketing Lauren Dyckman Director of Congregational Engagement and Events Chris Carr Director of Facilities Investigator Joe Jones IV Director of Security Catherine Ficke Executive Assistant to the Executive Director Jill Rosner Executive Assistant to the Rabbis Stan Vogel Finance Manager Fern Schorr Receptionist Anita Alexander Facilities Wesley Coney Facilities Deionta Huff Facilities Ken Johnson Facilities Kirby Johnson Facilities Anthony Pless Facilities Rodney Richardson Facilities Tyler Slayton Facilities Beth Arnold Helmey Ahava ELC Director Samantha Deal Pedagogista Heidi Herman Ahava ELC Administrator Susan Goff Ahava ELC Bookkeeper

AA embraces interfaith families who desire to be part of our Jewish community. Our spiritual community serves all who wish to connect with us.

WEEKLY SERVICE SCHEDULE Morning

Evening

Sunday

9:00 a.m. (H)

6:00 p.m. (V)

Monday

7:15 a.m. (H)

6:00 p.m. (V)

Tuesday

7:15 a.m. (V)

6:00 p.m. (V)

Wednesday

7:15 a.m. (V)

6:00 p.m. (V)

Thursday

7:15 a.m. (H)

6:00 p.m. (H)

Friday

7:15 a.m. (V)

6:00 p.m. (H)

Saturday

9:30 a.m. (H)

1.5 hours before sunset (H)

(V) Virtual

(H) Hybrid

OFFICERS OF THE BOARD Mark Stern President Adam Hirsch Executive Vice President Josh Hanna Financial Vice President Nikki Novotny Vice President Ryan Posner Vice President Taylor Smith Vice President Gary Alembik Immediate Past President Mindy Margolis Sisterhood Co-President Sara Papier Sisterhood Co-President

1 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A Message from the President

By Mark Stern

much to celebrate.

I

t’s hard to believe how quickly this year has flown by since I began my term as President of the Board. What a year it has been! I remember wondering what we— as a board and as a community—would accomplish. Following in the footsteps of Gary and Gerry was no small task, but as always in synagogue life, there was much to do and so

We started strong with inspiring High Holiday services, led so beautifully by Rabbi Rosenthal, Rabbi Rothbaum, Cantor Helene Kates, and our amazing clergy team. We were fortunate to have Rabbi Rothbaum join us for the rest of the year and make such an impact in our services and lifecycle events. As the holidays came and went, we found ourselves diving into the rhythm of synagogue life with energy and purpose.

In late fall, we began the important search for an Assistant Rabbi for Education. Thanks to the thoughtful leadership of Sarah Cohen and Randy Weinstein, who laid the foundation and opened many doors, we were able to conduct a meaningful and successful search. We are thrilled to welcome Rabbi Feld to our community—he brings warmth, wisdom, and a passion for learning that we know will enrich us all.

Our legacy and endowment efforts, led by Taylor Smith and Gerry Benjamin, continue to flourish.

In just the past year and a half, we have received nearly $3 million in new contributions—an incredible testament to the generosity and commitment of our community.

January brought a heartfelt and memorable Rabbi Rosenthal Appreciation Weekend, led by Nikki Novotny. As a gift, the Rabbi received a stunning handmade tallit—designed in part by him—that we look forward to seeing him wear at High Holidays and beyond.

We also enjoyed some incredible programming this year, from the joyful and spirited “Clergy Boys” performance to meaningful educational events.

Ken Feinberg, Helaine Lasky, and Nancy Levine spearheaded our AA’s Response to Antisemitism and Hate Working Group, hosting two powerful programs on the challenges facing our community.

Gary Alembik also brought us a thought-provoking session with our Congresswoman.

Our sanctuary continued to serve as a central gathering space, hosting numerous communitywide events and reinforcing our role as a hub for Jewish life in our city.

Our Greening Group, led by Myrtle Lewin and Mark Papier, has made great strides toward sustainability. The solar panel project they initiated is now well underway—an inspiring step toward a greener future for our synagogue.

This spring brought a significant and emotional change: we made the decision to close the Ahava Early Learning Center.

We have so many amazing groups working to make our Atlanta community better through the arts and giving back. Our Cultural Arts Committee, led

by Ivan Millender and supported by the Marilyn Ginsberg Eckstein Cultural Arts Fund, held multiple concerts throughout the year, gathering AA and Atlanta community members together for wonderful performances by a variety of artists.

The Blood Drive Committee, spearheaded by Gail Solomon, continued to hold quarterly drives at the synagogue, helping to provide an average of 65 pints of blood at each drive. Backpack Buddies, led by Carla Wertheimer, has packed meals each week for the kids at E. Rivers Elementary, while the Hunger Walk, spearheaded by Sally and Bebe Kaplan, and Operation Isaiah initiatives raised money and collected food, both groups working to end hunger in the city.

While this chapter has ended, we are excited about a new beginning. We’re proud to be partnering with the Suzuki School to create a dedicated “Ahava Program” within their school—a program designed for the children of our members and for all Jewish families who attend. Rabbi Rosenthal has worked closely with Suzuki to develop a meaningful Jewish curriculum that ensures our values continue to thrive.

Looking ahead, we are energized by all that’s to come. Rabbi Rosenthal will continue to emphasize learning, education, and spirituality, and we are so fortunate to have Rabbi Feld joining us to help guide that journey.

I feel deeply honored to be part of this remarkable community and to work alongside such a committed board and staff. I want to extend heartfelt thanks to my outgoing executive committee—Ryan Posner, Nikki Novotny, Josh Hanna, Taylor Smith, and Adam Hirsch—and I look forward to a wonderful year ahead with my new executive team: Nancy Levine, Andy Cozewith, Randy Weinstein, Taylor Smith, and Ryan Posner.

Wishing you all a joyful and restful summer—I can’t wait to see you in shul!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 2

A Message from the Executive Director

By Barry Herman

T

hose who know me well might find it amusing to hear me say, “It’s not about the money,” especially when we are celebrating such a strong financial year.

But truly—it’s not about the money.

Of course, I could give you the usual facts and figures: as of the end of April 2025, we are $25,000 ahead of our bottom-line profit budget, $40,000 under our expense budget, and right on target with our revenue budget. We’re on track to balance the budget again. Our endowment and various funds have reached record highs, and we’re seeing those savings directly benefit our bottom line.

Add to that the success of our Clergy Boys fundraiser and the fact that we’ve already surpassed our fundraising goal for the year— clear signs that our community feels hopeful and invested in the future. But again, it’s not about the money. It’s about what the money represents.

There’s a teaching from the Talmud: “Ayn kemach, ayn Torah”—without sustenance, there can be no Torah. In Judaism, we elevate the mundane—time, energy, resources—by using them for sacred purposes. We transform what is ordinary into something holy by investing it in our community and our mission.

This season gives us a chance to reflect. We’ve just come through Pesach, the festival that marks our freedom from slavery. And now, we count the Omer each day, leading us toward Shavuot, when we celebrate the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. That moment wasn’t just a religious event—it was the birth of the Jewish people as a nation with purpose.

As we remember our ancestors’ journey through the desert, we’re reminded of how each tribe contributed uniquely. The tribes encamped around the Mishkan (Tabernacle) in a carefully ordered fashion, each with its own banner, symbolizing distinct qualities and roles: • Judah camped to the east and led the way when the nation traveled, symbolizing leadership and initiative.

• Issachar, camped alongside Judah, represented scholarship and the deep study of Torah.

• Zebulun, also in that group, symbolized commerce and supporting Torah study through material means.

• Levi, in the center, surrounded the Mishkan and served as spiritual leaders and caretakers of the holy space.

• Dan, positioned to the north, was known for justice and often served as judges and protectors.

• Asher, to the west, was associated with abundance and providing for the community’s physical needs.

Each tribe had its unique strengths, and none stood alone. The beauty of the encampment around the Mishkan was that it symbolized unity through diversity. Each person and group brought something vital to the whole.

Even the way the tents were arranged taught a lesson: no tent entrance faced another. This subtle design emphasized mutual respect and privacy, even in close community life.

In the same way, our congregation thrives not just because of financial success, but because of each of you. Every contribution—whether financial, time spent on a committee, leadership, showing up for services, or helping behind the scenes—reflects a personal commitment to something bigger than ourselves. Like the tribes in the desert, each person’s offering strengthens the whole.

As we look ahead to the next financial year, I feel tremendous optimism—not only because of the numbers, but because of the heart and spirit behind them. Together, we are creating something sacred.

I wish everyone a Chag Sameach and offer my deepest gratitude to our extraordinary community. Thank you for sharing your gifts— financial, personal, and spiritual.

May we continue to grow together in the year ahead, with each person finding their unique role in building a vibrant, enduring community—not only for today, but for generations to come.

Continuity is the message. We are part of something greater than ourselves—and we are building a future that honors our past.

3 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A Message from the Director of Congregational Engagement and Events Your Place. Your People.

By Lauren Dyckman

A

t Ahavath Achim, we’re more than a synagogue — we’re a community. As Director of Congregational Engagement and Events, my hope is for every member, at every age and stage, to feel connected, inspired, and truly at home here.

For some, that connection might come through prayer or learning. For others, it may be through participation in other groups that focus on areas of mutual interest such as social action, spiritual singing, greening and sustainability, cultural arts, refugees, interfaith inclusion, mature active adults, or simply laughing and connecting with Sisterhood or Brotherhood. (Just to name a few!) Whether your path is spiritual, cultural or social—it’s all deeply Jewish, and it all matters.

Come as You Are. Connect with Others.

Getting involved is one of the most meaningful ways to build relationships and discover your place within our community. Whether you join a group, serve on a committee, or attend a single event—that’s how lasting connections begin.

That’s how we build something real together.

There are opportunities for leadership, learning, impact and growth. And if you don’t see something that speaks to you, let’s talk! I’d love to hear your ideas. Together, we can shape new ways to get involved that match your passions.

This is your place, your people—and your presence makes us stronger.

Get Connected. Stay Inspired.

Email: ldyckman@aasynagogue.org Phone: 404.603.5749

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 4

A Message from the Rabbi A Year of Growth, Transition, and Renewal

By Laurence Rosenthal

A

s we reflect on this past year at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, I am filled with immense gratitude for our c o m m u n i t y ’ s resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to Jewish values. The year 5785 has been defined by meaningful transitions, deeper connections, and exciting new beginnings that will shape our congregation for years to come.

Vibrant Community Engagement Our High Holiday services this past year witnessed unprecedented participation through our “Finding the AA Tunes” campaign. This initiative not only brought more voices into our sacred space but also uncovered remarkable stories that illuminate the rich character and history of our congregation.

These narratives have strengthened our collective identity and highlighted the diverse threads that make up the fabric of our community.

Leadership Transitions and Partnerships This year marked an important chapter in our synagogue’s leadership journey. Our comprehensive clergy search process invited us to examine deeply who we are as a congregation and envision the future we wish to create together.

This introspective work led us to Rabbi Eric Feld, whose passion for Jewish learning, teaching, wisdom, and tradition beautifully complements our congregation’s vision for the future. I am eagerly anticipating our partnership and the fresh perspectives he and his family—Ashley, Ezra, Isaac, and Abby—will bring to our community.

It has also been my great privilege to work closely with Rabbi Mike Rothbaum this year. His passionate advocacy for justice and his powerful voice for the voiceless have been truly inspiring.

Even in areas where we’ve held different perspectives, these conversations have challenged me to either reconsider my assumptions or more clearly articulate my understanding and purpose.

Rabbi Mike has significantly strengthened our

social justice initiatives, and I am committed to honoring and building upon this important legacy that he entrusted to us during his time here.

Educational Transitions This year has been marked by significant changes in our educational programming. Perhaps one of the most notable developments has been our new partnership with the Suzuki School to create a collaborative Jewish preschool within a secular early childhood learning center. While this exciting new venture means closing our beloved Ahava preschool – a decision that brings profound sadness – I remain immensely proud of what Beth Arnold Helmey, her dedicated staff, and all the Ahava families have built together. Creating and nurturing Ahava has been one of the greatest joys of my career.

It has also been a year of working and learning with Annsley Klehr as she concludes her tenure leading our Religious School. Annsley has brought tremendous passion to our supplementary education program and holiday programming.

She has challenged me to think more deeply about creating meaningful educational experiences, and I’ve learned so much watching her inspire teachers and volunteers with her never-ending well of energy, excitement, and positivity. While we will certainly miss her dedication, we look forward to the transition as Rabbi Feld builds upon the amazing programs she has cultivated.

As we navigate these educational transitions, I find comfort in knowing that with every ending comes an opportunity for a new beginning. The AA Synagogue-Suzuki partnership presents a wonderful chance to introduce Jewish values, culture, holidays, Hebrew language, and kashrut to a broader community of children and families.

Strengthening Our Connection to Israel In a year of tremendous challenge for Israel and the Jewish people worldwide, our congregation focused intensively on deepening our connection with our homeland. Through High Holiday and Shabbat sermons exploring Israel and paths forward, multiple visits from Consul General of Israel for the Southeast Anat Sulton-Dadon, hosting the community Yom HaZikaron service, and ongoing classes and discussion groups, we worked diligently to expand understanding,

5 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

increase meaningful dialogue, and strengthen our bonds with Israel.

Personal Milestones On a personal note, this year brought the tremendous joy of seeing my youngest child, Naftali, become a Bar Mitzvah over Memorial Day weekend. Witnessing his hard work, growing Jewish knowledge, and deepening connection to ritual and Torah filled me with indescribable pride. The coming year will bring another milestone as my oldest child prepares to leave for college—another transition that brings both pride and poignancy.

Interfaith Connections This year also provided meaningful opportunities to deepen connections with our neighbors of different faiths. I was honored to offer the sermon at our interfaith Thanksgiving service and was deeply moved to be the only nonCatholic invited to offer greetings and teaching at a special Catholic Mass honoring the passing of Pope Francis at the Cathedral of Christ the King.

These moments of interfaith dialogue remind us of our shared humanity and common values across different faith traditions.

Looking Forward As we enter a new year together, I am filled with optimism about the journey ahead. I look forward to building a fruitful partnership with Rabbi Feld, supporting my children through their educational journeys, developing our innovative relationship with the Suzuki School, and continuing to strengthen the bonds that connect our congregants with each other, our Jewish tradition, Israel, and God. The path forward may not always be smooth, but the strength, compassion, and wisdom I’ve witnessed in our community this past year give me confidence that together, we will continue to create a vibrant Jewish future filled with meaning, purpose, and joy.

May the coming year bring healing, growth, and renewed connection to us all.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 6

A Message from the Interim Director of Education Magical Moments: A Reflection of Kesher and Nesiah

By Annsley Klehr A s I reflect over our two years together, I am filled with awe – awe of the magical community our children, teachers, and parents helped us to create. Our children fill the halls with laughter, ideas, and kindness.

Our teachers hold boundaries and space for these moments, and our parents trust us to hold their children in B’tzelem Elohim, in the image of G-d. I am grateful to our children who make every day one filled with energy, beauty, and, of course, challenges; our children push us to be our best selves.

I wanted to share some examples of magical moments using our Kesher and Nesiah mission as our framework. Below, our mission is spelled out next to numbers, and below it, you will witness how we are seeing our mission come to life.

1) Teach each student to be confident and comfortable in Jewish spaces (Shabbat, synagogue, celebrating holidays, and understanding rituals) When we see our Menches class (5th-6th graders) and pre-B’nai mitzvah class wrap themselves in teffilin, or watch an older child lean over to help a younger child find a prayer in a siddur, or participate each week as a havadallah helper, we see their confidence unfold. When volunteers like Julia Bernath come to teach the art of challah making, celebrating Shabbat becomes an incentive. When our kids learn to light the menorah or achieve all four mitzvot on Purim, they have begun to understand the deeper meaning of our holidays and gain comfort with understanding.

2) Instill each student with Jewish values for his/her personal growth and identity Every day during our Kehillah (community time), we come together to shout out the kindness in our community. From our students, we have heard, “Thank you for offering your snack to me.” “Thank you for making me feel welcome.”

“Thank you for being my friend.” We take time every day to acknowledge the good, Hakarat Hatov, and acknowledge Chesed, acts of lovingkindness. By being able to see the gifts of others, we are becoming more thoughtful and appreciative of the Jewish community.

We give out badges for Kavod Kudos, a badge given to someone who gave 100% of themselves to be the most respectful that they can be. (That does not look the same for each child.) At the end of the day, I wandered into a class that was trying to determine who deserved the Kavod Kudos.

This was often determined by a class discussion.

This particular class used a 1–3 scale of fingers to show how respectful they thought they had been, with one being the most respectful. During this discussion, one child put up a one, and the other kids thought that she should get a two. So, we asked the child why she thought she should have a one, and the child responded, “I think I deserve a one, because I sat with the class and listened the whole way through, and it was my first time doing that.” Not only did the classmates decide this child should get her first Kavod Kudos ever, but this child also demonstrated the Jewish value of Cheshbon Nefesh, examining one’s actions, self-reflecting, and growing from it. Cheshbon Nefesh is the value that we hope each and every child can become more adept at demonstrating during their time with us 3) Help each student find where he/she fits in to become responsible Jews and stewards of their communities and the world.

We spent time with Myrtle Lewin, our greening guru. Myrtle shares her passion for preserving and being a steward of the environment, along with Jewish values that echo her passions. We learn tikkun olam, caring for our world, by

7 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

planting daffodils, trees, living walls, picking up trash, and more. Like the plants we tend, Kesher and Nesiah continue to help us grow to be our best selves.

Each week, the children bring in tzedakah, and during the year, we determine how we want to spend it. Our students are part of yet another tradition, one in which we as Jews learn to take care of our community.

4) Provide each student space to explore what being Jewish means to him/her Our teachers create spaces where our children feel safe enough to take risks and learn about what being Jewish means to them. Sometimes it’s by making Challah or Hamantaschen. Sometimes, they do so by wandering around the sanctuary and stopping at a place that they are curious about. Other times, it’s holding a siddur and learning how sacred it is to us. Some students connect with drumming together in song and prayer, while other kids find meaning in the re-enactment of Abraham’s three visitors to his tent. One class offered students a place to think critically: When does criticism of Jews turn into antisemitism? And yet another class looks at the parsha (Torah portion of the week) and makes it relevant to this generation of students by focusing on the unique talents of Esau and Jacob and how our unique talents play a part in our identities. Our oldest students this year focused on the Origins of their Prejudices through their Jewish lens, digging deeper into their personal histories and those of other cultures. Kesher & Nesiah provide safe spaces for our students to be Jewish and explore what Judaism means to them.

child has a role, I know that we have created a Jewish experience for our kids in which everyone is part of the making of joy.

Teach each student to question, problemsolve, and build a just world through hands-on experiences Our children at Kesher and Nesiah get to wonder, be curious, and solve problems together in their classes, electives, or in mixed-age groupings during our community times. You hear teachers ask questions like, “How might we be able to...?”

“Is there something in here you might be curious about?” “What can we do to help...?” “What do you think about...?” There are no right or wrong answers, but a safe space to process and grow. We use our imaginations to problem-solve together whether we are short Hamantaschen ingredients, or wondering about what types of content will we need in our yearbook, or trying to figure out how to help our friends be their best selves in the classroom, or practicing listening to all arguments so that we can figure out how to bring peace back into our world. Together, we at Kesher and Nesiah continue to make our community and our world a better place.

May our friends at Kesher and Nesiah continue to see beauty within themselves and others, continue to create and share magical moments, and continue to use Jewish values as their guide to creating a more just world.

The Nesiah program is generously sponsored by the Judith and Aaron z”l Alembik Ahavath Achim Youth Education Program Fund.

5) Help each student find joy in being Jewish When you see the wide-eyed, open-mouthed awe of a child watching fireworks during our Sparks of Light Hanukkah festival, thanks to Wayne Neuwirth, or witness children vying to be the first to volunteer to hold our Israeli flag, you know the kids are happy to be in these Jewish moments. (We now have three Israeli flag sizes to give everyone a chance!). When you watch a child take the first bite of their homemade challah and tell me all about it, they have found joy in being Jewish.

When a child raises his hand to make a discovery about the carvings in the pews of Ellman Chapel or the wood relief work on the reader tables, there is excitement in the air. When a 5th grader tells me, “This is the only place where I make Jewish friends my age,” we know there is joy in coming.

When I watch an entire class during free time gravitate towards a game together, where each • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 8

A Year in MESHORERIM—5785 HIGH HOLIDAYS Sunday, September 22, 2024 The High Holiday Children’s Choir, led by Bonnie Levine, rehearsed for 5785 High Holiday services.

THE JUDITH AND AARON Z”L ALEMBIK AHAVATH ACHIM YOUTH EDUCATION PROGRAM— REVERSE TASHLICH Sunday, October 6, 2024 Kesher students joined us for the Greening Group’s Reverse Tashlich event and learned from Myrtle Lewin (Greening Group chair) how to pick up trash for proper disposal.

YOUNG ADULT ENGAGEMENT SUBCOMMITTEE—SUSHI IN THE SUKKAH Monday, October 21, 2024 Young Adult Engagement Subcommittee members celebrated Sukkot at Sushi in the Sukkah hosted by Bonnie and Michael Levine in their sukkah.

(From left to right: Jacob Kanter, Brandon Goldberg, Edwin Gomez, Adam Rosen, Julia Cohen, Zoe Eisenberg, and Jackie Nix) 9 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

n Pictures THE RESPONSE TO ANTISEMITISM AND HATE COMMITTEE— DAFFODIL PROJECT Sunday, November 17, 2024 Members of the Response to Antisemitism and Hate Committee and Kesher students planted daffodils as part of the Daffodil Project which aims to plant a daffodil for every child who perished in the Holocaust.

(From left to right: Nina Field, Holland Smith, Helaine Lasky, and Abby Klareich)

INTERFAITH INCLUSION COMMITTEE—CHALLAH BAKE Sunday, November 17, 2024 The community joined the Interfaith Inclusion Committee and Kesher families for a challah bake.

SPARKS OF LIGHT + SUMMER EXPERIENCE EXPO Sunday, December 15, 2024 Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal and Michael Levine led Sparks of Light attendees in songs and a practice lighting of the Chanukiah. During the event, everyone also enjoyed a summer experience expo, yummy food, and a fireworks display by Wayne Neuwirth.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 10

INCLUSION AND BELONGING INITIATIVE—CHANUKAH PARTY Sunday, December 22, 2024 The Inclusion and Belonging Initiative, in collaboration with the Friendship Circle of Atlanta, hosted a joyful Chanukah party. We were thrilled to share the festivities with many of our friends with intellectual and physical disabilities from across the Atlanta area. The event was filled with laughter and connection as we played Chanukah bingo, created festive crafts, and enjoyed traditional treats like latkes, fruit, and sufganiyot. (From left to right: Nate Sussman and Lynn Sussman)

AHAVATH ACHIM REFUGEE INITIATIVE— COAT DRIVE December 2024 In December, The Ahavath Achim Refugee Initiative (AARI) delivered over a hundred coats, hoodies, or other warm outerwear to New American Pathways, and lots of other clothing to the Welcome Co-Op’s Shop of Hope, which supports refugee families who came to the U.S through any one of the four resettlement agencies operating in Atlanta.

It took six carloads to deliver everything collected.

ZABAN PARADIES CENTER January 2025 In January, volunteers delivered food to homeless couples at Zaban Paradies Center (From left to right: Jennifer Rosenfeld, Vicki Morris, and Sharon Silvermintz)

11 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tuesday, January 28, 2025 At a board meeting, board members took a tour of the dome and rafters above the Sanctuary (From left to right: Chris Carr, Nikki Novotny, Mark Stern, Randy Weinstein, and Adam Hirsch)

CLERGY BOYS FUNDRAISER Thursday, February 13, 2025 We kicked off 2025 in style with an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and heart presented by the Marilyn Ginsberg Eckstein Cultural Arts Program Fund! Over 300 community members joined us for our fundraiser, Clergy Boys: Oh What a Night! The show Clergy Boys: Four Seasoned Cantors Sing the Stories of Their Lives! featured an all-star lineup of extraordinary talent: Cantor David Propis, Cantor Randy Herman, Cantor Mike Stein, and Cantor Steven Stoehr.

ROSH AND NOSH Friday, February 28, 2025 Minyan regulars and Ahava parents came together to welcome Rosh Chodesh with meaningful learning and warm conversation, elevating the start of the new month in community and connection.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 12

BIRTHDAY AND ANNIVERSARY BREAKFAST Sunday, March 2, 2025 We welcomed the return of a time-honored tradition— the Birthday and Anniversary Breakfast! The community was invited to join celebrants of January, February, and March birthdays and anniversarties for a breakfast and celebration.

CULTURAL ARTS CONCERT—SIBLING RIVALRY Sunday, March 2, 2025 Guests joined for the Fourth Annual Dr. Jerome and Betty Berman Concert Series, “Sibling Rivalry.” Everyone enjoyed an inspirational afternoon of spirited music, presented in conjunction with the Marilyn Ginsberg Eckstein Cultural Arts Program, in celebration of Jerome and Betty Berman, two people who adored music and whose lives brought joy to so many. The concert featured two sibling duos (David Coucheron and Julie Coucheron and William Ransom and Kate Ransom) who battled it out on the violin and piano.

PURIM PALOOZAA Sunday, March 9, 2025 Lily Margolis helped Micah Papier pick out a prize at our annual Purim PaloozAA carnival.

13 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

BACKPACK BUDDIES Sunday, March 9, 2025 At our Purim PaloozAA carnival, Backpack Buddies helped the community fulfill one of the four mitzvot (good deeds) of Purim, Matanot LaEvyonim (helping those in need), by collecting non-perishable and individually packaged items packed food to fill backpacks for food-insecure elementary school children. (From left to right: Gabriel Smolar and Sally Pinsker)

HUNGER WALK RUN Sunday, March 9, 2025 The relationship between the Atlanta Community Food Bank and AA Synagogue began in 1985 and continues to flourish today.

Over 200 congregants displayed their support of our team, Sally Friend’s, by joining the Walk or embracing the mitzvah of Tikkun Olam with their generosity and making a difference in countless lives. For the past 30 years, we have raised more funds for Hunger Walk than other faithbased organizations. (Picture not from this year’s event)

PURIM Thursday, March 13, 2025 Our community came together for a spirited Purim celebration, highlighted by a vibrant Megillah reading featuring Steve Grossman, Bella Ebrams, and Ma’ayan Rosenthal. The experience was elevated by the joyful sounds of The Scott Glazer and Marla Feeney Klezmer Quartet. The festivities continued with casino nightthemed activities, adding fun and excitement for both teens and adults.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 14

SISTERHOOD—DONOR EVENT Sunday, March 30, 2025 At the 2025 Sisterhood Donor Event, chaired by Rachael Joseph and Nikki Novotny, members alongside children and grandchildren created custom jewelry and collaborated on a group painting led by artist Judie Jacobs. The artwork will be displayed in the Women’s Lounge, a space renovated through Sisterhood’s generosity. Thanks to our 121 donors, Sisterhood continues to support the youth education program, congregational enrichment, and the Greater Atlanta community— celebrating the legacy of tradition and connection across generations.

(From left to right: Lola Barden, Gail Habif, and Lauren Barden)

BROTHERHOOD Thursday, April 10, 2025 The community gathered at the home of Tova and Mark Cohen for Brotherhood’s annual Horseradish-making event!

Participants prepared homemade horseradish for their Passover seders. (From left to right: Mark Cohen, Mark Fleishman, and Ryan Posner)

MATURE ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITY Thursday, May 1, 2025 The Mature Active Adult Community (mAAc) hosted an unforgettable tour of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum. Attendees were treated to a rare and inspiring experience that brought history to life. (From left to right: Charlotte Marcus, Mark Coan, Jon Winner, Sue WInner, Alan Schulman, Judy Schulman, Patsy Little, Richard Siegel, Bill Little, Barbara Ribner, Bruce Ribner, Bob Tepper, Jeannie Tepper, and Gail Solomon) 15 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

BLOOD DRIVE Sunday, May 5, 2025 Melissa Cohen and Gary Alembik gave blood at the quarterly Blood Drive.

GREENING GROUP Sunday, May 5, 2025 The Greening Grop collected 312 pounds of electronics—not including the weight of five TVs and monitors, glass bottles, and household chemicals—to bring to the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials for proper disposal.

That’s a major impact! (From left to right: Patsy Little, Nikki Novotny, Mark Papier, Bill Little, Myrtle Lewin, and Ed Rittenbaum)

TECH INTEGRATION TEAM The Technology Integration Team created their own committee picture using technology. (Back row, from left to right: Mark Cohen, Nikki Novotny, and Michael Joseph; Front row, from left to right: Damon Fanooni, Ryan Posner, and Jim Dricker)

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 16

Thank You to Our Volunteers Thank you to all the amazing volunteers who helped with our committees, Shabbat services, programs, and so much more! We could not do it without you. We’d also like to give a special thank you to the recipients of the Marvin C. Goldstein & Rita Goldstein Wolfson Volunteers of the Year—Randy Weinstein and Sarah Cohen—and the The Cantor Isaac Goodfriend Award for Exemplary Leadership— Bob Tepper. These awards were presented at our 138th Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 8.

Please note, we did our very best to compile a complete list of all volunteers. We apologize in advance if anyone was accidentally left off the list.

From left to right: Bob Tepper and Randy Weinstein

Events and Committees Atlanta Community Food Bank Gary Alembik Sarah Cohen Melinda Gertz Ann Jackson Roslyn Konter Rabbi Chaim Listfield Judy Marx Barb Ribner Bruce Ribner Ana Posner Daniel Weiner Mark Weiner Michael Weiner Nancy Canter Weiner Alan Wexler Molly Winston Rina Wolfe

AARI

Shelly Dollar James Dricker Barbara Feinberg Myrtle Lewin Bill Little Patsy Little Elaine Zitomer

Antisemitism Committee

Cookie Aftergut Emily Agadzhanova Gary Alembik Douglas Ander Sara Borochoff Lisa Cohen

Stanley Daniels Margie Eden Karen Edlin Barbara Feinberg Ken Feinberg Marianne Garber Stephen Garber Larry Gold Margo Gold Eve Goldstein Helaine Lasky Lauren Levin Marshall Levine Nancy Levine Nikki Novotny Gerald Neumark Annice Parker Mitchell Prusin Jon Schnaubelt Marshall Sunshine

Backpack Buddies

Volunteers who packed food, donated items, and gave money

Birthday and Anniversary Breakfast Barbara Feinberg Ken Feinberg Carl Golden Philip Goldstein Meryl Hammer Bebe Kaplan Lisa Kaplan Scott Kaplan Elaine Kolodkin Patsy Little Brooke Rosenthal Paula Shea Rina Wolfe Larry Wolkin

Board of Directors Gary Alembik Douglas Ander Dorita Arnold Lauren Barden Gerry Benjamin Jerry Blumenthal Linda Bressler Avital Cohen Mark Cohen Andy Cozewith Larry Gold Margo Gold Brandon Goldberg Phil Haber Josh Hanna Jack Hillman Adam Hirsch Michael Joseph Scott Kaplan Helaine Lasky Nancy Levine Joel Lobel Nikki Novotny Sara Papier Ryan Posner Carl Rosenthal Philip Siegel James Sitzman Ava Landrum-Smith Taylor Smith Gail Solomon Marcia Spielberger Mark Stern Rob Wildstein Randy Weinstein

Blood Drive Gary Alembik Ken Feinberg Diana Feidotin Aaron Jackson

Bebe Kaplan Patsy Little Nikki Novotny Gail Solomon Bob Tepper

Brotherhood

Mark Cohen Tova Cohen David Eichenblatt Amy Kirson Steve Kirson Ellen Plasker Michael Plasker Ana Posner Ryan Posner Brooke Rosenthal

Budget and Finance Committee Sheila Adelman Irene Aronin Harold Cohen Janey Freedman Josh Hanna Rick Harber Steve Jacobs Cathy Miller Barry Prusin

Camp Scholarship Committee Julie Cohen Jack Hillman Heleen Grossman Michael Levine Cathy Miller Susan Sandler

17 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cemetery Committee Dave Adelman Cookie Aftergut Ivan Millender Larry Wolkin

Chesed Committee Cookie Aftergut Lauren Barden Susan Bravman Linda Bressler Kitty Cohen Shelly Dollar Barry Fields Nancy Friedberg Renie Geller Eve Goldstein Valerie Habif Delcy Pardo Harber Michele Glazer Hirsh Amy Landrum Andy Lasky Helaine Lasky Marshall Levine Nancy Levine Diane Melnick Jennie Moret June Neumark Nikki Novotny Annice Parker Jo Pichulik Barbara Ribner Bob Tepper Jeannie Tepper Cynthia Tyler Jill Vantosh Janis Zagoria

Chevra Kadisha

The caring and compassionate members who have anonymously dedicated themselves to the sacred task of preparing our deceased loved ones for burial. Their selfless dedication to serving those who cannot express their thanks is a cherished gift to our congregation and community.

Clergy Boys Fundraiser Gary Alembik Joe Alterman Dorita Arnold Hal Arnold Ellen Arnovitz Lauren Barden Linda Bressler Richard Bressler Avital Cohen Mark Cohen Andy Cozewith Randy Crohn Andy Edlin Karen Lansky Edlin Hadley Engelhard Suzy Engelhard Allison Feldman Brandon Goldberg

Gail Habif Michael Habif Josh Hanna Delcy Pardo Harber Jack Hillman Adam Hirsch Michael Joseph Shane Kleber Steve Kleber Helaine Lasky Marshall Levine Nancy Levine Patsy Little Andy Margolis Mindy Margolis Ivan Millender Nikki Novotny Sara Papier Michael Plasker Ryan Posner Ava Landrum Smith Ben Smith Taylor Smith Gail Solomon Mark Stern Aurelie Weinstein Randy Weinstein Carla Wertheimer Howard Wertheimer Rob Wildstein Larry Wolkin Susan Wolkin

Cultural Arts Committee

Barbara Feinberg Ken Feinberg Ivan Millender Marcia Spielberger

Employee Holiday Gifts Stanley Baum Karen Wise

Endowment Board Irene Aronin Gerry Benjamin Bobby Ezor Janey Freedman Josh Hannah Harris Konter Philip Siegel Rob Wildstein

Engagement Committee

Emily Agadzhanova Amira Bobrov Leigh Boros Julia Cohen Taylor Davis Brandon Goldberg Rachael Joseph Nikki Novotny Sara Papier Bethany Smith Marcia Spielberger

Greening Group

Leigh Boros Rav Shulamit Cenker Marcy Cohen Erica Cozewith Rachel Evans Allison Feldman Samantha Funt Celia Gilner Carol Glickman Doris Goldstein Jennifer Goodhart Myrtle Lewin Bill Little Patsy Little Berta Mebel Gerry Neumark June Neumark Fran Norflus Nikki Novotny Sheri Panovka Mark Papier Sara Papier Ed Rittenbaum Brooke Rosenthal Nathan Segall Hannah Walk Larry Wolkin Kesher and Ahava Children

Hunger Walk Run

The hundreds of congregants who supported the Hunger Walk Team, Sally’s Friends with kindness and generosity to join the battle against food insecurity within our local community

Inclusion and Belonging Initiative Lynn Abrams Gary Alembik Sally Beer Allen Dollar Antonio Dollar Gabby Dollar Megan Dollar Shelly Dollar Barry Fields Chanky Freedman Shlomo Freedman Sarah Goodman Helene Kates Arlene Koslow Linda Lippitt Rabbi Chaim Listfield Patsy Little Fran Norflus Nikki Novotny

Interfaith Inclusion Committee Gary Alembik Julia Bernath Randy Crohn Taylor Davis Karen Edlin Jay Empel Renie Geller Michal Hillman

Amy Landrum Miriam Strickman Levitis Bill Nerenberg Nikki Novotny Dorothy Rosenthal Ava Landrum Smith

Legacy and Endowment

Gary Alembik Gerry Benjamin Barbara Feinberg Adam Hirsch Larry Gold Michael Joseph Harris Konter Nancy Levine Nikki Novotny Taylor Smith Mark Stern Todd Surden

Mature Active Adults Community (mAAc) Judy Alembik Jack Balser Pat Balser Delores Berlin Mark Cohen Doris Goldstein Marty Goldstein Sherry Habif Esther Levine Mike Levine Miriam Strickman Levitas Barbara Planer Dick Planer Rabbi Neil Sandler Susan Sandler Virginia Saul Alan Schulman Judy Schulman Gail Solomon Marcia Spielberger Bob Tepper Jeanie Tepper

Nominating Committee

Gary Alembik Barbara Feinberg Judy Marx Herschell Saparow Bob Tepper Larry Wolkin Rob Wildstein

Purim Megillah Reading and Party Bella Abrams Rachel Avchen Scott Glazer Steve Grossman Barbara Marks Mark Papier Sara Papier Ariela Rosenthal Brooke Rosenthal Ma’ayan Rosenthal

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 18

Rebecca’s Tent

Sheila Adelman Cookie Aftergut Gary Alembik Ann Alperin Herb Alperin Moose Alperin Gloria Benamy Diane Bernstein David Diamond Helen Scherrer-Diamond Barbara Feinberg Lois Frank Jean Jackson Barbara Jacobs Scott Kaplan Shelley Kaplan Roslyn Konter Bonnie Levine Eden Levine Patsy Little Joel Lobel Donna Newman Barbara Planer Lynn Prusin Barb Ribner Bruce Ribner Jennifer Rosenfeld Debbie Smith Gail Solomon Rina Wolfe

Sisterhood

Rachel Avchen Avital Cohen Allison Feldman Beth Friedman Lori Harber Rachael Joseph Elisa Konter Janet Kupshik Alyson Lapes Michelle Lerner Mindy Margolis Nikki Novotny Sara Papier Vickie Reisman Brooke Rosenthal Susan Sandler Nicole Saidman Debra Siegel Rebecca Sokol

Technology Integration Committee Mark Cohen Jim Dricker Damon Fonooni Michael Joseph Nikki Novotny Ryan Posner

Tikkun Olam Alan Wexler

Yizkor Book Moose Alperin Ann Alperin Herb Alperin Lana Krebs

Youth and Family Kesher and Holiday Program

Gary Alembik Julia Bernath Amira Bobrov Gabby Dollar Shelly Dollar Seth Eisenberg Suzanne Eisenberg Ken Feinberg Allison Feldman Ethan Feldman Everett Feldman Joel Feldman Jordan Forman Nate Friedman Amelia Goldman Harli Gottesman Simone Graff Abby Graff Emmy Hanna Grant Joseph Rachael Joseph Lisa Katz Mica Kelmachter Nikelle Klareich Amy Landrum James Landrum Helaine Lasky Michael Levine Myrtle Lewin Linda Lippitt Patsy Little Mindy Margolis Kendall McMahan Kitchen Nikki Novotny Mark Papier Sara Papier Annice Parker Fisher Robb Brooke Rosenthal Ma’ayan Rosenthal Jennifer Rosenfeld Nadine Rubin Zack Siegel Jocey Smolar Addy Sokol Rebecca Sokol Sela Sokol Gail Solomon Marcia Spielberger Tina Summers Bob Tepper Erin Thaler Lisa Vitello Lindsay Weiss

Zaban Paradies Volunteers

Sheila Adelman Ann Alperin Betty Behr Diane Bernstein Debra Elovich Elisa Ezor Allison Feldman & neighbors Lynn Friedman Janet Galanti Meryl Hammer Delcy Harber

Sally Kaplan Roz Konter Janet Kupshik Rhonda Lee Nancy Levine Patsy Little Trissa Luftig Vicki Morris Barbara Nathan Nikki Novotny Donna Newman Sara and Avery Papier and Family Barry Prusin and Family Jennifer Rosenfeld Susan Sandler Sharon Silvermintz Laura Weiner Carla Wertheimer Alan Wexler Karen White Rina Wolfe Ilene Zier

Holidays and Services Ambassadors

Gary Alembik Irene Aronin Shelly Dollar Barbara Feinberg Ken Feinberg Renie Geller Brandon Goldberg Delcy Harber Steven Kirson Amy Landrum Patsy Little Rabbi Chaim Listfield Barbara Marks Nikki Novotny Barbara Ribner Gail Solomon Marcia Spielberger Rina Wolfe

Gabbaim

Lev Mebel Barbara Nathan Barry Prusin Ryan Posner Andy Siegel Bob Tepper Alan Wexler Larry Wolkin

High Holiday Greeters Gary Alembik Dorita Arnold Lauren Barden Linda Bressler Mark Cohen Andrew Cozewith Ken Feinberg Barry Fields Marianne Garber Brandon Goldberg Josh Hanna Jack Hillman

Adam Hirsch Andy Lasky Helaine Lasky Melaine Levine Nancy Levine Ava Landrum Smith Barbara Marks Nikki Novotny Sara Papier Ed Rittenbaum Taylor Smith Gail Solomon Mark Stern Rob Wildstein Sherri Wildstein Larry Wolkin

High Holiday Torah and Haftara Readers Rabbi Shulamit Cenker Sarah Cohen Harold Cohen Marci Draluck Emanuel Fialkow Brandon Goldberg Linda Lippitt Judy Marx Eric Miller Mark Papier Sara Papier Sherry Rudnak Marshall Sunshine Rob Wildstein

Meshorerim (Spiritual Singers) and Children’s Choir Victor Blake Rabbi Shulamit Cenker Julia Cohen Sarah Cohen Maya Cohen Randy Crohn Barbara Feinberg Scott Glazer Larry Gold Amelia Goldman Marni Goldman Jerry Greenberg Steve Grossman Avery Jospeh Layla Klehr Janet Kupshik Hilton Kuphik Eden Levine Emet Levine Michael Levine Linda Lippitt Andy Margolis Lily Margolis Mindy Margolis Ivan Millender Eric Miller Barbara Nathan Gerry Neumark June Neumark Wayne Neuwirth Fran Norflus Ruth Reynolds Brooke Rosenthal Ma’ayan Rosenthal

19 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Anthony Russell Sherry Rudnak Carolyn Shenberg Richard Siegel Barry Silver Lilian Silverman David Smith Marcia Spielberger Camille Weinstein Alan Wexler

Minyan Leaders Sheila Adelman Marci Draluck Scott Glazer Larry Gold Bonnie Levine Linda Lippitt Patsy Little Morris Podber Barry Prusin Michelle Rickles Fred Rosenberg Carl Rosenthal Barry Silver Erin Thaler Jacob Thaler Andrew Wiesenberg RIna Wolfe Larry Wolkin Neal Yarm

Rebbe’s Tish Leaders Rabbi Alicia Rothamel Rabbi Eric Feld

Service Leaders

Julia Cohen Larry Gold Jordan Goldstein Sofia Harber Chazzan Helene Kates Henry Kodesh Bonnie Levine Tyler Levine Andy Margolis Mindy Margolis Eric Miller June Neumark Jill Posner Ryan Posner Anthony Russell Noah Surden

Shabbat and Holiday Torah and Haftara Readers Noah Surden Neal Baker Samantha Baker Rabbi Shulamit Cenker Gabriella Cohen Harold Cohen Sarah Cohen Adam Eisenberg Laila Eisenberg Samuel Eisenberg Emanuel Fialkow Sharon Funk Roy Godzdanski Adam Goldstein

Jordan Goldstein Steven Grossman Eli Hammerman Julie Hammerman Norman Harber Rick Harber Sofia Harber Henry Kodesh Bonnie Levine Nancy Levine Tyler Levine Linda Lippitt Andy Margolis Eric Miller Mark Papier Sara Papier Hanna Planer Marsha Raimi Jeff Schatten Elana Spiegel Jacob Spiegel Jeremy Spiegel Shira Spiegel Sophie Spiegel Walter Speigel Karen Vogel Linda Weinroth Dan Weiss Yaron Weiss

Torah Study Leaders Doug Ander Mark Budnitz Steve Chervin Joe Citron Barbara Feinberg Paul Feldman Lois Frank Steve Grossman David Joffe Mark Kozinn David Kriger Nancy Levine Linda Lippitt Rabbi Chaim Listfield Judy Marx Michael Miller Stephen Nagler Ryan Posner Brooke Rosenthal Rabbi Alicia Rothamel Andy Zangwill

Technology Helpers Harold Cohen Mark Cohen Barry Fields Mark Papier Ryan Posner Andy Siegel Neal Yarm

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 20

Thank You to Our Generous Donors Donations listed below were given between July 1, 2024 and May 6, 2025 and include tribute donations, Yom Kippur Appeal/ Chai Champaign donations, and other fund donations. Donations made to the Capital Campaign and Sisterhood are not included. We apologize in advance if anyone was excluded or placed in the wrong donation level.

Chai

($1–$499) Aleta and Howard Aaron Sandy and Davis Abrams Karen Abrams Denise Adelman Linda Albert Rhona Albright Janet and Julius Alembik Adam Alterman Jeannine and Aaron Altmann Ellen and Lee Altschuler, Jessica Arluck and Douglas Ander Robert Arkin Phyllis and Joseph Arnold z”l Harold Arnovitz Phyllis and Eliot Arnovitz Frances Astrin Mary Lou and Richar Austin Ellen Azrael Emily and John Bailey Amy and Neal Baker Claire Balser Benita Baird and Ronald Barab Lauren and Ben Barden Bonnie Barker Shirley and Richard Barkin Juli and Billy Bauman Steven Baustin Fran Bay Glenda Beerman and Bernard Pollock Judith and Stan Beiner Talia Belz Gloria Benamy Carol and Michael Benator Jean Benedict Cynthia Berger and Howard Schulman Lori and Mark Berger Nathalie and Ken Beringer Ann and Joe Berlin Martha Berlin Karen Berman Julia and Terry Bernath Shirley and Gary Bernes Alfred Bernstein Peggy and Rick Bernstein Sally and John Berry Goldie and Louis Bertone Veronica Beskin David Birnbrey Joanne and Eddie Birbrey Victor Blake Kimberly Blass and Gray Kelly Joyce and Donald Block Toby Block and Jerrold Greenberg Martha Blondheim Matt Blum Mona Blumenthal Amira and Michael Bobrov Barbara Bock Debi and David Bock Janet Bohrer

Julie and David Borenstein Sara and Lance Borochoff Leigh Boros and Robert Hilliard Jr. Marilyn Bravman Susan Bravman Suzanne and Adam Bressler Laurie and Jeff Bricker Shirley Brickman Deborah and Jon Brooks Rachel and Bill Brown Paula and Mark Budnitz Amy and Adam Caplan Charlenne and Richard Carl Elaine Carp Shulamit Cenker Marilyn and Morton Center Shelly and Mark Chastain Deedee Chereton Shelly and Mark Chester Joseph Citron Mark Coan Anne Cohen and Craig Silverman Avital and Michael Cohen Barbara and Alan Cohen Beth and Don Cohen Carole Cohen Cheryl and Jeffrey Cohen Katherine “Kitt” and Ezra Cohen Marcy Cohen Michael Jackie Cohen Pamela and Alan Cohen Sandra Cohen Terri and Rodney Cohen Gail Cohn and Harvey Danits Rachael and Jonathan Colton Gayle and James Comander Congregation Gesher L’Torah Bonnie Cook John Cooledge Sharon and Michael Corenblum Sharon and Stuart Cott Stanley Cristol Randy Crohn Brenda and Stanley Daniels Deborah Davidson Marcia Greenburg-Davis and Clinton Davis Taylor Davis Johnathan Dayan Helen Scherrer-Diamond and David Diamond Margo and Douglas Diamond Linda and Michael Diamond Laura and Marshall Dinerman Shelly and Allen Dollar Annie Dorman Harriet Draluck Marci Draluck Stephenie and Jerome Drean Eddie Dressler Waynah and Joe Dunn Julie Edelson and Howard Kaplan Jane and Mark Eden Lori and Todd Edlin

Margo and Shiel Edlin Anita and Max Eidex Laura and Harold Einstein Suzanne and Seth Eisenberg Judith Ellis Debra Elovich Ina and Harold Enoch Carole and Marvin Epstein Eileen Epstein Jan and Warren Epstein Marsha Epstein Stacey Epstein Terry Erbesfield Linda and Abram Estroff Norman Estroff Steve Fairchild Muriel Feldman Catherine Ficke Diana Fiedotin Melissa Field Barry Fields Patricia and Robert z”l Fine Robert Fischbach Marsha and Mitchell Fishkind Sandra Fishman Samuel Fistel Donna and Mark Fleishman Rhoda and George Flynn Candia and Damon Fonooni Lori and Jordan Forman Michele and George Fox Fayne Frankel Genie Freedman Jane Freedman Sandra Freedman Nancy and Wayne Freedman Nancy and Stephen Friedberg Myles Friedland Amy and Jacob Friedlander Lisa and Tommy Friedlander Sandi and Gerald Friedman Ilene and Michael Friedman Lynn Friedman Sylvia Friedman Frost-George LLC Linda and Matthew Fryer Batsheva (Beth) Fullenhull Samantha and Eric Funt Rhonda and Saul Furstein Janet and Randy Galanti Frances Galishoff Toni and Les Gallant Darcy and Alan Gans Christopher and Naomi Gargano Phyllis and Phil Garon Stacy Blumberg Garon and Jon Garon Caryn and Larry Gartner Barbara Geldbart Darriel and Ronald Gerson Maury Gerson Katie Gillen Celia Gilner Lauren Gilstein Liza and Michal Gilzenrat

21 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Sara and Sandro Gisler Wannee Glass Susan Glatt Dale and Jimmy Glenn Barbara Friedland Gold Carolyn Gold Hazel Gold Steve Gold Brandon Goldberg Renae and Edward Goldberg Carl Golden Andrea Goldenberg Marni and Daniel Goldman Eve and Joel Goldstein Judith and Ronald Goldstein Paula Goldstein-Shea Jennifer and Josh Goodhart Felice and Philip Goodman Jacqueline Goodman Marsha Gordon and Tom Barry Jaquelin and Edward Gotlieb Karen and Oscar Grablowsky Larry Greenberg Barry Greenfield Bette and Bob Grossman Marla and Jeffrey Grossman Maxine Grossman Marvin Haber Nancy Habif and Scott Kleber Sherry Habif Charles Hacker Mary Hipp-Haddow and David Haddow Helen and Frank Hahn Martha Halbreich Beverly and Gilbert Halpern Nathalie Halpern Steven Hamburger Meryl Hammer Delcy Pardo Harber Fran and Edward Harrell Gail Harris Natalie and Marvin Harris Beatrice Hartman Amy and John Haspel Lee Hebner and Kenneth Nassau Eternal Life Hemshech Inc. Susan Hendricks Gladys and David Herckis Heidi and Barry Herman Rebecca and Theodore Hersh Andrea and Bruce Hershatter Lila and Doug Hertz Bobby Hirsch Nancy and John Hirsch Rosalie Hirschberg Michele Hirsh Gail and Gilbert Holzer Tracey and Arnold Holzer Toby Holzer and Larry Pike Jane Horowitz Bick Barbara and Michael Horowitz Herzl Hyton Nancy and Joel Isenberg Michael and Martin Itzkowitz Jean and Gary Jackson Harriett Jacobs Marcia Jaffe Raizi Janus Shoop Andrea Jaron and Larry Bircoll Christie Johnson Jeanne Johnson-Whatley Irene Jones

Mira Josowicz Gail and Bernd Kahn Rhalda Kahn Susan and Robert Kahn Charlotte and Allen Kaminsky Roben Kantor Frances M. Kaplan Anita Karnibad Estelle Karp Miriam Karp Catherine and David Kasriel Jean Katz Lisa Kaufman Jill Kersh Elizabeth Kessler and Dennis Gilbride Sherrie and Cary King Janet and Paul Kirschbaum Annsley and Benjamin Klehr William Kleiman Barbara and Joel Klein Linda Klein Anabelle Kleinberg Michele and Mark Klopper Bobbie Knopf Judy and Martin Kogon Sandra and Jay Kohlenberg Devra and Walter Kolesky Alison Konrad Elissa and Harris Konter Roslyn and Darryl Konter Meghan and Todd Koransky Arlene and Harold Koslow Phyllis Kraft Cheryl and Russell Kramer Lana and Richard Krebs Jana and Michael Kreisberg Janet and Hilton Kupshik Diane Kurtz Mildred and Martin Kwatinetz Evan Landis Linda and Kerry Landis Audrey and Michael Landy Lauri and Steven Lavine Scott Leach Bundi and Larry Lefkoff Harold Lefkoff Renay and Alan Levenson Liane Levetan Debbie and Eddie Levin Alison and Jonathan Levine Barbara Levine Bonnie and Michael Levine Phyllis Levine Barbara Levitas Linda Lewin Karen and Bob Lieberman Karina Lifschitz and Jonathan Colasanti Lynn and William Light Wendy and Steven Light Barbara Lincoln and Gary Rosenshein Sheryl Lincoln and Peter Knight Judith Listfield and Joseph Butkus Stephen Chaim Listfield Carolyn and Hector Llorens Carla and Ralph Lovell Suzanne and David Lubel Timothy Lynn Rosalind Mance Peggy and Llyod Marbach Charlotte Marcus Esther Margol Abbie and Marty Margolies

Mindy and Andrew Margolis Debbie and Glenn Maron Judy Marx Barbara Mays Susan and Todd Maziar Maureen Mcaneny and Joseph Riley Gale and R.A. McKinnon Robin Medintz Members of the DDD PC’05 Joanne Mendel Lee Mendel Shelley and Louis Milakofsky Eric Miller Donna and Michael Miller Julie and Alan Minsk Mitzner Family Foundation Allison Molinari Jackie and Anthony Montag Jennie and Macy Moret Rachel Morris Vicki and Steven Morris Patty Morrison Leslie and Scott Moscow Sai Mukkamala Melanie Nathanson Bonnie and Neil Negrin Sloane and Howard Neiman Carol Nemo Dana Neuwirth Sara Fran and Wayne Neuwirth Janice B. Nochumson David Norflus Francine Norflus Ann Olim Vickie and Paul Olson Kenny Orkin Marcelle and Allan Oxman Lorry and Aron “Chuck” Palefsky Hilly Panovka Annice Parker Angela and Alan Parnes Marlene Wexler Perlman Elissa Pichulik and Gregory Kodesh Mary and Itai Pinkovezky Robert Pitchersky Mindy and Michael Planer Barbara and Richard Planer Debbie and Joel Pollack Riette Pollack Paige Pratt and Bruce Stambler SOWJS Pre-K Ducie Rachelson Lynn and Glenn Rainbow Judith Reed Linda and Howard Reisman Caoline Reitzes Lois and Alan Reitzfeld Michelle and Craig Rich Charlotte and Elliott Rich Lori Rich Shirley Rich Bonnie and Gary Richman Jennifer and Harvey Rickles Michele Rickles Nancy and Andrew Rinzler Edward Rittenbaum Karen and Scot Rittenbaum Zaiyara Rivera Karen and Gordon Robbins Julie and Gary Roberts A Robinson Debra Rodkin

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 22

Andrew Wiesenberg Lara Sitton Mary & EP Rogers Foundation S M Wilder Gloria Smiley Ellen and Steven Rogin Walter Wildstein Ava Landrum Smith and Ben Smith Carol and Marc Rose Barbara and Frank Wilensky Bethany and Taylor Smith Melissa and Jordan Rosenbaum Sheila and Larry Wilensky Deborah and Baker Smith Ann (Bunny) Rosenberg Adele Wineburgh Roben and Grgory Smolar Phyllis and Warren Rosenberg Sarah Wishnick Janice and Lee Smolen Jennifer and Joel Rosenfeld Irene an Alex Wolchansky Gary Snyder Andrea Rosenthal Rina Wolfe Susan and Morris Socoloff Joanne Rosenthal Barbara and Mike Wolfson Rebcca and Michael Sokol Toby and Thomas Rosing Pepi and Alan Wolkin Marcy and Jim Solmson Jill and Robert Rosner Amy and Brent Wolkin Michael Rothbaum and Anthony Russell Gail Solomon Elizabeth and Dennis Wolkin Sherri and Moe Soriano Ray Rothman Honey and Howard Workman Harriet Spainer Karen Routman Jody and Zev Yanovich Frannie Spector Coplan Laurie and Jeffrey Rubnitz Gabriel and Neal Yarm Terry Spector Kathy and Howard Sachs Sheri and Joshua Youdovin Nancy and Theodore Spetnagel Suzan and Gary Saidman Neil Young Marcia Spielberger Alice Sanders Sondra Youth Elise Stahlman Susan and Herschel Saparow Rita and Michael Zadoff Karen and Bernard Stark Adrian Sasine Janis Zagoria Karen and Sidney Stark Anita and Julian Saul Ilene and Steven Zier Judy and Stanley Stein Daniel Saul Barry Zipperman Gloria and Carlton Steinberg Karen and Michael Saul Elaine Zitomer and James Dricker Gayle and Toby Steinberg Cathy and Jeff Schaffer Alyson Zonitch Marilyn and Stanley Steinberg Joel Schaffer Elizabeth and Scott Zweigel Merrill and Michael Stern Harry Scheinfeld Roz and Steve Strauss Jill and Jay Schlosser Lori and Allan Struletz Robert Schneider Luci and Stanley Sunshine Susan and Ray Schoenbaum Meredith and Marshall Sunshine Temme and Allan Schooler ($500–$899) Peppy and Stephen Suransky Fern Schorr Shirley Suttle Linda and John Schuh Douglas Adair Emily and Aaron Tanenbaum Gladys and Robert Schussel Sheila and David Adelman Susan and Stanley Tanenbaum Gladys and Bob Schussler Marty and Richard Alterman Rene Tapia Carol and Scott Schwab Annonymous Judith and Mark Taylor Alan Schwartz Annonymous Shirley Tenenbaum and Marlene Gerson Rachel and Michael Avchen Anne Schwartz Betsy Teplis Claire Schwartz Judy and Joe Balaban Monica Teplis Michelle Schwartz Pat and Jack Balser Margo and Marc Tepper Shana Schwartz Stanley Baum Gail Tescher Sarah Segan and Brad Oppenheimer Betty Behr Amanda Thomas The Selig Foundation Inc Rita and Arthur Bodner Mitzi Tillem Betty and Kenneth z”l Seitz Meryl Braunstein and Alan Shenberg Robin Torch Madolin Seldes Margaret and Joel Breiner Sharon and Ken Torreyson Charles Shainker Mindi and Richard Bressler Cynthia Tyler Cheryl and Stanton Shapiro Ben Cavalier z”l Renee Unell Elyse and David Shaw Eileen and Adolphus Coolik Emily Scheinfeld Van Deman and Brant David Eichenblatt Roberta Shaw Carr Van Deman Nancy and Barry Shemaria Stuart Eizenstat Sondra Visner Brian Sherman Jody and Ramon Franco Dena and Stanley Vogel Marsha Sherman Beth and Jared Friedman Leslie Vogelman and Louis Friedman Carol and Jules Sherwinter Karen and Bruce Gadlin Hannah Walk Karen and Richard Shmerling Renie and David Geller Kimberly Troutman-Walker and Karen and Brian Shonson Melinda Gertz Andrew Walker Marilyn Shubin Laurie and David Ginburg Cecile Waronker Debbie and Sndy Shuping Scott Glazer Sherry and George Warsaw Betty Ann Shusterman Jennifer Glazer-Malkin Betsy Wash Lorraine Siegel Bernard Goldstein Sherry Weinman and Michael Umansky Karen Goldstein Karen and Mark Siegel Lynne Weiner Richard Siegel Elisa and Philip Goldstein Aurelie and Randy Weinstein Barry Silver Lynne and Thomas Greenfield Lauren and David Weinstein Carla and Arthur Silver Heleen and Steven Grossman Renie and Alan Weinstein Brenda and Kenneth Silverboard Valerie Habif and Neil Wasser Phyllis and Richard Weisberg Jordan and Dan Silverboard Helen Hersch Alyssa Weiss Susan Silverboard Amanda and Adam Hirsch Cherly and Michael Weiss Barry Silverman Barbara and Steven Jacobs Jennifer and Mitch Weiss Sherry and Alan Silverman Marcia and Richard Jacobson Aletta and Greg Weitz Sharon and Howard Silvermintz Rachael and Michael Joseph Carla and Howard Wertheimer Suzanne Silvers and Stephen Phillips Shelley and Scott Kaplan Alan Wexler Howard Simmons Lynn and Ted Kimmerly Deborah and Jack Wexler Sydney Simons Sara and Ross Kogon Robin Wexler Joanne Singer z”l Amy and James Landrum

Patron

23 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Helen Lefkoff and Robert Faulk Michelle and Jonathan Lerner Esther and Michael Levine Rita and Michael LeVine Donna Shaw-Levy and Mark Levy Linda Nathanson-Lippitt and Alan Lippitt Patsy and Bill Little Lisa and Alan Lubel Barbara Marks Sherry and Harry Maziar Swan and Chipley Mcknight Shirley Minsk June and Gerald Neumark Estate and Herbert Neuwirth Linda Orenstein Sara and Mark Papier Lisa and Hal Philipson Renee and Robert Rinzler Dorothy Rosenthal and William Nerenberg Nadine and Barry Rubin Susan and Neil Sandler Stuart Schlansky Lisa and Jon Schnaubelt Jill and Joseph Segal Morgan Simon Susie and Mark Siskin Miriam Strickman Levitas Lois Sturm Nica and Lee Tallman Jeannie and Bob Tepper Karla Tievsky and Seth Kirschenbaum Joan Vitner Jeffrey Wasserman Nanette Wenger Susan and Jonathan Winner Karen and Eli Wise Susan and Larry Wolkin Leona and Donald Zivitz

Bronze

($900–$1,799) Ann and Herb Alperin Karina and Josh Belinfante Dolores Berlin Diane Bernstein Elaine and Jerome Blumenthal Diane and Harold Cohen Melissa (Lisa) and Walter Cohen Erica and Andrew Cozewith Jay D’Lugin and Tyler Crutain Karen Lansky-Edlin and Andrew Edlin Elise and Jay Empel Allison and Joel Feldman Judith Finkel Richard Franco Madeleine and Kenneth Gimbel Margo and Lawrence Gold Liz and Bobby Goldstein Bob Grenitz Susan and Leon Gross Marlene and Mark Haber Sherry Halpern Barbara and Alan Kaplan Sally Kaplan Marilyn and Leslie Kelman Amy and Steven Kirson Robin and William Kleinberg Deborah and Jay Levin

Myrtle Lewin Sandra and Bob London Berta and Lev Mebel Morris Family Foundation Barbara and George Nathan Andrea and Matthew Oppenheimer Sheri and Alon Panovka Sally and Alan Pinsker Tally and Stanford Plavin Ann and Morris Podber Ana and Ryan Posner Ralda Reish Barbara and Bruce Ribner Rosalie and Carl Rosenthal Nicole and Benjamin Saidman Virginia and Milton z”l Saul Janet Schatten and Richard Friedman Terry Spector Singer Family Foundation Inc. Merna Stein Lauren and Todd Surden Lynn Sussman Mark Waldinger Mark Weinstein Brenda and Andrew Zangwill Jeannette and Michael Zukor

Silver

($1,800–$2,399) Lorraine (Cookie) and Fred Aftergut Diane Bessen and Steven Weiner Linda and Richard Bressler Barbara and Kenneth Feinberg Ruth and Jon Gottlieb Barbara and Jay Halpern Caryn Hanrahan and Andy Siegel Marsha and Michael Kalson Jill and David Kantor Elaine and Alan Kolodkin Marsha and Mark Kozinn Lori and Lee Krinsky Debbie Smith and Joel Lobel Donna and Philip Newman Lori and Stephen Oppenheimer Vickie and Bruce Reisman Judy and Alan Schulman Debra and Philip Siegel Deborah Spector and Jeffrey Victor Susan Ellman-Zweig and Arnold Zweig

Leader

($3,600–$5,399) Judith Alembik Stanley Cohen Susan and Hadley Engelhard Marianne and Stephen Garber Tanya and Scott Jacobson Helaine and Andy Lasky Carolyn Oppenheimer and Rick Lenner Ivan Millender Jo Pichulik Judy and Allen Soden Jill and Jeffrey Vantosh

Benefactor ($5,400–$9,999)

Dorita and Hal Arnold Linda and Bruce Beeber Paul Feldman Lyons and Gail Heyman and The Heyman Family Foundation Lois and Laurence Frank Sharon Funk and Joshua Hanna Doris and Martin Goldstein Nancy and Marshall Levine Judy and Michael Orkin Beth and Gregg Paradies Reisman Family Fund Tamar and Mark Stern Betty and Alan Sunshine Rebecca and Andrew Zager Zoe and David Zelby

President's Circle ($10,000–$19,999)

Gary Alembik and Stephen Graves Irene Aronin Ellen Arnovitz and Michael Plasker Tova and Mark Cohen Elisa and Robert Ezor Diane and Stanley Friedman Michal and Jack Hillman Stuart Harvey Hillman Ann Kaplan Nikki Novotny

Gold

Rabbi's Circle

Marlene Gelernter Besser Stacy and Emanuel Fialkow Gail and Michael Habif Halpern-Oppenheimer Family Foundation Harriet Landau and Nathan Segall Lynn and Barry Prusin Julie and William Segal Cathy and Richard Swerdlin Sherri and Robert Wildstein

Vicki and Gerald Benjamin Ruth Gershon and Sanford Cohn Marilyn Ginsberg Eckstein Sanford Orkin

($2,400–$3,599)

($20,000+)

Endowment Judith and Aaron z”l Alembik Gary Alexander Vicki and Gerry Benjamin Adolphus and Eileen Coolik in honor of Max and Helen Kuniansky Shelly and Alan Dollar Marilyn Ginsburg Eckstein Bob and Pat Fine

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 24

Doris and Martin Goldstein Sharon Funk and Josh Hanna Robert Kagan and Paula Sunshine Ann Kaplan Terri and Brent Kaplan Helaine and Andy Lasky Sanford Orkin z”l Beth and Gregg Paradies Barbara Schatten z”l Mona and Philip Sunshine Ilene Sunshine Ann and Steven Sunshine

Legacy Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Sheila and David Adelman Gary M. Alembik Dr. Jessica Arluck and Dr. Douglas Ander Vicki and Gerry Benjamin Diane Bernstein Tova and Mark Cohen Stanley Cristol Jack Eybuszyc z”l Marilyn Ginsberg Eckstein Margo and Larry Gold Betty and Leon Goldstein z”l Charlotte and Harry Gordon z”l Steven Grossman Charles Hacker Heidi and Barry Herman Celia S. and Col. Donald M. z”l Gilner Ann and Theodore z”l Kaplan Endowment Fund Maurice Katz z”l Esther and Dr. Michael K Levine Nancy and Marshall Levine Shirley z”l and Ivan Millender Nikki Novotny Lori and Stephen Oppenheimer Annice Parker Ralph Sacks z”l Betty Ann Shusterman Debra and Philip Siegel Bethany and Taylor Smith Judy and Allen Soden Jack Spielberger z”l Tamar and Mark Stern Sussman/Rubin Family Arnold Whiteman z”l Sherri and Robert Wildstein

Donor Spotlight

T

he Bluma and Morris J. Moldow L’Dor V’Dor Garden, donated in their memory by their Glenn great-greatgrandchildren, was the initial phase of the Synagogue renovation with the goal of reimagining the Synagogue entrance into a multifunctional gathering garden that would not only enhance the entrance but also provide a gathering spot for services, meetings and other activities.

Bluma and Morris Moldow, as did other ancestors of AA members, came to America with virtually no money, worked hard and provided the foundation of the American dream for their children and succeeding generations. They were observant Jews who sacrificed to be able to keep a kosher home when the cost of keeping a kosher home was a significant burden.

Not only did they provide a financial foundation but more importantly a spiritual and moral foundation for their family.

25 • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Summer 2025 • Year-in-Review Issue • 26

AHAVATH ACHIM CONGREGATION 600 PEACHTREE BATTLE AVE NW ATLANTA, GA 30327