Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. 100 NO. 16, August 31, 2025

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Kol Emeth Program Seeks to Protect Jewish Students

By Bob Bahr

Soon after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, Ken Stein, the noted Emory University author and Middle East scholar, was among the early voices to warn of antisemitism on the nation’s campuses. Stein, who founded the Center for Israel Education and has been its longtime leader, wrote in the Jerusalem Strategic Tribune in November 2023 that the “anti-Israeli sentiment on U.S. college campuses has grown to extraordinary proportions.

“What was unexpected, however,” he went on to write, “was the intensity and anger of these public protests. At the core of both was lethal and indiscriminate antisemitism.”

His observations were based on events that he saw building long before, since at least around the time of the 1967 Arab-Israel war. By 2023, students at some of this country’s most prestigious universities and their friends from local communities across America quickly settled in after Oct. 7 for weeks of protests,

Frequently, it reportedly led to violence against individual Jewish students.

To answer the concerns of both parents and students, particularly those who are beginning their college education, Stein recently held a free seminar at Temple Kol Emeth in Marietta. He told the Sunday afternoon meeting of students

and their parents that their concerns are well founded.

“We’re at a point in history, on American university campuses,” Stein said, “where individuals would like to find ways to disconnect Jewish students from either their Jewish identity or from any of support, whether mild or vigorous for

the State of Israel.”

The two-hour informational session was entitled “Getting Safe, Smart and Jewish On Campus.” It attracted the support of many of Atlanta’s most important advocates for the safety of Jewish young people. Among the sponsors were the American Jewish Committee, Hillels of Georgia,

Students at the CIE program were advised that they should have at least one trusted adult or student leader they can turn to during times of trouble at their school.

Atlanta Israel Coalition, the local Jewish Community Relations Committee and the Marcus Foundation’s RootOne initiative.

The ADL’s interim regional director here, David Hoffman, was one of the lead-off speakers of what was described as “resilience prep for college students.”

He told the gathering that while complaints of antisemitism by Jewish students are high, those same students often don’t do anything about the complaints they experience.

“We’ve seen that 73 percent of Jewish college students have experienced antisemitism on campus during the 2023 and 2024 school year but only 7.5 percent of Jewish students who witnessed or experienced that said that they reported it to campus authorities.”

One of the reasons for the wide discrepancy, as Hoffman sees it, is that students don’t know how to report incidents or have someone to talk to, or simply, that they don’t have the confidence to speak up. But he said that under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act that Jewish students are guaranteed the right to participate fully in campus life regardless of their religious background.

“Campuses are accountable to their community to keep their students safe,” Hoffman said. “And we also want to empower our students to be able to know their rights, to know how to report incidents and to be advocates for themselves.”

He emphasized that while offensive speech is largely protected by the Con-

stitution, universities can and must take action when that speech crosses the line from protected speech to verbal assault.

Jewish students should become familiar with the rules that each university has established to protect them and to act when they see something that clearly violates those rules.

“Understand what is OK and what is not,” Hoffman pointed out. “Report it. Document any incidents you see that are a concern. Report them through appropriate channels, connect with Jewish organizations on campus, whether it’s Hillel or another student group that you know you can turn to for support.”

Several speakers during the program emphasized the importance for new students to cultivate the friendship of a Jewish leader on campus, whether that be a Jewish student professional, or a teacher that has shown a particular interest in coming to the aid of Jewish students needing support.

Rabbi Chase Foster, spiritual leader of Temple Kol Emeth and host of the program, mentioned that he has had considerable experience dealing with issues Jewish students might face on campus. He is the board chair of the Hillel foundation at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., and his wife is the Hillel director for the approximately 300 Jewish students who attend Kennesaw State University here.

He asked that parents, particularly, should know whether their child has a relationship with a trusted adult on campus. ì

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Rabbi Chase Foster and Temple Kol Emeth hosted the program about student safety organized by the Center for Israel Education.

War Rages on as Israel Begins Gaza City Conquest

Compiled by AJT Staff

The following is a roundup of developing stories related to Israel’s ongoing conflicts with Hamas, Yemen, and Iran.

Second Nova Healing Concert Unites in Tel Aviv

Some 30,000 people gathered in Tel Aviv’s Yarkon Park on Aug. 14 for the second annual Nova Healing Concert, an evening of music, remembrance, and resilience marking nearly two years since Hamas’s massacre at the Nova music festival on Oct. 7, 2023.

Organized by the Nova Tribe Community Association — a collective created to support survivors and bereaved families — the event seeks to transform grief into a shared space of healing. The inaugural concert was held in June 2024.

This year’s concert had originally been scheduled for June 26 but was postponed due to Israel’s war with Iran. The gathering sought to transform grief into a shared space of remembrance and resilience.

Israeli artists, including Infected Mushroom, Yuval Raphael, and Captain Hook, headlined the stage, while survivors and families of victims filled the crowd. For many, the night was a delicate balance between sorrow and hope.

Fifty hostages remain in Gaza, including 15 members of the Nova community, but only 20 of the 50 are believed to be alive.

To read the full story, please visit: https://www.atlantajewishtimes.com/secondnova-healing-concert-unites-in-tel-aviv/

Israel Boots Australian Diplomats

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar decided to revoke the residency visas of Australia’s representatives to the Palestinian Authority, hours after Canberra barred an Israeli lawmaker from entering the country.

Australia announced that it was banning far-right Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman from visiting the country, hours before he was supposed to travel there for a series of appearances.

Both Australian diplomats representing Canberra to the PA live in Israel, despite holding offices in Ramallah, according to Channel 12 news.

Sa’ar accused the Australian government of fanning antisemitism and wrote on X that he had also instructed Israel’s embassy in Canberra “to carefully examine any official Australian visa application for entry to Israel.”

To read the full story, please visit: https://www.atlantajewishtimes.com/israelboots-australian-diplomats-orders-review-of-visa-requests/

Israel Plans Gaza Conquest With or Without Hostage Deal

After 22 months of resisting widespread calls in Israel to end the war in exchange for the release of the hostages held by Palestinian terrorists in Gaza, the government recently approved plans to take over Gaza City in the Strip’s north, where around a million Gazans have been sheltering. The plan has been criticized internationally amid the worsening humanitarian crisis in the territory, as well as by top security officials who warn it could endanger the remaining hostages.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanya-

Families of the remaining 50 hostages take the stage at the second annual Nova Healing Concert in Tel Aviv’s Yarkon Park, Aug. 14, 2025 // Photo Credit: Eclipse Media/Times of Israel

People wearing flags of Israel and Australia listen to speeches at a rally in Melbourne on July 6, 2025, after the front door of a synagogue was set ablaze // Photo Credit: WILLIAM WEST/AFP/Times of Israel

Israeli forces operate in the Gaza Strip, in a handout image published on Aug. 20, 2025 // Photo Credit: Israel Defense Forces/Times of Israel

hu has been framing Gaza City as Hamas’s last stronghold and likening it to the Allied forces needing to conquer Berlin to end World War II, a comparison he also drew in a recent interview. Last year, the premier used the same arguments to drive home the need to take over Rafah.

While momentum has mounted toward reaching a hostage release deal, Netanyahu has continued to dismiss such efforts, focusing instead of the plan approved by the cabinet earlier this month to intensify fighting in the Gaza Strip, though he has not outright rejected the latest proposal.

In a statement, Netanyahu said he had instructed the army to “shorten the timelines for seizing the last terror strongholds and for the defeat of Hamas,” referring to the IDF’s upcoming offensive in Gaza City.

To read the full story, please visit: https://www.atlantajewishtimes.com/israelplans-gaza-conquest-with-or-without-hostage-deal/

IDF Chief: Hostage Deal is on the Table

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said Sunday that the military has created the conditions in Gaza for a hostage deal with the Hamas terror group, reportedly adding behind closed doors that the government must accept the proposal that’s currently on offer.

Senior Israeli officials, however, said the phased-release framework that Hamas said it accepted last week is no longer relevant.

“There is a deal on the table, it’s the improved Witkoff framework [proposed by the U.S. Mideast envoy],” Zamir said while visiting the Haifa naval base, according to Channel 13 news. He reportedly said that “now it’s in Netanyahu’s hands,” and that “there is great danger to the lives of the hostages in taking over Gaza City.”

In official remarks released by the Israel Defense Forces, Zamir said the military has met the objectives of its “Gideon’s Chariots” operation against Hamas in Gaza, “and as a result of the military pressure, we created the conditions for the release of the hostages.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene the security cabinet on Tuesday to discuss Gaza and efforts to reach a hostage deal, Channel 12 reported on Monday evening. The TV network said that it will be decided either Monday or Tuesday where the new round of negotiations is to be held, though their timing and the make-up of the team are still not determined.

To read the full story, please visit: https://www.atlantajewishtimes.com/idf-chiefhostage-deal-is-on-the-table/

*

/ SOUP /

Mushroom Barley

Chicken Noodle • Matzo Balls

/ APPETIZERS /

Gefilte Fish • Chopped Chicken Liver

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls • Potato Latkes

/ ENTREES /

Goldbergs Famous Brisket & Gravy

Bubbe’s Roasted Chicken Quarters Vegetable Lasagna

/ SIDE DISHES /

Mashed Potatoes • Green Beans • Garden Salad

Maple Sweet Potatoes Kale Salad w/Maple Vinaigrette

/ KUGELS /

Potato Kugel • Sweet Noodle Kugel

/ DESSERT /

Rugelach Assortment • Honey Pound Cake

Babka: Chocolate or Cinnamon • Chocolate Torte

Pumpkin Harvest Pound Cake • Matzo Toffee

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

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir (right) is seen with Navy chief

Vice Adm. David Sa’ar Salama at the Haifa naval base, Aug. 24, 2025 // Photo Credit: Israel Defense Forces/Times of Israel

Ner Tamid Marks 20 Years of High Holiday Traditions

This fall, Congregation Ner Tamid (CNT) in Marietta will celebrate a meaningful milestone: its 20th High Holiday season. Since opening its doors in 2006, CNT has grown from a small group of founding families into a vibrant Reform Jewish congregation rooted in spiritual growth, community connection, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity.

Nestled in the foothills of Kennesaw Mountain, CNT offers a welcoming, family-oriented space where individuals and families from all backgrounds can find a sense of belonging. Whether someone is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, exploring Judaism for the first time, or part of an interfaith household, CNT has long prioritized a culture of openness and acceptance.

“We are proud to be a community where interfaith families feel not only welcomed, but fully embraced,” says Rabbi Joseph Prass, who will also be celebrating his 10th High Holiday season with the congregation. “Many of our families include partners from different faith traditions, and we see that as a strength. Our services and programs are designed to be accessible, meaningful, and respectful of every individual’s path.”

a

Congregation Ner Tamid began with

a space where Jewish worship, learning, and community could thrive. What began as informal gatherings in borrowed venues quickly blossomed into a flourishing synagogue that now serves Jewish and interfaith families across all of Cobb County, as

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Congregation Ner Tamid will celebrate its 20th High Holiday season this year.

Rabbi Joseph Prass is pictured with some of Congregation Ner Tamid’s youngest members.

well as Paulding, Cherokee, and Bartow counties.

Today, CNT is more than just a synagogue — it is a spiritual regional home. Year-round, the congregation hosts a rich calendar of activities, from spirited Shabbat dinners and dynamic religious school classes to holiday events, adult education, and social action initiatives. This sense of shared purpose and connection is central to the CNT experience.

High Holiday services at CNT reflect both tradition and renewal. Visitors and newcomers are always welcome, and there are no barriers to participation.

“Our congregation includes students from Kennesaw State University and Life University, military families from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, and a number of local civil servants,” notes Congregation President Matt Berenson. “We’re honored to welcome them as guests during the High Holidays and throughout the year. That openness is a core part of our identity.”

One of the most moving elements of CNT’s Yom Kippur service is the congregation’s unique musical tradition. Each year, the solemn Kol Nidre prayer is introduced by a live performance from a professional cellist — an emotional and spiritual highlight that sets the tone for the holiest night of the Jewish year. The haunting sound of the cello resonates deeply with attendees, creating a sacred space for introspection and forgiveness.

“This moment is deeply meaningful,”

adds Rabbi Prass. “The sound of the cello playing Kol Nidre transcends language and connects everyone in the room, no matter their background or level of observance. It’s one of the most cherished traditions in our congregation.”

As CNT commemorates its 20th High Holidays, it is also a time to reflect on the journey and growth of the past two decades.

Longtime member and Religious School Principal Jennifer Seitel recalls, “When I first came to CNT, I was looking for a place where my whole family could feel welcome. Twenty years later, I’ve found not just a synagogue, but a community that’s supported us through every stage of life.”

The name Ner Tamid — Hebrew for “Eternal Light” — reflects the congregation’s enduring mission: to keep the light of Jewish life burning brightly in Cobb County and its neighboring counties. That light shines through inclusive worship, a commitment to education, and a true celebration of diversity.

As the congregation enters its third decade, one thing remains unchanged: its commitment to being a welcoming, joyful, and spiritually rich home for Jewish and interfaith families across the region.

For information about Congregation Ner Tamid’s High Holiday services and upcoming events, visit https://mynertamid.info/2025-hh-registration ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Fall Festival Open House

Rabbi Joseph Prass displays a delicious looking challah. A pair of Ner Tamid youth blow the shofar.

Bouzyk Fired for Joining Wife’s Antisemitic Tirade

A Dunwoody couple are facing consequences after being accused of yelling antisemitic slurs at the father of an Israeli Border Police officer who was killed in 2023.

Mark Bouzyk has been fired after he and his wife were taped lobbing insults at David Lubin, the father of Sgt. Rose Ida Lubin, a Lone Soldier who served in Israel’s Border Police. Lubin died while responding to a terrorist attack committed by a 16-year-old Palestinian boy in Jerusalem on Nov. 6, 2023.

Lubin told Atlanta News First that the incident began earlier this month as he was distributing stickers honoring his daughter’s memory.

“When I heard her say, your daughter deserved to die and called me a kike, that’s when I walked across the street,” he said.

In a video of the confrontation posted on X by the watchdog group Stop Antisemitism, Anna Bouzyk, can be heard telling Lubin that his daughter went to Israel “to kill.”

“You are calling yourself a kike, you

know what you are. You know what you are better than me,” Bouzyk can be heard saying alongside her husband, Mark,

who periodically joined in the altercation. “You are a corrupt politician with a daughter in the IDF that went there to kill, and she was killed maybe by friendly fire because the Israeli soldiers they kill each other all the time, and you know very well,” continued Bouzyk.

Bouzyk later confirmed to Atlanta News First that she had called Lubin the derogatory term prior to the filmed confrontation, telling the outlet, “I don’t regret what I said, and I’ll it say a million times again.”

She blamed Lubin — who ran unsuccessfully for Georgia State Senate in 2024, aiming to unseat a politician who did not sign onto an antisemitism bill — for the interaction.

“He started calling me a Jew hater. He started calling me names, so I called him a kike,” Bouzyk told the outlet. “He was provoking me. He was putting his phone in my face. He didn’t have the right to do that, because I went to talk to him about vandalizing.”

Lubin told the outlet that he heard in Bouzyk “that same hate that happened during the Holocaust towards Jews.” He is also considering involving the police, according to the outlet.

Tensions between the neighbors in Dunwoody had been building since last year, when Anna and Mark Bouzyk allegedly posted pro-Palestinian signs in their

front yard. On one sign posted this month that read “Stop Funding War Criminals,” the word “kikes” was written 24 times. Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch condemned the signs in a post on Facebook last week, writing that they were “deeply disturbing and offensive.” She later updated the post thanking a local resident for convincing the homeowners to remove the signs.

Mark Bouzyk has since been fired from his job as the co-founder and chief scientific officer at AllaiHealth, an AI-driven patient medical history platform, the company announced.

“We are deeply disturbed and disheartened by the video circulating involving Dr. Mark Bouzyk,” CEO Robert Boisjoli said in the statement. “The behavior displayed in that footage is reprehensible, completely inconsistent with our values, and has no place in our organization or society.”

The incident joins another recent attack on the family of an American who moved to Israel to join its army. In St. Louis, a hate crime inquiry was opened by local police after three cars were set ablaze and “Death to the IDF” was written outside of the home of a family whose son recently completed two years serving in the IDF. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Mark Bouzyk has been fired from his job after his wife was recorded shouting antisemitic slurs at David Lubin in Dunwoody.

A group of protesters gather on Womack Road to sound off against Anna and Mark Bouzyk.

Anna and Mark Bouzyk have gone viral after Anna was recorded shouting antisemitic slurs at David Lubin, father of fallen Lone Soldier Rose Lubin.

Dunay to Help Lead Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation

By Debbie Diamond

Lizette Dunay has been named Chairman of the Board by the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation (CPARF).

With more than 23 years of involvement in the cerebral palsy community and over a decade of dedicated service to CPARF, Dunay brings unmatched passion and a deeply personal connection to the organization’s mission. CPARF is the foremost nonprofit in the world dedicated to research and innovation for people with cerebral palsy. Guided by a fivemember scientific advisory board, the foundation funds science that addresses every age and stage of life, providing crucial insights for people with cerebral palsy, their families, and their care teams.

“The work of raising awareness and funding for any medical research is at its core -- people powered. To have a person like Lizette at the helm of the foundation’s board is an exciting moment for CPARF. Over the last two decades and alongside her family, Lizette has invested so much of herself into fighting for increased funding and visibility for cerebral palsy research. With her experience and support, our vision for a more inclusive and accessible world is taking yet another vital step forward,” said Chris Olver, executive director of CPARF.

Dunay’s advocacy journey began after the birth of her son, Alex, when doctors discovered he had experienced a hemorrhagic stroke shortly after birth. This diagnosis led Dunay to a path she had not expected, but one to which she has remained steadfastly committed for almost 25 years. Today, Alex, now 23, leads an active and vibrant life participating in Habima Theater productions, riding his bike, playing video games, and spending time with his beloved golden doodle. He attends school in Atlanta and has a passion for animals, embodying a positive, “can do” attitude, just like his mother.

Now, as Dunay steps into her new leadership role at CPARF, she recognizes the broader challenges ahead. At a time when healthcare research funding faces significant hurdles, she is determined to increase donor engagement.

“I want to create greater awareness of all CPARF programs, including funding for research and the many initiatives that improve the quality of life for people with cerebral palsy. To get there, we need to expand our donor base to

those who may not be familiar with all the work and advancements being made by CPARF. Our goal is to raise $2.5 million over the next 12 months, beginning with the launch of this year’s STEPtember, our annual fundraiser,” said Dunay.

STEPtember is the organization’s largest fundraiser and brings together participants from across the globe to support groundbreaking research and assistive technology for people with disabilities. Every day during the month of September, participants commit to taking 10,000 steps — or the equivalent through nearly 90 different activities, from dancing and swimming to gardening and adaptive sports, all the while raising funds from supporters. This year’s event promises to be the most dynamic yet, marking a major fundraising push toward Dunay’s ambitious goal.

Cerebral palsy is the most common childhood-onset physical disability in the world, affecting 18 million people glob-

ally and approximately 1 in 345 births in the United States each year. Caused by brain injury during pregnancy, birth, or shortly after birth, CP affects movement, coordination, muscle tone, reflexes, posture, and balance. It is highly complex, presenting differently in every person, with many people also experiencing cooccurring conditions such as chronic pain, intellectual disability, impaired vision or difficulty walking.

Recognizing this complexity, CPARF addresses the needs of the community through a three-pronged approach: research, innovation, and collaboration. On the research front, the foundation currently funds nearly 30 multi-year studies and two fellowships for early career researchers, ensuring that scientific progress spans the full lifespan from infancy through adulthood.

Through its innovation program, Remarkable US, CPARF accelerates assistive technology that breaks down barriers to

independence. To date, the initiative has provided funding to 13 startups, served more than 100,000 people in nine countries, and built a pipeline of transformative solutions for the disability community.

Collaboration is the third pillar and includes partnerships with a number of organizations, most notably with the Cerebral Palsy Research Network (CPRN), which involves top-tier institutions such as Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins. This initiative has created the first national cerebral palsy patient registry. Currently, through the cooperative effort, an adult toolkit is being developed and will cover topics such as employment, travel, muscle and bone health, self-advocacy, and pain management.

CPARF is adding two board positions this year. Interested individuals may send an email to Chris Olver at chris.olver@ cparf.org. Those who would like to register to be a part of the STEPtember event or donate may visit steptember.us. ì

Lizette and Alex Dunay enjoy themselves on a recent vacation to Glacier National Park in Montana.

The Dunay family, (from left) Lizette, Emma, Alex, and Dave, visit the Botanical Garden.

Michael, a young man with cerebral palsy, has run more than 50 races since 2018.

Solly uses a robotic walker to help improve his mobility.

Naomi uses a standing wheelchair that enables her to transition from sitting to standing and helps her to be more independent.

AJFF Rebrands and Expands Its Programming

By Bob Bahr

Halfway through its 25th anniversary year, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival has a new name and a new focus. Going forward, the word, “festival,” has been dropped from the name and Atlanta gets abbreviated. It’s now ATL Jewish Film. The familiar director’s chair logo with a Jewish star in the center becomes a kind of punctuation mark for the new design.

What is being added is a new emphasis on education and what Kenny Blank, the organization’s executive and artistic director, described as “bridge building” between school-age young people.

The organization will also broaden its support for professional filmmakers in what has become a city with a thriving center for new productions.

“A new filmmaker fund will provide direct financial support to film artists,” Blank said, “uplifting these cinematic storytellers, while creating a pipeline of innovative film projects that explore the breadth of the Jewish experience.”

The redesign and the expanded programming initiative is part of an unprec-

edented push for new funding. What has been termed the Kenny Blank Vision Initiative has raised most of the $2.5 million it had as its goal this year.

Board President James Anderson, who took over in June, sees the new plan as sharpening the focus of the organization.

“ATL Jewish Film will carry all of our programs under one roof, helping the community see the breadth of our organization and recognize every event, screening and conversation as part of the same vision they’ve helped to build.”

Though the word festival has disappeared from the name, the festival event still remains very much the work of the organization. Next year’s film showcase will be a 25-day theatrical and virtual screening event that will run from Feb. 18 to March 15, 2026.

A student filmmaking competition was kicked off at The Westminster Schools on Aug. 27. It’s led by Kaylin Bennhout, senior manager of education and community relations. It’s hoped that a broad cross section of students from public and private schools will participate.

A similar event is planned in Clarkston, which has a rich mixture of racial and eth-

nic identities. Faculty advisors will guide student teams through the production process which concludes with a public screening and award ceremony on Nov. 19.

The student filmmaking competition has been made possible by the generous support of Sheri and Steve Labovitz who have been long-time supporters of

the organization.

“We believe deeply in the power of film to build bridges across cultures, generations and perspectives,” the Labovitz’ commented. “This program empowers young people to share their voice, express their identities and connect with other through creative expression.” ì

ATL Jewish Film Board Chair James Anderson (left) and Kenny Blank, artistic and executive director, announced major changes earlier this month.

SIMCHA SPOTLIGHT

Chabad of Cobb CTeen U Offers College Credits

By Debbie Diamond

Chabad of Cobb will offer a 10-week course for high school students in grades 10-12 this fall focused on Israel, exploring the Jewish community’s deep connection to the land, its history and people.

Participants will receive two elective college credits upon completion of the course, which can be transferred to the student’s college of choice. Classes begin Oct. 19 and will run for 10 Sundays (excluding national holidays) from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Cobb synagogue. Rabbi Avremel Zaltzman will teach the course, which is limited to 20 students. According to Rabbi Zaltzman, there is no homework, and all learning takes place during the evening sessions.

“Our goal is to equip students with the knowledge and confidence to be proud and passionate advocates for Israel, particularly in the current environment and as they head to college,” said Rabbi Zaltzman.

Eli Bock, who is headed to the Mayanot Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem, credits Rabbi Zaltzman and the CTeen U classes at Chabad of Cobb with his decision to take a gap year at the Chabad yeshiva before beginning his studies at the University of Wisconsin. His favorite class at Chabad of Cobb, in fact, focused on Israel – the country’s historic events, ties between its citizens and the Jewish diaspora, as well as the Torah’s impact on laws in Israel.

“I loved all the classes I have taken. We had great

discussions during every class. Rabbi Zaltzman encourages questions, and he is very engaging. As a result of all I have learned, I have an even stronger Jewish identity today. As an added bonus, potential

students should know there are a ton of snacks at every class, including popcorn, candy and drinks,” said Bock.

Micah Kopelman, now headed to Washington University in St. Louis, found out about the classes from his uncle, Mitchell Kopelman, an active member of the Cobb shul. “To be honest, I took the first class for the college credits I would receive, but the learning quickly took precedence over the credits. After the end of each session, I wanted to sign up for the next series of classes,” he said.

Kopelman also praised the Israel class and admitted this course has been his favorite to date. He found the subject matter applicable to his own life. “Following the timeline of Israel, we could see the crazy miracles that have unfolded and how the rules of Torah — like how to preserve individual rights and ethically fight a war — continue even today. Through CTeen Youth, the university courses, social events, study sessions with rabbis and Shabbatons, I have been introduced to a more observant way of living, which I find meaningful,” he said.

Hannah Epstein, a senior in the Campbell High School International Baccalaureate program, was introduced to the college courses by her brother, who had earlier taken many of the classes at Chabad of Cobb. A native of Marietta, Epstein has been active in the CTeen Youth program since eighth grade and attributes her involvement to feeling more connected to Judaism.

“I know more about Judaism and Jewish culture as a result of my participation in the classes and being active in CTeen Youth. I’m also glad I’ll be taking six college credits with me as I head off to college next year,” said Epstein.

Interested students and their parents may reserve a spot for the Israel class at Chabad of Cobb with a $25 deposit at www.chabadofcobb.com/collegecredits. ì

(From left) Eli Bock, Rabbi Avremel Zaltzman, Micah Kopelman

Rabbi Zaltzman with his students during a recent class.

SHIELD Provides Students, Parents Valuable Resources

By Debbie Diamond

Seventh-grade students in Georgia have begun a two-month unit about the Middle East in their social studies classes – and SHIELD (Supporting Honest Instruction & Equitable Learning for our Diaspora), a grassroots organization founded by moms to counter antisemitism and anti-Israel bias in the classroom, wants to alert parents that their Quick Action Center is available as a resource for guidance and support if misinformation about Israel and Zionism is shared.

The Middle East unit, currently underway, covers geography, history, religion and politics. Israel is included in several of the lessons. Topics include the Holocaust, Zionism, the founding of Israel and modern-day conflicts, which can be among the most sensitive subjects in the state’s curriculum and carries a significant risk for distortion and bias. According to SHIELD co-founder Mindy Mielnikowski, this unit has historically been a flashpoint for misrepresentation.

This year, the Georgia Department of Education updated their website for teachers which provides notes for classroom instruction on a myriad of topics, including the Middle East. According to SHIELD co-founder Laura Zhiss, the changes mark a significant move by the state to make the information more accurate and unbiased.

Cobb County School District, in particular, also introduced a new modified curriculum about the Middle East this school year. In Cobb, teachers have been provided with updated classroom materials for teaching the unit, including presentations, online worksheets, reading materials and classroom exercises. In addition, seventh-grade teachers attended an in-service workshop held by the county to learn about how to teach the new curriculum to students in their classrooms. Seventh grade is when the bulk of Mideast studies is taught in middle school. The Atlanta Jewish Times covered a board meeting in the March 27, 2025, issue where several community members were in attendance.

“As a parent and board member, I’m proud we’re teaching our students, as early as middle school, the real deal on the Holocaust and Israel’s founding. We listened, learned, and built a curriculum that is accurate, and both helps kids understand the atrocity of the Holocaust and how to treat each other with respect,” said John Cristadoro, vice chair of the Cobb School Board.

“We are encouraged by the actions of

the Cobb County School District in providing teachers with a six- to eight-week, day-by-day lesson plan, as well as vetted resources to support instruction. While the seventh-grade social studies curriculum is not without its imperfections, it represents a significant step forward from years past. For the first time, teachers across Cobb County will have clear guidance and consistent resources, ensuring that classroom materials meet an acceptable standard. SHIELD applauds this development as a meaningful improvement and an important safeguard for students,” said Mielnikowski, cofounder of SHIELD.

Born from lived experience and driven by urgency, SHIELD was founded by moms Mielnikowski and Zhiss, who witnessed firsthand how antisemitism and anti-Israel bias were creeping into their children’s classrooms. The Atlantabased group supports honest instruction and balanced learning about Jewish and Israeli history and culture. Using datadriven advocacy to guide actions, the group fosters strong community partnerships that protect the integrity of educational systems throughout Georgia. SHIELD offers practical tools, a supportive community, and a clear pathway to take meaningful action.

Coinciding with the start of the 20252026 school year, SHIELD launched a Quick Action Center to support Jewish families throughout the state whose children may encounter misinformation or antisemitism in the classroom. The Center offers a valuable toolbox of resources, including a quick step action plan, an antisemitism detection checklist, an incident submission form for the Anti-Defamation League, sample letters to send to teachers and administrators, and other useful information. The founders also are available to help guide parents and students.

“In the beginning, we were just trying to figure out — on our own — how to respond when teachers brought biased or inaccurate information into the class-

room. It felt overwhelming and isolating because there was no roadmap. Once Mindy and I came together, though, we realized we could navigate the system with more confidence and far less fear. That’s what led us to create SHIELD. We built it to give parents the tools, guidance, and support we wish we’d had — so no one has to feel alone or unsure about how to protect their child’s education,” said Zhiss. SHIELD founders believe parents are their children’s best advocates, especially in today’s world. They advise par-

ents that if something does not feel right in the classroom to trust their instincts and explore further.

“We want families to have a clear path forward and the reassurance that there are resources and a community to help them. We at SHIELD are here to help parents respond with confidence and clarity,” emphasized Mielnikowski.

SHIELD may be found at www. shieldk12.org. The SHIELD Quick Action Center may be accessed via www. shieldk12.org/about-1. ì

SHIELD co-founders (left) Laura Zhiss and Mindy Mielnikowski pictured at a Cobb County School Board meeting.

SHIELD provides parents with valuable resources about the Holocaust, Zionism, the founding of Israel and modern-day conflicts, and more.

Local Director Feinberg Tackles Love and Taxes

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Accountants can certainly fall in love and lust; but only Atlanta native Ken Feinberg chose to combine the two in a unique rom com, “Love & Taxe$,” which came to the big screen in early August at the Cobb International Film Festival.

Working with Lloyd Schwartz, friend and mentor on the script, the two got serious in 2023 during the writer’s strike and only recently completed it. Of note, Schwartz’s father created “Gilligan’s Island” and “The Brady Bunch.” When asked, “What’s Jewish about the movie?” Feinberg replied, “The main character is a Jewish accountant. He has a Jewish wedding in the movie. The writer, director, star and three producers are Jewish.” Note that Craig Tollis co-directed with Feinberg.

Feinberg, whose father was an actor, majored in film at the University of Georgia, then headed for the Big Apple, followed by Los Angeles where he studied and trained. His past parts include “Star Trek Enterprise,” “Buffy,” and “Charmed.”

He also acted and directed in theater. Here, he started the Creative Studios of Atlanta (CSA) Film Academy where his

classes trained actors like Storm Reid, Madison Thompson, Kyla Drew, and Lexi Minetree. His own past films are “When Tomorrow Comes,” “Retreads,” “Seven Generations,” and “Santa’s Boot Camp” (now playing on Tubi as a Christmas movie teaching kids to be nicer to one another). CSA has developed over time to include CSA Film Academy where they train young actors and adults and produce movies. In terms of his film genre outlook, he sums up “nonviolent.”

Feinberg suggested that beyond its comedy and quick repartee, “Love and Taxe$” is really about “relationships, deep conversations, caring, and open communication.”

One utterly charming piece of the project is the star, Jake Reiner, grandson of Carl Reiner and son of Rob Reiner. Nabbing that catch, Feinberg said, “Reiner submitted a headshot like 12,000 other actors. We put out a casting call. In the end, he and Alexis [Abrams, as a waitress] had amazing chemistry together … Rob Reiner gave us a quote and came to the Beverly Hills Film Festival. At our Beverly Hills Film Festival, it screened at the famous [Groman’s] Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Rob Reiner came and took photos on the red carpet and watched the movie with us.”

Only partially reminiscent of the old Alan Alda movie (1978) “Same Time, Next Year,” “Love and Taxe$” has each scene set during their once-a-year meeting where he helps her with her taxes (and other things -- hint).

Filming in Atlanta, Feinberg cites the milestones and hurdles as “funding and

distribution, finding the location, working in Georgia heat in July.”

He has submitted the film to more festivals in Atlanta, across Georgia, and North Carolina and is in talks with distributors. Feinberg commented, “For a native Atlantan Jewish filmmaker, it would be amazing to be in the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. We’ve submitted the film, and now it’s in the hands of the jury.”

On a personal note, Feinberg attended The Westminster Schools, and answers to being a “girl dad” with two teenagers who keep him pretty busy. In his spare time, he studies Kabbalah and follows UGA football. He cited his three favorite movies of all time. “That’s a tough one. These three movies I saw in the theater and went back the next day to watch again, ‘Dead Poets Society,’ ‘Shakespeare in Love,’ and ‘Shrek.’”

When pressed to drop names. Feinberg recalled, “I did acting workshops with Henry Winkler and Jason Alexander. I was on ‘Alias’ with Jennifer Garner, she was so nice. And David Prowse (Darth Vader) approached me at DragonCon and said he was ‘a fan of my work’ and wanted to know if I would trade autographed pictures.”

When queried about his own talents, Feinberg mused, “I think I’m really good with people. Finding acting talent and talented crew people. Many of the crew was their first time and they got to be creative.”

Note there is a 2015 movie, “Love & Taxes,” that is not related to Feinberg and this script. ì

Ken Feinberg (far left) is the co-director of “Love & Taxe$,” along with co-director Craig Tollis. “Love and Taxe$” stars Jake Reiner, son of Rob Reiner and grandson of Carl Reiner, and Alexis Abrams

Deck Safety: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

By Stan Garnet

For many homeowners, the deck is one of the most overlooked — and potentially dangerous — parts of the home. Building codes have evolved significantly over the past 15 years, yet millions of older decks remain in use that were built before modern safety standards were established.

If your deck wasn’t constructed by a licensed professional or was built without a permit, the risk of failure increases dramatically. This article will explore deck safety from every angle, starting with how to spot signs of trouble before it’s too late.

How to Identify an Unsafe Deck

More than 50 percent of homes in Georgia feature an exterior deck. Nationally, there are more than 40 million decks, many of which are aging beyond their intended lifespan. A pressure-treated wood deck typically lasts 12 to 16 years, depending on factors such as maintenance, climate exposure, and nearby vegetation. Any deck over 20 years old should be treated with suspicion.

Because all decks will eventually degrade, professional inspections are highly recommended annually, or at the very least, every two years; it’s simply a matter of when failure will occur, not if.

The most frequent reasons decks fail include: inadequate or deteriorating fasteners (nails, screws, bolts); advanced age; wood rot and splitting; improper ledger board attachment; missing structural connections; loose or shifting components; metal corrosion; deck movement under weight; non-compliant or amateur construction.

Why Deck Safety Is Gaining National Attention

In recent years, more jurisdictions

across the U.S. have adopted stricter codes for deck construction. Modern codes now address critical elements such as ledger boards, post connections, beam spans, and joist sizing. For homeowners looking to learn more, the DCA6 Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide is a reliable reference.

The dangers of failing structures are well-documented. From 2016 to 2019, the Consumer Product Safety Commission attributed approximately 2,900 injuries to the collapse of decks, balconies, and porches — a statistic that powerfully underscores the importance of both proactive maintenance and proper construction.

Deck Safety Checklist

Here are common warning signs that your deck may be unsafe:

* The deck shifts or moves when walked on

* Boards show signs of rot or decay

* Railings are loose or unstable

* Support posts are leaning or deteriorating

* Stairs feel unsteady or shake

* Floor joists are separating from the ledger board

* Support posts are not properly anchored

* Fasteners are missing, rusted, or failing

* The deck is held together primarily by nails

The Two Biggest Threats to Deck Safety

Homeowner Neglect: In most cases, homeowners don’t give their deck much thought until something happens — like stepping through a rotted board, grabbing a wobbly railing, or experiencing a total collapse.

Frequently, once the cost of replacement is presented, some homeowners opt for temporary fixes by hiring contractors willing to “patch” the deck — a decision that can lead to higher costs and serious safety risks down the road.

Unlicensed Contractors: Deck re-

pairs or replacements performed without permits are rarely inspected and often violate modern codes. Cutting corners in construction not only compromises structural integrity but also endangers lives. ì

Stan Garnet is an ASHI and IRC codecertified inspector and a licensed Georgia state contractor. He is a deck specialist and presenter at the Atlanta Home Show. He runs seminars for inspectors and builders on deck safety and building standards. Stan can be reached at BuildersAmerica.com, 770-587-3325. He welcomes any questions you may have.

In most cases, homeowners don’t give their deck much thought until something happens — like stepping through a rotted board, grabbing a wobbly railing, or experiencing a total collapse.

For many homeowners, the deck is one of the most overlooked parts of the home.

Leviathan Partners Ink $35B Export Deal with Egypt

Partners in Israel’s Leviathan reservoir inked a $35 billion deal to supply

Today in Israeli History

Aug. 31, 2004: Bombs explode on two buses 100 yards apart on Beersheba’s main street, Ranger Boulevard, shortly after they leave the central depot. Hamas claims credit for the attack, which kills 16 Israelis and injures 100 others.

Chaim Weizmann’s chemistry abilities helped gain him a role in supplying explosives for the British military during World War I. // By Robert Sennecke, public domain

Sept. 1, 1915: Chaim Weizmann, who helps win the Balfour Declaration in 1917, is appointed as an honorary technical adviser to the British Admiralty on supplying acetone, a key to making the military explosive cordite.

Sept. 2, 1935: An estimated 80,000 mourners, roughly a quarter of Mandatory Palestine’s Jewish population, line the streets of Jerusalem for the funeral of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, who died the previous day.

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

natural gas to Egypt, in the largest export deal in the country’s history.

Israel’s NewMed Energy, formerly Delek Drilling (part of Yitzhak Tshuva’s Delek Group), which owns a 45.3 percent stake in Leviathan, off the country’s Mediterranean coast, said the partners will sell a total of 130 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas to Egypt through 2040, or until all of the contract quantities are fulfilled. The deal is expected to funnel hundreds of millions of shekels in revenues from gas royalties and taxes to the country’s state coffers.

“This is the most strategically important export deal to ever occur in the eastern Mediterranean and strengthens Egypt’s position as the most significant hub in the region,” said NewMed CEO Yossi Abu.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Sept. 3, 1905: Scholar and biblical commentator Nechama Leibowitz is born in Riga, Latvia. She teaches at yeshivas, seminaries and Tel Aviv University and is known for her weekly “Pages” dispatches of Torah questions.

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

Sept. 5, 1972: Black September terrorists kill two Israeli team members and take nine others hostage at the Summer Olympics in Munich. All nine hostages, as well as five of the eight terrorists, are killed in a German rescue attempt.

A Moritz Daniel Oppenheim painting depicts a rabbi preparing his defense during the 1840 Damascus Affair.

Sept. 6, 1840: Under international pressure, the Ottoman pasha frees the nine surviving Damascus Jews of 13 who were falsely accused of killing a Franciscan Capuchin friar and his servant to obtain their blood.

Sept. 7, 1907: Three years before changing his last name to Ben-Gurion, David Gruen arrives in Jaffa with his girlfriend, Rachel Nelkin, and other young adults from Plonsk, Poland. He settles in Petah Tikvah.

Israel Sees Record Passenger Travel Since Oct. 7

Despite sky-high airfares, Israelis

Israel Tal, best known for leading the committee that developed Israel’s Merkava tank, is shown in 1966 during his time as the IDF armored commander. // By Moshe Milner, Israeli Government Press Office, CC BY-SA 3.0

Sept. 8, 2010: Former Israeli armor commander Maj. Gen. Israel Tal, a native of Mandatory Palestine best known for leading the 1970 committee that designed and developed the Merkava (Chariot) tank, dies at age 85.

Sept. 9, 1948: Alon Garbuz, the director of the Tel Aviv Cinematheque for four decades, is born in Givatayim. Under his leadership, the cinematheque establishes a permanent home and becomes Israel’s top film society.

Sept. 10, 1956: Eilat Mazar, a third-generation archaeologist, is born. Her best-known work involves excavations in Jerusalem’s City of David, including remnants of what she believes to be King David’s palace.

are not giving up on their summer vacations, and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport last week was set to record the busiest day since the war broke out with the Hamas terror group on Oct. 7, 2023.

Air passenger traffic passing through the airport has gradually been bouncing back to pre-war levels over the past month, during peak summer season, even as fares have soared as much as 119 percent over the past two years.

“High airfares have not deterred Israelis from booking overseas trips and securing their vacation,” Asaf Greenberg, marketing director at online travel company lastminute.co.il, told The Times of Israel. “The environment changed the behavior of Israeli travelers as they search for more attractive deals.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

Sept. 11, 1881: Yosef Haim Brenner is born in Ukraine. He publishes his first story collection in Hebrew in 1900. As an essayist, novelist and poet, he experiments with techniques such as blending languages. He is killed in Arab riots in 1921.

Sept. 12, 2009: An Israeli film wins the Golden Lion at the Venice International Film Festival for the first time. Written and directed by Samuel Maoz, “Lebanon” follows a tank brigade operating in the First Lebanon War.

Sept. 13, 1984: Shimon Peres becomes Israel’s eighth prime minister, leading a national unity government of his Alignment, Likud and six other parties. Peres agrees to yield power to Likud’s Yitzhak Shamir after two years.

Sept. 14, 1948: After a meeting with Palmach leaders, Prime Minister David BenGurion announces that the elite strike force is being dismantled as an independent unit and integrated into the Israel Defense Forces.

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

Passengers at Ben Gurion International airport near Tel Aviv, Aug. 8, 2025 // Photo Credit: Rachel Alroey/Flash90/Times of Israel

The Leviathan natural gas platform off the shore of Israel // Photo Credit: Albatross/Times of Israel

Arab rioting in Jaffa in 1921 cut short Yosef Haim Brenner’s acclaimed literary career. // Central Zionist Archives

Israel to Support Lebanon in Disarming Hezbollah

By TOI and Agencies

Israel is “ready to support” Lebanon’s efforts to disarm Hezbollah and will implement a phased reduction of its military presence in Lebanon as a “reciprocal measure,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement on Monday.

If the Lebanese Armed Forces “take the necessary steps to implement the disarmament of Hezbollah, Israel will engage in reciprocal measures, including a phased reduction of IDF presence in coordination with the U.S.-led security mechanism,” the statement reads.

“Israel stands ready to support Lebanon in its efforts to disarm Hezbollah and to work together towards a more secure and stable future for both nations,” it continued.

The comments issued by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office come nine months after Israel and Lebanon reached a ceasefire deal following a year of cross-border fighting that escalated in September 2024 before the agreement was signed in November. Israel has maintained a military presence in five

key points in Southern Lebanon and continues to strike Hezbollah targets in the country.

On Monday, alongside the comments from Netanyahu’s office, a Hezbollah operative was killed in an Israeli drone strike in the Southern Lebanon town of Tebnine, the military said.

According to the IDF, the operative was involved in restoring Hezbollah military infrastructure in the nearby town of Beit Lif, which the IDF called a violation of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The Lebanese health ministry reported one dead in a strike on a car in Tebnine. The strike is the first since the IDF said it hit a Hezbollah arms depot last week.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam this month approved the objectives of a U.S. proposal to disarm Hezbollah, the Iran-backed terror group that is also a political party in Lebanon, by the end of this year. Hezbollah, which was heavily weakened by the war, has vowed to resist such efforts. On Monday, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem reaffirmed the group’s refusal to disarm.

The Prime Minister’s Office statement praised leaders in Beirut for their “momentous decision,” calling the move “a crucial opportunity for Lebanon to reclaim its sovereignty and restore the authority of its state institutions, military, and governance — free from the influence of non-state actors.”

The statement came a day after top U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, reportedly met in Jerusalem with Netanyahu and other senior officials to discuss Syria and Lebanon.

Barrack said in Beirut last week that Israel should honor its commitments under a November 2024 ceasefire, in light of Beirut’s decision to work toward Hezbollah’s disarmament.

“I think the Lebanese government has done their part. They’ve taken the first step. Now, what we need is Israel to comply,” Barrack said following a meeting in Beirut with Lebanese President Aoun.

Asked by reporters about whether he expected to see Israel fully withdraw from Lebanese territory, Barrack said that “that’s exactly the next step” needed. ì

IS ELI HOSTAGE T CKER

The following is an index of Israeli hostages with the most current information available as of press deadline.

The first phase of Israeli hostage transfers is complete. The Atlanta Jewish Times will update this hostage tracker with current news of the next round of hostage transfers. Bring Them Home.

Israeli hostages remaining:

Fifty-five more hostages are held in Gaza by Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists. The hostages are:

Rom Braslavski, 21

Yosef-Chaim Ohana, 24

Nimrod Cohen, 20

Matan Angrest, 22

Ziv Berman, 27

Gali Berman, 27

Maxim Herkin, 36

Segev Kalfon, 27

Bipin Joshi, 24

Elkana Bohbut, 35

Alon Ohel, 24

Ariel Cunio, 27

Bar Kupershtien, 23

Guy Gilboa-Dalal, 23

Eitan Horn, 38

Tamir Nimrodi, 20

Matan Zangauker, 25

Avinatan Or, 31

Omri Miran, 47

Eitan Mor, 24

David Cunio, 34

Eyvatar David, 24

The following hostages are either believed to be dead or their deaths have been confimed:

Amiram Cooper, 84 (murdered in captivity)

Inbar Hayman, 27 (murdered in captivity)

Asaf Hamami, 41 (murdered in captivity)

Eliyahu Margalit, 75 (murdered in captivity)

Uriel Baruch, 35 (murdered in captivity)

Tal Haimi, 41 (murdered in captivity)

Oz Daniel, 19 (murdered in captivity)

Tamir Adar, 38 (murdered in captivity)

Eitan Levy, 52 (murdered in captivity)

Ran Gvili, 24 (murdered in captivity)

Yair Yaakov, 59 (murdered in captivity)

Ronen Engel, 54 (murdered in captivity)

Sahar Baruch, 35 (murdered in captivity)

Itay Chen, 19 (murdered in captivity)

Aviv Atzili, 49 (murdered in captivity)

Dror Or, 48 (murdered in captivity)

Muhammad Al-Atrash, 39 (murdered in captivity)

Joshua Loitu Mollel, 21 (murdered in captivity)

Idan Shitvi, 28 (murdered in captivity)

Yossi Sharabi, 53 (murdered in captivity)

Arie Zalmanovich, 85 (murdered in captivity)

Daniel Peretz, 22 (murdered in captivity)

Guy Illouz, 26 (murdered in captivity)

Lior Rudaeff, 61 (murdered in captivity)

Meny Godard, 73 (murdered in captivity)

Ilan Weiss, 56 (murdered in captivity)

Hadar Goldin, 23 (murdered in 2014)

Omer Neutra, 21 (murdered in captivity)

Sonthaya Oakkharasri (murdered in captivity)

Sudthisak Rinthalak (murdered in captivity)

Supporters of Lebanon’s Hezbollah terror group block the streets with burning tires as they rally in cars and motorbikes to protest the government’s endorsement of a plan to disarm it, in Beirut’s southern suburbs, early on Aug. 8, 2025 // Photo Credit: Ibrahim AMRO/AFP/Times of Israel

SPORTS

Pederson & Tellez Look for Rangers Postseason Run

David Ostrowsky

Over the last two weeks of July, the Texas Rangers plugged in Joc Pederson and Rowdy Tellez, two of the more prolific Jewish sluggers of the 2020s, into their lineup. The former was returning from a 52-game absence stemming from a broken right hand back in May; the latter was joining the Rangers after having recently signed a minorleague contract with their Round Rock Triple-A affiliate following his release from the Seattle Mariners.

The hope was that the two-time AllStar Pederson, a 2021 postseason cult hero of sorts for Atlanta with his ubiquitous pearl necklace, and the well-traveled Tellez would fortify a Texas team jockeying for a postseason wild card berth. Though both have had their moments of contributing over the past month-plus — namely, by belting clutch late-inning homers — the Rangers have floundered of late and don’t loom as a playoff contender as the season enters its final month.

While teamwide success has proven elusive, the waning days of summer have buoyed Pederson and Tellez, at least to some extent. Pederson, an integral part of Atlanta’s spectacular 2021 postseason run with his monster National League Division Series performance against the Milwaukee Brewers, of which Tellez was a member, endured a hellacious start in 2025. An All-Star as recently as 2022, Pederson was grinding through the least productive offensive season of his career, batting only .131 with two homers in 46 games, when the fractured wrist sidelined him in late May.

“It’s pretty frustrating,” Pederson admitted to reporters earlier this summer. “You come into every season wanting to have a healthy year to play and help contribute to a winning team. Obviously, I started tough, so helping the team win was not going well. And then getting hurt on something that I couldn’t control, that held me out a lot longer than I would have liked. The body heals at its own pace. So that was doubly frustrating. I guess you could say.”

A 12-year veteran who spent his prime years with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Pederson, also an outfielder for Team Israel during the 2023 World Baseball Classic, was annually playing October baseball in the 2010s before helping L.A. capture the World Series in the COVID-

truncated 2020 campaign. But this year, with his historically slow start and injury-induced hiatus coinciding with the Rangers fading down the stretch, has been a rather trying one. Especially since it has come on the heels of agreeing to a $37 million, two-year contract during free agency this past December.

“When you’re grinding, it’s hard because the mental load is a lot in this game and the stress that comes with it,” added Pederson, who has shown glimpses of resurgent power since returning to action in late July. “I mean, getting hurt sucks, but part of being a professional is making the best of situations that you’re in. Part of that was recovering mentally and getting in a better spot, mentally and physically, to, like I said, try to help the team win. That’s the end goal.”

Tellez, meanwhile, in many ways has a similar profile to Pederson’s and that of many modern-day sluggers: he’s a constant threat to clear the fences at the expense of posting a healthy average and putting the ball in play on a regular

basis. The 30-year-old journeyman, who was born in Sacramento, Calif., to a Jewish mother and a father with Mexican heritage, clubbed 11 home runs and had 27 RBI over 62 games this spring for the Mariners before the Rangers’ AL West rivals designated him for assignment on June 20 and released him six days later. Texas took a flier on the burly first baseman/designated hitter with the minor-league assignment and eventual promotion to the big-league roster. The fun-loving Tellez has a reputation for being a solid clubhouse guy who, while at times a liability in the field, is still a potent bat against right-handed pitchers.

“My job is just to come here and impact the team in any way I can,” said Tellez, who like Pederson, enjoyed an excellent season in 2022, as he finished with 35 homers and 89 RBI for the Milwaukee Brewers. “Whatever [Rangers manager Bruce Bochy] asks me to do, whatever they need me to do, I’m going to come out here and give everything I got and do what I need to do. We’re in a playoff push coming out of the

second half. I just want to impact the team and be able to fill any hole they need me to.

“I feel like I’m a very good clubhouse presence. I have fun, I smile. For me, it’s also just bringing a positive attitude and bringing something here. I want to impact the team positively, driving in runs and win games.”

At times, Tellez has done so. In his first 23 games in Texas, Tellez (pronounced ‘teh-LEHZ’) knocked in 10 runs, one of which came on a game-tying solo shot in the bottom of the ninth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Aug. 11. After going on to win 7-6 in extras, the Rangers sported a 61-59 record at the season’s three-quarter mark and were squarely in the mix for the final AL wild card spot. Since then, Tellez’s and Pederson’s bats have largely gone quiet while their club has slipped back to .500 at 66-66 as of press deadline. There’s still a month left in the season, but the Rangers will have to go on a torrid run for Pederson and Tellez to ensure another taste of postseason baseball. ì

With a strong reputation for being a cheery, team-first guy, Rowdy Tellez (right) was a welcome addition to a Texas Rangers ballclub trying to make a late playoff push // Photo Credit: Texas Rangers social media

Even though he’s been in MLB since 2014 and struggled mightily at the beginning of this season, Joc Pederson is a dangerous bat, especially off the bench against righties // Photo Credit: Texas Rangers social media

Prospect Cohen Shines in Yankees Farm System

By David Ostrowsky

Much to the delight of millions of Jewish residents of the Tri-State area, the New York Yankees organization has had a robust Jewish presence this summer. While the big-league team has ace pitcher Max Fried and bench coach Brad Ausmus, its Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, currently have a stable of Jewish pitchers in Jake Bird, Scott Effross, Eric Reyzelman, and Harrison Cohen. However, it is Cohen, a delightful young man from Long Island who joined the Yankees as an undrafted free agent out of George Washington University in 2022, who has the most authentic homegrown connection to the fabled franchise.

Long Island — and Cohen’s hometown of Syosset — may be associated most closely with the New York Mets, who play their home games in nearby Flushing, but Cohen grew up in a nuclear and extended family of diehard Yankees fans. Though he missed out on the Bronx Bombers’ late-nineties dynastic years, Cohen retains vivid memories of the final days of old Yankee Stadium and the team’s last World Series title in 2009 when icons Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte (Cohen got to shoot the breeze with him for a few minutes during this past spring training) and Jorge Posada were nearing the end of their illustrious careers.

“The Yankees were always on in my house, and I grew up idolizing Jorge Posada and wore the No. 20 for my entire career,” Cohen shared when speaking to the AJT earlier this month. “Old Yankee Stadium, I was there all the time.”

There was one special time, in fact, when Cohen wasn’t merely a spectator at The House That Ruth Built, but also got the dreamy opportunity to score pregame field passes to meet the aforementioned legends during batting practice. The pinnacle of the afternoon, which to this day represents his fondest memory of his early fandom, was tossing some pitches to the eventual Hall of Famer Rivera in the cavernous outfield of a soonto-be demolished Yankee Stadium.

Seventeen years later, it seems only a matter of time before Cohen is tossing actual pitches off the new Yankee Stadium mound. After acing his lower-level minor-league assignments over the past few years, Cohen earlier this summer was bumped up to Triple-A where, as of this past weekend, he’s posted a 1.35 ERA without giving up a single homer over

20 appearances. One stop from Yankee Stadium, Cohen has flashed signs of bigleague readiness and could possibly get promoted, if not next month when rosters expand slightly, at some point early next year.

“The talent level is there regardless of what level you’re at,” added Cohen, who would certainly consider pitching for Team Israel during next year’s World Baseball Classic in Miami, if such an opportunity presented itself. “I think it’s a lot of learning about yourself. A lot of game planning has gone into my process. Really getting and sticking to a routine for me has been a really big differencemaker with going level to level.”

Cohen’s fellow relievers, Effross and Bird, who was acquired from the Colorado Rockies at the Trade Deadline, have spent time on a Yankees team whose injury-riddled bullpen has faced headwinds. It would be only natural for an up-and-coming prospect such as Cohen to pay close attention to the parent club’s crop of relievers as one injury setback or string of subpar performances could be his ticket to a high-octane pennant race. But as a dyed-in-the-wool Yankees

fan who has befriended several of the recent call-ups, Cohen doesn’t have any self-serving reasons for being glued to Yankees games on TV — when they don’t conflict with his.

“I know a fair number of the guys. I’ve met a lot of them through my time,” explained Cohen. “I keep up with guys but at heart, I’m a Yankee fan, so I always will still check in and watch the games. In a way, I try to separate myself from anything that I’m doing and just be able to sit down and watch a Yankee game.”

There was a time — just over three years ago — when the prospect of pitching in any major league ballpark, let alone Yankee Stadium, didn’t seem particularly likely. In late summer 2022, Cohen had one more year of college eligibility remaining and was mentally prepared to return to GW, a school in which he ranked 18th in program history in strikeouts (201) and 19th in wins (14). He had already gone through the draft process three times without hearing his name called — “In 2022, that was the year I really thought I had a good chance, and then seeing it go day after day with hearing nothing, it was disappointing”

— but in mid-August, days before classes were slated to resume, the Yankees called him to come down to their spring training complex in Tampa to ink his first pro contract.

But since that uncertain juncture of his baseball career, Cohen has proven capable of consistently getting batters out all throughout his minor-league journey, one that has included stops in Fishkill, N.Y., and Bridgewater, N.J., in addition to his current home in northeast Pennsylvania. He may refer to joining Fried on the Yankees pitching staff as the proverbial dream come true, but truthfully, with each day that he continues to excel in high-leverage situations against quasi-big-league hitters, his career-defining moment appears to be a matter of when, not if.

The meaningfulness is hard to put into words, but Cohen’s able to succinctly articulate how he expects to feel.

“I would say that the first emotion would just be joy. It’s special regardless of [the venue], but the idea of making it and debuting at Yankee Stadium with the team that I grew up rooting for — and still root for — would be just an absolute dream come true.” ì

The New York Yankees, a franchise with an exceptionally massive Jewish fanbase, have several members of the organization, including pitcher Harrison Cohen, with strong Jewish roots // Photo Credit: Heidi Kearney

ELEM Launches ‘Bring Our Youth Home’ Atlanta 15U Baseball Brings Home Gold

Battling teams from across the country and the sweltering heat of Tucson, Ariz., was no problem for the 15U Atlanta baseball team at this year’s JCC Maccabi Games. The team bonded quickly and played with tremendous energy and exhibited the highest levels of sportsmanship.

The Atlanta squad went a perfect 6-0 and came from behind in dramatic fashion to snatch the gold right out of the Los Angeles team’s hands. Coach Josh Alterman said, “The way this team came together and supported each other was really special. I’m incredibly proud of these boys and I will never forget the experience.”

Ryan Blatt, who won the Rachmanus Award, said, “Tucson was a week I was lucky enough to experience. I was able to meet many new Jewish friends and play my favorite sport along with my favorite people, plus we won the gold which I’ll never forget!”

Peyton Halpern, who pitched in the

championship game, shared, “I was excited to connect with Jewish kids from other cities. The week was filled with athletics, team building, and creating a sense of community that made me feel proud to be Jewish.”

Jordan Smith, who batted a perfect 1.000 through the first five games, was happy to share his experience. “What an awesome week in Tucson, having Coach Josh lead us was the perfect mix of comedy, fun and professionalism. I loved the way the team cheered for each other and made friendships with the other teams on and off the field. Winning the gold was the perfect icing on the cake!”

The team roster was: Ryan Blatt, Zachary Bill, Jayden Cohen, Zachary Diamond, Brady Goldstein, Brayden Glickman, Peyton Halpern, Noah Kolevsohn, Nathan Landis, Marty Lips, Daniel Richman, Jordan Smith, Graham Stein, Max Tavani

Compiled by AJT Staff

Israel’s leading nonprofit for at-risk youth, ELEM, expands safe spaces for teens returning from evacuation.

As Israel prepares for a new school year under the shadow of war, ELEM is launching the “Bring Our Youth Home” initiative to help children and teenagers who have been forced from their homes return to their communities, regain stability, and rebuild daily life. Since Oct. 7, the number of at-risk youth in Israel has surged, making this effort more urgent than ever.

The initiative focuses on Northern Israel’s hardest-hit communities, including Kiryat Shmona, Majdal Shams, the Mateh Asher and Upper Galilee regional councils, Mas’ade, and Ein Qiniyye, with a special emphasis on socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. ELEM works in partnership with the Israeli Ministry of Welfare and local authorities to provide tailored support in each location. Before establishing a program in a new community, ELEM conducts on-the-ground needs assessments and targeted outreach.

Each site will operate at least two of the following proven support models, which meet teens wherever they are: in school, in the community, or online:

School-Based Breathing Spaces (inschool drop-in centers): Informal spaces within schools that promote belonging, improve attendance, and provide emotional support, counseling, and referrals.

Street-Based Emotional Support Spaces (outreach vans): Mobile safe spaces that operate primarily at night in highrisk areas, reaching teens when formal services cannot.

Afternoon Centers: Communitybased centers offering group activities, mentoring, and stability through trained professionals and positive peer engagement.

Virtual Emotional Support Spaces: Secure online platforms that provide counseling, real-time distress monitoring, and proactive outreach to isolated or homebound teens.

“These teens have lived through months of fear and uncertainty. Coming home is only the beginning,” Liora Attias-Hadar, CEO of American Friends of ELEM, said. “Together with our partners in Israel, we are committed to helping them feel safe, supported, and ready to rejoin their friends, families, and schools.”

The project was soft launched in March of 2025 in Kiryat Shmona as residents began returning home. Now, it is officially taking off as the new school year is set to begin. ELEM expects to support approximately 320 teens per year in that community alone.

Team Atlanta 15U Baseball took home the gold in this year’s JCC Maccabi Games.

Pair of Locals Join Leading Executives Cohort

Leading Edge announced the 21 Jewish nonprofit leaders in the newest cohort of its acclaimed executive leadership development program, Leading Executives, including Rabbi Larry Sernovitz of Hillels of Georgia and Scott Michael Topal of Ramah Darom.

“Developing strong leadership skills is vital for navigating the challenges and opportunities of this moment,” said Abby Crawford, VP of leadership programs at Leading Edge. “In today’s shifting landscape, Jewish nonprofit leaders are grappling with a range of pressing issues. Leaders need support and they need to grow and practice core competencies in strategic vision, communication, and adaptability.”

By strengthening these leadership skills, according to Leading Edge, Jewish nonprofit executives can guide their organizations to fulfill their missions, support their communities, and create a lasting, positive impact. Cohort participants will be equipped with the tools, resources, and a lasting network that will empower them to lead their organizations with confidence and vision.

Leading Executives brings together a diverse group of executive leaders from Jewish nonprofit organizations across North America, each poised to deepen their leadership abilities in profound ways. Throughout the program, running from August to early 2026, participants will have the opportunity to sharpen their leadership skills, engage in personalized growth experiences, and collabo-

rate with fellow cohort members.

“Our research into the experience of Jewish nonprofit executives shows that connections with other leaders in the Jewish nonprofit sector is the single most agreed-upon form of support that leaders find valuable to them in their roles,” added Crawford. “For today’s executives, the value of a supportive peer group is higher than ever before.”

The new cohort of Leading Executives includes: Earl Bloom (Congregation Anshai Torah); David Bocarsly (Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC); Jessy Dressin (Third Space at Shaarei Tfiloh); Susanna Garfein (Na’aleh: The Hub for Leadership Learning); Rachel Gildiner (SRE Network); Becca Green (Charlotte Jewish Preschool); Adina Mermelstein Konikoff (YAFFED); Jaimie Krass (Keshet); Danny Labin (Jewish Federation of the Desert); Craig Neuman (Congregation Shaare Emeth); Kelli Trotsky Pfaff (The Efshar Project); Meredith Polsky (Matan); Rachel Rudman (Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue); Irene Lehrer Sandalow (The Institute for Jewish Enrichment); Mark Segel (Jewish Federation of Central New York); Larry Sernovitz (Hillels of Georgia); Liron Shoham (Inter-Agency Task Force on Israeli Arab Issues); Rebekah Sobel (Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education); Mike Steklof (Hillel of Buffalo); Scott Michael Topal (Ramah Darom); Aviva Vilenski (Nissa)

Compiled by AJT Staff

Left) Rabbi Larry Sernovitz of Hillels of Georgia and Scott Michael Topal of Ramah Darom are among the 21 Jewish nonprofit leaders who comprise this year’s Leading Executives cohort.

Hadassah Ketura Hosts Annual Pool Party

The Ketura Group of Hadassah Greater Atlanta held its annual pool and pizza party on July 27 at the home of Leora and Herb Wollner. Both Hadassah members (women) and Hadassah associates (men) gathered to cool off in the Atlanta summer weather. The latest Hadassah news taking place in Israel and in the United States was presented.

Hadassah recently recognized the international movie star Gal Gadot for her fearless advocacy on behalf of Israel. On July 17, before an international audience of 7,000 filmmakers and dignitaries, including the Mayor of Jerusalem, Carol Ann Schwartz, Hadassah National President, presented Gal Gadot with the Power of Dreams Award at the Jerusalem Film Festival. Gadot, who portrayed Wonder Woman, is the first Israeli actress to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is well known for speaking out on behalf of Israel.

Gadot is only the second person to receive this Hadassah award. Gwyneth Paltrow was the first to be given the honor, which recognizes women whose vision and actions mirror those of Hadas-

sah’s founder, Henrietta Szold. Szold’s compassion laid the foundation and foresight for Israel’s modern healthcare system.

Rosalie Agrow, president of the Hadassah Ketura group, said, “Gal Gadot took the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to Hadassah which plays a vital role in the development of medicine in Israel. Gadot added that she loves Israel and she’s so proud to be a part of it and to make our voices heard.”

As the guests cooled off in the pool party, they learned about the type of wa-

ter exercise and hydrotherapy that is performed at Hadassah’s new Gandel Rehabilitation Institute in Jerusalem. The events on and since Oct. 7 have continued to take a heavy toll on the physical and emotional health of Israelis. There has been a dramatic increase in the need for rehabilitative care among wounded civilians and soldiers; hundreds will require specialized inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation — for weeks, months, or even years to come — for severe physical injuries as well as psychological and mental health treatment. This is where the Gan-

del Rehabilitation Center has played a major role in healthcare in Israel.

Hydrotherapy is invaluable in helping patients ease pain throughout their regimen at Gandel. Treatments take place in temperature-controlled, warm-water pools comforting patients suffering from chronic pain and contributing to the enhancement of their motor skills. Water exercise offers a multitude of benefits, primarily due to the unique properties of water providing low-impact support and resistance. It’s a great option for people of all ages and fitness levels, especially those with joint pain or injuries.

Hadassah members exercised in the pool; dancing in a circle to Israeli music and mobilizing their limbs in the water as they came to realize the benefits water exercise. Thanks to Hadassah, the guests could escape the “Hotlanta” summer heat as they learned how important Hadassah is both in Atlanta and in Israel.

For more information about Hadassah Greater Atlanta, go to: https://www. hadassah.org/chapter/greater-atlanta

Compiled by AJT Staff

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Keeping cool in Hotlanta by splashing in the pool are (from left) Phil Jacoby, Leora Wollner, Suzy Wilner, Susan McCarthy, and Rosalie Agrow

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,

What happened on Womack Road in Dunwoody is not just a local scandal — it’s a gut punch to the soul of our community. We all saw it: signs, brazen and hateful, plastered with a Jewish slur right across from a high school. But the story didn’t end with a word on a board. It escalated, as so many things do when hate is left unchecked. When confronted, Mark and Anna Bouzyk didn’t back down. Instead, they hurled slurs at a grieving father — whose beautiful brave daughter, Rose, was murdered by a terrorist — finding what seemed like satisfaction in his pain. I keep asking myself: how did we get here? What happened to humanity?

When Hate Moves in Next Door

This isn’t some distant tragedy or an abstract debate about free speech. This is our street, our neighbors, our children walking past signs of hate on their way to school. When hate is allowed to take root in our front yards, it doesn’t just poison the air — it suffocates our sense of safety, our decency, our very identity as a community.

We’re told, sometimes by the very people who stoke these fires, that it’s not “real” antisemitism. That having “Jewish friends” or citing hate groups like Jewish Voice for Peace somehow makes it all OK. This is gaslighting, plain and simple. It’s a smokescreen that lets bigotry fester and gives the worst among us permission to act on their ugliest impulses.

The Enemy Within: Excuses and Enablers

Let’s be clear: there is no justification for hate, no matter who tries to dress it up as debate or dissent. When organizations or individuals use their Jewish identity to excuse or minimize antisemitism, they are not offering nuance — they are handing ammunition to those who would see us divided and afraid.

Why do we allow this? Why do we let people who have never set foot in Israel,

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.

who have never been forced to mourn a child lost to terror, dictate the terms of our outrage? If you have strong opinions about Israel, go there. Vote. Argue. But do not stand here, in the safety of suburbia, and give cover to those who would spit on a father’s grief.

A Community’s Choice

We have a choice. We can shrug and say, “It’s just words.” Or we can recognize that every slur, every sign, every cowardly justification is a brick in the wall that divides us. Silence is not neutrality. It is complicity.

We need to reclaim our streets, our schools, our sense of belonging. We need to stand with the grieving, the targeted, the vulnerable — not just with words, but with action. Bobbi Livnat and David Lubin inspired those actions. Peacefully, volunteers have stood outside their homes with Israeli flags and signs of love for Jews and Israel. The call was put out and our community answered. This isn’t the first time and sadly it most likely won’t be the last. Get involved, put up your own signs. Speak out at council meetings. Refuse to let hate go unanswered.

This is About Us

Womack Road is a mirror. It shows us who we are, and who we might become if we don’t fight for our values. Hate doesn’t need a majority to win — just enough silence to feel safe.

Let’s make it clear: there is no home for hate here. Not on Womack Road. Not anywhere. If you feel anger, good. Let it move you. If you feel sorrow, let it remind you what’s at stake. This is our community. Let’s defend it — with passion, with unity, and above all, with our humanity.

Am Yisrael Chai.

Cheryl Dorchinsky, Atlanta

Cheers to 100 Years

In recognition of the Atlanta Jewish Times celebrating its 100th year from its first edition in 1925, the AJT will re-publish articles from the Southern Israelite from editions dating as far back as 1929, the earliest edition available through the Digital Library of Georgia. All of the Southern Israelite editions, from 1929-1986, can be viewed at gahistoricnewspapers.galileo.usg.edu/lccn/sn78003973/

Please enjoy this retrospective of Jewish journalism in Atlanta and across Georgia, and thank you for supporting the Atlanta Jewish Times for the last 100 years.

Three Years of ‘Staring Hate in the Face’

Dave Schechter

From Where I Sit

“Staring hate in the face for a living is a really hard thing to do.”

That’s how Eytan Davidson described his tenure as director of the Anti-Defamation League’s Atlanta-based Southeast region (Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina).

Davidson stepped down Aug. 1, saying, “I made the decision to pursue other professional opportunities, having served for three years in a very fulfilling and challenging role.”

Not to minimize the ADL’s education and anti-bias programs, nor the controversies that swirl around the organization, for this column I wanted Davidson’s assessment of how the work of combatting antisemitism changed after the Oct. 7, 2023, terror attacks in Israel and where he sees the Jewish community 690 days later.

When the 48-year-old grandson of Holocaust survivors came on board in July 2022, “The rise of extremism was having a particularly profound effect on the Jewish community, but writ large, it was having a devastating impact on our society,” Davidson said.

The Southeast region’s Twitter (now X) feed that month included a swastika painted on the “rainbow

intersection” in Midtown Atlanta, issues with Cobb County schools, and antisemitic projections outside the Florida-Georgia football game. Earlier that year, Georgia’s legislature began debating a definition of antisemitism for the state legal code (eventually approved in 2024).

Those issues pale compared with the impact of the Oct. 7 gut punch. “I was sitting there in bed, looking at my phone, and realized immediately that the entire world was different, drastically different,” Davidson said, recalling that morning.

Beginning at 6.30 a.m. in Israel (11.30 p.m., Oct. 6, in Atlanta), as Jews marked the Simchat Torah holiday, Hamas fired more than 3,000 rockets at Israel. At the same time, upwards of 3,800 Hamas fighters, along with another 2,200 attackers, breached fences and stormed kibbutzim, towns, and an outdoor music festival in the “Gaza envelope” of Southern Israel.

Some 1,200 men, women, and children were murdered, while another 250, alive and dead, were kidnapped into Gaza as hostages. At this writing, 50 hostages remain, of whom maybe 20 are alive.

“An event like Oct. 7, you’re doing the work with a broken heart and that will make any job more difficult,” Davidson said. “It did provide more motivation — not like we needed it.”

Davidson said that previous anti-Israel protests tied to clashes with Hamas, such as those in May 2021, were a "foreshadowing" of what was to come, "But we

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didn't know it would be that times a million."

“Being Jewish in America took a real hit on Oct. 7, and we are still figuring out what to do with that as a community,” he said.

Protests against how Israel has waged war in Gaza have included demonstrations and speeches with antiJewish overtones, intimidation of Jewish individuals and vandalism of Jewish businesses and institutions by perpetrators boasting of their support for the Palestinian cause, Jewish students voicing fears for their safety on university and college campuses, and an erosion of support for Israel among some previously allied (or at least sympathetic) individuals and groups.

Davidson said: “I think the fault lines already were in place and they were ready to be exploited . . . to divide and conquer the progressive community,” in which liberal Jews with any affinity toward Israel found themselves no longer welcome in that ideological tent.

Communal organizations remain distressed about the attitude of younger Jews toward Israel. “Surveys show higher levels of animus and lower levels of approval in the Millennial and Gen Z generations. It is in the Jewish community’s interest to fight to get people back into the fold . . . to feel part of the Jewish people,” he said.

Those coming of age since 2000 “have seen Israel portrayed as an aggressor to such an extent that on Oct. 7, when Israel was so clearly and violently attacked, you had members of the Jewish community who were trying justify the attack on Israel,” Davidson said.

To bring them back into the fold, “You do it the way any family reconciles, you form relationships and you work on them. If you think about this, it’s a family problem,” he suggested.

Taking a long view, Davidson advised, “It is really important to take a step back and take a look at the long sweeping arc of history, and what the arc of history tells us is that the Jewish people have always found a way to survive. They have not always thrived but they have often thrived, but they’re not going to thrive without surviving.”

“Right now, it’s survival, that’s the mission, but also, the work that needs to be done is to think about 25 and 50 years down the line, what we want our community to look like and what do we need to do now to make it look like that,” he continued.

As Davidson considers what lies ahead, “I plan on staying in Atlanta and I will always be deeply engaged with our Jewish community.”

Of his three years spent staring hate in the face for a living, he said, “I was proud to have done it. It was an honor.” ì

Dr. David Mastro

WSJ: Putin Will Halt War if He Gets Eastern Ukraine

This column references a Wall Street Journal article from Aug. 9-10, 2025.

Michael A. Morris Publisher

I am truly befuddled by this week’s conversation concerning the dictator of Russia, Vladimir Putin and his war against Ukraine. The word “compromise” is in the air. What is Ukraine going to give up for peace? Am I the only person who thinks this is absolutely absurd?

Let’s follow the war. A dictator wakes up one morning and decides to attack, take over, conquer another country. The rationale he has stated includes the country is mine anyway, the people have no history or culture

country’s citizens that he attacked another country. The invasion went poorly. He then had to explain and lie to his subjects because he needed them to conscript because his army was sustaining terribly high losses. After the losses forced him to tell his country what he was doing, he outlawed calling his invasion and subsequent war as “war.” He admitted to kidnapping 3,000 children in Ukraine and moving them deep into Russia for indoctrination. The Russian news media is not allowed to accurately portray what is truly occurring.

The dictator then resorted to offering salaries to new recruits five or 10 times the average salary in the country to entice enlistment (signing bonuses, high salaries, relief of family debt, death benefits). New recruits are given very little training and hence are being killed in the battlefield at alarming rates.

hundreds of thousands of people from several countries are dead and more are dying literally every day.

Needless to say, the dictator’s invasion hasn’t gone well. Maybe his army wasn’t quite prepared, maybe the Ukrainian support for their own sovereign country was stronger than expected. In either case, what does dictator Putin do? For two years he expands the war by specifically TARGETING CIVILIANS in cities throughout Ukraine, every single night this year, in an attempt to break the will of its citizens. Putin has killed over 10,000 civilians, not as collateral damage, but by actively targeting them. When you state the facts, it doesn’t sound good, it doesn’t sound rational, it sounds like it is coming from a deranged human being.

Let me recap. Over these two years of war and war crimes, in order to sustain and

must continually find new recruits to take the brunt of the defense from Ukraine. Now back to my opening comment. Either because of pressure from Europe or the United States, the dictator of Russia is bouncing in and out of mediation or ceasefire discussion. His battle cry is now how much will Ukraine compromise, which means how much land will Ukraine cede and how much influence will Putin have over Ukraine sovereignty. I reiterate, I am befuddled. In what kind of world do we live in where the bully gets to dictate the terms of stopping his bullying and the victim gets to accept his fate, or not?

If this were my child, my business, my city, my country, the bully doesn’t get to win. How do we teach our children not to take things that do not belong to them, yet demonstrate to them, since Ukraine is not our

ZooATL-Sippin-AJT.pdf 1 8/11/2025 9:58:16 AM

STYLE

Jewish Atlanta ’ s Stylish Simchas and Celebrations

SIMCHAS

Grand Finale: Last of Morris Daughters Strolls Down the Aisle

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Lydia Morris and Chris Foust met on Hinge in February of 2020. They had only experienced four dates before COVID hit.

As Chris likes to say, “No one else was able to take her out to dinner after that.”

Lydia was graduating that year and her mother was planning a surprise drive-by graduation party, but all she knew about Chris was his name and that he worked at BMW. So, she called the BMW plant to get in contact with him, and he showed up! That’s how Lydia knew he was “a keeper.”

They dated for three years before the proposal at her grandparents’ [Bernie and Billi Marcus] lake house at Lake Toxaway, N.C., on top of the boat house under the guise of taking nice photos before he left to work in England for the year.

Since Chris was working in England for the first year of wedding planning, his mom came to town, and both moms and Lydia toured several venues. They worked with party planner Helene Popowski. As the ladies did most of the wedding planning, Chris did contribute the photo booth idea.

Lydia stated, “We wanted somewhere that all the events were in the same location so that we didn’t have to shuttle people from place to place. We also liked the idea of having it at a getaway spot for people to enjoy the whole weekend. We also wanted it to be driving distance from Greenville and Atlanta, so Chateau Elan was the perfect venue.” Friday night’s welcome party featured a Southern theme. Approximately 260 guests were set for wedding day, Saturday, April 26.

The menu included an Italian, Asian,

and carving stations. The specialty cocktails were French 75 and a gin and tonic. The music was supplied by the band 1 More Song. The first dance was, “What Dreams Are Made Of.”

The bride’s dress was from Anne Barge. The groom’s tux was custom-made by Tom James. The groomsmen all wore their own tuxes, and the bridesmaid’s dresses were a sky blue to match the decor. Alchemy “glammed” the decor in pale blue, white, and silver. Dewitt Smith Video Productions was the videographer.

Rabbi Peter Berg, Senior Rabbi at The Temple, told the couple, “Look into each other’s eyes often and affirm what it is that you feel today and every day -- that I have found my soul’s mate.”

“What I like most about Chris is that he makes me laugh and smile. He is always there to support me and help me when

I need it,” mused Lydia. Of Lydia, Chris said, “She is my homebase, and I love how her strengths complement my flaws. She is all I could ever want in a partner and friend.”

After their honeymoon in Nice, France, Lydia exclaimed, “We stayed there for a week and went on wine tours, had a cooking lesson, visited Monaco and Eze, explored the city, and ate lots of great food!”

Lydia was born and raised in Atlanta before attending college at Furman in Greenville, S.C., majoring in health sciences. She then earned her Master’s in orthotics and prosthetics at Northwestern University. She currently works as a certified orthotist and administrative supervisor at Advanced Prosthetics. Chris was born and raised in Richmond, Va., before attending the University of South Carolina where he completed his undergraduate

Michael Morris, Belinda Morris, Lydia Foust, Chris Foust, Jr., Cindy Foust, Chris Foust, Sr // All photos by Reichman Photography

degree in political science and Master’s in HR management. He now works in finance at BMW’s U.S. plant. They currently live in Greenville with their cat, Felicia, and dog, Roxanne.

Parents are Belinda and Michael Morris, and Cindy and Chris Foust, Sr. Proud father, Michael Morris, owner and publisher of Atlanta Jewish Times, remarked, “As with all my daughters, I was very excited to see Lydia spread her wings

and take flight in her new life. Their wedding was a wonderful celebration; and I cherished the opportunity for the entire family to celebrate together. I wish her and Chris a Mazel Tov, health and happiness, prosperity, and lots of fun along the way. I would be remiss if I did not mention that this is the last of four weddings in four years, I did my ‘happy dance’ after their nuptials and now I am ready to travel the world again!” ì

Above: Lydia’s dress was designed by Anne Barge.

Below: Bridesmaids getting ready: (back row) Shelby Fishman, Samantha Freedman, Hannah Swann, Jamie Sindlinger, Anna Eckstein, Jacqueline Morris; (front row) Grace Huffman, Sarah Parker, Lydia Foust, Alexandra Bull, Ella Ward

Above: The bride and groom are celebrated with the Hora among family and friends

Below: After the cake cutting, the bride and groom wrap their arms for a champagne toast.

The wedding party: Hannah Swann, Kyle Berdugo, Shelby Fishman, Cody Blackstone, Anna Eckstein, Michael Newell, Sarah Parker, Mark Olmscheid, Alexandra Bull, Lydia Foust, Chris Foust, Cullen Gallimore, Grace Huffman, Jacob Huffman, Jacqueline Morris, Thomas Scheffer, Samantha Freedman, Stephan Dombrowski, Jamie Sindlinger, Kerry Wiant

A Night to Remember for Stephanie & Jason

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Stephanie Nachbin and Jason Shur’s wedding was held at Brick and Ivey in Marietta on a beautiful day on April 26. They met on Hinge in 2022, and they both lived in the Old Fourth Ward, so they went to a local bar for their first date, hit it off and things were humming from there. They dated for almost two years before Jason proposed to Stephanie in downtown Roswell where they love to hang out and now live in their first home together.

For the proposal, Stephanie thought they were going out to dinner, but Jason had a plan – their family decorated to the max and hired a photographer. Then just the two of them had their sushi date night

alone and subsequently went back to their parents’ home to celebrate with everyone.

Stephanie said, “The best thing we did was hire our planner, Melissa Miller, who coincidentally, also planned the groom’s bar mitzvah, so it was very special. She helped throughout the process with venue selection and all of our vendors, while keeping us calm and on track throughout.”

They picked the venue, Brick and Ivey, because they wanted a white, “clean slate, not super quirky” atmosphere. They loved the built-in bar and cocktail hour space. But their most favorite feature was the afterparty space, which featured a pool table and its own bar where all of their friends could stay late and continue to celebrate and dance.

DJ Omar from Atlanta Fever provided the music. Jason and Stephanie made a playlist of all of their “must have” songs, which DJ Omar played and kept spinning about which “everyone complimented us and had great things to say.” He also provided the ceremony music which was beautiful and exactly made to order.

Stephanie said, “The guests were on the dance floor all night. We had Fathead posters of our two dogs, Jake and Max, and we danced with them, too!” A lastminute decision was made to get a splashy white and gold checkered dance floor by Atlanta Dancefloors which really made the room sparkle.

According to Miller, “They are so glad they decided to do that.”

The florist, Caroline Worth Designs, created exactly what Stephanie wanted and really understood her vision and goals. They adored the chuppah which was filled with flowers, and they especially had fun taking pictures with the custom neon sign. Joyce, the groom’s mom, made table numbers with the couple’s baby and childhood photos which were a very special touch. The couple opted not to do a traditional wedding cake. Instead, they served cookies and brownies, along with a late-night delivery of the couple’s favorite, Krispy Kreme donuts, which were a huge hit. They had a vintage telephone voice message guest book (After the Tone) which was a unique twist.

Approximately 120 guests attended.

Cantor Veronica Beskin officiated the ceremony // All photos by Ben and Colleen

The bridal party included six bridesmaids and seven groomsmen which Jason said, “was the perfect amount; and we loved having them be a part of our special day.”

Parents are Joyce and Brett Shur and Michele and Mark Nachbin. The bride’s parents, who live in Chicago, often traveled to Atlanta to help make decisions throughout the planning process. Stephanie’s mom and dad gave heartfelt speeches, and the father/daughter and mother/ son dances were a special part of the wedding night.

For the honeymoon, the couple went to Punta Cana to an all-inclusive resort and “hung out by the pool every day and just enjoyed each other.” While there, they

listened to all of those phone messages which were sentimental post-wedding.

A few weeks after returning from their honeymoon, their photographer (Ben and Colleen) sent all of the wedding photos which were “super fun to go through and relive the special day.”

Melissa Miller of MM Events Atlanta said, “This was a very special wedding for me for Stephanie and Jason – this is the first wedding I have planned for someone who I did their bar mitzvah, too. I have officially been doing this a long time! It was my absolute pleasure to help Stephanie and Jason, they were great clients who trusted me, and, in the end, their day was perfect in every way!” ì

The

Right: Stephanie and Jason’s dip and kiss after the ceremony

Below: The telephone guest book was a fun option for the guests.

Left: The calm right before guests arrived for the chuppah

Above:

always special fatherdaughter dance

Above: The couple are pictured signing the ketuba.

Below: The couple opted for Krispy Kreme donuts instead of wedding cake

Harrison’s Bar Mitzvah Was ‘Lit’

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Harrison Miller’s bar mitzvah wasn’t too hot to handle, but it sure got a bunch of heat -- A LOT! Party planner Melissa Miller arranged for Gastro Garage to serve desserts centered around a fire show.

Harrison’s bar mitzvah took place on May 3 at Congregation Etz Chaim with Rabbi Daniel Dorsch looking on with Parsha Tazria – Metzora which deals with the laws of ritual purity. Mom, Jessica, recalled, “Harrison did an amazing job! And since his Zayde [grandfather] blows the shofar during High Holidays there, we were excited to include the priestly blessings in keeping with tradition, having the grandparents and parents come up and drape the tallit over Harrison was our favorite part of the whole service.”

Harrison’s parents are Jessica and Rob, and his brother is Dylan. Grandparents are Allan and Vivian Levine and Robert and Kathy White. Another highlight was having them do the Hamotzi at the very top of the nightclub, overlooking the

guests at the evening soiree. Jessica continued, “It was special to have them there; and we had a designated area where older guests could have their own space and enjoy a quieter dinner.”

A student at Ridgeview Middle School, Harrison is into sports: basketball, football, and lacrosse. For his mitzvah project, he worked with the Kyle Pease Foundation. Kyle suffers from spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Harrison also ran a 5K race pushing wheelchair athletes, cleaned wheelchairs and volunteered at other similar events throughout the year to connote Kyle’s completion of an Ironman Triathlon in tandem with his twin brother.

From 6 to 10 p.m., a rocking party took place at District Atlanta Nightclub at 269 Armour Drive, a bi-level weekend dance club known for its unique visual experiences. The décor was by YES Event Designs which pumped up the space with bright neon blue and black accents, along with groovy logos which were used throughout, and the end result was an incredible job of incorporating the space

into a “nightclubby” atmosphere. There were smoke, lasers and an outsized DJ stage where DJ Rhythm knew how to engage the crowd and keep everyone dancing.

Zest Catering rose to the creative challenge and managed unique food stations all around the club, upstairs and down. Guests loved the Tot-cho Bar, the Asian noodle salad in takeout Chinese containers with chopsticks, original Philly cheesesteaks and a huge Mediterranean station. Special note: Tot-cho Bar is a nouveaux party trend -Tater Tot Nachos loaded with sour cream, heat, guacamole, and more.

A special treat was the flaming dessert presentation that morphed into a performance on the dance floor by Jessica’s renown brother, Chef Stewart Levine of Gastro Garage and Gastro Mechanics –straight from Los Angeles. Planner Miller said, “Flames were flying as he and his crew blowtorched brioche donuts with toppings for all to be entertained. It was a sight to see for sure, and it was delicious as well.”

Other vendors included: photobooth – Button It Up; swag – Emma Dix, logo,

and Jen Immerman; hair and makeup –Hair Nicole Abbad and makeup by Jessica Marie; photographer – Grapefruit Photo; planner – MMEventsAtlanta.

Miller explained, “They had so much swag – everything from sweatshirts to specialty perfume by RX Candles – lots of hats, T-shirts, sweatpants, slides, slippers, they had it all. The swag station was so cool. It was lit up, and every young guest received a sweatshirt and perfume. Late at night, Bomba socks were handed out on the dance floor. It was epic!”

Harrison said, “I loved every minute of it, celebrating with all of my family and friends, and my mom did a great job!”

Melissa concluded, “This event was so special because we loved working with Jessica. She had so many out-of-the-box ideas, and we were thrilled to bring her vision to life. It was a grand night with surprises every time the guests turned around. Jessica wanted it to be a true nightclub experience, and we crafted the perfect team of vendors to make it all happen. Friends and family all left saying that they all had a blast!” ì

Harrison with parents, Jessica and Rob // All photos by Grapefruit Photo

Above: Harrison getting ready for his party guests to arrive.

Below: The blow torched desserts were showstoppers.

Above: Harrison Miller’s bar mitzvah party was a rocking good time.

Below: The swag station provided sweatshirts to friends as they exited.

New Venue Sinclair Debuts in Sandy Springs

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

For more than two decades, Gabrielle Mecca (CEO and partner) and her mother, Maxine Levenson (founder and partner), have been immersed in designing luxury events through Edge Design Group.

Recently, their vision of owning a space to host events that aligns with their aesthetics, values, and operational standards came to fruition with the grand opening of the private Sinclair space in The Prado on Roswell Road just inside 285.

Maxine stated, “Sinclair is the culmination of 25 years in the event industry — an extension of our design philosophy, refined taste, and commitment to service. The concept is simple: create a venue that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. We wanted to bring the warmth of a residential setting with the scale and functionality of a professional event space.”

Gabrielle recalled, “During a casual drive through the neighborhood, the bones of an old restaurant sparked something. It wasn’t glamorous at the time — dark interiors, awkward layouts, and no clear identity — but we saw possibility. It was a blank canvas waiting to be transformed.”

Gabrielle is proud of Sinclair’s clean lines, natural light, layered textures, and touches of residential flair. The interior has 6,500 square feet of open-plan space that can host up to 400 guests. Outside, a 2,500-square-foot space with a covered pergola offers additional room for al fresco celebrations.

Other design touches include the tailored dressing room and green room, catering kitchen, and multiple restrooms that emphasize style and flow. Clients can choose from an approved list of culinary partners (caterers) including Added Touch Catering and A Kosher Touch, which is certified under the Atlanta Kashruth Commission. They also offer a kosher bar upon request, making Sinclair a very “hot” location for Jewish celebrations. Over the course of the next year, they will host several mitzvahs, bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners, and events like Atlanta Scholars Kollel, and the Israel Parasport.

As Sinclair’s exclusive décor provider, Edge Design Group packages an integrated transition from vision to the venue. They can offer a variety of custom chuppahs for Jewish weddings that reflect

style, heritage, and sentiment. Clients benefit from a full-service experience that includes custom design, floral, décor, and beverage packages — all managed under one team.

Gabrielle shared some of the au currant design trends, “Clients are wanting their event design to be personal, intentional, and reflective of individual style … design that includes sculptural floral installations and LED components, custom-built lounges, and architectural bar fronts. Clients are craving immersive, personalized design … integrating elements reflective of interior design for a more residential atmosphere. Bold color palettes, unexpected texture pairings, and thematic storytelling are all having a moment. Hanging elements either over dance floors, bars areas, or entrances are a dramatic way to set the tone of the event. Afterparties at weddings are a big trend right now. Drinks served in individually molded ice forms introduced at pre-function or served at afterparties are a great compliment to late-night snacks.”

The mother-daughter journey began in hometown Atlanta where they went from intimate celebrations to large-scale weddings and corporate gatherings. What

started as a creative partnership between mother and daughter evolved into a rooted business built on mutual respect, ambition, and artistry. Thus, one of the most special elements of Sinclair is not its size or amenities, but this core partnership. Gabrielle said, “Working with my mother has always been equal parts inspiring and energizing. Maxine brings a bold, fearless approach to design — she dreams big and takes risks that pay off in unforgettable ways. While my creative eye has grown over the years, I’m also the strategic thinker, managing client relationships and long-term growth. We complement each other in a way that only time and trust can shape. Building Sinclair together has been both a business and a personal milestone.”

At its heart, Sinclair is about creating space — not just physical, but emotional — for people to gather, celebrate, and remember. “We’ve hosted events for decades, but this is the first time we’re opening our doors to invite people into a space that’s fully ours. It’s not just about design anymore — it’s about hospitality, curation, and community” says Maxine.

For more information, please visit www.sinclairatlanta.com. ì

The newly opened Sinclair venue is located in The Prado in Sandy Springs. Gabrielle (far left) and Maxine (second from left) pose with experienced staff members.

Pictured is the main ballroom at Sinclair hosting a reception.

Sinclair can host up to 400 guests in its main interior.

Bukharan Cuisine Has a Home with The Crazy Apron

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Liat Tzionov may not be crazy, but she does wear an apron.

Tzionov, owner of The Crazy Apron, is a self-taught chef and culinary instructor specializing in Bukharan cuisine, a rich and vibrant niche culture with deep roots in Central Asia. Tzionov said, “Although my academic background is in architecture, food has always been my passion. I cook and bake from memory — guided by the tastes, smells, and stories I carry with me. It’s how I connect with my roots and how I share my heritage with others.”

Bukharan cuisine is bold, flavorful, and deeply connected to the Jewish communities of Central Asia. It reflects the region’s history and geography, with strong influences from Uzbek, Persian, Turkish, and Russian cooking. It’s known for rich, one-pot meals like Osh-Plov (a spiced rice pilaf with lamb and carrots), steamed dumplings (Mantu), and flaky pastries (Samsa) — which Liat also makes with butternut squash filling. She uses a banquet of fresh herbs, especially cilantro and dill, and spices like cumin and coriander seeds.

Tzionov was born in Uzbekistan and raised in Israel, where she grew up fully

immersed in Bukharian tradition. As the daughter of immigrants, she spent much of her childhood with her grandmother where food was the center of their lives. In her parents’ home, activities revolved around traditional Bukharan food, hospitality, large meals, and joyful gatherings.

Tzionov explained, “I grew up inside that atmosphere — it’s a part of who I am.”

She moved to the United States 12 years ago, first to New York and then to Marietta, where she now resides. Her extended family is still in Israel. Passing down traditions to her own children is still close to her heart. Her mother is still a seasoned cook, along with her grandmas and aunts. She explained, “All the ladies in my family just knew how to cook traditional Bukharan food. And that is how I learned.”

Bukharian Jewish history is long and complex. They lived for centuries along the Silk Road, building a unique identity that blends Jewish tradition with Central Asian culture. After the fall of the Soviet Union, many Bukharian Jews emigrated to Israel and the U.S. The community is close-knit and are known for throwing lavish weddings and celebrations where “it’s all about hospitality and respecting our guests and culture.”

This writer attended a Bukharian

event at Beth Itzhak Synagogue in Norcross, which boasts a membership of 200 families, 40 of which were in the immediate walking neighborhood. The libations were flowing along with a multi-course meal highlighted by flaming samsas. There is also a small Bukharian Jewish community in Alpharetta.

The Crazy Apron is based in Marietta, where Liat runs interactive cooking classes either in her kitchen or in clients’ homes. She teaches traditional Bukharan recipes, while she explains the history behind them, and creates a warm, hands-on experience. She also works as a private chef, offering personalized in-home dining and small event catering. Clients can also order freshly made Bukharan food for pickup. She offers catering for small gatherings and family meals, holidays, Shabbat dinners, and intimate celebrations. Pricing

depends on the menu and the number of guests, and she works closely with each client to create a personalized experience.

Liat stated that her dream is to open a unique culinary social space where people can gather, cook, eat, and connect through food and culture. “Until then, I’m grateful to continue sharing my story — one plate at a time.”

L’dor V’dor, her 17-year-old son, Noam, is part of the business as he helps with sales and marketing and manages food booth operations. Liat and Noam were first-time participants in the spring 2025 Tasting sponsored by Jewish Family & Career Services.

Orders can be picked up in Marietta or delivered for larger events. For more information, please visit Instagram @ the_crazy_apron or https://linktr.ee/crazyaprons. ì

Crazy Apron’s Most Popular Dishes

Oshplov – Bukharan rice pilaf with lamb

Manti – Steamed dumplings with beef and onions

Samsa – Flaky pastries filled with meat or butternut squash

Dushpara – Tiny dumplings filled with ground beef

Liat’s son, Noam, helps with the business.

One of Liat’s passions is conducting classes. Liat specializes in rolls and pasties.

Sarit’s packaging is very inviting and hints to what’s inside.

Healthy Chocolate No Longer Just a Dream

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Who doesn’t drool over rich chocolate bonbons and pralines in different flavors?

Sabra Savit Vaisler drew from her young adult health issues to delve into experimentation to arrive at desserts that don’t contain sugar or dairy. Vaisler suffered from eating disorders throughout her adult life. In her early twenties, she got tired of the vicious cycle and started to educate herself about nutrition and food.

She stated, “I was able to overcome my disorders and adopted a healthy lifestyle. When I became pregnant, I found out I have gestational diabetes, and I was determined to keep my baby safe, but didn’t want to give up my love for sweets.”

She decided to produce a healthy gluten-free, sugar-free Dubai chocolate. It took quite a bit of experimentation, but she didn’t give up. Finally, she found the magic formula/secret sauce to create delicious desserts, all vegan and sugar-free

along with the goal of diabetic sufferers being able to enjoy a quality healthy chocolate without concern for blood sugar levels. Concurrently, Sarit’s mother had her pancreas removed and was also dealing with diabetes.

Sarit’s bonbon flavors are: gluten-free Dubai chocolate, hazelnut, peanut butter, then a separate hazelnut cream spread line. Of special note, Dubai chocolate is known for its artisanal preparation with high-quality ingredients, often with pistachio nuts and edible gold.

Sarit utilizes polycarbonate molds for different shapes for different flavors. She employs scrapers and syringes as part of the bonbon production. Her first step is to make the chocolate. She then includes all the ingredients in the melanger, a stonebased grinder that breaks down the cocoa nibs and runs for 12-24 hours. After the chocolate is ready, she tempers it manually, claiming that this is the hardest part of the process. Once the chocolate is tempered, she starts on the bonbons by pouring chocolate into the molds which

she physically shakes to eliminate air that could permeate the chocolate. She then pours and scrapes to clean the surface to let cool. After that, she fills the molds with syringes.

Then comes the third part -- sealing the bonbons with chocolate where she pours the chocolate on top of the filling and shakes again so the bonbons come off easily. She summarized, “I let it cool again, once the top layer is cool and set, I flip the molds; and the bonbons come ready. Voila!”

Since the candy is tempered, it doesn’t have to be refrigerated. The ideal temperature is no more than 75 degrees. The bonbons can last in room temperature up to four weeks. Storing them in the refrigerator can preserve the bonbons for four months, noting they taste best at room temperature. Sarit prepares everything at her home and has no employees.

She said, “Making chocolate is a long process, and bonbon making is time consuming, but I love every minute of it! I enjoy doing everything myself."

One might ask, without sugar or

dairy, “From where does the sweetness stem?” For sweetener, she uses organic erythritol and organic monk fruit, both are natural sweeteners with zero calories and don’t affect blood sugar levels. All the ingredients are kosher, but she does not have AKC certification.

The price point is $12 per box of four (variety pack). Sarit explained, “Cacao is known for its health benefits, such as heart health and brain function, it’s also known for its antioxidants. My focus right now is ‘milk’ chocolate style. I use raw cacao butter and raw cacao paste which has more nutrients and benefits. By the way, the chocolate in Israel is different than the American chocolate -- it’s much more sweet, similar to the European chocolate.”

Savit, who hails from Ramat Gan in the center of Israel, grew up in a religious household and served two years of volunteer service in Or Akiva. She also taught early childhood education for many years. Sarit’s confections are sold at Strive Foods in Sandy Springs, 225 Hildebrand Drive. ì

Sarit Vaisler was determined to perfect her non-dairy, sugar-free desserts.

Sarit’s Sweets include organic erythritol and organic monk fruit.

The hazelnut spread is a yummy favorite.

Simcha Announcements

Have something to celebrate?

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

Birth Announcement

Hunter Luke and Lucille Rae Van Deman

Proud parents Emily and Brant Van Deman of Kennesaw, Ga., welcomed their baby twins into the world on April 14, 2025, just two weeks after their first wedding anniversary. Hunter Luke weighed six pounds, seven ounces, and Lucille Rae weighed five pounds, five ounces; both were 18 1/2 inches long. Hunter Luke and Lucille Rae had their bris and baby naming on April 21 at Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Hunter’s Hebrew name, Avraham Reuven, is after his great-greatuncle, Abe, and his great-grandfathers, Bobby Teague and Robert Scheinfeld. Lucille’s Hebrew name, Miriam Ruth, is after her grandmother, Jane Scheinfeld, and greatgrandmother, Myra Joe Teague. Overjoyed grandparents are Harry Scheinfeld of Atlanta, Ga.; Katherine Van Deman of Austin, Texas; and James and Debbie Van D man of Brownsboro, Texas. Their greatgrandfather (Papaw) is Larry Van Deman.

Birth Announcement

Riley Lauren Staley

Her

Micah and Evan Staley are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Riley Lauren Staley, on June 29, 2025 The proud grandparents are Risa Jennison of Peachtree Corners and Carolyn and David Staley of Brookhaven. Riley is named after her paternal great-grandmother, Julie Staley nee Riley.

middle name is in memory of her maternal great-grandmother, Florence Lewkowicz.

Engagement Announcement

Greenberg – Gillet

Dana and Ari Greenberg of Marietta happily announce the engagement of their daughter, Ilyse Rose Greenberg, to Aaron Scott Gillet, son of Gina and Brian Gillet of Manasquan, N.J.

Ilyse is the granddaughter of Elaine Miner of Memphis, Tenn., and the late Frederick Miner, and Roslyn Greenberg of Sandy Springs and the late Harold Greenberg. Scott is the grandson of the late Paul and Josephine Specter of Columbia, S.C., and the late Irwin and Rhoda Gillet of New Providence, N.J.

Ilyse graduated from The University of Georgia where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting. She is currently a financial reporting manager at Floor & Decor.

Scott graduated from The University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in biomolecular science. He graduated medical school from Tulane University, where he also received his MBA. He completed his residency in internal medicine at Emory University. Scott is currently a cardiovascular disease fellow at Emory University.

A wedding is planned for June 2026 in Atlanta.

Brookhaven City Centre

The People’s House

Brookhaven City Centre is a vibrant new destination in Metro Atlanta where community and celebration come together. This welcoming space offers a year-round lineup of events, from film screenings and festivals to art exhibits and neighborhood gatherings. Whether you're joining a public event, meeting up with friends, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it's a place designed to bring people together. Planning something of your own? With flexible, beautifully designed spaces for private events of all kinds, it’s the perfect setting for your next unforgettable moment. Start planning your visit or event today at BrookhavenCityCentre.com.

Anniversary Announcement

The Finks

Stanley and Fay Fink of Scotch Plains, N.J., celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary surrounded by family in Nashville, Tenn. They were joined by their children and their spouses, Leslie and Max Craft, Benjamin and Robin Fink and Ilene Fink, and their grandchildren and their significant others, Henry and Hannah Fink and Elizabeth Fink and Blake Goodwin.

Stan and Fay met at Marietta College in Ohio and were married on June 19, 1960, in Kerhonkson, N.Y. Stan attended Washington & Lee Law School and practiced law in New Jersey for more than 50 years. Fay served as his firm’s office manager for most of that time. The couple has maintained a second home in Decatur, Ga., for 20 years.

Submit by September 9 10 a.m.

Age categories: Children ages 0-12 & Adults Ages 13+ Atlanta Jewish Times is looking for creative and colorful Rosh Hashanah illustrations to be featured in its September 15 Rosh Hashanah issue.

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

AJT Synagogue Guide for 2025

CHABAD

Chabad of Athens-UGA

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

www.jewishdawgs.com

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

Chabad of Cobb

4450 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 30068 770-565-4412

www.chabadofcobb.com

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

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

www.chabaddtu.com

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

Chabad of Dunwoody

4534 Village Springs Run, Dunwoody 30338 347-770-2414

www.chabaddunwoody.com

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

Chabad of Emory 1500 N. Decatur Road, Atlanta 30307 404-441-3199 ww.chabademory.org

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

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

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

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

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

Chabad of Gwinnett

2651 Smith Point Drive, Suite B, Peachtree Corners 30092 678-595-0196 www.chabadofgwinnett.org

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

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

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

Chabad Intown

730 Ponce de Leon Place NE, Atlanta 30306 404-898-0434 www.chabadintown.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inspiring Your Jewish Story in Every Chapter of Life

When do you need a synagogue? For some Jews, the answer is, at most, two to three days a year - the High Holidays. On those days, a signature prayer, the U’netaneh Tokef, suggests a different answer.

Its haunting words presage the many transitions that we may encounter in the coming year: birth and death, illness and health, poverty and wealth, trouble and triumph. Its closing words offer a prescription to navigate these times: penitence, prayer and good deeds. These things do not prevent the ups and downs of life, but they give us the tools to navigate them. Life’s joys are richer, its lows more bearable, when we live a life of purpose and have the support of community. We’re proud that B’nai Torah is present for every step of life.

If you are looking for High Holiday services, we offer a range- traditional with rabbi and cantor, experiential with discussion, a range of services for families with younger and older children, even an afternoon service for those who can’t make it in the morning.

But where a synagogue really makes a difference is the other 362 days. We bring people together for joys and oys.

Unetaneh Tokef talks about penitence, ultimately the process of becoming one’s best self. We can help with study, spiritual guidance, and connections to community.

U'netaneh Tokef speaks of prayer. We offer friendly Shabbat and holiday services, as well as daily minyan, using traditional words and melodies, where all can participate.

We come together for tzedakah, in

all its forms. We rally around friends facing illness and financial challenges. We stand together to defend our people, especially in Israel, and feed those in need.

Whatever life throws at you, B’nai Torah is here. Young adults gather for Shabbat dinners, trivia and hikes (and can be members for free until age 36!).

Our L’mazel Tov group brings together expectant parents, and we are there for brisses and namings. Our ECHAD program inspires families with young children through holiday, social, and creative programs and weekly Tot Shabbat services. Our BT Lab religious school program makes Jewish learning fun, and our

youth groups bring together kids from all schools for fun and leadership. We invest in getting to know every Bar and Bat Mitzvah child. We celebrate engagements and weddings, and we stand together at times of loss.

I invite you to visit B’nai Torah. Contact our office or peruse our website to see how to join us for the High Holidays, or any time you are looking for prayer, self-improvement, and good deeds.

-Rabbi Joshua Z. Heller, Senior Rabbi www.bnaitorah.org | 404.257.0537

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

Chabad of Toco Hills

1985 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-337-6116

www.chabadtoco.com

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

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

www.jewishforsyth.org

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

Congregation Beth Tefillah 5065 High Point Road, Atlanta 30342 404-843-2464 www.bethtefillah.org

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

CONSERVATIVE

Ahavath Achim Synagogue 600 Peachtree Battle Avenue, Atlanta 30327

404-355-5222

www.aasynagogue.org

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

Congregation Beth Shalom 5303 Winters Chapel Road, Dunwoody 30360 770-399-5300 www.bethshalom.net

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

Congregation B’nai Torah

700 Mt. Vernon Highway NE, Sandy Springs 30328 404-257-0537 www.bnaitorah.org

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

Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills Parkway, Marietta 30068 www.etzchaim.net

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

Congregation Gesher L’Torah 4320 Kimball Bridge Road, Alpharetta 30022 770-777-4009 www.wearegesher.org

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

Congregation Or Hadash 7460 Trowbridge Road, Sandy Springs 30328 404-250-3338 www.or-hadash.org

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

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

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Congregation Shema Yisrael – The Open Synagogue 7100 Stonington Drive, Atlanta 30328

404-255-7955 www.shemaweb.org

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

Guardians of the Torah

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

www.guardiansofthetorah.org

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

As Georgia’s only community mikvah, the Metro Atlanta Community Mikvah (MACoM) offers a fully kosher and welcoming space for all, regardless of background, affiliation, or reason for visiting. Rooted in tradition yet accessible today, mikvah immersion symbolizes renewal, healing, and transformation. At MACoM, ceremonies—traditional or personal—are guided to ensure a meaningful,

comfortable, and private experience, supporting moments of transition, celebration, or spiritual connection.

Join us on September 14, 2025 for Mikvah & Masterpieces with Artist in Residence JacLynn Morris details at atlantamikvah.org/mikvah-masterpieces

Then, on December 3, 2025, cel-

ebrate MACoM’s 10th Anniversary at Gateway to Belonging: Celebrating 10 Years of Welcoming, Connecting, & Transforming Lives learn more at atlantamikvah.org/10th-anniversary

Visit MACoM to immerse in the mikvah before the New Year. Schedule online at www.atlantamikvah.org

- Rabbi Deborah Sacks Mintz in Concert (9/4) - Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Louis Newman (9/13) - Oct. 7th Commemoration & Daffodil Planting (10/5) - Young Family Fridays + Friday Night Lives - Emory@Shearith lecture series - The Singing Nightingales: A Judeo-Persian Musical Experience (11/2) - Machaneh Shai Hebrew school & more!

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SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

ORTHODOX

Congregation Anshi S’Fard

1324 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta 30306 404-969-6763

www.anshisfard.org

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

Congregation Ariel

5237 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody 30338 770-390-9071 www.congariel.org

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

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

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

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

Congregation Ner Hamizrach

1858 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-315-9020 www.nerhamizrach.org

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

Congregation Netzach Israel 1985 Lavista Road NE, Atlanta 30329 www.netzachisrael.org

Email us for more information: office@netzachisrael.org

Congregation Shaarei Shamayim 1600 Mount Mariah Road NE Atlanta 30329

404-417-0472 www.shaareishamayim.com

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

Kesher Torah Atlanta

5075 Roswell Road NE, Atlanta 30342

470-746-6627

www.keshertorahatlanta.org

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

New Toco Shul

2003 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 770-765-7485

www.newtocoshul.com

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

Ohr Hatorah of Toco Hills

2056 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-315-1417

www.ohrhatorahatl.org

As a Modern Orthodox community, Ohr HaTorah celebrates commitment to traditional practice and observance coupled with profound engagement and openness to the world around us and the land of Israel.

RECONSTRUCTIONIST

Congregation Bet Haverim 2074 Lavista Road, Atlanta 30329 404-315-6446 www.congregationbethaverim.org

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

REFORM

Congregation B’nai Israel 1633 Highway 54E, Jonesboro 30238 678-817-7162 www.bnai-israel.net

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

Congregation Dor Tamid 11165 Parsons Road, Johns Creek 30097 770-623-8860 www.dortamid.org

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

Celebrate the High Holy Days at Temple Kol Emeth

This year’s High Holy Days bring fresh opportunities for meaning and connection. For some, this High Holy Day season will be their first at Temple Kol Emeth; for others, it will be the next one of many. However, each year brings something new to everyone who joins us.

For 5786, TKE is leaning into its core aspirations to be Caring, Empowering, and Joyful. As we welcome hundreds of members and guests, we are excited to nurture our culture of caring for ourselves and others, empowering our members to lead in ways large and small, and looking for the joy, the deep sense of satisfaction and peace that comes from communal embrace.

Meaningful Gatherings for All Ages at TKE…

Led by Senior Rabbi Chase Foster, Rabbi Educator Daniel Alter, and Rabbi Emeritus Steven Lebow, services at TKE are both uplifting and accessible. Traditional prayers blend seamlessly with contemporary music, creating an atmosphere that touches the heart and soul. Families will find age-appropriate services and youth programming for toddlers through high schoolers, ensuring that every mem-

with the season.

…and Beyond!

The Holy Days at TKE extend beyond the sanctuary. We will gather for the ritual of Tashlich at two locations: in East Cobb and in North Cobb/Cherokee. We are taking advantage of the Cobb County Fall Break and enjoying a Second Day Rosh Hashanah in nature – at an apple picking orchard! Our Tikkun Olam Team is organizing two special programs that empower our community live out the words of our prophets to change our world for the better: we are creating a “Reverse Tashlich” experience by participating in the Great Lake Allatoona

Be a part of all that The Temple has to offer. The Temple is welcoming to all and offers a variety of LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES to fit your interests including:

• Social justice initiatives— Racial Justice, Gun Violence Prevention, Sustainability, LGBTQ Equality, Women’s Rights, and more!

• Vibrant interfaith programs

• Temple Connect small groups

• Weinberg Early Learning Center Preschool Programs for children 3 months to Pre-K

• Breman Education Center Jewish Learning for Pre-K through to B’nei Mitzvah and Confirmation

Clean Up Day, and we will fill our Yom Kippur afternoon with a variety of service projects, including making a mural through the Foundation for Hospital Art which will be used to make the hospital environment more friendly and inviting.

A Welcoming Spirit

Our seven founding families were all interfaith couples, and we are proud to be an inclusive congregation, embracing all who want to join us. Whether you are Jewish, part of an interfaith family, or simply curious about Jewish tradition, you will find a warm, open, and inviting space to celebrate, reflect, and connect.

As the Jewish year 5786 begins, Temple Kol Emeth invites you to come

hear the shofar, sing, pray, and celebrate with a community that will welcome you with open arms.

Learn more about High Holy Day services and events at www.kolemeth.net or call (770) 973-3533.

1415 Old Canton Rd, Marietta, GA 30062 770-973-3533

www.kolemeth.net

Paid Content by Temple Kol Emeth

ber of the family can engage meaningfully

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

Congregation Ner Tamid

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

www.mynertamid.info

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

Rodeph Sholom Congregation

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

www.rodephsholomrome.org

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

Shalom b’Harim

3415 Stancil Road, Gainesville, GA 30506 561-251-8075

shalombharim.org

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

Temple Beth David 1885 McGee Road SW, Snellville 30078 770-978-3916 www.tbdga.org

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

Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 30075 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com

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

Temple Emanu-El 1580 Spalding Drive, Atlanta 30350 770-395-1340

www.templeemanuelatlanta.org

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

Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green Street, Roswell 30075 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org

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

Temple Kol Emeth

1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 30062 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

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

Temple Sinai 5645 Dupree Drive, Sandy Springs 30327 404-252-3073

www.templesinaiatlanta.org

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

The Temple 1589 Peachtree Street, Atlanta 30309

404-873-1731

www.the-temple.org

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

SEPHARDIC

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

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

Congregation Or VeShalom 1681 N. Druid Hills Road NE, Atlanta 30319 404-633-1737 www.orveshalom.org

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

MOHELS

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

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

Mohel Atlanta – Rabbi Ariel Asa 404-271-8672 www.mohelatlanta.com

Mohel Georgia 404-931-6449 www.mohelga.com

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

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

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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

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

Atlanta Rabbinical Association 1589 Peachtree Street, Atlanta 30309 404-873-1731 www.atlrabbis.org

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

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

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

Metro Atlanta Community Mikvah (MACoM)

700-A Mount Vernon Highway, Atlanta 30328

404-549-9679

www.atlantamikvah.org

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

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

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

Rabbis Barry and Michele Selvin Coffsky Marietta 770-314-0232 www.atlantarabbis.com

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

Rabbi Sol Agin, DD rabbisolagin@gmail.com Dunwoody 239-560-5582

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

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

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

The Torah Center 5180 Roswell Road, Atlanta 30342 404-333-8554 www.TheTorahCenterAtl.org

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

Honey From The Heart is on a Sweet Mission

By Robert Garber

As Jews across Atlanta get ready to welcome the new year, several are engaged in a tradition that started in the city more than 20 years ago and has now spread across the country. ORT’s Honey From The Heart program, which partners with Jewish non-profit organizations to distribute specially decorated jars of honey for Rosh Hashanah, is getting ready to ship tens of thousands from coast to coast. The money raised will benefit those nonprofits directly, as well as raise money for ORT’s larger educational mission.

“We have almost 262 non-profit organizations all over the U.S.,” said Delilah Cohen, a long-time volunteer who is leading the Honey From The Heart fundraiser this year, alongside her husband, Steve Cohen, Honey From The Heart coordinator Marcus Brodzki, and 18 dedicated customer service representative volunteers. “We have synagogues, we have schools, we have JCCs. We have different organizations like Hadassah, and so many others.”

One of the founders, Lesley Berman,

discussed how the organization got its start in the late 1980s.

“My ORT chapter at the time had a

meeting, and it was around Rosh Hashanah,” said Berman. “One of the gals that was a member brought in a jar of honey that she

received from her cousin in Arizona. “I called her cousin and asked if we could participate somehow in her fun-

Delilah Cohen and her daughters, Mia Noa and Maya, at the Joe Cohen packing in 2017.

The Honey From The Heart honey jar and cards.

SYNAGOGUE GUIDE

draiser, and she said, ‘No, we’re not doing anything like that. We’re just doing it for our members,’” Berman related. “So, I started thinking, if they could do it, we could do it on our own. I started contacting beekeeper companies in Georgia.”

The rest, as they say, is history. After shipping glass jars to the company (which only had ones shaped like bears), collecting the filled jars, and attaching the greeting, prayer, and festive ribbons, Berman’s chapter sent out the first annual shipment of honey – just 200 jars.

“After that, we were fortunate enough to grow – first to our members, then to other ORT chapters in Atlanta, and then we started sending letters to synagogues in Atlanta to see if they wanted to participate, and so we got bigger and bigger,” said Berman. “Then, the national office said they wanted to send flyers out to other ORT chapters across the country, and it just grew and grew.

“It grew to a point where we are now selling over 60,000 jars yearly all over the United States,” said Cohen, who started working with Honey From The Heart around a decade ago.

“Around that time, Delilah had a great idea,” said Berman, “to incorporate her father-in-law [Joe Cohen] who passed away, to honor him and do a special packing session in their home with their friends and family, and incorporate their children, and their friend’s children.”

“Because he was very, very involved in ORT,” said Cohen, “I decided that we needed to do something to highlight him, and what would be better than something with the kids.”

The “Joe Cohen packing” continues to this day thanks to Cohen, even as the majority of packing has had to be out-

sourced to a fulfillment center. Cohen is also not the only one for whom this has become a family tradition. Berman discussed one customer, a professor at UCLA, whose parents purchased honey from almost the very beginning.

“Two years ago, the son called and told me they had to put his mother in a nursing home because she was starting to have Alzheimer’s,” as she began to tear up and slightly choke on her words.

“It just goes to show you just how important something just like this, in a family, can continue on a tradition. He took his mother’s list, and added some names of his own, and he now sends out the honey.”

Berman also related a story from last year’s event for the retirement of her and Terry Schwartz – Berman’s first co-chair, who established the trademark for Honey From The Heart’s logo, and brought them out of the age of printed labels and into digital ordering. The two of them got to meet a customer they’d spoken on the phone with for almost a decade.

“Terry and I got to meet her face to face,” said Berman. “As soon as she said, ‘Lesley Berman, I’m–’ I recognized her voice, and it was so surreal to put a face to the voice that I’d been talking to for so many years.”

It’s likely there will be many more stories like this, as the program continues in good hands, with Cohen’s clear passion.

“I fell in love with it,” said Cohen, “because you are literally sweetening somebody’s life, and what could be better than that?”

If you or your organization want to partner with Honey From The Heart this year or next, please visit their website at https://www.orthoney.com/ ì

High Holy Days at Temple Emanu-El

Services that are FREE and Open to the Community:

Rosh HaShanah Young Children’s Family Service

(Ages 0–8) 11:05–11:35am

Rosh HaShanah Day 2 Services 10:00–11:30am

Yom Kippur Young Children’s Family Service (Ages 0–8) 11:05–11:35am

Yom Kippur Yizkor and Neilah 4:30–6:00pm

Tickets May Be Purchased for All Other Services

A group of children who volunteered at the Joe Cohen packing in 2025, run by Isabelle Kats, and Mia and Shira Cohen.

ARTS & CULTURE

Legacy of ‘The Producers’ Lives On

By Bob Bahr

“…Under the right circumstances, a producer could make more money with a flop than he could with a hit" -- Leo Bloom, “The Producers.”

“The Producers,” the legendary musical comedy that opens at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center Sept. 5, had a circuitous route to Broadway almost 25 years ago. As the show’s creator, Mel Brooks, relates in his autobiography, “All About Me,” which came out in 2021, it was an idea that he first took up after the success of his sitcom, “Get Smart.” The series ran for five years on NBC and CBS starting in 1965.

The basic premise of the show, that a Broadway producer would intentionally create a show so bad it would not survive opening night was based, in part, on Brooks’ experience early in his career working for a New York producer, Benjamin Kutcher.

The idea that had been percolating in his mind for 20 years was about how the carefully constructed flop, designed to fleece the show backers of their investment, would instead become a surprise hit.

He wrote it, originally as a threeact play with an audacious title for his comedy drama, as “Springtime for Hitler — A Gay Romp with Adolf and Eva at Berchtesgaden.” Surely, so the story ran, no one would buy tickets for a show that was a comedy about one of history’s most brutal dictators, particularly, in a city like New York, with the memory of the Holocaust so fresh in the mind of so many people. He shopped it around to various producers, but only one, according to Brooks, was interested enough to talk about it.

The producer was Kermit Bloomgarden, who had originally produced Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” and a string of other outstanding productions. The problem with the play, he told Brooks, is that the script was too complicated. He had written it for 35 characters in 35 sets which violated one of the unwritten rules of making money on Broadway: on set, five characters.

“It’s not a play,” Bloomgarden told Brooks. “What it is, is a movie. Write it as a screenplay and you’ve got a chance for success.”

Yet, in re-writing his play for Hollywood, he was stumped. He needed to write a big musical number for his play within a play, that was so bad, “it would

send the first night theater flying out of the audience.” Who did he know who could do that?

His wife, the famous actress Anne Bancroft, suggested the obvious.

“You never stop singing around the house! And besides, you’re a born songwriter. No one else could write ‘Springtime for Hitler’ but you.”

And so, Brooks, who had developed his comedy writing skills in early television and had honed them in his network series, became a composer and lyricist. He didn’t know how to write a note of music, but he found someone who turned the melodies he sang into finished musical manuscripts.

Still, despite his success in broadcasting, none of the Hollywood studios were interested in a production that even breathed the name of the evil Nazi dictator.

But two independent producers, Joseph E. Levine. who also owned a chain of movie theaters, and Sidney Glazier took on the project, but with the stipulation that the original title, “Springtime for Hitler,” had to go.

The movie would be “The Producers,” by none other than Brooks himself, even though he had not spent a day behind a motion picture camera. He got some practice directing a pair of TV commercials for Frito-Lay before he stepped on the sound stage set for the first time.

He was blessed by a pair of stars, whose casting were seemingly a marriage made in heaven. For Max Bialystock, the seedy producer and force of nature, he chose Zero Mostel. He had originated the role of Tevye, the milkman, in “Fiddler On The Roof.” As a foil for Mostel, he chose Gene Wilder, a true comic genius

who was just beginning to make waves in the New York theater. His fascinating story was a recent documentary offering at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival.

“The Producers” opened on March 18, 1968, at a small theater on West 58th Street in Manhattan. Word of mouth and a big boost from the comedian, Peter Sellers, created a demand for tickets that had an opening day line stretched around the block.

Brooks was launched on a career that created some of the best comedy productions in Hollywood’s recent history.

But it would be another 23 years before the production was turned into a surprise Broadway hit in 2001. It swept the Tony Awards that year, winning in 12 categories, the most honored show in Tony history. ì

Mel Brooks told the story of how

“The Producers” came to be in his autobiography, “All About Me.”

Much of the success of the motion picture version of “The Producers” was the result of the inspired casting of Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder

The big production numbers in “The Producers” film featured singers and dancers in Nazi uniforms, an eyebrow raising sight for some.

Chai Style Home

Behold an Oasis of Style

Step outside the Wolpert’s Dunwoody home into the lush life where there’s a need to jet to Isla de Mujeres. It started when interior designer Candice Keilin slid into Erica and Craig Wolpert’s Facebook feed, and the result was an eyecatching renovation with modern allure that is captivatingly offbeat.

Craig said, “We like updated gadgets, fun artwork, colors and new ideas. We took an older home in a fabulous community and made it new and updated. The renovation started with Keilin assembling her team [Narissa Bonnet Designs -- Keilin’s architect sister]. They gave us a design rendering showing the updates, particularly in the living room. One thing led to another, and the project grew to our outdoor space and multiple rooms.”

A Columbus, Ohio, native, Craig moved to Atlanta after he met wife Erica on a blind date. This is the first house they bought together. He is the executive vice president for e-Cycle and

teaches self-defense seminars (thewayofthekitten.com).

Erica is originally from Miami and is the director of HR for Atlanticus. They wanted their home to be unpretentious, even witty, and thus meshed with Keilin and Bonnet as “change agents.”

Perhaps the most playful and expertly designed room is the study. Erica stated, “We gave simple instructions. As the kids age, we wanted a cool space for them in which to want to work. The initial design renderings were a “wow,” and literally the room looks exactly like that first design plan. Who knew you could put amazing wallpaper on the ceiling or have a hanging chair with cushions? The acoustical tile is an added bonus.”

Swim over to the Wolpert’s backyard resort.

Marcia: Describe your art.

Craig: Candice introduced us to two amazing Atlanta-based artists: Esteban Patino and Craig Alan. We liked that Esteban has created his own unique language focusing on what’s meant to be said or unsaid, the meaning of words. We appreciate the uniqueness and expressions of his work, both art and sculptures which we now have inside and outside. Alan has become well known internationally; we

searched through his collection for something that spoke to us. Since Paris was our first family trip overseas, his Eiffel Tower was perfect to stir our memories.

A funky family piece is an original painting I inherited from my mother, Marcia Beckman, who was the first female to graduate IBM Business School.

Marcia: What are your favorite furniture pieces?

Craig: We love the comfort of the Bernhardt sofa in the living room and the custom wood kitchen table. But our absolute favorites are the lounge chairs out by the pool.

Marcia: Explain the magic in the kitchen.

Craig: Our cooktop is a fascinating talking point. As an Invisacook, the burners are invisible and work on induction technology requiring specific pots to magnetize and connect with the heating source to ignite. When the pot is removed, it cools to the touch. It really is magical and invisible unless there’s a pot cooking. The custom kitchen table is a sanded stain to complement the cork wall.

Marcia: What’s special about the kids’ rooms?

Craig: We updated our daughter’s room as she heads into her tweens. She and Candice mused over her do’s and don’ts, and they nailed it with shiplap,

plants, and accessories for our “horse crazy” child. The room now is her retreat for when she is relaxing after riding horses and competing.

Marcia: Why is the backyard a resort?

Craig: It started off as just a pool. We called in five contractors, two said they weren’t interested because of the challenging topography. We chose Brad Renken (Hearthstone Luxury Pools). We wanted a yard for our kids to play in as well an amazing pool built into the landscaping. We went with turf since we have the big dogs and lots of shade. Then Candice and Narissa totally updated the pool seating areas, which took it to the next level. We really feel like we live in a resort. Our friends are always welcome, and we love hosting pool parties.

Marcia: Share your choice of the surfaces and lighting.

Candice: We painted, took off trim, highlighted the windows which before went unnoticed.

We chose our wood colors and added specific mood lighting from Visual Comfort that was designed for the home flow through the hallways and notice art as they are specifically pointed at each of the treasured pieces. The idea was subtle but has had a huge impact.

Craig: Candice found some interesting ceiling lights which really added to the whole overall space of the living

Marcia Caller Jaffe

Craig Wolpert relaxes in the highly stylized study Keilin created using wallpaper by Innovations on the ceiling // All photos by Howard Mendel

room as industrial, but moody and unique.

Marcia: Your own home was featured in Atlanta Jewish Times Chai Style (Oct. 8, 2019) where you were referred to as “Tonal, textured and timeless … Designer Struts a New Generation.” How did you view this project?

Candice: The Wolperts wanted a contemporary vision that was more reflective of their personalities. They wanted the home to be inviting and comfortable since they have two younger children and pets without compromising on a styled design aesthetic. We were able to create unique living spaces using texture, art, and lighting to enhance our design after we remodeled the original space to give more symmetry and eye-catching focal points. The Wolperts’ trust in the creation of the design vision from beginning to end allowed the home to evolve into these great luxurious spaces.

We had a lot of fun shopping for the various pieces, each with a unique intention. Their art really solidified the uniqueness of this home. In my own home, I also have Patino’s work which is displayed at the High Museum and the Atlanta airport.”

Marcia: Last word:

Craig: The backyard layout is really for our “other children.”  They play catch, Frisbee, and swim. It’s really a dog’s life. While Roscoe is a purebred German Shepherd, Pippa is a mutt-a-poo we rescued from Bosley’s Place. They are the real beneficiaries of the design! ì

Above:The Wolperts love to entertain and have pool parties. The dogs like the area the most.

Right: Keilin used plush silver velour for the chairs to offset the colorful painting.

Below: The Wolperts like the newly sized niches that highlight the Esteban Patina sculptures as “intentional.” This one is among his first using a blowtorch on wood.

Above: The Wolperts refashioned the exterior to have a different curb appeal.

Below: Candice is credited for taking the outdoors to the next level with inviting groupings of outdoor furniture.

Left: Keilin designed the living room to include a Craig Alan work depicting Paris and comfy Bernhardt couches.

CALENDAR

Monday, September 1

LimmudFest at Ramah Darom - LimmudFest at Ramah Darom is a celebration of Jewish thought, arts, culture, and life, created in partnership with Limmud North America. This festival unites hundreds of Jews of diverse backgrounds and ages at Ramah Darom’s picturesque North Georgia mountains campus over Labor Day Weekend. Participants engage in workshops, discussions, art, music, performances, text-study sessions, yoga, hiking, and a variety of other enriching and fun activities for all ages and stages. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ mr38yzat.

OVS at the Orchard – 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join Congregation Or Ve Shalom for a fun morning picking apples, visiting the petting zoo and more. Bring your lunch and join us for a picnic. Registration requested at https:// tinyurl.com/32hmww2k.

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Tuesday, September 2

Shalom Siporim: Hebrew Storytime – 10 to 11 a.m. Join Nurture for Shalom Siporim, a joyful Hebrew-English story time designed especially for toddlers and their grown-ups! Through engaging stories, playful songs, and simple movement activities, young children will be introduced to Hebrew words and Jewish culture in a warm and welcoming environment. No Hebrew experience necessary — just bring your curiosity and love of stories! No class week of Sept. 23 in observance of Rosh Hashanah. RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/2b88f5mt.

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Wednesday, September 3

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Thursday, September 4

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Friday, September 5

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Music & Play – 10 to 11 a.m. Let’s spark joy and curiosity through the magic of music and play! Jumpstart your morning with an upbeat, interactive music and movement class led by Here We Grow, where little ones can dance, wiggle, and sing their hearts out. Afterward, Nurture invites children into a world of themed sensory play and hands-on adventures — perfect for curious minds and messy fingers. Come ready to move, create, and make memories together! Register at https:// tinyurl.com/mpftwc7z.

Kabbalat Panim Shabbat Service - 5:45 to 8 p.m. Once a month at Congregation Dor Tamid we’ll gather for a Kabbalat Panim, an Oneg Shabbat before services at 5:45 p.m. We will then move to the sanctuary to welcome in Shabbat together at 6:15 p.m. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/47rs4bt3.

Sunday, September 7

Play Tamid - 9:15 to 11 a.m. Play Tamid is led by Rabbi Jordan and is open to the public (members and non-members of Congregation Dor Tamid). Enjoy crafts, songs, fun activities, and more for children under 4 (parent/guardian must attend). RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/3farjzrc.

Great Big Giving Day - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kick off the year doing something that actually matters with Mitzvah House. Bring the fam, stir the soup, feel the joy, and volunteer together. Come ready to roll up your sleeves (and maybe lick the spoon). Sign up at https://tinyurl. com/5n6duccp.

Hadassah Greater Atlanta Game Day – 1 to 4 p.m. Join Hadassah Greater Atlanta for a day of meeting, greeting, fun and games for Game Day! Games of all kinds. Bring your own game; bring your friends or hook up with new friends. Register at https://tinyurl. com/y8e244j7.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Ki Teitzei

Friday, September 5 Light Shabbat Candles at: 7:39 PM

Saturday, September 6 Shabbat Ends: 8:33 PM

Torah Reading: Ki Tavo

Friday, September 12 Light Shabbat Candles at: 7:29 PM

Saturday, September 13 Shabbat Ends: 8:23 PM

Music & Joy: An Intergenerational Celebration – 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Join us for a fun and heartwarming afternoon with Here We Grow, an Atlanta-based mobile business! Babies, families, and residents will come together for a joyful musical experience filled with upbeat songs, sweet melodies, and special moments that bring generations closer. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the magic of music — sharing joy, comfort, and connection. Don’t miss this chance to sing, smile, and make memories with the youngest and wisest in our community! Perfect for families with little one’s ages 0-2. RSVP at https:// tinyurl.com/27jwtwj4.

JBaby Dunwoody Storytime with SLP – 4 to 5 p.m. Get ready for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, by reading books about the upcoming holiday with speech-language pathologist Ilyssa Sultanik from Speech Bubble Atlanta. She will model story time for babies, demonstrating ways to engage your child and encourage speech and language development. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/bdftpava.

Texas Hold ‘em Poker – 7 to 10 p.m. Come one, come all. Texas Hold ‘Em Poker is now once a month! Men and ladies, you are all invited to join Congregation Beth Shalom for an evening of Texas Hold ‘Em Poker. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/ytewew89.

Monday, September 8

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

An Evening with a Priest and a Rabbi – 6 to 8 p.m. Father Josh Hilton and Rabbi Brian Glusman are passionate about interfaith dialogue and how it builds community, bringing us closer to faith and each other. A variety of topics will be explored with opportunity for dialogue including questions and answers. Learn more at https:// tinyurl.com/36h7zvs6.

Tuesday, September 9

Shalom Siporim: Hebrew Storytime – 10 to 11 a.m. Join Nurture for Shalom Siporim, a joyful Hebrew-English story time designed especially for toddlers and their grown-ups! Through engaging stories, playful songs, and simple movement activities, young children will be introduced to Hebrew words and Jewish culture in a warm and welcoming environment. No Hebrew experience necessary — just bring your curiosity and love of stories! No class week of Sept. 23 in observance of Rosh Hashanah. RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/2b88f5mt.

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m. The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Supporting Executive Function: Tools for Parents of Teens and Tweens – 7 to 9 p.m. Join us for an empowering evening designed to equip parents of middle and high school students with practical tools and insights to better support their child’s executive functioning. Learn how to navigate challenges like organization, time management, task initiation, and emotional regulations skills that are essential for academic success and healthy development. This interactive session will include expert guidance, relatable scenarios, and actionable takeaways to strengthen your parenting toolkit. Sign up at https://tinyurl. com/yh9r5vuw.

Wednesday, September 10

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Atlanta Scholars Kollel Networking Event – 6 to 7 p.m. Networking event for 250-300 people featuring guest speaker Charles Harari. Register at https://tinyurl.com/jmc4w55m.

Thursday, September 11

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

KosherSoul: A Summerhill Dinner – 6 to 9 p.m. Join Michael Twitty, Todd Ginsberg, and Duane Nutter for a unique culinary experience at Wood’s Chapel BBQ in Summerhill, as they bring together the flavors of African American and Jewish heritage and celebrate cultural diversity through food, conversation, and community. Reserve a seat at https://tinyurl.com/ mxru3xba.

Young Professionals Patio Drinks at Ladybird - 6 to 9 p.m. Young professionals, join Kibbutz and Konnect under the iconic yellow umbrellas on the patio at Ladybird! Stop by after work for a drink or two and to meet other Jewish singles while enjoying beautiful summer weather on the BeltLine. Appetizers included cash bar. RSVP early at https://tinyurl.com/yu4cuskt. This event is open to Young Professionals ages 22 through early 40s.

Friday, September 12

Music & Play – 10 to 11 a.m. Let’s spark joy and curiosity through the magic of music and play! Jumpstart your morning with an upbeat, interactive music and movement class led by Here We Grow, where little ones can dance, wiggle, and sing their hearts out. Afterward, Nurture invites children into a world of themed sensory play and hands-on adventures — perfect for curious minds and messy fingers. Come ready to move, create, and make memories together! Register at https:// tinyurl.com/mpftwc7z.

Daily Shofar Blasts – 11 to 11:15 a.m.

The blowing of the shofar, or ram’s horn, is an important part of the Jewish High Holiday season. There is a special tradition of blowing the shofar in the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah to remind us to “wake up,” reflect on the past year, and begin the spiritual preparation for the High Holiday season. All are invited to listen to the shofar in the main lobby and Brill Family Fitness Center. Free and open to the community. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/4arn326b.

Shabbat, Me &; Rabbi G @ The JCC

– 5 to 5:30 p.m. Experience the joy of Shabbat with Rabbi G! This exciting celebration is fun for the whole family, featuring lively Shabbat songs, heartfelt blessings, and delicious challah and grape juice. This is the perfect way to close out the week in a fun and casual setting. Find out more at https:// tinyurl.com/3yty94hj.

Shabbat Unplugged – Happy Hour

- 6 to 7 p.m. Join Rabbi Glusman for Shabbat Unplugged, a Happy Hour at Cadranel’s Corner (MJCCA) which will include: soulful tunes and prayers, words of wisdom, food, drinks and alcoholic beverages (available for purchase). People of all faiths and backgrounds will enjoy this opportunity to celebrate the Sabbath in a unique way. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/ bdh7as2v.

Tot Shabbat - 6 to 8 p.m. Tot Shabbat from Congregation Dor Tamid is a Shabbat program geared for children (second grade and younger) to laugh, meet new children, make new friends, and explore the wonders of Judaism in an exciting fun way! The service is filled with songs, prayers, blessings, stories, snacks, and a place where a kid can be a kid when they pray to G-d. This service meets on selected Friday nights throughout the year at 6 p.m. Each service is followed by a pot-luck Shabbat dinner. Parents are encouraged to model the behavior they would like to see in their own children. So, remember: come to Tot Shabbat ready to dance, sing, pray, and have fun. Tot Shabbat is geared toward children 4 and under. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/w94ra3de

M&M Family Shabbat at Etz Chaim

– 6 to 8 p.m. Congregation Etz Chaim invites you to join us for our signature family-friendly Shabbat Service and fun! All are welcome. Please register at https://tinyurl.com/5y5kz8vk.

Saturday, September 13

Li’l Shabbat in the Garden – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join Nurture and Rabbi Rachael and Rabbi Max Miller from Temple Emanu-El for a Shabbat sing-along designed for young children and their families. Through interactive songs, playful movement, and plenty of ruach (spirit), little ones will experience the warmth and relaxation of Shabbat. Register at https://tinyurl.com/kuk43wu6.

High Holidays at Congregation Dor Tamid – 6:15 p.m. Join Congregation Dor Tamid for Selichot. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/yhyj84m9.

Sunday, September 14

Mitzvah Day – Join JF&CS for a Mitzvah Day: Day of Service. Connect, give back, and enjoy a happy hour with other young professionals. Register at https://tinyurl.com/muhx33su.

PJ Library Sweet Starts & Apple

Tarts: A Rosh Hashanah Event for Young Families – 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join PJ Library and Atlanta Jewish Xperience for a fun, toddler-friendly Rosh Hashanah celebration! Make apple tarts to bake at home. Enjoy PJ Library story time and crafts. Snacks provided. Geared for ages 3–8. Space is limited — register at https://tinyurl. com/56sd2v6s to save your spot and get location details!

Cub Scout Pack 1818 Fall Kickoff and Raingutter Regatta – 3:30 to 5 p.m. Cub Scout Pack 1818, based out of the MJCC of Atlanta, is “Scouting with a Jewish twist.” Ahoy! Join new and prospective members of Cub Scout Pack 1818 as we kick off the season with welcome mixers, information on how families can register and get involved, a meet-and-greet with pack and den leaders, and a “build a juice box boat” boat race on our mini-racing regatta flumes. There will be snacks and prizes, so come prepared to have some fun! Open to boys and girls in grades K-5 and their parents. RSVP required at https://tinyurl.com/2rxmsxrp.

Pop Up NYC Kosher Deli in Gainesville, GA – 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. An authentic New York Kosher Jewish Deli is popping up in Hall County! The Chabad of Hall County is bringing the heart and soul of a classic New York kosher deli right to your doorstep. Perfectly seasoned pastrami, juicy corned beef piled high, and the comforting warmth of a truly authentic matzah ball soup. Order by September 8th at https://tinyurl.com/5n8hr788.

50s+ Wine Tasting – 4 to 6 p.m. Meet someone new as Kibbutz and Konnect ease into fall! 50s+ singles are invited to join us for a wine tasting led by a sommelier from Atlanta Wine School. Tasting price included in your ticket price. RSVP required by Sept. 8 at https://tinyurl.com/56s24uvx.

Mikvah & Masterpieces: An Evening with Jaclynn Morris – 5:30 to 7 p.m. Join us in welcoming the talented Jaclynn Morris as our next Artist in Residence at MACoM. Enjoy an opportunity to meet Jaclynn, explore her work, and learn more about the inspiration behind her art. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/4kc4zkw3.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 | 1–5PM

PURCHASE TICKETS

SEP 4–OCT 5

Book by JOSEPH STEIN Music by JERRY BOCK Lyrics by SHELDON HARNICK Directed by TOMER ZVULUN Music Director & Conductor OR MATIAS Choreography by CHLOE TREAT

Beef and Broccoli Ramen

Ingredients

Beef and Broccoli

1 pound minute steak, sliced into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon Glicks Soy Sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

3 cups broccoli florets, such as Beleaves Frozen Broccoli

1 packet Gefen Ramen Noodles

1 teaspoon oil

2 teaspoons sesame seeds for garnish (optional) Sauce

3/4 cup water

1 tablespoon cornstarch

3 tablespoons Glicks Soy Sauce

3 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon Gefen Sesame Oil

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1-3 teaspoons sriracha (optional)

Directions

1. Combine the sliced beef, soy sauce and rice vinegar in a bowl to marinate. Set aside.

2. Heat two pots of boiling water, one for the ramen and one for the broccoli.

3. Whisk the sauce ingredients together. Heat one teaspoon oil in a skillet and cook the meat until browned. While the meat is browning, cook the broccoli and ramen noodles for three minutes in their respective pots. Strain and set aside.

4. Add the sauce to the beef and cook for two to three minutes, or until it thickens. Add the broccoli and ramen and toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Recipe by Sara Goldstein Kosher.com

The Challah

News broke recently about the theft of egg-enriched dough from a New Jersey warehouse. Unfortunately, the theft happened just before Shabbos, and it forced many local bakeries to bake their challahs with plain, white flour.

A leading local rabbi was quoted as saying, “I’m appalled by the rise in white-challah crimes.”

YIDDISH WORD

Blintz krieg

n. The perpetual production of blintzes, meal after meal. “I skipped lunch because we’re having dinner at Bubbe’s, where every day is a blintz krieg.”

From the Yiddish “blintze,” a traditional stuffed pancake, and the German “blitzkrieg,” or “lightning war.”

Agitated Figures

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

Difficulty Level: Challenging

ACROSS

1. Passover animal

5. “Yeah, could you ___ little lie...” (Faith Hill)

9. A question, to 15-Across

13. Orchestra instrument

14. It was named the least antisemitic country in 2014

15. Abba who won the Israel Prize

16. Area that includes Jaffa Road, King George Street, and Ben Yehuda Street

19. French game

20. Anti-narcotics org.

21. Sketchy NBC show?

22. Tel Aviv memorial landmark

26. Spot

27. Purex alternative

28. Gen.,. Exo., Lev., Num., ___

29. “Dancing with the Stars” judge Goodman

31. Major FL airport

32. New Mexico city, county or artist colony

34. The ‘I’ of MIT: Abbr.

38. Agitated...or a hint to solving this puzzle

42. “Falling Slowly” musical

43. “There’s never ___ around when you need one!”

44. Dead newspaper craft, briefly

45. Corner key on a PC

48. It’s all the rage?

49. Start of a Tevye classic

50. Despite this

53. Modern Jewish symbol

56. 53-Across is on its flag, for short

57. 365 dias

58. Where to find Ger. and Fr.

59. Notable Chabad chesed organization

65. Jewish fraternity

66. “Holding ___” (10/7 documentary)

67. Lat. list ender

68. Made a knot

69. Comes to a finish

70. Symbol of peace

DOWN

1. City close to Ben-Gurion Airport

2. Blood classification system

3. Cut blades

4. Simon (Pegg) in the “Mission: Impossible” films

5. Inspector played by Martin and Sellers

6. Like sushi

7. Blue character in “The Guardians of the Galaxy”

8. Cheap, in a manner of speaking

9. Island wreath

This week, 100 years ago

A record-setting group of 1,000 Jewish immigrants leave from Poland for Palestine.

After an election in France, an unprecedented six members of the French Senate are Jewish.

French-Jewish writer/poet Andre Spire is honored by Romanian Jews.

This week, 75 years ago

The Southern Israelite (now the AJT) celebrates its silver anniversary, marking 25 years of publication.

Internationally prominent author Professor Albert Leon Guerard is added to the staff at Brandies University.

This week, 50 years ago

At the Wisconsin state fair, both the local Nazi Party and the Zionist Organization of America agree to close their booths after fighting breaks out.

Dr. Ruth Gruber, Author of, “Destination Palestine: the Story of the Haganah ship Exodus 1947,” which inspired the book/ movie “Exodus.”

Dr. Ruth Gruber, international correspondent and author, is announced as speaker for the Year Round Women’s Division annual meeting.

Rabbi Samuel Zakuto honored at a Temple Israel-sponsored dinner for his services to both the Waycross and Valdosta Hebrew Congregations in South Georgia.

10. Put to shame

11. Former Red Sox slugger Ramirez

12. Approach to a problem

17. Approach a problem

18. Like a “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” first edition

22. Iconic Stallone role

23. Not from around here

24. Alpine peak

25. Production allotment

30. Bethesda, Maryland health org.

33. Economic leader?

35. The path to Israel?

36. Bond novel genre, slangily

37. Lacking enthusiasm

39. Kickoff aid

40. Gives up

41. Floored it

46. NBA/analyst Coach Van Gundy

47. Pre or post-Shabbat item

50. Eshet ___ tohar

51. Shmona follower

52. Junky writing

54. Bag on a baseball field

55. On a curved path

60. One of two needed at a Jewish wedding

61. Hornswoggled

62. Lance or Midori

63. Talmudic title

64. Indians once played here, for short

This week, 25 years ago

Camp Barney launches summer-long job program for former campers with developmental disabilities.

The Atlanta team’s astounding JCC Maccabi games performance includes Abe Gordon, who won his final racquetball game without letting his opponent score a point, and gymnast Dana Wiesenfeld, who brought home six medals by herself.

AJT interviews television’s Judge Judy Sheindlin ahead of her new book, “Keep It Simple, Stupid.”

In a first for a major U.S. Federation, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia hires an openly gay man, former VP of JF&CS Harold Goldman, as president.

For the paper’s celebration of its 75th anniversary, Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell proclaims Aug. 31, 2000 as “Atlanta Jewish Times Day”

Issues of the AJT (then Southern Israelite) from 1929-1986 can be found for free online at https:// gahistoricnewspapers.galileo.usg.edu/lccn/sn78003973/

OBITUARIES

Louis Bloom

89, Atlanta

Louis Bloom, 89, passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday, Aug. 15 in Atlanta, Ga. Born on Dec. 25, 1935, in Johannesburg, South Africa, to Ida and Joe Bloom, he was the eldest child, with a brother, Harry Bloom z”l, and a sister, Helen Stanley. Louis worked together with his father and brother in the family jewelry business, Karlin and Bloom, and he immigrated to Atlanta in 1979.

Louis was an amazing partner, father, grandfather, and friend. He always had a smile on his face; he was giving and selfless. An avid golfer and fan of mahjong, he was gentle, funny, a charmer, lovable, and had a heart of gold. Whenever life knocked him down, Louis got right back up without a complaint. No one was a stranger, and everyone was a friend.

Louis loved his children unconditionally and relished his role as grandfather, aka “poppop,” and great-grandfather. He was always there, in person or virtually, for special occasions, school performances, and sports games, and was so proud of everyone’s accomplishments. He will be missed terribly and will forever be in our hearts.

Louis is survived by his life partner, Shari Rabin; children, Karen (Amnon) Porat, Ronette (Adam) Throne, Gina Bloom (Flagg Miller), Joel Bloom (Liz King); grandchildren, Oron (Esthey) Porat, Lielle Porat, Hannah Throne, Jonah Throne, Max Bloom, Jack Bloom; great-granddaughter, Leora Porat; and sister, Helen Stanley. He was predeceased by his partner, Diane Shulman. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Bernice Schmitz; and former spouse, Carol Silverman. He also leaves behind many loving extended family, including cousins, nieces and nephews in Atlanta, Israel, and South Africa.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, Aug. 17, at 1:30 p.m. at Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Epstein School or Congregation Or Hadash. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Phyllis K. Boros 80, Austell

Phyllis K. Boros, of Austell, Ga., passed away on Aug. 13, 2025, just shy of her 81st birthday. As a science teacher spanning 31 years, she touched many lives, and in her own words, “She gave a damn!” She had a master’s in science and applied biology from Georgia Tech. Known for being fiercely loyal to family and friends, she had a sharp wit and generous nature that endeared her to others. She was a voracious reader and a die-hard fan of science fiction.

She is survived by Melvin K. Boros (husband), Robert A. Boros (son), Leigh A. Boros (daughter), Sophia Harvey, Ziva Boros (granddaughters), Madison Harvey (great-granddaughter), Theodore Powell (cousin), Lesa Kramer, and Suyra Kramer (nieces). Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. The funeral was held on Aug. 17, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at the Greenwood Cemetery with Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s, 770-451-4999.

Sharon L. Polstein Cohen

96, Chicago, Ill.

Sharon L. Polstein Cohen was the beloved wife of the late Leon Polstein and the late Jack Cohen, dear mother of Rabbi Yosef (Bracha) Polstein, Jay (Claire Rudnick) Polstein, and the late Stephen (Sheila) Polstein, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and fond sister of Frederick (Renie) Halperin.

Sharon was born in Savannah, Ga., on July 5, 1929. She will always be remembered as a Southern belle; she loved traveling, shopping, and enjoyed her close-knit circle of friends in Atlanta. She moved to Chicago 10 years ago and was a beloved member of the Park Plaza community. Sharon had a special charm and will be missed by all those who knew her.

A graveside funeral was held on Aug. 20 at Crest Lawn Memorial Park in Atlanta.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to ChesedChicago, 7045 North Ridgeway Avenue. Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712, www.chesedchicago.org, or to Hatzalah Chicago 6501 North Hamlin Avenue, Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712 www.hatzalahchicago.org. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com.

Robert Harry Ganz

71, Atlanta

Robert Harry Ganz, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-inlaw, uncle, cousin and friend to many, passed away from heart failure on Aug. 8, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at the age of 71.

Born in Mineola, N.Y., on Dec. 20, 1953, Bob grew up in Malverne, Long Island, the youngest son of Harold and Mimi Ganz. He attended high school at The Peddie School, graduating in 1971 and matriculating to Washington & Jefferson University. At W&J, Bob met the love of his life, Benita, when they were both 18 years of age. Fifty-three years later, their love for one another was still strong through the last days of his life. Bob and Benita married on June 1, 1975, just shortly after Bob graduated from Hofstra University with an accounting degree and celebrated their 50th anniversary a few months ago.

A devoted father, Bob was immensely proud of his two sons – Jason and Josh – and was their biggest supporter. And he truly flourished as a grandfather, spending as much time as he could with his five grandchildren (Caroline, Charlotte, Cate, Haley and Max).

Bob built two successful accounting practices in one lifetime, first in New York and then in Smyrna, after moving to East Cobb with his family in 1994. He quickly put down Southern roots upon arrival, both in the community – serving as president of Temple Kol Emeth and remaining passionate through his last days about his faith, Israel and Jewish causes – and in his East Cobb neighborhood, where Bob served as president of the homeowner’s association and had seemingly more friends than there were residents in his subdivision.

Bob loved entertaining friends and family in his beautiful backyard, presiding over the grill and lounging in his pool. He and cherished friend, Mark Moore, were known far and wide for their legendary fireworks displays on holidays. And Bob’s cultivated Southern roots extended to sports as well, as he was a long time Braves fan and season ticketholder and loved Georgia football, especially after his sons and daughters-in-law (Lindsay and Marcia) attended college in Athens.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister (Joan). He is survived by his wife, sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, brother, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Donations may be made in Bob’s memory to Temple Kol Emeth. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999

Gloria Tunkle Glusman 83,

Atlanta

Gloria Tunkle Glusman, 83, of Atlanta, Ga., died on Aug. 5, 2025. She was born in Birmingham, Ala., to Rose and Eph Tunkle. Gloria was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Glusman, and her brothers, Kemp Tunkle and Alvin Tunkle. Gloria is survived by her children, Rabbi Brian (Laurie) Glusman, Alison Rosengarten, and Danny (Florie) Glusman, her grandchildren, Adam (Emily), Lauren, Nathan, Rebecca, Deena, Eliana, Rael, Mira, and Kemp, and her brother-in-law, Marvin Glusman. She was a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend.

Gloria was perhaps best known for her lifelong passion for cooking and entertaining, which transformed her home into a lively hub of warmth and hospitality. The Glusman home was a place of joyful gatherings, particularly during holiday celebrations and Shabbat meals, filled with the cheerful sounds of loved ones gathered around the table, enjoying delicious meals and engaging in lively singing and vibrant conversation. Gloria was a natural host, making everyone feel welcome and loved. Whether it was a spontaneous dinner or a carefully planned holiday meal, she took great joy in making everyone feel at home.

Gloria also made a significant impact through her dedicated work as the owner of Gloria’s Gifts, a store in the Toco Hills neighborhood. For many years, her shop was the trusted source for families planning life cycle events, providing everything from elegant bar/bat mitzvah and wedding invitations to personalized items and other thoughtful party-related gifts. Gloria was a comforting presence for countless families navigating these milestones. She was renowned for her ability to make each customer feel supported and special.

Affectionately known as “Cookie” to her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many other family members, Gloria embraced this role with boundless love, offering not only words of encouragement but also, true to her name, an abundance of delicious treats. She loved dining out with family and friends and was always eager to try new foods, the spicier the better!

Gloria will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and deeply caring heart. She was full of warmth and integrity and never hesitated to speak her mind. She was cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Contributions in honor of Gloria’s life may be made to The Weber School or the charity of your choice. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

OBITUARIES Ruth Kanfer

70, Atlanta

Dr. Ruth Kanfer passed away peacefully at home in Atlanta, Ga., on the morning of Aug. 13. Ruth was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, and an esteemed professor of psychology. She was 70 years old.

Ruth was an amazing person — it is astonishing that one person could possess so many talents and hold so much love. Born in St. Louis, Mo., in 1955, Ruth was the eldest child of Ruby and Frederick Kanfer, and sister to Larry. The family moved frequently to follow Frederick’s academic career, and Ruth credited her upbringing with giving her a lifelong love of learning and exploration. She was an avid traveler, hiker, and biker, venturing all over the world with her family.

Following the threads of her interests from journalism, Ruth built a laudatory career as a professor of behavioral psychology, carving a path even when one wasn’t clear-cut. Most recently, she co-directed the PARK Lab at Georgia Tech with her husband, Phil, where her research focused on industrial and organizational psychology. She authored over 130 articles and chapters as well as multiple books, and received numerous awards for her work, including the prestigious Dunnette Prize from the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) in 2024. Most importantly, Ruth was dedicated to her students, caring deeply about their professional and personal development.

Ruth and Phil were partners in work and life in Atlanta, creating a loving community and leading the PARK research lab together at Georgia Tech. Ruth was a devoted mother to daughter, Sarah, championing her in all she did, from gymnastics to ceramics to her pursuit of a doctorate in nursing practice, to motherhood in her own time.

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She welcomed son-in-law, Lewis, to the family, and was a doting grandmother to granddaughter, Lucy, treasuring their time together. Family and friends were most important to Ruth, and she will be remembered for hosting celebrations from Halloween parties to Passover seders, welcoming all who came to her home.

Ruth will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, brilliance, humor, and fearlessness. Her love for life, and for all of the people dear to her, will forever be cherished by those who knew her. Ruth fought pancreatic cancer for two-and-a-half years to spend as much time on Earth as she could with her family, who survive her: husband, Phillip Ackerman, daughter, Sarah, son-in-law, Lewis, and granddaughter, Lucy; brother, Larry, his wife, Alaina, niece, Anna, and nephew, David; and brother-in-law, David Ackerman. She is predeceased by her parents, Ruby and Frederick Kanfer.

A memorial service was held Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at Dressler’s Chapel, 3742 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA 30341. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to her memorial fund at the Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery program at NYU Langone, or Congregation Bet Haverim.

Jack Rosenberg 93, Atlanta

Jack Rosenberg passed away peacefully on Aug. 21, 2025, at the age of 93. A proud native Atlantan, Jack was born on Aug. 19, 1932.

Jack’s life was rooted in devotion to family, faith, and service. Valedictorian of Hoke Smith High School in 1950, he earned a full scholarship to Emory University. Just a month after graduating in 1954, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and stationed at White Sands Missile Range, where he served as a clerk and unofficial base rabbi.

He was a counselor at Camp Rutledge and formed lifelong friendships through his youth group, the Devoted Sons of Israel (DSI). A lifelong athlete, he played softball at the Atlanta Jewish Community Center in his younger years and tennis until he was 85.

For over 70 years, Jack cherished his weekly poker games with close friends — a tradition that offered camaraderie and lasting connection.

In 1957, Jack married Rachael Karp of Sylva, N.C. They built a warm and loving home in Atlanta, raising three children — Sharon, Richard, and Marla.

Jack spent 64 years at Shadco Advertising Specialties, which he led for over five decades. He was known for his quiet leadership, integrity, and genuine respect for others.

Deeply committed to Jewish life in Atlanta, Jack served on the boards of Congregation Shearith Israel, the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, and Jewish Family & Career Services of Atlanta. In 1997, he and Rachael cofounded a special needs Passover seder at Shearith Israel — now a beloved annual tradition that welcomes over 100 participants.

Together, Jack and Rachael were honored with several community awards recognizing their advocacy for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. These included the AMIT Award from Atlanta’s centralized Jewish special education agency, the People Power Award from Congregation Shearith Israel for their profound impact on disability inclusion, and the Power of One Award from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, which celebrates those who have significantly enhanced Jewish life in the community through personal commitment.

Jack was the son of Pauline Schachter Rosenberg and Sam Rosenberg. He was the only child of their marriage, and the last surviving sibling among his half-brothers and half-sisters: Sidney Schachter, Saul Schachter, Izie (“Chick”) Rosenberg, Esther Libowsky, Ida Leff, and Mitzi Kornblum.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Rachael Rosenberg; his daughter, Sharon Kroll, and her partner, Larry Love, Sharon’s children, Jordyn Kroll and Jaime (Kroll) and Michael Dunn, and their three children; his son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Cheryl Rosenberg, and their children, Allison Rosenberg, Samantha Rosenberg and her husband, Jake Menashi, and Jonah Rosenberg; and his daughter, Marla Rosenberg. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Each of them brought him endless pride and joy.

During his six decades in the advertising specialties business, Jack handed out countless promotional items stamped with the words, “Your Imprint Here,” but there is no doubt that the most lasting imprint was his own. As a role model, loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, trusted business mentor, and dedicated community and philanthropic leader, Jack Rosenberg left a deep and positive mark on everyone who knew him. May his memory be a blessing.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Congregation Shearith Israel (select “Jack & Rachael Rosenberg Seder Fund” from the “Type” dropdown list under Payment Details) www.shearithisrael.com or to Jewish Family & Career Services of Atlanta (select “Intellectual & Developmental Disability Services” from the “What would you like your donation to support” dropdown list) www.jfcsatl.org/tribute.

Rabbi Tobias Wexler

76, Atlanta

Rabbi Tobias Wexler, 76, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025. He served as a dedicated kashrus mashgiach for decades, and was known for his love of Torah learning, sharing thoughtful insights, and lifting spirits with his signature corny jokes. Rabbi Toby is survived by his family and many friends who cherished his warmth and wisdom. The funeral was held at Crest Lawn Memorial Park on Aug. 3, with Rabbi Lindenblatt officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s, 770-451-4999.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

The Youngest Granddaughter

Shaindle

Schmuckler

Shaindle’s Shpiel

My husband, Gene, and I were over the moon with the additions of our four daughters to our family. These four girls taught us the art of parenting. Our girls carefully and thoughtfully guided us through toddler years, childhood years, and the challenge of their teen and high school years.

And then suddenly, in the blink of an eye, they were looking at colleges.

I can remember the day, like it was yesterday, when daughter No. 1 was packed and ready to leave for college. Her journey turned out to be more interesting and challenging. The road she chose was a more meandering one and did not begin at the University of Georgia. She

chose a rival university. However, eventually, the “Dawgs” won her over. This move cleared the way for her three sisters. And in doing so, a University of Georgia legacy was born.

In time, they met and married my son-in-loves … then our prayers were answered (10 times) when they anointed us with new identities. Gene and I became known as Savta and Zaide.

Once again, we were experiencing the adorable toddler years, childhood years, teen years and high school years. Then, in the blink of an eye, they were considering colleges.

Some of my 10 “Grands” (this is the way I address these beautiful humans because they are indeed grand), chose the University of Georgia as their university of choice.

Suddenly, and way too quickly, it was time for the youngest of my granddaughters to choose a university. She chose the University of Georgia, of course, keeping the family legacy alive, following in her mother’s and her aunt’s footsteps.

However, the only resemblance between my daughters’ moves to the university and her move ended at the name of said house of higher learning.

Starting with the admission process through choosing a dormmate all seemed so much more complicated. My girls did not have the Internet to rob them of a simpler time. The good old days of the late 1980s and early 1990s were simply a memory.

As each of my four daughters left home headed to their university of choice and the beginning of their four-year jour-

ney to their future, I admit I found myself feeling quite emotional. I was thrilled for each of them, but so sad to know their childhood was coming to an end.

When the time came for my youngest granddaughter to choose a university, and begin her journey into her future, I once again became emotional, on so many levels.

And so, it goes! It will be just another blink of the eye before we see if her brother, my youngest Grand, follows in her footsteps. ì