Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. 100 NO. 21,November 15, 2025

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Cover Photo: It’s been one year since the passing of Bernie Marcus, who left behind a legacy of philanthropic endeavors.

Kosher BBQ Festival Returns with Massive Turnout

By Sasha Heller

What a difference a year makes.

It may have been the fact that there was no Atlanta Kosher BBQ Festival last year, but whatever the reason, an estimated 4,500 community members gathered on Nov. 9 at Brook Run Park – marking the largest number of attend-

ees in recent memory.

In fact, there were so many attendees that the cooking teams ran out of samples by 2:30 p.m., much to the dismay of several tasters. However, at that point, there were still plenty of vendors and food trucks offering delicious dishes, and guests had a bevy of entertainment options to choose from including

live music featuring a Klezmer band and an Israeli DJ, and the Kids Zone which offered a half-dozen blow-up, bounce house-type amusements.

While enjoying the live entertainment and community atmosphere and reveling in the serenity of being proudly Jewish in public, surrounded by thousands of fellow Jews and barbeque

thusiasts, guests were invited to interact with local organizations, like the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, StandWithUs, and many more. The recent surge of antisemitism that has plagued American Jews the past few years was momentarily deafened by the laughter and camaraderie of Jewish Atlanta gathering in Dunwoody on a windy Sunday af-

en-

The Masterful Menches of Meat were awarded Grand Champion. // All photos by Robert Garber

The cooking teams were hard at work preparing their samples

The pony rides and petting zoo were a big hit with the little ones.

Am Yisrael Chai and The Daffodil Project led a ceremonial planting.

ternoon to enjoy good food, good times, and an everlasting link to Jewish history and culture.

And, of course, there was the cookoff. Eighteen teams competed in the categories of chili, brisket, chicken, and beef ribs, as well as best team name and best decorated booth. The official winners for the 12th annual Atlanta Kosher BBQ Festival winners are as follows:

CHILI

1st: Masterful Menches of Meat

2nd: AEPi

3rd: 8th Day BBQ

BRISKET

1st: Noah’s Bark

2nd: Shofar So Good

3rd: CMCA Flames

CHICKEN

1st: CMCA Flames

2nd: 8th Day BBQ

3rd: Trust the Process BBQ

BEEF RIBS

1st: Masterful Menches of Meat

2nd: Fahrenheit 613

3rd: CMCA Flames

With the top overall score, the Masterful Menches of Meat were awarded Grand Champion, presented by the Hebrew Order of David. Shofar So Good won first place for Best Team Name and the Atlanta Jewish Times took home top prize for Best Decorated Booth with their theme, Boot Scoot & BBQ.

One sentimental highlight of the festival was when Am Yisrael Chai and The Daffodil Project led a ceremonial daffodil planting, led by Andrea Videlefsky, the president and founder of both organizations, on the grounds at Brook Run. ì

There are many ways to support Israel and its people, but this Chanukah, no gift is more transformative than one to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency services system. Your support of MDA isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them — providing critical care and hospital transport for everyone from victims of heart attacks to

Attendees enjoy their barbeque while a young girl focuses on a flower.

Lilli Jennison, AJT's creative director (center), sold her crystals and jewelry in the artisan market.

One Year Without Bernie

By Bob Bahr

It has been just over a year since the passing of Bernie Marcus, the co-founder of The Home Depot and a major philanthropic influence in this country. During the last 35 years, he was actively involved in giving away more than $2.7 billion.

And there’s much more to come. Bernie and his wife, Billi, who survives him, have committed to the foundation, the bulk of an estate that’s been estimated at $11 billion. The intention is that all that money will be spent over the next 20 years.

That means that the foundation’s board and staff will be pressed to increase and even double the most recent average year’s spending rate. Jay Kaiman,

years, not keep it any longer.”

Bernie took seriously the job of giving away all his money. Kaiman remembered how Marcus worked pretty much up to the last day of his life He says Bernie never mentioned the word retirement. He was still at it until the week before he died, on Nov. 4 of last year at the age of 95.

Kaiman recalls that last year as being very productive as he and Bernie worked on a series of new grants and a seamless transition into the future.

The foundation has concentrated its work in several areas, including health care and assistance for veterans. They recently announced $50 million in grants to help develop a computer-assisted program to restore normal speech to stroke patients. And they are at the forefront of the development of therapies based on the science of genetics.

One of the major areas of concern for Bernie during his lifetime was the nation of Israel and its role

in Jewish life. One of his first grants, in 1989, was to establish the Israel Democracy Institute. It’s a think tank that still gets Bernie’s support, because it tackles the important issues of freedom and democracy that have become so critical in

One of the largest last grants Bernie signed off on was a major grant of $60 million for RootOne, an idea that grew out of his support over the years for the Birthright program. He was an early convert to the idea that Jewish young people had to be prepared while they were still teens for the challenges they would face as Jewish adults.

In the five years since its founding, RootOne has spent more than $200 million to help 15,000 Jewish youngsters from across America learn about Israel firsthand. Now, with the pandemic behind them and the war between Israel and its neighbors cooling, the program is poised to move ahead.

Kaiman believes that Jewish philanthropy played an important role in Bernie’s decision to make Atlanta the headquarters for The Home Depot in the late 1970s.

The home improvement superstores were still just an idea on paper when he came here from Los Angeles where he had been a prominent business executive. Despite his success, Bernie found

the Jewish community on the West Coast had given him a frosty welcome.

That all changed when he visited Atlanta. The prominent philanthropist and businessman, Erwin Zaban, took him to an event sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. According to Kaiman, that visit had an immediate impact.

“When Erwin took him to this event, everybody was friendly. And keep in mind Home Depot was just an idea that he and Arthur (Blank) had at the time. But he said he was amazed at how friendly everybody was. And so, in some ways, the Jewish community is what inspired Bernie to make this move to Atlanta.”

The landscape of the city today is filled with examples of his lasting impact. His gifts include the $280 million Georgia Aquarium, the large buildings bearing his name at Grady Hospital, Piedmont Hospital, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and the Shepherd Spinal Center as well as the Jewish Community Center in Dunwoody.

And yet, as Kaiman points out, getting his name on a building was not what Bernie Marcus was about.

“We didn’t think a lot about just giving away money. We thought a lot about how to solve problems and build a culture for the future. We talked about how to make a difference.”

A wall outside a new Marcus center for genetic medicine in Atlanta quotes Bernie’s own words.

“It all comes down to one simple question: did I make anyone’s life better?” ì

Billi and Bernie Marcus have committed the bulk of their $4 billion fortune to improving the lives of others.

The building, named in honor of Bernie and Billi Marcus, spans 48,000 square meters and is built to withstand earthquakes, missiles, and more. Three of the building’s six floors are built underground // Photo Credit: AFMD

Piedmont

It was All Smiles at Massell Dental Clinic Benefit

By Sasha Heller

This year’s Jewish Family & Career Services’ Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures fundraiser benefitting the Ben Massell Dental Clinic (BMDC) was another smashing success, garnering donations to support the free dental clinic’s operations.

The more than 250 philanthropic guests filled out the artfully decorated event hall at 42West, which blends elegant décor and lighting with a rustic industrial charm featuring brick walls and exposed ducts. An atmosphere of community spread throughout as guests schmoozed with volunteer dentists and oral hygienists, generous donors, and longtime clinic supporters, and sampled delectable dishes by Zest Catering and enjoyed a curated selection of spirits provided by The Wine Shop at Parkaire.

The far side of the event hall featured a slideshow of Ben Massell Dental Clinic programming, clients, and staff projected onto the outsized wall.

The annual Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures fundraiser helps raise awareness

about the importance of expanding BMDC’s network of volunteer dentists as the clinic relies on these oral health experts to volunteer once per month, providing

fillings, extractions, crowns, prosthetic services, and cleanings.

New Image Dental Laboratory partners with the clinic and performs all of

the restorative dental work. New Image was founded in 1984 by Dr. Jay Paulen, and his family has continued the legacy of charitable work, including his daugh-

More than 250 guests supported this year’s Bright Smiles, Brighter Futures event // All photos by 1 G L A N C E Photography | https://www.1glancephotography.com

Mike McDaniel, event co-chair, Barbara Jones, recognized for 50 years of dedicated service, and Dr. Lauren Abes, event co-chair

ter, Dr. Brenda Paulen, and son, Dr. Jeff Paulen, who shared about his family’s and New Image’s connection with the clinic.

“Knowing these patients are receiving locally fabricated, premium appliances like our dentures or crowns that will not only give them a lasting smile, but one that gives them the confidence to smile big, warms my heart,” he said. “We have been donating our prostheses for the lasts two years and have helped the clinic secure new technology, like intraoral scanning capabilities.”

For Dr. Jeff Paulen, partnering with the BMDC is deeply rewarding.

“I am proud to see our family involved both day-to-day with fabricating the clinic’s prostheses for patients, and my daughters participating in fundraising and vendor partnership efforts for the clinic. A smile is integral to a person’s life and being part of a clinic that gives so much back to our community is wonderful.”

Several volunteers and community members were recognized for their service and dedication to the clinic, including Dr. Jack Bickford (Volunteer of the Year); Dr. Jonathan Dubin (Ben Massell Legacy Award); Dr. Mollie Winston (Champion of Philanthropy); and BMDC Director Barbara Jones, who was honored for her 50 years of working with the clinic. State Rep. Deborah Silcox was also recognized for her community advocacy and support of BMDC’s mission.

One of the highlights of the evening was the live auction, hosted by Rocktioneer Seth Weiner. Auction items included exclusive vacation packages at Cape San Blas, Fla., and golfing at TPC Scottsdale, premier dining and sporting experiences, and luxury gifts.

The Ben Massell Dental Clinic serves community members who earn an income within 125 percent of the federal poverty line, have no dental insurance, and reside within Metro Atlanta. The clinic is just one of several community-oriented programs offered through Jewish Family & Career Services. For more information about the clinic, please visit http://benmasselldentalclinic.org/ ì

MAY THE WAVES BE MERRY AND BRIGHT

Dr. Jonathan Dubin, recognized with the Ben Massell Legacy Award

Paul, Carter in Sandy Springs Runoff on Dec. 2

By Sasha Heller

Residents of Sandy Springs cast their ballots on Nov. 4 with no mayoral candidate receiving a majority of the vote. The results were as follows:

Incumbent Mayor Rusty Paul: 43 percent | 9,620

Dontaye Carter: 21 percent | 4,703

Andy Bauman: 19 percent | 4,327

Jody Reichel: 16 percent | 3,613

The top two vote-getters, Paul and Carter, will meet in a runoff on Dec. 2.

Paul shared his gratitude to the community members, in particular the Jewish residents, who voted for him.

“I am delighted that so many residents voted to allow me to continue serving Sandy Springs as mayor,” he said. “I am particularly gratified by the strong support I received, both electorally and financially, within the Jewish community. It’s a relationship that is very meaningful to me.”

Thankful for the support he received, Carter also reached out the those who voted for Bauman and Reichel to

consider selecting him next month.

“To the 7,940 neighbors who supported Councilman Andy Bauman and Councilwoman Jody Reichel, I’d be honored to earn your support in the runoff,” Carter said. “Sandy Springs is

filled with incredible talent, strong values, and innovative ideas.”

Carter also shared his sentiment for unifying the community and sharing respect for all faiths represented in Sandy Springs.

He said, “My commitment is to bring people of every background and every faith together at the same table to build solutions that strengthen our city — together.”

Bauman expressed goodwill toward his fellow candidates and his commitment to continue serving Sandy Springs in the future.

“I want to congratulate Mayor Rusty Paul and Dontaye Carter on advancing to the runoff election. While I came up just short of making the runoff, I’m incredibly proud of the campaign we ran — positive, substantive, and focused on the future of Sandy Springs.

“I’m deeply grateful for the support I received from so many residents across our city and proud of my 12 years of service on the City Council. Sandy Springs is a community I love and am proud to call home, and I look forward to finding ways to continue contributing to its success in the years ahead.”

Reichel did not respond to the AJT for a request for comment. ì

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Dontaye Carter will face incumbent Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul in a runoff on Dec. 2 // Photo Credit: DontayeCarter.com

Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul received 43 percent of the vote in the Nov. 4 election.

AJFF, Atlanta Symphony Illuminated Hearts and Screens

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Why was this symphony different from all other symphonies? It was the gala celebration of the 25th year of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) showcasing soundtracks, images and emotions of Jewish-related or themed movies.

Presented in partnership with “Turner Classic Movies,” Ben Mankiewicz came in from the West Coast to host the Oct. 20 event, as did guest conductor Stuart Chafetz. Mankiewicz is a film critic, television journalist, and host for “Turner Classic Movies.” The AJFF is the city’s largest film festival and one of the preeminent Jewish film festivals worldwide.

During the program, Mankiewicz commented on his alliance with the AJFF and Atlanta over the years and his quest “to find a good bagel and scoop” here. He introduced each segment by providing context like Edward G. Robinson’s role in “The Ten Commandments,” the excruciating heartbreak of “Sophie’s Choice,” and the notion that “Don’t Let It Rain on My Parade” was a song of resistance.

As a special perk, four acclaimed vocalists along with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) were accompanied by The Temple Singers and The Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir, showing connection, interfaith spirit, and the unifying potential found in the arts. AJFF Executive and Artistic Director Kenny Blank told the AJT, “I’m thrilled that this 25th year is the culmination of music, film, and theatre. It’s a proud moment especially for all the supporters.”

Steve Labovitz, one of the original festival founders in 2000 through the American Jewish Committee, added, “The 25-year mark is significant because it shows the strength of the AJFF and the people behind it. It is now year-round using education and cultural events that continue to grow and build bridges of understanding and emphasizing ‘We are Jews’ as part of the conversation.” The festival now acts as an independent nonprofit

A small VIP reception started at 6:30 p.m. in the Robert Shaw Room. The program began at 8 p.m. and flowed

Barbra Streisand’s personal message to the AJFF audience made for an emotional segment.

seamlessly with the performance of 12 numbers, starting with “Fiddler on the Roof’s” “Tradition” (1971) and ending with “The Prince of Egypt’s” “When You Believe” (1998).

Marvin Hamlisch, Jerry Bock, Elmer Bernstein, Jule Styne, John Williams, John Morris (for the Mel Brooks segments), and Hans Zimmerman were among the composers represented. The stage came especially alive when massive screens featured Barbra Streisand (“Funny Girl” and “Don’t Let it Rain on My Parade”), and the familiar runners from “Chariots of Fire” (“Vangelis”) matching with the song. For her segment, Streisand recorded a personal “Mazel Tov” message for the Atlanta audience. Accomplished vocalists Deb Bowman, Leigh Ellen Jones, and Hannah Klein, with Broadway-quality projection, trilled through songs like “Cabaret” and “Somewhere Out There,” performing both solo and in groups. Musician Lauren Roth performed the theme from “Schindler’s List” with a violin solo

to capture its pathos.

The company in its entirety “brought down the house” with the finale, “When You Believe,” alongside star Brad Raymond, who earlier interpreted a resounding “If I Were a Rich Man.” “The Ten Commandments Suite” (1956), the oldest feature, held a dramatic moment etched in its unique time and place.

Clad in a stylish tan jacket, maestro Chafetz smiled widely and did justice to his dancing baton. The Temple Choir and Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir, who appeared together previously at local tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., lined the back few rows behind the musicians and performed in three segments, including the “Fiddler” opening and grand finale. Their sound filled the multilevel hall.

Immediate Past President Dina Gerson told the AJT, “I’m kvelling that we are still celebrating after 25 years. What an epic event tonight has been!”

The 26th annual AJFF dates are Feb. 18 to March 15. ì

(Left) Kenny Blank poses with Stuart Chafetz (center) and Ben Mankiewicz // Photo Credit: Eric Burkhard

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JNF’s Women for Israel Highlight Service Projects

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Seventy philanthropic women were not “horsing around” when they weathered the rain Wednesday evening, Oct. 29, to learn about the Jewish National Fund’s (JNF) action-based projects. Chastain’s Horse Park venue made way for tables labeled to match these projects as a leader for each group stood to describe the hot points. First-time participant and cochair Danielle Cohen explained that the evening was about both hope and heartbreak as the yellow tables’ flowers acknowledged the remaining slain hostages. Fellow co-chair Jackie Goldstein, who is a member of the national board and Atlanta steering committee, shared the history of JNF, starting with the blue tzedakah boxes and arriving at current programs like horse therapy, culinary schools, and research labs. She concluded, “We aren’t just donors. We are builders and believers.”

JNF Associate Director Nicole Flom began the table topics with water solutions, relating that Israel recycles nearly

95 percent of its water, and built a 23-acre lake in Be’er Sheva in the middle of the desert with recycled water. Furthermore, “Israel is self-reliant and doesn’t rely on any other country for water.”

Next up was heritage site preservation with Justine Cohen, who shared how 180 historical sites like Ammunition Hill, Atlit Detention Center, and Ayalon Bullet Factory carry on stories of resilience. Staci Libowski’s topic was community building, which is reshaping areas to the north and south of the big cities strengthening Israel’s frontiers. All that includes infrastructure, the World Zionist Village, a global educational campus, and ending on “small moments like Project Baseball, which gives new olim, especially children, an immediate sense of home.”

As a mother of a special needs child, Gail Heyman represented disabilities and special needs, which is at the core of Jewish values affording dignity to all. Some cutting-edge initiatives are Adi Negev, a state-of-the-art rehab center, LOTEM -using nature to heal PTSD, autism, and visual impairment, then ending with Special in Uniform, where those with special needs can serve in the IDF with pride and purpose.

Sam Weidenbaum took on research and development as the world looks to Israel to explore such issues as resource scarcity, and potential cures for Alzheimer’s and ALS, and AICAT where students from developing countries like Kenya and Cambodia come to learn about agriculture in Israel.

“They uplift the economy and become global ambassadors, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and renovation,” Weidenbaum said.

Cheryl Morrison expounded on Zionist education and advocacy and the importance of telling Israel’s story in classrooms and campuses where one

program brings university professors from across the U.S. to Israel for a firsttime, eye-opening experience; and the ever-famous Alexander Muss High School.

Lastly, Natasha Lebowitz represented forestry and innovations with the impressive statistic that over 260 million trees cover more than 250,000 acres on once barren land. She said, “Trees are about transformation, hope, and life … Israel is one of the only countries with a net gain in trees … every tree is a legacy, a hope with roots.”

Lebowitz tied together all the action areas where each woman was given a paper tapestry puzzle piece to design. “The quilt will represent the beauty of being together … and how each small piece morphs into a much larger picture.”

Guest speaker Michal Shiloah Galnoor, managing director of Western Galilee Now, unites local businesses, artisans, and diverse communities to drive tourism, economic growth, and jobs. She reaches around 5,000 families and changes lives. She noted that the living conditions there are more challenging than in the big cities (90 minutes by train from Tel Aviv). She helps small businesses deal with changing laws, hiring, including retired IDF soldiers, and getting young women into the work force. She also coordinates efforts for Christians, Druze, and Muslims in Western Galilee, where the east contains more Jews. She herself is a fifth-generation Israeli with some serving as judges, and one as the founder of Mossad.

She concluded, “I thought at one point, I would join the Mossad but found my calling in Zionism.”

Jackie Goldstein escorted guest speaker Michal Shiloah Galnoor.

Cheryl Morrison shares the art she designed to be included in the group tapestry project.\

The Heritage Sites table was captained by Justine Cohen.

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Herzog, Netanyahu Inaugurate Gandel Rehab Center

Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu helped inaugurate Israel’s most advanced rehabilitation center, the Hadassah Medical Organization’s Gandel Rehabilitation Center, in Jerusalem on Monday, Oct. 27.

Today in Israeli History

Nov. 15, 1948: El Al, from a Book of Hosea phrase meaning “to the skies,” is formally established as Israel’s national airline. The first regular commercial service begins in July 1949 with weekly flights between Lod and Paris.

16, 1947. // By Hans Pinn, National

Nov. 16, 1947: The Kadima, carrying 781 Jewish refugees trying to reach the Land of Israel despite a British ban, arrives in Haifa under escort after being intercepted by the British. The would-be immigrants are taken to Cyprus.

Nov. 17, 2012: Leah Gottlieb, known as the queen of Israeli fashion, dies at 94 at her Tel Aviv home. A native of Hungary and a Holocaust survivor, she was co-founder and chief designer of swimsuit manufacturer Gottex.

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

The leaders joined Carol Ann Schwartz, national president, and Ellen Finkelstein, CEO, of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, which owns the medical center and whose members contributed significantly to the new rehabilitation center’s funding; Yoram Weiss, MD, the medical center’s director general; and Dalia Itzik, its board chair.

More than 2,000 soldiers and civilians have already regained their physical and emotional health because of the center’s sophisticated facilities, cuttingedge therapies and compassionate and highly trained staff. Many of the center’s patients came to the center after receiving life-saving care at one of Hadassah’s two hospitals, Hadassah Hospital Mount Scopus, on whose campus the Gandel center is located, and Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem, both in Jerusalem.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Nov. 18, 1951: Yoni Rechter, considered one of Israel’s greatest musicians, is born in Tel Aviv. He has success in a band, Kaveret, and a rock duo, 14 Octaves, before his career takes off in 1979 with his first solo album.

Israel Updates Tax Benefits to Spur Tech Industry

Israel has introduced tax reforms with the goal of recruiting investment in the tech industry after many top tech employees left the country.

Israel’s Finance Ministry, Tax Authority, and Innovation Authority presented the new collection of tax benefits for investors in the

Nov. 19, 1977: Egyptian President Anwar Sadat arrives to a 21-gun salute at Ben Gurion Airport and is driven to Jerusalem for a 36hour visit, launching the peace process that results in a treaty in March 1979.

Nov. 20, 1944: Haviva Reik and two other paratroopers from Mandatory Palestine are among 40 Jewish fighters executed by the Nazis in Slovakia. Reik made aliyah from Slovakia in 1939 and joined the Palmach.

Nov. 21, 1880: Joseph Trumpeldor is born in Russia. He loses an arm in the Russo-Japanese War. He helps organize the Zion Mule Corps in World War I. He is killed defending a Jewish settlement from Arab attack in 1919.

Nov. 22, 1923: Hanna Maron, recognized for the world’s longest stage career, is born in Berlin. She starts acting as a child, gains fame with Tel Aviv’s Cameri Theater and keeps working even after a terrorist attack costs her a leg in 1970.

Nov. 23, 1926: Rafi Eitan, whose intelligence career ranges from the high of leading the capture of Adolf Eichmann in Argentina to the low of handling U.S. Navy analyst Jonathan Pollard as a spy, is born on a kibbutz at Ein Harod.

Nov. 24, 1938: Amid the Arab uprising, the House of Commons holds a debate on Palestine’s future. Colonial Secretary Malcolm MacDonald says the region can’t accommodate the Jews who might try to escape the Nazis.

Nov. 25, 1940: The Haganah bombs the SS Patria in Haifa’s harbor to disable the ship and prevent the British from sending more than 1,700 Jewish refugees to Mauritius. But the ship quickly sinks, killing 267 people.

Nov. 26, 2013: An aortic aneurysm kills singer/songwriter Arik Einstein at 74 in Tel Aviv. Einstein blended folk and rock music across about 50 albums and was a driving force in the development of Israeli rock.

nation’s high-tech industry; the presentation also included regulatory incentives for purchasing or merging with startups.

Officials hope the reform will offer tax certainty for multinational corporations, strengthen investment opportunities for foreign investors, and spur the return of Israeli entrepreneurs and top tech employees from across the world.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Nov. 27, 1914: The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is founded with the merger of the Central Relief Committee and the American Jewish Relief Committee. The goal is to aid Jews worldwide in a timely way. Nov. 28, 1945: The British Land Transfer Committee reports on the effectiveness of restrictions on Jewish land purchases under the 1939 White Paper. The panel finds that Arabs willingly have continued to sell to Jews.

Nov. 29, 1947: On a vote of 33-13 with 10 abstentions, the U.N. General Assembly passes Resolution 181, which calls for the partition of Palestine into separate Arab and Jewish states with an international status for Jerusalem.

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

The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange

Hadassah CEO Ellen Finkelstein and National President Carol Ann Schwartz, President and First Lady of Israel Isaac and Michal Herzog, Hadassah Medical Organization Board Chair Dalia Itzik and Director General Dr. Yoram Weiss // Photo Credit: Hadassah

British soldiers arrest the passengers of the aliyah ship Kadima in Haifa to send them to Cyprus on Nov.

Photo Collection of Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin welcomes Egyptian President Anwar Sadat to Israel on Nov. 19, 1977. // By Moshe Milner, Israeli Government Press Office, CC BY-SA 3.0

Rafi Eitan is sworn in as a member of the Knesset on May 4, 2006. // By Amos Ben Gershom, Israeli Government Press Office, CC BY-SA 3.0

People in front of the Mugrabi Cinema in Tel Aviv celebrate the U.N. partition vote Nov. 29, 1947. // By Hans Pinn, National Photo Collection of Israel

Delta Restores Nonstop Atlanta–Tel Aviv Flights

By David Zalik

In a decision celebrated across Georgia’s civic, business, and faith communities, Delta Air Lines has announced it will resume nonstop service between Atlanta (ATL) and Tel Aviv (TLV). The move follows a months-long campaign led by the Georgia Solidarity Network (GSN) and supported by more than 8,000 Delta customers, Gov. Brian Kemp, and a wide coalition that included business leaders and members of Georgia’s vibrant evangelical community.

The petition that launched the effort — addressed to Delta CEO Ed Bastian — thanked the airline for restoring its New York–Tel Aviv route and called for similar action from its Atlanta hub.

“The previous non-stop service between Atlanta and Israel was a vital link for business travelers, tourists, and families,” the petition stated. “Reinstating this route would not only benefit travelers but also foster stronger economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the Southeastern United States and Israel.”

What began as a community-driven initiative quickly became a statewide movement. Elected officials, business associations, and faith-based groups rallied together, framing the route’s restoration as both an economic priority and a moral affirmation of Georgia’s friendship with Israel.

“Georgia has deep and enduring ties with Israel — through innovation, faith, and shared values,” said a GSN spokesperson. “Delta’s decision to restore the Atlanta–Tel Aviv flight shows that when Georgia’s business community, civic lead-

ers, and people of faith speak together, it makes a difference.”

Leaders from Georgia’s technology, logistics, and agriculture sectors were among the most vocal advocates, noting that the flight had become a key connec tor for trade and investment with Israeli partners. At the same time, evangelical leaders across the state encouraged their congregations to sign the petition, citing Israel’s spiritual and biblical significance.

Before being suspended, Delta’s At lanta–Tel Aviv flight was the only direct link between the Southeastern United States and Israel. The route served a wide range of travelers — from Jewish families visiting relatives and students studying abroad to executives, tourists, and faithbased missions.

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: four hostages are either believed to be dead or their deaths have been confirmed:

Ran Gvili, 24 (murdered in captivity)

Dror Or, 48 (murdered in captivity)

Meny Godard, 73 (murdered in captivity)

Sudthisak Rinthalak (murdered in captivity)

Its return is expected to boost both tourism and bilateral trade. Georgia and Israel maintain robust partnerships in technology, cybersecurity, aerospace, and medical innovation — all sectors that

rely on strong travel connections.

Community and faith leaders alike hailed Delta’s decision as both practical and symbolic. “This isn’t just about convenience,” said one supporter. “It’s about connection — between Atlanta and Jerusalem, between business and faith, and between people who believe in partnership.”

GSN leaders said the campaign will now focus on encouraging strong ridership and visibility for the route to ensure its long-term success.

“Delta was born in Georgia,” the organization said in a statement. “We’re proud that the company listened to its loyal customers, faith leaders, and civic partners, and reaffirmed its commitment to connecting the Southeast with Israel. We are grateful to Delta Air Lines.”

Gov. Kemp said, “I want to thank Delta for resuming nonstop service between Atlanta and Tel Aviv, providing a direct connection between the State of Georgia and one of our strongest allies. This flight is important to so many in our state, further strengthening the cultural and economic ties between Georgia and Israel.” ì

Thanks in part to a grassroots campaign led by the Georgia Solidarity Network, Delta has resumed nonstop flights from Atlanta to Tel Aviv.

Local Tennis Standout Taube Driven for Success

David Ostrowsky

Mason Taube’s tennis résumé, current rankings, future college plans — they may indicate he’s an elite player with ceaseless dedication to his craft, but they don’t capture an allimportant dynamic in the young man’s pursuit of greatness. For all that tennis has given Taube — an untold number of tournament victories, a current No.1 ranking in Georgia, a Division I full scholarship — so, too, has it demanded incredible life-altering sacrifices that are not required of similarly skilled athletes in many other sports.

At this hour, Taube is the No.19 ranked tennis player in the United States with designs on competing soon in the Junior Grand Slams. He will be playing at his dream school of Georgia Tech next fall, becoming the third member of his family to be playing Division I tennis, joining his two cousins who play at the University of Southern California and Michigan. If all goes according to plan, he could very well be competing against the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at a future U.S. Open. But it’s all come at a steep price. In addition to the non-stop daily grind of grueling training exercises, Taube’s global tennis travels have compelled him to undergo online schooling over the past several years, isolating him from friends and, at times, even his nuclear family.

When Taube was an eighth grader at Ridgeview Charter Middle School, it became apparent that he had a chance to do some special things on the tennis court. But high-level amateur tennis is unique in that there is regular travel (domestic and international) for competition, making it virtually impossible for participants to attend school in-person — or continue playing other sports, which for Taube meant saying goodbye to soccer.

After transitioning from Ridgeview to Capstone Academy, a hybrid in-person/remote school, Taube’s national and international ranking kept ticking up, which only presented more travel demands. As tenth grade dawned, he concluded that an entirely online education offered by the Fulton Academy of Virtual Excellence (FAVE) was the only feasible option. Of course, the MS Teams meetings and Zoom calls have been time-effi-

cient, allowing him to squeeze in his five hours of training and fitness workouts every day, but the unconventional academic program has had its drawbacks.

“It’s definitely also hard to see all my friends that I grew up with having a bunch of fun at school,” Taube, a truly delightful young man, acknowledged when speaking to the AJT last week. “The social part is, of course, very challenging online, because I’m not really interacting with kids every single day.”

The decision to focus exclusively on tennis also precluded him from competing with and against friends on the soccer field. As an adolescent, this was not exactly a no-brainer decision for Taube, as he had been a standout soccer player for years and loved the sport. Even today, it’s not easy to pinpoint the exact reason(s) why he stopped being a dual-sport athlete.

“I really don’t know the main reason why. I think it was partially my parents probably. I switched coaches, and so I think it was really my coach [Marcelo Ferreira] that influenced me, because we really trusted him,” shared Taube, who has, however, picked up golf on an informal basis, finding it a nice change of pace

from tennis.

The social isolation and singular focus on tennis can be draining at times, but the constant globetrotting from one tennis tourney to another has given Taube opportunities that most teens can only dream of. Tennis has taken him to, among many other places, Corpus Christi, Texas, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Vancouver, and Indian Wells, Calif. Sometimes, he has his parents and Ferreira, who operates a 20-player academy out of Windy Hill, alongside him; other times, he has to navigate a foreign land and culture all by himself. “It has helped me mature a lot more than compared to some of my friends. I’m having to figure out a lot of logistics that lots of kids my age probably aren’t having to do.”

Taube’s parents, Ben and Julie, have also had to make their own sacrifices in supporting their son through his journey. Just last month, Julie, a nutritionist by trade and former high school tennis player at Riverwood (where her son would have attended had he gone the public school route), was compelled to make last-minute plans to switch around clients so she could accompany him to

Clemson for a tournament. Taube’s older sister, Leah, a sophomore at the University of Georgia, who played tennis up until her senior year of high school and actually inspired her brother to take up the sport initially, also goes out of her way to attend matches.

As for the tennis competition itself, Taube is currently focusing his time and energy on competing in International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournaments in order to bump up his junior international ranking and punch his ticket to the Junior Grand Slams. As of press time, he’s ranked just outside the Top 200.

“Tennis is a very mental sport, so it’s tough to always be motivating myself to want to keep fighting and pushing through when times get tough on the court,” explained Taube, who excels in both singles and doubles. “I fight a lot on court. I don’t give up. I grind, but I look to finish points when I can. But I’m pretty calm on court. I don’t really let negativity get to me.”

As for the string of sacrifices and commitments he’s made to emerge as one of the nation’s top players, Taube says simply, but unhesitatingly, “It’s paid off.” ì

Sandy Springs native Mason Taube, the top-ranked tennis player for his age in Georgia, will be joining the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets next autumn / / Photo Credit: Mason Taube

Antisemitic Hazing Incident Shocks Rhode Island Town

By David Ostrowsky

Football has long been ingrained in the fabric of Smithfield, R.I. From the late 1970s to early 2000s, the town’s most recognizable institution, Bryant College, hosted New England Patriots summer training camp. Today, the renamed Bryant University sports a Division I football program while across town, the Smithfield High football team is riding a 5-4 record into its annual Thanksgiving Day game.

But this autumn, the leafy suburb of Providence has been rocked by disturbing allegations from a football-related incident: on Sept. 30, five Smithfield High senior football players reportedly locked a Jewish freshman player in a bathroom before spraying him with Lysol and spewing antisemitic slurs at him. Following the school district’s subsequent investigation, Smithfield Superintendent Dawn Bartz on Oct. 10 adjudicated the matter by banning the alleged perpetrators for the balance of the season and requiring them to take a Holocaust education course.

“The investigation confirmed inappropriate conduct among a small number of students,” Bartz said in the official statement released in early October. “Disciplinary action has been taken in accordance with district policy, and several student-athletes will not participate for the remainder of the season.”

A local story quickly mushroomed into not just a regional one — but a national one — when less than two weeks later the alleged victim, whose parents had informed local law enforcement upon hearing their son’s report, strolled into practice and found himself face-toface with the involved players who had just been reinstated. That the Smithfield school administration had backpedaled in its initial decision to levy a seasonlong suspension immediately ignited a firestorm of controversy, which only intensified when Bartz remained tightlipped about explaining her rationale. (In an email to The Providence Journal, Bartz tersely remarked, “the disciplinary process has concluded, and we will not be discussing details involving students.”)

Once WJAR-TV, the Providence NBC affiliate, reported the players had returned mid-season, two Rhode Islandbased Jewish advocacy groups, the Jewish Alliance for Greater Rhode Island and the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, publicly chastised the district for allowing the players to return, referring to the decision as a betrayal of the com-

Over the next couple weeks, the Smithfield, Rhode Island varsity football team

North Providence under a dark cloud of scrutiny following allegations of

munity’s trust and a setback in the fight against antisemitism. While calling for the Smithfield schools to implement professional development for staff and mandate anti-bias education for all students, the two groups issued a joint statement emphasizing some underlying issues:

“Administrators must understand that reversing consequences sends a dangerous message — that such hateful behavior will be tolerated. Moments like these remind us how vulnerable a minority community can feel.

“Jewish communities throughout Rhode Island and beyond are experiencing unprecedented waves of bigotry and intimidation.”

Adam Greenman, president of The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, went on to say, “to find out that the kids were reinstated and to find out in the way that we did, it just says to us that antisemitism is not taken seriously by Smithfield schools.”

Bartz reneging on her pledge to hold the student-athletes accountable didn’t just draw the ire of Rhode Island’s Jewish community. After the alleged offenders returned, Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee called for a “thorough investigation” by the school and district while Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos issued a lengthy statement decrying the episode, referring to the lenient consequences as sending “a dan-

gerous and disheartening message to Jewish students, to victims of bullying, and to every Rhode Islander who believes in accountability and decency.”

Sen. David Tikoian, the Democrat who represents Smithfield in the Rhode Island Senate along with U.S. Reps. Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, have also voiced their concerns.

On Nov. 3 at Smithfield High, the Smithfield School Committee and Bartz met for three hours behind closed doors while a few hundred people waited in the auditorium. The School Committee divulged few details of its discussion with the exception of Committee Chair Richard Iannitelli providing a general overview of what transpired.

“It did take place in the boys’ locker room, football locker room, and it involved some of the students on the football team,” Iannitelli said. “Whether you want to call it hazing, or whether you want to call it bullying or a prank or a tradition, it makes no difference. What happened to the young adult in that room should not have happened.” Most notably, Iannitelli did not identify the incident as an act of “antisemitism,” an omission that sparked great controversy in the days ahead.

According to Iannitelli, very little content of the Nov. 3 closed-door meeting could be made public because the case

was also being investigated as a civil matter by the office of Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. The School Committee did, however, vote unanimously to hire the law firm of the school’s legal counsel, Sean Clough, who served six years on the School Committee, four as its chairperson, to investigate the district’s handling of the situation. Two days later, Bartz was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the legal review.

In response to these accusations, Gregory Piccirilli, the attorney hired to defend the alleged malefactors, went on the record in stating, “As I understand, what happened there was locker room antics that occurred, I wouldn’t call it anything other than that because it didn’t even last two minutes. When the incident first happened, there was no indication to these boys or these parents that they were being accused of antisemitic behavior.” Meanwhile, a handful of parents, mostly mothers of football players, stood outside the auditorium before the Nov. 3 meeting commenced, handing out double-sided, one-page flyers downplaying the incident.

Throughout this entire saga, Smithfield High Athletic Director Glenn Castiglia has remained largely silent and did not respond to an email from the AJT asking for his comments.  ì

gears up for its annual Thanksgiving showdown against

antisemitic hazing // Photo Credit: Smithfield Sentinels Football

Galloway School Plants Hundreds of Daffodils

Blank Foundation Provides Aid for Hurricane Victims

The Galloway School in Atlanta recently joined the global initiative The Daffodil Project by planting a garden of 300-plus yellow daffodils. The Daffodil Project is dedicated to commemorating the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust, and in support of children who continue to suffer in humanitarian crises around the world today.

“The daffodils remind us that even after the darkest winters, life and hope can bloom again,” said Galloway’s Head of School Amir Farokhi. “This is a tangible lesson in both history and humanity that our students will carry forward.”

Through the simple, hands-on act of planting daffodils on Oct. 23, Galloway’s students, faculty, parents, and volunteers

took place in this age-appropriate, meaningful way to learn about the importance of compassion, remembrance, and standing against hatred.

“We are so proud that Galloway agreed to support this important initiative, acknowledging the past,” said Susie Sommer, Daffodil Project ambassador. “The Daffodil Project helps us to face the importance of the obligation we each have to uphold justice, symbolizing the strength and resilience of the human spirit.”

Galloway is located at: 215 Chastain Park Ave NW, Atlanta. For information about The Daffodil Project, please visit www.daffodilproject.net.

Compiled by AJT Staff

We Buy & Sell

By Bob Bahr

The Arthur Blank Family Foundation has sent a contribution of $2.5 million to aid victims of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and other islands hard hit by the recent storm.

“The impact of Hurricane Melissa is profound,” Blank said, “but so is the resilience of people in this region. We’re humbled to support Team Rubicon and World Central Kitchen with an initial grant to help address immediate needs in the community with disaster relief and nourishing meals.”

The World Central Kitchen is being given $1.5 million of the aid package. It’s an organization founded by Chef Jose Andres, who has also provided food relief for the residents of Gaza.

Another $1 million is being divided among Team Rubicon, a nonprofit disaster relief group, and Care USA, a major aid organization that’s headquartered in Atlanta.

“The foundation’s pre-investment for Care USA’s Humanitarian Surge Fund,” Blank pointed out, “aids in providing rapid deployment of resources for disaster relief and will be activated immediately.”

When it struck Jamaica on Oct. 31,

Hurricane Melissa was the third-most intense Atlantic storm in modern history. It is ranked as the most powerful storm of this year’s hurricane season which has seen four major storms. Melissa is currently among the strongest tropical weather systems worldwide in 2025.

The Blank Foundation is included in several organizations that have created emergency disaster relief funds, including one by the Jewish Federation of Greater Miami. The fund will be distributed to various partners, including the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, according to Michelle Labgold, the Miami federation’s chief marketing and communications officer.

Miami, which has a large population of Jamaicans, is also the headquarters site of the Jewish Federations of North America which has also created a Hurricane Melissa relief fund for the Caribbean countries hit by the major storm.

The Israeli relief group, IsraAid, has also sent a full team of workers to the islands including experts in mental health, sanitation, and public health.

“While the road ahead will be long,” Blank said, “our hearts are with those affected, and we hope our support brings comfort and strength along the way.

The daffodils commemorate the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust and support children who continue to suffer in humanitarian crises today // Photo Credit: Clay Randel, The Galloway School

World Central Kitchen is a major beneficiary of the Blank Foundation grant.

Hadassah Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Pinch Hitter Program

This October, Hadassah Greater Atlanta recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month. More than 300,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Hadassah members and associates recently learned about Hadassah’s breast cancer center at Hadassah’s Sharett Institute of Oncology. This center is headed by Dr. PaluchShimon. She is a pioneer in empowering women to make informed choices throughout their deeply personal breast cancer journeys.

Dr. Paluch-Shimon is an international expert on breast cancer and the first Israeli to serve as an editor for the Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO).

Hadassah’s Sharett Institute of Oncology models Dr. Paluch-Shimon’s vision of empowered, integrated holistic care. Patients are supported by a dedicated nurse coordinator who guides them through the maze of appointments, tests, and treatments prescribed by a team of surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, psychologists, social workers, and other specialists. This personalized psychosocial support helps patients make decisions in line with their values and goals.

Dr. Paluch-Shimon tells the story about a young woman who had earlystage breast cancer and transferred to Hadassah after her oncologist elsewhere told her to enjoy her three children and quit dreaming of a fourth. “We judged that a planned and appropriately timed pregnancy was possible and safe for her,”

Dr. Paluch-Shimon said of this patient. “We temporarily stopped her hormone therapy and 10 months later the patient safely delivered a beautiful little boy.”

Rosalie Agrow, president of the Hadassah Greater Atlanta Ketura Group explains, “We learned that treatment at Hadassah’s Sharett Institute of Oncology is tailored not only to the biology of each patient’s disease but also to her personal story. The clinical battle — surgery, radiation and chemo-, immuno-, hormonal, or biological therapy — is only one aspect of coping with cancer.”

Hadassah urges everyone to tell their lawmakers to improve access to breast cancer treatment, which in turn saves lives. Congress is considering several bipartisan bills: Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Act (HR 3037 and S1500), Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act (HR 2048), EARLY Act Reauthorization (HR 4541 and S2339), and Find it Early Act (S1410).

Simone Wilker, advocacy chair for Hadassah Greater Atlanta explains, “October is a time that Hadassah women wish to create awareness, honor the millions of lives affected by breast cancer, and reaffirm our global commitment to equitable access to care and improved survival for all.”

To easily send a message to your senator and representative, go to Hadassah’s Advocate and Take Action Center: https://www.hadassah.org/get-involved/ advocate-take-action.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Every year, the “Pinch Hitters” serve in area hospitals and assisted living facilities on Christmas Day.

Since 1980, the B’nai B’rith Pinch Hitters Program has been a beloved Atlanta tradition — a way for members of the Jewish community to “go to bat” for nonmedical hospital and care-facility staff on Christmas Day, giving them the chance to spend the holiday with their families.

The community is invited to help spread the word about this meaningful, family-friendly volunteer opportunity through your publication, congregation, or community network.

When: Thursday, December 25, 2025

Where: Seven hospitals and assisted living facilities across metro Atlanta

Shifts: 3 to 4-hour options — morning, mid-day, or afternoon

Perfect for families and individuals alike!

Sign up: www.pinchhitters.org

More information: https://www. atlantajewishconnector.com/be-a2025-pinch-hitter-on-christmas-day-itsa-mitzvah/

In 2024, more than 200 volunteers joined to make a difference on Christmas Day, and organizers hope to welcome even more in 2025. Volunteers will serve at: Alto of Johns Creek, Berman Commons, Dunwoody Place, Historic Roswell Place, William Breman Jewish Home, Sterling Estates of East Cobb, and VA Medical Center.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Hadassah members recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month: (from left) Etta Cohen; Simone Wilker, Hadassah Greater Atlanta advocacy chair; and Lynn Owens

Manny’s Band Benefit Concert set for Nov. 26

Hadassah Hosts Pair of Authors at BookFest

By Debbie Diamond

Manny’s Band Foundation is hosting its kickoff event at Buckhead Theatre on Nov. 26 with the goal to unite 1,000 community members under one roof to ignite a movement to prevent youth suicide. The show will begin at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.

The Stews, Gus Glasser and Ian Maman, will perform at what is expected to be a night of music, connection, and caring. Following the concert, “Manny’s Band Practice” will launch, which will be twohour, small-group gatherings of eight to 12 friends, led by a QPR-certified suicide prevention trainer. QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer and is a nationally recognized, emergency mental health intervention training program that teaches participants how to recognize and respond to the warning signs of a suicide crisis.

Ben Pargman, founder of Manny’s Band and a suicide prevention advocate,

began the foundation after the tragic loss of his son, Manny, who graduated from Riverwood High School and was a freshman at University of Colorado-Boulder. Manny was a beloved son and brother, talented musician, natural athlete, and a friend to all. Pargman’s goal is to transform how communities approach youth suicide prevention.

“Manny died because no one in his life, including myself, connected general awareness of a mental health and suicide crisis to Manny as an individual who needed help. Nobody saw it. Awareness is not enough. We need to equip family and friends with the skills and social permission to talk openly and act. Music was Manny’s passion, and he used it to bring people together. We’re using that same energy to bring skills and action to a critical cause,” said Pargman.

Tickets for the concert may be purchased at https://www.freshtix.com/ events/the-mannys-band-concert

Hadassah Greater Atlanta was proud to be a community partner of the Atlanta Jewish Book Festival of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and hosted an afternoon interview with two book authors on Monday, Nov. 3.

Hadassah women filled the auditorium joined by people from the community to hear John Lemley, GPB Classical host & SiriusXM news anchor, in conversation with authors, Tova Mirvis, author of, “We Would Never,” and Cynthia Weiner, author of, “A Gorgeous Excitement,” to discuss their books.

Mirvis and Weiner discussed how their characters moved and took shape, especially the morally grey characters. They discussed how they turned true crime into a story. Can the reader come to understand what makes the individual characters of a family in the novel mesh?

The authors ask the question, “Can the reader come to feel empathy for both the victim and the perpetrator?”

Mirvis is also the author of, “A Visible City,” “The Outside World,” and “The Ladies Auxiliary.” Her essays have appeared in Globe Magazine, the NYT

Book Review, Poets and Writers and Good Housekeeping. Weiner is assistant editor of The Writers Studio in New York City. Her story, “Boyfriends,” was awarded a Pushcart Prize.

Terry Nordin, president of Hadassah Greater Atlanta, noted, “Hadassah was thrilled to support the conversation with these two famous, talented, award-winning women authors. We applaud their success and are looking forward to reading more novels written by them.”

Simone Wilker, advocacy chair of Hadassah, expressed delight in saying, “We are excited to highlight successful women writers and their novels. Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, is well known for championing women. We focus on empowering women through leadership, education, and advocacy. The Hadassah Medical Organization promotes women’s health and social initiatives that improve women and families both in the United States and in Israel.”

For more information about Hadassah, go to www.Hadassah.org.

Compiled by AJT Staff

From left; Terry Nordin, Hadassah Greater Atlanta president, Tova Mirvis, guest author of, “We Would Never,” and Mindy Cohen, co-president of the HGA Metulla Group.

Ben Pargman founded Manny’s Band after the tragic loss of his son, Manny, who was a graduate of Riverwood High School.

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.

Religion Served with Spirits & a Side of Blues

Dave Schechter

From Where I Sit

A tavern may seem an odd place to hear a heartfelt rendition of the African American spiritual “Wade in the Water,” but the singer smiled as several people from the Jewish community added their voices to the chorus.

“I was so moved by that,” Rabbi Brian Glusman said a few days later. “Singing that song was as meaningful as davening.”

The setting on that Monday evening in October was Moondog Pub & Grub, in Chamblee, where Glusman, the Director of Outreach and Engagement at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, has been hosting programs titled, “Bible and Bourbon.”

On previous occasions, he had been joined by Christian clergy for discussions of religious beliefs and worship practices.

The most recent session was titled “Bible, Bourbon, and Blues." Instead of clergy, Glusman was joined by four outstanding Atlanta musicians: Tyrone Jackson, piano and organ; Chris Burroughs, drums; Mike Bacarella, guitar, and Lauren Highsmith (also known as LAVAHI), vocalist.

“We are all under G-d’s umbrella,” Burroughs told the informal congregation.

Interspersed with discussion of how religion intersects with the blues, particularly as applied to Black history, the audience was treated to music that included Miles Davis, Jimmy Smith, Jimi Hendrix, Etta James, and Sam Cooke.

All the while, servers deftly moved about the room, delivering drink orders, along with burgers and sandwiches, fries, pretzels, fried pickles, and salads to four dozen people seated at high-top tables.

With a wireless microphone in hand, Glusman worked the room, stopping to chat with people who may never have found themselves in a rabbi’s presence.

And that was the point of the evening.

“A great mission of the Jewish Community Center is to bring people together regardless of their religious background,” Glusman said. “I believe that there is a hunger within the community to dialogue with people that are different than we are, but in a safe, neutral way that’s not driven by politics and challenging discourse.”

“There are commonalities that without question bring people together” and the 63-year-old Glusman gives music an important role in how he presents Judaism. “The JCC provides me with the flexibility and the freedom to attempt to program in creative ways.”

In August, Glusman and the Rev. Phil Schroeder,

senior pastor at Dunwoody United Methodist Church, drew an audience of several dozen people who filled every available seat in the tavern.

When Glusman told Schroeder, “I’ve never been to a Methodist church service and I pass your building daily,” the minister and the rabbi extended each other invitations.

Glusman recounted that when Schroeder visited the JCC, “He’s with me in the lobby and as we’re standing there person after person says, ‘Hey, Dr. Phil,’” as many of Schroeder’s flock also are JCC members.

When Glusman arrived for a Sunday church service, “Within four seconds the head usher runs up to me and gives me a hug and says, ‘Rabbi G, I love watching you on Friday mornings do Shabbat singing at the JCC,’” where his grandchildren attend The Weinstein School. “That was wild.”

In the sanctuary, “Kids came running up. ‘Rabbi G, did you bring your guitar?’” they asked and Glusman realized that these children knew him from the “Dive into Shabbat” Fridays at the JCC’s summer camp.

“By the end of this, I was in tears, because I felt so welcome and at home and Dr. Phil acknowledged me from the pulpit,” Glusman said. “We have not as an agency even scratched the surface in terms of interfaith collaboration . . . These people that aren’t Jewish are very interested in learning more.”

Glusman’s musicality may be genetic.

His paternal grandfather, Bernard Glusman, began a cantorial career in Germany before emigrating to the United States and serving as cantor at the West End Synagogue in Nashville from 1946 to 1979.

Glusman’s maternal grandfather, Eph Tunkle, was a pianist in Birmingham, Ala., who can be found on jazz recordings dating back to the 1920s. Glusman’s uncle, Alvin Tunkle, also played piano, including on rockabilly recordings dating to the 1950s.

The future rabbi was born in Huntsville, Ala., and moved to Atlanta in the second grade, growing up in the Congregation Beth Jacob Synagogue community, where his late father, Fred Glusman, served as executive director for 26 years. He attended the Greenfield Hebrew Academy and Yeshiva High School, which have since merged to form the Atlanta Jewish Academy.

Glusman received his rabbinic degree from the Academy for Jewish Religion in New York. Before coming to the MJCCA 15 years ago, he held pulpits at Temple Shalom in Colorado Springs, Colo., and Temple Beth El in Birmingham. In addition to his JCC duties, Glusman also conducts services weekly at Shearith Israel Synagogue in Columbus, Ga.

Back at the Moondog Pub, a program titled “Spirit of the Blues” is planned for Nov. 24.

Glusman and Schroeder will reunite for “Bible & Bourbon” on Dec. 8. The calendar may prompt the minister to talk about Advent, the four-week period, beginning Nov. 30, that leads up to Christmas, while the rabbi likely will discuss Chanukah, which begins on the evening of Dec. 14.

The more I think about it, a serving of spirits, with a side order of the blues, may offer as good an atmosphere as any to learn how people of other religions live their faith. ì

D i s c o v e r W h a t M a k e s U s

D i f f e r e n t

Sunkissed Swimming Pool

Sensations Dining

Health & Fitness Center Art Studio

i v i t i e s a n d e v e n t s t o i n d u l g e n t i n r e s o r t - s t y l e

a m e n i t i e s , w e p r i o r i t i z e y o u r c o m f o r t b y o f f e r i n g

a l l e s s e n t i a l s e r v i c e s , a c t i v i t i e s , a n d c a r e i n o n e

c e n t r a l i z e d l o c a t i o n A t H e a r t i s B u c k h e a d , w e

r e d e f i n e s e n i o r l i v i n g , c r e a t i n g a h a v e n w h e r e

e v e r y m o m e n t i s t a i l o r e d t o e n h a n c e y o u r

w e l l b e i n g , a l l o w i n g y o u t o l i v e a l u x u r i o u s l i f e o n

y o u r t e r m s .

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,

As the immediate past president of the Atlanta Rabbinical Association and the rabbi of a prominent Georgia congregation, I felt it was my responsibility to accept an invitation to meet with Senator Jon Ossoff. It is vital for rabbis to engage with elected officials, to express our views, and to ensure that the Jewish community has a voice in important conversations.

During that meeting, we had a candid conversation about his views on Israel. At its conclusion, at his staff’s request, we took a group photo with him to document the occasion. It has come to my attention that some members of our community have seen that photo, which appeared in the Atlanta Jewish Times, and mistakenly interpreted it as an endorsement of Senator Ossoff’s positions. The purpose of this letter is to clarify that it is not.

As a pulpit rabbi, I do not publicly endorse political candidates. As with any elected official, should a voter wish to evaluate a candidate’s record on Israel (from either party), they should do so not through photographs, but by that candidate’s voting record. As a rabbi who generally prefers to stay out of political matters, I write this letter with some hesitation. However, given the concerns expressed to me about how this photo has been perceived, I felt it was important to set the record straight.

Rabbi Dan Dorsch, Congregation Etz Chaim

Disclamer to our readers:

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

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

Letter to the Editor,

Lessons Learned: Why the Sandy Springs Jewish Community Must Stand United Last week, Sandy Springs voters experienced the most hotly contested mayoral election in its 20-year history. Among the four candidates, two were Jewish; both members of the same synagogue. The incumbent, Mayor Rusty Paul, is a lifelong friend and has demonstrated his unwavering allyship with the Jewish community through rallies, vigils, simchas, personal relationships, and every moment that has mattered in metro Atlanta Jewish life.

Yet, after all of the ballots were counted, neither of the two Jewish candidates advanced to the December 2 runoff.

This outcome should give us pause. Not because of who won or lost, but because of what it reveals. In an era when true allies of Israel and the Jewish people are increasingly rare in politics, Mayor Rusty Paul has been one of the few who have never wavered. Time and again, he has shown up for us; not for applause, not for votes, and not for publicity, but because he believes in who we are and our right to think and worship as a Jewish people.

The two Jewish candidates who ran are also respectful public servants, each with a record of dedication to the City Council of Sandy Springs. One for 12 years and the other for 8, while also quietly devoting years to Jewish Family & Career Services, founding and sustaining a program that has lifted countless lives. Her humility and compassion embody tikkun olam.

But as proud as we are of their service, this election carries an important lesson. We must think carefully before challenging those rare leaders, non-Jewish allies, who have stood shoulder to shoulder with our community in times of celebration and more recently, in times of fear. Leaders like Mayor Paul are not just political figures; they are bridges of understanding in a world that too often misunderstands us.

We must ask ourselves: when we divide our own support and weaken those who have fought for us, who truly benefits?

Former Israeli Consul General to the Southeastern United States, Anat Sultan-Dadon, offered a powerful reminder of what true partnership looks like. When Georgia Representative Shaw Blackmon asked her, “What can we do as legislators to help fight antisemitism?” she answered without hesitation: “We need non-Jews like you to speak up for us.” Standing beside him, State Senator John F. Kennedy of Macon said, “I can do that.” Blackmon added, “Me, too.”

That simple exchange sparked action. Senator Kennedy went on to lead the charge for House Bill 30, adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism in Georgia; a bill that he shepherded to be passed unanimously in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

And who was there that day, standing in quiet solidarity? Mayor Rusty Paul. He didn’t have to be. But he was, because that’s who he is.

Our community cannot afford to overlook or oppose such allies. When non-Jewish leaders stand with us, we must stand with them. When they raise their voices against antisemitism, we must raise ours in support.

This election should remind us that unity is not just about standing together as Jews; it’s about standing together with those who defend us, even when it’s not popular or politically convenient.

Let us take this lesson to heart. Let us remember that our true strength lies not only in our shared history, but in the friendships we nurture and protect. Because in these times, when antisemitism is again on the rise, our survival and moral integrity depend on supporting the non-Jewish leaders that have supported us.

Emanuel Fialkow, member of the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust, Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, and Chair of the Sandy Springs Police Foundation

Letter to the Editor,

As a community leader, I believe in civic engagement. That means meeting with our own elected officials — even those I may disagree with asking tough questions, listening to their answers, and, hopefully, find common ground. In the post-October 7th world in which we live, the safety and security of thousands of Jewish college students across the State of Georgia is, and continues to be, of critical importance. That’s why I agreed to meet with Senator Jon Ossoff at the request of the Atlanta Rabbinical Association.

It has come to my attention that some members of our community have seen that photo, which appeared in the Atlanta Jewish Times, and mistakenly interpreted it as an endorsement of Senator Ossoff’s positions. The purpose of this letter is to clarify that it is not.

I wanted to understand the Senator’s thinking — to hear directly why he has taken votes and positions that, in my view, place him squarely against Israel at a time when the Jewish state is fighting for its survival, and why he refuses to embrace the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism — the global gold standard for identifying and combating Jew-hatred.

I asked him simple, direct questions: Why oppose measures that reaffirm America’s commitment to Israel’s security? Why stand against a definition of antisemitism endorsed by dozens of democratic governments, used by law enforcement agencies, and supported by Jewish communities across the political spectrum?

The answers never came. What I heard instead were evasions, generalities, and a shifting of the conversation to unrelated topics. Not once did he articulate a substantive reason why the IHRA definition — which explicitly protects free speech while providing clear guidance on when criticism of Israel crosses into antisemitism — should be rejected. Not once did he acknowledge the message it sends when a Jewish Senator refuses to stand with the consensus of his own community on something so fundamental.

Equally troubling, public officials must not use such meetings as photo opportunities to suggest consensus or communal approval that does not exist. Doing so is not just misleading — it is dangerous. When images of dialogue are presented without the substance of accountability, they create a false narrative of unity and shared understanding where none exists. That deception erodes trust within the Jewish community, confuses allies who rely on accurate representations of leadership positions, and shields policymakers from scrutiny. In a moment when antisemitism is rising and Israel’s legitimacy is under coordinated attack, clarity is essential. Using photo ops to blur that line undermines the very transparency and honesty civic engagement is meant to promote.

Rabbi Larry Sernovitz, Chief Executive Officer, Hillels of Georgia

Rabbi Roundtable

Rabbi Lara Tessler (Reform)

Rabbi Lara Tessler was ordained at the Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion on the NYC campus in May of 2024, joined the clergy team at The Temple in July 2024, and was installed as the assistant rabbi in December 2024. While at Hebrew Union College, she was blessed by the opportunity to work with Woodlands Community Temple in White Plains, where she was the rabbinic intern for three years. She worked at URJ Camp Coleman during the summers and loves Jewish summer camp. You can find her spending time outdoors or searching for the tastiest desserts in her spare time!

Rabbi Daniel Dorsch (Conservative)

Rabbi Dorsch is the immediate past president of the Atlanta Rabbinical Association. He currently sits on the Board of Trustees for the Jewish National Fund and the American Jewish Committee in Atlanta and is a member of the Community Advisory Board for the Holocaust Museum at Kennesaw State University. A past member of USCJ’s Teen Engagement Committee, he also remains proud of his work as a former Vice President of MERCAZ-USA and fellow in Hazon’s Clergy Leadership Incubator cohort. He can’t wait to meet you for coffee (although he will have the iced tea) and tell you about the new and exciting things taking place at Etz Chaim.

In Partnership with the Atlanta Rabbinical Association, The AJT's monthly Rabbi Roundtable brings together rabbis from across Atlanta representing each denomination.

Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz (Chabad)

Rabbi Nachman Friedman (Orthodox)

Rabbi Nachi Friedman is the Rabbi at Congregation Anshi Sfard in Morningside and the school counselor at Torah Day School of Atlanta (TDSA). He enjoys merging his Rabbinic training along with psychology to engage with and learn from people of all ages. When not working, Rabbi Friedman enjoys spending time with his wife, five children, almost as much as he loves playing pickleball.

Rabbi Minkowicz was born and raised in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn. In 1998, he finally settled down in Alpharetta, where he founded Chabad of North Fulton to serve the growing Jewish population in the northern suburbs. The Chabad now attracts hundreds of Jewish families from all walks of life to their wide array of community educational offerings, including what is believed to be the only Jewish camp in North Fulton, a vibrant adult education program, synagogue, day care, and a robust youth and teen program.

For this month’s discussion, each rabbi was asked the following question:

“If gratitude is a Jewish spiritual practice, what’s the healthiest way to express it in a culture that often prizes complaint and critique?”

Rabbi Daniel Dorsch

There’s an old joke where a waiter walks up to a bubbe in a restaurant. “Madam,” he asks, “is anything alright?”

As Jews, it sometimes seems like we’ve turned complaining into a spiritual artform. It’s easy to find fault in anything if we care to try.

Yet every day of our lives we encounter people who make our lives better whom we take for granted. How can we fix this?

There is a small, impactful way that we can make gratitude into a spiritual practice without much effort. Lately, I’ve been inundated by businesses asking me after a positive experience to leave them a five-star Google review.

According to Jon Clark of Moving Traffic Media, 96 percent of people specifically look for negative reviews when shopping online. We’re quick to relish a word of blame. But what if we spent as much time appreciating those who have done us right?

Baruch Sheamar Ve-haya HaOlam.  It’s remarkable how words of gratitude can build up someone else’s world. It’s equally sad how just one critique can destroy someone else’s livelihood, too.

Take a moment today to give a local business whose services you genuinely appreciated a five-star Google review. Then, do it again tomorrow.

Rabbi Hirshy Minkowicz

Gratitude is something we live, not just something we feel. In Jewish life, it starts the moment we wake up. Even before opening our eyes, we say the Modeh Ani, thanking Hashem for returning our souls to us. Every meal, every sip of water, every simple pleasure is accompanied by a blessing, an acknowledgment that nothing we have is truly “ours” alone. Gratitude is the lens through which we see the world — it colors our relationships, our actions, and our very sense of purpose.

But gratitude doesn’t stop with G-d. It teaches us how to honor the people around us. When someone helps us, shares a kind word, or performs a thoughtful act, Judaism calls us to recognize and appreciate it, just as we recognize G-d’s blessings. Gratitude becomes a bridge, connecting the spiritual and the human, reminding us that every act of goodness — divine or human — matters.

It’s easy to think culture prizes complaint or critique, but meaningful people — those seeking purpose — are naturally full of gratitude. We don’t need to be swayed by trends or the voices of pop culture around us. Our task is to live by what the Torah teaches, and through our example, show the world a better way.

Gratitude is a daily practice that brings joy, connection, and holiness. It is both a discipline and a gift. By keeping thankfulness at the forefront, we transform not just our own lives, but the world around us, showing that a life rooted in appreciation is a life truly well-lived.

Atlanta Rabbinical Association

Rabbi Lara Tessler

The Jewish spiritual practice of Musar encourages individuals to embody specific values and attributes in daily life, creating a routine focused on how our inner traits can inspire sacred living.

When one takes on this practice with a focus on gratitude, a shift in mindset can result. To me, gratitude and awe are directly linked. The ability to recognize a moment full of awe creates the opportunity to feel grateful for such experiences.

Often, I find myself surprised by moments of awe — those instances of peace, serenity, and beauty in the natural world that quite literally take my breath away. There are also moments of connection, friendship, and love where I am overcome with gratitude for simply being in relationship with others. Reflection on these emotions is often overshadowed by daily tasks and stresses. The feelings appear unexpectedly, like a jack-in-the-box, sparking instant joy and reprieve.

Jewish tradition encourages acknowledgment of these moments through blessings. The Shehecheyanu expresses gratitude for being present in special moments. Other similar blessings praise natural wonders in the world and express gratitude to our creator for such things.

All these blessings invite us to be more present. When we pause to exist in gratitude and celebrate it, a steadiness begins to appear. Awe — and the gratitude that accompanies it — can be found all around us, lying just beneath the surface. Once we have faith and trust in our ability to access and nurture it within ourselves and others, we can express it at any time.

Rabbi Nachman Friedman

Many of us focus heavily on deficiencies in life and we have a hard time perceiving the good that counterbalances them. It is easy to fill our attitude and perception with dissatisfaction. This mindset blinds us from growth, appreciation and joy.

Gratitude is the remedy for disappointment. In the face of complaints one can and should refocus on what one has to avoid this thinking trap. To be Modeh is an appreciative feeling directed towards others who have performed a helpful action. It is a pause to reflect, acknowledge and “admit” we received aid or kindness from others.

A healthy expression of gratitude takes this idea one step further. Gratitude as an overall outlook rather than interpersonal skill is a wider life orientation where one notices and appreciates positivity in the world. It transitions our perception from what we desire to what we have.

Judaism doesn’t just promote gratitude as a good value, it provides an opportunity to live with gratitude. Rabbi Schiffman in “Psyched for Torah” writes that Jewish people have an advantage as we believe that everything is from G-d. This allows us more opportunities to say thank you as there are infinite reasons to express our appreciation towards G-d. Similarly, Rabbi Sacks wrote “there is something about belief in G-d that directs and facilitates our gratitude in a unique way.”

Rav Soloveichik notes that at the end of the silent prayer we thank G-d (Modim). We don’t say thank you for a specific item or event, but “each and every moment” of our day. Our gratitude takes a happy moment of kindness and broadens it towards a greater outlook of the world. Fredrickson’s “Broaden & Build Theory” (1998) states negative emotions narrow attention while positive emotions expand our ability to notice the good everywhere. This is the blessing of being Jewish. ì

STYLE

Jewish Atlanta ’ s Stylish Simchas and Celebrations

WINTER SIMCHAS

Environmental Focus was Key for Nicki & Sebastian

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Nicki Alexander and Sebastian Jindra-Cotilla met Labor Day weekend 2016 at U.C.-Berkeley before beginning a development economics master’s program together. The program director hosted a meet-and-greet dinner, which happened to be on Nicki’s 24th birthday (“best birthday present ever meeting Sebastian,” she said). They knew and their classmates knew, “it was love at first sight.” The two were engaged seven years later.

Nicki is a passionate environmentalist, having lived and taught here and abroad since graduating from the University of Georgia honors program. Sebastian, a fellow world traveler, went to Vassar College, received a master’s degree at Columbia University, and was a Fulbright scholar in Colombia. During COVID, the two were airlifted from Paraguay where they both served in the Peace Corps. After spending five years in New York City, the two moved to San Francisco last summer. Nicki is the executive director of Friends of Sausal Creek, a conservation non-profit managing a 2,600-acre watershed. Sebastian is an educator focusing on English as

a second language adult education.

The proposal was at the Berkeley Marina, where Nicki and Sebastian had gone on their first date to eat blueberry muffins. In 2017, while visiting the Bay Area, they rode bicycles from a Berkeley friend’s house to the marina, this time with rings instead of muffins, and asked each other to marry.

On Aug. 31, the Straus Ranch venue provided nature’s finest wedding backdrop and vistas.

They had 160 guests and Labor Day weekend was chosen to mark the ninth anniversary of their first meeting.

Nicki recalled, “We immediately fell in love with Straus Home Ranch when we were dazzled by the view of Tomales Bay and the gorgeous eucalyptus grove for the ceremony, the Victorian house on the property for the mingle, and the renovated 1940s barn for indoor and outdoor parties. The diversity of unique wedding experiences in a single location completely fit mine and Sebastian’s adventurous spirits. The owners of the property are the children of Holocaust survivors whose parents purchased the farm after fleeing Western Europe. The 'children' are

extremely lovely people who are also very invested in environmental conservation, something really important.”

The cuisine focused on sustainability and sourcing. The menu included Moroccan chicken, a cumin-crusted salmon, arugula and pear salad, smashed fingerling potatoes, cardamom snap peas, and tahini caramelized cauliflower and sourdough bread. According to Sebastian, “A true feast!”

A bluegrass band from Berkeley, The Town Howlers, performed at the ceremony and mingle before dinner. For the processional, they played, “If Not for You,” by Bob Dylan as Sebastian and Nicki are both huge Dylan fans. At the party for their first dance, a DJ from Dart Collective spun, “Samba Pa’ Ti” by Santana, favorites for all the dancing, including some merengue and reggaeton … Sebastian is Cuban and both are bilingual, so they love Latin music and the “Hora,” too! A Volkswagen van photo bus captured unique pics.

Nicki’s gown was Israeli-designed from a boutique in New York. Nicki described as “perfect, as I didn’t want a train and it was incredibly comfortable. I had an additional reception dress that I never even put on because I loved my wedding

dress so much.”

The florist, JenniFlora, was charged with designing “a wildflower vibe from her sustainable gardens. She created enchanting floral landscapes for both Saturday and Sunday nights, including Nicki’s flower crown, from blue eryngium, fennel, and xeranthemum blooms matching the bouquet. In lieu of a traditional wedding cake, they chose three: a gluten-free chocolate souffle, lemon meringue, and passion fruit Bavarian.

Doyenne Atlantan, grandma Elaine Alexander, hosted a paella rehearsal feast by starting, “The dinner the night before the wedding always used to be called the rehearsal dinner. But Nicki and Sebastian have been going out for almost 10 years. So, I think they have rehearsed enough. Let’s just call this a welcome dinner.”

The couple will go on a November honeymoon to include Kyoto, the Japanese Alps, and hiking the 50-mile Kumano Kodo trail.

Parents are Diane and Kent Alexander and Katherine Jindra and Raul Cotilla. The former described the wedding as “magical,” “a fairy tale,” and, “very Nicki and Sebastian.” ì

The Straus Ranch, operated by children of Holocaust survivors, provided a spectacular back drop.

and Sebastian are both bilingual and care deeply about the environment. Note the sustainable flowers in her crown and bouquet // All photos

Bottom Right: Nicki’s dress from an Israeli designer was so comfy she didn’t change to a reception dress as planned.

Bottom Left: Grandma Elaine Alexander sponsored the rehearsal dinner and made a jovial toast.

Top Left: A rousing “Hora” bodes well in California.

Top Right: Nicki

by Josh Lane

Schusterman-Levy Wedding Rooted in Generational Connection

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Bride Mira Schusterman and groom Moshe Levy had a connection that began generations ago, which was formally culminated at The Temple on Sept. 4.

Mira, a native Atlantan, and Moshe, originally from Florida by way of Crown Heights, met through a shadchan who also happened to be a mutual friend. But their story didn’t start there. Their greatgrandfathers were business partners in the Ezra Balshan Printing Press, the shop that typeset and printed the maamarim and sichot distributed by the Rebbe beginning in the 1940s.

“It’s wild,” Mira said. “Our families were already in business together. We just picked up where they left off.”

Moshe added, “They set the type, we just set the date.”

For the proposal, Moshe chose the Swan House, Mira’s favorite date spot

— beautiful, historical, and quintessentially Atlanta. “It’s this grand, hidden gem Moshe showed me early on,” Mira said. “So, it just felt right.”

The couple chose The Temple, steeped in Atlanta’s Jewish history and stately Southern grace. Mira followed in the footsteps of her older sister, Sara, who was also married there. Together, the sisters posed beside the Temple’s “Wall of Brides” from the early 1900s, a visual reminder that Jewish continuity takes many beautiful forms.

The florals and décor by Jim White Designs were in color-blocked bold, rich purples. Dena Schusterman commented that “everything from the chuppah to the table settings reflected both families’ deep appreciation for beauty, history, and meaning.”

EB Catering (kosher) included an abundant smorgasbord before and after the chuppah, followed by a sit-down dinner for family. Under the chuppah, fa-

ther Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman offered words that brought the celebration to communal introspection.

“These last two years have taught us that we, the Jewish people, derive our identity from something deeper than public opinion or how we fit into society. We derive our identity from our rich and ancient tradition, rooted in our holy Torah.”

Turning to the bride, Rabbi Schusterman said, “Mira, you are a beautiful light — you always have been. It shines through your eyes, those big, dark, mysterious eyes that carry the mystery of the Divine from your essence. Moshe, you are kind and caring, determined and ambitious. We see how you adore Mira, and how your lights join into one bright flame.”

In a moment of blessing and gratitude, generations converged beneath this wedding canopy.

“To feel the energy of all the possibilities ahead,” Rabbi Schusterman concluded, “to see the hand of Hashem

having brought you and Moshe together.” And recited the “Shehechiyanu.”

Guests celebrated late into the night beneath a canopy of twinkle lights, dancing on either side of the mechitzah to a mix of Chasidic favorites and Israeli pop.

As Mira and Moshe step into this chapter, their wedding is a reminder that Jewish love isn’t just about finding your person — it’s finding purpose and continuing a story written long before.

As the last notes of the niggun (Ashkenazi wordless Jewish melodies often sung in groups celebrating) faded beneath the chuppah at The Temple, sunlight spilled across the crowd, the kind of light that feels like a blessing. Fitting, for a couple whose love story seems to have been written long before they met. The couple will begin married life in Florida.

Mira’s parents, Rabbi Eliyahu and Dena Schusterman, co-direct Chabad Intown and have been vibrant fixtures of Atlanta Jewish life for decades. ì

Mira’s wedding was surrounded by emotion and shades of purple // All photos by John Solano

Above: The Schusterman family celebrates simchas together.

Bottom Left: The Schustermans relish in extended family.

Bottom Right: The lush chuppah was custom-built by Jim White Designs.

Couple Enjoys Four-Day Wedding Celebration

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Amy Lynn Feinberg and Jason Michael Kayne fell in love at one of their friend’s destination weddings: and they knew from that moment on, they wanted the same type of vacation experience for their own wedding. Amy and Jason wanted four days instead of a four-hour celebration. Amy’s mother, Robyn, quickly got into action planning their dream wedding. Amy’s brother, Joel, was married just 15 months earlier, so the family was ready for another Feinberg simcha.

Jason and Amy’s love story started in January 2021, when their mutual friend and Atlantan, Daniel Weiss, introduced them. They quickly fell for each other with their similar interests, same morals, same taste in music, and love for all things pop culture. Jason proposed to Amy three years into dating at their first date spot, Amano, in Old Fourth Ward in January 2024.

Jason makes Amy a better person, while Amy brings both energy and excitement to their relationship. They both en-

joy a good meal and lots of laughter.

The wedding plans began with the selection of Palladium Hotel’s TRS Resort in Costa Mujeres, Mexico. With a mother who is well-known throughout the wedding industry in Atlanta as owner of RSVP Atlanta (local invitation studio), Robyn became the de facto expert in planning and logistics for the couple. Amy was the opposite of a “Bridezilla,” and took on the role of a “Bride-Chilla,” allowing her mom to take care of all details.

The couple’s collection of family and friends, 125 strong, gathered with the couple over those four days to celebrate their love and have a bounty of fun doing it. Custom bucket hats, beach bags, and koozies were provided so that everyone could spot the wedding party at the pool, as well as plenty of sunscreen. The bride celebrated her bachelorette party with a private dinner at one of the hotel’s restaurants, and the groom was celebrated on his birthday two days before the wedding with a private boat party for the happy couple and many of their friends.

The night before the wedding, the

groom’s parents, Tina and Joe Kayne of Evanston, Ill., hosted a festive poolside welcome party for all of the guests complete with a roving Mariachi band and an authentic Mexican wedding cake piñata.

The wedding ceremony was officiated by Amy’s uncle, Doug Bartel, who incorporated Jewish traditions and made the ceremony personal to both Amy and Jason. The procession began with Amy’s cousins, Brooke and Jordan Bartel, leading the way with tequila shots for all of the guests in true Mexico fashion.

The couple exchanged custom-written vows under the chuppah, wearing a tallis purchased by Amy’s late aunt, Beth Feinberg-Oettinger. Sentimental items used for the ceremony were a ring worn by Amy’s late grandfather, Bernard, and a watch worn by Jason from his grandfather, Bernard. The kiddush cup was from Amy’s bat mitzvah.

Amy’s wedding gown was by Paloma Blanca, purchased at Wedding Angels in Roswell. Shoes were by Vince Camuto. Wedding jewelry was from both Privee (Jonathan Paz) and Worthmore Jewelers

(Decatur). Invitations were lovingly made by Amy’s mother, Robyn.

After the service and cocktail hour, the real party began, led by a 12-member band and a lighted dance floor, making the night one to remember for all the guests. The couple’s honeymoon was close by with an additional few days tacked on to their stay at the TRS Resort that included a day at the spa and taking advantage of the resort’s nighttime entertainment options.

Amy and Jason have now purchased a home in the Kirkwood neighborhood in Atlanta and are happy parents to their adorable dog, Loki.

The groom, a Chicago native, is a 2016 graduate of Tufts University, where he played on the NCAA National Championship soccer team. He now works for U.S. Soccer. Amy was a 2012 graduate of The Galloway School and attended Indiana University. She later received her Master of Occupational Therapy from New York University and now works as pelvic floor therapist at a private practice in Atlanta. ì

The bride and groom celebrate their first kiss as husband-and-wife.

Below: The boys wearing Mexican luchador masks - which were given by the groom when asking them to be in the wedding party. Pictured are Harry Goldman, Connor Schiable, Joel Feinberg, Jason Michael Kayne, Troy Kayne, Daniel Weiss, Rui Pinheiro, and Nick DeLucia.

Above: Amy Lynn Feinberg and Jason Michael Kayne are pictured under the chuppah.

Below: Joseph and Tina Kayne, Amy Lynn Feinberg and Jason Michael Kayne, and Robyn and Mark Feinberg

The night before the wedding with a Mariachi band

Above: Amy Lynn Feinberg and Jason Michael Kayne celebrated their wedding over four days in Costa Mujeres, Mexico.

When Sephardic & Ashkenazi Cultures Unite

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Ellie Parker, an Ashkenazi Jew, met Nolan Edmonson at Yeshiva University in New York City and reconnected years later when Ellie was on a trip back to the “Big Apple.”

Before their wedding at The Temple on Aug. 10, Edmonson, who is Black and identifies as a Sephardic Jew, learned about Judaism as a child and fully converted at the age of 18 before he went to Israel to study at a Yeshiva. Now, they are both attorneys.

Wedding planner Alexa Kesler related, “Some weddings radiate a kind of magic that feels effortless where every moment flows seamlessly, and every detail feels true to the couple … it was exactly that.” The couple credits Kesler for thoughtfully designing and flawlessly executing elegance resulting in heartfelt, genuine joy, including sourcing many of the vendors from New York.

Prior to the ceremony, a traditional Tish and Bedeken paraded rousing horns and led the groom to “examine” the bride. The outdoor ceremony transformed The Temple’s grand front staircase into a breathtaking backdrop. The stairs were seamlessly built into the design, creating a natural focal point that elevated the entire aesthetic by Jim White Designs, which brought the vision to life with a lush, cascading floral chuppah that framed the steps, a romantic blend of ivory blooms, soft greenery, and textures that felt both classic and fresh. It was described as “ethereal timeless Atlanta architecture meeting a modern, outdoor romance.” Eli Marcus, renowned chuppah singer, performed as Ellie walked down the aisle.

After the ceremony, guests segued into the reception where the team from Raising the Bar served signature cocktails designed especially for Ellie and Nolan, with drinks reflecting their

personalities and favorite flavors. Dinner and reception followed inside The Temple’s ballroom.

Ellie said, “EB Catering (kosher) delivered an unforgettable culinary experience, featuring dishes that celebrated seasonal flavors and classic favorites. A soul food station alongside an Italian station showed the variety. From the first bite to the final course, guests raved about the menu’s presentation and taste, and service ran flawlessly from start to finish.”

The reception design echoed the beauty of the outdoor ceremony. Jim White Designs filled the ballroom with abundant florals and a stunning michitza (separation of men and women). The tables were dressed in crisp ivory linens with elegant tableware and flickering votives. Sincerely Heidi created all the custom signage and printed details, tying the visual story through a cohesive design. From the welcome signage to the seating chart, bar menus, and

table numbers, every piece reflected the couple’s refined, but approachable style. The celebration energy was electric with traditional Jewish songs like “Od Yishama” in Yiddish. A cigar and whiskery bar was featured at the end of the night.

Kesler remarked, “This wedding was the kind of celebration planners dream about — a seamless collaboration between creative partners, an appreciative family, and a couple deeply in love. Ellie and Nolan wanted their wedding to feel timeless, but more than anything, they wanted it to feel personal. From the outdoor ceremony design to the dinner experience and flow of the evening, every decision was made with intention. Ellie and Nolan’s wedding at The Temple wasn’t just beautiful; it was full of heart. Every vendor, every moment, and every thoughtful detail came together to create an experience their guests — and the couple themselves — will cherish forever.” ì

Ellie Parker with parents, Hollee Parker and Steve Parker.

Vendors:

Planning: Alexa Eve Events | Alexa Kesler

Signage & Guest Gifts: Sincerely Heidi | Heidi Bullock

Florals & Design: Jim White Designs

Catering: EB Catering

Bar: Raising the Bar Atlanta

Band: Gershon Veroba

Singer: Eli Marcus

DJ: Sifi Entertainment

Photos & Video: Shalom Surgo

Hair & Makeup: Gabi Glamour

Social Media: Creative Panda Design

Cigar Bar: EP Entertainment

AV/Sound: MVP Productions

Photobooth: Strike A Pose Atlanta

The front steps of The Temple and chuppah were arranged by Jim White Designs // All photos by Shalom Surgo

The new father-in-law greets Edmondson.

Above: The bride designed these unique custom kippahs.

Below: The Temple’s ballroom has built-in elegance.

Ella’s CoachELLA Bat Mitzvah

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Woodward Academy student Ella Weinstock likes softball, basketball, snow and water skiing, and Birch Trail Summer Camp; but on Feb. 22, her party venue leaned into the very avant garde Coachella Festival. Party planner Amy Akerman brought in the pink ethereal “fairy dust drama” to 42West to bring the famous California festival’s ethos to Midtown.

Spiritually, in the morning at Temple Sinai, Rabbis Brad Levenberg and Ron Segal (filling in as cantor) urged Ella to provide for her community and always honor and represent the cores of Judaism. In her speech, Ella referenced both of her late grandfathers, with whom she was close, for their “love and teachings” while she donned her father’s tallis. Ella’s Torah portion was Parashat Mischpatim from Exodus and dealt with many of the Jewish laws. What Ella took away most

significantly was the class differential of the slave owners vs. the Jewish slaves subjected to their unfair rights and the challenging decisions they would have to make once their served time was up.

For her mitzvah project, Ella volunteered for seven Saturday mornings with The Christopher League at NYO, which is a buddy program that provides a safe and fun environment for boys and girls with disabilities to play baseball in a supportive and inclusive league.

Ella chose the Coachella theme because of her love of music. Dad, Shaun, said, “Ella’s very outgoing, so it helped that her name was spelled out in the festival word. The theme was a perfect blend of who she is, captured in the design, atmosphere, and setting of the party.”

Coachella is an immersive music and arts festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif., over two consecutive spring weekends. It’s a major cultural phenome-

non known for its fashion and pop culture trends, heralding back to 1999.

In terms of hiring Akerman as party planner, mom, Alayna said, “We liked Amy’s approach and demeanor and felt it was inviting, collaborative, and nonstressful. She played a role in everythingfrom the design, logo, event space, music, planning and beyond.”

Amy agreed it was a good match, by stating, “I absolutely loved working with the Weinstocks and creating this one-of-a-kind celebration. The event was beautiful, tasteful, and most importantly, Ella had a huge smile on her face all night long! It was an amazing party - you could just feel the energy and love for this family in the room.”

To execute the Coachella theme, Ella chose a pink, gold, and white color scheme. Ella’s favorite mitzvah song was Rhianna’s, “Under My UmberELLA,” while she sported a festive pink dress with matching pink Jordans. The menu was fun and

accessible with some Coachella festival favorites. The adult menu featured street tacos, three types of sliders, and Asian rice bowls. Teens enjoyed chicken fingers and waffles, French fries, sliders and Caesar salad. Adults found trays with spiked Capri Sun pouches with Ella’s logo. Desserts were cookies, while donuts were passed on the dance floor. Guests were treated to an outrageous custom candy bar “reveal” at the end of the night, featuring themed treats and goodies.

For party favors, each teen received a logo’ed sweatshirt. Swag was given out by the DJ throughout the night - hats, flannels and T-shirts. More than 180 of Ella’s favorite family members and camp friends attended. Looking back, Ella said, “What I liked most about my bat mitzvah weekend was to have a special day surrounded by my best friends and loved ones all together, and I realized how rare of a moment that is. It was the best weekend ever!” ì

Ella Weinstock celebrated surrounded by her loving family, who fully embraced the CoachELLA spirit in pink and sparkle. The joy and energy in the room were unmistakable from the very start of the night.

was transformed into CoachELLA, a pink-and-gold, festival-inspired celebration complete with custom lighting, bold signage, and glowing décor that perfectly captured

Vendors:

Event Planner: JDV Occasions (Amy Ackerman)

Décor: Yes Event Designs

Catering: Zest

Photographer: Vosamo

Videographer: Dewitt Smith

Graphic Design and Stationery: Jenny’s Paper Ink

Candy Bar: Ash Sweet Creations

Swag: BR Swag

DJ: Atlanta Fever, including a live saxophonist who played along with the DJ

Photo Booth: Button It Up

Activities: Funorama Parties

42West

Ella’s fun and vibrant spirit. // All photos by Vosamo

Ella becomes a bat mitzvah at Temple Sinai with parents, Alayna and Shaun, and younger brother, Leo.

Adults’ spiked Capri Suns with logos pouches.

Above: Guests enjoyed building their own rice bowls.

Below: Guests were treated to a show-stopping candy bar reveal at the end of the night — filled with themed treats and logoed sweets.

Oui Oui! Cami’s ‘French’ Bat Mitzvah

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

On Saturday, Aug. 9, French speeches, food, and fashion flowed through Ahavath Achim Synagogue with the bat mitzvah of Camille Weinstein. The party was celebrated on Aug. 10 at the Whitlock Inn in Marietta.

The theme of Camille’s bat mitzvah was a compendium of the most iconic female voices. The invitation was designed as a CD featuring her own recorded voice inviting guests to the celebration with two tracks in English and French. Family members from France, including aunts, uncles, and cousins, traveled to celebrate here, with many French expats residing in Atlanta. Much of the ceremony was translated into French; and during the party, the DJ included songs by famous French singers.

Camille, a student at the Atlanta International School, speaks English, French, and Spanish, and has a talent and passion for singing. She began formal training with the Atlanta Young Singers at 7 and is now a member of the Treble Concert Choir, a pre-professional ensemble. She has performed at the Georgia

State Capitol for the Holocaust Remembrance ceremony, where she was the only soloist. Camille has a penchant for musical theatre where she began performing at 8. Her most recent role was Morticia in “The Addams Family Jr.,” where she took the lead.

For her mitzvah project, Camille raised funds for Songs For Kids Foundation, an organization that brings music and performance opportunities to children with illnesses, injuries, or disabilities, helping them express themselves, build confidence, and find joy in difficult times. In January, Camille will sing a duet with these children in their annual Coldplay show.

During her Dvar Torah for parasha Va'etchanan, she said, “Every human being will have moments where there will be obstacles … G-d created a world that’s not perfect, so that we, as humans, can bring light into darkness through our actions. G-d gave us the responsibility to do good because every act of kindness, every moment of helping someone in need, brings us closer to His purpose for humanity.”

For his charge to Camille, Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal highlighted her determination to lead service prayers. He

reminded her not to strive for perfection or to focus on singing every note and melody flawlessly. “If life were perfect, we wouldn’t need G-d. It’s within imperfection that we truly find G-d.”

For the party, Camille wanted a daytime garden celebration that reflected her love of nature along with elegant and refined touches. The cocktail hour was outdoors in a Southern-style setting, with hors d’oeuvres served alongside classic American and French cocktails. Lavish floral arrangements adorned tables, while exquisite French desserts prepared by a French pastry chef and couture dresses from renowned French designers added to the sophistication. After the cocktail hour, guests were invited inside the historic Southern home which was decorated with the iconic female singers theme. Each table was styled with vinyl records and pop figurines of famous female artists. Guests signed a unique guestbook -- a vinyl record displayed on a turntable.

Before Camille took the stage, a short video highlighted her journey as a performer, from her early singing moments at age 4 to her more recent performances. The soundtrack featured many of her

favorite artists: Dua Lipa for her grand entrance, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter for the fun dance moments, followed by timeless songs by Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston during the slideshow and candlelighting ceremony.

As the evening concluded, guests left with creative party favors: microphones filled with M&Ms and small vinyl-themed bags as keepsakes.

Parents Randy, an officer at Ahavath Achim, and Dr. Aurelie Weinstein, relayed, “What made Camille’s service unique was that she was the first bat mitzvah to choose the prayer track instead of the haftarah track. Her goal was to truly understand and lead the prayers so that when she attends services on Saturday mornings, she’ll be able to follow and participate fully.

On Friday evening, the celebration began with Absolute Shabbat at Ahavath Achim — renamed “Absolute Camille” for the occasion, where she led several prayers inspired by famous songs, including, “Flowers,” for the candle blessings and, “What Was I Made For?” for the “Aleinu.” ì

Camille enjoyed the support of Rabbi Rosenthal (right) and her parents // All photos by Christina Wimberly

Vendors:

Flowers and decorations: Helena Brante Floral Design

Videographer: Dre Streat Media

DJ: One Nate

Party Planner: Dani Oren

Hair: Laetitia Blanche

Above: The venue glowed with European sophistication.

Below: The dancing was lively thanks to a variety of female performers’ songs.

Camille, who started singing at a young age, continues to perform.

Above: The frilly cakes were part of the Parisian cuisine.

Below: The family was adorned in hair florals and French fashion.

A Jewish Father Figure to All

By Tessa Scharff

Most people in the Jewish community see a bar or bat mitzvah as a rite of passage for a teenager. Some rediscover it later in life. But very few continue to honor it, year after year, chanting the very same haftorah portion they did at age 13 into their late nineties.

On Sept. 27, members of Congregation Etz Chaim in Marietta gathered for a once-in-a-lifetime simcha -- the 85th anniversary of Lou Rosengarten’s bar mitzvah, occurring not even one week before his 98th birthday on Oct. 3. The celebration was more than a milestone; it was a testament to his lifelong devotion to Judaism and his decades of service to Etz Chaim.

Known lovingly throughout the congregation as “Papa Lou,” Rosengarten has been an active member for many years, from helping in the office and reading to preschoolers to attending Shabbat services without fail. His warmth and constancy have made him both a role model and a beloved father figure to generations within the synagogue.

Lou’s Jewish journey began in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he was raised in an Orthodox home that faithfully observed every holiday and the laws of kashrut.

When he was 13, in 1940, he celebrated his bar mitzvah in a one-car garage behind his great-uncle’s house in Coney Island. Space was so tight that only the men could fit inside, while the women sat outside to watch. Rosengarten still vividly recalls the end of his haftorah, when guests replaced the customary soft candy with hard-shelled nuts. As he remembers it, “boy, it hurt.”

After Lou and his late wife, Helen, moved from New York to Maryland, they began practicing in the Conservative denomination, continuing to observe Jewish laws and traditions to the best of their ability. In Bowie, Md., both served on their synagogue’s board before eventually relocating to Atlanta, where they found a spiritual home at Congregation Etz Chaim.

At Etz Chaim, Lou’s volunteer work quickly became a cornerstone of his connection to the community. One of his fondest memories was reading to preschoolers. He adored watching their faces light up as he told stories, then seeing those same children years later as bar and bat mitzvah students. It gave him, he says, comfort and confidence that Judaism would thrive for generations to come.

Rosengarten’s dedication has deeply influenced his family. His daughter, Deb-

bie Deutsch, serves as the director of the religious school and preschool at Etz Chaim. Watching her father’s example in Maryland and the way he gave time and care to their synagogue taught her the importance of nurturing a Jewish community from a young age.

“Etz Chaim has been the focal point of our family for the past 30 years,” she said. “It’s where we’ve celebrated all of life’s milestones, from b’nai mitzvah to burial.”

Lou’s late wife, Helen, was also a familiar presence in the congregation, running the gift shop and teaching crocheting, knitting, and mah jongg. Together, they modeled what it means to live a life of faith, family, and service.

Each year, Rosengarten commemorates his bar mitzvah by chanting the haftorah for Shabbat Shuvah. Though he admits to still feeling nervous, he continues to inspire those who hear him. Rabbi Emeritus Shalom Lewis noted that the congregation is always “enthralled that this 98-year-old man can still read from the Torah and recite such a flawless haftorah.”

Though the haftorah was definitely the milestone of the occasion, the celebration continued with a lunch that customarily follows the services each week, with

the addition of eating cake.

Rabbi Lewis reflected on the day with admiration. He recalled Rosengarten’s humility and how he turned an extraordinary moment into something quietly routine, as though such devotion were simply second nature.

Rabbi Daniel Dorsch, senior rabbi at Etz Chaim, describes Rosengarten as “a gentle soul — respectful, warm, and kind-spirited.” He explains that Rosengarten embodies Etz Chaim’s belief that Judaism is a lifetime commitment and that “it starts when you are young and never stops.”

Rabbi Lewis calls him “a role model for the Etz Chaim community [who has been] a mensch and a devoted, proud Jew for nearly a century. Lou reminds us of that old-world foundation on whose shoulders we stand.”

Now approaching a century of life, Rosengarten offers a message that resonates deeply within his community: “the need for younger generations to continue practicing Judaism, remain affiliated with all things Jewish, and pass it on to their families.”

To a congregation that calls him “Papa,” Lou’s message is loud and clear: continue practicing Judaism, honor traditions, and never stop. ì

Papa Lou and a preschooler learning about nature // Photo Credit: Tiana Plendl

Lou Rosengarten standing with Rabbi Daniel Dorsch of Congregation Etz Chaim singing, “Siman

Lou and several preschool students playing with toys in the classroom // Photo Credit: Tiana Plendl

“Papa” Lou Rosengarten reading a story about baby animals to three preschool students // Photo Credit: Tiana Plendl

Choosing Renterpieces for your simcha supports our Kosher Food Pantry.

Visit jfcsatl.org/r enterpieces

What are the Odds?

By Robert Garber

The odds of having one set of twins are about one in 30. The odds of having two randomly chosen people share the same birthday are about one in 75. But what on earth are the odds of three sets of twins in the same family all sharing the exact same birthday?

That is the question members of the extended Berger family have been asking themselves, after a revelation a little under three years and a little over three generations in the making. Michael Berger, who is the grandparent of one set of twins, and cousin to the two others, described discovering the connection.

“The first set of twins, the two girls that turned 82, when I told them my daughter had twins – I knew they were twins, and they said, ‘wouldn’t you know, that’s our birthday!’” related Berger. “But I didn’t know [about the other twins] for another two years – when my cousin called [...] and I told her our twins were born on the same day as the others, and she said, ‘what about my twins? They

were born on that day, too.’ That’s when we all figured it out and decided to put together a family party.”

The timing was almost perfect, as the shared birthday was just a couple months out. Berger reserved the River Room at Ray’s on the River for Oct. 11 and invited as much family as he could find. This wasn’t particularly difficult, as most of the extended Berger family, native Atlantans for four generations, was in town – although one of the twins was living in Miami Beach. That twin, Rebecca Platt, hadn’t lived in Atlanta since high school and was in for something of a shock.

“Growing up, I didn’t see my cousins very much, and I wasn’t aware of the family lineage from Hungary,” said Platt. “My mom just contacted me, and she started telling me this story, and how Michael Berger was planning this party, and I thought it was an incredible piece of family genealogy to suddenly find me.”

Michael Berger, who is something of a family historian, explained the lineage: His grandparents, Joseph and Minnie Berger, immigrated to the U.S. from

Hungary, settled in Atlanta, and had three children, Eddie, Nathan, and Sidney – all of whom would become active members at Ahavath Achim. The middle son, Nathan, had twin girls, Helaine and Rochelle, born Oct. 13, 1943. The oldest son, Eddie, was grandfather to a set of boy-girl twins, Rebecca Patt and Todd Patt, born Oct. 13, 1976. The third son, Sidney, was Michael’s father, and therefore greatgrandfather to the last set of twins, born Oct. 13, 2022. All in all, that’s three sets of twins, spread evenly across three generations, all in the same family, all with the same birthday, all with a shared heritage from Joseph and Minnie Berger.

“Some of the older cousins at the party, including Michael and Helene, stood up and told stories about growing up with Joseph and Minnie, and I was just mesmerized to hear their stories, and see the old photos,” said Rebecca Platt. “Even though I never met them, hearing stories from my older cousins helped me understand the kind of people they were, and I feel like I know them through the love and memories that have been passed down now. It’s

powerful to realize that I’m part of a much bigger legacy that I knew of before.”

For Michael Berger, this event was also important for keeping the family legacy alive, something he spoke about at length at the event.

“My brother and myself – everybody in my family – either the guys didn’t get married, or everybody had girls. So, my brother and I and Rochelle’s brother – we’re the last of the Bergers of this Atlanta group, the one that came from Hungary,” Michael Berger said. “Whoever lives the longest is the last one. But I ended it with [the fact that] the blood of the Bergers is still in everybody’s blood, so even though our name goes away, the bloodlines still exists.”

For Rebecca Platt, the shared birthdays, coincidence or fate, are a reminder of that shared connection.

“What are the odds that we’d have three sets of fraternal twins in the same family all with the same birthday?” she asked. “It feels like a little wink from the universe, and now every Oct. 13 will feel like a much more special celebration of our family’s legacy.” ì

The extended Berger family celebrates the shared birthday of six of their members at Rays on the River.

The three sets of twins: 82-year-olds Rochelle Greenblatt and Helaine Silverboard, 49-year-olds Rebecca and Todd Pratt, and 3-year-olds Emily and Anderson Terry.

The Berger family progenitors, in 1948 (from left) Sidney, Nathan, and Eddie, with matriarch Minnie and patriarch Joseph seated.

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.

Bat Mitzvah Announcement

Libby Abramovich

Mr. and Mrs. Dan Abramovich of Alpharetta proudly announce the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Libby Abramovich. Libby was called to the Torah on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at Congregation Gesher L’Torah.

Libby is the granddaughter of Sam (z"l) and Carol Draisen and Mayer and Faina Abramovich of Atlanta. She is the sister of Brendan Abramovich.

Libby loves soccer, the beach, animals of all kinds, hanging out with friends, listening to music, and acting. Her mitzvah project was to collect donations and volunteer at Foster Care Support Foundation. She likes camping with her Girl Scout troop and playing the trombone in her school band. She looks forward to learning more about Judaism and visiting Israel one day.

Celebrate in Sandy Springs

Life is filled with moments that become lasting memories, and there’s no better place for a memorable simcha than Sandy Springs.

Let us be the full service connection between you and your event. With 20 hotels and 2800 rooms, we can provide customized and complimentary assistance to make sure you find the perfect hotel for your guests, as well as recommendations for venues, catering and more.

Contact us today to start planning!

Bree Kitchens

770-206-1552

pkitchens@sandyspringsga.org

Engagement Announcement

Stinar-Reisman

Dr. Gerald and Lisa Reisman of Atlanta, along with Lisa Ferman Stinar and Tom Stinar of Atlanta, are overjoyed to announce the engagement of their children, Zachary Reisman and Rachel Stinar.

Zachary and Rachel’s love story began in 2016 when they first met as students at The Weber School in Atlanta. What started as a friendship quickly blossomed into something deeper, and over the years their bond has only grown stronger. From navigating the ups and downs of high school to supporting one another through college, careers, and life’s milestones, Zachary and Rachel have shared countless memories, laughter, and love. Their journey from young sweethearts to future spouses reflects not only their dedication to one another but also the values of family, community, and tradition that guide their lives.

Rachel is the beloved granddaughter of Arlene and Stanley Ferman of Monroe Township, N.J., and of Ingrid Stinar and the late Ralph Stinar of Wadena, Minn. Zachary is the cherished grandson of the late Shirley and Donald Reisman of Atlanta, as well as Pearl Gordon and the late Paul Gordon of Augusta, Ga. Their grandparents’ love, resilience, and legacy continue to inspire them as they look forward to building a life together.

With immense joy, the families celebrate this beautiful milestone and eagerly anticipate the wedding in May 2027 in Colorado, to honor Zachary and Rachel’s enduring love story and the bright future they will share.

Consider Temple Sinai as a location for your future celebrations and events. Our beautiful building was recently renovated and has both indoor and outdoor spaces that offer an ideal setting for weddings, corporate events, cocktail receptions, lectures, showers, parties and more.

Wedding Announcements

Silverman-Bleiberg

On June 7, 2025, Harrison Bleiberg and Emily Silverman got married in the mountains of Hiawassee, Ga. The ceremony was officiated by Rabbi Joshua Lesser.

Harrison and Emily found each other through a dating app and started officially dating on Jan. 1, 2020. As the pandemic intensified, both Emily and Harrison grew closer and made dramatic career changes with each other’s support. Emily got a job as a manager of BoxLunch and Harrison joined the teaching staff of the Alfred and Adele Davis Academy.

On March 13, 2024, during a Fall Out Boy show in Harrison’s hometown of Birmingham, Ala., Harrison proposed to Emily. Almost immediately, they got to work planning their wedding.

During a three-day whirlwind weekend, the couple welcomed family and friends to the Retreat at Hiawassee River. Friends and family traveled from as far away as Australia and Israel to make the event!

During the ceremony, the clouds opened up, and applause rained from the heavens as Harrison and Emily tied the knot! The rain did nothing to dampen the festivities as folks danced into the night, reveling in the celebration of love and community.

Venue: The Retreat at Hiawassee River

Rabbi: Joshua Lesser

Ketubah: Ketubah.com – Enya Keshet

Catering: Harvest Catering

Bartender: Bubbly Bees Bartending

Cake: CakeLove

Florist: Megan Corbat

Suit: SuitSupply Atlanta

Dress: Bridals by Lori

Veil: RossJackCo

Makeup: Sarah Mitchell

Hair: K Renee Hair Studios

Photographer: Andrea de Anda

Videographer: Woodell Productions

D i s c o v e r a d e s t i n a t i o n d e s i g n e d f o r e v e r y o c c a s i o n

B r o o k h a v e n C i t y C e n t r e b r i n g s t o g e t h e r e l e v e n

v e r s a t i l e e v e n t s p a c e s i n o n e v i b r a n t l o c a t i o n p e r f e c t f o r m i t z v a h s , w e d d i n g s , a n d s p e c i a l e v e n t s T h i s a l l - i n - o n e v e n u e m a k e s p l a n n i n g s e a m l e s s a n d

e v e r y g a t h e r i n g u n f o r g e t t a b l e . Plan your next celebration at

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Godzdanker Helps Kids Climb Together, Learn New Skills

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

There’s a special buzz around Atlanta’s parents of young children facing a variety of challenges, about Carly Heyman Godzdanker, an occupational therapist (OT), who is making a remarkable difference with kids.

Godzdanker is the founder and owner of Mountain Kids OT, an in-home pediatric occupational therapy practice that specializes in children ages 0-5 with sensory processing, picky eating, behavior, and motor coordination challenges. Since 2009, Godzdanker has helped little ones with their everyday “occupation”– playing, socializing, learning, and participating in self-care tasks such as eating, sleeping, brushing teeth, dressing, etc. Therapy can start as early as day one and children benefit from having services in their home where it feels most natural and fits into their daily routines. For families facing feeding challenges, an OT can turn mealtimes from stressful battles into positive experiences, teaching children the wonder of tasting new foods to create

a healthy diet.

Godzdanker grew up in East Cobb, and her family has been actively involved in the Atlanta Jewish community for decades. She attended The Epstein School and Woodward Academy. Always on the go, she was captain of the tennis and softball teams, president of the service club, and voted by the students as “Most Likely to Climb Mount Everest” for the school’s silly superlative and “Most Charitable” for the real superlative. Godzdanker studied at the University of Georgia and proceeded to get her master’s in occupational therapy at Medical College of Georgia.

The youngest of three in her family, Carly has two older brothers, Jared and Scott. Scott has special needs – Fragile X Syndrome – and Carly wrote a book about him when she was 16 years old, “My eXtra Special Brother: How to Love, Understand, and Celebrate Living with a Sibling with Special Needs.” She enjoyed speaking publicly around the world and conducting sibling workshops. Growing up, people always asked her if she was going to work with children with special needs because they loved watching her interact with her brother. She could understand and communicate with him better than anyone else in the family. And even better, she could explain to others why he was acting certain ways and how to help him.

Godzdanker shared, “Throughout my first year-and-a-half of graduate school, I thought I would work with adults. When I had my first pediatric rotation at the Children’s Hospital in Denver, I fell in love. I connected with these children just as naturally as I had always connected with my brother, Scott. And now with a better understanding of the nervous system and child development, I was able to explain to parents why their children were behaving in certain ways and how to not only meet their needs, but also the parents’ needs.”

In Colorado, Godzdanker not only fell in love with pediatric occupational therapy, but also the mountains and her then boyfriend became her husband. After passing her boards and skiing most weekends, she got a job as an occupational therapist at Boulder Community Hospital’s pediatric outpatient rehab center. She worked there for 10 years, mastering her assessment skills, learning the ins and out of sensory processing, and collaborating closely with other disciplines. She was on the Autism Diagnostics team working with the psychologist and speech therapists every week to help families navigate their neuro-divergent child during this most vulnerable time. Godzdanker was the feeding-OT guru of the hospi-

tal and even created and led the hospital’s Food Explorers camp. She became versed in feeding therapy, sensory processing disorders, emotional dysregulation, and motor coordination challenges. Godzdanker added, “In 2013, I became a mother and fell in love with the development of newborns, infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. For the first time, I could feel the powerful connection between parent and child, and how it affects emotions, behaviors, and therefore development. I understood firsthand how newborns can change the pace of the day, the energy in the home, and even the relationships between adults. Life as a new parent can be overwhelming, and then adding any sort of developmental delay or challenge can make it that much more daunting. I knew then, I wanted to be an early intervention occupational therapist.”

Four years later, Godzdanker started her own early intervention practice named Mountain Kids OT for her love and respect of the awe, wonder, and vast unpredictability of the mountains – just like the children she treats. Parenthood can be stressful, so “Let’s climb together to learn new skills” is Godzdanker's motto. She works closely with parents and wants her families to understand the reason why their children are behaving in certain ways so they, too, can one day solve problems as they arise. She practices and teaches co-regulation – the concept that the parent can teach their child how to self-regulate by modeling their own nervous system. She teaches families about

Carly Godzdanker of Mountain Kids OT makes feeding fun with ‘painting’ a child’s tongue with yogurt.

Carly Godzdanker motivates a child to experience new foods through play and touch.

the seven sensory systems and how they affect everyday life – play skills, social skills, self-care skills including sleep, motor skills, behavior, and even academic learning.

For many families, receiving occupational therapy is best in the home. For some families, it might be best at their daycares, on a playground, in a store, in a sensory gym, at a birthday party, or even at a restaurant. Wherever the challenge is, Godzdanker can accommodate and is a true believer that the environment where therapy takes place can be power-

ful. In-home therapy services can give young children an opportunity to master their new skills before trying to transfer them to more sensory – challenging environments such as a crowded classroom, a bright store, or a loud playground. Godzdanker specializes not only in sensory processing, motor development, and behavior, but also feeding challenges. Over the last 15 years of being a pediatric OT, she has seen the greatest rise in selective feeders. Children are pickier than ever, and mealtimes have become one of the most stressful times of day for many parents. She understands the progression of oral motor skills and how that can affect one’s ability to chew and swallow safely. She understands the complicated sensory processing needed to eat a variety of foods from various food groups and the emotional stress of a parent preparing a meal and a child refusing to eat it and so many other challenges children experience.

A parent of two shared, “We started working with Carly in December of 2023 when it was deemed that our then 2.5-year-old son needed feeding therapy. Carly helped us work through some aversions and negative behaviors regarding food and seeing as she looks at the child as a whole and not just the one challenge

that we initially started working with her for, we quickly learned that he needed help with gross motor skills as well. Nearly two years later, we have seen the most amazing progress in his ability and desire to run, jump, climb and do all the things that 4-year-old little boys love to do! He knows that Wednesday is ‘Miss Carly Day’ and wakes up saying how excited he is to see her after school! About six months ago, our younger son also began seeing Carly for feeding challenges related to some medical diagnoses. ‘Miss Carly’ has given us as parents, the confidence, tools and resources to help our boys overcome their challenges and we are so grateful to for her expertise and guidance as both boys have made immense progress!”

Godzdanker serves the East Cobb, Sandy Springs, and Roswell areas and, on a final note, added, “I’m so happy that kids love coming to OT. I can attest to the fact that gaining new skills can be fun and extremely rewarding for the entire family. It’s my greatest pleasure to make a difference and help children reach new heights in their development. To me, that’s what being an occupational therapist is about.”

For more information about her training, availability, groups, camps, and seminars, please visit www.mountainkids-ot.com. ì

Comprehensive Dermatology Care in Atlanta

Founded in 1979, Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, P.C. (DAA) has been helping the metro Atlanta area with all of their skin care needs for over 45 years. Their mission since opening has been to provide comprehensive skin care from head to toe. This means covering all aspects of both general and cosmetic dermatology. Their staff of board-certified dermatologists, physician assistants, and additional dermatological experts are dedicated to delivering the most professional and personal level of care to every patient they treat.

Led by their three partners including Dr. Scott Karempelis, Dr. Joseph Payne, and Dr. Ashley Curtis, the providers at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta have over 250 years of combined experience in their fields. Their licensed and experienced team of providers stay on the cutting edge when it comes to adopting and mastering new treatments and technologies for their patients. Each provider has a different specialty, allowing for treatments to be directly tailored to each patient’s unique skin. Dr. Karempelis and Dr. Curtis have been recognized as Top Doctors in Atlanta

for many years.

Dermatology Associates of Atlanta specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of the most common conditions and issues pertaining to the skin, hair, and nails. This includes providing a wide variety of safe and effective skin cancer treatments including Mohs skin cancer surgery, cryosurgery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), laser treatments, and more. They have comprehensive expertise in helping patients who experience acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, age spots, sun damaged skin, nail fungus, spider veins, unwanted

body hair, warts, moles, hair loss, and so much more.

Dermatology Associates of Atlanta is a comprehensive practice that features nine specialty centers within one location, all dedicated to promoting healthy skin, hair, and nails. This includes Skin MedicsTM Medical Spa, the Laser Institute of Georgia, and The Center for Non-Surgical Hair Loss, as well as an on-site surgical suite for any dermatological surgery procedures. This adds an additional element of convenience for all of their

patients, regardless of their specific needs. All laser treatments performed at the Laser Institute of Georgia are done so by boardcertified dermatologists or physician assistants, adding an additional level of safety for their patients.

The goal at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta remains providing the best possible skin care using the most advanced treatments and techniques available, while also making sure that each appointment is as comfortable, pleasant, and convenient for their patients as possible. For more information or to schedule an appointment today, contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta by phone (call or text) at (404) 256-4457. And find them online at DermAtlanta.com.

Front from left: Dr. D. Scott Karempelis; Dr. Ashley Curtis; Dr. Joseph Payne; Back from left: Danna Dennis Calder, M. M. Sc., PA-C; Mara P. Grosswald, PA-C; Ines Karempelis, PA-C; Del Henderson, PA-C

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Peretz Weighs in on Latest Knee Treatments

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

In varying sports circles, from pickleball to jogging, the convo swerves around hip and knee issues. Then, seniors further heap on complaints about “just getting old and wearing out like used car parts.”

Enter Dr. Jeff Peretz, who has been practicing at Resurgens since 2011, and puts a finer point on the conditions by stating, “Knee and hip issues are very prevalent in the U.S. population. I mainly deal with and treat arthritis which affects about 25 percent of the U.S. adult population. This is approximately 75 million adults. Nearly half of these patients report daily limitations in activity due to their arthritis. As our population ages and people live longer, the numbers of those affected will certainly continue to increase. Older adults are also maintaining active lifestyles for much longer which increases the demand for treatment.”

Peretz sees a variety of conditions that affect knees both from overuse/activity and degeneration. There are several tendons around the knee joint that

can become inflamed from overuse. The patellar tendon, hamstring tendons, and quadriceps tendon are some of the more common ones. Peretz advises that appropriate stretching before activity and

gradually ramping up activity can help prevent overuse issues.

Some common ailments are a meniscus tear or a ligament injury with the most common degenerative problem

with knees as osteoarthritis, which affects the cartilage or cushioning in the joint. Activity can sometimes aggravate a knee with underlying osteoarthritis. Typical treatments are anti-inflammatory

Minesh Patel, MD

Samantha Shams, MD Ha Tran, MD Eiran Warner, MD

Jay Rhee, MD

Rajni Sinha, MD, MRCP

Nikita Amin, MD

Vipin Lohiya, MD

Trevor Feinstein, MD Jamie Haber, MD

Eric Mininberg, MD

Vasily Assikis, MD Jonathan Bender, MD

William Jonas, MD

Bassel Nazha, MD, MPH

Christine Son, MD J WilliamThomas, MD

Kyle Kidwell, MD

Dr. Jeff Peretz after his 500th robotic surgery.

medications, injections, bracing, and physical therapy.

In terms of knee procedures, Peretz’s most common are knee arthroscopy and replacement. The former is a procedure where structures inside the knee can be treated in a minimally invasive procedure using a camera and small incisions. Meniscus tears, some ligament injuries, and certain cartilage issues can be treated similarly.

Peretz explained, “This is usually an outpatient procedure and is the most common orthopedic procedure performed around the world. Knee replacement is a procedure where the cartilage surfaces of the knee are replaced with metal and plastic implants. This is also often an outpatient procedure. It’s a much longer recovery compared to arthroscopy. Knee replacement is the best surgical procedure for knees that have osteoarthritis and have failed conservative management with medications, injections, and therapy.”

Some of Peretz’s emerging technology tools involve robotics which allow knee replacement to be performed with fewer instruments and utilize navigation to control implant sizing and position, and allow for optimal ligament balancing. These factors may allow for a quicker recovery compared to traditional knee replacement. The precision of robotic surgery also lowers the risk of implant failure and revision surgery. Peretz stated, “I find the robotic technique very useful in all knee replacements, but I find it to be particularly helpful in the more challenging procedures with more severe deformities.”

The Fountain of YOU.

Recovery after knee replacement varies and is usually performed as an outpatient with patients walking right after surgery and going home the same day. Typical recovery involves outpatient physical therapy and can take two to three months for patients to see significant functional improvement. He explained that quadriceps strength can take even longer and, many times, recovery can take longer than a few months. He usually performs from 10 to 20 knee replacements per month. Patients will often regain a normal level of function after they recover – they are often able to do activities they weren’t able to enjoy before surgery.

Some conservative treatments are anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, physical therapy and injections. Cortisone or steroid injections can help relieve symptoms. Hyaluronic acid injections are an alternative injection commonly used to treat knee osteoarthritis although results vary depending on the disease severity. Other types of injections such as PRP (platelet rich plasma) and stem cell injections may also provide some benefit.

Peretz and family live in Sandy Springs and belong to Temple Sinai. As for the “Peretz” name, his mother’s parents were Holocaust survivors from Greece, and his father was born in Israel. He laughed, “I enjoyed a Mediterranean diet growing up.”

Peretz went to Emory University, then the rest of his medical school, residency, and fellowship were in Philadelphia and Boston. ì

Dr. Peretz performs 10 to 20 knee replacements per month.

Applying the Wisdom of Mussar to Address Addiction

Jewish Family & Career Services of Atlanta (JF&CS) and The Temple recently joined forces to wed the enduring Jewish wisdom of Mussar with the challenging work of recovery and becoming one’s best self.

The organizations co-hosted a special event Oct. 28 to celebrate the publication of “Mussar in Recovery: A Jewish Spiritual Path to Serenity & Joy,” a new book by two Atlantans, Hannah L. with Rabbi Harvey Winokur. The book deftly synthesizes the Twelve Steps with the centuries-old Jewish wisdom of Mussar, which focuses on lived values and spiritual growth, and which is today practiced by Jews of all backgrounds.

The gathering was a moment of awareness and inspiration, illuminating both the profound impact of addiction within the Jewish community and the promise of Mussar as a spiritual path to healing, wholeness, and recovery. The well-attended event also sought to dispel the stigma that surrounds addiction in the Jewish community as well as provide hope to all those touched by addiction.

In addition, beginning in Janu-

ary 2026, The Temple and JF&CS will further amplify the book’s teachings through  va’ads, small groups of participants who will journey together along a Mussar-inspired path of reflection and renewal. These groups will explore teachings on spiritual development, personal growth, and ethical behavior as they move toward healing, recovery, serenity

and joy.

Emotional Heart of the Book

Hannah L., who has 22 years in recovery and a decade of Mussar study, shared her story of loving addicts, her own addiction, and her recovery journey, which forms the emotional heart of the book.

“Addiction starts with the use of something outside of you to make yourself feel better,” Hannah L. said, offering the examples of substances, food, gambling, work, technology, or control of others. “And the more of it you get, the more of it you need. You chase it and you become trapped in ‘never-ending seeking.’” When Hannah L. first sought help

Joel Dworkin, Danny Hirschhorn, Hannah L., and Rabbi Harvey Winokur

Rabbi Harvey Winokur and Hannah L. at “Mussar in Recovery” book event.

from her community (not Atlanta) with addiction-related challenges such as physical illness and emotional and financial distress, she encountered judgment, rejection, and shame. When she turned to her rabbi and synagogue for help, she was told that because she was behind on her dues, assistance was not available.

“I was met with a brick wall,” she said of that time.

Finding Mussar

Hannah encountered Rabbi Winokur and Mussar when she was leading an advisory committee for the JF&CS HAMSA program. Rabbi Winokur, who began his rabbinic journey at The Temple and later served for 36 years at Temple Kehillat Chaim, was himself exploring Mussar for his community. Now retired and Rabbi Emeritus, he is active as a facilitator of Mussar learning and practice with students across the U.S.

As Hannah L. became more steeped in Mussar, she discovered a “doorway” to self-refinement and a changed future in the book, “Everyday Holiness, The Jewish Spiritual Path of Mussar,” by Alan Morinis. “I couldn’t put it down,” she said. “It felt like I was reading all about myself and sensed that there might be hope.”

She soon realized that the structure of Mussar practice mirrored the 12-step recovery model and Mussar wisdom informed step work. Combining these, eventually she found self-acceptance and a revitalized love of Judaism, and she of-

fers her personal insights in her new book, which complements traditional recovery programs. The book brings a Jewish voice to recovery and provides supportive daily practices such as reminders, intentions, and personal reflections.

Persistent Misconception of Addiction

The authors were joined at the event by Joel Dworkin, Helping Atlantans Manage Substance Abuse (HAMSA) program manager at JF&CS, Danny Hirschhorn, JF&CS clinician, and Rabbi Loren Lapidus, senior associate rabbi at The Temple.

Hirschhorn, who moderated the discussion, said that one of the most persistent misconceptions about addiction is that it does not affect the Jewish community.

“There are people in our community who are directly and indirectly impacted by addiction who are currently struggling and in crisis,” he said. He added that the book event represents the start of a connection between “Mussar in Recovery” and JF&CS “in terms of support and assistance for these individuals and their families.”

With va’ads starting in January, he said he anticipates the transformation that can occur when the wisdom of Mussar is applied to the present day.

To learn more about va’ads, contact Joel Dworkin, HAMSA program manager, at jdworkin@jfcsatl.org. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

‘How to Raise Resilient Children’ Draws Large Crowd

By Debbie Diamond

Atlanta psychiatrist, Eric Fier, MD, and Ben Pargman spoke to a large group of parents during a presentation at Congregation Shearith Israel, “Teen Mental Health: Secrets to Raising Resilient Children in Our Current Culture,” on Oct. 28.

Ben Pargman began the discussion with a story about his son, Manny, who passed away shortly after Thanksgiving break last year while attending college as a freshman at the University of Colorado-Boulder. “Manny was the happiest kid I knew. He had tons of friends, was a talented musician, DJ, and athlete, and was so kind to everyone. When the deputy coroner of Boulder County called me to tell me my son had died by suicide, I thought he had the wrong person.”

He described his life as being “flipped upside down” after that day, and Pargman is on a mission to change how parents interact with their children. In fact, he was particularly struck by a comment made by a Boulder detective. “It’s extremely rare that parents say, ‘I knew this day would come.’ Many of the parents I contact are shocked when we reach out to them. They never see it coming,” he recounted.

“Manny came home during Thanksgiving and seemed a little more tired than usual. He jumped on our trampoline with his brothers, threw a ball with them, saw ‘Moana 2’ at the theater with all of us, and seemed more or less like himself. I took him to the airport and waved goodbye as he was leaving. Little did I know that 72 hours later, I would receive a call that would change all of our lives.

More meaningful, in-depth conversations between parents and their children are absolutely necessary, Pargman emphasized. He stressed that parents should not shy away from asking “hard questions” even if they feel uncomfortable.

“Ask the tough questions if you are concerned, even if they feel awkward,” he recommended. “I’ve noticed you’ve been sleeping a lot lately and wearing the same clothes. Is there something bothering you?” he suggested. He told the audience, “Even asking if your child has been thinking about or contemplating suicide is not off limits.” That question, in fact, could be the one that potentially saves a person’s life, he shared. Studies repeatedly show that people do not start thinking about suicide just because someone asks them about it.

Frequent and open communication

that allows children, teens, and young adults to fully explore their thoughts and feelings is necessary. Young people also may not tell their parents they are thinking about suicide out of concern over how they might react. But by asking direct, non-judgmental questions, parents can encourage their children to share their thoughts and feelings.

The one question Pargman told participants to stop asking high schoolers is where they want to go to college. He would like to make this question as socially unacceptable as asking someone about their income. Whether speaking with the most academically gifted student or a teen who prefers to look at pursuing music or a trade school, the question adds unnecessary anxiety to what could be a teen’s already stressful situation.

As Pargman ended his portion of the program, he warned those assembled about the dangers of the Internet. The dark web offers many websites and opportunities for a depressed or anxious young person to interact with a dangerous chatbot or find directions for taking their life. Parents should monitor their children’s usage and social media accounts, as warranted, as well as push back on premature requests for access to a cell phone, Pargman cautioned.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 14 and 15 to 24. The National Alliance of Mental Health, citing 2023 statistics, said 20 percent of U.S. high school students had serious thoughts of suicide in 2023. According to a 2024 report issued by the CDC, the number of adolescents reporting poor mental health is increasing. The study found that building strong bonds and connecting to youth can protect their mental health.

Fier reiterated Pargman’s call for connection, empathy and resilience among young people. Fier, a preeminent Atlanta psychiatrist and founder of TherapyWorks ATL, focused on how parents can actively help their children develop emotional strength. According to Fier, resilience and emotional intimacy are two of the most important qualities parents can help build in their children. He shared that parents can absolutely reframe situations by looking at the strength their child exhibited in any given scenario.

“Call attention to how your child persevered in any circumstance by asking questions about how they got through a tough time,” he suggested. “People can learn to change their narrative through a positive lens. As parents, we can shift our kids’ perception by asking what went right and how they overcame a tough situation,” he stressed.

He also emphasized the importance of what he calls “internal intimacy,” a person truly knowing and accepting themselves with all their disparate parts. In order to connect at a deeper level with others, people must first know themselves, he shared. Parents can help their children by modeling this behavior and teaching children how to be “fully present for the people they care about.”

“In my practice, I know that no amount of symptom checklists or diagnostic labels will ever replace what it means to be invited into the world of someone who is hurting and to be gifted with their trust. That’s essential -- and it’s sacred. That’s where healing takes place,” Fier emphasized.

Looking intently at the full room, he quickly followed up, stating, “Why should all this matter to you? Because it has everything to do with raising kind,

sensitive but anti-fragile, resilient and connected children.”

Fier shared the following six points that parents need to understand, remember and teach their kids:

Everyone is hurting. In some way, everyone is broken. Despite what social media would lead many to believe, everyone has pain. Not everyone takes fabulous vacations, is happy all the time and stays thin. And don’t compare one’s pain to another. Everyone has their pain.

Resilience has nothing to do with not hurting. Or with not bruising. Resilience is about the capacity to press ahead despite the pain. If anything, that pain can be the most precious gift people can carry and keeps individuals connected to humanity, empathy, and meaning.

Happiness is a byproduct, not a destination. Study after study shows that aiming for happiness almost always leads to disappointment and frustration. One of the most famous happiness studies showed that when you are doing things with the motivation and expectation that these things ought to make you happy, the likelier it will be that it will lead to disappointment and decreased happiness. The best way to increase happiness is to stop worrying about being happy and divert the energy to nurturing bonds with friends and other people.

Social bonds are not built through texting. Despite the fact teens and young adults are the most electronically connected generation in history, rates of reported loneliness are higher than ever. Texting is easy and convenient, but study after study has proven that all the LOLs and emojis in the world do not replace the actual expressions of kindness, understanding, empathy and shared experience.

What a Mirror Neuron is and why

Pia Koslow Frank and Leigh Rogoff, coordinators of the presentation, introduce the evening’s program.

Ben Pargman of Manny’s Band Eric Fier, MD, psychiatrist and founder of TherapyWorks ATL

they are important? Mirror neurons are clusters of cells throughout the brain that allow humans to subconsciously observe the movements, body language, and facial expressions of others and to mirror it back to them. For example, humans often smile when others are smiling or yawn when those around them yawn. Humans are neurologically hard-wired by these mirror neurons for empathy and for how they naturally show others they are connected and in-sync with them. It lets people literally feel seen. Unfortunately, mirror neurons do not work via social media such as Snapchat or by texting If anyone knows someone is hurting, they should visit them, sit with them, and hold their hand.

Preserve Childhood. Kids have the rest of their lives to be adults. They only get one chance to be kids -- and much of how they learn to be successful, semiwell-adjusted adults is learned in childhood. The outside world will expose children to developmentally inappropriate subjects at young ages. These themes are not a normal part of child development. Children, aged 5 to 10, just need to play – and that play does not take place on a screen. Boredom can be a gift that propels children to read books, go outside and look for friends with whom to play.

“For our kids to develop into healthy, individuated, capable adults, they need to see themselves as the beautifully complex, nuanced, multifaceted individuals that G-d created them to be” said Fier.

Individuation is the process by which an individual develops a unique and distinct personality, becoming their own separate self through integration of conscious and unconscious elements. Fier cautioned parents to steer their children away from defining themselves by their pronouns, psychological diagnoses, or what they see as broken. He mentioned that he hears many kids identifying themselves by way of their psychological conditions, instead of telling stories of who they are, what they like, the challenges they overcame or the resilience they displayed.

“Now, if you are a bit impulsive, lose track of time, and really enjoy your deep dives, you are not a creative, interesting, tangential thinker, you’re ADHD. If too much eye contact makes you uncomfortable and you’re a bit hesitant to start conversations, you’re no longer shy, you have social anxiety,” he shared.

To reshape children’s narratives about themselves, he told parents to approach their children when they observe them navigating through something difficult – and pressing through it. Making comments like, “I noticed that you were

HEALTH & WELLNESS

really struggling with that assignment,” “I know it still hurts, but I really admire how you got through that,” or “How did you do that? Where did that strength or that skill come from?” are not just compliments, according to Fier. Parents are calling their attention to the fact that their children persevered and are capable, durable and resilient.

Another important activity for instilling empathy and resilience in kids, said Fier, is to encourage children to make a difference in someone else’s life. When parents and children participate, they should talk to the people they are helping to truly connect. Joining Chabad’s Friendship Circle to visit a child once a week and throw a baseball or shoot hoops, delivering food to a food pantry and serving a meal at a shelter are all activities he suggested. He believes that is how kids learn what it means to have a sense of purpose and connection.

The funny, animated and approach able Fier spoke about many subjects dur ing his talk, including the importance of spending time in nature with children, practicing how to have a sense of awe, experiencing Shabbat as a family, and creating quiet and peaceful spaces in life. Developing these qualities is an essential part of parenting and fosters the emo tional intimacy needed in today’s hectic world.

The informative presentation was coordinated by Pia Koslow Frank and Leigh Rogoff. On the Sunday following the talk, Koslow Frank and Rogoff, as well as Ben Pargman, led a large group of volunteers representing Manny’s Band on the Out of Darkness community walk at Piedmont Park.

Manny’s Band was founded last year to honor the memory of Manny Pargman, a creative, dynamic, empathetic and vibrant young man who touched the souls of all he met. A gifted musician, Manny was a talented drummer and DJ, as well as a natural athlete who played baseball and soccer. Manny’s Band provides advocacy and education training to teens, teachers and music mentors; supports Greek life and faith organizations in building grassroots prevention networks; hosts music festivals and events that raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations; and award scholarships for youth-created mental health content on TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms.

The first Manny’s Band Concert will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Buckhead Theatre. A limited number of tickets are currently available and may be purchased at https://mannysband.org/ the-mannys-band-concert/ ì

Tips on How to Cheer Someone Up

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

A few minutes of your attention and time can make someone’s day. The secret to cheering someone up is often effortless. Lifting a person’s spirit is like a boomerang, spreading gladness in both directions. It goes a long way. Whether you’re on the giving or receiving side, the power of thoughtfulness is kindness at its best.

This writer’s dear friend, H. Jackson Brown, Jr., wrote a little book for his son, Adam, who was headed to college called, “Life’s Little Instruction Book - 511 Suggestions, Observations, and Reminders on How to Live a Happy and Rewarding Life ” Published in 1991, this little plaid book was one of the world’s bestselling books on the New York Times Bestseller’s list for two years and a mega-sensation. It chronicled all the little things Jack wanted his son to know he valued, including one of my favorites, “Be kinder than necessary.”

The book was featured on NBC WXIA TV’s “Noonday,” and it touched readers of all ages and became a literary blockbuster around the world.

Jack’s life’s lessons continue to be relevant as we learn the power of caring more than necessary. As demonstrated in his book, good deeds, good thoughts and making someone else’s day lift others. To put a smile on someone else’s face, children do it all the time.

In Jack’s beloved memory and his little instruction book that will live forever in readers’ hearts around the world, here are some instructions for kind ways and cheering someone up:

Join your caring community. Many neighborhoods and synagogues have “caring committees” and on a regular basis reach out to members who have a loss, an illness, or life challenge. Whether you deliver dinner or write condolence notes or get-well sentiments, when your community reaches out, it shows thought and support. Your kind gesture representing a larger entity will touch someone’s heart and make a difference.

Be generous in spirit. Sometimes just a call or card hits the spot. Anyone dealing with a lot on their shoulders will appreciate a text if they don’t have time to talk. Don’t overthink it. A thoughtful message is a powerful expression. Atlanta’s well-known and beloved Marilyn Shubin is an example of someone who never misses a chance to acknowledge someone’s joy, send healing thoughts, or share her well wishes. She embod-

ies kindness and if you’ve ever received one of her magnificently scripted notes, you’ll feel the thoughtfulness. Keep in mind these five words, “I am thinking of you” and share them often.

Gift a binge-watching TV list. Select your all-time favorites and think about the hours of enjoyment someone will receive watching those shows. With a little thought, you’d be amazed how endless hours of a hot new Netflix or Prime Video movie or series can pull someone through a long recovery who is home bound for a while. An enjoyable distraction will lighten someone’s load. Choose a great documentary about a resilient icon or a romantic comedy for someone who needs a little lifting up.

Share miles of smiles. Cheering someone up is easy. You don’t have to make chicken soup from scratch, though that’s always a winner. When someone needs a little pep in their step, consider what will make them smile. With AI, you don’t even have to be a poet … “Roses are red and violets are blue. I don’t know

what I’d do without you!” Cheesy? Yes. However, stick with me. Would you turn that sentiment down if your daughter or son sent it? Not a chance.

Organize a game day. AJT colleague Marcia Jaffe organized a mahjong game following a best friend’s surgery. It was such a thoughtful thing to do and transformed an afternoon into a wonderful time shared. Not only did her friend meet a few nice individuals she didn’t know, but playing a shared favorite game, she was able to have a break and enjoy an afternoon. Marcia hit a home run celebrating her housebound friend who enjoyed it immensely.

Plan a movie night. Showtime! Drop off a big bag of popcorn, a few boxes of candy, and that wonderful list of movies for a night out, especially when someone is stuck in the house. Depending on their interests, it’s easy to find some suggestions that they’ll enjoy and watch onea-day for a few weeks. They’ll have you thank for making time fly. Get imaginative. Take a moment

and remember sometimes a stuffed animal still goes a long way with a child. Even if it’s just a smile, find one you think your grandchildren will enjoy.

Deliver freezer pleasers. Lunches and dinners can be monumental when someone does not have the ability or time to prepare meals. Whether you organize a meal train or deliver items yourself, there are many ways to feed a need. Sweeten a day with delicious popsicles or an array of small cups of ice cream that will be a welcomed treat. Ask what their favorite flavor is and knock yourself out. Many ice cream stores have kiddie-sized portions, and you can easily order a dozen and bring all the toppings for an ice cream bar.

And finally, remember it’s not just the thought that counts, it’s the call, the card, the good deed and kind words that matter. As H. Jackson Brown, Jr., taught us, don’t delay generous thoughts. If you are blessed and able to do so, take a minute, make a mitzvah, and check up on a friend, family member, or neighbor. It’s the little things that mean a lot. ì

The little things go a long way when trying to cheer someone up.

ARTS & CULTURE

South African Spirit Spills into Eclectic Painting

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Jenny Salmenson Daniels started her artistic trajectory by painting intricate African designs on dried bamboo stalks as her introduction to art. She experimented with pouring, but found it “messy, wasteful, and unpredictable.” She then moved to canvas and discovered her true creative outlet.

She explained, “I now paint mostly with acrylics and mixed media, often incorporating spackle for texture and using recycled materials for added interest and depth. Almost nothing gets thrown away in our home — anything could become part of a future piece.”

Friends might say, “I had no idea you could paint,” and her response is always, “Neither did I.” She was 60 when she picked up a brush for the first time. “When others say they can’t paint, I tell them, ‘You’ll never know unless you try.’ I certainly didn’t.”

Initially, painting was something she did solely for herself with no aspiration beyond that. Then one evening over dinner, a good friend offered to be her manager. That moment sparked a new chapter, and together they began exhibiting her work at art festivals like the Cherry Blossom Festival, Dunwoody Art Festival, Chastain Art Festival, Inman Park Art Festival, and Piedmont Park Art Festival.

Daniels emigrated from South Africa to Atlanta in 1994. At the time, her daughters were 9 and 7, and life was focused entirely on settling in and helping to support the family. Pursuing an artistic interest wasn’t even on her radar.   She shared. “I had no idea what I was capable of — or if I was capable of anything creative at all. What I did have,

however, was a persistent and powerful urge to paint. I think I was born with it. As a child, I couldn’t talk on the phone without grabbing a pen and doodling patterns while I chatted.”

In 2018, after retiring from a real “day job,” and finally having the time, she strolled into Binders Art Supplies to stock

up on materials. She is especially drawn to vibrant, colorful abstract art often inspired and influenced by the distinct colors of Africa — “bright, uplifting hues that bring joy.” Lately, she’s been leaning toward cooler palettes: blues, greens, and grays.

One of her most unique and popular collections is the “Comic Series,” a detailed and bold body of work. These pieces are intricate and time-consuming, often taking weeks to complete. She works on two or three pieces simultaneously to allow for drying time and to give herself space to step away and return with rested eyes. Daniels labels her style “eclectic” since she doesn’t follow a single technique or style.

She explained, “In fact, people are often surprised that all my pieces come from the same artist. I enjoy the freedom of abstract art — it has no rules, no boundaries. My portfolio includes florals, silhouettes, skylines, oceans, and anything else that captures my imagination.”

One quote that resonates deeply with her is by famed artist Salvador Dalí:

“The fact that I myself do not understand what my paintings mean while I am painting them does not imply that they are meaningless.”

Reading that brought her a sense of comfort. “I’m often asked what inspires me, but in truth, my process only begins once I put the brush to the canvas. I rarely start with a plan — I just keep going until something within me feels complete.”

She has explored more deliberate themes like her mini-series, “World on Fire,” a visual response to the devastation and destruction of the global conflicts happening around the world. Some of her most emotional pieces are silhouettes of parents, couples, or children holding hands and the communication of gentle touch. Often her abstracts start with stark black and then contrast pale aqua and peach with the tiniest of yellow flecks.

Contact and view Daniels’ art on Instagram: Jennyd_art.

Her pieces range in size and price, with the larger 48” x 36” paintings priced between $750 to $950, and smaller- to medium-sized from $200 to $650. ì

Jenny Daniels encourages others to explore creativity later in life.

This piece is part of Daniels’ “Comic Series.” Mother and child using spackle

“World on Fire” “Genome”

Italian Food and Wine Elevated on the Beltline

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Italian tradition takes many forms. Indaco (meaning “Indigo”) is rooted in tradition and season. It leans into handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas, vegetables, and crudo with seasonal influence, all intended to be shared.

The extensive wine list and cocktails highlight Italian varietals; but don’t expect red checkered tablecloths and plastic ivy on the walls. Instead, Indaco’s interior is polished, refreshing with an open kitchen by the entrance moody and music, all while billing itself as “a place to slow down and savor together.”

Overlooking the Beltline, the large outdoor patio is one level up vs. being directly on the “track.” One fun twist is its bocce course. Bocce is a lawn game where players roll balls towards a target “palino,” which adds a lively feel to the outdoor dining experience.

Although originating in Egypt, bocce was popularized in Italy which gives it all the more flair. Indaco has two patios, one covered seating 42, the other uncovered for 31, with a full 150 capacity indoors. The service is friendly, well-paced, and attentive.

General Manager Macy Laster likes to think of Indaco as a speakeasy because, to reach the restaurant, one must ride an elevator, and there is no street visibility. She describes the clientele as “families with kids who want a nice meal out, and a lot of young professionals. A nice variety. We do a lot of celebrations and birthdays. My favorite preparation is Agnolitti, which means ‘little pillow,’ my interpretation of ‘sweet dreams’ where braised beef marries a pasta and has a baby. All around we consider ourselves to be elevated, but approachable.”

A Sampling:

Smooth Chanti Classico Castello Di Bossi, Tuscany 2022 ($14 per glass) plus a signature cocktail Tintura No. 2 ($17), pear infused tequila, honey, lemon, Cocchi Americana, cinnamon; they also offer spirit-free options for $10.

Antipasti

Tuna Tartare ($19): Marcona almond (interesting touch) chili crisp, Castelvetrano olives on a thick focaccia, which, since our visit, this bread base has been slimmed down for the better.

Kale Salad ($15): shaved apple, lavender vinaigrette, Humbolt Fog goat cheese, and pine nuts. Large kale leaves, after getting through some expert cutting, lead the way to a rich tasting blend. Humbolt Fog is a semi-soft, American-made

goat cheese (from Cypress Grove, Calif.) known for its distinctive line of vegetable ash running through the center.

Piatti

Whole Branzino ($49): salmoriglio (green sauce), arugula, red onion, parsley. Lots of depth in an authentic presentation. We asked for the fish head “off.”

Contori

Crispy Potatoes ($11): sharable portion, Calabrian chili aioli, parmesan (coated in salt not noted on menu)

Crispy Brussel Sprouts ($11): sherry, pinenuts, Pecorino (sheep’s cheese) sweet yet sassy, shareable.

Dessert

Apple Crostata ($14): roasted Georgia apples, salted caramel, spiced pecans

Apple Cider Soft Serve ($9): pecan, praline, caramel. All in keeping with Georgia’s autumnal apple bonanza.

Options for next time:

For the Table: $65 per guest for the three adventurous courses served family style (chef’s choice)

Pizza

Spicy Soppressata ($24): tomato (San Marzano), mozzarella, basil, honey, parmesan

Funghi ($22): garlic oil, smoked mozzarella, pioppino (black poplar, velvet mushrooms known for their nutty taste), caramelized onion, fried rosemary. Adventurous to fry the spices’ twigs?

Cappelleti ($29): sweet corn, serrano, mint, mascarpone, Espelette pepper

Bucatina ($32): white wine, butter, black truffle, pecorino

Charred broccolini ($10)

Laster’s favorite pizza is the Margherita which she claims will satisfy all cravings. She also noted that prices on

some items like the hangar steak vary when it’s truffle season which could be $72 or $58 like it is now.

There are seven Indaco’s including Nashville, West Palm, Greenville, and Charlotte. Jezebel Magazine in 2024 put Indaco on their “Best of Atlanta List.” Indaco is part of the Indigo Road Group which includes OK-U on Howell Mill, and two restaurants in Avalon: Collette and Oak Steakhouse.

Indaco is located next to the Kroger in the Black Rock building, where diners have a short elevator ride to the restaurant at 725 Ponce de Leon Ave., just east of Ponce City Market. Parking in the building’s lower level is validated for two hours. An independent valet out front charges $6.

For more information, please call 404-205-5183. ì

Royal blue and white accent the toney banquettes // Photo Credit: Heidi Harris

Crispy potatoes, branzino, brussels sprouts, and charred broccolini made for a hearty meal.

The apple crostata and apple cider soft serve were a tasty nod to Georgia’s autumnal apple bonanza.

Little Gem Cesar’s creativity was noted with touches of lavender.

CALENDAR

Daily

Chattahoochee Nature Center’s Naturally Artistic Interactive Exhibits – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Experience the beauty of art and nature intertwined at Naturally Artistic, a seasonal interactive exhibit at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. This year’s theme, Ecological Patchwork, explores how we are all interconnected through the natural world around us. As you journey through the grounds, you’ll be invited to reflect, journal, and engage in creative activities that inspire a deeper appreciation for nature and the ties that unite us all. Purchase tickets online at https://tinyurl. com/ye6bebdn.

Saturday, November 15

Women’s Philanthropy Pomegranate Journey to Panama - Join Women’s Philanthropy for a four-night journey to explore the dynamic community of Panama City, Panama. We will share an unforgettable journey to Panama City, where Jewish heritage, culture, and adventure come together. Discover the city’s thriving Jewish community, meet local leaders, and see how our Federation dollars support impactful initiatives. Explore both Ashkenazi and Sephardic synagogues, connect with inspiring Jewish women, and savor outstanding kosher cuisine. Take a handson cooking class with an Israeli chef in the historic Old Quarter, enjoy a VIP tour of the Miraflores Locks, and engage in meaningful volunteer activities. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Casco Viejo, Gamboa Island, and Punta Pacifica on this extraordinary experience. Sign up at https:// tinyurl.com/3huz2skv.

Shake It Up Shabbat at Etz Chaim – 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join us at Etz Chaim for our monthly Shabbat morning service geared toward students in kindergarten through seventh grades and their families. The goal of this service is for everyone to become more comfortable in the Radow Sanctuary, where our classes will lead parts of the service. After services, we invite you to join us for our kiddush lunch. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/29d2bcw7.

Veterans Shabbat at Etz Chaim – 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join us at Etz Chaim as our Men’s Club honors those who have served or are still serving our country for a special Veteran’s Day Shabbat to be followed by a kiddush luncheon. Discover more at https://tinyurl.com/msc277bd.

Sing-a-long Shabbat at Etz Chaim – 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Congregation Etz Chaim and the Etz Chaim Preschool invite you and your family to join us for Sing-a-long Shabbat geared for families with young children. Find out more at https://tinyurl. com/yc7ez6ts.

Evening with Ricky Kalmon – 7 p.m.

An unforgettable evening with celebrity hypnotist Ricky Kalmon at Congregation Gesher L’Torah. Purchase tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/yc7xny6n.

MJCCA Book Fest: Douglas Murray, On Democracies and Death Cults – 8 pm.

In his travels through Israel and Gaza, No. 1 international bestselling author Douglas Murray has seen the best and the worst humanity has to offer, and he has no trouble choosing a side. Murray is not Jewish and before Oct. 7, he had never lived in Israel. However, he objects to being lied to, and Israel has been on the receiving end of the biggest, deepest, longest lies in history. Find tickets at https://tinyurl.com/ mr3jf2e3.

Sunday, November 16

Recognizing when your Child Needs Help – 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Are you worried about your child? Think they might be depressed? Concerned they might harm themselves? Snacks and coffee will be available. RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/2w3akck4.

November 2025 Jewish Camp Fair -12:30 to 2 p.m. Discover the best Jewish camps for summer 2026 – all in one place! Join MJCCA for the Jewish Camp Fair and connect with 7-plus top Jewish day and overnight camps. Meet camp directors and staff. Ask questions about programs, activities, and schedules. Learn about scholarship opportunities. Enjoy camp-themed activities for kids. Explore our brand-new Camp Gear Shuk (pre-loved overnight camp essentials donated by our community!) Register early at https://tinyurl.com/2x236yfr.

50+ Singles Fall Happy Hour- 5 to 7 p.m. 50-plus age singles, join us at Baraonda Ristorante for happy hour. Appetizers and cash bar. Baraonda is generously offering a 10 percent discount to all our guests who have dinner after the event. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/mt4p47n6.

MJCCA Book Fest: Sanjay Gupta, MD, It Doesn’t Have to Hurt – 7 p.m. In “It Doesn’t Have to Hurt,” Sanjay Gupta makes the empowering argument that there are effective options for relief that you can start practicing today to greatly reduce your chances of suffering pain tomorrow. The significance of reducing and even eliminating pain cannot be overstated. Gupta shows how pain carries an enormous amount of physical, social, and emotional baggage, which is, in part, why it has been so hard to treat, and too often ignored. It can also present in infinite ways. Yet, both patients and practitioners labor under the mistaken idea that most pain problems can be fixed with a drug or procedure. Reserve tickets at https://tinyurl.com/3xwdu8ju.

Monday, November 17

AgeWell Canasta and Mah Jongg at Etz Chaim – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. AgeWell and Congregation Etz Chaim invite you to join us for fun and games! Free and open to the community. Playing knowledge of mah jongg and canasta are preferred. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/ y67j2fv6.

Tuesday, November 18

Progressive Judaism in Israel with CEO Anna Kislanski – 7 to 8 p.m. One of the most influential voices in Israeli Reform Judaism, Anna Kislanski, CEO of The Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism, will join us for an inspiring community-wide talk. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from a leading figure shaping Jewish communities in Israel and beyond. All members of our congregation — and our Reform community from across the region — are warmly invited to attend. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ bddrhnec.

Wednesday, November 19

JBaby Dunwoody Neighborhood Small Group - 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A fiveweek small group series for local families to bond over music, education, support, and playtime. Designed for babies ages 0–12 months and their parent(s). In this warm, welcoming space, neighborhood families come together for playful learning and meaningful support. You’ll connect with other parents, learn from developmental experts, and share new experiences with your little one — building friendships and a deeper connection to your community along the way. Sign up at https://tinyurl. com/355wk9td.

Josh Goldberg Sings Broadway with Joe Alterman – 7 p.m. Neranenah presents Josh Goldberg Sings Broadway w/Joe Alterman live at Eddie’s Attic! Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/z2ryns5b.

Thursday, November 20

JTECH – 6 to 7:30 p.m. JTech is an innovative and dynamic community that connects Jewish professionals in Atlanta’s thriving tech industry. It's a hub for networking, collaboration, and growth, where you can learn from cutting-edge industry leaders, share ideas, and make an impact through meaningful engagement with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. JTech is where technology meets purpose, offering endless opportunities to connect, inspire, and shape the future of both the tech world and the Jewish community. Register at https://tinyurl.com/2hp5s89r.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Chayei Sarah

Friday, November 14 Light Shabbat Candles: 5:16 PM

Saturday, November 15 Shabbat Ends: 6:13 PM

Torah Reading: Toldot

Friday, November 21 Light Shabbat Candles: 5:13 PM

Saturday, November 22 Shabbat Ends: 6:10 PM

Torah Reading: Vayeitzei

Friday, November 28 Light Shabbat Candles: 5:11 PM

Saturday, November 29 Shabbat Ends: 6:09 PM

Stand-Up for Israel: Daniel-Ryan Spaulding LIVE in Atlanta – 7:30 to 9 p.m. Join the Atlanta Israel Coalition (AIC) for an evening of fearless, hilarious, and unapologetically bold stand-up with international sensation Daniel-Ryan Spaulding — known for his viral comedy, his soldout Off-Broadway show, “POWER GAY,” and his outspoken defense of Israel and Western liberal values. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/2cfzdfaz.

Friday, November 21

Music and Play – 11 a.m. to 12 p.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! Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/mr2ezpwp.

JBaby Intown Neighborhood Small Group – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A fiveweek small group series for local families to bond over music, education, support, and playtime. Designed for babies ages 0–12 months and their parent(s). In this warm, welcoming space, neighborhood families come together for playful learning and meaningful support. You’ll connect with other parents, learn from developmental experts, and share new experiences with your little one — building friendships and a deeper connection to your community along the way. Register at https://tinyurl. com/ydb388ta.

Saturday, November 22

Shabbat in the Park @ Brook Run – 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy playground time, challah, grape juice, Shabbat songs and prayers with Rabbi G. Go shopping at DHA Farmer’s Market (9 a.m. to12 p.m.). Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/yyr9w2bs.

Sunday, November 23

Stroll & Roll: Walk with JBaby Dunwoody – 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. At JBaby, we’re so grateful for our amazing community! This season, we’re celebrating all that we have to be thankful for — crisp fall weather, our sweet babies, and the chance to connect with other parents who are right in the same stage of life. Come enjoy a casual stroll through a Dunwoody park, meet other local families, and relax with snacks and coffee. It’s an easygoing, family-friendly morning — the perfect way to get some fresh air and community connection. Register at https://tinyurl.com/3mvpmkfy.

Monday, November 24

AgeWell Canasta and Mah Jongg at Etz Chaim – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. AgeWell and Congregation Etz Chaim invite you to join us for fun and games! Free and open to the community. Playing knowledge of mah jongg and canasta are preferred. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/ y67j2fv6.

Friday, November 28

Music and Play – 11 a.m. to 12 p.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! Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/mr2ezpwp. ì

Bundt Noodle Kugel

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, melted

3/4 cup packed Haddar Dark Brown Sugar

1 cup chopped walnuts (or other types of nuts or apples, if preferred)

4 eggs

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1 cup sour cream

3/4 cup Gefen Applesauce

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 pound Manischewitz Medium

Egg Noodles, cooked and drained

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and coat a Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Pour 1/4 cup of the melted butter into the pan, tilting the pan to distribute it evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. Top with the nuts.

3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add the granulated sugar, sour cream, applesauce, remaining 1/4 cup butter, salt, and cinnamon and whisk to combine. Add the noodles and thoroughly mix to coat. Pour into the prepared Bundt pan on top of the walnut mixture.

4. Bake for one hour, or until browned. Remove from the oven and let cool for five minutes. Run a knife around the edges or gently shake the kugel to loosen, then invert the pan onto a serving plate. Remove the pan; the nuts will be on top of the kugel.

The Proposal

Hannah comes home from her afternoon out with her boyfriend, Arnold, looking very unhappy.

“What’s the matter, Hannah?” asks her mother.

“Arnold has asked me to marry him,” she replies.

“Mazel tov! But why do you look so sad?” her mother asks.

“Because he also told me that he is an atheist. Oh, mom, he doesn’t even believe in hell.”

Her mother then says, “That’s all right, Hannah, it really isn’t a problem. I suggest you marry him and between the two of us, we’ll show him just how wrong he is.”

YIDDISH WORD

Shlum schlump

n. A person who is dedicated to making peace among friends and family members yet always ends up making things worse.

“Sophie wasn’t speaking to Iris, so Myron, that shlum schlump, entered the scene, and now Sophie isn’t speaking to Iris, Meredith, or Myron.”

From the Yiddish “shlum,” meaning, “peace,” and “schlump,” or “a person who is inept.”

Photography by Ellen Silverman Recipe by Ruth Webber Kosher.com

The Cutting Edge

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

ACROSS

1. Get ready, for short

5. Common juice berry

9. Chicken, e.g.

13. Jewish fraternity

14. Promises

15. Often luxurious seat on a plane

16. Jewish ritual involving a blade

18. Divide

19. Lakers’ local rivals, on the scoreboard

20. Stops fasting

21. Direction for making Kool-Aid

22. The start

24. Jewish ritual involving a blade

27. Looney Tunes “Devil,” for short

29. Very little

30. Steroids Era slugger

33. Stat. for Stockton

36. There are 2,000 in a ton: Abbr.

39. Jewish ritual involving a blade

42. Neighbor of Wash. and Mont.

43. 10% payment

44. Rochester’s favorite governess

45. Flowing garment

47. It’s in Brazil

49. Jewish ritual involving a blade

53. Chilling, literally

This week, 100 years ago

57. Where Samson wielded a jawbone, in Judges

58. Bread of India

60. Alternative to FedEx

61. Rock music’s Rush or the Police

62. Daniel Craig hit...or an alternative title for this puzzle

64. Long-running morning TV host

65. Tribe of some Jews

66. Ernie and Bert’s pal

67. NASDAQ part: Abbr.

68. Talking TV horse

69. SportsCenter network

DOWN

1. Senor Picasso

2. Aired “I Love Lucy,” e.g.

3. Quite the tales

4. Fruit leftover, perhaps

5. Asics competitor

6. Stallions-to-be

7. Abundant (with)

8. Jewish man

9. Beet soup (Var.)

10. At first

11. Modernize, as a factory

12. Moreh ___ (leading Rabbi)

$15M United Jewish Campaign to relocate starving Jewish immigrants from Russia, assembles its entire office in downtown Chicago from nothing in the space of five days.

This week, 75 years ago

A new radio series of Jewish history, stories, and holidays begins to air on WSB, narrated by Mel Brandt.

A plaque to Jewish revolutionary war hero Francis Salvador is installed near Charleston’s city hall for the local Jewish community’s bicentennial.

In Yugoslavia, 250 German Army officers are pardoned of war crimes and sent home.

WWII hero Lt. Col. Samuel Spitzer, whose knowledge of Yiddish helped him single-handedly capture 508 Nazi prisoners, dies of a heart attack in Seoul, Korea.

Leaders of various synagogue sisterhoods meeting at Ahavath Achim. From left to right, Sheila Minsk, Paula Edelstein, Louise Habif, Marilyn Benveniste, Betty Minsk, and, seated, Nancy Goldberg and Doris Goldstein

This week, 50 years ago

Mr. and Mrs. Hymie Shemaria of Atlanta announce the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Kathy Lynn Shemaria, at Congregation Or VeShalom.

Representatives from synagogue sisterhoods in Atlanta of various denominations meet at Ahavath Achim, the first ever such meeting.

The newest synagogue in Atlanta chooses its name –“Etz Chaim.”

17. Instagram company

23. Louis XIV, self-referentially

25. “Both are fine”

26. ___ nostra

28. More clownish

30. School subj. with a lab

31. Kosher letters when milk is involved, perhaps

32. Enterprise and Jefferson

34. Rank above Cpl.

35. HAFTR, e.g.

37. Possible mitzvah?

38. Michael, Abigail, or Batsheva

40. “Can ___ true?”

41. “Exodus” author Uris

46. Clevelander, e.g.

48. Skye crucial to crossword construction

49. “Violet” or “sound” introduction

50. Actress Gilpin and others

51. Child or circle

52. Like a child, often

54. Biblical bane of some Israelites

55. Patsy

56. Hit-maker John

59. Dedicated

62. Air France alternative

63. Date

Jewish historian Rabbi Bertram Korn is promoted to rear admiral in the Naval Reserve, the first Jewish chaplain to achieve such a rank.

BBYO of Atlanta sponsors a Dance-A-Thon to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

This week, 25 years ago

Jewish Atlanta reels from the revelation of a GBI investigation into an apparent antisemitic attack at Temima High School, which determined the attack was fabricated by a student.

The AJT reflects on the legacy of Yitzhak Rabin, five years after his assassination.

Melin and Barbara Seligman of Atlanta announce the engagement of their daughter, Jill Seligman, to Scott Goodman, son of Richard and Carole Goodman.

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

Marvin Stanley Epstein

87, Atlanta

It is with love and heavy hearts that the family of Marvin Stanley Epstein, 87, announce his passing, Oct. 29, 2025.

Born on Jan. 9, 1938, Marvin lived a life defined by devotion to his family, his work, and his beloved University of Alabama. Marvin had a distinguished 45-year career as a financial advisor where he earned numerous accolades recognizing his professional excellence and integrity. Admired by his peers, he was known for his wisdom, generosity, and leadership within the financial community. Above all, he was celebrated for his unwavering dedication and tireless commitment to the clients who entrusted him with their futures.

Marvin shared his life with his wife, Carole Anthony Epstein. Together they built a life rich with love, laughter, and family. He was a proud “bonus” father to Gaye Lynn Murdoch (Brian Maddalena) and Joye Anthony Murdoch, a proud grandfather to John David Critchfield, Betsy Joye Murdoch (Mark Mondary), and Ryan Austin Sweeney, and a delighted great-grandfather to 3-year-old Edison Belle Mondary. His bonus family also includes niece, Terri Crowther (Joe), nephew, Tim Harris (Deanna), and their families, as well as nephew, Blaine Harris (Misty), and niece, Lynda Clenney (Scott).

Marvin is also survived by his beloved brother, Richard Epstein (Carole), his nephew, Jason Epstein (Lacey), and niece, Leslie Thompson (Chris). Marvin also was blessed with his great-nephew, Campbell and great-nieces, Sydney and Lilly.

Marvin was proceeded in death by his parents, Flo and Louis Epstein.

Marvin’s lifelong love for the University of Alabama extended far beyond the football field. In a remarkable act of dedication, he was contacted by the president of the University of Alabama to help increase the Jewish student population on campus. Partnering with his dear friend, Bruce Weinstein, and the Jewish Community Center, Marvin helped design a visionary recruitment strategy. Each year, Marvin and Bruce hosted young Jewish students and their families in Atlanta, where the university president and dean of admissions personally presented opportunities and campus life. Over the 15 years that this program flourished, Jewish enrollment at the University of Alabama quadrupled, leaving a legacy that Marvin helped to build.

In honor of Marvin’s enrollment mission, his family and ZBT fraternity are proud to announce the Marvin S. Epstein Memorial Scholarship Fund. In keeping with Marvin’s generous spirit, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Marvin S. Epstein Memorial Scholarship Fund in lieu of flowers.  When making your donation, please check the “Dedicate my Donation” box and enter Marvin’s name.

Beyond his professional and philanthropic accomplishments, Marvin’s heart was always beating for two things above all else: family and Alabama football. Saturdays in the fall were sacred, spent in crimson and white, cheering for the Crimson Tide whether from the stands in Tuscaloosa or from stadiums across the country. SEC football is more than a pastime; it is a shared joy that ties generations together, a rhythm of loyalty and pride that reflects how Marvin lived his life: with passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. His love for Alabama football mirrored his love for his family … fierce, enduring, and full of spirit.

Marvin’s laughter, wisdom, and steadfast presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of devotion to his loved ones and his team will continue to echo through the lives he touched. Roll Tide!

Caroline Suzanne Heilweil 79, Atlanta

Caroline Suzanne Heilweil passed away from multiple system atrophy on Oct. 28, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. She had handled her neurodegenerative disease with the grace that she lived her life with. To her many friends, she also served as a model of calm and caring manner.

Caroline was born in May 1946 in Woking, England. She had numerous homes because her father was a Royal Air Force officer. When she was 16 years old, her boarding school shut down, and that ended her formal education, but throughout her life, she was a constant learner and a voracious reader. After working in London, she was recruited to work at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. She arrived in the United States at age 23. After she left the bank, she moved to Jamaica, where she ran a chain of three high-end clothing boutiques for Jeffrey and Anne Selznick.

Then, after several years in Jamaica, she returned to the States and lived in South Florida. There she quickly established herself, managing luxury homes for people such as Joy and the author Morris West, who befriended her. She also worked at a clothing store, Van Zandt on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach.

Caroline met her husband, Marc Heilweil, at a party in Georgetown (D.C.) in July 1969. Although they were in love, she did not have her green card, and he was headed for three years of law school. Upon learning that she had returned to the States, he got on the first plane to Florida to see her. They married on May 3, 1981, and have resided in Atlanta their entire married life. Their life together was filled with joy and good times. The birth of their daughter, Jessica, in September 1983, being the most joyous of those moments. Caroline and Marc enjoyed hiking together both locally and through several national parks and parts of Europe.

In Atlanta, Caroline was an administrative assistant to Norman Wolfe at the public relations firm of Cohn & Wolfe. For many years, she served as a volunteer docent at the High Museum. In addition to being a docent, she was elected as head of all the volunteer groups at the High. Inspired by Rabbi Alvin Sugarman, she chose to convert to Judaism and was active at The Temple. Gigs included the Atlanta Home Show and working at the Apparel Mart shows.

She was preceded in death by her father, Wing Commander John Cameron Cox, and her mother, Dina Cox. She is survived by her husband, Marc; daughter, Jessica; brother, John Anthony Cox (Kate); niece, Clare Wiggs (Robin); sisters-in-law, Maggie & Samantha Heilweil; nephews James Cox (Kate) and Joshua Heilweil (Athena); and their children. Marc and Jessica would also like to thank the talented and compassionate nurses, certified nurse assistants, and staff at Lenbrook who cared so well for Caroline. Donations in memory of Caroline may be made to the Associates Education Fund or the Friends of the Arts at Lenbrook (3747 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30319). Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Lawrence Arnold Joseph 84,

Atlanta

Lawrence Arnold Joseph (Larry) was born on June 11, 1941, to Rose and Michael Joseph. He spent his childhood in Washington, Ind., the youngest of four siblings – Darrel, Barbara, and David.

Larry moved to St. Louis, Mo., when he was 10 years old. He was active in his synagogue’s Boy Scout troop. He achieved the status of Eagle Scout and was voted mayor of St. Louis for the day.

Larry attended Ladue High School, where he excelled at swimming. His stroke was the butterfly. After high school graduation, he went on to Indiana University and studied communications, specializing in TV production. He joined Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity, serving as prior for several years.

At Indiana, Larry joined the ROTC program and went into the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant. He was stationed at Ft. Hamilton in New York, where he was the post adjutant and ran the base’s Boy Scout troop.

Larry spent a brief time in California but then moved to Atlanta to join Herman and Harry Popkin in starting Select Service & Supply. Larry married Eileen Wolper Joseph from Charleston, S.C. in 1967. They settled in Sandy Springs, and raised two daughters, Stacey and Allison. Larry loved designing and visualizing space and was responsible for the design and layout of all three of their homes.

In the 1970s, Larry began working with Peter Savitz, who became his partner and lifelong friend as they built Sportime into a worldwide venture, providing sporting equipment for physical education at schools and summer camps. At the age of 56, he decided to retire and he and Pete sold Sportime, continuing on as consultants.

Larry was very active in leadership roles for Jewish communities locally and in Israel, volunteering as a major gift fundraiser for the Jewish Federation and serving on the Jewish Agency Board of Governors. He was the Epstein School “Man of the Year” in 1996. Larry was strongly committed to Jewish and Israeli causes and became an Israeli citizen in 2020.

He loved spending quality time, over scotch or wine, with dear friends in Atlanta, Miami, and Jerusalem. He loved being on the water, whether sailing, Scuba diving, or cruising. Travel wasn’t just going from place to place for Larry, but a fabulous adventure of exploration.

Larry was a serious and committed Jew. He built a traditional home with Eileen, forming strong and meaningful relationships with the congregations of which he was a part. He was always interested in learning Torah.

First and foremost, Larry loved his family. He devoted himself to an extensive genealogy of the Joseph/Kotchoro and the Wolper/Geldbart families, seeking out relatives far and near, for memorable family reunions.

Larry leaves behind a wonderful close-knit family: Eileen Joseph, his wife of 58 years, two daughters, Stacey (Brian) Tovin of Atlanta, and Allison (Benjamin) Pollock of Jerusalem; grandchildren, Asaf (Shira), Hadas, and Ayelet Pollock; Alex, Jordan, and Drew Tovin; beloved cousins, and many dear friends. Donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

David Joseph Skolsky 85,

Atlanta

David Joseph Skolsky died surrounded in love by his family in Atlanta.

A native New Yorker, he grew up in The Bronx, attended Christopher Columbus High School, graduated from Alfred University in 1962, and then served active duty in the Army as a commissioned officer. He married Gail in 1964, and they created a home in New City where he was active in the community and sat on the board of the chamber of commerce. He was an insurance professional, having achieved CPCU designation in 1975.

He is survived by Gail (Sandlofer), his sister, Marcia (Jim) Byrnes, his longtime companion Claire Holtsford, his three daughters: Lauren (Laurie Foster), Robin (Mesha Rebac) and Randi (Billy Steuer) as well as his four granddaughters, Brooke, Marley, Lindsay, and Jamie - his shining stars.

An eclectic assemblage artist and an avid golfer, he combined his love of golf and sports into his artwork.

He will be greatly missed. Donations in his memory can be made to The Powerful Project (www.powerfulproject.org).

Protect What You’re

Thankful For

Robert M Goldberg & Associates

This Thanksgiving, Henry, the Chief Love Officer, want s to remind you:

�� Toys may break, turkeys may dry out, and leftovers may vanish… but a wellprepared estate plan last s a lifetime

At Robert M. Goldberg & Associates, we believe estate planning is about more than papers and signatures; it’s about protecting the people (and pet s!) you ’ re most thankful for.

�� Secure Wills ensuring your loved ones are cared for

�� Trust s preser ving family traditions for generations

�� Plans giving you peace of mind, so you can enjoy the pie without worry

Because gratitude isn’t just a feeling it’s making sure your family is safe, secure, and supported for years to come.

OBITUARIES

Warren Steinberg 87,

Atlanta

It is with great love and cherished memories that we recall the life of our beloved Warren Steinberg, who died on Nov. 3, 2025.

Born in Savannah, Ga., to the late Samuel and Sara (née Greenberg) Steinberg, Warren lived in Atlanta nearly seven decades, where he and his wife, Karen, raised their family. Warren never shied away from a challenge, and his determination showed in his lifelong commitment to work and education.

He graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a degree in industrial management and completed Merrill Lynch’s training program in New York before returning to Atlanta as a broker for 13 years. Warren began his real estate career at 19, purchasing a warehouse in Atlanta, and he went on to thrive in commercial real estate throughout the Southeast.

He later founded Showcase Photo and Video with his partner, Bob Khoury. What began as a booth at the Atlanta Flea Market blossomed into a thriving enterprise that served Atlanta’s amateur and professional photographers and videographers for more than four decades. Ahead of the curve when it came to livestreaming, Warren set up a videotaping system in the 1980s that allowed High Holy Day services at The Temple to be shared with overflow crowds.

When the advent of the smartphone changed the landscape for traditional photo and video businesses, Warren — always ready to pivot — began a new venture. In office space near home, he began trading options as part of Venture Capital One with his beloved associate, Shauna Pina. Like his father before him, Warren worked almost until the day he died, managing his real estate and options trading.

Warren and Karen’s family are longtime members of The Temple in Atlanta.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Karen Krugman Steinberg; his children, Darren Steinberg, Bonnie Wilson, and Miranda Shapiro (Harry); and four grandsons: Dylan, Jake, Ty Shapiro, and Charlie Wilson.

Graveside funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 6, at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, GA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Temple, 1589 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 873-1731, or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

One More Thing

Allen H. Lipis

The other day, I was responsible for setting the table for Friday night Shabbos. We were having 10 people, so I focused on getting everything right. The dishes were set, the silverware was in place along with a napkin, and the challah board was out with its cover. The challah was warming up in the oven, the kiddush cup and wine were in place, and the places were set with wine glasses and little cups to distribute the wine after kiddush. I thought I had everything done, and then it dawned on me that there was one more thing. We were missing salt and pepper.

I decided to take a shower. There was soap and towels in place, and I had everything ready to shave and take care of my hair. In I went into the shower and

turned on the hot water. And then it just happened. The hot water pounded on my head, and I knew there was one more thing. I had to take my hearing aids out and place them outside of the shower. It was just one more thing.

I was up this morning ready to have a nice cup of hot tea in my special tea mug. The hot water unit worked fine, the tea was available, but where was my mug? It was downstairs on the table, something I never do. Last night, I forgot to take it to its place in the kitchen. It was just one more thing.

My car always is ready with plenty of gas and always parked in the same place. But then my grandson looked at the dashboard and said, “Your tires need air, not just one tire but all of them.” It was one more thing.

I was ready to go shopping with my wife. We agreed on a time, I had my coat on with my keys, money and cell phone. I started walking toward the back door where the car is located and then it dawned on me that I forgot to lock the

front door. It was one more thing. It is always one more thing. I can’t explain it, but there always seems to be one more thing that must be done and cannot wait. After several phone calls, I forgot to call my sister. After the shopping list, there is one more thing that has to be added. There is always one more bill that must be paid. There is everything packed for an airplane trip and plenty of time for the airport, and you are ready to get into the car until you remember – you forgot your glasses – it’s just one more thing.

At the airport, I know my pocketknife will not go through security, so it is packed in the suitcase that will be checked. But at the Atlanta Symphony, they now have a security device, and we were on time with tickets, but I forgot that I had the knife in my pocket. I had to hide it outside. It was one more thing before enjoying the concert.

Life is always about taking care of one more thing. It’s often a little thing, because the big things are clear and im-

portant, but those little things are easy to forget and often need to be done at the last moment. You’re ready to go and didn’t have the address handy. You have all the ingredients for a nice meal and forgot to buy the fresh spice for the chicken. You’re ready to print the document on the printer, but there is no paper, or you printed the document, and it should have been printed landscape instead of portrait. You have to print the document again. You walked out the front door, ready to leave, but the wallet with money and a credit card are nowhere to be found. This is how life goes on. There is always one thing, it is always one more thing. It is what life is about.

Why can’t life just fall into place? Why can’t all of the pieces be just where you want them when you want them? Why doesn’t life fit together just as it should? Why is life so complicated? Why must it always be one more thing? The reason is obvious. It makes life more interesting, so enjoy it. It is made for great story telling. ì