Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. 100 NO. 4, February 28, 2025

Ready to Explore Jewish Summer Camp?

At Jewish overnight camp, kids discover who they are and who they want to become while racing across ziplines, jumping into lakes, singing around campfires, meeting their best friends and learning important life skills.

Thanks to the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and One Happy Camper, you might be eligible for up to $1500 off your camper’s first summer at one of these incredible overnight camps.

For more information, email jewishcamp@jewishatlanta.org or reach out directly to the camp of your choice.

PUBLISHER

MICHAEL A. MORRIS michael@atljewishtimes.com

EDITOR & MANAGING PUBLISHER

KAYLENE LADINSKY kaylene@atljewishtimes.com

Execuitive Assistant

RONIT FRANCO-PINSKY ronit@atljewishtimes.com

EDITORIAL

Managing Editor

SASHA HELLER sasha@atljewishtimes.com

Staff Writer & Proofreader

FRAN PUTNEY fran@atljewishtimes.com

Online Content Coordinator

JILLIAN GERSON jillian@atljewishtimes.com

CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE

BOB BAHR

CHANA SHAPIRO

DAVE SCHECHTER

DAVID OSTROWSKY

DEBBIE DIAMOND

MARCIA CALLER JAFFE

MIRIAM CANN

ROBERT GARBER

ROBYN SPIZMAN GERSON

SHAINDLE SCHMUCKLER

ADVERTISING

Senior Account Manager & Team Supervisor

MICHAL BONELL

michal@atljewishtimes.com

Account Manager ILYSSA KLEIN ilyssa@atljewishtimes.com

CREATIVE & DESIGN

Creative Director

LILLI JENNISON lilli@atljewishtimes.com

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Atlanta Jewish Connector Coordinator

DIANA COLE Diana@atljewishtimes.com

GENERAL OFFICE info@atljewishtimes.com 404-883-2130

Cover Photo: The staff of the Atlanta Jewish Times is pictured at the sixth annual Atlanta Jewish Life Festival.

Trump’s Jewish Report Card: Delight & Distress

By Dave Schechter

In the month since Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States, he has disrupted — to the delight of supporters and the distress of opponents — how the U.S. government functions, at home and abroad.

Within the torrent of executive orders that Trump has signed since Jan. 20 and the policies executed at his direction are issues of intense interest to various segments of Atlanta’s Jewish community.

Trump’s backers laud his expressions of support for Israel and his approach to confronting antisemitism in the United States. Trump’s detractors fear that he will tear apart the social safety net and denounce as indiscriminate the layoffs and budget cuts at federal agencies engineered by billionaire Elon Musk through a newly-created Department of Government Efficiency.

Some of the most controversial changes remain in limbo, awaiting rulings by federal courts — including the Supreme Court of the United States — on legal challenges and requests for injunctions against the administration.

Then there is a looming trifecta of economic crises: The risk of a federal government shutdown if Congress fails to approve a spending plan by March 14 (and Republicans may need help from Democrats to pass a stop-gap measure), the limit on federal borrowing may be reached this summer, and the deep spending cuts are expected in the budget that the White House will propose for the fiscal year that begins in October.

All of this has left both individuals and organizations nervous.

“They’re on pins and needles because decisions haven’t been made yet. They’re kind of holding their breath,” said Leslie Anderson, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Atlanta.

“Just because it’s not affecting people today doesn’t mean they’re not worried about tomorrow,” said Abbie Fuksman, a board member of Georgians for a Healthy Future and of MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger.

Layoffs at the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are impacting individuals in the Jewish community. An estimated 1,300 “probationary employees,” one-tenth of CDC’s workforce — which primarily is based in Atlanta — were fired over a recent weekend. That classification can include

people with advanced degrees beginning careers as well as existing employees receiving merit-based promotions.

They include a 32-year-old global health policy analyst, who worked with CDC as a fellow (professionals attached to the agency) and then as a contractor before hired as a federal employee in July 2023. Still in her two-year “probationary period,” she was fired by email, despite receiving outstanding performance reviews, and another CDC job offer was rescinded.

The woman asked that the AJT not use her name (to avoid being harassed). She has a husband and talked while walking her dog. “I would like to have a child in the near future but that is being put on hold,” as she updates her resume and looks for work.

“I don’t agree but I understand the motives behind their actions” in cutting foreign aid spending, recognizing that there are those who “don’t think our money should be going to help other

people,” she said. “That is a difference of opinion . . . but the way they are going through with it is so unbelievably careless . . . To just turn it off is so detrimental to America. We get so much goodwill with the use of foreign aid and we learn so much from clinical trials” in other nations.

As president of the Atlanta Rabbinical Association, Rabbi Daniel Dorsch, senior rabbi at Congregation Etz Chaim, hears from colleagues throughout Atlanta. “I imagine that for rabbis right now, real concerns about people who work for the federal government and changes to their working environments and elimination of their positions is probably the number one ‘actual issue’ with which we are dealing,” he said.

In a sermon delivered on Shabbat morning Feb. 22, Dorsch told a tearful call he received from a friend, who told him about her son, a young man in his 20s, who graduated college during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Finally, after months of background checks, he got a job with a federal agency. He had just traveled to the city. Had his orientation. He was supposed to start this Monday. Then, on the way home, while taking the train, he was sent a cold email saying that his job offer had been rescinded. No explanation,” Dorsch said.

“As a rabbi, I’m not interested in talking about politics. That’s not my job. But what our parasha [Torah portion MIshpatim] reminds me this week is that it is my job to remind everyone here that as Jews and human beings that we must treat people in context and with sensitivity. People are not the same thing as AI or a computer. They deserve to be treated with kindness and respect," he said.

On an institutional level, Jewish Family & Career Services is monitoring the White House and Congress for any reductions in Medicaid funding, a critical component of its Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Services (IDDS). These include outings and activities for

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 // Photo Credit: Pool via AP/Times of Israel

Robert M. Goldberg

West Point, 1982: University of Michigan Law School, 1990: Member of Wealth Counsel and national Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Accredited Veterans Administration Attorney

If you have an estate plan, remember to review it and have it updated if needed

Question: We recently moved to Georgia and are wondering if the will, trust, financial power of attorney and health care advance directives we prepared in another state are valid here?

people with disabilities and another program that enables adults with disabilities to live as independently as possible in their own homes or in a 24-hour shared home.

The debate in Congress over Medicaid, an $880 million program that serves 80 million adults and children — including roughly one in 10 adults and two in every five children in Georgia — likewise has state governments waiting before making changes in how they fund health care for the neediest in their populations. Georgia ranks among the states with the highest percentage of uninsured.

Congregations involved in refugee resettlement are concerned that the freeze on refugee admissions ordered by Trump will imperil the efforts of nonprofits that assist refugee families with access to housing, food, medical care, school for children and adult education classes, and navigating Social Security. The website 285South.com cited the Coalition of Refugee Services Agencies as reporting that 1,000 people were resettled in Atlanta in the past three months. The nonprofits are scrambling to replace hundreds of thousands of frozen federal dollars to assist refugees already here.

On another front, umbrella organizations for Jewish congregations and clergy in the Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist movements were among more than two dozen religious

groups that sued the federal government to prevent changes in the “sensitive locations” rule that would give immigration agents a freer hand to enter houses of worship to arrest people suspected of being in the country illegally.

The suit notes that “Welcoming the stranger, or immigrant, is a central tenet of the Jewish religion, mentioned 36 times in the Torah—more than any other teaching.” One of those references —”And you shall not mistreat a stranger, nor shall you oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” — is found in Exodus 22:20, in the Torah portion read during the week that began Feb. 22.

Trump’s executive orders related to issues of gender identity — one recognizes only two “immutable sexes, male and female” — have prompted fears in the LGBT community, including at Congregation Bet Haverim. A statement issued Jan. 22 by the congregation said: “As a community, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming community, and make clear our moral commitment to justice and human dignity . . . We particularly affirm our support for transgender youth, whose lives are at risk, and pledge to stand in solidarity with all disenfranchised communities, including immigrants facing injustice.”

Trump’s supporters are effusive in

Answer: Welcome to the Peach State! It sounds like you have a good foundation. However, significant life events, e.g. relocation to a different state; marriage; divorce; birth of a child or grandchild; diagnosis with a chronic health condition; or a death in the family, could necessitate changes to your plan. It’s important to regularly review your plan so you can be sure it continues to meet your needs. You should review whether your estate planning documents, title (ownership) of assets, and beneficiary designations are coordinated to allow your assets to be distributed to who you want; when you want; the way you want.

Experiencing a significant life event is also a good time to review your “fiduciaries” – trusted persons you have named as “agent”, “executor”, “guardian” for minor children, and “trustee” to ensure the persons you selected are still willing and able to serve when needed.

I recommend scheduling a “Discovery Meeting” with my firm to review your plan so you can have peace of mind knowing it still reflects your wishes.

Bob Goldberg, has practiced law since 1990, and has focused on Estate planning and Elder Law since 1999. His firm has assisted over 5,000 clients with wills, trusts, financial powers of attorney, health care advanced directives, Medicare appeals, Medicaid and VA benefits planning, asset preservation, and probate/trust administration.

Robert M. Goldberg & Associates Call 770-229-5729 to learn more about our free webinars www.goldbergestateplanning.com

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks at the Governors Working Session in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 21, 2025 // Photo Credit: Jim Watson/AFP/Times of Israel

their praise for his handling of Israel and confronting antisemitism. They cite improved relations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the provision of weapons that were delayed or withheld by then-President Joe Biden, and credit Trump’s warnings for keeping on track the process of Israeli hostages being released from

Gaza as called for in the Jan. 19 ceasefire agreement.

“One thing I know, Jewish people feel safer with President Trump in office. I am not hearing so much about incidents with antisemitism. Also, our federal government is taking an active stand with Israel and is supporting their war efforts instead of not allowing

Israel to do what they need to do to win this war,” said Betsy Kramer, a long-time Republican party activist in Fulton County and an at-large delegate to the 2024 Republican National Convention.

“I feel the divisiveness has decreased,” said Renee Evans, a representative of the World Jewish Congress who has served on the boards of Jewish and Israeli support organizations. “The President’s logical approach is working and getting things better. I also think we as Georgians and Americans are seeing where our tax dollars are going, and for what. We are saying, ‘No, not acceptable.’ This is especially true with the U.S. money going toward terrorism. I think we are swinging more to the middle, thanks to President Trump.”

Evans, a Republican supporter of Trump and a philanthropist, said that Trump has made combatting antisemitism a priority, by putting the effort under a reconstituted White House Faith Office, with plans to name a point person on the subject, akin to the envoy on combatting antisemitism abroad (a position most recently held by Prof. Deborah Lipstadt, who has returned to Emory University). The faith office is “really important,” Evans said. “It shows where his presidency is going and what personally is a major agenda for him.”

She praised Trump’s willingness to deport, if necessary, foreign students advocating on behalf of designated terror groups, and to use Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to deal with colleges and universities that permit an atmosphere that threatens Jewish students.

A distinctly different view of Trump’s performance was offered by Michael Rosenzweig, a Jewish community activist and board member of Democratic Majority For Israel.

“Trump’s first month in office has been an unmitigated disaster for our country and, frankly, the entire world. He and his unelected billionaire pal Elon Musk are brazenly ignoring our laws and our constitution as they move to dismantle our government and our very democracy,” Rosenzweig said. “His bizarre proposal to ‘own’ Gaza does nothing to advance a solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict and reflects the same obtuse arrogance on display in his insane ideas regarding Panama, Greenland, Canada and Ukraine. Our allies are confused and befuddled by Trump, who plainly appears to have no idea what he’s doing. Even more alarming is his continued embrace of dictators and thugs around the world, which bodes ill for all Americans who cherish the freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution, but particularly for Jews, who’ve seen this movie before. One would be hard-pressed to say anything good about Trump’s performance thus far.”

Rosenzweig was equally unsparing in his review of Trump domestically. “He promised to end inflation and bring down costs but is doing the opposite with his incoherent tariff ‘policies.’ His abrupt reversal of Biden’s policy incentivizing investment in electric vehicles has our automobile manufacturers spinning in confusion, wondering how to deal with the billions they invested in that industry,” Rosenzweig said. Trump “campaigned as champion of the working class but has focused on pleasing his billionaire friends by reducing their taxes and regulations of their businesses while doing nothing for the working class. And his appointments of utterly incompetent, unqualified and downright dangerous people like RFK Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, and Pete Hegseth, based solely on their blind loyalty to him, threaten the fundamental well-being of our country.”

Elon Musk has allowed antisemitic messages to spread on his social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter. Kanye West recently made headlines for a series of anti-Jewish posts on the platform // Photo Credit: Kevin Lamarque/Pool Photo via AP/Times of Israel

Realistic

High

Two

AJLF Celebrates 100 Years of Community News

By Sasha Heller

A hundred years? Time sure flies when you’re having fun.

The sixth annual Atlanta Jewish Life Festival, held Feb. 23, came roaring into the Georgia Aquarium and turned back the clock to the 1920s in honor of the Atlanta Jewish Times’ 100th year of publication, having been founded as The Southern Israelite in 1925.

Several thousand community members gathered, with many guests showing up in full “Great Gatsby”-style outfits as this year’s festival featured a costume contest. Guests also reveled in casino games like blackjack and poker while being treated to the melodic, big band sounds of the Peachtree Jazz Edition, with some attendees venturing out onto the dance floor. To further set the ambiance, a pair of “cigar girls” roamed the Oceans Ballroom circulating candy cigars and outfitted with chic “Gatsby” regalia.

“This was another successful Jewish Life Festival, and I would like to thank the community for making that happen,” said

AJT owner and publisher Michael Morris present a raffle prize with the help of a festival attendee while AJT senior account manager Michal Bonell looks on // All photos by Sasha Heller

AJT owner and publisher Micheal Morris. “The vibe was great, everyone had a fun time, and we are grateful for the support

of the community … and we hope to see everyone back at the Aquarium next year.”

The festival also featured a raffle

Where Expert Healthcare Takes Flight.

With a name inspired by the Monarch butterflies that call our Legacy Gardens home, Monarch Pavilion is the beautiful new four-floor neighborhood for all of Canterbury Court’s healthcare services. Featuring Assisted Living and Memory Support as well as Skilled Nursing, residents of all faiths receive the healthcare they need with the warm, person-centered approach Canterbury Court is known for.

To learn more and to schedule a personal tour, contact us today at 404-905-2444, visit CanterburyCourt.org/ ExpertCare, or scan the QR code.

with lucky winners taking home parting gifts from festival partners the Atlanta Braves, Zoo Atlanta and the Geor-

This year’s festival featured casino-style games.

A pair of “cigar girls” roamed the Oceans Ballroom distributing candy cigars.

gia Aquarium. Raffle prizes included an Ozzie Albies-autographed baseball, four-pack of tickets to a Braves game, two Atlanta Braves bobble heads with accompanying swag, and six-packs of passes to Zoo Atlanta and the Aquarium.

Other highlights included an artist market, kosher eats, and a kids zone featuring face painting, henna tattoos, caricature artist, representatives from Camp Judaea, Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, Ramah Doram, Israeli Scouts, 6 Points Camps, and Camp Coleman, and, of course, Ruby the Clown.

A community stage was set up in the rotunda featuring local performers, including the Atlanta Jewish Boys Choir, Boy Scout Pack and Troop 1818, Sunmoonpie, and Rabbi Jake, and supported by Amp’d Entertainment.

And as always, attendees were able to meet with dozens of community partners representing all facets of Jewish Atlanta life, from summer camps to health and wellness organizations and more.

Cheers to 100 years of Jewish journalism and community in Atlanta … and to 100 more! ì

The Peachtree Jazz Edition filled the Oceans Ballroom with big band-style sounds.

Rabbi Jake leads a spirited performance in the rotunda at the Georgia Aquarium.

Cub Scout Pack and Troop 1818 presents the colors at the sixth annual Atlanta Jewish Life Festival.

Cotton Cravings was on hand to satisfy guests with a sweet tooth.

The henna tattoo station attracts guests of all ages.

Kanye West Returns to His Antisemitic Roots

By Sasha Heller

Here ‘Ye’ goes again with the antisemitism.

Kanye West, who now goes by the moniker, ‘Ye,’ and who suffers from a documented G-d complex that can be verified via his disturbing social media footprint, recently made headlines due to a series of antiJewish posts on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, which were amplified to the masses thanks to X’s algorithm that promotes influential users as well as those who pay for verified accounts that exist to drive traffic for financial benefit.

While his musical genius is also verifiable, Kanye’s outspoken antisemitic viewpoints have divided his fan base and upset an already grief-stricken Jewish community that is currently dealing with the fallout of the attacks from Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and Yemen … while praying for the return of the hostages still in captivity. Kanye’s hateful influence only added fuel to the fire for social media trolls to latch onto and recycle.

With limited oversight, via X’s community notes -- which serve as a fact-checking

Rapper Kanye West wears a Make America Great Again hat during a meeting with then-U.S. president Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington on Oct. 11, 2011 // Photo Credit: Times of Isreal

system for the platform -- the site’s algorithm rewards the most popular users with financial incentives based on engagement rates. The higher your engagement rates, the more traffic you bring to the platform (i.e. the more “likes, comments & retweets”),

the more money the user makes. Elon made it that simple … on purpose.

It’s important to note that posts that contain misinformation and disinformation will be flagged with a community note; however, users can just quickly scroll past

the note, ignore its message and proceed to engage with a series of confirmation bias posts, which again, are pushed to the top of the message thread if they were posted by influential users or those who have paid to have their posts amplified via the algorithm.

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

Kanye West and Bianca Censori attend the 67th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, in Los Angeles // Photo Credit: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy/AFP/Times of Israel

The user who makes the post is rewarded with profit from Elon and the user who engages with the post – whether it’s about how cute puppies are or about how much Kanye hates the Jewish people --- is rewarded with a soft, pillowy stroke of social media manipulation.

Kanye shared conspiracy theories about Jewish producers in Hollywood, posting on X relentlessly -- about a dozen times per hour over the course of a week -- and, in peak antisemitic “fashion,” Kanye released a T-shirt for sale on his website that prominently featured a swastika. He was not “trolling” as the current vernacular may dictate. He was trying to profit off his hatred for Jewish people.

Not long after, while walking the red carpet at the Grammy Awards, Kanye subjected his then-wife, Bianca Censori, to a humiliation ritual where, after removing her coat, she flashed everyone present while wearing a sheer “garment” that left little to the imagination -- she was essentially nude strapped with a thousand-dollar shred of satin covering her private parts. Images and video of Censori immediately went viral, and just a few days later, Censori would file for divorce from Kanye.

Rabbi Peter Berg, of The Temple, shared his personal thoughts about Kanye’s disturbing online presence.

“When public figures use their platforms to promote hate symbols and antisemitic rhetoric, it emboldens others and creates an environment where Jews feel both unsafe and unwelcome. The harmful rhetoric shared by Kanye West is deeply troubling and has no place in our society. At a time when misinformation and hate are spreading rapidly online, it is more important than ever to take a stand against Jew hatred in all forms. His rhetoric has led to real-world repercussions, inspiring antisemitic behavior that has crept into the mainstream American discourse -- from politicians to celebrities.”

Rabbi Berg then shared his gratitude for community members who have contin-

NEWS

ued to support the Jewish community in the face of rising tides of antisemitism.

“I’m grateful for those who are standing with the Jewish community and all those affected by hateful rhetoric. I hope that [Kanye] will continue to face widespread condemnation, costing him lucrative business partnerships and continuing to isolate him from the music industry.”

Amanda La Kier, chief philanthropy and marketing officer for Jewish Family & Career Services, also commented about antisemitism and the influence of social media.

“Antisemitic content on any social media platform is alarming and deeply impacts mental health, especially among our adolescents and teens. We can’t control the antisemitic content, the source, other users who support it, or the fact that algorithms favor engagement over quality or substance. We can, however, contribute to making sure young people have the tools to identify their own needs, set boundaries, and apply them to the digital space, leading to the curation of a healthier and safer online experience.”

For anyone dealing with the negative impact of social media or antisemitism, La Kier reminds the community that JF&CS has a roster of programs and services available.

“JF&CS plays a critical role in providing mental health support through counseling, peer support groups, training, and resources. Our goal is to create safe spaces for tough conversations, build resilience, and empower our community to push back against online hate while fostering strength and unity.”

When asked what the Jewish community can do in response to antisemitic trends and memes that spread across social media, Rabbi Berg said, “Remaining silent is no longer an option. We must stand up and reject this kind of Jew hatred. I recommend a proactive approach to responding to memes on social media: education, advocacy, and mobilization.” ì

Rabbi Berg’s Tips to Combat Online

Jewish Hate

Education – We should share well-researched responses to antisemitic tropes and misinformation. Use organizations like the American Jewish Committee and Anti-Defamation League for contextual information. This also includes engaging social media influencers and educators to create content that educates people.

Advocacy – Report antisemitic posts on platforms like X, Facebook, and TikTok. Advocate for stronger enforcement of hate speech policies by working with tech companies. In addition to condemning antisemitism, share positive messages about Jewish life and identity.

Mobilization – Work with allies from other marginalized communities to address hate more broadly. Train on responding to online hate. Organize hashtag campaigns to raise awareness and counter antiemetic narratives.

AJFF Honors 25 Years of Jewish Films

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

A change from City Springs back to the Cobb Energy Centre welcomed 800 supporters who walked the red carpet for the 2025 Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Opening Night Gala on a chilly evening on Feb. 19.

Special well wishes were on hand for Kenny Blank, AJFF executive director, and Martha Jo Katz, honorary event chair, who have worked tirelessly over the long run to realize 25 years of the festival’s growth. Honorary festival chair Steve Labovitz told the AJT, “I’m incredibly thrilled with the growth of the festival. Many different folks now attend and are represented here for the first time. It’s not just ‘Jewish community,’ but the community at large recognizing our mission to create dialogue an education.”

Katz welcomed co-chair Leah Blum, along with first time co-chair Amie Herbert. As a triple team, Blum expressed that Katz planned to bow out after this year. “We cannot let her leave. No one can say ‘no’ to Martha Jo.” Katz said, “I thank

AJFF machers

Kenny for the good energy and letting me run wild with it all through the decades.”

Then there are those anticipating the upcoming movies. American Jewish

Committee board member Murray Goldman showed his list of the five movies he had selected: “Janis Ian,” “The Bibi Files,” “Matchmaker 2,” “Midas Man,” in addi-

tion to that night’s “Bad Shabbos.”  Barry Epstein, a third-year sponsor, said he was seeing 28 films. Around 90 minutes after the 5 p.m. start, the “Bad

Dr. Matt Bernstein, Emory University professor, Amy Arno, AJFF Development Director, Kenny Blank, AJFF Executive Director, Sari Earle AJFF board member, and Dina Gerson, President of AJFF Board of Directors // All photos by Howard Mendel

First-time restaurant participant Ilene Oxman, along with daughter, Aly, represented Reunion out of East Cobb.

Shabbos” cast and producers posed on the red carpet and chatted with fans. Star Kyra Sedgwick, the mother in the film, was reunited with Eydie and Steve Koonin, whom she knew from his days at Turner Broadcasting.

Two young Jewish movie “machers,” Adam Mitchell, producer, flew in from New York and cohort Daniel Robbins, director and writer, were the impetus behind making “Bad Shabbos.” Mitchell told the AJT, “I based the movie on my own family’s shabbat dinners.”

When asked how a young kid like himself got to produce a movie, he said, “You can call it ‘luck’, but I paid my dues working up from a mailroom clerk at a talent agency in L.A.”

Eighteen restaurant vendors lined the U-shaped ballroom with an open bar in the center under icicle-like glitzy lighting. The desserts were adjacent to the lobby area. An exciting new restaurant this year was Ilene Oxman’s Reunion, out of East Cobb, keeping busy serving lemon caper chicken alongside daughter, Aly Kapper. Oxman, who also owns Harry’s Pizza on Powers Ferry, remarked, “I’m absolutely thrilled to connect to this community. Some others ran out of food; and we are still serving and have a good amount of leftovers for the Giving Kitchen.”

Longtime participant Stuart Fierman, of the Fifth Group, had two booths: Ecco and South City Kitchen. He shared that the latter’s dish was one of his and his parents’ favorite brunch menu items.

“Often vendors prepare a dish here that’s not on their traditional menu. Our salmon mousse is,” he said. Ecco offered sour potato sufganiyot topped with thin sliced cucumber and seafood. Another favorite was first timer O-Ku which served luscious avocado puree laced Hamachi tartare. The Alden chef, Jared Huck, offered a rich grilled local mushroom tart and announced that they are now open for lunch two days per week.

Other food partners were C &S Seafood (tuna tartare), Hawkers Asian (PoPo Lo’s Curry), Il Giallo, Imperial Fez (Kelta tajine and chicken mrouzia), Indaco (sweet potato arancini), The Select (acorn squash risotto), Vino Venue, and Reverence at Epicure.

Longtime community partner and Dunwoody mogul, David Abes, of Message in a Bottle (chilled rare sesame tuna), welcomed son, Mitchell, to the family biz and announced the opening of their upcoming Ice Cream Shop and Soda Pop, where diners can take a fizzy drink and walk over to Bar (n) and add some booze and make it a “fuzzy.” Wife, Julie, will include her cookie dough in that also.

Dessert vendors were Bloom Flavours, Shake Shack (house made frozen custard), Davinci (cake style) DoNuts, and Tiny Lou’s with reconstructed baklava bites. Favorite flavors for Bloom’s ultra-premium Italian ice were green apple, mango and strawberry cheesecake. There’s always room left for sweets, even after eating 14 dishes from 14 selections! ì

The Cobb Energy Centre ballroom had ample space for 800 guests and food vendors.

AJFF Opens with Big Donation & Comedy

By Bob Bahr

The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival celebrated 25 years of accomplishment as a major showcase of Jewish artistic and cultural achievement during a strong and impressive opening night program, Feb. 19, at the Cobb Energy Centre.

Highlighting the return to the 2,700seat venue after a five-year absence due in large part to the effect of the COVID pandemic was a surprise announcement by the Coca-Cola Foundation of a gift of $250,000 to help fund the festival’s new capital campaign.

The gift from the Atlanta-based corporation was seen as a strong vote of confidence in the future of the festival. To emphasize that partnership, a 25th anniversary bottle honoring the AJFF was given away at the opening night gala.

Socialize.

Saturday, April 12th 3-6 PM

Enjoy cocktail, beer, and wine tastings paired with Brookhaven’s best restaurants, live music, and more!

The Quad at Oglethorpe University 4484 Peachtree Road., Brookhaven

Purchase your all inclusive tickets at www.SipBrookhaven.com

In announcing the gift, Carlos Pagaoga, Coca-Cola’s vice president of global community affairs and president of the Coca-Cola Foundation, stressed the festival’s broad reach.

Regardless of your faith, ethnicity or generation,” Pagaoga said, “the Atlanta

Presented by

AJFF Opening Night featured a number of key figures from the organization’s 25-year history.

Jewish Film Festival offers something remarkable for everyone. Mazel Tov to everyone who made this level a beacon of culture, dialog and inspiration, and here’s to many more years of cinematic brilliance.”

The gift from the company, which has served as presenting sponsor of the festival since its founding in 2000, gave a strong boost to the AJFF’s new capital campaign, the Kenny Blank Vision Initiative, which aims to raise $2.5 million to expand the festival’s education programs and give it a stronger year-round identity. The organization recently hired a director of education and has programmed at this year’s festival a special educational field trip for local students of the documentary, “Elie Weisel: Soul On Fire.”

In acknowledging the festival’s strong impact on the local community, Coca-Cola’s Ingrid Saunders Jones, who was head of the Coca-Cola Foundation for 31 years before her retirement in 2013, cited the strong impact the festival has had on the community as one of the reasons for the company’s strong support over the years.

“When I think back 25 years, what we looked for was relevance. We looked for organizations and programs that were relevant to the community, either through direct service or enhancing the quality of life in our communities.”

The opening night program launched a festival that includes 50 fea-

ture films and documentaries from 22 countries, including 19 films from Israel. The festival’s executive and artistic director, Kenny Blank, joined the festival as a volunteer during its second year and became its full-time executive three years later. In his comments before the opening night audience, he credited the festival’s strong local roots for its success over the years.

“This festival is embraced by the community, because this festival is the community,” Blank pointed out. “It has been built by this community, and that gives the community a sense of ownership. This is your Atlanta Jewish Film Festival.”

The opening night film was “Bad Shabbos,” a black comedy set in New York City’s Upper West Side. The film, which was a crowd-pleasing opener for the festival, tells a tale of mishaps and mayhem when a young couple, about to be married, attend a Friday night Shabbat dinner at the home of the groom’s Jewish parents.

What takes place probably won’t win any plaudits from moralists or Talmudic authorities on ethical conduct, but it kept the audience laughing. A lively Q&A program immediately after the film featured a half-dozen cast members and the director and the producer. The large number of guests was not unusual for the AJFF, which has scheduled personal appearances with over a half-dozen filmmakers and special guests, everyone from the comedian Jerry Lewis to Janis Ian, the singer and songwriter from several decades back.

The AJFF opener, “Bad Shabbos,” also opened the Jewish film festival in Tampa, Fla., just one night before the Atlanta screening. It was also the opening night feature of the Miami Jewish Film Festival. It is currently running in a halfdozen theaters in South Florida, where it’s been a solid draw.

The film’s distributor, Neil Friedman, who runs Menemsha Films, has 10 offerings in this year’s festival. He attended the AJFF screening to gauge the local reaction of the production in the large Cobb Centre venue. An emphasis on theatrical showings has been part of the film’s marketing strategy.

“We do not plan to show ‘Bad Shabbos’ virtually,” Friedman says. “We are only showing it in-person in the theater, because laughter is contagious. And that’s the beauty of this film.”

The AJFF festival screenings in local theaters run until March 5. More than a week of virtual showings begin March 7. ì

“Bad Shabbos,” the AJFF opening night film, is a crowd pleaser.

Carrar to Raise $18M for EV Battery Production Line

Israeli automotive startup Carrar, based in an industrial park around the city of Sderot, near the border with Gaza, is looking to raise $18 million in capital from

Today in Israeli History

Feb. 28, 1955: Some 50 Israeli paratroopers strike an Egyptian military camp in Gaza as a reprisal for repeated Arab attacks against Israeli civilians. Eight Israeli soldiers and 39 Egyptians are killed in Operation Black Arrow.

March 1, 1920: An Arab militia attacks the Jewish agricultural community of Tel Hai on the border between British-controlled Palestine and French-controlled Syria. Eight Jews are killed, including Joseph Trumpeldor.

Justice Miriam Ben-Porat lights one of the 12 beacons at Israel’s 40th anniversary celebration on Mount Herzl in 1988, the same year she completed her term on the Supreme Court. // By Ya’acov Sa’ar, Israeli Government Press Office, CC BY-SA 3.0

March 2, 1977: President Ephraim Katzir appoints Miriam Ben-Porat and Shimon Asher to the Supreme Court. Ben-Porat is the first woman to serve on the highest court of Israel or any other country with a common law system.

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

investors to build the first production line for its battery-cooling technology for electric vehicles (EVs) and double its workforce.

Carrar last raised $5.3 million in April 2024, six months after the startup had to evacuate its headquarters as Hamas terrorists fired a rocket-propelled grenade that damaged part of its office building. About two weeks after the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas onslaught, the startup returned to the office and continued to work with most of its employees and founders from Sderot or surrounding Southern communities, amid constant rocket fire. Many employees were evacuated, and others were called up on reserve duty.

With the fresh funding, Carrar seeks to double its workforce from around 25 employees to about 50 over the next two years and tap pools of engineers in the south of Israel rather than traditional tech hubs such as Tel Aviv and Herzliya in central Israel.

Compiled by AJT Staff

March 3, 1950: The Iraqi government retracts a ban on emigration of Jews going to Israel. In response, Israel launches Operation Ezra and Nehemia, which flies out nearly 120,000 Iraqi Jews from May 1950 to January 1952.

The National Library of Israel announced that Israel Post, the official postal service for the State of Israel, has issued a new set of three postage stamps honoring the Library’s new building in Jerusalem.

Israel Postal Company Issues Library of Israel Stamp Set

The National Library of Israel (NLI) announced that Israel Post, the official postal service for the State of Israel, has issued a new set of three postage stamps honoring the Library’s new building in Jerusalem. The stamps feature The Ilona and Hugo Lowy Reading Halls, The Ilona and Hugo Lowy Special Collections Reading Hall, and central staircase.

In 2007, NLI embarked on an ambitious journey of renewal to encourage di-

March 7, 1965: Egyptian authorities release details about the arrest Feb. 22 of Israeli spy Wolfgang Lotz and his wife, Waldrud. Lotz is implicated in the sending of letter bombs to foreign scientists working in Egypt.

March 8, 1949: David Ben-Gurion’s Mapai forms a governing coalition with the United Religious Front, the Progressive Party, the Sephardi and Mizrahi Communities, and the Democratic List of Nazareth after Israel’s first national election.

Jonathan Pollard pleaded guilty to espionage charges in return for a lighter sentence for his wife. // U.S. Navy

March 4, 1987: Jonathan Pollard, who in June 1986 pleaded guilty to spying on the United States for Israel while serving as a Naval Intelligence Service analyst, is sentenced to life in prison. He is paroled in November 2015.

March 5, 1891: William Blackstone, an American Methodist lay leader and evangelist, submits a petition to President Benjamin Harrison that calls for creating “a home for these wandering millions of Israel” in Palestine.

March 6, 1948: Truman adviser Clark Clifford writes two detailed memoranda in which he argues for U.S. support of the partition of Palestine and arms sales to Jewish forces, setting him in opposition to the State Department.

The Naharayim power plant was positioned to take advantage of the flow of two rivers while controlling the level of the Sea of Galilee. // U.S. Library of Congress

March 9, 1932: Pinhas Rutenberg and the Palestine Electric Co. open a hydroelectric plant at Naharayim. It supplies much of the electricity in Palestine until Iraqi forces destroy it during the War of Independence.

March 10, 1970: Israel’s Law of Return is amended to change the definition of a Jew to “a person who was born of a Jewish mother or who has become converted to Judaism and who is not a member of another religion.”

March 11, 1978: Eleven Palestinians land on a beachhead north of Tel Aviv and carry out one of the worst terrorist

verse audiences in Israel and around the globe to engage with its treasures in new and meaningful ways. This has been implemented through a range of innovative educational, cultural, and digital initiatives, as well as through a new landmark building and campus, which reflects NLI’s central values of democratizing knowledge and opening its collections and resources to as broad and diverse an audience as possible.

The renewal project, made possible thanks to the generosity of Yad Hanadiv (A Rothschild Family Foundation), and David and Ruth Gottesman, culminated at the end of October 2023 when the new building opened its doors. Despite opening under the shadow of war, over the past year and four months, the Library has become a magnet for thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the magnificent structure, unique exhibitions, artworks, and cultural offerings, as well as the world-class collection of books, manuscripts, and archives that preserve the collective memory and heritage of all communities in the State of Israel and throughout the Jewish world.

Compiled by AJT Staff

attacks in Israel’s history, the Coastal Road Massacre. They kill 38 civilians, including 17 children.

March 12, 2004: Natan Yonatan, one of Israel’s greatest poets, dies at age 80. A native of Kyiv who grew up in Palestine, Yonatan almost immediately gained recognition after he shifted from farming to writing poetry in 1940.

March 13, 1948: The Davidka, a wildly inaccurate but frightening mortar designed and manufactured at the Mikveh Israel agricultural school, is used in combat for the first time in an attack on Jaffa’s Abu Kabir neighborhood.

March 14, 1972: Israel’s Black Panthers, who seek equality for Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews, steal crates of milk meant for wealthy Jerusalem neighborhoods and hand them out across poor neighborhoods to protest poverty.

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

Israeli startup Carrar develops battery modules with an internal thermal management system for electric vehicles // Courtesy photo/Times of Israel

A surviving Davidka mortar is displayed at the Givati Brigade Museum in Metsudat Yoav, Israel. // By Bukvoed, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Foreigners Start Buying up Israeli Homes

Earlier this year, with the country still at war in Gaza and recovering from the shock of the Oct. 7 attack, Marc and Yael Azran bought an apartment in Beit Shemesh, a city of some 175,000 situated in the hill country about 18 miles west of Jerusalem.

The Azrans, who live in Silver Spring, Md., a suburb of Washington, D.C., closed the deal in March. Since then, the family has spent the Passover and Sukkot holidays in their second home, despite the continuing threat of rocket and missile attacks on Israel from Iran-backed groups in Gaza, Lebanon and around the region.

Buying a property in Israel was always a dream for the Azrans. Both had spent time in Israel on youth programs as teenagers, and when they married, they lived in Israel for a while. The idea was to someday return, said Marc Azran.

The push came after the Oct. 7 events, he said, because the couple felt the need to “be connected” and support Israel. Though they continue to live in the U.S., they now have a home to visit in Israel and hope to eventually move there.

“I feel like it’s time for the Jewish people to be in Israel, and I want to be part of that destiny, and I want my children to be part of that destiny,” Azran

said over the phone as he drove to his job where he works as an anesthesiologist.

“I do not feel that there is a bright future for Jews in America and in Europe, in the long term.”

According to official figures, the Azrans are just one of hundreds of foreign residents who have snapped up homes in Israel since the start of fighting some 15 months ago. By all appearances, the trend is being driven by Jewish buyers who want to enhance their connection with the Jewish state, and by fears of rising antisemitism around the globe, which outweigh concerns about the threat of war or terrorist violence.

Antisemitic incidents have surged around the world since Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, in which terrorists from the Gaza Strip invaded and killed some 1,200 people, took 251 hostages and triggered the ongoing war there.

According to data published in November by the Finance Ministry, foreign residents in September acquired 254 apartments in Israel, a sharp increase of 119 percent compared to September last year, and the highest level of acquisitions since July 2022, when the market was infused with post-COVID optimism and a lower tax rate.

Home purchases by foreigners

IS ELI HOSTAGE T CKER

Compiled by AJT Staff

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

Israeli hostages released thus far in phase one are:

Doron Steinbrecher, 31

Romi Gonen, 23

Emily Damari, 27

Liri Albag, 19

Karina Ariev, 20

Danielle Gilboa, 20

Naama Levy, 20

Agam Berger, 21

Arbel Yehud, 29

Gadi Moshe Moses, 80

Keith Siegel, 65

Yarden Bibas, 35

Ofer Kalderon, 54

Eli Sharabi, 52

Or Levy, 34

Ohad Ben-Ami, 58

Sagui Dekel-Chen, 36

dropped steeply in October 2023 in the wake of the attack and war, official figures show, but quickly rebounded, reaching pre-war levels by December. They mostly continued to rise throughout the year before the September surge.

“After Oct. 7, for one month, there was nothing…. It was dead, nobody was calling,” said Donny Fein, a real estate agent who owns the Elite Israel Realty firm which focuses on the Beit Shemesh area. “It took about three or four weeks, [and then] the phones did not stop ringing.”

Fein should know, Beit Shemesh and the larger Jerusalem area are ground zero for the resurgent foreign buyer phenomenon, making up over half the properties

Yair Horn, 46

Sasha Troufanov, 28

Ariel Bibas, 5

Kfir Bibas, 2

Oded Lifshitz, 84

Shiri Silberman Bibas, 33

Tal Shoham, 40

Omer Shem-Tov, 22

Omer Wenkert, 23

Eliya Cohen, 27

Avera Mengistu, 38

Hisham al-Sayed, 36

Remaining hostages — alive and dead — to be released in phase one are:

Itzik Elgarat, 70

Shlomo Mansour, 86

Ohad Yahalomi, 50

Tsahi Idan, 50

purchased by foreigners in September. In Beit Shemesh alone, 87 apartments were purchased by non-residents in September, outstripping even the capital despite being less than a fifth of its size.

A Brooklyn native who immigrated to Israel, Fein said some customers had bought homes in Israel without ever visiting them in person. The buyers aren’t necessarily looking for their dream home, but rather to have a safe haven in their back pocket should trouble strike and they need to flee, he said. Until then, the foreign owners generally rent out their units on short-term leases of two years or less, to keep their options open. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Children wave Israeli flags outside of a car as members of the Jewish community gather at Simon Wiesenthal Center on Monday, June 24, 2024, in Los Angeles // Photo Credit: AP/Damian Dovarganes/Times of Israel

Yeshiva Basketball Poised for Postseason Play

David Ostrowsky

The feats accomplished by the Yeshiva men’s basketball team earlier this decade continue to be glorified.

Yeshiva’s historic 50game win streak that ended in 2021 will be featured in an upcoming film (“The Maccabees”), courtesy of Mayim Bialik, the Jewish actress from “The Big Bang Theory” and one-time “Jeopardy!” host. Ryan Turell, the standout guard from those great Yeshiva teams who went on to play two years with the Motor City Cruise, emerging as the first Orthodox Jew to play in the NBA’s G League, was showcased in an Amazon Prime documentary last year. Meanwhile, Turell’s legacy still radiates across the Yeshiva community — and Division III college basketball — as evidenced by the recent establishment of the Ryan Turell Character & Inspiration Award that will annually recognize a men’s basketball player at the small college level who has overcome considerable adversity and hardship.

But as for the current iteration of the Maccabees men’s basketball program, there has not exactly been a precipitous drop-off from the halcyon days of the early 2020s. After last year’s loss to Farmingdale State College in the Skyline Conference Championship, Yeshiva, powered by sharpshooting junior guard Zevi Samet, a product of Torah Academy of Bergen County, is poised to avenge the conference championship loss and perhaps make some noise in the Division III NCAA tournament. Following Saturday’s regular season finale 78-69 loss to Mount Saint Mary College (NY) on Alumni Night, the Maccabees rode a 15-10 record (12-4 in conference play) into this year’s conference tourney, which tipped off Tuesday evening against Purchase College at the always crowded Max Stern Athletic Center.

“They want to leave their own mark for sure, absolutely,” emphasized Greg Fox, Yeshiva’s athletic director, when interviewed by the AJT last week. “I think part of the reason that many of our guys came to YU is because of what was going on during that run. It really brought our program into not just national prominence but if you’ve walked around Tel Aviv or Jerusalem with a YU logo or even

in Jewish communities in South America and Europe, we’re a household name there, too.”

Going into this season, Yeshiva was tabbed as the top-ranked team in the Skyline Preseason Poll. For the most part, Samet and his Maccabee teammates have lived up to those lofty standards. Earlier this winter, there was a monthlong stretch, from Jan. 12 to Feb. 11, in which Yeshiva went on a 9-1 tear that was highlighted by resounding wins over The College at Old Westbury and United States Merchant Marine Academy.

Samet, a one-time Skyline Rookie of the Year who became the fastest player to score 1,000 points in Maccabee history, has been the offensive catalyst. In his second straight winter averaging over 20 points per game to pace Yeshiva in scoring, Samet has fashioned a well-rounded game, proving to be rock-steady from behind the arc while converting nearly 90 percent of his free throws. Yeshiva sports a particularly deep backcourt, as in addition to Samet, its next two leading scorers are Max Zakheim, a senior guard from Bergenfield, N.J., who actually played for NCAA Division I Bryant University as a first-year student in 2021-22, and Or Sundjyvsky, a junior swingman from Fairlawn, N.J.

“We’re a super, super connected team,” Fox emphatically stated. “Everybody just wants to win, and they want to win for each other. It’s not about statistics. It’s not about who gets the ball in this situation. All the guys care about is winning a conference championship. I don’t think guys would last in this program if they were all about personal achievements.”

However, even with their at times indomitable conference play, Yeshiva has suffered convincing losses to imposing non-conference Division III opponents such as Trinity College and New York University, the likes of which they could face in a potential NCAA tournament matchup.

“I think there’s a little uncertainty,” acknowledged Fox. “I think we’ve come out sluggish in a lot of games, and if we fall behind, we turn it on. And once we turn it on, we are very, very tough.”

Indeed, largely because of Samet who has an intriguing backstory beyond the box scores. The nephew of Rabbi Zvi Sobolofsky, who serves as YU’s rosh yeshiva, Samet spent a year studying at the Yeshivat Reishit in Israel during his gap year, balancing hours of morning basket-

ball drills with a healthy dose of Jewish prayers and rituals on top of his studies, before coming over to Yeshiva to hold down the school’s backcourt.

“Zevi Samet is indescribable,” raved Fox. “I have never in my life met a student-athlete like Zevi. Zevi is the spiritual leader of this program. He is a great basketball player. More importantly than being a great basketball player, he is an ambassador for the Jewish people like I have never seen. He spends his days working on his game and spends the other part of his day learning Torah. That is his life. He is one of the most selfless, incredible human beings I have ever met at his age. I have never met a young man like Zevi. He devotes his life to bettering the world.”

As has been the case since 2014, Elliott Steinmetz, attorney by day, basketball coach by night, serves as bench boss for the Macs. Steinmetz, whose son, Jacob, was selected in the third round of the 2021 Major League Baseball draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, is a 2002 grad of YU’s Sy Syms School of Business who lettered on YU’s basketball team for

three seasons from 1999-02.

“Elliott is one of the smartest and most passionate human beings I’ve ever met in my life,” shared Fox. “He brings that passion into the job as basketball coach. He’s also one of the hardest-working human beings I’ve ever met. Elliott has taken this part-time responsibility [Division III college basketball coaching] and he does it full-time with another fulltime job. His energy level is astounding to me.”

Though the Maccabees may not be in the national limelight like they so often were throughout the COVID years, this year’s team clearly possesses depth, poise, and grit and continues filling up the Max Stern Center night in and night out.

“There’s always buzz with men’s basketball at YU,” added Fox. “Everybody is excited about men’s basketball on this campus. It has brought so much to us. Not just the media, not just the notoriety. It has really helped us as far as recruiting, as far as retention, as far as fundraising. It has helped us in so many ways.” ì

Zevi Samet (white jersey) and the rest of the Yeshiva men’s basketball team have made program legend Ryan Turell proud this winter by racing to the top of the Skyline Conference // Photo Credit: Yeshiva University  ì

Weiss Shines for Columbia Women’s Hoops

By David Ostrowsky

The Columbia University women’s basketball team has been asking a lot from Riley Weiss this winter.

Coming off their first-ever March Madness showing last year, the Lions have not only looked to the sophomore guard from Hewlett, N.Y., to provide the lion’s share of the scoring but also to be a de facto team leader, a role typically unbefitting of a second-year player. But Weiss, in her meteoric rise to emerging as one of the deadliest perimeter shooters in women’s college basketball, has exceeded in both areas for an underclassheavy Columbia team that has nevertheless been perched on the top of the Ivy League standings and is positioned well for returning to the NCAA tournament next month.

“I think just being able to have more of a voice this year just because I’m learning things for the second time now,” Weiss shared about how her role and game have evolved when speaking to the AJT last week. “Freshman year, there’s a lot being thrown at you so just to have more knowledge of the game and have more knowledge of what we want to do. The physicality in college basketball is much different than high school so I think this summer I focused on getting stronger.”

Weiss had a solid freshman year, appearing in all 30 games and being tabbed Ivy League Rookie of the Week thrice. Her sophomore season, however, has been nothing short of spectacular as going into this past weekend’s big showdown against fellow Ivy League heavyweight Princeton, Weiss ranked No. 7 nationally in three-pointers made per game and was the second-leading scorer in the league. And in this rivalry game that for now decided sole possession of first place in the Ivy League, Weiss exploded for a career-high 34 points, 16 of which came in a fourth quarter that she took over, to fuel Columbia to a 64-60 road win. This scintillating performance followed other evenings in which Weiss has lit up the box score, most notably when she poured in 25 and 26 points against Penn and Harvard, respectively, in the last week of January.

Weiss’ stellar sophomore campaign follows a high school career that began when, as a seventh grader, she cracked the varsity roster at George W. Hewlett High after her middle school gym teacher recognized the immense talent and encouraged her to go out for the varsity.

By her eighth-grade season, a year before entering high school, Weiss was named team captain — a mantle that closely parallels her current leadership post as a sophomore for Columbia. “It was a really good experience for me getting to be around older girls at such a young age and getting to play at the high school level,” reflected Weiss.

She would go onto net more than 2,000 points from seventh to 11th grade before leaving as the school’s all-time leading scorer to finish her secondary education at North Broward Prep in South Florida. Just as she feels it was the right decision to continue her basketball-exclusive high school career for a prep school that she piloted to a district championship on the heels of her winning gold at the 2022 Maccabiah Games with Team USA, so too is she content with playing college hoops in her home state of New York.

“It was nice to be in Florida for a year, but it’s also really nice to be home in New York,” Weiss noted.

Columbia is less than 25 miles from her hometown of Hewlett, but at times over the past year, it has been its own world with groups of pro-Palestinian students establishing encampments of tents on the university’s famous campus. Yet, the string of tumultuous outbursts has not deterred Weiss from enjoying her un-

dergrad experience away from the gym.

“I’ve had a great time so far at Columbia,” she continued. “There are just so many things to do in New York City. You never get bored. I met so many great people here.”

That Weiss plays within an hour’s drive of her parents means that her dad, Jeff, a very good college basketball player in his own right who went on to coach 32 years at Lawrence Woodmere Academy on Long Island while compiling 19 league championships, can regularly watch her games in person. But it also means having scarce opportunities to watch her twin brother, Ryan, a firstyear guard for Brandeis University with whom she is very close, take the court. Indeed, virtually every memory of Riley’s basketball-centric childhood involves an image of shooting mid-range jump shots with Ryan during halftime of her father’s games or practicing off-hand dribbling during a family vacation. From what she’s told, Riley was indoctrinated into the family business when she was a toddler. “I just literally remember growing up in the gym. I was there every day after school,” explained Riley, whose house was a five-minute drive from Lawrence Woodmere Academy.

Growing up on Long Island, Weiss was constantly surrounded by class-

mates, friends, and basketball teammates who equated springtime with lacrosse, a sport that is wildly popular in New York’s Nassau and Suffolk counties. Before high school, Weiss had played lacrosse and surely could have been an impact player for George W. Hewlett. But she ultimately stayed true to the one-sport specialization approach.

“I don’t know if I wish I played other sports in high school,” she offered. “In high school I just wanted to focus on basketball, but I don’t know if I regret not playing another sport.”

Naturally, this time of year, when she wasn’t playing high school basketball, Weiss was tuned into an endless stream of college basketball games on television, pining for the opportunity to one day actually partake in March Madness. After getting a taste of postseason college basketball last year, when Columbia fell to Vanderbilt in the First Four, Weiss hopes to be the floor general for an up-and-coming Columbia squad that will once again capture the Ivy League crown to secure a coveted at-large bid to the NCAAs.

“Growing up as a kid, all I watched was like the NCAA tournament. It was pretty surreal to be there and obviously we have a great opportunity to be there again this year, so it’s super exciting.” ì

One of the best three-point shooters in the entire country, Riley Weiss (No. 24) has been the floor general for a Columbia University team on the brink of returning to March Madness // Photo Credit: Columbia Athletics

Hadassah Hosts Table at Atlanta Jewish Life Festival

Sonenshine Honored by GA Association of Realtors

Hadassah Greater Atlanta participated in the 2025 Atlanta Jewish Life Festival, held in the Oceans Ballroom of the Georgia Aquarium on Sunday, Feb. 23.

The Atlanta Jewish Life Festival was founded by the Atlanta Jewish Times whose mission is to create a sense of community throughout the geographically dispersed Jewish people of Greater Atlanta.

In keeping with the Atlanta Jewish Times’ mission of keeping Jewish Atlanta connected, the Atlanta Jewish Life Festival aims to promote and celebrate Jewish and Israeli arts, food, music, and cultural experiences throughout the

city and connect the community to local synagogues, nonprofits and social action groups with a hope to further strengthen the bonds and understanding of Jewish beliefs, traditions, and family.

Hadassah Greater Atlanta is very much a part of the Jewish experience in the Atlanta area and throughout the state of Georgia and the Southeast. Hadassah Greater Atlanta is proud to be represented at this event where many Jews from around the city came together to have fun and learn from each other. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Debbie Sonenshine, a Coldwell Banker Realty real estate professional for more than four decades, was honored for her philanthropy on Feb. 19. The Georgia Association of Realtors presented her with the 2025 Good Neighbor Award.

support food-insecure students.

“This cause has been near and dear to my heart for many years,” noted Debbie Sonenshine. “I am honored to be recognized and hope this will help shine a spotlight on this amazing organization so more people learn about it and become involved.”

Sonenshine has been involved with this organization in greater Atlanta for many years, including cofounding Backpack Buddies at Congregation B’nai Torah. It has since evolved and become an official nonprofit called Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta, where Sonenshine serves as a board member.

The organization’s goal is to provide weekend meals to food-insecure children in Metro Atlanta to enhance their mental and physical health as well as their ability to learn. Operating out of a storage and distribution facility in Dunwoody, Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta provides food at no cost to dozens of community, civic, and religious organizations, called Community Buddies, that deliver the food to some 2,500 children in 50 Metro Atlanta schools every week to

According to Coldwell Banker Realty’s Regional Vice President for Atlanta, Sherry Noles, “We are absolutely thrilled for Debbie and this incredible, well-deserved honor! Her unwavering dedication and passion have not only made a lasting impact but have also inspired our entire Coldwell Banker family. Thanks to her tireless efforts, even our Coldwell Banker Cares Foundation has embraced this as an official cause in the Atlanta market. We couldn’t be prouder!”

As part of the Good Neighbor Award, the Backpack Buddies of Metro Atlanta will also receive a $1,000 donation in Debbie Sonenshine’s honor. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Debbie Sonenshine was honored by the Georgia Association of Realtors with the 2025 Good Neighbor Award.

Visitors stopped by to learn about Hadassah Greater Atlanta at the Hadassah table at the Atlanta Jewish Life Festival with the help of (from left) Hana Landerman, Susan Linkwald, Terry Nordin, Simone Wilker, Sandy Bailey.

ADL Jurisprudence Breakfast Honors Berry

By Ronit Franco-Pinsky

The inaugural honoree for the Anti-Defamation League’s Jurisprudence Breakfast was Jeremy Berry, city attorney of Brookhaven and partner at Chilivis Grubman Warner, Berry & LLP. Berry was honored for his outstanding leadership, commitment to fighting antisemitism, and contribution to the Jewish community.

The King and Spalding law firm, which has been a big supporter of ADL and its causes, hosted the breakfast. Keynote speaker James Pasch has been trying to launch legal efforts in federal court against harassment and violent cases of antisemitism against Jewish students on U.S. campuses, on the streets, and at the workplace.

Berry, who graduated from Emory Law School, has always been active in the Atlanta Jewish community while serving as Brookhaven’s city attorney and while practicing in his private law firm. Post-Oct. 7, many residents of Brookhaven and other areas of metro Atlanta received disturbing flyers with hate messages against Jewish residents. Several of those residents were Berry’s friends and neighbors, and he decided to take legal action against it and the Goyim Defense League, the group responsible for distributing the flyers.

The ADL’s legal work focuses on four actions: educate, advocate, litigate, and investigate. The rise of antisemitism following Oct. 7 has reached new levels. ADL has filed 180 cases in the last year and a half on behalf of victims who were severely hurt with broken bones, broken noses, concussions, cuts,

Jeremy Berry was honored by the AntiDefamation League for his leadership, commitment to fighting antisemitism, and contribution to the Jewish community //

Photo Credit: @Jolie Loren Photography

and much more. An effort has also been made to hold accountable organizations and higher learning institutions.

In one of the cases, the defense brought before the judge a motion that it was a political statement against Zionism, justifying the violence. That motion was ultimately overruled by the judge and the case went to trial. The practice of peaceful demonstration is not imposed, but the law must enforce that protesters are not allowed to use violence, threats, and intimidation against Jewish people physically as well as online.

The ADL has partnered with Crowell, a leading global firm in international terrorism cases, to file a lawsuit against Iran, Syria, and North Korea for providing materials to support Hamas. A lawsuit is the most direct way to establish Iran’s responsibility for Hamas’ terror actions. This is a groundbreaking case for ADL and helps provide a crucial national and international step in legally representing the victims of the heinous, brutal attacks and atrocities that Hamas has perpetuated.

Mike Wise Takes Helm at 18Doors

18Doors, the leading national organization dedicated to empowering people in interfaith relationships and fostering inclusive Jewish communities, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael (Mike) Wise as its next chief executive officer. Wise, the founder and former co-CEO of Honeymoon Israel, will officially step into the role on Feb. 17, 2025.

Before founding Honeymoon Israel in 2014, Wise served as CEO/executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo. He has also held leadership roles as CEO of the JCCs of Greater Atlanta and CEO of the Jewish community board of Akron, where he spearheaded the restructuring of the local Jewish communal system—now regarded as a national model for small and mid-sized communities.

Originally from Minnesota, Wise earned a B.S. from the University of Minnesota and a Master of social work from the University at Buffalo.

Laurie Beijen, 18Doors board chair, expressed her enthusiasm for Wise’s selection,

“We know that Mike will help to innovate and accelerate our mission and vision: that people in interfaith and/or multicultural relationships are welcomed and embraced by Jewish communities and contribute to Judaism’s enduring strength and continuity. Simply put, we can’t wait to see what’s next for 18Doors!”

Wise said, “I am deeply honored to assume the CEO role at 18Doors (formerly InterfaithFamily) and continue to build on the success of the program over the last 25plus years. I am moved to continue the work

Hadassah Celebrates Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, when Hadassah Greater Atlanta spotlights its year-round efforts to advance heart health and fight heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.

For the sixth year in a row, Newsweek named Hadassah one of the world’s top hospitals in cardiology.

Around the Atlanta area, Hadassah members and supporters are advocating for women’s health and supporting groundbreaking heart research at the Hadassah Medical Organization. In fact, the prestigious International Cardio-Oncology Society has declared Hadassah’s Cardio-Oncology Center as Israel’s first Center of Excellence for its multidisciplinary approach that enables and ensures optimal treatments for patients. Cardio-oncologists from around the world

join together at Hadassah in Jerusalem with the aim of reducing cardiovascular disease in cancer patients and thereby saving people’s lives.

Simone Wilker, Hadassah Greater Atlanta Zionist Affairs Chair, explains, “While heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide of both men and women, symptoms present themselves differently in women than in men, and women are often underdiagnosed and undertreated.”

On February 7, National Wear Red Day, Hadassah members sought to raise awareness about the causes and risks of heart disease and to empower women everywhere to take charge of their heart health. Today, 80 to 90 percent of heart disease is preventable.

Terry Nordin, president, Hadassah Greater Atlanta, states, “Women have higher

rates of delayed care, misdiagnosis and death in the year following a heart attack than men. We urge women to speak out now with Hadassah to prioritize women’s heart health.”

To achieve good heart health, according to Hadassah, an individual should maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limit sodium intake, regularly exercise, manage stress, get enough sleep, monitor blood pressure and keep cholesterol levels under control.

Hadassah Greater Atlanta strives to promote overall well-being, not just for its members, but for both men and women in their communities and beyond. For more information go to: www.hadassah.org.

Compiled by AJT Staff

I have done welcoming young couples into the Jewish community and Jewish people. With more than a 75 percent interfaith marriage rate among non-Orthodox Jews, it is critical for the Jewish community to welcome these couples who are Jewish and support them in building a Jewish home in whatever ways work for them. My work as founder and co-CEO of Honeymoon Israel is but one great example of the potential of deep engagement with couples coming from multiple faith backgrounds. Our deep commitment to working with and training rabbis is another critical piece of our work on behalf of the Jewish community. I welcome your thoughts and ideas to enhance the work of 18Doors. My thanks to the board and leadership for the opportunity to continue this work critical to the Jewish people.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

Mike Wise will serve as chief executive officer for 18Doors beginning Feb. 17.

Hadassah educates women about women’s symptoms of heart disease during the month of February, which is all about hearts. (From left) Etta Cohen, Lynn Owens, and Simone Wilker

I’m Happy & Relieved for My Extended Family

Dave Schechter

From Where I Sit

This column was always going to break in one of two ways. Which way was uncertain until Feb. 22, when Tal Shoham came home.

After 505 days as a hostage in Gaza, Tal returned to Israel, to his wife and two young children, and to an extended family whose lives have been on hold since Oct. 7, 2023.

Over the past 16 months, I have written two dozen “From Where I Sit” columns about the 1,200 men, women, and children slaughtered that day and the 250 kidnapped in the Hamas-led pogroms against kibbutzim, towns, and an outdoor music festival in Israel’s “Gaza envelope." I have allowed myself an emotional investment in this story, contrary to my usual practice.

The reason lies in history that be-

gan in the mid-1800s, in Foscani, a town in Moldova, now part of Romania, with Isaac and Chaya Schechter, my paternal great-great grandparents. Their children included twin boys, Solomon, my greatgrandfather, and Yisrael, my great-grand uncle.

Yisrael emigrated in 1882 to what then was part of the Ottoman Empire, where he was a founder of the town of Zichron Yaakov. Yisrael married twice and had 11 children. I can trace six generations of first, second, and third cousins, some once or twice removed, some connected by marriage, on the Israeli side of the family.

I met about 150 Schechter relations (and was told that another 300 were absent) in autumn 1985 when Audrey and I, who had arrived in Israel two weeks earlier on a study program, attended a family gathering.

An elderly woman was brought to me. Without saying a word, she placed one hand over my mouth and the other on my forehead. Looking into my eyes, she declared, in the guttural Hebrew pronun-

ciation, “Schechter.”

Early on the morning of Oct. 7, as I followed the horrors being reported from Israel, I assumed that, given their numbers, Schechter descendants lived in areas suffering rocket fire, or worse, the terrorist attacks.

A couple of days later a nephew received a text from an Israeli cousin informing him that, in the immediate aftermath, family members were missing.

A mother and her teenage daughter, visiting from the United States, were abducted from Kibbutz Nahal Oz, and freed on Oct. 20 for what Hamas called “humanitarian reasons.”

The situation was more dire at Kibbutz Be’eri, where two couples, long-time residents, were joined by six other family members for the holiday weekend as Sukkot ended and Simchat Torah began.

Ten days after the attacks, the bodies of two men and a woman, people close to my age, were identified. Funerals were held for Avshalom Haran, z”l; Lilach Kipnis, z”l, and her husband, Eviatar Kipnis, z”l.

Seven family members were hostages: Shoshan Haran (Avshalom’s wife and Lilach’s sister); her daughter, Adi, and son-in-law, Tal; their children, 8-year-old Naveh and 3-year-old Yahel; along with Sharon Avigdori (Avshalom’s sister) and her 12-year-old daughter, Noam.

Posters with their faces were prominently displayed at a vigil for the hostages on Oct. 30, 2023, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue.

I had received a shock that morning — meeting two Israeli cousins at the Atlanta Press Club, where they and representatives of two other hostage families spoke, as part of a tour to raise awareness in the United States. I wrote in my column: “This extraordinary coincidence was an unexpected ray of sunshine amid the gloom of the circumstances that brought them here.”

At the vigil, Or Sella, whose late father hosted the gathering that we attended those many years ago, said: “Sooner than later, I’ll come back to being a musician and a music producer. All of us — and a lot of families in Israel . . . this is who we are, families of hostages.”

There was good news on Nov. 25, when, after 50 days in captivity, the women and children were freed as part of a wider exchange of hostages for a larger number of Palestinians jailed in Israel.

Tal remained a captive.

Throughout this ordeal, the Israeli cousins have campaigned on behalf

of Tal and the other hostages, utilizing public forums, social media posts, and interviews. The efforts of the extended Haran-Havron-Korngold-Kipnis-AvigdoriSella-Nishry family have been admirable. Before Oct. 7, I did not know their names and knew nothing of their lives. Now my daily routine includes checking for their posts and messages. I have added numerous leaves to the family tree in my computer. One of them said: “We’re Ashkenaz, so every person up to the third or fourth branch is considered a closely related cousin.”

The hostage families have been living a “Groundhog Day” hell in which every day is Oct. 7.

More than once, hopes for a ceasefire and hostage release were raised, only to be dashed. Then came the Jan. 19 agreement, in which 33 Israeli hostages — including eight dead — would be returned in exchanges for jailed Palestinians, in the first phase of a three-phase agreement. Tal, who turned 40 as a hostage on Jan. 30, was on the list.

My favorite picture from Feb. 22 was of Tal seated on a couch, with Naveh on his left and Yahel on his right, along with Adi and his parents, Gilad and Nitza Korngold.

I am happy and relieved for the entire family.

But the bodies of four hostages have yet to be returned in phase one and, as of this writing, the schedule for release of the remaining 59 hostages (more than half of whom are believed dead) is uncertain.

“This is not a moment of joy or gratitude. It is a moment of relief—one that, for the first time in a year and a half, allows us to breathe,” Or Sella wrote on Facebook after Tal was freed. “We must continue demanding the immediate release of all the hostages. And only then can we begin to rebuild.” ì

Tal Shoham is seated on a couch, with Naveh on his left and Yahel on his right, along with Adi and his parents, Gilad and Nitza Korngold, after spending 505 days in captivity.

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.

STYLE

Jewish Atlanta ’ s Stylish Simchas and Celebrations

SPRING SIMCHAS

Black-Belt Asher Inspired by Israel Trip

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

On Aug. 24, family and friends celebrated Asher Laderberg’s bar mitzvah at Temple Beth Tikvah in Roswell. The ceremony was filled with meaning and tradition, marking Asher’s transition into Jewish adulthood. The celebration continued in the social hall at TBT, where guests enjoyed an afternoon of music, food, and fun, and an ample supply of Asher’s imprinted name.

Asher is an eighth-grade student at Cumberland Academy. Mom, Paulabeth Weinberger, said, “He is a talented and active young man with many passions, including taekwondo—where he holds a black belt— baseball, soccer, music, and reading. He performs in musical theatre with Georgia Ensemble and plays the clarinet.”

For his mitzvah service project, Asher

chose to support Angels Among Us Pet Rescue and local animal adoption services, reflecting his love for animals and his commitment to giving back to the community.

For his Torah portion, Asher read from Parshat Eikev. In his speech, he shared his thoughts about responsibility and consequences, tying in a personal story that taught him valuable lessons. Eikev (“as a result”) is the 46th weekly portion as Moses recounts the events that happened

in the desert including the manna, golden calf and Aaron’s death, followed by the blessings the Israelites will receive if they follow G-d’s law.

The service was led by Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner and Cantor Nancy Kessel, who shared words of encouragement and wisdom with Asher. One of the rabbi’s most touching messages was about the importance of resilience and integrity, “values that Asher exemplifies every day.”

Asher harkened back to his trip to Israel for one of his motivations // All photos by Dani Weiss

A particularly special moment in the ceremony was when Asher wore a tallit that he picked out in Jerusalem from his visit there a few weeks prior to the catastrophic events that unfolded in October 2023.

The celebration included all the things Asher enjoys: music, baseball, and games, creating an upbeat and pumped up atmosphere. For the cuisine, catered by Proof of the Pudding, all the kosher-inspired food was chosen based on Asher’s favorites, including mac ‘n cheese, pasta, and bagels, ensuring that everyone else got to enjoy the dishes he loves. An enticing fruit display and sushi stacks were part of the bill of fare. Potato latkes topped with sour cream and caviar rounded out the menu. The dessert table was a gathering point of “sugar highs,” featuring cotton candy, snowcones, and Dance Your “Asher” Off Donuts -- a live action donut and ice cream flambe station.

Family and friends traveled from the U.S. and abroad to celebrate with Asher, including family from Virginia, Texas, and his great aunt and uncle from Israel, Bia and Ilan, who gave a special and moving prayer for peace during the service. The

presence of his remote family made the occasion even more special.

In fall 2023, Asher and his mom visited Israel with his family to see his grandfather’s side of the family, who remain there.

During the trip, they also traveled to Jordan to visit Petra, an experience that left a lasting impression on Asher. His takeaway from the trip was gaining a deeper appreciation for his heritage and family roots, as well as the incredible history of the region.

Visiting Jerusalem, the Wall, and the underground tunnels, in particular, amazed him with its breathtaking architecture and the realization of how civilizations have thrived there for thousands of years.

When asked about his “happy emotions remaining” from the bar mitzvah weekend, Asher said, “My favorite part was being able to celebrate this big accomplishment that I worked very hard on with all my family and friends. Also, the dance floor and donuts!”

Mom, Paulabeth, said, ‘The entire weekend was a joyous and unforgettable experience, celebrating Asher’s hard work, dedication, and the bright future ahead of him.” ì

Asher Laderberg lit the candles with his bold name sign in the background.

Asher and mom, Paulabeth, wanted everyone to dance and have a good time to Dance Your “Asher” Off.

Above: Asher’s dance floor was personalized.

Below: Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner spoke of Asher’s integrity.

Mo’s Red, White & Blue Bar Mitzvah

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

The only thing more talked about in mid-November than the election, was the bar mitzvah of Morris Israel Kogon on Nov. 16 at Ahavath Achim where Mo’s d’var Torah stole the show with spontaneous audience applause.

Mo credits this inspirational talk from counseling with his great uncle, Mark Cohen, past Ahavath Achim president, who worked with him on his cadence and

delivery for several weeks prior to the event. (Note: Cohen offers to work with all Ahavath Achim b’nai mitzvot students on their d’var Torah delivery.)

An Epstein School student, Mo’s interests are baseball and basketball, watching sports (favorite teams are the Braves, Falcons and Hawks), learning about history and politics, and spending time with family and friends.

His mitzvah projects were especially impressive. First, he chose to work with

Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS) because of its impact. JF&CS has multiple programs, and Mo chose to work with the kosher food pantry because “it helps so many families to have food on the table.”

Mom, Sara said, “Mo’s bar mitzvah project with JF&CS had several components: our family spent an afternoon at the food pantry sorting food, organizing the shelves, and stocking. Then, the centerpieces for the kiddush luncheon on Saturday were composed of food that Mo shopped for.”

Mo created meal kits made of canned and boxed foods that the food pantry clients can use to make nourishing meals. After the bar mitzvah, the food was donated to the food pantry. Mo created a website to fundraise for the food pantry where it has $5,000 to date at https://give.jfcsatl.org/ fundraiser/5686188.

In September, after the destruction in Western North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene, the family was saddened by the damage done to Mo (and his siblings’)

The red, white and blue-clad Kogon Family / All photos by Patti with Scenesations Photography

beloved Camp Judaea. Mo decided to add a second component: fundraising for Camp Judaea. Mo has raised more than $2,000 for this initiative.

Mo’s parsha was Vayera. He recalled the most meaningful concepts were, “Vayera contains one of the most powerful moments in the entire Torah; when Abraham says the word, ‘Hineni’: I am here. ‘Hineni’ isn’t just some casual ‘Yep, I’m here,’ like when a teacher takes attendance. It’s way deeper. ‘Hineni’ is more than just showing up. It’s about showing up when life challenges you, when things get tough, and saying ‘I’m ready to face this.’ ‘Hineni’ represents perseverance – maybe even survival. Throughout history, the Jewish people have faced challenges that seemed insurmountable. We’ve persevered and thrived like Abraham said, ‘Hineni,’ to G-d, and just like the Jewish people have said ‘Hineni’ throughout history, I want to be able to say ‘Hineni’ to my communities. By helping others, we strengthen our bonds with the people we’re helping, with G-d, and each other. And honestly, what better way to live out the message of my Torah portion that showing up for those in need?”

Mo’s tallis was purchased in Israel by his maternal grandparents, Naomi and Jeffrey Stonberg. His yad was a gift from The Epstein School upon completing his in-school bar mitzvah service. Mo’s grand-

father, Marty Kogon, his big sister, Marion, big brother, Gerald, his father, Ross, and mother, Sara, all read from the Torah at the AA bar mitzvah service.

The Kogons are known for their entertainment flair. Mo’s party was at Factory Atlanta with an America-theme of red, white and blue ... chosen because Mo is a patriot and likes history.

Dad, Ross, Uncle Michael, and Mo’s big brother, Gerald, all wore American flag-themed suits and blue and white Adidas sneakers. Mo wore red, white and blue Nikes and outfits throughout the weekend.

Balloonacy supplied huge bunches of balloons. Monte Carlo Productions provided skiing, skee ball, golf, racing and boxing games. A temporary tattoo artist (Funorama) and a photo booth from Button it Up tripled the fun. A unique appearance from Uncle Sam on stilts from Liquid Sky surprised the crowd. The DJ was Jason Kagan with KP Productions. Raising the Bar, Hi Roller Sushi, Slutty Vegan, Southern Crust, and Three Tikis (dessert) catered the food for 275 guests. Party planner Tara Kornblum (Bluming Creativity) pulled it all together. Guests left with waterproof wireless “MoKo 2024” logo speakers.

Mo summed it up, “What I liked most about my bar mitzvah weekend was the party, but seeing all of my family and friends was really the best!” ì

The Kogons are pictured outside of Factory Atlanta.

Top Left: Mo is pictured volunteering at the JF&CS food pantry.

Top Right: Mo clad in an American flag.

Below: The dessert bar featured patriotic flair.

Mo is lifted up during the traditional Hora dance.

Landyn Shoots Hoops While Silver Executes

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Landyn Miller’s bar mitzvah started at Temple Emanu-El with a later celebration at Dunwoody Country Club. Landyn, an eighth-grade student at Haynes Bridge Middle School, whose hobbies include Boy Scouts, football, basketball, swimming, and traveling, chose a mitzvah project collecting blankets for animal shelters in memory of Landyn’s first dog.

A vital part of the weekend was mom, Leslie’s, commitment to secure Elaine Silver, party planner, who was charged to create “a sporty themed event with a massive dance party.”

Leslie explained, “Silver flawlessly created Landyn’s love of sports while keeping the atmosphere lively for all ages. She incorporated disco balls throughout to ensure that details felt cohesive and vibrant. She prioritized creating a fun, highenergy event allocating much of the budget to an incredible DJ who kept the dance floor packed all night. She even inserted Landyn’s old-school music taste, including Queen’s ‘Don’t Stop Me Now.’ and special moments, like the mother-son dance, ‘Just the Two of Us,’ which brought tears to many eyes. She arranged airbrushed sports balls, coordinated hotel accommodations, and had a calm demeanor through it all.

This bar mitzvah was not just a celebration of Landyn’s achievements but also a reflection of Elaine’s incredible ability to turn dreams into reality. Elaine didn’t just plan a party—she created memories to treasure for a lifetime.”

For Landyn’s d’var Torah, Parsha Behar Leviticus, he shared, “Being Jewish is more than just a label; it’s a source of pride and resilience that grounds me in who I am. In the spirit of tikkun olam, I see my role as a Jewish individual as particularly meaningful. Drawing from my heritage, I’m committed to advocating for justice, equality, and the well-being of all. Whether through activism or simple acts of kind-

ness, I strive to leave a positive imprint on the world.”

His tallis was purchased in Israel by his uncle and aunt. Mom, Leslie, stated, “A beautiful aspect of the ceremony was seeing Landyn read Hebrew fluently as he is dyslexic and, just four years ago, he couldn’t read English, let alone Hebrew.”

The celebration took place at the Dunwoody Country Club with 125 guests with Landyn’s Sports Programming Network (LSPN) and sports zone theme. The décor in the pre-function and outdoors were football and basketball players’ centerpieces, flowers and balloons. The tables in the ballroom had LSPN logo centerpieces. The

Landyn Miller reading the Torah // All photos by Patti Covert, It’s Covert

table number stanchions were footballs and basketballs. Disco balls in various sizes sparkled above the dance floor.

Landyn wore a custom LSPN jersey with his new Nike Reverse Grinch sneakers. The dinner for adults featured a Greek buffet and prime rib station. Kids’ food included Landyn’s favorites, “no healthy options,” which he requested: pretzels, sliders, chicken strips, curly fries, bagel bites, and mac and cheese. Desserts were cotton candy (the adults enjoyed more than the kids), hot brownies a la mode, and assorted adult desserts. Favors for the kids were sweatshirts with the LSPN Logo with the very cool option of having them

• Centerpieces: JF&CS

personalized and airbrushed. Adults opted for trucker hats and had them airbrushed. There was also a photo booth with props.

Elaine (Silver Lining Hospitality Services) concluded, “I listened to what was most important to Leslie and Landyn to make the weekend as special … assuring the décor reflected both the sports and dance theme. I was careful to not over decorate as I wanted the look to be elevated. Adding the ice sculpture (where adults leaned in to take shots) made for a wonderful dimension. My main goal for the weekend was for the experience to be memorable for Landyn, as he represents the future.” ì

Vendors:

• DJ: Jason Kagen, Kagen Entertainment

• Sweatshirts: Jen Immerman, J & D Engraving and Promotions

• Ice Sculpture: Ice Sculpture Inc.

• Airbrush: Ober Airbrush

• Hotel: Avalon

• Friday Night Dinner: Barleygarden Kitchen

• Kiddush: Bagel Boyz

Above: The LSPN stage was a perfect setup for the DJ.

Below: Landyn and his friends spray painted names on their hoodies.

Above: Landyn Miller and Leslie and Steve McAlpine wanted an event that was fun for all ages.

Below: Landyn and his parents wore Grinch shoes and changed clothes after the cocktail hour.

Lizzie Dances Through a Winter Wonderland

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Lego and competitive dance are Lizzy Harris’ passions. On Dec. 21, she celebrated her bat mitzvah at Congregation B’nai Torah, followed by a Dunwoody Country Club party.

The Epstein School seventh grader is a member of JDance – an MJCCA Dance Company -- and twirls into ballet, contemporary, jazz, and musical theatre dance.

Lizzy’s parsha was Mikeitz where she compared the story of Joseph to her favorite movie, Disney’s “Lilo and Stitch.” She said, “Ohana” means “family” where no one gets left behind ... just like Stitch came to his family’s rescue despite them kicking him out. Joseph was there for his family despite his brothers selling him into slavery

my family will always be there for me, and I’ll always be there for them.”

B’nai Torah Rabbi Joshua Heller’s speech recognized Lizzie’s empathy and desire to help others ... her fierce dedication to “anything she sets her mind to” which would ensure long lasting relationships and success.”

To honor her late grandmother, kippot were lined with purple, Granny’s favorite color. Later, in a spice ceremony, Lizzie invited some of her favorite people to add spices, representing love, support, and memories that have shaped her. These “spices of her life,” were used for Havdalah.

Camp Judaea was central to the ceremony where Lizzy’s parents, Renee and Josh, met at a yearlong YJ course in Israel. Lizzy herself “lives” for summer camp. She said, “It meant so much to have friends

stomping the floor, swaying, like we do at camp.” CJ assistant director, Ilana Schlam, led Havdalah.

For Lizzy’s mitzvah project, she collected coats, gloves, hats, hand warmers and sleeping bags that she delivered to The Sandwich Project for the needy. After Hurricane Helene, she quickly decided to also collect for those in South Georgia and Asheville, N.C., Renee’s hometown.

Marci Miller, of The Perfect Party Atlanta, did the décor and planning at Dunwoody Country Club, in a Winter Wonderland with lit up birch trees, dangling crystal snowflakes and a sparkling white dance floor. Other touches were “LIZZY “in lighted letters; tables had winter names. Miller used lilac, baby blue, silver and blue to make things “pop.”

Approximately 400 baseball-sized cotton balls dropped on the dance floor. Guests threw them at each other, followed by a cleanup competition. Gem face paint artist was Funorama, while TAPSnap’s photo booth had different winter-themed backgrounds.

Favors were hooded blankets with Lizzy’s logo. Kids under 8 received a teddy bear wearing a Lizzy hoodie. The DJ was Atlanta Fever, Omar as lead and Mellow as DJ. Two dancers ensured the party for 150 was lively.

The adult menu featured hors d’oeuvres: mini chicken wellington, deviled egg crustini, spring rolls. Main menu included a poke bar, Southern classic station with fried chicken and biscuits, and a beef short rib and truffle fries station. All with

Lizzy and Josh Harris during their choreographed Father-Daughter dance.

options of side Caesar salads.

The kids menu included hors d’oeuvres: mac and cheese bites, and mini beef corn dogs. The main menu featured chicken fingers, baked ziti, mozzarella sticks, and fruit bar.

The custom cocktail was Polar Punch (ginger ale, grenadine, Sprite and a dash of orange juice). Dessert was a giant six foot by eight foot donut wall, ice cream sundae bar, crème brulee cheesecake shots, mini pecan pies and chocolate torts.

Lizzy’s favorite songs played during the party were: “Tiny Dancer,” for the Father-Daughter dance; her entrance song, “Celebrate” (Pit Bull), her favorite Israeli dance song, “Kawaii,” and current fave, “Apt Apt,” by Bruno Mars and Rosie.

Lizzy had two dresses -- her dream

lilac dress with a corseted top used for her entrance. Then she changed for her daddy dance to a special lilac dress with white winter florals. Dancing in those talented feet, Lizzy and sister, Maya, wore Betsey Johnson shoes; but dad stole the show with purple metallic LED light up shoes from Amazon.

Guests stayed at Le Meridien Perimeter with the nearby Friday night dinner at Maggiano’s Perimeter.

Lizzy concluded, “I liked seeing friends and family all in one place, leading the service and making people laugh, the huge donut wall my daddy made, the sparkly dance floor, my beautiful dresses, being lifted in the chair during the party. And my most favorite was being the center of attention all weekend long.” ì

Above: Renee Harris and her daughters, Maya and Lizzy, share a special moment in front of the arc.

Below: Renee, Lizzy, Maya, and Josh Harris smiling as Lizzy points to her Torah portion.

A fun snowball fight made this Winter Wonderland even more exciting.

Top Left: Stunning winter-themed centerpiece by Perfect Party Atlanta.

Top Right: Lizzy requested that the lining inside the kippot be eggplant as a tribute to her Granny, Miriam Book, who passed away in 2003. Eggplant was Miriam’s favorite color.

Below: Lizzy Harris, the bat mitzvah girl, hanging out in the teen zone // All photos by Cassie Rae Photography

Ultra Connected Jack Proposed to Abby

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

A confluence of family connections brought Jack Copeland to the front door of Abby Orlansky ending in a fairy tale engagement. Copeland was living and working in New York, and Orlansky was in physician assistant school in West Palm Beach. So began a courtship with lots of Delta points.

With enough genealogy to constitute a chart, Cheryl and Herb Orlansky’s son, Alex, and Arielle Klebanoff Orlansky were married in Virginia Beach during the pandemic in 2021. Since Arielle’s wedding showers were cancelled due to COVID, the first time the Orlansky fam-

ily met her extended family was the wedding weekend. Her grandparents, Ann and Bobby Copeland, hosted a dinner party the Thursday night before the wedding so that everyone could meet. Mom, Cheryl, walked in the door to introduce herself to Ann, who said, “I have someone for your daughter, Abby, my grandson, Jack.” It took Cheryl by surprise as Ann had never met Abby.

Cheryl said, “At the wedding, they were introduced, and the rest is history. Our daughter-in-law’s mother, Jodi Klebanoff, and Jack’s father, Scott Copeland, are siblings. So, Arielle and Jack are first cousins. Since Arielle and Alex have an 18-month-old daughter, Sunnie, they call

Jack her ‘Cousin Uncle’! I give thanks that her family thought so highly of Alex to want to introduce his sister to Jack.”

Here’s how the proposal went down: For Thanksgiving, the Orlanskys go to Orlando every year to be with their maternal side of the family. Abby said, “It’s the one time of year we get together with my entire extended family. This year was extra special, because we have four new baby cousins in the family (ranging from 3 months to 17 months) that would be there for Thanksgiving (including my niece and nephew - the cutest babies in the world. Orlando happens to be one of my favorite places ever, more specifically my uncle and aunt’s, Seth and Jerri Johnson’s, house.”

The house sits near a picturesque lake with a dramatic sunset, that Abby considers her second home. Jack had already selected the proposal site the previous Thanksgiving when he joined them for the first year. A big cousins’ dinner was planned to meet at the house first for a drink at sunset, then head to dinner.

Abby recalled, “Jack and I got ready first, so we headed over there in a separate car. When we showed up, no one was there, and that’s when I really figured out what was happening.”

Jack got down on one knee in the backyard. Next, Jack had planned a surprise party at a nearby boutique hotel (The Alfond Inn), where the whole family wait-

The Orlanksy-Copeland families have many connection points.

ed to complete a perfect night.

Abby has a bachelor’s in human development and family science from the University of Georgia and graduated as a physician assistant from South University. She works in a dermatology practice in Gaithersburg, Md. Jack has a bachelor’s in computer science from the University of Virginia and is vice president for his family real estate business in Rockville, Md. They live in Washington, D.C.

Jack mused, “I love Abby’s strength, thoughtfulness, sense of humor, and her ability to make me smile. She brightens my day every day and is truly my best friend. I know that she will always support me.”

Abby echoes, “A short list of what I love about Jack is his kindness, selflessness, thoughtfulness, and easy-going manner. He puts others first before himself and values the relationships in his life. He is the most “go with the flow person and is always down for an adventure with me!”

Since they have nine weddings to attend between the two of them in 2025, their wedding will be in 2026!

In addition to Cheryl and Herb Orlansky of Atlanta, Jillian and Scott Copeland of Rockville, Md., are the groom’s parents. Grandparents are Ann and Bobby Copeland of Virginia Beach, Va., and Arlene Friedlander of Chevy Chase, Md. ì

Abby and Jack plan a 2026 wedding.

Above: Abby and Jack’s courtship involved trips from New York to West Palm Beach.

Below: Jack Copeland proposed to Abby Orlansky at her favorite lake.

Harrells Welcome Miracle Baby

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

There was not a dry eye in the house when Ashley Piper handed perfect baby boy, Toby, over to Jojo and Ross Harrell as family and friends looked on.

With the help of advancements in reproductive technologies, miracles happen to the tune of around 20,000 babies born via surrogacy per year in the U.S. This includes both gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate has no relationship to the child, and traditional surrogacy where the surrogate contributes her egg. The former is more common, and the route that Jojo

Gold Harrell successfully took.

Jojo was diagnosed with severe Crohn’s Disease at age 17. A few years later, she spent several months in the hospital. After all potential medications were exhausted, her large intestine was removed leaving her with an ileostomy at age 32. She technically can “carry” children, but her doctor and Ross felt that surrogacy was the better option. The toll pregnancy and labor could take on Jojo was a risk.

The Harrells went through two rounds of egg retrievals. For the first round, none of the eggs were viable. The second resulted in only one viable, but very strong em-

bryo. Jojo recalled, “I was nervous that we only had one embryo. The odds aren’t that great; and even our fertility doctor suggested we do another round. Ross wanted to do the transfer first before I did another egg retrieval. It worked, it only takes one!”

The Harrells didn’t connect to the candidates the agency presented. Jojo knew Piper for 11 years where periodically she nannied for Jojo’s sister. Both Ross and Jojo agreed that Ashley would be ideal; so, they texted her from the car. She responded, “Of course! I was waiting for you to ask me!”

Jojo explained, “I can’t say enough good things about Ashley. She’s a super

woman, incredibly talented, kind and strong. She is an amazing mother to her 2-year-old and a dedicated teacher.” At the time, her son, James, was a student in Jojo’s Temple Sinai class. They had to wait until Ashley was one year post-partum to begin, and then she got pregnant on the first try. Ross said, “Toby is certainly a miracle baby. With only one viable embryo, succeeding on the first try is quite special!” Jojo was very involved in the pregnancy. She went to almost every doctor’s appointment. She said, “It was special to see Ashley at work where I talked to the baby every day.”

The Southern tea shower was held on Nov. 16.

The delivery advanced quick quickly. The morning Ashley had her ultrasound, Jojo didn’t go because she hadn’t been feeling well the days prior. It was the only ultrasound she missed. Ashley called, and exclaimed, “You’re having a baby today!”

Jojo was shocked! Piper’s blood pressure was very high; and so, they decided the baby needed to come out pronto. Jojo, recalled, “He was already measuring very big, so we weren’t concerned about that!”

Yes, they knew the gender.

Fast forward to the Harrells now getting their sleep and into a schedule. Ross said, “He really is the perfect baby! He is so easy-going, eats like a champ, started sleeping through the night at two weeks old! He was born weighing nine pounds, six ounces and at a month he wore threemonth clothes.”

Understanding the legal aspects, the Harrells had to adopt their own child. In Georgia, even though Toby is 100 percent of both parents’ DNA, by law Ashley would be considered the mother since she carried him.

A baby shower with friends coming from several states was held at The Swan Coach House as a traditional Southern tea party. Beth Intro, known for her authentic and beautiful photography, captured all these events starting with the shower.

Jojo concluded, “People come into your life for certain reasons which may not be clear initially; but I believe that everything happens the way it is supposed to in the end … now as family, Ashley’s son calls me ‘Auntie’ as I’m his godmother. We celebrate holidays and birthdays together. Toby will always know his ‘Auntie Ash,’ and what a special gift she gave us.” ì

Above: Jojo and Ross Harrell treasure Toby Gray Harrell, who is sleeping through the night.

Below: After a C section, Ashley shared the birth with new mom and dad // All photos by Beth Intro Photography

Above: Toby’s onesie reads “I love my surro mama.”

Below: Everyone shared a big hug at the baby shower.

The Right Makeup Can Make All the Difference

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Part of the beauty swirl on the “day of” wedding preparation is the role of makeup, a tool of self-expression. Sometimes just the bride herself, or the entire wedding party, get the full “do.”

Two Jewish makeup artists weigh in with tips and trends for those utilizing professionals and those who want to DIY. Makeup can indeed set the mood and titrate the degree of drama. Should makeup bring out one’s natural beauty or be more exotic? Should a woman look soft? Strong? Creative? Unique? Should we notice the makeup vs. the person?

And perhaps the best advice is: “Don’t

wear makeup that makes you look like a body in the casket.”

Some opt for a professional touch to achieve a more blended, age-appropriate look, and/or glam camera-ready approach. Professional Jordan Rosenstein (JoRo) has been a makeup artist for nearly a decade. She considers it a privilege to make women feel their best on some of the biggest days of their lives.

She added, “Best doesn’t just refer to what they looked like, but how they felt. When it comes to weddings, in particular, how you look and how you feel are equally as important. Note that a bridal makeup artist will spend the majority of the day around the client, find someone

who matches your personality, is sanitary, and passionate about their craft.”

Rosenstein offers five points to consider when hiring a bridal makeup artist:

1: Know your budget - be upfront about your price point and avoid using phrases like “budget friendly” as everyone’s definition is different. If an artist is out of budget, that’s OK! Be sure to inform them you’re going in a different direction. Makeup is one of the lowest costs of wedding planning but makes the biggest impact for brides. Hire wisely and remember -- you get what you pay for.

2: Hire early! Makeup artists are one of the first vendors to get booked up; especially if your wedding falls on a major

holiday or is during peak season: April to June and September to November.

3: Find an artist whose portfolio aligns with your desired look. If you want an elevated, true-to-you glam, using an artist who specializes in full glam may not be the best fit.

4. Great skin = great makeup! Artists can bring out your natural beauty, but we aren’t plastic surgeons. We cannot erase texture, fine lines, or dry skin. Consider hydro-facials and dermaplaning to help the overall look and feel of your skin. The sooner you start a good routine, the better your skin will look and feel come wedding day.

5: If you plan on doing your own makeup: Practice! Or take a 1:1 lesson to

Professional makeup artist Jordan Rosenstein believes that how you look and how you feel are equally important.

learn for yourself.

Makeup artist Rena Rosenzweig Antebi (Faces by Rena) is a popular choice on the Jewish Women of Atlanta Facebook group. She offers her tips to ensure “putting your best face forward.”

Eyes: Add extra definition and mascara to the top lash line (perhaps a bit on the bottom outer corner, too) to create an open, more rested eye.

Face: If you have a good primer under your makeup (make sure it’s dried before putting on makeup), and a decent setting powder, your makeup should last.

Do not use sunscreen if you are being photographed; it reflects light and can cast a washed out look. Be sure to add extra bronzer in a “3” shape to the face, and ex-

tra blush to the high apple of the cheek. This is going to create structure to the face and makes sure you do not look washed out by the end of the night. Even if it feels too much, it’s probably perfect.

Lips: Avoid matte brown lip colors as this tends to age a person and yellows the appearance of teeth. Instead, if you are a minimalist and do not want a lot of color, go with a rosy mauve, pink tone.

Bottom line: makeup merits thought -- If you have pink hair, do you want your makeup to make you look like the girl next door? Makeup is like salt … the right amount enhances, too much is … well ….

For more information, contact Rena at 404-895-7208 or JoRo at www.makeupbyjoro.com. ì

Top Left: Rosenstein did the makeup on bride Kristin in her signature ‘soft bridal glam, an elevated look that compliments her features.

Top Right: Professional makeup artist Rena Rosenzweig Antebi specializes in putting one’s best face forward.

Below: JoRo created just the right look for this blonde bride // Photo Credit: Dash Photography

Summit at 8West Offers Stunning View

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Proof of the Pudding, one of Atlanta’s top catering companies, continues to roll out unique “mitzvah” venues that capture the Midtown and inner city’s essence and contemporary versatile vibe.

On Jan. 16, Summit at 8West made its formal premiere on the vibrant party/ meeting scene with 400 guests. Located on the eighth floor of the 8West building in West Midtown, the modern space overlooks a majestic downtown and Midtown Atlanta, Georgia Tech, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, truly in one of the city’s most spectacular panoramic views.

One guest mused, “This has a very

cool Miami nightscape sparkle.”

Proof’s nearby Dogwood venue had recently rolled out, while awaiting the next venue, Collier Hall -- all poised to host corporate meetings and socials, weddings, galas and not-for-profit events.

Coupled with a rooftop rental option, Summit at 8West also features private meeting and conference space on the first floor. The lobby features bold art, where the vibe is stark Manhattan-ish.

Summit at 8West has a sophisticated design spanning the 10,000-square-foot space with a guest capacity of 240 seated and 400 reception style. Here’s how the pricing tiers lay out:

Rentals are for a four-hour time span;

* Saturday rental is $6,000, beverage minimum $4,500;

* Friday rental is $5,000, with a $4,000 beverage minimum;

* Sunday through Thursday rental is $4,000, with $2,000 beverage minimum;

* Holidays and December may be more expensive than regular rates.

Facility tables and 200 chestnut wishbone chairs, rounds and six-foot banquet tables are included along with one security officer and free Wi-Fi. Usage of the very sleek green room/VIP suite, also with an amazing view, is included, and (wink) could be used for a yichud room for a religious bride and groom.

Paid self-parking or valet service is

available -- valet service is required for 200-plus guests. An additional ceremony fee includes rehearsal the day before (240 capacity). Final guest count is due 14 days in advance. Although a cocktail reception can hold 400, only 150 can go to the rooftop at one time. Events must be over by 11 p.m., with everyone and everything out by midnight.

Erin Lis, president of Added Touch and A Kosher Touch Caterer, confirmed her availability to bring in full-service kosher catering, certified under the Atlanta Kashruth Commission and approved for all three venues.

Chris Bazemore, director of venue sales and business development for Proof

The rooftop space at The Summit at 8West can fit 150 guests at a time. Nighttime views are especially elevated by the skyline. Think about roasting s’mores and serving desserts on the eighth floor // Photo Credit: Julie Baron

of the Pudding, said, “We look towards creative bespoke trends to make events memorable -- like activated food stations to interact with chefs and more food choices with global flavors and authentic dishes continuing to influence menus. At the January grand opening, we were intrigued by a station with a half sheet pan with rocks and citric water on heated sternos that created steam and aroma to enhance the cooking factor. Then the seafood was seared on a ceramic Japanese grill. The sides of the table had LED green lights for a galactic spacelike setting. Also, on our night was a gigantic AV [audio-video setup] … space for band or DJ and dance floor. The reception area is connected for easy L-shaped

flow. Both areas have the view. Another funky touch at the grand opening was custom silence disco earphones (provided by Silence Activations).”

Next up is Collier Hall, a 120-year-old church that has been renovated to integrate “modern updates with historic charm.” That venue includes an indoor pre-function area and main ballroom with an outdoor deck shaded by hardy and romantic oak trees. Collier Hall is suitable for medium-sized events with a guest capacity of 175 seated and 250 reception style, located in the Collier Village area where I-75 meets Howell Mill Road.

Bookings for all three venues can be made at events@westmidtownvenues.com or by calling 404-465-4861. ì

Above: Summit encourages guests to engage with culinary stations.

Below: The grand opening reception space featured a grazing table for DIY bruschetta.

YUM Catering Delivers on its Name

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Do Greek meatballs, hot truffle honey brie, and cookie dough pops sound appealing?

Creative sisters Ande and Cindi Baron, operating YUM out of Temple EmanuEl’s in-house kitchen, are known for their out-of-the-box creativity and willingness to please clients in all different hues -- envision a purple mitzvah kiddish.

Cindi said, “Food is art. Sometimes people need to just allow the food to be the star. Also understanding balance and hierarchy is important. The platters, the colors, the linens, the room, the ambience are also

major. We do mood boards for our clients to show visions for their events and help determine a solid budget.”

YUM’s sweet spots are kiddushes, cocktail parties, fundraising events, picnics, showers, luncheons, and especially brunches. They catered a topical clever “Downton Abbey” dinner party as a 12-course meal where guests arrived in British attire. YUM designed unique guest gifts and served on China that was used on the actual TV series. They designed the invitations, and hand delivered them to guests. Then, there’s Tuscan kiddish, “Alice in Wonderland” kiddish, and grazing kiddish. Cindi explained, “We just love making people happy. We are

in the happy business.”

A kiddish for 100 would typically contain 7-10 dishes. A sample might be: assorted bagels, two types of cream cheese whips made in-house like Georgia smoked trout cream cheese whip, tomato platters that include green, red, yellow or heirloom tomatoes, onions and capers. Choice of a protein salad in several tuna formats, egg salad, fresh poached salmon salad (made with healthy homemade tzatziki, not mayo), plus two additional salads, a hot dish (quiche, macaroni and cheese plus more), and desserts.

Everything is made from scratch. Pricing ranges from $19.95 to $34.95 per

person, plus tax and gratuity. They have themes/formats for Halloween, Derby Day, Mardi Gras, “The Secret Garden,” “X-Men,” and rock and roll events, disco themes with '70s foods, and fondue parties. A recent bar mitzvah at Ahavath Achim sported bright green cookies because the bar mitzvah boy is a Philadelphia Eagles fan. Where do they get their ideas? “We read a lot of magazines like Kinfolf, unique cookbooks like ‘The Mississippi Vegan,’ blogs from chefs in New Orleans, and Garden and Gun Magazine. We pay attention to what 20-40-year-olds are trending. We follow what’s big in Europe and Israel, so we can be fresh and always evolving.”

For this graduation grazing table, YUM did it all.

Top Rught: YUM’s baked brie with fig chutney is great for Sukkot. YUM ships these for gifts.

Bottom Left: Kiddush – Ande’s all-time favorites are vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free.

Bottom Right: At this corporate disco event for Gen X’ers, YUM did all the decor and programming, including the multimedia presentation.

Now devotees of Martha Stewart and Ina Garten, the sisters grew up in Atlanta until age 13, when they moved to Israel. There they were exposed to food cultures from all over the world and “daily shared sushi, marmite, falafel and peanut butter sandwiches. It was an ethnic food pot luck!” With family from Macon, they also interpret those roots in their hospitality as “Southern Jewish girls.”

At 50 and 53, Ande joked, “I’m older and definitely not the boss. I love working with the clients, and am a tiny bit weird, in a fun way. I design the menus, branding, and packaging.”

Ande has a BFA from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, plus a degree from the Portfolio Center and taught design across the country. Of her sisters, she said: “Cindi, a retired public school teacher, is ‘the firecracker,’ willing to try new ideas and

is cherished as the staff manager. She is a great businesswoman and because of her, we have been able to grow and cater events I could not have done myself. She can do it all -- florals, linens … we take pride in being a small, woman-owned business and treat staff like family.”

YUM offers these tips for those who want entertainer at home: “Less is more. A dish doesn’t need a million ingredients. Often, the best dishes are the most simple. Enjoy what you are doing. Do not entertain if you are not in the mood. It shows in the food. Pay attention to details. Don’t drink too much wine before the guests arrive!”

Although YUM is not AKC certified, they will prepare out of kosher client’s homes and other synagogue kitchens. For more information, please call 912-2205558. ì

Ande and Cindi Baron operate YUM Catering as a sister team.

Top Left: For this Boho bat mitzvah, YUM tie dyed all the linens. Shown here is the dessert buffet.

Habif’s Super Bowl Party Peaks with the Eagles

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

With 28 menu items, Sherry Habif’s Super Bowl party has held up over the decades as the invitation list and menu expand with some of the old favorites complementing the new.

Speaking of “old favorites,” Elaine and Erwin Skibell met at Sherry’s 1986 Super Bowl party, and married a few months later. Elaine recalled, “We met here 39 years ago … actually, it was snowing that night, and we left early to beat the icy roads. The rest is history.”

Special out-of-town guests were Susan and Butch Frumin, who surprised Habif by flying in from Miami Beach, their winter

home. Carolyn and Reuben Piha came from Hollywood, Fla. Gail Solomon, a tour guide at the Georgia Dome, wore her 1994 Super Bowl jersey dedicated to attending Habif’s party.

Habif knows her way around entertaining. Featured in the Atlanta Jewish Times “Chai Style Homes” (June 12, 2019), she has a citywide reputation for elaborate gourmet and Jewish-style cuisine and room decorations in many major hotel ballrooms and synagogue functions. She just has the knack to turn plain into color-soaked themes for family and friends’ celebrations. As catering manager of the legendary Atlanta landmark Coach & Six on Peachtree in South Buckhead, her

knowledge of baking and gourmet preparation has been touted in cookbooks … like her mile challah soufflé and traditional vegetable kugels.

Habif has been compared to Perle Mesta, who was just featured on “CBS Sunday Morning” as a piece of history, being a young Jewish girl from Oklahoma who, as a widow, took over Washington, D.C.’s social and political scenes by entertaining. Mesta, who was also the U.S. Ambassador to Luxembourg, was known for her gracious and lavish parties beginning with the Truman presidency.

Sherry is Atlanta’s “Mesta” and volunteered to decorate for various holidays at the Breman Jewish Home.

That Sunday night, as the Kansas City Chiefs faced the Philadelphia Eagles, Habif and her professional staff concentrated on readying for this year’s Super Bowl, with the addition of valet parking.

She said, “I stretched out the cooking and baking over two weeks being able to freeze desserts and a couple of other dishes; so, everything would still be fresh. I have been decorating the buffet tables over the last week.”

For the event itself, she hired two servers and a bartender.

“As a party planner and decorator, the Super Bowl gives me a chance to use my creativity with a fun theme!” she exclaimed. She prepared most of the food herself, with

As a Falcons fan, Habif stores football décor and decorated the buffet.

friends bringing wine and adding some of their own specialties. As a 39-year Atlanta Falcons season ticket holder, she stores closets full of National Football League and Falcons football decor, along with the Super Bowl props.

In terms of the results of the game, Habif stated, “I was happy for the Eagles, as they were truly prepared for all that the K.C. Chiefs gave them. I have family in Philly, so I was happy for them. As much as I have friends who were for Kansas City, I felt their offensive line wasn’t up to par

in protecting Patrick Mahomes, who got sacked about seven times.”

Most of the 50 guests stayed to watch until the bitter end.

“Truly a shocking game for the K.C. Chiefs,” was her sentiment.

Staff and helpers left at 11pm. After all the clean-up, Habif “hopped” right to bed. The next day, she spent shelving football decor and dropping yummy leftovers for friends who were ill.

Which lucky guests will score the Habif invitation list for the Fourth of July? ì

Habif’s Super Bowl Menu

Appetizers

Pretzels, Mustard

Gruyère crackers

Elaine’s Special Cheese Showstopper

Baked Stuffed Brie

Assorted Nuts, Dry Snacks

Dinner

Beef Brisket Sliders

Franks in Blanket

Baked glazed Salami wedges

Turkey Finger sandwiches

Mushroom Strudel in Puff Pastry

Asiago cheese-stuffed baby new potatoes

Nova cream cheese terrine

Charcuterie board, olives, Pickles, cheeses, hearts of palm, hummus, marinated mushrooms, artichokes, buffalo mozzarella

Vegetarian mock chopped liver

Old fashioned coleslaw

Asian broccoli slaw

Dessert

Triple chocolate chunk cookies

Peanut butter squares

Ganache Frosted Espresso Brownies

Mini mason jars with lemon cake fresh berries, whipped cream

Chocolate budino, Italian pudding, whipped cream

Elaine and Erwin Skibell met at Sherry’s Super Bowl party 39 years ago.

Sherry Habif hosted her 39th Super Bowl party.

Top Left: Retired Emory professor Mike Kuhar and Ruth Klopper enjoyed the desserts // Photo Credit: Judy Landy

Top Right: Andy and Marvin Price enjoyed eating and mingling.

Below: Reuben and Carolyn Piha and Susan and Butch Frumin came in from Florida for the party.

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

Chase Alexandra Satisky

Chase Alexandra Satisky became a bat mitzvah on Jan. 4, 2025, at The Carlyle in Atlanta. Chase is the daughter of Elana and Mark Satisky and the younger sister of Ava and Brett. She is the granddaughter of Varda and Ken Sauer of Atlanta, and Howard Satisky and the late Lyn Satisky of Raleigh.

Chase attends The Davis Academy and enjoys volleyball, basketball, art, and incredibly long conversations with her friends. For her mitzvah project, Chase donated makeup bags and assorted beauty products for Creating Connected Communities’ Amy’s Holiday Party. She has a passion for looking her best, and she wanted others to enjoy that same pleasure.

combining technology and artistry to create exceptional dentistry. As a comprehensive dental office that goes above and beyond our specialty in Cosmetic Dentistry, our patients believe Dr. David Mastro is the right choice for all your family dentistry needs!

When it comes to your smile and oral health, Dr. Mastro has a proven 30 year track record of providing quality cosmetic and family dental care for families in our local community and around the world.

Dr. David Mastro

EDUCATION Investment in Weber’s Future Benefits Today

By Debbie Diamond

A shared commitment among The Weber School benefactors, school leadership, faculty, students and parents led to the high school’s extensive expansion and renovation effort, completed in 18 months and just in time for opening day of the 2024-2025 school year.

The initiative began with new and historic philanthropic investments totaling $39 million from The Zalik Foundation, The Marcus Foundation, and Joe Weber. In addition, The Excellence Fund Capital Campaign, spearheaded by Associate Head of School and Chief Advancement Officer Paul Ginburg, gained momentum with the involvement of parent leaders Brian Mand, Jennifer Korach and Russ Kogon, who helped raise an additional $5 million from parents and others throughout Atlanta’s Jewish community.

Tzadik Performing Arts Center hosts a multitude of performances and meetings.

“The goal for our campus expansion is to serve the growth in our student population and the culture of dynamic teaching and learning fostered by our expert and dedicated faculty and staff. We want The Weber School to fulfill its mission as a 21st century Jewish high school and vital asset to the broader Atlanta Jewish community,” said Rabbi Ed Harwitz, head of school.

“Former Israeli Prime Minister Naf-

tali Bennett suggested that Jewish teens today are poised to be our ‘greatest generation.’ Through the ongoing work of our teachers, supported by visionary philanthropists and investors, we are determined that students at Weber are pro-

vided with unique opportunities to make their mark in college and beyond,” Rabbi Harwitz added. “Weber is committed to ensuring that this ‘greatest generation’ is prepared for college and careers, informed by Jewish ethics and values, and

The bright, large interior lobby of the Eitan Force Athletic Complex is a popular gathering spot during school, games and events.

EDUCATION

ready to serve the Jewish community, the land and people of Israel, and the broader world.”

Six academic pathways have been created for students to immerse themselves in a particular area of interest. Each one provides a significant opportunity for student exploration and learning. These pathways include The Daniel Zalik Academy for Science, Technology, Engineering and Design; The Sports Science and Management Academy; The Michael Kay Israel Leadership Fellows; Israel and Global Education; Writing for Publication; and The Michael and Andrea Leven Office of Student Service and Philanthropy. Next year, Business Entrepreneurship will be added as a seventh pathway. Each one offers students an opportunity to pursue an honors diploma through coursework, field study and internship options.

The expansion and renovation would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of Ginburg, stressed Rabbi Harwitz as he reflected on the school’s transformation. Ginburg has been at Weber for 25 years, and assumed the chief responsibility for managing the 18-month project. Working with a team led by Weber parent and board member Brad Berman, Jay Goldstein, lead architect Sandy Cooper of Collins Cooper, Balfour Beatty Construction, and Jack Walz, Ginburg credits this group with ensuring the work was completed on time and budget.

“Paul Ginburg brought unique knowledge, determination, discipline, and energy to this tremendous effort. As a founding member of Weber’s professional team, he is absolutely dedicated to Weber’s mission. With a deep understanding of its impact, Paul assumed this challenging project as a labor of love, ensuring that the ‘Weber campus 2.0’ will serve students and our Jewish community for generations to come,” said Rabbi Harwitz.

The Tzadik Theatre and the Eitan

Force Athletic Center are two examples of how the new spaces have made a marked difference at the school. The Tzadik Performing Arts Center includes a state-of-the-art theater, music studio, recording studios, dance studio, and technical control rooms. Additionally, new classrooms, dining and multipurpose spaces have been added to serve a growing school population. This year, a new director of theatrical education and community programming, Elissa Marele, joined veteran music director Drew Cohen and Michael Levine, lead instructor in music and sound engineering, to expand options for student participation and performance. Visiting artists from different musical genres and performing arts disciplines have provided master classes for students and headlined community concerts.

This year for the first time, students participated in ThesCon, a national theatre conference and competition for high schoolers.

On the sports front, The Eitan Force Athletic Center has not only served as a destination for competitions and athletic practices for volleyball, basketball and wrestling, but also has become a gathering space for the broader Jewish community. Filled with multipurpose spaces for classes and assemblies, the fall Homecoming and other communal events have been held at the Center since its completion. During the 2025-2026 academic year, in fact, Weber will host a Division 1, Region 5 basketball tournament.

Looking over the beautiful new campus, Rabbi Harwitz paused to reflect on the new programs and enhancements at Weber since the completion of the construction. “Students, parents, faculty and our extended community shared our excitement and anticipation from the start. They reveled in the joy of completion in time for the 2024-2025 school year. We look forward to putting into action a 2,000-year-old charge from the Talmud: ‘Great education requires innovation.’” ì

The Eitan Force Athletic Complex has spaces for sports, assembles, classes and communal events.

Zalik Launches SparkIL Teen Ambassador Group

By Debbie Diamond

Arianna Zalik understands the importance of giving back to people in need. Her friends and family will tell you that it is her empathy and compassion that fuels her desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

At just 16 years old, Zalik, a junior at The Weber School, has launched the first SparkIL Teen Ambassadors program. Starting in Atlanta this school year, additional chapters have since begun in Boston and Silver Springs, Md., following the model Zalik used. Inviting her friends and other teens throughout Atlanta to join the enthusiastic group, Zalik raised $5,000 in loans and assembled a group of 500 investors in the first few months alone to help small business owners in Israel. Through calls, emails and texts, she and other teens who have joined in the effort are helping Israeli businesspeople secure loans and assistance to stay afloat during an especially difficult time for the country.

The SparkIL model is easy to understand and navigate. SparkIL is a peer-to-

peer microlending platform that helps small businesses in Israel find interestfree loans to help their businesses grow and flourish. Loans start at $36 and go up to approximately $28,000 ($100,000 in Israeli currency). The investments help

small businesses, including farmers, local artisans, culinary entrepreneurs and lawyers overcome financial barriers and achieve their goals. Initially created to help underserved populations and minorities in Israel, SparkIL has expanded

to include many small businesses whose owners have been drastically impacted by the Gaza War. According to Director of Development Yishai Goldflam, more than 50 percent of the current borrowers are reservists and evacuees whose

Arianna Zalik (right) and Adrianna Castiglione (left) welcome SparkIL small business owner Aviva Orbuch, from Kibbutz Kfar Giladi, to The Weber School.

The SparkIL teen ambassadors continue to grow in number throughout Atlanta and the United States.

EDUCATION

homes and businesses were destroyed in the conflict.

On the SparkIL website, businesses requesting investments are grouped into categories, including: Affected by the War, Minority Groups, Education, Health and Women-Led.

Simple to navigate, the site directs potential investors to bios where they are able to review information about each business, see photos and ultimately select where they would like to invest. Each business featured goes through a thorough vetting process to ensure the lowest risk possible for investors, according to the SparkIL website. The members of the review committee are both professionals and lay leaders with expertise in banking, finance, and underwriting. One of the founders of the organization is Jon Polin, who developed the software and infrastructure for the site.

Soon after the initial loan is made and once the fundraising campaign ends, investors begin receiving monthly repayments. The balance may be seen by each investor in their personal SparkIL account. Investors also receive updates via email to see how their loans are helping the businesses grow. Repayments may be withdrawn or reinvested in other businesses, ensuring that the investor’s initial loan has ripple effects indefinitely.

Zalik began her work with the organization initially as a participant in the NCSY Next Step program this past summer. As part of the initiative, she served as an intern for the Jewish Agency and SparkIL, helping the organization’s marketing team with social media work, especially applying her knowledge and experience as a teen to help craft SparkIL’s messaging for younger audiences.

Upon returning to the United States, she was determined to continue her work helping the program participants in Israel. Zalik recruited friends from River-

wood High School, Weber, Pace Academy and Atlanta Jewish Academy to join her budding Atlanta organization and signed up eight more local teen ambassadors. The group currently meets once or twice per month. Recently, the group hosted a speaker, Aviva Orbuch, one of the SparkIL participants who is a pastry chef and café owner, and who hopes to rebuild her business that was destroyed by a terrorist attack.

“Arianna is SparkIL’s very first teen ambassador. She has been leading the way in educating and inspiring her community about impact lending. She actively engages the community in meaningful conversations about supporting Israeli small businesses, organizes initiatives to encourage participation, and helps spread awareness about the power of microloans. Arianna embodies the values of leadership, generosity and innovation. She is truly paving the way for future ambassadors,” said Goldflam.

“Giving back to others is a huge part of my identity. When I heard the stories about people’s lives and businesses being decimated, I knew I wanted to help. My parents (David and Helen Zalik) have had a huge influence on me, and I believe tzedakah is so important. I love Israel, and this is one way I can support the country and people I care so much about,” said Zalik.

Since its founding in 2022, SparkIL has raised more than $7 million ($25 million ILS) from 4,500 lenders and supported 424 businesses throughout Israel. The organization is aiming for 15,000 lenders by the end of 2025. Established in partnership with The Jewish Agency for Israel and The Ogen Group, SparkIL is a first-ofits-kind platform supported in part by The Jewish Federations of North America and the U.K.-based UJIA, among others.

For more information and to invest in one of the businesses at SparkIl, please visit https://bit.ly/Atlanta25. ì

At a recent SparkIL event, students learned more about the Israeli businesspeople seeking loans through SparkIL.

Jacobmann Nurtures Future Virtuosos

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Do you suspect your child might be the next Itzhak Perlman?

Local violin teacher Leah Jacobmann believes every child has the potential to thrive in music with the right opportunities and support. Drawing on her wealth of experience, Jacobmann shares how to introduce children to music, particularly the violin, and foster their growth as young musicians.

“Performing in recitals and attending concerts is a vital part of a young musician’s life—and really, it’s something all children should experience,” she emphasizes. “Performing builds confidence, maturity, responsibility, and pride, while attending concerts teaches focus and respect for others. Plus, it supports our incredible local arts scene.”

Jacobmann’s love for music runs deep. Growing up in Decatur, she was introduced to the violin early by her mother, Gloria Jacobson, a Suzuki violin teacher. “Music was always part of my home,” she recalls. “It’s something I’ve continued in my own family.”

A graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Music Performance in violin and piano, Jacobmann earned her master’s degree from Georgia State University. She further honed her skills through extensive Suzuki method training. Today, she teaches private violin lessons to students aged four to 18 from her home, where she continues to share

her lifelong passion for music. Her dedication has paid off. One of her students, an 18-year-old aspiring violinist, recently received invitations to audition at prestigious institutions like the Eastman School of Music and Oberlin Conservatory. Reflecting on her work, Jacobmann says with a smile, “I don’t teach adults. They’re just not as fun as kids!”

When is the right time to introduce children to music? Jacobmann’s answer is simple: as early as possible. “I think children should be exposed to music from birth,” she says, noting that playing music during tummy time can be a great start. “Lessons can begin as early as four years old, provided you find the right teacher. It’s never too late to start—

Leah Jacobmann has appeared with symphony orchestras and is seen here in a recital.

Jacobmann’s daughters are shown here performing for a classroom.

EDUCATION

whether you’re four or 100!”

However, Jacobmann cautions parents that a musical journey requires a significant time commitment. “You’ll need to take your child to lessons, sit in on those lessons, and practice with them daily,” she explains. “Finding 30 minutes of quiet time each day can be tough, but without consistency, progress simply won’t happen.”

The age-old debate over talent vs. hard work is one Jacobmann approaches with nuance. “People often think you need to be born with some kind of magic to excel, but that’s not true for most things in life,” she says. “If you start at a good age, have a great teacher, and understand how to practice, you can achieve anything.”

Jacobmann introduces the concept of the Suzuki Triangle, which emphasizes collaboration between the teacher, parent, and student. “All children can learn music well when this triangle is balanced,” she says. “If any part is off, progress slows, and people mistakenly think the child lacks talent. When the balance is perfect, that’s when students truly soar.”

As an advocate of the Suzuki method, Jacobmann explains its foundation in the Mother Tongue Method. “Just like we learn to speak our native language through imitation and repetition, we

can learn an instrument the same way,” she says. “Initially, children learn to play by ear. Only later—anywhere from six months to four years after starting les sons—do I teach them to read music.”

This approach mirrors how children acquire language: first by listening and imitating, then by building a foundation before tackling the complexities of read ing and writing.

Jacobmann believes music offers benefits far beyond the technical skill of playing an instrument. “Music teaches discipline, patience, and the ability to persevere through challenges,” she says.

“It’s a gift that stays with children for their entire lives, whether they pursue music professionally or not.”

Her message to parents is clear: the journey might not be easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. “If you’re willing to invest the time and energy, the results are incred ible,” she says. “Music has the power to transform lives.”

For parents considering music les sons for their children, Jacobmann’s wisdom provides both inspiration and practical guidance. Whether your child is destined for the concert stage or simply seeking a creative outlet, the first step is exposing them to the magic of music. As Jacobmann puts it, “With the right support, every child can achieve something extraordinary.” ì

Jacobmann believes that with the right support, every child can achieve confidence and discipline from music instruction.

TDSA Holocaust Program Raises Awareness

By Miriam Cann

Studying the Holocaust is an important component of the education and development of today’s Jewish children. Torah Day School of Atlanta approaches Holocaust education through an integrated eighth grade curriculum, including Judaic studies and humanities. Students began the year learning the critical historical events leading to World War II. In addition to that background, they received in-depth lessons about the history of antisemitism from the Middle Ages until present times, to better put the events of the Holocaust into historical perspective.

Their study of the timeline and events of World War II and the Holocaust was followed by a series of presentations from members of the TDSA community who are children of survivors, sharing their family members’ personal experiences during the Holocaust.

Participating in TDSA’s program was very important to Eve Adler. She shared, “It is important for future generations to remember the past and ensure the fu-

ture. We must educate them to keep our heritage alive and that they should be proud members of the Jewish people.”

Students heard from six different

speakers and learned about those who originated from Germany, Poland, and Romania; about ghetto life, concentration camps, and being in hiding as part

of a partisan group. The real-life stories they heard were often hard to fathom and students had lots of questions. Speakers were heartened by the sincere

TDSA’s Holocaust program featured presentations from members of the school’s community who are children of Holocaust survivors.

EDUCATION

interest in their family histories.

Marc Lewyn adds, “I feel it is critical to share my father’s story with a new generation who can carry forward the lessons learned. The TDSA kids asked such great questions that it gave me real hope about the future.”

While the eighth graders learned of tremendous loss, they also heard about many miracles. To properly approach

the implication of these horrific events, TDSA’s Judaics faculty, Rabbi Tzvi Oratz and Chashy Alterman, shared the Torah perspective on national tragedies. Going forward, the students will take this information and transform it into multidisciplinary projects about what it was like to grow up during the Holocaust and finding the acts of kindness during these dark times. ì

FAMILY HELPING FAMILIES

Day School of Atlanta approaches Holocaust

humanities // Photo Credit: Miriam Cann and Esti Kantor

AJA Hosts Night of Honors

By Robert Garber

On Jan. 26, Atlanta Jewish Academy held a night of honor for two deserving honorees: 2024’s Educator of the Year, Rebecca Hemperley, who started at AJA as a student teacher in 2017, and the long-serving Rabbi Daniel Estreicher, who started at what was then the Yeshiva High School of Atlanta 50 years ago.

A sense of joy permeated the night, a very appropriate emotion according to Renée Kutner, who noted a particular thing both honorees had in common.

“Have you ever not seen Rabbi E or Ms. Hemperley smiling?” she said.

“Mrs. Hemperley, since joining AJA in 2017, you have gone above and beyond for your students in this school,” said Dr. Chanie Steinberg, President of AJA Board of Trustees. “You gave generously of your time, staying after school for students who need extra support. Beyond being an exceptional teacher, you are an incredible team player and true cheerleader for AJA. Your commitment and positivity make a lasting impact, and we are so fortunate to have you as part of our community.”

Students and staff shared several stories about Hemperley and her passion for teaching math, and dedication to her students as a whole. Two of her fellow

educators, Robyn Cooper and Dr. Missy Rivner, created a mathematical theorem that Hemperley was the ultimate teacher of the year, and guided the audience through an entire, over-a-dozen-step

proof. Hemperley herself, who noted that teaching was a passion, a “lifelong journey of learning and growth,” noted that the honor of the night was not hers alone.

Rabbi Daniel Estreicher, surrounded on stage by many current and former students, celebrating the completion of mishnah study.

EDUCATION

“It belongs to the remarkable students who motivate me with their curiosity and resilience,” she said, “It belongs to my fellow educators who continue to share ideas, encouragement, and unwavering dedication. It belongs to the families, and community members, who trust us to guide and nurture the next generation.”

She also noted the importance of the rabbi she was sharing the night with.

“I am so honored to share part of this evening with such an incredible and outstanding educator, Rabbi E,” Hemperley said. “His legacy and dedication are an inspiration to all teachers. Mazel Tov, Rabbi E, on this well-deserved recognition.”

Rabbi Estreicher was honored for his 50 years of dedication to the Atlanta Jewish community by a whole host of former students, relatives, and colleagues, including his son, Rabbi Naftali Estreicher, who gave the d’var torah for the evening, and Rabbi Adam Starr of Ohr Hatorah, who teaches part-time at AJA.

“Yes, Rabbi Estreicher has been 50 years, but there are many more important numbers than the 50 years,” said Starr, “It’s the hundreds and hundreds of students, and the thousands of thousands of offspring from those students, who will carry on the tradition and love of Torah and mitzvot, thanks to our Rebbe.”

The true scale of that became evident from the many speakers who had deep ties to Rabbi Estreicher. Dr. Steinberg, who also had learned from Rabbi Estreicher as a student at Atlanta Hebrew Academy and Yeshivah Atlanta in the 1980s, walked through how multiple members of her family, from her father to her stepbrothers, and now her children, had all learned with or from Rabbi Estreicher.

“He has not just taught Judaics,” said Daniel Cohen, Yeshiva Atlanta, Class of ’96, “he has taught how to care for others, how to open your heart, and how to be a better Jew.”

As Rabbi Estreicher approached the stage, the entire crowd rose and applauded, before he gave a detailed history of his relationship with the school. It had been his first position as a teacher of Torah. He had, in his own words, “accepted the position based on the advice of a friend who had held the position before him. And upon asking this friend if he should take the job, he told him ‘Yes, it’s a good first position.’”

The crowd laughed. He then went on to compliment his wife, Bluma, whom he noted he could not have accomplished anything without. As he left the stage, the crowd rose again, and many of his students began to sing.

Immediately afterward, Dr. Rebecca Winter announced the conclusion of an effort in Rabbi Estreicher’s honor, led by Alexa Szegedi.

“To pay tribute to the Torah that Rabbi E has given us,” said Dr. Winter, “98 of Rabbi E’s colleagues, friends, family, and most importantly, his students, have collectively learned all 525 tractim of mishnah.”

Six sets of school alumni, Rabbi E’s former students, and their children, Rabbi E’s current students, representing the six parts of the mishnah, took the stage, leading a conclusion of study, each taking a couple minutes to share a part of what they’d learned.

As soon as they had finished, Rabbi Estreicher joined them on stage, celebrating the conclusion of study by dancing –as he is known to love to do – for nearly an hour, with three full generations of his students and colleagues, before engaging in the traditional celebratory meal. ì

Rebecca Hemperley accepts her Educator of the Year award.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

Comedian and advocate Pamela Schuller is bringing her signature blend of humor and radical self-acceptance to Atlanta for two free events that will address the growing concerns around teen mental health. Hosted by BeWellATL, Schuller will lead a teen-focused event on March 23, followed by a session for parents and caregivers on March 24. Both events are designed to equip families with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate this critical issue, while destigmatizing mental health and finding humor along the way.

The events are timely, with the mental health of our young people in the national spotlight. According to the NIH, 20 percent of adolescents have a diagnosed mental health condition, a number that increased 35 percent in the last decade. Data from the CDC reports that one in five high school students seriously considered suicide in 2023, and suicide deaths among young people have risen a staggering 62 percent over the last 20 years.

Schuller, who is known for Netflix’s “Jewish Matchmaking,” and the popular “Dr. Mike” YouTube channel, knows a thing or two about teen mental health.

As a teen, she was diagnosed with the most severe case of Tourette Syndrome in the entire country. The condition, which causes her to make uncontrollable noises and movements, left her angry, depressed and suicidal during her already vulnerable teen years. Over time, she learned to not only embrace herself as-is but to celebrate her differences, and, as an adult, Schuller has turned her adversity into advocacy as an internationally known disability and mental health advocate and professional comedian.

Schuller’s personal struggles played a key role in winning the hearts of the members of BeWellATL’s Teen Roundtable. BeWellATL, an initiative of Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS), is dedicated to destigmatizing mental health issues, raising awareness, and educating the public about the challenges young people face. The Teen Roundtable serves as an advisory board for this important work. Inspired by Schuller’s authentic humor and relatability, the group wanted her to be part of the initiative.

“Pamela is an incredible voice that inspires resilience and self-acceptance. She

grabs you with her humor, but underneath is a woman who has been through profound challenges as a young person,” said Rebecca Brown, LCSW, director of adult clinical services at JF&CS. “Through these experiences, she’s figured out how to bring light to a difficult topic which has earned

her the respect of people of all ages.”

The following is an interview with Schuller:

Q: Do you have a go-to mantra you repeat to yourself when you’re having a bad day?

A: I have a few favorite mantras. My

BeWellATL Teen Mental Health Round Table. Pictured (from top left) Alyssa Pontz, Zach Milford, Sophia Rose, Tali Horwitz, and Sam Weiner

EDUCATION

first is “it won’t always feel this way.” I repeat that to myself when I get a rejection or am going through something hard. I can acknowledge that something hurts but it’s helpful to remind myself that it won’t always hurt like this. I also remind myself that if something is meant for me, it will find me. So, if I don’t get a part in a TV show or get turned down for something I was hoping for, I remind myself that it doesn’t mean I messed up. It simply means that opportunity wasn’t meant for me. The ones that are, will find me!

Q: What grounds you when things feel overwhelming?

A: Laughter and creativity! For years, comedy was a way that I processed the world around me. Now that comedy is my career, I still use writing jokes as a way to process and my close friend group consists of an incredible group of comedians who not only make me laugh, but will also hang with me while I have a meltdown and we all show up for each other when things are hard.

One Cause, Two Events

On March 23, teens are invited to join Schuller for “Be Bold, Be You: Comedy and Courage.” Teens will spend their afternoon hearing about Schuller’s journey transforming severe Tourette Syndrome and OCD into an unstoppable force of comedy and storytelling, followed by an interactive workshop to help the teens process and tell their own stories. They will leave with a new perspective on how differences make us unique and feel empowered to see the potential in their own stories.

On March 24, parents and caregivers are invited to “Building Resilience: Learning from Failure.” During this special performance and workshop, Schuller will share real-life stories from her experiences working with communities that have successfully (and unsuccessfully) created supportive environments for teens. Guided by her signature humor, attendees will explore topics like understanding the challenges their teens face, the importance of building resilience and learning from setbacks, and navigating common tension points. Parents and caregivers will leave with practical strategies to implement and helpful tools and resources.

Schuller’s upcoming events offer a unique opportunity to address teen mental health with both humor and heart. These free events are an important step toward breaking the stigma around mental health and fostering a stronger, more supportive community for young people and their caregivers.

More information about Pamela Schuller is available at PamelaComedy.com, and information about BeWellATL is available at bewellatl.org. Registration is required for these free events at https:// give.jfcsatl.org/event/mental-health-laugh-andlearn-with-pamela-schuller/e662951. Events are located in the North Metro Atlanta area, and specific location will be given upon registration.

JF&CS Marketing contributed to this report. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

ENJOY THE UNEXPECTED, EVERY VISIT

CAMP

2025 Camp Guide

6 Points Sports Academy

561-208-1650

Asheville, NC

6pointssports.org

North America’s Premier Jewish Sports Camp in Asheville, North Carolina, offers intensive sports instruction in an inclusive camp environment. 6 Points runs on twelve-day sessions with various sports majors to focus on, including basketball, baseball, tennis, soccer, swimming, volleyball, cheer/dance, softball, gymnastics, golf, and boys’ and girls’ lacrosse.

Alliance Theatre - Drama Camps

404-733-4600

Multiple Locations

alliancetheatre.org/content/drama-camps

At the Alliance Theatre, we value the process over the product. Our camps focus on the journey of learning, encouraging students to embrace their unique creative expression while developing essential life skills. Each camp is tailored to help students learn and grow while having fun, culminating in a short performance for friends and family that highlights their progress—not perfection. Whether your young actor dreams of the spotlight or simply wants to try something new, our theater camps provide the perfect opportunity to develop their potential in a safe, supportive environment.

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education Summer Day Programs

404-873-5811

Buckhead and Virginia Highland centre.atlantaballet.com/summer-programs

Atlanta Ballet’s Summer Day Programs offer a variety of dance classes for dancers at beginner and intermediate levels. Students enjoy ballet technique classes Monday through Friday with opportunities to explore other dance styles and genres. Past sessions have offered pre-pointe/pointe, variations, jazz, tap, modern, hiphop, musical theatre, choreography, international dance styles, and nutrition.

Atlanta International School

404-841-3840

Buckhead and Sandy Springs aischool.org/community/summer-camps-2025

We are excited to offer an enriching summer experience full of fun, new friends, and adventures, at both our Buckhead and Sandy Springs Campuses. There are options for students in rising grades 4K - Grade 10, from June 2nd - July 25. Campers can participate in a huge range of camps such as Athletics, Design, Robotics, Filmmaking, Chess, and many more unique options. Transport options are available between the two campuses.

LANGUAGE CAMP UPDATE! This year, we have language camps in French, Spanish, German, Chinese, and are reintroducing an English language camp. These camps are a great way to introduce your child to different cultures and broaden their ability to communicate with people from all over the world.

Atlanta Workshop Players Movie/Performing Arts Camps

770-998-8111

Roswell

atlantaworkshopplayers.com/camp

Imagine YOU on the Big Screen! Expand your skill set, train with industry pros, audition for casting directors & agents, make movies, earn pro-level IMDB resume credits, sing-dance-act-circus-arts-stunts-voice over-network and make life-long friends! Programs for kids/teens and adults. It’s the creative adventure of a lifetime.

Camp Barney Medintz

678-812-3844

Cleveland, GA campbarney.org

Camp Barney Medintz offers a magical Jewish overnight camping experience on 540 beautiful acres in the North GA mountains. Campers experience the joy of making lifelong friends while challenging themselves with new activities, and gaining selfconfidence and independence that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Camp Coleman

770-671-8971

Cleveland, GA

campcoleman.org

From generation to generation enriching Jewish lives since 1962. Overnight URJ Camp - Campers can experience Jewish culture and tradition while in a safe, challenging and fun environment. In a natural setting, campers are given the opportunity to explore their Judaism. Coleman provides a creative setting for Jewish living and learning through camp programming. At Camp Coleman campers and staff can develop lifelong friendships.

Camp Gan Israel of North Fulton 770-410-9000

Johns Creek cginf.com

Camp Gan Israel of North Fulton is part of the largest and fastest growing network of day camps, enjoying a reputation as a trendsetter with innovative ideas, creative programs and new activities. Campers enjoy a wide range of exciting activities including sports, games, crafts, and other enriching camp activities and field trips in a warm and vivacious atmosphere. The children are guided in organized activity, play & social skills by loving, patient and caring staff. The regular camp is for children ages 5-11 and the Kiddie Kamp offers a wonderful opportunity for youngsters age 2-4 to have their first experience in a real summer camp.

Camp H2O - Georgia Aquarium

404-581- 4080

Atlanta

georgiaaquarium.org/camp-h2o

We’re on a mission to ignite passion and curiosity in everyone who steps through our doors. Get ready for a fin-tastic adventure at our camp, where campers will have a blast meeting experts, conducting cool experiments, unleashing their creativity with fun designs, and much more. Campers will discover interesting facts about our aquatic friends and their habitats, as well as explore the wondrous ocean ecosystem. All Aquarium galleries and presentations are included.

Camp Invention

800-968-4332

Atlanta

Invent.org/Local

Spark your child’s creativity and confidence with our new Camp Invention® program, Illuminate! Children in grades K-6 will team up and take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. This year’s exciting new program inspires curiosity and helps kids build essential STEM skills through collaboration with friends and one-of-a-kind creative problem-solving experiences. Campers explore hands-on challenges and openended adventures designed to encourage new discoveries and bring big ideas to life!

Camp Judaea

404-634-7883

Hendersonville, NC

campjudaea.org

Established in 1961, Camp Judaea is a Jewish, Israel-centered summer camp community for children ages 7-15 located in Hendersonville, NC. At Camp Judaea, we offer a wide variety of fun activities in a loving family atmosphere. This allows campers to grow and even transform themselves every summer they return. Located on 158 acres in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, our setting inspires campers to embrace nature, take positive risks and become more independent.

Camp Kingfisher

770-992-2055

Roswell

chattnaturecenter.org/education/camp

A Chattahoochee Nature Center tradition since 1993, Camp Kingfisher has provided an unforgettable and fun camp experience to thousands of children and young adults. Part traditional outdoor camp and part hands-on nature education, Camp Kingfisher offers something for everyone. Our goal is to provide a welcoming environment where campers connect to nature and each other. A true outdoor nature camp – it’s what summer should be! Outdoor adventuring and learning abounds on CNC’s 127 incredible acres during the summer. We hike, swim, see wildlife, canoe, investigate, craft, experiment, and more.

Camp Minimac

404-872-8668

Atlanta the-temple.org/camps

Play and learn with Camp Minimac’s Play, Pretend, and Profession Camp. Each week we will focus on the skills and adventures of a different profession. We will enhance our knowledge and enjoy learning more about each profession through activities including special in-house field trips, art, music, science, songs, games, cooking, and more!

Club SciKidz

678-294-9504

Multiple locations metro Atlanta atlanta.clubscikidz.com

Each summer Club SciKidz offers over 70+ themed camps grades PK-8th. Themes include astronomy, meteorology, sea adventures, climate change, veterinary medicine, robotics, Marvel stop motion animation, save our oceans, chemistry, rocketry, American Doll, Wizarding World (Harry Potter), medicine, and durgery to name a few! Our Atlanta summer camps offer an unparalleled experience, fostering a love for STEM that lasts far beyond the summer.

CAMP

Critter Camp by The Amphibian Foundation

562-774-2248

Atlanta and Decatur critter-camp.org

Our goal at Critter Camp is to introduce children to the exciting biodiversity of amphibians and reptiles, using live animals to illustrate aspects of biology and ecology. Campers will be encouraged to ask questions about the animals and discover their own answers through hands-on observation, through safe animal handling.

Epstein Summer Adventure

404-250-5606

Atlanta epsteinatlanta.org/community/esa-summer-camp

Our ESA Summer Adventure Specialty Camps provide opportunities for campers kindergarten—sixth grade to take part in exciting new programs each week. Some of the camps we offer include: cooking camps, Ready.Set.K., STEAM camps, Challenge Island, art options, Circus Camp, new this year: KIDS TV and more!

Forefront Arts

770-864-3316

Multiple locations metro Atlanta forefrontarts.com

We bring performing arts training & performance opportunities to families at locations throughout Metro Atlanta. From Alpharetta to Atlanta, Woodstock to Gwinnett, find the closest program to you! We’ve got something for everyone this summer: acting, singing, dancing, improvising, playwriting, popstar performing, stunts & adventure, and more. Our team of professional teaching artists and Theatre directors have been serving local families through our classes, private lessons, workshops, camps, and shows since 2010. We serve over 1,200 students a year and we look forward to welcoming your family into our community.

Foundation for Jewish Camp

646-278-4500

Multiple locations Jewishcamp.org

Jewish camp is an enduring and irreplaceable rite of passage for 180,000+ youth, teens, and young adults at 300+ nonprofit Jewish day and overnight camps each summer. Foundation for Jewish Camp’s mission is to grow, support, and strengthen these camps so they can develop Jewish leadership, instill Jewish pride, and ensure a vibrant Jewish future. We leverage more than $15 million of philanthropic giving annually to scale programs and resources that benefit more than 300 Jewish day and overnight camps across North America.

High Meadows Camp

770-993-7975

Roswell

highmeadowscamp.org

Since 1973, children (rising kindergarten- ninth grade) have been experiencing our rich, traditional outdoor summer day camp program with unique facilities on more than 40 acres of meadow and woodland. HMC summer day camp fun goes hand-inhand with education, achievement, and enrichment. Above all, we hope every camper leaves us at the end of the summer richer with memories, new friends, outdoor experiences, and, of course, a few more mud stains!

In The City Camps

404-698-1134

Atlanta inthecitycamps.org

Designed for children from rising Pre-K through ninth grade, ITC offers an immersive, choice-based experience where campers build confidence, make lifelong friendships, and deepen their connection to Jewish culture and Israel. From action-packed activities to meaningful traditions, each day is filled with adventure, independence, and fun!

Jewish Kids Groups

404-913-9554

Morningside, Brookhaven, Decatur, Sandy Springs jewishkidsgroups.com/camp

Art projects, yoga, outdoor exploration, science experiments, Hebrew vocabulary, field trips, Israeli cooking, and so much more! Give your kindergarten through fifthgrade child a full day of Jewish camp fun at JKG School’s Out Camp. Four locations: Morningside, Decatur, Brookhaven & Sandy Springs. All are welcome!

KSU College of the Arts Summer Arts Intensives

470-578-2031

KSU Marietta & Kennesaw kennesaw.edu/arts/concerts-events/community-programs/summer-art-intensives.php

Join us this summer for dance, music, theatre, or the visual arts! This unique summer program at ArtsKSU will give you the opportunity to experience technical and artistic growth in an environment that fosters creativity and learning.

Morah Carol’s Place

470-659-5484

Atlanta morahcarolsplace.com

Welcome to Morah Carol’s Place (MCP), a unique Jewish preschool that focuses on Torah, academics, and the Hebrew language, while respecting every child’s individual learning style. MCP provides your child with a top-notch preschool experience, as well as a school calendar that keeps you, the working Jewish parent, in mind. Our summer camp is full of exciting activities. Find details on our website!

CAMP

MJCCA Day Camps

678-812-4004

Atlanta

mjccadaycamps.org

Kids have fun, make friends, gain new skills, build self-confidence, create memories that will last a lifetime, and have the ultimate summer experience in our 100+ camp options!

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

404-979-6455

Georgia Tech College of Design museumofdesign.org/designcamp-2024

Get ready for an unforgettable summer at MODA! Our Design Camp is the perfect way for young creators aged 6-18 to dive into hands-on experiences that ignite imagination and inspire innovation. Whether they’re building with LEGO, designing future cities, or transforming Atlanta’s neighborhoods, MODA camps encourage kids and teens to explore the power of design in fun and meaningful ways. With a variety of camp themes—from building cities with LEGO to reimagining Atlanta’s landmarks— there’s a MODA camp for every young designer ready to create, innovate, and explore.

Pace Summer Programs

404-240-9130

Atlanta paceacademy.org/community/summer-programs

At Pace, we believe some of life’s greatest lessons are learned outside the classroom. When school is not in session, we offer programming to keep children – Pace students and students from other schools – active and engaged. We offer full day and halfday summer camps; specialty programs like athletic camps, Danger Camp and theatre workshops; STEAM camps and clinics; and academic enrichment opportunities.

Ramah Darom

404-531-0801

Clayton, GA

ramahdarom.org

Camp Ramah Darom is a Jewish summer camp where laughter abounds, friendships are formed, everyone feels welcome and each day brings new opportunities to celebrate Jewish life. Here, children have fun and are challenged to reach new heights by our caring and supportive staff. From sports to arts to outdoor adventures, Ramah Darom infuses a love of Israeli culture and Jewish heritage into everything we do.

RootOne Teen Israel Trips

646-472-5339

Israel rootone.org

RootOne helps thousands of Jewish North American teens travel to Israel on immersive summer trips, by both lowering the cost of participation and enhancing the quality of these experiences. RootOne does not run its own trips but supports dozens of programs in the teen Israel travel space.

alliancetheatre.org/camps 11 Metro Atlanta Locations including Buckhead at The Galloway School - Northside Parkway Campus June 2–July 3

Sandy Springs at The Epstein School June 9–July 3

CAMP

Temple Sinai Preschool

404-252-3073

Sandy Springs templesinaiatlanta.org

Temple Sinai Preschool is ready for a summer of fun! During camp we’ll explore through art, science, sports, and we’ll have plenty of time to experience the best part of summer: spending time outside splashing with friends. Temple Sinai Preschool offers a variety of programs (half, plus, and full day options) for campers that are eight weeks - rising kindergarteners to fit your family’s schedule and the flexibility to choose the weeks that work for your summer plans.

The Galloway School

404-252-8389

Atlanta

gallowayschool.org/community-life/summer-camp

We are so excited to welcome you to Galloway at Play: SUMMER! We have offerings for students in every grade level from PreK3-12. You can find all of the information, calendars, and camp descriptions on our website.

The Goddard School – Hammond Drive

770-350-9001

470-571-1700

Sandy Springs, GA goddardschool.com

Dive into summer fun at Goddard School Sandy Springs! Explore STEAM, music, art, and nature in our engaging camp for kids 3 to 9 years. Make memories, friends, and learn through play! The fun never stops with onsite field trips like a petting zoo and activities like bring your bike and splash days. $375 per week. Open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.

The Paideia School 404-377-3491

Atlanta paideiaschool.org/campus-life/summer-camp

Join us for Paideia Summer Camp 2024! Creative and individualized camps for Ages 3-14. Sports Camps: basketball • ultimate Frisbee • volleyball

The Peach Pit

404-242-6211

5600 Roswell Road, Unit K140 peachpitgym.com/copy-of-collier-camps-registration

The Peach Pit creates imaginative & unique experiences with our fun-filled gymnastics summer camp for boys and girls ages 4-16. A camp schedule works in 15-20 minute rotations throughout our facility utilizing the spring floor, dance studios, bars, balance beam, vault stations, and our loose foam pit. We love to keep your child mov ing and active throughout the majority of the day breaking up our gymnastics or cheerleading intervals with dance, crafts, yoga, games, and special events.

The Walker School - Walker Summer Programs

770-427-2689

Marietta

thewalkerschool.org/walker-summer-camp

Over 500 campers agree – Walker Summer Programs are the best way to spend your summer! Located just two miles from Marietta Square, Walker offers a diverse selection of academic, athletic and artistic opportunities in the Metro Atlanta community.

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

706-862-2231

Cloudland, GA

valleyviewranch.com

Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! Overnight camp for girls ages 8-17. Located on 600 acres offering riding in English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend up to six hours a day riding and caring for your own camp horse. The Jones family are third generation horse lovers, camp administrators and equine educations making girls’ dreams come true!

Westminster Camps

404-367-7868

Atlanta

westminster.net/academics/summer-at-westminster/summer-camps

Space available in our sports camp, adventure overnight camp, Dungeons and Dragons, chess and STEM specialty camps. Brochure available on our website.

Woodward Academy Camps

404-765-4401

College Park and Johns Creek woodward.edu/camps

Woodward Academy Summer Camps offer enrichment, athletic, academic, and activity camps that are open to the public and accessible through our exceptional bus system. Your child will be immersed in a one-of-a-kind summer experience from the moment they arrive.

Zoo Atlanta - Summer Safari Camp

404-624-5822

Atlanta

zooatlanta.org/camp

Each week of Summer Safari Camp, campers embark on a different zoo expedition, exploring wildlife and wild places. From zoo explorations and group games to inquiry-based scientific investigations and projects, young explorers will be immersed in hands-on, minds-on learning while having fun. Experience a summer of excitement and discovery at Zoo Atlanta’s Summer Safari Camp!

Jerry’s Habima Theatre Celebrates 32 Years ARTS & CULTURE

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

For more than three decades since 1992, Jerry’s Habima Theatre at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA), and Georgia’s only inclusive theatre company showcasing actors with disabilities, returns with a timely and classic production for all ages.

Habima has brought groundbreaking inclusive theater to Georgia, featuring actors with disabilities performing alongside professional theater artists. This season, the beloved program proudly presents “Fiddler on the Roof JR.,” from March 6-16, at the MJCCA’s Morris & Rae Frank Theatre.

Founded over 30 years ago, Jerry’s Habima Theatre was named for the late Gerald (Jerry) Blonder, who set up an endowment with his wife, Lois, to establish the MJCCA’s Blonder Family Department for Special Needs. This department provides social, cultural, and recreational programming for community members with developmental disabilities. Habima, which means “stage” in Hebrew, is an inspirational theater company that has grown to give actors an alternative means of expression as they achieve new levels of confidence, motivation, socialization, and appreciation for the arts.

These talented performers take center stage in a yearly Broadway-style production highlighting their unique abilities while professional directors, choreographers, and crew work alongside them to bring the show to life. Some actors have been part of Jerry’s Habima Theatre for more than two decades, and on a personal note, a special addition to this year’s show is an evening of honor as Jerry’s Habima Theatre remembers and honors the late Lois Blonder, whose vision and generosity alongside her husband, Jerry, helped establish this transformative program.

At 6 p.m., Wednesday, March 12, a reception will be held to celebrate their memory and legacy. A ticket includes delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails plus the performance of “Fiddler on the Roof JR.” Those who knew Lois and Jerry, or who want to support Habima, are invited to purchase a reception ticket to join the tribute and reflect on the lasting impact of their dedication to inclusion and the arts.

Lois and Jerry’s daughter, Leslie Blonder Isenberg, said, “Because my parents had a granddaughter with special needs, they wanted to make sure that

other kids and adults with special needs would always have a place where they could be themselves while also being a part of something so exhilarating and at the same time, bringing joy to themselves and others. They wanted everyone to have the ability to shine on stage or to do or try whatever they wanted – just like everyone else. Jerry’s Habima Theatre has opened a whole new world for so many people. It’s so important to my sister and me and our families that we continue our parents’ legacy and ensure that Jerry’s Habima Theatre continues to thrive and grow so that everyone who wants to be a part of it will always have an opportunity.”

Isenberg added, “My mother loved Broadway and used to perform in community musicals and wanted everyone to feel the excitement of being on stage. She always looked forward to the performance every year! I always loved watching her reaction during the show and then after the show, seeing so many of the cast members’ parents who would thank my mom for the opportunities she had helped create and how it had changed their child’s life. My mom never wanted recognition, she only wanted to

make a difference in other people’s lives.”

“This season’s show is an incredible blend of artistry, tradition, and heart,” said Stephanie Alterman, a 20-year veteran, and theatre arts director and producer of Jerry’s Habima Theatre. In addition to celebrating 32 years of groundbreaking productions, Jerry’s Habima Theatre has been honored this year with a prestigious National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Grants for Arts Projects award which underscores the program’s transformative impact on the community and its dedication to fostering inclusion through the arts. The continued success of Jerry’s Habima Theatre is made possible by loyal supporters, including Georgia Council for the Arts, The Molly Blank Fund of The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, The Blonder Family, Wells Fargo, Score Atlanta, Homrich Berg, and Adult Disability Medical Healthcare. Their generosity ensures this transformative program thrives for years to come.

Susie Davidow, retired director of The Blonder Family Department for Special Needs at the MJCCA, summed it up on a final note, “Through the generosity of Lois and Jerry Blonder, of blessed memory, a vulnerable population was

given a safe place and a home within the Jewish community. Lois and Jerry had a vision of acceptance, inclusion and love and after Jerry’s death Lois and her family endowed Jerry’s Habima Theatre. I am teary now thinking of the amazing performances but more importantly of the acceptance, love and inclusion that both audiences and cast members have shared. It was with utmost joy that I served as director of the Blonder Family Department for Special Needs for almost 17 years. Lois was always there championing the mission. I so admired and respected her, and she was my friend. I loved her intelligence, generosity, sense of humor and her many acts of loving kindness. I miss her. Yes, I really miss her. But she lives on … look at her family, friends and the standing ovations for the actors on stage!”

And on a final curtain call note, here’s to the immeasurable impact that Jerry’s Habima Theatre has had and may Lois and Jerry’s memories continue to be a blessing. We’re sure they’re applauding and cheering, “Let the show go on!”

Tickets are available online or at the MJCCA box office. For more information, please visit www.atlantajcc.org. ì

Jerry and Lois Blonder, of blessed memory, set the stage for success with Jerry’s Habima Theatre.

Jonathan Roytenberg, playing Tevye, is seen with the fiddler, played by Gabe Martin

Tevye’s three oldest daughters, Hodel, Tzeitel, and Chava, played by Jesse Thomas Duren, Kelly Umstead, and Molly Drumm, sing about finding their perfect match.

Hodel, played by Jesse Thomas Durden, is asking for the blessing of her father, Tevye, played by Jonathan Roytenberg.

Chai Style Home

A Friendship Forged by Art

Nationally acclaimed photographer Lucinda Bunnen died in 2022, leaving behind a body of work that is intimately connected to the High Museum of Art, and in part to fellow photographer and friend, Judy Morris Lampert. From 1999, they often worked together on projects, sometimes collaboratively and sometimes in parallel to produce separate bodies of work about the same subject.

Born and raised in Westchester County, N.Y. Lucinda Weil was all about horses and working the land. She often said that she grew up on a farm, but her siblings would say they grew up on “an estate.” Lampert has many Bunnen works in her own Sandy Springs home, alongside her own work. As a philanthropist, Bunnen helped establish the High Museum’s photography exhibit (The Bunnen Collection). Between 1970 and 1980, she donated approximately 1,000 photos to start the collection which now numbers around

6,000 and contains works by Clarence John Laughlin, Nan Goldin, Chuck Close, William Eggleston, along with her own pieces like, “Mannequin Wall Windows, New York City 1970.”

In 1973, she co-founded the Nexus Gallery which now functions as The Atlanta Center for Contemporary Art. Having authored eight books, Bunnen’s work has been characterized as “an oscillation between experimental and documentary impulses.”

Judy Lampert is a vessel and living witness to Bunnen’s legacy.

Marcia: How did you meet?

Judy: At an art opening at Kiang Gallery. I got to know her better when she attended my opening at Wing and a Prayer Studios (1999). After she purchased a piece of art, we started talking and never stopped. I was her “new” best friend. She had many over the years, but it was always our joke.

Marcia: Did you travel together?

Judy: We traveled with Susan Anderson, founder of ArtReach, a program that uses art therapy to help those traumatized by war. In 2001, she invited us to Bosnia. We documented the experience of the therapists teaching teachers and

students how to deal with the trauma of the Bosnian War. I learned about Lucinda’s intensity and determination to create a good image. She borrowed Ansel Adams’ quote, “You take a picture, but you make a photograph.” She was always in search of an image that would make a photograph.

Mary Stanley, Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, asked us to photograph for the Places in Peril project. Lucinda’s task was to photograph a Rosenwald School in Warm Springs, and mine was Aluminum Hill, a mill town in Eatonton. We began driving “road trips” throughout Georgia. We did a triangular drive: Atlanta to Warm Springs, then cross the state on Highway 16 to Aluminum Hill. All the while taking photographs, talking, walking, and seeing art. We participated in several exhibits together and separately. We frequently worked in parallel, traveling, and photographing the same venue like The Mother Project, an organization working with grandmothers in small villages in Senegal to educate families to stop genital mutilation.

Marcia: So, the friendship grew?

Judy: We became close, as photographers and friends, relying on each

other with our own strengths. She was more knowledgeable about art, the Atlanta art scene, and philanthropy. My forte was technology and research. Often things unfold, and we have to be ready to see them. She helped me “see” better. I helped her be ready quicker. We were always ready to take a shot.

We were both curious, loved nature and dogs. Lucinda rescued dingos! I treasured our daily walks on her 23-acre trail with native wildflowers and flora. We would photograph what we saw and look things up to learn more.

Marcia: How would you describe Lucinda’s talent?

Judy: She had a great eye, whether collecting art or seeing something unique she wanted to photograph. She was also great at developing themes into bodies of works that would then become award-winning books. She embraced life at full throttle. One winter, when it was too icy to venture outside her home, she began photographing items in her own collection. She would shoot groups of objects or a single object in front of a backdrop in her garage. Maybe hundreds of images.

Marcia: What are your favorite works of hers?

Marcia

Caller Jaffe

Judy Lampert holds a photograph taken by Lucinda Bunnen of the woods on her trail. The Bunnen estate is now destined to be a nature preserve for the city // Photo Credit: Howard Mendel

Judy: Shakerag Hunt series, where she took multiple images in-camera. She was a talented horseman, from hunter-jumper to barrel racing.

Marcia: How have you dealt with grief?

Judy: During COVID, I would visit and walk daily. Since we weren’t traveling, I began photographing her house interior. In the beginning, it was a way to stay close and find something to do together. After a while, it became a project, and I have continued to do it after she has gone. It has helped with my grief and loss.

Marcia: There’s was a recent announcement about her estate property off West Paces Ferry.

Judy: In October 2024, the 30-plus acres sold for $13.5 million (the highest residential land sale in Atlanta’s history) destined to become a conservation park and arts center. The Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home remains intact. Lucinda would be pleased about her property becoming a nature preserve for the community.

Marcia: Your own home is fabulously designed and curated, natural yet soulful.

Judy: We love art, especially Benjamin Jones, Radcliffe Bailey, Beverly Buchanan, and Susan Harbage Page. A focal point in our family room are 25 framed photographs titled, “Place.” They are photographs or photographic representations of the many houses I have lived in.

Marcia: Last word …

Judy: Lucinda had a great sense of humor and an indefatigable zest for life. She loved to dance and never ever wanted to miss anything. She was not your typical debutante or philanthropist. She was down to earth and loved people. And age never mattered.

Above: The Bunnen living room has a driftwood deer head and tree branches decorated by her grandson // Photo Credit: Judy Lampert

Right: Judy took this photo in Burkina Faso showing Lucinda’s love for children // Photo Credit: Judy Lampert

Below: The Bunnen house’s stone and wood front entrance was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright // Photo Credit: Judy Lampert

Above: The Lampert formal living room has a large work by Radcliffe Bailey, “Tide,” 2002. On the left is a work by Benjamin Jones, “Series” and at right is Nellie Mae Rowe’s, “Hands”; On the far right is Bunnen’s “Fox,” The Weathered Chrome series. Lamps are by Rob Kennedy and Gregory Van Pelt // Photo Credit: Howard Mendel

Below: Judy and Dr. Scott Lampert, a retina specialist, enjoy the family room wall with 25 framed photographs, entitled, “Place,” representing the many houses in which Judy lived // Photo Credit: Howard Mendel

Left: The Lampert foyer displays “Shacks,” oil crayon on paper and wooden sculpture by Beverly Buchanan, and two Lampert photos, “Red Barn,” 2012, “Cotton,” Mississippi Delta, 2012 // Photo Credit: Howard Mendel

March 7 – March 16

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival: Streaming Pass - AJFF is happy to offer an all-access Streaming Pass to every film in the Virtual Cinema. That’s 21 feature films and every short film at this year’s festival (Shorts Programs 1, 2, and 3): Get the streaming pass at https://tinyurl.com/yc5wjsv6.

Saturday, March 1

Family and Kesher Shabbat Experience - 9:20 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join Ahavath Achim Synagogue one Saturday a month for our new Family and Kesher Shabbat Experience! We will offer a genuine synagogue and community experience with special opportunities for our children to authentically experience Shabbat with their community, gain comfort in sanctuary space, rituals, and prayer, and prepare for his/ her b’nai mitzvah. Parents, grandparents, and special friends will have the opportunity to engage in these meaningful Jewish experiences with their children, grandchildren, and special friends. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/k8vy6xwb.

Sunday, March 2

SETTLE: A signature wellness experience w/ Jess Pfeffer - 2 to 4 p.m. WOMEN ONLY! Join Chabad Intown for SETTLE, a transformative journey where you’ll explore the power of stillness, embodiment, and connection. Through guided breath work, intuitive movement, and deep rest, this experience invites you to release tension and reconnect with yourself. Come as you are—ready to breathe, move, and settle into your true essence. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/ fxbadjtu.

Purim Spectacular with the Epstein School – 3 to 4 p.m. Parents and children in pre-K, kindergarten, and first grade are invited for some crafty fun and Purim magic with Jeffini the Great at the Epstein School. RSVP at https:// tinyurl.com/2sja2bvu.

Sibling Rivalry: The Fourth Annual Dr. Jerome and Betty Berman Memorial Concert – 3 to 5 p.m. Join Ahavath Achim Synagogue for the Fourth Annual Dr. Jerome and Betty Berman Memorial Concert, “Sibling Rivalry.” Enjoy an inspirational afternoon of spirited music presented by the daughters of the late Dr. Jerome and Betty Berman (Ellen, Karen, and Sally) in conjunction with the Marilyn Ginsberg Eckstein Cultural Arts Program. Tell your friends, bring loved ones, and celebrate the memory of Jerome and Betty Berman, two people who adored music and whose lives brought joy to so many. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/73x4zzuy.

Hamantaschen Hustle at Piedmont Park- 3:30 to 5 p.m. Join the Federation for a sweet and spirited Purim celebration at the Hamantaschen Hustle! We’ll kick things off at Piedmont Park, where our tiniest revelers will gather in their adorable Purim costumes. From there, we’ll parade (stroll) down the BeltLine. Bring your strollers, wagons, or comfy walking shoes—this is a family-friendly event designed for all ages, but be sure all the littles are dressed up! We can’t wait to see all the festive looks. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/4ryju8p8.

JNF–USA Atlanta Hirsch Breakfast for Dinner - 5:30 to 8 p.m. Don’t miss out on our annual Gladys & Jack Hirsch Breakfast for Dinner. Enjoy this vibrant celebration of Israel’s hope and resilience, filled with unity, community, and solidarity. From the Israel Envelope to the Northern communities, hear first-hand about the pivotal role that Jewish National FundUSA has in rebuilding Israel. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/ycyvk57e.

Tuesday, March 4

Spring into Organic Gardening - 10 to 11:30 a.m. Join instructor Jimi for a hands-on class where you’ll learn the essentials of starting your own spring vegetable garden. Discover practical tips for growing your own produce while exploring the health and wellness benefits of spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. The class will conclude with a guided walk to MJCCA’s camp garden, offering an opportunity to see gardening techniques in action. Perfect for beginners and nature enthusiasts alike! Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/vr3smk6r.

Wednesday, March 5

Rosh Chodesh TACHLES - 8 to 9 p.m. Gvanim alumni? You are at the heart of our community activity and philanthropy. To support you in these endeavors, Israeli American Council (IAC) would like to invite you to a unique talk series. Each talk will feature an expert, thought leader, or entrepreneur who will guide us in building community initiatives, expose us to innovative leadership tools, and delve into critical community topics. Join Gvanim enthusiasts from coast to coast, free of charge. Visit https:// tinyurl.com/3uvp9rm4 to register and get the Zoom link.

Thursday, March 6

Fiddler on the Roof - 7:30 p.m. This classic story takes place in the colorful and tight-knit Jewish village of Anatevka, where Tevye, a poor dairyman, is trying to marry off his five daughters and instill in them a sense of tradition. Audiences young and old will delight in this iconic Broadway classic featuring timeless songs. Book tickets at https://tinyurl.com/kwv59zs5.

Friday, March 7

Tot Shabbat with Etz Chaim Preschool - 5 to 6:30 p.m. Join Etz Chaim for our monthly Shabbat experience for young families. Bring your own dairy or pareve dinner. Singing, crafts, and fun for the entire family. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/3wwm4bvh.

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

Saturday, March 8

Shabbat Together - 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Join Congregation Or VeShalom for a Kavanah minyan and children’s services followed by Kiddush lunch. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/3jnazd5e.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Terumah

Friday, February 28 Light Shabbat Candles at: 6:15 PM

Saturday, March 1 Shabbat Ends: 7:11 PM

Torah Reading: Tetzaveh

Friday, March 7 Light Shabbat Candles at: 6:21 PM

Saturday, March 8 Shabbat Ends: 7:17 PM

Torah Reading: Ki Tisa

Friday, March 14 Light Shabbat Candles at: 7:27 PM

Saturday, March 15 Shabbat Ends: 8:23 PM

Or Nashim’s Henna and Havdalah – 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. You are invited to a beautiful Havdalah ceremony and experience the artistry of Henna, an ancient tradition symbolizing joy and blessings. A guest artist will create a unique design just for you! Enjoy delicious snacks in honor of Esther and a bit of Purim learning as we gather for a night of connection and creativity. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/4fhbych6.

Fiddler on the Roof - 7:30 p.m. This classic story takes place in the colorful and tight-knit Jewish village of Anatevka, where Tevye, a poor dairyman, is trying to marry off his five daughters and instill in them a sense of tradition. Audiences young and old will delight in this iconic Broadway classic featuring timeless songs. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/kwv59zs5.

Sunday, March 9

Play Tamid – 9:15 to 11 a.m. Play Tamid is led by Rabbi Jordan and is open to the public (members and non-members of Congregation Dor Tamid). Enjoy crafts, songs, fun activities, and more for children under 4 (parent/ guardian must attend). Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/56y37k6e.

Family Hamantasch Bake – 10 a.m.

Calling all bakers! It’s (almost!) that time of year … join Chabad of Dunwoody for a grand Family Hamantasch Bake on Sunday, March 9, as we make, shape, roll and fill these delicious, homemade treats in honor of Purim! Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/ y9xycpka.

Join us for our annual Purim PaloozAA—It’s going to be a carnival of fun! Put on your best costume and gather for games, crafts, prizes, treats, and fun! Attractions include a dunk tank, inflatable obstacle course, bounce house, balloon twisting demonstration, games galore, and more! A calming room will be available for overstimulated guests. This decreased stimulation environment space will be free to use as needed. RSVP at https:// tinyurl.com/mr4hne95.

Annual Purim Parade Festival – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join Congregation Beth Jacob for their Annual Purim Parade Festival. Learn more about it at https:// tinyurl.com/bdfx4k4m.

Teen Israel Leadership Institute

– 12:45 to 5 p.m. The Center for Israel Education continues our series of teenfocused, half-day programs for teens to build their base of knowledge about modern Israel, expand their Atlanta network of Jewish peers, and prepare them for choosing and experiencing college life at a time when Jewish students are under increasing pressure at many campuses. The program will include history, current events, discussions of media coverage and misused and abused terminology, and ample time to answer students’ own questions. Register at https://tinyurl. com/3vhpuz9p.

Fiddler on the Roof - 1 p.m. This classic story takes place in the colorful and tight-knit Jewish village of Anatevka, where Tevye, a poor dairyman, is trying to marry off his five daughters and instill in them a sense of tradition. Audiences young and old will delight in this iconic Broadway classic featuring timeless songs. Get Tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/kwv59zs5.

Stepping Stones Parenting Group

– 2 to 4 p.m. Parenting young children can be a challenge! JF&CS is here to provide support to parents through our new educational and fun program. Stepping Stones helps parents navigate the journey of raising young children by promoting play and learn therapy, providing practical solutions to everyday challenges. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/4hdv4xfy.

Purim PaloozAA – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Purim Party: Esther’s Bravery – 3:30 to 5 p.m. This Purim, we’re celebrating the bravery and advocacy of Queen Esther in a fun and meaningful way! Kids, ages 1-9, will discover the power of standing up for what’s right as they engage in storytelling, crown and grogger making, and a Purim parade—all while learning about Esther’s courageous stand to save her people. Get ready for an afternoon of joy, laughter, and learning (and hamantaschen) as we honor Esther’s legacy and discover how we can all be heroes in our own way. Come dressed in your Purim costumes and be part of this special celebration of courage, strength, and community! RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/

4 to 5:30 p.m.

Join IAC for a true Israeli experience! We will meet for fun, learning, and of course, community! We would like to open a few groups. Please register at https://bit.ly/3Rlcxi0 if you would like your child to be part of the Keshet family. Please indicate your child’s age.

Monday, March 10

Authentically Me: Celebrate Individuality and Acceptance – 5 to 7 p.m. A supportive and inspiring group for fifth- to eighth-grade girls to embrace their uniqueness, build confidence, and foster self-acceptance! Find out more at https://tinyurl.

Hamentaschen Bake – 7 p.m. Come and spend an evening baking with pastry chef, Evin Galang, who will lead Chabad Intown in a delectable hamantaschen baking demonstration. While the hamantaschen are baking, Rabbi Schusterman will engage us in a discussion about the holiday of Purim that will inspire you to find the miracles in your own life story. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/5fj9347c.

Wednesday, March 12

Fiddler on the Roof - 7:30 p.m. This classic story takes place in the colorful and tight-knit Jewish village of Anatevka, where Tevye, a poor dairyman, is trying to marry off his five daughters and instill in them a sense of tradition. Audiences young and old will delight in this iconic Broadway classic featuring timeless songs. Buy Tickets at https://tinyurl.com/kwv59zs5.

Friday, March 14

Celebrate Purim at OVS with our Purimpalooza Carnival - 4 to 6 p.m. OVS can’t wait for Purimpalooza! We’ll have inflatables, face painting, hair beading, train rides, hamantaschen decorating, popcorn, cotton candy and more with fun for all ages. Wear your best costume to enter our contest. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/ p57aem9p.

Hey It’s Purim! – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Celebrate Purim with Chabad Intown and the greater Intown Jewish community! Step into the joy of Purim with an evening full of festive spirit, community, and tradition! Register at https://tinyurl.com/4ju7w4ve.

Purim Shabbat with the PJ Library – 6:15 to 8:30 p.m. Join Temple Kehillat Chaim and PJ Library for a Purim Shabbat. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/ mrykv9nv.

KEEPING IT KOSHER

Caramelized Chicken with Dates and Roasted Garlic

The flavor of roasted garlic compliments the sweetness of the dates in this winner chicken dinner.

Ingredients

4 skinless chicken bottoms

4 heads garlic, peeled

2 leeks, white parts only, thinly sliced

4 Beleaves Dates, pitted, inspected for insects, and cubed

1/2 cup Gefen Olive Oil

1/4 cup silan, such as Heaven & Earth Date Syrup

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

salt pepper, to taste fresh cleaned parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Place garlic, leeks, and dates in a small pan. Pour oil on top and mix to coat. Cover well and bake for two to three hours until garlic is very soft and browning.

Remove from oven and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, combine silan and apple cider vinegar until fully incorporated.

4. Place chicken in a 9×13 pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

5. Spread the roasted garlic and leeks over the chicken, draining the excess oil.

6. Pour the silan mixture on top.

7. Bake for an hour and a half covered and 15 minutes uncovered.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley for serving.

Styling and photography by Penina Spero

Recipe by Pessi Piller kosher.com

The Hospital

Rabbi Levy had to spend time in a Catholic hospital, and he became friends with the sister who was a nurse there.

One day, she came into his room and noticed that the crucifix on the wall was missing. She asked him good-naturedly, “Rabbi, what have you done with the crucifix?”

“Oh sister,” chuckled Rabbi Levy, “I just figured one suffering Jew in this room was enough.”

YIDDISH WORD

Phudnik

n. An irritating bore with a PhD.

“Ever since Barney got his PhD in social psychology, he starts every sentence with the phrase "Existentially speaking …”

It is to genets (yawn), like with all phudniks.

From the Yiddish word, “nudnik,” meaning, “a pestering, irritating bore.”

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

ACROSS

1. Huxtable son

5. “Raiders of the Lost Ark” snakes

9. A Trump

13. Advocacy gp. for boomers

14. Small building block

15. March 15th, for example

16. 2024 movie about Benaiah, with “The”?

18. Have to 19. They promote Geico

20. Floor installer, at times 21. 2024 movie about Moshe’s second time crossing the Sinai?

24. Easy to understand

27. Name in a Beethoven opus

28. Former Chairman Greenspan

29. Cute Aussie critter

31. Record speed: Abbr.

34. Vacationer’s stopover

35. 2024 movie about Haman?

36. Frazier rival

37. Cool, a while back

38. Creative, in a way

39. English prince’s alma mater

40. “Echad Mi ___”

42. Type of daisy

43. 2024 movie about Daniel

surviving the lion’s den?

47. Little League equipment

48. Role model, e.g.

52. Cosmetics additive, perhaps

53. 2024 movie about a meganudnik?

55. NBA player and coach with a lot of rings

56. Movie

57. Light run

58. Targets of a Stooge poke

59. One of many for the 2024 White Sox

60. Minus

DOWN

1. NJ yeshiva HS

2. Lashon follower

3. Important part of many Jewish neighborhoods

4. Chose to engage

5. Steve or Woody

6. Waterway near the Eiffel Tower

7. Brunson and Curry, for short

8. Lush

9. Boundaries

10. Make impure

11. Change, as a hem

12. Scandalous 2000s baseball player

17. Talmud page

20. A, C and E, on a piano

22. High points

23. “Look Who’s Talking” actress

24. Animal house

25. Arm bone

26. Bust shop before Purim

29. Noa of song

30. Base eight-related

32. Ruse

33. Cartoon seagull’s cry

35. Sinai streambeds

39. Frees from liability

41. Animals who like to float on their back

42. Torah, e.g.

43. ‘Do ___ myself clear?’

44. Cyrus of song

45. Uncomfortable wear, often

46. Some are 42-Down

49. It’s a cow

50. It might eat a cow

51. Tolkien tree herders

53. Org. with Demons, Saints, and Kangaroos

54. 2011 film about a macaw named Blu

MOVE-IN READY!

1541 HIGH HAVEN COURT ATLANTA, GA 30329 S pacious. Updated. Welcoming.

Beautiful all brick, split-level ranch nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, in the Sagamore Hills/ Henderson/Lakeside High School district. High Haven Court is a family friendly street with the most wonderful neighbors.

5 BEDROOMS | 4 BATHROOMS

Cell: 404-403-6561 | Direct: 404-495-8233

Office: 770-394-2131

Robin.Blass@HarryNorman.com RobinBlass.com

OBITUARIES

Rosalind Madeson Aussenberg 95,

Atlanta

Roz Aussenberg was born in The Bronx, N.Y., to Matilda and Edward Madeson. She learned independence and resilience at a very young age, being the oldest of three children and born during the Great Depression.

Roz met her husband, Lou, at a dude ranch. He was riding atop a large horse, and it was love at first sight! They enjoyed a wonderful marriage, welcoming their daughter, Elyse, and son, Neil, into the fold. Lou’s work brought them from New York to Atlanta, Ga., in 1952. Roz never lost her thick New York accent! Lou spent much time working on the road while Roz raised their children and ran the household.

Roz loved bowling, was a bookkeeper extraordinaire, mandel brot queen, mahjongg ace, stock market researcher, and avid reader. She cherished her many friends and adored spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Roz was predeceased by her husband, Lou, daughter, Elyse Aussenberg Denys, and brother-in-law, Jerry Schlesinger. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Neil and Liz Aussenberg; her grandchildren, David and Dana Aussenberg, Ben and Hillary Aussenberg, Laura and Adam Cohen, and Brent Denys and fiancé, Olivia Whitehead; her great-grandchildren, Jake and Josh Aussenberg, and Charlie and Casey Cohen; her son-in-law, John Denys; her sister, Arlene Schlesinger, and her children, Sue Ann Schlesinger, Kathy and Jim Bowhall, and Michael Schlesinger; and her brother, Jules Madeson.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Rebecca’s Tent, the Atlanta Community Food Bank, or a charity of your choice. Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care.

Bennett Bradly Herzfeld 85,

Maryville, Tenn.

Bennett Bradly Herzfeld, (born Bennett Herman Herzfeld), son of Max and Lillian Herzfeld, passed away peacefully on Feb. 24, 2025, at Foothills Transitional Care and Rehabilitation in Maryville, Tenn. Mr. Herzfeld was born on July 1, 1939, in Far Rockaway, Long Island, N.Y., and moved with his family to South Florida at the age of 18 months old.

Mr. Herzfeld suffered for a number of years with diabetes, macular degeneration, Parkinson’s Disease, Lewy Body Dementia and kidney failure that finally took his life.

He was a stockbroker for 55-plus years, with his last position at Carter, Terry & Co. in Atlanta, Ga. before his retirement.

He leaves behind his wife of 32 years, Reba Kreisberg Herzfeld of Loudon, Tenn., (formerly of Dunwoody, Ga.); daughter, Michelle (Sergey) Barskiy, Lilburn, Ga.; son, Stephen Herzfeld, Cumming, Ga.; stepdaughters: Geri (Andy) Owens of Knoxville, Tenn.; and Jennifer Rosenthal of Sandy Springs, Ga., grandchildren, Noah, Ali, and Sam Barskiy, Gilliann Costerisan, Oakley and Luca Owens, and Walker Rosenthal; brother in-law and sister-in-law, Jana and Michael Kreisberg of Longboat Key, Fla. (formerly Sandy Springs, Ga.), cousins, Ann Weiss, Bruce Lederman, and Tommy Herzfeld.

Arrangements will be made through Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care in Chamblee, Ga. Burial was held in Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, GA. 30328 on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Rabbi David Sirull and Rabbi Raina Siroty officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road SW, Lilburn, GA  30047; or PJ Parkinson’s Foundation, 12748 Kingston Pike, Farragut, TN 37934

OBITUARIES

Marjorie Altshool Holland

86, Atlanta

Marjorie Altshool Holland (Margie), age 86, passed away on Feb. 20, 2025, in Atlanta, Ga.

Born on March 13, 1938, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Stuart and Jeannette Altshool, Marjorie was raised in Ohio alongside her siblings, John (OBM) and Jane (OBM). She attended Ohio State University and moved to Atlanta in 1961. Her children, Rick, Lewis, and Lynn, were born and raised in Atlanta, Ga., where Marjorie worked tirelessly to provide a stable and loving home for them during their formative years.

Once her children were grown, Marjorie pursued her passion for travel, often embarking on unforgettable trips around the world with her close friends. She was an avid reader and deeply valued lifelong friendships, including a close-knit group of women who shared over 50 years of enduring companionship. She was a member of The Temple.

Marjorie was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She is survived by her children, Richard “Rick” Holland (Rena), Lynn Goldman (Ronnie), and Lewis G. Holland Jr.; grandchildren, Trey Holland and Anslee Thurman, Jenna and Kurt Holland, and Caroline and Isaac Goldman; nieces, Susan Arogeti (Jack), Mary Simon (Michael), Jan Atlshool (Deb LeRose). She was predeceased by her siblings, John Altshool and Jane Levy; daughter-in-law, Aymee Holland; and her parents, Jeanette and Stuart Altshool.

The funeral service was at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2025, at The Temple. A private graveside service followed. Shiva was held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a Minyan service at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22, and Monday, Feb. 23, 2025, at the residence of Lynn and Ronnie Goldman, 5067 Hidden Branches Circle, Dunwoody, GA 30338.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who wish to make a donation to kindly consider the Jewish Fertility Foundation. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Janis Jacobs Mendelson 69,

Atlanta

Janis Jacobs Mendelson, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away peacefully on Feb. 20, 2025, at the age of 69.

Janis was born in Charleston, S.C., to Melvin Tobias Jacobs and Rose Wexler Jacobs on Nov. 19, 1955. She was the youngest of four and the only girl. Janis was the apple of her father’s eye, and as children we joked that everything was divided 50:50 (50 for her three brothers and 50 for her). Raised in Charleston, S.C., Janis moved to Atlanta, Ga., upon entering college at Oglethorpe University, graduating in 1977 Janis married Mark Mendelson on Sept.14, 1986, and continued living in Atlanta where she worked writing computer code for several companies.

Janis had a love for animals. Starting in college she would have one, two, or three dogs at a time. Her other pets included cockatiels and aquariums. Janis’ creative side included counted cross-stitch, crewel embroidery, knitting and crochet. Some of her creations were epic.

She was a member of Congregation Beth Shalom in Dunwoody, Ga., and was active in Sisterhood. She worked in the Judaica Shop and often helped with food preparation and setup for events. She contributed a significant amount of the cross-stitch artwork for the Sisterhood’s Torah Scrolls Covers project.

Janis made it a point to express appreciation to people for their good work or service. She frequently let a person’s supervisor know how well they took care of her. She was always stopping to thank police officers and fire fighters for all that they do. Countless people and groups received brownies as part of her thanks.

In addition to Mark Mendelson, her lifelong companion who provided loving, personal care, she leaves her son, Matthew (Michelle) Mendelson, and grandchildren, Aden, Alana and Audrey.  She is survived by brothers, Kenneth (Alice) Jacobs, Louis (Deborah) Jacobs, Harris (Robyn) Jacobs, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Her family is grateful for the attentive care she received from the professionals at Belmont Village Senior Living of Buckhead, JF&CS Aviv Older Adult Services and Weinstein Hospice.

Graveside services were held Sunday Feb. 23, at 10:00 a.m. at North Atlanta Memorial Park, 5188 Winters Chapel Road, Atlanta, GA 30360. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Congregation Beth Shalom, JF&CS Aviv Older Adult Services, Weinstein Hospice or a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Joanne Sylvia Alterman Singer 87, Atlanta

Joanne Sylvia Alterman Singer was born in Atlanta on April 3, 1937, to Esther and Izzy Alterman, of blessed memory. Joanne graduated from Henry Grady High School and attended the University of Georgia. She met Herb Singer, who became the love of her life. They were married 64 long and happy years, and they raised three daughters.

Joanne was active in the Atlanta Jewish community, had a regular mahjong game and had a large circle of life-long friends. As avid boaters, Joanne and Herb spent many weekends at Lake Lanier. They continued their passion for boating as they aged, enjoying many cruises together around the world.

Joanne was known for being a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and fun-loving friend. After Herb’s passing a few years ago, she enjoyed social activities with her new Lenbrook community of friends and was a bright light to all the people who lived there.

Joanne is survived by her daughters, Mindi (Richard) Bressler, Lisa (Eric) Plasker, and Cheryl (Michael) Weiss, grandchildren, Daniel Bressler of Dallas, Texas, Erin Bressler of Hyannis, Mass., Jacob (Sophia) Plasker of Bend, Ore., Emily Plasker of Bend, Ore., Cory (Natasha) Plasker of Atlanta, Maqueline Weiss of Atlanta, and two greatgrandchildren, Zoe Weeks Plasker of Bend, Ore., and Enzo Diaz Plasker of Atlanta.

Graveside services were held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at Arlington Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Ahavath Achim Synagogue or the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

I Wish I Had Never Known Time Dated

Shaindle’s Shpiel

Time Dated.

Growing up there were five of us girlfriends. Almost like sisters from other mothers. Much to the dismay of our parents, we talked for hours and hours on the phone. We checked in with one or the other each morning with the words, “what are you wearing?”

We met on the corner of our block and walked to the Tremont Avenue bus, which we rode together to the last stop, where we transferred to the Fordham Road Bus. The Fordham bus stopped in front of our high school.

We made the best of our high school years. We had so much fun. We tried to

experience everything high school life offered.

Whenever possible, we would meet in the hallways of our high school to ‘catch’ up.  After all, it had been minutes that we had not seen each other. Mostly we ragged on our teachers or whispered about our latest crush.

We slept at each other’s houses, borrowed each other’s clothes. We taught each other about how to apply makeup. (We of course wanted to look older, more sophisticated. We were teens after all!)

We thought this is the way it would always be for us. Some of us went on to college, some of us married, some of us went to work. I chose all three -- college, marriage, work.

We wrote letters, yes letters, do you remember those? On rare occasions we would call, on very rare occasions! Long distance calls were so very expensive, and we were barely awake at eight in the morning, or too exhausted after eight at night to talk on the phone when long-

distance calls became less expensive.

Then Ellen died. Five was now four. We were in our early 20s when she died. Horrible car accident. It was the moment I received the call I discovered the concept of time dated.

Years passed and we grew apart. Geography, family new needs and interests got in the way.  Life got in the way. Although we hung on to each other for many years, time dated took hold.

Each time our family moved (we moved five different times) to a different city, a new state, we experienced new and exciting beginnings to our new life. I met dear friends, we were welcomed into our new communities, and each time we felt we once again belonged. We thrived with every move.

Time dated.

The first move lasted four years, the second two years, the third lasted three years, the fourth move lasted 11 years. I am blessed that I have been able to carry a few of these friends to our fifth

move, where we have lived a whopping 44 years.

My family found a community of wonderful friends, opportunities we could not have imagined, a home we love. My children thrive, their children thrive, and life brings us so much for which to be grateful.

My children graduated from UGA and became successful in their chosen fields. They married my son-in-loves (no, this is not an error, I call them my son-in-loves because they are), produced 10 loving cousins, 10 magnificent grandchildren. These four son-in-loves brought their four wonderful loving parents to our family.

Also, during these 44 years, my mom and dad died, my beloved partner, my husband of a lifetime died, my dog died.

Time dated.

A few weeks ago, a dear beloved friend died. A true light unto the world.  Time dated.

I wish I had never known time dated.ì

Garden of David - Cemetery Plots in Arlington

Four contiguous plots available at Arlington Cemetery, Garden of David, Jewish section. Mixed faiths now allowed here.

Asking $6,000 per space or discount available if all four plots purchased at one time. Price now $9,000 per plot if purchasing through Arlington. Call 404-217-3423 for more info.

BeWellATL has partnered with comedian Pamela Schuller for a two-part performance and workshop for teens, parents, and guardians about teen mental health and resilience through the lens of comedy. All are welcome!

FOR

TEENS

Be Bold, Be You: Comedy & Courage Sunday, March 23rd 2:30 – 4:30 PM

FOR PARENTS

Building Resilience: Learning from Failure Monday, March 24th 7 – 8:30 PM

Location provided upon registration REGISTER HERE! Visit give.jfcsatl.org/march2025 for more information.