Atlanta Jewish Times, VOL. 101 NO. 3, February 15, 2026

In a Corso Residence, exceptional interiors with designer appointments set the stage for the exceptional. Complimented by a complete suite of concierge and personal care services, our team is prepared to anticipate and excede you and your guests' every request.

• Meet with the Ministry of Health to apply for your Israeli medical license

Attend relevant sessions and get your questions answered

• Network with hospitals and medical centers to discuss your career in Israel

And more!

PUBLISHER

MICHAEL A. MORRIS michael@atljewishtimes.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SASHA HELLER sasha@atljewishtimes.com

EDITORIAL

Staff Writer & Proofreader

FRAN PUTNEY fran@atljewishtimes.com

Interim Online Content Coordinator

ROBERT GARBER robbie@atljewishtimes.com

CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE

BOB BAHR

CHANA SHAPIRO

DAVE SCHECHTER

DAVID OSTROWSKY

DEBBIE DIAMOND

GIL ZOHAR

MARCIA CALLER JAFFE

MATTHEW BERNSTEIN

RABBI RICHARD BAROFF DD

ROBYN SPIZMAN GERSON

STAN GARNET

TESSA SCHARFF

ADVERTISING

Senior Account Manager & Team Supervisor

MICHAL BONELL michal@atljewishtimes.com

Account Manager

ILYSSA KLEIN ilyssa@atljewishtimes.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

LILLI JENNISON lilli@atljewishtimes.com

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Events Director

JACQUELINE MORRIS jacqueline@atlantajewishlifefoundation.com

Atlanta Jewish Connector Coordinator

DIANA COLE diana@atljewishtimes.com

GENERAL OFFICE

Execuitive Assistant RONIT FRANCO-PINSKY ronit@atljewishtimes.com

Administrative Assistant ROBIN FREEDMAN Robin@atljewishtimes.com 404-883-2130

Distribution Manager

LOU LADINSKY lou@atljewishtimes.com

Students Reflect on Stones of Remembrance

The Stones of Remembrance Project is an annual activity, sponsored by The Breman, the Lillian and Al Weinberg Center for Holocaust Education, Eternal-Life Hemshech, and the Jewish Foundation of Greater Atlanta that memorializes the 1.5 million Jewish children who were killed during the Holocaust.

Students from public and private elementary, middle, and high schools in metro Atlanta are invited to participate. They are given an actual murdered child’s first and last name, the date and place of birth, and the date and place of death. They write this information on a specially-prepared stone and decorate it using permanent markers. The stone then becomes a unique memorial to that murdered child’s life. Once the stone is completed, students are encouraged to write a short reflection to help them process their participation in the project. Their reflection can be open-ended or more guided using questions they are provided. The stones are then either displayed as a Holocaust memorial on their school grounds, at The Breman, or each student can take their stone home

and place it in a special location of their choosing.

This year, a total of 20 schools/entities and more than 1,600 students participated in the project: Ahavath Achim Youth Education Program, Annsley Hillman Klehr and Lisa Vitello; Atlanta Jewish Academy, Ron Einhorn; Camp Coleman, Beth Glick; Congregation B’nai Torah, Jordan Levine; Congregation

Shearith Israel, Jane Arnold; The Davis Academy, Rabbi Michael Lapidus; The Daffodil Dash; The Epstein School, Dr. Idit Bendavid; The Galloway School, Leah Pence; Holy Innocents Episcopal School, Maureen Danzig; The Howard School, Ms. Leviton; The Lovett School, Kelly Lecceardone; Marist School, Jenni Justus; Mary Lin Elementary School, Jordan Rager; Morningside Elementary School,

Jennifer Lieb; Pace Academy, Kirstin Baillie; Pope High School, Erica Cason; Temple Emanu-El, Beth Blick; Temple Sinai, Emily Yehezkel; The Westminster Schools, Jan Allen.

The following are some examples of responses from the students: Shail Patel, Westminster grade 6: When I painted a Stone of Remembrance, it opened my eyes a little more

and helped me understand what kids my age and even younger had to go through. This activity felt more real compared to the Diary. It was like the stone honored them and it had a life.

Ethan W, Temple Sinai grade 6: I felt sad because the child that died was four, which is the age of my brother.

Frances Jackson, Lovett grade 6: I felt horrible and guilt-filled that kids were dying before they even knew what was happening. My person died at age 9, which, in my opinion, is one of the worst ages to die, because you are old enough to comprehend what is happening, but you barely got to live your life.

Molly M, Galloway grade 8: I felt very melancholy. The little girl I painted that stone for was only 4 years old. As a Jewish girl, that made me put myself in her shoes. This project made me grateful that my family moved to the U.S. before WWI.

Glenn Kuts, Marist grade 9: I felt peace within me as I knew I was painting a stone for someone who lost their life unjustly at a very young age. This person did not get to experience the joys of life so it all just started replaying in my mind

as I tried to put myself in that person’s shoes.

Zach Schulman, Atlanta Jewish Academy grade 6: I’m sad that the person died, but I’m happy because my class and I are remembering them.

Ford Clary, Lovett grade 6: This project is important because many of these kids were so young that they could not even process what these cruel people were doing to them. Everyone should be noticed and remembered in this world, for we are all here for a reason.

Louisa Hale, Lovett grade 6: Instead of just studying the Holocaust and the important things that are most famous, we got to learn about the least known things.

Chloe Isakow, AJA grade 8: It is important to remember those who have no descendants to be remembered by. It is important to remember those who some (such as antisemites) wish to erase and forget. We have to remember the children who were killed in the Holocaust, so they can be commemorated and so we can learn from the horrors that occurred. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

cirque-infused

By

The Future of Greenwood Cemetery

By Robert Garber

The City of Atlanta’s Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has been exploring the possibility of acquiring the historic Greenwood Cemetery, home to the Memorial of the Six Million as well as significant burial plots for many Atlanta synagogues. Since an initial meeting two years ago with the Trustee of Greenwood Cemetery, who had expressed interest in selling, Atlanta’s DPR has been busy meeting with various community members.

“We’re meeting with the Jewish community, we’re meeting with the African American community, we met with the Greek Orthodox community – just all the different stakeholders that have different individuals buried here at Greenwood,” said Commissioner Justin Cutler of the Atlanta DPR. “Then, we’re talking with the neighbors about what they’d like to see. We’re still kicking tires, trying to figure out what the options might be. I think [the] biggest concern [we’ve heard] is the level of maintenance that’s needed out here to refix the roads, to fix some of the infrastructure.”

Many synagogues have been paying for additional maintenance and upkeep, although even the interest meetings have helped ameliorate some issues.

“Some of them were hatching new

ideas,” recalled Cutler, discussing a meeting in October. “Like, ‘Hey, if you’re already paying, and I’m already paying, why don’t we just hire the same contractor and maybe reduce our costs?’ It was interesting to see how just getting people

together has sparked renewed interest.”

But issues like potholes and other maintenance, while something the Atlanta DPR hopes they could address with the community in the future, are not their primary concern with the cemetery, Cut-

ler noted.

“We don’t really see ourselves in the cemetery-operations business. Our primary objective is to acquire the natural resources that are along the edges,” said Cutler. “That gives us opportunities for regional trail connections to John A. White Park, to the Lionel HamptonBeecher Natural Area, and really creates a more connected City of Atlanta. [...] It’s great to have a park here and a park there, but how are the parks connected to each other and how are you safely getting from one park to another, and how are you safely getting from your house to that park? We want to make sure that that’s a priority.”

Cutler expects this possibility would be particularly helpful for the cemetery as well.

“I think more eyes and more use creates safety, creates more interpretation opportunities – so people come to the Memorial for the Six Million, they understand that this is a national historic site, that it’s [one of] the first Holocaust memorial[s] in the United States,” said Cutler. “We can have a conversation about that. Currently, people don’t really know about it that much.”

“I think, in that instance, Oakland [Cemetery] is a good example for the kind of visitorship that it gets, and the interaction that it gets,” said Liza Mueller, a project manager in charge of planning and design for Atlanta DPR. “This is an untapped Atlanta history resource, and becoming a park, if it were to be, would help elevate some of that. We would be

able to help elevate some of that history.”

“There are civil rights leaders buried here, [like] Rev. James Orange. Truett Cathy is buried here, who started Chickfil-A; there’s a Chinese contingency, the Chinese Freemasons, who came and have since left Atlanta, so that’s an interesting narrative,” added Cutler. “There’s a lot of different points of history that are here that aren’t talked about.”

Besides this, Cutler does not expect Atlanta DPR’s acquisition would cause any significant changes to the way the cemetery is run.

“We’d still be open to burials. We’d still be open to people coming and walking the roads for exercise.”

Regardless, and despite the time invested, an actual acquisition is still a long way off, as Atlanta DPR wants to hear from all concerned parties before making any significant plans.

“Each meeting that we have we find more people that we ought to talk to, or who might be able to help us get us connected with someone that we’ve missed or are trying to find,” said Mueller. “There are still people out there that I would consider stakeholders and, by that, I simply mean that there are sections here in the cemetery that are represented that we would like to be able to check in with and see – do they have any hopes, dreams, desires? Do they have a particular interest in what this might look like?”

Any such stakeholders are encouraged to reach out to the City of Atlanta’s Department of Parks and Recreation and share their thoughts. ì

FIDF Announces New Leadership Roles

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

The Georgia and Southeast States’ Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) go forward with two impressive leaders in key roles. Mechal Perl will serve as the new associate director, and local attorney Ben Levy as the new chairman of the Leadership Council. Both exemplify a commitment to Israel and the soldiers of the IDF in their personal history, experience, and shared sense of responsibility.

Born in the U.S., Perl was raised in Israel by parents who immigrated after World War II. They were children of Holocaust survivors and carried with them a deep sense of pride in having served in the IDF and defending Israel during the Six-Day War. That pride shaped Perl’s path. During her IDF service, she was a weapons instructor for various combat units, gaining firsthand insight into the weight of responsibility the soldiers carry. After her service, she studied law in the U.K. and California and was admitted to practice in New York and California

in both corporate immigration and real estate law. More than 15 years ago, she moved to Atlanta with her husband with whom she is raising three children, all in

Water Drop Dash

Jewish day schools. She said, “Though my life is now rooted in the United States, Israel has never been far from my heart.”

Like so many, Oct. 7 was deeply personal to her. Perl’s brother enlisted as a combat doctor in Gaza, and nearly everyone she knew in Israel was either reenlisting or volunteering. In Atlanta, Perl wanted to do her part, and, as a longtime lay leader in various pro-Israel organizations, one organization stood out as a beacon of action and care for Israel’s soldiers; so, she made it her mission to work for FIDF.

That sense of duty also resonates with Ben Levy’s story. He grew up hearing stories from the Holocaust from both sides of his family — his mother’s parents, who survived concentration and death camps; his father’s parents, who fled the Isle of Rhodes when they saw “the writing on the wall”; and six of his eight great-grandparents were deported and murdered at Auschwitz. In total, more than 25 members of his family were murdered in the Shoah.

Because of that history, Levy has always understood the necessity of Israel as a safe haven for the Jewish people. He related, “On Yom HaShoah, we remember the cost of not having a Jewish state. On Yom HaZikaron, we remember the price paid to protect and keep it. Without the sacrifice of Israel’s soldiers, there would be no Israel, and Jews everywhere would be less safe. The IDF ensures that ‘Never Again’ is not merely a slogan, but a promise. No matter which way the winds blow, I will always support the soldiers

who defend Israel and the Jewish people.” Levy often reflects on what he calls “winning the birth lottery — being born in America with all the advantages and opportunities that come with it.”

As a personal injury attorney, Levy has supported many worthy Jewish organizations and American veteran organizations, but FIDF stands apart because its mission aligns so directly with his values — supporting IDF soldiers’ physical rehabilitation, addressing PTSD, helping them repair their lives, and building their future.

He stated, “That is why I am proud to support FIDF and to fund an IMPACT! Scholarship, enabling a combat veteran in financial need to pursue higher education.” As his late grandmother, Helen Weingarten, taught him, “Education is forever. No matter what they take from you, they can never take your education and the knowledge in your head.”

Together, these experiences led to the same conclusion: the modern-day miracle that is Israel exists because of the IDF. Levy continued, “As partners in this miracle, it is our duty to ensure the wellbeing of Israel’s soldiers — physically, mentally, and emotionally.”

The local FIDF chapter has seen tremendous growth and success in recent years, and Levy and Perl are committed to expanding its reach and strengthening its impact. They are dedicated to growing a broader, more engaged community of IDF supporters.

Perl concluded, “Let’s honor the past, support the present, and safeguard the future of the Jewish people.” ì

Jewish Atlanta Celebrates Delta’s ATL-TLV Restart

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

A very high-flying deal indeed!

On Jan. 20, a powerful mix of dynamic business-oriented leaders met in Buckhead for a reception to celebrate the resumption of Delta’s Atlanta-Tel Aviv nonstop direct flight, which translates to the reopening of the Southeast’s direct link to Israel. This was all in coordination with the Consulate General of Israel, Delta Air Lines, and the Zalik Foundation.

David Zalik addressed the group, “This creates an incredible opportunity for economic development for our state, the Southeast, and Israel.” He further praised Gov. Brian Kemp’s efforts herein and noted that “Delta Air Lines is everyone’s favorite.” Prior to COVID, this direct flight was active.

The Jan. 20 event emphasized the amount of energy it took to get the flight route re-instated. Zalik opened with the excited calls he has received since the flight announcement.

“Why right after Passover?" they posed. It’s actually three years before Passover 2029.”

Zalik noted that he started the Georgia Israel Business Alliance on Jan. 1 and was busy pitching C-level executives to sign on for flights beginning April 15 and has gotten 100 percent “Yes” responses.”

Zalik sees long-term viability that should make Israeli companies look at Georgia as a hub for major activities. He gave examples of chief innovation officers and chief technology officers, some in niches like healthcare, looking to include Atlanta in their strategies. He noted that although religious tourism for Christians and Jews is a valuable growth area, business was truly his focus.

Consul General to the Southeast, Eitan Weiss, mentioned that he met his wife because of El-Al Air Lines where they were both flight attendants. He relayed, “The return of this direct flight showcases the importance Delta sees here; and Israel has increased confidence in Atlanta with plans to triple the size of the consulate here, which is small and outdated. Overall, this is an amazing feat!”

Peter Carter, executive vice president for Delta’s external affairs, addressed the group beginning with Delta experiencing its 100th anniversary in 2025; and that Delta was the very first U.S. airline.

He shared, “We’re not focused on the past, we’re focused on the future which includes international markets and the Middle East … and Israel is the largest democracy, or the only democracy, in

the Middle East. Delta is a key partner, not only connecting people to places, but people to each other.”

The new route, three days per week, will have new equipment, more seats than any other airplane, and upscale private suite -- like accommodations where “you can sleep like a baby.”

Carter added, “El Al is a partner with Delta and vice versa … We had to make sure that everything was secure; and David [Zalik] reminded us that the community was ready. We heard a lot from David early and often,” he said while laughing. “I’m not bragging exactly because we don’t decide routes by petition, but Zalik gave us a ‘love letter’ with 8,000 signatures. This will be our flagship equipment.”

Lorin Maugery, minister of Israeli tourism for the Southern District, said that he was looking to the future to assure that these flights were full, He stated that 1.3 million foreign visitors come to Israel each year. They are planning an event, Rediscover Israel Roadshow, on March 16 to promote updates on the latest tourism in Israel.

Dr. Loretta Daniels, executive director of the education collaborative TAG Institute, has global reach. One of her goals is to work on the development of entrepreneurship. She told the AJT that she had recently escorted a group of nonJewish tech leaders to Israel, and said, “Americans just know what they see on TV. I now know firsthand what happens, and what happened on Oct. 7, in Israel, and what the country has to do to protect itself.”

Dr. Daniels’ daughter is Ashley Gar-

rett, director of communication and strategic affairs for the Israeli Consulate in Atlanta.

During the reception, Alli Medoff, co-founder of the Georgia Solidarity

Network, said, “This is not just a win for Georgia, but also a huge development for Israel and its economic connection to the Southeast. We’ve been working on reinstating this flight since 2024.” ì

Catholic-Jewish Relations Celebrated at Marist School

By Bob Bahr

The 60th anniversary of the important Catholic document, Nostra Aetate, that inaugurated a new era in Jewish and Catholic relations, was celebrated by the Catholic and Jewish communities at The Marist School in Brookhaven.

The document, whose Latin title is translated as, “In Our Time,” was approved by the Second Vatican Council in October 1965 and signed by Pope Paul VI. It was the first document in the 2,000year history of Catholic history to deal with the often-contentious relationship between Jews and the Catholic Church.

Significantly, the document absolved Jews in the trial and crucifixion of the Christian Messiah and, according to the document, “decries hatred, persecutions, displays of antisemitism, directed against Jews at any time and by anyone.”

It also encouraged conversation between Catholics and Jews “to foster and recommend that mutual understanding and respect,” which had not always been evident in contacts between the two religions.

Rabbi Noam Marans, national director of interreligious relations at the American Jewish Committee, which co-sponsored the evening, was a prominent speaker at the event. He described Nostra Aetate as “the most important interreligious document in the history of humanity.” The work done by the Second Vatican Council was described as a distinct break with the past as well as an acknowledgment of the Holocaust.

“It came to resolve a problem,” Rabbi Marans said, “an epidemic of hatred that emanated from 2,000 years of Christian teaching that led to pain and misery for the Jewish people and persecution, expulsion, blood libels, pogroms, and ultimately, the foundation for modern antisemitism and the lowest moment in Jewish and indeed human history.”

Rabbi Marans’ description of the importance of the Nosta Aetate document was confirmed by Archbishop Gregory Hartmeyer, who also spoke at the Marist gathering. The archbishop leads the 1.2 million Catholics in the regional Atlanta archdiocese and chairs the board of the National Catholic Educational Association. He called the document brief but “profound in its impact, marking a decisive turn toward dialogue, respect, and mutual understanding.”

“It emphasizes the shared spiritual heritage of Christians and Jews and affirms that G-d’s covenant with the Jewish

people has not been revoked. This teaching laid the foundation for a renewed and enduring commitment to Jewish-Christian dialogue for more than 60 years after its promulgation. Nostra Aetate continues to call Catholics and Jews to deeper unity and solidarity rooted in a shared belief in one G-d, our reverence for sacred scripture, and our common responsibility to witness to justice and peace and the dignity of every human person.”

The Marist program was led by Brendan Murphy, who has taught history at the Catholic high school and has been instrumental in making the school an important part of Catholic and Jewish dialogue on both the local and national levels.

He founded the Bearing Witness Institute at the school to promote Holocaust education and awareness and teacher training with the Olga Lengyel Institute for Holocaust Studies in New York, the Geor-

gia Commission on the Holocaust, and the Breman Jewish Museum. He has spoken widely in the community and leads student Holocaust education trips to Europe each summer. He described the evening at Marist as a call for people of faith to expand the conversations that have begun.

“Tonight is not simply about commemorating a document,” he said. “It is instead a celebration of relationships that have been built patiently over time, often through honest conversation, sometimes through very difficult reckoning, but always through a shared belief that dialogue always matters. The fact that we gather this evening as Christians and Jews, clergy and lay leaders, educators and students of all ages, speaks to how far that vision of Nostra Aetate has carried all of us, and how much responsibility it places on all of us to see it through, to carry it forward.”

As a symbol of the reorientation in Catholic and Jewish understanding, Murphy played an important role, almost five years ago, in bringing to the school a large-scale bronze sculpture that celebrates the new era in Christian-Jewish relations. The sculpture, by Joshua Koffman, celebrates two allegorical figures. One is Ecclesia, which represents the Christian Church, and the other is Synagoga, which represents Judaism. They are seated together, leaning toward each other to study their sacred texts together.

The original sculpture is at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia where it was viewed by the late Pope Francis in 2014. At the time, he described the work as the “rich complementarity that allows [the Church and the Jewish people] to read the texts of the Hebrew Scriptures together and to help one another mine the riches of G-d’s word.” ì

Pace’s Pollard Excels in the Lessons of Life

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

Once in a while, you discover a story so special, you’re completely inspired to write it. You find yourself in awe. What makes it even more interesting is this individual is still in high school.

That someone is Hayes Pollard, and at the young age of 18, he already knows a lot about life. A senior at Pace Academy, Pollard will attend Dartmouth College next fall as a member of the Class of 2030. What comes as no surprise is Pollard already has amassed a following of young men and has created programs for his peers sharing remarkable insights to help other teens.

Pollard commented, “Entering high school, I was struggling with my own confidence, motivation, and purpose in life. I slowly started picking up healthy habits out of a deep desire to change something because what was going on wasn’t working. This resulted in accelerating my own self-improvement journey and, by the end of freshman year, I was a different person.”

Determined to pivot and put himself on a meaningful track, Pollard did the opposite of what many kids his age might do.

He explained, “I deleted all social media, started studying, reading in my free time, working out, studying stoic philosophy, and having serious conversations with my friends trying to influence them positively. Late freshman year alongside my good friend Roan Dutta, who had begun a similar trajectory of self-improvement as me, we started the school club and met maybe once a month still not that serious and just with a handful of my friends who came to support me and that meant a lot to me.”

As Pollard continued these open conversations, no subject was off limits. Pollard said, “We talked about whatever they were feeling, including discipline, being uncomfortable, and the beauty of hard work, but it all remained very surface level without much action on the part of the club members. Sophomore year, we stepped it up pulling in a larger more diverse group with 15 to 20 people at every meeting, I would pack healthy snacks for our meetings, and we started meeting every other Tuesday for 20 minutes, diving into more complex topics such as stoic philosophy, humility, and antifragility.”

Junior year, Pollard and his group began meeting every Tuesday and regularly pulling crowds of 30 or more. He shared, “The club began to shift as I shifted my focus away from simply improving myself and helping others with self-improvement and shifting towards teaching others the

tools to help others. To make the world a better place, the concept of tikkun olam. We discussed how to effectively give advice, spread gratitude, and actionable steps to support someone who’s struggling mentally. Senior year, we’ve continued that legacy bringing in boys and girls from all grades, making the club more of a space for authentic and vulnerable discussion mostly for young men to be honest, that’s who usually comes, and making it more participation than speech-heavy, getting club members teen mental health first aid certified.

“With my friend, Dylan Nelson’s, help we brought in a speaker from Atlanta’s section of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to talk to the whole school and had the club join the out of the darkness walk for suicide awareness at Piedmont Park. I’m grateful for how nurturing and supportive the school has been including my dean (Mr. Ewing) who is the faculty proctor of the club, our director of mental wellness (Mrs. Millaway) who often attends club meetings and supports us, and my friends who have been completely supportive of my transformation and attending all of my meetings even when they didn’t have much direction.”

Alongside some peers and his school’s counselor and director of mental wellness, Pollard joined the health and wellness council late junior year, in addition to the health and wellness club which he began freshman year, to ensure that the awareness and help he has provided while at Pace remains a constant when he leaves. They have brought in inspirational speakers, such as two-time Olympic gold medalist in women’s soccer, Lindsay Tarpley, and given Pace students the opportunity to be taught teen mental health first aid, of which more than 50 upper school students signed up for. Just trying to make the stu-

dent body feel more supported and give them opportunities to reach out when in need of support is Pollard’s mission.

Pollard continued, “I was mostly inspired by my own journey and the profound beauty I had found in the world after bettering myself and becoming someone I’m proud of. My family’s disciplined example helped me as well. Similarly, the influence of stoic philosophy and Marcus Aurelius’, ‘Meditations.’”

As for the benefit for students, Pollard observed that there are actionable steps. He added, “For example, after last week’s meeting on reading, I got everyone who didn’t have a book to read and brought them to the library or talked to them about the genre they might be interested in and brought them one of my favorites.”

When asked what parents and other teens can learn from his mission he shared, “Most importantly, for parents, is setting the example. What you do and how you act in front of your children is far more important than what you tell your children to do because we tend to follow what our parents do not want us to do. I’m grateful

for the example my parents set for me. I am proud of the man I’ve become and most proud of the fact that many members and friends of mine have told me that the work I do has completely redirected and even saved their lives.”

He said, “As co-editor-in-chief of my school newspaper, I find that the most profound stories are those with seemingly insurmountable obstacles in the way, because the obstacle becomes the way. As the stoic philosophers say, ‘the impediment to action advances action!’”

Pollard hopes that, at the very least, he will influence people in a positive way, making them more grateful for the gift of life. He said, “The stillness and importance of being present that I encourage our club members to cultivate will allow them to live a more fulfilling life. In my life, I simply want to help people, that’s all. While helping others is great and important, I wouldn’t be able to do so if I hadn’t first helped myself.”

Pollard reminds us, “We all have a responsibility to take care of ourselves, so do so.”  ì

TDSA to Mark 40th Anniversary with Gala

“For a year, we met – we had no building, no head of school and no money. There were those who thought we were never going to open. It seemed like a dream. And now, here we are 40 years later.”

These sentiments were shared at a recent Torah Day School of Atlanta (TDSA) board meeting by Rabbi Ilan Feldman, TDSA’s rabbinic advisor, about the school’s humble beginnings. He added that, “It took courage and vision on the part of those who stepped forward to lead given the uncertainty and lack of resources.”

The magnitude of this 40th anniversary milestone is not lost on TDSA’s current leadership and administration. Rabbi Meir Cohen, TDSA’s head of school, comments, “The number has a lot of significance in Jewish history and practice. The flood lasted 40 days, we wandered for 40 years, Moshe stayed on Mount Sinai for 40 days, the gestation period for a baby is 40 weeks. It marks the culmination of a developmental period, and an inflection point when a new phase begins, rife with potential.”

To mark this occasion, TDSA will host a gala celebration on Feb. 22, honoring three couples who have made monumental contributions to its success across the school’s history. Dr. Henry was TDSA’s founding president and Roslyn Falk served as vice president and treasurer for many years. They have stayed connected to the school continuously – long past the graduation of their own children, assisting in many different capacities. Through their intimate involvement, they have been witness to the school’s transformation.

“That first day in 1985, we had 19 students in a retooled childcare facility. Now, to see the school thriving, with a campus that was only a dream and more than 350 smiling faces is truly amazing.”

At the heart of TDSA is its beloved faculty. TDSA will honor a couple who have been a critical part of TDSA’s teaching staff. Rabbi Mordechai and Naomi Cohen came to Atlanta to teach at the school in 1995.

“They have been making a difference in the lives of our students for 30 years. And each year they continue to innovate,” notes Rabbi Cohen. “The Torah is a constant, but the students are new and unique every year. It never gets old,” remarks Naomi Cohen. During COVID, Mrs. Cohen began teaching her students ASL to help them translate the Torah passages they were learning,

Jordan and Erica Tritt are receiving the school’s Young Leadership Award.

since masks were getting in the way of enunciation. Her students loved it so much that it has become a regular part of her curriculum. Walking into Rabbi Mordechai Cohen’s classroom, his genuine enthusiasm for Torah learning is palpable and infectious. So much so that he is now inspiring a second generation of “grand students.”

As TDSA looks toward its future, they are also acknowledging the contributions of its young leadership. Jordan and Erica Tritt moved to the Toco Hills neighborhood 15 years ago. Even before their own children were of school age, they knew TDSA would be their school of choice and wanted to get involved to help make a difference.

“Both our families taught us at a

very young age that Jewish communal engagement and philanthropy were priorities. Supporting TDSA came naturally to us,” explains Jordan Tritt.

Both Erica and Jordan have served in numerous capacities – Jordan was on TDSA’s finance committee, board treasurer and is a member of the school’s current and prior capital campaign committees. Erica is current board secretary, serves on the legal advisory committee, and has been involved in developing TDSA’s strategic plan, coordinating parent engagement activities and promoting TDSA’s endowment. Rabbi Cohen points out, “Jordan and Erica represent the face of TDSA’s future – engaged community members who want to build a better tomorrow – knowing that the education of

our children is key.”

In addition to paying homage to these three couples, TDSA will reveal plans for its future at the gala event, entitled, “Now is the Time to Illuminate TDSA.” Rabbi Cohen asserts, “Our history has shown time and again that Jewish education is critical to our national success. We see this 40th anniversary as the launching point for our exciting next chapter and hope that the community will come out to celebrate with us and share in our excitement for a bright future.”

For more information about the event, go torahday.org or contact the school office at 404-982-0800. ì

Compiled by AJT Staff

Lipstadt to Receive Jonathan Sacks Institute Prize

Bar-Ilan University is proud to announce that Prof. Deborah Lipstadt, one of the world’s foremost authorities on Holocaust history, antisemitism, and the defense of historical truth, has been selected as the recipient of The Jonathan

Today in Israeli History

Feb. 15, 1975: Salvator Cicurel, a former leader of Cairo’s Jewish community, 1928 Olympic fencer and department store magnate, dies at 81. He was forced to sell his store after the 1956 Suez war and left Egypt in 1957. Feb. 16, 1932: Author Aharon Appelfeld is born near Czernowitz, then part of Romania and now in Ukraine. He escapes a concentration camp at 10, joins the Soviet army as a kitchen boy in 1944 and makes aliyah in 1946.

President Harry Truman (center) and Secretary of State George Marshall (right), shown with Dean Acheson, disagreed on U.S. endorsement of a Jewish state in Palestine. // Harry S. Truman Library & Museum

Feb. 17, 1948: The State Department’s policy planning staff sends a memo to President Harry Truman and Secretary of State George Marshall that argues against implementing the U.S.-backed U.N. partition resolution for Palestine.

ISRAEL PRIDE

NEWS FROM OUR JEWISH HOME

Sacks Institute Prize for Outstanding Achievement as a Public Intellectual, in memory of Samuel Gewurz z”l for 2026. Lipstadt is receiving the prize for her leadership in combating antisemitism and strengthening public awareness of its nature, manifestations, and the threats it poses in today’s world.

The Jonathan Sacks Institute Prize, established by the Gewurz family of Montreal in memory of Samuel Gewurz, honors individuals whose work advances the ideas, values, and moral vision of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. A central criterion guiding the Prize Committee is that recipients reflect Rabbi Sacks’ commitment to moral leadership, intellectual integrity, and public responsibility. Among Rabbi Sacks’ foremost practical commitments was the fight against antisemitism, which he saw not only as a threat to the Jewish people, but as a warning sign for the health of democracy itself.

The U.N. Special Commission on Palestine proposed dividing Palestine into a Jewish state (in blue) and an Arab state (in yellow), with Jerusalem separated from both as an international zone.

Feb. 18, 1947: Amid rising intercommunal violence, the British government asks the United Nations to decide the future of Palestine, leading to the partition plan the U.N. General Assembly approves Nov. 29, 1947.

In 2025, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) distributed more than $132 million to support members of the Israel Defense Forces.

FIDF Provides $132M to Support IDF Soldiers

In 2025, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) distributed more than $132 million to support the brave men and women of the Israel Defense Forces, ensuring soldiers, veterans and their families receive critical aid, edu-

Feb. 19, 2009: Facing terrorist threats, 10 of the fewer than 300 Jews in Yemen are secretly airlifted to Israel. Most of Yemen’s Jews, numbering 50,000 in 1948, left during Operation Magic Carpet in 1949 and 1950.

Feb. 20, 1957: In a nationally televised address, President Dwight Eisenhower emphasizes the need for Israel to abide by U.N. resolutions calling for its withdrawal from all of Sinai and the Gaza Strip after the 1956 war.

Feb. 21, 1852: Pope Pius IX protests the granting of partial emancipation to Jews under Grand Duke Leopold II of Tuscany. The pope writes of the need to keep Catholics “from having any contact with the infidels.”

Feb. 22, 1914: The directors of the underconstruction Technikum in Haifa decide that the language of instruction will be Hebrew, reversing an October decision to teach in German, and they change the name to the Technion.

“Sallah Shabbati” was the first of 10 Israeli films nominated for the foreign language Oscar.

Feb. 23, 1965: The Israeli movie industry has its first Oscar nominee when “Sallah Shabbati” is nominated for best foreign language film. The film loses the Academy Award but wins a pair of Golden Globes.

cational opportunities, mental health services and care. The amount was the largest distribution in the organization’s 44-year history.

Working closely with the IDF and Israel’s Ministry of Defense, FIDF identifies and invests in providing humanitarian program areas and initiatives that affect soldier health, morale and resilience. In 2025, mental health programs received significant funding to provide early detection services and treatment for IDF soldiers, veterans, and their families. Since October 2023, FIDF has prioritized expanding mental health services throughout Israel by building strategic partnerships with leading medical organizations, including Sheba Medical Center, Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization, Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), and others, enabling FIDF to open 10 clinics and counting throughout the country.

Compiled

by AJT Staff

Jewish underground forces distributed this “wanted” poster for Harold MacMichael, the British high commissioner for Palestine, after the sinking of the Struma.

Feb. 24, 1942: Thinking it is an enemy ship, a Soviet submarine sinks the refugee transport SS Struma in the Black Sea. Only one of the 769 Jewish refugees survives. The British had denied them visas to Palestine.

Feb. 25, 1928: Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv hold the first match in the city’s oldest soccer rivalry, a 3-0 home victory for Maccabi. Maccabi wins the rematch on Hapoel’s home field a week later, 2-1.

Feb. 26, 1973: In Armonk, New York, Egyptian National Security Adviser Hafez Ismail tells his U.S. counterpart, Henry Kissinger, that Egypt is willing to negotiate directly with Israel under U.S. mediation.

Feb. 27, 1928: Ariel Sharon, Israel’s 11th prime minister, is born in K’far Malal. He serves in the army from the War of Independence through the Yom Kippur War and oversees the first war in Lebanon as defense minister.

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

After 842 days, Oct. 7 has Finally Ended

By Gil Zohar

With the burial of Yasam (Israel Police Special Patrol Unit) Master-Sgt. Ran Gvili z”l on Jan. 28 in his hometown of Meitar, Israel’s 10.2 million citizens have finally put behind them the trauma of Oct. 7, 2023. For the first time in 4,208 days, not a single Israel Defense Force soldier or civilian is being held hostage in the Gaza Strip. The clock in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv has stopped ticking, and the shocking display of the kidnapped at Ben-Gurion Airport has been removed. Traumatic Stress Disorder can finally become PTSD.

Two years, three months, and 20 days after Gvili, 24, fell in a lopsided battle at Kibbutz Alumim near the Gaza Strip, the hero was finally given a fitting military funeral. Thousands of police officers, IDF soldiers, and residents stood in silence along the streets of the Be’er Sheva suburb as the funeral procession passed.

The service was attended by President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Police Commissioner Daniel Levy and Sephardi Chief Rabbi David Yosef, alongside senior political and security figures. The somber ceremony was the first funeral of a hostage from the Oct. 7 Black Sabbath attended by the PM.

Netanyahu eulogized Gvili: “He considered his injured shoulder meaningless because he believed with all his heart and strength that the security of the state rested on him and the shoulders of his comrades. He saved lives –many, many lives.”

The prime minister also announced that a new town, Renanim, would be established near Meitar in Gvili’s memory.

Addressing the family, President Herzog apologized on behalf of the People of Israel, saying: “I’m sorry we were not there for him. I am sorry that, along with so many other families, you had to wait so many long, agonizing days for the return of your loved one.”

He added: “Without hesitation and without asking, again and again, [Ran] said, ‘Here I am’ and went into the line of fire to protect us.”

Gvili had been at home recovering from a broken shoulder sustained in a motorcycle accident when the attacks began at 6:29 a.m. on Oct. 7. As news began trickling in of kibbutzim and cities near the Gaza frontier being overrun and their residents massacred, Gvili decided to join the battle. Though on medical leave, he never hesitated to reach for his gun and his uniform.

His father, Itzik Gvili, told Ynet news that Ran “just put on a uniform and said to me ‘Abba, I’m going.’ I said to him, ‘Where do you think you’re going?’, and he answered, ‘What do you think? Do you think that my friends will fight alone? I’m going to help them.’ He didn’t ask me. Rani can’t be stopped.”

Driving west toward the carnage at the Nova music festival, Gvili rescued an estimated 100 partygoers fleeing the rave. He then engaged in a battle with dozens of Hamas gunmen near Kib-

ELI HOSTAGE

butz Alumim, killing 14 terrorists before being fatally shot when he ran out of ammunition. At 10:50 that morning, he texted friends that he had been shot in the leg.

For months, Gvili’s family held out hope that he was alive and being held hostage somewhere in the Gaza Strip.

His mother, Tali, told Haaretz in November 2024 that the family had received photos from Oct. 7 showing him arriving unconscious at Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, and later seen in Zeitoun on the back of a motorcycle, “but they aren’t conclusive… in this situation, hoping for a miracle feels reasonable.”

According to the Hostages Forum, “Ran had a passion for motorcycles, enjoyed gatherings with friends, cherished moments with his sister and brother, and relished playing the guitar while

sipping lemon arak.”

Gvili’s remains were recovered by IDF search teams following a monthslong intelligence operation. Under combat conditions in the northern Gaza Strip, some 700 bodies were disinterred at al-Bats Muslim cemetery in Shuja’iya. His remains were discovered by IDF dentists after carrying out the forensic examination of 249 corpses. Many noted “ran” (singing) has a numerical value in gematria of 250.

Gvili was still wearing his bloodsoaked uniform – which he was buried in rather than shrouds as is customary for civilians.

The huge logistics operation to find Gvili represents the esprit de corps of the IDF – no fallen soldier is ever left in the field. ì

Gil Zohar is a journalist and licensed tour guide based in Jerusalem.

Team Israel, Jewish Stars Prep for World Baseball Classic

David Ostrowsky

For Israel, next month’s World Baseball Classic (WBC) bears strong resemblance to the last edition of the WBC in 2023. It is the same venue (loanDepot Park, the home ballpark of the Miami Marlins) and the Pool D competition, which consists of Nicaragua, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, and the Netherlands, with the only difference being the latter country replaced Puerto Rico in the opening-round bracket. However, the Israel roster, which was released last Thursday, has a very different look, with the addition of 19 new players and the departure of several household names.

At the top, Texas Rangers Hall of Famer, Ian Kinsler, who skippered Israel to a 1-3 record in 2023 WBC pool play, was planning on resuming his managerial duties this time around, but due to a conflict with his family’s schedule, had to step aside back in November. In his stead, former MLB catcher and manager, Brad Ausmus, will manage Israel. Ausmus, who during the regular season serves as bench coach for the New York Yankees under manager Aaron Boone, managed Team Israel in the 2013 WBC qualifiers, in which Israel just missed out on qualifying for the tournament, and served as Team Israel bench coach during the 2023 WBC. One-time Atlanta Brave, Jason Marquis, will serve as bullpen coach while former All-Stars, Kevin Youkilis and Mark Loretta, will be Ausmus’ bench coach and third base coach, respectively.

As for the lineup, the most conspicuous change is in the outfield, where 2021 Braves postseason hero, Joc Pederson, who’s become primarily a DH at this stage of his career and is coming off an injury-marred 2025 season, opted out. But the blue-and-white have a serviceable replacement in store with journeyman center fielder, Harrison Bader, who had his own playoff heroics in 2022 for the Yankees, joining the team. Regarded as one of the finest defensive center fielders in the league, Bader will make his WBC debut while in the middle of his fist spring training camp for the San Francisco Giants, his seventh different team since he broke into the big leagues in 2017.

“We’re obviously thrilled to have him

In this year’s World Baseball Classic, Team Israel returns 11 players from its 2023 squad that was able to steal a victory over Nicaragua in the opening pool play // Photo Credit: Team Israel social media

[Bader] on the team, first and foremost for what he can do for our offense and what he’s going to do for our defense in center field, but also because someone like him can have an amount of recognition. And I think that helps recruit other players for this tournament and also in the future as well,” said Simon Rosenbaum, who previously played for Team Israel and now serves as its general manager.

The bulk of Israel’s roster consists of WBC first-timers — only 11 of the 30 players are returning members — a testament to there being dozens of Jewish prospects peppered across MLB organizations and word spreading that the Israel baseball program is bursting with potential.

“One thing that I’ve been really encouraged by is how much support has developed organically from players talking to each other about their experience with Team Israel and getting other players on board. I think because of that, the pool of eligible guys has expanded,” added Rosenbaum.

Certainly, the fairly flexible eligibility rules for WBC participation also plays a role.

“You don’t have to be a citizen of the country that you play for in the World Baseball Classic. You only have to be eligible for citizenship of that country. So, that reverts to citizenship laws in each country. In the case of Israel, it means

having at least one Jewish grandparent or being married to a Jewish woman,” explained Nate Fish, CEO of Israel Baseball Americas, who will moonlight as the batting practice pitcher during this year’s WBC. “Interestingly, they are the same rules that Nazi Germany used to identify who was Jewish, which is why Israel used those rules for identifying who is eligible for citizenship.

“There’s a huge spectrum of Jewishness on the team, ranging from guys that were bar mitzvahed and have strong Jewish upbringing and identity to guys who have almost no Jewish identity and are sort of being introduced to their Jewish identity through this experience. They’re both sort of cool to witness — the guys that feel very Jewish, getting a chance to play for Israel is really important to them, and for the guys that are just discovering this part of their identity for the first time, it’s almost equally as meaningful.”

Though Israel sports a passel of both current and former big leaguers, including Garrett Stubbs, Spencer Horwitz, Matt Mervis, Dean Kremer, and Bader, the two splashiest names in Jewish baseball this decade — New York Yankees ace and former Atlanta Braves great, Max Fried, and Chicago Cubs All-Star third baseman, Alex Bregman — will not represent Israel in this year’s WBC.

“There’s conversations,” acknowledged Fish about outreach efforts to both star

players. “Bregman ended up with the U.S. team and Max is just not ready to play for anyone and throw meaningful innings in March in the tournament.”

There will not be any current Braves on Team Israel, but the squad does have a distinct Atlanta representation with left-handed hitting infielder, Noah Mendlinger, a St. Louis Cardinals prospect with a penchant for getting on base via walks, returning for his second go-round in the WBC. “He [Mendlinger] is going to be a big piece for us as a returning player, with more experience,” said Fish.

After reporting on March 1, players will start practicing at the Marlins’ spring training complex in Jupiter, Fla., the following day. In the ensuing days, there will be exhibition games against the Marlins and the New York Mets before Israel travels south to Miami in preparation for its WBC opener against Ronald Acuña, Jr. and Team Venezuela on March 7 at 7 p.m. Israel’s Pool D competition will wrap up on March 10 when it plays an Andruw Jones-managed Netherlands squad that also features current Braves, Ozzie Albies, Jurickson Profar, and Chadwick Tromp.

“Jews have been underdogs our whole existence, and I think this is just another example of that,” said Rosenbaum. “We look forward to the challenge and we’re going to give it our best shot.”  ì

Falcons Overhaul Front Office, Hire New Head Coach

By David Ostrowsky

Ultimately, the Falcons’ season-ending four-game win streak wasn’t enough to convince principal owner, Arthur Blank, that his current leadership regime was the long-term solution. Though Atlanta (8-9) finished in a three-way tie atop the NFC South with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and eventual division champion Carolina Panthers, the Falcons, essentially by virtue of losing to the three-win New York Jets, 27-24, on Nov. 30 at the Meadowlands, were shut out of the postseason for the eighth straight winter.

With the Falcons now riding the second-longest active postseason drought into the 2026 season — behind only the Jets — Blank replaced head coach, Raheem Morris, and GM, Terry Fontenot, with Kevin Stefanski and Ian Cunningham, respectively, while tabbing erstwhile franchise quarterback, Matt Ryan, as the new president of football.

Since the Falcons’ last playoff game — a 2017 Divisional Round loss to the Philadelphia Eagles — the franchise hasn’t posted a winning season, nor has it hosted a playoff game at MercedesBenz Stadium. In presiding over the franchise for nearly a quarter-century, Blank, 83, has overseen vast organizational and infrastructural improvements but has yet to deliver a Super Bowl title to an increasingly restless fanbase. He couldn’t wait any longer to make his move.

“I’ve said this many times, I view myself as a custodian of the franchise for the fans,” Blank said in his early January press conference announcing the dismissal of Morris and Fontenot. “As they felt pain and anguish and frustration during the year, I felt pain and frustration and anger during the year myself. So, it was a very thoughtful, balanced decision that took time to reach, but I think it was the right decision for us.”

A great deal of the fans’ frustration stems from the fact that — generally speaking — there has been constant turnover at the head coaching position. Going back to Dan Reeves in the early 2000s, the Falcons have now employed eight head coaches under Blank’s stewardship.

“So, in my judgment — changes we’ve had to make in the past have always been in a three-year tenure. In my opinion, in this case, after two years, I knew that we had to make the changes,” explained Blank. “So, this wasn’t a time lapse kind of situation. It was a performance lapse situation that, in my judg-

ment, I felt after two years, Raheem [Morris] and his team, and Terry [Fontenot] after five years, I felt I’ve seen enough to know that we could do better than this in my view.”

In Stefanski, the Falcons are getting a two-time NFL Coach of the Year who was the first Cleveland Browns head coach since Marty Schottenheimer in the 1980s to twice guide the perennially underachieving team to the postseason. During his first year helming Cleveland in 2020, Stefanski made an immediate impact, as the Browns finished 11-5, their best record since 2007. The hope is that the 43-year-old, who played defensive back for the University of Pennsylvania a couple decades ago, can work the same magic this fall.

“I’m here because I believe in this group,” said Stefanski during his introductory press conference. “I believe in this roster. I believe, like I mentioned, in what Arthur and Matt have put together already. I promise you this, we will work. We’re not going to spend a lot of time talking about what we’re going to do. We’re just going to keep our head down and work.”

The Browns didn’t finish strong during Stefanski’s tenure, merely winning eight combined games over the past two seasons. Naturally, the underwhelming ending came up during the new head coach’s first meeting with the Atlanta media.

“I appreciate the question,” acknowledged Stefanski. “I would tell you I’ve learned from all of my seasons in this

game of football, if you will. Something I’ve told Matt [Ryan], there’s a quote I love, ‘Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.’ And I think it’s something that’s important, as all of us understand, some of those tough moments are going to make us better.”

In the new chain of command, Stefanski will report to Ryan, who, since leaving his cushy gig at CBS Sports’ “The NFL Today,” has most notably been noncommittal about whether young quarterback Michael Penix, whom the Falcons drafted No. 8 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, will be at the controls next fall upon his presumed recovery from undergoing season-ending knee surgery last fall. (Since then, Ryan has acknowledged such roster decisions are not his call, but rather Stefanski’s.)

Nevertheless, Ryan, who will report directly to Blank, remains one of the most popular players in franchise history and even though he lacks front office experience, his institutional knowledge of the Falcons and football in general is clearly above reproach.

“I am so excited to be back as part of this organization,” Ryan shared during his own intro presser on Jan. 13. “Being drafted back in 2008, having been to Atlanta twice in my life, once for a recruiting visit to Georgia Tech and then once playing at Georgia Tech. I didn’t know much about the city before I got here, and now, however many years later, it’s home. It really is. The people in this city have made it home, the fans of the Falcons have made it home, and the people

of this organization have made it home.

“I think when you look at organizations and you think about places you’d like to be, it comes down to ownership, ownership, ownership, ownership. Bill Cowher, I’ve sat next to him for the last three years, and he would hammer that home all the time. He would joke, the three most important people in the building are the owner, the owner, and the owner. So, when you get an opportunity with a previous relationship and knowing what Arthur [Blank] stands for and what his family stands for, and you respect all of those core values, to me, that’s what makes it so exciting in terms of an opportunity.”

Meanwhile, Cunningham, who served as the Chicago Bears’ assistant GM since 2022 and is viewed leaguewide as a rising star in NFL front offices, will be charged with constructing the 53-man roster by making executive decisions on free agents and draft selections. Cunningham has solid Atlanta roots as when he was a child, his family moved from Texas to settle in Roswell after his father accepted a job on the Atlanta Olympic Committee for the 1996 Summer Games.

“From the first time we met with Ian, his bright and innovative mind quickly made an impact on our group,” Blank said in a statement. “Through our research, it is clear he is a selfless individual driven by a pursuit of perfection and is impeccable with his word while never pausing on his quest to learn more and challenge the status quo.”  ì

Blank Gives Tiger Woods $20M For Education Center

By Bob Bahr

The Arthur Blank Family Foundation has announced that it is making a $20 million grant to the foundation established by Tiger Woods, the legendary PGA pro golfer.

Blank’s contribution to the Woods charity will be used to transform the Capitol View Elementary School, on Metropolitan Parkway, southeast of the downtown business district in Atlanta., into a learning lab that the golfer’s TGR Foundation would operate.

“I have immense respect and admiration for Tiger, not only for his legendary career, but for the way he continues to lead with purpose off the course,” Blank said. “It’s truly an honor to partner with someone who believes so deeply in the power of education and community.”

The announcement came during a celebration of 30 years of charitable work by Woods which with Blank’s help has raised $50 million in the last year for his educational initiatives. Blank, who is a co-founder of The Home Depot, has been a major contributor to educational and social initiatives, and over the years has contributed more than $1.5 billion to philanthropic work.

He also owns the Atlanta Drive golf team that is part of a high-tech indoor league known as Team Golf League that Woods has promoted. Earlier this month, Blank also became the first team owner to sign on with the Women’s Team Golf League, a new platform for professional women golfers.

The Woods foundation’s work supports students from underserved communities to pursue their goals through education. The TGR Foundation says it has reached more than 3 million children and served over 217,000 students since 2006

“The legacy I’m most proud of isn’t on the golf course, it’s the work we’ve done to positively impact the lives of students through TGR Foundation,” Woods said in a release announcing the donation. “I am excited for what’s next as we expand alongside our great supporters to reach more young people from communities in need.”

The learning lab will provide students the opportunity to further their education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, which is often referred to as STEM educational enrichment programming. It will also offer out-of-school programming and career counseling for students from the Atlanta

Public School System.

It is being established under a 25year lease for the building that Woods’ foundation negotiated last fall with the Atlanta Board of Education. The school building was originally constructed in 1928 but has not been used since 2013.

According to Bryan Johnson, superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, the partnership with the Foundation reflects a strategy to revitalize facilities in the Atlanta community in ways that both benefit students and strengthen communities.

“By activating historic buildings through mission-aligned partnerships, we are expanding learning beyond the classroom, creating new pathways for student success, and ensuring our facilities serve as engines of opportunity for Atlanta,” Johnson said. “The TGR Learning Lab Atlanta is a powerful example

of how strategic collaboration can bring new life to our schools and new possibilities to our students.”

The Atlanta lab is part of an expansion of the foundation’s program of operating and furnishing learning labs. The flagship learning lab opened in Anaheim, Calif., in 2006 followed by the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab in Philadelphia, Penn., last year. Future learning lab locations include Lulu’s Place in Los Angeles in 2027 and Augusta, Ga. in 2029.

The lab in Augusta will be part of the planned transformation of the municipal golf course known as The Patch. That work is being sponsored in part by the Augusta National Golf Charities, which is the philanthropic arm of The Masters golf tournament. Tiger Woods is also designing a short course at the facility though his TGR Design organization.

Woods started the Tiger Woods Foundation when he turned pro in 1996 and renamed it a decade ago. He began by doing golf clinics around the country and, five years later, came up with the idea of a learning center. The Atlanta lab is the fifth that has been started.

Woods, who has just turned 50, hasn’t indicated if and when he might return to the competitive golfing circuit. In recent years, he’s been plagued by numerous injuries. He ruptured his Achilles tendon in March and had a seventh back surgery in September. He last played the 36-hole PNC Championship in Orlando with his son, Charlie, in December 2024.

He also has devoted time to PGA Tour policy, serving on the boards of the tour and PGA Tour Enterprises, and chairing the Futures Competition Committee that is reshaping the schedule. ì

2 0 2 6 B E S T O F J E W I S H AT L A N TA S u p p o r t

Hadassah Southeastern Holds Annual Installation Repair the World Leads MLK Weekend of Service

Hadassah members of the Southeastern Region celebrate all of Hadassah’s accomplishments.

Hadassah Southeastern Region recently held its annual installation and meeting on Jan. 11, on Zoom. The installation was conducted by Dr. Rachel Schonberger. This region is the home to nearly 6,000 members and supporters throughout Georgia, South Carolina and western North Carolina, with a diverse mix of experience, ages and backgrounds.

The event included an engaging webinar featuring leading voices offering strategies on tackling the surge on antisemitism. The panel was comprised of Dov Wilker, American Jewish Committee regional director, Rabbi Elizabeth Bahar, Temple Beth Israel in Macon, Ga., and Diana Diner, National Hadassah Zionist educator.

Paula Zucker, president of the Southeastern Region, proudly announced, “The leading journal, Nature, just named Hadassah Medical Organization the No. 1 hospital in Israel for scientific output. The publication, Nature Index, also ranks Hadassah among the top 200 hospitals worldwide.”

During the period 2024-2025 the Hadassah Medical Organization was

the most prolific producer of articles on the clinical sciences, oncology and carcinogenesis, microbiology, genetics, cardiovascular medicine, hematology, and many other areas.

Dr. Eyal Mishani, who has overseen Hadassah’s research program for two decades, gives credit for the hospital system’s success to its staff who “focus on the hottest areas of research on every sphere of medicine you can think of.”

Simone Wilker, advocacy chair for Hadassah Greater Atlanta, explains, “Without the support of Hadassah here in Atlanta and the entire United States, we wouldn’t have been able to establish research centers in Israel that are changing the face of medicine.”

Hadassah has set the standard for excellence in medical treatment and research in Israel. The ingenuity of Hadassah’s physicians and scientists has led to new tools and treatments in all areas of medicine. For more information go to www.Hadassah.org.

Compiled by AJT Staff

take part in

Repair the World’s MLK Weekend of Service activated Jewish communities through service and learning programs designed to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s legacy, highlight Jewish perspectives on justice and equality, build bridges between Jewish and Black communities, and deepen our understanding of how Jewish values intersect with civil rights.

MLK Weekend of Service is one of three annual National Days of Jewish Service (NDJS) activations powered by Repair the World, bringing together thousands of volunteers in impactful service and learning that celebrates our shared values while tackling today’s most urgent issues. Centered around key moments in the Jewish calendar, NDJS offers the framework, funding, educational tools, and community-building activities to inspire volunteers in meaningful experiences that strengthen local communities and foster global Jewish unity.

The Weekend of Service included more than 100 programs in over 40 cities across 15 states, with over 63 Jewish communal partners microgranted. More than 18,000 volunteers engaged in the Weekend of Service.

MLK Cook, Serve & Dine with residents at The Covenant House

Repair the World Atlanta partnered with The Covenant House of Georgia

over MLK Weekend of Service, inviting volunteers to cook, serve, and dine with the young adult residents. Sixteen Repair the World volunteers made shepherd’s pie, salad, potato pie, and brownies for 45 residents of The Covenant House. After preparing and serving the meal, volunteers sat and shared stories with these young adults who are working toward a brighter future.

JF&CS Family Mitzvah Day

Repair the World Atlanta joined JF&CS Family Mitzvah Day as part of MLK Weekend of Service, where 70 volunteers came together for a family-friendly afternoon of service in honor of Dr. King. Volunteers built bridges through service together, enjoying refreshments, music, and photo booths while making an impact.

Oakland Community Cemetery Tree Planting

Repair the World Atlanta partnered with Oakland Cemetery to activate volunteers in service over MLK Weekend, inviting volunteers to help sustain the urban forest by planting trees. More than 200 volunteers came together to plant over 30 trees that provide cleaner air, cool shade and improved habitats for local wildlife.

Moishe House Hosts Dinner with Rishfeld

Moishe House–East Atlanta recently hosted a Shabbat dinner with Holocaust survivor, George Rishfeld

Moishe House–East Atlanta recently hosted a Shabbat dinner with a Holocaust survivor.

“This program was very meaningful. We first met George Rishfeld at an Oct. 7 Commemoration Dinner (hosted through Onetable), where he mentioned that while it is very important to him to spread his story to as many people as possible, he particularly wants to spread his story to non-Jewish people as well as Jews,” a Moishe House spokesperson said.

After the dinner, Moishe House residents, Arielle Stravitz, Mitch, and Shafir, came up with the idea to host a Shabbat dinner through Moishe House where Rishfeld could share his story, and where the group would encourage Jewish community members to invite their nonJewish friends, partners, and colleagues. Moishe House officials decided on January, in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

About 30 people came to the dinner, roughly one-third of whom were nonJewish guests.

“We did the Shabbat blessings and then sat down so that George could share his story. He shared some truly incredible experiences of luck during the Holocaust,

The Temple Named Solar Challenge Winner

including the time that, as a young child who was hiding with a non-Jewish family, a Nazi asked him where his mother was and he said ‘the ghetto,’ having no understanding of what that meant, but fortunately, his words were unclear enough that the Nazi misheard him. He also spent a while talking about the many decades of life he lived after the Holocaust, including his successful career (despite antisemitism he experienced), his family, and his large collection of cowboy boots,” a spokesperson said. “Lastly, he talked about rising antisemitism in today’s society, and the importance of taking that seriously, and talking to people in order to educate them. He shared that he believed that the Holocaust teaches us that people can be easily brainwashed and it’s something we all need to be aware of.

“Afterwards, we ate dinner and had a Q&A. People had so many questions that the event lasted almost three hours total. Several community members came up to us afterwards to thank us for hosting this event and to share how memorable and special the opportunity to hear from George was.”

Compiled

by AJT Staff

The Jewish Solar Challenge (JSC) has awarded grants to nine Jewish organizations across America to purchase and install solar panels. This year’s grantees include seven temples, one camp, and one Jewish school:

The Temple (Hebrew Benevolent Congregation) in Atlanta, Ga.

Congregation Sons of Israel in Nyack, N.Y.

Westchester Torah Academy in New Rochelle, N.Y.

Bet Torah in Mount Kisco, N.Y.

Temple Hillel B’nai Torah in Boston, Mass.

Temple Emanuel in Newton, Mass.

Temple Emanuel of South Hills in Pittsburgh, Penn.

Congregation Bonai Shalom in Boulder, Colo.

Habonim Dror Camp Gilboa in Big Bear Lake, Calif.

“We are honored to help such an incredible group of organizations across America make the transition to solar power,” said Jewish Solar Challenge Founder Mitchell Schwartz. “This round – our largest ever – marks the first time a majority of our grantees were located

outside California, and includes our first recipients in New York, advancing our mission to make solar energy accessible to Jewish communities everywhere.”

During this grant cycle, JSC awarded $300,000, bringing the total awarded for solar projects to more than $1 million since the Jewish Solar Challenge launched three years ago. Since its founding, JSC has supported over $10 million in solar projects, totaling over an estimated two megawatts of capacity. These installations generate approximately 3.28 million kWh of electricity per year, preventing the release of 1,272 metric tons of CO₂ into the atmosphere and saving nearly $500,000 in annual electricity costs.

“Solar is one of the best ways to take direct climate action with clear, measurable impact,” said Josef Abramowitz, a pioneer of the Israeli solar industry and a JSC Board member. “Investing in solar reduces operating costs, but also helps us build more resilient, self-sustaining communities, benefitting our people and our planet long term.”

Compiled by AJT Staff

ADL Southeast Welcomes Young as Regional Director

Jerry’s Habima Theatre to Present ‘Mary Poppins JR’

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is proud to announce the appointment of Todd Young as the next regional director of ADL Southeast. Young brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, community relations, strategic consulting, and fundraising, and will lead ADL’s efforts to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate across the Southeast.

Throughout his career, Young has served on strategic planning committees, led teams in implementing new initiatives, directed capital campaigns and major fundraising efforts, and strengthened organizational sustainability. He is also an experienced educator and speaker, having delivered lectures and workshops to diverse audiences on historical and policy-related issues. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration, data-

informed decision-making, and mentorship, empowering teams and emerging leaders to thrive.

“I am honored to step into this role at ADL Southeast,” said Young. “At a time when antisemitism and extremism are increasing, it is critical that we work together to protect the Jewish community and ensure a more just, inclusive society for all. I look forward to partnering with our staff, lay leaders, and allies across the Southeast to advance this essential work.”

Young succeeds David Hoffman, who has served as interim regional director since July.

Based in Atlanta, the ADL Southeast region covers Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina. For more information about ADL Southeast, visit Southeast.ADL.org.

Compiled by AJT Staff

For over three decades, Jerry’s Habima Theatre at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) has brought groundbreaking inclusive theater to Georgia, empowering actors with disabilities to entertain and inspire audiences alongside professional theater artists. This season, the beloved program proudly presents its Spring 2026 production of “Mary Poppins JR ,” running March 5 to March 15, at the MJCCA Morris & Rae Frank Theatre. Tickets are now on sale, and this popular production is expected to sell out. Community members are encouraged to purchase tickets early.

“Mary Poppins JR.” follows the whimsical journey of the Banks family and their extraordinary new nanny, Mary Poppins, who uses imagination, wit, common sense, and a bit of magic to help them rediscover the importance of family. Featuring audience favorites like, “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Chim Chim Cheree,” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” the production promises joy, heart, and unforgettable moments for all ages.

“By partnering with the MJCCA’s drama program, we’re creating a shared experience where adult Habima actors and young performers learn from one another and come together in the spirit of creativity, connection, and commu-

nity,” said Stephanie Alterman, theater education and drama camps director and Jerry’s Habima theatre producer. “That blend of perspectives and talents is what makes live theater so powerful, and it brings a real sense of beauty and community to the stage.”

New this year, “Mary Poppins JR.” will feature neurotypical children from the MJCCA’s drama program portraying the Banks children. This collaboration brings together Habima’s adult cast and the MJCCA’s youth ensemble performers, adding a new layer of intergenerational storytelling and theatrical collaboration to the production.

Performance Schedule

7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 5 (Opening Night)

7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., Sunday, March 8

7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 12 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., Sunday, March 15 (Closing Day)

Both 11 a.m. performances are designated as sensory-friendly, with adjusted lighting and sound to support audience members with sensory sensitivities. Tickets range from $20 to $36 and are available at 678-812-4002 or at atlantajcc.org/ habima.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Kibbitz & Konnect Hosts

Pre-Valentine’s Shabbat

Kibbitz & Konnect, the premier in-person social network for Atlanta Jewish singles started in June 2022.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the cultural drumbeat of roses, reservations, and romantic expectations grows louder. For many singles, the holiday can feel less like a celebration and more like a spotlight. That’s where community — and a little humor — can make all the difference.

Kibbitz & Konnect, the premier inperson social network for Atlanta Jewish singles started in June 2022, was created with exactly that spirit in mind. Rooted in Jewish values of connection, warmth, and shared experience, Kibbitz & Konnect brings Jewish singles together not just to date, but to belong. It’s about showing up as you are, sharing a laugh, and remembering that meaningful connection comes in many forms — friendship, community, spirituality, and yes, romance when it’s meant to happen.

On Thursday, Feb. 13, Kibbitz & Konnect hosted a Pre-Valentine’s Shabbat Dinner at Congregation Or Hadash, offering an alternative to the pressure of Valentine’s Day itself. Shabbat, after all, is Judaism’s weekly reminder to pause,

True Love Means Planning Ahead

unplug, and connect — with ourselves and with one another. Around the table, conversation flows more easily, barriers soften, and strangers often become friends by dessert.

For single people, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be something to “get through.” It can be reframed as a moment to honor self-love, community love, and the belief that no one’s timeline is behind. Being single is not a placeholder; it’s a season rich with growth, freedom, and possibility. The healthiest relationships — romantic or otherwise — begin with feeling whole, not rushed.

Handling Valentine’s Day as a single person can be as simple as choosing intention over comparison. Spend time with people who make you feel seen. Celebrate small joys. Say yes to spaces where connection is encouraged and vulnerability is welcome.

For more information, please visit www.kibbitzkonnect.org.

Compiled by AJT Staff

Henry Goldberg, CLO

Joined the Firm, 2009; West Highland Terrier; Specialist in Strategic Napping, Lobby Security, and Midday Snack Negotiations

When you say “I do,” an “I love you ” Last Will & Testament may be enough. But true love means being more thoughtful

Did you know?

Including a properly structured “Testamentary Special Needs Trust” helps:

Protect your spouse ’ s Medicaid benefits.

Preserve assets for your family. Pay for extra care and comfort items not covered by Medicaid if one of you needs nursing home care.

Don’t let “I Love You” become “I Wish I Had Known ”

Let our caring team help protect everyone and everything you love.

Looking Back, 843 Days Later

My sister’s call came while I was enjoying the Monday night jazz program at a neighborhood tavern. An Israeli relative had messaged her son that members of the family were unaccounted for after the Hamas-led terror attacks two days earlier, on Oct. 7, 2023.

I already had filed an article for the AJT about how Jewish Atlanta was reacting to the horrific news coming from Israel and the next night I was going to cover a community rally in Sandy Springs.

The death toll in the kibbutzim, towns, and an outdoor music festival in a section of Israel known as the “Gaza envelope” would reach 1,225 men, women, and children, while 251 more were kidnapped (among them the bodies of people killed Oct. 7).

At Kibbutz Be’eri, three people on the Israeli side of the family were murdered and seven kidnapped.

Six of the seven — women and children — were freed after 50 days in an exchange for jailed Palestinians. The seventh, a husband and father, remained a hostage for 505 days, until Feb. 22, 2025.

The last hostage came home on Jan. 26, 2026 — on day 843 — as Israel Defense Forces troops in Gaza recov-

ered the body of police officer Ran Gvili.

Before Oct. 7, I knew that a few hundred Israelis were descended from my great-grandfather’s twin brother, who emigrated from Romania in 1882 to what then was part of the Ottoman Empire and was among the founders of Zichron Yaakov, a town south of Haifa.

I did not know the names, the faces, or anything about the lives of those murdered or kidnapped.

I saw the names of other family members interviewed by Israeli media and searched for them online, eventually making contact with about a dozen cousins.

The first thing I looked for in the news every morning was an update on the hostages, along with social media posts or messages from the cousins.

As closely as I tracked Israel’s retaliation against Hamas — the Palestinian death toll rising to tens of thousands and most of the Gaza strip reduced to rubble — the hostages remained my primary concern, at least until the last of the family was freed.

I remember that Oct. 10, 2023, rally at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, with some 1,100 people inside and a few thousand on the lawn outside.

Judging from what I saw and heard that night, vengeance was on the minds of many in attendance.

The victims in the kibbutzim included advocates of co-existence with their Palestinian neighbors.

I remember the words of an Israeli cousin who came to Atlanta on Oct. 30, 2023, as part of a delegation

Beyond Your Expectations...

combining technology and artistry

of hostage families.

Speaking to a nearly full sanctuary at the Ahavath Achim Synagogue, this young woman relayed a request from two other cousins, young men whose parents were two of the three family members murdered at Be’eri.

“Her sons asked us not to revenge on behalf of their name. In the darkest times, the darkest parts of our personalities sometimes get out,” Dafna said. “Our family sent a message of peace. I feel like I need to ask you on behalf of [the slain parents], don’t seek revenge.”

The quiet that followed suggested that many in attendance were inclined to disagree.

The family connection prompted many of my “From Where I Sit” columns. Some I wrote because I sensed a weariness in the Jewish community as the war ground on, with the plight of the hostages receiving less attention.

The day that Ran Gvili’s body returned, Adi Shoham, one of the kidnapped from the Israeli side of my family tree, wrote on Facebook: “There are no more hostages in Gaza. The sentence we’ve been dreaming of for so long. Done and dusted. The word ‘relief’ is weak compared to the feeling, and the tears are flowing by themselves. Relief for the Gvili family, who were last standing in this nightmare, and it’s finally over. Relief for all of us, that now one chapter has really ended and a new one is starting.”

The families of the hostages brought home for burial — those killed on Oct. 7, whose bodies were taken, and those who died as captives — cope with empty chairs at meals, one side of the bed cold, a parent or grandparent not there to guide the next generation.

The hostages who returned alive are charting their futures on a timeline different than before Oct. 7.

So is Israel, its people, and its government. The latter remains due for a reckoning over the intelligence, military, and political failures that led to the deadliest day in Jewish history since the Holocaust and a hostage nightmare that lasted for 843 days.

So are Jewish Americans, many of whom have found reasons to think about what it means to be Jewish; to assess their place in American society, as a cloud of toxic antisemitism has spread, and to consider their relationship with Israel, its people, as distinct from its government.

After the 843 days of the hostage crisis, I am left with admiration for the steadfastness of the extended family in Israel and gratitude for the contacts made with Israeli cousins. The only silver lining I found in this dark affair was being able to add their names in my contacts and to the family tree in my computer. ì

End of an Era: Thank You, Kaylene

When one door closes, a new door opens. When I took over the Atlanta Jewish Times a decade ago, Kaylene was by my side. Since that point, she has been the creative force behind your paper, moving with the times and publishing an engaging newspaper for our community. Little things like fullcolor covers featuring members of our community, bringing back a sports section, introducing business briefs. The list truly goes on.

In addition to the paper, she brought events into the sphere of the AJT such as the Jewish Breakfast Club (for Lunch), the Atlanta Jewish Life Festival, and, most recently, the Kosher BBQ. And, of course, being responsive to hundreds of people, rabbis, leaders, and organizations in the community, a tireless job throughout the years.

As you have heard or surmised, Kay-

lene is moving on to the next chapter in her career. I will miss her, the paper will miss her, the community will miss her. We will, however, wish her the best, help her in her new endeavors, and, of course, continue to publish.

She will leave with our thanks and support. Kaylene has assembled a fantastic team that will build on her leadership and legacy. I am indebted to her for a seamless transition 10 years ago, building a sales team that helps support our paper, transitioning the paper, in part, to nonprofit status so that it can become self-sufficient, and running the organization, on a day-to-day basis for me. Kaylene, thank you.

As we look forward, I want to announce the promotion of Sasha Heller to Editor-in-Chief and ask the community to begin to rely on Sasha for your needs, concerns and questions. I will certainly be here as well, and, as we search for someone to fill the role of Publisher or Chief Visionary, I will keep you apprised. As always, thank you for your patronage which keeps us close to our mission, keeping Jewish Atlanta connected! ì

Michael Morris is the owner and publisher of Atlanta Jewish Times.

MODERN LUXURY STYLISH LIVING

Letters to the Editor

The AJT welcomes your letters. If you would like your letter to be published, please write 200 words or less, include your name, phone number and email, and send it to sasha@atljewishtimes.com.

To the Editor,

I need to share my opinion and let this roll off my shoulders. I started to watch the Grammys last week, but, unfortunately, their focus on Ice Out turned me and the television off. While I respect their right (and the right of many of the participants) to voice their opinion, and I appreciate their right to voice their opinion, I hope they have the same respect for me when I let them know that I will take a 10-year hiatus from the Grammys. In addition, I will take a one-year break from purchasing new music. I find it hard to support an organization, or people, who support defiance, harassment, and aggression to our police (whether they be local, state, or federal). That is not what I have taught my children, and it runs contrary to how I live and respect my community and country.

Michael Morris, Atlanta, Ga., Atlanta Jewish Times owner and publisher

To the Editor,

In the November aftermath of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Rabbi Baroff offered a hopeful plea for dialogue being the key for peace in the Middle East. It is a sincere sentiment, but I have a different viewpoint.

How does Israel coexist with people (Hamas) who want to destroy it? Israel evacuated Gaza in 2005, and Hamas violently displaced Fatah in 2007. Hamas’ focus was and is to destroy Israel while denying 3,000 years of continuous Jewish presence in the region of Israel. Apparently motivated by a belief that once Muslim Arabs conquer and rule an area, as the Ottoman Empire did for 300 years, it must remain so in perpetuity. Israelis, referred to as Jews or Zionists, are considered occupiers. Even more dangerous are the textbooks used in Gaza which demonize Jews/Israelis and why they must be eliminated. Here, education creates a renewable source of generational hatred toward Israel.

Note that Hamas misappropriated over $1 billion of multiply sourced foreign aid designed to improve Gaza’s telecommunications system, electrical grid, and sewer system. Instead, Hamas built underground tunnels meant to protect its commanders and operatives, not ordinary Gazans. Hamas has used their civilians as human shields at least since 2007. When Israel attacks Hamas operatives purposely hiding behind civilians, Hamas cynically bemoans civilian casualties as a PR stunt for foreign media even if some of their own operatives die.

Hamas is intransigent and efforts by Israel for dialogue are currently meaningless because they are dealing with a disingenuous opponent. It is Israel’s destruction, not accommodation, that Hamas seeks.

Respectfully submitted,

Disclamer to our readers:

This section of the newspaper is a forum for our community to share thoughts, concerns and opinions as open letters to the community or directly to the newspaper. As a letter to the editor, we proof for spelling and grammatical errors only. We do not edit nor vet the information the letter contains. The individual signing the letter is accountable for what they share.

To the Editor,

I’m writing as a Jewish woman who deeply values Jewish community, culture, and storytelling. I appreciate how the Atlanta Jewish Times highlights real people and real experiences that often don’t get enough attention.

As Jews, we’ve always believed in bearing witness, in honoring everyday lives, and in passing stories from one generation to the next. That’s why I feel it’s important to speak up and share perspectives that reflect who we are today — not just historically, but as living, evolving people.

I hope the Atlanta Jewish Times continues to spotlight voices that celebrate resilience, creativity, and the dignity of work and community. These stories matter, especially now.

Thank you for all you do to keep Jewish voices visible and connected.

Warmly,

Sheryl Bassman, Southport, N.C.

To the Editor,

Thanks to the Atlanta Jewish Times and the entire Atlanta Jewish community once again for your support of the 2025 Gate City B’nai B’rith Pinch Hitters Program. Since 1980, the Pinch Hitters have been volunteering in Atlanta-area hospitals, nursing homes, senior citizen residences, and similar facilities to “pinch hit” for essential, non-medical workers so they can enjoy their Christmas holiday with their families and friends.

This year was no exception as we served in seven locations with scores of hardworking volunteers. Naturally, we closed out a long day when all the volunteers met for dinner at a Chinese restaurant to review the day’s activities and plan for 2026.

None of this would have been possible without the leadership and exceptional work of the Harry Lutz, the longtime Chair of the Pinch Hitter Project. “Hanukkah Harry” has been the manager of the Pinch Hitter team for more years that I can recall, and the Project could not succeed without his extraordinary effort and that of his wife, Roseanne. Harry and Roseanne are the best “Keystone Combination” and power hitting duo in the game today.

Harry has spent untold hours over the years running Pinch Hitters. True to his modest ways, he wrote the article in last month’s AJT, listing all the volunteers, including his better half, Roseanne. But Harry omitted himself from the list. And Harry is at the top of the list.

Hats off to Harry! Once again, you hit the ball out of the park.

Sincerely,

Gary Jackson, Atlanta, Ga., Founder, Gate City B’nai B’rith Pinch Hitter Project

Rabbi Roundtable

Rabbi Ron Segal, Reform

Rabbi Ron Segal is a Senior Rabbi at Temple Sinai in Sandy Springs, a community he has served since July 1996 upon ordination from Hebrew Union CollegeJewish Institute of Religion. He is an active participant in the Atlanta Rabbinical Association as well as in the Sandy Springs Interfaith Clergy Association, an organization he proudly co-founded. Locally, his prior board leadership includes the American Jewish Committee, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, The Davis Academy, and Holy Innocents Episcopal School, among other agencies.

Rabbi Keilah Lebell, Hadar

Rabbi Keilah Lebell is the director of Project Zug at the Hadar Institute and has previously served as Assistant Rabbi and Jewish Emergent Network Rabbinic Fellow at IKAR in Los Angeles. She holds rabbinic ordination from the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, studied Hebrew intensively at Middlebury College and Hebrew University, and earned her bachelor’s from St. John’s College, Santa Fe. She lives in Chattanooga, Tenn., with her husband, Rabbi Sam Rotenberg, and their three children.

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

Rabbi Michael Broyde, Orthodox Michael Broyde was the Founding Rabbi of Young Israel of Toco Hills which he served for nearly 15 years, after receiving ordination as a rabbi by Yeshiva University. He received a juris doctor from New York University and is now a law professor at Emory University, the director of the SJD Program, and Berman Projects Director at the Center for the Study of Law and Religion at Emory University. He is also a core faculty member at the Tam Institute of Jewish Studies at Emory.

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

“As more Jewish engagement happens outside synagogue walls, how should rabbis think about the relationship between sacred space and civic space?”

Rabbi Ron Segal

The topic of congregational life beyond the walls of the synagogue is one we have focused on for more than a decade. An extensive strategic vision and 10-year plan launched in 2015 included this statement as one of its five goals: “In 2025, Temple Sinai is an integral and relevant part of our lives, both within and beyond the walls of the synagogue.” Guided by this directive, we created in-home learning initiatives for adults and Hebrew chavurot for youth, periodic neighborhood-based Shabbat services and Torah study, off-site social gatherings and events targeting different demographics and constituent groups (e.g. Sinai Brotherhood), and countless other efforts, all aimed at strengthening the connections between our members and their synagogue and bringing Temple Sinai life - both the sacred and the “civic” — into people’s homes and lives wherever they might be. As teachers of Torah, I believe rabbis should appreciate that one enduring responsibility is to strengthen the Jewish people and world by bringing members of our community close, whether within or beyond the walls of our synagogues.

Looking at the question through a slightly different lens, though, I confess I found the prompt to be somewhat problematic, as it posits the false binary that sacred space is found within the walls of the synagogue while “civic” (understood for this reflection as non-sacred) space is what exists outside of the synagogue. Any AJT readers involved in a congregation will readily affirm that synagogues (of every denomination) host social gatherings, programs, meetings and other events that do not rise to the level of “sacred.” Conversely, any readers who have experienced and been spiritually stirred by the majesty of nature surely appreciate that sacred space is neither defined nor limited by geography. The sacred potential of every location is ultimately determined by the level of intention, or kavanah, one brings to it.

As a congregational rabbi, I certainly believe strongly in the central and necessary role of the synagogue in preserving Jewish life, and I appreciate each day the efforts of Sinai’s leadership to fashion a building and campus that naturally contribute to sacred and memorable moments in the lives of our community. However, I understand with an equal degree of certainty that the ongoing vitality of our congregation relies on our readiness to discover, learn from, and nurture opportunities — both sacred and civic — beyond Dupree Drive.

Atlanta Rabbinical Association

Rabbi Keilah Lebell

As a young teen, I went through a fairly stereotypical rejection of organized religion in general and Judaism in particular. What ultimately brought me back was the realization that Judaism is not anchored to a particular building, but is a portable home we carry with us. Jewish life happens in individual and communal practice, wherever we happen to be.

Historically, Jews have congregated in whatever spaces were available. Indeed, the Talmud teaches that G-d’s presence dwells wherever Jews gather to pray, learn, or pursue justice (Berakhot 6a). Seen in that light, today’s landscape feels familiar, not alarming. While I wish more Jews today could experience the synagogue as a home for connection, inspiration, and action, I don’t feel threatened by the fact that much Jewish life is flourishing beyond synagogue walls.

Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel warned that religion was declining not because it was being refuted, but because it was becoming “irrelevant, dull, oppressive, insipid.” Our work as rabbis is not to lament empty buildings, but to meet people where they are, sharing our passion for Judaism, and helping Jews experience Judaism as “a living fountain” rather than a cold museum. This means bringing sacred practice outward when possible and ensuring that what happens inside our institutions is welcoming, authentic, and alive.

Even amid grief, polarization, and rising antisemitism, I find this moment brimming with possibility. We Jews have always known how to make ordinary spaces sacred. Our task is to help Jews experience holiness wherever they gather.

A final word to my fellow rabbis: this work is hard. Many of us are exhausted and grieving. I hope you can take time to re-root in what you love about Judaism. Rest and renewal are not indulgent, but essential for you and the Jewish community.

Rabbi Michael Broyde

Jewish life has never happened in just one place. Some of my most meaningful Jewish moments have taken place in a synagogue: standing together in prayer, marking sacred time, sharing words that Jews have said for centuries. There is something irreplaceable about a synagogue as a space set aside for tefillah. Prayer asks us to slow down, to show up regularly, and to place ourselves — physically and spiritually — in a setting designed for that purpose. While Jewish tradition permits prayer almost anywhere, it also understands that sustained communal prayer thrives best in a place intentionally devoted to it. The synagogue is not sacred simply because of its walls, but because of what we consistently do inside them.

At the same time, many of the most vibrant expressions of Jewish life today are happening well beyond synagogue doors and that has always been true. Jewish learning unfolds in coffee shops and living rooms. Jewish values are lived out in volunteer work, public conversations, cultural events, and civic engagement. This is not a departure from tradition; it is very much part of it. For most of Jewish history, Torah was learned wherever people gathered, and Jewish identity was shaped in the public square as much as in formal religious spaces.

Rather than worrying that Jewish engagement outside synagogues weakens Jewish life, we might see it as a sign of health. Judaism was never meant to be contained. The synagogue should remain the anchor for prayer, grounding us in ritual and rhythm. Civic and public spaces, meanwhile, allow Judaism to breathe — to educate, to inspire, and to contribute to the broader society.

When sacred space and civic space are each honored for what they do best, Jewish life becomes not smaller, but fuller — and far more alive. ì

American Craft Beer HOF Induction set for Feb. 28

By Debbie Diamond

Feb. 28 marks the second annual American Craft Beer Hall of Fame induction ceremony for the superstars of craft beer, recognizing the individuals whose vision, leadership, and dedication helped shape the modern American craft beer industry.

Round Trip Brewing, located at The Avenue East Cobb, will host the free watch party, beginning at 3 p.m. The awards ceremony will also be livestreamed globally, with link information provided on the American Craft Beer Hall of Fame website at www.americancraftbeerhalloffame.com.

The mission of the organization is to honor the innovators, creators, and legends of American craft beer, celebrating the individuals behind the movement that transformed American brewing. The national organization expressly preserves the stories and cultural impact of craft beer pioneers and hopes to inspire future generations to push the craft forward.

According to Matt Simpson, a Hall of Fame board member and craft beer aficionado who resides in Atlanta, the awards ceremony is the “Oscars” for the craft beer industry, dedicated to honoring the people who built, championed

and continue to ensure the industry’s continued growth. “This Hall is to ensure that the memories of their contributions and achievements will not fade with time,” emphasized Simpson.

According to The American Craft Beer Hall of Fame, the 2026 honorees reflect the extraordinary breadth of talent, innovation, and advocacy that has defined American craft beer since its incep-

tion. Honorees this year include many of the most respected figures in the industry, including Pete Slosberg, founder of Pete’s Brewing Company, maker of Pete’s Wicked Ale; Mitch Steele, a 37-year veteran and brewmaster at large industrial and small craft breweries; Carol Stoudt, a brewmaster and founder of Stoudts Brewing Company; Charlie Bamforth, an English scientist who specializes in malting and brewing; Larry Bell, founder of Bell’s Brewery; Ray Daniels, founder and director of the Cicerone Certification Program, the standard for beer sommeliers; Teri Fahrendorf, an American brewer and founder of the Pink Boots Society, an organization that supports women in the brewing industry; Kim Jordan, co-founder of New Belgium Brewing Company and Mighty Arrow Family Foundation, a philanthropic organization committed to social and environmental causes; and Garrett Oliver, the three-decade brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery and first brewer to win a James Beard Award, in

PROFESSIONALS

addition to his work as editor-in-chief of The Oxford Companion To Beer.

“The modern American craft beer industry is now in its fifth decade. Craft beer in the United States takes its style from traditional beer destinations internationally, including Germany, the U.K., Czech Republic, and Belgium, as well as the many U.S. home brewers,” said Simpson. “Many Americans grew tired of the macro-industrial lagers such as Budweiser, Coors, Miller, and Pabst, who used more rice and corn in their products. People wanted more flavor and good craft lagers. And that’s when the American craft beer breweries were born,” said Simpson.

The American craft beer industry has grown in prominence not only in the United States, but across the globe. With alcohol consumption in general going down in recent years, however, not all breweries have remained in business. Simpson believes the industry is now contracting, and only the best breweries will continue to thrive. He hopes to make it his mission to “expose Atlanta’s Jewish community to the best craft beer in the world.”

As a longtime beer sommelier, Simpson founded The Beer Sommelier craft beer consultancy in 2007. He has four judging certifications from Doemens Brewing Academy, Siebel Institute of Brewing Technology, the Beer Judge Certification Program, and Kansas City Barbecue. He has been a Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup judge for 10 years, being honored with table captain several of those years, and has won multiple home brewing awards, including the National Homebrew Competition. He continues to work with corporations, creating tasty, fun and educational events around craft beer, and has taught courses about craft beer, including an Evening at Emory course. His latest venture is the creation of Beer AID, a digestive supplement similar to Lactaid, but for beer drinkers.

The Hall of Fame is comprised of five members of the board of directors, including Simpson. Other board members are Marty Nachel, founder and president of the organization; Aaron Gore, vice president; Amanda Bruns, vice president; and Lisa Morrison, board member atlarge.

“Without this group, as well as the many innovators, honorees and legends of American craft beer, the industry would not have progressed to where it is today. Their commitment to raising the profile and popularity of craft beer is unparalleled and has enabled craft beer to achieve the same level of recognition and success as wine,” said Simpson. ì

Sonenshine Develops Dating Safety Tool

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Netflix’s, “The Tender Swindler,” turned dating app users, especially Jewish ones, on high alert. In true Netflix documentary style, viewers scratched their heads to comprehend how savvy professional women would fall for a charming Israeli, to the extent that they would hand over their bank accounts.

Native Atlantan Rachel Sonenshine, with a background in advertising and financial technology sales, two years ago ventured into an entrepreneurship to focus on online dating safety and accountability for women. She explained, “My inspiration stemmed from my personal observations and experiences: five of my closest friends, some of whom who hadn’t dated in over 20 years, entered the online dating world. I was quickly blown away by the lack of accountability in this space. Super smart, beautiful, successful friends are meeting up with men they met on the apps, and they didn’t even know their last names! All they knew about the guy was … whatever he told them. As you will hear from anyone who

has been on the apps, they are faced with numerous challenges, including misleading profiles, unsafe behavior, and some

pretty unbelievable stories.”

Marketing data supports that dating apps are the No. 1 way people meet spouses, leading to 60 percent of marriages in 2024. According to Sonenshine, the global online dating market is a $10 billion industry and is expected to double by 2033; 70 percent of men have lied about themselves on dating apps; and 75 percent of women say they have experienced some form of sexual violence on the dating apps.

Noting these issues, Sonenshine became aware of the power of community and collective accountability, exemplified by groups, such as, “Are we dating the same guy?” where women support each other by sharing stories and flagging concerns about potential threats. Tea was a popular app for women only to share info about men they have dated. Note that this can be a green flag or positive experience, not all negative. The app performed background lookups and hidden marriage checks. Men could not sign up. Some men complained that this app could lead to defamation and false allegations without their consent. Tea was removed from the app store though there are different versions out. It’s possible that the adage, “A woman scorned” could be unfair. And if someone was so wonderful, why expose him for others to grab?

Overall, this sparked an idea for Sonenshine. Partnering with a friend she built the app, wrthy, a platform designed to provide women with verification, behavioral insights, and shared community experiences, all aimed at making

online dating safer, more transparent, and more fun. The target audience for wrthy is women who actively use dating apps who want to better understand potential matches, recognize red flags early, avoid unsafe situations. The app’s services include profile verification, community-driven storytelling, and behavioral analytics, all built to foster trust and accountability.

She added, “This is more than just a safety tool, it’s a movement toward reclaiming women’s power in the online dating space. Our goal is to shift the paradigm, transforming online dating from a risky gamble to an empowering experience where women feel in control and supported.

Sonenshine has raised $260,000 through “angels” and took 18 months to develop the app, getting it into the App Store/Google Play.

She related, “We are not a gossip app -- we are about accountability and transparency in the online dating world. In our next phase, men will be able to claim their profiles, see their dating analytics (anonymously) and get to make a public statement for our users to see with a free trial; then, we have monthly, quarterly, and annual plans (annual plan is $19.99).”

A user, Alex said: “Thanks to wrthy, I have a much better sense of who I’m choosing to spend my time with. Everyone has their own experience, whether it’s an ex-boyfriend, a friend from college, or someone you went out with once, so, I don’t feel so in the dark when I am meeting a stranger.” ì

The Most Important Atlantan You May Never Know

Teddy Hertzberg, known as fast, firm, and fair, stands by his office poster, a woodcut depicting Micah 6:8 to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.”

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

“There’s a new sheriff in town,” and he’s not playing.

U.S. Attorney Theodore Hertzberg (aka, “Teddy”) has broken the record on cases filed, even as he’s being asked to do more with fewer employees. As U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, Hertzberg works on behalf of 7.5 million Georgians in a 46-county area. He and his staff prosecute Federal crimes and litigate civil cases in which the government is a party.

Atlanta Chief of Police Darin Schierbaum told the AJT, “Teddy was engaged on day one, attending meetings, collaborating on our safety, how we can work as a team ... He is there on the front lines, and he’s very principled.”

And, yes, he’s proud to be Jewish. Hertzberg wears a Ten Commandments medallion around his neck; and on his wall is a woodcut depicting (in Hebrew) the instruction of Micah 6:8 to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.”

This reporter left his office with a challenge coin with the Hebrew text of Deuteronomy 16:20 — “Justice, Justice, you shall pursue”—encircling a Department of Justice eagle.

Local Jewish attorney and author Kent Alexander also served in this capacity. He said, “Hertzberg has a strong professional background. The first U.S. attorney in Georgia was appointed in 1789; the year Congress enacted the Judiciary

Act. Since then, I’m pretty sure Teddy and I have been the only Jewish U.S. attorneys in the Northern District. So, we’re a proud fraternity of two.”

Committed to ensuring the administration of criminal justice is “fast, firm, and fair,” Hertzberg recently appeared on the front page of the Atlanta JournalConstitution touting how he’s avoiding politics and focusing on public safety.

Get to know him here:

Jaffe: How does a young man growing up in a liberal Democrat family become a Republican?

Hertzberg: I grew up on Long Island. My parents often brought me into New York City to visit museums, watch shows, and hunt for antiques. In the early 1990s, the city was a frightening place. I remember being accosted by “squeegee men” and panhandlers. The streets were filthy, and the murder rate was out of control. Poor leadership and callous indifference to antisemitism led to the Crown Heights pogrom. But Rudy Giuliani cleaned up the city, and George Pataki brought capital punishment back to fight crime. So, as a teenager, I associated the Republican party with law enforcement, public safety, and justice.

Jaffe: How does someone your age, 43, become the U.S. attorney?

Hertzberg: I received a phone call last April asking if I would be interested in being appointed to lead the office on an interim basis. After interviews with Department of Justice leadership, West Wing staff, and ultimately, President Trump, I was given that opportunity. When my initial term expired in September, the Federal district judges voted to keep me in place.

Jaffe: You still try cases?

Hertzberg: Because we are shortstaffed, and because I love being in the courtroom, I still carry a caseload.

Jaffe: You know about the Deep South from your clerkship in Alabama?

Hertzberg: As a New Yorker who attended college in Massachusetts and law school in Manhattan, I knew little of the South until I secured a clerkship with a Federal judge in Mobile. I thought of my clerkship like students may think of a semester abroad in Australia — I could learn a lot and experience a different culture in a place where the people kind of speak English. What I realized about the South was that, relative to New York, the weather was better, the people were

nicer, and the cost of living was lower. I found the Jewish community very welcoming. Even after I returned to New York, the Conservative rabbi from Mobile officiated at my wedding.

Jaffe: You were appointed by Pam Bondi, U.S. attorney general. How do you stay out of politics?

Hertzberg: My position is apolitical. I am committed to working with my law enforcement partners to keep the community safe and hold wrongdoers accountable. That’s not a partisan endeavor.

Jaffe: How did your father, a lifelong New Yorker, write a history of Jews in Atlanta?

Hertzberg: As a young academic in the 1970s, my father wrote, “Strangers Within the Gate City: The Jews of Atlanta 1845-1915,” which examined Jewish life in Atlanta from the Antebellum period through the lynching of Leo Frank. When I moved to Atlanta, my dad gave me a copy of his book and inscribed it: “To Teddy, My smart, honorable and lov-

ing son. No father could be more proud. Now, go write your own chapter.” I’m doing just that.

Jaffe: What’s the most bizarre case you ever handled?

Hertzberg: Approximately 30 years ago, a Savannah man demanded that a urologist remove his penis although there was nothing physically wrong with it. The urologist refused, prompting the man to threaten to kill the urologist. The man was imprisoned but continued to make threats after getting out. After a second stint in Federal prison, the man violated his conditions of release. In 2016, I was tasked with handling proceedings to imprison the man a third time. While in custody, he sent a letter threatening to murder me, and the Court added 10 years to his sentence.

Jaffe: What’s next for you? Run for Georgia governor?

Hertzberg: I don’t think my wife would let me, even if I wanted to, which I don’t. I enjoy the practice of law. My past, present and future are in the courtroom. ì

Former Judge Tracks Mostly Murders in Fiction

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

What might motivate a federal administrative law judge to voluntarily “jump ship” to pursue a passion? In this case, Debra Goldstein, widow, stepmom, mother of twins, and civic volunteer retired 11 years ago to dive into penning novels.

Goldstein received her B.A. from the University of Michigan and her law degree from Emory University. Then, while in Birmingham, she held United Way, YWCA, Women’s Network, Girl Scout, Temples Emanu-El and Beth-El, and Grafman Endowment board positions. She also served on the national boards of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime Worldwide where she is the latter’s president-elect.

How could one kindly grandmother with such charitable endeavors conjure up themes that are mostly about murders?

Goldstein mused about what was left behind. “Being a Federal administrative law judge required impartially applying the law to different fact patterns. The

cases I litigated were more varied.”

The most significant was Marshall v. Georgia Southwestern College, an equal

pay case of first impression relating to higher education. Winning this case helped propel her judicial appointment at age 36, when the average judge’s age was 58.

Explaining her move to Atlanta, Goldstein related, “A three-year-old grabbing my hand after a babysitting stint, saying, ‘Mimi, I don’t want you to go.’ I melted.”

After her husband died, she had already contemplated a move to Georgia, but her grandson’s comment tilted the scales. She laughed, “Better to move while he and his sister still like me, I’m young enough to make friends, and willing to drive Atlanta’s highways.”

During the past 12 years, she has written seven novels, a collection of short stories, and 60 short stories. The dream got derailed while she was a litigator, then judge, new wife, and mother. She wrote skits for parties, but writing a book was just “talk.” Finally, a friend challenged her to vacation at the beach with the sole purpose of writing. In three days, she wrote 85 pages longhand on yellow legal paper.

It takes Goldstein 11 months to bring a book to fruition. She’s done signings at Atlanta’s Tall Tale Books, Scottsboro’s Poisoned Pen, Nashville’s Parnassus, and Houston’s Mystery by the Book. She was also a panelist at the Decatur Book Festival and Southern Festival of Books. Planned 2026 appearances include Left Coast Crime, Malice Domestic, Bouchercon, and the Dahlonega Book Festival.

Her next project: A Southern suspense novel. Her books include:

“Maze in Blue” -- an academic mystery set on the University of Michigan‘s campus during the 1970s.

“Should Have Played Poker: a Carrie

Martin and the Mah Jongg Player’s Mystery” -- With the help of a group of retirement center mah jongg players, a young corporate attorney investigates why her mother returned after 26 years only to be murdered hours later.

"One Taste Too Many” -- Sarah Blair finds being in the kitchen more frightening than murder. Married and divorced young, she’s starting over with the only thing she got out of the marriage, a Siamese cat. When her twin sister, Emily, a chef, is accused of killing Sarah’s ex-husband with a taste of rhubarb crisp, Sarah must find the murderer before being forced to take Emily’s place at a food exhibition (recipes include Jell-O in a Can).

“Two Bites Too Many” -- When Emily’s restaurant plans are stymied by a banker who turns up dead, all clues point to the twins’ outspoken mother.

“Three Treats Too Many” -- For someone whose greatest culinary skill is ordering takeout, Sarah must prove a friend, accused of putting murder on the menu, is innocent.

“Four Cuts Too Many” -- A culinary school instructor is thought to have served up a main corpse.

“Five Belles Too Many” -- When her mother is a wedding reality show finalist, a murderer crashes the wedding party.

“With Our Bellies Full and the Fire Dying” -- 18 stories, ranging from cozy to dark that center around family and friends, sinning, and sometimes, redemption. The stories were winners or finalists for several awards.

“Candy Cane on the Case” was published in “Crimeucopia: The Not So Frail Detective Agency.”

For Goldstein’s short stories, please visit www.debrahgoldstein.com/shortstories/ ì

The Lowdown

I Bet You Didn’t Know …

Have fun with “The Lowdown,” a column spotlighting some local “movers and shakers” - some bent on creativity, empire building, activism and/or just plain celebrating living the good life.

Mindy Selig, principal and co-CEO, is the fourth generation to lead the family's real estate company, Selig Enterprises. Mindy’s career experience has focused on curating experiential, urban mixed-use developments focused primarily on community. To date, one of her proudest accomplishments is The Works, an 80-acre mixed use, readaptive project that was the vision of her late brother, Scott Selig.

In addition to real estate, she is passionate about her involvement in community organizations like Rotary, The Buckhead Coalition, and Camp Sunshine. She is currently president of the American Jewish Committee and co-chair of The Temple’s capital campaign. Additionally, she sits on the boards of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and the Carter Center. In 2022, she was named Atlanta Magazine’s “Woman of Influence” and, in 2025, she was named to the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Women of Influence list. She is a 2024 alumni of Leadership Atlanta. Mindy’s greatest love is her family and two Bernedoodles!

Read on to see why she’s called “Minderella.”

Jaffe: Greatest extravagance?

Selig: My first piece of art — a Todd Murphy (no regrets).

Jaffe: What are you listening to or streaming?

Selig: Dan Senor’s “Call Me Back,” and pretending I’m not fully obsessed with “Landman.”

Jaffe: I’m happiest when … Selig: In Hilton Head with my family and nowhere to be.

Jaffe: What’s a talent you wish you had?

Selig: Anything musical. Singing or dancing would be a win.

Jaffe: My kids say I’m …

Selig: A party planner at heart — known for the little details and, of course, the “Mindy touch.”

Jaffe: I’m often mistaken for …

Selig: Cinderella - My girls call me “Minderella”- say no more!

Jaffe: Real estate in Atlanta is like …

Selig: Real estate here is like college football — loyal fans, fierce rivalries, and everyone thinks their neighborhood is No. 1.

Jaffe: The best advice I ever received from my dad was …

Selig: Simple but enduring: be available, invest in relationships, and never forget that your reputation is everything. ì

Reported by Marcia Caller Jaffe

REAL ESTATE

Magnate Shifts Roles at Selig Enterprises

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

Local media went wild when real estate mogul and local community leader Steve Selig announced his vision to step aside in active day-to-day management of Selig Enterprises. He wants to make clear that he is not retiring, as he will remain chairman of the board and co-owner along with sister Cathy, more in an advisory capacity while daughter, Mindy Selig, and nephew, Greg Lewis, take over. Interestingly, the Atlanta JournalConstitution ran front page stories on Steve Selig’s decision. When queried if he was surprised by all the publicity, ever self-effacing, he replied, “It must be a slow news week.”

Steve Selig is responsible for dramatic accomplishments in Atlanta’s development, specifically in the Jewish community. Selig Enterprise’s portfolio houses more than 1,200 tenants and over 15 million square feet of space, including office buildings, warehouses, shopping centers, apartments, mixed-use, and a pivotal role in City Springs, a model for suburban

cities. Steve Selig is also known for his people skills, staff development, public speaking, and pulling off a joke.

When asked what he was most proud of in terms of his legacy, it wasn’t buildings or properties. He said, “Other than my family, it’s the team we’ve developed. I believe in hard work, loyalty, and

knowledge. We have veteran employees working here for 20-plus years. We have very little turnover from 125 employees. Actually, my philosophy is that sometimes I don’t care how smart someone is (although that helps), I care how well they get along with people, their work ethic, and availability.

In terms of how he might spend his extra free time, Steve Selig claims to not be “much of a golfer.” Steve and wife, Linda, are not big travelers. Their “happy place” is Hilton Head at Sea Pines where he bought a house, noting that it came bundled with a pink 1957 Thunderbird once owned by John Mellencamp.

Now, he’s thinking that New York City may be his third home as up to six of his grandchildren (oldest is 31) may settle there.

Get to know the man …

Jaffe: There’s a Japanese proverb, “The first generation makes the money, the second generation invests the money, and the third generation squanders the money.” How did this all work out here?

Selig: I’m the third generation. Our children are the fourth generation, and you can see what we have built. When my father, “Slick,” sat in this chair, I approached him thinking he should take more risk. Interestingly, my children have done the same to me. My late son, Scott, envisioned The Works development, which seemed very aggressive at the time, and turned out to be a fantastic project.

Jaffe: Your philosophy is to “buy and hold.” How do you make any money without selling?

Selig: We’re long-term holders. Leasing is my forte. Mindy will take over the leasing arm. We also do development, on which Greg has been focusing. One of the reasons we’re successful is because we’re not specialized in one area, we’re diversified.

Jaffe: What do you do in your spare time? I see footballs in your office.

Selig: I’m a tremendous sports fan and these are my UGA footballs. I like the Falcons, the Braves, Hawks, all of it. We like to see family members whenever possible. We also like to have dinner with friends; and we happen to lease to some iconic Atlanta restaurants like the Colonnade, White House, Manuel’s Tavern, Silver Skillet, and Smith’s Olde Bar.

Jaffe: What’s your last fashion disaster?

Selig: I have a fashion disaster every day. I have clothes in my closet that have been there 20 years

Jaffe: When’s the last time you cried?

Selig: This may surprise a lot of folks, but I am very emotional and probably cry every other day. Those who know me well know that I’m a softie at heart. I cry when I hear Hatikvah, at parades and when I see the American flag. Recently, I cried at the movie, “Song Sung Blue.”

Jaffe: You’re a music pioneer and helped start Music Midtown.

Selig: I was partners with the late Alex Cooley and Peter Conlon who’s still running the Live Nation Atlanta. I love the old-timers like Jimmy Buffett, James Taylor, and Willie Nelson. I, myself, I’m not a very good singer.

Jaffe: You were the National Campaign Chair for the Jewish Federation.

Selig: When they asked me, I didn’t think I’d do a very good job, but I actually folded well into it. I have a T-shirt showing all of the 50 cities I visited, including London and Montreal. It’s a two-year job, and I only made a oneyear commitment. However, I was in Israel and Prime Minister Sharon (in his thick accent) asked me to take the second year on the spot. I reluctantly happily accepted. Who could refuse the Prime Minister?

Jaffe: You worked in the Carter Administration. Are you a supporter of the Democratic Party?

Selig:  I’m “candidate driven” vs. “party driven.” I really admire Gov. Brian Kemp and hope he runs for president. I supported Nikki Haley during the last presidential election. I think the Republican Party is more supportive of Israel so that’s where my loyalties lie. I admire Sen. John Fetterman. That said, I also am a big fan of Mayor Andre Dickens.

Jaffe: If you had one thing you could change, what would it be?

Selig: I lost my son, Scott, to cancer eight years ago at age 47. It was the darkest time in my life, and I will never get over it. I think of him every day and I am continually inspired by the impact he had on so many. ì

Downsizing is on the Up-Swing

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

A recent Atlanta Jewish Times reader shared with this writer, “We are an aging couple in the process of decluttering and have been trying to donate a piano to a deserving group for over a year. We have called many public and religious schools in the area and none of them want it. Surely, there must be a spot for our piano. A used upright piano of this type sells for $500 to $2,000, so it has some value.” You could call the article, “Downsizing couple looking to donate a piano to a charitable organization.”

While this writer couldn’t promise a home for their piano, a lot of people are in the same position. You might relate to downsizing, scaling down or moving, and potentially agree it’s stressful. Finding a good home for beloved belongings or things you inherit is a big job. Items like lifetime collections, Grandma’s dining room table plus artwork, Grandma’s China cabinet and more, make it quite a challenge. And in case you’re an “out of sight, out of mind procrastinator,” you have work to do. The good news is if your

attic or basement feels like a storage unit, there is help and resources available and don’t panic. The big question is who wants it and what’s the best way to bid those items farewell?

Organizational professionals and experts can ease your job. Many nonprof-

its are prepared to pick it up or companies you can hire to take it away. Some destinations have support for those moving to assisted living facilities and provide moving transition experts while many people hire an estate sale company and professional to turn what’s stashed into cash.

Linda Lincoln Diamond, professional organizer and founder of Captured Clutter (capturedclutter.com), suggests asking these questions:

* Do I need this? Do I love this? Do I want this?

attractive property is well maintained and beautifully blends comfort and style. The living room features crown molding for refined elegance. The kitchen includes a backsplash, large island, peninsula, crown molding, and stovetop. A sunroom provides a peaceful retreat.

* Would a photo serve to preserve memories and substitute for keeping the item?

* Would the item be of value to a family member or friend? If so, give them a deadline to retrieve it, or donate it to a worthwhile cause.

* Work backwards from your moving date and set aside a time allotment each day to go room to room and designate a staging area for giveaways, repairs, toss/ recycle. Use sticky notes or color dots to indicate keep or come back to.

Diamond advises starting early. She said, “It’s important to begin way ahead of time when possible. If you are listing your home (and must reduce the contents), less is best when showing it. If the entire job overwhelms you, start small. One room or closet at a time. Begin giving things away a few shopping bags at a time and don’t leave one zone until it’s completed. Be intentional and generous when deciding what to keep. There are so many worthwhile causes in need of gentle, used clothing, items, and kitchenware, plus toys and more.”

Next, she said, “Let go. Some things, even items you haven’t used for years or are inherited, are hard to let go. Finding a loving home for those might be just what you need to bid those things farewell; or you overpaid for something and want to get your money out of it. Walk around the house with painters’ tape and mark the items that must go even if you find it difficult to say goodbye.”

Diamond added to also hire an expert and said, “Perhaps you know someone who is a Facebook Marketplace whiz, find resources who can help you. Hiring an expert who can help advise you what to keep, sell, or donate is helpful. Begin by photographing your keep list and writing down the measurements. That will help you to ensure these items fit into your new space.”

Michelle Cooper, CPO and president, Put It There Professional Organizing, LLC, (put-it-there.com), recommends these suggestions to help guide you and understand that all decisions do not need to be made at once. There will likely be several rounds of keeping and purging. Cooper said to start with low-hanging fruit; what can easily be “skimmed off the top.” Next, she suggests the following common questions to ask:

* Does keeping this item help me reach my goals?

* Do I want to devote space for it?

* Is this the only one I have that serves this purpose?

* Do I expect to use it soon?

* Will it be difficult to get it again?

* Can I manage without it?

REAL ESTATE

* Am I keeping it to avoid something emotional?

* Is there someone I can give it to who needs it more than I do?

It is perfectly acceptable to have some “would be nice to haves” if space allows.

Experts also recommend having an estate sale which requires support. Helpful insights come from Christy Ahlers, who oversees Peachtree Battle Estate Sales and Liquidations with experience having run estate sales for 15 years. Ahlers and her husband, Robert, own and operate Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery (A&O), Atlanta’s largest estate sales and auction company.

Christy Ahlers commented, “Downsizing is a deeply personal process, often filled with memories and emotions. At Peachtree Battle Estate Sales, we take the time to carefully understand each family’s needs and handle every detail with care and compassion. This approach to sales helps to ease the burden while thoughtfully placing and valuing treasured belongings. Each item is priced and we go to great lengths to help families and individuals downsize, clear out and maximize the value of every item for sale with respect and care.”

Estate sale companies specialize in helping homeowners put personal property, collections, and other items of value up for sale especially when downsizing. To determine if you’re a match for their services, it’s a good idea to photograph specific collections, valuable items, and share them for a visit to determine if a full-house on-premises sale is advisable.

If you have valuable items that could go to auction, consider A&O’s long-standing reputation as a sought-after auction resource for private and rare collections. Their highly successful past auctions have included such notable collections as those of Robert Woodruff, Marjorie Knowles, the late governor’s wife, Betty Sanders, amongst others. An auction allows your more valuable belongings, especially when downsizing, to be publicized by the company and sold to a global market. Realized prices are posted online and items are professionally sold to the highest bidder. The competitive nature of bidding is both a sport and a hobby for many along with the excitement of winning a soon-tobe cherished item for their own collection. Their auction gallery is in the popular Upper Westside design district.

To learn more about Peachtree Battle Estate Sales, visit www.Atlantaestatesales.com Ahlers & Ogletree is now accepting consignments for upcoming auction seasons. Email consign@aandoauctions.com. ì

Planning Beats Timing. Every Time.

The spring market gets the headlines, but the best outcomes are usually decided earlier.

ADVERTISEMENTPaid for by Azure Realty

February is when serious buyers and sellers quietly prepare. Pricing takes shape, timelines are clarified, and options are explored without pressure. By the time the market heats up, the advantage already belongs to those who planned ahead.

Azure Realty was built around that philosophy. For sellers, that often means understanding which improvements actually add value and which ones don’t long before a home ever hits the market. For buyers, it means recognizing opportunity early and negotiating from a position of preparation, not emotion.

We work with clients who value thoughtful guidance from a seasoned real estate team. People making meaningful moves: relocating, upgrading, downsizing, or protecting long-term value. Every relationship is handled with discretion, market insight, and a level of personal attention that never gets handed off.

We believe the right plan always beats a rushed decision.

If a move is even a possibility this

year, now is the time to understand your position and your options before the crowd arrives and before decisions feel rushed.

To begin reviewing your options, schedule a private in-person or virtual conversation with Azure Realty. We can be reached at info@azurebrokerage.com as well as 678.329.9992

SONENSHINE TEAM

DEBBIE SONENSHINE

Here’s how to get your home market-ready the right way: 1. Edit Ruthlessly: If you haven’t used it in a year, it doesn’t need to be on display. Pack it away.

2. Clear Surfaces: Countertops, vanities, and tables should feel open.

3. Depersonalize: Pack away excess photos, personal collections and bold/colorful decorations.

4. Clear Closets: Buyers always open them, so aim for 30–40% empty.

5. Create Flow: Arrange furniture to highlight space, not fill it.

6. Organize for Function: Neat pantries, linen closets, and garages signal a well-maintained home.

Let’s start building your selling strategy early. Feel free to give me a call today. Let's chat!

2026 Winter Real Estate Roundup

By Sasha Heller

The AJT asked a panel of local realtors to discuss the current state of the metro Atlanta real estate market. Topics included key challenges in the current residential market, emerging trends, and advice for both buyers and sellers. Read on to find out about Atlanta’s current real estate market.

Kelsey Barocas

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?

Market fragmentation is one of the biggest challenges right now. Some neighborhoods and price points are highly competitive, while others require more patience and precision. This makes hyper-local expertise more important than ever. Understanding which homes are likely to attract multiple offers - and which may need a different approach - can significantly impact outcomes. Overall, success in today’s market depends less on broad headlines and more on localized data, timing, and tailored strategy.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?

Buyers are being more thoughtful and selective, focusing on quality, location, and long-term value rather than rushing decisions. Homes that are well-maintained, properly priced, and thoughtfully presented continue to perform very well. There is also increased interest in functional living spaces - home offices, flexible floor plans, and outdoor areas remain priorities. Additionally, many buyers are taking a longer-term view, purchasing with the intent to stay put and build equity rather than treating a home as a short-term move.

Can you give any specific advice to potential homeowners looking to buy this year?

My biggest advice to buyers is to be prepared, very patient, and strategic. Getting fully pre-approved with a trusted local lender helps buyers understand their true purchasing power and move confidently when the right opportunity comes along. It’s important to focus on fundamentals such as location, layout, and structural integrity - elements that tend to hold long-term value regardless of market conditions. At the Barocas & Feldman Team, we guide our clients through neighborhood-level trends and help them evaluate opportunities beyond surface-level appeal, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with both their lifestyle and long-term goals.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?

For sellers, pricing and presentation are everything. Today’s buyers are informed and discerning, so homes must be positioned correctly from day one. That means strategic pricing based on current market data - not past peaks - along with strong marketing and thoughtful preparation. Simple improvements, decluttering, and professional presentation can make a significant difference. It’s also important for sellers to be flexible and open to feedback during the process. When homes are marketed with intention and guided by realistic expectations, they can still achieve excellent results in today’s market.

Eydie Koonin

Realtor, The Pailey and Eydie Group

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?

When we speak about the residential real estate market, we need to speak about our local market vs. national market. Although inventory is beginning to accumulate, and the absorption rate is around four months, there is still not enough of “good inventory.” What does that mean? Most buyers today are not interested in renovating a home after purchase. They would rather pay more money and have the home “move in ready” when they shop for properties.

We see sellers that still believe that they can price a property above where it should be for the condition that it’s in. The last quarter of 2025 sales were slow, so we are lacking good comps to use to price new listings.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?

Today’s buyer wants lifestyle over location. In other words, they want kitchens that feel like living spaces and not just a place to cook and serve food. Outdoor living spaces are just as popular as ever, especially if there are doors that push all the way back for that indoor/outdoor feel. Bonus rooms are hot again and any adaptable space that could be an office, art room, reading room or playroom.

Can you give special advice to homeowners looking to buy this year?

First of all, interview a few buyer’s agents and see who you are compatible with. Is this agent available on short notice to show you properties? Is the agent familiar with the area you want?

Does this agent have a good track record on closing deals representing buyers? I’ve worked with buyer agents that push so hard for unrealistic repairs and/or compensation that they actually got in the way of the buyer purchasing the home they wanted so badly. Don’t forget that the buyer is the client and the agent should help facilitate the home purchase for them, not get in the way of a deal. The most important advice is for the buyers to inspect, inspect, inspect. Atlanta has old sewer pipes and every buyer should pay for a sewer scope to make sure the pipes are solid and nothing is blocking them. Winter is a wonderful time to look for a house because what you see right now is the worst your view will ever be.

Can you give any advice for those that want to sell?

Don’t wait. Hire an agent now who can help you get your home in listing condition, including staging if necessary. Don’t wait for the spring market because Atlanta’s market runs 365 days a year. Sell what you have and not what the house could have. Just the other day, I closed on a townhouse that had previously been listed as a three-bedroom, but in actuality it was a two-bedroom with an amazing enormous closet off the owner’s bathroom. Originally, that was the third bedroom, but no longer. I listed it as a two-bedroom, three full and two half-baths. We went under contract very quickly because the person that bought the property always turns one bedroom into a closet for all of her clothes and shoes, but it was already done at this property. She bought it just for the closet.

Melanie White

Realtor, Harry Norman Realtors

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?

Today’s market is very different than in past years and presents many challenges. Inventory has grown, giving buyers more options, but the prices remain higher than many households’ income. The price gap between buyers and sellers was challenging in 2025 and will continue in 2026. Many sellers have unrealistic pricing expectations from prior years, and buyers are more cautious after affordability pressures. This makes negotiations longer, creating more days on the market and closings harder. In 2025, we had more contracts fall out than we have in a decade. In December alone, Atlanta ranked the highest number of cancelled contracts at 22.5 percent.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?

Inventory is a challenge, as buyers’ demands are changing. Working remotely remains popular for many, and buyers are looking for homes that provide ample office space. We have seen an increase in popular inside and outside and relaxation areas, as well as luxurious outside entertainment areas and Zen gardens. As climate change and sustainability concerns rise, trends for energy efficient and more sustainable homes are in demand, as well as energy efficient appliances.

In today’s market trends, we are seeing the increase of virtual tours and 3D walk through options, making it easy for local and international buyers to tour and purchase homes without stepping inside the front door. The quick emergence of AI-driven platforms is a rapidly growing trend. These platforms are enhancing searches, personalizing listings, predicting market trends, and streamlining processes.

Can you give special advice to homeowners looking to buy this year?

Homebuyers in 2026 will face many challenges. As the interest rates have been fluctuating for a few years, in 2026, we hope to see some stabilization. Buyers need to keep a close eye on interest rates and how they can affect their payments. Saving for the downpayment is still key, but buyers also need to consider saving for inspections, closing costs, and potential renovations. Mortgage lenders will continue to value strong credit and a score of 740 or higher to give you more interest rate options. Adjustable-rate mortgages are becoming more popular as many buyers are attracted to the initial lower interest rates and monthly payment ARM’S offer. Especially if they plan to move before the fixed rate period ends.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?

Sellers should choose a real estate agent who understands the evolving dynamics of the 2026 housing market and can help position their home effectively. Look for agents who are tech-savvy and have experience with digital marketing tools and virtual showings. Sellers should have a realistic initial price to attract more offers. They should have the home market ready, maximize curb appeal, declutter the home and add energy-efficient features that are attractive to buyers. Updated lighting, appliances, kitchens, bathrooms, and HVAC are very important to have a home ready to sell.

Our market is transitioning from years of frenzy over the last few years to a balancing of the market. Modest pricing, and rising inventory. The easing of mortgage rates has and will continue to improve affordability, encouraging more transactions. The market in 2026 shows signs of optimism.

Lauren Blass

The Robin Blass Group, Harry Norman Perimeter

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?

There will always be challenges in any real estate market, but right now a few key issues stand out. For sellers, the biggest challenge is understanding what today’s buyers truly value. Pricing the home correctly from day one is crucial — especially if the goal is to sell within 45 days. Buyers are more informed than ever, and they instantly compare condition, updates, and overall value across the market.

For buyers, the challenge is understanding the full financial picture before they begin shopping. Beyond the purchase price, there are inspection costs, surveys, appraisals, closing costs, and the down payment to consider. And finding the right mortgage program is essential—there is no one-size-fit-sall option. Each buyer’s financial situation, goals, and timeline will determine what loan product is best.

In short, today’s market requires preparation on both sides: sellers need to price strategically, and buyers need a clear understanding of their total costs and financing options.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?

In our market, we’re seeing a mix of opportunities for today’s buyers. Many older homes are coming on the market — some needing cosmetic updates, others requiring more significant repair. While these properties can come with big challenges, they can also be a real windfall for savvy buyers who are willing to invest time and money to create longterm value.

At the same time, we’re beginning to see new construction popping up in established neighborhoods. These homes offer modern features, better energy efficiency, and the benefit of living in a well-located, already-developed community. For buyers, this creates a unique blend of choices — whether you prefer a project with potential or a turnkey, newer build with today’s conveniences.

Can you give any specific advice to potential homeowners looking to buy this year?

Buying a home today starts with understanding the full process — and it’s evolved a lot over the years. One of the most important first steps is securing strong financing before you begin your search. In this market, being fully preapproved gives you the confidence to act quickly and positions you as a serious buyer.

From there, partnering with a trusted real estate advisor is essential. A great agent will help you navigate changing market conditions, identify opportunities, and point out potential concerns you might not catch on your own. Remember, a home can look amazing online, but photos don’t always tell the whole story. You need someone who can help you look “behind the curtain” to truly assess the property’s condition, value, and longterm potential.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?

Preparing your home for the market is a must. From boosting curb appeal and adding fresh paint to updating kitchens and bathrooms or partnering with a professional stager — these steps create the “wow” factor buyers are looking for. When a home feels inviting and move-in ready, buyers can instantly picture themselves living there. And often, it’s not just about the list price — it’s about the emotional connection a wellprepared home creates. ì

Expert Provides Tips on Plumbing & Water Control

By Stan Garnet

Let’s take a look at how you can protect your home from leaks, damage, and costly repairs. Water is essential in all aspects of life, but when it comes to your home, it is one of the most destructive elements, especially when not properly controlled.

Plumbing and water management systems operate quietly behind walls, under floors, and below ground. It is definitely out of mind and not seen until something goes wrong. When a plumbing problem does surface, it tends to be disruptive, expensive, damaging, and extremely stressful. You should know that paying attention and applying simple maintenance can prevent thousands of dollars in damage and extend the life of your home and systems.

Your plumbing system has three primary responsibilities. The first is to safely deliver clean water. Next is to remove wastewater, and last, to control moisture and prevent damage to the home. These functions work together to protect your home’s structure, air quality, and livability.

The supply system delivers pressurized water to fixtures such as sinks, showers, toilets, appliances, and irrigation systems. Pipes, valves, and connectors must remain sealed and corrosionfree to prevent leaks and pressure loss.

The drainpipes move wastewater away from the home through gravity and venting systems. If your drains clog, slope improperly, or vent incorrectly, water can back up into fixtures or escape into walls and floors. Plumbing interacts closely with water control systems such as sump pumps, floor drains, sewer cleanouts and exterior drainage and grading. Failure in any of these areas can lead to rot, mold growth, foundation damage, and compromised indoor air quality. Water damage is one of the most common and costly homeowner insurance claims. Many losses are preventable through routine observation and early action on your part.

Here are some simple visual checks you can perform, and you do not need be a plumber to spot early warning signs. You just need to know what to look for. Inspect under sinks and behind toilets. Open cabinet doors and look closely for these telltale signs. You can check for dampness, staining, or mildew odor. You can feel for soft or swollen flooring. You can look for slow drips at trap connections or around shutoff valves. Even

small leaks can damage cabinetry and subflooring over time. Examine your supply lines and shutoff valves and look for corrosion.

When examining visible plumbing, look out for rust, greenish residue, or white mineral buildup. Test your shutoff valves. Are they stiff or hard-to-turn? Check your plastic or rubber supply lines to make sure they are not brittle. You should know that corroded fittings are more likely to fail and they can do so in an instant.

You can test water pressure at faucets and showers. Be aware that inconsistent pressure may indicate sediment buildup, a failing pressure regulator, or hidden leaks. High water pressure can be just as damaging as low pressure causing stress to fixtures and appliances.

Search for exposed pipes in basements and crawlspaces and look for condensation (“sweating”) on pipes, rusted or flaking metal and sagging or unsupported piping. Persistent moisture in these areas contributes to mold growth and wood decay.

You can monitor your water meter by turning off all water fixtures in your home first and then view your water meter to see if the dial or digital readout moves. If it does, then you likely have a hidden leak. This is one of the simplest ways to detect underground or slab leaks. Plumbing systems can be affected by temperature changes. In the winter, make sure that all outdoor plumbing connections are clear and shut down or protected against freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes are one of the leading causes of catastrophic plumbing failures. In the summer, if you have an irrigation system, verify that there are no leaks in the system. If you have an indoor sprin-

kler, examine the sprinkler heads to see if there are any leaks.

You should know that many plumbing failures stem from aging components and neglect rather than sudden events. Consider replacing rubber supply lines with braided steel since rubber and plastic lines degrade over time. Braided stainless steel lines are more durable, resist bursting and are inexpensive to change out. This is especially important for washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets.

You should flush your water heaters annually since sediment buildup reduces efficiency and shortens the lifespan. Annual flushing will improve heating performance, reduce popping, or rumbling noises, and help to prevent premature tank failure. If you have a tankless system, servicing it periodically will help keep it functioning.

You can also install leak detection sensors under sinks, behind toilets, near water heaters and in laundry rooms. Many systems now provide phone alerts, allowing quick response even when you are away. Take the time to clean faucet aerators. Mineral deposits restrict flow and affect pressure. By cleaning aerators, you will improve water efficiency, restore spray patterns, and extend fixture life. This simple task will often resolve low pressure concerns.

Some plumbing issues will require specialized tools, experience, and code knowledge. Many are guilty of ignoring warning signs and this can lead to extensive damage. If you experience a sudden drop in water pressure, there may be a hidden pipe leaking, a failing pressure regulator, or supply line corrosion. This will be the time to hire a licensed plumber to test pressure and isolate the cause

safely.

If you have recurring drain backups, it would suggest possible improper pipe slope, tree root intrusion, and possible collapsing or deteriorated drain lines. In these instances, a professional camera inspection can identify what is taking place.

If you see mold near your plumbing lines, you have a chronic moisture problem that will require more in-depth research to find hidden leaks. Mold should never be ignored. If you have a slab and you are experiencing warm spots on the floor, unexplained moisture, or rising water bills, then you may have a slab leak. These require immediate professional attention to prevent structural damage.

Water awareness is critical to home protection. Plumbing systems are not “set it and forget it.” They require periodic observation, seasonal preparation, and timely maintenance. The good news is that many issues have early warning signs and disasters can be avoided by performing regular visual checks, staying mindful of seasonal risks, and addressing small issues promptly. This way, you can avoid costly repairs, preserve your home’s value, and maintain a healthier living environment.

Water belongs inside pipes and outside the home, not in walls, floors, or foundations. Awareness is your first and most powerful tool.

Stan Garnet is an ASHI and IRC code certified inspector and is a licensed Georgia state contractor. He is a deck specialist and presenter at the Atlanta Home Show. He runs seminars for inspectors and builders on deck safety and building standards. Stan can be reached at BuildersAmerica.com 770-587-3325. He will be glad to answer any of your questions. ì

Carpet Cleaning

Dirt Blasters

404-403-0045

Dirtblasters.com

Handyman Services

The Handyman Can 404-453-3438

Home Décor

Fabric & Fringe Warehouse

770-794-8106

fabricsandfringe.com

Kudzu and Company 404-255-2548 kudzuandcompany.com

Home Build & Design

Atlanta Custom Closets 404-255-0589

Atlantacustomclosets.net

Inspired Closets 770-230-4223 www.inspiredclosets.com/locations/atlanta/

MOSAIC Design + Build 770-670-6022

mosaicdesignbuild.com

Home Insurance

Siegel Insurance 404-633-6332

Siegelinsurance.com

Home Organizer

Put It There put-it-there.com/contact-us 404-784-2100

Kitchen & Bath Design

UCI Kitchen & Bath 770-441-1681 ucikitchenandbath.com

Legal: Estate Planning

Financial Innovations 404-458-0065 financialinnovations.biz

Goldberg Associates 678-904-0359 goldbergestateplanning.com

MendenFrieman 770-379-1450 mfcounsel.com

“From

The Barocas & Feldman Team

Realtors:

Barocas/Feldman Team

Harry Norman Perimeter 404-790-0913 barocasfeldmanteamweb.harrynorman.com

Debbie Sonenshine Coldwell Banker 404-290-0814 sonenshineteam.com

Jon Shapiro REMAX Around Atlanta 404-735-3855 jonshapiro.remax.com

Melanie White

Harry Norman Perimeter 404-915-9622 melaniewhite.harrynorman.com

Pauline Miller Compass Development Marketing Group 404-281-3744 compass.com/agents/pauline-miller

Rachel Lipszyc Azure Realty 678-599-5358 azurebrokerage.com

Robin Blass Group

Harry Norman Perimeter 404-495-8233 robinblass.com

The Pailey and Eydie Group Atlanta Fine Homes Eydie: 404-697-8215 Pailey: 214-662-0999

The Schiff Team ANSLEY Real Estate 404-480-HOME schiffrealestateteam.com

Zac Pasmanick REMAX Metro

404-564-7272 www.zacsellsatlanta.com

Paving

Stanley Paving 770-962-7125 Standleypavingga.com

Tree Care & Removal

Boutte Tree 404-799-5472 BoutteTree.com

ARTS & CULTURE

AJFF Returns with Another Strong Lineup

By Bob Bahr

The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) is back with a full program of film screenings, guest speakers, and virtual showings. There are 49 films in this year’s event, almost evenly divided between narrative feature films and documentaries, plus four programs of short films that will be shown over the two-week run in theaters.

The festival’s gala opening at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center on Wednesday evening, Feb. 18, features a French-Canadian film, “Once Upon My Mother,” about a Jewish matriarch of Moroccan heritage who is determined to give her young disabled son the future she passionately knows he deserves.

It’s a highly rated, crowd-pleasing family drama with an abundance of laughs as well as tears. The film is among those from 20 countries that reflect the continuing interest in world cinema, of telling compelling stories with a Jewish focus. Nearly one-third of the films in this year’s AJFF are from Israel. Starting

The AJFF’s Artistic and Executive Director, Kenny Blank, spoke about this year’s films at the festival’s Insider Preview // Photo Credit: Eric Burkhart

March 6, 20 films and the programs of short films that have been shown in theaters are being streamed online for just over a week.

AJFF’s Artistic and Executive Director Kenny Blank described this year’s event as “a monumental moment” that not only launches another year of edu-

cational programming for the organization, but also begins the festival’s second quarter-century.

At an insider preview held for spon-

ARTS & CULTURE

There are 49 narrative films and documentaries and four programs of short films at this year’s festival.

sors, board members, and financial contributors to the festival, Blank acknowledged the contributions of the hundreds of volunteers who have worked behind the scenes to help select the festival’s final schedule.

“Most people have no idea about the incredible process behind the scenes,” Blank said. “We have a committee of over 200 volunteers who, over eight months, prescreen hundreds of entries. Most years, we look at 500 to 600 film entries from around the world to narrow it down to the final selections.”

Over the two-and-a-half decades of the festival’s run, audiences have come to expect not only high artistic standards but a broad representation of topics and points of view. This is particularly true of the 25 narrative films that have been chosen.

They range from such important Israeli award winners as “The Sea,” with its compelling story of a young Palestinian boy’s journey from his home on the West Bank to the shores of the Mediterranean, “Nandauri” a beautifully rendered and acclaimed film about life in the central Asian country of Georgia, and “Malachi” about the power of unconditional love.

There are strong European narrative films with Jewish themes as well; “The Soundman,” “Rosenthal,” and “Nuremberg 45” are stand-outs.

Those festival goers with a taste for true to life stories will find much to admire in the 24 documentaries that have been chosen. A wide range of films depict heroes such as in “Labor Of Love - The Life and Legacy of Henietta Szold,” to “Raoul Wallenberg - Missing In Action,” and “Sapiro vs. Ford - The Jew Who Sued Henry Ford.”

There are critical examinations of “Abortion In The Holy Land,” about the

difficulties that arise in Israel during the medical approval for the procedure in Israel, “UNraveling UNRWA,” which looks at the work of the UN’s relief agency in Gaza, and “Surviving Malka Leifert,” which follows the long court battle in Australia and Israel over allegations of sexual abuse in the Orthodox community. Over the years, according to Blank, the documentary category has firmly established itself in importance.

“Documentaries used to be considered a niche format, now documentaries are mainstream. And, in fact, at the festival, the audience award vote scores documentaries even higher than the narrative films. Several of our documentaries are hard hitting exposes of some really tough subjects. They are really powerful, important stories.”

This is particularly true of documentaries that deal with the events of Oct. 7, when Israel was attacked by Hamas terrorists from Gaza. There are several outstanding examples of how Israelis have coped with the traumatic event and its aftermath. Such films as “A Letter To David,” “The Road Between Us,” and “Holding Liat” are excellent examples of the powerful dramas that have emerged from that terrible day and are being featured this year.

“Films about Oct. 7 are a new, emerging genre of film,” Blank observed, “that I think we’re going to see for decades to come. We have looked at dozens of submissions this year on the topic of Oct. 7 and the aftermath. And this particular collection of films that we have selected, show the whole arc from the horror that the hostages endured, the living hell that they went through with their families, to the aftermath and the difficult conversations that are happening.” ì

Bernstein and Bahr’s Best Bets at AJFF

“The Sea”

The director of this film, Shai CarmelPollak, has long been a peace activist, who explores in this film the desire of a 12-year-old boy to leave his home on the West Bank and make the difficult and potentially dangerous journey to the sea, on the Mediterranean coast of Israel. The sea, of course, is more than a location. It’s a concept. It’s a symbol of freedom that’s been denied Palestinians, as the filmmaker sees it, under Israel’s occupation of the West Bank. This film has been an important award winner in Israel, and the director elicits great performances from the entire cast. It’s a significant example of humanistic cinema, a story very specifically rooted in its circumstances, a story of universal resonance.

“The Soundman”

This film from Belgium takes place over the last few days before Belgium is invaded by the Nazis in May of 1940. Frank van Passel directed the film from his own script. It’s a beautifully written, beautifully paced work, which Van Passell describes as a love story in a world where sorrow and joy walk hand in hand. It’s about how two young people find each other in a Belgium that faces a time of trial, both morally and politically. One of the reasons why this filmmaker made this film now, he says, is because, in many ways 1940 is not that distant from 2026 and the issues that we face in the world today are not unlike many of the issues that the world faced in the late 1930s.

“The Road Between Us”

Early in the morning of Oct. 7, a retired Israeli major general, Noam Tibon. receives a desperate message from his son, who is hiding in his safe room with his wife and his two daughters. Hamas terrorists roam outside their home in a kibbutz close to Gaza. Armed only with a pistol, the retired general jumps in his car and begins a 10-hour rescue mission that brings him face to face with the terrorist invaders. It’s a truly powerful film that showcases the courage of Israelis, their strong family bonds, and the strength of the community. And it all unfolds dramatically during the worst one-day attack on Israel in its history.

“Rosenthal”

“Rosenthal” is based on the true story of Hans Rosenthal, who, in 1978, is the host of a very popular game show on one of the German television networks. The show is planning to celebrate its 75th consecutive broadcast on Nov. 9 of that year. Rosenthal has kept his Jewish identity and his story of survival as a Jew in Nazi Germany a secret from the general public. But who he is will be tested by the choice he must make on Nov. 9. The Jewish community in Germany, with the full support of the government and its prime minister, are planning to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass, that is said to mark the formal beginning of the Nazi plan to eliminate the Jews of Europe. And Rosenthal is to be in the front row of that ceremony. It is a film that holds you from start to finish and explores through the eyes of one man

the question of Jewish identity in a Germany that has often faced a difficult road to achieve reconciliation with its past.

“Mama”

This year’s festival is really strong on movies about women, women’s experiences, and films directed by women. And “Mama” is a film about one woman who emigrates from Poland to work in Israel as a live in housekeeper for a wealthy family. Like many Eastern European immigrant workers, she navigates between wanting to provide for her family back home and feeling guilty for being far away from them. All these feelings and more come to surface when she returns to Poland for a visit. Long simmering resentments come to the surface and the film is full of the complexities and ambivalent feelings Mila has for her family. The performance by the star,

“Lucky Star”

This is a very imaginative film that’s somewhat lighter than our other selections. It tells the story of a non-Jewish man who believes that the German invasion of France in 1940 cannot last long. He decides he will be better off in the end if he changes his and his family’s identities and becomes Jewish. It’s a decision that leads to a series of adventures and misadventures that make him truly a lucky star. But, in leading us on this journey with him, it walks a finely hewn line between humor and the tragedy of life under the Nazi occupation of France. ì Matthew H. Bernstein is the Goodwin C. White Professor of Film and Media at Emory University; Bob Bahr is a frequent contributor to Atlanta Jewish Times.

From Atlanta to LA and Back

By Tessa Scharff

Looking to level up your tracks? Peach Music Studio in Sandy Springs offers a professional, boutique space where anyone, from aspiring songwriters to seasoned recording artists, can do just that. Owned by Atlanta native Eric Breiner, a Jewish music composer, producer, engineer, and multiinstrumentalist, the studio is designed to be a comfortable, inclusive, and creatively inspiring environment, optimized for workflow and experimentation.

Breiner’s connection to the Atlanta Jewish community began at a young age. In high school, he tutored bar mitzvah students, helping them master their Torah and Haftorah portions. He fondly remembers learning to distinguish the moods in the melodies: the Torah’s major-key brightness vs. the Haftorah’s more somber minor tones. His interest in teaching music also grew from summers at Camp Barney Medintz, where he worked as a counselor and inspired young campers to explore music.

Breiner’s musical career truly took off after moving to Los Angeles. Initially working in engineering, he discovered opportunities to merge passion and profession. His first gigs came through friends, including a jingle for a toy commercial that unexpectedly aired on television -and for which he later realized he was being paid. “It proved that my passion met a professional market standard I hadn’t dared lay claim for myself,” he recalls.

Despite his L.A. success, Breiner always intended to return to Atlanta, and he now operates Peach Music Studio just two miles from Northside Hospital, where he was born. His early musical influences helped shape both his career and his teaching philosophy. At Ahavath Achim Synagogue, he was inspired by world-renowned cantor, Isaac Goodfriend, whose baritone and operatic chops left a lasting impression. At North Springs High School, band teacher and homeroom teacher, Herb Cox, encouraged him to practice daily, participate in multiple ensembles, and see his creativity as having genuine artistic merit -- a lesson Breiner now passes on to every young artist he mentors.

Breiner’s advice for success is simple: pursue your passion relentlessly. Even when tasks feel beyond his skillset, he would “stay up all night perfecting a composition because I loved the puzzle of it. When you’re obsessed with the craft, the ‘grind’ just feels like a deep dive.” He doesn’t believe in faking it; he believes in mastering it.

At Peach Music Studio, Breiner offers a range of services entirely in-house. He specializes in guiding artists as they develop ideas into fully mixed and mastered, radio-ready tracks. The studio is equipped for a variety of sessions, including vocal and instrument recordings, mixing, and mastering. Instruments include mic’d drums, a piano praised for its exceptional tone, and a vintage Hammond organ with a Leslie speaker -- perfect for blues, jazz, rock, or gospel sessions. Beyond the gear, Peach Music serves as a resource for artists seeking support in crafting songs and preparing them for recording.

What sets Peach Music apart, Breiner

says, is its commitment to excellence, inspiration, and experience. Excellence drives the studio’s results-oriented approach: every project is about making amazing music. Inspiration guides his personal investment in every client, aiming to spark the kind of passion and motivation that legendary figures like Isaac Goodfriend, Herb Cox, or even Eddie Van Halen inspired in him.

Experience shapes the studio’s atmosphere -- Peach Music isn’t just about tracks, it’s about creating a fun, welcoming space where creativity can flourish. Clients aren’t just recording; they’re enjoying the process, celebrating each breakthrough, and feeling the joy of bringing ideas to life.

Ultimately, Breiner hopes Peach

Music Studio serves as a “third space” -- a relaxed, non-intimidating sanctuary where the gap between creative ideas and polished tracks disappears. Whether it’s a high schooler recording a Berklee audition reel or a seasoned professional on the vintage Hammond, the focus is on realizing a musical vision while enjoying every step of the journey. As Breiner puts it: “I want people to feel the excitement of creating music, from the first note to the final hit of the record button.”

To learn more about Peach Music Studio, please visit www.peachmusicstudio.com. To reach Briener directly, please email Eric@peachmusic.com or call 310741-8866. ì

Consumer Investigator Writes Timely Guide

By Robyn Spizman Gerson

Dale Cardwell is a familiar name to millions of consumers. His mission is devoted to promoting ethical business practices to empower consumers and expose scammers. As a consumer investigator, Cardwell earned significant recognition as a six-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, TV and radio host based in Atlanta and his career included working with the nation’s leading consumer advocate extraordinaire, Clark Howard.

Cardwell shared, “In 1996, I joined Clark Howard and together we formed one of the nation’s most successful consumer reporting teams. We won numerous awards for our business reporting, and, under Clark’s tutelage, I became experienced as an expert recognizing financial scams and determining the components that separate sound financial investments, as well as products and services, from those that are ‘too good to be true.’”

After 25 years as a television journalist uncovering high-profile corruption, Cardwell realized he could have a significant impact on the lives of the public he had vowed to protect. In 2009, Dale founded his most successful endeavor, TrustDALE, a free online research and referral site for consumers.

Devoted to educating the public, Cardwell also compiled his most important tips in a consumer-oriented handbook. In his updated, newly released bestselling book on Amazon in the consumer category, “Don’t Get Scammed, Get Smart: Seven Steps to Outsmart Today’s Most Dangerous Post-COVID Scams,” he teamed up with Judy Kirkwood to write this timely guide. Cardwell shares his seven-step strategy to become a savvy consumer and avoid the pitfalls of post-COVID scams. He emphasizes if you learn how to identify a scam before you get swindled — experience won’t have to be your teacher. His investigative standard, vetted across numerous businesses, lays down both offensive and defensive tactics for getting the jump on con artists who are trying to take your hard-earned money.

Cardwell’s early career began at WKAG in Kentucky. His exposure of concerns related to the 1985 crash of a U.S. Army chartered jet that killed 248 Fort Campbell soldiers in Gander, Newfoundland, made international news and propelled Cardwell to a prominent investigative role with the CBS-TV affiliate in Birmingham, Ala. He performed investigative reporting stints in Raleigh and Nashville before serving as an investiga-

tive consumer reporter for WSB-TV in Atlanta, the No. 1 station in the nation’s ninth largest television market.

Since launching his company, TrustDALE has recovered more than $1.5 million in goods and services for consumers and helped bring great businesses together with trusting customers every single day. Instead of reporting on someone who had already been exploited, Cardwell felt he could intervene on the victim’s behalf and help them seek restitution. Endeavoring to establish a community of trust, Cardwell developed a system where consumers could get products and services at fair prices, and companies could sell those products and services at a fair profit. His website certifies companies based on a seven-point investigative standard that Cardwell developed from 30-plus years of analyzing how consumers got burned. He realized that identifying companies who were not engaging in negative practices would protect consumers proactively. When consumers choose companies certified by the TrustDALE team, they are further protected by the TrustDALE $10,000 Make It Right Guarantee and recently added a commercial division as well.

According to Cardwell, “The COVID pandemic unleashed what may be the largest fraud wave in history. LexisNexis estimates COVID aid fraud could reach $1 trillion. The result? We’re now in a

marketplace more dangerous than ever — one where old scams thrive online and new ones are born from the digital-first, post-COVID world.”

Cardwell recommended, “To protect you and your loved ones, create a safe word or code for your family and loved ones, and a second code for your trusted business associates. Employ this code when you are challenged by a text, email, voice, or image that is asking you to commit resources to solve ‘their’ problem. If they can’t recite the safe word or code, hang up, and call the person who allegedly contacted you. Chances are, they will know nothing about it.”

He added, “The most effective way to debunk a fake email asking for a response or commitment is to validate the URL, or email address where it originated. If the URL doesn’t match the name of the company or entity it claims to have originated, i.e. Amazon.com, but rather, has odd and unrecognized letters and symbols, or contains obvious misspellings, it is very likely a fraudulent message. If in doubt, don’t click the provided link, but go to the website of the entity that allegedly contacted you. Follow their process to determine if the contact is legitimate or not.

“Scams don’t go away, they morph,” said Cardwell. “COVID provided the perfect opportunity for con artists to use the Internet to do just that. So, instead

of teaching you how to memorize dozens if not hundreds of individualized scams, I’ve learned the most effective way to protect you is to teach you to recognize the emotional triggers you’ll undoubtedly feel when being baited into a scam. Use my seven-step acronym F, F, F, and DEAL to protect yourself from 99 percent of the cons.”

Cardwell reminds consumers prior to decision making and said, “When someone offers you what appears to be a ‘deal,’ always consider what I call, ‘the three F’s,’ Fast - Funds - Found.

If they want your money on the spot and don’t want to give you the opportunity to think it over or consult a friend to validate the offer, that’s a red flag. If the funds they’re requiring of you seem small compared to the promised payoff, otherwise known as ‘too good to be true,’ it most likely is.

Make certain the person making the offer can be found post-transaction, meaning you validate they have a real office or home base, real phone number and operating under a valid business license. Con artists go to great lengths to make certain you can’t find them once they have your money.”

Dale Cardwell is determined to make a difference and ease the lives of consumers. For more information, please visit www.trustdale.com and check out his book at www.amazon.com. ì

Born to Spin: The Story of a ‘Wool Junkie’

By Chana Shapiro

If your image of a spinner is based on the fairy tale of sad, golden-haired Rapunzel, cloistered in a tower with a big spinning wheel, here’s how to correct that perception.

Debbie Held, an ebullient redhead, is a skilled Atlanta-based spinner, whose calendar is filled with lecturing, teaching, YouTube appearances, and writing about spinning. She is an internationally respected fiber artist, who pens spinningrelated content for numerous publications. Her book, “The Spinner’s Blending Board Bible,” is a resource and guide for spinners everywhere, both hobbyists and professionals.

Held studied linguistics in college and planned to attend law school. She initially worked as a successful business journalist, then, while dealing with physical challenges, a new opportunity for self-expression arose around 2012, when a close friend, who is a weaver, suggested that she try spinning as an antidote to her malaise. Encouraged, as well, by her parents to pursue her longtime interest in the world of fiber arts, Held soon became — in her words — a “wool junkie.”

She now writes about spinning and textiles for many publications, including PLY, SweetGeorgia Yarns, Little Looms, and Farm and Fiber Knits. Her popular book, “The Spinner’s Blending Board Bible: From Wollen to (Nearly!) Worsted, was released by Stackpole Books in April of 2025 and had a second printing the very next month. A blending board, the subject of her book, is a flat, portable board with fine wire teeth, that enables users to creatively mix fibers for spinning or to produce felt.

Contentedly proficient in weaving, knitting and other fiber arts, Held had no interest in jumping head-on into a new craft until she and a friend went to a fiber and yarn expo, where she was beguiled by examples of beautiful wool ready for spinning. Another friend loaned her a spindle, and she was hooked from “the moment I experienced the tactile sensation of that fiber running through my fingertips.” At one point, Held bartered writing content for an acquaintance’s web page in exchange for a blending board. (She emphasizes that the world of makers — often by necessity — is an actively bartering community.

Held, who had been successfully spinning with spindles, didn’t get her first wheel until the end of 2024, which expanded her oeuvre and widened the

scope of her articles about spinning. (Her professional writing is widely appreciated for clarifying technical fiber-related subjects.) These days, she frequently appears live on various media platforms, including podcasts, where she answers spinning questions and discusses and demonstrates aspects of spinning.

Held travels frequently (she recently completed a very busy gig in Wisconsin, where she led classes and gave demonstrations). She is an online spinning instructor for The School of SweetGeorgia and she leads live classes globally, works online with a school in Canada, and teaches throughout the United States at retreats, educational conferences, and agricultural festivals (agriculture? it’s about the wool). She gives demonstrations for numerous fiber and crafts organizations and occasionally at yarn shops.

Beyond her media appearances, Held interacts with fans at her book signings and works behind the scenes as a judge at the annual Georgia National Fair. She decided to decrease her activities in school art-related departments in order to focus on teaching spinning techniques to adults by helping them learn to spin a wide range of yarn structures, hoping “to build their confidence as makers.”

Although she is proficient in many handcrafts like knitting and weaving, she affirms, “There’s nothing I‘d rather do than spin!” Her studio contains 12 wheels, ranging from a 19th century “walking wheel,” (the iconic wheel that dates back to the 14th to 19th centuries, also known as a “great wheel”), two treadle wheels, a Canadian production wheel, and a slew of portable electric-spinners. She makes use of all of them (many gifted from fiber-artist friends); the spinning implement she

chooses depends on the intended project’s requirements. She still finds time for weaving on her own looms.

Held and her Persian cat, Marty, live on an urban farm in the city of Decatur, where their landlord raises Shetland sheep, (a convenient source of natural wool) that roam beneath their secondstory windows. When not traveling or demonstrating, Held is home spinning, writing, and preparing for appearances.

She explains, “Handcrafting of any form is a slow process, and every teaching gig and article I write requires creating samples and even photography.” She’s currently working on a woven table runner made of repurposed neckties, to be featured in a future article.

Professional spinning allows for innovation and experimentation based on broad experience with diverse fibers. Debbie’s home studio includes endless possibilities: there are all manner of requisite tools at hand, and throughout the rooms of her atelier there are large containers of unspun yarn-to-be and myriad already-spun yarn varieties. Much of her assorted cache comes from other makers and admirers, including wool from the sheep grazing outside. She purchases raw materials from trusted vendors, farmers, festivals, and online shops and sometimes makes her own dyes. She has the equipment for that process, too.

Held remains active in the Atlanta Knitting Guild and the Handweavers Guild of America, where she’s been featured, and where she’ll be teaching for the second time at their summer Convergence Educational Gathering. Other affiliations are the Peachtree Handspinners Guild and the Southeast Fiber Arts Alliance, where she taught her initial

spinning class. They proudly hosted her first book signing/book launch.

At the end of each year, peripatetic Held determines her goals for the next year. Much of 2026 will be spent preparing for an intense travel schedule to New Zealand, Australia, Vancouver, British Columbia, and also to the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, N.C. She will spend a week in New Orleans; she plans to edit and post more YouTube videos; and she hopes to open a Patreon subscription membership for folks who want to learn more about fiber preparation, spinning, and using a blending board. She no longer has time for commissions and has to limit supplying other craftspeople with spun yarn. She prefers to work with fibers she’s blended herself, aiming for novel results. Lately, she’s been creating tweeds and lightly textured yarns spun from blended, recycled textiles and wool.

Spinning is a craft growing in popularity. Held knows that learning to spin and use a blending board to create original yarn types can be very exciting and rewarding. "The Spinner’s Blending Board Bible" is available on Amazon and at most bookstores. Held’s work may be seen on her website, debbieheld.com, and through her Instagram and Facebook accounts. Enjoy meeting her on YouTube, too.

Held’s affable, clever, and candid personality shines through her live appearances and writing. She muses, “I might be the most fortunate person in the world. I create and play with yarn, and I teach others. I turned to knitting and later to spinning as a way to ease the grief and physical pain associated with a chronic illness, and today, I wouldn’t change a thing because this is the career and lifestyle I was born for!” ì

Modern Pop Culture Twists on Old World Techniques

By Marcia Caller Jaffe

There’s a little bit of Soho anchored right here in Dunwoody. Dawn Tresh, an accomplished artist, saw the value of showcasing others’ art in addition to her own.

She explained, “Opening Dunwoody Gallery was a natural extension of my own practice. What began as a few pop-up shows and studio visits evolved into a full gallery devoted to authentic, contemporary voices. I choose artists whose work demonstrates depth and consistency, along with technical skill and originality. The gallery operates within the standard professional commission structure, and I view every relationship as a partnership built on trust and respect.”

Some of those local artists are Scott Eichler, Susan Proctor, and Michelle Akerman.

Tresh is a contemporary painter and mixed-media artist. She grew up in New York in a family that “valued creativity, curiosity, and conversation.” Her artistic training began early when her parents made space for imagination. As a teenager, she spent summer studying art through the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) at the Royal College of Art’s Kensington Campus in London. That experience confirmed what she already knew — that she would always be an artist. Tresh went on to earn a B.A. in fine arts from the Smith School of Art at George Washington University and M.A. from New York University.  Since she’s been studying art since childhood, she still signs her paintings with her maiden name, Knauer.

Her work bridges painting, collage, and photography, blending traditional craftsmanship with more contemporary imagery. She explained, “My use of balance, composition, acrylics, and photographic layering encourages viewers to see each piece through their own perspective. Drawing influence from fashion, travel, pop culture, and art history, I create floral-inspired collages on deephued backgrounds. Sort of a modern popculture twist on old world techniques.”

Her process is very tactile. She constructs layers of images, paint, and mediums that invite viewers in with the familiarity of flowers that, on closer look, reveal something deeper: a juxtaposition of daily life across history. Her greatest influences include the Dutch Masters, especially Rachel Ruysch for her luminous floral still-lifes and Rembrandt and Velázquez for their mastery of light and composition. Then there’s Matisse and

Kandinsky, whose explorations of color and form inspire her.

She shared, “Each painting takes time — months of curing and handsanding between layers — so the final surface feels smooth. I work primarily in acrylic and mixed media on canvas, painting daily in my home studio, a bright, quiet space that allows for both experimentation and focus. I believe my greatest strength lies in composition and visual storytelling — reflecting on time, space and introspection. I strive to build balance out of contrast, creating images that reward both immediate and long contemplation. On average, I complete

two to three major works a year, along with smaller pieces.”

She chose Dunwoody because it reflects the same balance she seeks in her art: sophistication with community. She said, “It’s a place where art feels approachable but refined, where neighbors value conversation and creativity. The gallery has become a warm, welcoming hub for that kind of exchange.”

In addition to Dunwoody Gallery, her work appears in both private and public collections. She has exhibited at the Atlanta Art Fair (2024 and 2025), the Hamptons Fine Art Fair in New York, and at ArtMiami during Art Basel week; and

she is represented by Vogelsang Gallery out of Brussels, Belgium.

Tresh hosts receptions, seasonal exhibitions, and charitable events, including collaborations that benefit Giving Kitchen, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Ian’s Friends Foundation (IFF) and Make A Wish Foundation. Social media helps reach collectors, but genuine, inperson relationships remain the heart of her operation. She is a member of the Georgia Chapter of the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the Dunwoody Fine Arts Association.

For more information, please call 404-915-5526. ì

FEBRUARY 15-28 CALENDAR

Sunday, February 15

B’teavon: Jewish Foodie Retreat - A fourday culinary exploration through the tastes, history, diversity, and connections of all things Jewish food culture developed in partnership with The Gefilteria (co)LABS and Ramah Darom. Register at https://tinyurl.com/yeyn5b5a.

Mental Health First Aid for Adults – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) for adults is an eight-hour course (one to two hours self-paced online prework, plus six hours in-person, split into two, three-hour sessions over two consecutive Sundays) that teaches adult community members how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in other adults. The training, meant for non-mental health professionals, provides the skills one needs to reach out and provides initial help and support to someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. Register at https://tinyurl.com/43fanjz8.

Etz Chaim Men’s Club Axe Throwing with a Mohel – 2 to 4 p.m. The Men’s Club at Congregation Etz Chaim invites you to attend “Axe Throwing with a Mohel” with Dr. Arthur Gumer. This is going to be a fun afternoon for all. Families are welcome. Children must be 18 years of age to participate and up. Come and be your best lumberjack/jill. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/4ampfakx.

Hearts Full of Kindness – 3 to 4:30 p.m. Join PJ Library Intown for Hearts Full of Kindness, a joyful gathering celebrating caring, compassion, and community. Families are invited to come together for a warm, welcoming experience designed especially for young children. Through engaging stories, lively songs, and a hands-on craft, children will explore what it means to be kind and thoughtful while having fun alongside their grown-ups. Each child will create a craft to take home, making the experience both meaningful and memorable. This program is perfect for families with children ages 2–6 and offers a relaxed, playful way to connect with other local families. Let them you are coming at https://tinyurl.com/3874h4ep.

Broadway Sideways – 3 to 5 p.m. Broadway gets turned delightfully sideways in this vibrant concert by Voices of Note, where gender, expectations, and casting norms are joyfully upended. Featuring showstopping songs by Jewish Broadway legends and performed by singers from the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus and Atlanta Women’s Chorus, this is a smart, celebratory afternoon of music you won’t hear anywhere else. Dessert reception to follow the program. Reserve tickets at https://tinyurl.com/3yww6tyw.

Love is in the Air: An Evening of Jazz with Joe Alterman and Houston Person - 7 to 9 p.m. Join the MJCCA for a soulful night of love songs as acclaimed pianist, Joe Alterman, and legendary tenor saxophonist, Houston Person, take the stage for an unforgettable jazz experience. Blending warmth, wit, and deep musical chemistry, the duo brings timeless romantic classics to life with fresh elegance and heartfelt expression. From tender ballads to swaying swing tunes, Alterman’s vibrant touch and Person’s unmistakably rich, blues-infused tone create an atmosphere perfect for lovers, jazz aficionados, and anyone who appreciates masterful musicianship. Expect a program filled with intimate melodies, charming stories, and the kind of musical connection that only two deeply attuned artists can create. Whether you’re celebrating romance or simply savoring great music, this is an evening you won’t want to miss. Secure your spot at https://tinyurl. com/2usckx5w.

Monday, February 16

B’teavon: Jewish Foodie Retreat - A fourday culinary exploration through the tastes, history, diversity, and connections of all things Jewish food culture, developed in partnership with The Gefilteria (co)LABS and Ramah Darom. Register at https://tinyurl.com/yeyn5b5a.

Kallah 2026: Open Hands, Open Hearts: Cultivating Kindness in Our Classrooms – 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Kallah 2026: Open Hands, Open Hearts: Cultivating Kindness in Our Classrooms is a full-day professional development conference for early childhood Jewish educators, centered on cultivating kindness, empathy, and connection in our classrooms. Through meaningful learning, shared experiences, and practical tools, educators will explore how open hands and open hearts can shape nurturing, values-driven learning environments for our youngest learners. Register at https://tinyurl. com/24zxfc3n.

Family Service Day – 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cook, bake, pack, and deliver a delicious Shabbat meal for someone who may enjoy a little love with the Mitzvah House! Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/2k7jk4w5.

Ogen: Anchoring & Cultivating a Practice of Resilience – 12 to 12:30 p.m. “Ogen” is Hebrew for “anchor.” This six-week workshop is an invitation to cultivate a practice of resilience with insight and connection, anchoring our week with 30 minutes of Jewish wisdoms of self-awareness and emotional precision. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/4ju85v9n.

Tuesday, February 17

Gold Dome & Donuts – 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Join Atlanta JCRC on Zoom. Our guest will be Daniel Kanso - vice president of public policy at Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Get the link at https://tinyurl. com/4x33y4kt.

Behind Happy Faces with Ross Szabo – 7 to 8 p.m. Parenting today comes with big questions and sometimes hard conversations. If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand, support, and connect with your child around mental health, this evening is for you. It’s not often we get the chance to hear from someone of this caliber. Davis Academy is welcoming Ross Szabo, an award-winning mental health speaker, author of Behind Happy Faces, and national advocate. Szabo’s honest, relatable, and often humorous approach helps break down stigma and open doors to real connection with our children. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/ybmkn6cr.

Wednesday, February 18

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival - Opening Night – Once Upon My Mother- 5:30 to 10 p.m. Join us for the 26th Anniversary Opening Night of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival! The evening begins with an exclusive Members-Only Gala, followed by the premiere of a highly anticipated film that promises to be a festival highlight. Don’t miss this spectacular celebration as we cheers to 26 years! A sweeping, laughter-through-tears family saga spanning 1960s Paris to the present, this exuberant crowd-pleaser traces a Moroccan-Jewish mother’s unshakable belief that love, faith, and sheer willpower can rewrite her son’s destiny. Find out more at https://tinyurl. com/euzrjbys.

Let’s Bring Order to the Chaos - 7:30 to 9 p.m. A three-session Zoom series for teens — to understand, question, and think clearly. Register for the Zoom link at https://tinyurl.com/msvmnhxw.

Thursday, February 19

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Once Upon My Mother- 3:10 to 4:52 p.m. A sweeping, laughter-through-tears family saga spanning 1960s Paris to the present, this exuberant crowd-pleaser traces a Moroccan-Jewish mother’s unshakable belief that love, faith, and sheer willpower can rewrite her son’s destiny. Register now at https://tinyurl.com/bdcp39uc.

Big Babka Bake – 7 to 8 p.m. An annual favorite of Mitzvah House. Want to host a table? Baking babka is even more fun with friends. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ y4zuseht.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Soundman – 7 to 8:58 p.m. On the eve of the German invasion in 1940 Belgium, a tender attachment forms between a gifted young radio apprentice and a rising actress, their hopes colliding with a world edging toward war. Inside Brussels’s famed Flagey Building, 18-year-old Berre — an introverted talent with a magical ear — rises from intern to sound engineer, crafting transportive live radio drama soundscapes that captivate Elza, a luminous on-air performer seeking joy in uncertain times. Get tickets at https://tinyurl. com/bd7ny8ze.

Sphinx Virtuosi with Sterling Elliott, cello – 8 to 10 p.m. The Virtuosi’s latest program, “Visions of Peace,” is a collection of new voices — those that have already shaped the canon and those that will continue to be celebrated long after our time together. From the “Suite for Cello” by William Grant Still, featuring the acclaimed young cellist, Sterling Elliott, to the triumphant crescendo of Alberto Ginastera's, “Concerto for Strings,” the Sphinx Virtuosi leads us in a jubilant celebration of the human spirit’s indomitable resilience and our unwavering commitment to the pursuit of peace. Purchase tickets at the Schwartz Center at https://tinyurl.com/ bdfs5333.

Friday, February 20

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Mazel Tov – 11 a.m. to 12:37 p.m. An affectionate, delightfully tsuris-filled Argentine dramedy erupts when a Miami expat returns to Buenos Aires for a long-awaited family wedding and bat mitzvah — with the simchas imploding after his father’s sudden death. This bounteous crowdpleaser serves up laughter, kvetching, and a vibrant swirl of Porteño flavor while celebrating the messy love and stubborn loyalty that make Jewish families impossible — and impossible not to adore. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/4wbnbxpb.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Tasters – 1:40 to 3:43 p.m. Set in 1943 East Prussia, this taut psychological thriller blends fact and fiction as a young Berliner is coerced into Hitler’s secret circle of food tasters, where each meal could be their last. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/ mvxkytrm.

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

Saturday, February 21

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Last Musician of Auschwitz – 1 to 2:30 p.m.

A haunting meditation on art-under-annihilation evolves through the musicians who endured the orchestras of Auschwitz, where performance became both refuge and a twisted tool of cruelty. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/2f43a6sp.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Nuremberg 45 - 3:30 to 4:59 p.m. Revisiting the Nuremberg trials through the entwined experiences of a young Jewish court reporter and a fellow Auschwitz survivor, this engrossing docudrama immerses viewers in their fierce pursuit of justice as they confront the architects of Nazi terror. Let them know you are coming at https:// tinyurl.com/yjc8uvkv.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Labors of Love: The Life and Legacy of Henrietta Szold – 5:50 to 7:08 p.m. Long overlooked yet hugely influential, a towering Jewish American humanitarian finally receives her due in this inspiring biography of the visionary Zionist and women’s rights leader who helped shape modern Jewish life. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/ bdedr9my.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Rosenthal – 8 to 9:32 p.m. Based on the astonishing true story of one of Germany’s most beloved TV icons, this absorbing period drama follows a national superstar whose vibrant on-air charm conceals wounds carried since surviving the war. Register at https://tinyurl.com/5t2sfsbf.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Young Professionals Night: Kissing Jessica Stein – 8 to 9:37 p.m. A sharp, boundarypushing indie rom-com launches a tightly wound, chronically single New Yorker into full-blown romantic chaos when she impulsively answers a women-seekingwomen personal ad, in Jennifer Westfeldt’s career-making turn. Commit to tickets at https://tinyurl.com/46n3zcaa.

Sunday, February 22

Playgroup for Children with Special Needs – 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Join Congregation Etz Chaim for a playgroup for children with special needs. We welcome all families, including siblings, for play and fun! Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/hh6khhpr.

Bubbe and Bams: Generations of Mahjong - 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join PJ Library, Nurture, and The Missing Line for a joyful, hands-on family program celebrating stories, creativity, and the timeless game of mahjong. The morning begins with a special reading of, “Bubbe and Bams,” by local Atlanta authors, Gabby and Mark Spatt, followed by interactive activity stations designed especially for children ages 3–8. Whether your family already loves mahjong or is discovering it for the first time, this program offers a meaningful way to connect generations through storytelling, play, and imagination. Secure your spot at https://tinyurl.com/45bet57z.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – I Have Sinned– 11 a.m. to 12:31 p.m. A long-lost treasure of early Yiddish cinema returns in a dazzling 4K restoration — one of Poland’s first Yiddish sound films and a spirited fusion of melodrama, music, and wartime intrigue. Join by visiting https:// tinyurl.com/33pebced.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Sea – 11 a.m. to 12:33 p.m. Israel’s Oscar submission delivers a deeply tender father–son odyssey in which a willful Palestinian boy’s dream of seeing the sea collides with painful realities of occupation. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/4xpumayv.

34th Annual Purim Parade & Festival –12 to 2 p.m. Everyone’s favorite pre-Purim event is back for Beth Jacob’s 34th annual celebration! Enjoy a costume parade on Lavista Road with decorated floats, music, and fun, followed by a fully outdoor festival experience with rides, music, entertainment, and a variety of food trucks and refreshments. Learn more at https:// tinyurl.com/2erj8bj7.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The First Lady – 1:40 to 3:02 p.m. A vivid portrait of one of Israel’s first openly transgender women introduces a feisty trailblazer whose candor, resilience, quick wit, and hard-won grace illuminate a life shaped by secrecy, shifting political landscapes, and constant reinvention. Secure your spot at https://tinyurl.com/446xvdzt.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Parting the Waters – 1:45 to 3:12 p.m. This stirring portrait follows a former Israeli Olympic swimmer returning to the water decades after her competitive prime, an enduring pull of identity compelling her to seek catharsis in motion and pursue unfinished dreams. Register now at https://tinyurl. com/yd3h3jap.

Jewish National Fund-USA WFI All In for Israel – 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Grab a seat at the table with Jewish National Fund-USA at the All In for Israel event. Come ready to play mahjong, canasta, Rummikub and other fun games and connect with fellow women as you learn about Jewish National Fund-USA’s work in Israel. Lowstakes games, high-stakes impact! Shuffle, schmooze, and show support for the land and people of Israel. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/pr7mku2z.

PJ Library Sandy Springs Purim Puppet Show – 3 to 4:30 p.m. Join PJ Library Atlanta and The Epstein School for a spectacular Purim celebration filled with creativity and fun! Families with children in kindergarten through fourth grade are invited to enjoy: Costumes encouraged — come ready to laugh, create, and celebrate! RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/m5adpwd6.

JGather Interfaith Pop Up: Night at the Movies – 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Join other interfaith couples and individuals for a viewing of “Fantasy Life.” Stay after and head next door for some pizza and beer to chat about the movie. Space is limited, register at https://tinyurl.com/59es7fuu.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival - Fantasy Life – 3:55 to 5:26 p.m. Amanda Peet and Matthew Shear star in this gently affecting, delicately comic SXSW Audience and Special Jury Award winner about the unlikely bond between a young neurotic Manhattan lawyer and out-of-work actress in midlife awakening. Get tickets at https://tinyurl.com/4jy45jzu.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Lucky Star – 4:25 to 6:10 p.m. An unlucky French deserter stumbles into a misguided scheme that upends his family’s fate under Nazi occupation, launching a spirited wartime dramedy that nimbly mixes danger with disarming humor. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/bdf55sx5.

CANDLE-LIGHTING TIMES

Torah Reading: Terumah Friday, February 20 Light Shabbat Candles: 6:08PM Saturday, February 21 Shabbat Ends: 7:05 PM

Torah Reading: Tetzaveh Friday, February 27 Light Shabbat Candles: 6:14 PM

Saturday, February 28 Shabbat Ends: 7:10 PM

Gather and Connect: Voices of Nahal Oz, Building and Rebuilding Jewish Community – 5 p.m. Join us for a meaningful evening of dinner, conversation, and community with a delegation of leaders visiting from our partnership kibbutz, Nahal Oz, followed by a screening of, “The Road Between Us,” at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. This intimate gathering brings JGather hosts together to connect personally with members of the Nahal Oz community and hear their stories of leadership, resilience, and rebuilding. The evening will include a shared dinner and an informal panel conversation before we head to the theater. More than a program, this is an opportunity to build real relationships and stand alongside one another as Jewish communities, near and far. Your presence will help create a warm and welcoming space rooted in connection and belonging. We hope you’ll join us for a special night of conversation, reflection, and shared Jewish life. Sign up at https:// tinyurl.com/mr33jv2w.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Believer – 7 to 8:40 p.m. Powered by a fearless breakout turn from Ryan Gosling, this newly restored Sundance Grand Jury Prize winner follows a fiercely intelligent youth who embraces neo-Nazism as an act of self-annihilation. Learn more at https:// tinyurl.com/zax3tn9u.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue –7:20 to 8:55 p.m. A real-life rescue explodes like a nerve-fraying thriller as a retired Israeli general and his wife race to the Gaza border to save their family during the Oct.7 attacks. RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/5ej2sm83.

Monday, February 23

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival - Field Trip: My Friend Sam - 11 to 11:40 a.m. An uplifting, intergenerational testament to a life reclaimed, moral inheritance, and humble generosity unwinds through the remarkable bond between a Holocaust survivor and young girl who would become a global musical icon. Let them know you are coming at https://tinyurl. com/577y5ffh.

Ogen: Anchoring & Cultivating a Practice of Resilience – 12 to 12:30 p.m. “Ogen” is Hebrew for “anchor.” This six-week workshop is an invitation to cultivate a practice of resilience with insight and connection, anchoring our week with 30 minutes of Jewish wisdoms of self-awareness and emotional precision. Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/4ju85v9n.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Lucky Star – 3 to 4:45 p.m. An unlucky French deserter stumbles into a misguided scheme that upends his family’s fate under Nazi occupation, launching a spirited wartime dramedy that nimbly mixes danger with disarming humor. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/rjmcb9zm.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue –3:40 to 5:15 p.m. A real-life rescue explodes like a nerve-fraying thriller as a retired Israeli general and his wife race to the Gaza border to save their family during the Oct. 7 attacks. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ ybab93nm.

Parenting Workshop Series – 7 to 8:30 p.m. Kick off the new year along with Congregation Dor Tamid with fresh strategies for today’s parenting challenges. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/39kkxdcu.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Stay Forte – 7 to 8:52 p.m. Inspired by actual events, this harrowing, often brutally intense drama plunges into the ordeal of three Oct. 7 hostages, capturing with startling immediacy the claustrophobia, fear, and fierce will to survive inside Gaza’s tunnels. Commit to tickets at https://tinyurl. com/5n7nh5nd.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – They Fight with Cameras – 7:40 to 8:35 p.m. A newly found cache of wartime letters unlocks a gripping first-person account of WWII through the eyes of a Jewish American soldier who held a camera, not a rifle, in history’s defining battles. Join by visiting https://tinyurl.com/ybmhv6ba.

Tuesday, February 24

Gold Dome & Donuts – 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Join Atlanta JCRC on Zoom. Our guest will be Laura Colbert, executive director, Georgians for a Healthy Future. Get the link at https://tinyurl.com/yxw5a48s.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Mama – 11:10 a.m. to 12:43 p.m. Understated but penetrating in observational power, this intimate drama follows a migrant Polish housekeeper whose years working in Israel have slowly eroded the family she thought her sacrifice would protect. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/mr3wwxp2.

Koffee & Kibbitz BINGO with AgeWell – 12 to 1 p.m. Join Congregation Etz Chaim for Koffee & Kibbitz sponsored by AgeWell. We will meet at 10:30 a.m. to “kibbitz,” 11 a.m. BINGO with prizes! All are welcome to attend. This event is free and open to the community. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/yc3h8b8b.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Stay Forte – 1:45 to 3:37 p.m. Inspired by actual events, this harrowing, often brutally intense drama plunges into the ordeal of three Oct. 7 hostages, capturing with startling immediacy the claustrophobia, fear, and fierce will to survive inside Gaza’s tunnels. Secure your spot at https://tinyurl. com/5n7nh5nd.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Proud Jewish Boy – 2:25 to 3:15 p.m. This methodically researched, little-known story uncovers how a teenage Jewish refugee shooting a Nazi diplomat ignited the prewar pogrom widely seen as prelude to the Holocaust. Register now at https://tinyurl. com/y29u96h5.

Music Jam @ The JCC -6 to 8 p.m. Calling all musicians and music lovers for a Music Jam at the JCC! Bring your instrument(s), friends and jam with fellow musicians. No auditions, no restrictions — just pure musical fun and collaboration. Free and open to people of all ages! Learn more at https:// tinyurl.com/mrnr7hc5.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Proud Jewish Boy – 7 to 8:30 p.m. This methodically researched, little-known story uncovers how a teenage Jewish refugee shooting a Nazi diplomat ignited the prewar pogrom widely seen as prelude to the Holocaust. Get tickets at https://tinyurl.com/ y29u96h5.

LIVE in Atlanta: Unpacking Israeli History – 7 to 10 p.m. The team behind “Unpacking Israeli History” — the widely followed podcast that brings Israel’s past to life through compelling stories and accessible analysis — will join us at The Dupree for a live recording and conversation. This program will introduce audiences to the voices and historical perspectives that have made the podcast a leading resource for learning about Israel’s complex story. Register at https://tinyurl.com/e6wduytj.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Book of Ruth – 7:40 to 9:08 p.m. The unthinkable accidental death of their child ruptures the fragile balance of an ultra-Orthodox couple, thrusting them into a spiraling crisis of faith and selfhood. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/3cawxdnj.

Wednesday, February 25

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Sea –12 to 1:33 p.m. Israel’s Oscar submission delivers a deeply tender father–son odyssey in which a willful Palestinian boy’s dream of seeing the sea collides with painful realities of occupation. Learn more at https:// tinyurl.com/3x9zubyp.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Last Musician of Auschwitz – 2:55 to 4:25 p.m. A haunting meditation on art-underannihilation evolves through the musicians who endured the orchestras of Auschwitz, where performance became both refuge and a twisted tool of cruelty. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/47c86tkc.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Influenced – 3:30 to 4:58 p.m. A sharply outrageous comedy with big laughs and real heart, this fast-talking New York satire skewers influencer culture and Upper East Side snobbery with unapologetic bite. Let them know you are coming at https://tinyurl.com/s28v5asr.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – A Letter to David - 7 to 8:14 p.m. A filmmaker constructs a deeply personal cinematic letter to a friend kidnapped by Hamas during the Oct. 7 attack, crosscutting between past and present to confront an unimaginable twist of fate. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/53a4zjdx.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Raoul Wallenberg: Missing Inaction – 7 to 8:29 p.m. A forensic Cold War investigation revisits one of the last century’s most haunting mysteries: a Swedish diplomat who saved more than one hundred thousand Hungarian Jews, then vanished into Soviet custody. Register at https://tinyurl. com/ateyu74j.

Settle – 7 to 8:30 p.m. A reset for the nervous system & collective healing with Jess Pfeffer. How do we find peace when the world feels so loud? SETTLE and Chabad Intown invites you to take a conscious pause — to give your body a break from the constant doing and gently return to simply being. This immersive experience offers a reset for your nervous system through somatic tools, sound healing, breathwork, mindful rest, and body awareness. Because rest is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. Commit to relaxation at https://tinyurl.com/3tm9dw8z.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Spotlight: The Day After – 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. A FREE program unveiling ATL Jewish Film’s new Filmmaker Fund, featuring a conversation with the filmmakers behind, “The Day After,” and exclusive clips from the work-in-progress cut of the film. Israelis and Palestinians travel to Northern Ireland to confront an impossible question: how bitter enemies make peace, drawing lessons from the Irish peace process to imagine paths forward. Commit to tickets at https://tinyurl.com/bdf94wzm.

Thursday, February 26

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Holding Liat – 11 a.m. to 12:37 p.m. As their daughter is taken hostage during the Oct. 7 attacks, an Israeli American family is thrust into a spiraling crisis that forces private anguish into the public arena. Join by visiting https://tinyurl.com/yw9ndhk5.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – They Fight with Cameras – 12:15 to 1:10 p.m. A newly found cache of wartime letters unlocks a gripping first-person account of WWII through the eyes of a Jewish American soldier who held a camera, not a rifle, in history’s defining battles. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/ybmhv6ba.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Nuremberg 45 - 1:50 to 3:19 p.m. Revisiting the Nuremberg trials through the entwined experiences of a young Jewish court reporter and a fellow Auschwitz survivor, this engrossing docudrama immerses viewers in their fierce pursuit of justice as they confront the architects of Nazi terror. Register now at https://tinyurl.com/zs6vvrac.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Franz –2:20 to 4:27 p.m. From eminent filmmaker, Agnieszka Holland, comes this bold, prismatic reimagining of Franz Kafka’s life, fusing biography, memory, and surreal invention to illuminate the inner world of one of the twentieth century’s most enigmatic Jewish writers. Secure your spot at https://tinyurl.com/cv5bteuv.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Sunshine

– 6:00 to 9:51 p.m. Spanning more than half a century of upheaval, this sweeping epic traces three generations of a Hungarian Jewish family navigating assimilation, ambition, persecution, survival, and continuity amid the convulsions of 20th-century Europe. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl. com/ycpehxdr.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Holding Liat - 6:10 to 7:47 p.m. As their daughter is taken hostage during the Oct. 7 attacks, an Israeli American family is thrust into a spiraling crisis that forces private anguish into the public arena. Get tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/3esmex83.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Surviving Malka Leifer – 6:50 to 8:24 p.m. A formidable chronicle of justice and resilience follows three Melbourne sisters whose allegations of sexual abuse within their ultra-Orthodox community spark a 15-year courtroom battle within Australia and Israel. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/34h7nt2r.

Passover - Read It in Hebrew – 7:30 p.m. This Passover, follow the Haggadah with confidence. Learn to read Hebrew. Read It in Hebrew is a cutting-edge, five-week crash course that makes learning to read Hebrew simple and inspiring. It combines proven teaching methods with elegant design, incorporating the timeless educational principles of the Rebbes of Chabad. In just weeks, you’ll be reading Hebrew with confidence, right in time for the Seder! Learn how to read Hebrew by signing up at https://tinyurl.com/4yxajsm5.

Friday, February 27

Delet Darom Teen Retreat - Join Jewish high schoolers for an unforgettable weekend of ruach, learning, and fun surprises. Open to all high school-aged teens! Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/2f9enat9.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Rosenthal – 11 a.m. to 12:32 p.m. Based on the astonishing true story of one of Germany’s most beloved TV icons, this absorbing period drama follows a national superstar whose vibrant on-air charm conceals wounds carried since surviving the war. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/458afdaz.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Ring – 11 a.m. to 1:02 p.m. A sentimental fatherdaughter dramedy rooted in Holocaust memory follows an observant Israeli son who travels to Budapest to reclaim a fabled wartime ring tied to his mother’s survival. Let them know you are coming at https:// tinyurl.com/ya9mn622.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Future Awaits – 11:15 a.m. to 12:48 p.m. A tense, intimate wartime chamber piece unfolds as a Jewish family in Nazi-occupied Paris is forced into hiding during the terror of the July 1942 roundups. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/2bsherfv.

February/March 2026 JBaby Intown

Small Group - 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A five-week small group series for local families to bond over music, education, support, and playtime. Designed for babies ages 0–12 months and their parent(s). In this warm, welcoming space, neighborhood families come together for playful learning and meaningful support. You’ll connect with other parents, learn from developmental experts, and share new experiences with your little one—building friendships and a deeper connection to your community along the way. Each session is about 45–60 minutes, with plenty of time to socialize after. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/mr9fcf4t.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival - Dead Language – 1:25 to 2:55 p.m. In this hushed and hypnotic Israeli chamber drama, a fleeting airport encounter unsettles the carefully ordered life of a married translator, where language falters just as longburied feelings surface. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/37m58ta4.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Labors of Love: The Life and Legacy of Henrietta Szold – 1:40 to 2:58 p.m. Long overlooked yet hugely influential, a towering Jewish American humanitarian finally receives her due in this inspiring biography of the visionary Zionist and women’s rights leader who helped shape modern Jewish life. Commit to tickets at https://tinyurl.com/4ey9r9h3.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Frontier – 2:20 to 4:01 p.m. Inspired by true events, this white-knuckle wartime drama plunges into a little-known chapter of Pyrenean resistance, as a 1943 Spanish border village becomes a lifeline for refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied France. Join by visiting at https://tinyurl.com/4fw9psa9.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Shorts Program 1 (2026) – 3:50 to 5:09 p.m. Stages of Memory and Survival: From theatrical expression to personal testimony, collective memory collides with loss, reckoning, and resilience. Find out more at https://tinyurl.com/jb264afp.

Saturday, February 28

Delet Darom Teen Retreat - Join Jewish high schoolers for an unforgettable weekend of ruach, learning, and fun surprises. Open to all high school-aged teens! Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/2f9enat9.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – UNraveling UNRWA – 1 to 2:15 p.m. A probing, rigorous investigation examines how a relief agency founded to aid Palestinian refugees after the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, grew into a sprawling, politicized institution now at the center of global scrutiny. Register now at https://tinyurl.com/2s4jnzfz.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Mama – 1 to 2:33 p.m. Understated but penetrating in observational power, this intimate drama follows a migrant Polish housekeeper whose years working in Israel have slowly eroded the family she thought her sacrifice would protect. Get tickets at https:// tinyurl.com/5n8k3vyx.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Kichka: Telling Myself – 1:15 to 2:22 p.m. A pioneering cartoonist confronts the weight of his father’s Holocaust survival as he comes to terms with how inherited trauma shaped his life and art. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/3n6jvuat.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Shorts Program 2 (2026) – 3:15 to 4:34 p.m. Craft, Faith, and Inner Voice: Across generations, creation and belief become acts of expression, testing conscience, care, and moral resolve. Learn more at https://tinyurl. com/3uwpxe9t.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Sapiro v. Ford: The Jew Who Sued Henry Ford – 3:25 to 4:33 p.m. An eye-opening account of a little-known chapter of American and Jewish history charts the escalating legal clash between an antisemitic industrial titan and the overlooked hero who dared to take him on. RSVP at https://tinyurl. com/3mhpjmnp.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Future Awaits – 3:25 to 4:58 p.m. A tense, intimate wartime chamber piece unfolds as a Jewish family in Nazi-occupied Paris is forced into hiding during the terror of the July 1942 roundups. Let them know you are coming at https://tinyurl.com/2bsherfv.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – A Shabbat on the Other Side of the River – 5:05 to 6:15 p.m. Along the winding waterways of the Brazilian Amazon, descendants of nineteenth-century Moroccan Jews sustain rituals and identity distant from any traditional center of Jewish life. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/mvt63f2e.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Nandauri – 5:40 to 7:13 p.m. Set against the stark beauty of rural Georgia, this atmospheric character study traces an Israeli lawyer’s return to the suffocating Caucasus mountain village she fled, forcing her to reconcile the past she tried to outrun. Commit to tickets at https://tinyurl.com/yhe26fk5.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – The Last Twins – 5:50 to 7:10 p.m. An untold chapter of Holocaust history comes to light through the horrendous experiences of young twins targeted for Josef Mengele’s brutal medical experiments at Auschwitz. Register at https://tinyurl.com/49h8vwxx.

Sinai Home-Grown Music Series Presents: Beth Schafer in Concert - 7 to 10 p.m. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music with Beth Schafer, who for almost three decades has been one of Reform Judaism’s most innovative artists. Backed by a dynamic six-piece ensemble and many singers, Beth will perform a full concert of original music, weaving together the best of her catalog along with new, experimental multimedia creations that bring her passions to life in fresh and powerful ways. Part of Temple Sinai’s Home-Grown Artist Series, this concert is one of many that celebrate the extraordinary talent within our own community — artists who inspire, uplift, and connect us through music. Come experience the artistry, spirit, and soul of Beth Schafer — a night of music, meaning, and creative energy you won’t want to miss. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/ycxcwxeb.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Orphan -7:20 to 9:32 p.m. In Oscar-winner László Nemes’s tragic yet exquisitely wrought coming-of-age fable, a Jewish boy in Soviet-occupied 1957 Hungary confronts the cracks buried within his family’s carefully guarded past. Join by visiting at https://tinyurl.com/39w866wh.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Influenced – 8 to 9:28 p.m. A sharply outrageous comedy with big laughs and real heart, this fast-talking New York satire skewers influencer culture and Upper East Side snobbery with unapologetic bite. Find out more at https://tinyurl. com/3c4cmunm.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival – Mazel Tov – 8 to 9:37 p.m. An affectionate, delightfully tsuris-filled Argentine dramedy erupts when a Miami expat returns to Buenos Aires for a long-awaited family wedding and bat mitzvah — with the simchas imploding after his father’s sudden death. Secure your spot at https://tinyurl.com/ykk9tr62.

KEEPING IT KOSHER

Chestnut Couscous and Salmon

Ingredients

1 cup couscous

1 and 1/2 cups water

1 bag Tuscanini Chestnuts, chopped

2 tablespoons tahini

2 teaspoons Tuscanini Lemon Juice

2 cubes Gefen Frozen Garlic

2 tablespoons washed and chopped parsley

2 teaspoons kosher salt

pinch of black pepper

pinch of cayenne pepper

4 slices salmon

Tuscanini Italian Seasoning Chimichurri

1/2 cup washed and chopped parsley

1 small jalapeño, diced

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

1/3 cup Tuscanini Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking pan with Gefen Parchment Paper. Set aside.

2. In the prepared pan, combine the couscous, water, chopped chestnuts, tahini, lemon juice, parsley, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Give everything a quick stir to evenly mix. Nestle the salmon right on top of the couscous mixture.

3. Generously season the fish with Tuscanini Italian seasoning. Bake uncovered for 20–22 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

4. While it bakes, prepare the chimichurri.

5. In a small bowl, combine parsley, jalapeño, oregano, salt, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Stir until well mixed. Once the salmon comes out of the oven, spoon the chimichurri over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe by Faigy Reiner Kosher.com

The Restaurant

Benjamin and Morris are sitting in a nice kosher restaurant and are talking amongst themselves in Yiddish.

A Chinese waiter comes up and in fluent and impeccable Yiddish asks them if everything is OK, can he get them anything, and so forth. Benjamin and Morris are dumbfounded.

“My G-d, where did he learn such perfect Yiddish?” they both think.

After they pay the bill, they ask the manager, “Where did your waiter learn such fabulous Yiddish?”

The owner looks around and leans over to them so no one will hear and says, “Shhh … he thinks we’re teaching him English.”

YIDDISH WORD

Heymishcamer

n. Someone who tried to pass themselves off as just a regular person but is actually something quite different – a scammer.

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

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

BRAIN FOOD

How'd You Do That?

By: Yoni Glatt, koshercrosswords@gmail.com

Difficulty Level: Easy

ACROSS

1. Uncle of rice

5. General who made (very brief)

peace with King David 10. Beer option, for short 13. Bracha word

14. Rupee part

15. Soccer player’s driver?

16. Jewish mentalist

18. Baked taro root

19. Jewish mentalist

21. Connections

24. Some sweet Cones

25. Abhors

26. “Fiddler on the Roof” song “___ Have Everything”

28. “Cinderella” character that likes to nosh

31. Gossip fodder

32. Roman ruler

35. Long, hard look

37. Jewish magician

40. “Note” or “risk” follower

41. Country band Rascal

43. “Makes sense”

45. Tennis game portion

47. Sweet ___ (Equal rival)

48. Country crooner Haggard

50. MGM competitor, once

53. ‘48, ‘67, and ‘25 are some

54. Jewish magician

58. Pay dirt for a miner

59. Jewish magician

63. It’s a miracle

64. Aviv in Bet Shemesh

65. Winslet or Capshaw

66. N.Y. in summer, timewise

67. Popeye’s ‘pea, and others

68. Treif email?

DOWN

1. Kind of bun

2. JNF item

3. Schluffing activity

4. Writer Silverstein

5. Kitchen garb

6. Fiery creature slain by Gandalf

7. “___ Island” (2008 Jodie Foster film)

8. Amalek are his descendants

9. Cowboys locale

10. How many children wait

11. Not as well off

12. In the center of

17. “___ for Alibi” (Grafton novel)

20. 32-Across who renamed Judea Syria Palaestina

This week, 100 years ago

Pre-eminent scholar, theologian, and Rabbi Dr. Kaufmann Kohler passes away at 83.

In Berlin, a Jewish temple in Goethe Park is broken into, the 12th such attack in three months.

This week, 75 years ago

Bill that makes cross-burning as form of intimidation illegal is signed into law.

Congregation Shearith Israel in Columbus, Ga., dedicates new synagogue.

Sam Massell, Jr. elected City Councilman of Mountain Park

Atlanta BBYW elects new officers, paying tribute to

outgoing president Cella Gordon, replaced by Alice Cohen.

This week, 50 years ago

Mr. and Mrs. Leon Eplan and Mr. and Mrs. Sol Spielberg of Atlanta celebrate the b’not mitzvot of their daughters, Jana Eplan and Debbie Spielberg, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue.

Allan Ripans, owner of the Cross Roads Restaurant and Lounge, is named “Restauranteur of the Year” by the Georgia Restaurant Association.

Dr. Hyman Chanover of the American Association for Jewish Education delivers lecture in Atlanta on the subject, “Is Israel in Danger of Becoming a Militaristic State?”

Yitzak Rabin visits Washington, D.C. for talks with President Gerald Ford.

This week, 25 years ago

Congregation Bet Haverim and JF&CS are granted $25,000 by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta to

21. “Monsters” follower

22. He built a notable 33-Down

23. Sleeveless knit garment

27. Like the mentalists in this puzzle, but not the magicians

29. Org. the living men in this puzzle might perform for

30. Double ___ (Oreo product)

33. See 22-Down

34. Some bread

36. Anti-hate org.

38. Charlemagne’s realm, for short

39. “...like ___ not!”

42. Simon Wiesenthal and Simone Weil?

43. “Finished!”

44. Prepared, as some tuna

46. “Black-ish” star Ellis Ross

49. Untainted environments

51. New Zealanders

52. Lechem ___

55. NBA player Anthony Davis’s nickname, with the”

56. Chaim

57. Kosher animals native to North America

60. [Bzzt!]

61. Call ___ night (end the Seder)

62. Onyx or opal

start a gay and lesbian resource and support center.

The AJT covers Cecil Alexander, who designed the then-new Flag of the State of Georgia.

Local Vietnam veteran Arthur Katz revisits the country and reflects on his time there.

Michael Levene, son of Stephen and Iris Levene, celebrates his bar mitzvah at Congregation B’nai Torah.

Jeffrey Waronker, son of Steve and Mitzi Waronker, celebrates his bar mitzvah at Ahavath Achim Synagogue.

Atlanta teens plan a party to raise $12,000 for a childhood arthritis charity.

“Haven” miniseries about the “female Oskar Schindler,” Ruth Gruber, airs on CBS.

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

OBITUARIES

Amy Susan Berger 65, Medford, N.J.

Our beloved sister, Amy Susan Berger, 65, of Medford, N.J., passed away peacefully on Jan. 25, 2026, at the Samaritan Hospice Care unit at Virtua Mount Holly Hospital in Mount Holly, N.J. Amy was born on Oct. 31, 1960, in Atlanta, Ga., to loving parents, Leonard and Elinor Berger, who predeceased her, respectively, in 1992 and 2000. She is survived by her brothers, Steven Berger (Poppy White) of Hingham, Mass., and Randy Berger (Suzanne Berger) of Roswell, Ga.; and her sister, Nancy Berger Barth (Jim Barth) of Dammeron Valley, Utah.

Amy was diagnosed at an early age with severe infantile autism and significant learning impairments and was largely non-verbal. Since 1989, Amy spent her adult years at the Bancroft School’s adult residential care program with most of that time at the Himmelein group home in Medford, N.J. Bancroft provided Amy with loving and devoted care. Many of her Bancroft care professionals and mentors were a constant presence by her bedside during her last several weeks at Virtua Hospital. Shirley Hunt, a group home leader for over 20 years for Amy, merits special notice for her love and compassion. Growing up in Atlanta until she was 11 years old, Amy had a similar relationship with Lillie Mae Sams, a trusted companion of the Berger family until her passing in November of 2024.

Despite significant impairments, Amy touched all of those in her orbit with family values passed down to her and her siblings by her parents, including kindness, a mischievous sense of humor, and the ability to fight hard to overcome obstacles. She treasured the little pleasures in life, whether it was going out for ice cream, wading in the swimming pool, listening to lively 1960s music on her Sony Walkman, or devouring fried chicken all while flashing her trademark smile and saying “bye-bye” to everyone who comforted and assisted her through her daily routines and challenges. Her father, Lenny, crisscrossed the country for years, meeting doctors and scientists in an endless quest to unlock the causes of and treatment for severe infantile autism. He and Elinor would have been highly gratified by how Amy thrived under the auspices of Bancroft.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Amy’s honor be made to Bancroft (www.Bancroft.org). The family will honor Amy privately at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to H.M. Patterson & Son, Arlington Chapel in Sandy Springs, Ga.

Dr. Allen Blass 88, Atlanta

Dr. Allen Blass, 88, of Atlanta, Ga., passed away on Feb. 2, 2026.

Allen “A Beautiful Smile is Always in Style” Blass was an Atlanta native, graduate of Grady High School and Emory University Dental School.

Kind, warm, loving, and willing to give up his time and knowledge to mentor other young people to become dentists, Allen never met a stranger and was a friend to all. An avid gardener, animal lover, and lemon pie maker, Allen adored spending time with his family and many pets.

Allen is predeceased by his mother and father, Saul and Beatrice Blass, his granddaughter, Anna, and his sister-in-law, Lucy Carson. He leaves behind the love of his life, wife of 63 years, Betty Blass; his children, Mitchell, Benjamin (Kathleen), and Naomi (Karl). His grandchildren, Brittany (Will), David, Andrew, and Joshua; his great-grandson, Oliver; his sister, Charlotte (Allen); his nieces, Terri (Rodney) and Sharon (Nathan); his nephew, Joe (Katherine); as well as many loving great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

The funeral was held at 3 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 4, at Crest Lawn Cemetery with Rabbi Feldman officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-4514999

Morris David Franco

66, Atlanta

Morris David Franco (born Jan. 11, 1960) passed away peacefully surrounded by comfort from his family on Jan. 28, 2026, with a heart full of love and a life well-lived. Morris was born at Georgia Baptist Hospital to parents, David Morris Franco and Anita Capeluto Franco, and grew up in Druid Hills, Ga., with his sister (Sharon Franco) and brother (Leon Franco).

Morris’ greatest pride was his family and the love of his life, Pamela Franco, whom he met while attending the University of Georgia. Following college, Morris and Pam married and relocated to Atlanta where he began work in risk management for BellSouth (and subsequently, AT&T), making significant impacts both professionally and personally over a distinguished 32-year career.

Morris’ best and most important job was always being a partner to Pam in raising their two children (Ryan Franco and Ally Franco Friedman). He had an uncanny ability to fix any problem, give you a warm hug (and kiss on the forehead) that made you feel loved, and to be present showing how much he cared. Morris was a sense of calm, a friend you always wanted to have on your side, and a fierce advocate for his family.

His greatest joy was becoming a “Papou” to his three grandchildren (Cooper, Leighton, and Lily) and he was and will remain a joy of light for them. From never missing a school/sports event, continuously showing them unconditional love and support, and always teaching them the right way to complete any project. He was a solid rock in their corner and always will be. He also held special places in his heart for his daughterin-law (Lexi Franco) and son-in-law (Ben Friedman) whom he could not have hand selected as better partners in life for his children.

Morris was a gentle, shy, and loving friend that impacted this world in a meaningful way. His family was and always will be proud and lucky to call him ours. We love you, we will always miss you, and you will live in our hearts forever.

The family held a graveside memorial on Jan. 30, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Greenlawn Cemetery to celebrate the wonderful life of Morris. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Rae Jaben

101, Atlanta

She had been called “fancy” by her granddaughter, Ariel Mesnick, of Atlanta. Many others had called her, “elegant,” “beautiful,” “sweet,” and “classy.”

Rae Jaben, who died Wednesday, Jan. 28, at 101, was all of those adjectives and so much more. Her legacy are her children: Cheryl (Eddie) Feintech, Jan (Joab) Jaben-Eilon, Keith (Cathy) Jaben, Darla Jaben, Bruce (Galina) Jaben and Cynthia Gayle. Teri Ohrenstein predeceased Rae. Her grandchildren include Lisa (Steve) Meyer, Mindy Esqueda, Elizabeth (Peter) Gilman, Daniel (Shannon) Jaben and Ariel Mesnick. Great-grandchildren include Alex Esqueda, Mina Esqueda and Danny Esqueda.

She is also survived by nephew, Marc Jaben, niece, Lauren (Peter) Jaben, and niece, Linda Henning.

Everyone loved Rae, including the staff at Solana East Cobb where she lived since Dec. 1, 2023, and sadly died. On her recent birthday, another resident came over to where Rae was sleeping in a chair and said, “I really love her.”

Rae Frances Horovitz was born in Kansas City, Mo., on Jan. 7, 1925. She was predeceased by her parents, Louis and Lauretta, brother, Maurice Horovitz, and sister, Reveley Horovitz.

She married one of her many high school suitors, Lawrence Richard Jaben, in 1945. He died in 1962, at age 37.

She then married his first cousin, Edward Jaben, who died in 2016.

It was as Edward’s wife that Rae became the epitome of a corporate wife, hosting elegant gourmet meals for his business associates. She joined him on luxurious business trips to exotic destinations, including Thailand, but also France, Italy, Spain, and Israel. She was in her element when she was wined and dined abroad.

Rae loved being with people, and she attracted people with her beautiful, warm smile and her willingness to listen to people. She had good instincts about people and she probably shared her insight with her two husbands.

Before moving to Atlanta in 2017, Rae chaired several lavish fundraisers for the Lyric Stage in Irving, Texas, snagging long-time family friend and well-known singer, Marilyn Maye, to sing for the always-successful events.

Besides reveling in social situations, Rae was a first-class bridge player and played tennis until she was about 90. Going through passport control in Spain after a cruise with her daughters in 2012, the officials gaped at her birth year in disbelief. No one could ever guess her age.

Even as her memory started slipping away in the last decade, Rae was always smiling and appreciative of those who tried to help her with the increasingly difficult tasks of living. And she especially loved being with her family. She took much deserved joy and satisfaction from her children and their descendants. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Richard William Planer 90,

Atlanta

Richard William Planer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Feb. 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on April 27, 1935, in Gastonia, N.C., and carried the values of warmth, kindness, and generosity from his small-town upbringing throughout his life.

In 1960, he moved to Atlanta, Ga., with his life partner and beloved wife, Barbara Cooper Planer, beginning a journey that would shape a beautiful family and a lifetime of friendships. Together, they raised three sons, Ira, Michael, and Billy, and, later, welcomed a daughter-inlaw, Mindy Silver Planer, into the family. His five grandchildren, Austin Planer, Sara Planer, Hanna Planer, Baruch Levine, and Eliana Planer, were the absolute joy of his life. Nothing brought him more happiness than cheering them on, sharing stories, and watching them grow.

A lifelong lover of sports, he was happiest with a tennis racquet in hand or on the field coaching little league soccer or basketball or watching his grandchildren as they participated in their various activities. He believed deeply in showing up — for his children, his grandchildren, for his community, and for the organizations he loved. His commitment to service was felt across schools and teams where he volunteered through PTA and booster clubs, and, especially, at his cherished synagogue, Ahavath Achim, where he gave his time generously and where he and Barbara formed some of their most meaningful connections. Yet, all of this took a backseat to his joy of being at a Braves game with anyone willing to enjoy (or endure) his colorful side commentary. He leaves behind a wide circle of friends who treasured his humor, his loyalty, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome and at ease. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews who were proud to call him family.

His legacy is one of kindness, devotion, and a life lived with a quiet purpose. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will continue to be a blessing to all who loved him.

Services were held at Ahavath Achim Synagogue at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, followed by the burial at Greenwood Cemetery at 11 a.m.

Shiva was held Thursday, Feb. 5, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Friday, Feb. 6, at The Piedmont at Buckhead Apartment 9106 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Donations in his memory can be made to Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

OBITUARIES

Jerome Barnett Rothschild

87, Charleston, S.C.

Jerome “Jerry” Barnett Rothschild, 87, of Charleston, S.C., entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. The funeral was held on Feb. 6, 2026, at Brith Shalom Beth Israel Cemetery.

Jerry was born on Dec. 16, 1938, in Charleston, S.C., to Frances (Rubin) and Robert Rothschild. Jerry spent his youth in Charleston, Atlanta, and Manhattan. He returned to Charleston after attending Henry W. Grady High School and The University of Georgia, where he was a member of Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. He also served in the United States Air Force Reserve.

Jerry never met a stranger and could put a smile on anyone’s face whether it was with an orange slice, a $2 bill, or any variety of candy. He was known for his sharp wit.

Jerry worked in the financial services and insurance industry and was consistently one of the national top producers for Jefferson Pilot, later Lincoln Financial Group.

He served as the first chairman of MUSC Children’s Fund from 1980 to 1986 and was instrumental in raising the funds for MUSC’s first children’s hospital. Before that, he dressed as Santa delivering toys to the children’s floor at MUSC.

He served as a trustee of the Hebrew Benevolent Society and co-chaired its 225th anniversary gala. He served on the fundraising committee for Brith Shalom Beth Israel.

In 1980, Jerry married the love of his life, Sonia Truere Rothschild, and they promptly set about to successfully blend their families. Jerry was wholly devoted to her and she to him.

In addition to his loving wife of 47 years, he is survived by his adoring children, Amy B. Rothschild, Gregory C. Rothschild (Debbie); Michael S. Berry (Denise); Jeffery N. Berry; Martin K. Berry (Renee), and Sharon B. Rudd (Chris), son-in-law, Ira D. Levy; 15 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Jerry was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Dana E. Rothschild.

The family is grateful to Samantha Hardaway and Felicia Sumpter for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the MUSC Children’s Hospital Fund, 59 Bee Street, MSC Code: 201, Charleston, South Carolina 29425.

Ann Louise Tourial 63,

Atlanta

Ann Louise Tourial, 63, a longtime Atlanta resident, passed away on Feb. 1, 2026, after a short and valiant battle with cancer. Annie was born on July 11, 1962, in West Palm Beach, Fla., the daughter of George and Gertrude Pesacov. She attended the University of Florida and, after graduating in 1986, made Atlanta her home.

Annie married the love of her life, Danny Tourial, on June 6, 1988. Together, they raised two sons and were devoted members of Congregation Or VeShalom.

Deeply committed to her family and community, Annie quickly became an integral part of her husband’s large extended family. She served as PTA president at Riverwood High School and as president of the Atlanta Chapter of the Brandeis University National Women’s Committee, giving generously of her time, leadership, and energy. Though a proud Florida Gator, Annie loyally cheered for the Georgia Bulldogs because she knew how much it mattered to those she loved.

Annie had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcomed and cherished. She formed deep and lasting friendships and is fondly remembered by the many friends who were touched by her warmth throughout her life. She lovingly embraced her two daughters-in-law, making it clear from the start that they were her daughters, too. She shared a close bond with her brother, David, whose love and friendship were a source of joy throughout her life.

Annie loved the beach and found her greatest joy lounging with her toes in the sand or sitting poolside with a cocktail nearby.

Annie’s professional life reflected her deep love for people. After working in the wedding industry and merchandise sales, she became part of the original team that opened one of Atlanta’s premier luxury condominium communities. She initially served as head concierge and, later, as operations director, a role she held for the past 15 years. In these positions, Annie built meaningful relationships with homeowners, building management, staff, and vendors, keeping everything running smoothly with her signature blend of humor, organization, and charm.

Annie is survived by her beloved husband, Danny; her children, Greg Tourial and Lizzie Engel of Alexandria, Va., and Ryan and Natasha Tourial of Union City, N.J.; her brother and sister-in-law, Dave and Lori Pesacov of Jupiter, Fla.; her sister, Beda Warrick of Anchorage, Alaska; her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Sidney and Susan Tourial, Sara Grosswald, and Dave Tourial, all of Atlanta, and Peggy Tourial of Reston, Va.. She is also survived by many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and greatnephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her parents-in-law, Ralph and Regina Tourial; and her brother-in-law, Morton Grosswald.

The funeral was held at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs, Ga., at 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 4, 2026.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the teams at Northside Hospital Atlanta’s neurology and oncology units and WellStar Tranquility Hospice at Cobb Hospital for the compassionate and exceptional care Annie received. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta.

Miriam Marie Wasileski

81, Atlanta

Miriam Marie Wasileski (Franco), 81, passed away on Jan. 30, 2026. Born in Oswego, N.Y., in a Jewish refugee camp after her parents fled Italy during World War II, she was the first in her immediate family to be born in the United States. Family lore tells that First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt visited the camp and presented Miriam with a gift as the first baby born there, an early symbol of hope, resilience, and new beginnings that would define her life.

Miriam was preceded in death by her parents, Victor and Lidia Franco, and her sister, Rachel. She is survived by her husband, Jeffrey Wasileski; her children, Randy Wasileski (Kelly) and Emily Wasileski; her cherished granddaughter, Erin, who was the true joy of her life; her brother, David Franco (Pearline); as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends.

A devoted and active member of her synagogue, Miriam found joy in her faith, her community, and the simple pleasures of gathering with loved ones. She especially enjoyed making burekas with friends and family, an expression of love she shared generously. Above all else, Miriam treasured her role as a grandmother, finding her greatest happiness in time spent with Erin.

Donations in Miriam’s memory may made to ovs.shulcloud.com/payment.php

A graveside service was held on Feb. 2, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery in Atlanta. Shiva was observed on Feb. 2-3, 2026, at 7 p.m. at Congregation Or VeShalom. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Saul Weinberg 92,

Atlanta

Mr. Saul Weinberg of DeKalb County passed away Feb. 1 at the age of 92. Mr. Weinberg owned his own CPA firm in Atlanta for 45 years. He graduated from Grady High School in 1951 and then Emory University in 1955. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He will be remembered as a charitable, kind person for whom family was everything. He is survived by his younger of two sons, Jonathan. He is predeceased by his other son, Michael. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999

Obituaries in the AJT are written and paid for by the families; contact Account Manager Ilyssa Klein at Ilyssa@atljewishtimes.com or 404-883-2130, ext. 122, for details about submission, rates and payments. Death notices, which provide basic details, are free and run as space is available; send submissions to submissions@atljewishtimes.com.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

The Connection Between Neoplatonism & Kabbalah

Rabbi Richard Baroff DD

Plato is a foundational figure in Western civilization. His theory of the Forms inspired much philosophy, theology, literature and art. His vision of reality was hierarchical: the Good gives rise to the pure forms in the realm of Ideas, the physical world being a reflection of these forms, inferior to them. The person devoted to truth through contemplation will move from the physical world to the purer forms, ultimately to the Good.

One school of Plato’s thought, Neoplatonism, started by Plotinus in the third century CE, viewed reality as a series of cascading emanations, from the One to the Many, from the Spiritual to

the Material. The aim of the philosophical life, again, was to ascend from the lower domains to the higher, ultimately to the One, through contemplative practice.

Neoplatonism became important to spiritual seekers among pagans, Jews, Christians, and Muslims over the centuries. The greatest of the Jewish Neoplatonists was the medieval poet-philosopher, Solomon ibn Gabirol.

The Kabbalah, and in particular, the version found in the 12th century Zohar (Book of Splendor) has much in common with Neoplatonists. The Zohar holds that the Eyn Sof (the Infinite) reaches down into the world through a hierarchy of spheres (the sepherot) before entering our world. The vocation of the mystic is prayerful meditation, moving up through the spheres, and so from the dark, evil, and physical to the light, good, and spiritual, gradually ascending to union with G-d (the Infinite).

In the 15th century, in Renaissance

Florence, Lorenzo de Medici wanted to beautify his city, inspired by the ideas of the ancients, especially Plato.  During the late Middle Ages, Plato had been eclipsed by his student, Aristotle. So, by creating a Platonic Academy in Florence, Lorenzo hoped to spark something new, through a return to the teachings of Aristotle.

One of these Platonists was an extraordinary young scholar, Pico della Mirandola. He became fascinated with both Neoplatonism and Kabbalah, among many other subjects. The idea of spiritual ascent found in both systems would, he felt, liberate the human spirit. He thought that a study of Jewish mystical texts could serve as a basis for a revitalized Christianity.  Tragically, Pico died very young in the mid-1490s.

One of his northern contemporaries was the German, Johannes Reuchlin. Inspired by Pico, he came to believe that the study of Hebrew language was key to being a good Christian. Reuchlin wrote a grammar and dictionary of Hebrew --

a landmark of the Renaissance. He also was drawn to the Kabbalah and other ancient texts in his search for esoteric knowledge.

Both Mirandola and Reuchlin were Christian humanists. Both got in trouble with the Christian authorities for their particular interest in Jewish and other non-Christian texts. Both gave birth to something new -- the Christian cabala.

Christian cabala lasted a few centuries before merging with Hermeticism and other mystical practices. However, the legacies of Pico della Mirandola and Johannes Reuchlin can be found in Christian scholarship, and in particular, their devotion to Hebrew (and Aramaic) texts, as well as to the study of the languages themselves.

We owe to them both a rich tradition of Christian scholarship of Jewish religious texts, and to a devotion to the Hebrew language itself. Some of the finest Biblical lexicons and Hebrew grammars were written by Christian scholars.