Southern Jewish Life INSIDE:
Roll of Honor
October/November 2026 Volume 36 Issue 5
Southern Jewish Life P.O. Box 130052 Birmingham, AL 35213
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
shalom y’all Four years ago, we celebrated the end of silly season — also known as primary elections — by noting that the political ads were interchangeable. Every True Republican, as we wrote, was a “fierce, unwavering Trump supporter, the Christian conservative protecting babies from the time of conception and post-birth children from LGBTQXYZ folks in school bathrooms, and who will personally escort illegal immigrants back to the border while totin’ whatever looks good from the personal armory that day.” Rather than address actual issues in a rational way. Well, we now have an addition to the list, based on this year’s crop of campaigns: Keeping the South from going full-blown sharia. So let’s take a moment away from the barrage of being called Epstein-class tiny-hat genocidal baby killing puppet-masters, and push back against that. In Alabama, the main characters in the anti-jihad game were Wes Allen, who ran unsuccessfully for lieutenant governor, and Jay Mitchell, who was defeated in his bid for attorney general — the office that is supposed to protect everyone’s rights. Mitchell, who proposed a “Protect Alabama Plan” to “confront radical Islamic extremism,” ran commercials where he said “Stand with radical Islam? You can Allahu Akbar your butt all the way back to the Middle East.” Senator Tommy Tuberville, the Republican nominee for governor, posted a picture of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani — who admittedly has made himself an easy target based on his radical views — and a picture of September 11, with the caption “the enemy is inside the gates.” On the Senate floor, Tuberville has vowed to fight against sharia law. Then, in early August (as reported in our online site), Mississippi joined the chat as Assma Ali was appointed a municipal judge in Benoit, a tiny town in the Delta. From the reaction of many politicians, it was as if Dearborn, Michigan had been replicated in rural Mississippi, and she would be taking orders directly from the Iranian mullahs on how to rule on traffic tickets. Sure, Ali wears a hijab. The daughter of refugees from Yemen, she was born in the Unit-
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Publisher/Editor Lawrence Brook ed States and earned her law degree at that sharia hotbed known as Mississippi Christian University. In her decade as an immigration attorney she has received a laundry list of awards and recognitions, and apparently has a great reputation in the legal community. But that is irrelevant to politicians who see an opportunity to use identity for political pandering. Where have we seen that story before? Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gibson, running for governor, has said he would ban sharia law on his first day in office. Sen. Michael McClendon, whose district is 100 miles from Benoit, demanded Ali’s removal from the bench, and said “I believe in God we trust not Mohamed.” He also railed against a new mosque in Horn Lake, saying mosques “can function as a military center, a weapons-storage facility.” Horn Lake ain’t Gaza City. There are no plans to launch rockets at downtown Memphis. As we go to press, a similar panic is being fomented about a new mosque in Auburn. It is worth reminding everyone that in Israel, which has had some.… issues… with radical Islam, there are over 400 mosques in operation, with some governmental financial support, serving the 20 percent of Israeli citizens who are Muslim. If you seek medical care in Israel, there’s a very good chance you’ll be seeing a Muslim, as they comprise far more than 20 percent in many medical fields today. In the heart of the Bible Belt, we need to panic? Thankfully, there are grownups in the room, as the chair of Mississippi’s Republican party said on SuperTalk Mississippi that there was no basis to conclude that Ali was trying to introduce sharia law to Benoit. In general, sharia law is the Muslim equivalent of our halacha. We have our system of religious courts — they do not replace the civil court system, but in religious matters, or even in settling civil matters amongst ourselves, those courts do exist, and can be used voluntarily when both sides in a dispute agree to its jurisdiction. Kol Nidre is technically the convening of a religious court. A principle we have going back to the Talmud is that “dina d’malchuta dina,” the law of the land is the law, that as long as there is nothing in society goes against core morality, we are to be law-abiding citizens wherever we are. Muslims should have that freedom as well, and it should not be an issue. Only if, as has occasionally been the case, a community tries to impose sharia law to non-Muslims should there be any concern, though some things, like honor killings, certainly run afoul of civil law and need to be addressed. If there are attempts to impose sharia law to the overall community, that is certainly 4 October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
anti-American and should be opposed. But for most in the Muslim community, following their religious law is an internal affair. All this isn’t to say that there aren’t issues. Europe’s unfettered immigration and lack of efforts to integrate newcomers has led to cities with huge Muslim populations that feel free to flex their political muscles, and there have been attempts to impose their standards throughout those communities, Muslim or not. Also, a recent survey showed that 44 percent of U.S. Muslims have a favorable view of Hamas, which is quite troubling. And there certainly are videos of Friday sermons where imams call for replacing Western civilization with Islam, even using the language of infiltration. So a modicum of awareness is still needed, to keep an eye on bad actors. There are also serious concerns about Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated groups in the United States, and how they have been playing the long game to gain influence in academia and the media for nefarious purposes. For example, the Council on American Islamic Relations is far from a benign civil rights group, it is a pressure organization that promotes and excuses radicalism, and attacks anyone who questions it. Qatar, home of the Muslim Brotherhood, is pouring billions into U.S. universities and media outlets. But even with the knowledge that such groups exist, we can’t assume everyone is a bad actor. Not to mention what that does to the majority who simply want to live a normal life here, go to work, pay the bills and contribute to the overall society — and who also are no fans of the radicals, but don’t feel comfortable saying anything because they, too, are being attacked. There was one other troubling thread to the recent controversies that seemed to say the quiet part out loud. During the campaign, Allen attacked opponent John Wahl, who wound up winning the primary, for visiting the Anniston Islamic Center during Ramadan. It is common for mosques in our area to open their doors to the community, holding interfaith gatherings to educate people about the Muslim community. Allen said he would never have anything to do with an Islamic center and wanted “no part in Islam.” Wahl’s response was troubling in its own manner. He rightly pointed out that he was attending a community interfaith gathering, “not a celebration of Ramadan,” and there were dozens of elected officials and candidates in attendance. But then he added that he was there to speak openly about his faith and values. “As a committed Christian, I will never hesitate
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agenda interesting bits & can’t miss events
Southern Jewry — The Next Generation: Every summer, the Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica does a group photo of campers who are the children, and at this point, grandchildren, of former Jacobs campers. Many alumni families now living outside the South bypass their own region’s camps to send their kids back to Mississippi for the summer.
Nola Federation’s Annual Campaign tops $3 million As the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans prepared for its 113th annual meeting on Sept. 3, it celebrated a milestone achievement. The 2026 Annual Campaign, which concluded on June 30, edged just over the $3 million mark, raising $3,000,451. The total is just a few thousand dollars short of the highest-ever campaign in the Federation’s history. The 2025 campaign raised $2,822,583, which was the highest total since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The 2025 Roll of Honor is published in this issue of Southern Jewish Life. “This tremendous achievement belongs to every donor, advocate, volunteer, and community partner who chose to invest in our shared future,” said Federation CEO Sherri Tarr. According to the Federation, there were 216 increased gifts, and 127 first-ever gifts to the campaign, accounting for $350,134. The campaign was chaired by Jacqueline Stern and Jonathan Schlackman. As part of the campaign, in May, the Federation set another record with its performance during GiveNOLA Day, an online fundraiser involving close to 1,000 nonprofits. For the first time ever, the Federation was the top earner overall, with $324,351, shattering their previous high of $222,000 in 2021. Super Sunday, held on March 22, blew past its $100,000 goal, raising over $160,000. Tarr said the support sends “a powerful message,” that “We will continue to show up for one another, ensuring that our beloved community remains vibrant, resilient, and secure for the next generation of Jewish
New Orleans.” Funds from the campaign go toward strengthening local Jewish institutions and bolstering Jewish life, assisting causes in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world, and responding to current security challenges.
Mishkan Israel gets state historic grant Temple Mishkan Israel in Selma has been awarded a $75,000 Education Trust Fund Historic Sites Grant from the Alabama Historical Commission. This investment will support the next phase of preserving the 126-year-old historic building, which will continue to be used as a Jewish venue, but will also be a site for field trips, civil rights tourism, and a community center for a wide range of programs. Mishkan Israel is planning to hold a community Shabbat on Jan. 8. “We are grateful to the Alabama Historical Commission and the Alabama Legislature for their commitment to protecting Alabama’s historic places and investing in communities across our state,” said Stephanie Butler, director of community programs at Mishkan Israel. “We look forward to sharing updates as this project moves forward!” October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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agenda Limmud NOLA, Anshe Sfard centennial announced for same February day February 28 is going to be a busy day in New Orleans. Limmud New Orleans announced that the next Limmud day of Jewish learning will be on Feb. 28 at the Uptown Jewish Community Center, while Anshe Sfard announced that a gala celebrating the centennial of its building will be that evening. This year, Limmud was held on March 8, featuring over 30 presentations between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., from the Talmud to challah making, politics to the arts, interfaith relations to Jewish history. Presenters, many of whom are from outside the New Orleans area, and local organizers are all volunteers. Limmud is designed to bring together the entire Jewish community, from religious to secular, knowledgeable to newly-learning, with the idea that everyone has something they can teach. Organizers are taking proposals from those who want to lead a session in 2027.
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Anshe Sfard is launching its Restoration Fundraiser with the gala, and ticket commitments for the gala can be spread out over three years. Ticket levels start at $540 for an individual, $1,000 for two tickets, and go to $18,000 at the Legacy Builder level. Levels starting at $3600 include eight tickets. The evening will include a gourmet kosher dinner catered by Dvash, and the New Orleans Klezmer All-Stars. Artie Bennet, author of “The Tenth Man,” will do a reading of his children’s book that features Anshe Sfard. There will also be a multi-media presentation with the reading. A new documentary about Anshe Sfard by Yuvla Media, a national production company specializing in Chabad-related stories, will also debut during the evening. Anshe Sfard was organized in the late 1800s as Agudath Achim Anshe Sfard by Lithuanian Jews, dedicating its first synagogue in 1900. The current building, designed by Emile Weil, was finished in 1926, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The small congregation is the last remnant of the old Dryades Street Jewish neighborhood, and the only synagogue within reasonable walking distance from downtown hotels. As a small congregation with an older building, there are many preservation and restoration needs to be addressed, and numerous additional naming opportunities are available. In 2016, Rabbi Yochanan Rivkin took over leadership of the congregation.
“Maccabiah Y’all” celebrates area athletes This past summer, there were several athletes from the South that participated in the World Maccabiah Games in Israel. The Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience is partnering with Maccabi USA on a virtual program, “Maccabiah Y’all,” to celebrate local athletes who competed. Hosted by Arnie Fielkow and Donna Orender, the Nov. 4 event will include welcomes from representatives of Maccabi World Union, Maccabi USA, and MSJE. Fielkow, former executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, has been involved with the Maccabi movement since 1997, and is currently the associate treasurer. Orender, a former professional basketball player who was president of the WNBA from 2005 to 2010, is on the Maccabi board. During Covid, Fielkow and Orender hosted a series of interview shows online for the Maccabi movement. Registration is required for the 6 p.m. program. 6 October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Temple Sinai hosting Kristallnacht concert In commemoration of Kristallnacht, Temple Sinai in New Orleans is hosting a community concert, “Shattered Glass: Unbroken Voices,” Nov. 8 at 4 p.m. The concert is free and open to the community, and a reception will follow. Kristallnacht, the “Night of Broken Glass,” was when Nazis attacked synagogue, Jewish businesses and homes in November 1938 in a major escalation of anti-Jewish persecution. The New Orleans Chamber Orchestra, led by conductors Maxim Samarov and Phillip Larroque, will perform with Meg Frazier, director of the Loyola Chorale, and Temple Sinai Cantor Rebecca Garfein, and Cantor Emeritus Joel Colman. The program will be the New Orleans debut of Eric Zeisl’s “Requiem Ebraica,” a setting of Psalm 92 which was composed in 1944 for an interfaith Thanksgiving service at First Methodist Church in Hollywood. But as Zeisl composed it, he learned that his father, Sigmund, and other members of his family had been taken by the Nazis and murdered. His father had been sent to Terezin, then murdered at Treblinka. His composition became a memorial to his father and family, and other victims of the Holocaust. Zeisl was becoming a noted composer in Austria in the early 1930s, but after Kristallnacht, he and his wife quickly emigrated to Paris, then left for the United States in late 1939. After a brief time in New York, he was attracted to Hollywood by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. In addition to writing concert music for orchestra, ballets and chamber music, Ziesl wrote 21 film scores, including “The Postman Always Rings Twice” and “Lassie Come Home.” “We are most honored that Zeisl’s magnificent and poignant work will, appropriately, have its New Orleans debut in the historical Sanctuary of Temple Sinai,” Garfein said.
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CJFS hosts community caregiving panel Birmingham’s Collat Jewish Family Services is among the sponsors of a community conversation, “When Caregiving Becomes Yours.” The program will include clips of Bradley Cooper’s “Caregiving” documentary project, and a panel of local experts discussing the caregiving journey and giving practical guidance on managing stress and finding support. The panel, on Nov. 8 at 2:30 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center, will be moderated by Susana Schuler, president and general manager of WVTM-TV. Panelists include author Renee Harmon, parental caregiver Anoop Mishra, and CJFS dementia care practitioner Pam Leonard. The event is free and open to the community, registration is required through CJFS. October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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agenda Fifty years of running before turkeys Sam Lapidus Montclair Run at Birmingham’s Levite Jewish Community Center hits milestone One of Alabama’s biggest Thanksgiving traditions is set to take to the streets for the 50th time this year. Birmingham’s Levite Jewish Community Center will host the annual Sam Lapidus Montclair Run on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 26. What began as a small neighborhood run with a few hundred participants has grown into a major event with over 1,700 runners and walkers. Erin Bodden, senior development director at the LJCC, said registration has been up by 20 percent this year, in anticipation of the anniversary. The event raises money for the LJCC and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama. Last year’s race raised $12,711 for the cancer center. The run was renamed in 2009, a year after Sam Lapidus died just days before his 15th birthday. He was a regular in organized sports and working out at the LJCC, despite his fight against Ewing sarcoma. The main run consists of 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer options on a USATF certified course, starting at 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 26. There will be a one-mile Fun Run at 9:40 a.m. Packet pickup will be on Nov. 25 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., or starting at 7 a.m. on race day. Bodden said that this year, there will be a sweatshirt alternative to the traditional race shirt, “a throwback that we hope people who have been involved with the race for decades will enjoy.” In the early years, sweatshirts were given out. To guarantee a 50th anniversary shirt, registration should be made by Nov. 10. After that, shirts will be available on a first come, first served basis. Holiday costumes are encouraged, and there will be prizes for Best Dressed and Most Creative. Runners can do their own fundraising for the event, or organize a fundraising team. Registration is $36 for the 5K, $42 for the 10K, and $20 for the onemile fun run. Absentee “Friends of Sam” registration is $36. There is also a processing fee for the online platform.
UAB, AHEC present Kristallnacht lecture on Holocaust diaries The Alabama Holocaust Education Center, in partnership with the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of History, will present Alexandra Garbarini at this year’s Kristallnacht Commemorative Lecture. Garbarini, professor of History and Jewish Studies at Williams College, will present “Holocaust Diaries: Memory, History, Testimony” on Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. at the UAB National Alumni Society House. Garbarini has been researching Holocaust diaries for decades. She will discuss how widespread the practice was among European Jews of all ages, and how studying Holocaust diaries can help keep alive the history and lessons of the Holocaust, and the voices of its victims. The lecture is free, but registration is required. Earlier in the day, she will take part in the AHEC’s annual Kristallnacht teacher workshop, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. She will lead two sessions, and there will also be sessions with UAB History Professor Jonathan Wiesen, and Alabama Holocaust Commission Chair Dan Puckett, who is a professor of history at Troy University. 8
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
agenda From Texas to Israel and back Benji Lovitt to appear at Shir Chadash Shir Chadash in Metairie will welcome comedian Benji Lovitt for a scholar in residence weekend. A Dallas native, Lovitt went to Israel on a Young Judaea trip at age 15, then worked at the Israeli Consulate in Atlanta. In 2006, he moved to Israel. In 2009, he did standup comedy in six U.S. cities about adjusting to life in Israel, and has continued to perform ever since. In August, he announced that he was moving back to Texas and after years of being self-employed, mostly doing comedy appearances outside Israel, he would be holding down a full-time job for the first time since 2009, becoming the director of communications for Camp Young Judaea. He is also the co-author of “Israel 201: Your Next Level Guide to the Magic, Mystery and Chaos of Life in the Holy Land.” On Nov. 13, Shabbat services will be at 6:15 p.m., followed by a Kahn-gregational dinner, which is free, but reservations are required. During the Nov. 14 service, he will speak on “Loving the Imperfect: Isaac, Israel and Us.” After lunch, he will lead “If You Will It… Then What?”, an interactive program. Both events on Nov. 14 are open to the community, no reservation needed. On Nov. 15 at 11:30 a.m., there will be a lunch, followed by a talk about his new book, “Israel 201.” He will do some of his standup comedy, and do a presentation about dark humor. A book signing will follow. Reservations are $36. Books will be available through Octavia, and a portion of the book proceeds will go to Shir Chadash. For programs with reservations, deadline is Nov. 9.
On Sept. 29, the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce joined Sea Shul for a ribbon cutting in Seaside marking the congregation’s third anniversary. A reception followed in the sukkah.
Noted Israeli journalist to speak at Gates of Prayer just after the elections Just a couple weeks after the Israeli elections, Gates of Prayer in Metairie will host An Evening with Haviv Rettig Gur, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. Gur is a senior analyst at The Times of Israel and a Middle East analyst for The Free Press. A Jerusalem native, he lived in the U.S. from 1989 to 1999, returning to Israel to serve as a combat medic. He then was director
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of communications for the Jewish Agency, then was Jewish world correspondent for the Jerusalem Post. He has covered Israeli politics, Israel’s place in the region, and its relationship with Diaspora Jewry for 20 years, reporting from more than 20 countries. He also teaches at Israel’s pre-military academies, where young Israelis prepare for army service. He is also host of the Ask Haviv Anything podcast. Rabbi David Gerber said Gur “gives you the history underneath the headline, and he takes both Israel’s critics and its defenders seriously.” Reservations for the evening are available through the Gates of Prayer website. There will also be a one-hour reception and discussion with Gur at 6 p.m. for donors contributing at least $500 to Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. The Mobile Area Jewish Federation announced on July 28 that Ben Bloom, who recently became executive director, has had to step down “due to circumstances requiring his attention.” President Joseph Metz said “Although his time with us was brief, Ben helped breathe new life into our Federation and brought renewed energy and enthusiasm to our work.” He also said that several board members, including newer ones, are stepping up to continue the Federation’s work. The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans announced that its 2026 Annual Celebration will be on Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. The Jewish Federation of Central Alabama will have its annual meeting on Nov. 16 at 5:45 p.m.
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Dothan’s Temple Emanu-El will have a Jewish Folklore After Dark “spooky Shabbat” on Oct. 30 after the 7 p.m. Shabbat service. The “deliciously dark Oneg” will include a discussion of the stranger aspects of Jewish folklore. The New Orleans Jewish Community Center will hold its annual gala, “Mod About the J: Celebrating 60 Years” on Nov. 7 at 7 p.m., Uptown. The evening will celebrate the building’s 60th anniversary, with a 1960s theme. Birmingham’s Knesseth Israel is introducing a Second Saturday Night Havdalah, with hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and soft drinks. The gatherings began on Oct. 10, and start time through the year adjusts with sunset, from 6 p.m. on Nov. 14, Dec. 12 and Jan. 9, to 9:15 p.m. on June 12 and July 10 next summer. Reserve through the KI office. The Louise Hayem Manheim Gates Preschool in Metairie has introduced Mother’s Day Out, for ages 16 months to 4 years, half-day early learning program with experiential learning, enrichment activities and community. It is available from 7:45 to 11:45 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Hadassah New Orleans will have a presentation, “So you bought yourself an orchid — now what?” with Susan Goss. The pot luck brunch will be on Nov. 8 at 10:30 a.m., location given upon registration. Open to members and prospective members. The Unified Jewish Congregation of Baton Rouge will hold its 18th annual Turkey Train on Nov. 8 at 11:15 a.m. The annual effort delivers turkeys for families in need to St. Vincent de Paul. Congregants can participate by donating $28 per turkey by Nov. 1, with Matherne’s Market downtown providing a discount for the effort, or by bringing a frozen turkey on Nov. 8. No frozen turkeys can be accepted in advance. On Nov. 8, the turkey train will load the turkeys for delivery to St. Vincent de Paul. continued on page 32
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
community Blue Star returning to family ownership Historic N.C. Jewish summer camp caught up in collapse of company that had stakes in 22 camps After a tumultuous summer that involved a part-owner of Blue Star Camps filing bankruptcy, the Hendersonville, N.C. camp will celebrate its 80th birthday next year back under full family control. On June 4, Simad Holdings, which consists of brothers Michael and David Shabsels, filed corporate and personal bankruptcy. The group had owned 22 overnight for-profit summer camps, mostly with a Jewish emphasis, and eight day camps, mostly in the northeast. They also have extensive retail properties and office buildings. According to the Popkin family, which founded Blue Star in 1948 and is in its third generation of family ownership under Lauren Popkin Herschthal and Seth Herschthal, Simad Holdings became an investment partner several years ago, but the group was not involved in any day-today management of camp operations, and the camp was supported by its own resources. This summer’s operations at the camps were largely unaffected. During the bankruptcy reorganization process, the court approved credit for Blue Star regarding repair work on a dam. An auction of the Simad properties’ camp ownership stakes was held in late July, bringing in $368.3 million, well above the camps’ reported appraised values of just under $300 million. Many of the properties were purchased back by their current operators. Four properties were approved for private sales of $71.7 million. The Blue Star transaction was listed at $15 million. A note to Blue Star families following the sale said the agreement was on terms the family sought and returns full camp ownership to the family, in partnership with a small group of family and friends. “Our camp’s legacy is secure and in the hands of those who have stewarded it since its founding in 1948.” While many of the auction results brought relief to families and alumni of the various camps, one surprise was how Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav’s Grandview Ventures was outbid for his children’s luxury summer camp, Mohawk Day Camp. He had offered $68 million, but a private investment firm grabbed it for $120.8 million. Some observers say that emotions tied to summer camps, along with the very short time frame of the sale, led to “passion bidding” and groups overpaying. There was also concern that if the process dragged out, the uncertainty would affect Summer 2027 enrollment, since many families sign up at the end of camp for the following summer. According to Blue Star, all 2027 enrollment funds are currently placed in a secure escrow account held outside the bankruptcy process, and after the process finalizes with the bankruptcy court in the coming weeks, the new camp entity will have access to the funds. The Herschthals could not comment further while the process plays out in court. Last December, Simad raised $195 million on Israel’s bond market, securing the bonds with assets of 13 of the camps. Blue Star was not one of those camps. In the bankruptcy filing, it was shown that the Shabsels owed $344 million, including $200 million in the Israeli bond issue. In late May, it was revealed that Simad had transferred $34 million into the Shabsels’ other real estate companies, supposedly “inadvertently.” The audit committee sought repayment of the amount, plus interest at the bonds’ rate, which the brothers said they would do. They later admitted that they could not, and Simad missed its payment to the bondholders. The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange halted trading in the bonds after the value collapsed by 38 percent in one day and Israel’s bond rating agency designated it default-level.
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As we welcome a new year, we celebrate the stories, traditions, and moments that bring us together. L’Shanah Tovah! Wishing our friends and family a happy, healthy, and beautiful New Year.
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community The company also had engaged in several high-interest merchant cash advances, where repayment is automatically debited weekly from the company’s bank accounts. The Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation, as it appears the brothers double-pledged assets. The Israel Securities Agency has also opened an inquiry. The affected camps are all for profit and not affiliated with any Jewish organizational movement. Camps such as the Ramah camps of the Conservative movement, including Ramah Darom in Georgia, or the Union for Reform Judaism camps that include Henry S. Jacobs in Mississippi or Coleman in Georgia, are non-profit camps, as are Jewish Community Center camps like Barney-Medintz in Georgia, or Camp Judaea in North Carolina. The Foundation for Jewish Camp works with over 345 non-profit camps in North America, and New Orleans-based Jewish Children’s Regional Service’s summer camp scholarships are exclusively for attending non-profit camps. Meanwhile, Blue Star is recruiting for next summer and planning an 80th anniversary celebration of its legacy as the first Jewish-oriented summer camp in the Southeast. The alumni and family weekend will be held over Memorial Day in 2027.
Psychiatric exam ordered for Pittman in arson case
On Aug. 25, U.S. Magistrate Judge LaKeysha Greer Isaac ruled that the suspect in January’s arson of Beth Israel in Jackson would undergo a psychiatric evaluation. Mike Scott, the fed-eral public defender for Stephen Spencer Pittman, had filed a request the previous week, stating that “this undefined mental disease makes the defendant unable to understand the nature of the proceedings against him or participate in possible plea negotiations.” Greer Isaac said a federal facility would conduct the review, including “the defendant’s his-tory and present symptoms; a description of the mental health examination tests that were administered and their results; the examiner’s findings; the examiner’s opinions as to diag-nosis, prognosis, and whether the defendant is suffering from a mental disease or defect rendering him mentally incompetent.” Pittman is charged with breaking in to Beth Israel on Jan. 10 and setting the lobby on fire, us-ing an accelerant. He faces federal and state arson charges, and has been held at the Forrest County Jail. On July 15, U.S. District Court Judge Henry Wingate in Jackson had granted a motion to con-tinue Pittman’s trial. The federal trial was slated to begin on Aug. 3, but will now be during the October 2026 term of court. 12
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community
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Marcus Foundation makes $2.25 million gift to Jacobs Camp campaign The Bernie Marcus Foundation has made a $2.25 million commitment to the Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica, one of the largest gifts in the camp’s history. The Reform movement’s camp in Mississippi serves Deep South communities, and children of alumni from all over the country. The gift, part of the $18 million “Our Camp. Our Home. Our Future” capital campaign, will advance two major components of the overall project. It will establish and name the Bernie Marcus Beit Am, a new gathering space in the middle of the camp, and will go toward the renovation and modernization of the dining hall. The Beit Am, Hebrew for “house of the people,” is envisioned as a central “living room” designed to strengthen community, inspire connection, and enrich camp life for generations to come. It will provide housing for the camp director and leadership team, and have spaces for small camper groups to meet for mentoring and leadership development. The dining hall is seen as “the communal heart of camp,” for more than just meals. It is a place for song sessions, performances, Shabbat celebrations and other milestone events. The planned renovations will improve accessibility, modernize infrastructure, increase op-erational efficiency, and create enhanced spaces for gathering and celebration. The dining hall was originally built for 350 campers, but now serves over 400 daily. Jacob Fijman, development director for the camp, said the Marcus gift “represents far more than an investment in buildings. It is a profound investment in the future of Jewish life in the Deep South.” A new Lake-front Pavilion opened this summer, and half of the camper cabins were renovated over the past year. The Bernie Marcus Foundation was formed in 1989 by the Home Depot co-founder. It has given over $2.7 billion in grants, and Marcus set up the foundation to “sunset,” spending down its assets no later than 20 years after his death. Marcus died on Nov. 4, 2024.
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There are many ways to support Israel and its people, but none is more transformative than a gift to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency services system. Your gift to MDA isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them — providing critical care and hospital transport for everyone from victims of heart attacks to rocket attacks. Donate today at MagenDavidAdom.org or call 866.632.2763.
The proposed Bernie Marcus Beit Am. October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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community Sarah Lewis Health Center dedicated at Jacobs in memory of “everyone’s camp mom” In her 51 short years, Sarah Lazarus Lewis was a constant presence at the Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica. Now, her legacy will continue with the dedication of the camp’s Sarah Lewis Health Center in her memory. A ceremony was held on June 20 with family, friends and Camp Committee members spending Shabbat at camp. Lewis, who died in March 2025 after a short battle with cancer, was born in Denver but grew up in New Orleans. Jacobs Camp was her “happiest place,” as she spent the summers of 1983 to 1992 there as a camper, and then on staff. Her oldest friend group from there was known as the “Camp Girls,” who years later would still meet up for a group trip every summer. She met her husband, Jeff, at camp in 1991. Their three children, Jessica, Rebecca and Eli, all went to Jacobs as campers from Memphis, and then on staff. She served on the Camp Com-
Sarah Lewis’ husband and children at the dedication
Celebrating Shabbat at Jacobs Camp
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mittee and would spend two weeks there every summer, helping organize and becoming “everyone’s camp mom.” When Camp Director Anna Herman was a camper, she had Lewis as a counselor. When she became camp director, she quickly learned that not only was Lewis helpful, “I could not run camp without her” because of all the projects she would tackle. In a remembrance after Lewis died, Herman said that “’Sarah Lewis’ became a verb at Jacobs Camp” because of how she kept things organized. “Sarah was truly the queen.” One of her closest friends, Rabbi Judith Siegal, who is also a first cousin, helped coordinate the weekend. In her d’var Torah, she spoke about the destruction of Korach’s rebellion, but noted that he was correct in asserting that the entire community is holy. “Perhaps there is no place where we understand that truth more clearly than at camp,” the Jacobs alumna said. With so many Jacobs campers coming from small communities where they were isolated Jewishly, camp was a place to discover Judaism was “not something we carried alone.” Lewis “understood the holiness of this place because camp was woven into the fabric of her life… It was where her Jewish identity, her family story and her deepest relationships came together.”
community The aftermath of Korach shows that life can blossom again after devastation, Siegal said. “Memory can become blessing,” and “long into the future, children who never had the privilege of knowing Sarah will be protected and nurtured in a place that bears her name.” The dedication was part of a busy summer at Jacobs Camp, as projects come on line from the ongoing $18 million capital campaign. This summer, the new Lakeside Pavilion opened, half of the camper cabins were renovated with the other half coming this year, and the performing arts center was dedicated. Upcoming projects will include a new Beit Am, and renovations to the kitchen and dining hall.
Fried honors Women of Reform Judaism in naming gift for Performing Arts Center
Shanah Tovah U’Metukah! Traditions are sweeter when shared. From Rosh Hashanah to the meal that breaks the fast, we’re honored to be part of your celebrations.
As the second session of Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica got underway in early July, a delegation from Gates of Prayer in Metairie arrived, along with representatives of the Women of Reform Judaism, to celebrate the official naming of the Women of Reform Judaism–Southwest Jacobs Performing Arts Center. The naming came about from a major gift from Joanne Fried, and she chose to name the building in honor of the region’s Sisterhood. The group toured camp, met with staff and campers, and joined them for lunch. At the dedication, Jacobs Camp Director Anna Herman said Fried “would much rather talk about the impact of this space than about herself, so I’ll start with impact,” then described how Fried’s philanthropy has always been rooted in strengthening Jewish life and ensuring that future generations have opportunities to grow, connect, lead and thrive. Herman also spoke about how camp shaped her own Jewish journey, which led her back to camp as a professional. Paige Gerber, daughter of Gates of Prayer Rabbi David Gerber, spoke about Fried being a constant presence at Gates of Prayer, but whose influence goes far beyond the congregation, including helping countless children attend Jewish camp through the GoCamp program, championing women’s voices in Jewish learning, creating leadership opportunities, and making spaces like the congregation’s Fried Center possible. “Jewish life here is stronger because of Joanne Fried,” Gerber said. “I’m honored to have a strong woman like Miss Joanne to look up to.” Rabbi Robert Loewy, rabbi emeritus at Gates of Prayer, spoke about the daughters of Zelopchad, who stood up for women’s rights of inheritance while the Israelites wandered in the desert after the Exodus. That story had been read the previous Shabbat, and he spoke of how it reflects the enduring leadership of WRJ, and Fried’s commitment to strengthening Jewish life. Karen Sim, national president of WRJ also spoke, and Aaron Rothko did a closing song. The Performing Arts Center is where campers celebrate Shabbat, perform on stage and discover their talents.
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Heather Johnston, founder of USIEA, speaks at the Israel Bonds dinner in Birmingham.
Building Israel in different ways Israel Bonds honors USIEA founder Heather Johnston, board chair Bruce Pearl at Birmingham event
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At the Israel Bonds dinner in Birmingham on May 7, Southeast Bonds chair Jimmy Filler said “I have stood before you so many times, and I have been so blessed over five decades to honor so may special people on behalf of Israel Bonds,” but this event was “super special, because we are honoring a Christian and a Jew together, who unconditionally love Israel.” Heather Johnston and Bruce Pearl, who lead the Birmingham-based U.S.-Israel Education Association, were honored for a long list of accomplishments to strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship, and to improve life in the region. Pearl, the former men’s basketball coach at Auburn University, chairs the USIEA board, while Johnston is the organization’s founder and president. Johnston and her husband, Bruce, who run the JH Ranch spiritual retreat center in California, met Ron Nachman, then mayor of Ariel, while visiting Israel in 1997. As the town in Samaria was then absorbing an influx of immigrants from the former Soviet Union, the Johnstons organized numerous ways to assist. They urged Nachman to establish a national leadership center in Ariel, modeled after their center in California, and after he visited JH Ranch, he finally agreed. JH Israel’s National Leadership Center opened in 2010. It promotes leadership lessons from Biblical figures and Jewish history, with the curriculum designed by Israel’s Ministry of Education. While deepening the relationship with Ariel, Johnston realized that because U.S. Congressional delegations did not visit the territories, they get an incomplete view of the situation in Israel. While AIPAC brings new senators and representatives to Israel, Johnston focused on senior leaders, with an emphasis on going beyond the pre-1967 Green Line. The first trip, in late 2011, included House Speaker Eric Cantor. The five participants all were on the House Armed Services Committee, none had been in the territories. While they met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Johnston urged him to declassify the new Iron Dome long enough for the delegation to become the first U.S. officials to see the defensive system. After some prodding, he did, they saw Iron Dome at a
community base near Ashkelon, and the next year those representatives helped triple the funding for Iron Dome. Subsequent delegations viewed the next phases of Israel’s missile defense, with the visits followed by increased U.S. support. USIEA has added several other initiatives through the years. Ariel is a hub of coexistence, with a large representation of Muslim students at Ariel University, and industrial parks where Israelis and Palestinians have joint business projects and work together in the factories. The organization has pushed for direct efforts to promote joint business ties, as a way to sow seeds for peace, and to go around the Palestinian leadership. They have worked with Sheikh Ashraf Jabari of Hebron, who advocates for economic ties. There is also a USIEA initiative to develop a new curriculum for Gaza and Palestinian areas, as the curriculum under the United Nations, funded by Western nations, is filled with anti-Israel and anti-Jewish incitement. Another initiative is “friendshoring,” as the Covid crisis demonstrated how dependent the U.S. is on China for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. USIEA successfully pushed for the establishment of an FDA office in the Middle East to enable the shifting of pharmaceutical manufacturing to Abraham Accords countries, a tangible benefit of peace and cooperation. Pearl joined the USIEA board in 2021, becoming chair after retiring from coaching. Johnston and Pearl are frequently in Washington, lobbying for their various initiatives, and often appear on cable news channels giving perspective on current events in the Middle East. The dinner was held at Chabad, and Filler noted that all five of the community’s rabbis were in attendance. Harold Ripps started the tribute to Pearl by stating “there is nobody who is a sports personality, that could be a bigger advocate of the Jewish people than Bruce Pearl.” “There are leaders who can command a room with their voice, and there are leaders who inspire their community through their convictions,” he said. Pearl is “unapologetic… in an era where many Jews remain quiet, Bruce chooses to be loud and proud.” Pearl “has used his platform to fight antisemitism, to mentor young athletes,” teaching them “that our strength comes from our unity and our faith. He doesn’t just talk about repairing the world, he lives it.” Pearl started his remarks by wondering if there were really five rabbis in the room. Being a basketball coach, “I’ve been coaching on the
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community Sabbath, so I’ve not done a good job” of keeping Shabbat. “I’m doing a way better job now that I’m not coaching,” and the same goes for studying Torah and being in prayer. He marveled at being praised for simply doing what he is supposed to be doing. “When I get thanked for doing my job, at Auburn winning championships… when all I’m trying to do is keep a job and get into heaven.” Pearl said he was born in Boston in 1960, “and the great advantage of being born at that time was it was 15 years after the gates were opened, and as a kid, I learned that 6 million of my brothers and sisters were murdered, just cause they went to a temple… Try to wrap your arms around that, when you’re a kid.” His grandparents were survivors, leaving most of the family behind and wondering why they were the ones who got to make the trip. “They made sure their grandson knew that this was the greatest country in the world. This country saved my family’s lives.” He added that pretty much everyone in the room has a similar story of “how this country saved somebody in your family, to allow you to work your ass off and live the American dream.” Pearl said “we have a blessing of living in the best of times,” even with the rise in antisemitism. “I understand there are some real challenges. Trust me, I’ve lived it through my entire career. There were three Jewish basketball coaches that played in the Final Four last year. Don’t tell me this isn’t the greatest country in the world. We had to go through obstacles, but they weren’t roadblocks to our success. Now, what’s gonna happen for our kids?” He said he could not imagine being a husband or father and being unable to protect his family, “but just 80 years ago we found ourselves in that position.” While Israel says we don’t have to worry about that sort of thing happening again, “what are we going to do to see that we will never find ourselves in that time again?” He said whatever one’s passion for supporting Israel and Judaism, one needs to keep doing more. He noted that from 1957 to 1959, his mother was a secretary for Israel Bonds in Massachusetts, and would be proud to see her son honored by the organization. Last year, Pearl used his platform and stood publicly for Israel, during the team’s run to the Final Four of the NCAA Basketball Tournament. After the win against Creighton to reach the Sweet Sixteen, he and a few Auburn players were celebrating through Rupp Arena on the way to the press conference, and he was thanking God, but had a reflection not unlike the breaking of a glass at a Jewish wedding. He said one explanation of that ritual is to remember at a time of great joy that “one of our brothers or sisters is in pain.” He said God told 18
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community him, in the corridors of the arena, to mention the name of Edan Alexander, who at the time was held captive by Hamas in Gaza. Alexander was from Tenafly, N.J. He told his players what just happened and he felt called to say something, but he did not want to take away from their special moment. Pearl said they told him, “say his name.” One player, Tahaad Pettiford, was especially insistent, as he was also from New Jersey. Soon after the press conference, Alexander’s father called Pearl to thank him. “Don’t thank me, are you kidding me?” he reacted. He invited the Alexanders to the Sweet Sixteen rounds in Atlanta, to sit with his wife, so they would be on CBS, where 22 million people would hear Alexander’s name and learn about an American held hostage. “That’s exactly what happened.” A month later, Alexander became the only hostage who was released without a prisoner exchange. Before Filler spoke about Johnston, Pearl did his own introduction of “one of Birmingham’s best-kept secrets.” He first became involved in the organization when he went to Israel and saw JH Israel and the national leadership center. He had heard of the organization and “kind of thought it was a Christian organization, it was faith-based.” On the trip, every morning and every night Johnston was teaching and ministering, “teaching us connections between a Christian’s faith and Judaism.” He said she was being “a coach, bringing people together. That’s my job.” He reflected, “Everybody has to hear this message. Jewish people have to hear this message. Christians have to hear this message.” He said “religion can divide us. God, Jerusalem and Israel unite us. It is the birthplace of all faiths.” Pearl said evangelical Christians “are standing with Israel,” and these days, “we are kind of running out of friends, and we’re kind of running
out of places to go. So I think we as a Jewish people need to embrace those who are willing to embrace and stand with us.” He concluded by urging investment in Israel Bonds, but also in “your Jewish passion.” In his presentation to Johnston, Filler noted that USIEA was “bringing our Christian brothers and sisters to stand with the Jewish people and Israel, while the bad guys keep chanting ‘death to Israel, death to America’.” For the last 25 years, Filler said, Johnston “wakes up and does her best for Israel, unwavering and unconditional.” He read a tribute letter from Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, who said USIEA is “one of the most consequential bridges between our two democracies,” and the education Johnston provides to senior leaders in Congress “is not a luxury — it is a strategic necessity.” Leiter said JH Israel has become “a beacon for Israel’s next generation,” and has already served over 85,000 Israeli and Arab youth. “Israel has no greater honor than to call you a friend, and I have no greater privilege than to thank you for it.” Johnston said she grew up not far from Chabad in a very Jewish area, and using the Hebrew term for God, she said “Hashem helped me understand the importance of modern Israel, inside the Biblical prophecies and promises,” and that God changed her life and the life of her husband “so we could be giving a full-time presence to the U.S.-Israel relationship, to the Jewish-Christian relationship.” She thanked her mother for helping her start reading the Bible at age seven and helping her develop a close relationship with God. She detailed how the organization started, at that point she had never met a Congressional representative before. As the sole staff member, she said it was hard to imagine going out to the community “and convince people that I, Heather Johnston, should take the senior leaders of Con-
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community gress to Israel, and would you please give a lot of money” to make the trip happen? During Sukkot in 2013 she was organizing a trip for eight members of Congress, and the deadline was three days away to pay for the flights, but she did not have the money. “I was desperate,” she said, but Jeffrey Bayer connected her with Filler, who offered to meet her at lunch. “Full Moon Barbecue.” She related how she tried to convince the Fillers that she was the one to lead this type of trip, and “he looked at me, opened his checkbook and helped pay for those flights,” and “we would not be where we are today” without that. Johnston said the Jewish and Christian communities in the Birmingham area have been able “to bring forth an organization that is now really leading the way, pioneering the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship,” with a staff and constant presence on Capitol Hill. The organization has been able to get “extraordinary” legislation through, “and I believe because we are living under the smile of Hashem… we have needed this community in order to be able to do that.” One upcoming collaboration is on defensive lasers, the Iron Beam. A week earlier, they were meeting with the chairs of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, working on the collaboration between the U.S. and Israel on
the technology that will also go into the Golden Dome in the U.S. “That’s going to be the future, to deal with drones, missile defense.” She also had just spoken with House Speaker Mike Johnson about the near future after the Iran war, and a regional security alliance in the Middle East, with collaboration on technology, energy, infrastructure, food and water, and strengthening American influence “where China is not upsetting the balance.” She spoke of the first trip to see Iron Dome in 2011, citing a verse in Isaiah 60 that “foreigners will rebuild your walls of Israel. Their kings will serve you… the nation that will not serve you will perish and be utterly destroyed.” She said that verse went to her core “and helped us understand that the U.S.-Israel relationship is the relationship that is leading the world.” She concluded by saying that even though these are difficult times, “those who have the most hope in the world have the most influence… because God is a God of hope.” And God will fulfill the promise of Zechariah 8, that 10 men from the nations will take hold of the hem of the robe of a Jew and say “let us go with you for we can see that God is with you.” “We are seeing some of it,” she said, “we’re going to see more in the lives of the Jewish-Christian relationship.”
Bradley Young, executive director of the Southeast office of Israel Bonds in Atlanta, praised the Fillers for their years of leadership on behalf of Israel Bonds in Birmingham. Young said that since October 7, Israel Bonds has brought $6 billion in investment income to Israel. He said the Finance Ministry had asked Israel Bonds “to step up again this year by selling $2 billion in the U.S. for 2026,” about twice what is typical. “It is critical for the American Jewish and non-Jewish community to step up and invest.” He said that the state of Alabama had made a $4 million investment earlier this year, bringing the state’s total to $14 million since October 7. Israel Bonds provide a competitive interest rate, and can be purchased for all personal investment needs, including an IRA, for children or grandchildren, to a foundation or trust, or a business entity. The Birmingham Jewish Foundation runs an annual Israel Bonds drive, where donations to the Foundation for this purpose are pooled to acquire a larger, higher-yield bond. “We’ve got a long history of a very successful Bonds campaign here in the Birmingham community, Young concluded, “and with Jimmy’s help and all your participation, I’m sure we will continue that this year.”
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Southern Jewish Simchas Ritz-Carlton New Orleans It isn’t just that couples flock to The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans for dream weddings with a New Orleans flair — the Ritz-Carlton is also expert in Jewish weddings. Wyeth Metz, senior catering sales manager, said they provide a special room for the Ketubah signing and bedeken before the main ceremony, and also set aside a private room for Yichud, a space with food and drink where the bride and groom spend their first married moments together, by themselves as a couple, immediately after the ceremony and before going in to the reception. While a chuppah can be set up in any of the Ritz-Carlton’s event spaces, many weddings have been held underneath the wrought-iron gazebo in the lush outdoor courtyard. The Ritz-Carlton offers a variety of event spaces, with 34 event rooms and over 48,000 square feet available, with a Grand Ballroom that can hold up to 880. There are also two
Intercontinental New Orleans The Intercontinental Hotel New Orleans is a “Fein” place to host big events, simchas and other celebrations. In December of 2025, the downtown hotel hosted The Edward Fein Winter Student Seminar. The seminar is considered the premier program for “students to engage with the challenges and opportunities facing Israel and the Jewish people through the lens of texts, values and ideas.” The program, which started just after Chanukah, brought Hartman Institute scholars and more than 100 students from 55 colleges and universities across North America to New Orleans, to discuss democracy’s meaning for Jews today. Intercontinental Hotel New Orleans Marketing Director Gina Chimeno said the
B&A Warehouse The “B” in B&A Warehouse could easily stand for B’nai Mitzvah. The event facility in Birmingham’s Railroad Park hosted a sweet reception for Emelia Brobst’s (daughter of Jeff and Ilyse) candy bar-themed Bat Mitzvah on January 10. The celebration included candy-themed centerpieces and accents. Young adults enjoyed hamburgers and fries while the parents feasted on selections from a custom pasta bar as well as dessert shooters. Zoe Levine’s Bat Mitzvah in November 2024 included a glow-stick-themed reception with special musical entertainment from Atlanta. More than 200 people attended.
courtyards and the intimate Library Lounge. A French Quarter balcony is available for a memorable event, and for smaller events, the Residence Suite is available for overnight stays or outdoor events for up to 100 guests. The Residence, which opened in 2021, has two bedrooms, a living room, dining room and fully equipped kitchen, as well as an expansive private outdoor terrace for relaxation or entertaining overlooking the city. Kosher-style meals can be prepared in house, and certified-kosher meals can be ordered in. This fall, the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans received many honors and accolades, including the No. 2 Hotel in New Orleans and the No. 32 Hotel in the World in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Additionally, the hotel has recently been awarded One MICHELIN Key, a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating, and the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. Halloween, Thanksgiving and New Year’s events are now bookable. participants enjoyed seminars in the Hotel’s newly renovated event facilities. “Our banquet and catering teams worked under the direction and supervision of Rabbi Yossi Nemes (from Chabad Center of Metairie) to serve more than 1,400 kosher meals in true Cajun and Creole style,” said Chimeno. She said the renovations were done to the second floor meeting space in September of last year. The space consists of 10 function rooms totaling almost 13,000 square feet for gatherings of up to 200 people. Chimeno said they have begun guest room renovations to include new flooring, wall coverings, curtains, furniture, lighting and bedding. The hotel lobby will also be included in the renovations, which are expected to be completed by early 2027. Then in September 2024, the B&A hosted an Around the World-themed Bat Mitzvah for Meredith (Em) Washko — featuring food and cultural learning from several countries across the globe. Isla and Maren Graham opted for a Silent Disco for their B’not Mitzvah in May 2024. The event space, which can host up to 1,000 people for a stand-up reception, has several non-profit events on its calendar, including the Boo Halloween Party benefitting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Alabama. Coming in November and December, they will host Glasses Up for Down Syndrome and an event celebrating the JLab Birmingham Bowl. October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Southern Jewish Simchas
Events at Haven From B’nai Mitzvahs to cultural festivals, Events at Haven is a hub for celebrations in Birmingham’s Southside. Earlier this year, the venue celebrated its 10th anniversary of hosting unforgettable events. In August 2025, they hosted the Ukrainian Independence Festival, which included involvement from the Jewish Relief Network Ukraine and Southern Jewish Life. More than 500 people attended the festival, which included music, dances, poetry, history and foods from Ukraine. Events at Haven has hosted events for many non-profits, including the Alabama Ballet, Camp Smile A Mile, and Girls, Inc. They also provide the bar service for the Birmingham Folk Festival. The Birmingham Business Journal hosted its annual 40 Under 40 event at Haven earlier this year. In January 2027, they will host the Bat Mitzvah for Emily Friedman, daughter of Brad and Stephanie Friedman of City Paper Co. Haven opened in 2016 in a restored 1924 building that originally housed the Mack Truck Company. It was started by Milo’s Tea CEO Tricia Wallwork and her husband Troy, the CEO of DataPerk. “Troy and Tricia were born and raised here. They wanted a place that Birmingham could be proud of. This is their gift to the Birmingham community,” said Marketing Director Heather Roberts-Wood. Haven’s 20,000-square-foot space is versatile and can be arranged to accommodate as many as 1,500 people in standing-room celebration or a 900-patron seated dinner. A highlight for the folks at Haven is seeing how every celebration completely transforms their space into something special and unique.
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Southern Jewish Simchas Loews New Orleans Celebrations are plentiful in the Crescent City, and Loews New Orleans Hotel has hosted its share since opening in 2003 on Poydras Street. “New Orleans is a city fueled by creativity and inspiration — expressed through our cuisine, our music, and, most of all, the unmistakable cultural energy visitors feel the moment they arrive,” said Robert Reso, Director of Marketing at Loews New Orleans Hotel. “There is no such thing as a blank canvas here. Our vibrant surroundings form a rich tapestry that naturally sets the stage for organizations to launch bold ideas and new missions.” He added that many team members have been with the hotel since day one, and that the relationships built with returning guests have fostered a deep connection that has withstood life’s inevitable twists and turns. The Loews New Orleans Hotel features 285 guest rooms and suites. Reso said the hotel can work with groups ranging from 25 people to 250 for plated meals and 350 for
reception-style. Over the past couple years, Loews New Orleans Hotel has hosted several Jewish weddings and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs in its space, as well as room blocks. “Our restaurant, Poydras & Peters, is open for breakfast and nightly for dinner,” said Reso. “While we do not operate a separate kosher kitchen, we have partnered closely with Kosher Cajun New York Deli and Grocery for a number of events, and have worked with a rabbi to oversee ingredient sourcing and production.” He said the hotel has also hosted many events for non-profits and a lot of college graduations “thanks to our long-standing relationships with the local universities.” Reso said the hotel’s location in the CBD is ideal, near several cultural, dining and entertainment venues, with on-site valet parking. “We sit at the crossroads of art, history, music, and cuisine — the destination’s culture radiates outward like spokes of a wheel, with our property at the center,” he said.
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Fifth annual LJCC fundraiser boosts scholarships, support By Lee J. Green The J’la lit up the Levite Jewish Community Center’s Pizitz Auditorium on Aug. 27 with a night full of meaningful presentations and entertainment, raising more than $200,000 for scholarships, programs and for those in need. This year’s total for the Birmingham agency’s fifthyear fundraiser brings the total raised to more than $750,000. The gala’s proceeds will help remove financial barriers to such programs as the Cohn Early Childhood Learning Center preschool, summer camp, youth activities, swim lessons, wellness opportunities for seniors, first-responders and veterans. Mya Horne spoke about how her 8-year-old daughter Kai learned to swim at the LJCC Swim School, giving her the skills and confidence to join the dive team. “Your support tonight does more than subsidize pool time,” Horne said. “It lights the way for girls like Kai to build character, and it gives them the freedom to be bold.” “I’m so delighted to see a room full of people who believe in a vibrant Jewish life and the importance of having a community center that provides opportunities for everyone to engage and learn,” said LJCC Executive Director Brooke Bowles. This year’s J’La highlighted the theme, “Lighting the Way,” bringing together 215 supporters for gourmet kosher dining from Southern Graze; silent and live auctions; presentations from LJCC leaders and speeches from those who’ve been touched by the J’s generosity; entertainment from Magic City Disco and Eric McGinty. LJCC Board of Directors Chairman Steven Corenblum said the J’la is just another LJCC Executive Director Brooke Bowles shining example of how the
The newly redone courtyard was used for the J’la 24
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
J’s mission is connected to a timeless Jewish principle. “We believe very strongly in treating others as you would want to be treated,” said Corenblum. “It’s not just a beautiful idea, it’s our mission and it goes into everything we do here.” LJCC Board Member Allison Weil has been involved for many years with the LJCC and its programs. “The LJCC has provided such an important community for generations of our family and we want to ensure that continues for many generations,” said Weil. “It’s all about L’dor V’dor — one generation to the next.”
2025
Roll of Honor
Annual Campaign
The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans thanks the following donors to the 2025 Annual Campaign. Their generosity and commitment to the Jewish Community of Greater New Orleans continues to help our local constituents and beneficiaries do their important work, and to provide critical support for initiatives serving the global Jewish community. The total dollars raised for the 2025 Annual Campaign was $2,822,583, which is the most money raised since Hurricane Katrina. Without this Roll of Honor, our impact would not be possible.
$100,000+
Richard & Vivian+ Cahn Dora Ferber Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Goldring Family Foundation Joshua & Mara Force Howard & Susan+ Green Robert Force Woldenberg Foundation Beatrice & Harold Forgotston Designated Anonymous Fund Robin Levy & R. Justin “Bobby”@ Garon $50,000 - $99,999 Dr. Juan & Ana Gershanik Cathy+ & Morris Bart Dr. Kurt* & Alice Yelen Gitter Cahn Family Foundation Dr. Charles & Cathy Glaser Alan & Diane Franco Margery & Dov Glazer Milton Rosenson Designated Fund Louis A. & Lillian L. Glazer Family Foundation $25,000 - $49,999 Susan & Lou Good Maury Herman@ Maria Kahane Granet & Mauriciu Arnold Carole+ & Morton@ Katz Granet Designated Fund JFGNO Designated Fund Mark@ & Lisa+ Heller Jonathan Lake Fred & Amanda Herman Dr. Julius & Donna Levy Bill & Susan Hess Morris & Melinda+ Mintz Dr. Harris & Barbara Hyman Willam & Leslie Rau JFGNO Allocations Endowment Custodial Rittenberg Family Foundation Fund Edward & Karen Soll Family Perpetual JFGNO Special Purposes Fund Annual Campaign Endowment Fund Blake & Lois R. Jones Harold Wainer Margie Kahn Anonymous Brian@ & Lisa+ Katz Stan & Ellen Kessler $10,000 - $24,999 Merrilee Kullman Living Trust Dorlene Alaynick Lion of Judah Endowment John Meltzer Fund Peter Newhouse Harold & Carol+ Asher Dr. Sanford Pailet Marc Behar & Jeff Sbisa Sidney & Joyce+ Pulitzer Darryl & Louellen Berger Hannah Rau Nancy Bissinger Rebecca Rau Robert & Caroline Brickman Joshua Rubenstein & Shawna Jones
Jonathan & Debbie Schlackman Karen+ & Leopold Sher William & Jane Sizeler Robert & Pamela Steeg Charles & Jackie Stern Mike Suder & Jennifer Babb Nancy+ & Steve Timm Bernard Van der Linden Bruce & Ellie Wainer Dr. Michael@ & Lynne+ Wasserman Julie Wise Oreck+ Marie Wolf
$5,000 - $9,999 Jack & Phyllis* Alltmont Judy Barrasso & Brent Barriere Lauren Baumgarten Marvin & Marilyn Bernstein Valerie Besthoff Marjorie Bissinger Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Edward & Elissa Bluth Christian Bonin & Hallie Timm Bonin Jane & Alan Bories Fund Guy & Kelley Brenner Dr. Daniel Caplan Rick & Ina Davis Michael & Tracey Dodd Carla & Louis Fishman Brian Roussel Friedman Fund Richard & Linda Friedman Bruce Gandle Margot Garon Lion of Judah Endowment Fund
* Of Blessed Memory @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment + Lion of Judah Endowment October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Dr. Vadim & Michele Gelman Mike & Marcy Gertler Scott Goldin Marshall@ & Carole Gottsegen Byrde Haspel Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Sandra Heller Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Albert & Rea Hendler Fund Russ Herman Babs Isaacson Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Andrew Jacobs Linda Jacobs Scott & Leslie Jacobs Stanley Jacobs Shellie & Terry Jacobson Tamara Jacobson+ Dr. David & Ellen Kaplan Larry & Ruth Kullman Lawrence & Dashka Roth Lehmann Darleen Jacobs Levy+ Anne Lowenburg Lion of Judah Fund Ellen Manshel Tamara Mayer Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Alan Meltzer Courtney Nathan Carole & Richard Neff Linda Norman Sarah Pasternack Paul & Edith Rosenblum Jay & Babs Rosenfeld Steve & Sandra Rosenthal Lee & Susan Scharff Madalyn & Robert Schenk Emily Schoenbaum Hal & Kathy Shepard Louis & Dana Shepard Samantha Sher Dr. Ivan M. Sherman & Mark Ledet Scott & Julie Silbert Charles & Lynn Smith Rodney & Jane Steiner Ben & Jodi Swig Dr. Matthew & Sherri Tarr Beverly Wainer Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Brian Weimer & Dr. Randy Roig 26
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
Jim Weiss & Audrey Browne Jacques Wiener & Sandy Feingerts Carol B. Wise+ Frankie Wolff Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Renee Zack Anonymous (2)
Kevin Wilkins & Ginny Wise Edward Young & Janice Oppenheim Wayne & Amy Yuspeh Marilyn Zackin Gary & Lisa Zoller Charles Zucker Endowment Fund
$2,500 - $4,999
$1,000 - $2,499
Jack & Jennifer Benjamin Gerald Berenson Campaign Fund Ronna Burger & Robert Berman Dr. Marc & Kathy Bernstein Harris & Bonnie Blackman Lee & Joe Blotner Bob & Mindy Caplan Dr. Stuart & Gail Chalew Jay & Avery Corenswet David & Sue Daube Brad Egenberg Dr. Errol & Adrien Genet Julian Good & Gina Castellano Robert A. Hammer Steven & Ann Harris John & Amy Gainsburgh Haspel Shirley Haspel Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Dr. Howard & Marcia Hirsch Jacob & Lee Kansas Dr. & Mrs. Mark Kappelman Herman Kohlmeyer Dr. Barry & Charlotte Leader Rusty & Renee Levy Donald Levy Austin & Carrie Marks Lois Mexic Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Betty Meyers Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Andree Moss Dr. William & Karen Pinsky Leon & Heather Rittenberg Marilyn Rosenson Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Mark & Diane Schleifstein Shea & Dr. Michelle Soll Gregg & Ellen Soll Peter & Vicky Sperling Ted Nass & Maureen Stein Janice G. Stern Judy Steinberg Anne Uhry Lion of Judah Endowment Fund Steven & Melanee Usdin
Sandra Goldsmith* Rabbi David & Shannie Goldstein Linda Green Jack Gross Michael & Marlena Hecht Mitchell & Susan Hoffman Jeffrey & Andrea Huseman Jerome Jacobs JFGNO Campaign Bequest Custodial Fund Kelly & David Abramson Richard & Lisa Karlin Kenneth & Bebe Adatto Jeffrey & Betsy Kaston Cary & Lisa Amann Jonathan & Meggie Katz Allison Bach Celia Katz Aimee & Steven Bain David & Geneva Kerstein Ellen & Mark Balkin Richard & Patricia Kirschman Sue Barton Aaron Klinger Mark & Jaymi Baum René & Janet Koppel Dr. Neil & Linda Baum Paul & Marilyn Kullman Allan & Nikki Berger Zach & Emily Kupperman Donna Kay Berger Terrence & Andrea Lestelle Linda Usdin & Steven Bingler Dr. Alan & Marilyn Levin Seth Bloom & Gary Solomon, Jr. Dot Levin* Harry Blumenthal Drs. Walter E. & Laura Levy Robert & Bridget Bories Glenn & Judy Lieberman Nina Breakstone David & Chesney Loeb Melanie & Danny Bronfin Joel & Ruth Loeffelholz Perry & Marilyn Brown Rabbi Robert & Lynn Loewy Katherine Buckman Dr. Joshua & Stacey Lowentritt Dr. Alan & Sandra Burshell Dr. Arthur & Bonnie Lustig Cory & Sarah Cahn Mark Madderra Morris Campell Fund Diana & Chip Mann Gerald Cohen Donald & Carol Markowitz Sandy & Sarah Cohen Charles & Gillian Marks Greg & Joan Cox Sanford & Barbara Maslansky Karen Curry Jill Dupre & Joshua Mayer Phil & Rochelle D’Arcangelo James & Hope Meyer George & Mildred Denegre Jan & Henry Miller Warren & Rachel Edelman Dr. Mark & Rochelle Adler Effron Mitchell & Christie Mintz Harry & Marion Mohre Richard & Kyna Epstein Ted & Leann Moses Julian & Joan Feibelman Stephen & Dee Moses Susan & Arnie Fielkow Ellis B. & Beth Murov Debra Fischman Marilyn Lake Neumann J. David Forsyth Dale & Carol Newman Edwin Fried Randy & Kathy Opotowsky Joanne Fried Larry & Naomi Orlansky Tripp & Heidi Friedler Drs. Howard & Joy Osofsky Dr. George & Laura Fuhrman Marjory Palkama Gaba JFGNO Designated Fund Richard & Suzette Perles Deena Gerber Len Glade & Kendall Scales Glade Ida Phillips Melvin & Jacqueline Gold Myron & Marcie Goldberg * Of Blessed Memory @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment Jay & Terri Goldsmith
+ Lion of Judah Endowment
Roll of Honor Randal & Gale Pick Paula & Joel Picker Lee & Jill Plotkin Lynn Plotkin Ronald & Diane Rabin Dr. Efrain & Ilana Reisin Gary & Charlotte Reiss Ricky Rosenberg Henry & Susan Rosenblat Andre & Robbie Rubenstein David & Niki Rubenstein Lisa Sanders Donald & Kieran Schwarcz Nanette Shapiro Jonnie & Diane Share Alon & Emily Shaya Melanie Sheen & David Tucker Rob Shepard Gary & Nancy Silbert Irl & Phyllis Silverstein Jay & Stacy Silverstein Mark & Bryna Singerman Bruce Spizer Mark & Amy Stein Susan Sternberg Paul & Laurie Sterbcow Michael Stern Carol Stone Lee Sucherman & Ellen Kempner Hilton Title Peter and Sheryl Title Louis & Betty Trachtman Melanie Waitzer Michael & Rebecca Waxman Lorraine Lake Williams Leonard Wormser Ellen & Marc Yellin
Steven Cohen Arnold & Arlene Cooper Sidney & Diane Cotlar Marc & Sherene Dahlman Jared & Casie Davidson Bennett & Lisa Davis Lynn Dodd Robert & Ann Eisen Margaret Epstein Ted & Julie Fee Dr. Nathan & Leslie Fischman Philip & Sue Frank Mollie Fried Devie & A.J. Friedman Lynda Friedmann Asher & Erin Friend Jason Gaines Robin Giarrusso Wendy Goldberg James & Robin Goldsmith Jeffrey & Linda Green Marilyn Green Mark & Linda Greenbaum Barbara Greenberg Lisa Gurk Herman & Michael F. Herman Gregory & Michelle Hicks Kenneth & Monica Hoffman Ben & Augusta Jacobs Elaine Kabat Mark & Barbara Kaplinsky Andrew & Paige Katz Beverly Katz Keith & Evie Katz Bunny Koock Sheldon & Ronda Kottle Leo Krasnozhon & Sara Lewis Dr. Richard Kugler David & Carole Kushner Robert & Renee Kutcher Ann Abbrecht Gary & Sarah Lazarus William & Madonna Abroms Lee Richard Adler & Robert Marks Harry & Betty Lazarus Stephen & Sheri Levine Robert & Debbie Applebaum Saundra Levy Tiki Axelrod Harvey & Gail Lewis Gayle Baer Jordan Lieberman Michelle Baker Thomas Lowenburg & Judith Bradley & Daniela Bain Lafitte Elliott & Joan* Bain John & Stacey Lutz Patty Barnett Joel & Toby Mendler Brandon & Rachel Bissinger Carl & Shirley Merlin Michael Botnick Rabbi Barbara Metzinger Debra Bresler Joel & Naomi Brown * Of Blessed Memory @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment Andy & Cathy Burka
$500 - $999
+ Lion of Judah Endowment
Herbert Miller Sidney & Ellen Raye Miller Bruce & Dr. Jane Miller Mark Mintz & Jen Kitner William D. Norman Family Fund Leon & Debbie Pesses Scott & Jenny Pollack Fred & Sue Preis William Procell Copey Pulitzer Seth Levine & Alexa Pulitzer Elliott & Sondra Raisen Ira & Walkie Rosenzweig Jennifer Samuels
Claude & Mimi Schlesinger Drs. Sam Alexander & Ellen Schneider Michael & Jill Schneider Gary Sernovitz & Molly Pulda Bill Murray & Gene Shapiro David Shepard & Lesley Lucas Michael & Carey Sherman Irving & Phyllis Shnaider Jackie & Daniel Silverman Dr. David Silvers Robert & Frances Simon Eric Simon & Cathy Lazarus Stephen & Caroline Sontheimer
Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowments Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowments (PACE) is a program for men, women, and couples who endow their annual campaign gifts to our Jewish Federation. Annual Campaign gifts to Federation can be endowed at any level with a bequest, a permanent life insurance policy, a charitable trust, or a gift of real estate, appreciated stocks, or an IRA. We gratefully acknowledge these men and women who have made this commitment here in New Orleans. Gerald Berenson Fund Allan Bissinger Fund Jane & Alan Bories Fund Morris Campell Fund Beatric & Harold Forgotston Designated Fund Brian Roussel Friedman Fund Gaba JFGNO Designated Fund R. Justin “Bobby” Garon Marshall Gottsegen Maria Kahane Granet & Mauriciu Arnold Granet Designated Fund Mark H. Heller Albert & Rea Hendler Fund Maury Herman Hugo Kahn Brian D. Katz Morton H. Katz William D. Norman Family Fund Milton Rosenson Designated Fund Joshua L. Rubenstein Scott & Julie Silbert The Edward and Karen Soll Family Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment Fund Dr. Michael F. Wasserman Charles Zucker Fund Anonymous (1) October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Jeremy Soso & Rose S. Sher James Spiro Barry & Eilene Spizer Rob Steinberg Lynne Stern Joanna Sternberg David & Judy Stiebel Richard Stone John Sullivan & Sandra K. Levick Aran Toshav & Rebecca Friedman Lance & Karen Turkish Randy & Patty+ Ungar Stanley & Roselle Ungar Patricia Joyce & Lee Vorisek Paul Waldman Cedric & Julia Walker Eileen B. Wallen Roger White Toni Weiss & Gary Remer David Wolf Dr. Neil & Sharon Wolfson Forest Christopher Wootten & Nicole Katz Brian & Megan Yellin Dr. Scott & Marsha Zander David & Rella Zapletal
Laurie Diamond Lester Dulitz Dr. David & Kristen Dulitz John Eger Kenneth & Melanie Ehrlich Alan R. Emerman Noah & Gia Emerson Shellye Farber Jason & Rachael Feder Israel & Sylvia Finger Michael Finkelstein & Lauren Siegel Dale Fleishmann Michelle Foa David & Judy Fried Pam Friedler Jonathan & Holly Friedman Joseph Friend Drs. Norman & Wesley Galen Josh & Carli Gertler Louis & Debbie Gertler Jan & N’Ann Glade Jacob & Michelle Goehring David Greenberg Hank & Cynthia Greenwald Julie Schwam Harris & Seth Harris Nadav & Anna Herman Ronald & Daisy Heumann Quin & Pod Hillyer Andy & Aleeza Adelman Jason & Nancy Hintersteiner Lazelle Alexander Michelle Horton Sabina Altman Steven Jacobson Phyllis Allison Blair Jones & Noah Kressler Dale Aronson Prentice Jones Ann Babington Ashley Barriere & Harrison Golden Byron & Susan Mintz Kantrow Helen Katz Rabbi Katie Bauman & Adam Myron & Sharon Katz Eckstein Philip & Ruth Katz Marc & Angela Beerman Scott & Geraldina Kisner Philip & Suzanne Bennett Steven & Patricia Klein Mat Berenson Jane Kohlmann Rachel Bergman Robert & Millie Kohn David & Halley Berins Kenneth & Sue Rae Brown Bishop Chris & Arian Kornman Judith Kossover Bob Boggio Dr. Kevin & Janet Krane Alan Borenstein & Joyce Choong June Leopold Gilbert & Jody Braunig Hal & Bina Levkowitz Barri Bronston Leonard & Stephanie Levenson Shawna K. Thurman Cahill Robert & DeeGee Liniado Jeanie Cohen Jake Lipsman & Rachel Zoller Max & Ellen Cohen Nancy Litwin Joel Colman Daniel Meyer & Jennifer Barriere Michael Davidson Keith & Missy Miller Ed & Theresa Dennis Robert Mintz Dr. Josh & Casey Denson
$250 - $499
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Golan Moskowitz & Trey Pratt Mr. & Mrs. Peter Moss Robert & Barbara Namer Leon & Ava Nowalsky Mary L. McCormick & Jonathan D. Nussdorf David & Tiffany Oestreicher Jonathan & Sarah Page James & Meredith Petrone Brad & Killian Philipson Isaac & Rebeca Pinhas Marcy Planer Andrew & Helen Polmer Arthur & Sandra Pulitzer Karen Remer Carol Lise Rosen Meryl Rosenbloom Matthew Rosenthal & Dr. Shira Glazer Mark & Andrea Rubin Ernest & Katy Rudman Rudy & Sarah Schatzmann Jack Schulman Peter Seltzer John & EllenRae Shalett Joseph & Esther Shefsky Rabbi Daniel & Morgan Sherman David & Jane Sherman Elliot & Susan Shushan Rabbi Todd Silverman Timothy Slater Joy Stahl Karen Stein Lynny Steiner Zachary & Sam Tanenbaum Roger & Diane Tygier Irving & Lynda Warshauer John Weil Dan Weiner Nathan Wexler Jerome Winsberg Marcel & Elizabeth Wisznia Joshua & Julia Zuckerman Anonymous (2)
$100 - $249 Jessica Addvensky Harriet Aguiar-Netto Amy Alexander Michele Allen-Hart Michael & Ava Alltmont Michael & Carolyn Applebaum Jeff & Allison Asher Joseph Azzarello
Brian Bain & Julie Koppman Josh Beal David & Betsy Becker Hal & Linda Becker Jane Berins Deborah Berins Benjamin & Carol Berman Andrew Bernstein Joe & Joan Biderman Jacob & Meghan Bitoun Aaron Bloch & Suzy Rivera Michael & Colleen Block Diana Boylston Robert & Linda Brandt Tad & Lainie Breaux Charissa & Gage Brim Jeff Bromberger & Lesli Harris Richard Buchsbaum & Johnny Dennis Ben Cappiello & Anna Labadie Adam Carlisle & Emma Herr Sandra Carp Anne Chirinos Rabbi Yossi & Mushka Cohen Sam Cohen Jon & Jordan Cohen Barry & Lane Cohen Charles & Natalie Cohen Elinor Cohen Natalie Cohen & Russell Ramirez Robert & Lisa Conescu Laurence Cortez Josh & Gigi Danzig Alan Davis Sawyer Davis & Brook Bissinger Davis Dr. Steve & Stacy Deitelzweig Jacob Dilson Avrom & Cindy Denn Marlene Donovan Matt Dow Paul & Jessie Dowsakul Martin Drell Gordon & Karen Dumot Evan & Emily Dvorin Marilee Eaves Ben & Katie Elliott Melanie Fawer & Gabriel Recile Eli Feinstein & Jana Lipman Gabe Feldman & Abigail Gaunt Alan & Jennifer Fertel Jeffrey Fingerman & Katie Coburn * Of Blessed Memory @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment + Lion of Judah Endowment
Roll of Honor Elliot & Lisa Finkelstein Neil & Hannah Kohlman Marc & Debbie Fisher Keith Kornman Jackson Fox Stuart & Sara Kottle Irina Foxman & Dr. Marcus Ware Nathan Krasnoff Mitch & Catherine Frank Alan Krilov Jessica Frankel Emmett & Shelley Tyler Kron Paul & Jessica Friedlander Allison & Shane Kupperman Lynn Friedman Irwin & Judith Lachoff Marc & Susan Friedman Ariel & Eliana Lanis Joshua & Lindsay Friedmann Leo Laventhal Cantor Rebecca Garfein & Beth & Austin Lavin Alexander Hatzidiakos Stephanie Lavine Ellis Gensburger Will Harrell & Simone Levine Alex & Maureen Gershanik Jane Leyens Linda Gibbs Keith & Luanne Liederman Marion Giuffria Jonathan Lissauer & Emily Nykaza Michael & Sarah Glazer Michael & Amanda Loflin Philip & Maple Goldberg Harry Lowenburg Shayna Goldfine Sarah Lustig Ryan Goldin Jack & Pam Lyles Kitzi Goldman Marilyn Mendoza Michael & Brenda Goldman Margaret Meyer Jeff & Caroline Good Damion & Carrie Michaels David Goodman Gabrielle Mizrahi Melissa & Bruce Gordon Mike & Brenda Vorhoff Moffitt Blayne Gothard Clem Goldberger Morgan Mike & Julie Green Boris & Janet Moiseyev Eric & Jillian Greenberg Betty Moore Barry & Darlene Gurievsky Keil & Margaret Moss Elaine Haas Robby & Leigh Moss Kelly & Lawrence Haber Toni & Neil Nadler Jeff & Terri Haffner Benny & Orit Naghi Edward & Joelle Halpern Jonathan & Jen Nierman Dane Halpern Michael Nusbaum & Diane Cohen Marc Harvey Jose & Frida Orrego Robert Heiligman Joe & Karen Ortenberg Marc & Esther Hendler Carol Osborne Beth Hershberg Glenn Ostrow Allen Hollis Ken & Barbara Pailet Craig & Amanda Hosmer Harold* & Janet Pesses Hannah Imberman Steven Pearl Lee Isaacson & Cynthia Knight Gail Fenton Pesses Jack & Susanne Jernigan Nancy Pesses Andrea Kabat Christine Petrone Catherine Kahn Alan & Valerie Posner Heather Kahn Charlene Pukof Adam Kancher Laura Queyrouze Rabbi Phil & Abra Kaplan Joseph & Bebe Rabhan Benjamin Karp Sam & Natalia Ramer Charel Katz Ripley & Traci Roane Alex Kaufman Allan Rosenberg & Gwendolyn Jeffrey & Kerry Kessler Koltun Kris & Lauren Khalil * Of Blessed Memory Joseph & Marilyn Kline @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment
Sponsorships Gifts and grants from the following corporations, foundations, and individuals made special programming and projects possible in 2025. Their funding supported initiatives including enhanced security for local Jewish agencies, innovative citywide educational programming, next generation and young professionals events, and multicultural alliance building.
$100,000 + Goldring Family Foundation The Jewish Federations of North America
$50,000 - $99,999 Leslie Fried Behar Marc Behar & Jeff Sbisa Hancock Whitney Bank Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust
$20,000 - $49,999 The Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana Stan & Ellen Kessler Anonymous
$10,000 - $19,999 Richard & Vivian Cahn Anonymous
$5,000 - $9,999
Maury Herman Karen & Leopold Sher Eddie Soll & Vicky Glover Rob & Pamela Steeg Paul & Laurie Sterbcow Mike Suder & Jennifer Babb Universal Data Inc. Wegmann Dazet
Feil Family Foundation Humana Inc. Jones Walker LLP Ochsner Health Pan-American Life Insurance Group Rekindle The Schoenbaum Family Foundation Shlenker Family Foundation Harold Wainer
$1 - $999
$1,000 - $4,999 Morris & Cathy Bart Congregation Gates of Prayer Dvash Kosher Catering Electrical Sales Corporation Joshua & Mara Force Stuart & Suzanne Grant Center for American Jewish Experience Highflyer Human Resources Brian & Lisa Katz Carole & Morton Katz Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries
Anti-Defamation League Hartwig Moss Insurance Agency Jewish Children’s Regional Service Jewish Community Day School Melinda & Morris Mintz National Council of Jewish Women - Greater New Orleans New Orleans Jewish Community Center Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation Temple Sinai Touro Synagogue Tulane Hillel
+ Lion of Judah Endowment
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Gary Rubins Zachary Russell & Lindsey Harris Rochelle Sackett Bruce Samuels Josh Sands Stanley Schwam Elaine Schulman Natalie Seltzer Jonathan Shamash Dr. Gigi Shames Jay & Phyllis Shames Melvin & Briann Shear Samantha Shear Brian & Sara Shepard Alex & Or Shovaly David Shulman Helen Siegel Barry Siegel Robert Siegel Judy Simkin Barry & Susan Simon Randal & Jamie Singer Jonathan Goodman & Samantha Slovy Alan Smason Sidney Smith* Moshe & Sue Solomonow David & Hayley Solsky Gordon & Diane Starling Kim & Lisa Stolier Leah Stone Garland & Elizabeth Strother Emily Sucherman Ronald & Elayne Sutton Steven Sweet & Elizabeth Black Ann Thompson Suzette Toledano Peggy Usner & Mark Goldstein Jeff & Michele Varon Scott Vaughn Tana Velen Gregory Vorhoff David & Dina Voskovsky Sydney Walker Frederick Weil Barbara Weiner Dot Weisler David Willenzik David & Marilynn Wohlstadter Justin & Allie Wohlstadter Ian Zlatkiss Linda & Richard Zoll Harrel Zivitz 30
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Lee & Jenny Zurik Anonymous (3)
$1 - $99 Michael Abraham Michael & Jennifer Addvensky Justine Aguiar Rebecca Alexander Henry & Renee Alterman Kathryn Anderson Joell Anisman Annette Auerbach Kenneth & Denise Barkoff Sara Barnard John & Doris Baron Josh Basseches Brian Beal Jacob Beer Erica Berkowitz Susan Berman Maria Bernal Alexandra Bernstein Stephen Blitz & Mery BeitHalahmi Josh & Shira Spiegel Bobo Linda & Joseph Bogantes Amy & Bob Boles Lauren Bombet Eric & Cathy Botnick Derek Brody & Serena Deutch Robin Bronston Judith Brown Charles & Frannie Buchtel Sandra Cameron Michael & Virginia Castine Rabbi Mendel & Chaya Ceitlin Jonas Chartock Larry & Debby Chaudoir Rabbi Yossi & Rivkie Chesney Marilyn Cohen Michael & Shira Cohen Rabbi Yossi & Mushka Cohen Brigette Cohn Rene & Tana Coman Cecile & Martin Covert Sarah Covert Alex & Sally Cuntz Eddie Crabtree & Shayne Latter Lara Crigger Mark & Meredith Cunningham Chelsea Cusimano Ken & Jennifer Daley Jackie Dallimore
George Dansker Brian Daube Toby David & Dana Keren Alan Director Rosalie Dulitz Chad & Rachel Eriksen Samuel Falchook Mattison Farah & Jessica Bach Donald Faust Myrna Fawer David Feder Margaret Feder Martin & Marilyn Felder Diana Fischman Shane & Courtney Finkelstein Gideon Fishman Chelsea Fitzgerald & Samuel Ficenec Daniel & Cat Forman Shelley Forman Shelley Freed Dianne Green-Freeman & David Freeman Irma Freibaum Marion Freistadt James Friedman Lois Friedman Reuben & Marlene Friedman Alysse Fuchs Tommy Furlow & Tiffany Cotlar Lou Furman & Nan Katz Harold Geiger Eliana Ginsburg Jennette Ginsburg Darryl & Leah Glade Todd & Kymberly Glazer Lisa Goff Scott & Ashley Gold Aaron Goldberg Rachel Goldman Elizabeth Goldstein Sandy & Renee Goldstein Daniel Goodman Doug & Alison Gordon Diana B. Gorlin Robert & Val Gross Ron & Leslie Gubitz Joseph & Samantha Guichet John & Staci Strauss Guillot Judi P. Guth RJ & Stephanie Gutierrez Felix & Zina Gutkovich Elder Gwin
Harriet & Samuel Hillson Irene Hirsch Seth Hitsky Karen Hochheiser Brian & Svetlana Horowitz Lori Hurvitz Bruce & Susan Ingber Cameron & Ginny Kullman Johnson Drs. Walker & Rebecca Jones Kurt & Rebecca Jostes Adrian Juttner Steve & Elizabeth Kahn Seebol Ellen Katz Garrett & Kara Levine Katz Stephen & Mary Sue Katz Clifford & Arvilla Kern Zed Kesner Leonard & Celia Kirshner Darryl & Pat Koretzky Janice Jensen Kathy Kornman Cantor Samuel Krush Ernie & Jan Langlinais Jordan Lawrence Robert Laviolette Gerald & Susan Levin Ellen Levy Samara Levy Nathan & Robin Lew Joshua Lichtman & Davida Finger Abe Lubritz Nadia Lynn Nan MacMaster Adam & Laura Magnus Jayme Mallindine Max & Lizzie Manasevit Steve Mardon & Kim Sherman Ari & Dena Marks Leo & Alla Mauer Daniel Mayer Lizzi Meister & Brittany Barnett Jack & Rachel Merlin Adam & Rebecca Miller Terrell & Andi Griner Mims Marian Moore Lisa Moses Rabbi Yossie & Chanie Nemes Sasha Newstate Joel Nitzkin Judith Nowalsky * Of Blessed Memory @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment + Lion of Judah Endowment
Roll of Honor Rita Olmo Deborah Oppenheim Zoe Oreck Nate & Brianne Oxenrider Allyson Page Rabbi Levi & Sarah Partouche Avraham & Sara Pertuit Charles & Teresa Pinsky Sierra Polisar Andrew & Tiffany Pollack Inbar Schapsis & Ruben Porudominsky Estelle Reiner David & Chantal Reinlieb Sandy Rhein Rabbi Mendel & Malkie Rivkin Rabbi Yochanan & Sarah Rivkin Brad & Jacqueline Rosenblat Gary Rosenblatt Roger Rosenthal Gerald Rossen Martin & Dale Roth Robert & Jolene Rothman Rebecca Russell Rachel Ruth Michael & Lisa Sackett Yeffet & Susan Saidi Scott & Shelly Saltzman Loel & Larry Samuel Mark & Charisse Sands Frank Sapir Miriam Schenker Rebecca Scher Elsa Schneider Judilyn Schneider Neil & Jennifer Schneider Nathan Schwam & Danielle Nice Arielle Schwartz Judy Schwartzer
Jessica Serrano Beverley Serebro Adrienne Shulman Estelle Sieff James & Margaret Silverstein Leslie Simon Charles & Rhea Simonson Jane Soslow Shaina Spector Barbara Spiegel Alessandro & Julie Finkelstein Steinhaus Scott & Breland Sternberg Robin Stewart Helen Stone Robert & Nicole Stone Dr. Richard & Ann Streiffer Joshua Tarr & Katelyn Hebel Kayla Tarr Sue Tart Roberta Torman Ricardo & Marcela Totah Lilli H. Geltman & Andrew Vohs Emily & Jed Vorhoff Patsy Watermeier Roy & Marjorie Weiner Jason & Christine White Elliott & Nicole Kotler Wiener Ryan Williams Robert Witrock Mark & Barbara Workman David & Lisa Wurtzel Douglass & Mallory Wynne Liz Yager Dean & Darlene Yellin Austin & Dr. Margot Yost Samuel & Melanie Zurik Anonymous (3)
Lion of Judah Endowment The Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE) is the endowment component of the Lion of Judah Major Gifts program. A LOJE is created by establishing a minimum fund of $100,000 or more in the donor’s name, ensuring the perpetuation of a donor’s Lion of Judah level Annual Campaign gift. LOJE is a powerful statement of a donor’s commitment to tzedakah, providing a legacy for herself, her family, and her community. Establishing a LOJE allows a woman the opportunity to endow her gift in perpetuity. We gratefully acknowledge the women who have made this commitment here in New Orleans: Carol Asher Cathy Bart Vivian Cahn Ann C. Fishman Jean Hirsch Frank Carol Grant Susan Green Lisa Heller Tamara Jacobson Lis Kahn Carole Katz Lisa Katz Kim Kline Darleen Jacobs Levy Julie Grant Meyer Jean Strauss Mintz Julie Wise Oreck Joyce Pulitzer Karen Sher Teri Tanenbaum Nancy Timm
Patty Ungar Lynne Wasserman Linda Wiener Carol Wise Dorlene Alaynick Fund Marjorie Bissinger Fund Dora Ferber Fund Margot Garon Fund Byrde Haspel Fund Shirley K. Haspel Fund Babs Isaacson Fund Sandra Heller Fund Anne Lowenburg Fund Tamara Mayer Fund Betty Meyers Fund Lois Mexic Fund Marilyn Rosenson Fund Anne Uhry Fund Beverly Wainer Fund Frankie Wolff Fund
* Of Blessed Memory @ Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment + Lion of Judah Endowment
Our work supports Jewish community not only in Greater New Orleans but across North America, Israel, and around the world. We’re strengthening Jewish life every moment, every day, everywhere. Scan the QR code to Support the Community now.
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community >> Agenda
continued from page 10
The four Jewish Corridor congregations on West Esplanade in Metairie are holding a turkey drive to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. On Nov. 22 at 11 a.m., there will be a human chain in the Gates of Prayer parking lot to pass turkeys along to the Second Harvest truck. Frozen turkeys are requested, or donations to the effort, and bring gloves. This year’s goal is 300 turkeys. The Pensacola Jewish Federation will host “Oy, What A Song! An Evening With Jewish Songwriters,” Nov. 7 at Temple Beth El. There will be dessert and cocktails at 7 p.m., and the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $18. The next Mahj and Mingle Open Play at Temple Sinai in New Orleans will be on Nov. 18, with dinner at 6 p.m. and play beginning at 6:30 p.m. Open Play is $36, Learn to Play is $60. A portion of proceeds go to the congregation’s school supply drive for Broadmoor Food Pantry. There will be a holiday surprise at the Dec. 2 event. Register through Temple Sinai. Beth Israel in Metairie and Hadassah New Orleans will welcome Justin Barr to the 6 p.m. service on Nov. 6. At a dinner following services, he will speak on “Celebrating 250 Years of America: The History of Medicine During the American Revolution.” He is a transplant and liver surgeon at the Ochsner Transplant Institute. Dinner reservations are $25 for Beth Israel or Hadassah members, $30 for non-members, $75 family maximum.
Where the living is easy
Birmingham’s Levite Jewish Community Center will celebrate Jewish Book Month by hosting Joyce Vance for a program on her book, “Giving Up Is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping a Democracy.” The conversation with Liora Chessin will be on Nov. 2 at 6 p.m. A question and answer session will follow, along with a book signing coordinated by Thank You Books. Vance is a former U.S. Attorney for the northern district of Alabama, and on-air legal analyst at MSNow. Chabad of Alabama in Birmingham will have a women’s event, “The Art of the Dumpling,” with Chef Josh Haynes, Nov. 9 at 6:30 p.m. The evening will also explore the connection between the body and the soul. The interfaith Thanksgiving service in Montgomery will be hosted by Temple Beth Or on Nov. 22 at 4:30 p.m., with Church of the Ascension and First United Methodist Church. Birmingham’s N.E. Miles Jewish Day School will have a muffin and coffee sale on Nov. 10 from 7:15 a.m. until sold out, to benefit the Upper School Abroms Youth Philanthropy Initiative. The Jackson-based Goldring/Woldenberg Institiute of Southern Jewish Life announced that next year’s Southern and Jewish conference will return to Charlotte, June 20 to 22. Beth Israel in Metairie announced that its annual Gala will be on Dec. 13, honoring Myron Goldberg.
Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Care with Respite and New Construction Nursing PoydrasHome.com / 504-897-0535 32
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
Tribe, the 20s and 30s group at Gates of Prayer in Metairie, joins with JNF for Pita, Politics and Pride, a conversation celebrating Israel culture and supporting an Israeli-owned business, on Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. at Tal’s Hummus. Register online. The Dothan area interfaith Thanksgiving service will be on Nov. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at Episcopal Church of the Nativity. The next Chai Tea and Torah for Jewish adults 65 and up at Chabad of Alabama in Birmingham will be on Nov. 9 at 2 p.m.
community The Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies in Rockville, Md., will present “The Jewish History of Atlanta: Jews in the Melting Pot of Dixie,” a Zoom program with Jeremy Katz, Hamilton College archivist and former senior director of archives at the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum in Atlanta. The program will be on Nov. 18 at 6:30 p.m. Central. On Nov. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Central, Joshua Furman, the Jeanne Abrams Endowed Director of the Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society at the University of Denver, will present “The Other Ellis Island: Jewish Immigration Through Galveston, Texas.” The Beth Israel, Jackson, Doubt and Discovery group will meet on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Finkelberg home, to discuss “What is your favorite Jewish ritual, and why?”
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Judge Simone Levine is running for re-election to the Orleans Parish Criminal Court, in a different seat after her Section was eliminated For Doug Jones, running for governor meant having a team — and Phil Ensler, Alabama’s only Jewish Representative, was a key part of that Louisiana brothers were charged with bankrolling Hamas Iron Dome interceptors are being made in Arkansas for use in Israel Florida designates CAIR as a domestic terror group Alleged Oct. 7 terrorist arrested in Louisiana laughed about his role Ruling allows Nashville JCC suit against Goyim Defense League to proceed A woman interrupted Rosh Hashanah services in Montgomery to promote Jesus
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The Homewood Library, south of Birmingham, will welcome Eli Pinhas for “Holocaust History: The Destruction of Thessaloniki, Greece,” Nov. 12 at 6:30 p.m. The city, known as “Mother of Israel,” had the largest Jewish community in Greece, but under the German occupation, over 95 percent of its Jewish citizens were lost in the Holocaust. Pinhas will describe how his parents survived, and how the city remembers the destruction. Registration is available on the library website. JNOLA and Regions Bank are hosting a program exploring the basics of investing as a young adult. “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is” will be on Nov. 4 at 6 p.m., led by Regions Tchoupitoulas Branch Manager Courtney Thirsty. The free event includes wine and snacks, location given upon registration. The next Honor Our Parents multi-generational Shabbat service organized by Collat Jewish Family Services in Birmingham will be on Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. at the Levite Jewish Community Center. Rabbi David Young will lead the program, which includes a complimentary lunch with reservation by Nov. 4. JP NOLA will have a Saints and Swim pool party on Nov. 15 at 11:30 a.m., with food and drinks, and the game against the Carolina Panthers. Location given upon registration. Chabad of Louisiana in Metairie will hold an art workshop with Yitzchok Moully, a contemporary artist known for vibrant pop art rooted in Jewish life and Chassidic spirit. Together the group will create a community art installation and participants will create their own Jewish silkscreen art piece. The hands-on workshop will be on Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Bart Cultural Arts Series features the history of Nola’s JCC building Even the Jewish Community Center itself is among the topics of this fall’s Cathy and Morris Bart Jewish Cultural Arts Series at the New Orleans JCC Uptown. Programs are free and open to the community. Advance registration is required for all events. “Celebrating 60 Years in Our Home: A Legacy of Jewish Life in New Orleans” will feature authors Marlene Trestman and Roberta Brandes Gratz for a conversation about the history of the JCC building. The event will be on Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m., four days after the annual Center Celebration, “Mod About the J: Celebrating 60 Years.” Trestman is author of “Most Fortunate Unfortunates,” a history of the Jewish Children’s Home, which was previously on the JCC site. Gratz is an award-winning journalist and urbanist in New York, focusing on how cities grow, fall apart and recover. One of Gratz’s books was “We’re Still Here Ya Bastards: How the People of New Orleans Rebuilt Their City.” Her next book, coming out on Oct. 28 from LSU Press, is also about New Orleans — “Fearless Philanthropy: Edith Rosenwald Stern’s Campaigns to Transform Lives in New Orleans.” After the free program, both authors will have a book signing coordinated with Octavia Books. The season will conclude on Nov. 22 at 6:30 p.m. with Adeena Sussman, “A Culinary Journey Through Stories and Flavor.” The New York Times bestselling author, food writer and culinary storyteller will explore the flavors, stories and traditions of Jewish and Mediterranean cuisine. Her newest cookbook, “Zariz,” explores the vibrant culinary culture of Tel Aviv, where she lives. The program will include a cooking demonstration. There will be a limited-capacity VIP Meet and Greet with tastings an hour before the program, registration details will be announced. The program itself will be free for members, $10 for non-members.
Seeing Southern Jewish history in the wider immigrant experience The Stuart and Suzanne Grant Center for the American Jewish Experience at Tulane University will present Marni Davis and Michael Cohen discussing “Immigrants as Petty Entrepreneurs” in the New South, as part of the annual Rottman Lecture series. The talk will be on Nov. 15 at 6 p.m. at the Woldenberg Art Center. Many Jewish immigrants who settled in the South in the late 19th and early 20th century made their living in the commercial sector, as owners of small businesses. But Jews were not the only immigrants who took up petty commerce in Southern cities: Greek, Italian, Syrian, and Chinese newcomers also found their footing through small business ownership. Davis and Cohen will discuss this phenomenon from a comparative perspective, examining the history of Jewish entrepreneurship within a broader regional immigrant context. Davis is associate professor of history at Georgia State University and a historian of ethnicity and immigration in the U.S. She is the author of “Jews and Booze: Becoming American in the Age of Prohibition” and currently researches the immigrant experience in the American South between Reconstruction and the 1960s. Cohen is the Stuart and Suzanne Grant Professor in the American Jewish Experience and director of the Grant Center at Tulane, where he also chairs the Department of Jewish Studies. He is the author of “Cotton Capitalists: American Jewish Entrepreneurship in the Reconstruction Era.”
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Appreciation Day Metairie community says thanks to local law enforcement
While security has always been a concern in the Jewish community, the reliance on security and law enforcement has been especially pronounced in the past three years. This summer, a coalition of Jewish organizations in Metairie said thanks with a Jefferson Parish Sheriff ’s Office Appreciation Day. Coordinated by the Gates of Prayer Brotherhood, the effort included 200 kosher boxed deli lunches for JPSO. In the weeks before the Sunday event, volunteers sourced ingredients from Costco, restaurant Depot and Kosher Cajun, and went on a city-wide hunt for sufficient pareve rye bread. Beth Israel became a sandwich factory, with the original goal of 150 lunches increasing to 200 due to the level of donations. Starting at 11 a.m., deputies started arriving, picking up lunches for the officers at their precincts. Summer campers from the Louise Manheim Gates Preschool and the Metairie Jewish Community Center drew thank-you notes that went into each lunch, and the Gates preschool also designed a JPSO Appreciation Day banner. Partnering in the effort were Beth Israel, Kosher Cajun, Shir Chadash, The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, Jewish Community Day School, Louise Manheim Gates Preschool, and the Metairie Jewish Community Center.
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
Southern Jewish Real Estate & Homes Upgrading kitchens and baths to add value to homes Pairing smart home remodeling with experienced real estate advice is a recipe of success for sellers, and for those who want to upgrade a home they just purchased. That bodes well for the opportunities John Ambrose of Ambrose Kitchen and Bath partners with Jeff Davis of ARC Realty in Birmingham. “The best way to add value to your home is to enhance kitchens and bathrooms,” said Ambrose, “or if you just want to upgrade your living environment. We can help clients with custom cabinetry, flooring and closets to really add beauty and personality to a home.” Ambrose is an authorized dealer of Mouser Custom Cabinetry and Kith Kitchens, serving all of central Alabama. “We started as a design and remodeling company, so we can take your project from design to completion, including space reimagination,” he said. When asked about trends, Ambrose said, “a lot of people want to personalize with color — colors of nature and a lot of earthy tones. We’re also getting back to light wood stains that gives a nice, contemporary looks.” He said they are also seeing more quartz countertops instead of natural stone, for ease of cleaning. Ambrose Kitchen and Bath also specializes in custom closets. “We started doing that a couple years ago and we are seeing huge growth in
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the number of folks who want to organize and add more space to their homes,” he said. Ambrose said the company has options for all price points. “One of the things that sets as apart is that we work by appointment only, and we’re happy to do nights and weekends when most folks are off work.” He said that what Ambrose does really goes hand-in-hand with Davis’s approach to real estate. “There is a definite synergy there and we can work together when clients request,” added Ambrose. “We’re both all about building trust relationships.” Davis launched his real estate career 18 years ago, working in marketing, then earned his license 12 years ago. He joined ARC in 2021. “We can run market analysis for clients on homes sold in a neighborhood after renovations versus those without,” he said. “And home improvement loans can be built in with a mortgage for buyers who want to
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Southern Jewish Homes make upgrades to a property.” Davis said 2026 has been one of the most successful years to date for his buyers and sellers. He said Hoover, Greystone and Chelsea continue to be growth markets. The trends with new real estate developments have been those that have a central retail space in the community. “You can walk or drive a golf cart to a restaurant, pharmacy, clothing store, just like we have here in The Preserve,” he said. Davis said the biggest change from when he first started in real estate
is the advancement in technology. That can have its advantages, but also some pitfalls. “A lot of clients today can see much more about a home online. You can take virtual tours and use AI staging,” he said. “And you have home valuations from Zillow and Realtor.com. But sometimes you are seeing some inflated values and I’m also seeing some fake or inaccurate AI renderings.” “Technology can be a good tool we can use together. But what is tried and true, and what people want, is that relationship. That’s the most important thing in real estate,” said Davis.
Strong team and community bolster Ashley Lewis’ success Being a part of a strong team is a win for RealtySouth Agent Ashley Lewis and her clients. In 2025, the Fred Smith Group was number one across the Birmingham area in total volume of sales, with more than $94 million. “We have a talented team of agents, listing coordinators, closing coordinators and marketing experts who all work together to benefit us and our clients,” said Lewis, who was the first agent to partner with Smith, in 2004. They now have 12 on the team. She said that since Covid, she has been seeing more prospective buyers work out financing and getting pre-approved before they are ready to buy so that they can make the most competitive offer. “Interest rates are still historically low and the market seems to be strong for both buyers and sellers,” said Lewis. “What makes the difference is working with an agent you can trust who has knowledge about the communities across our area.”
She recommends that sellers consult with the Fred Smith Group and their RealtySouth partners to help with staging a home. “It’s about presenting your best home with nice landscaping, fresh paint and other cosmetic updates,” she said. “We’re seeing that buyers today really want a move-in-ready home.” Lewis said the trend continues of people moving from larger markets such as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. “You can get so much more for your money here,” she said. “The Magic City has so much to offer with UAB, great culture, Artwalk, community theatre and great food. It’s a very appealing city to move to.” Ashley and her husband, Jon, a local attorney, stay active with activities at the Levite Jewish Community Center and Temple Emanu-El. “Community involvement and volunteerism are very important to us,” she said. “The more we give to our community the more it gives back to us.”
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
Unlock Your Dream Home
John Ambrose has a ‘passion’ for building great kitchens and baths
We’re here to help you navigate the local market with expert guidance and personalized support.
John Ambrose is a Birmingham cabinet expert with years of experience in top-quality remodels and new construction. In this Q&A, John discusses what sets Ambrose Kitchen & Bath apart. Why do you focus on kitchens and baths? Kitchens and bathrooms are the most used and most challenging design features of the home! Getting the lighting, plumbing, tile, countertops, cabinets, hardware, appliances and paint to work together is like conducting a symphony. Every element has to be in harmony to achieve our clients’ vision. Do you have a showroom to visit? Absolutely. Clients can get a hands-on look at working kitchens showcasing two of our top cabinet brands, Kith Kitchens and Mouser Custom Cabinetry, and lots of other samples to show. We see clients by appointment only because we believe that each client deserves our undivided attention. What sets Ambrose Kitchen & Bath apart? We are committed to listening and collaborating with our clients to build spaces that work for them. Most customers come to us to solve problems in their existing space. We listen and create designs that ensure their new kitchen or bath will work for the way they live. We’re also a tight team of highly skilled professionals who have a passion for design and an eye toward the tiniest detail. We think through every aspect of our clients’ space and plan each component in advance. Can you accommodate my busy schedule? Of course! Whether you’re a busy working parent, constantly on the road or retired and living your best life, we can work with you. We schedule most of our appointments after 4 p.m. on weekdays or on weekends. What if I’ve never remodeled before and I’m feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. We’ll walk you through your entire project hand-in-hand. Before we ever started focusing solely on kitchens and baths, we did full remodels and built homes from the ground up. We understand every stage of the remodeling process and how to staff it, so we can guide you and answer all your questions. We’ll help make sure your project goes smoothly from rough-in to fluff-out. I have no idea what a kitchen costs these days. What if my budget and dreams don’t align? We get it. We can break down costs in an easy-to-understand way and work with you to design the ideal kitchen or bath for your budget. We’ve hand-picked beautiful cabinet lines at every price point. Come take a look!
For more information, call us at 205-510-6961 or visit AmbroseKitchenandBath.com. October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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Southern Jewish Homes Home is more than a place… It’s where we gather, celebrate traditions and make memories with the people we love. Bridget Sikora CRP, GMS, DRS, ABR, SRES, ASP Ray & Poynor Properties 205.910.0594 bsikora@raypoynor.com
@livinginBirminghamwithBridget
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
New Orleans real estate agent sells community Tradition and community weave the New Orleans tapestry, and Crescent City native Gary Lazarus said that understanding has helped him succeed in real estate for 25 years. “This job is never really about the houses. It’s about knowing which block, which neighbors and which restaurants make a house a home,” said Lazarus, a real estate agent with REMAX New Orleans Properties. Lazarus is a fifth-generation New Orleanian. His grandparents and parents owned a construction company. Lazarus worked with the company until earning his real estate license in 2002, and he has been with ReMax since 2013. “That experience working in construction gave me great insight about what to look for when viewing homes, as well as what improvements can be made to a house to help sellers get more value,” said Lazarus. He said that can be very important considering today’s market. “My advice is to be proactive — reach out to an agent a few months before you plan to sell. That gives us time to talk through upgrades, staging, marketing and pricing strategy, so you go into the market ready to get multiple offers.” The New Orleans area is filled with many diverse communities and “micro-markets,” Lazarus said. “Even though I have lived here all my life, I’m always learning more about neighborhoods and gaining more of an understanding of home values in a given area. I love exploring each neighborhood’s unique parks, stores, bars and restaurants to familiarize myself on what makes a neighborhood special.” In the Jewish community, Lazarus has been involved with several New Orleans congregations including Shir Chadash, Gates of Prayer and Touro Synagogue, where his wife, Sarah, serves as director of operations. He is also the immediate past camp chair for Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica, and his sons David and Evan have been involved with the camp for many years. One can also find Lazarus on the basketball courts at the New Orleans Jewish Community Center, and cheering on Evan at his high school games. “Our community involvement and the mitzvot we do help shape who we are,” said Lazarus, adding that he donates a portion of every commission from a sale to the charity of his client’s choosing. “For me that’s the whole job. Building up this community and selling homes aren’t two different things, they’re the same work. My family has been doing it for five generations and I want to make sure that continues.”
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Sikora uses community connections, social media, YouTube, to aid clients The key to gaining a competitive edge in the real estate market involves leveraging community and personal relationships, along with using technology as a connective tool. Ray and Poyner’s Bridget Sikora, a real estate agent in the Birmingham area since 2005, always provides clients with education, advice and planning help. “Having success is about going the extra mile for your clients and helping people to navigate the process every step of the way,” said Sikora. “It’s all about relationships and being there 24-7.” Sikora recently started a YouTube page — “Selling the South/Birmingham, AL” — and updated her website, www.bridgetsikora.com, to give advice on different topics ranging from how to prepare a home for sale to arts and culture offerings in the Magic City. She said the real estate market is balanced with a slight lean toward buyers, but homes priced right, especially in the Over the Mountain communities, have sold far above list price. “I recommend that sellers contact me six to 12 months prior to when they hope to sell their home,” said Sikora. “We can help with recommendations on renovations, what to focus on, how we can best advertise the home and lining up resources.” For buyers, she recommends getting pre-approved on their home loan and doing some financial planning to determine how much they can spend on their new home. She said inventory is low in Mountain Brook, but there are more available properties in Vestavia, Hoover, Homewood, Forest Park and Crestline. Sikora said for the past several years, she has noticed a trend in younger families moving to Birmingham from larger markets to get more value on their home and for all the city offers. “Birmingham has a lot to offer with UAB, health care, banking, opportunities, arts, culture, entertainment and a high quality of life,” she said. Sikora said she takes pride in Jewish community and Birmingham community involvement. She is the treasurer of Temple Beth-El and an officer with Hadassah Birmingham. Sikora is also a member of Shades Valley Rotary. “One of the mottos that rings so true with me is service over self,” she said. “I love helping people and getting involved.”
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to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ — anywhere, with anyone… this means showing up, engaging with others, and boldly sharing the hope of Christ with everyone.” So if Wahl were to show up to an event at a synagogue, does this mean he is there not necessarily in his capacity as a public servant or elected official, but to try and proselytize? Is that what he thinks the point of interfaith gatherings is? That is also disturbing. Our country has been at war with radical Islam for decades, it just took us a while to realize it, and we recently marked the 25th anniversary of the biggest realization. That dynamic does complicate things. But we are ill-served as a society when politicians demagogue the existence of any group and paint with a broad brush, promoting hatred and suspicion. We are in a fight against jihadism and radical Islam, yes. We are not in a fight with every Muslim, nor is sharia law poised to replace the constitution. Even that messy joke known as Alabama’s constitution. Lawrence Brook, Publisher/Editor October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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community LSU baseball legend Skip Bertman dies at 88
A concussion is nothing to play with. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury and should be taken seriously. Although fewer than 10% of concussions involve a loss of consciousness, it is important to understand the dangers and not take them lightly. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion should immediately be removed from play and activity, evaluated right away by a doctor or healthcare professional, monitored and not left alone and not drive a motor vehicle.
To make an appointment, call 205-638-6921.
ChildrensAL.org/Concussion
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COA_Concussion_Football-Southern_Jewish_Life_5.125x10.indd 1
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
7/21/26 10:51 AM
Legendary Louisiana State University baseball coach and athletics director J. Stanley “Skip” Bertman died early in the morning on Aug. 14, after a brief visit to the hospital for heart issues. He was 88. Born in Detroit and raised in Miami Beach, Bertman arrived at LSU in 1983, transforming a baseball program that drew 500 people to a game to a powerhouse that led the NCAA in attendance, averaging over 10,000. He is one of only three coaches in NCAA history to win five national championships, and also notched seven SEC championships, six SEC tournament titles and 11 appearances in the College World Series, the first of which was in 1986, just his third season at LSU. When he retired in 2001 to become LSU’s athletics director, his record was 870-330-3, the highest winning percentage all-time among SEC coaches. His .754 tournament winning percentage is the highest in college baseball history. He was also National Coach of the Year six times. As athletics director until 2008, coaches he hired led the program to national championships in baseball, football, golf and track. The football team won national championships in 2003 and 2007. In 1999, Baseball America named him the second-best college baseball coach of the 20th century. Three of his players are with him in the College Baseball Hall of Fame, and 41 of his players made the Major Leagues. Outside of LSU, he was assistant coach on several U.S. national teams and the 1988 U.S. Olympic gold medal team, and was head coach of the 1996 U.S. Olympics Team in Atlanta that won the bronze medal. In June 1999, Bertman was head coach of the United States youth baseball team at the Pan American Maccabi Games in Mexico City, where he was credited with introducing competitive baseball to the Maccabi movement. His team went 7-0 and won the gold medal, defeating Canada, 12-4, in the gold medal game. Arnie Fielkow, former CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans who has been associated with the Maccabiah for decades, said in a statement that he first met Bertman in 1999 when he chaired baseball for Maccabi USA, recruiting him to coach the first-ever baseball Team USA. “Skip was a wonderful, warm and beautiful man who will be missed by so many around Louisiana and our entire country,” he said. Fielkow was also executive vice president of the New Orleans Saints in the years before Hurricane Katrina. After the storm, with the
community Superdome unusable, Fielkow asked Bertman about the availability of Tiger Stadium for Saints home games. “Skip immediately said yes. And, as a result, hundreds of thousands of Black and Gold fans, despite the tremendous losses of Hurricane Katrina, were able to enjoy in Louisiana several Sundays of Saints football. Skip and LSU’s willingness to help Saints fans should never be forgotten.” “Few people have had a greater impact on LSU than Skip Bertman,” said LSU Vice President/Director of Athletics Verge Ausberry. “As the greatest college baseball coach of all-time, and later as our Athletics Director, Skip developed a championship standard and culture that still guide us today.” “Coach Bertman was so far ahead of his time while leading the LSU Tigers, and as a young coach just starting my journey, I watched, studied, and admired his incredible skills of leading, motivating, teaching, coaching, and ultimately cultivating what became ‘The Powerhouse’ of College Baseball,” said LSU Coach Jay Johnson. “Being able to share the 2023 and 2025 National Championships with Coach Bertman watching is something I wouldn’t trade for the world. The impact he made and legacy he has left on the state of Louisiana and college baseball is beyond
remarkable and will never be duplicated.” Greg Sankey, commissioner of the SEC, said “His coaching career at LSU fundamentally reshaped Southeastern Conference baseball, and his later service as LSU’s athletics director extended that same standard of leadership. His impact on college baseball, the SEC, and LSU, will continue.” In May 2013, the field at Alex Box Stadium was named for him, and a statue was installed outside the stadium in 2019. This April, the field at Flamingo Park in Miami Beach was named for him. An alumnus who played Skip Bertman statue at LSU catcher on the baseball team and lineman on World Series, he was an integral part of “The the football team, Bertman coached the Miami Grand Illusion,” which is still regarded as one of Beach High School Hi-Tides from 1962 to 1974, the greatest trick plays in baseball history, and winning the state championship in 1970 and which struck fear and doubt among opposing teams for the rest of the series. finishing second twice. Earlier this year, the Jewish Sports Heritage In 1974, he became assistant coach for the Miami Hurricanes, becoming associate head Association in New York announced that he coach and pitching coach. He was an on-field would be part of the Class of 2027. In 2024, coach in 1982 when Miami won the nation- Bertman was inducted into the International al championship. During that year’s College Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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IT’S TIME TO RENEW YOUR CAR TAG SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR NORMA LIVINGSTON OVARIAN CANCER FOUNDATION
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! The Ovarian Cancer Research Tag may be purchased for private passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, motorcycles, and pleasure motor vehicles (i.e., recreational vehicles).
Alabama is one of three states who currently have an ovarian cancer car tag. The Drive Out Ovarian Cancer car tag raises money for research in hopes that one day, doctors will discover an early detection test for ovarian cancer, so that women will be tested for this insidious disease at their annual checkups just like cervical and breast cancers. The mission of the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation (NLOCF) is to raise funds for ovarian cancer research and to increase awareness about the risks, symptoms and treatments of this disease. The net proceeds of the $50.00 are distributed to the NLOCF to be used for ovarian cancer research at the UAB hospital. The Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization. Your $50 contribution is tax-deductible.
Little Betty Sea Bar 1011 Jemison Ln. Mountain Brook (205) 315-4080
Sea Bar Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna A favorite at Sea Bar, this dish combines crispy golden sushi rice with fresh spicy tuna, creamy avocado, and a touch of heat. It’s the perfect balance of crunch, freshness, and bold Japanese-inspired flavor. Use the best tuna from a local fish market such as Sexton’s, to make this a delicious bite for your next special occasion. Serves 4 (Makes 16 bites)
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
Crispy Rice • 2 cups cooked sushi rice • Neutral oil, for frying • 3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar Spicy Tuna • 8 ounces sushi-grade ahi tuna, finely diced • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise • 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste) • 1 teaspoon sesame oil • 1 teaspoon soy sauce • 2 teaspoons sliced scallions • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds Garnishes • 1 avocado, thinly sliced • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced • Thinly sliced scallions • Toasted sesame seeds • Optional: micro cilantro or microgreens
“He periodically spells my name right.” – Moses “Yes, we gave him a graduate degree. We’re looking into it.” – chancellor, Jewish Theological Seminary
“He knows more about Judaica than most, and you won’t find any of it in this book.” – his fourth-grade teacher
Ingredients
Instructions 1. Prepare the rice. While still warm, season the cooked sushi rice with the rice vinegar and gently fold to combine. Press the rice into a parchment-lined 8x8-inch pan to about ¾-inch thick. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until firm. 2. Cut and fry. Turn the chilled rice onto a cutting board and cut into sixteen equal rectangles. Heat about ½ inch of neutral oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry the rice pieces until crisp and golden on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and lightly season with kosher salt. 3. Mix the spicy tuna. In a chilled bowl, gently combine the diced tuna with the mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, soy sauce, scallions, and sesame seeds. Mix just until coated, taking care not to overwork the fish. 4. Assemble. Top each crispy rice square with a slice of avocado, followed by a generous spoonful of the spicy tuna mixture. Garnish with a jalapeño slice, scallions, sesame seeds, and microgreens if using. You may also add a drizzle of kosher-certified unagi-style or eel sauce for an extra boost of flavor.
community Chef Kyle’s Tip The secret to great crispy rice is patience. Letting the rice chill thoroughly before frying helps it hold its shape while developing an irresistibly crisp exterior and a soft, chewy center.
From the Sea Bar Kitchen Japanese cuisine is all about balance—contrasting temperatures, textures, and flavors in every bite. Crispy rice with spicy tuna has become a modern classic because it delivers that balance beautifully: warm, crunchy rice beneath cool, silky tuna with just enough spice to keep you reaching for another piece.
Little Betty Sea Bar By Lee J. Green The phrase “one if by land, two if by sea” applies perfectly to the Revival Restaurant Group’s latest Mountain Brook eatery. In December 2023 they opened Little Betty Steak Bar in Lane Parke. After its continued success they acquired the space next door in 2024 and opened Little Betty Sea Bar this March. “We wanted to build off that Little Betty recipe of a fine-dining experience with exceptional service and add in seafood,” said Executive Chef Kyle Biddy. “But we wanted to offer something that is very unique to Birmingham. We’re not focused on Gulf seafood, but rather elevated, Japanese-inspired cuisine. It’s a blue ocean concept. We describe it as a love-letter to the coast filtered through a Japanese lens.” Biddy said that Little Betty Sea Bar’s menu includes some starters, maki rolls, a couple sandwiches, a couple “cooked tableside” dishes and entrees. While the cuisine includes unique, kosher-style seafood items such as a salmon crunch roll, diablo roll (with spicy tuna), whole crispy branzino and roasted black cod, it also features several non-seafood options such as 5 Spice Crispy Duck Leg, Tokyo Filet, Wagyu
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Fried Rice and The Avocado appetizer. Little Betty Sea Bar also offers an extensive cocktail, wine and beer menu including up to 15 different types of Sake. “We thoughtfully select everything we bring into the restaurant and who we work with,” said Biddy, adding that they work with several vendors in central Alabama and the region at both restaurants. General Manager Jared Patterson said they spend a lot of time educating their staff so they can convey that extensive knowledge of the cuisine, culture and concept to patrons. “It’s all about giving customers an experience, and education is a big part of that. Hospitality is a feeling that we can create organically,” he said. Biddy said they are happy to customize a dining experience with kosher-style substitutes for some menu items. Little Betty Sea Bar also has two private dining rooms for celebrations. “We have many of our customers who have traveled across the country and the globe,” he said. “They have told us some of the things they would love to have in Birmingham. This is something we really wanted to do for the community.” Little Betty Sea Bar is open for dinner 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. continued from page 46
streets without giving a fig, leaving little to the ferent lives by their starkly contrasting social imagination. strati. He lives in poverty, never fully realizing Is it possible they were the same person, but his musical potential. She lives among the social Hans Jewish Andersen simply shifted his nom elite, never finding meaning in her life. du plume to better plumb the larger book-readThe novel is titled “Only a Fiddler,” but is ing populace of his time and location? credited solely to Hans Christian Andersen. If they were actually separate people, is it pos- Sounds crazy, no?
sible HCA and HJA ever met? While one can’t Doug Brook is directing a production of “Once tell who came first, thus who influenced whom, Upon a Mattress” – the first musical in which maybe they had an undisclosed collaboration. he ever appeared onstage, many moons ago. To There’s a novel about a Christian boy (named acquire both Rear Pew Mirror books, read other Christian) and a Jewish girl (not named Jewish) past columns, or listen to the Rear Pew Mirror who are close as children but carried into dif- podcast, visit http://rearpewmirror.com/.
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rear pew mirror • doug brook
Farblunget Fairy Tales Many moons ago, in a far-off place, lived a writer who would capture the hearts and minds of future generations in over one hundred languages. He wrote tales that captured imagination, created fantastical worlds, and in their original form could scare the bejesus out of small children. This might sound like the writer Hans Christian Andersen. He fits the description, after all, but it’s not about him. It’s about his lesser-known cousin, Hans Jewish Andersen, a prolific purveyor of prose who was lost to obscurity along with his writings. Until now. Perhaps HJA didn’t have as good an agent. Perhaps he was one critical rung too low in the ladder of alphabetical order, thanks to his middle name. History might never know; after all, history barely even knows him. Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Hebrew going from right to left makes that question doubly complicated to answer. Either way, it’s debatable which of these men came first and influenced the other. But that merely speaks to their slew of similarities. For example, Hans Christian Andersen was Danish. Hans Jewish Andersen was a member of a people who likes to eat Danish. Much like his Christian counterpart, Hans Jewish Andersen was adept at writing what were aptly described as fairblunget tales (fairy tales, for short).
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One of Hans Jewish Andersen’s would-be best known tales features a prince who wants to marry a princess, but the princess must pass a special test to prove she’s a real princess. In “The Princess and the Pew,” the eponymous princess must prove she’s sufficiently sensitive by sleeping through the night on a hard wooden pew. She easily succeeds because she brings in the local rabbi to deliver his Andersen is High Holy Day sermon.
a window into different literary styles
What’s more, this sleeping beauty was cursed into a deep slumber that lasted one hundred years, from which even a prince’s kiss couldn’t wake her. Only once they brought in the pledge cards for the annual campaign did she get up, just in time to flee the room. Another love story, “The Little Mermaidel,” finds a lovely lass floundering around to find her love. Her ship comes in when a prince falls off his, and she rescues him and brings him to temple. For the first time in her life, she must stand on her own two feet. She falls in love with the prince, but her love is unrequited. What’s more, she can’t return home lest her legs get cut out from under her. The story comes to its inevitable, animated conclusion. In “The Emperor’s New Schmattes,” the haughty ruler has a penchant for the hottest in haute couture. He hears of two Jewish tailors passing through town, and sees an opportunity for something new and exotic. He orders them to make him the most god-like garments that best reflect the formative foundation of their faith. They grudgingly oblige, and the emperor soon parades through the town in what they called their Eden collection. People gawk and guffaw but he marches through the continued on page 45
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October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
October 2026 • Southern Jewish Life
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