Talk of the Town - Faith in neighbors October 17 2001

for more than 12 years, Avital Landman and her family have lived in the Jewish communities nestled in Dunwoody. Land-man was initially attracted to the area due to the public school district and its specialization in programs from which her autistic son could benefit. What hooked Landman was the neighborhood itself — filled with friendly neighbors and a relaxed atmosphere.

In a time when different political and religious differences divide many, this area defies religious conflict.

First of all, a dramatic mix of Jewish beliefs are represented. Surrounded by Congregation Ariel (modern orthodox), Congregation Beth Shalom (conservative), Temple Emmanuel (reform) and B’Nai Torah (traditional), the Dunwoody Jewish Community Center lies at the heart of the community. The center unifies the various sects, offering various programming, day care, a singles group, Israeli folk dancing and other activities.

Nearby Jewish schools — four elementary and middle and two high schools — located near their respective synagogues, allow children to be taught according to their parents’ liking. This schooling is in addition to a strong public school system that attracts families like the Landmans.

To accommodate their community members many popular restaurants, such as Sam & Eli’s, offer hot kosher meals, and the local Kroger operates a kosher deli and bakery. This allows Jews observing strict dietary laws a much-needed source for kosher food and fresh meat.

Ilene Levin, outreach director of Shalom Israel, feels the area is attractive due to its variety of residents.

“It’s a great mix of religious beliefs,” says Levin, who also works for the Jewish Federation and comes into contact with a number of newcomers. “I recommend it to newcomers since everyone can find something conducive to Jewish life [in Dunwoody].”

But not only Jewish people love the Jewish feel to the area.

“Since I moved to the area, I’ve felt a sense of security I haven’t found anywhere else,” says Sam Thompson, a nine- year resident. “All my Jewish neighbors are respectful of my religious traditions, and I am of theirs.”

According to Thompson, many non-Jews find the area extremely rich in culture. They show their spirit for diversity by joining the Jewish Community Center and by participating in neighborhood events like the many Purim Parades that travel past his house every year.

“This area is rich in culture and history — the diverse religious beliefs are only heightened and enriched by the diverse canvas of Dunwoody,” Thompson says.

But not everyone is content to stay put.

Avital Landman loves her neighborhood, but she says she’d rather be in Israel. Until that dream becomes a reality, she feels the Dunwoody Jewish community is a great alternative.??