Alon Celebrates 88th Birthday in Style

Michael Alon recently celebrated his 88th birthday in style — with a Princess cruise together with wife, Etti, and surrounded by their children and several grandchildren!

Michael has called Atlanta home since 1973 and has been an active part of the Jewish community for more than 50 years. A graduate of Yeshiva University’s Teachers Institute, he also holds a license to teach in Jewish day schools. During his 12 years at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, he helped bring tradition to life — assigning students Torah readings for holidays and special megillot like Shir Hashirim, Ruth, Kohelet, and Esther. He taught students to chant Kiddush and Yigdal and loved seeing their names in the weekly bulletin.

Michael is proud of starting the custom of students chanting Anim Zemirot at Shabbat morning services. He also prepared about 50 students a year for their bar mitzvahs — some even chanted full Torah portions — and led Hebrew school classes that conducted entire Friday night services. One of his favorite accomplishments is helping many of his students speak Hebrew with confidence.

He’s also known around town as a master Torah reader, with a unique style of reading and improvisations. He is always happy to step in, even at the last minute.

More than anything, Michael is a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His humor, warmth, and love for learning are just a few of the qualities his family admires most. His family is grateful for the chance to celebrate this milestone and share a bit about the man who has taught, inspired, and supported so many.