Star of David Club Shines at Holbrook Woodstock
The Star of David Club members at Holbrook Woodstock share a special bond.
As Atlanta Jewish Times (AJT) continues expanding its distribution north of Metro Atlanta into the Woodstock area, the AJT recently struck up a conversation with Holbrook Woodstock Concierge Rochelle Nelson, who has been with the community since it opened in 2021.
Nelson shared about a group of six Jewish women residents affectionately known as the Star of David Club. She faithfully looks after the group and makes sure each member receives a copy of the paper whenever a new issue is published.
The AJT recently had the opportunity to meet these wonderful women, all of whom live independently at Holbrook Woodstock, a senior living community featuring nearly 300 apartment homes and 16 cottages. If you remember the television sitcom, “The Golden Girls,” this group of women are very reminiscent of that show, navigating their friendship, aging, and daily lives together.
Phyllis Goldstein has called Holbrook home for more than five years. Her journey has taken her from The Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island, New Jersey, and Florida before settling in Georgia. Sue Huebsch, originally from Borough Park in Brooklyn, has been a resident for 4½ years. Patricia “Trish” Camina, originally from Montreal, Canada, has lived at Holbrook for three years, as has Carol Rubenstein, who grew up in Manhattan, N.Y. Myrna Zimmerman, originally from East Flatbush in Brooklyn, has been there for two years, while Glenda Machado, whose roots are in Teaneck, N.J., joined the community a year ago.
Like many residents, several of the women moved to Georgia to be closer to their children and grandchildren, whom they enjoy seeing as often as possible. The camaraderie among this group is truly something special. They share dinner together every evening and often participate in off-site excursions organized by Holbrook Woodstock, including theater performances, museum visits and city tours. Some also enjoy playing Mah Jongg, Canasta and trivia games. The women enthusiastically take advantage of the many amenities available to them and often describe Holbrook Woodstock as the “Ritz-Carlton of senior living.”
Their Jewish identities remain an important part of their lives. They make sure a menorah is lit during Chanukah and celebrate Jewish holidays with family whenever possible. This year, Holbrook Woodstock has included Chanukah programming in its budget and plans to host a Chanukah celebration for Jewish residents.
The group also expressed how much they enjoy reading Atlanta Jewish Times and appreciate the connection it provides to the local Jewish community. They were equally enthusiastic in their praise of Nelson, crediting her with making sure they are well cared for and that their needs are consistently met.
These remarkably happy women are a shining example of the vibrant community at Holbrook Woodstock and the friendships that make it feel like home.