THEN & NOW: Betty and Allen Blass
As an Atlanta Jewish Times tradition, we spotlight some of the city’s most optimistic and fun-loving couples who share how they met and their secrets to longstanding marriage.
After 37 years with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and now with the AJT, , Jaffe’s focus is lifestyle, art, dining, fashion, and community events with emphasis on Jewish movers and shakers.
Years Married: 60
June 1962
Location: Congregation Beth Jacob
Initial Attraction:
Allen: My first memory of Betty was seeing a beautiful, dark haired young woman painting outside on her easel in a neighbor’s backyard.
Betty: We first met being counselors at the AJCC. Allen looked like James Dean in his crisp white button downs and blue jeans, bright blue eyes, swept back brown hair, and his delicious cologne. He always smelled so good!
Allen: We continued to orbit around each other at Grady High School, where we flirted but did not date. Betty was shy but when I discovered that she was the girl with the easel, it was all over.
Secrets?
Betty: We support each other’s hobbies and a love of gardening, animals, movies, and music. Alan has a green thumb like nobody’s business.
Allen: Our marriage has been seasons of gardening together: okra, tomatoes, peas and string beans, garlic, etc. And transforming the front yard into an orchard. Betty is still an artist. Our house is full of her paintings!
Betty: He makes the best lemon meringue pie. He is a fabulous cook and baker! Hearing loss is also important. Just kidding!
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