THE
Jewish
OBSERVER Vol. 88 No. 9
www.jewishobservernashville.org
SEPTEMBER 2023
15 Elul 5783 - 15 Tishrei 5784
Shana Tova 5784
Nashville Jewish Day Schools See Record Enrollment By BARBARA DAB
S Rabbi Dan Horwitz is new CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville. He and his family moved here from Detroit last month.
Hello Jewish Nashville!
O
r, as I learned to say many years ago when I lived in Charleston, “Shalom y’all!” Given that my father published the Jewish newspaper in Detroit for over 30 years, it’s particularly special for me to be able to say hello and offer Rosh Hashanah greetings to the community here in the Observer’s pages. My family and I have only just begun to settle into the community, and already feel so warmly welcomed. Thanks to all whose efforts have helped us to feel at home so quickly. As a parent, watching our kiddos be embraced by their peers has also been particularly moving. Rosh Hashanah is one of my favorite times of the year. Families come together for meals (and special recipes come out), our community gathers en masse in our synagogues, and it’s suddenly socially acceptable to put honey on just about everything we eat. But I also cherish that our tradition carves out the space for reflection and introspection, recognizing that we’re all striving to be the best versions of ourselves we possibly can be, and that we all have work to do to keep moving in that direction. Our community’s organizations are no different, and the High Holiday Continued on page 2 A Publication of the
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chool bells are ringing again in Nashville and the local Jewish day schools are reporting a record 150 students enrolled. That number includes Akiva School, Jewish Middle School (JMS), and Kehila High School (KHS). “These schools should be the feather in the cap of our Jewish community,” says Rabbi Saul Strosberg, founder and head of school at JMS. Strosberg says while overall growth in the city is the backdrop, he believes what is driving the increased numbers is the challenges facing students and parents. “As an orthodox rabbi I want people to choose Jewish education, but people want it for many other reasons,” he says. Strosberg cites underfunding in the public schools and a lack of focus on the educational needs of students. And he says so-called “legacy private schools,” are simply too big to offer the personalized approach provided in the Jewish day school environment.
Students from Kehila High School start the school year with a visit to an escape room.
At Akiva School which provides k-6 education, enrollment has grown roughly 25% in the last eight years, with no signs of slowing down. Rabba Daniella Pressner, head of school, is happy but
not surprised by the success. “There were a lot of people who concentrated on making Akiva a space where all kids could be accepted and make this part of Continued on page 7
Rabbi Joshua Kullock Named to Prestigious Shalom Hartman Leadership Program By BARBARA DAB
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s a high school student in Israel, Rabbi Joshua Kullock listened to lectures given by Rabbi David Hartman for the first time. He was inspired by Hartman’s teachings on Jewish pluralism and Torah. And now, after a lengthy application process, Kullock will join the eighth cohort of rabbis to participate in the Shalom Hartman Rabbinic Leadership Institute. “The program speaks to me because of my personal theology and philosophy,” says Kullock, “I am happy and excited to get started.” The program spans three years and consists of both summer and winter study on site at the Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, and various online studies. The application process for the program Cantor debuts creative Jewish film for Nashville community, page 10
Rabbi Joshua Kullock has been selected to participate in the prestigious Shalom Hartman Rabbinic Leadership Institute.
Holocaust Memorial Welcomes Diverse Visitors, page 11
is rigorous, including personal essays, recommendations, and interviews. Twentyfive rabbis in each cohort come from around the United States, Canada, and Israel. “This is an opportunity for delving into Judaic studies for longer than a typical three-day conference,” he says. Kullock has been the senior rabbi at West End Synagogue for the last 10 years and has had his sights set on this program all along. Still, his acceptance was not a given. “I still don’t know why I was picked,” he says with a twinkle. But those who know him, know why. Mark Freedman, former CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, wrote one of Kullock’s letters of recommendation. “This is a great testament to his rabbinic ability and the reputation he
Rosh Hashanah Greetings, page 25
Continued on page 16 At Our Congregations page 28
Community Relations Committee New Year’s Reflections from JCRC By DEBORAH OLESHANSKY
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he Jewish year is a magical combination of lively celebrations, feasts of traditional foods, glistening candlelight, sacred wine, raucous dancing and noisy parades, committing to the triumph of freedom, personal and communal mourning, fasting, and opportunities to reflect, atone, and renew. We are currently in the Jewish month of Elul which will lead us to Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year on the first of the month of Tishrei. One of the best-known teachings about Elul is that the four letters of the name of the month are an acronym from
the verse in Song of Songs, Ani l’dodi v’dodi li (“I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine”). Most of us know this phrase as the words spoken during a Jewish wedding ceremony, but the origin of the phrase in Song of Songs refers to the love between us and God, making this the time of year to reflect
Please join us… Please join The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville as we say thank you to Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt for her years of dedication and hard work on behalf of our community and wish her well in her new professional opportunity. On Sunday, September 10th, from 4:30-5:30, stop by the Gordon Jewish Community Center to say thank you to Carolyn, and to pick up a Rosh Hashanah treat! Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year. We look forward to seeing you on September 10th!
on our relationship with the universal life force that connects us all through our humanity. As we prepare for the Days of Awe, the days from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur, it is a time to reflect on the past year, recommit to our spiritual and personal relationships, and prepare for the coming year. The year ending, 5783, as with most years, was a time of blessings and challenges. For the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, this past year was also a time of transition in leadership, as we welcome Rabbi Dan Horwitz as CEO of the Federation. If you have not yet had a chance to meet Dan, stay tuned. There are several upcoming opportunities to get to know him. One of the greatest blessings for the Federation is the leadership of Board President, Dr. Leslie Kirby. The past year is not quite what Leslie originally expected, as it became necessary for her to serve not only as President, but also as informal interim CEO. Leslie attended staff meetings, signed checks, remembered birthdays, encouraged boosts for morale, and listened and responded to suggestions, concerns, and complaints. Through it all she showed up in every possible way and achieved numerous successes through unflinching dedication, consistent determination, remarkable strength, resilience, and focused sense of purpose. Leslie’s leadership extended beyond our community, as she facilitated a statewide effort of the primary Jewish communities in Tennessee, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Memphis, in a successful endeavor to secure additional state funds to be used for security for houses of worship, and a successful legislative initiative to amend the state hate crime statute
to assist law enforcement in addressing those crimes. We, and all the Jewish community members in our state, owe her a true debt of gratitude, and we are fortunate that her leadership extends into the new year. As we embark on the coming weeks of reflection, renewal, and both asking for and granting forgiveness, may we be reminded of the words of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, “Forgiveness means that we are not destined endlessly to replay the grievances of yesterday. It is the ability to live with the past without being held captive by the past. It would not be an exaggeration to say that forgiveness is the most compelling testimony to human freedom. It is about the action that is not reaction. It is the refusal to be defined by circumstance. It represents our ability to change course, reframe the narrative of the past and create an unexpected set of possibilities for the future... In the face of tragedy, forgiveness is the counter-narrative of hope. It is not a moral luxury, an option for saints. At times it is the only path through the thickets of hate to the open spaces of coexistence.” As we move into Jewish year, 5784, JCRC recommits to the primary priority of addressing antisemitism and other forms of hate which damage us all. We commit to the work of moving through the thickets of hate into the open spaces of coexistence. May we stay focused on our soul nourishing relationships with each other, and may we be blessed on the journey. To learn more about how Jews in the diaspora can support the people of Israel, consider reading this article from Times of Israel and registering for this webinar September 4: Diaspora Jews: Time to take a stand | The Times of Israel Wishing you and your families a sweet and healthy Rosh Hashanah, and a meaningful Yom Kippur. •
Hello Nashville! Continued from page 1
Governor Bill Lee, surrounded by leaders from Tennessee’s Jewish communities, signs historic legislation making it easier to fight antisemitism in the state by broadening language for what constitutes a hate crime. The bill’s passage is the result of a combined effort by all the Jewish Federations in Tennessee and received wide support from the state legislature and the governor.
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September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
season provides a meaningful opportunity for those of us who work in service to the community to reflect on our organizational missions and evaluate how we can have an even greater impact. In reflecting on the purpose of the Federation, I think our work can be distilled down to three core tenets. The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville is here to: 1) Build Jewish community; 2) Grow Jewish philanthropy; and 3) Care for those in need with dignity. And with those core tenets driving us, the impact of our work will be felt here in Nashville, in Israel and around the world. Thank you for welcoming my family so warmly. Thank you for being part of our Nashville Jewish community. And thank you for being our partners as we welcome in 5784. Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy and sweet new year. • – Dan
Partnership2Gether Program Creates Family Connections in Israel By EITAN SNYDER, US COMMUNITY COORDINATOR, PARTNERSHIP2GETHER HADERA-EIRON SOUTHEAST CONSORTIUM, US & CZECHIA
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n May 2014, I participated in the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School’s Irene and Daniel Simpkins Senior Capstone Israel trip and spent three weeks volunteering at the Neve Michael Children’s Village in Pardes Hanna. I was having a conversation with the village’s librarian, and we talked about what I was doing there and how I learned to speak Hebrew when she asked: “Nu, when are you making aliyah (moving to Israel)?” I responded to her that I was not planning to make aliyah. She frowned and said, “What’s the point of learning Hebrew if you are not going
to make aliyah?” This gap in understanding between Israeli and Diaspora Jews goes both ways. More and more Diaspora Jews visit Israel on Birthright and other immersive experiences in Israel, and they report feeling more connected to Judaism and Israel through these experiences. But then, when we have our Yom Hazikaron (Israel Memorial Day) ceremonies in Nashville, as an example, despite these events being publicized across the Jewish community in all our usual channels, the people in attendance are almost entirely Israelis and people who have family in Israel. I want Diaspora Jews to feel like they have family in Israel. I want Israeli Jews to feel a deep, personal connection to the Jewish community outside of Israel and an
appreciation of what it means to be Jewish in the Diaspora. I want Jews in the United States and Jews in Israel to remember that our relationship with one another goes far deeper than politics or what any government anywhere may say or do. This is why I am so excited to be the new Partnership2Gether (P2G) US Community Coordinator. The P2G Global Network is a project through the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) that connects Southeastern Jewish communities in Tennessee, Florida, Virginia, and the Carolinas and the Jewish communities of Czechia to the Hadera-Eiron region in northern Israel (which happens to include Pardes Hanna and the Neve Michael Children’s Village where I volunteered 10 years ago). In this role, I will
be coordinating the affiliated Diaspora communities and working with my Israeli counterparts to put together these activities that bring our communities together and instill within us a stronger feeling of אחדותachdut (unity) between Jews all over the world. Whether they be teenagers on our Get Connected trips, young professionals in our Leadership2Gether (L2G) exchange program, or families and young couples hosting teenagers from HaderaEiron in the US and Czechia, this regional partnership has been building meaningful relationships across borders and continents for many years. I am excited to get started and for our Nashville Jewish community to be a hub for Jewish connection and collaboration across the globe. •
Small Investment, Big Returns: Partnership Together By MARK S. FREEDMAN
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uring my time serving as CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville between 2011 and 2018, the Federation granted annually about 35 percent of its available funds from the annual campaign to meeting Jewish needs overseas. That translated to about $750,000 per year. The bulk of it was allocated to the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) to address a host of social and human services programs in Israel (primarily through JAFI) and in nearly 70 Diaspora countries to serve pressing Jewish needs c
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Publisher Jewish Federation Editor Barbara Dab Advertising Manager Carrie Mills Layout and Production Tim Gregory Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), Teena Cohen, Laura Thompson, Scott Rosenberg, Liz Feinberg Telephone 615/356-3242 Fax 615/352-0056 E-mail barbaradab@jewishnashville.org The Jewish OBSERVER (ISSN 23315334) is published monthly for $25 per year by the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 This newspaper is made possible by funds raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. The Jewish OBSERVER is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. While The Jewish OBSERVER makes every possible effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the Kasruth of their products. The Jewish OBSERVER Founded in 1934 by
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(primarily through JDC). The ratio of the distribution held steady over the years with 75 percent of the funds going to JAFI and 25 percent to JDC. Well, those, as they say, are the facts. But there’s much more to the story. And embedded in the annual grant to JAFI, when I arrived in 2011, about $44,000 (or just about 8 percent of the oversea allocation) was directed toward the federation’s Partnership2Together (P2G) community in Hadera-Eiron. The grant primarily supported teen exchanges and a handful of school twinning programs. By 2018, the P2G funding had grown to nearly $96,000, about 18 percent. Still a relatively small percentage of the total annual overseas grants, yet this modest investment yielded big
results and touched almost every corner of Jewish Nashville. P2G transformed the relationship and deepened the connection between the Nashville Jewish community and Israel, with Hadera-Eiron serving as the
Israeli epicenter of the constantly blossoming engagement. The Partnership celebrated its 10th Anniversary in 2012 (which at the time included Knoxville, Jacksonville, Charlotte, Pinellas County, Continued on page 4
Corrections Policy The Jewish Observer is committed to making corrections and clarifications promptly. To request a correction or clarification, call Editor Barbara Dab at (615) 354-1653 or email her at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org
P2G Delegation in August 2012 visiting Nashville for teen exchange retreat (Mifgash)
Editorial Submissions Policy and Deadlines The Jewish Observer welcomes the submission of information, news items, feature stories and photos about events relevant to the Jewish community of Greater Nashville. We prefer e-mailed submissions, which should be sent as Word documents to Editor Barbara Dab at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org. Photos must be high resolution (at least 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs to the e-mail with the related news item or story. For material that cannot be e-mailed, submissions should be sent to Barbara Dab, The Jewish Observer, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy sent by regular mail will not be returned unless prior arrangement is made. Publication is at the discretion of The Observer, which reserves the right to edit submissions. To ensure publication, submissions must arrive by the 15th of the month prior to the intended month of publication. For advertising deadlines, contact Carrie Mills, advertising manager, at 615-354-1699, or by email at carrie@nashvillejcc.org.
Sound of Many Waters Exhibition, November 2013, Jerusalem, Bible Lands Museum
Invitation to the Sound of Many Waters exhibition in Israel, November 2013
Editor’s Note I
t has been a while since I shared my thoughts with all of you directly. First, I want to thank everyone who reached out to congratulate me on my Simon Rockower Awards and my new expanded role as Director of Communications for the Federation. Second, and even more important, I want to draw your attention to some other exciting changes coming our way. You probably noticed our new logo and banner. The new look to The Observer is one we are thrilled about and in the coming months we will also be launching a new website with some great
features to keep you all informed with the latest news from our community. We are also working on creating a Sunday morning newsletter filled with interesting stories from Jewish communities around the US and the world. To be included in the weekly email, please send your email address to me at: barbaradab@ jewishnashville.org. I also want to wish you and yours a happy, healthy, sweet New Year and may you all be sealed in the Book of Life. Shana Tova, Barbara
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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Small Investment Continued from page 3
Daytona Beach, Chattanooga, and Ft. Myers with Richmond and Greensboro joining in later years) and Nashville sent a small delegation to Hadera as part of the “Taste of Partnership” mission. As a result of this mission, Nashville really raised its stake in Partnership. As part of her responsibility overseeing the Federation’s grants and allocations process at the time, Harriet Schiftan devoted a greater portion of her time to P2G programming and activities. Her commitment and professional devotion strengthened every aspect of our P2G activism locally and in the region. Here are just a few examples: • The local P2G Committee expanded and diversified its membership bringing new volunteers to the Federation. • The Federation hosted the annual Joint Steering Committee meetings of the Partnership in 2013 and 2018, thereby exposing all of the partner cities in the U.S. and the delegation from Israel with the opportunity to experience the richness of Jewish Nashville. • The Get Connected teen trip to Israel was integrated into the annual Partnership budget and the number of days spent in the Hadera-Eiron region increased along with the opportunity for home hospitality for our Nashville teens. • Our Federation provided critical leadership for art and music initiatives including three art exhibitions and a music initiative: • Windows of Identity Artist Exhibition in 2012 • The Sound of Many Waters in 2013 • Psalms: Art Beyond the Boundaries in 2016 • Music Together in 2015 which resulted in the release of a 15 song CD entitled Kosher Cuts produced entirely
by Partnership musicians and music production specialists. The three art exhibitions toured and were on display in Israel, and in most of the U.S. partnership communities. The Sound of Many Waters was exhibited at The Bible Lands Museum in Jerusalem which included a gala opening as part of the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in November 2013. During the time of my seven-year tenure in Nashville, in addition to the art and music initiatives, Federation volunteers, leadership, and the professional team played significant roles in: • A medical exchange delegation in 2017 in collaboration with HillelYaffe Hospital in Hadera • The Leadership2Together initiative for emerging young leaders from the U.S. Partnership communities with budding young leaders from HaderaEiron. Nashville served as a host city for the first Leadership Together Retreat • Hadera served as host to then Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam during his trade mission to Israel in 2015 • All this was in addition to the ongoing summer teen exchanges, school twinning projects and visits to local synagogues that served to strengthen the bonds of friendship and colleagueship, all of which endure and thrive through today. •
Windows of Identity exhibition on display at the Hadera Mall, February 2012
Opening Of Psalms: Beyond Boundaries at Hadera Municipal Center, April, 2016
Teens from Hadera-Eiron Bridgestone Arena in 2012
visiting
Visiting Mifalot: Children of the Dream youth sports program in Hadera, November 2013
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Spotlight on National Young Leadership Cabinet Retreat By AMY GOLDSTEIN
W
hen my family and I first moved to Nashville for my husband Dan’s postdoctoral fellowship in 2015, I worried that it would be hard to find good friends and that I would feel isolated. I worked from home for remote clients which meant there were no in-person work-related opportunities, where I could potentially make new local friends. We also didn’t have any close family in town to help create a feeling of comfort or familiarity. Enter the amazing Nashville Jewish community. Whether it was chatting with friendly folks between morning workouts at the GJCC, connecting with parents and teachers during pickups at Micah Children’s Academy and then later the Early Childhood Learning Center, and going through orientation with fellow Kindergarten parents at Akiva School (three of whom were rabbis representing three different congregations), everywhere I turned, there was a smiling face, a warm welcome, and often an invitation to coffee or dinner. My fears of isolation were not only alleviated, but my experience in Nashville was sweeter than I ever could have imagined. Eight years later, Nashville’s Jewish community is the gift that keeps on giving - and it’s why I support the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville. I do so as a donor, a board member of the Federation, and a proud member of Federation’s National Young Leadership Cabinet, which is Federation’s young leadership development program that aims to educate and connect the next generation of global Jewish leaders and philanthropists. To participate in Cabinet, I had to apply and, more importantly, commit to five to six years of learning, growth, and meaningful giving to the Federation. While Cabinet has been around for several decades, I first learned about Cabinet from Lana and Franklin Pargh, who were recruited the previous year by Aron & Batia Karabel. The big selling point for me was that Cabinet would inspire learning and personal growth and connect me with a network of people from across the country who also want to give back and help strengthen and sustain their Jewish communities. My 300 new friends range in observance from unaffiliated to Orthodox and range in age from mid-20s to early 50s. Career experiences also greatly vary from doctors and lawyers to professors, entrepreneurs, and sociologists. Some were small business owners like me. (Dan and I ultimately launched a private psychology practice, Nashville Psych, in 2016.) Others ran large corporations and flew on their private jets to attend Cabinet conferences. Despite the vast differences between many of us, the thread that ties us all together is our love of being Jewish, our desire to help others, and our commitment to the Federation. Last month, I had the distinct privilege of joining hundreds of Cabinet members, including fellow Nashvillians Alex Brown, Erin Coleman and Rachel Whitney, and our Federation staff representative Carolyn Hyatt, for three days of
The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s Young Leadership Cabinet cohort. Pictured l. to r.: Erin Coleman, Alex Brown, Amy Goldstein, Rachel Whitney, and Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt, Federation Campaign Director.
learning, connecting, planning, and innovating at Federation’s National Young Leadership Cabinet Conference, held in Detroit, Michigan. Over the course of the retreat, we shared what is working well and what could be improved in our communities. We heard from various leaders about what they are seeing and experiencing. We also participated in hands-on training on a variety of topics such as effective communication, leading with intention, how to respectfully disagree about Israel without staying silent, and other relevant topics. I attended a session on managing group dynamics and another on creating and maintaining psychological safety in any environment, both of which were directly relevant to my volunteer life as well as my role at Nashville Psych. For me, it was a true win-win. On the second day of retreat, I led a caucus session, which is a small, intimate gathering connecting with chèvre (Hebrew for “group of friends,” and in this case other cabinet members) to share about our lives back home, more specifically our Jewish lives. We discussed our upbringings, what led us there, what we were most proud of and why, and our hopes and dreams for our families and communities. We also shared why we give to our local Federation and how much we pledged to donate in the next year. Throughout the experience, we confided in each other, we laughed, we (sometimes) cried, we (obviously) ate, and we left feeling moved, understood, hopeful, and connected. I shared that I give to the Federation because our extraordinary Jewish community and several of the organizations that Federation helps to fund (Akiva, GJCC, JMS, JFS, The Temple, to name a few), have been there for me, my husband Dan, and our daughters Stephie and Savanna. With our children in mind, I am especially grateful for Federation’s advocacy efforts to secure funding for more security for our schools and congregations. My life is greatly impacted by the work of the Federation, and I am passionate about paying it forward. If any of this resonates with you and/or you’d like to learn more about Cabinet, please reach out to me, any of the other cabinet members mentioned. •
Visit The Jewish Observer’s website www.jewishobservernashville.org
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September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville board member, Jacob Kupin, is sworn in to Metro Council for district 19.
Pictured Federation board president Leslie Kirby, Federation board member Councilman Jacob Kupin.
Hawaii Wildfires W
ildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui have devastated communities on the island. According to the latest news reports, the current death toll has risen to over 100, and is expected to go much higher. The fires have wiped out the historic city of Lahaina and destroyed people’s homes. Not only does Maui’s community need our help, but many people are fleeing to Honolulu where Jewish communal organizations will receive many requests for support. Jewish Federations are uniquely positioned to help at times such as these. We urge you to support the relief efforts and share this information with others in your community who might be inclined to donate to this cause. •
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org
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September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Day Schools
Happy Rosh Hashanah
Continued from page 1
their Jewish journey,” she says. And, says Pressner, nothing that happens at Akiva is accidental, “We are intentional about growth and work to create a culture rather than let it happen.” This year Akiva is celebrating its 70th year, and while it remains rooted in Jewish values, Pressner and her faculty and staff always have their eyes on the future. “We’re always looking at where we want to be in 20 or 30 years, and then design backwards,” she says. She credits a high retention rate for faculty as another key element to the school’s success. “We have a very committed faculty and staff who all work to create a vision.” At JMS, which provides education for grades five through eight, the growth has been slow but steady, topping out at 38 this year, with six of the eight Akiva graduates attending. According to Alene Arnold, co-head of school at JMS, the pace is helpful, “The gradual growth is helpful from a planning perspective. We are able to strike a balance between a curriculum that is rigorous but tailored to the needs of the individual student. We know what’s coming our way.” Arnold says as the school grows, there continues to be consideration about just how big is big enough. “We want to remain small and individualized,” she says, “We need to think about what the optimal class size is and be deliberate about staffing.” A top priority at the moment is fine tuning the admission process. The school accepts students who are not Jewish, but Arnold says it is the Jewish values that remain a draw for parents across a diverse spectrum. “Jewish values are so beautifully generalizable. We are community based and inclusive.” One of the things that drew a wide array of parents to JMS was its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. Jenny Cheng is both a parent at the school, and a board member. “The school handled the pandemic well. It prioritized in-person learning without compromising safety,” she says. But as the pandemic wound down, Cheng says it became clear there were other factors that account for JMS’ growth. “It is an appealing option to people moving to town. It is smaller, more personalized and has great academics.” For Bridget Pounds’ son Carson, JMS provided a high level of academic rigor, and a safe nurturing environment the family did not find in their local public schools. “Carson was the only Jewish child in his school and he experienced some antisemitism from other students. So, when my cousin told me about a new Jewish middle school starting, we toured JMS and decided to make the change.” The Poundses also enrolled their younger daughter in Akiva at the same time. “We just didn’t want our kid subjected to antisemitism.” Pounds says there were many other benefits for Carson when he began JMS. “He is not very social, but within the first year he was a completely different kid. He was more confident and able to express himself and to participate. Someone always listened to him,” she says. Kehila High School is the new kid on the Jewish day school block. Now in its second year, the school has eight students, up from its original six. Strosberg calls the founding class “Jackie Robinsons.” “It takes tremendous courage and talent to lead the way, for the parents too,” he says. The Pounds family
from
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Students from the Jewish Middle School study together.
is one of those pioneers. Carson Pounds is now in the 10th grade and his mother Bridget says the school continues to provide opportunities for specialized experience. “Carson wants to be a lawyer and last year his teacher arranged for the class to visit court,” she says, “Not only does he get to be who he is, but he is nurtured for those things.” This year, with the addition of 10th grade, came the addition of a college counselor. Strosberg reports the school has retained the services of Janet Schneider who recently retired from a long-time role at University School of Nashville. “She is just as much about educating parents as students. She knows what to stress in the high school years and is focused on getting it right.” Cheng says the school’s small size is a key part of its overall appeal. “The faculty and staff it attracts are focused on building and developing. It’s a terrific, unique experience.” She also says Jewish schools are echoing the changing Jewish population in America. “They are becoming more diverse, more international. They reach across the denominations and appeal to Jews of color and Jews not of color.” Shira Sackett is the lead math and science teacher at KHS. She says the school’s small size allows for deeper teacher/student relationships. “We really get to know them, which allows us to have high expectations and to understand how they learn,” she says. Sackett says the addition of a college counselor will be key to the school’s growth, “As a high school we have to have in mind what’s next for the students. She [Schneider] has wonderful ideas about what college guidance looks like for each student.” Looking toward the future of Jewish day schools in Nashville, those involved are planning for bigger and better facilities. JMS currently meets on the grounds of Congregation Sherith Israel but is quickly outgrowing the space. Strosberg says there are plans to expand the Akiva campus to include JMS. And even farther into the future, the hope is to have one integrated Nashville Jewish day school for k-12. Cheng says, “We have a very educated, intellectual community. It takes a lot of investment, and leadership is so important. The vision of a k-12 pluralistic Jewish option is the dream.” While the dream continues to develop, students keep moving forward. Pressner keeps in touch with former students and says the seeds sown at Akiva bear fruit down the road. “Across the board, wherever they go, our students are known as leaders, thinkers, people willing to ask questions and take risks.” Arnold has been with JMS since the beginning. She says her first class consisted of six students, now all heading off to college. “One of the most validating things is that our graduates, at a variety of schools, all come back saying they were very prepared.” •
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September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
7/31/23 8:46 PM
Two of the Tennessee Three Share Stories of Inspiration and Faith By BARBARA DAB
“D
o justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” Those words from Micah 6:8 are the guideposts of Congregation Micah where on a Friday evening last month, two of three of Tennessee’s state legislators, dubbed the “Tennessee Three,” were welcomed to speak. Rabbi Laurie Rice opened with the words of the prophet, and introduced Gloria Johnson (TN-90), and Justin Jones ((TN-52). “Sometimes doing justly requires breaking barriers and being disrupters,” said Rice, “We invite you here not as political figures, but as pursuers of peace.” Rice continued to ask what led each to be the people they are today and to have the values they hold dear. Johnson began with a story from her childhood when her family lived in Jackson, Mississippi. In a voice filled with emotion, she shared that a Jewish synagogue about a mile from her home was bombed. “We could hear it, actually,” she said. Her father, an FBI agent, called his partner and the two arrested three members of the Ku Klux Klan. “They knew there were more people involved, and so the Klan threatened to kill our whole family.” The family moved out of their home for several weeks while the FBI lived in their house and continued the investigation. “That was my experience with justice and hatred and seeing that some people are capable of anything.” Jones said that type of hatred still exists and urged everyone to be diligent in recognizing it and calling it out. “We’re living in a time where once again that kind of white supremacy and racial terrorism is once again raising its head in this nation, condoned in the highest levels of our government.” He shared that his family left West Tennessee fleeing Jim Crow, eventually making their way to California where he was born. “I say my ancestors called me back here, on my dad’s side. On my mom’s side my family are indigenous and Filipino. My grandmother left when we had a dictator, Marcos.” He said his grandmother told him stories about tanks running over protesters. He is inspired by stories of nuns who knelt in front of the tanks. “They said if you run them over, you run us over. They just put their faith into action.” Rice next asked Johnson and Jones to start at the beginning of that day in April, in the legislature. “Walk us through it and tell us how you found the courage to do what you did,” she asked. Johnson said the three discussed what to do and what to say, how to make their voices heard when they had already been silenced during the session. But Johnson said it was the moms who inspired her.
“For me, talking to those moms who came up to me that morning before session and said, ‘I just dropped my kids off at school, I’m not sure that they’ll be safe when I meet the bus or when I go pick them up.’” She said she wanted them to know they were heard and cared about. Jones said he was struck by the hypocrisy of the legislature. “It started with three nine-year-olds and three adults being massacred in school, a place that should be safe…and we were not even allowed to talk about the issue of guns. We were not even allowed to address what just happened.” What followed is well documented. Johnson, Jones and Justin Pearson (TN-86) entered the well, the area of the legislative chamber toward the front. “It was so easy for me,” says Johnson, “I was called. I could not sit there another moment.” Jones said the focus was on the people in the gallery and outside and being their voice. “The people were saying we cannot have business as normal because business as normal is the massacre of children in school.” Jones and Pearson were eventually expelled from the legislature, Johnson was not. Jones shared a final story from his first week in the legislature, about an encounter he had in an elevator with Senator Jack Johnson (TN-27). “He felt like he had to tell me, ‘You’re worthless, and you shouldn’t be here.’ First week, and it was this recognition to me that this was the environment. Even as an elected official they will never see me as someone who deserves to be here or who is welcome here.” He said it was a reminder that he was not there to make friends, but to make change. Johnson said she never thought about her actions as being courageous. “I just did what I thought was right. I was compelled to do right in that instance, and I hope I am always compelled to do what I think is right.” She talked about another time she stood up for what she believed was right and faced the consequences. “A couple of years ago I was the only person out of 99 who didn’t vote for the speaker because he didn’t share my values, so I was not going to cast that vote for him. And I was given a closet for an office that was my punishment for a year.” Despite the consequences the two faced, both expressed the feeling that it is better to stand up to injustice than to stay silent. “What is happening is so dangerous,” said Johnson, “We’re losing our democracy. Justice is going by the wayside, and it is critical as far as I’m concerned that every time we see an injustice we stand up and speak to it no matter what the cost.” •
Tennessee State Representatives Gloria Johnson and Justin Jones attend Shabbat evening services at Congregation Micah.
Pictured l. to r.: Rabbi Laurie Rice, Rep. Gloria Johnson, Rep. Justin Jones
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org
Gloria Johnson and Justin Jones chat with congregants at Congregation Micah.
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
9
Congregation Micah’s cantor Josh Goldberg is partnering with the Nashville Jewish Film Festival in presenting his award-winning film, Morning, A Journey: A Visual Album.
Howard Safer 9LFH &KDLUPDQ $UJHQW 7UXVW &RPSDQ\
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Cantor debuts creative Jewish film for Nashville community
T
he Nashville Jewish Film Festival and Congregation Micah are proud to present the Nashville premiere of Cantor Josh Goldberg’s award-winning film, Morning, A Journey: A Visual Album. This unique 60-minute feature film explores the nature of prayer and spirituality, utilizing spoken word, original music, and stunning imagery— filmed here in Nashville as well as in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Jerusalem. The premiere will take place at 7:30pm on September 2nd at the Gordon JCC. The evening will begin with refreshments and a musical Havdalah ceremony featuring local Jewish musicians and clergy, including Cantor Tracy Fishbein of The Temple, Ellie Flier of Jewsic City, and Eitan Snyder of NowGen. The film will be screened after Havdalah and will be followed by a question and answer session. Cantor Goldberg collaborated with several artists to create this film. The music was co-written and co-produced with Ross Garren, a musician and producer currently on tour with Ben Folds. The script was co-written with Rachel Kann, a spoken word poet and Fulbright Scholar. And the film itself was created with Madi Goldstein, a young filmmaker from Dallas, TX, who served as the director of photography and editor.
The film had its Los Angeles debut in May 2023, and has already won an award of recognition from the Accolade Global Film Competition. Goldberg has submitted the film to other film festivals around the country and is awaiting the results. But for now, he is thrilled to share the film with the Nashville Jewish community. “Prayer can be intimidating,” Goldberg says, “Especially when it’s in a foreign language. My hope for this film is that it can be a gentle invitation, making Jewish prayer accessible for anyone who wants to go along for the ride.” Fran Brumlik, Director of the Nashville Jewish Film Festival adds, “NJFF is proud to be able to host the Nashville premiere of Cantor Josh Goldberg’s film. We are especially excited that the screening will be here in our own JCC and invite our community to join us in celebrating an innovative new filmmaker.” The suggested donation to attend is $18/person. Please reserve your spot in advance at www.congregationmicah.org/ events. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. The film is appropriate for all ages. Please contact jgoldberg@congregationmicah.org with any questions. •
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10 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Holocaust Memorial Welcomes Diverse Visitors By MARSHA RAIMI
N
ashville’s Holocaust Memorial welcomed two very different groups of visitors this summer: Metro Nashville Police Officers and Israeli teenagers. On June 21 and July 5, Memorial Committee Chair Felicia Anchor led tours for approximately 60 new and transfer officers of the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD). Lt. Michelle Coker, Office of Community Outreach & Partnerships Division (OCOMP), arranged the tours as an important component in learning about the diversity of the Nashville community. The groups also toured the Islamic Center, Play Dance Bar, and Room in the Inn. In introductory comments about Nashville’s Jewish community, Deborah Oleshansky, Director of the Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, thanked MNPD for its past partnership and encouraged the officers “To be more present and comfortable in our physical spaces, especially Akiva Day School.” Anchor highlighted the diversity within the Jewish community and openly appealed to the officers to help fight rising antisemitism. “Let’s interact on a regular basis, to improve our community together, not just when a hateful incident occurs,” she said. In comments standing in front of the “Book of the Jewish People” sculpture, Officer Mark E. Bennett, representing OCOMP at the second tour, concluded, “I view our badge as a ministry. People should not be afraid to see our badge or uniform. We must strive to be viewed as guardian angels of EVERYONE we serve. Seeing the beauty of this memorial, and the resilience of the Jewish community here in Nashville, inspires us to learn more about these neighbors, to protect them better.” On July 20, Docent Chair Marsha Raimi discussed the Memorial and her family’s Holocaust history with seven Israeli teens and two chaperones who visited Nashville. In a lunchtime discussion with the “Thank Goodness It’s Thursday” seniors’ group, many remarked how green and beautiful the area is, and how generous their host families were. When asked about Holocaust education in Israel, the teens explained that it starts very early, by participating in the national recognition of Yom HaShoah. Each grade adds depth and perspective; concluding with the opportunity in high school to travel to Poland or Germany to tour camps and memorial sites. Although rain prevented the group from touring the actual sculpture garden, Raimi provided an overview of what they would have seen at each stop and related it to her father’s survival story. Saul Raimi was almost 15 when the Nazis invaded his hometown north of Warsaw; 17 when he was deported to Auschwitz; and 21 when liberated. These six years are significant in Israeli teens’ lives as they bookend the start of high school and completion of mandatory military service. After the talk, one teen asked where she’d locatPlease support the businesses that advertise in the Observer and help support our community in all ways! Make sure to let them know.. .you saw their ad here!
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MNPD Officer Mark E. Bennett with Felicia Anchor, Chair of the Nashville Holocaust Memorial Committee.
Visiting Israeli teens and their chaperones tour the Holocaust memorial.
ed the records about her father’s time in the camps; explaining that he was researching his grandmother’s history. They both agreed how important it is to
remember our ancestors who were lost, and to continue to discover the details of their daily lives. To schedule a docent-led tour for
yourself, friends and family, or any community group you’re involved in, email: nashvilleholocaustmemorial@ gmail.com. •
MNPD officers visit Holocaust Memorial
the
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
11
Wednesday night folk dancers gather for fun, great music, and camaraderie.
Shall We Dance? By EVELYN KOCH
l'Shanah Tovah 5784
A
West End Synagogue High Holidays Schedule 2023
WE WILL BE STREAMING SERVICES AGAIN THIS YEAR Saturday 9/9: Selichot Ma’ariv and Havdalah 7:45 p.m. Selichot service & activity to follow. Friday 9/15: Erev Rosh Hashanah 6:00 p.m. Rav Freller's sermon ~ 6:30 p.m.
For information on streaming our services, please contact the WES Office at office@westendsyn.org
Saturday 9/16: First Day Rosh Hashanah 9:30 a.m. Blessing of the babies born in 5783 (from last Rosh Hashanah to now) at 10:00 a.m. Rabbi Kullock's sermon ~11:00 a.m. Alternative service led by Rav Freller will follow the sermon and last 1 hour Sunday 9/17: Second Day Rosh Hashanah 9:30 a.m. A conversation with Rabbi Kullock and Rabbi Suraszki 10:45 a.m. Alternative service led by Rav Freller will follow the sermon and last 1 hour Sunday 9/17: Rosh Hashanah: Tashlich 4:45 p.m. Tashlich service to symbolically cast away our sins. Tashlich will be held by the bridge at Carden & Roland Avenue. Join us for the three-block walk from the Synagogue. There is limited parking on Carden. If you must drive, park on Roland Avenue. Mincha services will be held back at the Synagogue after we return from Tashlich. Friday 9/22: Shabbat Shuva, The Shabbat of Repentance Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv services at 6:00 p.m. and Shabbat morning services at 9:30 a.m. Sunday 9/24: Cemetery Service 10:00 a.m. Personal memorial prayers at the West End Synagogue cemetery. Sunday, 9/24: Kol Nidrei 6:00 p.m. Mincha followed by Kol Nidre and the blessing of this year’s B’nai Mitzvah students Rabbi Kullock’s sermon ~ 7:30 p.m. Monday 9/25: 9:30 a.m. Yom Kippur Morning Services. Rabbi Kullock’s sermon ~ 11:00 a.m. before the recitation of Yizkor Alternative service led by Rav Natan will follow the sermon and last 1 hour Monday, 9/25: 5:15 p.m. (The fast ends at 7:18 p.m.) Mincha and Neila (Ark will be open for personal prayers) followed by Ma’ariv and Ramah style Havdalah, and the blowing of the shofar
YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S IN-PERSON ONLY SERVICES
See the Families Flyer for more information **BABYSITTING AVAILABLE WITH RSVP - there is a charge for babysitting Registration is now open on Shulcloud or email office@westendsyn.org to RSVP/for more information
12 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
s we approach Rosh Hashanah, most of our focus is on improving our spiritual self, but it’s also a good time to think about ways to take better care of our bodies. So why not try Israeli folk dancing? The benefits of Israeli folk dancing include great music from Israel and all over the world, good exercise for mind and body, and wonderful camaraderie. Some of us are Jewish, some are not – what unites is our love for dance. One of our dancers, Sharon Morrow, says, “Israeli folk dancing expresses the love and heart of the Jewish people. It doesn’t matter if you cannot dance or cannot dance well. Just get up and dance. It’s worth the effort.” One night as I was driving home from dancing, I heard the beautiful song, “I Hope You Dance,” sung by Lee Ann Womack and written by a neighbor of mine. Listen to the song and take the risk of trying Israeli folk dancing with us this year. Judy Given and I and all the other dancers will be so happy you decided to dance. And you’ll be so glad you did! When and Where? Wednesday evening in the dance studio at the GJCC (no fee) JCC membership not needed to participate 6:00 – 6:30 pm - beginners (no experience necessary for the beginners session) New dancers welcome! 6:30 - 7:45 pm - intermediate and advanced Questions? Details? Email Judy Given@ given223@bellsouth.net Thursday evening at Abe’s Garden Community (no fee) 5:30 - 6:30 pm This is a beginners’ class focusing on the steps you’ll need to learn more challenging dances. New dancers most welcome. Thursday dancers, please RSVP! Class will be canceled if I don’t know you are coming! Questions? Details? Email Judy Given@ given223@bellsouth.net Friday morning in the GJCC gym (no fee) JCC membership not needed to participate 11:25 am – 12:50 pm Intermediate and advanced - if you’ve danced before in another city, come and dance with us. Questions? Details? Email Evelyn Koch @ kochevelyn@hotmail.com •
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at The Temple
High Holy Day Service Schedule Friday, September 15, 2023
Sunday, September 24, 2023
7:30 PM ........... Erev Rosh Hashanah Service
7:30 PM ........... Kol Nidre Service
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Monday, September 25, 2023
8:30 AM .......... Family Service 8:30 AM .......... Tot Rosh Hashanah Service 10:15 AM ......... Morning Service 10:15 AM .......... Youth Program (K-6th grade) 12:30 PM.......... Rosh Hashanah Reception 12:45 PM ......... Tashlich at the Creek
8:30 AM ........... Family Service 8:30 AM .......... Tot Yom Kippur Service 10:15 AM ......... Morning Service 10:15 AM .......... Youth Program (K - 6th grade) 12:30 PM.......... Congregants’ Hour 2:00 PM ........... Afternoon Service 3:15 PM ............ Yom Kippur Afternoon Experiences 4:30 PM ........... Yizkor & Concluding Service
For additional High Holy Day information or to join The Temple services online please visit thetemplehub.org Questions? Contact Erin - erin@templenashville.org or (615)352-7620
T
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5015 HARDING PIKE ~ HE EMPLE ~ (615)352-7620 a congregation of the heart, a community of the spirit
14 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Local family business Gluck Orthodontics celebrates 40th anniversary By ZOE BELL
J
onathan Gluck treats the children and grandchildren of the very first patients of the local orthodontic practice his father founded in 1983. On Sept. 9, the Gluck family and community members will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Gluck Orthodontics, the only Jewish orthodontists currently practicing in Nashville. “I think the fact that we are celebrating our 40th anniversary and we are now seeing second- and third-generation Gluck Orthodontics patients where my dad treated the grandparents of our existing patients and parents is really a testament to the relationships that we built and we care a lot about, we nurture and we maintain,” Gluck told The Jewish Observer Nashville. He added that the practice’s two core values are serving with kindness and fostering long-term relationships. His father, Joel Gluck, envisioned these values when he started Gluck Orthodontics in the early ‘80s. The evolution of Gluck Orthodontics Joel Gluck, who is originally from Morristown, Tennessee, moved to Nashville in 1983 with his wife, Linda, after they met. Around the time Joel and Linda Gluck began building their family, Joel was looking to start an orthodontic practice. He networked with every dentist he could find in Middle Tennessee and sent a letter to every orthodontist in town. Local orthodontist Gerald “Butch” Ritter offered Joel Gluck some of his orthodontic office space. Gluck Orthodontics began as a business practice run by Joel Gluck with Linda being his first employee. From there, Joel Gluck put up a sign and began seeing patients and building relationships with Nashvillians. “The biggest challenge I had was coming into a city where I basically didn’t know anyone,” Joel Gluck said. “Even though my wife’s family was from [Nashville], I was the one that was building the business.” He said a second challenge was time management, given that he was a new business owner and father to two young children during Gluck Orthodontics’ formative years. His son, Jonathan Gluck, joined the practice — consisting of 16 team members — in 2015. Jonathan Gluck, 36, comes to work at seven in the morning Mondays through
Thursdays and does not leave until five in the evening. He meets with the practice manager and treatment coordinators in the hour before patients arrive, then prioritizes the patients for the remainder of the day. “We’re very customer service-focused and we want to make coming to the orthodontist different than every other healthcare experience that people have…” Jonathan Gluck said. “We feel like when people come to our office, that they are welcomed into our Gluck Orthodontics family, and that we really take the time to get to know them as people and to care for them, not only with what we’re doing as part of their treatment, but who they are as people and where they’re going in life.” On an average day, the Glucks see between 60 to 65 patients, many of them in the hours immediately after school lets out. Though this “afterschool rush” of patients may be chaotic, Jonathan Gluck said his job does not seem like work to him. “Having grown up in Nashville, I’m now at the point where I’m getting to take care of a lot of my friends’ kids, and so that’s really awesome,” Jonathan Gluck said. “I mean, then that truly doesn’t feel like work. It just feels like getting to hang out with people that you love when people that I went to kindergarten with are now old enough that I’m seeing their kids as patients.” He added that since he joined Gluck Orthodontics eight years ago, his first patients are now college students who come back to visit him during breaks. Many new patients hear about Gluck Orthodontics by word of mouth from existing patients. “One of the awesome things I think that’s happened over the last 10 years is that our practice has really evolved into not only [a] predominantly kids and teens practice, but I’d say as of today, probably 50 percent of our practice is adults, so we have the benefit of seeing people across their entire life,’ Jonathan Gluck said. “I think our youngest patients are six or seven and our oldest are in their mid-80s, and being able to take care of people all across the lifespan is super rewarding for us.” Serving the Jewish community Joel and Jonathan Gluck have treated nearly every Jewish tween or teen in Nashville. “It’s great,” Jonathan Gluck said of being the only Jewish orthodontist in
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Drs. Joel and Jonathan Gluck are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their family-owned orthodontics practice.
town alongside his father. “We got the opportunity to take care of as many Jewish families as we can, and really be leaders in the community and we don’t take that for granted and we really love it.” Early in his career, Joel Gluck joined committees and organizations in Jewish Nashville, which helped him get to know members of the community. “For me, it’s been fun to treat people that I see at temple or synagogue or Federation stuff or Jewish Family Service or at the [Jewish Community] Center,” Joel Gluck said. Jonathan Gluck said he feels a deep connection to the Nashville community, as his children are fifth-generation Nashvillians. “We really see serving the Jewish community as part of our mission, whether that’s taking care of patients or being active participants in our congregation, supporting the Jewish Federation, Jewish Family Service, the JCC, Vanderbilt Hillel, like all those different organizations we see [are] really central to our mission as a practice and just our family values,” Jonathan Gluck said. Celebrating the 40th anniversary Steve Hecklin, a Nashville dentist and longtime friend of the Gluck family, said he began his dentistry practice about 40 years ago, roughly at the same time as Joel Gluck. “Growing together, it has been my
good fortune to know that my patients were being cared for with the highest regard for integrity of service and quality care,” Hecklin said. “When Jonathan joined the practice, I knew that those ideals would not change. My wife, Sandra, joins me in congratulating them on 40 wonderful years of service, attention and commitment to this community.” Gluck Orthodontics is the lead sponsor for the annual Green Hills Park Festival, which saw nearly 2,000 attendees last year, according to Jonathan Gluck. This year, on Sept. 9, the Glucks will host a celebration of their business’ 40-year anniversary in the hour before the festival. Jonathan Gluck said he hopes even more community members will attend this year’s festival, featuring booths for local shops, family-friendly activities, food, live music and an outdoor movie. “There’s not that many businesses to begin with — and certainly not that many family businesses — that can say they are celebrating a 40th anniversary,” Jonathan Gluck said. “I think what’s even better is the fact that we feel like the future is very bright for us and we have lots of opportunities to grow and improve and to help more people and to serve more in the Nashville community. So, for us, this is obviously a cause for celebration and something that we’re very excited about.” Joel Gluck said it brings him joy that the family business he began 40 years ago will remain in capable hands with his son. “It makes me proud and humbled that I built something and now I have a son that’s continuing to build it and that we’ve had so much great support from the community,” Joel Gluck said. “It’s certainly nothing I ever thought would be like this and it’s definitely something I’m grateful for...” As for the future, Joel Gluck shows no signs of slowing down. “After 40 years, I’m still excited to get up and come to work and see people and learn new things,” Joel Gluck said. • The Green Hills Park Festival will take place at 1200 Lone Oak Road on Sept. 9 from 5 to 9 pm. Join the Glucks for a celebration with the Gluck Orthodontics family and community in the hour before the festival. zoe@jewishnashville.org
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
15
A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss Forgiveness By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM
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rank: Mark, while we were on our recent June trip to Berlin, we often spoke about issues surrounding the topic of forgiveness, and with the High Holidays around the corner, I thought this would be a good time to explore some of those issues and begin by asking if you believed there were instances and events that we are just unable to forgive? Mark: Frank, the whole concept of forgiveness— both the ability to give it to others, as well as the desire to receive it, in return, from others— is both extremely complex and emotionally complicated. This is especially true for acts which are ultimately unforgivable: acts of violence, sexual abuse, neglect, and of course, heinous acts of hatred designed to terrify and terrorize other human beings. I am not sure these actions that so clearly dehumanize others are forgivable under any circumstances. Certainly, it is not in our power to forgive others — like the Nazis— for the brutality brought upon our people. What are your thoughts about this, especially after our trip to Berlin this past summer? Frank: I agree with you that there are acts which are not forgivable and the Holocaust would certainly be one of those events, but I do not believe we should continue to withhold forgiveness to Germany and all Germans living now for the crimes against our people during
the time of WWII. Germany is doing all it can to admit their crimes against nature, teaching it to all students and adults and pledging to never let such an atrocity happen again. We saw this while we were visiting Holocaust museums throughout Berlin by the many busloads of students taken to various museums of horror, something our own country is shying away from doing. In contrast to Germany, we seem to be unwilling to acknowledge the historical injustices of our own country. Mark: Frank, I totally agree with you. Just as we cannot forgive the Nazis for what they did to desecrate and dehumanize our people, we also cannot hold the current generations of Germans accountable for the crimes perpetrated before them. Viewing the history of our own country, there is still a need to accept and acknowledge our own transgressions. As we approach the High Holy Day season, let us bring this down to a more basic level of human relationships and the struggles to seek forgiveness from those we have wronged and to offer it to others who may have offended us. Of course, these are among the most difficult tasks to undertake as human beings because they incur the risks of vulnerability and complete contrition. Still, these efforts can set our minds free, to release our souls from the burdens we carry, and to allow us to make peace with ourselves, our neighbors, and our Creator. Frank: Mark, what interests me
most about forgiveness is the important principles surrounding the process of forgiveness. The three basic principles of asking for forgiveness are: 1) Recognizing the wrong you did. 2) Recognizing the negative impact of what you did. 3) Taking ownership of and asking for forgiveness for both the first and second of these principles. Conversely, the person wronged must feel that the person asking for forgiveness is truly repentant and that when you state that yes, I forgive you, you are also agreeing to another three principles which are: 1) Not to ever bring it up again. 2) Not to ever bring it up to anyone else. 3) Not to ever bring it up to yourself as well. Mark: I think you’ve got it exactly right Frank. I would only add one thing to your list, for the one seeking forgiveness: A pledge to never, ever commit the same offense again, recognizing and fully comprehending the harm inflicted on the one to whom an apology is due. Ultimately, this is the beauty of our Jewish tradition: Once each year, we take a measure of our time on Earth, and our conduct towards others. And before we dare seek forgiveness from God, our tradition requires that we first make peace with our neighbor and attempt to reconcile with one another. Frank: Mark, there is one item we also need to mention regarding the issue of forgiveness and that is to be able to for-
give oneself. This is truly a difficult thing to do as you are both the offender and the one being offended. Here is where guilt plays a key role as guilt is an incredibly destructive emotion that desperately needs our personal forgiveness. It is under these circumstances that prayer can be of immense help and the upcoming High Holidays is an opportune time to find a way to forgive oneself through reflection and prayer. Mark: Frank, I love this concept of forgiving oneself, so long as it does not release us from the need to continue to seek forgiveness from others. I believe that we all harbor regrets that can burden our thoughts and weigh heavily upon our hearts. We all have deeds we wish we could undo, or words that we could take back that should never have escaped from our lips. Even worse, there are actions taken against those we loved who live no more, or perhaps it was our inaction or inattentiveness for which we now have remorse. By acknowledging and accepting our shortcomings, our failures, and our regrets, the High Holy Days can help us to heal ourselves by forgiving ourselves as well as extending forgiveness to others. Such is the power of redemption and renewal that form the promise of every New Year. • Rabbi Mark Schiftan can be reached at mschiftan@aol.com Dr. Frank Boehm can be reached at frank.boehm@vumc.org
Security Updates at the Gordon JCC: Check out the New Fencing! By LESLIE SAX, GORDON JCC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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any of you have noticed and commented on how nice our new fencing along Percy Warner Boulevard looks. Not only do the brick columns and eight-foot metal fence sections look better, but the fence also sends a powerful message – that we care about this place and will do everything we can to keep it secure and the participants inside safe. Our security measures begin at that fence, but that is only the start. We are aware that no one mitigation approach keeps us safe, but rather it is the layers of deterrence that can dissuade someone from doing something harmful here. Our blue light license plate reader (LPR) camera is another obvious preemption, as are the fortified doors you see around our campus. Even the large rocks in the front circle and in front of the new Madeline Pargh Arts and Crafts Center were strategically placed to prevent someone from driving into our buildings. New cameras and our new access control software also add another layer of oversight by limiting who can come into our buildings. And, as suggested on our recent security assessment, we have identified designated safe rooms in our buildings. Our security vehicle makes regularly scheduled trips around our campus. We don’t typically talk about our security measures publicly, and I only mention those that you can readily see. When I arrived on our campus in 2013, I questioned why we spent so much money on security, especially when we were facing large budget deficits. I had
never seen that level of security at a JCC, and at first, it felt a bit cold. But within a few years, we received three bomb threats. I immediately became appreciative of our knowledgeable security team, our access control, and our camera system. I quickly understood how far ahead of other JCCs around the country the Gordon JCC was in terms of security. We were fortunate that previous leadership had made security such an area of high importance. In the 10 years since, we have continued to harden our campus with additional layers. With the guidance and persistence of experienced security directors, we have focused on each of these layers one at a time. These improvements were made possible with four Homeland Security grants and an equal amount of earmarked capital campaign dollars from donors who also wanted the JCC to be a secure gathering place for the Jewish community. Beyond these capital expenditures, which totaled nearly $500,000, we now spend $180,000 operating dollars each year on security; unfortunately, a necessary requirement in today’s world. We have expanded our security team, both in numbers and professional experience, to cover the over 80 hours per week that our campus is open. They look at our world a little differently than we do, and constantly pick up gaps that we, as programmers, fail to notice. It takes all of us working together to keep this campus as safe as possible. We have also invested in their training. All eight of our security officers, who prefer to remain anonymous, recently completed the eight-hour Armed Guard Active Shooter training. While
16 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
the impetus to complete this training was the result of the new rules regarding School Resource Officers, it was a training that we had discussed for a while. And speaking of training, our security team also helps train JCC and Akiva staff, and we are putting together an annual training schedule as recommended by the Secure Community Network.
Even with all these measures and training, we will never gloat or rest on our laurels. Our security team knows that they must always be alert and aware of current and future happenings on our campus, in the community, and even on the web. Situation awareness, by all of us, remains the most effective way to keep us safe. So, if you see something, say something. •
Rabbi Kullock
over these past three years.” In addition, Kullock says Nashville’s Jewish community exemplifies pluralism come to life, “We are an interesting example. We don’t need to learn about it because we live it here.” In fact, during Kullock’s tenure as chair of the local council of rabbis and cantors, he spearheaded the creation of a book, “Torah from Music City,” a volume of Torah commentary by each of the city’s local rabbis. The Hartman program, says Kullock, fosters the same type of collaboration rather than competition. Freedman says the timing is ideal for Kullock to join the select group of rabbis who have been chosen through the years. “Only 150 rabbis in over two decades have been accepted into this program,” he says, “This will give him a broader view of what it means to be a rabbi and a leader, especially now as people are shaping their identity around Israel.” This year’s Hartman Rabbinic Leadership Institute kicks off in May 2024, with an orientation, followed by the first three-week in person session in Jerusalem. Kullock is excited to begin and looks forward to spending summer in his favorite place. •
Continued from page 1
has established over the last decade in Nashville,” he says, “He thought the program was slanted towards big city rabbis, but he just has a natural leadership ability. The cream rises to the top.” And perhaps it is because of Kullock’s location in Nashville that he was an appealing choice. During his tenure at West End Synagogue, he has proven to be transformational not only for his congregation, but also for Nashville’s Jewish community. In his letter of recommendation, Freedman writes, “West End Synagogue has been transformed under and through Rabbi Kullock’s dynamic brand of sustaining leadership…Rabbi Kullock has reenergized and increased his membership, recruited strong leadership, and led a successful capital campaign that has led to significant renovations and improvements to the shul. And equally as important, he has restored and rejuvenated the spiritual bond of the Congregation…All of this is a testimony to Rabbi Kullock’s vision and intellectual brilliance made even more remarkable by the fact that he has accomplished all this under the cloak of COVID
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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September in the Gordon JCC Galleries: Featured Works from the Tennessee Watercolor Society, Jilah Kalil, and Golda Sigel.
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he Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of the Tennessee Watercolor Society exhibition titled “Field of Vision.” The exhibition represents the unique ‘field of vision’ of 33 Tennessee Watercolor Society Artists and how they interpret their world. The Sig Held Gallery will feature the art of mother and daughter, Golda Sigel and Jilah Kalil. Sigel’s artistic vision is through color, while Kalil is always chasing the light. Sigel recently moved to Nashville from Miami, Florida, where she lived with her husband and three children. She was in the first female graduating class from Wharton School of business, and was a financial officer for her husband’s business. Her father inspired her creative pursuits and she followed her passion for art. Sigel uses contemporary materials of magazines, flyers, brochures, and more to express her feelings and emotions in a very immediate way. Typically, while reading through a magazine, something catches her eye and the collage process begins. She also saves bits and pieces of materials (candy wrappers, tissue boxes, etc.) to repurpose into her collage work, never knowing when that color or pattern is needed. Sigel’s artistic endeavors began with fibers and fabric, from weaving and punch hook pieces to quilting, always with an eye towards the colorful. After moving to Nashville, she looked towards paper arts, with collage as her medium of choice. Her work is an immediate reaction to what she has read & what she sees, using contemporary materials to convey her vision.
Flower #2, by Golda Sigel
Flower, but Golda Sigel
Tree, by Jilah Kalil
Jilah Kalil was raised in Miami, Florida, and has been a resident of Nashville since 1986. Kalil has always been fascinated by light and how it is reflected on surfaces. Learning about chiaroscuro as a freshman in college at Boston University, is where this attraction to capturing the light began with her painting; then, the desire to capture the light continued as she transferred to SCAD, Savannah College of Art and Design in 1984 and graduated with a major in photography and a minor in painting. With the improved technology of the iPhone, Kalil uses this as her sole device to capture the light seen around her. Whether running in the park, taking a walk, or traveling around town,
her phone camera is always with her and ready to be used. Taught in the tradition of analog cameras, Kalil does not crop or edit her images, other than to convert the digital image from color to Black and White. Her hand-colored images are how she experiences the light & moves beyond traditional photography into painting. While never working directly in photography, Kalil has chased the light using a camera, and now a cell phone, throughout her career. The Senior Lounge Art Gallery is in transition during this month.
The House gallery will feature the Under One Roof collaborative exhibit. The Art Reception will be Wednesday, September 13th from 6 – 8pm and will feature jewelry by Alizah Greenberg and Chandler Cartozzo. The Exhibition Dates are September 1-30. The exhibitions are free and open to the public. Attendees will need to sign in at the front desk. For more information, contact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www.nashvillejcc.org. •
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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Nashville Teens Bring Home Gold and Golden Memories from 2023 Maccabi Games By REBECCA MORIARTY
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eam Nashville joined 1,800 athletes from around the world for the 2023 JCC Maccabi Games in Fort Lauderdale August 6-11. Members of Team Nashville included: Aaron Cheng, Jack Barocas, Harry Stahl, Oliver Stahl, Delegation Head Rebecca Moriarty, and Coach Diamond Battle. The athletes joined other delegations and created complete teams to compete in the 14U and 16U 3v3 basketball tournament. Cheng joined a 16U 3v3 basketball team alongside teammates from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Rochester, New York. After three days of tournament play, their team went on to defeat Team Ohio to secure their gold medal. Cheng had an amazing time and remarked, “My favorite part of Maccabi was being able to meet people with the same interest in sports and compete against them for a shot at winning it all.” Barocas and both Stahl brothers played together on a 14U team with teammates from Newport News, Virginia and were coached by Diamond Battle. Their team advanced past an undefeated
Team Nashville participated in the 2023 Maccabi games and brought home a gold medal, and plenty of memories.
team in the semifinals and went on to win the silver medal. Maccabi’s Midot Values were personified by the team’s dedication to sportsmanship on and off the court.
While sporting events are the main attraction, JCC Maccabi offers many opportunities to engage with other Jewish teens. On the first day, Team
Nashville participated in a mitzvah project to donate new sneakers along with an encouraging note to students in need. Opening ceremonies took place on Monday night with each delegation parading around the stadium to the cheers of spectators. Tuesday night, JCC Maccabi provided teens with a private arcade experience at Xtreme Action Park. On Wednesday night, the teens’ host families took them to a fun local attraction and dinner. The week rounded out with closing ceremonies and a casino night on Thursday evening. Another delegation head said it best, “These athletes come from different cultures and backgrounds and expressions of Judaism. Some of them don’t even speak the same language! There are athletes from Ukraine, Argentina, and other countries. But what unites them all and gives them common ground to create friendships is sports and that’s the magic of JCC Maccabi Games”. JCC Maccabi Games occur each summer and athletes ages 12-16 are eligible to participate. For more information on next year’s games, contact Rebecca Moriarty at Rebecca@NashvilleJCC.org •
JCC Member Asher Freiberg Represents Nashville in the JCC Maccabi Games in Israel By RACHEL CLARK
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n July, in celebration of Israel’s 75th anniversary, the JCC Association of North America and Maccabi World Union brought athletes from around the world together in Israel at the world’s largest Jewish youth sporting event. More than 1,000 Jewish teens from 10 countries joined in the Maccabi Games, including one lone teen from Nashville, our very own Asher Freiberg! Asher was part of the “J Team” for soccer, which was made up of athletes from states that did not have their own delegation. He didn’t know anyone on his team, but met people from all over the US, Hungary, Germany, and many other countries. “I was a bit scared and nervous, but also excited to meet new people, see Israel, and represent Nashville,” he says. After playing hard in several games, Asher set off on two weeks of travel throughout Israel. The trip was described in a press release about the games as “A dynamic journey designed to strengthen their commitment to Jewish peoplehood and build meaningful connections with Israel’s land, people, history, and cultures.” This year marked the return of the Games to Israel since the games began in 2011 and represented one of the largest and most diverse teen groups that visited Israel this summer.
Nashville teen Asher Freiberg represented Nashville in the 2023 JCC Maccabi Games in Israel
“The JCC Maccabi Games are perhaps the most extraordinary Jewish peoplehood initiative of our time. Drawing teens from JCC communities across North America, Israel, and around the globe, the Games bring us together through competition, service, and a profound encounter with the wider Jewish world,” says Doron Krakow, president and CEO, JCC Association. “To be returning to Israel as part of the ongoing celebration
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Asher Freiberg, second from right, pictured with his J Team soccer team.
of the country’s 75th anniversary year and the enduring fulfillment of the dream of the modern Zionist movement is a source of enormous pride for all of us.” “It was great to meet people from all over the US and the world and share the special connection that we are all Jewish, and also all interested in sports. It made
me feel closer and more connected to being Jewish,” Asher says. “My favorite part was playing soccer in the Games and also visiting Jerusalem. The Dead Sea Scrolls were cool, and I also loved the food, especially shwarma.” Mazel tov to Asher on his experience in Israel! •
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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Get Outside By MELISSA SOSTRIN
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had a fan girl moment at Long Hunter State Park a few weeks ago. My friend and I went into the ranger station because she wanted to find souvenirs for some young women visiting from Israel. We chatted with the ranger about their Reading Ranger Story Trail blazed in 2016 (I described the Hidden Lake story trail in the December 2022 Observer). The ranger was Leslie Ann Rawlings who introduced the idea of story trails to Long Hunter based on one at an arboretum in her home state of Ohio. Her idea sparked 34 more trails around the state, the products of a partnership between the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation and the Tennessee state park system. We hiked the .85-mile Deer Trail to see the meadows blooming with liatris and populated by dozens and dozens of butterflies so seduced by the nectar that we were able to stand just inches away to watch them feed. Put it on your calendar and
visit next July for a Zen butterfly experience and register online with TDOT for free milkweed seeds to plant so you can attract pollinators to your backyard. Next, we visited the story trail and read “The First Strawberries,” a Cherokee tale of how strawberries came to be. Make sure you go clockwise so you don’t read the story backwards like we did. The text and beautiful watercolor illustrations are accompanied by open-ended questions which encourage adults and children to interact with nature and literacy. How great would it be to have something like that on the grounds of the Gordon JCC with a PJ Library book! Finally, we walked the paved 2.1mile Couchville Lake Trail with picnic and grilling areas which circles the lake and also skirts Percy Priest Lake. The Bryant Grove Trail has access to some limestone glades, formed by karst topography like that at Cedars of Lebanon State. Limestone is so close to the surface that soil is thin or absent in these areas
Happy New Year! Happy Rosh Hashanah
22 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
creating unique ecosytems that are home to rare plants. There are green heron, wood ducks, deer, and much more flora and fauna along the trail. We had to save a visit to the Sellars Farm State Archaeological Area for another day. It is a small, fortified embankment settled by Mississippian peoples around 1000 CE and abandoned sometime before 1400 CE. Much of the area was cultivated and archaeological deposits have been lost, though at one time there were about 100 homes. Tennessee’s state artifact, a stone statue of a kneeling man, was found there in 1939 by a tenant farmer. A similar example from the same era, but found
in Williamson County, can be seen at the Tennessee State Museum. Sadly, an earthen mound with 61 burial sites was excavated in 1877 and the burials and offerings were taken to the Peabody Museum at Harvard University. There are 26 miles of trails in the 2.600-acre park and dogs are allowed on many of the trails. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or a 50-foot-tall adventure tower. You can fish, camp, and swim (though it is unsupervised), drop-in at a junior ranger booth or go on a guided hike. There are also conference rooms and lakeside sites available for rental. Spend a day or a couple of hours at yet another jewel of a state park close to Nashville.•
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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF TIMELESS DINING
L’shana tova. Wishing you a year of happiness, peace and good health. – The Sprintz Family
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Visit www.sperrys.com/50th-anniversary/ (or scan the QR code) to share your most cherished memories, heartwarming stories, anecdotes and photos that capture the essence of your time spent with us. Selected stories will be featured prominently throughout our 50thanniversary celebration, and contributors will have a chance to be featured in our upcoming memoir!
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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BUILDING BRIDGES WITH THE JEWISH COMMUNITY Together, we continue to build a brighter and more inclusive future. Belmont is dedicated to fostering genuine engagement and long-lasting relationships with the Jewish community through the Belmont Initiative for Jewish Engagement, which has achieved extraordinary milestones, including: • Forming an official Jewish student group, providing supper gatherings, hosting the first ever Yom Kippur service on campus and honoring excused absences for High Holy days observance • Hosting a “Rabbi-Reverend Conversation” dialogue retreat with representatives of multiple Jewish and Christian communities • Creating positive change through joint involvement in service projects • Partnering with The Temple to discuss societal issues • Prioritizing intellectual growth and empathy through events like Sacred Text Studies, annual Hanukkah webinar with Rabbi Mark Schiftan, a leadership summit at Penuel Ridge Retreat Center, presentation on the Rosenwald Schools with journalist Andrew Feiler
• Hosting a Martin Luther King, Jr. Week event panel on seeing the Civil Rights era in the American South through a different minority view lens • Raising significant support for The Jewish Christian Relations Initiative Fund, reflecting a spirit of unity and philanthropy within the community • Fostering the recruitment of Jewish faculty members to Belmont’s Colleges of Law, Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and Medicine • Discussing the intersection of our faith traditions in relationship to current events with a weekly Jewish/ Christian Dialogue on Zoom
“I am extremely proud of the Belmont Initiative for Jewish Engagement. At a time of national divisiveness and rising antisemitism, it is of the utmost importance that we understand and strengthen the bonds between members of the Christian faith and Jewish faiths. Indeed, the work we are doing is sacred.” – Rabbi Mark Schiftan “The Rev. Charlie Curb Center is grateful for the progress we have made in terms of this important work. As we celebrate, we do so with the bright hope of greater things yet to come.” – Dr. Jon Roebuck
24 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Learn More
HAPPY NEW YEAR 5
KEEP CALM KEEP CALM And HAVE a HEALTHY and HAPPY SHANA TOVA U’METUKAH Rabbi Yitzchok and Esther, Rabbi Berel, Tzivia, Mushka, Meni, Rafael and Eliyahu. Rabbi Chaim and Bassie, Musya and Naomi. Levi, Rabbi Mendel and Chana, and Sarah Tiechtel
May we all be blessed and may we all be a blessing to others. L’Shanah Tova! Meital, Abi, Iara, Meital, Abi, Iara, Jess & Rabbi Joshua Kullock
Chabad of Nashville wish you a sweet year of Good Health a Year of Love, Laughter, and Joy. L’Shana Tovah u’Metukah
Shana Tova Tikateivu A Sweet and Happy New Year!
Happy New Year
The Clergy and Staff of Congregation Micah
Leslie Sax
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From our family to yours, may 5784 be a year overflowing with health, happiness, and harmony. L’shanah tovah u’metukah – a good and sweet year ahead!
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Shana Tova Umetukah to our beloved community May all your wishes be fulfilled for good. Rabbi Saul and Rabba Daniella
Rabbi Shana & James Mackler Hannah & Sylvie
!שנה טובה ומתוקה Wishing the Community a Sweet New Year! -Congregation Sherith Israel
West End Synagogue Wishes You A
L'shana tova
May you be inscribed in the Book of Life 3810 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37205 615.269.4592 westendsyn.org
“Have a Healthy and Happy New Year” Bobbie and Alex Limor and family
Happy New Year!
Have a Happy and Healthy New Year Alyssa Trachtman The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
25
Have a Happy and Healthy New Year Marcia & Lee Stewart
Le-Shanah Tovah Tikkatevu Wishing you a sweet New Year as we celebrate Rosh Hashanah and embrace a year of continued growth in our vibrant community!
Reva Heller
FROM THE GORDON JCC
שנה טובה ומתוקה
Shana Tovah S U'Metukah
The JEWISH SCHOOLS OF NASHVILLE wish you health and happiness through the coming year.
JEWISH MIDDLE SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE
26 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Have a Happy and Healthy New Year
Jamie, Alison and Chuck, Andrea, Kevin and Brayden and Leo, Leslie and Howard Kirshner
Beth, Tommy, TJ and Kayla Ducklo
Have a happy, healthy New Year!
Wishing all our Friends in the Community a Happy and Healthy New Year
MERYL & KEITH KRAFT
With gratitude for the many years of love and support from our Nashville Jewish Community! Happy New Year to All! Carrie and Garrett Mills
Steven, Esther, Evan and Carolyn Remer, Jordan and Megan Remer
A happy, healthy, and sweet New Year to our entire Nashville community!
Wishing all our friends, family, and community a happy healthy, sweet New Year.
Barbara and John Dab
Happy New Year From Goldie and Mark Shepard and Family
L’Shana Tovah from the Gordon JCC President Jeremy Brook and family: Jamie, Anna, Cece, and Richard Brook
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org
Happy New Year! 5784 The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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At Our Congregations… Nashville’s congregations Here are the websites for all five Nashville Jewish congregations, with information on services, upcoming events and more: Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, www.chabadnashville.com Congregation Micah, www.congregationmicah.org Congregation Sherith Israel, www.sherithisrael.com The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom, www.templenashville.org West End Synagogue, www.westendsyn.org
@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah
services. Yet, there is another aspect to this special season. Just as spiritual preparation is needed as we approach the High Holy Days, holiday meal preparation simultaneously remains an important feature of our traditions. Jewish people are known to be major foodies (our friends and neighbors still can’t believe that we prepare Thanksgiving-worthy meals every week for Shabbat!), and we wear our chef badges with pride. Our foodie tendencies are heightened during the autumn months when Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot-- which fall close together on the Hebrew calendar-- demand the preparation of consecutive, extravagant festive meals. Chabad of Nashville will be hosting a New Years Eve gourmet dinner, on Friday night, September 15, at 6:30 PM. The Rosh Hashanah Meals will include several of the traditional foods which symbolizes blessings for a Sweet New Year. The meals will include the traditional round Challah, apples and honey, sweet brisket, mashed potatoes, tzimmes, and honey cake, all prepared by a gourmet chef. According to Jewish mystical teachings, when the Jewish holiday meals are prepared and eaten with the intention of enhancing the intrinsic holiness of the day, the very food itself becomes elevated. RSVP for the Rosh Hashanah Dinner at Chabadnashville.com. For more info. Call 615-646-5750.
High Holiday Season at Chabad of Nashville
Shofar in the Park on Rosh Hashanah
During the High Holidays, The doors to heaven are open to all… so are ours! Chabad of Nashville will be hosting services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur 5784, and our doors are open to all who call upon us, with love, warmth and friendship. The community is invited to join Chabad for traditional High Holiday Services blended with contemporary messages and insights in a warm and welcoming environment. Whether your background is in Jewish prayer and practice is extensive or limited, the services will leave you feeling enriched, connected, uplifted and energized to start your new year off in a most meaningful way. For children! Chabad will also offer a full program of well supervised activities for children ages: 4-12 years. Children get to experience the joy of holidays in their own special way-in their own designated room, close to their parents. Kids love this program and learn a lot in the process, ensuring that Chabad High Holidays will be a meaningful and enjoyable experience for the entire family. During the services the rabbi will share insights and inspirational stories related to the significance of the day, prayers will be recited in Hebrew and English, all in a warm and family friendly atmosphere, and children’s services will be offered for young families.
The Jewish people have been blowing the Shofar, a simple hollowed out ram’s horn, for thousands of years in celebration of Rosh Hashana, the beginning of the Jewish New Year – also known as the birthday of humanity. According to Jewish law, one must hear the blasts directly from the shofar itself. No medium will do — not a microphone, not a computer, not even a slight echo. Intrinsically, the Shofar is not just a sound. It is a cry. A prayer. A soul-awakening, personal, meditative and rousing experience. Hearing the sound of the shofar is the main commandment associated with celebrating the Holiday. This year, the first day Rosh Hashanah is on Shabbat, which we do not sound the Shofar then in respect of the Day of Shabbat. We will therefore sound the Shofar on the second day of Rosh Hashanah, Sunday, September 17. For Rosh Hashana 5784, sophistication will give way to simplicity, as Chabad of Nashville will once again host, “Shofar in the Park,” where many will gather in the park to hear the blasts of a lone shofar (ram’s horn), and the sound of the Shofar will be heard in the open fields of Edwin Warner Park. “Shofar in the Park” will take place on Sunday, September 17, at 5:45 PM in the Edwin Warner Park, Highway 100 near the intersection of Old Hickory Blvd. The sounds of the shofar will be sounded as the New Year is celebrated, and apples and honey for a sweet new year will be distributed. In the past, Shofar in the Park has taken place across the country in many parks and beach fronts. From Central Park in Manhattan, to Yellowstone National Park in Montana, from Venice Beach in Los Angeles, to South Beach in Miami, Shofar in the Park is now in Nashville. “The idea is to allow as many people as possible to observe the central mitzvah of Rosh Hashanah,” says Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel, with Chabad of Nashville. “The Park is an open and neutral place where every person is welcome. It doesn’t matter if you have any prior Jewish education. It’s irrelevant if you pay dues; are affiliated or unaffiliated, all are welcome to come as you are and hear the shofar.” The event is free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Children, singles, families, all are welcome. To learn more about Shofar in the park, please go to chabadnashville.com.
The High Holiday 5784 Schedule of Services at Chabad of Nashville ROSH HASHANAH 5784 Friday, September 15, – the first night of Rosh Hashanah Candle Lighting and Service to welcome the New Year............ 6:30 PM New Year’s Eve Dinner................................................................. 7:00 PM Saturday, September 16– First day of Rosh Hashanah Morning Service........................................................................ 10:30 AM Children’s Service...................................................................... 11:00 AM Rabbi’s Sermon.......................................................................... 11:30 AM Musaf........................................................................................... 12:30 PM Sunday, September 16 – Second day of Rosh Hashanah Morning Service........................................................................ 10:30 AM Children’s Service...................................................................... 11:00 AM Rabbi’s Sermon / Shofar Sounding.......................................... 11:30 AM Musaf........................................................................................... 12:30 PM Shofar in the Park......................................................................... 5:45 PM YOM KIPPUR 5784 Sunday, September 24 – Yom Kippur Eve Light Yom Kippur candles & Kol Nidrei Service........................ 6:30 PM Monday, September 25 – Yom Kippur Day Service Morning Service........................................................................ 10:30 AM Children’s Service...................................................................... 11:30 AM Rabbi’s Sermon and Yizkor Memorial Service........................... 12:15 PM Musaf............................................................................................. 1:00 PM Mincha Service............................................................................. 5:00 PM Ne’ilah Closing Service................................................................ 6:00 PM Havdalah Service.......................................................................... 7:31 PM All services will take place at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, 95 Bellevue Road, in Bellevue. To RSVP or for more information please contact us at 615-646-5750 Rabbi@ chabadnashville.com or www.chabadnashville.com
Chabad to Host Rosh Hashanah New Years Eve Dinner As High Holidays 5784 roll around very soon, many are planning where to attend
28 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Cantor Duvid Erblich will lead High Holiday Services at Chabad Congregation Beit Tefilah is honored and pleased to welcome back Cantor Duvid Erblich to lead the High Holiday services during the upcoming High Holiday season of 5783. Musical talent is inherent in this renowned Erblich family of Cantors, from which Cantor Dovid Erblich descends. He was born in the United Kingdom to the world-famous Cantor Moshe Leib Erblich. As a child at the age of 4, he participated in his father’s recordings with solos and duets. From a young age his father used to put him to bed with tunes of famous cantorial music, and wake him up to the tunes of beautiful cantorial melodies. The famous “Ana Avda” that is sung all over the world during the High Holidays was composed by his late Father, Cantor Moshe Leib Erblich. Cantor Duvid Erblich, has performed at numerous concerts around the world, and was the official cantor for twenty years at The Taylor Synagogue in Cleveland Ohio, and at the Jewish Community Center Synagogue in Dubai United Arab Emirates, Cantor Erblich is happy to be coming to Nashville to lead the services at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad. One of the unique additions to the service by Cantor Erblich is to blend Chasidic melodies and various famous Jews tunes into the liturgy of the High Holiday services. Also, during the services, stories and insights into the prayer will be shared by Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel. All are invited to participate in the High Holiday services at Beit Tefilah, and one does not have to pay to pray. There is no membership or tickets required and services are held in Hebrew and English in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A special children’s service is held on each morning of the High Holidays. For a complete listing of the High Holiday services at Beit Tefilah, go to chabadnashville.com Continued on page 29
At Our Congregations… Continued from page 28
Order your Own Personal Lulav and Etrog Set “You shall take for yourselves...the fruit of a citron tree, the branches of date palms, twigs of a plaited tree, and brook willows.” (Leviticus 23) During the Holiday of Sukkot, we observe the Mitzvah of the Lulav & Esrog (The Four Kinds). As this year some families will not be attending serices in person due to covid-19 precautions, Chabad of Nashville is pleased to make this beautiful Mitzvah available to every family in the Nashville community. Chabad is offering a special opportunity of ordering your own Lulav and Etrog set from the Holy Land, Israel. It is a beautiful Mitzvah for each family to have their own set for Sukkot, as this is a very special Mitzvah. These sets are available to order at chabadnashville.com. All orders must be placed by Monday, September 11, 2023. The Lulav set orders can be placed at chabadnashville.com
Chabad to host “Sukkot Under the Stars” Sukkot is known as the Festival of Joy, and also as the Holiday celebrating the fall harvest. On the holiday of Sukkot the Sages declared it a mitzvah to eat 14 meals in the sukkah, and in keeping with the holiday’s agricultural meaning, gratefulness is expressed to God after the harvest through the eating of autumn fruits and vegetables. A wonderful way to connect to nature is to cook with what is in season locally. In Tennessee we are blessed with a bountiful fall harvest. Hearty homemade soups accompanied by an assortment of breads are a wonderful way for your family and guests to warm up during the chilly fall evenings in the sukkah. Join friends and family as Chabad of Nashville will be welcoming the joyous holiday of Sukkot with a festive holiday dinner at “Sukkot Under the Stars”, on Friday, September 29, 6:30 PM, at the Chabad of Nashville Sukkah Plaza. The festivities will include locally grown produce harvested by local farmers, in the spirit of the Festival of Harvest. There is no cost to participate in this two sukkot event. RSVP appreciated at chabadnashville.com
@ Micah Congregation Micah - an inclusive, innovative synagogue exploring and celebrating Jewish life - is committed to building community and repairing the world! We offer creative and diverse ways to live a Jewish life in Tennessee and beyond, using the rich beliefs and practices of Progressive Judaism as our foundation. Visit our 30+ acre campus or access our virtual programs from our website, www.congregationmicah.org. Like us on socials: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @MicahNashville; sign up for our e-blasts; learn and pray with us in-person, or livestream our service on our website, YouTube, or Facebook. In our tent, there is room for everyone!
Weekly Events Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM
At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, the authenticity of our intentions, and through the power of music and song. Join us in-person or virtually for services this month that will be as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory. Come early and schmooze with us starting at 5:30 PM! Light refreshments are served.
Saturday Morning Torah Study: 9 AM on Zoom
Deep conversations about the text with thoughtful and caring people led by the clergy.
Mah Jongg: Tuesdays from 12:30 PM- 3:30 PM
Join our players for an afternoon of fun in the social hall! For more information, contact Paula: pgkwn@comcast.net.
Schmooze & Views: Thursdays from 10:30 AM- 11:30 AM
At Micah, we keep politics off the pulpit but not out of the building. Share your views in a round-table discussion on current events facilitated by Rabbi Flip and Dr. Bob Smith.
September Events Entering the Sacred: High Holy Days Preparation Class Thursday, August 31 and September 7, at 6 PM
This two-part series will prepare us to enter the holy days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur with a deeper understanding of the themes, prayers and intention of the days. Rabbi Laurie and Cantor Josh will help to set the tone for introspection and spiritual fulfillment during this sacred season.
Nashville Film Premiere of Morning, A Journey: A Visual Album Saturday, September 2nd Gordon JCC at 7:30 PM
The Nashville Jewish Film festival and Congregation Micah are proud to present the Nashville premiere of Cantor Josh Goldberg’s award-winning film. This unique 60-minute feature film explores the nature of prayer and theology utilizing spoken
word, original music, and stunning imagery filmed in Nashville, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Israel. Join us for refreshments and a brief musical Havdalah ceremony featuring local Jewish musicians and clergy, followed by the film screening and a Q and A.
Mussar Class with Karen Strock: Jewish Spiritual Ethics Wednesdays, September 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 12 PM
This Introduction to Mussar course is an invitation to enter 5784 with renewal, meaning, purpose, and hope. Join Rabbi Karen Strok, dear friend and rabbinic colleague to Rabbis Laurie and Flip, in a 4-week interactive Introduction to Mussar course, designed for beginners. We will cover the guiding principles of Mussar and spiritual practices that can make us even better versions of ourselves. Our text will be “Everyday Holiness” by Alan Morinis and we will have weekly reading assignments to enhance our learning.
Women’s Circle: Friday, September 22, at Noon
Rabbi Laurie engages your intellect and inspires conversation on a variety of Jewish topics. All are welcome. Bring a friend. RSVP on Micah’s event page.
Grief Group with Rabbi Laurie: Thursday, September 28, at 12 PM
“The universe is made of stories, not of atoms.” -Muriel Rukeyser, The Speed of Darkness We all have stories of loss. Maybe a loved one died, a marriage ended, a relationship went sideways, or a job slipped through our fingertips. Loss is often accompanied by grief, and grief is best explored and moved through by the sharing of stories in community. Rabbi Laurie will convene a grief circle monthly beginning in August. All are welcome to attend. This offering is in-person only.
HIGH HOLY DAY EVENTS As always, times and locations of programs may shift. Please check our website at the following QR Code in order to see the most current updates.
SELICHOT: Saying I’m Sorry 8:00 PM Saturday, September 9
Start the season with soul searching done the Micah way: beautiful music, penitential prayers, personal testimonials, and good food. We replace the covers on our Torah scrolls with white ones to remind us that change is possible, and that each of us has the power to repair our relationships, our lives, and the whole world – all while we renew our sense of wonder and purpose.
EREV ROSH HASHANAH: The Jewish New Year’s Eve 7:30 PM Friday, September 15
At Micah we look, “not at the container, but at what’s in it.” (Pirkei Avot 4:27) Tonight, as always, we open our tent wide to make room for members and their families (as well as all guests) so that anyone who desires may participate fully in the services and ritual practices of the Jewish people, regardless of their heritage. The Rabbis Rice and Cantor Josh Goldberg have collaborated to create an experience that will invite you to reflect on the world and your place in it. Create a vision of what your life could be amidst a compassionate and authentic community where all are supported. Sing, read, and chant along with us as we return to our roots and revisit the stories, songs, and spiritual disciplines of the season. This year our New Year’s Eve service falls on Shabbat, so we will make room in our sanctuary for the Sabbath Bride, Sabbath Angels, and visitors from all over the world via the internet. Let the music ignite your soul with a sense of awe and wonder and leave loneliness in the year behind as a distant memory.
ROSH HASHANAH: Birthday of the World 10:00 AM Saturday, September 16
A millennium ago, our most ancient ancestors heeded a call to live a life counterculture to the rest of the world. In search of a greater purpose, they felt compelled to record their experiences - lessons gleaned - and pass on their most meaningful traditions from one generation to the next. In each age our progenitors mined our rituals and customs in search of wisdom, finding practical applications regarding the most poignant and relevant ideas of previous generations on how to live a fulfilling life. Like our ancestors, many of us here in Tennessee are living a life counterculture to the values of those that surround us. Watch our livestream or be among likeminded folks on a morning where technology meets theology for just as our spiritual practices have developed over time, so has our worship! Services this morning will include ancient prayers set to modern musical settings. Come close to Torah in our state-of-the art sanctuary as we pioneer groundbreaking ways to tell our ancient stories with innovative interpretations that speak to the realities of today. The blasts of the shofar - ram’s horn – may take you back centuries, but the provocative nature of the rabbi’s sermon (not written by A.I. – Artificial Intelligence) will transform your understanding of how the past provides a roadmap for the future, your future!
TASHLICH: Casting Off Our Sins Immediately following the Morning Service Outside
Upon the conclusion of the morning service (and weather permitting) we will observe the ancient custom which originated in the Book of Micah of casting out all our missteps and mistakes – all the stuff we do not want to bring with us into the New Year. Journey with us to the back of our campus for a short song session and a modern take on this ageless ritual. Continued on page 30
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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At Our Congregations… Continued from page 28
YOUTH SERVICE: Pray with Your Peeps 2:00 PM in the Eden Room
Experience Judaism with those your own age as the Micah Clergy and musicians create a safe space for our young people as they journey through the liturgy of the day. Dramatic interpretations, camp-like songs, and peer participation are hallmarks of this “youth group like” prayer experience for 6th graders and up. Adults are invited to sit this one out.
FAMILY SERVICE: Modeling Hope 3:00 PM
Babies, tiny tots, preschoolers through grandparents are welcome to experience the music, messages, and magic of Micah on this holy day. Rabbi Flip & Cantor Josh Goldberg lead this energetic and celebratory service for the young and young at heart. It is sure to be the best service you and your child have attended this year, sho-far!
BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR THE WORLD Immediately Following the Family Service in the Social Hall
Ready to party like it’s 5784? Usher in the new year with old friends and new! Our annual celebration includes facepainting, a photo booth, birthday cake, and more. Want to teach your family to greet the future with optimism? Attend the party and they will come to understand what fresh starts and community all are about.
SHABBAT SHUVAH: The Sabbath of Return 6:00 PM Friday, September 22
For the contemplative, this service affords us the opportunity to reflect between the start of the Jewish New Year and the Day of Atonement. Meditative music, periods of silence, and introspective readings invite participants to return once again and ponder the season’s many messages, while embracing all the joy that Shabbat has to offer.
CEMETERY SERVICE: Remembering 10:30 AM Saturday, September 23 - In the Cemetery
Honor those people in our past who inspire us to live more fully in the present and future. Held on the most sacred grounds on our campus, Rabbi Laurie and Cantor Josh Goldberg lead mourners in the rituals of Kever Avot – visiting the graves of our loved ones.
KOL NIDRE: The Voice of Our Commitments 7:30 PM Sunday, September 24
A sense of “peoplehood” has long been a defining characteristic of the Jews. Wherever and whenever we have lived, we have built synagogues and schools and established communal organizations. On no other night are Jews more drawn to that sense of connection, than this night, the holiest night of the year. There is an ancient Jewish formula for building community, and we apply it here at Micah. We sing together, we pray together, we learn together, we fast together, we help each other and this whole broken world find ways to help heal hearts, strained relationships, and the planet! The missing part of being together is you! Join us in our sense of shared destiny – as we tap into the music, majesty, and magic of Micah on this, the most sacred of all services.
YOM KIPPUR: A Day of Forgiveness 10:00 AM Monday, September 25
Today is the day we take an honest look inside to reflect on who we have become and who we could be. The start of the new year brings our annual chance to step out of our daily routines and try to recapture a sense of possibility. During the days in between, we do everything we can to ensure a true transformation. It is a time of making things right, asking for forgiveness, and giving charity. This morning service requires that we undergo intensive selfreflection; an accounting of the soul (Heshbon Hanefesh) is the name of the game on Yom Kippur and the centerpiece idea is that change is possible within all living systems. That’s true for individuals, communities, and entire societies. Together we abstain from food and drink, but clearly God cares less for our self-affliction and more about how we treat others. Healing the world is a lofty objective, so this morning we determine how to begin. The music will inspire you, the words of Torah will uplift you, (literally we will try to get as many of you as we can up on the pulpit), and the charge of the rabbi’s sermon will help you believe that transformation is possible.
PANEL DISCUSSION: From Blueprint to Build: Nashville’s Affordable Housing Future 1:00 PM
The Prophets (specifically Micah and Isaiah) warn us on this day especially that all our fasting and praying is empty ritual if we do not take care of the vulnerable among us. Addressing a poignant and pressing issue in our city, Kay Bowers - Chair of NOAH’s (Nashville Organized for Action and Hope) Affordable Housing Task Force - moderates a panel of specialists including Metro Council members, as well as private and non-profit builders. In this session (also available online) you will learn the current state of the issue in our city as well as what might be done to address it.
SCHMOOZE & VIEWS: Talk Politics 2:30 PM Education Wing
We keep our politics off the pulpit, but not out of the building. Dr. Bob Smith lay leads this political conversation that normally takes place weekly in our library. All opinions welcome. Please bring an open mind and a sense of humor.
30 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
LEARN ONLINE: Hineini. The one Hebrew word that you can’t live without. 2:30 PM on Zoom
During the High Holidays the theme of t’shuvah – repentance – is heard in our liturgy again and again. The rabbis considered t’shuvah – which literally means a “turn” or “return” - to be so important that they included it in their formula of those basic practices that could ensure that we are written in the Book of Life. But like all things psychological and spiritual, we have to be ready – in the right mindset, aware, present – to fully engage with them and to benefit from them. This is where perhaps the most important word in the Jewish tradition comes in: hineini. I am here. In this study session we will examine this word in the Jewish tradition, explore its spiritual meaning and its ties to mindfulness, and see why it continues to be relevant in the present day.
FAMILY SERVICE: Modeling How to Say Sorry 3:00 PM
Rabbi Flip and Cantor Josh Goldberg explore the themes of the day for young children and their extended families. Music, stories, Torah, and kid-like confessions!
HEALING SERVICE: Praying Through Pain 4:00 PM Chapel
Grief, loss, physical and/or spiritual pain. They are all a part of life. Rabbi Laurie & Cantor Josh Goldberg employ the wisdom of the Jewish tradition in leading this intimate circle in a series of healing prayers and therapeutic exercises. Therapy for the theological soul, the music and readings will afford you the chance to emote and the inspiration to restore hope.
YIZKOR: Memorial Service 5:00 PM
Take off the mask of normalcy and let out the pain of loss. Share space with others in the community who have lost loved ones. Beautiful music, words of inspiration, and support from others - there is rarely a dry eye in the house.
NEILAH: Calling it a Day! Following Yizkor/Memorial Service
After hours of spiritual work, we lay it all on the line and close the gates on the day that bridges heaven and earth with a short, home stretch service that is a favorite of members. Highlights include Havdalah with us all on the bimah and a final knock your socks off blast of the shofar. So good, you won’t want Yom Kippur to end!
SUKKOT: Sukkot Under the Stars Friday, September 29th
Sukkot Services, 6 PM Dinner and Sukkah Decorating after Services, 7-8:30 PM CHAI Society Lock-in, 8:30 PM – 10 AM Help us get the Sukkah ready for the week. Expressing your artistic side at Micah comes without strict guidelines. Be as creative as you like. We will provide some traditional décor based on the harvest: gourds, fruit, lights, paper chains, a lulav, etrog, etc. All we need you to bring is your children and a good mood on this happy holiday.
@ Sherith Israel High Holiday Times for Sherith Israel Friday, September 15 Erev Rosh Hashanah 6:30 am Shacharit 8:15 am Shacharit 6:37 pm Shabbos and Yom Tov candles 6:45 pm Mincha/Maariv Saturday, September 16 Rosh Hashanah Day 1 8:30 am Main Minyan 12:30 pm Community Luncheon 6:35 pm Mincha/Maariv 7:32 pm Yom Tov Candles Sunday, September 17 Rosh Hashanah Day 2 7:30 am Hashkamah Minyan 8:30 am Main Minyan 6:35 pm Mincha/Maariv 7:30 pm Havdallah Monday, September 18 Fast of Gedaliah 6:00 am Selichot &amp; Shacharit 6:25 pm Mincha/Maariv 7:18 pm Fast Ends Sunday, September 24 Kol Nidre 8:00 am Selichot &amp; Shacharit 2:00 pm Mincha 6:24 pm Yom Tov Candles 6:30 pm Kol Nidre Continued on page 31
At Our Congregations… Continued from page 30
Monday, September 25 Yom Kippur 8:30 am Main Minyan 4:35 pm Mincha 5:55 pm Neilah 7:18 pm Shofar, Havdallah, and Break-fast
Annual Rosh Hashanah Community Luncheon Saturday, September 16, following services Cost $28 adults $15 children (5-12) $110 families RSVP by September 16th office@sherithisrael.com or 615-292-6614
Yom Kippur Break-Fast Following the blast of the Shofar at the end of Yom Kippur, please join us for the Annual Yom Kippur Break-Fast. Monday, September 25, 2023 Hosted by CSI Sisterhood in memory of Jay Amsel The Eisen & Manas families in memory of Boris and Maria Garber
Shabbat Chol HaMoed Sukkah Dinner Friday Night, September 29, at 7:15 pm Cost: $20 adults, $12 children (5-12) $75 families RSVP by Tuesday, September 26 Lulav & Etrog Orders $70 – Regular $115 – Deluxe Order through the Shul office by September 15
@ The Temple All programming can be accessed via thetemplehub.org unless noted to be in person
High Holy Days at The Temple For more information or to access our services, visit thetemplehub.org Service Time Date Notes Selichot Program & Dessert Reception...7:00 PM..........9/9/23........Live and Streamed Rosh Hashanah Evening Service ............7:30 PM..........9/15/23......Live and Streamed Tot Rosh Hashanah..................................8:30 AM.........9/16/23 Rosh Hashanah Family Service................8:30 AM.........9/16/23......Live and Streamed Rosh Hashanah Morning.........................10:15 AM.......9/16/23......Live and Streamed Rosh Hashanah Reception.......................12:30 PM........9/16/23 Rosh Hashanah Tashlich.........................12:45 PM........9/16/23......Temple Creek Kever Avot – Cemetery Service..............1:30 PM..........9/17/23......The Temple Cemetery at 2001 15th Avenue N. Nashville 37208 Shabbat Shuvah........................................6:00 PM..........9/22/23......Live and Streamed Yom Kippur Evening – Kol Nidre............7:30 PM..........9/24/23......Live and Streamed Tot Yom Kippur........................................8:30 AM.........9/25/23 Yom Kippur Family Service......................8:30 AM.........9/25/23......Live and Streamed Yom Kippur Morning...............................10:15 AM.......9/25/23......Live and Streamed Congregants’ Hour....................................12:30...............9/25/23......Live and Streamed - 1:45 PM Afternoon Service....................................2:00 ................9/25/23......Live and Streamed - 3:15 PM Afternoon Experiences:............................3:15.................9/25/23......Live and Streamed - 4:15 PM Quiet Meditation with Music Study Session Yizkor Memorial Service & Ne’ilah Concluding Service..................................4:30PM ..........9/25/23......Live and Streamed Break the Fast...........................................5:45 PM..........9/25/23......RSVP by Sept 19th Sukkot Shabbat Service ..........................6:00 PM..........9/29/23......Live and Streamed Please see thetemplehub.org and templenashville.org for updated schedule information
Pirkei Avot: Jewish Wisdom for Today’s World Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM
Get ready for Shabbat with a little text study! Each week we will study a piece of wisdom from Pirkei Avot, The Ethics of our Ancestors, an ancient Jewish text still relevant in our own times. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom. Zoom Room: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81973096738
Shabbat Schedule for September
Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. You can also watch via zoom from thetemplehub.org. Friday, September 1st ~ 6:00 PM Friday, September 8th~ 6:00 PM Friday, September 15th~No Services-Erev Rosh Hashanah Friday, September 22nd ~ 6:00 PM – Shabbat Shuvah- BLUE JEAN SHABBAT Friday, September 29th ~ 6:00 PM-Sukkot Shabbat Service
Golden Lunch Bunch
Will meet at Temple from 11:30-1:00pm on September 5: Banjo Bob Stevens September 19: Craig Duncan RSVP to Jamie Maresca at 615-354-1686 or via email at helpinghands@ jfsnashville.org
Chevrah Torah Study 9:30AM on Saturdays
Join us for our weekly Torah study on the portion of the week, led by the clergy. You can join us in person at The Temple or via zoom from thetemplehub.org
Women’s Torah Study September 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th 10:30 AM
Ongoing weekly women’s Torah study led by Patty Marks. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through thetemplehub.org
Lunch with the Rabbi September 7th, 21st, 28th Lunch at 11:30AM Program12:00-1:00 PM $15 per person for lunch
Engage with Rabbi Danziger and guests in a discussion of current and important issues from a Jewish perspective. RSVP on thetemplehub.org or by calling the Temple at 615-352-7620 Available in person and via zoom. Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org
Monday Mah Jongg with Canasta Join Us for MAH JONGG Mondays at The Temple! September 11th, 18th 1:00pm
Drop in for Mah Jongg. We’ll have coffee and water. Bring your friends, a card, and a set and have some fun. Mah Jongg cards and sets are available for purchase in The Temple Gift Shop.
Writers of the Lost Ark First Wednesday of the Month September 6th 7:00-8:00 PM
Are you looking for a creative outlet? Writers of the Lost Ark, our Temple writer’s group, meets the first Wednesday of each month. This is a safe, supportive, and no pressure environment to share your creative ideas whether they be stories, songs, poems, or praise. The group is open to all regardless of how little or how long you’ve been writing. Those curious to find their creative side are welcome as well. For more information, please contact ninapacent@bellsouth.net.
Selichot Program September 9th @ 7:00pm
We will be joined by Rabbi Dan Horwitz, Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, CEO. We will learn from him and share in a brief service of Selichot followed by a dessert reception.
Kever Avot Cemetery Service on September 17th at 1:30pm The Temple Cemetery 2001 15th Avenue North Nashville 37208
Dress for Success Accessory, Jewelry and Handbag Swap September 10th from 2:00pm at The Temple
Please bring gently used handbags, accessories, and jewelry. Any items that don’t get swapped will be donated to Dress for Success. For more information, please contact Sheri Rosenberg at sheri@templenashville.org.
Playground Playdate September 9th from 9:00-10:30am at Parmer Park
Challah will be provided. A time for parents and children to meet and connect! For more Information, please contact Sheri Rosenberg at sheri@templenashville.org.
Break the Fast with Your Temple Family Reservations are required, please rsvp
Mark your calendars now for Break the Fast with your Temple community on Monday, September 25 immediately following Concluding Services. This has become a Temple tradition and is enjoyed by all who participate. Continued on page 32
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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At Our Congregations… Continued from page 31
The cost is $20.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under 12. Your check is your reservation received by Tuesday, September 19th and should be mailed to: The Temple, Attn: Break the Fast, 5015 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205 Or RSVP online at TheTempleHub.org
NowGen/ Next Dor Young Professionals Sip & Setup the Sukkah! Thursday, September 28th 6:00pm at The Temple
Come decorate The Temple’s sukkah, have some fall cockails/mocktails, and enjoy! Light snacks will be provided For more Information, please contact Sheri Rosenberg at sheri@templenashville.org.
@ West End For links to the following online services or programs, please email office@westendsyn.org
High Holiday Schedule 2023 Saturday 9/9:
Ma’ariv and Havdalah at 7:45 p.m. Followed by Selichot activities and services.
Friday 9/15: Erev Rosh Hashanah
6:00-7:00 p.m. Rav Freller’s sermon will be at approximately 6:30 p.m.
Saturday 9/16: First Day Rosh Hashanah
Services are from 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Blessing of the babies born in 5783 (from last Rosh Hashanah to now) at 10:00 a.m. Rabbi Kullock’s sermon will be at approximately 11:00 a.m. Alternative service led by Rav Natan Freller following the sermon.
Sunday 9/17: Second Day Rosh Hashanah
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Rabbi’s sermon- Conversation with Rabbi Suraszki will be at approximately 10:45 a.m. Alternative service led by Rav Freller following the sermon.
Sunday 9/17: Rosh Hashanah: Tashlich
Tashlich service to symbolically cast away our sins. Tashlich will be held by the bridge at Carden & Roland Avenue. Join us for the three-block walk from the Synagogue at 4:45 p.m. There is limited parking on Carden. If you must drive, park on Roland Avenue. Mincha services will be held back at the Synagogue after we return from Tashlich.
Friday 9/22: Shabbat Shuva, The Shabbat of Repentance
Please join us for Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv services at 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 9/23: Shabbat Shuva, The Shabbat of Repentance
Please join us for shabbat morning services at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kiddush lunch.
Sunday 9/24 at 10:00 a.m.
Personal Yizkor ceremonies at the West End Synagogue cemetery. Call for directions.
Sunday, 9/24 at 6:00 p.m.
Please join us for Mincha services followed by Kol Nidre and the blessing of this year’s B’nai Mitzvah students of 8784. Rabbi Kullock’s sermon will be around 7:30 p.m.
Monday 9/25: 9:30 a.m.
Yom Kippur Morning Services. Rabbi Kullock’s sermon will be given at approximately 11:00 a.m. before the recitation of Yizkor. Alternative service led by Rav Freller following the sermon.
Monday, 9/25: 5:15 p.m.
Join us for Mincha and Neila for Yom Kippur beginning at 5:15 p.m. followed by Ma’ariv and Ramah style Havdalah, and the blowing of the shofar. The fast ends at 7:18 p.m.
Monday, 9/25: Yom Kippur Morning Services
Families with young children services (6 months-1st graders) 10:00-11:00 a.m. Children must bring a parent. 2nd through 6th grade youth services 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. **There is a charge for babysitting. Please email office@westendsyn.org to RSVP and for further information. Babysitting is available for Rosh Hashanah morning services both days and all Yom Kippur services.
Bat Mitzvah of Maytal Wiston, Saturday morning, September 2. Women’s Torah Group (on Zoom) Join us on September 6, at 11:00 a.m. Rabbi Joshua leads our study of the book of Deuteronomy.
Men’s Torah Group (in person) Join us on September 7, at noon for our Torah class for men. We are currently reading Elisha’s stories from the First Book of Kings and will be eating pizza.
Williamson County & Bellevue Chavurah and Shabat Dinner Join your fellow Williamson County and Bellevue WES members for a special Shabbat on Friday, September 8 at 6:00 p.m. There is no cost to the event, but participants must bring a dairy or pareve dish to share. Email office@westendsyn.org for information on how to RSVP!
Shabbat Potluck Join us for a “Shabbat Potluck” Dairy/ Pareve Dinner on Friday, September 8th following Kabbalat Shabbat and Maariv. Plan to bring food to share. RSVP to spaz@ westendsyn.org.
Learn and Lunch with Daniella Pressner Learn and Lunch is back! Wednesday, September 13, at 11:00 a.m. Reservations required, catered lunch ($3) following the presentation.
Learn and Lunch with Rabbi Daniel Horwitz Learn and Lunch is back! Wednesday, September 27, at 11:00 a.m. Reservations required, catered lunch ($3) following the presentation.
It’s Shabbat – Sukkot Edition! For Families with Young Children. Join us Friday, September 29 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for Shabbos schmoozing, candle lighting, Kiddush blessing, HaMotzi, and Shabbat songs. See you there! Grandparents are invited! Starting in September Sisterhood will begin a couple of new programs for everyone in the community, but geared towards parents whose children are in religious school at Beit Miriam or anywhere else, with a $5 per person suggested donation. For more information, contact Marsha Raimi at raimim1101@gmail.com.
Sisterhood “Sunday Shmooze” Will be one to three Sundays a month, from 9:00 am - 12:00 am. The first and last hours will be food and conversation, with a speaker or other program from 10:0011: 00 a.m. There will be a wide variety of topics, from children’s nutrition to cancer awareness, featuring congregation member’s talents and knowledge.
Sisterhood “Wednesday Wind Down” Wednesday afternoons, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, featuring snacks (perhaps wine!) and games
Youth and Children’s In-Person Only Services
Sisterhood “Daytrippers” Programs
**babysitting available with RSVP** REGISTRATION OPEN ON SHULCLOUD
For people available to learn and socialize during normal business hours. They’ll visit parks, museums, and cultural institutions based on the interests of the group; each person paying their own way.
Saturday 9/16: First Day of Rosh Hashanah
Families with young children services (6 months -first graders) 10:15-11:15 a.m. Children must bring a parent. 2nd through 6th grade youth services 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Sunday 9/17: Second Day Rosh Hashanah
Blow your own shofar for the new year! Families with young children services (6 months-first graders) 10:00-11:00 a.m. Children must bring a parent. 2nd through 6th grade youth services 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
32 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Sisterhood “Secrets of the Oy-Oy Sisterhood” The third Wednesday of each month, at 4:30 p.m., will be an open Board meeting of the Sisterhood. For members of Music City Sisterhood only. In addition to discussing current business, we’ll delve into the history of our parent organization, Women’s League for Conservative Judaism, our mission and goals, and its vast array of resources for Jewish learning. Join our private Facebook group “West End Synagogue Sisterhood” for information on joining and notices of future events. Continued on page 33
At Our Congregations… Torah study
Continued from page 31
Birthday Shabbat Join us on Shabbat morning, September 30, for a special celebration of our September birthdays. The main service begins at 9:30 a.m. and a kiddush (this time under the sukkah!) sponsored by the synagogue will follow. Everyone is welcome.
Music and Me Inviting all parents of infants and/or toddlers for an afternoon of music and movement on Sunday, October 1st from 10:30-11:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing spaz@ westendsyn.org or harriet.workman@gmail.com.
Sisterhood Challah Sales made by Melissa Sostrin Sign up on the Google form linked below or text Jessica Kullock at 615-881-4455 by WEDNESDAY AT 9:00 p.m. each week to pre-order for pickup Friday during synagogue office hours. Flavors: Plain, chocolate, cinnamon, cinnamon raisin, zaatar, poppy seeds, sesame, bag of 6 challah rolls. Plain is $8/each, all challah with seeds toppings are $8.50, and the rest are $9/each. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfhQUa6iflZvg8gP-sOaREXK8JNGloMceEBkuvUynahkVdt8A/viewform?fbclid=IwAR1jz_oKOT8Df3E82W7iNu8TX_ G70Nc3bOXOEJ25r73efxnvQT3ATFijvC0
Talmud on Tuesdays Rabbi Joshua leads a lively Talmudic discussion at 7:30 a.m. in person and on Zoom every Tuesday, immediately after morning minyan. Come and join us!
With Nechemya Rosenfeld every Thursday morning at 7:30 a.m. following morning minyan at 7:00 a.m.
Shacharit (in person) Our minyanaires are always looking for more people to strengthen the only egalitarian minyan in town! Sunday services will be at 9:00 a.m. and Monday-Friday will be at 7:00 a.m. Monday and Thursday minyans to be followed by breakfast.
Mincha (on Zoom) Join us for daily Mincha at 6:00 p.m., Sunday-Friday.
Kabbalat Shabbat You are invited to join us for Kabbalat Shabbat on Fridays in person or by Zoom at 6:00 p.m. As part of our Friday night services, we are currently studying Jewish ethics through an in-depth reading of Pirkei Avot.
Morning Shabbat services You are invited to join us on Saturday mornings in person or by Zoom at 9:30 a.m. Great davening, insightful learning of the Torah portion and a yummy (and nutritious!) kiddush lunch following services!
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org
Gluck Orthodontics Celebrates 40 Years of Transforming Smiles Please join us as we celebrate with our community at the Green Hills Park Festival on September 9th from 5-7. Stop by the Gluck Orthodontics tent for family friendly activities, food and fun! The festival is at Green Hills Park, adjacent to JT Moore Middle School.
Dr. Joel Gluck DDS, MS Dr. Jonathan Gluck DDS, MSD 2002 Richard Jones Road A-200 615.269.5903
drgluck.com
Happy New Year!
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
33
Community Listings East Side Tribe East Side Tribe has a slew of events in East Nashville in September! Thursday, Sept. 7: “Jewish Matchmaking”-themed singles mixer with local matchmaker Cayley Madison Boire Wednesday, Sept. 13: our new monthly Rosh Chodesh women’s gathering Friday, Sept. 22: Rabbi Joshua Kullock comes to East Nashville for an early family Shabbat Monday, Sept. 25: East Nashville community break-the-fast Friday, Sept. 29: our monthly community Shabbat potluck Email eastsidetribenashville@gmail.com for more info, or find us on Eventbrite!
Hadassah Nashville Hadassah Opening Meeting Sunday, September 30th 1:30pm Every Beat Counts - Every Bite Counts - Every Movement Counts Join us as we welcome Carol Ann Schwartz, who has just been elected as Hadassah’s 28th National President. She will present this program on Women’s Health at the home of Pam Abromowitz. Pam will be conducting an optional yoga session during this event, so dress appropriately if you would like to participate. There will be an $18 registration fee for this event. Please contact Natalie Hochman or Judy Abromowitz to register. Thursday September 28th Join us at the GJCC for the second of a three part, Interactive Study Session: Women of Action, Past and Present, facilitated by Edria Ragosin. You are invited to bring a kosher style bagged lunch at 11:30 and to have lunch with the Lunch Bunch, who will be joining us for this program. The program will begin promptly at 12:15. Please contact Natalie Hochman or Judy Abromowitz for more information about this program. Hadassah Volunteer Opportunity Register to be a volunteer reader at Akiva in the Fall! Please contact Judy Abromoeitz for more information on how to register.
Israeli Folk Dance
Israeli Folk Dance Workshop
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When: September 27 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm Where: Akiva School All-Purpose Room Fee: $10
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Jewish Franklin Jewish Franklin, TN is happy to announce three events (so far) in September: • Sept 3 - Ladies Happy Hour, 5:00 pm, at a private home • Sept 9 - Private Comedy Hour with Steve Goodie, 6:30 pm • Sept 17 - Tashlich led by Melissa Sostrin, Harlinsdale Park, Franklin, 3:00 - 5:00 pm. To sign up for any of the events, join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/jewishfranklintn
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34 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
Wishing you and your family Good Health, Happiness and Peace. Today and all throughout the year! L’Shanah Tovah Tikatevu. Your Friends at the Tennessee Holocaust Commission, Alyssa Trachtman Ken Gluck Maureen Germain Alison Vick Lawrence Leibowitz – Commission Chair
www.tnholcom.org
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
35
Health and Wellness Corner By SHERRI HOLZER
“E
ver been on a hoverboard?” Maggie, a wonderful single mom managing a busy mortgage company and raising two young girls, asked me this a couple of days back. She was excited to tell me about how she spent 25 minutes on her street with a hoverboard. This experience opened her heart to a new sense of purpose, a different outlook, and a personal freedom she hadn’t felt in a while. Life often ties us up in responsibilities and routines, leaving little space for fun and spontaneity. In the midst of daily activities, we forget how unexpected experiences can bring back a feeling of freedom. Maggie told me she got a hoverboard as a gift for her daughter’s 14th birthday. One evening in front of her house, something special happened. The hoverboard’s colorful lights lit up the sky, and it made a unique swooshing sound. Maggie, like many women, is usually focused on work and taking care of her family, leaving little time for herself. She shared, “I hopped on it, started moving, and couldn’t stop laughing for a whole 25 minutes.” It was that sound that made the difference. An unexpected yet deliberate sound. The noise surprised her, and she burst into laughter. Her daughters joined in, and they all laughed together until their sides hurt. The hoverboard’s sound brought out a carefree and joyful side of her that had been tucked away for years. Maggie’s hoverboard adventure reminds me of the special sound we’ll hear on Rosh Hashanah. Soon, we’ll gather as a community to experience the transformative sound of the shofar, a traditional ram’s horn. Beyond its history, the shofar’s sound has the power to stir emotions, encourage reflection, and inspire personal growth. Thinking about Maggie’s story, I appreciate the chance we have to be
awakened by the sounds of these holy days. These sounds are rare in the usual routine of family and work. We can let the shofar’s
sound enter our ears and our hearts. While it might not make us burst into laughter like the hoverboard did for Maggie, if
First, pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prep a muffin tin with 12 cupcake
Sweet Potato (Washed and
peeled)
liners coated with oil spray. Recipe may make more.
Large Onion (Peeled) Eggs
we’re open to it, the shofar’s notes might encourage us to seek more happiness and lightness in the coming year. •
Then, using a hand grater or food processor, grate the sweet potatoes and
onion. I prefer using hand grater for these. Squeeze out excess water from
Butter (or Margarine) (Melted or
onions and sweet potatoes using a paper towel and transfer to a bowl.
All-Purpose Flour ((You can use
and scallions until mixed well.
cooled)
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, flour, salt, pepper
Gluten-Free))
Add in potato mixture and combine. The mixture should be moist but not
Salt
soggy.
Black Pepper
Fill the cupcake liners evenly with the potato mixture about ¾ full.
Ground Nutmeg (Just a dash)
Bake in pre-heated oven for 55-60 minutes until lightly browned on top and
Scallions (Minced, plus more for
cooked through.
topping)
Top with Greek yogurt and more scallions!
Plain Greek Yogurt (Topping)
LET’S TALK RETIREMENT! (…because it’s not just about the money!) By LORETTA SAFF
IN CASE YOU REALLY ENJOY WORKING! “You don’t want people with enormous experience to just walk out the door. The Retiree Casual program keeps expertise around and helps transfer it to others. People often remark that we don’t have many consultants around here. Actually, we do, but they’re called retirees, and they already know the business inside out.” George Paulikas
T
his quote introduces George Paulikas, age 87, an executive who retired from Aerospace Corporation at age 62 and has been working part-time ever since. (Last year he worked one-quarter time.) It made me think it’s time for us to discuss FLEXIBLE RETIREMENT! I recently read an article in FORBES
that according to a survey done by the American Advisors Group, almost half (46%) of the more than 1,500 Americans aged 60 to 75 surveyed said they plan to work in retirement. Does that surprise you? Usually, we think people close to the end-of-work finish line can hardly wait – no meetings to rush to, no bosses bossing, and time is theirs to do whatever they want. So why do they still want to work? And some with the same company! Well, many people just love what they do. They are annoyed that there are rules to usher them out at a certain age. Others say that since living through the pandemic, they need more money. And still others report that after the recent stay-at-home experience for so long with not much to do, retiring is a bad idea. Since one of these scenarios may describe you, I’ve decided to focus this month’s column on Flexible Retirement. If you want to work after you retire, here are three ways for you to explore: A. PHASED RETIREMENT – This is a gradual exit from the workforce – just
36 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
remember it is an exit. Rather than cele(from the quote at the beginning) works. brating that “last day” with the balloons, See if your company either has somethe cake, and the goodbye party hugs, you thing like it or wants to start one! could choose, for example, something like The difference between Phased a Three-Year Phased Retirement. This Retirement and Retiree Casual is that would mean that over a period of three some contracts in various companies years you could go on a trimmed schedule restrict workers from coming back to of 75% time the first year, 50% the secwork part time without actually retiring. ond, with a final good-bye the end of the What Aerospace has done is advise the third year. If you are interested, ask your HTTPS://WWW.IAMSIMPLYSHERRI.COM employee to retire, have them stay away HR office if it is an option. from work for six months, and then Again, I stress that this example is return as an independent contractor! one of many variations of phased retireAgain, check your HR department to see ment out there. If it is available, you what your contract includes. must be the one requesting it and have C. RETIREMENT LITE - BUT it authorized. (Interesting to consider, NOT AT THAT JOB I’VE BEEN right? After all, you are good at what you DOING FOR YEARS! Ok, ok, so you do, so how about a slower good-bye and are tired of doing what you’ve been doing partial pay for fewer hours! Of course, but want to work in retirement. My best you’ll have to put up with the jealous advice is to become passionate about a stares of younger co-workers!) cause. Research it and think about how B. RETIREE CASUAL – Isn’t this you could become more involved. Then, a nice term? Besides wearing jeans and a when you do retire, the path will be set cute tee shirt, it can mean an interesting for possible part-time work. compromise. I found it in the Aerospace Suzanne, a designer for 30 years, Corporation where our friend George Continued on page 37
Heart of the Matter Kvetch in the City By ASHLEY FRANKLIN
A
s we approach the High Holidays, the theme of forgiveness comes up often. Sometimes we find it hard to live the phrase most of us grew up with, “forgive and forget.” Because, as we get older, the more experiences we have that are harder to forgive. And there are some things we find it impossible to forgive. If I’m honest, there are some things that I am not sure how to forgive. But in order to move on, something has to change, because the anger or pain that remains is not sustainable. But sometimes, a person is no longer alive or just isn’t safe to be around. In recovery, we use the term “living amends,” which is living your life in a better way to reflect
changes you’ve made. And that is how I try to look at forgiveness. Whether I’m asking for forgiveness or trying to forgive something that happened to me, I also have to look at myself and take accountability for whatever part I played in the situation. And if there is something I can change that will benefit my life and relationships, I try to do it. This helps me be easier with myself and other people. It is also true that forgiveness is about doing it for ourselves, not the other person. And at the end of the day, I choose to forgive others (and myself), because the version of myself that I am today wouldn’t have been possible without the mistakes, pain, and experiences that got me here. • Ashley Franklin, LMSW is a licensed social worker with Jewish Family Service. You can reach Ashley at 615-354-1662.
People of the Books By ELYCE RAE HELFORD
Deborah Lipstadt, Antisemitism: Here and Now. Schocken, 2019.
F
or the past few months, I’ve been sharing some enjoyable summer reads in my reviews, even as I have been playing catch-up on more serious tomes. As we head into a new year as Jews, I’ve been particularly seeking to deepen my understanding of antisemitism today. Over the next two columns, I will share some of the results in reviews of Deborah Lipstadt’s Antisemitism: Here and Now (2019) and David Baddiel’s Jews Don’t Count (2021). For those who don’t know Dr. Lipstadt, she is a historian, diplomat, and author of a number of compelling volumes, most related to the Holocaust. She is perhaps most famous for her work on Holocaust denial and a libel suit brought against her by British author and denialist David Irving. You can read all about this in her 2005 book History on Trial: My Day in Court with David Irving or get a snapshot via the 2016 feature film Denial. This year, President Biden has named Lipstadt the US Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Antisemitism, and Time magazine has identified her as one of the 100 most influential people in the world. All of this, and her years of university teaching, qualify her well to write a powerful book on recent forms of antisemitism and how to respond to them. And she has. It does not surprise me that Antisemitism: Here and Now won a 2019 National Jewish Book Award. Lipstadt begins her substantial volume with discussion of the term “antisemitism,” its meaning, history, definitions, and spelling. Next, she breaks down the figure of the antisemite, including those she terms extremists, enablers, the casual, and the clueless. The links and differences between antisemitism and racism appear in the subsequent section on contextualization. She also takes apart the complexities of Holocaust denial and the challenges of college campuses. To conclude the volume, she focuses on speaking truth to friends and celebrating the good despite the bad.
Lipstadt is particularly strong throughout in addressing traps and disguised language. From the way the concept of “globalists” is used as a synonym for “Jews” to Jewish American conflicts over Zionism, Lipstadt exposes and advises, offering wise words and nuanced examples to help us negotiate today’s discourses and divisions. As a reader, I found that even in areas where my opinion or experience differ from hers, her thoughts and advice are worthy of respect. I do want to say a few words about the book’s particular style. Lipstadt proceeds through an imagined scenario of email communication between herself (or a version of herself) and two composite figures she invents: Jewish female college student “Abigail” and non-Jewish academic colleague “Joe.” Each chapter features exchanges in which the two characters pose questions based on their experiences and “Lipstadt” answers, creating possible responses to antisemitism today. The issues posed and answers given are engaging throughout, and there are valuable examples that seem based on Lipstadt’s actual lived experience. This said, the style is potentially offputting in its artificiality, with Lipstadt (or the Lipstadt “character”) at times coming across as self-important. Of course, Lipstadt is an expert. I value her knowledge and recognize that the book’s chosen approach may well be of great benefit to those who do not wish to be lectured by a professor but engaged with by someone in the struggle with them. A reader may see themselves in student Abigail or colleague Joe, based as these personae are on interactions from Lipstadt’s years as a university professor. Ultimately, the book is valuable for all it packs into its 300 pages. I especially appreciate its prescience, written as it was before the Charlottesville rally, the Tree of Life Synagogue murders, or the COVID pandemic. The trends Lipstadt outlines have come increasingly to fruition since its 2019 publication, revealing its content to be relevant and very much deserving of our time. • Elyce Rae Helford, Ph.D., is a professor of English and director of the Jewish and Holocaust Studies minor at Middle Tennessee State University. She can be reached at elyce.helford@mtsu.edu.
By CARRIE MILLS
A
s I calmy wade through my daily emails with subject titles such as: “How To Teach Your Employees To Confidently Survive an Active Shooter Without Having To Incite Fear,” and watch the nightly news to see Maui burning to the ground, I think maybe I should go for a walk at Percy Warner and get some tree bathing in while trees and the world still exists. I think my intuitive, collaborative, empathetic, compassionate feminine brain is starting to take on man-brain qualities these days. I find myself having this newly found extraordinary ability to compartmentalize things, such as being troubled by all the apocalyptic news headlines in one box and buying shoes on the RealReal in another. It’s so weird, this crazy ability now to be able to mentally put things in a box. And let me tell you, the world being the way it is, my brain is very busy nailing down a lot of lids! Which brings me to a whole other box with apparently no lid on it, which unfortunately is more like Pandora’s box, my dating life. It’s kind of weird and unsettling in some respect to find myself and my son comparing dating notes. It’s a turn I never thought my life would have ever taken. I always saw myself as rather traditional in nature and it turns out I’m now, anything but. For example a typical conversation between my son and I these days after my having gone on a first date with someone in NYC while up there visiting him is him telling me, “Mom, calm down, just because someone doesn’t ask you out for another date doesn’t mean you won’t hear from them again.” My son at that moment feels like the only rational voice in the room, because the ones in my head are ricocheting off the walls after a great and wonderful 11-hour first date with
Retirement
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knew she enjoyed meeting people. She also really loved her city. She now works part time driving a trolley downtown giving tours and sharing interesting stories with visitors! Fred, previously an executive with a technology company, always has been passionate about sports cars. He won many medals and joined many parades over the years. He’s turned his passion into becoming what he calls a “been there/done that low pressure new car salesperson - just here to help” at a local Jaguar dealership.
someone I met on Hinge no less. A few nights later my son comes home from a date, and I ask how did it go? What was the person’s name? How old are they? He just shrugs like a weary traveler who’s been on dating apps way too many times and just wants to go to sleep, with a look on his face that I now recognize as another dating app date gone nowhere mixed with some hopelessness and who cares, and I respond with, “Stop dating 23-year-olds! Their frontal lobes are not developed yet!” Which brings me around to developed frontal lobes since it seems to me, I have now met many over 60-year olds whose lobes may have never developed! However, I’m beginning to think, I might have just met one whose lobes have developed! Let’s just say, I’m cautiously optimistic at this moment because yes, I did hear back from my first date Hinge match, and date number two was yet another 10-hour soiree meeting his friends, his neighbors, vegan ice cream and talking, talking, talking and walking, walking, walking. New York is such a great date city. It’s like being on a movie set…which happens to be said person’s profession. And while I am cautiously optimistic at this point, I’m resolved to taking my dating life literally as one date at a time. (I think the 12-step program could probably start a new group for people who are compulsively on dating apps and use the slogan, One Date at a Time.) So, while it looks like I may have cracked the code this time to meeting someone online, I still have no idea how things will turn out. Meanwhile my masculine brain is busy telling me to put a lid on it for tonight, close that compartment. However, for a little female empowerment moment, I think I’ll go see the Barbie movie for the second time around, just to be reminded of the strong feminine brain because, spoiler alert for the movie, nobody can put Barbie back in the box! And I for one say yay to that! • Maybe your passion is animals or sports or collecting first-edition books. Identifying it early on will be a big help in directing your efforts when you do bid full-time work goodbye. Start planning it now! Good luck to you all. I’d love to hear about your company’s current policy regarding part-time work after retirement, as well as any passions that have directed you to places of joy if you’ve already retired! Send me a note. And, by the way, L’SHANAH TOVA! Loretta Coachingwithloretta.com
… because your memories matter 479 Myatt Drive, Madison, TN 37115-3024 615-712-9521 • rdschultz@schultzmonument.com
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The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
37
Lifecycles B’rit Mitzvah
Benjamin Marshall
Lily Reese Salvado
Lily Reese Salvado will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on September 9, 2023 at 11:00 AM at The Temple. Lily is the child of Chris and Lauren Salvado. Her grandparents are August & Isabel Salvado of Delray Beach, Florida and Barry and Rona Bloom of Millstone Township, New Jersey. For Lily’s mitzvah project, she has designed and created a sweatshirt and will sell them to the community and give 100% of the profits to Dress for Success. Feeling good in your clothes, helps build confidence in people and both the mitzvah project and the organization selected are both dedicated to helping build confidence through feeling good and looking nice. Lily is in the seventh grade at Ensworth. She enjoys theatre, dance, fashion and design and surfing.
Benjamin Marshall will be called to the Torah as a B’rit Milah at Congregation Micah on Saturday, September 9, 2023 Ben is the child of Richard and Ruth Marshall, the brother of Maddie Marshal, and grandchild of Faye-Ellen Lane (Brentwood, TN), Robert Braun (Oviedo, FL), and Karen Marshall (Chambersburg, PA). A rising 8th grader at TPH Academy, Ben loves playing hockey - both ice and roller - and learning about tech in the form of computers, video games, and even learning animation this coming school year. Ben has chosen to collect items to send to the Nashville Humane Association - a place close to his heart due to adopting his two pet cats from there. They are a safe-haven for at-risk, homeless and adoptable pets.
Matthew Kai Lodl
Matthew Kai Lodl will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at the Temple on September 23, 2023 at 11:00 AM. Matthew is the child of Joe and Lauren Lodl.
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For Matthew’s mitzvah project, he is partnering with Hands on Nashville to write and deliver letters and artwork to homebound seniors. Matthew is in the seventh grade at Merrol Hyde Magnet School. He enjoys running, baseball, drums, piano, and hanging out with friends.
Casey Donovan Nuchow
Casey Donovan Nuchow will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at the Temple on September 30, 2023 at 9:00AM. Casey is the child of Howie & Gina Nuchow. His grandparents are Richard & Gina Nuchow of Delray Beach, Florida and Jerry & Olga Geraci of Nashville, Tennessee. For Casey’s Mitzvah Project, he found a way to combine his love for sports and interest in helping children. Casey is asking everyone to bring a piece of sports equipment to the Temple on September 30th. Casey will donate these items to a wonderful non-profit organization called Dream Streets, thereby helping children enjoy sports as much as he does. Casey is in the eighth grade at Ensworth. He loves playing sports and his favorites include baseball, lacrosse, basketball & golf. Casey also loves spending time with family & friends.
Miriam Alice Russ
| Jane@JaneRSnyder.com | 615.557.6277 |
Miriam Alice Russ will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah at The Temple on September 30, 2023 at 11:00 AM. Miriam is the child of Ben and Marissa Russ. Her grandparents are Melissa and Philip Russ, Marlene Moses and the late Bob Moses, and great-grand-
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38 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER
parents Elaine and Edward Eskind, all of Nashville, Tennessee. For Miriam’s mitzvah project, she supported the Alzheimer’s Association by organizing a walk and raising approximately $6000 for alzheimer’s research in honor of her Grandpa Bob. Miriam is in the seventh grade at Harding Academy. She enjoys ballet, jazz, tap and hip-hop dance, volleyball, spending time with her friends and family, traveling the world and experiencing new cultures.
Mazel Tov Lynn P. Barton
Mazel tov to Lynn P. Barton who was awarded the Tennessee Association of Professional Mediator’s 2023 Grayfred Gray Public Service in Mediation Award for her innovative and lasting public service contributions to mediation and other Alternative Dispute Resolution processes in Tennessee. When given the award it was said she, “introduced mediation into the dispute-solving sphere of Tennessee and has continued to exhibit the highest standards of excellence, dedication, and accomplishment over a sustained period of time.” She was the first non-attorney mediator to receive this award.
Obituaries Louis F. “Louie” Star, MD
We offer our condolences to the family of Louis F. “Louie” Star, MD, brother of WES member Tish (Ben) Doochin. Louis passed away at home on August 4, 2023. He was born October 11, 1955, to the late Alex Star and Regina Concannon. He graduated from North Central High School, Indiana University (Class of 1977) and Indiana University School of Medicine (Class of 1981). He was a practicing OBGYN for 37 years. Louie was a member of Congregation Beth-El Zedeck. He is survived by his wife, Janie Star; sons, Michael (Ariel) Star, Brett Star, Jordan (Jordan) Star, and Cole Star; grandchildren, Yosi, Amichai, Pe’er, and Yael; and sister, Clarissa “Tish” (Ben) Doochin. Louis was preceded in death by his brother, Eugene Star. We send our deepest condolences to Tish, Ben, and to their entire family. Funeral services were held Sunday, August 6 at Aaron Ruben Nelson Mortuary, 11411 North Michigan Road, Zionsville, IN at 11:00 a.m. Burial followed in Congregation Beth-El Zedeck North Cemetery. Friends may leave a memory or message of condolence by visiting the online obituary at www. arnmortuary.com. Hamakom Yinachem Etchem - May God comfort Louis’ entire family, among all the mourners of Zion, Jerusalem and the entire world, Amen.
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS CATHY WERTHAN, CPA
401 Commerce Street, Suite 1250 Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 245-4070 • marcumllp.com
APPLIANCES
ELECTRONIC EXPRESS is a leader in top quality, brand-name electronics and appliances at exceptionally low prices. Stocking the latest items, Electronic Express takes pride in providing customers with products at prices to fit any budget. From televisions, appliances, smart devices and cameras to security systems, furniture and mattresses, Electronic Express has everything to take your home to the next level. Electronic Express offers special financing, delivery and installation options. We make it happen! Visit us at any of our 18 locations or online at www. electronicexpress.com
AROSA (formerly Family Staffing Solutions, Inc.) Integrated Care Management and Home Care Provider 2000 Glen Echo Road, Suite 104 Nashville, TN 37215 615-595-8929 143 Uptown Square Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-848-6774 768 N. Main Street Shelbyville, TN 37160 931-680-2771
ATTORNEY MARTIN SIR, ATTORNEY Family Law / Personal Injury / Probate Fifth Third Center 424 Church Street, Ste. 2250 Nashville, Tennessee 37219 (615) 256-5661 www.martinsirlaw.com
CARE GIVER
In-Home Care & Engagement | Respite Dementia Day & Early-Stage Programs Independent & Assisted Living Memory Support | Caregiver Resources 615.434.2160 | services@abesgarden.org
Seniors and Post Hospital Care
Custom senior care for active, healthy lifestyles. Affordable/no minimums. Meals, meds, transp., outings, dementia care & assist with hospital discharge. Professional trusted care partners. Locally owned. Call Moises for Free Assessment: 615-678-9223 www.curaforcare.com
OPTOMETRIST DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Eyecare & Eyewear 2817 West End Ave., Nashville 615-321-4EYE (4393) DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eye Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2020.com
Elite Caregiving Services Compassionate Care In Your Home We offer aftercare from surgical procedures, part-time assistance, and 24 hour elderly care. 615-881-6528 Hannah@EliteCaregivingServices.com EliteCaregivingServices.com
CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN
ORTHODONTISTS
GLUCK ORTHODONTICS Specialists in Orthodontics Dr. Joel Gluck DDS, MS Dr. Jonathan Gluck DDS, MSD 2002 Richard Jones Road A-200 615.269.5903 drgluck.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT
At Emergest, we enable your business with cost-efficient digital applications – web, mobile, automation, design, strategy workshops. We partner with you to solve all your technology needs. Find us at emergest.com, email boris@emergest.com, or call 615-473-3700.
ZANDER INSURANCE GROUP, INC. Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC Michael Weinberger Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business, Long Term Care, Identity Theft Protection 6213 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 615-356-1700 www.zanderins.com
Proudly serving your community in kitchen, bath, and turn-key remodeling. Find us at www.DesignsByHermitage.com or call 615-988-5988
DENTIST STEVEN R. HECKLIN, DMD DAVID M. SMILEY, DMD ABBY DILUZIO, DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry www.drhecklin.com 5606 Brookwood Place 615-356-7500
INSURANCE
GHERTNER & COMPANY Homeowner Association and Condominium Management Full Service and Financial Management Property Management since 1968 615-255-8531 www.ghertner.com
PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELING IRA HELDERMAN, PhD, LPC Psychotherapy for Individuals, Adolescents, Couples and Families nashvillepsychotherapyandcounseling. com Please contact: 615-473-4815 or ira.p.helderman@vanderbilt.edu
REAL ESTATE
www.zeitlin.com Residential & Relocation Specialists
JESSICA AVERBUCH Broker/ Owner Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty c: 615.294.9880 o: 615.383.0183 jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 615-794-0833 (bus.) 615-351-5343 (cell) lorna.graff@zeitlin.com www.lornagraff.com NAN SPELLER Broker, GRI, ABR 615-383-0183 (bus.) 615-973-1117 (cell) nanspeller2014@gmail.com JENNIE ZAGNOEV Affiliate Broker 615-383-0183 (bus.) 615-838-2048 (cell) jennie.zagnoev@zeitlin.com
Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR® www.JackieKarr.com Jackie.Karr@corcorangroup.com Mobile: 615.330.9779 Office: 615.250.7880
SPORTING GOODS TEAM NASHVILLE Your Running/Walking Swimming Headquarters 3205 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37203 615-383-0098
TRAVEL SERVICES Expredia Cruise Ship Centers A Full Service Travel Agency Alan Cooper: Office: 629-202-8945 www.cruiseshipcenters.com/AlanCooper 7081 B Hwy 70 S / Kroger Shopping Ctr.
TREE SERVICES BILTMORE INSURANCE SERVICES Greg Zagnoev, Agent 615-746-RISK (7475) Home, Auto, Business, and Life JAMES A. ROTHBERG ADAM ROTHBERG James A. Rothberg & Associates Office: 615-997-1833 Fax: 615-665-1300 2000 Glen Echo, Suite 208 Nashville, TN 37215 Email: jrothberg@jarinsurance.com info@jarinsurance.com
ROBINS INSURANCE Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business Insurance 11 Music Circle S Ph. 615-665-9200 • www.robinsins.com
FRANKLIN PARGH 615-351-7333 franklin.pargh@compass.com LANA PARGH 615-504-2685 lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com Instagram: @theparghteam
Preserving the Natural Beauty of Trees and Shrubs. Specializing in the care of shade and ornamental trees and shrubs for residential and commercial properties. Serving Nashville since 1978. 615-373-4342 www.druidtree.com
Advertise in our Professional Services Directory JACOB KUPIN C - 615.440.6673 O - 615.279.5310 Jacob@TheKupinGroup.com We’ve got your back!
Reach thousands of readers in the Nashville and Middle Tennessee area by taking advantage of this costeffective way to reach a loyal repeat audience!Call Carrie Mills,Advertising Manager to place your professional listing. Phone 615-354-1699 or e-mail carrie@nashvillejcc.org
The Jewish OBSERVER • September 2023
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Shana tova. Celebrate the High Holidays with recipes you’ll love at publix.com/highholidays.
40 September 2023 • The Jewish OBSERVER