The Observer Vol. 90 No. 6 – June 2025

Jewish OBSERVER

Legislative Update: Tennessee Legislature Advances Security, Safety, and Israel Ties in 2025 Session

By BARBARA DAB

The Tennessee state legislature’s 2025 session is complete, and this year saw significant progress in the areas of security, public safety, and support for Israel. As in previous years, the success was the result of a joint effort by the four Jewish Federations representing Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga and the relationships the groups fostered with the state’s legislators. Deborah Oleshansky, director of the Jewish Community Relations Counsil of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, says, “Once again it is thanks to the combined efforts of all the Jewish Federations in the state that we have continued to see greater awareness about the challenges facing the Jewish community,”

A Fond Farewell, but not Goodbye

By DEBORAH OLESHANSKY

This will be my final JCRC Observer article, and as usual, I am right at the deadline. On May 15th, I retired from the position as JCRC Director for the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville and my tenure in the role was bookended by Mark Freedman. Mark and I met originally during a Jewish Agency For Israel (JAFI) P2G trip to Israel in 2013. His very talented wife, Leslie Klein, had an original work of art in an exhibit displayed in our region, Hadera Eiron. Apparently, someone liked the piece so much it was stolen. Mark and I bonded as we worked with our P2G partners to arrange for Leslie to quickly recreate the piece for the exhibit. Fast forward a few years and Mark hired me for the role of JCRC Director in January 2018, and “retired” his position as CEO in June 2018. He is not a good retirement mentor.

During the interview process for this position, I met with lay leaders, specifically Ron Galbraith, then JCRC Chair, and Leslie Kirby, JCRC Vice Chair. I was immediately impressed with their leadership, knowledge, and devotion to the Jewish community, and their com-

mitment to Jewish values which underly this work. They were more than lay leaders; they were talented and skilled professionals and brought all their experience to the table in addressing Jewish community concerns. They, along with JCRC member, Avi Poster, of blessed memory, provided the foundation of my work over the past years. I am grateful that Ron and Leslie oriented me to the position, and fortunate that they are both still my close friends.

When I started in January 2018, I was new both to the position and to Nashville. The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville professional team was critical to my inteContinued on page 6

This past year saw continued antisemitic activities by several Nazi and Christian nationalist groups in the Nashville area. These actions included demonstrations in front of West End Synagogue, and disruptions to a Metro Council meeting. To help synagogues with the rising costs of security personnel, the legislature approved $1.25 million to be added to the state budget for security expenses for houses of worship. Larry Hyatt, chair of the security committee for the Jewish Federation Greater Nashville, says, “We are pleased to see continuing support from the state and appreciate the legislature’s commitment to keeping the Jewish community safe.”

To help provide police with stronger enforcement tools, the legislature joined with Metro Council members, Jewish

community leaders, and the District Attorney to draft a bill with stronger language. Senator Mark Pody (TN-17) was co-sponsor of SB30, otherwise known as the PEACE act. He says the goal was to ensure arrests and prosecutions so that people in the Jewish community feel safe, “We collaboratively wrote several bills, including the PEACE act, to look at what you could arrest on. If you don’t think you have strength to arrest somebody right now what could you arrest somebody on. Then we went to the DA and said, ‘Now if the police made an arrest and this is the language, would you be comfortable prosecuting?’”

Highlights of the PEACE act include creating misdemeanor designations for things like littering or trespassing with

Continued on page 3

Holocaust Education and Jewish Identity Take Root in Nashville Schools

By BARBARA DAB

This school year students from area high schools learned about Judaism and the Holocaust in formal and informal settings. At Harpeth Hall, Iara Kullock

and Maddie Marshall created a Jewish Students’ Association designed to provide connection and build community within the larger school setting. Kullock says the goal is to be inclusive and welcoming, Continued on page 8

Tennessee state representative Scott Cepicky lights a candle on Yom Ha’atzmaut.

Retiring Federation JCRC director

Deborah Oleshansky receives gift from interim CEO Mark Freedman

Iara Kullock is pictured center, with classmates from Harpeth Hall’s Jewish Students Association.

Leadership 615 Celebrates Cohort 2

By BARBARA DAB

The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s Leadership 615 celebrated the second cohort of participants. The program is funded by Dr. Mark Goldfarb who is committed to fostering and developing a new generation of Jewish philanthropists and community leaders. In his remarks, Goldfarb said, “It was a true pleasure hearing from the graduates, both in one-on-one conversations and through their excellent speeches. It is heart-warming to see the special bond they have developed as a peer group. I am extremely proud to be sponsoring this program and am hopeful it will produce newer and younger Jewish leaders to move our community forward.”

Leadership fellows meet once a month for six months. Each session focuses on a different aspect of Nashville’s Jewish community with topics like Jewish demographics, leadership during times of change, difficult conversations, antisemitism and mobilization, and board governance. Guest speakers from Nashville and other parts of the country lead the sessions and there are informal discussions during the month.

The Leadership 615 program was developed in partnership with Goldfarb and the Jewish Federation. Michal Eskenazi Becker, chief impact officer of the Jewish Federation, and coordinator of the program, says, “We were so lucky

to have such an engaged, caring, smart, and motivated group this year. I enjoyed every moment with them and learned so much from their questions, insights, and vision for our community. The graduation ceremony was a wonderful opportunity to show others what I already knew all year: our community is in the best hands. I’m grateful to Board members and Federation supporters who came to the event, and to Dr. Mark Goldfarb and Beth Levine. But most of all, to our fellows.”

This year’s cohort was diverse and represented Nashville’s evolving Jewish

community. Below are reflections from some of the participants.

Alyssa Hasssenfeld: I was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. I made my way to Nashville for college at Vanderbilt in 2011, where I earned a degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and spent most of my free time playing Club Volleyball and hanging out at Vanderbilt Hillel, where I first became connected with the Nashville Jewish community on my own, after a family history which started with my grandmother growing up here in

Nashville with her siblings. After college, I stuck around and eventually met my husband Ethan, fellow cohort member and Nashville native, with whom I was married in 2022 and now share a wonderful One-year old daughter, Adelyn. I’m currently a member of West End Synagogue, serve on the board of Vandy Hillel and NCJW, and attend events when I can for East Side Tribe Wandering Scholars, the Federation, and JFS.

I know every one of us is so grateful to have been gifted this opportunity. Over the past months, we’ve challenged ourselves, grown together, and discovered what it truly means to lead in our community. None of this would have been possible without the support of someone who believes in the power of a leadership program, and in each of us individually. Thank you so much, Dr. Mark Goldfarb and Beth Levine, for spearheading this program. Your vision and generosity have shaped this experience into something extraordinary. To Michal Becker - you have been our boots on the ground fearless leader, taking on the challenges of organizing each aspect of this program and satiating out hunger for knowledge and breakfast one Sunday morning a month for the past 6 months, and of course for organizing today’s beautiful ceremony - thanks to you and your team including Emma Canter for making all of this happen.

Continued on page 6

A Legacy of Giving: The Story of the Nashville Jewish Foundation

By JASON SPARKS

In the heart of Music City, where culture, community, and compassion converge, the Foundation of Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville stands as a pillar of strength and generosity for the Jewish community. For more than three decades, this foundation has been a driving force in securing the future of Jewish life in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. But its story begins not just with money or endowments—it begins with vision, leadership, and an enduring belief in collective responsibility. Every day I learn more about the history of Jewish Nashville, and I am always reminded of the importance of our work.

Origins Rooted in Purpose

The origins of The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s Foundation began in 1980, a time when Jewish communities across the United States were beginning to think more strategically about longterm sustainability. Here in Nashville, several visionary leaders stepped forward to ensure that the Jewish community would have a stable and secure future for generations to come.

Among those instrumental in founding the Nashville Endowment fund were Bernard Werthan, Sr., Charlotte Seloff, Dr. Herman Kaplan, Gerald Averbuch, Joel Gordon, Eugene Pargh, and so many more. These community leaders recognized the need for a central philanthropic entity that could steward endowments, donor-advised funds, and bequests in a way that aligned with Jewish values.

With the support of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, the Foundation began its work with a simple yet powerful mission: to build a perma-

nent financial resource that would support Jewish institutions, agencies, and individuals in perpetuity. While there were many community-based philanthropic funds, there was only one that was a part of our Jewish community.

Impact Across Generations

What started with 12 family funds of $1.6 million in 1980 has grown in impact through the years. Today, the Nashville Jewish Foundation manages over 150 charitable funds and assets in excess of $44 million. It is administered by SEI Investments Company, which holds more than a trillion dollars in assets and manages community foundations all over the world. The true value of the Foundation lies not in its numbers, but in its impact.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, the Foundation responded swiftly and generously. Through its Emergency Relief Fund, it helped keep the doors open at local synagogues, day schools, and social service agencies. Individuals who had lost jobs or faced food insecurity found assistance through Federationsupported programs. This lifeline was only possible because donors had the foresight to invest in the community’s future.

Long before the pandemic, the Foundation played a critical role in helping Jewish institutions plan for the long term. Through endowment grants, it has supported everything from scholarships for the Akiva School and many summer camps, to adult education at the Jewish Community Center and synagogues, to programs serving the elderly at Jewish Family Service, to supporting emerging groups and needs.

Empowering Personal Philanthropy

One of the most powerful tools the

Foundation offers is the Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)—a flexible giving account that allows individuals and families to make charitable contributions over time. It is philanthropy tailored to the donor but guided by Jewish values. I like to think of it as a “charitable giving checkbook” and with as little as $5000 to begin, anyone can begin writing those checks.

Another popular type of fund in our Foundation are the ACE (Annual Campaign Endowment) and PACE (Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment). These are funds that are set up to donate to the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s Annual Campaigns. These funds allow our donors to automatically give to Federation currently and into the future, trusting that the community will make the best decisions to fund the needs of the Jewish community in perpetuity, and adapt to whatever is best decided in the future.

And the best part is that the funds are housed within our community, while allowing our donors to give to the charities and organizations they care about all over the world both Jewish and non-Jewish, while still enriching the work of our community. Many of our community partners have made the decision to trust the Foundation of Jewish Federation to house their agency endowments, a duty that his both important and humbling.

A Bridge to the Future

Looking ahead, the Nashville Jewish Foundation is focused not only on preserving tradition but on fostering innovation. Initiatives like the Life and Legacy program have encouraged more than 360 community members to include the Jewish institutions in their estate plans, ensuring that their values live on even

after they are gone; so far over $26 million has been pledged to support our community partners and over $1.7 million has been realized in giving through this program.

The Foundation is also actively working with young people to train them to be philanthropists; The B’nai Tzedek program encourages young people to set up a philanthropic fund at the time of their B’nai Mitzvah and is also matched by funds that were started in our foundation to encourage and educate young people to be life-long learners. The goal is to keep contributing to that fund until it reaches $5000, which allows it to convert to a Donor Advised Fund and we have had dozens of the funds set up in our Foundation achieve this goal.

Conclusion In a rapidly changing world, the Foundation is more than a financial institution—it is a source of continuity, compassion, and hope. It reminds us that Jewish values are not just preserved through prayer or ritual, but through action: by helping one another, lifting up the vulnerable, and planning for the future, and ensuring that Jewish Nashville will thrive for decades to come.

As the old proverb says, a society grows when old men plant trees under whose shade they will never sit. I think about that a lot and it’s why I do what I do every day.

Thanks to the Nashville Jewish Foundation, the shade of those trees is already sheltering a thriving, resilient Jewish community. •

For more information on how to get involved with the Nashville Jewish Foundation or start your own legacy of giving, visit JewishNashville.org/Foundation.

Cohort 2 of the Leadership 615 Fellowship

Pictured l. to r.: Alyssa Hassenfeld, John Jivens, Matt Hertz

Grants Highlight: Creating Vibrant Young Adult Programming

By BARBARA DAB

Nashville’s Jewish community continues to grow at a rapid pace, with much of that growth coming from the young adult demographic. Michal Eskenazi Becker, Chief Impact Officer, says, “Based on our latest data, the majority of our community age group is either young adults or empty nesters.” To help provide connection for both newcomers and long-term residents, the Jewish Federation of Greater is providing approximately $50,000 in grants to support young adult programming. These programs include the Federation’s NowGen as well as Congregation Micah’s Micahnections, and Moishe House.

Congregation Micah’ Cantor Josh Goldberg is a recent transplant and looking for connections for himself. “As the young clergy on the block, I was looking to meet other people my age who are interested in what we do.” He started small with a Sukkot brunch and then tried other types of events.

The goal was to build and enrich relationships but not compete with other young adult groups in town. “I want to offer a spiritual or religious Jewish experience, to celebrate being Jewish together.” So, to accommodate the work schedule of the participants, he began offering late night Shabbat services. “That became our most successful program. The first time we had about 30 people, and then the next one we had about 75 people.”

Goldberg enlists participation from many in Nashville’s music and arts community and includes a pre-service nosh, followed by a dinner after services. He says this type of program resonates with younger people who often have a different

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approach to engagement and philanthropy. “There’s more of a transactional attitude. But I don’t try to pressure anyone to do anything. I just want them to come and be part of it.” The program comes with a suggested donation, and Goldberg says most people donate. But he is grateful for the Federation’s support. “It helps make the program more affordable and allows participants to pay what they can.”

Another young adult program supported by the Federation is Moishe House. Located on a leafy street in East Nashville, Moishe House has three young adult residents who, in exchange for a housing stipend, plan and execute programming for young people ages 22-35. Often these programs are in the house, with the residents providing a welcoming space for meals, conversation, laughter, and connections. Ruthie Perlman, one of the residents, says, “Moishe House Nashville provides a space for community gathering for the Jewish young adult population, centering around social events, Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, and simply being Jewish together.”

The five events per month cover a wide array of interests, with a little

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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

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. Letters to the editor must be no longer than 250 words, and op-eds must be no longer than 750 words. 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.

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something for everyone. There is usually a Shabbat dinner or larger holiday celebration, game nights, trivia nights, hikes, going to events around Nashville, volunteer projects, and more. Perlman says, “Our intention is to meet the needs and desires of our community and facilitate connections and growth within it.” She says thanks to the Federation grant, Moishe House is there to meet the needs of this young population. “This financial support allows us to host these events, as well as subsidize residents’ rent in order to create a homey space for community gatherings.”

The Federation’s own NowGen program serves as a hub for all the community’s young adults in their 20s and 30s. Most of the events are social, but there are also Shabbat dinners, Hanukkah celebrations, and educational programs.

Emma Canter, communications and engagement associate, says NowGen is often the first stop for young people after college, and the goal is to be just the beginning for young aspiring Jewish leaders. “NowGen is a welcoming and inclusive way to get involved in the Jewish community and many of our participants go on to be leaders here in Nashville and in other communities around the country.”

All the young adult programs supported by the Federation share the same goal: to build connection with a new generation, and to inspire future leadership and philanthropy. Becker says, “The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville is proud to provide the resources to engage with our young adult and, by this, to enable their future connection to the greater Jewish Nashville.” •

Legislative

Continued from page 1 the intent to intimidate, providing false name to law enforcement, creating a 25-foot buffer zone around police officers, and attaching unauthorized signs or banners to overpasses bridges. The bill also allows police to use things like video recordings to arrest someone.

Pody says the bill does not infringe on free speech rights, but rather holds everyone responsible when they overstep. “We didn’t want to step on the first amendment. There’s a lot of things where we had to walk a line between our rights to protest, but we don’t have the right to intimidate somebody.” He adds the overall goal of this bill is to send a strong message. “We tried to make sure that we’re watching and being very prudent in taking the steps to say, ‘We’re not going to allow this in Tennessee.’”

The state’s relationship with Israel was also front and center this legislative session. Representative Scott Cepicky (TN-District 64) spearheaded the creation of a bipartisan Tennessee/Israel caucus. The goal is to strengthen the relationship between the two, and to educate about Israel. To date, 60 out of 99 members of the legislature have joined. “In speaking with the Consul General, we have the largest caucus in the Southeast United States.” Cepicky says he is continuing to work toward 100 percent participation.

Cepicky believes the caucus will be an effective means for stamping out mis-

information about Israel and the Jewish people. “We are very resolute as a caucus in supporting Israel, not only in policy, but also to start to work with Israel, their companies, their government, their hospitals, their educational system, to start to destroy ignorance in Tennessee.”

Specifically, Cepicky suggests creating opportunities for cross-pollination in higher education, like medical residency exchange programs. “Let our residents go over there and learn the state-of-the-art techniques that help save lives in a way that Israel deals with trying to save lives for battlefield injuries.” Cepicky adds he is working with local farming industry companies to both build relationships and to share best practices in agriculture technology.

And in the education sector, Cepicky envisions using Zoom technology in middle and high school classrooms so students can build relationships and deepen their knowledge of each country. “These kids are starting to think and reason about what they believe.”

Cepicky partnered with Representative Torrey Harris (TN-District 90). He says the work of the caucus is not merely a symbolic gesture but has long-lasting benefits. “We have an obligation to build this relationship because financially for the state of Tennessee it will be a good thing. Economically, agriculturally, industry, bringing that technology here, it will employ more people, it will make Tennessee more attractive and then educationally, we will tear down ignorance.”•

c c c c STAFF

Tennessee state senator Mark Pody, right of center, with members of the Tennessee/ Israel Caucus.

Big Night Out 2025: A Tropical Paradise… Indoors!

By RACHEL CLARK, GORDON JCC DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

This year’s Big Night Out proved that nothing, not even the weather, can rain on our tropical parade. Over 200 guests filled the JCC auditorium on May 4 for an unforgettable evening that brought sunshine, sea breezes, and serious fun… just up the hill from our rainy outdoor pool.

Executive Director Jesse Feld, along with past and incoming board presidents Jeremy Brook and Dara Freiberg, kicked off the evening with warm words of gratitude, thanking everyone for their support and sharing excitement for all that’s ahead this year at the J.

With a quick pivot indoors, the space was transformed into a vibrant island escape. Tropical patterned linens and tropical centerpieces filled the room. Guests were welcomed with signature cocktails that channeled the spirit of a coastal resort, and a buzzing cocktail hour full of activities: putt putt, caricature artists, and flower arranging stations brought

out everyone’s vacation state of mind.

Dinner, catered by the incredible Kanela Rose, was bursting with island flavor. From teriyaki tofu and chicken skewers to sautéed vegetables, macaroni salad, and a traditional loco moco, the plates were as colorful and delicious as the setting. Dessert featured a light coconut cake and lots of fresh fruit, while Frosted Luau’s food truck dished out fruity soft serve that transported us to beachside bliss.

The Music City Steel Band set the perfect mood, filling the room with the oceanic rhythms of calypso, reggae, and island classics. As their tunes floated through the air, Endless Summer, the iconic 1966 surf film, played on the screen, bringing even more beachy magic to the night.

A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, volunteers, and the incredible JCC staff who made the night seamless, joyful, and full of warmth, indoors and out. Enjoy a few of the photos and relive the night that turned a cloudy forecast into pure tropical joy. •

Chabad of Nashville to Present 48 Hour Marathon of Mystical Studies with Scholar in Residence

Shavuot, the birthday of the nation of Israel, is the anniversary of the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai which is one of the most fundamental and famous moments in our history.

The Midrash records a fascinating story. The night before the giving of the Torah, the Jewish people did what anybody does before an important event—they turned in early for a good night’s sleep. This seemingly innocent decision, however, led to embarrassing consequences. The next morning, when it came time for the Torah to be given, the place was empty. The entire Jewish people had slept in. The Midrash even recounts that Moses had to wake them— causing G d to later lament, “Why have I come, and no one is here to receive me?”

From Jerusalem to Johannesburg, across the world, this story is at the heart of the custom of staying up late on the first night of Shavuot. To rectify our forefathers’ mistake, we stay up late every Shavuot night and study the Torah to clear up our record, explore and delve into the Torah’s secrets.

To commemorate this event, Chabad of Nashville will be celebrating this Shavuot with a marathon of Biblical Study with Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Mendel Moscowitz. Rabbi Moscowitz was born and raised in Chicago, IL. He stud-

ied at Yeshivot in Miami, New Haven, London, and New York, and received rabbinic ordination from Yeshivat Tomchei Temimim Lubavitch in 1984. He currently teaches Jewish studies at Chabad elementary and high schools in Chicago. His previous roles include serving as Director of Outreach at the University of California, Los Angeles. For over three and a half decades, Rabbi Moscowitz has been lecturing to adult audiences across the United Staes and Europe.

Rabbi Moscowitz is the author of The Life and Times of the Alter Rebbe, a comprehensive biography of the founder of Chabad Chassidut, as well as The Prince Who Forgot, an enchanting adaptation of one of the Baal Shem Tov’s most insightful parables. With a gift for making deep ideas accessible, his writing and speaking educate, inspire, and resonate with audiences of all ages.

On Sunday, June ,1 at 7:00 PM, Rabbi Moscowitz will usher in the Holiday of Shavuot with a fascinating presentation, titled, “HOLY RUBBISH: A Glimpse into the Kaleidoscopic World of the Cairo Geniza”

This “Raiders of the Lost Ark” style adventure from the 1890’s portrays through story, scholarship and multi-media, the thrilling discovery of a massive cache of a quarter million Hebrew doc-

uments spanning centuries, piled up in a storeroom in an ancient synagogue in the old Jewish quarter of Cairo, Egypt.

The Geniza documents are a window into a vanished civilization, illuminating over a thousand years of Jewish history. They describe the vital role the Jews played in the economic and cultural life of the medieval Middle East as well as the warm relations between Jews and Arabs, through community minutes, rabbinical court records, leases, debt acknowledgments, marriage contracts and private letters.

Perhaps the most important papers found belong to the greatest medieval Jewish philosopher and physician of all time, Rabbi Moses Maimonides – the “Rambam”. The Geniza contains over thirty works authored by the Rambam, including commentary on some Mishna tractates and a number of fascinating letters.

The discovery of the documents has been likened to the 20th century discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Following the presentation, and holiday service, there will be a festive holiday dinner for the community, followed by a lecture by Rabbi Moscowitz titled Dreams: Should They Be Heeded or Ignored? A Jewish Perspective. This will be an opportunity to ask about and share your own dreams and hear how

Judaism has viewed them throughout the ages.

On Monday, June 2, at 5:30 PM, the first day of Shavuot, there will be the “Ten Commandments Ice Cream Party & Delightful Dairy Buffet.” All participants will take part in the reenactment of the wedding ceremony under the Chuppah between the Almighty G-d and the Jewish nation.

Following the dairy buffet dinner, Rabbi Moscowitz will present a lecture titled: The Baal Shem Tov’s Legacy: Stories to Warm the Heart, Expand the Mind and Enrich the Soul. Many of the teachings of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, who passed away on the holiday of Shavuot in 1760, were rooted in Jewish mysticism. Unlike the leading Jewish scholars of the day, who viewed Torah study as the highest religious act, the Baal Shem Tov stressed the importance of earnest prayer as a means of achieving d’vekut, or cleaving to G-d. In this talk, Rabbi Moscowitz will develop this theme through teachings and stories.

These lectures and programs are open to all members of the Nashville community, and are free of charge, and will take place at Chabad of Nashville, 95 Bellevue Road. To RSVP for these events or for more information go to www.chabadnashville.com, or call 615-646-5750. •

Pictured l. to r.: Suzy Perlman, Cindee Gold, Stewart Perlman, Michael Gold and Bernie Pargh

Pictured l. to r.: Joe Glass, Beth Easter, Jim Easter, Uzi Shmueli

Current board president, Jeremy Brook, incoming board president Dara Freiberg, and executive director Jesse Feld spoke about the future of the J. Music City Steel Band

Patrons enjoying the steel band music

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SCAN TO VIEW OU R FE ATURED PROPERTI ES

A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss Hope

By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM

F

rank: The ringing hospital phone startled me. As a resident physician 60 years ago, I spent many nights in the hospital lounge and on this night, I had just fallen asleep when a nurse, needing help with an agitated, distraught, and tearful patient, called for advice. After listening to the situation, I went to the patient’s bedside to see if I could help.

Earlier that day we had operated on this intelligent and eloquent middle-aged woman to remove a suspicious tumor of the ovary, which had been discovered during a routine gynecological exam several weeks earlier. What we found surprised us all.

The tumor was malignant and had spread to many areas of her abdomen, including the liver. We did what we could by removing as much of the cancer as possible. Each of us around the operating table that morning knew our patient would develop serious medical problems following surgery and more than likely die in a relatively short time and there was little we could do to change that.

It was now up to the patient’s private physician to begin the process of explaining and informing both the anxious family in the waiting room and then the patient, as soon as possible when she awoke.

After completing the surgery, my

Leadership 615

Continued from page 2

One of the important and strategic aspects of our cohort is that we all come from a variety of backgrounds in the Jewish community. Some of us have more involvement than others, all of us are involved in very different organizations, and all of us came to the program with different goals on what we wanted to learn and how we wanted to make an impact in the community. In the end though, I found that this wasn’t really a program about personal growth alone. Instead, we as a cohort have been able to get to know each other and learn not just from our incredible speakers, but from each other’s experiences.

Part of my own vision statement, which is the project that we documented to wrap up the program, is fostering a network of diverse relationships and leveraging all the different backgrounds of people around me to make my Jewish experience better and enhance the experience of others through leadership in different organizations. I learned something or had an impactful conversation with every single individual in our cohort, and I would bet that most everyone else feels the same sentiment. I’m grateful for the last several months that we have spent together and am very much looking forward to how we as a group continue to grow and our friendships and support each other in the community as we look to achieve our personal goals.

John Jivens:

I was born in Philadelphia but raised

A Fond Farewell

Continued from page 1 gration to the community, the organization and the city. Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with tremendous professionals, and the current team has been my support through several personal challenges, and blessings, in the past two years. We as a Jewish community can be rightfully proud of this team, and their ability to put community needs front and

teacher, the patient’s physician, asked me to follow him from the operating room to the waiting room. Seeing us come down the hall, the family quickly surrounded us, their faces revealing fatigue, anxiety, and fear. They were eager to learn what we had found.

It was then that I watched with amazement and respect as my teacher took them to a quiet room. With considerable sensitivity and careful attention to words and phrases, he explained what was found, what could be done, and that despite the ominous findings, there still was an element of hope. As we left the room, he turned to me and said, “Always leave some hope in the room, it’s sometimes the only medicine we have.” I wondered, however, what that meant.

Later that same day, when the patient was awake and alert, her nurse informed us that she was ready to be told what happened. Standing next to the bed in the recovery room and listening to her physician explain what he had found during surgery, I was once again impressed.

Ever so slowly, and with compassion in his voice, he gave details in such a way as to be easily understood, while explaining what he had found and what would happen next. While being honest and open about what had been found at surgery, whenever possible, he reassured. Finally, he took her into his arms and

in Canton, Ohio. I’m a proud alumnus of The Ohio State University. I made my way to Nashville on Leap Day of 2016. Like many folks I have met, I relocated to Nashville to be with my then-girlfriend, now wife, Sheri Rosenberg. My involvement with the Jewish community began in earnest after I got married in March of 2020. I am currently a member of The Temple, participating in a variety of events and serving on several committees. I also spend much of my time working out and shooting hoops at the Gordon Jewish Community Center.

I believe that our goals have been shaped by our different values and experiences.

I think that one of the main benefits of this group is its diversity. We have a wide variety of participants. We have Nashville natives, and we have transplants. We have folks who grew up receiving a formal Jewish education and we have folks that attended public schools. We have folks who were born into families with strong Jewish identities, and we have folks who didn’t connect with their Jewish identity until later in life. Our cohort includes people with a wide variety of professions from artists to accountants, entrepreneurs to engineers and many others in between. We are members of different Jewish intuitions throughout Middle Tennessee. The tie that binds is that all of us feel a strong connection to the Nashville Jewish community and we want to see it strengthen and grow for generations to come.

Matt Hertz:

center. Not seeing these amazing team members daily is something I will miss, but our relationships transcend the office, and I know we will remain closely connected.

Current JCRC Chairs, Harold Benus, Arthur Perlen and Vice Chair Erin Coleman, along with our strong committee members, will continue the critical work of JCRC, maintaining relationships with elected leaders, law enforcement, faith communities, schools, businesses and civic groups to ensure that Jewish voice,

told her how sorry he was that she had to go through this. After we left her bedside, he turned to me again and said, “The only words that work here are I’m sorry. Do not try to say more.”

Moments later, over a cup of coffee and in a somewhat pensive mood, my teacher continued to explain that he felt our job as doctors was to help our patients clearly and openly understand what was happening to them and with sensitivity help them through the inevitable stages of dying.

He emphasized that we had to understand the importance of these stages and know that patients needed to deal with each stage on their own time schedule and in their own way. Our job as physicians was to control pain, offer medical and emotional support as much as possible and be good listeners. The hope he believed important to leave with his patient and her family that day was not the hope of a cure. My teacher explained to me that the hope he wanted to leave with his patient was the hope of acceptance, control of pain and peace. “Each day alive is precious,” he exclaimed, “I hope our patient can find comfort, peace, and closure to her life. This is the hope I wished to leave with her.”

That important lesson helped me as I sat on the patient’s bed so many years ago, holding her hand and listening to the grief

My name is Matt Hertz, and my Jewish affiliation and engagement has taken on a bit of a roller coaster path in my first 39 years (as of next month). I grew up in Toronto in a household where my mother was Reform and my dad modern orthodox. We celebrated all the holidays, attended synagogue weekly, which was a mere 200 feet from where we lived. Then in the years following high school - throughout college in Montreal, and into my early adult life, I cleverly evaded religion despite living in New York City, a place where it was very easy being Jewish.

After a few years with a stopover in San Francisco, I landed in Nashville in 2018, and was asked by a new friend to join him at The Temple. I took him up on the offer, and quickly met folks like John’s wife, Sheri Rosenberg and became a member with my wife who is here as well.

I remember mentioning to Michal and the group in our first session that I really didn’t know what the Federation did. How does the Federation interact with the GJCC, The Temple or other organizations here in town? How do donations to the Federation differ from donating to a specific Jewish organization, and why might I be interested in donating to one and not the other.

Being part of this Leadership615 program, I have been introduced to a much broader set of programming and services that are available in the Nashville Jewish community, many supported by the Federation. A handful of these organizations have attended our sessions and presented what they do here in the

values and concerns are shared throughout the greater community.

As I make the transition from professional staff to engaged community member, I am deeply aware of how blessed we are to be part of a strong, supportive and welcoming community. If you extend one hand, you will get two back in return. We rely on each other, in joy and pain, and together we will meet the challenges we face. If you are already involved with the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville,

and disbelief she was feeling. It was reassuring to me as a young physician to know that I did not have to speak. Just listening would work and that when it was time for me to say something I would know what to say. I learned much about medicine that day. I learned how a physician should handle the certainty of death without overlooking life that was left to live.

Mark, I wonder what you think of this story that happened so many years ago while I was a young physician. Has hope been a tool that you have used in your work as a man of faith?

Mark: Frank, you offer such a vivid example of the beauty of never denying the possibility of hope, nor diminishing the promise of each day we continue to draw breath — to live — even, and perhaps, especially — in the face of uncertainty, or even more, when facing the very real certainty of a terminal diagnosis.

Faith is meaningless if it exists without offering the invitation to hope, whether for a better future, or a degree of comfort or a release from pain and suffering.

What your teacher, the physician, taught you about the healing power of hope, was similarly taught by the ancient rabbis of the Talmud centuries earlier. They wrote that one who visits the sick removes a certain percentage of what ails them. They did not necessarily mean

Continued on page 9

Nashville Jewish Community. Recently I received a pamphlet in the mail that reviewed the Grants the Federation offers and my first reaction was, “holy moly! There must be over 100 programs and beneficiaries! Everything from education, engagement, Israel and Global Jewry, community, and creating Jewish safety nets. I mentioned it in front of Michal before one of our sessions. It really is remarkable what the Federation does, and today, unlike 6 months ago, I actually understand the goals, purpose, and outstanding work the Federation does to activate and engage our Jewish community. Despite my mostly evading of Jewish causes I mentioned in my intro, the Nashville Jewish community has, somewhat ironically, become the one I have been most engaged with, and after this Program, I am confident I will become an even more active member as a leader in various initiatives.

This year’s Leadership 615 Fellows are:

Hunter Bernstein

Courtney Bruns

Julie Galbierz

Saba Getaneh

Alyssa Hassenfeld

Ethan Hassenfeld

Laura Heiman

Matthew Hertz

John Jivens

Alexander Krew

Victor Nachmann

Sandy Rochelle

Brooke Wasserman

Penny Woody •

thank you. If you have not yet engaged, I urge you to reach out to any of our amazing professional team members or lay leaders. You will not be disappointed. As we navigate an uncertain future, we can find strength and courage in our tradition and history. By connecting with each other we will survive and ultimately thrive. By relying on each other, we can do this with kindness, beauty and joy. We are truly stronger together, and may we always go from strength to strength. •

Holocaust Ed.

Continued from page 1

“Our goal was to create a safe space for all the Jews to be themselves and talk about something that we all share.”

Kullock says encouraging Jewish involvement in the JSA has been a challenge. “Unfortunately, not all the Jews at Harpeth Hall show up for the affinity group. It is sad because we are a small minority and to not have everyone there is unfortunate.” She adds that her non-Jewish peers are supportive, “The non-Jews at Harpeth Hall don’t treat it any differently than any other affinity group at Harpeth Hall. They are respectful and if we were to have an ally access meeting, I think there would be a significant turn out.”

Julia Eisen, the JSA’s faculty sponsor, echoes Kullock and says the school encourages a culture of respect for a diversity of thought and perspectives. “The response from non-Jewish students has been overwhelmingly positive and accepting, as the school encourages all students to learn from and support one another.”

In addition to the emotional and social outlet of the JSA, Eisen says there are some important educational benefits to affinity groups like this one. “They allow students to speak openly and honestly about their experiences, not just within the context of religion, but also about cultural and social issues. Discussions often touch on topics like what it’s like to be a Jewish teenager in the South, and how current events and politics intersect with their identities, conversations that may not always happen in a traditional classroom setting.”

Across town at James Lawson High

School, teacher Coby Ginsburg took his Contemporary Issues class to tour the Nashville Holocaust Memorial. Ginsburg, who was born in Israel and raised in the US, is also the grandson of Holocaust survivors. He says the idea for the visit originated with Judge Dan Eisenstein, who first approached his principal last fall. “Honestly I’ve lived here for 22 years and never knew it existed,” he says. Eisenstein says it was last summer’s marches by Nazi groups that inspired him to push for broader Holocaust education. He brought the idea to Felicia Anchor, chair of the Nashville Holocaust Memorial. “I asked her if any schools had come to tour the memorial, because the only hope in my opinion, is to get the young people to understand what’s going on.” He adds that online Holocaust denial is resulting in misinformation.

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After discussions with Metro Council Member Sheri Wiener, Eisenstein reached out to Metro Nashville School Board member Abgail Tylor, whose district includes Lawson High School. She said Tennessee’s state education standards include lessons on the Holocaust within the context of World War II, but there is nothing as impactful as seeing things like the memorial for themselves. “The idea that these kids are able to hear from people who have unfortunately close experiences with it and can speak the truth to how it happened and why they remember it, and to say, ‘Never Again,’ that is more meaningful and stays with them longer.”

Tylor says experiences like this visit to the Holocaust memorial also help students better understand the rise of antisemitism today. “I definitely think it makes a big difference in the way they view what’s happening in the world around them, especially when it’s someplace close to home.”

Raimi also uses current events to draw parallels about what happened during World War II, particularly the lessons of the Nuremburg Laws. “Hitler was democratically elected. The Weimar Republic was a representative democracy, not exactly like ours, but similar. Once he gained power he declared an emergency. He depicted the Jews, and any other population he didn’t like, as the enemy.”

Ginsburg says his school has very few Jewish students, and many are from other minority groups. He says the tour discussion of other marginalized populations that were also targeted resonated with the diverse group of students, who were respectful and engaged in the tour. He credits Raimi’s approach as a key factor because it described the history of the Holocaust in a modern context. “I didn’t know what to expect, and they outkicked their coverage in their response, for sure.”

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To help the students prepare for the tour, they met with Deborah Oleshansky, director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville. She says she antisemitism is happening here and now and showed a news clip about a Christian nationalist group living in rural Jackson County. “The Holocaust is not a history lesson. It is a current events lesson. That news clip shows the propaganda being used by the group and was also used by the Nazis to promulgate the Final Solution.” Oleshansky says much of the lesson was about the dangers of propaganda and how it can feed hate.

The tour of the Holocaust Memorial was led by docent Marsha Raimi. Raimi is the daughter of a Holocaust survivor and has done extensive research about her family’s experiences. She agrees with Oleshansky’s approach and in fact, it was her starting point for this tour. She began with pictures of her father and his family. “It’s relatable. My dad went through this stuff when he was the same age as these kids.”

This year marks 80 years since the end of World War II and the liberation of Auschwitz, so it is notable that schools like Lawson and Harpeth Hall both find relevance in educating about Jewish history and its meaning for today’s students. Felicia Anchor is the chair of the Nashville Holocaust Memorial. She recently was in Europe and visited some of the historic sites. She says, “As I stand on German and French soil during the 80th commemoration of the end of World War II, I am very aware that our Nashville Holocaust Memorial’s role is more significant than ever before. I am grateful for our partnership with Coach Ginsburg and Metro Schools to work together to educate our next generations so that history does not repeat itself.”

And at Harpeth Hall, Eisen says she is optimistic the Jewish students organization is sustainable into the future, “The foundation is built on providing a safe and welcoming space for Jewish students to celebrate their culture and religion. As long as that environment is preserved and incoming students are encouraged to participate and lead, I’m confident the group will continue to grow and thrive for years to come.” •

The JSA at Harpeth Hall participates in a cultural fair at the school.

Students from MNPS James Lawson High School tour the Nashville Holocaust Memorial

Docent Marsha Raimi, pictured center, teaches Lawson students the lessons of the Holocaust.

PLAN YOUR

…so that it’s not just a fairy tale.

“OMG! I forgot to remind you! February 17th was RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS DAY!”

By LORETTA SAFF

W

hen I start my conversations with that, it usually follows with something like this:

You: Ok, Loretta, so what is “Random Acts of Kindness Day?”

Me: It’s a day to celebrate and encourage random acts of kindness!

You: But what is a ‘Random Act of Kindness?’

Me: Random Acts of Kindness are small, thoughtful gestures that brighten someone’s day without expecting anything in return. They are selfless acts that can have a positive impact.

Why, you might ask, am I including this topic in your search for happily ever after? The answer is simple, it turns out that being kind isn’t just being kind. Performing Random Acts of Kindness has a fascinating side effect. According to Lucinda Allen, CEO of PositivePsychology.com,

Studies show ACTS OF KINDNESS trigger a “helper’s high” via dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin release, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression!

And, in case you still need some coaxing in this discussion, how about the fact that the ‘bonus’ I’m referring to helps improve your personal relationships as

Rabbi and Doctor

Continued from page 9

this as a medical outcome, but rather as a psychological response.

Those who visit with gentleness, with calmness, and with softness of tone of voice. and through their touch or embrace, reduce the feelings of pain or discomfort of the patient, even for only the moments they spend surrounding the bedside.

Their very presence provides relief, even when there is no longer a sufficient remedy for the patient’s illness. Their care provides hope and uplift, even when there is no longer a cure.

Their resilience, the courage to remain nearby, to stay close to the dying, despite their own fears and vulnerabilities, tells the terminally ill person that their lives continue to matter to those who love and cherish them, each day they live…even, especially, as they reach

well as support your individual wellbeing. (I knew you’d like that!)

In addition, I’ve learned that these neurochemical shifts can lower blood pressure, enhance immunity and slow cellular aging. And there’s more: every act has a ripple effect - boosting the wellbeing of the givers, the receivers, and even the observers!

WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS?

I’ll get you started with five:

1 – Fill out one of those surveys that always follow an interaction online. Take a minute to write something positive to boost the business. (I know you are fed up with the requests, but if you have something good to say, say it!)

2 – Let someone pull out in front of you in traffic.

3 – Engage in conversation with a service person. Ask the cashier about their day. Show the waiter that you recognize him or her as a person.

4 – Call an old friend you haven’t spoken to in a while.

5 – If going to the grocery store, ask an elderly neighbor if you can pick up something for them.

Sometimes for homework, I’ll ask clients dealing with a rocky relationship to consider using some compassion and empathy. I then request that for six weeks they perform five random acts of kindness a week, all related to that person. These can make the others feel heard, noticed or even happy. The results are always impressive.

So now, I assign that homework to you. Do five Random Acts of Kindness a week for six weeks, and then let me know how it makes you feel. (Be aware, this will probably become a habit (!), and you will soon find yourself enjoying your trip on the road to happily ever after!)

For now, I leave you with these words:

“I’VE LEARNED THAT PEOPLE WILL FORGET WHAT YOU SAID. PEOPLE WILL FORGET WHAT YOU DID, BUT PEOPLE WILL NEVER FORGET HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.”

Maya Angelou

Enjoy the results!

Loretta

loretta@coachingwithloretta.com

BTW, I never really latched on to this Random Act of Kindness Day. I think that every day should include at least one random act of kindness. •

the end of their days.

The ultimate hope we extend to others is the hope that we have not written them off, nor given up on them, even in the face of a horrible diagnosis, even confronting a vicious disease, for which there is no cure. The greatest hope we instill in them is that their lives matter deeply to us. The ultimate hope is that neither they, nor we, will be cast aside or forgotten.

In the end what matters most is this. This is how we can heal and comfort, even when there is no cure. That is the best remedy we can offer. It may not bring about a miracle, but sometimes just being there, sometimes just drawing near, can mean the world to a frightened and lonely person who lies in that hospital bed. Sometimes it can be miraculous enough. •

Rabbi Mark Schiftan can be reached at mschiftan@aol.com

Dr. Frank Boehm can be reached at frank.boehm@vumc.org

Heart of the Matter

2025 JFS Senior Seder Reflections

By NANCY DORMAN

This April marked my first experience helping to organize the JFS Senior Seder. It was a really nice day. For those who have never attended, the JFS Senior Seder is hosted before Passover and in the daytime to make it easier for seniors who might not be comfortable getting out in the evening. It was a meaningful celebration of freedom, heritage, and unity.

One highlight was the performance of Passover songs by the children from both Akiva and the JCC preschool. I also liked seeing the seniors engage with Rabbi Tiechtel, enjoying each other’s company and reminiscing about family traditions and the Passovers of their youth.

At the heart of this special event

is the spirit of community—strengthened by the generous work of volunteers. These dedicated individuals helped to create a warm, welcoming environment by setting up the room, greeting guests, serving lunch and ensuring everyone felt seen and supported. For some seniors, especially those without family nearby, the Seder offers not only a holiday meal but a sense of belonging.

Volunteers often say they receive as much as they give, gaining a connection to their roots and to each other. There was a lot of joy in the room that day as the volunteers were clearly having a good time. The shared experience of working together to make something good happen reflects the core values of Passover and highlights the important role volunteers play in bringing those values to life. Without them, this celebration wouldn’t be near as much fun. •

Nancy Dorman is the Helping Hands Coordinator for Jewish Family Service. She can be reached at 615-354-1686 or helpinghands@jfsnashville.org.

Beit Miriam Year End Review

By SHARON PAZ

West End Synagogue Honors Students

The Beit Miriam Closing Ceremony was held Sunday, May 4th at West End Synagogue. During the Awards’ Ceremony, Sophie Newman and Evan Zagnoev were presented with the 2025 Simon and Alven Ghertner Award for Excellence in Hebrew. Acknowledged were Ellis Prichard, recipient of the Sandi and Bernie Goldstein Award for Outstanding Community Service and Zev Moshe Wiston, recipient of the Nathan Davis Award for the Outstanding student in the graduating class. Micah Rosenbloom presented the link in the Chain of Tradition to Gabe Newman, 10th grade Class representative. The 2025 11th grade Graduation ceremony was held Friday evening, May 2 as part of the Congregational Kabbalat Shabbat and Maariv Service.

Graduation Class awards:

2025 Sandi and Bernie Goldstein Award for Outstanding Community Service

Bernie Goldstein, a past president of WES, with his three children and grandchildren, established a fund in 2015 for Beit Miriam students who performed meaningful and active community service. Initially the Fund honored the memory of Bernie’s wife, Sandra. When Bernie passed away in 2022, the Fund’s name was changed to the Sandi and Bernie Goldstein Fund for Community Service to honor their shared devotion to the Synagogue. The Fund awards a gift to the student in the Beit Miriam graduation class who performed the most meaningful and active community service in both the Jewish Community and the non-Jewish community. It also offers a contribution to the recipient’s community service project. Students must apply for the award and submit recommendations from their community service mentors. Bernie and his family hoped the award would serve as an inspiration to Beit Miriam students and would instill in them the value that Tzedakah and community services are obligations in Judaism.

This year’s award was presented to Ellis Harmon Prichard, son of Jonathan and Deena Prichard. In his application, Ellis wrote, “Over my years of being a boy scout, I have taken part in many service projects and completed a lot of service hours. My Eagle Scout project has by far, been my favorite and the most impactful to me. In late 2023, I came across information that the Holocaust Memorial needed a butterfly garden to help extend the memorial to include the children who perished in the Holocaust. What motivated me the most to take on this project, are my ties to family who were lost to the cruelty of the Nazis. My Maternal grandmother’s family had sev-

eral members murdered in the Holocaust. As a Jew I feel these terrible tragedies should never be forgotten and it is my responsibility to help in this effort.

I am very thankful for Boy Scout Troop 418 for helping me build the garden. My entire troop learned the importance of the Holocaust and remembering this time in history. This service project not only educated my fellow scouts, but it also enhanced the Memorial for the community.”

Marsha Raimi, the Docent Chair of the Nashville Holocaust Memorial, wrote this about her involvement with Ellis and the project. “In the fall of 2023, I introduced Ellis to Felica Anchor, the Memorial chair and she approved the project. In 2022, a butterfly tree sculpture had been added to the site and the docents thought it would be wonderful to have a butterfly garden that would attract real butterflies.

“I was able to observe Ellis’ outstanding leadership skills with his fellow scouts, troop leaders, and Memorial Committee members. Although he is soft-spoken, everyone present listened quietly and respectfully as he explained the background of the project, including his motivation to remember the 1. 5 million children murdered during the Holocaust. I was very impressed with his technical knowledge and his ability to direct his fellow scouts. Throughout the 6 months of planning the project, Ellis had to solve many issues: the grading of the site, the size, number and location of the garden beds to be built and the selection of building materials and plants. He sought the advice of outside experts and incorporated their suggestions into his plan. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Ellis on his Eagle Scout Project. Today, we have included the butterfly garden in the docent script. Almost 20 non-Jewish scouts and troop leaders participated in Ellis’ Eagle project. It left a strong impression on them and will have a lasting impact on future visitors.”

The Beit Miriam 6th & 7th graders visited the Memorial and saw the garden; they were very impressed.

Steve, Ronna and Stuart Goldstein knew about this year’s winner. Steve Goldstein wrote:

“Our parents, Sandra Klein Goldstein and Bernie Goldstein would be very impressed with this year’s winner. We will go visit the butterfly garden the next time we visit Nashville. We also hope that Ellis continues to do good deeds and contribute to his community, wherever that community might be.”

Nathan Davis Award for the Outstanding Student in the Graduation Class

The award recipient was Zev Moshe Wiston, son of Stuart and Debby Wiston. Ellen Davis Dansky, presenting the award shared the following in her presentation:

I am the daughter of Morris Davis, and the granddaughter of Nathan Davis, in whose memory this award was created. Both were past presidents of this Synagogue. This is my first time presenting the Nathan Davis Award and while I am honored to do so, I am sorry that it could not have been presented to you by my sister Charlotte Davis Seloff. She was so eloquent, wise and always had a thoughtful, important message to share with you. I am sharing a message she gave

many years ago, because I thought it was so applicable today and I know she would tell you this. She mentioned Amalek, but it could have been Haman, Hitler, Ayatolah Ali Khamenei or Yahya Sinwar and I quote, ‘Amalek had no power over those who chose to stay close to the community. Amalek only had power to attack those who lagged behind, who found themselves walking singly, separated from the protection of the group.’ As you graduate from the West End Synagogue Religious school and then on to college the following year or years, it is our hope that you will remember the importance of staying close to the Jewish community…it might take the form of Hillel, your Jewish friends, a Synagogue close by…regardless, take with you the protection of your families, your religious school class, your community, and the mitzvot and lessons you have learned here and in your homes. Stay connected!

Morah Paz’s great-grandfather, Nathan Davis was president of the West End Synagogue from 1931-1934…that’s 94 years ago!!! His main interest was the Jewish education of our children in the Religious School because he knew that this would strengthen our Jewish connections and community. Little did he know that his great-granddaughter would one day be the Director of Lifelong learning for the Synagogue. When he died, his family decided to give the Nathan Davis award in his memory. The award has been endowed, so that it will always be given to the outstanding student in the Graduation class at the West End Synagogue. The criterion for receiving the award includes academic excellence, leadership ability, dedication, commitment, honesty, sincerity, being co-operative, being respectful, active in Jewish Youth Activities and at the West End Synagogue. The winner is selected by the professional staff with input from the teachers through the years.

Zev Wiston has three passions… Judaism and Jewish learning, mathematics, and making a difference in the community. Regarding Judaism, he has spent eight summers at Camp Ramah Darom and is going on Ramah Seminar to Poland and to Israel this summer. He studies Torah with an adult Chevruta partner once a week and is president of our USY chapter. He is the only Jewish student among 1500 at his school, and he wears his kippah every day and keeps kosher both in and outside his home. And he enjoys the opportunity to educate his peers about his Jewish practices. He has a 4.0 average as a junior. He is a “mathlete” and qualified for a state award in math as a freshman and is on the School Math Team. He was ranked seventh in the state in geometry and is in the National Honor Society. He took five AP classes as a sophomore and five this year as a junior. He has received an honor as an AP Scholar with Distinction. And finally, he has been involved in many volunteer roles at the Synagogue. He is a participant in the Student-to Student program to educate other students about what being Jewish means in helping to combat antisemitism. Through the National Honor Society and the Beta club, he participated in many community service hours and certainly is making a difference in his community. His current dream is to become a Rabbi. He could be the first rabbi with an accounting degree!

Scott Ghertner, great-grandson of Simon Ghertner and grandson of Alven Ghertner, presented the award. Scott shared, “The Ghertner Award now in its 80th consecutive year, is a distinct award presented to the outstanding 7th grader each year for excellence in Hebrew. The award recognizes the importance of Hebrew reading proficiency and exceptional B’nai Mitzvah preparation. This year’s recipients were Sophie Newman, daughter of Simon Newman and Lisa Clewner and Evan Alexander Zagnoev, son of Brad and Jennie Zagnoev. My family and I send our heartfelt congratulations to you and your families.”

Sharon Paz shared the following remarks from the presentation:

Sophie Newman has always been a serious student at Beit Miriam and enjoys learning Hebrew. She retains vocabulary and is very motivated to learn. Her cursive Hebrew writing skills were amazing even in the 3rd grade. Her teachers noted that her Hebrew reading skills improved each year. She always stayed focused and on task in T’filah. She worked steadily to master the Friday night Kabbalat Shabbat and Maariv Service. Cantor Sarah remarked that Sophie could help lead most of it in 4th grade and co-led with her brother Gabe for his Bar Mitzvah. She mastered the Torah service, Musaf Service, the Haftarah and Torah readings. When she was given assignments, she kept up with them and was always willing to help her friends when they needed some assistance. We hope Sophie continues to lead T’filah at West End Synagogue post-Bat Mitzvah and that she will use her skills at Camp Ramah this summer. I remember the first day Evan Zagnoev came to learn Hebrew with me. It was the summer before he began 4th grade and the only Hebrew letters he knew were the letters on the dreidel. We worked together over the summer so that his Hebrew skills would be at the level of his classmates. He really worked hard and never complained about coming. Once he mastered the Torah service and Ashrei, I suggested that he could also lead Musaf. I mentioned it to his parents, and they said, “Oh that’s enough. We don’t think he knows it and don’t want to stress him out”. I said, “he can do it.” And Evan said ok! He mastered Musaf and then asked for another Torah portion. Over the years his Hebrew and T’filah teachers remarked how hard Evan worked to master the material and how willing he has been to help his classmates in class and on the bimah.”

We are so proud of both Sophie and Evan’s exceptional growth and excel-

Continued on page 11

Mazal Tov to the Beit Miriam Graduating Class of 2025/5785

2025 Simon and Alven Ghertner Award Winners

Ellis Harmon Prichard Zev Moshe Wiston Micah Isaac Rosenbloom

Beit Miriam

Continued from page 10

lence and are proud to present them with the 2025 Simon and Alven Ghertner Award for Excellence in Hebrew. The Ghertner award places emphasis on the effort and skills mastered in preparation for becoming B’nai Mitzvah and considers Hebrew language skills. It comes with a gift from the Ghertner Family and the honor of chanting the Haftarah on Rosh HaShanah.

Many thanks to Frank Ghertner and Dorothy Ghertner Miller who oversee this award on an annual basis.

Anna Isenstein Teacher Appreciation Award Winner

West End Synagogue’s Beit Miriam’s high school senior, Noam Zemer Friedman was honored with the 2025 Anna Isenstein Teacher Aide Appreciation Award. This award, presented by Joel Isenstein, directs cash toward a college-bound teacher’s aide to assist in continuing their education. Linda Nathenson and Joel Isenstein established the Anna Isenstein Teacher Aide Award Fund in memory of their daughter, Anna Michelle Isenstein in 2003 to encourage students to guide younger students as teachers’ aides after completing their formal religious school education at West End Synagogue. During Anna’s short life, they learned that sometimes the most help for a student comes directly from another student.

The teacher aides (madrichim) in the religious school classroom serve many roles. Not only do they assist the teacher in a variety of tasks, they also serve as role models in the classroom. The award recognizes a unique aide who exhibits the attributes the teachers need the most and models the behaviors parents respect the most, dependability, attentiveness, friendliness, and initiative. The annual award is $1000.00.

Joel Isenstein shared what teachers wrote about Noam: “This year’s aide was exceptional in many ways. He received recommendations from both teachers he worked directly with in the classroom. “Noam demonstrated exceptional initiative and didn’t require much direction. He demonstrated mastery and modeled enthusiasm for the material he taught. He was proactive in identifying problems and addressing them before they escalated. When issues arose, he was quick to take action. He approached every task with persistence and a level of composure that I could rely on. Whether offering support, engaging in conversation with the students, or taking the initiative when needed, Noam stepped up and helped create a comfortable class environment. The students respected him. His contributions were invaluable.

Sharon Paz, Director of Lifelong Learning shared this about Noam. “Noam has been a madrich at Beit Miriam for the past two years. The first

year, he missed some classes, arrived a little late and needed to be reminded to communicate in advance with me when he was going to be absent. This year, he hardly missed a day of Sunday School and communicated with me directly. We talked about the importance of being on time and he stepped up. He showed remarkable growth and maturity over the past year. He did a great job in the classroom in all three of his classes and related well to our 4th and 5th grade students. We wish him “hatzlacha” at Vanderbilt University in the fall. We are hoping he will continue to teach next year!”

We salute and thank all our 2025 high school teacher aides : Jaxon Buchanan, Tommy Buchanan, Noam Friedman, Ariela Lowen and Esther Nissenson and wish them well as they graduate High School.

Many thanks to Joel Isenstein and Linda Nathenson for creating this special recognition award and opportunity for our Teacher Aides.

The closing Ceremony included a shout out to all the teachers, a video of the year’s programs—a salute to Israel’s 77th Birthday and an Israeli shawarma lunch for all the Beit Miriam families and faculty, sponsor by the Sisterhood.

2025 Anna Isenstein Teacher Aide Award Winner

And to all our graduating high school and college seniors:

High School Seniors Graduating Class of 2025

Thomas Yitzchak Buchanan (Tommy)

Son of Michelle and Jason Buchanan

graduating from Blackman High School in Murfreesboro with Honors & Tri State Student

Attending MTSU to study Mechatronics Engineering and Music Composition.

Jaxon Rivka Buchanan

Daughter of Michelle and Jason Buchanan

Graduating Blackman High School in Murfreesboro with Honors & TriState Student

Attending Motlow Community College for Business Associate’s degree and going to Pastry School

Joey Eagle

Son of Susan Eagle

Graduating Templeton High School

Attending Belmont University to study business

Luis Eagle

Son of Susan Eagle

Graduating Curry Ingram

Attending MTSU to study journalism, videography and live media production

Noam Zemer Friedman

Son of Nili Liat and Eitan Friedman

Graduating Montgomery Bell Academy (MBA)

Cum Laude

Inducted into the Martin Luther King Society for Community Service; member of the Vanderbilt Curb Youth Symphony

Attending Vanderbilt University

Mia Jean Marcus-Hawkersmith

Daughter of Valeria Marcus and Dave Hawkersmith

Graduating Battle Ground Academy

Attending George Washington University to study International Politics

Zoe Jazmin Marcus-Hawkersmith

Daughter of Valeria Marcus and Dave Hawkersmith

Graduating Battle Ground Academy

Attending the University of Tennessee Knoxville to study Accounting

Ariela Rose Lowen (Ari)

Daughter of Debbie Lowen and Peter Lowen

Graduating Ravenswood High School

She is a National Merit Finalist, Salutatorian, AP Scholar with Distinction, and graduating Summa Cum Laude (with a 4.25+ GPA).

Attending the Honors College at Colorado State University majoring in Animal Science to become a veterinarian

Leeds Asher Nahmias

Son of Evan and Sandy Nahmias

Graduating Montgomery Bell Academy

Attending University of St. Andrews in Scotland

Esther Arjon Nissenson

Daughter of Jenny Nissenson and Randy Saba

Graduating Hillsboro High School

Esther is the 1st place winner of the Tennessee Scholastic Award in Photography

Winner of the Cheekwood Golden Key Award for Photography 1st place winner of the National Scholastic Art Competition; receiving her award at Carnegie Hall in June

Attending University of Tennessee Chattanooga

College Graduates:

Gabrielle Anna Bengelsdorf (Gabby)

Daughter of Steven and Sarah Bengelsdorf

Graduating the University of Maryland

Pursuing a Masters in Public Health from the University of Maryland

Maia Aleezah Herman

Daughter of Michael and Lauren Herman

Graduating from the University of Wisconsin with BA’s in Economics and Legal Studies

She will be working for Goldman Sachs in the Operations for the Global Banking and Markets Division •

Gordon JCC’s 122nd Annual Meeting

You’re invited to the Gordon Jewish Community Center’s 122nd Annual Meeting on Saturday, June 8 at 10:30 a.m. Join us as we induct new officers, vote on three incoming board members, and celebrate the recipient of this year’s Kehillah Award for teen leadership. A light brunch will follow the program. All are welcome. View the incoming 2025-2026 Board of Directors list below.

2025-2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Officers to be installed for one-year term:

President Dara Freiberg

President-Elect Evan Nahmias

Vice President Kelly Unger

Treasurer Aaron Epstein

Secretary Joel Abramson

Past-President Jeremy Brook

Nominated for a First three-Year Term

John Jivens

Adam Mittelberg

Alexa Schankerman

David Whelan

Continuing Elected Board Members

Rachel Bernstein

Richard Cohen

Beth Easter

Jessica Ginsberg

Kathryn Hayat

Betsy Hoffman

Rebecca Kaduru

Aron Karabel*

Stephanie Kirschner

Kim Lapidus

Amy Braunstein McCoy

Tal Pollack

Polly Roffwarg

Jessica Roth

Jeff Weiss

Greg Zagnoev

Jackie Zigelsky

Presidential Advisor

Bernie Pargh

Completing their service

Greg Averbuch

Cindee Gold

Alan Perlman

Presentation of Kehillah Award for Teen Leadership Light brunch to follow •

Back in Time Bash Brings Jewish Teens

Together for a Night of Fun and Inspiration

By LEERON STARK RESNICK

What a night it was at the Back in Time Bash! The event brought together more than 60 Jewish teens from across Nashville. Many came dressed in costumes representing different decades, and everyone enjoyed an unforgettable evening filled with music, laughter, and meaningful connection. The event was conceived as both a celebration and an introduction to Jewish teen programs and the Bash delivered on all fronts—from high-energy entertainment to heartfelt moments of inspiration.

Held at the Madeline Pargh Arts Center, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as teens gathered to connect with old friends and make new ones. As a delightful surprise, an old-fashioned ice-cream truck rolled in, complete with an ice cream man serving up nostalgic sweet treats that brought smiles to every teen’s face. DJ Tommy kept the crowd moving with a playlist that had everyone

on the dance floor, while a photo booth snapped countless memories, capturing the spirit of the evening and the spark of new friendships.

The highlight of the night came when community leaders Libby and Moshe Werthan, leaning into the theme, took the stage dressed as a greaser and a 1950s-style teen, complete with a poodle skirt and leather jacket. They shared their personal journey of giving back to the Jewish community. Their stories of dedication—both locally in Nashville and abroad in Israel—left a lasting impression on the audience. Through their words, the Werthans illustrated how acts of kindness, philanthropy, and active community involvement can help shape a meaningful Jewish life.

More than just a party, the event served a larger purpose: to introduce teens to impactful programs like B’nai Tzedek, Federation’s youth philanthropy initiative, and BBYO, a global Jewish teen movement intended to build the

identity of Jewish teens and offer leadership development programs. These organizations empower teens to connect with their Jewish identity, develop leadership skills, and make a difference in their communities.

The Back in Time Bash was an amazing way to show teens that being involved in Jewish life can be fun, meaningful, and something they can shape for themselves. The goal of the event was to have the teens leave feeling inspired, energized, and ready to take the next step—whether that’s joining BBYO, starting a B’nai Tzedek fund, or just getting more involved in the community.

“This event made me realize how meaningful it is to connect with other Jewish teens,” said partygoer Snow Mannes. “I’m planning to attend all the future events and even join BBYO next year.”

As the night wound down and the last song played, one thing was clear: Nashville’s Jewish teen community is vibrant, passionate, and ready to make

•Forgetting re cent conversations or

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its mark. The Back in Time Bash may be over, but the connections, memories, and momentum it created are just getting started.

Special thanks go to the community partners who helped make the evening possible: B’nai Tzedek, BBYO, Congregation Sherith Israel, Congregation Micah, The Temple, West End Synagogue, Kehilla High, and Jewish Middle School of Nashville (JMS). Their collaboration and support helped turn this vision into a reality. •

The Community Remembers, Commemorates, and Celebrates

By BARBARA DAB

Last month Nashville’s Jewish community joined in remembrance and celebration for three special events.

Held at the Madeline Pargh Arts Center, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as teens gathered to connect with old friends and make new ones. As a delightful surprise, an old-fashioned ice-cream truck rolled in, complete with an ice cream man serving up nostalgic sweet treats that brought smiles to every teen’s face. DJ Tommy kept the crowd moving with a playlist that had everyone on the dance floor, while a photo booth snapped countless memories, capturing the spirit of the evening and the spark of new friendships.

On Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville partnered with the Tennessee Holocaust Commission and

Congregation Micah to honor the memories of the six million Jews who perished at the hands of the Nazis. The event featured music, video, and testimony by survivors and their families.

Yom Hazikaron is the day for remembering fallen Israeli soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during war and acts of terror. Led by Nashville’s shlicah, emissary, Ziv Shemesh, the service included the naming of those recently murdered by Hamas on October 7th, communal singing, and prayers.

Israel’s Independence Day, Yom Ha’atzmaut, was a celebration featuring music, games, a candle lighting, and of course, Israeli food. The event was a partnership between the Jewish Federation and Akiva School, Jewish Middle School, and Kehilla High School. Several hundred people braved bad weather to show their love for, and solidarity with, Israel. •

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

The Observer provides congregational listings of events and services as a complimentary service to the community. If your congregation is not listed, it is because we did not receive the information in time to meet our publication deadline. Please give your rabbi, executive director, or synagogue volunteer a gentle nudge.

Shavuot Late Night Learning at Chabad

On Sunday, June ,1 at 7:00 PM, Chabad of Nashville will usher in the Holiday of Shavuot with a fascinating presentation, titled, “HOLY RUBBISH: A Glimpse into the Kaleidoscopic World of the Cairo Geniza”.

Following the presentation, there will be a Festive Four Course Holiday Dinner for the community, and a lecture titled Dreams: Should They Be Heeded or Ignored? A Jewish Perspective. This will be an opportunity to ask about and share your own dreams and hear how Judaism has viewed them throughout the ages.

(See article about visiting Scholar in Residence in this Observer).

There will be learning all night long, until the wee hours of the morning, and a Chasidic Farbrengen with a spread of dairy delights from New York’s finest bakeries.

There is no cost to attend the holiday dinner, however RSVP is required at Chabadnashville.com

Celebrate the 3337th birthday of the Ten Commandments

Have you ever been to a 3337th birthday celebration? Chabad of Nashville invites the Nashville Jewish community to celebrate the 3337 birthday of the Jewish nation on Shavuot 2025, June 2, 5:30 PM.

The holiday of Shavuot celebrating the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai 3337 years ago, has become a celebration of fine dairy cuisine as well.

Exquisite cheesecakes, pesto pasta, lasagna, soufflés and of course cheese blintzes all take center stage during this ancient celebration. Some suggest that this has contributed to the renewed popularity this holiday has seen.

On Shavuot, in the year 2448, the Jewish nation gathered at the foot of Mount Sinai to receive the Torah from G-d, men women and children. Also present were the souls of all Jews of all generations to come. Every year on the holiday of Shavuot this revelation is re-experienced during the reading of the Ten Commandments in the Synagogue.

It is a de ja vu experience for the soul, to hear the reading of the Ten Commandments, on the anniversary that it was given to our ancestors at Mt. Sinai, said Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel, of Chabad of Nashville.”

It is of great importance for every family to attended Synagogue on Shavuot together with their children, to listen to the reading of the Ten Commandments, as the children played a critical role in our receiving the Torah. When G-d gave the Torah to the Jewish people, He gave it on the condition that the young boys and girls will be the guarantors.

the souls of our loved ones who have passed on. When we recite Yizkor, we renew and strengthen the connection between us and our loves ones, bringing merit to the departed souls.

The recitation of Yizkor is also linked with the mitzvah of a pledge to charity (prior or following the holiday) in memory of the deceased. By giving charity, we are performing a positive physical deed on their behalf in this world, something that the departed can no longer do. The soul gains additional merit through the good deeds impacted through their memory.

YIZKOR is observed in three ways:

1) Light a Yahrtzeit (24-hour) candle in memory of your relatives who have passed away. Candles are available at Chabad if you need.

2) Give charity in memory of the person(s). How much should you give? As a general rule, think of an amount that you are comfortable giving, and then add $18. (In Jewish tradition, the number 18 symbolizes life.)

3) Remember your loved ones by mentioning their name(s) at the YIZKOR service.

If, for whatever reason, you cannot attend the Yizkor Memorial Service, you may e-mail the names of your loved ones to rabbi@chabadnashville.com and Chabad will mention the names on your behalf.

Meet in Person for Prayer and Cholent

@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah @ Micah

Shavuot will be celebrated this year, from the evening of June 1-3. The Ten Commandments will be read at Chabad of Nashville, at 95 Bellevue Road, on Monday, June 2, at 5:30 PM

Following the reading of the Ten Commandments, a delicious dairy buffet dinner will be served, including blintzes, pastas, pizzas, and a special Ten Commandments Ice Cream Party. All are welcome to come and celebrate as a community, and there is no charge to attend. For more information about Shavuot at Chabad please visit www. chabadnashville.com or call 615-646-5750.

Yizkor Memorial Service on Shavuot

The Yizkor memorial prayer for the dearly departed, is recited in the synagogue four times a year: On the last day of Passover, on the second day of Shavuot, Yom Kippur and on Shmini Atzeret.

Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad will hold the Shavuot Yizkor Memorial Service, on Tuesday, June 3, at 11:15 AM in the Doochin Sanctuary at the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life.

Yizkor, in Hebrew, means “remember.” In this prayer, we implore G-d to remember

Chabad of Nashville is in full swing with Shabbat morning services, replete with joyful prayer, kavanah, simcha and great energy. Join us on Shabbat morning at 10:00 AM for prayer and Torah reading followed by a hot BBQ cholent, freshly baked Challah and some friendly L’Chaim.

Chabad to host two TGIS celebrations in June

Start your Shabbat off right with good friends, great conversation, and excellent kosher cuisine, all seasoned with the perfect amount of spirit and joy. TGIS is a Club Med Shabbat: An all-inclusive Shabbat experience. Enjoy a Friday night Shabbat dinner replete with traditional dishes. Blended with spirited singing, a Chasidic tale, and a chance to meet some wonderful new people. TGIS will be held on Friday evening, June 13, and 27, at 6:30 PM at Chabad of Nashville.

There is no cost to attend the TGIS Shabbat experience, however we kindly request that you RSVP by letting us know you will be attending at chabadnashville@ gmail.com

Chabad to Host Tribute to the Rebbe

On Saturday, July 5, Chabad of Nashville will host a tribute lunch in honor of the Rebbe, Rabbi M. M. Schneerson of blessed memory, in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of his passing.

For more than 40 years, the Rebbe led the Jewish people towards a spiritual renaissance out of the ashes of the Holocaust and the specter of assimilation. The Rebbe revolutionized the way we think of ourselves as people. He taught us to think of the Jewish people as a single whole, as a community, in which every individual is irreplaceable, and to embrace every Jew with the same concern and devotion.

Over 30 years after the Rebbe’s passing, his presence is felt stronger than ever. His teachings continue to inspire and guide us, and his insights remain as fresh and relevant as if it were given today. Each of us is a beneficiary of the Rebbe’s inspiration in one way or another, and our lives are affected by his visionary leadership.

On the anniversary of his passing, let’s honor his life’s mission to bring goodness and kindness into this world.

We invite you to join us for Shabbat lunch, on July 5, at 12:30 PM, as we celebrate the Rebbe’s life and vision. The event will include a beautiful sit-down lunch replete with Shabbat delicacies, “Chaim, Chasidic melodies and words of inspiration, with stories and insights about the Rebbe and his inspiration and impact on our lives. Shabbat morning services are at 10:00 and will be followed at 12:30 by a Kiddush lunch and Farbengen in honor of this occasion.

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, 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

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At Our Congregations…

@ Micah

Continued from page 14

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.

June Events

Micah Minis Shabbat: Saturday, June 7 at 9:30 AM

Our Clergy leads this fun and engaging song session specifically geared for kids under 7!

Micah Reads: Monday, June 16 at 7 PM on Zoom

Education Director Julie Greenberg leads the discussion on “Days of Wonder” by Caroline Levitt.

Women’s Circle: Friday, June 27 at 12 PM

Rabbi Laurie engages your intellect and inspires conversation on a variety of Jewish topics. All are welcome. Bring a friend.

Pride Shabbat: Friday, June 27 at 6 PM

Our clergy leads this celebratory Shabbat service in honor of our LGBTQ+ community. Pre-Neg begins at 5:30 with services beginning at 6.

@ Sherith Israel

@ The Temple

Exploring the Prayerbook

Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM before Shabbat Services

Start Shabbat with a little study each week. We will explore the prayers of our Shabbat Service and discuss, and discover how these ancient Jewish texts still speak to us today.

Join us in person or via zoom at https://www.templenashville.org/virtualprogramming.html

Shabbat Schedule for June at The Temple

Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. You can also watch via zoom from https://www.templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

Friday, June 6th -6:00 PM – Sha-Bonnaroo Shabbat Service

Friday, June 13th- 6:00 PM- Family Shabbat Service with Birthday Blessings

Friday, June 20th-6:00 PM- LGBTQ+Allies Pride Shabbat Service

Friday, June 27th-6:00 PM- Blue Jean Shabbat Service

Sha-Bonnaroo- Shabbat Service and Music Experience

June 6th at 6:00pm

Did you miss out on buying your ticket to this year’s sold-out Bonnaroo music festival?! Never fear, because The Temple is bringing Sha-Bonnaroo to you!

The Temple’s Sha-Bonnaroo has become one of our favorite Shabbat Services of the year! On Friday, June 6th, we’ll join together for a groovy Shabbat experience featuring upbeat, contemporary music, and some of our Temple’s own musical rock stars. Come ready to sing, dressed in tie-dye and prepared for a rockin’ good time! You can join us in person or via zoom templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

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 https://www.templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

Golden Lunch Bunch

Our Golden Lunch Bunch will meet at Temple from 11:30-1:00pm on June 17th – Entertainment by Zeta Kenner

RSVP to Jewish Family Service at 615-354-1686 or via email at helpinghands@ jfsnashville.org

Women’s Torah Study

June 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th

10:30 AM

Ongoing weekly women’s Torah study led by Patty Marks.

Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through https://www. templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

Lunch with the Rabbi

June 5th, 19th, 26th

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 templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html or by calling the Temple at 615-352-7620

Available in person and via zoom.

Monday Mah Jongg

Join us for MAH JONGG Mondays at The Temple!

June 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th

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.

Celebrate Shavuot with a Nashville Pizza Crawl!

Join us as we stop at 4-5 of Nashville’s BEST pizza places for a slice or to. We will carpool and caravan to each place around town and have fun!

June 1st

Gather at 11:00am and finish by 3:00pm

$25 a person

RSVP by May 29th by going to templenashville.org/pizzacrawl

Shavuot Yizkor Memorial Service

June 1st at 6:00pm at The Temple

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At Our Congregations…

@ The Temple

Continued from page 15

The Gordon JCC and The Temple invite you to a special PJ Library Musical Shabbat with Brett Fromson!

Saturday, June 14th

10:15am at Tailgate Brewery on Charlotte Pike

All young families welcome!

Come for Shabbat Music Fun-Stay for Lunch RSVP at https://form.typeform.com/to/DGocQ03C

You’re Invited for our Shabbat Supper Club for Young Professionals

Friday, June 20th following Shabbat Services

All Young Professionals welcome! This month we will have dinner at Woodlands. Please RSVP to Sheri@templenashville.org

Join our Chai Society for Book Art with Delilah Cohn

Sunday, June 22nd at 2:00pm

$5 a person RSVP at templenashville.org/form/bookart

Chai Society is our group for members 65+

Stop by The Temple Booth at the Franklin Pride or Nashville Pride Festivals and say, “Hi!”

Franklin- Saturday, June 7th at Harlinsdale Park

Nashville- Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29th at the Bicentennial Mall

@ West End

For links to the following online services or programs, please email office@westendsyn.org or visit our website calendar for more information https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/calendar

6/1-6/3 - Shavuot at WES

Join us at one or all our WES Shavuot services. The WES Office will be closed all day June 2 and 3 in observance of Shavuot. Sunday, June 1, 6:45 p.m.: Communal Tikkun Leyl Shavuot at Sherith Israel RSVP for dinner at: sherithisrael.com/event/shavuot-dinner.html

Monday, June 2, at 9:30 a.m.: Shavuot Day 1 Services with Kiddush to follow. Tuesday, June 3, at 9:30 a.m.: Shavuot Day 2 Services & Yizkor with Kiddush to follow.

6/17 – Author Exploration Book Club –11:00 a.m.

This summer we will begin to explore works by classical Jewish authors. Each month we will choose a new author and give participants the opportunity to share their reviews with the group. We will be starting with works by Isaac Bashevis Singer. Our first discussion will be held on June 17th at 11:00 a.m. If you are interested in joining please RSVP to Susan Pankowsky, spankowsky@westendsyn.org, for additional information.

6/19 – Sisterhood Let’s Do Lunch! – 11:30 a.m.

Join us at Thistle Farms Cafe for a relaxed afternoon of good food, great company, and a few laughs. No agenda—just time to catch up and enjoy each other’s company! RSVP at bit.ly/MCSLunchJune2025 so we know to expect you.

6/20 – It’s Shabbat – 5:30 p.m.

Families with young children are invited to join us for Shabbos schmoozing, candle lighting, Kiddush blessing, HaMotzi, and Shabbat songs on Friday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Email spaz@westendsyn.org to RSVP.

6/20 - Potluck Shabbat – 6:00 p.m.

Join us for dinner following Kabbalat Shabbat services (6:00-7:00 p.m.). Bring a dairy or pareve dish to share. RSVP to Spaz@westendsyn.org. Weather permitting, we may dine outside!

6/27 – Tot Shabbat - 5:30 p.m.

Friday night Shabbat services for Families with Young Children led by Nili Friedman & Sharon Paz. RSVP to spaz@westendsyn.org.

BOOK SALE

Free General Admission – Wednesday, May 28 – Wednesday, 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (No sales on Shabbat - May 31, June 7, and June 14; or Shavuot – June 2 and 3)

Bag Day – Thursday, June 12, and Friday, June 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Fill a bag for $5. Bring a tote bag (or three).

Religious Services

Shacharit (in person)

Our minyanaires are always looking for more people to strengthen the only egalitarian minyan in town! Sunday services are at 9:00 a.m. and Monday-Friday at 7:00 a.m. Thursday minyan is followed by breakfast.

Mincha (on Zoom)

Join us for daily Mincha at 6:00 p.m., Sunday-Thursday.

Kabbalat Shabbat (in person)

You are invited to join us every Friday for Kabbalat Shabbat at 6:00 p.m.

Shabbat Morning services (In person and on Zoom)

Please join us every Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. Great davening, insightful learning of the Torah portion followed by a yummy (and nutritious!) kiddush lunch following services! •

Community Listings

B’nai B’rith Social Unit

Bring together both long-term members of the Nashville Jewish Community and people new to Nashville who are ages 50+ for monthly fun social, educational and service programs. Our next 2 events will be our Annual Meeting on June 22nd and going to a concert on June 28th.

For more information, contact Gil Fox at gsfox3@comcast.net or Joyce Levin at joylevin8@gmail.com.

Widowers & Widows Social Group

Group of Jewish widowers and widows who have lost his/her spouse recently or in the distant past. This is not a dating service or a meet/meat group but a group of adult individuals who are interested in doing things with a group of people who have been through a similar loss as opposed to doing things by him/herself. We meet for lunch on the 2nd Monday of each month at various restaurants.

For more information, contact Gil Fox at gsfox3@comcast.net. •

Gordon JCC Adult Program Happenings:

TGIT – June 2025

June 5th

Sheldon Kahan – Put on your dancing shoes. Back by popular demand! Musician, Sheldon Kahan is back to get your toes tapping and your hands clapping.

Lunch – Tomato soup, salad, sandwich, chips, Birthday cake and ice-cream

June 12th

June 19th

Michele Monet – No, the real Barbara Streisand is not in the house, however, you may be fooled. Singer and musician, Michele Monet will bring us a Barbara Streisand concert so realistic, you may not believe your ears or eyes.

Lunch – Apricot chicken, salad, sides, dessert

June 26th

Jennifer Samardak – In our continuing car care series, back by popular demand, the ever amusing and engaging Jennifer Samardak returns to help keep us knowledgeable and safe on the crazy Nashville roads.

Lunch – Baked potato, sides, salad, dessert • … because your memories matter

479 Myatt Drive, Madison, TN 37115-3024

615-712-9521 • rdschultz@schultzmonument.com

Dr. Janelle Farris - Dr. Farris remains a passionate advocate for Upper Cervical chiropractic, the foundation of the chiropractic profession. She is thrilled to bring this specialized, life-changing care to her patients and their families in the Nashville area. Whether for pain relief, functional restoration, or prevention, Dr. Farris is dedicated to helping others achieve their health goals and live their best lives.

Lunch – Salmon, salad, sides, dessert

Lifecycles

B’rit Mitzvah

Tyler Farkas

Tyler Farkas will become a B’rit Mitzvah on June 21, 2025.

Tyler is the child of Rachael and Don Farkas, the brother of Hannah and Colin Farkas, and the grandson of Howard Farkas, Kathy Farkas, Toni Albert, and Alan Feigenbaum (z’l). A 10th grader at Page High School, Tyler loves playing soccer.

Tyler’s love for dogs and animals has inspired him to volunteer and gather supplies for the local animal shelter. He has raised money and collected pet items from friends and family and has visited local pet stores to purchase the specific supplies requested by the shelter. Tyler is actively involved in delivering the donations, spending time with the dogs, and assisting with various chores around the shelter. His dedication and compassion have made a meaningful difference in the lives of the animals and the shelter staff.

A 10th grader at Page High School, Tyler loves playing soccer. His love for dogs and animals has inspired him to volunteer and gather supplies for the local animal shelter. He has raised money and collected pet items from friends and family and has visited local pet stores to purchase the specific supplies requested by the shelter. Tyler is actively involved in delivering the donations, spending time with the dogs, and assisting with various chores around the shelter. His dedication and compassion have made a meaningful difference in the lives of the animals and the shelter staff.

Sam Edward Glasser

Jaime Heller and Mark Kocourek. His grandparents are Toni Heller and the late Dr. Richard Heller of Nashville, TN, and Nancy Kocourek of Overland Park, KS.

A seventh grader at University School of Nashville, Mark enjoys dogs, video games, soccer, and robotics. For his mitzvah project, Mark is collecting legos and video games for Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital.

Honors

Ellie Smith

Mazel tov to Ellie Smith, former intern for the Anette Raskin Archives. She received a summer research fellowship through the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Center for Advanced Holocaust Studies at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. She will be spending the summer continuing her research on American Jewish newspapers and the Holocaust.

Obituaries

Richard Goldberg

Condolences to the family of longtime Sherith Israel member Richard Goldberg. The funeral was on May 2nd.

Adrienne Goodman

By MICHELLE TISHLER

Here are the winners of the day:

Gold/Advanced Category

1st Place Dorothy Sonkin 225 points

2nd Place Jeannette McNeil 190 points

3rd Place Leslie Zuckerwise 185 point

Green/Standard Category

1st Place Stephanie Klein 255 points

2nd Place Jamie Katseff 175 points

3rd Place Judy Book 170 points

Sam Glasser will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday June 7, 2025, at 11:00am at The Temple. He was born on June 3, 2012, in Tacoma, WA. His parents are Elise and Phillip Glasser. His grandparents are Roe and Richard Glasser of Franklin, TN and Deborah and Donald Shirley of Chickamauga, GA.

A sixth grader at Grace Christian Academy, Sam loves football, cooking shows, playing video games with friends, and Ole Miss sports. For his mitzvah project, Sam is collecting and donating used sporting equipment for Elevation Sports, a nonprofit organization dedicated to leadership training of under privileged youth in Nashville and beyond.

Zachary Hamaoui

Zachary Hamaoui will become a B’rit Mitzvah on June 14, 2025 at Congregation Micah.

Zachary is the child of Aylene and Bert Hamaoui, and the brother of Parker and Peyton Hamaoui. A 7th grader at Heritage Middle School, Zachary loves football and is a quarterback on his middle school team. He also enjoys music and going to concerts.

Mark Franklin Kocourek

Mark Kocourek became a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday May 3, 2025 at The Temple. May 3, 2025. He was born on March 4, 2011 in Nashville. His parents are

Condolences to the family and friends of Adrienne Goodman, who passed away April 15th. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dr. Donald Goodman, her daughters Patti Jones Goodman and Julie Miller. She is survived by her devoted son, Greg Goodman and his wife, Valerie Goodman; grandchildren Erin Miller and Rachel Goodman; her sister Lois Schklar and her children; sisterin-law Linda Stolman, nieces Whitney Stolman and Erica Stolman; and a committed group of lifelong friends Immediate family was blessed to surround her to the end of life and during transition, she whispered, “Love makes a person.” A beautiful truth revealed to remind us what truly matters in life.

Donald Brian Levine

Condolences to the family of Donald Brian Levine, who died on April 23. He was the son of West End Synagogue’s long time religious school director, David J. Levine and Francine Posner Levine. He is survived by his wife Debbie Levine, daughter Rebecca Mullen (Matt), siblings Jerry Levine (Susan Limor), Gina Kosser (Michael), Ricky and Jonathan Shenkman, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donations can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or to a charity of choice.

Beverly Kleban Small

Condolences to the family of Beverly Kleban Small, who died on May 13th. She is survived by her husband Irvin (Jimmy), children Doug (Bonnie) Small, Roger Small, David (Robin) Small, Linda (Joel) Gluck. She is also survived by her grandchildren Adam (Ashley) Small, Ryan (Kelly) Small, Claire (Jason) Hobbs, Rachel (John) Slowey, Aeron (Arielle) Small, Elan (Julia) Small, Ariel (Rachel) Small, Elie Small, Ean Small, Daniel (Amanda) Gluck, Jonathan (Dina) Gluck, Hannah Gluck, Sarah Gluck. She is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren. •

2 Mah Jongg participants enjoyed the Mardi Gras in May Mah Jongg Tournament in the Madeline Pargh Arts and Crafts Center.

Jeannette McNeil, Dorothy Sonkin, Leslie Zuckerwise, Michelle Tishler

Jamie Katseff, Stephanie Klein, Judy Book Liza Starr, Katie Wayne, Tal Yazdian

June in the Galleries: Featuring the work of Tennessee Art League, Micah Rijke-Epstein, and Larry Frank

The Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of the Tennessee Art League. Founded in Nashville, Tennessee in 1954 as an artist-run, non-profit art organization, the League’s mission is to support and encourage participation in the visual arts for artists and patrons. They support this work through changing exhibitions, promotion, events, and community outreach. Their goal is to create opportunities for visual artists, and nurture art appreciation through art exhibitions, networking, and sharing creative energy.

For their annual show at the J Galleries, this year’s theme is called Rarities & B-Sides. Art history is full of B-sides—pieces that didn’t fit into neat categories, yet defined movements, challenged perspectives, and became cultural touchstones. Rarities & B-Sides is an exhibition for artists who embrace risk, who work in the margins, who don’t fit

into conventional molds but create with unrelenting passion.

This show is about freedom. It’s about the art that lingers in the studio, waiting for the right moment to be seen. It’s about the unreleased tracks of an artist’s career—the pieces too experimental, too emotionally raw, or too unconventional to have found a home.

The viewer is invited to step outside the expected, to unveil what was once

tucked away. This is where risk meets reward, where the underground rises to the surface, and where art that dares finds its audience.

The JLMG2 Gallery will feature the work of Micah Rijke-Epstein. Micah is the winner of the 34th Annual Middle

SUPERL AT IVE

The Crestmoor at Green Hills will exemplify sophisticated, rental retirement living in our vibrant city. Surrounded by the heritage neighborhoods of Green Hills, Belle Meade, service detail, dining and resort style living make it a premier a new level of indoor-outdoor living. Spaces designed for a secure, lock and leave lifestyle for members.

Tennessee Scholastic Art Awards. The Scholastic Art Awards is the oldest and most prestigious art competition for young artists. Since 1991 Cheekwood has had the honor of presenting the Scholastic Art Awards and Exhibition for Middle Tennessee. Each year creative, imaginative, and talented teens from across middle Tennessee submit over 1,500 works of art in a variety of categories. This is Micah’s first exhibit at the J Galleries.

The Sig Held Gallery will feature the art of Larry Frank described as a concert promoter, entrepreneur, designer, and visual artist. He has always thrived at the crossroads of creativity and chaos. Whether orchestrating vibrant live music experiences or crafting bold visual art in his studio, Larry is driven by a relentless desire to create something extraordinary. His paintings, like his approach to life, are dynamic, layered, and unapologetically original.

Frank is the co-founder and owner of Frank Productions, one of the largest concert producers in the United States. He has promoted some of the most iconic live events across the U.S. and Canada, working with legends from Metallica and Bruce Springsteen to Red Hot Chili Peppers and Eric Church. But he isn’t just a successful entrepreneur — he’s a visionary of spaces. He dreamt up and designed The Sylvee, a state-of-the-art concert venue in Madison Wisconsin, shaping it into a vibrant space where creativity and performance come alive. Attached to the Sylvee is the Frank Productions office which houses its 100+ employees. That office space exudes a vibrant, collaborative energy which was also born from Larry’s imagination—a

Continued on page 22

Opening Spring 2025

Dragon Town, by Micah Rijke-Epstein

Timothy Leary’s Daydreams, by Richard Jacobs

What Will Be, by Kate Ferrell

Living Room, by Larry Frank

ClassIV

Dry

E-Stim

SoftTissueTherapy

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

Habits, hope, and fairytales die hard.

I’m back on Hinge. Last trip to NYC I couldn’t help myself.

And in just a few short months in the online dating world I noticed a new trend among men my age.

Old men on bicycles are the new shirtless old men holding fish on a boat on Hinge.

The most recent fella I asked this to said he did not have a therapist but that his son thought he needed one. He then immediately asked me if I would consider dating someone who did not see a therapist. After a few minutes of conversation, I began to wonder if perhaps his son was onto something. His question did stop me though. And so, I have found myself contemplating if I would date someone who was not seeing a therapist.

On my side, I’ve relaxed a little, and may I say, I’ve become more daring. I’ll give an interested man I’ve matched up with my phone number and allow a facetime chat before meeting in person. This does make sense after all since I’m in back in Nashville and they are in NYC. I used to just wait until I returned to the city to meet for coffee first before giving out my phone number.

I find myself now asking the men I meet if they see a therapist.

I’ve come to discover in most cases, when men are in therapy, the therapist unknowingly becomes my back up. More times than not, I’ve had men say to me after I offered my insight into their ridiculous behavior, that their therapist said the same thing as me.

And that’s why I ask men if they have a therapist. I need backup on the front end.

June Galleries

Continued from page 18 place where innovation breathes freely.

Whether he’s building concert venues, crafting immersive spaces, or painting his next masterpiece, Larry Frank is always creating a world where imagination knows no limits.

His paintings are visual echoes of a life lived in images, a direct translation of thought to canvas, born from dyslexia. Self-taught, and refined through workshops at Anderson Ranch studying with world-renowned artists for 15 years, his

What I’ve come to realize though is something more important than knowing someone is in therapy. What I really need from them is to see their x-rays. Yes, actual x-rays. I know they have them. What man around my age is not going to a medical doctor every minute or so for something or other? I need to see what messed upness I’m dealing with here.

The next time one of them dare ask me to send them nude pics, I know what I’m going to ask them to send me. X-rays. Believe me, at this age, no one wants to see a nude pic. At this point, I’d much prefer a future partner send me his x-rays. At least if I see the x-rays, then I know what I’m really in for. Show me yours and I’ll show you mine.

And that’s okay if you don’t want to Mister. Just keep riding that bike. I’m sure you will have some new x-rays to show me soon enough. •

process blends the raw emotion of Van Gogh with the vibrant perspectives of Hockney. He sees the world in textures and colors, building layers of paint to capture memories and emotions. Each painting reflects memories and a unique way of seeing the world around him.

The Senior Lounge continues to feature the work of Pamela Dove.

The House gallery will feature the Under One Roof collaborative exhibit.

The Exhibition Dates are June 1 –31st.

The Artist Reception is set for Wednesday, June 4th from 6 -8 pm. The exhibitions are free and open to the public. Any 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. •

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY

ACCOUNTANTS

CATHY WERTHAN, CPA CBIZ 1221 Broadway, Suite 1925 Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 245-4070 • CBIZ.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

ATTORNEY

MARTIN SIR, ATTORNEY

Family Law / Personal Injury / Probate 3200 West End Avenue, Suite 500 Nashville, Tennessee 37203 615-256-5661 (phone) 615-256-5115 (fax) www.martinsirlaw.com

CARE GIVER

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

In-Home Care & Engagement | Respite

Dementia Day & Early-Stage Programs Independent & Assisted Living Memory Support | Caregiver Resources 615.434.2160 | services@abesgarden.org

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

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

DR. BRADLEY KROCK D.C.

Discover relief with Dr. Krock, DCExpert chiropractic care for pain, wellness, and injury recovery. Book your appointment today!   615-723-0201 www.krockchiropractic.com

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

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

ZANDER INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business, Long Term Care, Identity Theft Protection 6213 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 615-356-1700 www.zanderins.com

M JAFFA HEALTH INSURANCE

Marsha Ross Jaffa, CIC, LUTCF 615-482-3860 Medicare, Health, Dental, and Life

OPTOMETRIST

DR. MICHELE SONSINO

Optique Franklin 436 Main Street, Franklin 615-591-4191

DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eyecare Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2

ORTHODONTISTS

Specialists in Orthodontics

Dr. Jonathan Gluck DDS, MSD

Dr. Joel Gluck DDS, MS 2002 Richard Jones Road A-200 615.269.5903 drgluck.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

FRANKLIN PARGH

615-351-7333

franklin.pargh@compass.com

LANA PARGH 615-504-2685

lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com Instagram: @theparghteam

JACOB KUPIN, REALTOR HAYLEY LEVY KUPIN, REALTOR 615-281-9035

Jacob@TheKupinGroup.com Hayley@TheKupinGroup.com www.TheKupinGroup.com We’ve got your back!

JESSICA AVERBUCH Broker/ Owner

Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty 615-294-9880 jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com

KAROL FARAGALLI 615-289-3359 karolfaragalli@gmail.com

LORNA M. GRAFF

Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 615-351-5343 lorna.graff@zeitlin.com www.lornagraff.com

SETH HOFFMAN

Associate Broker 615-351-2150 seth@sethhoffmannashvillehomes.com

NAN SPELLER

Broker, GRI, ABR 615-973-1117 nanspeller2014@gmail.com

Nashville: 615.383.0183 Franklin: 615.794.0833 zeitlin.com

GREG ANSEL, REALTOR® Phone/Text: 615-815-6405 Email: GregAnsel@kw.com “Let’s Get Moving!”

Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR® ABR, CRS

JackieKarr@gmail.com

JackieKarr.com

Mobile: 615-330-9779 Office: 615-463-3333

SPORTING GOODS

TEAM NASHVILLE Your Running/Walking Swimming Headquarters 3205 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37203 615-383-0098

TRAVEL SERVICES

Expedia Cruise Ship Centers A Full Service Travel Agency Alan Cooper: Office: 615-454-6439 www.expediacruises.com/AlanCooper 7081 B Hwy 70 S / Kroger Shopping Ctr.

TREE SERVICES

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

Seniors and Post Hospital Care

The Rabbi Who Runs is at it Again

By BARBARA DAB

Rabbi Laurie Rice of Congregation Micah has once again completed the Boston Marathon. This year’s race marks her fifth in Boston and her 34th overall marathon. Her team in Boston supports the Heather Abbott Foundation which was formed in the wake of the 2013

Boston Marathon bombing. Abbott lost her left leg in the tragedy and thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters, she was able to obtain two prostheses. Abbott created her foundation to raise funds so other amputees can reclaim their lives.

This year, Rabbi Rice’s team raised over $180,000 for the team. •

Rabbi Laurie Rice pictured left front row, next to Teresa, and the Heather Abbott Foundation team.

Rabbi Laurie Rice at the finish line!

Theresa received a prosthetic running blade thanks to the Heather Abbott Foundation.