The Observer Vol. 90 No. 9 – September 2025

Jewish OBSERVER

Jewish Federation Celebrates and Inspires #JewishNashville

By BARBARA DAB

Members of Nashville’s Jewish community enjoyed an evening of celebration and inspiration while also learning about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville and its ongoing work to support and advocate for Jewish people around the world.

The evening provided an opportunity for the community to meet and get to know the Federation’s new CEO, Judy Alperin, who spoke about her own Jewish journey. “If you’ve learned a little about

me already, you know that Jewish community is not just what I do, it’s truly who I am. Working on behalf of the Jewish people has given me a lifetime of meaning, and I’m so honored to move forward and build forward with you.”

Special guest speaker, Alison Lebovitz, an Emmy nominated host, podcaster, and story teller, shared personal anecdotes about her Southern Jewish experiences.

Attendees laughed with her as she talked about Jewish geography. “It’s a simple question, but a complicated response,”

she said, “You don’t necessarily get an answer when you ask a Jewish person where they’re from. You get a history lesson.”

Lebovitz shared her first experience visiting Israel on a Federation mission trip. And it was during that trip that she dipped her toes into the fundraising pool. “It was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. First because I was asked at age 14 to solicit my peers for the Federation’s annual campaign.”

That moment was the beginning for her of a lifetime commitment to Jewish philanthropy, something she passed

down to her three sons. And at the end, she summed it up. “We are lout and proud. We are a community. Some of you I’ve known for many years…a lot of you I just met tonight. But we all come from the same place. We all come from a place where we were raised to give back…and that community is not just important, it is everything.”

To make your donation, click the QR code or text 615669-9762 to make your pledge. •

Belmont Becomes First University to Host U.S. Holocaust Museum’s ‘Some Were Neighbors’

By BARBARA DAB

T

here is a common misconception that Adolf Hitler, and a few of his henchmen, were the sole perpetrators of the Holocaust. But ordinary people were also involved, and an exhibition created by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum aims to both clear up the misconception and explore the ways friends and neighbors displayed courage and complicity in the face of the unimaginable.

The exhibition titled “Some were Neighbors,” is traveling to Nashville’s Belmont University, beginning on

September 10, as part of the school’s continuing work in interfaith engagement.

Belmont is the first university nationwide to host the exhibit. According to Dr. Greg Jones, president of Belmont, it is the result of a multi-year relationship between the school and the museum. “Our long-standing commitment to interfaith engagement, combined with intentional collaboration and vision casting, led the museum to invite Belmont to be the first university in the nation to host the exhibit.”

The university’s involvement is part of the work of the Charlie Curb Center

for Faith Leadership, headed by Dr. Jon Roebuck who has partnered with Rabbi Mark Schiftan, rabbi emeritus of The Temple, to create a Jewish studies initiative. Over nearly two decades, the pair have worked together to build bridges between Jews and Christians, and this exhibit embodies the core of that work.

“I think it’s two things: intentionality and hospitality,” says Roebuck, “Other universities could have done what we have done, but I think we have been very intentional about creating not only interfaith dialogue, but we’ve extended beyond Jewish and Christian faith leaders

getting on a Zoom call once or twice a week to see how does this get into the greater fabric of Nashville, and the greater fabric of the university.”

The work on interfaith relationships is core to the university’s mission. Jones says, “This work is an extension of our Office of Jewish Dialogue and Discovery, launched in partnership with Rabbi Mark Schiftan who also serves Belmont as our Jewish Faith Student Advisor, and reflects our dedication to supporting the Jewish community in Nashville and our own Jewish students.” He says the fact

Continued on page 19

From the Federation’s CEO

By JUDY ALPERIN

M

y earliest memory is at JCC preschool in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. I remember the way the homemade playdough smelled, the rice table with its colorful sand toys, painting at an easel and most of all Shabbat. I can remember dressing up as the Shabbat queen and feeling so special, the taste of the challah, and especially the Shabbat sing-a-longs. Jewish identity is nurtured through meaningful Jewish education opportunities both formal and informal. Here in Jewish Nashville, we have many wonderful ways to connect Jewishly with vibrant programs offered through the Gordon JCC, our synagogues, the Jewish Federation, social groups, PJ Library books and gatherings, summer camp, religious school, day school, continuing adult education, trips, experiences and more.

In 2024, the Jewish Federation’s Grant Committee recommended 17 grants supporting education and strengthening Jewish identity, including scholarships for early childhood education at Chabad, Congregation Micah, The Temple and the Gordon JCC. Because of the generosity of donors in support of the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign, almost 21% of the allocable resources were invested in Jewish education to benefit Jewish Nashville.

A major study by the Collaborative for Applied Studies in Jewish Education (CASJE) found that Jewish early childhood education significantly increases Jewish engagement among families, especially those who were previously less involved. Families whose children attend Jewish preschools are more likely to celebrate Jewish holidays at home, form Jewish social networks, join synagogues and JCCs and continue Jewish education

beyond preschool. Experiences in school often influence the entire family’s Jewish identity and practice.

The CASJE study also found that certain types of families showed measurable increases in Jewish engagement over time due to their preschool experience. The findings suggest strongly that investing in Jewish preschool is one of the most effective strategies for securing the Jewish future.

In 2024, our community faced a difficult reality: while the total need for Jewish preschool scholarships was $102,000, only $40,000 was available. That means dozens of families who wanted to give their children a strong Jewish foundation were unable to do so. But there is hope. With the growth of the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign, we are poised to close that gap—and open the doors of Jewish early childhood education to every family who seeks it. When we invest in Jewish early childhood education, we’re not just nurturing toddlers—we’re planting seeds for lifelong Jewish identity, community, and leadership. The data is clear: Jewish preschools are one of the most powerful tools we have to build a vibrant, inclusive, and enduring Jewish future. Together we can ensure these seeds blossom and sustain the Jewish people far into the future. •

New Tax Law: Some Contributions Go Further

By MINDY HIRT

S

tarting January 1, 2026, many aspects of the new tax legislation (commonly referred to as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act or OBBBA) goes into effect that could reshape how you support the causes you care about. These changes include preserved incentives for charitable giving and new opportunities to make your contributions go further—both for you and the organizations you support.

If You Don’t Itemize: New Benefits You Should Know About Most Americans—about 90%—use the standard deduction when filing taxes. The new law continues to support these taxpayers with enhanced deductions and new giving options. Here’s what’s changing:

• Standard Deduction Extended: For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,750 for individuals and $31,500 (up from $30,000 pre-OBBBA) for married couples filing jointly. These amounts will be adjusted annually for inflation.

• New Deduction for Charitable Giving: Starting in 2026, if you

are a non-itemizer, you can take an above-the-line deduction of up to $1,000 (individuals) or $2,000 (married couples) from your income for charitable donations.

Note: To qualify for this deduction, donations must go directly to a charity. Contributions to donor advised funds are excluded from this particular deduction.

• Smart Giving with Non-Cash Assets: While these gifts can be made with cash, you may want to consider using appreciated assets like stocks to maximize this benefit.

If You Itemize: Key Changes That Could Affect Your Strategy For those who itemize deductions, several important updates are coming that may impact your giving plans.

• 60% AGI Limit Made Permanent: You can continue to deduct cash gifts to public charities up to 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

• New Minimum Threshold for Deductions: Starting in 2026, only donations that exceed 0.5% of your AGI will count toward a deduction. For example, if you earn $200,000,

only donations over $1,000 will qualify as a charitable deduction.

Tip: Due to this change, it may be beneficial to accelerate charitable donations before the end of 2025. One strategic approach is to contribute to a DAF this year, allowing you to claim the full deduction now while maintaining the flexibility to distribute funds to charities over time.

• Reduced Deduction for High Earners: This one is a little more complex but in simple terms, currently top earners who itemize can deduct 37 cents for every dollar donated. In 2026, the tax benefit for itemized deductions is capped at 35 cents per dollar.

Tip: If you’re in a higher tax bracket, think about completing large gifts or pledge payments or funding your DAF before the change takes effect.

• Changes for Businesses: Businesses are impacted by these charitable changes too. Starting in 2026, corporations will face a 1% floor on philanthropic donations.

Tip: Given each business’ unique cash flow situation, it might be beneficial for them to make larger donations in 2025.

Estate and Gift Tax Planning

The law also locks in the federal estate and gift tax exemption in 2026 at $15 million per individual (or $30 million per couple), with inflation adjustments. This allows more of your estate to be passed on tax-free to beloved individuals and charities. While this exemption is defined as permanent, these provisions and others could be subject to change under future administrations. Make the Most of Your Giving For now, there is some clarity on the provisions of the new Act. There are a few months before year end to proactively consider the most effective ways to reduce your tax burden while supporting causes that matter to you. Now is a great time to review your giving strategy. Be sure to consult your tax advisor to plan ahead and make the most of these new opportunities in 2025 and beyond. •

Mindy Hirt is chair of the Jewish Foundation of Greater Nashville and a member of the Jewish Federation’s Professional Advisory Council. She can be reached at mhirt@argenttrust.com

FYSH Fest Welcomes Vanderbilt’s Newest Jewish Commodores with Warmth, Community,

By SHANNON SMALL

As the excitement of move-in weekend filled the Vanderbilt University campus, over 300 Jewish first-year students, student leaders, and families gathered to kick off the academic year with FYSH Fest, Vanderbilt Hillel’s premiere pre-orientation program. Designed to welcome new Jewish students before the official university orientation, FYSH (First Year Students of Hillel) Fest offered a unique opportunity for Jewish first-year students to build friendships, connect with Jewish life on campus, and experience a warm welcome to their new home.

The program launched on August 14th, with an opening dinner at the Student Life Center Ballroom. The evening featured remarks from Ari Dubin,

executive director of Vanderbilt Hillel, and Chancellor Daniel Diermeier. Diermeier said he knows how difficult life was for students after October 7th.

“When Ari and I talked about this, Ari said it’s the most difficult time for our students on campus, and it’s better than anywhere else. I think that’s accurate. It was extremely challenging for everybody, but we came together as a community to support our students in the time when they needed the support of the community, and this Vanderbilt community came through.”

Their words were followed by welcomes from Rachel Pacernick, Hillel’s Engagement Director, and the program’s dedicated student leaders, Griffin Unger and Maya Blanks, who spoke passionately about the Vanderbilt Hillel and the

and Celebration

FYSH Fest program. Unger, a sophomore and co-leader of the FYSH Fest program, reflected, “With global antisemitism at an all- time high, it is paramount that Jewish students on campus have access to a community where they are able to openly practice Judaism and publicly express their Zionism, both areas where Hillel excels. Observing the freshmen, upperclassmen, and parents mingle served as proof that our program achieved all of its goals:

connecting students, re-assuring parents that Vanderbilt is a safe place for Jewish

Chancellor takes a picture with students leaders at FYSH Fest. PHOTO CREDIT: JOEL ABRAMSON Continued on page 19

A Path to Peace in Gaza: Humanitarian Relief, An End to the War, and Open Conversation in the Jewish Community

As Jews who love Israel and believe in its founding promise as a free, democratic, and safe homeland for the Jewish people, we were horrified and heartbroken by the brutal terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7. Now, almost two years later, we are heartbroken by the devastating toll this war has taken on the hostages and their families, on the tens of thousands of civilians of all ages in Gaza, on Israel Defense Force soldiers and their families, on civilians in Israel, and on victims of anti-Israel, antisemitic, and anti-Palestinian attacks outside Israel, including here in the United States.

We, Jews who love and support Israel, believe it’s imperative for us to end the silence out of concern of being targeted by other Jews as disloyal or antiIsrael. We must change the narrative that any criticism of the current Israeli government’s actions equals being antiIsrael. The only way forward is through honest, open, painful, and complicated conversation. The current devastation in Gaza serves the Hamas goal of isolating Israel and does not serve the security interests of Israel.

Are we effectively supporting Israel if we only voice support for the actions of its current government, which further endanger the lives of the remaining hostages? Are we effectively supporting Israel if we question privately but never

c c c c STAFF

Publisher Judy Alperin, CEO Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville

Editor Barbara Dab

Editorial Associate Emma Canter

Advertising Manager Carrie Mills

Layout and Production Tim Gregory

Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), Teena Cohen, Scott Rosenberg

Telephone 615/356-3242 E-mail barbaradab@jewishnashville.org

The Jewish OBSERVER (ISSN 23315334) is published monthly for $36 per year by the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009.

Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205

This newspaper is made possible by funds raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign.

The Jewish OBSERVER is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

While The Jewish OBSERVER makes every possible effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the Kashrut of their products.

The views and opinions expressed in The Jewish OBSERVER are not necessarily endorsed by Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville or its partners.

share our thoughts with others in our community? How can we continue to show love and support for the Israeli people while also publicly expressing concern regarding the current Israeli government’s actions?

Many of our Israeli friends and family have been asking these types of questions as well. Some suggest that as American Jews, we have no right to voice opinions about Israeli policy from the safety of our American armchairs. We respectfully disagree. Our love for Israel is not passive: it requires caring deeply about its long-term security and moral standing. Just as family members can disagree while maintaining loyalty, diaspora Jews can express concern about policies we believe may not serve Israel’s best interests. We must change the narrative that any criticism of the current Israeli government’s actions equals being anti-Israel.

Now, more than ever, we must join our Israeli friends and family in asking how our Jewish values can guide us through this difficult time. Therefore, we

ask for a new kind of conversation in the Jewish community: one that makes space for grief, disagreement, and hope, and helps us reconnect across generations in pursuit of a shared and just future. We ask those in our local Jewish community to specifically request our local Jewish leaders to create space and opportunity for this new conversation. This dialogue will allow us to come together to ask the tough questions, think strategically, and examine the realities faced in Israel and in Gaza—all within the deeply shared values of our Judaism.

We seek dialogue and are compelled to speak now because the hostages are still held captive. There is immense human suffering in Gaza including acute hunger, lack of medical care and the ongoing loss of innocent life that shows no signs of ending. These realities, combined with the need for long-term security through diplomatic rather than purely military means, demand that we move beyond silence toward meaningful conversation in our community.

We ask members of our Jewish

community for thoughtful, respectful discussion. This can and should include op-eds and letters in community journals and newsletters, which can have a wider and more lasting impact than in-person dialogue. In the tradition of the Talmud and disagreement for the sake of heaven, respectful dialogue is a way of showing care for one another and faith in our shared future.

As we approach the High Holy Days, when our tradition calls us to honest self-reflection and repair of relationships, let us have the courage to begin these essential conversations. We look forward to our community leaders providing opportunities for these complicated but necessary discussions. •

Nashville Jewish Social Justice Roundtable Steering Committee, Irwin Venick, Chair

The full position statement of the Nashville Jewish Social Justice Roundtable can be found at: https://www. jsjrnashville.org/on-gaza.html

What Does the Big Beautiful Bill Mean for the Women and Children of Tennessee?

By STEPHANIE KORN AND SHERI ROSENBERG, NCJW NASHVILLE PRESIDENTS

Corrections Policy

The Jewish Observer is committed to making corrections and clarifications promptly. To request a correction or clarification, call Editor Barbara Dab at (615) 354-1653 or email her at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org

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.

To ensure publication, submissions must arrive by the 15th of the month prior to the intended month of publication.

For advertising deadlines, contact Carrie Mills, advertising manager, at 615-354-1699, or by email at carrie@nashvillejcc.org.

The Nashville Section of National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for all women, children and families in Middle Tennessee. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW brings together a diverse group of Jewish women who truly care and feel passionately about making our community a better place to live and thrive, regardless of religion, race and socioeconomic status. While we are nonpartisan, and have members from across the aisle, the ramifications of political outcomes in Washington, and locally here in Tennessee, often require us to speak out on behalf of the women and children in our communities.

Earlier this summer, Congress passed a federal budget that negatively impacts the health care, reproductive care, and nutrition assistance that will be available to those who need it the most. As Jewish women, this law does not represent our values. At NCJW, we know that budgets tell us in dollars and cents who we care about and who we leave behind. In this case, the “One Big Beautiful” budget

leaves behind the most vulnerable in Middle Tennessee and disrupts the social safety net that generations of advocates, many of them Jewish, fought to build.

In May, just days before the vote, NCJW, Inc. hosted members from around the country in Washington D.C. to visit their Senators to discuss the legislation. “This was a powerful opportunity for members to speak up about the impact locally should the bill pass. Sen. Blackburn’s aides seemed more interested than Hagerty’s aides,” said La Quita Martin, NCJW State Policy Advocate for TN. “But in the end, both senators voted for the bill which will leave the Tennessee General Assembly to find additional taxpayer money to support Tennesseans.”

The budget law could create significant challenges for women and children in Tennessee by reducing access to essential programs, imposing stricter requirements for receiving assistance, and potentially exacerbating existing disparities. Specifically, NCJW Nashville is

Continued on page 19

Letter to the Editor

When the Faizi family came to Nashville as Afghan refugees several years ago, the Jewish Federation became their sponsor for six months. I was the team leader helping them adjust to life here. Since then, I have kept in touch with the family, watching how their English language skills have improved and how the four children excel in school.

In May, their oldest daughter, Husnia, graduated from Overton High School and will be going to MTSU, thanks to several scholarships. She hopes

to become a medical professional. However, she needs a means of transportation from her home on Nolensville Road. If you know of someone who commutes to MTSU or someone who has a functioning car to donate or sell inexpensively, please contact me. She started classes at the end of August and getting there has been a challenge. You can reach me at mountvu@att.net or 615-498-3818.

Judy Saks

B’nai Tzedek Hosts Third Annual Welcome Back Pool Party

L

ast month, B’nai Tzedek held its third annual Welcome Back Pool Party, bringing together more than 40 Jewish teens for an afternoon of fun, learning, and connection. The teens participated in engaging activities designed to build friendships and highlight the importance of philanthropy.

One popular activity, similar to speed dating, had teens standing in two circles facing each other and asking one another different questions. After one minute, they rotated to meet a new friend. Trivia games and relay races reinforced key Jewish values such as teamwork, community, and supporting one another with the “I’ve got you” attitude

speaker Alison Leibovitz described at last month’s donor event.

Alongside the programming, there was plenty of time to relax by the pool, catch up with old friends, and make new connections. “I love teaching teens about philanthropy in their Jewish community at a young age because it sets them up for a lifelong commitment to giving back,” says Leeron Stark Resnick, B’nai Tzedek coordinator, “My hope is to encourage both teens and their parents to embrace giving and to serve as role models for each other along that journey.”

A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Boehler family for once again opening their home and pool to host this wonder-

ful event, and to the B’nai Tzedek Teen Board for doing such a fantastic job leading and supporting the program.

B’nai Tzedek (BT) is a program for Bar and Bat Mitzvah–aged teens to establish a fund at the Federation. Participants are responsible for maintaining their fund and making annual recommendations while learning about Jewish values

through events, leadership development, and community service.

BT meets four times a year, with the next community outreach event scheduled for November 2, when teens will volunteer at the Hot Chicken Festival

To learn more about the B’nai Tzedek program or how to start a fund, visit: www.jewishnashville.org/bnaitzedek. •

A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss whether Healthcare is a Right or a Privilege

By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM

Frank: In the fifth century B.C. one of the oldest documents in history was written by Hippocrates and involved a code of ethics for the practitioner of medicine. While this code of ethics has been modified over the years to fit in with a more modern time, it remains today one of the only such codes for a profession.

The code of medical ethics highlights four basic principles: beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. Beneficence relates to doing good for patients while non-maleficence relates to refraining from doing harm. In today’s language, that is viewed in the context of the risk benefit ratio of medical care. Autonomy is the principle that relates to a patient having a sacred right to make decisions about medical care that is offered, while justice is the equal dispensation of the benefits (health care) and burdens (costs) of health care.

In America today, we seriously violate this last ethical principle of justice every day by not having a system of universal health care as all other comparable countries throughout the world have. This lack of health care insurance exists today for 8% Americans which represents 27 million Americans with another 25% being under insured, and statistics reveal that when these patients present for medical care, their disease and condition is often more advanced, and they experience a worse outcome including higher mortality rates.

In addition, it has been established that of the hundreds of thousands of bankruptcies in this country, each year, two thirds are due to medical expenses, a situation that does not exist in any other country. We have a problem with the ethical issue of justice when it comes to health care in America, and I believe this to be a moral issue that is heavily involved in religious doctrine.

Mark, what do you believe are these religious doctrines that we violate in America by the absence of universal health care, and do you believe health care is a right or a privilege?

Mark: Every faith tradition values the preservation of human life as its highest moral value. In Hebrew we refer to this as “Pikuach Nefesh”: It is a commandment for which every other commandment can be set aside.

Judaism shares this point of view, that every life is sacred and that, therefore, access to adequate healthcare is a fundamental human right. It is not a privilege left only to a certain few. Rather, it is incumbent on society to extend an equal amount of sufficient medical care to all who require it.

The earliest recorded prayer we know of in Western civilization come from the biblical text, found within the Book of Exodus. Moses implores God to intervene in the treatment of his sister Miriam’s suffering: “O God, please heal her now” (Numbers 12:13).

But prayers alone, while powerful, are not in and of themselves enough, neither to heal nor to cure those who are ill. For that, medical intervention is required.

It is why the Talmud, the ancient Jewish legal code offers the instruction that, “One who saves even a single soul, He or She is to be viewed as if they’ve saved an entire world.” Because to that person’s family, they are, in so many ways, the worth of the entire world.

Therefore, from this we affirm the fundamental right of every human being to enjoy full and unfettered access to adequate and affordable medical care and health insurance, regardless of economic circumstance.

Frank, why do you think it has been such a struggle, here, in the most affluent country in the history of the world, for so many to be denied equal access to comprehensive medical care? As a physician, do you feel that every citizen of

Please support the businesses that advertise in the Observer and help support our community in all ways!

Make sure to let them know...you saw their ad here!

this country should have equal access to competent healthcare? Is that a right or a privilege?

Frank: It appears that when it comes to healthcare, science and religious views agree that healthcare is a right and not a privilege and I am in total agreement. Statistical outcome evidence and theological principles all point to a right for individuals to be able to obtain medical care prevention and treatment when it is needed as well as to have it affordable. And herein lies a huge problem. Healthcare in America is extremely expensive.

With an ever-increasing life expectancy and cost for healthcare, we are in dire need of finding ways to reduce healthcare costs. Drug costs alone are out of control. America is one of only two countries in the world that allows for television ads for prescription drugs (New Zealand is the other), and the saturation of daily ads to the public creates an increase in demand and usage of expensive drugs. The costs for an increasing need for operative procedures and diagnostic modalities are also extremely expensive.

One argument used by those who disagree with a universal health care system is that it puts into practice socialized medicine. What these individuals fail to realize is that we already have in place a universal health care insurance plan for close to half of all Americans with Medicare, Medicaid, Military and Veteran plans.

In 1900, life expectancy was forty-seven years and when I was born in 1940 it had risen to sixty. Today that figure is close to eighty years, and it is anticipated that with the advances in medicine, genetic testing, and treatment, life expectancy will reach one hundred in the not-too-distant future. With this increase will come the need for even more medical care at an ever-increasing cost. We need to do something, and we need to do it now. We need to bring the ethical principle of justice into the practice of medicine.

Mark: Frank, you have made a strong and scientific argument for a more equitable and fair system of healthcare, as a right that would improve the health of all Americans.

In my years as a congregational rabbi, there were many congregants who came to meet with me in my office to ask for relief for their medical bills, whether for themselves or for their family members. The costs were often well beyond their reach. For some, they were left trying to determine which of their prescriptions they could fill with the limited resources they possessed. This remains true for many, despite the passage of the Affordable Care Act and the wonderful insurance of Medicare.

There were others without even basic coverage. For them, any medical care was either inaccessible or unavailable. At those times, I would reach out to the medical professionals within my congregation, asking them, imploring them, sometimes even begging them to see their fellow congregants. Those were difficult calls for me to make. No one should have to go begging for care in the United States of America.

That is the message I delivered from the pulpit on the High Holy Days, in the year when the Affordable Care Act was being vigorously debated in Congress. I described healthcare coverage as a fundamental human right for all, not solely for a privileged few. I based my message on a two-thousand-year-old Jewish tradition that explicitly and consistently places the preservation of human life above all else.

At the conclusion of the service, a gentleman jumped on the pulpit to tell me how strongly he disagreed with my remarks. Given the solemnity of the occasion and the dignity of the sacred space, I offered no rebuttal. That response would come, in its own way, months later, with the passage of Obamacare.

We still have a long way to go to extend an equal system of medical access and care that is more just and fair. Let this be our incentive to do better, to do more for the sick among us: God has no other hands, than ours, to heal those who are ill, to care for and bandage the wounded and to bring comfort to the infirm. Let us go and do just that. •

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

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

Driven by Passion, Fueled by Legacy: Shwartzman’s Path to the Indy 500

By BARBARA DAB

FFor some youngsters racing around and going fast is all part of childhood. For four-year-old Robert Shwartzman, karting turned into a lifelong passion and today, at 25, he is a bona fide race car driver. “I don’t know how it happened. I really loved cars. For me any car, even the road cars, it feels like they have a soul,” he says.

The Israeli-born Shwartzman credits his late father for recognizing his talents and fostering his development. “His dream was to have a son who would be a racing driver, and hopefully be a Formula One driver one day,” says Shwartzman. That dream is about to come true as Shwartzman has qualified for the Indy 500 and raced in Nashville’s Music City Grand Prix over Labor Day weekend.

Shwartzman’s journey began in Tel Aviv but by the age of six he was already spending a good part of his life in Italy and by nine, he had moved there permanently. He finished school and eventually began driving for Ferrari as a junior driver. From there, he moved to test driver for the brand, testing Formula One cars.

After a series of successes, Shwartzman was invited by Prema, another Italian racing team. “While I’m young and I have the fire in me to push myself I want to get back to single seaters.” That decision led him to the United States, and the opportunity to reach

another goal. “We also managed to get the most important qualifying in the whole racing world, the Indy 500.”

Shwartzman says what is most gratifying for him is the process of qualifying for the Indy. “There is the whole week of dedication for qualifying. I’ve never been in any series, and I’ve driving all the Formula cars, but there’s never been any race where qualifying would be such a big step.”

Through all of the success and hard work, hovering the background is the shadow of antisemitism. Shwartzman says it is something he has dealt with most of his career. “I did experience it. Mostly, unfortunately, it was in Europe at the

times when I was a Ferrari driver.” He says he received death threats, mostly on social media.

The pressure for him was intense and was part of the reason he left the brand. “This is the biggest reason why it made coming to Formula One difficult.” He describes needing to hide from the public. “For half a year I didn’t go on social media, I was never at any events. I had to completely hide myself.”

He continued working with Ferrari, mostly on the simulator, but describes that period as a difficult and painful time. “It’s wrong to hate someone for where they’re from,” he says, “I’m happy I managed to survive it.” He says he has

seen other athletes struggling with the same thing.

Shwartzman says the demands of race car driving are like those any other athlete must face. “Nowadays people forget that we are putting our lives at stake every time you drive a race car. Especially when you do Indy 500, we do about 230 miles an hour. It’s a real sport.” He is passionate about introducing Jewish communities throughout the United States to the sport and enjoys seeing Jewish fans. “They come, they support me and they say ‘hi.’ They appreciate the fact that I’ve taken the pole position and raised the Israeli flag. It’s been a big moment.”

Racing at such high speeds requires focus and Shwartzman says his mind is set on that during the race. “The hardest part is to actually make the car do what you need to do,” he says, “That is where the engineers and others get involved.” He says when he gets that moment when the car is working right, that is when he feels best. “You’re flying. It’s the feeling like you’re just passing your competitors, and you have a smile.”

The next goal is to drive a Nascar car. And he hopes to see Jewish communities get more involved get to know him. And to support the sport of racing. Sadly, Mikhail Shwartzman passed away in 2020 from Covid, so he never saw his son advance to that big goal driving a Formula One car. But his lessons and his memory are what keeps Shwartzman driving forward into the future. •

SPTZ-58OB RoshHashanahObserver_2025.qxp_SPTZ-54OB RoshHashanahObserver_2024 7/29/25

L’shana tova. Wishing you a year of happiness,

More than 300 sofas and sectionals , 100 beds , 90 dining room sets and thousands of items in stock. When you think selection, think Spr intz!

Israeli born race car driver Robert Shwartzman shows his Jewish pride.

peace and good health. – The Sprintz Family

From Landscaping to Learning: Teens Connect at the Gordon JCC

By BARBARA DAB

You never know who you will meet when you buzz into the front desk of the Gordon JCC. During the summer months, the desk is often staffed by young people from the local Jewish community sitting right alongside other, more senior, staffers, and the security personnel. This summer, Spencer Sivley was one of those young folks. The Frankin Road Academy senior spent much of his vacation time at the J working, and some of the time he had another experience.

To fulfill some community service requirements, he approached Gordon JCC CEO Jesse Feld for ideas. “He really enjoyed his time growing up at the J and wanted to do something positive,” says Feld, “He noticed the Shalom sign was getting over run with weeds and thought cleaning it up would be a great way to make an impact.”

And then…something unusual happened. “After about 40 minutes of weeding, two teens come up to me and asked if they could help. They said their van was locked and they couldn’t get in, and that they’d rather help me than sit idle and do nothing,” says Sivley, “I first declined, since I didn’t want them to feel obligated to help, but they were very excited to help, so we got to work. Eventually, I was surrounded by a group of about nine teens helping me weed.”

As the hot afternoon wore on, Sivley says the conversation turned to

Judaism. “They asked me some questions about Judaism, as they had never had much experience with Jewish people besides television. I explained how Jews and Christians share many things in common.”

Sivley says the group bonded over their landscaping work, and conversation about religion. He was moved by their curiosity, and their desire to both help a stranger and make productive use of their unexpected free time. “I got to know the group pretty well and I really enjoyed my time with them. They were very curious to learn about the Jewish experience and were incredibly respectful.”

WEST END

Stay Connected to Your Faith, Close to Ever ything You Love.

At Clarendale West End, your exciting lifestyle comes with the convenience of being near others in Nashville’s Jewish community

Whether attending ser vices or celebrating traditions, you’ll be just minutes from local synagogues:

• 1 mile to West End Synagogue

•Less than 1 mile to Congregation Sherith Israe l

When their drive returned, with keys to their van, they gathered for pictures and final farewells. “After their driver arrived, they took a picture with me, prayed over me (only after getting permission), and left. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to help me, and I hope they continue to do great things.”

The next time you pass the freshly tended Shalom sign at the entrance to

the Gordon JCC, remember the group of young people who, on a hot summer day, came together to work side by side, to learn from one another, and to lend a helping hand — a true reflection of the spirit of “Shalom.”

And incidentally, Sivley says his work at the J was the best summer job he ever had and continues to staff the front desk on Sunday mornings. So stop by and say “hi” sometime. •

•Less than 4 miles to The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom

Enjoy the per fect blend of location, community, and connection – all in a brand -new senior living communit y made for you to live your most authentic, joy-filled life.

To learn more about our community, call 629 -276 -3239 or scan the QR code.

INDEPENDENT LIVING  ■  A SSISTED LIVING  ■  MEMOR Y CARE

3416 Park Drive | Nashville, TN 37203 | ClarendaleWestEnd.com OFFICE 629-276-3239 |

Spencer Sivley

Heart of the Matter

By PAM KELNER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE

When I was a teenager, my father and I had a major disagreement that left us both hurt and stubbornly silent.

For weeks, we tiptoed around each other, each waiting for the other to speak first.

We weren’t a family that unpacked our problems, we just hoped they would fade with time. It was a different era, one where silence often stood in for resolution. Then came Yom Kippur. I still remember standing beside him in synagogue as the haunting melody of Kol Nidre filled the sanctuary. Without a word, he reached over and took my hand — his way of saying, “I’m sorry.” I squeezed back to say, “Me too.” In that moment, the weight between us lifted, and we were unburdened.

Yom Kippur is so much more than fasting, it’s about repairing what is broken, within ourselves and between each

other. It’s about releasing the burdens we’ve been carrying, so we can move forward lighter and freer. But for many in our community, life’s challenges can make it difficult to focus on that renewal.

That’s why Jewish Family Service is here. To help people find the stability, tools, and hope they need to start again:

Counseling & Support Groups : Whether it’s healing family rifts, working through grief, or navigating personal struggles, our licensed social workers provide a safe, compassionate space for reflection, growth, and goal setting.

Senior Services: For older adults and their families, our staff help coordinate resources including one on one volunteers, offer guidance, and provide consistent support, ensuring no one enters the new year feeling alone.

This Yom Kippur, may we all have the courage to forgive, the humility to ask for forgiveness, and the compassion to support others in their journey.

If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please reach out at (615) 356-4234 or info@ jfsnashville.org. •

Westgate Shopping Center 6033 Highway 100 Nashville, TN 37205

615.383.1422 KatysGifts.com

Monday, September 22, 2025

7:30 PM Erev Rosh Hashanah Ser vice

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

8:45 AM ............Family Ser vice

8:45 AM ............Tot Rosh Hashanah Ser vice 10:15 AM ...........Morning Ser vice 10:15 AM ............Youth Program (K-6th grade) 12:30 PM Rosh Hashanah Reception 12:45 PM ...........Tashlich at the Creek Wednesday, October 1, 2025 7:30 PM Kol Nidre Ser vice T hursday, October 2, 2025 8:45 AM .............Family Ser vice 8:45 AM ............Tot Yom Kippur Ser vice 10:15 AM ...........Morning Ser vice 10:15 AM ............Youth Program (K - 6th grade) 12:30 PM Congregants’ Hour 2:00 PM .............Afternoon Ser vice 3:15 PM ..............Yom Kippur Afternoon Experiences 4:30 PM Yizkor & Concluding Service

PLAN YOUR

…so that it’s not just a fairy tale.

A HOLIDAY GREETING (noun)

The action of saying “Hi” to someone without looking like you forgot their name.

By LORETTA SAFF

IT’S ALMOST THE NEW YEAR! Lately, I have been thinking about how people celebrate this magical moment — in both the American world and the Jewish world.

The basic idea is the same: “Out with the old, in with the new, and make sure to wear the pants with an elastic waistband!” It’s a chance for a clean slate, a search for new opportunities, and a promise to myself to keep New Year’s resolutions at least until Shemini Atzeret!

The American New Year celebration often includes fancy dress parties, themes, decorations, champagne, loud noises, fireworks (not always from the sky – sometimes from that midnight kiss), and a rousing chorus of Auld Lang Syne (which no one fully understands, but everyone hums with confidence).

The Jewish New Year celebration has a different kind of sparkle: family gatherings (slightly dressed up but in shoes you can stand in for hours), services, blasts of the shofar, singing, more standing, more services, more standing, fasting, and — more food!

This led me to consider the Holiday Greetings at this time of year. In the American version, we keep it simple: “Happy New Year!” or “Wishing you a Happy and Prosperous New Year!”

For the Hebrew calendar, it’s often: L’Shana Tova — “Good Year” or L’Shana Tova Tikatevu — “May you be inscribed in the Book of Life”

Both are nice wishes, heartfelt and straight to the point. But honestly, these moments can feel automatic—like, It’s New Year, so I’m expected to say this.

That’s why I’ve titled this column A HOLIDAY GREETING. As a Life/ Transition/Retirement Coach, I’m all about helping people find joy and success in the year ahead. So why not perk up those greetings?

Here are my 5786 Jewish New Year Greetings — with a little extra flavor: The Importance of Early Planning

1. “A wise bee stores honey before winter; a wise person plans before leaving full-time work.”

2. “Honey tastes best when spread on the bread you’ve baked in advance.”

Focus on Your Health

1. “May your year have more steps than excuses.”

2. “May your mind stay sharp, your body remain strong, and your doctor always be impressed!

Value Your Connections

1. “This year, collect friends like apples — crisp, sweet, and always good for you.”

2. “May your connections be strong, your wi-fi never drop, and your calendar be full of fun.”

Find Your Purpose

1. “Here’s to a year of doing what you love and loving what you do.”

2. “Wishing you twelve months of sweetness, wisdom, and just enough chutzpah to try something new.”

Of course, the classic greetings still work just fine. Think of these as bonus sparkles for your words. May they help you (and those you love) step into the New Year with a little extra happily ever after. •

Le Shana Tova Tikatevu!

Loretta loretta@coachingwithloretta.com

Happy Rosh Hashanah

Conversations and Culinary Connections: Connecting Interfaith Couples… New Cohort Starting in Fall!

By SHERI ROSENBERG

F

ood brings people together…Holidays bring people together…combine them together to make a meaningful program!

As a congregation, it is The Temple’s goal to create an inclusive and educational environment while also helping to create community. The Temple brings together interfaith couples to celebrate and discuss both Jewish and Christian holidays. Through this initiative, couples are given the chance to learn more about holiday traditions, as well as the opportunity to share their personal experiences and customs. Food being a connector and bringing people together, quality and deep conversation has further enhanced the atmosphere of the program.

Couples do not need to be Temple members to participate in this program. Married, engaged, and dating couples are able to join in on this meaningful experience. From Sukkot to Christmas to wedding planning conversations and panels; quality discussions and sharing

Interfaith

couples connect at The Temple.

about your own relationship is always on the menu. We end the year by baking challah together as a group and discussing the couple’s relationship with Israel as an interfaith couple.

Jodi Backalar shares, “Being a part of the interfaith cohort through The Temple is one of our favorite parts of our life in Nashville. The community has been very welcoming, and it is really

meaningful to connect with other couples over similar experiences that are unique to interfaith relationships.”

This program has been occurring since 2021, with four cohorts that have completed the year of dinner programs. This coming month, there will be a gathering for the previous cohorts to meet and connect with one other.

Participant Andrew Grote says, “Being a part of this interfaith couple’s cohort has been a great experience. We have really enjoyed meeting others living a similar experience to us, which has helped create perspective. Sheri has also been remarkably welcoming since the beginning. We’re looking forward to the next time the group is together and highly recommend this program to all interfaith couples. ” We are looking forward for our fifth year with new and exciting elements to enhance the experience. If you are interested in being part of the 20252026 cohort of Conversations and Culinary Connections session, please reach out to Sheri Rosenberg (sheri@ templenashville.org).

Turning Passion into Tzedakah (Plus a bonus recipe)

By JASON SPARKS

It is truly a gift when once can turn a passion into a mitzvah. I have been lucky enough to experience this journey and also bring along more people along for the ride.

Over 15 years ago, I was gifted a hand-me-down smoker and immediately fell in love with smoking all manner of delicious meats. This did cause some issues, because I married a life-long vegetarian who was potentially raised as an experiment by her nutrition scientist parents. But, after some negotiation, I was able to clear a path for my smoked meat adventures. And I had a lot to learn –this was in the days before YouTube, so there were scant resources other than cookbooks and enthusiast websites. But I soon started experimenting.

I was never settled with the equipment I had. I tried charcoal smokers, electric smokers, gas-powered smokers, and eventually pellet smokers. They all had their pros and cons, but eventually my wife issued a moratorium on outdoor cooking appliances.

The organization I worked for at the time, Gamestop, had a partnership with the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) organization which provides lodging and meals for families who have children going through challenging medical experiences. We are very lucky to have a thriving branch here in Nashville within walking distance of Monroe Carrell Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. We even have philanthropists who are fundholders in our Jewish Foundation who donate to RMH, which is a testament to how

generous our community is to our friends and neighbors.

Every year we at Gamestop made a point of getting our teams together to prepare a meal for the families staying at our local RMH. The sad thing is that most of the folks staying at RMH get stuck on pasta and pizzas – it is literally what most organizations prepare for the guests. After getting to know some of the families, they confessed that they really missed home-cooked meals. I convinced our corporate headquarters to go in a slightly different direction, and they ended up letting me make 50 pounds of BBQ for the guests. And after seeing the joy of a couple of dozen folks getting to eat home-cooked BBQ, it made me realize that I enjoyed seeing folks enjoy BBQ almost more than actually making it!

A good friend of mine commented that while he loved the food I was mak-

ing, he really wished he could get some that was kosher. And that was when I decided to buy West End Synagogue some smokers. Along with the ever-present Stuart Wiston, my BBQ support system and smoky wingman we had our first BBQ at West End Synagogue around 2011. To this day I will never comprehend how we got so many briskets, chickens, and sides of salmon into those non-commercial smokers to feed over 150 people. It was a huge hit, and for many congregants, it was the first time they had ever had kosher BBQ.

A few years after we started making mass quantities of kosher BBQ for West End, Stuart convinced me to participate in a leg of the Kosher BBQ circuit down in Atlanta. So, Stuart, Trent Rosenbloom, and my brother-in-law David Ortiz made our way to Atlanta to Congregation B’nei Torah to compete. It was like nothing I had ever seen. We had to do all our prep on a Thursday night and then started cooking Saturday night at 8pm. To complicate matters, the judges were Kansas City Certified, and none of us had any idea what that meant. And rather than my fancy high-tech smokers, we were stuck using good ol’ Weber charcoal grills. Throw in some untimely food poisoning caused by bad menu choices, and by the end of Sunday, we limped back to Nashville thoroughly defeated. But, on the bright side, the challenges of that experience inspired us to create the Kosher Hot Chicken Festival, which has been a Nashville staple for over a decade and been a joy to thousands of people over the years.

And then, Vanderbilt Hillel entered the story. The legend goes that on a parent’s weekend, a family from Texas was appalled that at Vanderbilt “BBQ” meant hot dogs and hamburgers. And so, they purchased a competition-grade BBQ smoker trailer which lives permanently behind Hillel. I had never worked on something as big as that beast, and certainly not with something that devoured logs as fast as you could put them in. But I learned over the years, and now it truly my pleasure to use this incredible resource for the good of West End, Hillel, and the community at large. I particularly love getting to show the Vanderbilt students how to make BBQ and take care of the smoker. While there are no college credits earned, the life skills of learning how to make great BBQ will serve them no matter what major they choose.

Over the years I continue to experi-

ment; my current passion is turning brisket into corned beef and pastrami. And in my mind, there is no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than with a slowsmoked turkey. Cold-smoking cheese, nuts, and fish is also something I love to do. But the moments that always bring me the most joy are the hundreds of hours I have spent hanging out with friends smoking delicious meats and the faces of all those who get to enjoy it at the end of the process.

I’m also more than happy to share my brisket rub so you can do it yourself:

Sparky’s Brisket Rub

2 parts Onion Powder

1 part kosher salt

1 part garlic powder

1 part Hungarian paprika

1 part brown sugar

1 part black pepper

Blend spices together; I recommend using a food processor to ensure uniformity. Dry the brisket and season liberally – I recommend using rubber gloves to massage it in thoroughly.

pictured l. to r.: Jason Sparks, David Ortiz, Stuart Wiston, Trent Rosenbloom at their first Atlanta Kosher barbecue competition.

Three-peat for Team Nashville at JCC Maccabi Games

By REBECCA MORIARTY

Team Nashville joined over 2000 athletes from around the world for the 2025 JCC Maccabi Games in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania August 3-8. Members of Team Nashville included: Aaron Cheng, Luke Cohen, Ruth Boehler, Abe Boehler, Oliver Stahl, Delegation Head Rebecca Moriarty, and Coach Gui Passos. The athletes joined other delegations and created complete teams to compete in 3x3 basketball, track & field, and soccer.

This year, the JCC Maccabi Games were held in Pittsburgh on the University of Pittsburgh campus. Athletes and coaches stayed in dorms and played at topnotch facilities such as the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie-Mellon University, and Shady Side Academy. Athletes and spectators from around the world attended the games, including delegations from Ukraine, Israel, Argentina, Great Britain, and Mexico.

Aaron Cheng was the senior member of the 17U 3v3 basketball team alongside teammates from Newport News, VA, and Richmond, VA. The team, coached by Gordon JCC Aquatics Director Gui Passos, clenched a third gold medal at this year’s games, making Cheng a 3x Maccabi gold medalist. Cheng remarked, “Maccabi is an experience everyone should try if they are able. It is a super unique and awesome competition.”

Abe Boehler and Oliver Stahl competed in the 15u 3x3 division alongside athletes from Ohio and Louisiana. They were “Team Mitzvah Ballers.” While they did not secure a medal this year, they made many friends from across the world and had a blast at the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game, opening ceremonies, and the Israel/Pittsburgh themed block party.

Ruth Boehler competed in soccer on a team composed of athletes from Ft Lauderdale and San Diego. She enjoyed the time to socialize as well as give

back to the community. This year’s JCC Cares project was in partnership with Reading is FUNdamental. Athletes donated books and created cards and bookmarks for the children to whom these books will be donated.

Luke Cohen competed in track & field. He ran alongside teens from

New Orleans, Great Britain, Pittsburgh, and Louisville. Luke brought home the bronze medal in shot put and the silver in the 4x800 relay. He also received the yellow ribbon medal from the track & field commissioner. It is a medal dedicated to the hostages who remain in Gaza. This medal is given to athletes who honor

Jewish values on and off the field. JCC Maccabi Games occur each summer and athletes ages 13-17 are eligible to participate. Next year, we will be in Toronto August 2-7! For more information on next year’s games, contact Rebecca Moriarty at Rebecca@ NashvilleJCC.org •

Sincerely,

Belmont

Continued from page 1 that this is happening on campus is reflective of Belmont’s own journey.

Jones says this exhibit, and the effort to bring it to Belmont, goes to the heart of what the university aims to teach its students. “Holocaust education is vital to remember the past and shape a more just and compassionate future. Through this exhibit and related campus and community programming, we’re equipping students and our community at large with the historical understanding and moral imagination to stand against hatred. This exhibit goes beyond learning history and teaches us how to become the kind of neighbors the world desperately needs. “

Schiftan says this exhibit is the crown jewel of all the work they have done and will have far reaching impact. “We are now going to be welcoming literally hundreds of people and thousands of students to have the opportunity to ask themselves the same questions that we’re asking ourselves now in this country, about the idea of native born versus newcomers and neighbors versus others.”

The exhibit began as a series of artifacts and archival images depicting the motivation and influences on individuals during the Holocaust. It has been traveling in Europe, primarily Germany and Poland. The museum created a more transportable version using posters to tell the stories. Rebecca Carter-Chand is the director, Programs on Ethics, Religion, and the Holocaust at the museum. She

Hillel

Continued from page 2 and Zionist students and providing a community to new Vanderbilt students.”

After the formal dinner, the evening split into two tracks. parents returned to the Ben Schulman Center for Jewish Life for a special dessert reception and informal gathering, and students continued their first night of fun with a visit to Play Playground, a one-of-a-kind interactive entertainment venue in Nashville. The space provided the perfect backdrop for new students to bond over laughter and shared experiences.

The next morning brought another opportunity for community connection with a welcome brunch for both students and families. This was followed by a student panel, where parents asked questions and heard candid answers from current upperclassmen about academics, Jewish life, and the Vanderbilt experience. After the panel, parents took a private tour of the university, allowing them to explore their students’ new environment firsthand.

says local groups were energized to bring it to Belmont. “The group got really excited about this idea of doing the exhibition and the plans really grew from there because they have a lot of energy and capacity.”

Carter-Chand says the exhibit invites analysis of the photos and reflection. “There is some text that explains what you are seeing in the photo, but it doesn’t require a lot of background knowledge. They want people to see the images and observe and come to conclusions, or observations, or ask questions.”

The exhibit will be at Belmont throughout the Fall, and the launch on September 10 will include Holocaust survivor Peter Feigel, a museum volunteer who speaks about his experiences as a hidden child in France. Also planned are visits that bring together church and synagogue groups to experience the exhibit together.

A key sponsor of the exhibit is the Maria and Bernie A. Pargh Family Foundation. Bernie Pargh says he was inspired by Rabbi Schiftan’s involvement at Belmont. “Because of the over 100 Jewish students on campus, I felt it was a great thing that Belmont wanted to do, and Maria and I wanted to support it.” He was also pleased to provide the opportunity to share this with some people who might not otherwise see it. “We’re going to get 1,000 people through it who might not have ever seen anything in Washington or Yad Vashem, and it’s time to educate people as much as we can.” •

After taking their own personal tours of where to go on their first day of classes, students engaged in activities at the Vanderbilt Hillel building which included making traditional Israeli chocolate balls, arts and crafts, and an additional student-led panel where new students could ask upperclassmen about everything from navigating classes to finding the best coffee on campus. These informal conversations created an atmosphere of support and openness, giving first years both practical advice and meaningful connections.

The program culminated in a memorable Friday night Shabbat experience held at the iconic Acme Feed & Seed in downtown Nashville. Over 150 students and parents came together for Shabbat services, marking the end of the week—and the beginning of a new journey—with reflection, celebration, and community spirit.

Opinion

Continued from page 3

monitoring the cuts related to TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid program, which will negatively impact vulnerable populations who rely on the program for health care, including those with disabilities, low-income pregnant women, the elderly, and children. Specifically, the residents of Renewal House recovering from drug addiction and their children, members of Gilda’s Club undergoing treatment for cancer and their caregivers, and recipients of Jewish Family Service Kosher Food Boxes are among those most likely to feel the brunt of the cuts. Families will also lose approximately 20% of benefits from Tennessee’s SNAP program.

NCJW Nashville also feels passionately about protecting reproductive freedom. Cuts to organizations that provide reproductive care will also restrict access to cancer screenings, STI testing and prenatal services- especially in communities where no other providers exist.

While we are distressed by these changes, we will not ultimately be deterred. We care about our community and the women and children who will be affected by this law. NCJW Nashville members feel passionately about Tikkun Olam- repairing the world through Jewish values- and we will continue in our work to improve the lives of those in Middle

Tennessee through volunteering with our projects and advocating at the state and local level. To learn more about the Nashville Section of National Council of Jewish Women, please contact us at nashvillencjw@gmail.com. Members are encouraged to join the 2025 Opening Meeting on Wednesday, September 10 at 7PM at a private home in Green Hills. Registration is available at www. ncjwnashville.org/events.

Article to use for reference- how to source?

https://tennesseelookout. com/2025/07/11/three-charts-showingthe-impact-of-the-big-beautiful-bill-ontennessee/ •

While the parents explored campus, the first-year students engaged in their own programming at Vanderbilt Hillel. Have a Happy and Healthy New Year

FYSH Fest continues to be a cornerstone of Vanderbilt Hillel’s commitment to building a strong Jewish community from day one. Through thoughtful programming, joyful celebrations, and personal connections, the pre-orientation experience sets the tone for a vibrant and inclusive Jewish life on campus. •

NCJW Nashville members lobby at the Tennessee State Capitol: Harriet Workman, Jordana Loeb, Jennifer Hoffman, Sheri Rosenberg, Stephanie Korn, and Erin Coleman

NCJW Nashville members lobbying in Washington DC: La Quita Martin, Sheri Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hoffman

SOME WERE NEIGHBORS

September 10–December 8, 2025

Lila D. Bunch Librar y Belmont Universit y 1907 Belmont Blvd. Nashv ille, TN

Choice, Human Behavior, and The Holocaust

presented by T he Reverend Charlie Curb Center for Faith Leadership in cooperation with T he United States Holocaus t Memorial Museum

T his ex hibi t ex plor es t he vas t di f fer ence in t he ways ordinar y people displayed gr eat cour age or will ful complici ty in t he face of devas tat ing v iolence dur ing t he r ise of Hit ler ’s Ger many Neighbor s made choices Some ac ted wi th bold courage, while ot her s st ood idle as fr iends, neighbor s and colleagues were v ict imized. T he main focus of t he ex hibi t is to o f fer Holocaus t r emembr ance and educat ion for st uden ts, facul ty and member s of t he gr eater Nashville communi ty. T he ex hibi t ion is cen ter ed around a se t of 21 lar ge pos ter s, pro v ided by t he Uni ted Sta tes Holocaus t Memor ial Museum, that shar e t he st or y of t he Holocaus t and the r ole var ious groups wi t hin a communi t y played dur ing t he violence

Belmon t Univer si ty is honor ed to have t he dis t inct ion of being t he r st Univer si ty in t he nat ion to host this ex hibi t. The Univer si ty appreciates t he nancial suppor t of t he Mar ia & Ber nard A. Par gh Family F oundat ion as t he lead sponsor for t his ex hibi t. T he ex hibi t will be housed in the Leu Galler y which is located on the r st oor of Belmon t ’s libr ar y. T he ex hibi t is open to t he public dur ing r egular libr ar y hour s. T he ex hibi t r uns from September 10 –December 8, 2025

F or addi t ional in for mat ion, please visi t: belmont .edu / faith-leadership/curb -special- exhibit .html

KEEP CALM

KEEP CALM and HAVE a HEALTHY and HAPPY SHANA TOVA U’METUKAH

Rabbi

and

HAPPY NEW YEAR

May G-d bless us with peace, unity, and the return  of every hostage home. L’Shanah Tova!

Meital, Abi, Iara, Jess & Rabbi Joshua Kullock

Chabad of Nashville wish you a sweet year of Good Health a Year of Love, Laughter, and Joy. L’Shana Tovah u’Metukah

Shanah Tovah u’Metukah — May this new year be filled with sweetness, health, blessing and peace

Dear Nashville, In honor of our 18th year of Chabad at Vanderbilt we wish everyone a year of CHAI! May you go from Strength to Strength in all good things!

Shana Tova, Rabbi Shlomo

Shanah Tovah! Wishing a healthy and sweet 5786 to all!

The Danziger Family

Shanah Tovah U’Metukah!  Blessings for harmony, health, and happiness in 5786

Rabbi Saul and Rabba Daniella

To a sweet and healthy New Year from the clergy and staff at Congregation Micah!

Rabbi Shana & James Mackler Hannah & Sylvie 5786

May the new year bring you health, happiness, and peace. L’Shana Tova!

Alyssa Trachtman

Best wishes to my new Nashville Jewish community for a sweet, happy, and prosperous New Year. Thank you all for such a warm welcome.

Judy Alperin, CEO Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville

The Members, Board of Trustees, Clergy and Sta of THE TEMPLE wish you

Shanah Tovah!

We invite you to welcome 5786 with us!

We hope this New Year will be one of wholeness , happiness , good health and peace.

5015 Harding Pike ~ (615) 352-7620 www.templenashville.org

Yitzchok

Esther, Rabbi Berel, Tzivia, Mushka, Meni, Rafael and Eliyahu Sima and Meir.

Rabbi Chaim and Bassie, Musya, Naomi and Meir. Levi and Mushka, Rabbi Mendel and Chana, and Sarah Tiechtel

L’Shana Tova Tikateivu v’TichateimuMay 5786 bring us strength,  resilience, security and peace for a good year.

The Parents, Faculty and Students of Beit Miriam @ WES

ana a haanna T !

Sh Sh Shana T a! Toovva! Tova!

from the Gordon JCC!

Wishing you a sweet, joyful, and meaningful New Year!

Gord yo y u and mea Ne

Tova U’metuka

Bobbie and Alex Limor and family

Reva Heller

Wishing all a peaceful New Year filled with delicious foods, cherished traditions and a sense of belonging in the Nashville Jewish community May your matzo balls be flu y and your kugel sweet!

L’Shana Tovah from Gordon JCC President Dara, Craig, Asher and Rory Freiberg

Have a happy, healthy New Year!

Wishing all our Friends in the Community a Happy and Healthy New Year

Steven, Esther, Evan and Carolyn Remer, Jordan and Megan Remer

With gratitude for the many years of love and support from our Nashville Jewish Community!

Happy New Year to All!

Carrie and Garrett Mills

Shana Tova to our Nashville family and friends. Wishing you all a sweet new year filled with joy, peace, good health, and love.

Barbara and John Dab

SHANA TOVA!

Alyssa

Ken Gluck

Maureen

Alison

Rabbi

Wishing all a happy, healthy, and sweet new year!

From Anna and Jesse Feld and family

Have a Happy and Healthy New Year

Marcia & Lee Stewart

Have a Happy and Healthy New Year

Have a Safe, Healthy and Happy New Year

Jill and Dan Eisenstein

Happy New Year

From Goldie and Mark Shepard and Family

Akiva School Akiva School

AkivaSchool AkivaSchool and the and the Kehilla Kehilla Upper School Upper School wish the wish the communityasweet New communityasweet New Year andameaningful Year andameaningful holiday season! holiday season!

community a sweet community a sweet and a meaningful and a meaningful

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.

@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah

Fuel Your Week with Soul & Insight — All from Home

Start your Sunday morning with meaning, inspiration, and community.

Join Rabbi Levi Tiechtel every Sunday at 10:30 AM for a refreshing dose of Jewish wisdom drawn from the weekly Torah portion — timeless lessons that uplift, challenge, and empower.

From ancient truths to modern-day relevance, discover how the Parsha speaks to you, right now.

No RSVP, no pressure — just inspiration.

Zoom in from wherever you are.

Email chabadnashville@gmail.com for the link.

Presented by Chabad of Nashville:

Because your week deserves a deeper start.

Shabbat Morning at Chabad of Nashville: Where Prayer Meets Community, and Cholent Warms the Soul

There’s something special happening every Shabbat morning at Chabad. It’s where friends gather, spirits are lifted, and hearts are full.

Join us at 10:00 AM for a meaningful and joyful Shabbat service, filled with soulful prayer, heartfelt kavanah, beautiful singing, and words of Torah that inspire and uplift.

After services, stay for a warm, home-cooked cholent, freshly baked challah, and a gourmet buffet lunch shared around a table of laughter, stories, and connection. And of course, a lively farbrengen with a friendly L’Chaim to top it all off.

Whether you come every week or it’s your first time, there’s a seat for you at our table—and a place for you in our family.

Come feel the warmth of Shabbat. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Two Special TGIS Shabbat Dinners This September!

There’s nothing like welcoming Shabbat surrounded by friends, joy, and delicious food—and that’s exactly what TGIS (Thank G-d It’s Shabbat) is all about!

Join us for a warm, all-inclusive Shabbat experience filled with traditional dishes, uplifting singing, a heartwarming Chassidic story, and the kind of community connection that makes Friday night feel truly special.

Mark your calendar for two beautiful evenings: Friday, September 12, & Friday, September 26, 6:30 PM, at Chabad of Nashville.

Whether you come with friends or on your own, you’ll leave feeling full—in every sense of the word. There’s no cost to attend, but we’d love to know you’re coming!

Kindly RSVP by emailing: chabadnashville@gmail.com

There is a seat waiting for you at our Shabbat table!

Torah & Tea – For Women, By Women

Take a moment for yourself each Shabbat to nourish your soul, your mind—and your spirit.

Torah & Tea is a weekly women’s-only Torah study group that gathers every Shabbat afternoon following the sit-down lunch at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, at 1:00 PM

Led by Rebbetzin Esther Tiechtel, these classes blend timeless Jewish wisdom with a fresh, engaging style—sprinkled with warmth, wit, and heartfelt connection. Together, we’ll explore meaningful topics that speak to the modern Jewish woman,

drawn from the most enduring source of all: the Torah.

Join a beautiful circle of Nashville women for:

– Inspiring Torah study

– Warm camaraderie

– Hot tea & delicious refreshments

Come as you are, and leave uplifted.

No RSVP necessary—just bring an open heart.

Kabbalah & Core: A Soulful Start to Your Week

Looking for a meaningful way to recharge your body and spirit before the week begins? Join us for Inner Light Pilates & Meditation — a Sunday morning blend of movement, mindfulness, and a little bit of magic.

Each session combines the core-strengthening power of Pilates, led by the talented Jody Lumerman, with the calming, soul-centering wisdom of Kabbalistic meditation, guided by Rebbetzin Esther Tiechtel. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience designed to help you feel strong, centered, and inspired — all before lunch.

Whether you’re a seasoned Pilates pro or just curious to try something new, this class is for women and teen girls of all levels. No judgment, no pressure — just a warm, supportive environment and a chance to reconnect with yourself.

Think of it as a mini-retreat, right here in Nashville. Come move, breathe, laugh, and leave feeling uplifted — ready to take on the week with grace, strength, and maybe even a few sore muscles (the good kind!), your soul (and abs) will thank you.

Sunday September 14,21 and 28, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

at Chabad of Nashville, 95 Bellevue Road

Strengthen your body

Center your mind

Uplift your soul

Space is limited, so reserve your mat now: chabadnashville.com/pilates

High Holiday 5786 at Chabad of Nashville

During the High Holidays, The doors to heaven are open to all… so are ours!

Chabad of Nashville will be hosting services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur 5786, and our doors are open to all who call upon us, with love, warmth and friendship.

The community is invited to join Chabad for traditional High Holiday Services blended with contemporary messages and insights in a warm and welcoming environment.

Whether your background is in Jewish prayer and practice is extensive or limited, the services will leave you feeling enriched, connected, uplifted and energized to start your new year off in a most meaningful way.

For children! Chabad will also offer a full program of well supervised activities for children ages: 4-12 years. Children get to experience the joy of holidays in their own special way-in their own designated room, close to their parents.

Kids love this program and learn a lot in the process, ensuring that Chabad High Holidays will be a meaningful and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

During the services the rabbi will share insights and inspirational stories related to the significance of the day, prayers will be recited in Hebrew and English, all in a warm and family friendly atmosphere, and children’s services will be offered for young families.

THE HIGH HOLIDAY 5786 SCHEDULE OF SERVICES AT CHABAD OF NASHVILLE ROSH HASHANAH 5785

Join Chabad of Nashville for the High Holidays 5786

Eve of Rosh Hashana, Monday, September 22

The first night of Rosh Hashanah

Candle Lighting and Service to welcome the New Year with a Cocktails and a Toast to the New Year 6:00 PM

New Year’s Eve Dinner 7:00 PM

Tuesday, September 23, First Day of Rosh Hashanah

Morning Service…10:00 AM

Children’s Service…11:00 AM

Rabbi’s Sermon…11:30 AM

Shofar Sounding 12:00

Priestly Blessings 1:30 PM

Wednesday, September 24, Second Day Rosh Hashanah

Morning Service…10:00 AM

Children’s Service…11:00 AM

Rabbi’s Sermon…11:30 AM

Shofar sounding 12:00 PM

Priestly Blessings 1:30 PM

Shabbat Shuvah

Saturday, September 27

First Shabbat of 5786

Morning service 10:00 AM

Torah reading 11:00 AM

Shabbat Community Lunch 12:30 PM

Jewish Women’s Roundtable 1:30 PM

The Men’s Farbrengen 1:30 PM

@ Chabad

Continued from page 26

Wednesday, October 1, Yom Kippur Eve

Kol Nidrei Service 6:00 PM

Thursday, October 2, Yom Kippur Day

Morning Service 10:30 AM

Children’s Service 11:30 AM

Yizkor Memorial Service / Rabbis Sermon 12:15 PM

Mussaf service 1:30 PM

Muncha Service 4:30 PM

Ne’ilah Closing Service 5:45 PM

Havdalah Service and Kamen Break Fast…7:07 PM

All services will take place at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, 95 Bellevue Road, in Bellevue.

To RSVP or for more information please contact us at 615-646-5750 Rabbi@ chabadnashville.com or www.chabadnashville.com

Chabad to Host Rosh Hashanah New Years Eve Dinner

As High Holidays 5786 roll around very soon, many are planning where to attend services. Yet, there is another aspect to this special season.

Just as spiritual preparation is needed as we approach the High Holy Days, holiday meal preparation simultaneously remains an important feature of our traditions. Jewish people are known to be major foodies (our friends and neighbors still can’t believe that we prepare Thanksgiving-worthy meals every week for Shabbat!), and we wear our chef badges with pride.

Our foodie tendencies are heightened during the autumn months when Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot-- which fall close together on the Hebrew calendar-- demand the preparation of consecutive, extravagant festive meals.

Chabad of Nashville will be hosting a New Years Eve gourmet dinner, on Monday night, September 22, 6:00 PM. Evening will begin with a toast for a Happy New Year with cocktails and hors d’ouvres, followed by the New Year’s Eve service, and a gourmet holiday dinner.

The Rosh Hashanah dinner will include several of the traditional foods which symbolizes blessings for a Sweet New Year. The meal will include the traditional round Challah, apples and honey, sweet brisket, mashed potatoes, tzimmes, and honey cake, all prepared by a gourmet executive chef.

According to Jewish mystical teachings, when the Jewish holiday meals are prepared and eaten with the intention of enhancing the intrinsic holiness of the day, the very food itself becomes elevated.

RSVP for the Rosh Hashanah Dinner at Chabadnashville.com. For more info. Call 615-646-5750.

Shofar in the Park on Rosh Hashanah

The Jewish people have been blowing the Shofar, a simple hollowed out ram’s horn, for thousands of years in celebration of Rosh Hashana, the beginning of the Jewish New Year – also known as the birthday of humanity. According to Jewish law, one must hear the blasts directly from the shofar itself. No medium will do — not a microphone, not a computer, not even a slight echo.

Intrinsically, the Shofar is not just a sound. It is a cry. A prayer. A soul-awakening, personal, meditative and rousing experience. Hearing the sound of the shofar is the main commandment associated with celebrating the Holiday.

For Rosh Hashana 5786, sophistication will give way to simplicity, as Chabad of Nashville will once again host, “Shofar in the Park,” where many will gather in the park to hear the blasts of a lone shofar (ram’s horn), and the sound of the Shofar will be heard in the open fields of Edwin Warner Park.

“Shofar in the Park,” will take place on Tuesday, September 23, 5:45 PM, in the Edwin Warner Park, Highway 100 near the intersection of Old Hickory Blvd. The sounds of the shofar will be sounded as the New Year is celebrated, and apples and honey for a sweet new year will be distributed.

In the past, Shofar in the Park has taken place across the country in many parks and beach fronts. From Central Park in Manhattan, to Yellowstone National Park in Montana, from Venice Beach in Los Angeles, to South Beach in Miami, Shofar in the Park is now once again in Nashville.

“The idea is to allow as many people as possible to observe the central mitzvah of Rosh Hashanah,” says Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel, with Chabad of Nashville. “The Park is an open and neutral place where every person is welcome. It doesn’t matter if you have any prior Jewish education. It’s irrelevant if you pay dues; are affiliated or unaffiliated, all are welcome to come as you are and hear the shofar.”

Following the Shofar in the park we will gather together for the Tashlich service in the park to cast away any sins one may have, and pray for a Sweet New Year.

The event is free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Children, singles, families, all are welcome.

To learn more about Shofar in the park, please go to chabadnashville.com.

Cantor Duvid Erblich will lead High Holiday Services at Chabad

Congregation Beit Tefilah is honored and pleased to welcome back Cantor Duvid

At Our Congregations…

Erblich to lead the High Holiday services during the upcoming High Holiday season of 5786.

Musical talent is inherent in this renowned Erblich family of Cantors, from which Cantor Dovid Erblich descends. He was born in the United Kingdom to the world-famous Cantor Moshe Leib Erblich. As a child at the age of 4, he participated in his father’s recordings with solos and duets.

From a young age his father used to put him to bed with tunes of famous cantorial music, and wake him up to the tunes of beautiful cantorial melodies.

The famous “Ana Avda” that is sung all over the world during the High Holidays was composed by his late Father, Cantor Moshe Leib Erblich.

Cantor Duvid Erblich, has performed at numerous concerts around the world, and was the official cantor for twenty years at The Taylor Synagogue in Cleveland Ohio, and at the Jewish Community Center Synagogue in Dubai United Arab Emirates, Cantor Erblich is happy to be coming to Nashville to lead the services at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad for the past four years. One of the unique additions to the service by Cantor Erblich is to blend Chasidic melodies and various famous Jews tunes into the liturgy of the High Holiday services. Also, during the services, stories and insights into the prayer will be shared by Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel.

All are invited to participate in the High Holiday services at Beit Tefilah, and one does not have to pay to pray. There is no membership or tickets required and services are held in Hebrew and English in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A special children’s service is held on each morning of the High Holidays. For a complete listing of the High Holiday services at Beit Tefilah, go to chabadnashville.com

Order your Own Personal Lulav and Etrog Set

“You shall take for yourselves...the fruit of a citron tree, the branches of date palms, twigs of a plaited tree, and brook willows.” (Leviticus 23) During the Holiday of Sukkot, we observe the Mitzvah of the Lulav & Esrog (The Four Kinds).

Chabad of Nashville is pleased to make this beautiful Mitzvah available to every family in the Nashville community. Chabad is offering a special opportunity of ordering your own Lulav and Etrog set from the Holy Land, Israel.

It is a beautiful Mitzvah for each family to have their own set for Sukkot, as this is a very special Mitzvah. These sets are available to order at chabadnashville.com. All orders must be placed by Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The Lulav set orders can be placed at chabadnashville.com

@ Micah

Congregation Micah - an inclusive, innovative synagogue exploring and celebrating Jewish life - is committed to building community and repairing the world! We offer creative and diverse ways to live a Jewish life in Tennessee and beyond, using the rich beliefs and practices of Progressive Judaism as our foundation. Visit our 30+ acre campus or access our virtual programs from our website, www.congregationmicah.org. Like us on socials: Facebook, and Instagram @MicahNashville; sign up for our e-blasts; learn and pray with us in-person, or livestream our service on our website, YouTube, or Facebook. In our tent, there is room for everyone!

Weekly Events

Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, the authenticity of our intentions, and through the power of music and song. Join us in-person or virtually for services this month that will be as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory. Come early and schmooze with us starting at 5:30 PM! Light refreshments are served.

Saturday Morning Torah Study: 9 AM on Zoom

Deep conversations about the text with thoughtful and caring people led by the clergy.

Mah Jongg: Tuesdays from 12:30 PM- 3:30 PM

Join our players for an afternoon of fun in the social hall! For more information, contact Paula: pgkwn@comcast.net.

Schmooze & Views: Thursdays from 10:30 AM- 11:30 AM

At Micah, we keep politics off the pulpit but not out of the building. Share your views in a round-table discussion on current events facilitated by Rabbi Flip and Dr. Bob Smith.

September Events

Zionism as Justice - Part 2 with Dr. Shaul Kelner, Vanderbilt University: Wednesday, September 3, at 6 PM

Hamas’ 10/7 “Al Aqsa Flood” sparked a worldwide “flood” of antizionist hate. What do we need to know about Zionism and about the Jewish past to stand up for ourselves? How do we reclaim our own story?

At Our Congregations…

@ Micah

Continued from page 27

Micah-Nections Late Night Shabbat: Friday, September 12, at 7 PM

Late-night Shabbat returns for a spiritual evening of community led by Cantor Josh Goldberg, followed by a catered dinner.

Micah Reads: Monday, September 15 at 7 PM

Education Director Julie Greenberg leads the discussion on “Incident at San Miguel” by A.J. Sidransky.

Micah Minis Shabbat: Saturday, September 20 at 9:30 AM

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

The Quiet Strength of Resilience: Friday, September 26 at Noon

The son of a German-born Jewish survivor, Ron Schwarz will share his deeply personal story of researching archives across Europe to piece together the mystery of his family’s daring journey to escape Nazi persecution and survive the Holocaust.

High Holy Day Listings

A millennium ago, our most ancient ancestors heeded the call to live a life counterculture to the rest of the world. In search of a purpose greater than themselves, they sought to pass on their most meaningful insights and traditions to their descendants. In each age our progenitors mined our rituals and customs in search of wisdom, finding practical applications regarding the most poignant and relevant ideas of previous generations on how to live a fulfilling life. Like our ancestors, many of us here in Tennessee are living a life counterculture to the values of those that surround us. Be among like-minded folks in our sanctuary (or watch our livestream) as technology meets theology, for just as our spiritual practices have developed over time, so has our worship!

The start of the new year brings our annual chance to step out of our daily routines and recapture a sense of possibility. During the days in between, we do everything we can to ensure a true transformation. It is a time of making things right, asking for forgiveness, and giving charity. This year, as always, we will grapple with big questions, explore compelling ideas, and unpack textual wisdom. We will show our support for Israel, contend with the current situation, and mourn the loss of so many.

Come close to Torah in our state-of-the art sanctuary as we pioneer groundbreaking ways to tell our ancient tales with innovative interpretations that speak to the realities of today. Seize opportunities to connect with God, Torah, and each other at a moment in time when we need each other most. The Rabbis Rice, Cantor Josh Goldberg, Micah’s staff and leadership have all collaborated to create an experience that will transform you from the first blast of the shofar until the last dance of the hora on Simchat Torah...and we’ve got a special guest for that! Descriptions of services and programs follow below. Please check the website for the most updated information.

SELICHOT: Forgiving

Saturday, September 13th @ 8:00 PM

ROOT yourself in the Jewish spiritual discipline of soul searching with beautiful music, penitential prayers, personal testimonials, and comfort food. Help place white covers on our Torah scrolls to symbolize that change is possible, as we communally renew our sense of wonder and purpose.

EREV ROSH HASHANAH: Celebrating

Monday, September 22nd @ 7:30 PM

REFLECT on the world and your place in it. Sing, read, and chant along as we return to our roots and revisit the sounds, stories, and spirit of the season. Let the music ignite your soul as together we dream BIG and pray for a fruitful new year filled with growth, abundance, and blessings.

ROSH HASHANAH: ReCreating

Tuesday, September 23rd @ 10:00 AM

GROW your soul on a journey that will help you generate creative ideas about how to live in this broken world. Experience a time of reflection and renewal. Dip apples in honey to savor the sweetness of a new year. Cast off your sins at the back of our campus with the ancient custom that originated in the Book of Micah: Tashlich.

FAMILY SERVICE: Birthday Party for the World

Tuesday, September 3rd @ 3:00 PM

CELEBRATE the season with the youthful energy of preschoolers and their families. Experience the music, messages, and magic of Micah on this holy day and then party like it’s 5786! Attend this one afternoon, and your kids will come to understand what fresh starts and community all are about. Plus, you might make some new friends.

SHABBAT SHUVAH: Returning Friday, September 26th @ 6:00 PM

RETURN. Reflect. Renew. Rejoice. Ponder the season’s many messages, while embracing all the joy that Shabbat has to offer.

TORAH STUDY: Learning

Saturday, September 27th @ 9:00 AM on ZOOM

GLEAN insights from the Torah and other sacred scripture with a group of compassionate, inquisitive individuals. Sign on from the comfort of your own home and tickle your brain with the themes and stories of the holiday season.

KEVER AVOT (Cemetery Service): Remembering Sunday, September 28th @ 9:30 AM

HONOR those in our past who inspire us to live more fully in the present and future. Held on the most sacred grounds on our campus, visit the graves of loved ones.

KOL NIDRE: Repenting Wednesday, October 1st @ 7:30 PM

SHADE yourself from the outside world to focus on personal growth. Cleanse your soul and feel a strong sense of peoplehood during the turmoil of these especially turbulent times. Search for wisdom, divine guidance and how to live a life aligned with Jewish values. Sing, pray, learn, repent and fast!

YOM KIPPUR: Atoning Thursday, October 2nd @ 10:00 AM

TRANSFORM your old life into something new. Seek forgiveness and atone for past missteps as we refrain from eating and drinking and engage in a morning of communal introspection. Be inspired by the music, the sermons, the community.

CONTEMPLATION: Meditating 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM

SIT in the sacred space of our sanctuary to the sounds of meditative music. Connect with your soul and consider your future.

BOOK TALK: Sharing 1:00 PM

DISCUSS the book: The Beauty of What Remains by Rabbi Steve Leder. Death can teach us how to live and love more deeply by showing us not only what is gone but also what remains? No, you don’t have to read the book in advance.

DRUM CIRCLE: Releasing 1:00 PM

FOSTER a sense of connection by playing a drum in this inclusive activity that welcomes everyone, regardless of musical experience. Release stress and enhance your rhythm skills in this community building spiritual exercise that connects people through the shared experience of drumming. Our facilitator is an expert.

CRITICAL CONVERSATION: Discussing Israel 2:00 PM

CONVERSE in a safe space. Express your feelings and convictions as we dive into a difficult discussion. Connect with others who feel similar as well as discover how to listen to, learn from, and respect the opinions of others. In the spirit of compassionate community, we remain steadfast in our commitments to justice, mercy, and humility.

SOUND BATH: Discovering 2:00 PM

RELAX and listen to the sounds of instruments that promote emotional and physical well-being. Enjoy an ancient therapy that uses vibrations to nurture the mind and body, as you reduce stress, release emotions, and achieve a deeper consciousness through this meditative experience.

FAMILY SERVICE: Praying 3:00 PM

REPENT with preschoolers and their families. Teach your children to apologize and model it for them. Integrate faith into your family and strengthen Jewish communal bonds through this shared uplifting spiritual experience.

SCHMOOZE & VIEWS: Talking 4:00 PM

BRING an open mind and a sense of humor as we keep our politics off the pulpit, but not out of the building. All opinions are welcomed at this lay-led political discussion.

HEALING SERVICE: Invoking 4:00 PM

EMOTE in an intimate circle with healing prayers and therapeutic exercises. The music and readings will afford you the chance to grieve and the inspiration to restore hope.

YIZKOR: Recalling 5:00 PM

SHARE space with others who mourn. Light candles. Hear beautiful music and personal testimonies as we come together in the ancient ritual of remembering our loved ones. There is almost never a dry eye in the house.

NEILAH: Calling it a Day! Following Yizkor/Memorial Service

CLOSE the gates on the day that bridges heaven and earth with this short, home stretch service. Havdalah on the bimah and final, knock-your-socks-off blast of the shofar.

Continued on page 29

At Our Congregations…

@ Sherith Israel

High Holiday Schedule of Services

Monday, September 22, Erev Rosh Hashanah

5:45 am Selichot

6:30 am Shacharit

6:26 pm Yom Tov candles

6:30 pm Mincha/Maariv, followed by Rosh Hashanah dinner. (RSVP online)

Tuesday, September 23, Rosh Hashanah Day 1

8:30 am Main Minyan

12:30 pm Community Luncheon (RSVP online)

6:25 pm Mincha/Maariv

7:21 pm Yom Tov Candles

Wednesday, September 24, Rosh Hashanah Day 2

8:30 am Main Minyan

6:25 pm Mincha/Maariv

7:20 pm Havdallah

Thursday, September 25, Tzom Gedaliah

6:00 am Selichot & Shacharit

5:55 pm Mincha/Maariv

7:08 pm Fast Ends

Wednesday, October 1, Kol Nidre

6:30 am Selichot & Shacharit

2:00 pm Early Mincha

6:13 pm Candles

6:20 pm Kol Nidre

Thursday, October 2, Yom Kippur

8:30 am Main Minyan

4:35 pm Mincha

5:50 pm Neilah

7:08 pm Shofar, Havdallah, and Break-fast

Rosh Hashanah Luncheon

Tuesday, September 23

Following Services

Cost $35 adults | $18 children (5-12) | $118 families

Deadline is September 14

RSVP: 615-292-6614 | www.sherithisrael.com

Tashlich

On the first day of Rosh Hashanah we will gather at the creek at Carden Avenue to “cast our sins into the sea,” and to ask Hashem to give us an even better year. We read it in both English and Hebrew, from a little booklet, and then throw bread crumbs into the water for the hungry fish. AT APPROXIMATELY 2:15pm.

Tzedakah

During this time of the year, it is customary to give tzedakah to the RDF and other Charities. This year, we will be helping various families in need around our community, as well as our brethren in Israel. Please send checks to RDF, memo: Holy Day Drive or Venmo @CSIRDF

Yom Kippur Break-fast

Following the blast of the Shofar at the end of Yom Kippur, please join us for the Annual Yom Kippur Break-Fast

Hosted by: The Eisen and Manas Families in memory of Boris and Maria Garber, and Evan Rittenberg in memory of his parents Jay and Barbara Rittenberg

Sukkah Dinner

Monday Night, October 6, following services

$25 adults | $15 children (5-12) | $85 families

Deadline to RSVP is October 1

RSVP: 615-292-6614 | www.sherithisrael.com

Lulav and Etrog Orders

$72 - Regular

$90- Deluxe

Order deadline is September 19

@ 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

First Fridays with Alyssa

Join us on September 5th for Nosh & Conversation with our Temple President, Alyssa at 5:00pm prior to Shabbat Services

Shabbat Schedule for September 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, September 5th -6:00 PM – Shabbat Service Friday, September 12th- 6:00 PM- Family Shabbat Service with Birthday Blessings Friday, September 19th -6:00 PM- Shabbat Service Friday, September 26th-6:00 PM- Blue Jean Shabbat/ Shabbat Shuvah

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 September 2nd – Felix Wang | Classical cello

September 16th- Janet McMahan & Meadowlarks | Retro & comedy

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

Women’s Torah Study

September 4th,11th, 18th, 25th

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

September 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th

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 at https://www.templenashville.org/virtualprogramming.html

Monday Mah Jongg

Join us for MAH JONGG Mondays at The Temple!

September 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th

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.

Mosaic Workshop with Michelle Trachtman

September 7th from 1:00-3:00p.m. at The Temple

No Experience necessary- just bring your creativity!

All supplies included!

You will create your choice of one:

• Mosaic tile pendent with chain included

• Handcrafted wine stopper

• Modern Mosaic Ring Class is $30 and you can reserve your spot at templenashville.org/events

Musical Tot Shabbat in East Nashville

Saturday, September 13th at 10:15a.m.

Join The Temple, East Side Tribelings, PJ Library and the JCC for a Musical Tot Shabbat!

East Nashville Brew Works…come for Shabbat morning fun and stay for lunch! For more information, please visit templenashville.org/events

Continued on page 30

At Our Congregations…

@ The Temple

Continued from page 29

Selichot Program with Megan Barry

Saturday, September 13, 7-9:00p.m.

Selichot service, dessert reception and program with Megan Barry

Faith and Forgiveness: A Conversation About Community and the Themes of the High Holidays

Next Dor Ring in the New (Jewish) Year

Tuesday, September 23rd

Ring in the New (Jewish) Year with Next Dor and Rabbi Danziger! 6:30pm at Jackelope Brewing Co. and stay for trivia at 7:00pm. First Drink on The Temple!

Reach out to Sheri with any questions, sheri@templenashville.org Next Dor is Temple’s group for young professionals

Kever Avot- Cemetery Service

September 28th at 1:30p.m. The Temple Cemetery at 2001 15th Avenue North Nashville 37208

High Holy Days at The Temple

For more information or to access our services, visit templenashville.org

Service Time Date Notes

Selichot Program & Dessert 7:00 PM 9/13/25 Live and Streamed Reception

Rosh Hashanah Evening 7:30 PM 9/22/25 Live and Streamed Service

Tot Rosh Hashanah 8:45 AM 9/23/25

Rosh Hashanah Family 8:45 AM 9/23/25 Live and Streamed Service

Rosh Hashanah Morning 10:15 AM 9/23/25 Live and Streamed

Rosh Hashanah Reception 12:30 PM 9/23/25 The Temple

Rosh Hashanah Tashlich 12:45 PM 9/23/25 Temple Creek

Ring in the New Year – Young 6:30 PM 9/23/25 Jackelope Brewing Co. Professional Happy Hour

Kever Avot – Cemetery 1:30 PM 9/28/25 The Temple Cemetery at Service 2001 15th Avenue North Nashville 37208

Shabbat Shuvah 6:00 PM 9/26/25 Live and Streamed

Yom Kippur Evening – 7:30 PM 10/1/25 Live and Streamed Kol Nidre

Tot Yom Kippur 8:45 AM 10/2/25

Yom Kippur Family Service 8:45 AM 10/2/25 Live and Streamed

Yom Kippur Morning 10:15 AM 10/2/25 Live and Streamed

Congregants’ Hour 12:30 PM 10/2/25 Live and Streamed

Afternoon Service 2:00 PM 10/2/25 Live and Streamed

Afternoon Experiences: 3:15 PM 10/2/25 Live Quiet Reflection with Music Guided Meditation with Deborah Oleshansky Study Session

Yizkor Memorial Service & 4:30PM 10/2/25 Live and Streamed Ne’ilah Concluding Service

Break the Fast 5:45 PM 10/2/25 RSVP by September 24th

Sukkot Shabbat Service 6:00 PM 10/10/25 Live and Streamed

Sukkot Yizkor Memorial 5:00 PM 10/17/25 Live and Streamed Service

Simchat Torah Service & 6:00 PM 10/17/25 Live and Streamed Oneg

Please see templenashville.org for updated schedule information

@ 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

9/3 - Women’s Torah Group (on Zoom) –11:00 a.m.

Rabbi Joshua leads our Women’s study group. We are learning the book of Joshua.

9/5 - WES & Jewsic City Shabbat Dinner and Musical Service – 6:30 p.m.

Join us special Shabbat at West End Synagogue! We’ll begin with dinner, followed by a musical service led by Jewsic City. Register with the OneTable link and come ready to sing!

9/7 – Bagels & Bloody Marys - 10:30 a.m.

Join our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs for Bagels and Bloody Marys, on Sunday, September 7th, at 10:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing mjacobs@ westendsyn.org.

9/7 – Music & Me for Families with Young Children 3 and under - Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Inviting all parents and children 3 and under for a morning of music and movement with singer /song writer, Brett Fromson, on Sunday, September 7th, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing spaz@westendsyn.org.

9/10 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for ages 60+ – 11:00 a.m.

Reservations required, catered lunch following the presentation. Speaker: Someone from the Nashville Banner Lunch catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP 615-269-4592 ext. 11 or office@westendsyn.org.

9/11 – Men’s Torah Group (in person) –12:00 p.m.

Join us for our Torah class for men followed by a pizza lunch. We are currently reading the Book of Nehemiah.

9/12 – 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.

9/14 – “Holy Grounds” - 10:30 a.m.

Join our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs at “Holy Grounds” our new onsite coffee lounge, on Sunday, September 14th, at 10:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing mjacobs@westendsyn.org, or just drop by.

9/21 – “Holy Grounds” - 10:30 a.m.

Join our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs at “Holy Grounds” our new onsite coffee lounge, on Sunday, September 22nd, at 10:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing mjacobs@westendsyn.org, or just drop by.

9/22 - Erev Rosh Hashanah 6:00 p.m.

Rabbi Joshua’s sermon ~ 6:30 p.m.

9/23 - First Day Rosh Hashanah 9:30 a.m.

Blessing of the babies born in 5785 (from last Rosh Hashanah to now) - 10:00 a.m.

Families with Young Children service - 10:15-11:15 a.m.

Children’s service 1st-4th grades - 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Children’s service 5th-7th grades - 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Rabbi Joshua’s sermon ~11:00 a.m.

Learner’s minyan led by Marc Jacobs will follow the sermon and last ~1 hour Tashlich service to symbolically cast away our sins - 4:45 p.m.

Tashlich will be held by the bridge at Carden & Roland Avenue. Mincha services will be held back at the Synagogue after we return from Tashlich. Young Professionals Rosh Hashanah Dinner - 7:00 p.m.

Continued on page 31

At Our Congregations… Community Listings

@ West End

Continued from page 30

9/24 - Second Day Rosh Hashanah 9:30 a.m.

Families With Young Children service - 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Children’s service 1st-4th grades - 11:00 a.m.-noon

Children’s service 5th-7th grades - 11:00 a.m.-noon

Rabbi Joshua’s sermon at ~10:45 a.m.

9/28 - Cemetery Service – 10:00 a.m.

Personal Yizkor recitations at the West End Synagogue Cemetery. Call for more information.

9/28 – “Holy Grounds” - 10:30 a.m.

Join our Engagement and Program Director, Marc Jacobs at “Holy Grounds” our new onsite coffee lounge, on Sunday, September 28th, at 10:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing mjacobs@westendsyn.org, or just drop by.

10/1 - Kol Nidrei 5:50 p.m.

Mincha followed by Kol Nidrei and the blessing of this year’s B’nai Mitzvah students.

Rabbi Joshua’s sermon ~ 7:30 p.m.

10/2 - Yom Kippur Morning Services 9:30

Families With Young Children service - 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Children’s service 1st-4th grades - 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Children’s service 5th-7th grades - 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Rabbi Joshua’s sermon ~ 11:00 a.m. before the recitation of Yizkor Study Session led by Marc Jacobs - 4:00 p.m.

Mincha and Neila - 5:00 p.m.

Ark will be open for personal prayers.

The fast ends at 7:06 p.m.

a.m.

Followed by Ma’ariv, Ramah style Havdalah, and the blowing of the shofar. Congregational Break the Fast

Ongoing Religious Services and Learning Opportunities

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.

Talmud Class with Rabbi Joshua Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m.

Torah Study with Breakfast

Begins immediately after minyan on Thursdays, typically around 7:40 a.m.

NEW!!! Talmud for Young Professionals

In-person on Friday at 9:00 a.m.

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! •

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 a picnic and concert at Arrington Vineyard on September 14th and attending a play at Belmont in October.

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

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.•

September in the Galleries: Featured works from the Tennessee Watercolor Society

The Janet Levine March Gallery, JLMG2 Gallery and the Sig Held Gallery annual exhibit by the Tennessee Watercolor Society is titled, “A Kaleidoscope of Water Media.”

It will feature 55 Watercolor and Water media paintings by 36 Middle Tennessee Artists.

The Tennessee Watercolor Society (TnWS) is a statewide organization that was formed in 1971. The TnWS membership shows, and juried exhibitions,

require paintings to be executed in a water-based manner, on paper, matted and framed behind glass or plexiglass.

The purpose is to elevate the stature of watercolor and water media on paper as an important, creative, permanent painting mediums. TnWS also works to further the interest of painters and art students in all water media through its programs, exhibits and workshops, and to support all of the visual arts. The society is open to artists and patrons,

and older, throughout the state of Tennessee.

The Senior Lounge will feature the work of Pamela Dove.

The Exhibition Dates are September 3 - 29th.

The Artist reception will be held on September 10th from 6-8 pm and feature music by DJ Joseph Harris and Henna by Seemi.

The exhibitions are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www.nashvillejcc.org. •

Homegrown, by Barbara Bullard

Catching Light, by Pam Austin eighteen

Our Time in the Sun, by Nancy Deckant

Sunburned, by Nick Long

Lifecycles

B’rit Mitzvah

Avery Morgan Weinman

Avery Morgan Weinman became a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, May 30. She was born on February 29, 2012, in Rockville, Md.. She is the daughter of Kristen Andrew Weinman.

Avery celebrated her Bat Mitzvah in Barcelona, Spain. She chose to bring her service to Europe where so few Jews remain and where her ancestors were forced to leave during the Holocaust.

An eighth grader at Harpeth Hall, Avery enjoys performing arts, piano, dance and voice.

Benjamin Kraft Bleecker and Anna Lavely Bleecker

Benjamin Kraft Bleecker and Anna Lavely Bleecker will become b’nai mitzvah on Saturday, September 6, at 11 a.m. at The Temple.

Susan and Gene Resnick of White Plains, N.Y.

A seventh grader at University School of Nashville, Blake enjoys ice hockey, skiing, water-skiing, golf, camp, travel and spending time with family and friends. He also enjoys writing articles and restaurant reviews for his school newspaper, The Tiger Times.

For Blake’s mitzvah project, he hosted a community kickball game fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting the Friends of the IDF.

Obituaries

Randall T. Bellows

Condolences to the family of Randall T. Bellows who died on July 12. He was the husband of Jayne Bellows; brother of Dr. David Bellows (Nancy), Sandra Jonson Bellows and Diane King; uncle of BJ Johnson, Jessica, Roxanne, Benjamin, Emily, and Rebecca.

Tributes in Randy’s memory may be made to Congregation Micah.

love of his life, his Wicky, a rescue dog, who was spoiled and loved by Curtis.

Quinn Cunningham

Condolences to the family of Quinn Cunningham who died on July 23. She is survived by her mother, Marcia Berlin.

Elsie Dab

Condolences to the family of Elsie Dab who died on July 24. Elsie (Malka bat Avram) was born in 1928 in Frankfort au Main, Germany, and emigrated to San Francisco in 1936.

Elsie was predeceased by her husband, Paul, her parents, Mathilda and Alfred Strauss, and her brother, Walter Strauss. She is survived by her sons, Mike (Sue) Dab and John (Barbara) Dab; grandchildren Rebecca, Paul, Brian, Jaclyn and Deborah; and 3 great-grandchildren.

Donations in Elsie’s memory can be made to West End Synagogue.

Kevin Paul Duke

Schneider; and grandchildren, Benjamin (Allison) Schindler, Sydnie Schindler, Mitchell Schindler, Spencer (Ali) Schneider, Hannah Schneider and Noah Schneider.

Mark Stern

Condolences to the family of Mark Stern who died July 29 in Milwaukee. He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Stern (Adam Caplan).

Sylvia Weinberger

Condolences to the family of Sylvia Weinberger who died on July 29. She is survived by her children, Shiela Weinberger (Tim Cope) and Michael Weinberger (Lauren); grandson, Simon; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Litoff.

Barbara Zander

Condolences to the family of Barbara Zander who died on August 12.

Gary Steven Zuckerman

Benjamin was born on October 31, 2011, and Anna was born on April 2, 2013, both in Nashville. Their parents are Elizabeth and Bryan Bleecker. Their grandparents are Patsi and Tim Bleecker of Murfreesboro, Tenn., Luci Crow and Ken Kraft of Nashville, and Tina Kraft of blessed memory.

An eighth grader at Montgomery Bell Academy, Benjamin enjoys crew, sports shooting, chess, gaming and Legos.

A seventh grader at Harpeth Hall, Anna enjoys softball, cello, art and fashion.

For Benjamin’s mitzvah project, he held a bake sale to raise money for Hope Lodge.

For Anna’s mitzvah project, she sold cat prints to raise money for Catfeine Cat Cafe.

Caroline Semler

Curtis Cohen

Condolences to the family of Curtis Cohen who died on August 4. He was fighting to recover from serious medical challenges and surgeries.

Curtis is known by the Nashville Community as an in-demand freelance electrician for many prominent electric companies, a metal and steel sculptor, the pre-eminent utilities meter tag maker in Nashville and surrounding areas, called Demented Tags, and for his brilliant, clever, quick-wit in every conversation. Curtis never hesitated to speak his mind plainly and directly to anyone, in any situation. He conducted all business transactions with integrity and fairness and the tradespeople with whom he interacted, his friends, family and West End Synagogue, all knew that if hired to do a job, the end product would be perfectly executed and the price was always more than fair.

Condolences to the family of Kevin Paul Duke who died on July 24. He was the husband of Linda Duke; son-in-law of Jon and Elaine Levine; brother-in-law of Julie Levine, and Josh Levine (Ilana); uncle of Jonah, Morgan, and Bella “Finn” Crowe, and Mia, Lucia and Julian Levine.

Tributes in Kevin’s memory may be made to the ALS Foundation, the Predators Foundation, or Congregation Micah.

Eleanor “Ellie” Jacobs

Condolences to the family of Eleanor “Ellie” Jacobs who died on July 29. She is survived by her daughters, Pamela Jacobs Newmark (Andrew) and Elizabeth Jacobs; grandchildren, Rose Newmark, Malcolm Newmark, Jake Lescher, Douglass Lescher; and her sisters-in-law, Sylvia Shepard and Ellen Jacobs.

Roberta Luttrell

Condolences to the family of Gary Steven Zuckerman, 73, who died on August 18. Born in Nashville, Gary lived a life filled with love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family. He was a loving husband to Stacy Zuckerman and a proud father to their daughter, Brianna Zuckerman. He was the beloved son of Milton and Lillian Zuckerman; and brother to the late Bruce Zuckerman. Gary became Bar Mitzvah at West End Synagogue, where his family were members for many years, along with his Uncle Charles and Aunt Dooley Gross and many cousins. He will be remembered for his warm heart, steady presence, and the unconditional love he shared with all who knew him.

Contributions in Gary’s name may be made to the American Diabetes Association or Agudas Achim Congregation, 2908 Valley Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302. •

Caroline Semler will become bat mitzvah on Saturday, September 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. She is the child of Jessica Rosen and Matt Semler, the sister of Jack Semler, and the granddaughter of Bob and Chris Rosen of Nashville and Shavaun Wall and Mike Semler of Annandale, Va.

An eighth grader at the University School of Nashville, Caroline loves volleyball, basketball, and reading.

For her mitzvah project, Caroline is collecting gently used shoes for Soles for Souls, a nonprofit that distributes those shoes to entrepreneurs in low-income countries where they sell them at highly reduced prices to those in their communities. This supports both the small businesses owners and the shoe recipients.

Blake Stark Resnick

Blake Stark Resnick will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, September 20, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. He was born on June 19, 2012, in Nashville. His parent are Leeron and Matt Resnick. His grandparents are Ofra Stark of Huntingdon Valley, Pa., Zohar Stark of blessed memory and

Curtis was raised in West End Synagogue, where father, Joe, was among the pillars of the synagogue, his Pap, Max Levine, was the Shamos, and Curtis’ other grandfather, Joe’s father, Harry Osteen, was the high priest in their Louisville, Ky., shul.

Curtis was in United Synagogue Youth and AZA. Our BBG formal and BBYO Convention committees couldn’t have made it without his skills.

Curtis was brought up on the corner of Whitland Avenue in a three-generation home. The Whitland home had a revolving door as many visitors would stop by unannounced, always welcomed, whether on the large front porch or in their home. Curtis had many responsibilities, such as a host, a table setter for all the High Holiday dinners of which various Rabbis attended, and what he really loved, a consultant to Sunny and Joe for maintaining their home and doing much of the work.

Curtis never allowed anyone to express pity for him as he would retort, “It can always be worse.”

He is survived by: his godson, William Titus Bryant, and his family; his cousins from Nashville, Rhode Island and Kentucky, the Levine’s, Isaacs and the Cohens; many wonderful friends; and the

Condolences to the family of Roberta Luttrell who died on August 15. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Robert Luttrell; daughters, Julie Davis (Steve), Fran Kramer (George Bailey), Karen Siegel (Marc, z”l), and Laura Kramer (Eddie Llerandez); grandchildren, Ben Davis, David Niemierzycki, and Christine Niemierzycki.

Tributes in Roberta’s memory may be made to the New York Public Library or Congregation Micah.

Georgina Pacent

Condolences to the family of Georgina Pacent who died on August 4. She is survived by her daughter, Nina Pacent (Renee Kasman).

Frances Katz Schneider

Condolences to the family of Frances Katz Schneider who died on July 26.

She is survived by her children, Laura (Richard) Schindler and David (Eli)

“Always

TGIT –

Gordon JCC Adult Program Happenings:

September 2025

September 4 – 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.

September 11 – Alan Cohen

Musician and crooner Alan Cohen is back after too long of a hiatus to entertain us with his laid back and engaging style. You may remember him from years back when he visited us as The Rebbe and His Beautiful Bride!

Lunch – Salmon, salad, sides and dessert.

September 18 – Jennifer Samardak

Jennifer Samardak – An informed driver is a better driver. 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.

September 25 – Ron Schwarz / Flu & Covid shots

Author, Ron Schwarz’s father and grandparents were Holocaust survivors. He speaks all over the country telling their story of survival which includes video testimony of his father along with original documents from the 1920s, 30s and 40s incorporated into his presentation. Ron just published a book about my family. It’s called The Quiet Strength of Resilience.

Kroger Pharmacy will also be available for Flu and Covid shots.

Lunch - Bagels, lox, salad, sides, dessert. •

Portraits

Carrie

d Garrett Mills

Mother / Son Team Stylist / Photographer

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

Dhow only he and I seem to follow…

oes anyone else out there feel like it’s the end times? Seriously, what is going on with humans? It seems like the world has collectively lost its mind. Forget politics for a minute, although it is intrinsically entwined. How is it that the whole world is not united and focused on addressing climate change as the crisis that it is?

Then again, if you’ve ever gone into some people’s home it all makes sense. I’ve been in way too many homes where it seems people can’t even keep pick up their own socks, let along keep their house in order. So, you may as well forget about humans cleaning up the world. If the insanity of those across the world in political power don’t get us all, Mother Nature certainly seems on a path to teach us a lesson on cleaning up our room.

I want to give up and just eat ice cream. Everyone has their drug of choice. That’s mine.

Speaking of which…

Somehow, a text conversation I had lately with my son went from Zen koans to Zen cones to …in my mind…ice cream. Of course.

Since I told Garrett the story about throwing a Zen koan at the students in Fashion Camp and how it miraculously quieted the ruckus behavior of the campers, he keeps tossing the subject of Zen koans casually into the middle of unsuspecting conversations.

For instance, the other day we were texting, and he somehow brought up all the money Jeff Bezos has which somehow oddly segued into a Zen koan conversation. However, this time he spelled it Zen cone instead of Zen koan, which stopped me for a minute because I know he is smart. He is always correcting my English, grammar, politically incorrect statements I blurt out every other second, etc.

So…here’s how it went, a completely non sensical conversation that some-

Which then somehow brought me to my very own Jeff Bezos million-dollar idea!

I replied to Garrett, I’m going to open an ice cream shop called Zen Cones. An updated spiritual Baskin and Robbins approach with 32 Zen Cone flavors. (Any interested backers, please dm me!)

Here are some flavor names and ideas for the ingredients/menu ideas:

Flavor name… “What is the sound of ice cream melting?” …. This will be the new vanilla.

Flavor name…. “If a cone drops in the forest will anyone hear? “…. This will be named for the scoop that always falls off the sugar cone.

Flavor name… “If I gain 30 lbs. will anyone care?” …. A Chocolate fudge triple sundae.

Flavor name… “If I eat a Sundae on a Saturday, does it really count?” … Obviously a full on sundae.

Flavor name… “Can we all just get along?” …. This cone will be whatever the customer wants it to be. My new Zen Cone ice cream shop aims to please. •

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

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

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

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

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