The Observer Vol. 91 No. 7 – July 2026

Jewish OBSERVER

Riven Family Gift Establishes Endowed Chair for Belmont’s Office of Jewish Dialogue and Discovery

By ERIN WIDES

Atransformative gift from Jewish community member, Nashville businessman and philanthropist Steve Riven will strengthen the relationship between Belmont University and the Jewish community while helping secure the future of Jewish-Christian relations on campus.

Belmont recently announced the establishment of the Riven Family Endowed Chair and Director of Jewish Dialogue and Discovery, made possible through a major gift from Riven and matched by the university through its Johnson Academic Match Program.

The position will provide permanent leadership for the Office of Jewish Dialogue and Discovery while also serving as a faculty appointment. Through teaching and collaboration, the chair will foster interfaith learning and dialogue both on Belmont’s campus and across the greater Nashville community.

The Office of Jewish Dialogue and Discovery, established in 2020, is housed within The Rev. Charlie Curb Center for Faith Leadership. Following years of collaboration on interfaith initiatives and their friendship, plans for Jewish dialogue and discovery space began between Dr. Jon Roebuck, the Center’s execu-

tive director, and Rabbi Mark Schiftan, Belmont’s Jewish Faith Student Advisor. Schiftan said the announcement represents the culmination of years of work.

“It’s a very exciting time. This is a transformative gift for Belmont and for the local and national Jewish community,” Schiftan said.

The effort began as a partnership between Schiftan, Roebuck, and Belmont leadership and grew with support from both Jewish and Christian community members. For Belmont President Greg Jones, these efforts have remained a priority.

“There is no substitute for the wisdom that comes from faculty who can teach courses that deepen these engagements and cultivate friendships,” Jones said. “The Jewish community in Nashville is so vibrant, and we can help provide wisdom for the broader culture and world.”

Schiftan shared that he received a phone call from Riven who was inspired by their vision and wanted to be involved in supporting the Jewish community on campus. Riven went to school near Belmont and has had ties to the area for some time.

“It’s going to change this city. I have rarely been as enthusiastic about any-

thing in Nashville to date,” Riven said.

Over the past six years, the office has expanded through partnerships, advisory boards, lectures and gatherings that have brought members of Nashville’s Jewish community to Belmont’s campus.

“We’ve hosted a number of dinners at the president’s house for the Jewish community,” Schiftan said. “Again, unimaginable in the 100-year history of Belmont College and University.”

In late 2022, the university broadened its hiring policies to welcome Jewish faculty and students. The newly endowed chair is expected to build on that momentum.

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Excellence David Gregory, who has been part of these conversations for several years, emphasized the importance of relations with Jewish community.

“One thing I often say is that we have more in common to bring us together than differences that would push us apart,” Gregory said. “I deeply appreciate their friendship and their importance to the Nashville community and beyond.”

Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville CEO Judy Alperin echoed the significance of Riven’s gift and its broader impact.

“Steve has always walked the walk. He hasn’t just talked the talk,” Alperin said. “People have always been inspired by his actions and what he’s done. I think this takes it to a whole other level.”

Of Belmont’s nearly 9,000 students, about one percent identify as Jewish. For Schiftan, who has worked closely with both students and faculty, the gift represents more than an academic milestone.

“I think it’s a reminder to the Jewish community that we are not alone,” he said. “This could not have happened without the Christian community and Belmont’s leadership embracing the project. It shows we have true friends and allies.” •

Jewish Observer wins six national journalism awards

By ERIN WIDES

T

he Jewish Observer was presented with six Simon Rockower Awards during the American Jewish Press Association’s (AJPA) annual conference in New York. The Simon Rockower Awards recognize excellence in Jewish journalism across North America. Awards were given to stories published in 2025.

In the division for magazines and monthly newspapers, Nashville’s Jewish Observer won six of the awards, written by past editor, Barbara Dab.

“I’m proud of the work our team does to provide quality news and information to our community, and to be recognized is icing on the cake,” Dab said. “These awards are especially sweet since I am moving into retirement and

are a lovely way to cap off my work with the Federation. I am confident that under the new leadership of Erin Wides, the Observer will continue to grow.”

Below are the winning submissions:

Second place in The Boris Smolar Award for Excellence in Enterprise or Investigative Reporting, for “Rule of law: A tradition under pressure”

Honorable mention in the Award for Excellence in Writing about Health Care, for “IDF soldiers journey of healing: Transforming lives at Ramah Darom”

Honorable mention in the Award for Excellence in Writing about Sports, for “Driven by passion, fueled by legacy: Shwartzman’s path to the Indy 500”

Second place in the Award for Excellence in Writing about Antisemitism, for “Tennessee Jewish

communities strengthen security amid rising antisemitism”

Honorable mention in the Award for Excellence in Writing about Antisemitism, for “Nashville holds hate accountable in landmark civil rights conviction”

Honorable mention in The Michael Staenberg Award for Excellence in Writing about Jewish Philanthropy, for “A federation grant opened the door — Aurora Pfeiffer skated through it to win gold and silver”

Additionally, Vanderbilt University professor Shaul Kelner brought home first place for the Shalom Hartman Institute — Magazine, New York, NY, in the Award for Excellence in Writing about Antisemitism, for “American antizionism.” •

From left: Dr. Jon Roebuck, Steven Riven, Dr. Greg Jones, Rabbi Mark Schiftan

From the Federation’s CEO

A year of building, connecting, and celebrating who we are

By JUDY ALPERIN

When I joined the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville last June, I came with deep roots in Jewish communal life and a profound belief in what a Federation can be when it is firing on all cylinders. Not just as a fundraising organization, but as a connector, convener, funder, and innovator for the entire community. One year in, I am moved by what this community has shown me and energized by everything we are building together.

Here is a look back at some of the highlights of this remarkable first year.

Our 2025 Annual Campaign closed at the highest dollar amount since 2008. That milestone belongs to every donor, volunteer, and professional who made a call, wrote a check, or showed up for this community. Restoring a high-touch, relationship-driven campaign model — with lay leaders at the center — made all the difference. Dozens of community members stepped forward to volunteer on behalf of causes they believe in, and it showed. We held a well-received community campaign event featuring Alison Lebovitz and recaptured energy and enthusiasm around the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign.

One of the most meaningful experi-

ences of my first year was co-leading our first volunteer mission to Israel with our new Israel & Overseas Director, Jessica Cohen Banish. Watching community members connect to the land, to the people, and to each other in a post-October 7 context was extraordinary. The engagement we have seen among participants since returning is exactly what these missions are meant to produce. Deeper involvement, stronger giving, and a renewed sense of Jewish peoplehood. We welcomed the new Consul General of Israel and launched the brand-new Israel & Overseas Department.

Our Avi Poster Social Justice Seder was a highlight of the spring and a testament to what is possible when communities come together in genuine relationship. This year’s event deepened our ties with Nashville’s Catholic community in ways that felt truly meaningful. These are not just ceremonial gestures. They are the foundation of the coalition we need to stand against hate and build a stronger city together.

Throughout the year we held meetings and engaged in dialogue with diverse groups: The Church of Jesus Christ, Latter Day Saints, Indigenous Messengers, The Metro Nashville Human Rights Commission, the Nashville Catholic Archdiocese, the October 7 Coalition,

Another Year Has Passed

By NORMA SHIRK, COMMUNITY COORDINATOR, LIFE & LEGACY™ PROGRAM

Another year has passed for the LIFE & LEGACY™ program as we wrapped up Year 9 on June 30, 2026. It has been an eventful year, including an ice storm in January that canceled our annual celebration. In March, we welcomed a visit from Nicole Caine, our new Harold Grinspoon Foundation community representative.

The Nashville Jewish community has participated in the LIFE & LEGACY™ program since 2017. As of early June 2026, the program has generated more than $29.5 million in promised gifts to 14 participating organizations. The organizations have already received more than $5.2 million from donors.

The LIFE & LEGACY™ program was created by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation to support Jewish organizations across North America through partnerships with local Jewish federations and foundations, promoting after-lifetime giving.

Becoming a LIFE & LEGACY™ donor is an easy, straightforward process. A donor must sign a letter of intent (LOI), pledging a gift to one or more participating organizations. Donors in Nashville currently promise to leave a gift to an average of 2.2 organizations. Donors may then take up to a year to formalize their LOIs by adding a bequest to their will or naming their chosen organizations as beneficiaries of a retirement

account or life insurance policy.

When donors formalize their gifts, they may also choose the type of endowment fund that will be created when their gift is received. For example, a donor can establish a memorial fund or a donor-advised fund (DAF). Donors can also create written instructions describing how they would like the annual distributions from the fund to be used.

Another option is to create an annual campaign endowment (ACE) fund or a permanent annual campaign endowment (PACE) fund. The annual distribution from an ACE or PACE fund created at the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville will flow into the grants pool and support a variety of Jewish organizations locally and globally. Ensuring the financial resilience and longevity of the Jewish community has never been easier.

To celebrate this program, the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville will host communitywide events in August and October. These events will include guest speakers covering a variety of topics, including a death doula (an individual trained to support families during a terminal illness or the final days of a loved one) and the importance of creating a will and health care directive for college students and young adults. More details will be shared soon.

If you are not already a LIFE & LEGACY™ donor, you can obtain more information by contacting one of the participating organizations or the staff of the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville. •

and strengthened our partnership with the ADL.

This year also required us to navigate antisemitic incidents affecting our community. We did not shy away from that work, and we brought real resources and real results to bear.

I am proud that we hired a dedicated Secure Community Network (SCN) regional security advisor to address Jewish community security across Middle Tennessee, a recognition that our community is spread across a wide geography and that every Jewish family in this region deserves to feel safe.

Working in close partnership with the other Tennessee Federations, we also took our advocacy to the state capital — and won. Together, we successfully reinstated $1.25 million in the state budget for houses of worship security, a significant legislative achievement that will benefit Jewish institutions and communities of faith across Tennessee. This is what collective Jewish voice looks like in action.

On the federal level, I was honored to represent Nashville at the Jewish Federations of North America fly-in to advocate for the Jewish American Security Act and the Sacred Act, with the goal of increasing national funding levels to $1 billion and to provide buffer safety zones

at the entrance to houses of worship.

Representing the Jewish community in Nashville is one of the parts of this role I cherish most. This year I had the joy of bringing Chanukah to two Nashville morning television shows — a small but genuinely delightful moment of sharing who we are with the broader city. We also celebrated together at a hugely successful Jewish Community Night at a Nashville Predators game and marked history with our first annual Jewish Heritage Night at the Nashville Sounds — an event that exceeded every expectation and that we fully intend to grow.

I am especially proud of our work to re-energize and focus on Women’s Philanthropy and our Jewish Foundation this year. These programs have a proud legacy in our community, and with new energy, strong leadership, and a renewed commitment to engaging women philanthropists and all community builders, the future is bright.

A year in, I am more certain than ever that Greater Nashville’s Jewish community is poised for a remarkable chapter. We have an extraordinary lay leadership team, a staff that is talented and deeply committed, and a donor community whose generosity continues to humble me. There is much more to do, and I cannot wait to do it alongside all of you. •

The Jewish Foundation Is Your Charitable Planning Partner

By BARRY ALLEN, DIRECTOR OF PLANNED GIVING & ENDOWMENTS, AND MINDY HIRT, CHAIR, FOUNDATION STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL

We would like to invite you to play a game of “tell me the first two or three things you think of when I mention X”. If “X” is your children or grandchildren, we are sure you have images of family trips or celebrations, or their smiles and laughter during family gatherings. If “X” is the Nashville community, you may think of good times with friends, music you have heard and venues you have visited, your synagogue, the JCC, Hillel, Jewish Family Services, restaurants, the symphony, sporting events, or museums. If “X” is charitable planning, what comes to mind?

Believe it or not, the Jewish Foundation, an arm of our Federation, can enable you to make wonderful memories and lasting contributions for your children, grandchildren, the Nashville community, Israel, and beyond. When you are asked “tell me the first two or three things you think of when I mention the Foundation”, we want you to think of us as a resource for your charitable planning, and as a means to help you achieve your goals and aspirations for yourself, your family and your community.

Some of you already have established “designated funds” to support specific charities - locally, nationally, and internationally. Others may have created “donor advised funds” that allow you to support whichever charities you choose each year. Some of you may have set up

plans for “legacy” giving. You may have created B’nai Tzedek funds for Bar/Bat Mitzvah children and grandchildren to start them on their own philanthropic journey. Have you periodically revisited the funds you previously set up to see if they are still accomplishing your goals, or have those goals changed? We can help you with those evaluations.

On the other hand, maybe you have had the best of intentions to set up a fund to support a specific charity or activity, but you have not actually taken the extra steps to formalize your plans. Maybe you do not know how to begin and need some advice about possible alternatives. We are here to help you get started.

We want you to think of the Foundation as a trusted partner and resource to help you achieve your charitable goals. You do not need large sums of money to establish a fund; you can start small and build it over time. If you have a fund that you have not added to recently, we can help you with new contributions. If you are not sure whether an older fund is flexible enough for you, we can help you modify the fund, create a new one, consolidate funds, change the name, add new advisors, or make other needed modifications.

We are available to talk, to help you plan, and to assist you in achieving your charitable goals. For more information, or to begin a conversation, please contact Barry Allen, Director of Planned Giving & Endowments, for the Foundation. Call his office at 615-354-1637 or email him at barry@jewishnashville.org. Remember the Foundation and let us plan together! •

Launching the 2026 Annual Campaign: Building on Strength, Rising to the Moment

By ARLENE AVERBUCH AND HOWARD SAFER, ANNUAL CAMPAIGN CO-CHAI RS

The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville continues 2026 with deep gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility.

The past year was one of extraordinary generosity. For the second year in a row, our Annual Campaign grew significantly in both total donors and total dollars raised. In 2025, the average annual gift rose to $2,484, and more than 1,300 donors contributed to a record-setting $2.628 million—our strongest finish since 2008.

This achievement reflects the dedication of our community and the leadership of our 2025 campaign co-chairs, Arlene Averbuch and Jacob Kleinrock, along with our tireless Campaign Committee and volunteers.

These numbers matter. They tell a story of trust, commitment, and belief in Jewish Nashville. But they also reveal the work ahead.

Even with more than 1,300 donors, fewer than 10% of the 16,000+ Jewish residents in Greater Nashville currently participate in the Annual Campaign. And as our community grows, so do our needs. Security demands continue to rise. Scholarships for day schools, preschools, and camp are stretched thin. Our seniors need more support. Our institutions need

c c c c STAFF

Publisher Judy Alperin, CEO Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville

Editor Erin Wides

Editorial Assistant Reiley Zeitler

Editorial Intern Marly Boehm

Advertising Manager Carrie Mills

Layout and Production Tim Gregory

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

Telephone 615-354-1643

E-mail erin@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.

stronger infrastructure. Antisemitism requires constant vigilance and advocacy at the local, state, and national levels.

And today, the financial landscape is different than it was even a few years ago. With inflation currently at 4.2%, what once felt like a major gift simply does not stretch as far as it used to. The cost of security, education, social services, and community programming has risen sharply. Meeting today’s needs requires today’s dollars.

No one else will fight these battles for us. We must stand together.

Helping lead the 2026 Annual Campaign are Co-Chairs Arlene Averbuch and Howard Safer. Averbuch said she was trained to solicit when she was a young adult and loves engaging with others in our Jewish community.

“The Jewish Federation has been in all the communities I have lived in to help and support others,” she said. “I love that Federation supports our Jewish schools, congregations, organizations, and our community. We are always helping Jews all over the world when in need and, of course, Israel.”

Safer said there is an urgent need to reinforce and communicate the importance of Jewish values.

“We are all responsible for one another (shalom). We should respect all and value their differences (kavod). We need to support positive action for our community (kehillah),” he said.

Corrections Policy

The Jewish Observer is committed to making corrections and clarifications promptly. To request a correction or clarification, call Editor Erin Wides at 615-354-1643 or email her at erin@ 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 Erin Wides at erin@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 Erin Wides, 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.

And yet, our mission is not only to protect Jewish Nashville—it is to enrich it. To ensure that as our community grows, it remains welcoming, vibrant, and uniquely ours. To create pathways for every person to find their Jewish home here.

That is why every single gift matters. From a few dollars to six-figure leadership commitments, every contribution strengthens the fabric of Jewish life in Nashville. Every donor becomes part of the collective responsibility and collective joy of sustaining our community.

And for those who want to make an impact that lasts beyond their lifetime, legacy giving—through the Life & Legacy program or a planned gift— ensures that future generations inherit a strong, secure, and thriving Jewish Nashville. Legacy donors are the quiet visionaries who make tomorrow possible.

The 2026 Annual Campaign is our opportunity to build on the momentum of 2025 and rise to the challenges of the year ahead with unity, courage, and generosity.

Op-Ed

The Path Forward

The 2026 Annual Campaign is not simply about raising more money—though we must. It’s about expanding the circle of people who feel connected to, invested in, and proud of Jewish Nashville. It is about ensuring that:

• Every child who wants a Jewish education can access one.

• Every senior can age with dignity and community.

• Every family feels safe walking into a Jewish space.

• Every institution has the strength to serve.

• Every Jew in Nashville—longtime residents and newcomers alike—can find belonging.

• Every donor, at every level, knows their gift is meaningful and valued.

• Every legacy gift helps secure our future.

• Every dollar keeps pace with rising costs and rising needs. This is our moment to protect what makes Jewish Nashville special, and enrich it for generations to come. •

My Story Is Not Unique— And That’s Why Your Call Matters

By MIRIAM LEIBOWITZ

When I was asked to chair Tzedekah Tzunday, on Sunday, August 23, a flood of memories came rushing back. Memories of my early years in Nashville working for the Gordon Jewish Community Center (GJCC) and the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, and especially of coordinating this volunteer event, which I last staffed in January 2009.

This year’s campaign theme is Jewish Journeys, and I can’t imagine a more fitting description of my 21 years in Nashville. From brises and baby namings to Shabbat services with my grandparents in assisted living, and everything in between, Jewish life in Nashville has shaped me, as I know it has shaped so many of you. And it all begins with supporting the 2026 Jewish Federation Annual Campaign.

My own journey started in college, when I invited Jane Eskind to speak at a lunch and learn during my internship with the Tennessee Bicentennial Commission at the State Planning Office. She was then a Brandeis University board member, and I was awed by her political drive and commitment to Jewish leadership.

When I moved to Nashville in 2005, my siblings and their families were already deeply involved in the community, and my beloved Grandma Roz and Papa had relocated here to be closer to the grandkids. Papa had stayed with the Bubis family during WWII while passing through Nashville as a pilot, and later returned in the 1960s to open Midas shops around town. He walked the treadmill at the GJCC regularly, all five nieces and nephews attended the GJCC preschool and Akiva, and I became the GJCC teen director and BBYO city director.

Friends from Brandeis, BBYO, and Camp Ramah welcomed me immediately. I made new friends through young adult programming and through the network of Jewish communal professionals who helped me find my footing.

Over the years, I’ve been privileged to serve Jewish Nashville in many ways. I’ve sat on the Sherith Israel board, started a garden there, and taught Sunday School at both Sherith and Micah. I facilitated the Hadera teen program and still keep in touch with many of the teens I once shuttled around town. In December 2006, I led a Hurricane Katrina clean-up mission to New Orleans with 23 community members, and days later traveled to Kiryat Shemona to clean bomb shelters after the Second Lebanon War—where I spotted Federation-funded air-conditioning units keeping those shelters livable.

I’ve volunteered with the Nashville Jewish Film Festival, organized toiletries drives for Jewish Family Services (JFS), and received JFS financial assistance myself more than once. I’ve brought Jewish speakers, entertainers, and authors to Nashville, served on the Jewish Community Relations Council, helped organize the Black-Jewish Alliance, and participated in the GJCC’s Jewish Book Series.

I’ve spoken at Israeli peace rallies, collaborated with Rabbi Shana Mackler on a Purim shpiel, catered community events and simchas while working for SOVA, donated art and cooking skills to GJCC auctions, and enjoyed the outdoor pool as often as possible.

And here’s the truth: I am not unique. So many of us have been touched by the institutions, programs, and relationships that the Jewish Federation supports. Our lives are intertwined with the Continued on page 4

Nashville Jewish Film Festival marks new date and Advisory Council

By MARLY BOEHM

This year marks several changes for the Nashville Jewish Film Festival, including an earlier start date of August 18, and a new advisory council.

The Nashville Jewish Film Festival (NJFF), now in its 26th year, is expanding its leadership from its co-directors, Laurie Eskind and Loretta Saff, to include a new 11-member advisory council.

Fran Brumlik, film enthusiast and the festival’s managing director of fourteen years, described the process of choosing new members for the council. “We looked for people who had continual presence at the film festival,” she said, “who were sponsors and came to activities, events, and films, and who had something to offer us.”

Each member of the council oversees a specific task. Brumlik described how Sara Cohan, a new council member and educator known internationally as an expert on the Armenian Genocide,

Op-Ed

Continued from page 3

community we’ve built together.

That’s why I hope you will join me on August 23, from 9 a.m. -3 p.m., for Tzedekah Tzunday. By volunteering to make calls and send texts, by pledging to the 2026 Annual Campaign, and by

brings a level of education to film discussions. Cohan has been volunteering with the film fest since 2016 and is now a council member overseeing student films.

“I was happy to join,” Cohan shared, describing her work with film fest as “a small way of contributing to the preservation of Jewish culture.” Cohan described the camaraderie between the volunteers, council members, and attendees as a highlight of the festival. “It’s a wonderful feeling to be in a space shared by all these amazing people, and discussing contemporary Jewish film,” she said.

Michael Dobrin, on the other hand, is a council member who attends film festivals all over the country. In charge of soliciting new sponsors, Dobrin has been attending the film fest since its beginning. He shared that his favorite part of the festival are the films with discussions, guest speakers, and Q&A’s, particularly on opening and closing nights.

In 2001, Laurie Eskind co-founded the festival, hoping to encourage the

supporting the day with your time, energy, or refreshments, your participation strengthens local, national, Israeli, and global Jewish needs.

I look forward to working together to sustain our Jewish institutions, nurture our programs, and ensure that Jewish Nashville remains a welcoming home for newcomers and long-time residents alike. •

community. “We wanted it to be something that the community embraced, enjoyed and looked forward to,” Eskind shared, “and we think we’ve accomplished that.”

Eskind described the balance of different films chosen for the festival. “A lot of our films are from all over the world with subtitles,” she said. The films span a variety of styles and Jewish-related content, including documentaries, narratives, and feature films. Most films in the festival also have a relevant speaker to give an introduction, some background information, and facilitate discussion after the credits.

Watching these films in the community is a highlight for Eskind.

“I love being in a theater with other people, and feeling and hearing their reactions,” she shared. Brumlik also shared how she too enjoys the discussion and debate, particularly the excitement in the room when people have different opinions about a movie.

The new advisory council gives the NJFF a wider outreach to draw more people into the theatres and encourage more involvement. “These are important movies for Jewish Identity and Jewish education, and that’s why we want people to see them,” Brumlik said.

It’s one thing to watch a film at home, but it is quite another to see it in a theatre with others and engage in community discussion. “It’s a jewel for Nashville to have a Jewish film festival,” Brumlik shared, “and we would love everybody to be part of it…to help us keep the festival going.”

Opening night is August 18 at the Belcourt Theatre. The NJFF will open the festival with a documentary called “Dust Bowls and Jewish Souls.” The film is about Woody Guthrie, popular folk singer and writer of “This Land is Your Land,” and his connection with Jewish culture.

More information about this year’s film festival can be found on their website at www.nashvillejff.net. •

Preparing for the Inevitable

By NORMA SHIRK, COMMUNITY COORDINATOR, LIFE & LEGACY™ PROGRAM

Life hits us with many expected and unexpected events. Some are acts of nature, like tornadoes, floods, and ice storms. We all know how to prepare for these disruptions. We charge our phones and we stock up on food that will remain edible even if we lose power. We may create survival packages for the family in case we have to evacuate, and we obsessively watch weather updates.

But some of the most difficult events in life are expected because they are inevitable. Life has a cycle. If you are from a large extended family, as I am, there is always someone being born, getting married, getting a new job, retiring, and inevitably dying.

At all stages of life’s cycle, we know that we need to be prepared. Being prepared means protecting the financial security of our families with life insurance and retirement accounts. Being prepared

also means letting our families know what we want by creating a will and powers of attorney that cover our finances and our healthcare.

More recently, being prepared means having emotional support for our families. Emotional support can be provided by hospice care and by death doulas. Death doulas provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support for individuals nearing the end of life and their families.

On August 16, 2026, the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville and the LIFE & LEGACY™ program will host an event to discuss life’s inevitable expected events. The keynote speaker for the event is Sarit Wishnevski, executive director of Kavod v’Nichum (www. kavodvnichum.org).

In addition to the speakers, attorneys will be available to assist individuals needing simple wills (few assets, no children) or healthcare powers of attorney.

Program registration will open soon. Stay tuned for more details. •

Jewish Federation CEO

Joins Leadership Nashville’s 50th Class

By ERIN WIDES

Afamiliar name is among the more than 40 individuals selected for this year’s Leadership Nashville’s upcoming class. Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville CEO Judy Alperin joins the 50th class.

“I am beyond excited to be part of the Leadership Nashville cohort and look forward to what I know will be an invaluable experience for me,” Alperin said. “This will create many opportunities to strengthen our community and its place within the broader Nashville community.”

The program’s Executive Director Evette White credits their success the

past 49 years to the diverse leadership experience of its participants.

“Selection for each carefully curated class is difficult because of the large number of very qualified applicants,” White stated. Those selected for this class were chosen from over 300 applications. The selection process takes place each spring. Nominations come in year round for established leaders who are willing to devote the time and effort to an in-depth study of Metro Nashville Davidson County.

The course begins in September and focuses on city history and current issues related to government & media, diversity, business, education, quality of life, health, arts & entertainment and public safety. •

Mosaic Butterflies Complete Improvements to Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial Ahead of 20th Anniversary Celebration

By MARSHA RAIMI

Thirty mosaic butterfly sculptures were recently installed at Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial. This marks the completion of four years of major changes, the first made since its creation in 2006. In a full circle moment, the butterflies brought to fruition a vision to create a comprehensive Children’s Memorial which began on Yom HaShoah 2022.

The journey started with the installation of a tree sculpture to remember the 1.5 million children murdered during the Holocaust and honor the many thousands of orphaned and scarred children who survived. As sculptor and son of survivors, Alex Limor explains when he gives tours of the Memorial, “Among the orphaned children were my father, Irvin and my uncle, Menachem. Among the murdered was their young brother, Vovek. Their simple, pure and ordered childhood prior to the Holocaust is symbolized by the pristine fluted trunk

of this oxidized steel tree,” Limor said. “When the Nazis invaded, these flutes splintered into a rigid chaos of branches and twigs, as did their childhoods. Hope for future generations of Jewish children is symbolized by the new growth of patina bronze leaves and the butterflies they will attract.”

The addition of the sculpture kicked off a wave of other changes. Stadiumstyle benches were added next to the tree, a new stop along the tour path was created so that a monument near the tree could be moved; and Limor fabricated a large welcome sign for the Memorial’s entrance. During these changes, the memorial committee searched for ways to incorporate butterflies into the Children’s Memorial because of their significance in Holocaust remembrance.

In fall 2023, Ellis Prichard, a religious school student at West End Synagogue and Boy Scout in a Brentwood-based troop, asked the committee if there was anything he could add to the site to

qualify as his Eagle Scout project. In spring 2024, Prichard and a dozen other members of Troop 418 at Holy Family Church installed a planter box near the welcome sign and filled it with native Tennessee plants that attract butterflies. At his initiation ceremony this spring, his troop leader said it was one of the most meaningful Eagle Scout projects he was involved in.

The committee was inspired to add five additional planter boxes, next to the path leading to the tree sculpture, where a new monument was installed, explaining its purpose. Paver stones honoring recent donors were added, starting at the sculpture.

Finally, last month, the mosaic butterflies created by middle school students from several of Nashville’s Jewish congregations were installed in the planter boxes. The artistic and live butterflies bring a whole new look and joy to Nashville’s Holocaust Memorial as it marks twenty years of existence.

On Sunday, October 25, 2026, there will be an anniversary celebration of the memorial. Bring your family, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. Learn about the many connections Nashvillians have to Holocaust victims and survivors. To book a docent-led tour or learn more about the Anniversary Celebration, email nashvilleholocaustmemorial@gmail.com.

Nova Market & Cafe Celebrates One Year in Nashville

By MARLY BOEHM

On August 7th, Nova Market & Café, Nashville’s only kosher market, will celebrate its first year. Located in Bellevue, the market is run by Vered Arony and her daughter Ornit Arony. Together, this mother-daughter duo offers kosher goods, serves homemade Israeli food, and hosts a variety of Jewish events. Over the past year, amidst the challenges of opening a new business and surviving a Nashville ice storm, Nova has grown, beyond just food, into a thriving community hub.

Born in Israel, Ornit and her mother opened Nova as a space for people to come together, eat, and experience a taste of Israel’s warm Jewish community, right here in Nashville. “My mom calls it mini Israel here,” said Arony.

As its name suggests, Nova hosts a market and a café. The market is stocked with Israeli brands and other kosher goods, including a variety of meats like chicken, beef, turkey, hot dogs, sausages, and cold cuts. Every morning in the bakery, Vered bakes homemade, fresh goods like challahs, bourekas, rugalach, and more. Nova also caters, offers food to-go, and serves sit-down meals in its café area.

Stacy, a first-time customer stopping by the market from Houston, Texas, described how finding a kosher market in Nashville was a huge blessing. She mentioned the difficulty of finding kosher food for her family while traveling. “Getting access to this is a huge advantage,” Stacy said, “and having somewhere to get hot food is so beneficial for the Jewish community.”

Nova has also grown into something much deeper than food; it has grown into a vibrant hub of Jewish family and home. “I thought that Nova would be a market, but it’s completely changed,” Arony said.

“It became another community spot.”

Nova has hosted a variety of events, including music nights, pizza nights, a challah bake, Jewish holiday celebrations, and ladies’ and men’s events. It also provides a space for regular group meetings, like Mahjong. On Fridays, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nova offers its “No one eats alone on Shabbos,” where the tables are set with tablecloths, flowers, and candles, for people to enjoy an early Erev Shabbat space with others.

Nova also hosts a Hebrew language group once a month. Amber Beckham Northrop, a lifelong Nashvillian, shared how, with Ornit’s support, she started a Hebrew meet-up at Nova to learn Hebrew and practice with other fellow learners.

“None of us are teachers,” Northrop said, “but what I love about it is that we incorporate local Israelis who speak Hebrew into the meeting.” Together, over dinner or cups of coffee, the group

learns and supports each other. Nova is “truly a blessing,” Northrop shared. “[Arony is] a light to the city by opening her doors and having such a warm heart to everyone.”

Over the past year, Nova also experienced its share of challenges. In January, Nashville experienced a major ice storm that left thousands of homes and businesses without power. It left Nova without power for ten days and more than $20 thousand lost in refrigerated and frozen food.

“But the beautiful thing is that the community came together and they did a GoFundMe, and they raised $17 thousand,” said Arony.

Even though the ice storm was a challenge, it also showed the community’s support for Nova. “It showed us the community does care, and they do want us here,” Arony said. She is deeply grateful to everyone who donated, expressing a special thank you to one donor, anonymous even to her, who donated $7,000.

Ornit and Vered have built good relationships with the neighboring shop owners, whose religious backgrounds include Christian, Muslim, and Bahai. “We love each other,” Arony said. “I send them customers, they send me cus-

tomers.” She described how in the Israeli community, everyone knows everyone. “In Israel, there’s no way you don’t know your whole block.”

People and community are the beating heart of Nova. Throughout the interview, Arony often paused what she was saying to welcome in a new customer, crack a joke, or thank someone for coming. Several customers stopped to talk, including multiple local regulars, and two returning customers from South Africa. “There’s always someone to talk to,” she shared. “We do it all here, everything from the friend to the therapist, we see all of it.”

On one wall of Nova hang the framed faces of people lost in the wake of October 7th. Arony shared how each person on the wall was chosen because “they have a direct relation to the people that live here in Nashville.” Hanging on the wall straight across from them is another collage of faces: people who are part of Nashville’s Jewish community. Both walls show how, amidst the constant tension of both pain and joy, the Jewish community in Nashville is still strong. Nashville’s Jewish family is still connected, and always ready to share good conversation over a plate of Nova’s fresh, homemade Israeli hummus. •

Nashville BBYO Welcomes New Director

B’nai B’rith Youth Organization (BBYO) welcomes Alyssa Brodie as their new director for the region. Brodie is part of the BBYO Genesis Fellowship program. This role focuses on building relationships with teens, expanding programming, and supporting the growth of local BBYO chapters.

Originally from Miami, Florida, Brodie graduated from Boston University with a degree in communication and a minor in international relations. She credits BBYO for helping her to solidify her values, find her voice, her confidence, and some of her favorite people. She is excited to be back with BBYO to support and cheer on the next generation of Jewish teens. Brodie is a SAG-AFTRA actress, and has appeared in films, TV shows, commercials, and music videos.

BBYO says they are excited to have Brodie join the region and look forward to what the future holds. Parents and

teens have the chance to meet her at her upcoming events.

Schmear & Schmooze with Alyssa Brodie

Get to know the new Nashville BBYO Director and JCC Maccabi Delegation Head, Alyssa Brodie. Meeting at Benji’s Bagels - West. Free bagels and schmoozing.

- July 12, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. - July 19, 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

Save the Date: BBYO Fall Kick Off Sunday, August 30 1 p.m.- 3 p.m. at Pins Mechanical Games, drinks, and snacks $25 to attend

Open to all teens (8th grade-12th grade)

A registration link will be available on BBYO’s website closer to the event. Email Alyssa for any questions or to be added to her email list: abrodie@bbyo.org •

Nova Market & Cafe owners Vered Arony and her daughter Ornit Arony.

Hebrew language group meeting at Nova.

A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss the Words “Never Again”

By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM

F

rank: Never again is a solemn vow, most notably associated with the Holocaust, promising that genocide and mass atrocities against Jews will never again be permitted. The Holocaust, which killed six million Jews during the second world war, was one of the greatest atrocities ever committed against human beings and was an attempt by the Nazis to rid the world of the Jew through a process termed genocide which is a planned and purposeful elimination of a people. When Hitler took power in 1933, the world contained 15.3 million Jews with 60% living in Europe. During the 12 years in power, Hitler and his minions, using gas chambers, ovens, mass shootings, torture, and starvation slaughtered two thirds of Europe’s population of Jews. It has taken 81 years to finally reach a population of

Since the end of this incredible and unbelievable attempt to rid the world of Jews, two words surfaced on the lips of most every living Jew, “Never Again.” Never again would Jews allow for the world to attempt to destroy its people. Never again would such a tragedy be allowed to happen. These two words are now being heard more loudly than ever as we listen to the words of Iranian leaders who have dedicated their mission to “wipe Israel off the face of the map.”

Mark, it seems that with Iran’s threat to produce atomic weapons the world needs to understand it must stop Iran from manufacturing atomic bombs which they have said they would use to destroy the State of Israel. If ever there was a time to fulfill the meaning and actions of the words “Never Again,” it is now.

What are your thoughts on all this?

Mark: Frank, the truth is that, for most Americans and other citizens of the world, the threat of the annihilation of Israel by the Islamic Republic of Iran occupies absolutely no place on the radar screens of their minds. It is an abstract, academic question, one totally detached from their daily lives.

For Israel, in contrast, it presents a noticeably clear and present danger. It is a very real, very close and very much of an existential threat. As Jews, we have read this script many times before, including in our recent past, in the horrors that befell our people in the past century in the Holocaust. In that sense, we are largely alone in understanding and comprehending the full extent of what this threat means, not only to the Jewish state, but to every Jew who supports the right of that state of Israel to exist.

And therein lies the heart of the matter: When we say, “Never Again” we are not saying that attacks on Jews will end. Rather, it is our declaration, as the Jewish people, that we will never again respond to those attacks by silence, indecision, indifference, or inaction. Every people, including the Jewish people, has the right to defend itself, its institutions, its ideals, its hopes, and dreams…and its biblical and ancestry homeland.

Therefore, it is incumbent on every Jew to support Israel’s right to defend itself from threats to its existence; it is our duty to support the lives of the millions of our brothers and sisters who call the Jewish state their home. In many ways, their safety is also ours. They send their sons and daughters into harm’s way, to protect and preserve a sanctuary and a refuge for all of us, a place of safe and

A Reflection on Holocaust Education Summit

By ADELINE ELLISON

At the beginning of June, the Tennessee Holocaust Commission hosted the Vise Family Holocaust Education Summit, a program focused on exploring the mosaic of Holocaust victims through literature and the arts. More than 60 educators from across Tennessee, ranging from elementary to high school, gathered at The Temple. As the JCRC associate, the ability to understand the landscape of Tennessee schools and the realities facing our educators was insightful.

It was a full two days of thoughtful discussions about how to teach the Holocaust in a way that would meet the students where they are. The conditions our students are navigating these days are eye-opening; a theme that surfaced was the increasing presence of AI. An educator shared that when teaching the Holocaust, they have had students ask if the haunting images of suffering were AI. This skepticism of the truth permeates the culture of the schools today.

The Summit explored several power-

ful themes, including: the persecution of queer men, the genocide of the Romani people, collections of wartime diary entries from young people, the reclaiming of agency by women, and the power of art as a form of expression and recognition. One of the most compelling aspects was the way speakers wove in individual stories, showing how grounding broad historical concepts in personal narratives makes them more tangible and digestible.

The Summit’s keynote speaker was Newbery Medal–winning author Lois Lowry, best known for Number the Stars, a widely taught book that introduces young readers around the world to the history of World War II. Her talk, which was open to the broader community, drew nearly 400 attendees. It featured powerful storytelling and rich insights into the inspiration that shaped the book.

While the Summit was undeniably heavy and somber, I left with a deep sense of optimism and gratitude for our Tennessee educators who remain committed to preserving Holocaust memory and ensuring it continues to resonate with future generations. •

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

secure ingathering for every Jew, in every place, in any moment of need.

Frank, there is yet another way to define the term “Never Again.” It means that we need to remind ourselves and others of why we say those words. That is the way in which Jews worldwide can defend the Jewish state and the Jewish people. It is in how we respond to the threats we face in our communities. It is in how we educate ourselves about the realities of our history, so that we might be better able to educate others with whom we come into contact in our lives. What is your response to this?

Frank: Mark, I totally agree with you that “Never Again” means we as a Jewish people need to remind the world of why we say these words and that we have a God given right to defend ourselves to avoid yet another Holocaust. There is a historical event that best exemplifies this concept of “Never Again.”

In the first few days of the 1973 Yom Kippur War, an unprepared Israel was at a serious risk of being overrun by the Egyptian and Syrian armies invading Israel from the North and South. Israel’s Prime Minister Golda Meir placed a latenight call to the American Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and told him that she needed the United States to immediately send Israel replacement tanks, airplanes, guns and ammunition or Israel and its people ran a significant risk of being destroyed. Golda is said to have told Kissinger that if he did not send immediate help, Damascus and Cairo would no longer exist, meaning Israel would use its atomic weapons to avoid destruction of the State of Israel. In other words, “Never Again” was the underpinning of what was meant by this threat.

The very next day, America did send Israel what was needed and Israel was able to defend itself and win this threatening war to destroy the Jewish state. Since there is no absolute documented evidence that these words by Prime Minister Meir were spoken, there remains some debate among historical scholars that Golda Meir did make this threat to Kissinger. Nevertheless, this event does highlight the nuance of the words, “Never Again.” Israel and its people will not yield to its destruction. Because Iran has threatened to wipe Israel off the face of the map and would need atomic weapons to achieve this goal, Israel and America are doing all they can to avoid Iran from obtaining atomic weapons. This is “Never Again” in action.

The Jewish people throughout the world and in the State of Israel want nothing more than to be able to live in peace with its neighbors. Repeatedly, Israel has offered land and peace to Arabs and repeatedly, its numerous neighbors have declined the offer. Their response was put forth after the six-day war in 1967 and has been labeled as the “three no’s”. No peace with Israel, no recognition of Israel, and no negotiations with Israel.

“Never Again” may not be well understood by non-Jews, but it is well understood by the fifteen million Jews throughout the world. I pray for the words “Never Again” to someday never be needed again. •

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

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

2026 Kehillah Award Winner

The 2026 Kehillah Award – formally known as the Ralph Shepherd Award, a recognition that dates back to the 1940s – was presented at the JCC Annual Meeting this past June by Nashville BBYO Director and Maccabi Delegation Head, Alyssa Brodie. The award honors a high school senior who demonstrates exceptional leadership and involvement in both the Jewish community and the greater Nashville community.

This year’s recipient, Griffin Stepakoff, was recognized for his leadership, service, and wide-ranging involvement throughout high school. A student at Hume-Fogg High School, Stepakoff is

an AP Scholar with Distinction, senior yearbook editor, lacrosse player, chapter president of Best Buddies Tennessee, and a BBYO regional leader who was named “Aleph of the Year.”

Selected through a blind vote by past award recipients, Stepakoff stood out for his commitment to building community and helping others feel included. In addition to the distinction of the award, the winner receives a $1,000 educational gift from the Doyne Family Fund at the Jewish Foundation.

Fellow nominees included Micah Rosenbloom, Abby Bauman, Ben Bauman, and Madeline Krakauer. •

Senior Move Management Services

“Always the right move. ”

Make sure to let them know...you saw their ad here! Visit The Jewish Observer’s website www.jewishobservernashville.org

Thank you!

The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, on behalf of the 14 participating organizations in the LIFE & LEGACY™ program, recognizes our community members who have chosen to leave a legacy to secure the future of our community. As we celebrate the end of Year 9 of the program, our community has secured 894 letters of intent with an estimated value of $29.5 million. Over $5 million has already been received by the organizations. Thank you for your support!

Key: Blue means donor has formalized gift as of June 1, 2026 z”l – zichron L’Vracha – May their memory be for a blessing

Anonymous (31)

Anonymous (43)

Stephen and Robin Abelman

Richard and Patricia Abelson

Ken Adler

Kevin and Theresa Alexandroni

Barry Allen

Heidi Allen

Peter Allingham

Judy Allington-Baum

Denise Alper

Phyllis Alper, Estate of K.N. and Felicia Anchor

Avishay Aroas

Harvey Asher

Lawrence A. Averbuch

Richard Barnett

Carla Baron

Howard and Joy Baum

Gil Ben Ami

Adele Berkon

Minnie Berlin, Estate of

Ann Bernard, Estate of

Tommy Bernard

Brian and Didi Biesman

Merle Born

Jeremy and Jamie Brook

Louis H. Brooks, Estate of Starlet Burney

Kathryn F. Calhoon

Marjean Coddon and Henry Johs

Lynne Cohen

Marcia Cohen

Mark A. and Robin Cohen

Richard and Teena Cohen

Sandy Cohen

Terri Z. Cohen

Victoria Cohen-Crumpton

Erin Coleman

Micah Coleman

Pamela Compton

Lanie and Bill (z”l) Cook

Lauren Cooper

Renette and Abe Corenswet (z”l)

Mary Cornelius and Elaine Taubin

John M. and Barbara Dab

Karen Daniel

Norman and Melissa Davis

Michael Doochin

Ben and Tish Doochin

Karen A. Dotter

Adam and Julie Dretler

Michael and Mindy Drongowski

Ari Dubin and Abigail Wolf

Jerry A. Dubin and Rabbi

Debbie Israel

Chris Ehresman and Beth Davis

Steven (z”l) and Gay Eisen

Dan and Jill Eisenstein

Jason Elbaz

William E. Engel

Annette Eskind (z”l)

Richard Eskind

Billy and Jamie Eskind

David and Vicki Estrin

Kevin and Andrea Falik

Jesse and Anna Feld

Stan Schklar and Marco

Fernandez

Suriva Fischer

James and Royce Fishel

Brad and Lori Fishel

Nancy Gail Flexer

Richard and Lisa B. Forberg

Julie Fortune and Tony Jackson

Gilbert III and Joyce (z”l) Fox

Gil Fox (z”l)

Marilyn G. Foyer

Gary and Carol Fradkin

Joe Freedman

Mark S. Freedman and Leslie J. Klein

Dara Freiberg

Donald A. and Joyce E. Friedman

Eitan Friedman

Nili Friedman

Robert Friedman

Lawrence B. Fuldauer

Ron and Faith Haber Galbraith

Elliott Garrett

Linda Geringer

Frank and Barbara Ghertner

Harris A. Gilbert (z”l)

Andrew and Jessica Ginsberg

Natalie Glazer

Mark Glazer and Cindy Stone

Bruce Howard Gold

Michael and Cindee S. Gold

Charles R. Goldberg

Mark Goldfarb

Dr. Fred and Martha U. Goldner (z”l)

Dan and Amy Goldstein

Deana Goldstein

Kimberly Goldstein

Bernie Goldstein (z”l)

Lenn E. and Roberta Goodman

Frank and Gwen Gordon

Joel C. Gordon (z”l)

Robert Gordon

Lorna Graff

Ralph Greenbaum

Julie Greenberg

Illene B. Gross

Daniel Grossman

Michael and Lee (z”) Gryll

Reta Guttman (z”l)

Rinah Hamberger

Jim Handler

Grant Hansell

Shayna Hansen

Brianna Harper

Spencer Harper

John and Heidi Hassenfeld

Rachel Hauber

Ron and Lynn Heady

Steve and Sandra Hecklin

Arnold and Vivian Heiser (z”l)

David Heller

Eugene (z”l) and Reva Heller

Richard and Toni Heller

Greg Hersh

Bruce and Rae Hirsch

Steven and Ellen Hirsch

Gary Hirschberg and Hannah Bloom

Doug and Melanie Hirt

Kenneth and Mindy Hirt

Adam and Ilana Horn

Rabbi Daniel and Eliezah

Hoffman

Anita Howards

Aryeh Hurwitz

Larry and Carol Hyatt

Seth and Sharone Hyatt

Raymond and Nancy Jacobs

Gail Gordon Jacobs

Shoshana Jaffa

Marsha Jaffa

Mary Loventhal Jones

Frances Kaminitz, Estate of

Rabbi Kenneth A. Kanter

Aron and Batia Karabel

Jeffrey & Brenda Karp

Jackie Karr

Marion A. Katz (z”l)

Dr. Steve Kaufman

Saul and Pam Kelner

Paula Kholos

Judy Kilgore

Lloyd King

Terry Klein King

Leslie Kirby and Craig Smith (z”l)

Howard Kirschner

Robert and Devora Kitchener

Ruth Klar

Marvin and Evelyn Koch

Laurence B. Koch (z”l)

Martin A and Sherri G. Kooperman

Jerry Kosten, Estate of

of Greater Nashville

Alan Koufer

Keith and Meryl Kraft

Lee and Glenda Kraft

Rabbi Joshua Kullock

Gus Kuhn, Estate of Adam and Valerie Landa

Jeremy and Diana Landa

Roslyn B. Landa

Brian and Kim Lapidus

Stephen and Leslye K. Lapidus

Joseph A. Lattke

Michael and Arielle Lebovitz

Paul and Ruth Lebovitz

Matt Leff

Aaron and Celia Lerch

Daniel and Kristine Levin

Lawrence and Carolyn Levine

Michael and Sherrie Levine

Mark Edward Levitch, Estate of Michael J. and Ellen G. Levitt

Ruth Levitt

Bennett Lieberman

George Lieberman

Phil Lieberman and Yedida Eisenstat

Jan Abby Liff

Martin and Ann Light

Mitchell Light

Alex and Bobbie Limor

Miri Limor

Menachem and Lea Limor (z”l)

Yuri Livshitz

Sheldon and Diana (z”l) Lutz

James Mackler

Josh and Rena Malkovsky-Berger

Brian and Victoria Marger

Dru Markle-Bloom

James A. and Patrice G. Marks

Andrew May

Emily May

Jack May

Martin and Barbara Mayden

Marisa Mayhan

Monica McCready

Sara Melamed

Warren Melamed

Robert and Bonnie Miller

Scott Miller

Steve Morris

Irene Nagrotsky

Evan Nahmias

Norma Neaderthal, Estate of Jacob R. and April Nemer

Robert and Martha L. Nemer

Simon and Lisa Newman

Harvey J. and Barbara H. Olsher

Scott and Anna-Gene O’Neal

Richard Orland and LaQuita

Martin

Laurel Orley

Susan Pankowsky

Andy Pargh

Bernard and Maria Pargh

Franklin Pargh

Frank and Elaine Parker (z”l)

Moises and Sharon Paz

Joe Perlen

Arthur and Lisa Perlen

Maxine Perlen

Dr. Stewart and Suzy Perlman

Ralph Pilsk, Estate of

Jessica Pinsly

Jonathan Poster and Leora Horn

Stephen J. and Ellen Vinocur

Potash

Peter S. (z”l) and Ruth G. Pressman

David and Edria Ragosin

Marsha Raimi

Sylvia Rapoport

Abe and Virginia W. Rapoport (z”l)

Steven and Esther Remer

Rabbi Flip and Rabbi Laurie Rice

Thomas and Audrey Rice

Dudley and Peggy Richter

Evan Rittenberg

Stephen S. Riven

Bruce C. Robins

Van Robins

Russ and Leslie Robinson

Michael and Ellen Rosen

Betty Lee Rosen, Estate of

Scott Rosenberg

S. Trent Rosenbloom and Ellie Weiss

Rodney and Lynne L. Rosenblum

Mark and Carla Rosenthal

Jon and Iris Rotker

Howard C. Rubin

Marilyn Rubin

Eileen Ruchman

Ben and Marissa Russ

Freya M. Sachs

Eugene and Ruthi Sacks

Larry Sacks

Kenneth and Marla Sanderson

Michael Sanderson

Andy and Laura Saul

Laura P. Saul

Leslie Sax

Mark and Goldie Shepard

Mike and Lisa Shmerling

Phillip and Laura Shmerling

Richard and Molly Schneider

Andrew and Rachel Schulman

James and Suzanne Schulman

Barbara W. Schwartz, Estate of

Charlotte Seloff (z”l)

Faye Serkin (z”l)

Joan Shayne

Martin H. Singer

Beverly Small (z”l)

Brian and Shannon Small

Doug and Bonnie Small

Elise Small

Stephen and Lisa Small

Robert Smith

Russell and Judith Smith

Larry and Barbara Speller

Nan E. Speller

Shirley Speyer

Avi and Rachel Spielman

Dr. Richard and Dr. Adele Stein

Patti and David Steine, Jr.

Sarah K. Sten

Lee T. and Marcia Stewart

Eric Stillman

Hope S. Stringer

Rabbi Saul Strosberg and Rabba

Daniella Pressner

Elaine Taubin

Andrea Thaler

Ted Thaler

Rabbi Yitzchok and Esther Tiechtel

Alyssa Trachtman

Michelle Trachtman

Sy Trachtman (z”l)

Cynthia Trainer

Debra Turriciano

Jacob and Kelly Unger

Joyce A. Vise, Estate of

Adam and Katie Wayne

Howard L. and Karen Weil

Rami and Janet Weismark

Chaim Weitman

Daniel Weitz

Cathy and Tony Werthan

Melissa Werthan

Moshe and Libby Werthan

Rachel Whitney

Titus and Christie Wiemers

Richard and Beth Wise

Stuart and Debbie Wiston

Larry and Sally Wolfe (z”l)

Yoseph Yaffe

Uzi and Yaara Yemin

Greg and Erin Zagnoev

Barbara Zander

Rebekah Zeitlin

Shirley Zeitlin

Bernard Zelenka

Jack and Jackie Zigelsky

Alice Zimmerman, Estate of

Raymond and Etta Zimmerman

David M. Zolensky

Seeing G-d in Life’s Unexpected Turns

By RABBI YITZCHOK TIECHTEL

Life is a journey filled with twists and turns. Sometimes the road is smooth and predictable. Other times it takes us somewhere we never expected to go. We make plans, work hard, and try to do the right thing, and then suddenly life changes in an instant.

Recently, I experienced one of those unexpected turns. While crossing Highway 100 as a pedestrian, I was struck by a car. Within moments, I found myself in an ambulance on the way to the hospital. X-rays revealed multiple broken bones and surgery followed. Since then, I have been recuperating and beginning what I hope will be a complete and speedy recovery.

The accident gave me something I rarely have enough of: time to think.

On one hand, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. It could have been so much worse. I am alive. I am surrounded by family, friends, and a loving community. Looking back, I can see countless moments of divine protection.

Yet I would be dishonest if I said another question never entered my mind. Why? Why would something like this happen? I try to live a meaningful life. I try to help others. I try to bring light into the world. Why would G-d allow such

pain and disruption?

The truth is that I do not know.

Perhaps some questions are not meant to be answered immediately. One of the great lessons of faith is that faith does not mean believing everything makes sense. Faith means trusting that even when things do not make sense, G-d is still present.

We recently read in the Torah about the twelve spies sent to scout the Land of Israel. They all saw the same land, the same cities, and the same challenges. Yet ten spies focused on the obstacles. Their fear became greater than their faith. The challenges seemed larger than the opportunities.

Two spies, Yehoshua and Calev, saw the very same landscape and reached a different conclusion. They saw possibility and purpose. Most importantly, they saw G-d.

The difference was not what they saw. The difference was how they chose to interpret what they saw. Every one of us faces moments when life does not unfold according to plan. We stand before a challenge and ask, “Why is this happening to me?”

Perhaps more productive questions are, “What can I learn from this? How can I grow from this? What opportunity might be hidden within this challenge?”

I do not know why this accident

Where We Come Together: Launching the Gordon JCC Strategic Plan

At the Gordon Jewish Community Center, we believe that a strong community is built through connection, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future. Over the past year, our Board of Directors, staff, members, and community stakeholders have worked together to create a Strategic Plan that will guide the J through the years ahead.

We are excited to officially launch the next phase of that journey with the release of our new strategic plan website and companion video.

The strategic plan is more than a document. It is a roadmap that reflects the priorities, hopes, and aspirations of our community. Grounded in our mission and values, the plan focuses on four key areas: community engagement, vibrant spaces, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability. Together, these pillars will help ensure that the Gordon JCC remains a welcoming, innovative, and thriving hub for Jewish life in Nashville.

The launch of the website marks an important milestone in our commitment to transparency and accountability. Members can now visit the site to explore the goals of the plan, learn about our progress, and follow updates as initiatives move forward. The companion video offers a glimpse into daily life at the J; showcasing our programs, facilities, and community while exploring the vision behind the strategic plan.

While this launch is exciting, it is only the beginning. Over the past several months, we have already begun

implementing meaningful improvements across the organization. From enhancing communications and member engagement efforts to investing in our facilities and strengthening operational processes, progress is already underway.

Recent accomplishments include the reopening and expansion of Tot Spot, continued investments in our aquatics and fitness facilities, increased digital communication efforts, and the development of new tools and resources that support both staff and members. Additional initiatives are currently in progress, with more updates to come throughout the year.

The theme of our strategic plan, Where We Come Together, reflects what makes the Gordon JCC unique. Whether gathering for fitness, early childhood education, arts and culture, aquatics, Jewish life, or community events, the J is a place where people connect, grow, and belong.

We invite you to explore the new website, watch the launch video, and follow along as we continue building the future of the Gordon JCC—together.

Because when we come together, we create something stronger than any one of us could build alone. To learn more, view progress updates, and watch the strategic plan launch video, visit gordonjccstrategicplan.org. •

Visit The Jewish Observer’s website www.jewishobservernashville.org

happened. But I do know since the accident, more than one hundred people have reached out with prayers, messages, phone calls, visits, acts of kindness, and words of encouragement. I have witnessed extraordinary goodness. I have felt love, support, and the embrace of a community. Through those people, I have felt the embrace of G-d.

There is a famous story that captures this idea beautifully. A man was shown a vision of his life and noticed that for most of his journey there were two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to him and one to G-d.

But during the most difficult periods of his life, there was only one set of footprints. Feeling hurt, he asked, “G-d, you promised you would always be with me. Why did You leave me when I needed You most?”

And G-d replied, “My child, I did not leave you. During those difficult moments, the footprints you see were mine. I was carrying you.”

That story resonates differently with me today than it ever did before. How often do we look at our challenges and assume we are alone? How often do we

PLAN YOUR

…so that it’s not just a fairy tale.

QUICK READ –I PROMISE!

By LORETTA SAFF

Irecently learned that the average attention span for reading something in print is about 10–15 minutes. The average attention span for something digital? Forty-seven seconds. Yes, 47 seconds.

In fact, if you’re reading this online, there’s a decent chance you’ve already checked your email, glanced at a text message, wondered what you should have for dinner, and forgotten why you opened this article in the first place.

Since The Observer is available both in print and online, I’ve decided to dedicate this month’s column to my digital readers. And because most of us— whether we’re still working or not—are looking for our own version of Happily Ever After, I’ve condensed this month’s wisdom into a quick-read format.

SEVEN SIMPLE THINGS THAT NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY TOWARDS “HAPPILY EVER AFTER”

Simply put:

1 – Success for most things only comes when you have a PLAN.

Remember when you were going to that conference, forgot to put the address in the GPS so decided to ‘wing it’? You cursed a lot and had to pull over

focus on what is missing and fail to notice what is present?

Sometimes G-d performs obvious miracles, and sometimes he sends a friend, a doctor, a caring spouse, a devoted family member, a prayer, a phone call, or a community that lifts us when we cannot lift ourselves.

The challenge is not whether G-d is there. The challenge is whether we are willing to open our eyes and see him.

Life will always contain moments of joy and moments of pain. None of us are exempt from that reality. But if we learn to search for G-d’s presence within the challenge instead of focusing only on the challenge itself, we begin to discover something remarkable.

I still do not know why this accident happened. But I do know that it has reminded me of the extraordinary blessings in my life. As I continue on the road to recovery, that may be the greatest lesson of all.

And when the road feels especially difficult, and we see only one set of footprints, may we remember that we are not walking alone. It may be that G-d is carrying us. •

to figure out how to get to where you needed to go. You missed the introductions and ended up sitting with people you didn’t like.

2 – Leaving full-time work is one of life’s most stressful transitions. There are 10, and it’s #9 - right up there with divorce, health issues, and incarceration! You can reduce the stress. How? By having a PLAN.

3 – Retirement is not the Finish Line. It’s not crossing the tape and hearing cheering crowds. It’s more like you’ve just read your emails and had your coffee, and then find yourself asking, “Okay, now what?” Figuring it out takes work.

4 – PLANNING will help you avoid the Dark Side – because there really is a Dark Side. Overdosing on TV streaming, deciding AI is your best friend, and wasting away in Margaritaville, looking for your lost shaker of salt. Oh, and usually everything makes you grouchy.

5 – “I’ll figure it out when I get there” is not a strategy. The best time to think about what interests you, excites you, and gives you purpose is before you have endless free time.

6 – You’ll lose routine and connection when you leave full-time work. Work provides structure, social interaction, and a reason to put on real pants. A good PLAN replaces those things so you can enjoy your freedom instead of wondering what day it is.

7 – What you think might be, just might not be.

Your family loves you, but they have jobs, children, schedules, and lives. Air travel sounds glamorous until you realize your carry-on is way too heavy, your gate is a 15-minute walk away, and don’t get me started on the delays. So, having a PLAN can help avoid disappointment. I love how Brene Brown put it: When you write your own story You get to choose the ending! BTW, if you are still reading this, Congratulations! Your attention span is officially above average. •

Loretta loretta@coachingwithloretta.com

Summer Fun Continues at the Gordon JCC

Summer may be flying by, but there is still plenty of fun ahead at the Gordon JCC. As families make the most of the season, the J is offering several special ticketed events designed to bring our community together for memorable experiences both in and around the outdoor pool.

Music lovers won’t want to miss Songwriters Night on July 18 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy an evening of live music featuring talented local songwriters in a relaxed outdoor setting. Whether you’re a fan of discovering new artists, spending time with friends, or simply enjoying a summer evening under the Nashville sky, Songwriters Night promises a unique and entertaining experience.

As summer begins to wind down, families are invited to celebrate one last hurrah before the school year begins at our Back-to-School Movie Night on August 2 from 8:00–10:00 p.m. Held at the outdoor pool, this family-friendly event will feature a screening of Finding Dory under the stars. Guests can enjoy the movie from the pool while soaking up one of the final weekends of summer break.

The fun doesn’t stop when summer ends. On September 27 from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., our annual Doggy Dip returns for one of the most beloved traditions of the year. Before the outdoor pool closes for the season, we’ll invite our canine friends to take over the water for

an afternoon of splashing, swimming, and playing. Whether your pup is an experienced swimmer or simply enjoys making new furry friends, Doggy Dip is always a crowd favorite. From live music and family entertainment to unique experiences for our four-legged friends, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Tickets and additional event information can be found at nashvillejcc.org/ summerevents. •

Courage Over Compliance

By DAVID RAUSCH, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CHIEFS OF POLICE PRESIDENT

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published by Police Chief Magazine in June 2026.

This issue of Police Chief is focused on policy in policing. I had a recent opportunity to consider the impact of policy and law from a national government that resulted in the most tragic outcome in history.

In April, I was invited to participate in a program led by the University of Virginia’s Center for Public Safety and Justice and the Rutgers University Miller Center on Policing and Community Resilience, in conjunction with the annual International March of the Living event in Krakow, Poland. The program, Operationalizing Never Again, culminates with a symbolic march from Auschwitz to Birkenau. The purpose of the educational program is to bring individuals from around the world to study the history of the Holocaust and to examine the roots of prejudice, intolerance, and hatred. The goal is to inspire participants to fight intolerance, racism, and injustice by witnessing the atrocities of the Holocaust. What the Nazi regime did in state-sponsored operations to attempt to eliminate the Jewish people was unforgiving.

I was one of 130 police officials from around the world who spent time learning about the role police played in those atrocities. The police were not just com-

placent; they participated in the murders of innocent families. They worked side by side with the murderous SS arm of the Nazi Party. The lessons that were presented to us clearly identified the process and pathway that led to the acceptance and actions of officers sworn to protect and defend their communities. The blurring of the lines of what became law and policy—and what was right—is clear when we look back at history. The burning question is how they missed it and why few pushed back. Over six million Jews and others were killed because of a lack of courage and response by those who should have done better. We spent time learning what history identifies as the critical points when this could have been prevented. We walked through the grounds of those hallowed spaces where lives were ruthlessly taken. We experienced the impact of a hate so deep and shared widely that a nation mobilized against their neighbors. We heard the stories of survivors and the few Germans who placed their lives on the line to protect the victims. Most importantly, we learned that, as leaders in policing, we are in a role that requires us to ensure that injustice created by government for government never happens again in any manner. We must never allow law, policy, and action to align to harm anyone in our communities. We must remain vigilant and committed to our core role as protectors of everyone. In policing, we are apolitical, nonpartisan, guardians of peace.

This experience taught me how easy it can be for a nation to turn on a popu-

Continued on page 28

A Life of Faith, Family, and Five-Star Care.

Families have found peace at Clarendale West End, located just minutes from Nashville’s synagogues and Jewish communit y life.

“The best decision we made was moving Mom to Clarendale. The team has made her feel at home, and gone above and beyond to make the transition smooth and wel coming.”

–C aroline and Jason, Family Members of Resident

“My mom’s needs were consistently met with professionalism, patience, and compassion. In my own interactions with sta , they have demonstrated a level of empathy beyond the requirements of their roles .” – Emily, Family Member of Resident

“The sta , from the minute you walk in the front door, makes this the most welcoming experience. This is a five-star senior living communit y!” – Bruce, Family Member of Resident

Choosing a senior living communit y for a loved one is a significant milestone.

At Clarendale West End, we don’t just become home; we become family

Jewish Artists Among Talent Showcased at 53rd Annual CMA Fest

By ERIN WIDES

As tens of thousands of country music fans descended on downtown Nashville for the 53rd annual CMA Fest, several Jewish artists took the stage, sharing their music and stories of identity and belonging.

According to CMA Fest’s website, The Ultimate Country Music Fan Experience began in 1972 as Fan Fair, attracting 5,000 fans to Nashville’s Municipal Auditorium. More than five decades later, CMA Fest has become Nashville’s signature country music event, drawing fans from all 50 states and dozens of countries around the world.

Among the Jewish artists participating in this year’s festival were Israeli-born singer-songwriter Omer Netzer, actor and musician James Maslow, Nashvillebased pop-country artist Risa Binder, and Nashville native MORGXN.

Netzer moved to Nashville from Israel nearly three years ago and said performing on the Wrangler Stage represented a significant milestone.

“It was just a blessing,” Netzer said. “Not just as a Jewish artist, but as someone who came from Israel with a few t-shirts and a pair of jeans. I had nothing.”

This was his second year playing and a new experience from last year’s CMA Fest, when he played an acoustic set at Music City Center. He said Jewish audience members shared the excitement.

“A few Jewish people came to me after the show and told me how excited they were,” Netzer said. “For me, being Jewish and playing at CMA Fest and representing the whole nation is just amazing.”

Maslow moved to Nashville almost three years ago, with his now fiancée. He said following a trip to Israel shortly after October 7, helped clarify his priorities and ultimately influenced the couple’s decision to relocate.

This year’s CMA Fest marked Maslow’s solo country music debut. Music he’s been working on since being in Nashville.

“I have truly become a country fan,” he said. “One of my favorite things is writing with country writers who think differently than the pop world. It’s story first, lyric first.”

Maslow said he’s become more intentional about visibly expressing his Jewish identity. He’s always worn a Star of David necklace but does so more frequently. He said the response from fans and fellow artists has been overwhelmingly positive.

“I’ve felt nothing but love from the CMA community, the country community and Nashville as a whole,” he said.

For Binder, CMA Fest has become an annual tradition. She’s participated in the festival for the past eight years, and this year participated in a meet-and-greet.

“It’s one of my favorite weekends of the year,” Binder said.

Raised in a Reform Jewish family in Columbia, Maryland, Binder said she did not begin actively seeking Jewish community until she moved to Nashville.

“I consider myself an artist first, and I happen to be a Jewish artist,” Binder said. “But I didn’t really dig into my Jewish identity until I was here.”

She sees connections between her

faith, spirituality, and her work as a songwriter.

“If I can connect with someone and make them think about who they are as a person and where they’re at in their life, then I’m doing what I feel God’s gift to me was,” she said.

For Nashville-born artist MORGXN, CMA Fest represented a different kind of homecoming.

“Sometimes it feels like Tennessee has shaped everything about who I am as an artist,” MORGXN said.

Despite being born in Nashville, MORGXN said claiming the city as home was not always easy. As both a Jewish and queer artist, MORGXN viewed the performance as an opportunity to expand representation within country music.

“Playing CMA Fest felt like a full-circle moment I honestly didn’t know I was allowed to want,” MORGXN said. “Country music has a complicated relationship with people like me. So, stand-

ing on that stage felt less like a career milestone and more like a statement: We’re here. We’ve always been here.” While all four of their backgrounds and musical styles differ, the artists described Nashville as a place where they have found opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Together, their presence at CMA Fest reflected the diversity of today’s Jewish community and the voices helping shape the future of country music in Nashville. •

Omer Netzer performing on the Wrangler Remix Stage during the 2026 CMA Fest in downtown Nashville.”

MORGXN performing on the Wrangler Remix Stage during the 2026 CMA Fest in downtown Nashville.

Risa Binder during a meet and greet at the Cumberland Road Trading Post booth inside Fan Fair X.

Revere Jewish Montessori Preschool Offers three 50% Scholarships for Upcoming School Year

T he Revere Jewish Montessori Preschool, Tennessee’s only Jewish Montessori early childhood program, will open its doors this fall for its eighth consecutive year — and it’s celebrating with a generous opportunity for local families.

In honor of the school’s continued success and growth, an anonymous donor has stepped forward to offer three half-tuition scholarships for new fam-

ilies enrolling children in the 4- or 5-year-old class for the academic year beginning in August 2026.

Available on a first-come, firstserved basis, these scholarships will reduce monthly tuition for full-day students. The program runs five days a week and offers families a meaningful opportunity to invest in their child’s early Jewish education.

The preschool is widely recognized

for combining the hands-on, child-centered approach of the Montessori method with a warm and enriching Jewish environment. The school offers small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a strong focus on character building, spiritual development, and a lifelong love of learning.

“Our goal is to give every child not just an education, but a joyful and meaningful foundation for life,” said Esther

Tiechtel, the preschool director. “These scholarships make that gift accessible to more families.”

A few spots are still available for the 2026-27 school year, and the school encourages interested families to act quickly, as scholarship spots are limited and expected to fill quickly. To apply for a scholarship or learn more, contact the Revere Jewish Montessori Preschool at 615-646-5750. •

Congregation Micah Hosts Shabbat in the Round with Dean Yolanda Pierce

I

mmerse in an evening of joyful music making and celebratory song at Congregation Micah’s Shabbat In the

Round. On Friday, August 14th at 6 p.m., our social hall transforms into an inviting Shabbat song circle filled with

laughter, connection, and delight. We’ll have Vanderbilt Divinity School Dean Dr. Yolanda Pierce participating in this

sacred Shabbat gathering.

We will have a service in the round, with chairs arranged in a circle instead of our usual seating. This experience allows Shabbat participants to look around and see every face, creating a sense of equality and belonging. The circle itself becomes a symbol of wholeness, an unbroken space of warmth, spirit, and togetherness.

Rooted in a desire to foster deep connection, Shabbat in the Round invites us to slow down, listen closely, and sing boldly. Whether you love to harmonize, clap along, or simply sit and absorb the sound, your presence helps create the sacred rhythm of the evening.

We invite all music makers and meaning makers to this participatory Shabbat service intended to uplift our souls, nourish our hearts, and heal our bodies. •

August Events with Congregation Micah

On Thursday, August 6, at 2 p.m., Congregation Micah is visiting Vanderbilt University’s Mary and Harry Zimmerman Judaica Collection at the Divinity School Library. Our community will explore the rich archives featuring 20,000 titles.

The collection features the works of Martin Buber, Franz Rosenzweig, and Leopold Zunz along with the esteemed collections of Professor Ismar Elbogen and Professor Nahum N. Glatzer.

We invite all who love text study and Jewish history, along with Judaica enthusiasts, to join us for this thoughtful learning opportunity.

On Saturday, August 15th at 9:30 a.m., join Congregation Micah for Micah Minis. We invite families with children under seven to participate in a joyful Shabbat experience filled with music and movement.

Led by Cantor Josh Goldberg, this engaging Shabbat experience will be full of fun. After a fun filled morning, we will play on the Micah Children’s Academy Playscape, weather permitting. •

Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org

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 of Nashville

Chabad of Nashville is a warm and welcoming lighthouse of Judaism, embracing all who walk through its doors with love, friendship, and a sense of belonging.

While the summer months are often a bit quieter in the Nashville Jewish community, the doors of Chabad of Nashville remain wide open for all, offering refreshing nourishment for both body and soul. Whether through prayer, learning, meaningful conversations, uplifting gatherings, or simply sharing a warm smile and good company, Chabad is a place where every person can feel at home.

Below are several special events and programs taking place during July. We warmly invite you to stop by, participate in any of these gatherings, and reJEWvenate your mind, body, and soul with inspiration, connection, and Jewish pride.

“In G-d We Trust” July Fourth Kosher BBQ

Chabad of Nashville is hosting its annual “In G-d We Trust” July Fourth Kosher BBQ on Sunday, July 5, at 5:30 p.m., celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. The event will honor the religious freedom and individual liberty that have enabled Jewish life and other faith communities to flourish in the United States. Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel, director of Chabad of Nashville, said the celebration is an opportunity to express gratitude for the freedoms that have allowed Jewish life to thrive and contribute to American society.

Guests will enjoy a festive summer evening featuring a kosher barbecue buffet with grilled chicken, burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, baked beans, salads, watermelon, desserts and other seasonal favorites. Families, friends and neighbors are invited to gather in celebration of America, community and shared values. For reservations and more information, visit chabadnashville.com.

A Night of Remembrance, A Day of Reflection: Tisha B’Av at Beit Tefilah Tisha B’Av—the saddest day on the Jewish calendar—is a time to come together, reflect, remember, and mourn the destruction of the Holy Temple and the many tragedies throughout our history.

This year, Tisha B’Av begins Wednesday night, July 22 (fast starts at 8:01 PM), and concludes Thursday night, July 23 (8:29 PM).

Chabad of Nashville warmly invites you to join us at Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad for two meaningful gatherings:

Wednesday, July 22, at 8:30 PM

A moving Tisha B’Av memorial service featuring the traditional candlelit reading of Eicha (Lamentations), as we sit low, reflect on brokenness, and hold on to hope for redemption.

Thursday, July 23, at 7:15 PM

Mincha service with Torah reading, as we don Tallit and Tefillin and begin the transition from mourning to hope, followed by a light break-fast after nightfall.

Let us come together—united in memory, faith, and hope for a brighter future.

For more details, visit chabadnashville.com.

Start Your Mornings with Starbucks, Community and Prayer

Chabad of Nashville hosts a daily morning minyan, bringing consistent communal prayer to the heart of Jewish life in Nashville. Each morning begins not only with prayer, but with warmth and hospitality. Fresh Starbucks coffee is served daily, creating a welcoming atmosphere as participants start their day together.

On Mondays and Thursdays, the experience is elevated even further with a delicious catered breakfast from Nova Market and Café, Nashville’s newest kosher market. The breakfast spread features freshly baked pastries, burekas, rugelach, poached eggs, Israeli salad, and a variety of other flavorful delicacies that make these mornings especially inviting.

The daily minyan schedule is as follows:

Sunday 9:00 AM

Monday and Thursday 8:15 AM

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 AM

At Our Congregations…

Shabbat morning 10:00 AM

Community members who wish to stay informed and connected are invited to join the Minyan WhatsApp group by texting 615-480-4731.

All are welcome to join and experience the inspiration, camaraderie, and spiritual energy of beginning the day together in prayer as a unified community.

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.

All Are Invited to the TGIS Shabbat Dinners in June

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, July 10, and Friday, July 24 at 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

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, and delicious refreshments.

Come as you are and leave uplifted. No RSVP necessary, just bring an open heart.

Your Saturday Morning, Elevated

Join us for an inspiring Shabbat experience at Chabad of Nashville.

Begin your morning at 10:00 AM with uplifting prayer, meaningful Torah reading, thoughtful learning, and an inspiring weekly message, all in an atmosphere of warmth, joy, and authentic community.

Following services, enjoy a beautifully prepared Kiddush featuring hot cholent, freshly baked challah, a gourmet buffet lunch, and a lively farbrengen with friendly L’Chaims and uplifting conversation.

Refined yet welcoming, meaningful yet relaxed, this is a Shabbat morning designed to nourish both soul and spirit.

Come experience Shabbat with depth, beauty, and connection.

Whether you are a regular or joining for the first time, you will find connection, inspiration, and community waiting for you.

Searching for Meaning? Start with a Study Partner

Ever wanted to dive deeper into Jewish learning—but didn’t know where to start or who to learn with? Chabad of Nashville will connect you with a personal study partner (Chavruta) so you can explore the topics and texts that matter most to you—at your own pace, on your own schedule.

To get started:

Send an email to ChabadNashville@gmail.com with:

– Your name

– Contact info

– The topics or texts you’d like to study

Jumpstart Your Child’s Jewish Life with a Gift for Your Newborn

As the big day approaches, expectant mothers feel a mix of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes a touch of nervousness. Amid all the preparation, a beautiful Jewish tradition offers comfort and protection: Shir Hamalot (Psalm 121).

For centuries, this powerful prayer has been recited to safeguard mother and baby during labor and recovery. Tucking a Shir Hamalot into your hospital bag is a simple, meaningful way to invite G d’s presence into one of life’s most sacred moments.

After birth, many families continue the tradition by placing the prayer near the baby’s cradle or on the nursery doorpost. A reminder that a newborn’s earliest surroundings carry deep spiritual significance.

If you’re expecting, or know someone who is, Chabad of Nashville is offering a free, Shir Hamalot prayer card to any Jewish family in Middle Tennessee. Cards are available in baby pink or baby blue, with soft pastel artwork that adds a loving touch to this timeless tradition.

To request your free, Shir Hamalot card, email office@chabadnashville.com or call, 615-646-5750.

Continued on page 18

At Our Congregations…

Continued from page 17

@ Congregation Micah

Congregation Micah – an inclusive and innovative Reform synagogue dedicated to exploring and celebrating Jewish life – is deeply committed to building meaningful community and repairing the world. We offer creative, engaging, and diverse pathways to Jewish living in Tennessee and beyond, grounded in the rich beliefs and practices of Progressive Judaism. Experience our beautiful 30+ acre campus in person or take part in our vibrant virtual programs anytime through our website, www.congregationmicah.org. Stay connected by following us on social media: Facebook and Instagram @ MicahNashville. Learn, pray, and celebrate with us in person, or livestream our services on our website or YouTube. In our tent, there truly is room for everyone.

Weekly Events

Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

Shabbat at Micah offers many pathways to the Divine through inspiring words, the beauty of sacred space, heartfelt intention, and the power of music and song. Each service is thoughtfully crafted to be welcoming, participatory, and spiritually uplifting. Services reflect the diversity of our community and invite you to engage in ways that feel meaningful to you. Come early to schmooze with old and new friends beginning at 5:30 PM, when light refreshments are served. Services are available in person and online.

Torah Study: Saturdays at 9 AM on Zoom

Begin your Saturday with rich conversation and learning as we explore the weekly Torah portion together. Led by our clergy, this group brings together thoughtful, curious, and caring participants for in-depth discussions, diverse perspectives, and meaningful connections with the text and one another.

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

Enjoy a lively and friendly afternoon of Mah Jongg in Micah’s social hall. Players of all levels are welcome for games, laughter, and connection. For more information, please contact Paula at pgkwn@comcast.net.

Storah Time: Tuesdays at 7 PM on Zoom

Storah Time is a reflective and accessible supplement to our weekly Torah Study. This evening gathering invites you into learning that blends story, interpretation, and spiritual exploration in a gentle, welcoming space designed to meet you exactly where you are.

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

At Micah, we keep politics off the pulpit but not out of the building. Schmooze & Views offers a respectful, engaging round-table discussion of current events, facilitated by Rabbi Flip and Dr. Bob Smith. Bring your thoughts, listen deeply, and enjoy thoughtful conversation in a welcoming community setting.

July Events

Micah Reads: Monday, July 20 at 7 PM on Zoom Education Director Julie Greenberg guides an engaging and thoughtful discussion of Inheritance by Dani Shapiro. All are welcome to take part in a lively conversation, share insights, and explore the book together in a welcoming setting.

Micah-Nections’ Full Moon Pickin’ Party: July 24 at 7 PM at Warner Parks

Eat, drink, and celebrate with other young adults in their 20s and 30s! Spend an evening enjoying live bluegrass music, local food trucks and breweries, and the beautiful setting of Warner Parks. Micah-Nections has secured a limited number of discounted tickets for this popular event, so be sure to reserve yours before they’re gone!

@ Sherith Israel

Weekday Services

Monday/Thursday mornings: 6:25 a.m.

Tuesday/Wednesday/Friday mornings: 6:30 a.m.

Sunday morning: 8:00 a.m.

Weekday afternoons: 10 minutes before sunset

Shabbat Services

Friday evening: 5 minutes after sunset

Shabbat morning: 9:00 a.m.

Shabbat mincha: 5 minutes before sunset

@ The Temple

Visit templenashville.org for all updated event information

Shabbat Schedule for July at The Temple

Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple at 6:00 p.m. You can also watch via zoom from https://www.templenashville.org/virtual-programming.html

• July 3rd- Red, White and Blue Jean Shabbat

• July 10th – Jewsic City Shabbat and Birthday Blessings

• July 17th- Shabbat Service

• July 24th- Songwriters Shabbat and Blue Jean Shabbat

• July 31st- Blue Jean Shabbat

Jewsic City Shabbat

July 10, 2026, 6:00 p.m.

The entire community is welcome to join us to celebrate 10 years of Jewsic City! Founded by longtime members Ellie Flier and Julia Motis, Jewsic City is an organization that offers deeply spiritual Jewish programming fully rooted in music.

Led by our Temple clergy, Ellie and Julie, this will be a dynamic and unique Shabbat Service. We encourage you to join us for this very special Shabbat- and bring an open mind and a willingness to sing. Celebratory Oneg to Follow

Songwriter’s Shabbat

July 24, 2026, 6:00 p.m.

We hope you will join us for this special night, with much of the music of our Shabbat evening service written by members of The Temple. Featuring Original Music By: Stacy Beyer, Nina Pacent, MaryBeth Stone, Ellie Flier, Dennis Scott, Becky Warren and more!

You can join us in person or via zoom templenashville.org/virtual-programming. html

Exploring the Prayerbook

Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 p.m. 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

Chevrah Torah Study

9:30 a.m. 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 a.m.-1:00pm on July 7th – Zeta Kenner-Ventriloquist

July 21st- Josh Goldberg- Popular Tunes

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

Women’s Torah Study

July 2nd, 9th, 11th, 18th, 25th

10:30 a.m.

Ongoing weekly women’s Torah study led by Patty Marks. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through https://www.templenashville.org/virtualprogramming.html

Lunch with the Rabbi –July Summer Session

July 9th

Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

Program12:00-1:00 p.m.

$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/virtual-programming.html

Monday Mah Jong

Join us for MAH JONG Mondays at The Temple!

July 6th, 13th,20th, 27th

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.

Next Dor and Jewish Federation NowGen Happy Hour

July 16th from 6 –8 p.m.

Join us for Happy Hour! First drink on us. Location will be provided upon RSVP. Jewishnashville.org/nghappyhour

Continued on page 19

At Our Congregations…

Continued from page 18

@ West End Synagogue

For links to the following online services or programs, please scan the QR code for our LinkTree, email office@westendsyn.org, or visit our calendar on ShulCloud at https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/calendar.

July Events

July 17 – It’s Shabbat – 5:30 p.m.

Families with young children are invited to join us for Shabbos shmoozing, candle lighting, kiddush blessing, hamotzi, and Shabbat songs on Friday, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Email Sharon Paz at spaz@westendsyn.org to RSVP.

July 19 – Music and Me – 3:30-4:30 p.m. Internet Café Music and Me will be held in the Internet Café and will be on Sunday afternoons during the summer. For families with young children.

July 22 – Tisha b’Av Ma’ariv – 8:00 p.m.

July 23 – Tisha b’Av Shacharit – 7:00 a.m.

July 23 – Tisha b’Av Mincha – 1:30 p.m.

July 25 – Birthday Shabbat – 9:30 a.m.

Celebrating all our West End July birthdays. Come join us for a special birthday treat!

Ongoing Religious Services and Learning Opportunities

Shacharit: In-Person Monday - Friday at 7:00 a.m.

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

Torah Study with Breakfast: In-person on Thursdays at 7:30 a.m.

Immediately after minyan on Thursdays, typically around 7:30 a.m.

Mincha: On Zoom Sunday - Thursday at 6:00 p.m.

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

Kabbalat Shabbat: In-person on Fridays at 6:00 p.m.

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

Shabbat Morning Services: In-person and Zoom on Saturday Mornings at 9:30 a.m.

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

Community Listings

BBYO Female Advisor Position

Nashville’s BBYO female chapter, Music City BBG, is looking for an additional female advisor. The main role of the advisor is to bring “BBYO’s mission of more Jewish teens, more meaningful Jewish experiences to life” (bbyo.org). Being an advisor is a wonderful way to volunteer your time to instill confidence, encourage leadership, and inspire creativity, to Nashville’s Jewish teen community. If you’d like to learn more, please contact Alyssa at abrodie@bbyo.org.

B’nai B’rith Social Unit

Bringing 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.

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 either recently or in the distant past. This is not a dating service or a counselling or a meet/meat group, but it is 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 Friday every other month at various restaurants. For more information, contact Gil Fox at gsfox3@comcast.net. •

Lifecycles

Obituaries

Martin Ardman

Condolences to the family of Martin Ardman. Survivors include his children, Laura (Afshin) Yazdian, Amy (Mitchell) Shea and Stacy (Jack) Lapidus; and his grandchildren, Max, Benny, Ryan, Brady, Alyson, Jeremy and Anna.

Justin Joel Cohn

Condolences to the family of Justin Joel Cohn, who died May 23. He was the son of Diane and Gerald Cohn and brother of Jason and Jacqueline Cohn. Tributes in Justin’s memory may be made to Congregation Micah.

Amber Ellis

Condolences to the family of Amber Ellis, who died on May 13. She was the daughter of Scott Ferguson.

Vivian Ginsburg Gorden

Condolences to the family of Vivian Ginsburg Gorden, who died on June 1. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Philip Gorden; sons, Dr. Lee Gorden (Dr. Joan Gorden) and Dr. Jed Gorden (Sara Manetti; and grandchildren, Isaac, Eliana and Satchel.

Karen Lee Kanter

Condolences to the family of Karen Lee Kanter, who died on May 17. She was the daughter of Lois (z”l) and Julian Kanter (z”l); sister of Rabbi Ken Kanter (Toni), Lynn Kanter (Janet Coleman), and sister-in-law of Wendy Kanter (z”l). Tributes in Karen’s memory may be made to Congregation Micah.

Dr. Bruce Alan Orkin

Condolences to the family of Dr. Bruce Alan Orkin, who died on May 25. He is survived by his wife, Jacki, and daughter, Jocelyn (Jason) Marsh. •

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

Go Knicks!

While the NBA tournament is long gone…well everything feels long gone in the insane news cycle the world lives in…I’m still kvelling! I think for the rest of my life I will remember these games.

Game 4 of the Finals. OMG!

Is OG Anunoby real? I think he is a Star Wars character, come to life. Apparently, so does everyone else. Seriously, I can’t stop. I’m obsessed with the Knicks once again. The fifty-year sleeping giant has been awakened

and I’m going nuts. In the best possible way. I forgot I ever liked sports. Where have I been?!!

Ever since I left NYC and the Knicks and, (yes, The Mets), over thirty years ago, I just gave up and left the sports world behind.

And then, last week. What the what was that?!!!

To top it off, I happened to be up in NYC for the first two games of the finals. It was impossible to not get swept up in the wave and roars of the entire city across the five boroughs with the screams of excitement heard across the river, heard even in stinking New Jersey, as the Knicks thrillingly secured the first two games. Sorry, Jersey. But the NJ turnpike

Continued on page 20

Gordon JCC Adult Program Happenings:

TGIT – July 2026

July 2nd – Novelist Randy O’Brian

Novelist, Randy O’Brian will be joining us to speak about his new novel, “Ribbon of Dreams.” It is set in 1975 and is a coming-of-age novel about social justice and PTSD in veterans.

Lunch: Tuna and Egg salad sandwiches, chips, salad, Birthday Cake and Ice Cream.

July 9th – Nashville Architecture and Art – Sandra Shelton and Peggy Snow

Nashville historian, Sandra Shelton, and once owner of the famous boutique Pangaea, will give a presentation of the historic architecture in Nashville. Along with her presentation, Peggy Snow will speak about her paintings of some of these famous buildings. Peggy’s art will be on display in the Senior Gallery to compliment this presentation.

Lunch: Meat and three, salad, dessert.

July 16th – Sydnei Humphrey-Davis – Opera

The Gordon JCC’s very own Sydnei

Humphrey-Davis who is going off to study at the famous Berklee School of Music will be performing her Opera specially for us!

Lunch: Salmon, rice, salad, veggie, dessert.

July 23rd - Josh Goldberg

The fabulous Congregation Micah Cantor, Josh Goldberg, returns by popular demand to entertain us with his gift of song and engaging personality!

Lunch: Baked potatoes, sides, salad, dessert.

July 30th - Orchestra Tikvah

This is a very special performance. Orchestra Tikvah is a youth chamber orchestra dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Jewish musicians by affirming Jewish identity as a powerful source of artistic strength and inspiration. The orchestra is composed of Jewish teenagers from across the United States who come to Nashville for a week of intensive artistic development.

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

July in the Galleries: Featuring the work of Catherine Moberg, Sharon Charney, and Peggy Snow

In July, the Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of Catherine Moberg and Sharon Charney. Moberg sculpts realistic artistic compositions with ordinary clay capturing the beauty of everyday objects: boxes, bottles, books, letters, trinkets. While working with the artist Sylvia Hyman, Catherine became intrigued with Trompe L’Oeil ceramic sculpture. She became fascinated with the idea of telling stories through clay.

Catherine loves the simplicity and beauty of everyday objects: cardboard boxes, paper bags, books, letters, beautiful colored eggs, organic fruits, pencils, and trinkets. Creating these objects in clay and arranging them in a narrative fashion is her artistic language. Her attention to detail, shapes, textures, and colors is impeccable. Her success in this medium is in finding a story within the commonplace.

Susan Charney’s paintings explore concepts such as freedom, light, air, motion, containment, and beauty found in everyday objects. These themes are expressed through a variety of subjects-some drawn from direct observation and others inspired by dreams and imagination.

This exhibition brings together both past and recent work, reflecting a por-

tion of her artistic journey over time. Expressive brushwork, color, line, and shape play essential roles in communicating Susan’s ideas and emotional responses. The media in this exhibition include oils, acrylics, and her recent explorations with cold wax incorporating graphite and other materials.

The JLMG2 Gallery will feature a diverse group show from the engineering students at Vanderbilt University. This is their first group showing at the J Galleries.

The Sig Held Gallery will feature the fashion illustrations, designs and inspiration boards from Fashion Camp.

Instructor Carrie Mills created this specialized camp 14 years ago. It is an energetic, immersive, deep dive into the world of creating fashion culminating in a runway show with each camper modeling their own designs.

Mills attended Parson School of Design and had a career in NYC as a fashion and handbag designer with her beginnings at Girltown and Anne Klein. She currently works, on the side, as a fashion stylist with her photographer son, Garrett Mills, who works for the creative director of J Crew Group in NYC as a social media specialist and fashion photographer for the company.

The Senior Lounge will feature the work of Peggy Snow. The love of painting in the open air and the love of old architecture often led Peggy to the grounds of abandoned structures. She finds herself motivated by the passing beauty when an old building, resonant with past lives, is falling or is to be torn down. Peggy is an artist and music-maker who pursues an open-air method of painting the landscape, people, relics, ruins, and abandoned structures where they stand.

The attention the Middle Tennessee media has given her while she studied such architecture as the Father Ryan High School, the Union Station Train Shed, and the Jacksonian Apartment Building has won her a reputation for documenting the passing of historic architecture.

The Tennessee State Museum purchased her 1991 Union Station Train Shed painting for its 20th century col-

lection of art. Her first painting of the Jacksonian Apartments is owned by and displayed at Tin Angel Restaurant on West End Avenue in Nashville. Mayor Bill Purcell relayed to the artist in a 1999 letter, “I appreciate your efforts in documenting some of our city’s lost, and endangered, treasures.”

The House Gallery will feature the Under One Roof collaborative exhibit. The Exhibition Dates are July 6-31. The artist reception will be held on July 15 from 6-8 p.m. and feature music by DJ Joseph Harris and a special event of hair specialists doing Fairy Hair for a special cost.

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 •

Kvetch in the City

Continued from page 19

always stunk like rotten eggs. Childhood memories still linger. And then, of course, the fifth game! What?!!!?!?!! Again. Coming from behind to conquering it all with seconds on the clock. I don’t think I’ll ever be the same.

There were so many life lessons to be had from these finals. I always look for the life lessons in everything. It gives the suffering meaning. Here are a few I gathered this week from the Knicks: Never give up even when it all looks hopeless…that one was obvious. Always be prepared and present and in the moment, that’s when luck can tap its magic wand. Never listen to people say you are not good enough…hello…Jalen Brunson. Money is not everything… hello Jalen Brunson. Dads are important…hello Jalen Brunson. And most important, always marry a nice Jewish girl…hello Jalen Brunson.

That’s just the tip of the basketball rim! Ha ha…get it?! Game 4! •

Susan Charney – Harvest Moon

Catherine Moberg - Flowers

Susan Charney – Flying By

Peggy Snow – Jacksonisan Apartments

BACK TO SCHOOL

Akiva School and Kehilla Upper School of Nashville

Nashville’s Jewish Day Schools are dedicated to cultivating a profound passion for learning that nurtures the holistic development of our students, encompassing their social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth.

From Kindergarten through 12th grade, Akiva School and Kehilla Upper School of Nashville are grounded in the mission of fostering curiosity, moral integrity, determination, effective communication, collaborative spirit, and creative thinking.

Our schools place a special emphasis on Jewish studies, providing a rich and meaningful exploration of Jewish heritage, traditions, and values.

With a curriculum that is both thoughtful and demanding, our schools create a joyful atmosphere where each student is loved and nurtured.

At Akiva, we pursue excellence, foster critical inquiry, and inspire informed Jewish living. Our students are known for their unmatched curiosity, their deep sense of self, and their commitment to our Nashville community.

Inspired by Jewish values, the mission of Kehilla Upper School of Nashville’s inclusive community is to guide our students to become engaged learners and passionate leaders so that they may ultimately contribute to a purpose greater than themselves. Our goal is to shape graduates who not only possess knowledge but also embrace humility, openness, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world.

For more information, or to book a tour, please visit our websites at: www.akivanashville.net and www.kehillaupperschool.org

Gordon JCC Early Childhood Learning Center: Explore, Imagine, Create.

Choosing your child’s first preschool experience may be one of the most important decisions you make. Discover the many enriching programs offered through the Gordon JCC’s Early Childhood Learning Community for ages 6 weeks through pre-K.

Our Jewish early childhood program experience includes a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to curriculum and play. Swimming lessons are included once per week for our 3-year-old program through pre-K. Our curriculum includes a project-based approach based on the interests of the children. In addition, we incorporate a monthly Jewish theme such as Tikkun Olam (repair of the world) into our lesson plans to help children grow into caring, thoughtful, and loving human beings who will carry these values throughout their lives.

We are part of the JCC Association of North America’s Sheva Center, adopting its seven core elements in our program: Children as Constructivist Learners; Early Childhood Directors as Visionaries; Early Childhood Educators as Professionals; Families as Engaged Partners; Environments as Inspiration for Inquiry; Discover: CATCH as Sh’mirat HaGuf (taking care of our bodies); and Israel as a Source and Resource.

Continued on page 24

BEIT MIRIAM RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

3-YEAR OLDS THROUGH 11TH GRADE SCHOOL BEGINS SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026

MIDWEEK HEBREW BEGINS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

EXPERIENTIAL PROGRAMING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY:

• WHERE HEBREW IS A LIVING LANGUAGE

• WHERE FAMILY TRADITIONS GROW

• WHERE JEWISH VALUES THRIVE

www.TheKupinGroup.com TheKupinGroup

Nashville’sJewishDaySchools- AkivaSchooland KehillaUpperSchoolof Nashville- nurture students from Kindergartento12thgrade witha passionfor learningandholisticgrowth.Weemphasizecuriosity, integrity,creativity,and arichandmeaningful explorationofJewishlearningandvalues. Formoreinformation,visit www.akivanashville.net| www.kehillaupperschool.org and nts for ity gfu rg , l

Part of the JCC Association of North America’s Sheva Center, we explore Jewish culture with monthly Jewish themes, rituals, CATCH, and weekly Shabbat celebrations.

We are fully licensed by Tennessee’s Department of Human Services, adhere to all DHS regulations, policies, and procedures, and hold a 3-star rating from the Tennessee ECERS and ITERS programs.

For more information, please contact ECLC Director Elizabeth-Lee Gertonson at elizabeth-lee@nashvillejcc.org or visit nashvillejcc.org/preschool.

Kupin Group

Families with school-aged children looking for a new home may have certain needs in mind, including proximity to the school. At the Kupin Group, we are here to help you get an A+ on your home search. Whether you are looking to stay close to the school your child loves or find a home with a yard big enough for their imagination to run wild, we are excited to help you find the right place to put down roots. As real estate experts, we believe that finding the perfect home isn’t just about the house itself – it’s also about finding your place in the greater Middle Tennessee community. When you work with the Kupin Group, we help you find that perfect place where you belong. Homebuying can be intimidating, but the truth is, the first step in the process is just getting coffee and talking about where you’re at and what type of home would be best for you and your family. From there, we can figure out what the best fit is and start searching together. Whether you’re looking to buy soon or just have a conversation, please reach out to us, Hayley and Jacob Kupin, at info@thekupingroup.com or 615281-9035. At the Kupin Group, we’ve got your back! Continued from page 22

Congregation Micah’s Religious School, JLAB

Congregation Micah’s Religious School, JLAB, is home to joyous, progressive Jewish education, bringing the best of formal and informal study to our students of all ages. Our weekly family service fills our sanctuary with music, prayer and the ever-present, unfolding Jewish story.

We are a diverse and creative community that celebrates our common bonds of Jewish identity - intellectually, spiritually, and culturally. We explore the many disciplines of Jewish tradition - Hebrew, history, ethics, Israel, mitzvot and more - with Torah as our touchstone.

In addition to weekly worship and study, students meet Jewish authors, artists, musicians, chefs and social justice leaders. Parents remain students, as well, with regular opportunities to study and socialize.

Our inclusion specialist works with faculty and families to ensure that all students are honored and able to access the full richness of Jewish tradition before, during and beyond our brit mitzvah process.

Micah’s expansive campus includes a natural playscape, sculpture and memorial gardens, and colorful student-made art installations. This beautiful setting invites students to discover the wonders of creation in both meditative and active ways.

Our middle and high school youth groups extend Jewish life through travel to New York, Washington D.C., Montgomery, and Israel, as well as through local retreats, performances, and social action projects. Many teens serve as madrichim in our classrooms, and CHAI Society, our flagship high school program, empowers students to become confident leaders who enter the larger world doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with their God.

WHEREJEWISHKIDSLOVETOBE

Ages5-18enjoyour hands-onapproachto Hebrew,History,Holidays, Torah,TikkunOlam, andmore.

Camp Davis Clubhouse

Camp Davis Clubhouse (formerly Planet Kid) is the ultimate after-school destination for children in grades K–5! Each day, participants enjoy a safe, welcoming environment where they can complete homework, explore creative art projects, stay active in the gym and on the playground, and spend time with friends.

For added convenience, transportation is available from Akiva, Gower, and Harpeth Valley, making afternoons easy and engaging for both children and families. Additional specialty after-school clubs will be announced throughout the year.

Learn more and register at nashvillejcc.org/clubhouse or contact Teron, Director of Children’s Services, at teron@nashvillejcc.org.

Battle Ground Academy

For generations of families across Williamson County and beyond, Battle Ground Academy has been more than a school – it has been a launchpad. For 137 years, BGA has helped students grow into confident learners, thoughtful leaders, and people of purpose.

From the earliest years, students are known, supported, and challenged. The Early Learning Center’s prekindergarten programs – Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and junior kindergarten – build a joyful foundation through hands-on discovery and purposeful play. As students transition into lower and middle school, they develop skills and confidence through creative exploration, leadership opportunities, and an environment that encourages curiosity.

In the upper school, students engage in rigorous academics and pursue passions through signature concentrations in entrepreneurial leadership, STEM, global leadership, and fine arts. With real-world challenges, AP coursework, and the support of faculty who truly know them, students are prepared for what comes next. As a result, 98% of graduates earn admission to one of their top three college choices – evidence of their preparation and their potential.

Montgomery Bell Academy

– a school for boys in grades 7-12 –where students are taught the value of leadership and character; are equipped with the fundamental tools to succeed in the classroom and beyond; develop an appreciation for the e ort required to achieve excellence; and form friendships that last a lifetime.

e best way to know MBA is to experience it in person. For campus tours and admission information, please visit:

www.montgomerybell.edu

Continued from page 24

The experience is rooted in character, scholarship, and excellence, but the outcome is different for every student. Because at BGA, learning is personal, growth is expected, and potential is unleashed every day.

Applications for Fall 2027 open in August. Families are encouraged to apply by BGA’s priority deadlines for first-round admission consideration. Learn more at battlegroundacademy.org/admissions.

Harpeth Hall

At Harpeth Hall, ambitions become achievements and girls become purposeful young women prepared to make a meaningful difference in their communities and the world.

As an independent school for students in 5th through 12th grades, every aspect of a Harpeth Hall education is designed with girls in mind. The student council president is a girl. The soccer captain is a girl. The robotics team members are all girls. At Harpeth Hall, we know how girls learn best and provide an environment where our students are embraced for who they are and encouraged in their intellectual curiosity.

In the classroom, our students discover by doing. From power tools to telescopes, Harpeth Hall teachers create hands-on experiences that elevate concepts beyond the textbook and make lessons memorable. Our students develop global perspectives as they think outside of familiar boundaries and engage in a vibrant academic environment that values diversity of thought and cultivates respect for others’ views. At Harpeth Hall, all girls are welcome and every girl thrives.

Beyond the classroom, our school encourages experiences that prepare girls to challenge themselves as individuals and as leaders. From athletics to dance, student government to STEM, musical productions to community service, Harpeth Hall students develop new interests and discover their talents as they imagine their brightest future.

For more than 160 years, Harpeth Hall has held true to the idea that girls deserve an excellent education full of possibilities and purpose. At Harpeth Hall, students learn to think critically, lead confidently, and live honorably. For more information, please visit HarpethHall.org.

Montgomery Bell Academy

Montgomery Bell Academy is the oldest independent school for boys in Tennessee. Founded in 1867, MBA is home to 850 boys in grades 7-12. MBA offers young men an exemplary college preparatory experience in an inclusive community, assisting them to be “gentlemen, scholars, and athletes” and young men of wisdom and moral integrity who will make significant contributions to society.

Continued on page 28

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

Cura for Care is Joining the Abe’s Garden Family Offering personalized in-home care and engagement designed to help Middle Tennessee seniors live independently at home 615-292-8704 athome@abesgarden.org abesgarden.org/athome 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

HOME MAINTENANCE

Home Maintenance Concierge Semi-annual Guidance and Upkeep. Perfect for busy homeowners, Seniors, Snowbirds, Caregivers. In-person service and trusted advice. No sales pitches, pressure or mark-ups. Mark Hill 615-823-8033 m.hill@tandemrealty.com www.TandemRealty.com

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

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 MOHEL

RABBI DANIEL HOFFMAN CERTIFIED MOHEL

A warm and safe bris for your son. Serving the whole community. Call or text 615-481-2831 www.nashvillemohel.net

OPTOMETRIST

DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Franklin 436 Main Street, Franklin 615-591-4191 Optique Nashville 2416 21st Ave. S., #104, Nashville 615-321-4393

DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eyecare Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2020.com

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

LANA PARGH

615-504-2685

lana.pargh@compass.com

FRANKLIN PARGH 615-351-7333 franklin.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com IG: @theparghteam | FB: ParghTeam

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

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

JESSICA AVERBUCH

Broker/ Owner

Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty 615-294-9880

jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com

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

LORNA M. GRAFF

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

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

NAN SPELLER

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

Nashville: 615.383.0183 Franklin: 615.794.0833 zeitlin.com

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

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

Continued from page 26

At MBA, students are taught the value of leadership and character; are equipped with the fundamental tools to succeed in the classroom and beyond; develop an appreciation for the effort required to achieve excellence; and form friendships that last a lifetime.

Montgomery Bell Academy is a place where a boy’s academic, extracurricular, and emotional needs are the priority. Faculty and staff at MBA are committed to providing the best education for young men, and to know, care for, and understand our students.

Admission to MBA is competitive, and successful candidates are those who have demonstrated a serious approach to their studies. Candidates ascribe to MBA’s ideal of becoming a gentleman, scholar, and athlete. Additionally, we want students who will seek the abundant opportunities that MBA provides. The best way to experience MBA is to come see it in person. We hope you will visit us, take a tour of the campus, and see, first-hand, this vibrant and caring community.

Druid Tree Service

While you may be busy getting ready for back to school, it is also time to attend to the beauty and life of your trees and shrubs.

At Druid Tree Service, we are specialists in preserving the natural beauty of your trees and shrubs. We believe your yard should be an oasis, deserving of the utmost care and attention. From specialty hand pruning of boxwoods, yews and ornamentals to

shade tree maintenance, our arborists offer professional care for landscapes of any size.

As you spend more time at home, you may observe that your landscape could use an expert eye on the beautiful space you envision. We can help you through our consulting arborist’s stewardship plans. Alleviate the worry of hazards in your trees, by having our consulting arborist conduct a hazard tree assessment. Spring is an important time to identify pests and nutritional deficiencies in your plants. At Druid, our consulting arborist conducts a plant pathology assessment to identify concerns and make recommendations for pest and fertility issues.

Druid has proven experience controlling specific pests and diseases, including the devastating Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), to insure the health and wellbeing of your trees and shrubs. Druid is family owned and has been caring for trees and shrubs in the Nashville area since 1977.

We look forward to caring for your trees. Give us a call at 615-373-4342 or email us at office@druidtree.com. •

Message

Continued from page 13

lation based on the rhetoric of its elected officials. The concern about divisive and dangerous rhetoric is what motivated the IACP Board of Directors to issue the Resolution Condemning Incitement of Violence in 2025. A moment of clarity

All Things Seniors ISSUE

We will be highlighting all things seniors in this issue.

Special offer when you advertise 1/8 page ad or larger!

Along with your ad, send up to 250 words highlighting your business for inclusion in the editorial section of this special issue!

washed through me as I contemplated the impact of rhetoric and the action of our board.

At the same time, I reflected on additional work underway at the IACP to strengthen our profession’s commitment to principled, collaborative public safety. I also reflected on the work we had recently completed such as the Shared Principles of Agreement, which was the result of the Public Safety Leadership Convening at the IACP, where 16 national associations agreed upon four key principles on the future of intergovernmental public safety cooperation. This work builds a foundation to address the operational atmosphere to ensure this history is not repeated.

I was humbled to join my law enforcement colleagues in a position of honor, leading the over 7,000 marchers on the day of the International March of the Living from Auschwitz to Birkenau. Then, I joined my peer leaders from the National Sheriffs Association, the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association, the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators, and the German Police Union to be the first policing group to ever light one of the symbolic flames, the Torch of Protection, during the solemn ceremony at Birkenau. I will always remember the pride I felt for our profession looking out over the crowd that included 50 survivors and their families as we changed the outlook for the future with hope and assurance that the women and men in policing will never again stand idly by, nor participate in, harming our Jewish families or any others during our watch.

Operationalizing Never Again is more than a program; it is an experience that I believe all in positions of influence and power should participate in. Not just those of us in police leadership but our elected officials and community leaders need the insights provided by this great program. Weeks after, I am still reflecting on the lessons learned and how to meet the challenge and charge we were given to ensure that what happened during this dark time in history is never repeated in any manner. That hate, intolerance, and prejudice is called out in all its forms and halted immediately because of courageous protectors with the power to stop the behavior and to shield those it is directed toward. That is the role of policing, not compliance, not complacency, not cooperation, but courage to stand up and step in to serve when needed the most. To learn more about the program, check out www.scps.virginia.edu and www.motl.org. •

Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville at www.jewishnashville.org