the Jewish
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bserver Vol. 86 No. 10 • October 2021
25 Tishrei - 25 Cheshvan 5782
Actor, Author, Activist: Noa Tishby’s Guide to Understanding Israel Breaks It All Down By BARBARA DAB
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here is a story Noa Tishby tells about the moment she knew she had to write a book about Israel. A well-known Hollywood actress, upon learning Noa is Israeli, approached her to ask if her parents were upset she no longer wears a hijab. In fact, the incident was the culmination of many similar situations in which she found herself being asked to voice her opinions and explain about Israel. “Every time I was confronted or questioned about Israel, I was asked if there was a book that explains what the country is, how it came to be, in simple terms,” she says, “That book didn’t exist, so I decided to write it myself.” The result is Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth.
She describes it as a “step one,” a jumping off point to begin to understand the complexities of the country and the challenges it faces. Tishby is a self-described “secular sabra,” born and raised in Israel by parents and grandparents who were instrumental in the creation of the country. In fact, the book is laced with personal stories about her family and their ties to Israel and Israeli politics. The focus on her family is not what she planned to include. “I didn’t think of inserting my family’s story into the book. But my agent and publisher kept pushing and encouraging me. The result is the story of my family is woven into the establishment of the country.” She also includes her own personal story beginning with her childhood dream of becoming an actress. She ultimately rose
Israeli actor, author and activist Noa Tishby will speak about her book Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth in Nashville on October 5th
to fame as the star of the prime-time Israeli soap opera, “Ramat Aviv Gimmel,” and found success on stage as Anita in a production of West Side Story. As she describes, she eventually made her way to Los Angeles, the heart of the television and film industries, where she continues to be a working actor. Perhaps her biggest American success, though, is behind the camera. She became co-producer of the Israeli show “B’Tipul,” which was adapted by HBO into the popular show “In Treatment,” a move that paved the way for other Israeli programming in the U.S. Perhaps Tishby’s greatest passion, however, is her activism. After being disillusioned by media coverage of Israel, she took to social media to push back. In 2011 she founded Act for Israel, an Continued on page 12
FBI Encouraging the Community to Report Hate Crimes By BARBARA DAB
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he FBI is launching a nationwide effort to enlist the help of local communities in its efforts to educate and combat hate crimes. Hate crimes are part of the Civil Rights Division of the FBI and are its highest priority. Rich Bauer is the Supervisory Special Agent for the Nashville area. He says it is important to identify and report these crimes because they are so damaging to communities. “People look to the FBI to lead these investigations because they deal with threats of violence,” he says, “A hate crime is anything that physically threatens someone and must be motivated by bias against protected classes.” The FBI defines a hate crime as a “criminal offense against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an offender’s bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity.” Currently, Bauer says they are seeing an uptick in hate crimes against faithbased groups, Asian-Pacific Islanders and the Black community. The current campaign is also focused on raising awareness of hate crimes that appear in social media. Sarabeth Myers is the Assistant U.S. A Publication of the
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Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee’s Civil Rights Division. She works closely with Bauer and his agents to prosecute hate crimes. “This state has a huge volume of hate crimes, and the challenge is how are we going to prove that extra layer of bias.” She says social media provides both the setting for hate crimes and evidence about them. Both Bauer and Myers say they rely on help from the partnerships with local community agencies to root out these crimes. Eric Stillman, CEO of The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee says,
“The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee works with the FBI and the Justice Department, and we encourage members of our Jewish community to report hate crimes. It is essential that we have these partnerships for a safe and secure Jewish community in Nashville and Middle Tennessee.” Myers says she is pleased with how the local community comes together when incidents happen. Discussing last year’s defacement of the Tennessee Holocaust Memorial, she says, “These cases need to be publicized and people need to know what happens so we can
help repair the community.” Both Bauer and Myers say the COVID19 pandemic has served to ignite hate crimes. Myers says, “During this time, several social movements have sprung up and people had time to organize in a way we haven’t seen before. These movements can be very productive, but they can also be destructive.” Bauer says the best mechanism for reporting emergencies is still calling 9-1-1, but for those who want to report what they believe is a hate crime, the numbers to call are 800-CALL-FBI, or online at tips.fbi.gov. These reports can be done anonymously. •
Jewish Federation Joins National Support for New Orleans Hurricane Victims T he Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee recently made an emergency distribution of $5,000 from the disaster relief fund through the Jewish Federations of North America to assist with the Hurricane Ida relief efforts. Arnie Fielkow, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, says he is grateful Introducing… Moishe House page 8
to JFNA for both the initial $50K allocation to fund the emergency grant program, and the opening of the national mailbox, which will be needed for the long-term plans. He reports that as people return to town, community leadership discussions will begin regarding longer-term strategy and assessment of needs. Eric Stillman, CEO of The Jewish Federation and Jewish 5782; Shofar So Good, page 11
Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee says, “Here in the Nashville and Middle Tennessee Jewish community, we know how important it is to help people in need following a severe weather event. Coming from New Orleans, I personally understand the extent of this situation after having led that Federation through Hurricane Katrina.” •
Back To School
Entertaining and Dining Out Section, page 21
Jewish Federation’s National Young Leadership Cabinet Kicks Off 2021-22 Year By SHANNON SMALL
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he Jewish Federations of North America’s National Young Leadership Cabinet is where the future of organized Jewish life is nurtured and developed. Each year young adults between the ages of 30-45 from around the country devote time, energy, and resources to strengthening their involvement in and commitment to Jewish communities around the world. Cabinet members embark on a five-year curriculum that builds on a series of Jewish values focused on training volunteer leaders. Nashville’s growing Jewish community is reflected in the increase in local Cabinet members. Currently there are 10, which is more than twice the number just two years ago and includes one of the National Cabinet Co-Chairs. This year’s local cohort recently kicked off their new year with an event hosted by Franklin and Lana Pargh. Participants learned about National Young Leadership Cabinet, plans for the upcoming year, and broke into small groups to get to know each other better and share their values, interests, and experiences in the Jewish community and Jewish philanthropy. Franklin Pargh says he was inspired to see so much enthusiasm the year. “The Cabinet kickoff event was incredible because we’re in the early stages of growing the Nashville
Current, former, and prospective members of National Young Leadership Cabinet gather at the home of Franklin and Lana Pargh to kick off the new year of programming and learning.
branch, yet we have members of such high caliber. It’s amazing to see all of these bright minds enthusiastically collaborating and working together towards the same goal.” For those who are returning Cabinet members, the event served as a reminder not only of where leadership begins, but also how it continues to build throughout the years. Veteran Cabinet member Batia Karabel says she was inspired
listening to former members who have continued to lead the community. “This kickoff was particularly meaningful as it was an opportunity to speak with and learn from former Cabinet Chevre from Nashville. Fred and Moshe, role models for us in our own community, shared with us why the Cabinet experience is so foundational to the Nashville Jewish community.” And returning Cabinet member Amy Goldstein agreed that hearing from
community leaders inspires everyone, “In addition to welcoming our amazing new Cabinet members, I loved connecting with Cabinet alumni, like Moishe Werthan and Fred Zimmerman, who continue to do important work in Nashville and beyond and who set a strong example for the rest of us to follow.” A key component of that Cabinet experience is the opportunity to meet other like-minded young professionals, and to develop a network of connections which serves as a pipeline for leadership opportunities across major Jewish organizations. New Cabinet member Rachel Whitney says, “It was incredible to meet other Jewish professionals from across the country who were committed to investing in their community. I’m excited to get to know my Cabinet class and contribute to the work Federation is doing around the world.” And new Cabinet member, Alex Brown, echoed those thoughts and said gathering in person helped make the valuable connections that will carry him through his Cabinet term. “The kickoff event was my first opportunity to connect with the leaders in the Nashville community who I will be joining on Cabinet. The immediate connection with all in attendance and meaningful discussions only served to confirm my decision to join Cabinet.” •
Community Relations Committee Thou Shalt not Hate By DEBORAH OLESHANSKY, DIRECTOR OF THE JCRC
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t the beginning of the 2021-22 school year, we launched a tool to help community members report local incidents of antisemitism, primarily designed for use by parents and students experiencing issues of antisemitism in school settings.
This form, created through the efforts of JCRC members and concerned parents, is available on the Jewish Federation website: Israel & Antisemitism | Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee (jewishnashville.org) As we share this resource, we are already getting reports. We are and will continue to engage actively with students
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and parents to assist in addressing, and hopefully resolving, these painful situations. While the form does not allow for anonymous reports, it does allow for reports simply for data collection without request for specific follow up or involvement. Going public with these issues can be intimidating, so it is possible to report without requesting specific action. Simply collecting the data can be useful in working with school leaders and administrators interested in ensuring an atmosphere of inclusion and respect for all students, educators, staff members, and families. The next JCRC program event will be on Tuesday, October 5th, when we will host Noa Tishby in Nashville for a program on her book, Israel: A Simple Guide to the most Misunderstood Country On Earth. (See full article page 1.) The book has been exceedingly well received by most, and provides an engaging accessible, informal, and personal way into the complexities of Israel and the people who live there. Ms. Tishby is an experienced communicator, and her voice is a welcome addition to the conversation about Israel. JCRC will be organizing book group discussions. If you are interested in participating, please contact Deborah Oleshansky, deborah@jewishnashville.org Other JCRC October Programs: Friday, October 22 at noon: Virtual Lunch and Learn call with Bob Scott, CUFI Field Coordinator.
As the largest pro-Israel organization in the United States, with over 10 million members, Christians United for Israel is the foremost Christian organization educating and empowering millions of Americans to speak and act with one voice in defense of Israel and the Jewish people. www.cufi.org Thursday, October 28 at 7pm: JCRC will sponsor the Nashville Jewish Film Festival viewing of Thou Shalt Not Hate. (96 minutes in Italian with subtitles) A moment’s decision at a traffic accident causes repercussion for a Jewish surgeon and a neo-Nazi’s family. Simone Segre (Alessandro Gassmann) rushes to the scene of a hit and run accident to treat the victim. When he sees a swastika tattooed on the man’s chest, he loosens the tourniquet and leaves him to a certain death. Wracked with guilt the doctor has to confront his own ethics and morals while trying to take care of the Nazis family. Winner Best Italian Film Venice International Festival Winner Best Actor Alessandro Gassmann, Venice International Festival These programs, like all JCRC programs, come to fruition through interest and recommendations from JCRC committee and other community members. If you would like more info or have a suggestion for a future event or program please contact Deborah Oleshansky, deborah@jewishnashville.org •
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October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
Editorial Faith and the Next Generation By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN
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n Erev Rosh Hashana, we opened our pulpit to listen to the emerging Jewish voices of the next generation. As they spoke, we listened, and we learned. We learned of the continued importance of inclusion and embrace of newcomers within the Jewish tent. We were reminded of the need not only for inclusion within our synagogue, but also, of the care and concern for those in need already within the walls of our congregation. And we were encouraged to remember the centrality and the significance of the security and survival of the Jewish homeland, the State of Israel, despite its conflicts and complications. We heard each of their messages to us. Yet there is one important caveat: They are already members of a congregation, of this Congregation; they have all joined our larger Temple family. They have already expressed their commitment to the continuity of their faith community. But what of those members of the next generation who have not yet chosen to affiliate with any religious tradition, let alone that of their own faith? A recent opinion piece in the New York Times offers an explanation in its first three paragraphs: Since 1988, the General Social Survey has been asking Americans of different ages what they believe about God. For decades, the answer did not change much. Around seventy percent of the Silent Generation said that they “know God exists” and “have no doubts about it.” That same sentiment was shared by c
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Publisher Eric Stillman Editor Barbara Dab Advertising Manager Carrie Mills Layout and Production Tim Gregory Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), Teena Cohen, Laura Thompson, Scott Rosenberg, Liz Feinberg Telephone 615/356-3242 Fax 615/352-0056 E-mail barbaradab@jewishnashville.org ‘The Jewish Observer’ (ISSN 23315334) is published monthly for $25 per year by the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 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 possibly effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the Kasruth of their products. The Jewish Observer Founded in 1934 by J
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about sixty three percent of baby boomers and Generation Xers. But in 2018, millennial expressed a lot less certainty. Only 44 percent had no doubts about the existence of God. Even more doubtful were members of Generation Z — just one-third claimed a certain belief in God. Today, scholars are finding that by almost any metric they use to measure religiosity, younger generations are much more secular than their parents or grandparents. In responses to survey questions, over 40% of the youngest Americans claim no religious affiliation, and just a quarter say they attend services weekly or more. (NYT, 8/29/21) The following, then, is an open letter to those young Jews, and their families, who are still hesitant, about engaging themselves more fully in Jewish life, in immersing themselves more completely in the life of the synagogue and the Jewish community: Do you need to believe in God, to be a good Jew? It certainly doesn’t hurt. As one who believes in a higher power, I could ask the question in a more direct, perhaps more faith affirming way: Do you believe in God? It really doesn’t matter all that much: No matter what you believe about God, God will always believe in you. Does it matter whether you care about God all that much, or all that often? Not really. What matters most is that God cares about you, about every single one of us, without limit, without end. They say there are no atheists to be found in fox holes. I would add that there are few atheists to be found in hospital
Corrections Policy The Jewish Observer is committed to making corrections and clarifications promptly. To request a correction or clarification, call Editor Barbara Dab at (615) 354-1653 or email her at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org
Editorial Submissions Policy and Deadlines The Jewish Observer welcomes the submission of information, news items, feature stories and photos about events relevant to the Jewish community of Greater Nashville. We prefer e-mailed submissions, which should be sent as Word documents to Editor Barbara Dab at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org. Photos must be high resolution (at least 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs to the e-mail with the related news item or story. For material that cannot be e-mailed, submissions should be sent to Barbara Dab, The Jewish Observer, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy sent by regular mail will not be returned unless prior arrangement is made. Publication is at the discretion of The Observer, which reserves the right to edit submissions. To ensure publication, submissions must arrive by the 15th of the month prior to the intended month of publication. For advertising deadlines, contact Carrie Mills, advertising manager, at 615-354-1699, or by email at carrie@nashvillejcc.org.
beds, or among those surrounding those patients’ bedsides, or in delivery rooms, among those experiencing the miracle of childbirth, or on the sidelines of our children’s sporting events, when one of them lies momentarily lifeless on the playing field. I’ve had those moments, too, in the life of my own family.Those moments are often the times when we offer up our most fervent of prayers, no matter what our belief, nor what, or whom, we believe in. They are often the most somber of moments, when life itself, or the emerging new life, or the lives of those we love, all hang in the balance. As I once heard it remarked upon by a reverently religious scholar, that “I don’t have the required nor sufficient faith, to be an atheist.” That is, the scholar acknowledges and accepts that he does not possess the required faith necessary, to reject the possibility of faith. A believer is confident in his or her lack of ability to know for certain, all the mysteries of life, and the secrets of the universe, of why we are here, upon this earth, and what our purpose should be.It is precisely that exploration, that search for meaning, that possibility of something larger, something beyond our finite ability to fully comprehend, that pries open our minds, our hearts and our souls, to the possibilities of belief. It is the belief that the Architect of the Universe may exist, despite our lack of ability to fully grasp, nor understand, the mysteries that lie beyond the full capacity of our minds. There are also few Jewish agnostics: In the wisdom of our tradition, to question, to doubt, and to challenge the essence of the Divine, is not only acceptable in our tradition, but also welcomed and encouraged. It is neither blasphemous nor heretical: In the eyes of Judaism, it is a sacred act. My faith grounds me. It centers me and calms me. it encourages me and inspires me to be better, to do more in the service of others. What does, our Jewish faith do for you? I don’t believe one needs faith to be a good person; but I do believe religion can help us all in becoming better persons, better human beings, better reflections of the Divine image implanted within us, with each of us, in turn, listening closely, to “the Still, Small Voice” within each of us, and all of us. Can you be a good Jew without practicing Judaism? Sure. But can you be a better Jew by following Jewish practice, customs and beliefs? Absolutely. Without a doubt. Can you strengthen the Jewish community by being a more faithful Jew? Absolutely. Without a doubt. Can it make you a more caring person, in tangible and meaningful ways? Absolutely. Without a doubt. Can it make you a more humble, more grateful, more caring, more compassionate human soul? Absolutely. Without a doubt. Can it make you more aware of a
Source of strength, of courage, true awe and wonder, of something, some force, higher than yourself? Can it motivate you to service, to serve others beyond your own self? Absolutely. Without a doubt. It is not that the Jewish faith is better nor worse than any other faith tradition. But Judaism is unique among other religious beliefs; therefore, its values, ethics and ideals are each uniquely ours to treasure, to embrace, to secure, and to preserve. It encompasses both our history as well as our heritage. It is upon us alone, to sustain its viability, and to protect and prolong its continuity and continuance, lest the chain of thousands of years of that sacred tradition, and sacred trust, end with us. Ours is neither a perfect faith nor a flawless system of belief. But done right, Judaism offers comfort to the challenged, and challenges those who are comfortable. Judaism, or any faith, that only offers harsh judgement or severe decree, is not the Judaism that speaks for most of us, or to most of us. To this day, we gather in our most sacred spaces, to teach our children about our traditions, to continue our own lifelong learning, to celebrate and commemorate life’s most sacred moments, and where we gather to remember our past and set the vision for our future. The synagogue is where we remind ourselves of our sacred calling; it is where we reflect on the prophetic call for the creation of a better world, built upon the bedrock of justice, with a cornerstone set upon extending mercy to the weak and the vulnerable. Here’s the point: While we continue to be strong and resilient, think of how much stronger we would be, with your active involvement, with your full participation in guiding us forward, with your assistance in building our future, and with your tangible commitment to the welfare and well-being of our people and our community. In one instance, the Talmud teaches us that “Kol Yisrael Aravim zeh leh zeh.” — That all jews are responsible for one another. Yet in another, the latter text is slightly, but significantly different from the former iteration: “Kol Yisrael Aravim zeh le zeh”— that is, each and every individual Jew is charged with the responsibility of caring for the welfare and well-being of every other individual Jew. In other words, we are responsible for one another, for each other, just as they are duty-bound to watch over us. And together, it takes all of us and each of us, to care for our people, preserving its past, protecting its traditions, promoting its eternal ethics, ideals and values, and promising to continue the chain of our continuity. May it be so. Amen • Rabbi Mark Schiftan is Senior Rabbi at The Temple. This column is an excerpt from his sermon on Rosh Hashanah.
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee at www.jewishnashville.org The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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Local Author Explores the Meaning of Success with People from All Walks of Life and was comfortable probing for their personal truths about success. “It was hat does it mean to have a sucinteresting getting started,” he says, “I cessful life? Do most people conwould invite people over for dinner and sider themselves successful? How is just ask them if they thought their lives success defined? Can success were successful.” What he disbe achieved with limited covered was that there were resources? These and many some universal themes, but other questions are explored also some surprises. “I soon in Dr. Frank Boehm’s book, Is realized the idea of success was Your Life Successful? Through different for people at different a series of more than 200 stages of life. I began to find interviews with people from common themes among young all walks of life, Boehm asks people, those in mid-life and the question, “Is your life sucthose who are older,” he says. cessful?” The answers, he says, Dr. Frank Boehm, He also found that it often are often surprising, “I went author of Is your Life did not matter if someone was into this with one idea about Successful? financially well-off, professionwhat people would say, but ally known, or pinching pennies to get by. often things went quite another way.” After speaking with celebrities, and there The process led him to categorize the are a few, he learned fame was not necdefinition of success, separating answers essarily the key to feeling successful, nor by concept and by age range. He discovdid wealthy interviewees always believe ered that people’s thoughts about success money was the answer. Perhaps most change throughout their lives, and often moving was hearing from those who, from do not reflect their outward appearance. outward appearances, were the least sucBoehm began his journey toward cessful. “I was touched when I spoke with uncovering how people define success the adult son of a friend. He has Down by reflecting upon his own life around Syndrome and lives in a group home in the time he retired. He spent nearly five another state. He said he felt successful decades in practice in the field of materbecause he could take care of himself and nal fetal medicine in the Department of his room,” says Boehm. Obstetrics and Gynecology at Vanderbilt When it comes to similarities, there University Medical Center, where he is is one thought in particular that spans the an emeritus professor, he authored two various age groups. Boehm says, “Making books, hundreds of scientific papers, raised the world a better place was mentioned in three children and has been happily marevery category.” This concept of improvried for over 30 years. Still, he could not ing one’s surroundings is a core value that help wondering if he had really accomnot only defines success, but it provides plished all he’d set out to, and if his life people of all ages with a meaningful goal was indeed, a success. As a self-described around which to build a successful life. bookworm, and with a passion for writing The book’s final chapters serve to that began in his teens, his first instinct summarize the findings of the 200 interwas to write his memoirs. But his sensible views. Boehm himself devotes a final secand insightful wife, Julie, was not sure othtion to his exploration and ultimate reveers would find his story compelling. “She lation about his own success. And while said no one would want to read about me, the reader might be tempted to make I’m not that interesting,” he jokes. After assumptions about Boehm’s conclusion, some discussions with friends over dinner, there is one final twist in his personal story he decided the best way to figure out what which proves that life rarely turns out as constitutes a successful life was to talk to planned, but that often the sweetest gifts other people. “I love talking to people and are those that catch us by surprise and fill interviewing them, figure out what makes us with love and gratitude, which are the them tick,” he says of the process some truest measures of success. might consider grueling. He spoke to more Is Your Life Successful? will be availthan 200 people over several years. able on October 12th, and Dr. Boehm will To begin his research, Boehm began be appearing at Parnassus Books on that speaking to friends, people he knew well date at 6:30pm. • By BARBARA DAB
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Pictured left to right: Front Row: Meghan Eskind, Sara Eskind, Jackie Zigelsky, Judy Eskind, Marlene Moses, Rhonda Wernick, Sara Ludlam, Laurie Eskind, Donna Eskind Second Row: Jessica Ginsberg, Caroline Sprouse, Julie Galbierz, Kelly Unger
Gordon JCC Big Night Out 2022: Go for the Gold! T he committee for the Gordon JCC’s annual fundraiser met at the home of Marlene Moses in late August to kick-off the 2022 event. Chaired by Julie Galbierz and Caroline Sprouse, Big Night Out 2022 will feature Olympic themed festivities, along with dinner, and a large auction. The event is scheduled for Saturday, January 22, 2022, and proceeds
from the evening provide critical and sustaining funds for the Gordon JCC including financial aid for the preschool, Camp Davis and after school care, senior activities, teen programs and health and wellness initiatives for those of all ages. For more information on the event or to become involved, contact Dara Freiberg at dara@nashvillejcc.org. •
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Available October 12, 2021 Am I living my life to the fullest? It’s a question we all ask ourselves, yet there is no universal answer. In Is Your Life Successful?, Dr. Frank Boehm guides readers through an entertaining, insightful, and ultimately hopeful exploration of life’s joy and hardships.
Order https://bit.ly/isyourlifesuccessful Visit The Jewish Observer’s new website www.jewishobservernashville.org
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October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
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The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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Soulful World: An Innovative Approach to Fostering Spirituality in Middle School Students By ELLY EBIN
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cross the country, educators are coming to understand that cultivating spirituality is an essential part of a child’s development. The Jewish Middle School of Nashville believes that a focus on spiritual growth is as essential to middle school development as curriculum. With students coming from diverse faiths and backgrounds, fostering a sense of spirituality is no easy task. To address this challenge and bring a fresh and candid perspective to a topic that is often fraught with tension and hesitancy, JMS created a didactic and innovative world religion curriculum called Soulful World. While many schools bear a misplaced fear of teaching world religions, and shy away from it, JMS educators believe that studying religion, either through its literature and art, or through its influence on political and social issues, is a fundamental part of developing spirituality. Through the examination and analysis of varying religious philosophies and ethics, students develop the ability to see themselves as spiritual and religious beings. This in turn fosters a heightened understanding that
Alene Arnold leads JMS students in a discussion during a Soulful World Class. (Photo credit Sean Raper)
they are part of a greater community and world. Alene Arnold, Co-Head-of-School, says, “The class as a substantive world religions class where everything is taught through the lens of one’s own personal beliefs and conclusions.” For example, Arnold will introduce the concept of
God and provide a general definition for the term. Students will study the way different religions view and understand God, but then they will inevitably come back to the central questions of, “what do I think?” and, “what do I believe?” Aisha Fransciosa, an eighth grader at JMS, says, “Soulful World allows us to think deeply
about different religions and talk about ourselves without any judgement.” Throughout their middle school years, one of the core issues that students deal with is a development of identity and spirituality. JMS Founder Rabbi Saul Strosberg, believes, “In Soulful World, students learn how the development of identity is emphasized in different cultures and religions. Soulful World also challenges students to think about ethics, values, and what is essential to maintaining a just and kind society.” While tolerance of diversity is often touted as a cultural standard, JMS encourages its students to aim higher. Arnold and Strosberg advocate that the discussions and explorations in Soulful World give students the knowledge needed to develop a better sense of self and one’s place in the world. Learning the diverse ways in which people understand and connect with a higher being allows students to shift their priorities from the physical and focus on the spiritual. Consequently, students learn to value pluralism and not just tolerate it. The Soulful World curriculum has set a new standard for educators on how to foster spirituality in its students through the study of world religions. •
Hated, Segregated and Eliminated: Jewish-Christian Studies Initiative Looks into Jewish and African American Experiences By BARBARA DAB
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recent report by the AntiDefamation League shows that this year, hate crimes rose to the highest level in 12 years. The number reflects the rising number of assaults on Black and Asian Americans and coupled with the rise to power of the Taliban in Afghanistan, has US officials and law enforcement worried. That is in addition to the recent Pew study of American Jews’ finding that over half of those surveyed experienced antisemitic slurs, comments, or threats. And as high-level agency officials, lawmakers, and domestic terrorism experts grapple with next steps, those on the ground are left trying to figure out a way to both deal with the threats and to build bridges of understanding. In Nashville, a unique partnership is hoping to do the latter. The Jewish-Christian Studies Initiative is a partnership between The Temple and Belmont University’s Rev. Charlie Curb Center for Faith Leadership and seeks to engage college students in experiential learning about the power of interfaith understanding. The initiative
is being led by Rabbi Mark Schiftan of The Temple, and Dr. Jon Roebuck of the Curb Center, and includes lectures and Bible study, and culminates in a twoweek trip to Washington, DC to visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The overall goal, says Rabbi Schiftan, is to explore common experiences. “We want to figure out the lessons that derive from hate and hateful acts and how we can develop tolerance, acceptance and make restitution.” Dr. Roebuck says the formative college years are an opportunity to reach young people. “How wonderful for students in their 20s to have exposure to these experiences and ideas and have time to make some positive change in the world.” During the trip to Washington, DC, students will spend a week at each of the two museums. Dr. Roebuck says the goal is to provide a bigger lens through which to view the world. “It is important to become more aware of the worlds where we all walk, live and think. This trip will help students gain perspective
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee at www.jewishnashville.org
on the African American experience and to have a greater understanding of the Jewish community, as well.” The themes of oppression and marginalization of both groups is the focus of the trip. Michelle Shaw, Faculty Fellow at Belmont University in the Department of Communication Studies, will be leading students through the National Museum of African American History and Culture. She says her focus is on how religion oppressed African Americans in similar ways that religion caused the Holocaust. “What does it mean when language cause action and activates certain behaviors?” she questions, “What caused the Black church to rise up when there were already institutions in place?” She says her goal is not to change minds, but rather to ask the big questions. “As students move forward in life, hopefully they will have information to help them make decisions about life and religion.” The Jewish-Christian Studies Initiative is being funded by various endowments. Steve Riven is Chair of the overall fundraising campaign and his family endowment is helping to fund some of
the study opportunities. He says programs like this one are crucial to strengthening the city of Nashville. “This program will further open up relationships between the Jewish community and the community at large,” he says, “It will also help attract more Jewish students from around the country to come to Nashville and to Belmont University.” He adds that it was the vision of Rabbi Schiftan, along with former Belmont President Bob Fisher and the new President, Greg Jones, that is making this dream a reality. “These leaders are so dynamic and so focused, they can see the long-term benefit this will have on the whole community,” he says. And Dr. Roebuck agrees and says there are even plans in the works to develop a similar program for adults beyond college. “That’s one of the dreams,” he says, “It’s important to think about doing these types of explorations for adults. It’s all part of figuring out how we can all work together and do common good.” Those interested in learning more should contact Rabbi Mark Schiftan, 615-352-7620. •
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October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
Chabad Expands the Bellevue Eruv District T
he Shabbat of August 21 marked the first time that Brianna Harper was able to push her one year-old son Yishai to synagogue in a stroller. It was the first time, while walking to Shabbat services, that Debra Turriciano was able to carry her Shabbat prayer book to services at Chabad of Nashville. It was also the first Shabbat that families in the MAA Bellevue subdivision (formerly known as Colonial Grand, or The Grove) can visit the community playground while bringing along their favorite toys and balls. That’s because the Eruv in the Bellevue area of Nashville, known as, “the Nashville Eruv West,” has been expanded to include the 569 apartments of the MAA Apartments in Bellevue, which means Jews within its perimeter can carry items on Shabbat. The Eruv was put up by Chabad of Nashville with the assistance of visiting rabbis from Florida who are experts in the laws of Eruv. The original Bellevue Eruv in was built in February 2015, when several consultants came to visit the community, and scout the area on the most advisable location for the Eruv boundaries in Bellevue. There were many hoops to jump through with the local authorities, including obtaining permission from NES to use their electrical poles, from the Department of Public Works to obtain permission for the use of the Right of Way, and from the mayor’s office in order to create the Eruv District in Bellevue. The project was officially
designated by then Mayor of Nashville, Karl Dean, who authorized the creation of the Eruv District in the Bellevue area. The Eruv covers an approximately eight square mile area. It runs from Highway 100 near the Ensworth School on the South to Highway 70W on the North, and from Old Hickory Blvd. on the East to Coley David on the West. The new addition to the Eruv District was added, as new families are moving to Nashville, and are seeking affordable rental units, inside the Eruv, within walking distance to Chabad of Nashville. “An eruv is a statement that this community is on the map, that it’s actively together, that it’s growing and building an infrastructure for traditional Jewish life. We expect the eruv to help unite the community and allow a more vibrant energy at synagogue. I’m looking forward to more families showing up on Shabbat for the TGIS Shabbat celebrations, the Shabbat mornings kids club, and be part of a dynamic Jewish community,” said Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel. An eruv not only enhances the quality of life in the Jewish community, but also makes the community much more attractive to those considering relocating to a new community. As Nashville is booming and growing, the Eruv will make a difference for many young couples and newcomers, to their decision of where to live and raise a family. The Torah identifies 39 categories of work that are prohibited on Shabbat. One
The Eruv for the Bellevue area in West Nashville includes a large section of the Jewish community, and is in close proximity to the Gordon JCC, Akiva School and much of Jewish life in the area and includes affordable housing for families of all income levels. For more information contact Chabad of Nashville at 615-646-5750
of those is carrying anything from a private to a public space. An eruv expands the private domain and allows Jews to carry within those boundaries. The eruv is a symbolic enclosure that surrounds the Jewish community. Under Jewish law, carrying on the Sabbath is allowed within the eruv because the entire area within the eruv is considered as if a single property. An eruv may consist of
natural boundaries such as a river bank or of walls, fences, buildings, or hedges. It can also consist of designated utility poles and wires (electric, telephone and/ or cable) or strings, if the perimeter of the community eruv is uninterrupted. The Shabbat will be experienced for many in Bellevue in a whole new way, it will be a day where families and children will say “Thank G-d It’s Shabbat. •
Rabbi Laurie Rice to Run Boston Marathon thing she qiuckly completed, in fact to date, she has raised over $27,000. This latest challenge has opened Rabbi Rice up to some new ideas she is bringing to her congregation. “I want to explore how something we enjoy recreationally can inform our values as Jews,” she says. Specifically, she’d like to revamp the Mitzvah Program for the school’s B’nai Mitzvah students. “I want to encourage the students to find something for their projects that combines
By BARBARA DAB
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hen Rabbi Laurie Rice laces up her running shoes every morning and hits the road, it is as much an expression of spiritual commitment as it is a physical challenge. She began running in college and says that while it has become an addiction of sorts, it also provides her with time for meditative reflection. “I think about the morning prayers, I think about our bodies and that being able to run is not a given,” she says. Over the years Rabbi Rice has run in 15 full marathons and more half marathons than she can count. She most recently ran the Wasatch Marathon last Fall, and after finishing within the time frame to qualify her for the prestigious Boston Marathon, she set her sights on a new goal: to run that elite marathon, and to do it for a higher purpose. “Just to qualify is a badge of honor,” she says, “But I wanted to actually run it. And then I was given the opportunity to be part of a charity team, so it was a perfect way to combine my passion with my Jewish values.” Rabbi Rice was invited to participate in the marathon by the Heather Abbott Foundation, an organization that raises money to provide prosthetics for amputees. Abbott was a spectator at the Boston Marathon in 2013 and lost her left leg when the second bomb detonated. She persevered through physical and emotional recovery and was the recipient of donations that helped her receive
their passion, what they enjoy, with doing something for others. I think that will help them be more connected to the program.” As for running, naturally there will be new goals. Rabbi Rice says after the Boston Marathon she wants to challenge herself to run 50 miles for her 50th birthday. It is still a little ways off, and she says she wants to be attentive to her own limits, but when she heads out on her morning run, she is already there. •
Rabbi Laurie Rice of Congregation Micah will run this year’s Boston Marathon
a customized prosthesis. Determined to pay it forward, Abbott became a peer counselor for amputees and ultimately created her foundation. Rabbi Rice says she is honored to be part of the Abbott Foundation team. “We are blessed to have these body parts, but prosthetics are so expensive,” she says, “I’m proud to be able to help give that back to people.” To begin preparing for the Marathon, Rabbi Rice hired a running coach in January, something she has never done before. “It was fun to have a coach,” she says, “It motivated me and kept me accountable.” She also was tasked with raising $8500 for the Foundation, some-
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Notes from Noam By NOAM HARARI COMMUNITY SHLICHA
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his year’s NASHir” (sing), “Together in song,” event continues online. The virtual concert features twenty-one Artists/Songwriters who live in Nashville and Israel have been paired to co-write and perform songs together despite the physical distance of over 6000 miles. Scan the QR code to watch all the songs on YouTube. •
Moishe House residents (l to r), Becca Groner, Shea Northfield, and Rose Capin
Introducing…Moishe House By BARBARA DAB
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ucked away on a leafy East Nashville street sits the newest addition to the local Jewish community. Moishe House is a pluralistic, peer-led, organization that helps bridge the gap between college life and more traditional, family-based Jewish programming. The Nashville Moishe House is home to three Jewish women from various walks of life who share a passion for Jewish connection, meaningful programming and just plain fun. MoHo, as it has come to be called, serves as a host home base for events ranging from cocktail parties to Shabbat dinners to book groups. And the three residents are thrilled to be at the heart of it all. Becca Groner was the first of the three to envision the new Moishe House. When she first arrived in Nashville several years ago, she was involved in the creation of a Moishe House Without Walls (MHWOW), a similar concept, but events rotated to various locations. Building upon the success of the MHWOW, she joined forces with Nashville newcomers Rose Capin and Shea Northfield. With support from the Moishe House national organization, the group applied for and received an Innovation Grant from The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, then located the home, and moved in. Groner says it is exciting to have a space just for young Jewish adults that is an alternative to a synagogue or a JCC. “I understood how the Moishe House program works, but this elevates things to a whole new level, and it’s been great to have Shea and Rose to bounce things off of.” The first event was a housewarming party attended by more than 50 people. For Rose Capin, joining Moishe House was a homecoming of sorts. After graduating from Vanderbilt in 2020, she moved to Atlanta in search of new horizons, but quickly realized Nashville was home. “I really missed it. If Nashville was a person, I’d be best friends with it,” she gleefully exclaims. She’d known about Moishe House from her time in Atlanta, where there are four houses, and is honored to be helping to bring one to her favorite city. “I have so much gratitude
and optimism,” she says, “It’s going to be fun to see where we can go with this.” Moishe House is designed to be egalitarian, pluralistic, and inclusive, but the local house definitely reflects the current residents’ feminist perspective. Shea Northfield, who hails from the Pacific Northwest, says, “We want to be a space where everyone feels welcome, but we do bring a feminist lens to everything.” For the upcoming Mezuzah Hanging party on October 20th the group reached out to Rabbis Laurie Rice and Shana Mackler for guidance. Shea says, “We really wanted a female rabbi to help us plan the program.” A popular program so far has been the feminist book club brunches held both in person and virtually. The three are very clear, though, Moishe House is for everyone. Rose describes the overarching value of Moishe House as one of, “radical inclusivity,” and that also means being a safe and open space for Queer Jews. She says, “There is a real need here. Young Queer Jewish people want more Queer Jewish events.” In addition to planning MoHo specific programs, there are partnerships with other local Jewish organizations, such as East Side Tribe, NowGen, and the Nashville Jewish Film Festival. And the three acknowledge that big splashy events are not for everyone. Shea says, “Some of our big plans are for small, one-onone experiences, smaller group programs to create more intimate connections.” Indeed, the women all agree Moishe House is an opportunity to create a personalized space tailored to the needs of the local young Jewish population. Rose says, “The goal is to provide value, meaning, and accountability for people.” And as for that lovely house in East Nashville, they all agree it is the perfect location from which to build community and embark on adult Jewish life. Becca says, “We all care very deeply about Jewish life, Jewish thought and Jewish learning. We want to develop that and add that to our community wherever we can.” • The Moishe House Mezuzah Hanging and Open House is scheduled for Wednesday, October 20th at 6:00pm. For more information, or to RSVP contact dave.press@ moishehouse.org.
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October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
How will proposed changes in federal tax laws affect charitable giving? will exceed $3.5 million at death, the current $11.7 million federal estate tax n light of the need to generate revenues exemption amount may be significantly with which to pay for the proposed reduced to as low as $3.5 million. In significant investments in physical and addition, under current law, the cost basis human infrastructure and other legislafor income tax purposes of appreciated tive initiatives proposed by assets owned by a decedent is the Biden administration, it increased (stepped up) to the is likely that Congress will fair market value of the assets enact federal tax law changas of date of death. This stepes before year-end, some of up in basis at death may be which will affect individuals. eliminated and the appreciaThose who regularly make tion in assets as of date of death charitable donations or who may be subject to capital gains plan on additional charitable tax as if the assets were sold by giving this year, and in the the decedent immediately after near future, should be aware death. This “deemed sale” will of how these possible federal Ralph Levy is a not apply to appreciated assets tax law changes could affect member of The that are donated to charities. their charitable giving strat- Jewish Federation’s These two changes could apply egy. The changes that affect Professional Advi- to those who die after the new income taxes likely will not sory Council law is signed into law (even become effective until January 1, 2022. those who die in 2021 after the date of Proposed Change #1: Increases in enactment). Income Tax Rates and Capital Gains High net worth individuals who want Tax Rates to make donations to charities at their For high-income individuals, death should consider using highly apprethose with taxable income in excess ciated assets to fund their testamentary of $400,000, federal income tax rates charitable donations rather than cash and may increase. For example, the highest perhaps in lieu of designating charities as income tax rate could increase from 37% beneficiaries of retirement plan proceeds. to 39.6%. In addition, the preferential In addition, those who inherit stocks, tax rate for capital gains (currently 23.8% bonds and other assets that have a low including a 3.8% tax on net investment cost basis may want to consider donating income) will not be available to individthese assets to charities to avoid incurring uals with capital gains in excess of $1 milsignificant capital gains taxes on sale of lion (resulting in a top capital gains tax the inherited assets. rate of 43.4%, which is 39.6% plus 3.8%). For questions about the Professional Those who might be affected by these Advisory Council or the upcoming estate changes and who itemize their deductions and financial planning education semshould consider deferring charitable gifts inars, please contact Shannon Small at until 2022 and making gifts of highly shannon@jewishnashville.org. • appreciated stocks and bonds to charities rather than gifts of cash. Ralph Levy is a senior partner in the Proposed Change #2: Cap on Tax Healthcare practice at Dickinson Wright. Benefit of Itemized Deductions He assists and advises entrepreneurs and Charitable deductions are generally owners of closely-held businesses in operavailable only to taxpayers who can itemationalizing their business plans, including ize their deductions. If the proposed tax the estate planning, business succession and law changes are enacted, the tax benefit tax planning issues thereof. Ralph has over of itemized deductions would be limited to 30 years of experience in counseling clients 28%. This change would reduce the benin the Healthcare arena. He has served efit of charitable deductions to individuals as General Counsel for a national health with income taxed above this rate. (For care services provider and manufacturer of 2021, taxable income of married taxpayers medical equipment where he gained critical in excess of $329,850 is subject to income operating experience and an appreciation of taxation at 32%.) the need for businesses to manage their legal Proposed Change #3: Reduction in matters in an efficient but proactive manner. Estate Tax Exemptions and Repeal of He leverages this valuable knowledge by Step-Up in Basis assisting clients in establishing, operating and For individuals whose taxable estates expanding their businesses.
By RALPH LEVY
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Akiva Students Kickstart Drive for Tennessee Flood Relief By ELLY EBIN
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hen devastating floods battered parts of Humphreys County in August, Akiva students immediately asked what they could do to help. Gina Cherbonneaux, Akiva’s 4th Grade teacher, told her class about the ruin left in the wake of flash flooding in Waverly, a city of close to 4,300 people. She asked her students to think about what happened and what they might do to help. Students decided to host a relief drive to collect items needed by flood victims. Akiva fourth grader Kol Rosenblatt said, “We felt we needed to help in some way. Even during difficult times like COVID and flash flooding you can find a way to help people out.” And so, they did. Fourth, fifth and sixth graders created an informational video, handouts outlining items needed, and information on how to donate those items. The response from the Akiva community was overwhelming. Items poured in, and students filled cars and vans full of supplies to be delivered to those in need. Kol said he and his friends were, “really surprised by how much stuff people brought. It couldn’t even fit in one car.” The flooding and ensuing destruction shone a light for students on natural disasters and tragedies that strike communities all over the world. Seeing the students’ passion and success in helping Humphreys County, Ms. Cherbonneaux challenged her class to think more globally and consider ways to provide support in the aftermath of disasters elsewhere. Incorporating what they have learned about tikkun olam, repairing the world, and chesed, kindness, together with skills they have developed in both writing and technology, the fourth-grade class launched a Donations4Disasters website. The goal of this website, created solely by
Akiva School 4th grade students hosted a relief drive to collect needed items for victims of the Humphreys County flooding.
the students, is to facilitate relief drives and direct help around the world to those who need it. Ms. Cherbonneaux says she admired the students’ agency in taking on this project. “I was delighted for them to learn first-hand that it doesn’t matter how old you are, you can still make an impact and have a positive role in your community and in the world.” Head of School, Rabba Daniella Pressner underscores that at Akiva, “we strive to help children see their place in this world and their achraut, or responsibility, for others’ lives and experiences. Their leadership is never surprising but always a reminder that every child has passion and purpose, and it is our job to help them find it. This unique encouragement and support helps lead to Akiva students’ positioning as profound learners and leaders in our world.” For information on how you can help, visit www.sites.google.com/view/ donations4disasters/home •
Hadassah Happenings Saturday October 2nd Havdalah Bonfire 7:30pm to 9pm at Congregation Micah, outside on the back patio, bring your own chairs! Sunday October 10th Hadassah Bookclub: 4pm, Via Zoom The Book of Longings: A Novel, By Sue Monk Kidd Tuesday October 19th Jewish Film Festival Hadassah Sponsored film: Bully. Coward.Victim: The Story of Roy Cohn Available starting at 7pm (Virtual)
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10 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
5782; Shofar So Good By MARISA RUBIN, JEWISH FEDERATION COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ASSOCIATE
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or the first time since 2019, NowGen came together, in person, to celebrate Rosh Hashanah at our annual Rosh Bash. From the beginning the event posed many challenges, including figuring out the best ways to ensure that everyone would have a space to comfortably be able to party like we’re (still) in a pandemic. And we did just that. Saturday, September 11th, NowGen headed to The Fairlane hotel in downtown Nashville to party together,
embrace each other’s company and feel that bit of normalcy that we’ve all been aching for. Everyone was smiling, dancing, and getting to know so many new people. That night, at least 10 newcomers enjoyed their first ever NowGen event. This was definitely an evening I won’t ever forget. I want to thank The Kupin Group, The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, The Fairlane Hotel and The Orley Family. Without them, none of this would have been possible. I’d say 5782 has been SHOFAR SO GOOD. •
NowGen Partiers celebrate Rosh Bash 5782 pandemic-style at the Fairlane Hotel
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Continued from page 1 organization that aims to strengthen Israel’s ties with the rest of the world through better understanding of the country. In her book she describes how founding the organization marked a turning point and provided her with her “true calling.” Since then, she worked with pro-Israel organizations and NGOs and helped organize a series of leadership trips to Israel for Jewish and non-Jewish professionals. And always, through speaking engagements and online presence, she strives to present the unvarnished truth about Israel and its people and culture. This activism not only led her to write the book, but it also prepared her. “I’ve been working for almost a decade in advocacy, so I knew exactly where to go with this book,” she says, “I knew how to tell the story chapter by chapter.” The writing style is casual, almost cinematic, and sometimes even a bit crass, but it is all in service of Tishby’s mission to write for the average person. She begins with pages of maps, and an outline of the country and its history as it was passed from hand to hand throughout the generations. She uses unconventional imagery and references to help the reader understand in modern terms how events unfolded. But while the style is fast-paced and breezy, the telling is not simplistic. To those critics who characterize the book as lacking nuance, she says she is aware there is much more to the story of her homeland. “The book is full of nuance. But the fact is every single thing I mention needs its own PhD,” she says, “There is so much more I could write about each topic, region, and person.” Tishby makes no secret of the fact that she is Israel’s cheerleader, and yet, she is clear that the place is by no means perfect. “Israel doesn’t need to make moral justifications for its existence, but it is not absolved from all responsibility,” she says. She takes aim at those who say it is not possible to be both pro-
Israel and pro-Palestinian. “These things are not mutually exclusive. Most Israelis want to see a solution.” She also says that Israelis do not see the situation as an Arab-Palestinian problem or an Israeli-Palestinian problem. “It’s really an Israeli-Arab world problem. The Arab world has been perpetuating this for over 100 years.” She believes Palestinians should be empowered to apply pressure on the Arab world to end the conflict, and that the biggest problem now is Iran. In addition to laying out Israel’s history in broad strokes, she takes aim at the younger generation for being complacent about Israel’s existence. “Younger Jews take it for granted that we have a Jewish state with a Jewish military to protect us. They don’t see a world without Jews.” She is particularly frustrated with high profile young Jews, like Seth Rogen, who she feels are irresponsible. “Seth Rogen grew up in Canada and enjoyed the kind of life he had there specifically because of Israel. A world without Israel is a dangerous place for Jews.” She also takes on Apartheid and BDS and celebrities like Sarah Silverman and Marc Maron who she believes are not using their platforms in helpful ways. Tishby makes clear where she lands on everything and anything having to do with Israel. But she is adamant about uncovering the stark realities as well. She is hopeful for the future and optimistic that despite the challenges, Israel will endure. “We always overcome our issues,” she says, “We just need to strengthen our resolve in our Jewish heritage, our Jewish culture and history, and to educate the next generation.” Presented by The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, Noa Tishby will speak about her book and her life and answer questions on October 5th at 7pm. The event will be held both virtually, and in person, with limited seating available, at West End Synagogue. For more information, contact Deborah Oleshansky at deborah@jewishnashville.org •
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At Our Congregations… Nashville’s congregations Here are the websites for all five Nashville Jewish congregations, with information on services, upcoming events and more: Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, www.chabadnashville.com Congregation Micah, www.congregationmicah.org Congregation Sherith Israel, www.sherithisrael.com The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom, www.templenashville.org West End Synagogue, www.westendsyn.org
@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah Shabbat Puppet Palooza on Shabbat Mornings at Chabad Jewish children’s programming at Chabad of Nashville for Shabbat 5782 is off to a sweet start. Jewish storyteller, Jenny Nissenson, brings the weekly Parsha and Jewish Holidays to life through puppetry and song with Esther Tiechtel, in an engaging Shabbat service for young audiences. Teens are invited to take on leading roles in the Shabbat Kids programs. Jenny has been designing arts-enrichment curricula and creating educational programming for children for many years. She is dedicated to bringing the magical stories and traditions of Judaism to life through puppets, music, dance, and art. Her mission is to foster creativity, broaden imaginations and make learning fun. Esther has been involved in Jewish Education for over 25 years and has earned her certification from the Ohel Chana Werdiger Institute in Australia and from the International Montessori Council. The program at Chabad of Nashville will be available on Shabbat mornings, and all children from across Middle Tennessee are invited to participate. No membership or background knowledge is required to take part in the Shabbat Puppet Palooza. Shabbat Puppet Palooza will take place the second and fourth Saturday of each month at 11:00 a.m. Following the program, the children will sing Adon Olam with the congregation, and will then join a festive Shabbat lunch. The dates for Shabbat Puppet Palooza in the fall are: Saturday, October 9: Noach and the Ark Saturday, October 23:Avraham, Sarah & the tent Saturday, November 13: Jacob’s ladder Saturday, November 27: the light of Chanukah Saturday, December 11: yosef and his brothers Saturday, December 25 : Jewish people in Egypt
Debunking the Myths Chabad of Nashville will present Fascinating Facts: Exploring the Myths and Mysteries of Judaism; the four-session course will commence during the second week of November. Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel of Chabad of Nashville will conduct the four course sessions at 7:30 PM on Wednesdays, October 6, 23, 20 and 27, at Chabad of Nashville. “As the People of the Book, we strongly believe Jews should know the richness of their Jewish heritage and that is what we hope to accomplish in Nashville with this entertaining new educational offering.” Spanning a wide range of intriguing subjects, Fascinating Facts includes sessions on Jewish myth and urban legend, biblical stories and events, Jewish foods, the Hebrew language, life cycle events, and mysteries of the occult. The course will address issues such as the Jewish view on Satan and the evil eye, whether angels have wings, and why pork is considered the quintessential non-kosher food. “This course has been designed as a fun and insightful overview of Jewish heritage to promote a Jewish cultural literacy within the community,” says Rabbi Tiechtel, “We aim to enlighten even the most seasoned trivia buffs with a treasure trove of ‘Who knew?’ Jewish factoids.” Fascinating Facts is designed to appeal to people at all levels of Jewish knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All adult education at Chabad courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship. The Fascinating Facts course will be presented via Zoom, due the Delta variant, and to protect the health and wellbeing of participants. Registration is required to participate, and can be done at chabdnashville.com/facts
Chabad to host TWO TGIS Celebrations in October Chabad is reintroducing it’s long standing classic TGIS, Thank G-d It’s Shabbat celebration, after a sixteen-month hiatus. After more than 21 years of hosting the TGIS celebrations, Chabad had to stop these events due to COVID19.
14 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
Start your Shabbat off right with good friends, great conversation, and excellent kosher cuisine, all seasoned with the perfect amount of spirit and joy. TGIS is a “Club Med Shabbat: An all-inclusive Shabbat experience.” Enjoy a Friday night Shabbat dinner replete with traditional dishes. Blended with spirited singing, a Chasidic tale, and a chance to meet some wonderful new people. TGIS will be held on Friday evenings, October 8, and 22, at 6:30 PM at Chabad of Nashville. There is no cost to attend the TGIS Shabbat experience, however we kindly request that you RSVP by letting us know you will be attending at chabadnashville@ gmail.com
@ Micah Judaism at Micah continues to evolve with courage, compassion and creativity. Stay updated! Go to www.congregationmicah.org, like us on our socials: Facebook; Instagram; @MicahNashville; sign up for our eblasts; learn and pray with us in person or on YouTube, Zoom and on our Livestream. In our tent, there is room for everyone! Access Micah’s programs – all free and open to the public - from the front page of our website. Want to take our relationship to the next level? Apply for Membership! For more information contact Mindy Drongowski at mindy@congregationmicah.org
Programming at Micah - October 2021 Sanctuary Shabbat Services - Fridays at 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
At Micah we approach God in many ways: through the power of music and song, the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, and the authenticity of our intention. To fully realize this core Jewish value, we invite you to join us for services that are as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory.
ReJEWvenation - September 21 & 28, October 5, 19 & 26, November 2, 9 & 16, December 7 & 14
A spiritual discipline focused on reNEWing and reJEWvenating the mind and heart with knowledge and understanding of Jewish traditions, theology, and history. Join us in a compassionate, virtual environment, and eradicate any inexperience, illiteracy, unfamiliarity, or complete obliviousness to Jewish customs and rituals. Be reminded of or learn traditions you never knew and, in the process, reJEWvenate your soul! This Introduction to Judaism class is a requirement for conversion at Micah. Meeting for 10 sessions, the class is virtual from 7 to 8:15 PM. $50 for Micah Members / $180 for non-members (includes all 10 sessions and the digital text)
NOAH Shabbat Service - Friday, October 8 at 6:00 PM Micah Minis - Saturday, October 16 at 9:30 AM on Zoom
Sing and dance in this family-friendly Shabbat experience. Led by education director Julie Greenberg and Ms. Lisa Silver.
Welcoming the Stranger Shabbat Service - Friday, October 22 at 6:00 PM Red Cross Blood Drive - Sunday, October 24 at 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Give Blood. Save a life. Register at redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: CHAI
A Woman’s Circle - Friday, October 22 at 12:00 PM on Zoom
Grow your soul, meet with other women, and engage with sacred text. Rabbi Laurie challenges your intellect through study and conversation on Jewish and other relevant topics. All are welcome. Rabbi Laurie in conversation with: October 22: Susan Weidman Schneider, Editor-in-Cheif of Lilith Magazine. Lilith Magazine is an idependent, Jewish, and “frankly feminist” periodical featuring journalism from an assortment of dynamic Jewish female authors. Since 1976, Lilith’s mission is to be the feminist change-agent in and for the Jewish community: amplifying Jewish feminist voices, creating an inclusive and positive Judaism, spurring gender consciousness in the Jewish world and empowering women, girls and trans and nonbinary people of every background to envision and enact change in their own lives and the larger community. Join Rabbi Laurie in coversation with Susan Weidman Schneider about her passion for this work. Every parrticpant in Women’s Circle this month will receive a complimentary 1-year subscription to Lilith Magazine! November 19: Allison Schacter, Chair of the Dept. of Jewish Studies, Vanderbilt University. Allison Schachter specializes in modern Jewish literature and culture, with allied interests in modernism, transnationalism, and diaspora studies.She teaches an array of courses in modern Jewish literature, modernism, and literary theory. Join Rabbi Laurie in converstaion with Allison Schachter as she does a reading from and discusses her newest book, a translation of the Yiddish writer, Fradl Shtok’s short stories. All particpants in Women’s Circle this month will receive a copy of Allison’s book!
Weekly Events Schmooze & Views - Thursdays at 10:30 AM
Keeping the politics off the pulpit but not out of the building, share your views in a round-table discussion on current events facilitated by the rabbi and Dr. Bob Smith. Attendance includes both in-person and virtual options. Continued on page 15
At Our Congregations… Continued from page 13
Torah Study - Saturday Mornings at 9:00 AM
Deep conversations with thoughtful and caring people. Led by the rabbi on zoom.
Mah Jongg - Tuesday afternoons at 12:30 PM
Chinese tile game with a Jewish twist in the Micah social hall.
Greece. He is blessed to be sharing his Tennessee adventures with his wife and fellow educator, Batya, and Shmuli, their 2-year-old son. Check TheTempleHub.org for more information.
W.E.L.L. Women Engaged in Living & Learning
Give it a Rest! Reflecting on 5782 as a Shmitta Year*
@ The Temple All programming can be accessed via thetemplehub.org unless noted to be in person
Pirkei Avot: Jewish Wisdom for Today’s World Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM
Get ready for Shabbat with a little text study! Each week we will study a piece of wisdom from Pirkei Avot, The Ethics of our Ancestors, an ancient Jewish text still relevant in our own times. Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org
Lunch with the Rabbi Thursday, October 7, 14, 21 & 28th from 12:00-1:00 PM
Bring your lunch and engage with Rabbi Schiftan and guests in a discussion of currents and important issues from a Jewish perspective. Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org
Women’s Torah Study Every Thursday from 12:00-1:00 PM
Ongoing weekly women’s Torah study led by Patty Marks. Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org
Shabbat Schedule for October
Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. Please reserve your spot via thetemplehub.org. You can also watch via zoom from thetemplehub.org. Friday, October 1st: 6:00 pm –Simchat Torah Celebration Friday, October 8th: 6:00 pm Friday, October 15th: 6:00 pm Friday, October 22nd: 6:00 pm Friday, October 29th: 6:00 pm- Habitat for Humanity Service
Chevrah Torah Study 9:30a.m. on Saturdays via thetemplehub.org
Join us for our weekly Torah study on the portion of the week, led by the clergy. 9:30 am on Saturdays.
The Making of a Mensch through Jewish Texts with Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield of the Pardes Institute Tuesdays at 12:00 pm October 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
Using the Pardes technique of ‘hevruta” or partnership learning that engages participants in a dynamic style, Rabbi Hirschfield says, “The focus is not on extracting wisdom form the sources, but rather from one another.” The technique includes two people grappling with the text together and bringing their individual perspectives into the discussion. Rabbi Hirschfield says the perfect study partner is someone who comes from a different viewpoint, particularly with the question of what makes a mensch. “The notion is that in theory, everyone wants to be good, but we all fall. We’ll explore why we fall and what it takes to cultivate goodness in our lives.” He says it is the diversity of opinion that creates opportunities for greater insight. The “Making of a Mensch” classes are open to the entire community. For information about the Pardes/Temple program, or to attend the class, visit www.templehub. org. For information about Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield or Pardes Institute, visit www.pardes. org. Check TheTempleHub.org for more information.
Torah Lessons x 2: Join Us this October & January with Rabbi Nechemya Rosenfeld Thursdays at 6:00 pm October 28th, November 4th, 11th, 18th Mini-series about Jewish Psychology: Looking at Torah Stories and Sages January 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th Mini-series about Jewish Medical Ethics
Nechemya Rosenfeld hails from Jerusalem, where he taught general studies and Tanakh, Bible, at Keshet Talpaz Elementary School. A graduate of Yeshivat Har Etzion, a seminary combining advanced Talmudic studies with military service, Nechemya has a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences from Ariel University and is completing a Masters of Arts in Jewish Education at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He became an educator through Teach First Israel, a program modeled on Teach For America to promote educational equality. Today, he teaches in Akiva Jewish Day School and the Jewish Middle School of Nashville. He also teaches youth and adults at Congregation Sherith Israel and West End Synagogue. An accomplished musician, Nechemya has served as a scholar in residence and cantor in Israel; Frankfurt, Germany; Sydney, Australia; and, Rhodes,
Shabbat Shabbaton: Resting and Reflecting Together October 16th ~ 10:00 am
*Shmitta is the seventh year of a seven-year cycle, with biblical themes of rest and renewal for ourselves, our land, the remission of debts, and a reset for society. Check TheTempleHub.org for more information.
Hike & Havdalah at Percy Warner
Presented by The Temple’s Worship and Music Committee The following Saturdays this Fall: October 16th • November 20th • December 18th Where and When for the Hike? Meet at the top of the steps at the end of Belle Meade Boulevard at 2:45 PM with the hike of the 2.5-mile white trail to begin at 3:00 PM. If you are not hiking, please meet us for Havdalah at the stone gate entrance to the park at 4:30 PM. Who? All ages! Bring friends and family. Why? For the fresh air and exercise, for connecting with each other, and to enjoy nature’s God. For more information or questions, please contact Anne Davenport at adavlaw@ comcast.net
MAH JONGG TOURNAMENT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3rd: 2:00 - 5:00 pm
$50 per Person • Limited space Open to vaccinated Nashville area residents only. Proof of vaccination is required. To register, go to bit.ly/TempleMahJongg
Jewish Learning on Your Own Schedule
Look for podcasts and videos prepared by musicians, scholars and clergy! 13 Attributes of God, Jewish Cooking Demos, Clergy Chats, Inside Israel and Jewish Music Sessions. Sessions will be posted on thetemplehub.org
@ Sherith Israel To find out about fall line-up, join our mailing list by visiting www.sherithisrael.com
Weekday Services Shacharit: 6:30 AM (Sunday mornings at 8) Mincha/Maariv: 10 minutes before sunset
Shabbat Services Kabbalat Shabbat: 10 minutes after candle lighting Shabbat Morning: 9:00 AM (followed by kiddush lunch in the tent) Babysitting and Children’ groups: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Mincha/Maariv: 10 minutes before sunset
Cheder – Afterschool program Begins October 5th For more information, email batya@akivanashville.net.
@ West End For links to the following services or programs, please email office@westendsyn.org
Shacharit
Join us for in-person morning minyan! There will be no zoom meetings for morning minyans once we start in-person minyans. Sunday services will be at 9am and Monday-Friday will be at 7am
Daily Mincha (afternoon service)
Join us for daily Mincha in person on Zoom at 6:00 p.m.
Kabbalat Shabbat
You are invited to join us for Kabbalat Shabbat on Fridays in person or on Zoom at 6:00 p.m.
Morning Shabbat services
You are invited to join in person or by zoom on Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m.
The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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At Our Congregations… Continued from page 15
Talmud class on Tuesdays
Rabbi Joshua Kullock teaches a Talmud class on Tuesdays at 7:30am.
Torah class for Women:
First Wednesday of each month at 11am.
Torah class for Men:
Second Thursday of each month at 12pm.
Miriam’s Torah Class:
Wednesday, October 6th at Noon
Lunch & Learn is Back!
October 13th with Cantor Sarah Levine October 27th with Rabbi Joshua Kullock Time 11:00am - 12:00pm speaker 12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch
Longtime Nashville resident Renette Corenswet dies at age 98
R
enette Israel Corenswet passed away in her sleep on August 18 at the age of 98, at Brookdale Green Hills Cumberland, where she spent the last four years of her life. The matriarch of her ex-tended family, she was preceded in death by her husband, Abe, and her son, Robert. She is sur-vived by her daughter and son-in-law, Ellen Corenswet and John Morgan; daughter-in-law Lucy Corenswet; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Sally Israel; niece Sharon Israel; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren Renette was born on March 7, 1923 in Lumberton, N.C., to Miriam and Oscar Israel. She graduated from Lumberton High School in 1939 at age 16 and spent a year at Queens College in Charlotte, N.C., where she earned the highest certifications in typing and shorthand. Her formal education was cut short by WWII when she answered the call by President Roose-velt for young women to support the war effort in Washington D.C. She was selected--out of over 200 young women--to become the administrative assistant to the Chief of Naval Personnel for the U.S. War Department. Her responsibilities brought her two notable assignments: preparing the of-ficial notification to the parents of the five Sullivan brothers who perished
when their ship was sunk, and escorting Eleanor Roosevelt to an event In the summer of 1949, while on vacation with her mother and brother, she had a blind date with Abe Corenswet from Nashville. They were married shortly thereafter on November 20, 1949. Their daughter, Ellen, was born in 1950 and son, Robert, in 1953. Renette became a lifelong member of The Inquirers Book Club in 1951, contributing to schol-arly endeavors and the annual gala musical productions. Together, she and Abe served for over 60 years as the “godparents” of the AEPi fraternity at Vanderbilt with annual cookouts, Jewish holiday meals, and mentoring of fraternity brothers An accomplished artist. Renette learned to paint in her 30s and graced the walls of her home and many others’ with beautiful watercolors and oils. She was a self-taught pianist who could play any song in any key and, up until her last days, infused parties and holidays with big band and Broadway show tunes. She brought joy and music to every life she touched Memorials may be made in honor of Mrs. Corenswet to the Jewish Federation of Nashville, West End Synagogue, The Temple or the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. •
Israeli scientist, Dr. Ari Sacher, speaks about Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system.
The Inside Story of the Iron Dome
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habad of Nashville is presenting, “Inside Israel’s Iron Dome,” with Israeli rocket scientist, Ari Sacher, featuring an in depth look inside Israel’s missile defense system. This special event will take place at Chabad of Nashville, on Tuesday, October 12, at 7:30 PM. “The Iron Dome project is a wonderful partnership between the U.S. and Israel that allows for there to be fewer casualties and less destruction, which is a wonderful thing,” said Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel, from Chabad of Nashville. “It buys Israel time and patience to be able to find a means of coming together and peace.” Dr. Sacher was instrumental in the creation of the Iron Dome missile
defense system. He makes rocket science understandable for the layperson and has briefed members of Congress on Israeli missile defense, at the invitation of the U.S. House Majority Leader and Israeli ambassador. “Ari was the person behind the science of creating this missile defense system,” Tiechtel said. ”He is a fascinating person, so I figured we’d bring him out and hear about the missile defense system and how it saves lives.” This event will be hosted at Chabad of Nashville, as an in-person event. All social distancing and Covid safty precautions will be set in place. There is no cost to participate in this event, however registration is required at www.chabadnashville.com/irondome •
Learn more about the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee at www.jewishnashville.org
Please support the businesses that advertise in the Observer and help support our community in all ways! Make sure to let them know... you saw their ad here!
16 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
Jewish Federation staff and volunteers hand out gift bags for Rosh Hashanah to community members in a New Year’s Drive By
Submission from The Matzevah Foundation
Submission from The Store, from Metro Nashville Office of Family Safety
Submission from the students of Akiva School
The Gordon JCC’s Under One Roof Sukkot Community Art Exhibit was full of Hope and Renewal By RACHEL CLARK, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AT GORDON JCC, AND SHARON BENUS, JEWISH COMMUNITY PROGRAM DIRECTOR AT GORDON JCC
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he Gordon JCC’s annual Sukkot art exhibit ran from September 17-26 with incredible works of art on display in our auditorium “sukkah.” Community partners throughout Nashville came together and created canvas panels interpreting this year’s theme, “Hope and Renewal.” Due to time constraints surrounding the High Holy Days, photos of the actual exhibit were not available at time of publication, however Jewish Community Program Coordinator, Sharon Benus collected these beautiful photos of the panels.
Each organization submitted an artist statement along with their panel to explain their process, and how they interpreted the theme of Hope and Renewal. Students from the Akiva School used brightly colored acrylic paints on their piece. The sun depicted on their panel represents not only the hope and renewal that each new day brings to us all, but also renewed courage, strength, and hope. They also included a quote from Anne Frank, “Where there is hope, there’s life. It fills us with the fresh courage and makes us strong again.” In many ways, the work of the Metro Nashville Office of Family Safety is centered around Hope and Renewal.
Their panel centered around a tool they use called the “Hope Score,” that focuses on the idea that hope is tangible and measurable and has a direct impact on wellbeing. According to the Artists’ Statement, “To create this artwork, our staff were given the chance to ‘provide a color’ for the mosaic by writing, coloring, painting, etc. Allowing them to infuse their own creativity into what become one small part of a whole tapestry of Hope.” Many symbols of renewal and growth are included on the piece including a cicada, a VERY southern symbol of persistence and perseverance. They might be buried for years but we know they always come back, louder than ever!
The Matzevah Foundation is another collaborator whose work embodies Hope and Renewal. They work to restore and preserve Jewish cemeteries in Poland. Their panel is centered around this quote by Elie Wisel, “Just as man cannot live without dreams, he cannot live without hope. If dreams reflect the past, hope summons the future”. Thank you to all the artists who participated in the exhibit and all of the incredible artworks will be on display in the back gallery past the business offices at the J for the coming months. For more information about this program please visit nashvillejcc. org/underoneroof or contact sharonb@ nashvillejcc.org •
Jewish Federation at Nashville Pride Festival
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he soggy weather did not dampen the spirits of attendees at this year’s Nashville Pride Festival. Pictured are volunteers, staff and visitors to the booths representing The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee and Jewish Family Service. •
Volunteer Judy Jacobs greets visitors to the Jewish Federation’s booth.
Pictured left to right: Volunteer Pam Simmons, Jewish Family Service Executive Director Pam Kelner, Volunteer Cam Linn, Volunteer Debbie Linn.
The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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Lifecycles B’nai Mitzvah Aidan Krauthamer
ming, playing Magic the Gathering and writing and editing for The Tiger Times, USN’s school newspaper. For his Mitzvah project, Zander will be supporting the Nashville Humane Society.
Iara Kullock
Aidan Krauthamer will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, October 2, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. He is the son of Scott Krauthamer and Diana Romolo-Krauthamer and brother to Leo, Ruby and Everett. Aidan is the grandson of Sam Krauthamer, Harriet Krauthamer, MaryAnn Romolo, and Aunt Dotty Romolo. An eighth grader atBrentwood Middle School. Aidan loves math/science, learning and cooking. For his Mitzvah project, Aidan is considering volunteering at a local soup kitchen.
Iara Kullock will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, October 16, at 9:30 a.m. at West End Synagogue. She is the daughter of Rabbi Joshua and Jessica Kullock and big sister to Abi and Meital. Iara was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. A proud Akiva School alumna, Iara is currently a seventh grader at Harpeth Hall. She enjoys singing, animals and being with friends. For her Bat Mitzvah project, Iara is raising money for the ALS Association in memory of her beloved grandmother.
Eliza Mann
Samantha Abrams
Eliza Mann will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, October 2, at 3 p.m. at The Temple, She was born on December 27, 2007, in Nashville. The daughter of Mollie and Jesse Mann, she is the granddaughter of Alice and Michael Mann of Nashville; Jane Mills of Nashville; and Sue and Arthur Mills of North East, Pa. For her Mitzvah project, Eliza is working with MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, a national organization fighting to end hunger among people of all faiths and backgrounds in the United States and Israel. An eighth grader at Harpeth Hall, Eliza enjoys swimming, travel, music, volleyball and Broadway musicals.
Alex Abramson
Alex Abramson will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, October 9, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. He was born on October 5, 2007, in Baltimore, Md. The son of Vandana and Rick Abramson, he is the grandson of Myrna Abramson and the late Dr. Jerome H. Abramson of Atlanta, Ga.; and Shashi and Ram Gupta of Sacramento, Cal. For his Mitzvah project, Alex has written and published an original cookbook. He will donate the sales proceeds to the Horizons Nashville program, a network of community-centered academic summer programs that put low-income public school students of varying abilities on the path to success. An eighth grader at Montgomery Bell Academy, Alex enjoys music of all sorts, especially playing the piano. He is a passionate cook and he rows crew at MBA.
Zander Kravitz
Zander Kravitz will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, October 9, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. He is the son of Samantha Saturn and Steve Kravitz and brother to Natalie. He is t he grandson of Barbara and Herbert Kravitz. A seventh grader at University School of Nashville, Zander enjoys drum-
Samantha Abrams will become a Bat Mitzvah at Congregation Micah on Saturday, October 23, at 10:30 a.m. She is the daughter of Sean and Jenny Abrams and sibling of Lucas Abrams. Samantha’s grandparents are Arnold and Barbara Abrams (z’l), Al and Susan Fairchild, and Ralph and Kathy Burin. A seventh grader at Legacy Middle School. Samantha enjoys dancing on a competitive team and art and drawing. For her mitzvah project, Samantha will be volunteering with children with special needs at Gigi’s Playhouse.
Benjamin Ellis Beckman
Benjamin Ellis Beckman will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, October 23, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. He was born on October 8, 2007, in Boston, Mass. The son of Lauren and Joshua Beckman, he is the grandson of Patricia and Joel Ellis of Stockbridge, Mass., and Irving and the late Esther Beckman of New York, N.Y. For his Mitzvah project, Benjamin volunteers with the Special Olympics. He is an eighth grader at the University School of Nashville.
Noah Dowell
Noah Dowell will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, October 23, at 3 p.m. at The Temple. He was born August 24, 2007, in Nashville. The son of Jon and Shana Dowell, he is the grandson of Monika and Lester Katzel of Rochester, N.Y.; Denise and David Dowell of Nashville; and Arlene Taylor and Wayne Benson of Chapel Hill, N.C. For Noah’s mitzvah project, he works to increase voter turnout in young voters and minority communities. An eighth grader at Meigs Middle School, Noah enjoys playing soccer and the cello as well as politics.
Gavin Brody Schwartz
Gavin Brody Schwartz will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, October 30, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. He
18 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
is the son of David and Amanda Schwartz and grandson to Ron and Lynn Rosenberg and Barbara Lovejoy and John Lindsay. An eighth grader at Montgomery Bell Academy. Gavin enjoys all sports, especially basketball. For his Mitzvah project, Gavin will be volunteering with the Nashville Humane Society.
Olivia Elle Schwartz
Olivia Elle Schwartz will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, October 30, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. She is the daughter of David and Amanda Schwartz and grandson to Ron and Lynn Rosenberg and Barbara Lovejoy and John Lindsay. A seventh grader at JT Moore Middle School, Olivia enjoys playing basketball and soccer. For her Mitzvah project, Olivia will be volunteering with the Nashville Humane Society.
Marriage Jordan Lane Remer and Megan Jennifer Marks
Esther and Steven Remer announce the upcoming marriage of their son, Jordan Lane Remer of Atlanta to Megan Jennifer Marks of Atlanta, daughter of Charlotte and Joel Marks. It will take place on Sunday, October 17, in Atlanta. Jordan
Obituaries Bernard (Bernie) Bublick
Condolences to the family of Bernard (Bernie) Bublick who died on August 22..He is sur-vived by his nephew, David (Kristy) King,and great-niece and great-nephew, Olivia and Mason King. Memorials may be made in Bernie’s name to Congregation Micah.
David Myer Carney
Condolences to the family of David Myer Carney, 93, of Louisville, formerly of Nashville, who died August 16. David graduated in 1946 from Cohn High School in Nashville. Seventeen years later, he graduated from Vanderbilt University with an engineering degree. In the interim, he served in the army where his nickname was “Bulldog Dave”. He took over his family’s small auto-parts store, Carney Auto, on Charlotte Ave., after the death of his father. He and his wife, Betty. started their lives together in Nashville in 1961, moved to Lexington and made Louisville their home in 1965, where they raised their six children. David never met a stranger. His strong southern drawl was charismatic. He was a keen entre-preneur as a builder, developer and restaurant owner. David started his development career under his mentor, Emanuel Schatten. David was instrumental in developing the Lion’s Head complex in Nashville. He was a member of Congregation Adath Jeshurun, including being the Past President; West End Synagogue; B’nai B’rith International; Nashville Scottish Rite; and a 10th Degree Ma-son. He was also Past President of the Louisville Jewish Day School and of the Louisville Apart-ment Association. He was lovingly known as the “Rabbi” at
was born and raised in Nashville. He earned a degree in business from Indiana University. Megan was born and raised in Atlanta. She earned a degree in strategic communication and business from The Ohio State University. Jordan is the grandson of Sylvia Remer and the late Philip Remer of East Meadow, N.Y. and the late Wolf and Rachel Chojnacki of Nashville. Jordan and Megan will reside in Atlanta after the wedding.
Mazel Tov Gabrielle Schonder
Gabrielle David Schonder of New Canaan, CT was awarded a Nieman Fellowship at Harvard University for the 2021-22 academic year. Nieman Fellows are selected from an international group of working journalists to study at Harvard. As a fellow, Gabrielle will examine the intersection of the media and technology in documentary films and focus on combating distrust of traditional news and the proliferation of misinformation. Gabrielle was a reporter and producer for Frontline on PBS. Her most recent show was, “ America after 9/11”. Gabrielle is the daughter of Deana Goldstein and James Schonder of Nashville. She is a graduate of Beit Miriam at West End Synagogue, Hillsboro High School and Hendrix College. Shalom Towers in Louisville. David was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Frances Hanover Carney; his parents, Will and Celia (Epstein) Carney; and his brother, Robert Carney. He is survived by his six children, Marc Carney (Sandra) of Newton, Mass.; Michael Carney (Abby) of Highland Park, Ill.; Martin Carney (Ellen) of Prospect, Ky.; Marla Grossman (Jeffrey) of Atlanta, Ga.; Marilyn Carney of Louisville; and Caren Bailen (Michael) of Prospect, Ky.; 13 grandchildren whom he adored; and many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be sent to the Betty Hanover Carney Mahzor Fund, Congregation Adath Jeshurun, 2401 Woodbourne Avenue, Louisville, KY 40205 or the charity of your choice.
Lois Herskowitz
Condolences to the family of Lois Herskowitz who died on September 7, She is survived by her son, Paul (Nancy) Hershkowitz; her grandchildren, Matthew (Melinda) Hershkowitz and Kory (Dena) Hershkowitz; and her great-grandchildren, Parker, Maya, Lily and Abby. Memorials may be made in Lois’ name to Congregation Micah.
Max Edward Mendelsohn
Condolences to the family of Max Edward Mendelsohn, who passed away on September 12. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his sister, Joan Mehlman, and his five nephews. The family has made private funeral arrangements. New information service Observer readers who wish to receive email notification of obituaries as the newspaper receives the information may be placed on a new e-mail list being created for this purpose by the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Please send your request via e-mail to obits@jewishnashville.org.
Kvetch in the City By CARRIE MILLS
O
n my most recent trip to NYC I found myself daily indulging in a big way on Italian food and vegan ice cream… in ways that seemed comparable to Robert DeNiro preparing for Carrie Mills his 60lb weight gain role in Raging Bull. While tripping out on the endless selection of fine NYC restaurants would seem somewhat normal while on vacation in the Big Apple, knowing myself, I realized a big portion of my diving into eating was due to unchecked emotions about my upcoming hip replacement surgery. I’ve never had major surgery, and never thought I would. Wrapping my head around it all seemed to be eating away at my nerves while I was eating my way through lemon pasta and Italian bread dipped in olive oil to cope. The upcoming surgery brought back memories of my mom. For one reason or another, she ended up in the hospital several times over the course of my young life. I remember being left in the care of random caregivers. More often than not my working class, single mom, with not much to show in life, would come home from the hospital to find things missing. I definitely remember her stating several pieces of silverware were missing after one hospital return. I’m wondering now if that is why, years later, when I would come home to visit, she’d state that if she were to die, she wanted me to know where she hid the diamonds. By that point she actually had some valuable jewelry inherited from my grandmother. The crazy thing was that she’d only make a point to tell me where she hid the goods when I happened to come visit. Had I not visited, I don’t believe she would have called me to let me know. And to make matters worse, she
hid the jewelry in, I have to admit, very creative places, which by no means would I have ever have thought to look. For example, on one visit she again stated, if she were to die, I would need to know she hid the diamonds in the Venetian blinds. I mean, seriously, where did she even come up with that? Had she died without telling me this tidbit of information worth literally thousands of dollars, I promise you, the diamonds would have never been found. I remember another visit, where she just happened to mention, she moved the hiding place. She wanted me to know, if she died, the diamonds were in the jar of popcorn. I kid you not, the store-bought jar of popcorn. As it turns out, I was thinking of all this and relaying this story to my dear high school friends Andrea and Jeff whom I happened to be staying with for part of my NYC visit. Andrea started laughing and recalling the crazy places her mother hid the jewelry. Underneath the vegetable bin in the refrigerator, rolled up in towels and placed in the back under the sink and behind the dog food in the kitchen. Apparently, this was starting to look like a generational, Brooklyn, Jewish ritual, like Wednesday night Canasta or Mahjong. While we kids were outside playing hide and seek in the neighborhood, our mothers were inside playing hide and seek with the family jewels. As life would have it, my mom passed away way too young, though she made it a point to definitely set everything straight before she was gone which included letting me know where the jewelry was at that point. Thank God! In my rebellious way of declaring I would never be like my mother, which I have declared for several reasons, at various times in my life, I took the very straight and narrow and uncreative path of actually getting a safe deposit box for the inherited family jewels. Although in true, Brooklyn, Jewish fashion, I hid the key.
Dear Esther Dear Esther, The adult son of my close friend recently overdosed. It was such a surprise as no one knew he had relapsed. I feel bad for not seeing what was happening. What could I have done differently? How did I miss this? I find myself worrying about all my friends in recovery now. What do I need to look for and what can I do if I suspect a friend has relapsed? – Alice T Dear Alice, I’m so sorry about your friend’s son, accidental overdoses are so hard, especially when you thought the person was doing okay. Don’t blame yourself in thinking there was something that you missed or anything you could’ve done differently. The reality is there’s nothing you could’ve done. No amount of love, vigilance or checking on someone will keep them clean. That is so hard for people (like you) who want to help -but it’s ultimately up to the addict to make the decision to stay clean. And as for your friends in recovery, share your concerns with them and ask how they are doing. If they are working a program and have a good support system, all you can do is continue to be the caring friend you obviously are. The pandemic has brought a huge spike in relapse and addiction and as a result, accidental overdoses are growing at an alarming rate. Many times, in accidental overdoses, a person who has been sober or clean for a number of months and relapses, returns to the same amount they used before getting clean, but their body has lost its tolerance, and can overdose easily and unintentionally.
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There are endless reasons why a person might relapse. Sometimes people who have suffered trauma or other hard life events want to numb the emotional pain and turn to drugs or alcohol. But with friends like you, their burdens will become lighter, and they can maintain their recovery. You are a good friend and have embodied the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam. The act of helping others does not require an outcome but is about working towards the goal of repairing the world that fulfills the mitzvah. Thank you for reaching out and bringing this difficult topic to the forefront. – Esther Esther recently migrated to Nashville from New York and will be partnering with JFS on an advice column for The Observer. Esther is a retired Psychologist, veteran grandmother who brings a lifetime of experience including dysfunctional families, raising children, relationships, kosher cooking and even interfaith families. Esther is excited to be in Nashville and promoting her famous matzo ball soup that she believes heals just about anything. Please submit your questions to esther@jfsnashville.org on anything under the sun and watch for answers in her column. •
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The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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October in the Gordon JCC Galleries: Works by Vince Wallace, Robert Seigenthaler, Paulette Licitra, and a multi artist exhibit, “The Message of Dreams.” T he Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of Vince Wallace. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1970, he has called Nashville home since 2005. Vince has shot in a wide range of disciplines including concept, architectural, corporate PR and portraiture, musicians and artists, editorial, and weddings. He has worked for such clients as Dreamworks Interactive and International Living Magazine. He has a BA from the University of North Texas School of Visual Art and an MA in Apologetics from Biola University. His current exhibit is titled, “Elemental.” In this series, he explores water and its enigmatic nature. It flows through all living things and although in its pure form it is clear, it reflects the world around it. Vince says, “Metaphorically, it represents our spiritual need for rebirth. The human being is constantly trying to bring order and meaning to a world of chaos and abstraction; to construct a life that makes sense in the often senseless places we find ourselves. As such, these pieces overall represent the allegory of life and meaning. Water is like the Divine. It reflects back to us a fragmented and elusive perspective of our reality, yet is profoundly engulfing, sustaining and intimately present. These pieces are titled based on this fragmented experience of reality and the Divine.” Also in The Janet Levine March Gallery are the sculptures of Robert Seigenthaler. Robert Seigenthaler is a Nashville, TN native who creates representative and abstract art carved from stone and wood. Using skill and imagination, Seigenthaler has a unique talent of discovering brilliant sculpture buried within interesting translucent and opaque forms. Masterfully adding texture and contour, he patiently lures each figure until it reveals its natural beauty. Robert earned a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from the Memphis Academy of Art and possesses undergraduate education from the Appalachian Center for Arts and Crafts in Smithville, TN. Spanning decades of practice, his art has been displayed in numerous group exhibitions and are popular gallery showpieces. Robert Seigenthaler Sculpture includes distinctive Marble, Alabaster, Limestone, Soapstone and var-
WTC01, but Paulette Licitra
The Critic, by Robert Siegenthaler
Sistene, by Vince Wallace
No Face, by Garrett Mills
ious local wood. The JLMG2 Gallery will feature the work of Paula Licitre. Paulette has been painting since 2014. She is a self-taught artist, encouraged by the work of naive & primitive painters. Paulette studied art in college and has written over 100 art exhibition audio tours for museums all over the country. In this exhibit Paulette reflects upon her personal and intimate connection to the World Trade Centers in NYC. The Sig Held Gallery will feature a multi-artist exhibit titled, “The Message of Dreams.” This exhibit was inspired by curator, Carrie Mill’s lifelong exploration into the message of dreams and more recently in her group dream studies with Jungian Dream Specialist, Laura Huff. Carrie used social media to call on artists who were interested to explore their dreams and create visual representations. The annual art festival, Art on the West Side will take place in the auditorium the evening of Saturday, October 2nd and Sunday, October 3rd from 10 am - 4pm. The House gallery will feature the 2021 Under One Roof community wide collaborative exhibit focusing on Hope and Resilience. The Exhibition Dates are October 1 -31st. The exhibitions are free and open to the public. Any attendees will need to wear masks and sign in at the front desk. For more information, contact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www.nashvillejcc.org. •
Visit The Jewish Observer’s new website www.jewishobservernashville.org
20 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
Blue Drypoint4, but Mark Donham
Night Blue Wanderer, by Terry Winchell
ADVERTORIALS
Entertainment & Dining Out ISSUE
OCTOBER 2021
The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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ADVERTORIALS
Saint Elle
Adventure Science Center
Let us host your next private event! The Cordelle & Saint Elle offer the service and style that makes each gathering a sophisticated and seamless experience. Locally owned and operated, our luxury venues offer event concierge service designed to make your event enjoyable from planning to party! The Cordelle & Saint Elle are both located in the heart of Nashville yet tucked away from the hustle of Broadway, each creating its very own “hidden oasis” in Music City. Our focus is hospitality and creating unforgettable events that allow you and your guests to feel taken care from “First Drink to Last Dance.” Saint Elle is 8,000 sq ft of open venue space. The 1950’s industrial architecture is beautifully restored and absolutely unique, offering endless options for event type and design. Amenities include: furnished suites, large catering kitchen, parking, feature bar, elegantly appointed restrooms, and an elevated, singular design. The Saint Elle offers a truly incomparable experience. The Cordelle creates effortless style for your next event. Our venue offers “Downtown Nashville’s largest private green space” complimented by a large southern style covered porch, great hall, furnished loft – all anchored by the original 1850’s Victorian, making this location a distinctive experience. This versatile venue is an award-winning Nashville favorite! Inquire today and receive more information about the Details and Amenities of Saint Elle and the Cordelle.
Adventure Science Center is proud to collaborate with the National Corvette Museum (NCM) in celebration of its75th Anniversary. Through a unique partnership, seven Corvettes from NCM’s collection will be on display at the science center from August 28 through November 28, 2021. Corvettes ranging from 1954 to 2019 will chronicle the parallel histories of America’s iconic sports car and the science center. During the three-month show, the science center will host several car-centered events and programs that explore the science and technology of cars and the idea of cars as cultural phenomena. Join Adventure Science Center as they celebrate two icons and the many ways that cars – and the trips they inspire – help make people who we are.
RED This Fall, RED Spirits & Wine will be marking our 10-year anniversary of doing business in Nashville. It has been an honor to be located in the Bellevue community and to have been an advertising support partner with the Gordon JCC since officially opening our doors a decade ago. As we reflect back on the many seasons of change that have taken place during this time, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to have such wonderful people to serve as a customer base. We look forward to many more opportunities to grow alongside our friends and neighbors at the Gordon JCC and we sincerely extend our appreciation for the support we have received. We aspire to continue to provide our highest level of attention and favor to the City of Nashville. L’Chaim!
Porta Via Ristorante e Bar 2021 Now celebrating our 12th year in Nashville’s Belle Meade neighborhood, Porta Via Ristorante serves Nashville’s finest authentic Italian cuisine; Tennessee’s only VPN-certified, woodfired Neapolitan pizza (Certificato No. 350); delicious, house-made gelato; and an outstanding selection of fine wines, cocktails, and liqueurs. Porta Via’s dining room opens at 4pm daily for dinner service, and at 11am on Saturday and Sunday for our popular Italian Brunch. We do not take reservations, so be sure to arrive early for the best seating. For your convenience, we offer an app-based loyalty program that allows you to earn cash rewards; easyto-use online ordering; take out service; and custom catering for social gatherings, parties, corporate events, and more. As we are now returning to our pre-pandemic level of service, guests will find many exciting changes inside, all part of our commitment to provide an exceptional dining experience. Our quaint, cozy interior features fresh paint; new, modern lighting; and a spacious cooler to showcase our fresh-made selection of gelato and Italian desserts. What’s more, for the safety of our guests and staff, we have installed an advanced air filtration system that kills viruses, mold spores and bacteria, resulting in clean, fresh smelling indoor air. Porta Via Ristorante is located at 21 White Bridge Rd, Suite 104. Order online by visiting www.eatatportavia.com or call 615-356-0001 today. For catering inquires, email catering@portavia.net.
Shep’s Delicatessen Shep’s Delicatessen is an ode to traditional NYC-style Jewish delicatessens, now open daily! Expect to see dishes like potato latkes, kishka, mac and cheese pancakes, homemade pastrami and corned beef, pickles, and chopped liver – but the menu also features delicious, traditional sandwiches and beverages like the New York Egg Cream (chocolate or vanilla syrup, milk, and seltzer water).
22 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
Continued on page 19
ADVERTORIALS As an ode to Nashville, you’ll also see a few Southern twists, like loaded reuben fries, schmear on a biscuit, or eggs with grits with smoked salmon. Whether you are dining in, ordering online for carry out, ordering delivery, or catering your next event or party - we are here for you!
Making the Most of the Fall Foliage We’ve all been waiting for it. The daily high has dropped below 90°, and your backyard patio is finally going to get the dinner party it deserves. Underneath a beautiful canopy of fall foliage, nestled between azaleas and boxwoods, you and your guests will spend the evening enjoying the cool breeze and each other’s company. Unfortunately, the winds of summer afternoon thunderstorms have taken a toll on your trees. Your backyard looks more like the set to a spooky movie rather than a potential cover of Better Homes and Gardens. You can’t possibly serve your neighbors that pumpkin inspired cocktail amongst a sea of deadwood and heat-stressed plants. At Druid Tree Service, this is our specialty. No, not the cocktails. Our business is preserving the health and beauty of your trees by applying natural fertilizers like beneficial fungi, bacteria and tree growth hormones to the trees and their soil and clearing dangerous and unsightly deadwood from your gorgeous trees. Our services will make Continued on page 20
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AUG 28 TO NOV 28
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The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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ADVERTORIALS your backyard more vibrant and inviting than ever before. Your guests will admire the exquisite layering of a properly pruned Japanese Maple. Our dedicated and experienced team excels at hand pruning small topiary form trees, yews and boxwoods, as well as maintaining and illuminating the natural beauty of mature trees. Don’t let your trees be the scariest Halloween decoration in your yard this fall. Give us a call at (615) 373-4342 or email us at office@druidtree.com. We look forward to talking with you about your trees.
Carrie and Garrett Mills If you’re one of those who dread having your photo taken, dread no longer! Carrie and Garrett Mills, a mother and son styling and photography team will save the day. If you love having your photo taken and have always wished to look like a model in Italian Vogue, you’ve come to the right place. Or if you just need a straight on professional photo, look no further! Creative styling and high-end photography combined with fun! Carrie and Garrett Mills. 615-210-5044
Sperry’s Restaurant The 47-year tradition of providing Nashville’s best dining experience continues! Since 1974, Sperry’s Restaurant has been serving guests with top quality steaks, seafood and much more in an old school charm. If you are celebrating a special occasion or an important event, Sperry’s Restaurant in Cool Springs is pleased to offer Nashville’s premier venue for private dining. It’s the perfect atmosphere to celebrate any occasion including wedding rehearsals, graduations, anniversary parties and business meetings. Go to www.sperrys.com for more information on reserving your private dining room. And don’t forget, Sperry’s Mercantile offers you gourmet shopping for Nashville’s highest quality meat, seafood, spices, homemade dressings and more and is located behind the Belle Meade location. So visit Sperry’s Restaurant in Belle Meade or Cool Springs and experience Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s best dining tradition. Go to www. sperrys.com for more information on Sperry’s Restaurant and Sperry’s Mercantile. Since 1974, the tradition continues!”
Nashville Repertory Theatre For over 35 years, Nashville Repertory Theatre has been entertaining and inspiring Nashville and Middle Tennessee with its commitment to producing reimagined classics, hot new plays, and exciting musicals. The Rep’s 21/22 Season starts with Ragtime, an epic musical tapestry in which three families’ stories intertwine in New York City each pursuing their own version of the American Dream. Ragtime is the ultimate exploration of the diversity of human experience running November 11-14 in the TPAC’s Polk theatre. Light your leg lamps and grab your pink bunny pajamas because Nashville’s favorite family holiday tradition, A Christmas Story makes its triumphant return to the stage December 2-19 in TPAC’s Johnson Theatre. After the year we have had, Nashville Rep couldn’t think of a better gift for Nashville! Named the most important play off-broadway, Nashville Rep is proud to announce the Tennessee Premiere of Jocelyn Bioh’s, School Girls; or, The African Mean Girls Play. Paulina, the longest reigning Queen Bee, has it all until the new girl, Ericka, Continued on page 21
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24 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
ADVERTORIALS moves to Ghana from exotic Ohio. Find out what happens February 10-20 in TPAC’s Johnson Theatre. Nashville Rep will end its season with the world’s favorite nanny, in Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins! Watch Mary Poppins use magic, adventure, and a spoonful of sugar to teach the entire Banks family to love each other and their supercalifragilisticexpialidocious lives. Join us in flying a kite in TPAC’s Polk Theatre April 28-May 8. Tickets are on sale now at nashvillerep.org or 615-782-4040.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! NASHVILLEREP.ORG @nashrep Untitled-1 1
9/10/2021 3:40:46 PM
The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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Chanukah is Coming ...a time for the Jewish Community to exchange gifts, eat special foods and have celebrations... Be sure to be a part of this special issue.
Publication date is November 1, 2021
Deadline for ads is October 15, 2021 Contact: Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager 615-354-1699 • e-mail: carrie@nashvillejcc.org fax: 615-352-0056
26 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS
OPTOMETRIST
CATHY WERTHAN, CPA
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APPLIANCES
Custom senior care for active, healthy lifestyles. Affordable/no minimums. Meals, meds, transportation & outings. Memory loss and Hospital recovery. Professional & screened care partners. Locally owned. Call Moises for Free assessment: 615-678-9223 www.curaforcare.com
DENTIST
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Lighting • Appliances • Hardware Kitchen • Plumbing • Accessories Smart Home Products Low Price Guarantee 615•843•3300 www.gohermitage.com
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CARE GIVER
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Advertise in our Professional Services Directory Reach thousands of readers in the Nashville and Middle Tennessee area by taking advantage of this cost-effective way to reach a loyal repeat audience! Call Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager, to place your professional listing. 615-354-1699 carrie@nashvillejcc.org
STEVEN R. HECKLIN DMD BRITTANY BURD, DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry www.drhecklin.com 5606 Brookwood Place 615-356-7500
EDUCATION SERVICES
DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eye Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2020.com
ORTHODONTISTS
GLUCK ORTHODONTICS Specialists in Orthodontics Dr. Joel Gluck DDS, MS Dr. Jonathan Gluck DDS, MSD 2002 Richard Jones Road A-200 615.269.5903 drgluck.com
ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY Francine Schwartz M.A. LPC NCC Independent Educational Consultant Helping students and families find, apply to and pay for the right fit college 860-460-8829 fschwartz@pathfindercounselingllc.com www.pathfindercounselingllc.com
INSURANCE JAMES A. ROTHBERG ADAM ROTHBERG James A. Rothberg & Associates Office: 615-997-1833 Fax: 615-665-1300 1 Burton Hills Blvd. Suite 220 Email: jrothberg@jarinsurance.com info@jarinsurance.com
DR. TODD A. RUBIN, M.D. Specializing in Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics 615-342-6300
GIL COHEN / PERSONAL SHOPPER Partnering with Dillards 39 years Clothing / home decor / gifts Call or text 615-568-5187
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GHERTNER & COMPANY Homeowner Association and Condominium Management Full Service and Financial Management Property Management since 1968 615-255-8531 www.ghertner.com
ZANDER INSURANCE GROUP, INC. Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC Michael Weinberger Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business, Long Term Care, Identity Theft Protection 6213 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 615-356-1700 www.zanderins.com
PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELING
Let us exceed your expectations! Pre/Post Move Organizing • Move Mgrs. Packing • Unpacking • Sr. Downsizing FREE CONSULTATION – 615.415.8920 www.HomeAndOfficeTransitions.com
OPHTHALMOLOGIST HOWARD ROSENBLUM, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon Nashville Eye Center St. Thomas Hospital • Ph. 615-386-9200
JESSICA AVERBUCH, CEO 615-383-0183 (bus.) 615-294-9880 (cell) jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com www.jessicaaverbuch.com LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 615-794-0833 (bus.) 615-351-5343 (cell) lorna.graff@zeitlin.com www.lornagraff.com NAN SPELLER Broker, GRI, ABR 615-383-0183 (bus.) 615-973-1117 (cell) nanspeller2014@gmail.com JENNIE ZAGNOEV Affiliate Broker 615-383-0183 (bus.) 615-838-2048 (cell) jennie.zagnoev@zeitlin.com
Local Expertise...Global Exposure! Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR® www.JackieKarr.com JackieKarr@gmail.com Mobile: 615.330.9779 Office: 615.463.3333
PERSONAL SHOPPER
ROBINS INSURANCE Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Marsha Jaffa, CIC; Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business Insurance 30 Burton Hills, Suite 300 Ph. 615-665-9200 • www.robinsins.com
MOVING & STORAGE
www.zeitlin.com Residential & Relocation Specialists
IRA HELDERMAN, PhD, LPC Psychotherapy for Individuals, Adolescents, Couples and Families nashvillepsychotherapyandcounseling. com Please contact: 615-473-4815 or ira.p.helderman@vanderbilt.edu
REAL ESTATE
FRANKLIN PARGH 615-351-7333 Franklin.pargh@compass.com LANA PARGH 615-504-2685 Lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com Instagram: @theparghteam
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SPORTING GOODS TEAM NASHVILLE Your Running/Walking Swimming Headquarters 3205 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37203 615-383-0098
TRAVEL SERVICES Expredia Cruise Ship Centers A Full Service Travel Agency Alan Cooper: Office: 629-202-8945 www.cruiseshipcenters.com/AlanCooper 7081 B Hwy 70 S / Kroger Shopping Ctr.
TREE SERVICES
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
LYNCH TREE SERVICE Year Round, Complete Tree Care 615-444-4676 www.LynchTreeService.com
The Jewish Observer • October 2021
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“MY FAVORITE MUSICAL
OF THE DECADE!” -BUZZFEED
“ONE OF MY FAVORITE MUSICALS
OF ALL TIME!” -ROLLING STONE
OCT 19-24
TPAC.ORG/TheBandsVisit • 615-782-4040 Groups of 10 or more call 615-782-4060 For our complete entry policies and safety protocols, visit TPAC.ORG/PatronHealth.
Broadway Season sponsored by
Official Health and Safety Partner
TPAC.org is the official online source for buying tickets to TPAC events.
28 October 2021 • The Jewish Observer