GUIDE TO
JEWISH NASHVILLE 2014
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saw a story recently in Tablet, the daily online magazine of Jewish news and culture, that described Israel as a “foodie’s paradise” with an emerging cuisine that is garnering attention from chefs in New York City and other culinary centers around the world. My curiosity was piqued. What is this “new Israeli cuisine” that everyone’s talking about, I wondered, and can I find it in Nashville? My inquiry took me to a dinner hosted by Hadar Moskovitz, the shlicha (emissary) from Israel for the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, and to the kitchens of Israeli-born Kevin Alexandroni, a trained chef caterer to Nashville’s Jewish community. What I learned is that the new Israeli cuisine, much like American cuisine, is the product of a cultural melting pot. It has been influenced by the culinary traditions of Persia, Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia, Morocco, Yemen, Ethiopia and, of course, Eastern Europe. This year’s Guide to Jewish Nashville takes a look at the new Israeli cuisine through local eyes – and includes some great recipes too. The Guide to Jewish Nashville provides the only comprehensive listing of synagogues and other Jewish services and organizations – the institutional and social glue that that binds Nashville-area Jews together as a community. Published by the Nashville Jewish Federation, the guide is intended to both introduce newcomers to our vibrant community and remind longtime residents what it has to offer. We urge everyone to look through the guide. Whether you’re young or not so young, whether you’ve been here for a month or a lifetime, we think you’ll find information about Jewish Nashville you didn’t know as well as ways to become or remain active in Jewish life here. The guide is sent to everyone who receives our sister publication, The Jewish Observer of Nashville. Copies also are distributed to synagogues and local businesses and provided to newcomers to the Nashville area and those contemplating a move here. Our advertisers help make this publication possible. As you look through it, you’ll see ads for places to eat and shop. You’ll find ads for businesses that offer professional services as well as recreational and cultural opportunities. We hope you will patronize these businesses, and when you do, please tell them you saw their ads in the Guide to Jewish Nashville.
CONTENTS Feature: Searching for “The New Israeli Cuisine” – in Nashville ..........................................................................................24 Recipes.......................................................................................26
Listings: Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee ...........................................................6 Jewish Foundation........................................................................9 Gordon Jewish Community Center.......................................11 Synagogues ....................................................................................13 B’nai Mitzvah ..................................................................................21 Jewish Family Service ...............................................................22 Schools/Jewish Education ......................................................28 Youth Groups ................................................................................32 Young Adult Organizations ....................................................36 Cultural, Service and Social Organizations .....................39 Political Organizations..............................................................45 Community Resources .............................................................46 Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mark S. Freedman Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charles Bernsen Copy Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kathy Carlson Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tim Gregory Contributing Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rick Malkin Advertising Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carrie Mills Editorial Contact
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .615-354-1653 charles@jewishnashville.org Advertising Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .615-354-1699 carrie@nashvillejcc.org COVER PHOTOS (clockwise from upper left): 1. The cast warms up for a rehearsal of “Purim,” a musical by playwright Jay Kohlos, which debuted this year West End Synagogue. 2. Neal Reizer and his daughter, Talia, light the Limor Chanukiyah outside Sherith Israel. 3. The Temple’s 2013 consecration class keeping things light. 4. The cast from Congregation Micah’s 2013 Purimspiel. 5. Chabad of Nashville holds a community Passover seder each year in the ballroom of the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life (By Rick Malkin). While the Guide to Jewish Nashville makes an effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the kashrut of their products.
Charles Bernsen, editor
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We do Extraordinary Things through your contribution to the Jewish Federation The Jewish Federation of Nashville supports a communitywide network of organizations that do two things: t $BrF fPS QFPQMF JO OFFE IFrF BU IPNe JO *TSBFM BOE BrPVOE UIF worME t /VSUVrF BOE TVTUBJO UIF JFXJTI DPNNVOJUZ UPEBZ BOE fPS GVUVrF HFOFSBUJPOT OUR APPROACH TO FUNDING EMBODIES THE CORE VALUES AND TRADITIONS OF THE JEWISH COMMUNITY. We… t $BrF BCPVU QFPQMF t TBrHFU TQFDJmD QroHSBNT UIBU NFFU PVS NPTU VrHFOU OFFET t *ODVCBUF OFX QroHSBNT BOE TFSWJDFT CBTFE PO /BTIWJMMF DPNNVOJUZ GFFECBDk YOUR SMART CHOICE FOR EFFECTIVE AND MEANINGFUL JEWISH GIVING UP IBWF B rFBM JNQBDU PO B CrPBE SBOHF Pf OFFET. t -FBWJOH B JFXJTI MFHBDZ XJUI PVS JFXJTI FPVOEBUJPO XJMM QFrQFUVBUF UIF WBMVFT NPTU NFBOJOHGVM UP ZPV BOE GVUVrF HFOFSBUJPOT. GET INVOLVED. VOLUNTEER. MAKE A DIFFERENCE. -FBrO NPrF BCPVU UIF worL Pf UIF JFXJTI FFEFSBUJPO BOE IoX ZPV DBO EP B worME Pf HPPE SJHIU IFrF JO /BTIWJMMe. VJTJU PVS wFC TJUF XXw KFXJTIOBTIWJMMe.orH $BMM VT
& Jewish Foundation
OF NASHVILLE AND MIDDLE TENNESSEE
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 5
Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee President: Andrew May Executive Director: Mark S. Freedman 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102 Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-3242 Fax: (615) 352-0056 info@jewishnashville.org www.jewishnashville.org
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hether you are a newcomer to Nashville, considering a move to the Music City or a longtime resident – welcome to the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Nashville is one of America's “hottest” cities. The New York Times recently called Nashville the “It” City. Whatever you consider Nashville, you will find it to be a great place to experience an active and vibrant Jewish life. The Jewish Federation, which has been rapidly evolving its programs and services to appeal across the age spectrum, offers something for everyone. The Federation is blessed with creative and thoughtful volun-
The celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel Independence Day, is just one of the many communitywide cultural and educational events sponsored every year by the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
teer and professional leadership, and we’ve been able to channel high communal engagement to create new ways of doing business. A major impetus for change was the Best Jewish Nashville project, a broad-based communitywide assessment process undertaken in 2010. We are energized by a sharpened focus on how and what we ask of our generous donors when seeking their essential support of our annual campaign. As a result, we are serving more people in more settings and touching more Jewish lives. For example, PJ Library connects with young families by providing Jewish-themed books and music for children
Welcoming Newcomers to Nashville
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he Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee works with the local synagogues and other Jewish organizations and agencies to make newcomers feel at home in our wonderful Jewish community. We try to welcome every newcomer with a letter from the executive director along with a copy of the Guide to Jewish Nashville and other information about local congregations, agencies and organizations. If you or someone you know would like a welcome packet, we’ll be happy to send you one. Just contact Barbara Schwarcz at (615) 354-1630 or Barbara@jewishnashville.org. . c
6 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
up to age 8. There’s now a PJ Library option in Hebrew, Sifriyat Pijama. Enrolling is PJ Library is easy – just a simple phone call to the Federation or a computer click to our website, www.jewishnashville.org. We continue to meet the needs of our seniors through programs like Thank Goodness It’s Thursday, which serves hot kosher lunches and provides entertaining and enlightening programs at the Gordon Jewish Community Center. The Federation also funds senior programs at several of our local congregations, and we work collaboratively with the Jewish Family Service to offer critical social services to the elderly and our at-risk population. Our New Initiatives Fund has supported Israel-education programs and advocacy training. One such program is Increase Your Israel IQ, coordinated by the Federation’s Community Relations Committee, which has brought expert speakers on current Israel-themed topics. And in our effort to reach as wide an audience as possible, we continue to offer communitywide educational and cultural pro-
During a 2013 mission trip to Israel, Nashville Federation board member Fred Zimmerman meets with some of those being helped through the Ethiopian National Project, an effort to speed the integration of Ethiopian Jews into Israeli society. It’s one of 77 local, national and international programs and agencies that receive funds from the Nashville Federation.
gramming such as the Global Day of Jewish Learning each November, a Social Action Seder shortly after Passover and special events to commemorate important dates on the Jewish calendar such as Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day for Israel's fallen soldiers) and Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day). We welcome everyone to join us at these special events that do so much to enrich Jewish life in Nashville. Our highly successful NowGen Nashville program offers a wide array of opportunities for young adult Jewish professionals to connect, network and engage in a meaningful Jewish life. The goal of the program is to address professional and social interests so that each individual can pursue activities that best fit his or her needs while helping to strengthen the overall Jewish community. We are reaching out to Jews around the world in many ways. In the past two years we brought dozens of community members
to Cuba. They participated in Federation-organized missions that built bridges to the small but vibrant Jewish community and provided much-needed medical and humanitarian aid. In July of 2014, the Federation will sponsor a highly subsidized training mission to Israel for campaign volunteers. If you are interested in learning more about our vital work in Israel, please consider this spe-
cial journey. You'll return brimming with confidence and enthusiasm, poised and ready to ask others to join you in supporting support the 2015 campaign. The Federation is also planning a special “roots” mission to Eastern Europe with an optional extension to Berlin in late October and early November of 2014. Participants will visit Poland, Continued on page 8
Community Relations Committee
The Jewish Observer of Nashville Publisher: Mark S. Freedman (615) 356-3242 mark@jewishnashville.org Editor: Charles Bernsen (615) 354-1653 charles@jewishnashville.org Advertising manager: Carrie Mills (615) 354-1699 carrie@nashvillejcc.org Website: jewishobservernashville.org
The Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee
Offices: 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102 Nashville, TN 37205
Director: Abbie Wolf (615) 354-1637 abbie@jewishnashville.org
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Chair: Irwin Venick Vice-Chair: Arthur Perlen
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he Community Relations Committee (CRC) is the public affairs arm of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. The CRC sponsors Israel advocacy programs and develops relationships with the broader Nashville community on social and public policy issues of concern to the Jewish community. Over the past year, the CRC has completed a comprehensive strategic planning process. As a result, it has been restructured with a broader membership that reflects the diversity of the Nashville Jewish community. In a continuing effort to be responsive to the needs of this diverse community and the challenges it faces, the CRC now includes at-large members as well as representatives from every synagogue and most communal organizations. These representatives serve as liaisons between the CRC and their organizations. The CRC offers a broad range of programs for the Nashville Jewish community. It hosts a regular series of speakers on Israel and Israel advocacy called “Increase Your Israel IQ: From Argument to Advocacy.” The CRC also is a participant in numerous coalitions with interfaith and ethnic groups and social service agencies. In the education arena, the CRC is involved in issues affecting Jewish students in public and private schools. Through its Textbook Project, the CRC is working to ensure that textbooks and curriculum in Tennessee classrooms accurately and fairly portray Jews, Judaism and Israel. Each year, the CRC hosts a Social Justice Seder to which it invites its Nashville partners in social action. Past themes have included civil rights, hunger, poverty and immigration. The event has been attended by the Nashville mayor and other government officials, clergy, social service agency directors, advocacy organization members and education leaders. Members of the community with interests in any of these or related issues are invited to discuss CRC membership with Community Relations Director Abbie Wolf, who can be contacted at abbie@jewishnashville.org or (615) 354-1637. c
he Jewish Observer of Nashville turns 80 years old this year, and we like to think we’re getting better with age. Published by the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, the goal of The Observer is to be the primary source of information relevant to the local Jewish community. The newspaper is published on the first of every month and is mailed to every Jewish household in Middle Tennessee as well as to members of the Gordon Jewish Community Center. But you can also see all of the stories and photos in the current issue online at jewishobservernashville.org. Our website also includes an archive of back issues as well as regular updates of breaking news. In our pages you will find useful advances about upcoming events as well as interesting news and feature stories about people, organizations and trends in the Nashville Jewish community. Our regular Lifecycles column carries submissions about b’nai mitzvah celebrations, weddings, graduations, honors and obituaries. We also subscribe to wire services the Jewish Telegraphic Agency and Israel21c that provide news and features from Israel and other Jewish communities in the United States and around the world. Each issue of The Observer also includes a special section. Some focus on the Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Passover and Chanukah while others are themed on topics such as travel, dining, pets and planning simcha celebrations. As a community newspaper, we are eager to respond to the needs of our readers. Articles and digital photos, suggestions for stories or information about upcoming events may be submitted by email to the editor for consideration for publication. During the past year, The Observer has revitalized its opinion pages with more letters to the editor, op-ed pieces and a new column that rotates among the community’s congregational rabbis. The Rabbis’ Corner provides commentary on current events through the lens of Jewish values. We invite individuals and organizations to submit letters and op-ed columns, which are reviewed by an editorial board that consists of members from each of Nashville’s Jewish congregations. Advertising is a major source of revenue for The Observer, so please let our advertisers know that you saw their ads and appreciate their financial support for the newspaper. We also raise much-needed funds through our annual Patrons Campaign, which allows readers to show their support by making contributions. c The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 7
A group of volunteers gets some training before taking to the phones for Tzedakah Tzunday, the Nashville Jewish Federation’s annual fundraising phone-athon. By Rick Malkin Continued from page 7
the Czech Republic and Hungary. This is a special journey filled with special moments that blend the remembrance of a challenging past with the transformation of Eastern Europe as a place where Jewish life has been reborn. If you want more information about any of the
Federation’s ongoing missions, please contact Campaign Director Naomi Limor Sedek or Executive Director Mark Freedman. Every Federation staff member is always available to speak with you. There is a directory below containing each staff member’s email and direct telephone number. We welcome all inquiries and our
promise and commitment to you is to respond promptly when you call on us. Every Jewish organization in Nashville benefits from the Federation’s grant-making process and the Federation encourages all of its local agencies and the congregations to offer innovative ways to build and enrich Jewish identity and engagement. We expect this trend to continue as we strive to make Best Jewish Nashville even better. We invite you to join us as a volunteer, a donor and most importantly as a participant in the richness of Jewish life in Nashville. We are certain that you will find it fulfilling and enjoyable. c Executive Office Mark S. Freedman Executive Director mark@jewishnashville.org 615-354-1660 Carolyn Benick-Brown Administrative Assistant carolyn@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1668 Barbara Schwarcz Events and Newcomers Coordinator barbara@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1630 Lynn Fleischer Jewish Community Archivist library@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1655 Annual Campaign Naomi Limor Sedek Campaign Director naomi@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1642
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Joel Abramson Community Engagement Associate joel@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1650 Susan Pankowsky Campaign Associate susan@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1676
Jewish Foundation Risa Klein Herzog Director of Foundation Development risa@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1651 Community Relations Abbie Wolf Director of Community Relations abbie@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1637 Hadar Moskovitz Community Shlicha (Israel emissary) hadar@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1632 Community Planning/ Israel Partnership Harriet Schiftan Director of Planning and Partnership2Gether harriet@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1687 Finance and Information Technology Michelle Faulkner Controller michelle@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1624 Heath Hinson Accounting and Human Resources heath@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1654 Allen Cummings Director of Information Technology admin@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1675 The Jewish Observer Mark S. Freedman Publisher mark@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1660 Charles Bernsen Editor charles@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1653 Carrie Mills Advertising Manager carrie@nashvillejcc.org (615) 354-1699
Jewish Foundation of Nashville Jewish Foundation Development Chair: Sandy Averbuch Director of Foundation Development: Risa Klein Herzog (615) 354-1651 risa@jewishnashville.org 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 www.jewishnashville.org
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isualize the future of Nashville’s Jewish community . . . and make it happen! If you have the next great idea in Jewish life, the Jewish Foundation is the place where it can come together. When you leave a Jewish legacy through the Jewish Foundation, you say proudly that Jewish life – in Nashville, in North America, in Israel and the world – will not just survive or endure but also thrive. Whether your passion is a local, national or international agency or service, the Jewish Foundation provides the opportunity for you to help strengthen and build our Jewish community. The Jewish Foundation offers a variety of tax-advantaged and estate planning vehicles to enable donors to meet their individual financial and estate planning needs, to realize their philanthropic dreams
More than 300 Nashville youth have created B’nai Tzedek funds with the Nashville Jewish Foundation. Participants in the annual dinner program proudly display personalized illustrations of their own philanthropic Jewish identities.
and to create a Jewish legacy for the future. Among these are: Bequest, Field of Interest Fund, Designated Fund, Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment Fund (PACE), Lion of Judah Endowment Fund (LOJE), Charitable Gift Annuity, Tree of Life Fund, Charitable Lead Trust, Charitable Remainder Trust, Donor Advised Fund, Donation of Qualified Retirement Plan, Gift of Life Insurance, Gift of Real Estate and the B’nai Tzedek Fund (a philanthropy program for bar and bat mitzvah- aged donors supported by the Feldman/Hassenfeld Fund for B’nai Tzedek). The Jewish Foundation of Nashville was established in 1980 as the endowment arm of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle
Tennessee. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Jewish Foundation debuted The Book of Life. With over 60 charter members, The Book of Life recognizes donors who have made or have promised to make a permanent endowed gift to benefit a Jewish agency, organization or synagogue, regardless of the size of the gift. Donors whose permanent gifts are $25,000 or more are honored with an electronic donor page
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Jewish Foundation Development Committee Members: Sandy Averbuch (chair), David Cooper, Annette Eskind, James Fishel, Mark Goldfarb, Ellen Levitt, Jan Liff, Andrew May, Joshua May, Stephen Riven, Martin Satinsky, Nan Speller, David Steine Jr., and Fred Zimmerman
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in The Book of Life featuring their photograph and a personal statement about why they have created this legacy or their hopes for the future. The electronic Book of Life is in the lobby of the Gordon Jewish Community Center where the entire community can view and enjoy it. The Jewish Foundation is honored to be the community’s trusted resource for philanthropy for generations into the future. What is important to you in the Jewish community? How do you wish to be remembered? The security of our beloved community lies in your answer to these questions and the Jewish Foundation is here to assist you in fulfilling your goals. c
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10 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Gordon Jewish Community Center (GJCC) President: David Lewis Executive Director: Leslie M. Sax 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-7170 Fax: (615) 353-2659 www.nashvillejcc.org Email: info@nashvillejcc.org
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he GJCC is a gathering place for all of Jewish Nashville. We’ve got something for everyone: a 90,000-square-foot facility with an indoor saltwater pool and outdoor Olympicsize saltwater pool, a state-ofthe-art fitness center, dynamic schedule of group exercise classes and personal training options, three-star Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC), the most diverse camp programming in all of Nashville, teen hangout, library, banquet hall, meeting spaces, art galleries and jewelry showcases, acres of playing fields, tennis courts, the Nashville Jewish Film Festival,
community garden and outdoor walking track, Holocaust memorial, unparalleled programs for all ages from toddlers to seniors and much more There’s always something going on at the GJCC! Fitness: Latest equipment, experienced staff and certified personal trainers. Group fitness classes – spinning, kickboxing, yoga and more – are free for members. Aquatics: 25-yard heated indoor saltwater pool, 50-meter outdoor saltwater pool, and baby pools. Water aerobics classes, from certified arthritis programs to prenatal, will give you the figure you’ve always wanted. Cultural Arts: The Janet Levine March Gallery’s rotating art exhibits, concerts, guest lecturers and social gatherings enrich members’ cultural identity. We also have the Janet Levine March Gallery 2, the Sig Held Art Gallery and the House Gallery. Adults: Our offerings include classes, lectures, luncheons and annual “Nourish Your
Mind” series. The program offerings, both on campus and off, are designed to meet a wide variety of interests. Adults Over 65: Weekly meetings, group fitness, book club, games, trips and more. The programs offer camaraderie and companionship in your home away from home. Early Childhood Learning Center: Our center has a threestar rating, the highest awarded by the Tennessee Department of Human Services. It is infused with Jewish cultural enrichment, as well as academic, aquatic, arts and athletic enrichment programs. School-Age Kids: Afterschool Kids Konnection (also three-star rated) offers transportation from area schools. Other offerings include Camp Davis, which has been “getting kids dirty since 1930,” along with specialty camps for science, art, cheerleading, fashion design, Legos and more. Teens: Our programs for teens include the JCC Maccabi Games, an Olympics-style competition for sports and
camaraderie, AZA and BBG (the two BBYO groups the GJCC sponsors locally) and BBYO Connect for middleschoolers. Sports: We offer soccer, baseball, flag football and basketball and Tiger Sharks yearround swim team. Adults can play pickup basketball games weekly – and tennis and racquetball are coming! Jewish Community and Identity: Marking every occasion on the Jewish calendar, from our annual Chanukah Festival and menorah lighting to our community Israel Independence Day celebration. The GJCC has served the Nashville community for more than 100 years. So step inside our doors and check us out – for the history, for the community, for yourself. c
The Gordon Jewish Community Center’s Olympic-size outdoor pool was redesigned in 2012.
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 11
GJCC Adults Over 65 Coordinator: Meryl Kraft 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 615/356-7170, ext. 223 meryl@nashvillejcc.org www.nashvillejcc.org Prime Time The most welcoming group at the GJCC is Prime Time for active senior adults. It hosts a huge variety of activities, including monthly meetings, day and overnight trips, parties, lunches, monthly casino trips, holiday programs, varied classes, cultural events like the TPAC Broadway series, concerts, and opportunities for participation in community events. Watch for the Mystery Bus Trip in April – your never know where you’ll go with Prime Time! The group also hosts an annual trip. If you missed “Amish, Hippies, Diners and Wine,” “Trains, Boats and the Highlights of Chattanooga,” and “Elvis’s Memphis,” watch for the Kentucky trip in 2014. TGIT Have you lived in Nashville your entire life or are you new to the city? Either way, this program is for you! For more than 65 years, we’ve had a blast at the GJCC on Thursdays. The Golden Age Club met every Thursday. It was replaced by the more “hip” TGIT (Thank Goodness It’s Thursday). Up to 70 people participate in a blood pressure check with a registered nurse
and in an exercise class. The day includes a delicious lunch underwritten by a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee and an exciting program. Upcoming programs include the music of Sam Cooper, Tu B’Shevat with Rabbi Joshua Kullock, music with Sheldon Kahane, Norman Rockwell with Teri Cohen from the Frist, the Nashville Zoo, music with Stacy Beyer and Rick Kleiner, Heart Health, Broadway Show Tunes, the Tennessee State Museum, Anne Frank Ballet with the Nashville Ballet, music and comedy with Dennis Scott, music with Bryan Cumming, Israeli Day with Hadar Moskovitz, music with Lisa Webb and Carole Shaw, Symphony Dress Rehearsal, Nashville Neighborhoods with the Mayor’s Office, and Preserving Memories with Lynn Fleischer. c
GJCC Adults of All Ages Coordinator: Meryl Kraft 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 615/356-7170, ext. 223 meryl@nashvillejcc.org www.nashvillejcc.org
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he Gordon Jewish Community Center offers something for everyone. If you want it, let us know and we’ll offer it. We want YOU to be part of the GJCC.
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Bryana Lavery, G.G., GIA Graduate Gemologist 615.925.9172 gemsandjewelsappraisalservice@yahoo.com | www.bryanalavery.com Excellent community references | Personal, in-home consultations
Read the Observeronline at www.jewishobservernashville.org 12 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Mind and Zest Fest The GJCC offers fabulous classes and events that appeal to a wide range of interests. Among those in 2014: • John Seigenthaler: Civil Rights in the 50 Years Since JFK’s Death • Legends of Gruhn Guitar (at Gruhn Guitars) • Perennial Wisdom for the Spiritually Independent with Rabbi Rami Shapiro • Art on the West Side, a two day art and craft festival at the GJCC • Tour of Nashville for Nashvillians (by bus) • American Heroes with Common Bonds: World War II POWs The 2014 series will include programs, classes or lessons in topics such as investing in rental property, styling tips, home repair and maintenance, group travel planning, Chinese cooking, knitting, mindful eating, color theory for oil painting, ballroom dancing, studio tours and demos with Brian Nash and with Pappas and Oglander, jewelry design, a paper cutting art workshop, ethical wills, living without regret, Spanish tapas cooking, archeology in Nashville, “staging” your home to live in now, Maimonides and the philosophers of Islam, social media for your business, cold cases in Nashville, dancing with the “stars,” an Israeli dinner party, Chaim Herzog, a gallery tour at York and Friends, the fashion of Christian Dior, right-brain drawing, the changing roles of women in Israeli society, the Metro Council, Passover desserts, spring and Passover flower arranging, herb gardening, cupcake and cookie decorating, guitar lessons, Mah Jongg lessons and bridge class for intermediate players, and a book club. Don’t forget to make reservations for everything. Between January and May of 2013, more than 1,000 people participated in the series, which is funded by the Sol
Stern and Rose Stern Adult Education Fund, the Leah Rose Werthan Designated Fund of the Jewish Foundation of the Jewish Federation, The Jewish Federation, The Meryl Kraft Discretionary Fund and the GJCC Nourish Your Mind Fund. Summer Camp, Fall Classes and Ongoing Classes for Adults Summer Camp for Adults celebrated its fifth season in 2013 and included events such as a beer tasting and programs on cooking with herbs and veggies, breast health and mobile mammograms, photography for travelers, right brain drawing, and creating felted bowls. We also offer a small group of fall classes that includes Mah Jongg, computer classes, health and wellness, writing and more. Ongoing weekly classes include knitting, bridge, Mah Jongg, poker and oil painting. And, if you like to read, the GJCC Book Club meets monthly. Adult Health and Wellness The GJCC offers a series of lectures and programs that include an evening of wellness with the professionals and several seminars presented by Saint Thomas Health Services. Topics include running/walking well, eating well, stroke prevention, enhancing memory and brain power and sleeping well. Watch for more! Mah Jongg Tournament You can participate in a daylong Mah Jongg tournament at the GJCC this summer. Hot Topics Wednesdays Enjoy a monthly current events group at the GJCC. Past programs have included Jewish Relations Around the World, Israel: Women of the Wall, The GJCC: What’s New, Get to Know the New Nashville, and What’s New in the Synagogue. c
Synagogues West End Synagogue
President: Susan Schwartz roadrunnersss@comcast.net
Conservative
3810 West End Avenue Nashville, Tennessee 37205 (615) 269-4592 Fax: (615) 269-4695 E-mail: office@westendsyn.org
Rabbi: Joshua Kullock rabbi@westendsyn.org Executive Director: Marcia Stewart mstewart@westendsyn.org
www.westendsyn.org
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Director of Lifelong Learning: Sharon Paz spaz@westendsyn.org Ritual and Tutoring Coordinator: Sophie Rapoport sophie@westendsyn.org Educational Director Emerita: Miriam Halachmi
est End Synagogue is filled with vitality and warmth – a place of Jewish life, inspiration and celebration. Nashville’s only Conservative congregation offers a Jewish family experience centered on Torah (education), avodah (prayer) and gemilut hasadim (acts of kindness). Our spiritual home infuses traditional rituals with modern
practices of Judaism. A growing percentage of our students spend summers at Camp Ramah Darom in Georgia, where they receive an enduring sense of belonging, friendship and joy. Adult education is a vital part of our programming. We offer a variety of opportunities to increase your knowledge of Judaism -- the Pray, Eat, Learn series featuring guest speakers, scholar-in-residence weekends, Hebrew classes, adult bar or bat mitzvah, and our regular book club. The winter Lecture Series helps expand understanding of the world in which we live. And you can come to study weekly at our Torah Ahora classes with the rabbi on Tuesdays and the rabbi’s
meaning. Fully egalitarian services are led by Rabbi Joshua Kulloch and Morah Sophie Rapoport with the active participation of congregants and religious school students. We are proud to offer minyans, morning and evening, each day of the year. Shabbat takes on new meaning with our Friday evening Kabbalat Shabbat service. Shabbat Saturday morning is a warm, welcoming service in a friendly environment. Lifelong education is an integral part of the West End family. Our award-winning Framework of Excellence Religious School led by Sharon Paz provides a strong religious background designed to inculcate young people with the values, philosophy, rituals and
Continued on page 14
nd Synagogue E t s e W A
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Worsh ip • Education • Service Award-Winning Religious School • Children’s Services • Family Programs • Youth Groups Camp Ramah • Torah Study • Adult Education • Social Action • Seniors Activities Men’s Club • Sisterhood Rabbi Joshua Kullock Marcia Stewart, Executive Director Sharon Paz, Director of Lifelong Learning Sophie Rapoport, Ritual & Tutoring Coordinator Miriam Halachmi, Education Director Emeritus
3810 West End Avenue, Nashville 615-269-4592 (toll-free 888-335-8993) http://www.westendsyn.org
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 13
Continued from page 13
Introduction to Judaism classes on Sundays. Our members are committed to the holy task of tikkun olam, social action, by serving the homeless through Room in the Inn, food drives for Second Harvest and the Martha O’Bryan Center and filling a Mitzvah Crib for families in need. We welcome you to join our family as we continue to grow and embrace our Jewish heritage. c
West End Synagogue Sisterhood Co-Presidents: Sarah Bengelsdorf and Renee Stein sisterhood@westendsyn.com. 3810 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 269-4592 Fax: (615) 269-4695 office@westendsyn.org
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he WES Sisterhood is involved in activities that enrich our congre-
Thanks, Nashville ... For voting us Best Mediterranean Restaurant for 2004, 2005 & 2006 We think the world of you, too! Mon-Thurs 11-8pm • Fri & Sat 11-9pm Closed Sunday • BYOB Green Hills • 3764 Hillsboro Road, Phone: 383-8700 • Fax: 383-8788
gation, support religious education and enhance our youth programs. Members span a wide range of interests, ages, and backgrounds. The sisterhood was founded in 1903 and affiliated with the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism (WLCJ) in 1948. New female synagogue members receive a free one-year membership in Sisterhood. WES Sisterhood helps support our religious school financially and through actions. Annually, the sisterhood helps fund enhanced school programming and hosts a first day of school brunch for religious school parents. Each year the sisterhood prepares several Shabbat Kiddush meals and Friday night family dinners. We support our kosher kitchens and fund a Yom Kippur break fast meal. We also help fund our two youth groups, Kadima and the United Synagogue Youth (USY), and we send packages to our college students during
the school year. The sisterhood also provides babysitting throughout the High Holidays and scholarship support for children attending Camp Ramah Darom. Through the WLCJ Torah Fund project, we raise funds to support rabbinical, cantorial and Jewish educator programs at the Jewish Theological Seminary (New York), the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies (University of Judaism in Los Angeles), the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies (Jerusalem), and the Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano (Buenos Aires). We operate the WES Judaica Shop, open on Wednesday afternoons until 6:30 p.m. and on Sunday mornings during the school year with other hours by appointment. For more information contact Helen Crowley at (615) 830-4683 Other planned special events: • Vodka and Latkes
As you ride up the tree-lined drive that leads to The Temple, you begin a journey . . . The laughter of children, the quest for learning and the sanctity of faith greet youand you know at that moment you can call The Temple . . . . . HOME
Our Dedicated Clergy & Staff R bb bb Shana Sh Sh G ld d M kl - Cantor C Rabbi Mark Schiftan - Rabbi Goldstein Mackler Tracy Fishbein Lisa Crockett - Lynda Gutcheon - Corye Nelson Mitzie Russell - Mark Shepard - Erin Zagnoev
Our Religious School
Our Adult Education Program
is the only one in Middle Tennessee that is accredited by the National Association of Temple Educators.
Popular Ongoing Study Opportunities Selected Classes - Guest Speakers
Our Involvement Programs
Our Preschool
has a DHS rating and developmentally appropriate curriculum with full and part-time programs.
provide socially oriented groups that offer the RSSRUWXQLW\ WR ÀQG \RXU VSHFLDO SODFH DQG SHUIHFW ÀW
We invite you to become a part of our Temple family!
The Temple, Congregation Ohabai Sholom 5015 Harding Road - Nashville, Tennessee 37205 - (615) 352-7620 - www.templenashville.org 14 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
• Fundraiser for the Torah Fund • Mishloach Manot (for Purim) • Vashti’s Banquet in the spring • WLCJ Southern Region Conference • WLCJ leadership workshops A Rosh Chodesh group meets several times during the year to celebrate the new month. c
The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom Reform President: Ray Berk Senior Rabbi: Mark Schiftan Rabbi: Shana Mackler Cantor: Tracy Fishbein Educator: Lynda Gutcheon Director of Membership & Development: Erin Zagnoev Director of Temple Preschool: Corye Nelson www.templenashville.org 5015 Harding Pike Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 352-7620 info@templenashville.org
S
ince our beginnings in 1851, The Temple has been the heart of Reform Judaism for Nashville’s Jewish community. We offer a welcom-
ing family to enrich your Jewish life. Our membership is diverse, from singles to married and same-sex couples, families with children to retirees, newcomers to 6th-generation Nashvillians. The Temple has an outstanding Religious School, a 3-star, fulltime preschool and many services and programs. Highlights from last year include: • We saw continued growth in new members 35 and younger. • More than two dozen nonJews participated in our Conversion Conversations program, many continuing to celebrate becoming Jews. • We held five congregational Shabbat dinners, five Passover Seders (Congregational, GLBT, JACS, preschool and Conversion Conversations), pre-service onegs at monthly family services and three summer picnic oneg Shabbat dinners. • Almost all of our bar and bat mitzvah students continued through confirmation. Eightyfive percent of our 11th- and 12th-graders stayed on for post-confirmation. • Our Next Dor Group activities for young adults ages 2240 included two progressive dinners, Sushi & Sake in the Sukkah, Family BBQ, and Whole Foods Cooking School. • We explored the world of Jewish music through Sermons in Song, cantoral
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concerts, song sessions and other musical programs. • Our weekly Women’s Torah Study group celebrated its 12th anniversary. • Adult Education programs attracted hundreds of members and neighbors of other faiths. Favorites were weekly Torah Study, Lunch with the Rabbi, Professor A.-J. Levine, Rabbi Rami Shapiro, and the Residential Campus for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of Vanderbilt University. • Our Mussar Mindfulness Group completed four years of the holy, intimate work of text study for personal growth. • We are providing greater accessibility to The Temple through the online streaming of our High Holidays and weekly Shabbat services, by providing rides to our Friday night service on the Buz-aBus and through our participation in the Satellite Shabbat program. • Temple hosted the twicemonthly Golden Lunch Bunch, providing a meal and entertainment for our seniors. • Our Caring Connection offered support and celebration for over 200 members. • Two hundred Temple Arts Festival volunteers participated in our 9th annual fundraiser. • Social action activities included Room in the Inn, blood drives, suitcase and coat drives, collections for Second Harvest Food Bank and the 20th annual Boulevard Bolt on Thanksgiving. • The Congregant Gallery completed its fourth year of showcasing the artistic talent of members. Visit our Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/group s/templenashville/ We hope you might see yourself here with us! c 16 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Congregation Sherith Israel Orthodox Rabbi: Saul Strosberg Rabbi Emeritus: Zalman Posner Cantor: George Lieberman President: Evelyn Koch 3600 West End Avenue (615) 292-6614 (615) 292-6615 Fax: (615) 463-8260 info@sherithisrael.com www.sherithisrael.com
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t Congregation Sherith Israel, innovation goes hand in hand with tradition. “We try to break down barriers between Jews and make our tradition more relevant to our lives as well as the lives of others,” said Rabbi Saul Strosberg. “We try to make Orthodoxy more approachable. We also integrate our American way of life with our Judaism in an authentic, meaningful, joyful way,” he said. This year, for example, in partnership with Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, we hosted our first Thanksgiving dinner at The Shul, providing a traditional, festive dinner with all the trimmings in a wonderful, convivial atmosphere and with the special goal of serving seniors in our community who might not have had a place to go. Because of the unusual calendar, the evening began with the lighting of Chanukah torches on the Limor Menorah. Those attending included the entire gamut of our congregation — from young families with little children to senior citizens and everything in between. It was Jewish, it was American, it was special for all of us. In some ways innovation has become tradition at Sherith Israel. “Bar and bat mitzvah cel-
Rabbi Saul Strosberg was at Congregation Sherith Israel’s first Thanksgiving dinner, which made a special effort to serve seniors from throughout the community who might not otherwise have had a place to enjoy a traditional meal.
ebrations, for example, are flexible,” Rabbi Saul said. “Each one is tailored specifically to the child and the family. We take each child where he or she is
and work within their interests, capabilities, and desires. “With b’not mitzvah, we’re trying to increase the role of young women in the community within Jewish law — women’s Torah reading, rigorous learning regimens to challenge each student, the celebration of a siyum (completion of a tractate of Mishnah, etc.). Any or all of these can add meaning and relevance to a young woman’s bat mitzvah journey.” Tali Sedek’s tailor-made bat mitzvah celebration two years ago is a good example of innovative thinking at Sherith Israel. According to her mother, Naomi Limor Sedek, “Tali’s bat mitzvah experience was designed for and by her along with Rabbi Saul. Keeping within the parameters of halacha, Tali’s Labor Day Tefillah service was beautiful — filled with ruach [spirit], music, and singing. She led women in prayer and dance just like
Miriam did in Exodus. Tali studied with both Rabbi Saul and Cantor Lieberman to read from the Torah, chant a Haftorah, and lead a women’s Tefillah service in the main sanctuary of the Shul. “She discovered her unique connection to her Judaism surrounded by community, and that is something we are grateful for. I can’t wait for her sister, Ilanit’s, experience and the unique connection she will make in this wonderful Shul environment.” Sherith Israel also has diverse adult and child educational opportunities. “Our esteemed cantor, George Lieberman, leads our Sunday school and cheder (Hebrew school),“ said Evelyn Koch, congregation president, “providing specialized instruction for adults and youngsters alike.” After studying with Cantor Lieberman, Yeshai Eldar recently celebrated his bar mitzvah at Sherith Israel.
His mother, Dganit, said, “One of the great bar mitzvah gifts that our family received was getting to know Cantor Lieberman better and have him in our lives. His pleasant and comforting personality made us feel like everything was under control. “We celebrated Yishai's bar mitzvah with a Kabbalat Shabbat dinner at Sherith Israel because we wanted to feel like we are hosting our friends and family for Friday dinner in our home. This is why we love Sherith Israel: It is the closest thing to home. It is also the synagogue that feels most like the synagogues in Israel. So it is a double home for us,” she said. Cantor Lieberman often studies individually with adults who may be in the midst of their own spiritual journeys. Sherith Israel is a diverse congregation where people of all backgrounds are welcome. Some members come from very Continued on page 18
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learned Jewish backgrounds, while others don’t read or pray in Hebrew, so Cantor Lieberman tailors the adult learning to each individual student. Sherith Israel represents all ages: seniors, empty-nesters, parents with children of all ages, and young people — both singles and young families. There is a growing “baby community” at The Shul, and the congregation has just installed a new state-of-the-art playground for outdoor fun. For the adults, there are cultural and intellectual programs that provide both stimulation and spirituality. Adult classes are available both during the day and in the evenings. In addition, there are scholar-in-residence programs, concerts, and Café Simcha — musical evenings featuring the latest works of Nashville’s Jewish songwriters. For more information about Sherith Israel, call The Shul office at 292-6614 or 292-6615 or go to www.sherithisrael.com. c
Sherith Israel Sisterhood 3600 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 292-6614 President: Rose Ann Ellis
T
he dictionary defines sisterhood as “the close relationship among women based on shared experiences, concerns, etc.” The CSI Sisterhood fits this description. We are a group of women of different ages and backgrounds who come together with the common concern of supporting individuals and families in our community in their times of weakness and strength, joy and sorrow. Activities range from cooking and delivering kosher meals for the sick and bereaved to providing money for Jewish camp scholarships. The board meets monthly to plan activities and make decisions on where to put funds to the best use. CSI Sisterhood is funded through annual membership
dues and planned fundraisers. Each year our members look forward to lighting the Limor Menorah facing West End Avenue at the Sisterhood Latke Supper. Last year’s themed celebration, the Hanukkah Hoedown, featured decorations hand-made by new member Deborah Blacksher, who says she has recently found a home at CSI. She writes, “I joined the sisterhood because I wanted to be more involved in life at the synagogue. Sherith Israel is like one big happy family to me. ". Construction has been completed on the new CSI playground, funded in part by Sisterhood. And recently, sisterhood reestablished the custom of giving candlesticks and Kiddush cups to the congregation’s b’nai mitzvah. With food such a central part of every Shabbat, holiday and gathering, the sisterhood is always looking for ways to improve our kitchen facilities, including the recent purchase of a new commercial refrigerator. The Torah tells us of one very special sister, Miriam. With great courage and dedication to her people, she helped rescue her baby brother Moses and later emerged as a leader of the women celebrating freedom and a hopeful future in a new homeland. May all of us in CSI Sisterhood join together and be sisters and leaders to one another, making our congregational a stronger and more comforting place. c
To access the Community Calendar, go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Every community event is listed for your convenience.
18 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Congregation Micah Reform Rabbis Philip “Flip” & Laurie Rice rabbiflip@congregation micah.org rabbilaurie@congregation micah.org Executive Director: Todd Evans tevans@congregationmicah.org Education Director: Julie Greenberg jgreenberg@congregation micah.org Music Director/Cantorial Soloist: Lisa Silver lsilver@congregationmicah.org Membership Information: tevans@congregationmicah.org Administrative Assistant: Megan Scurlock mscurlock@congregation micah.org Administrative Assistant: Erin Halstead office@congregationmicah.org President: Marjean Coddon president@congregation micah.org 2001 Old Hickory Boulevard Brentwood, TN 37027 (615) 377-9799 Fax: (615) 377-7996 www.CongregationMicah.org info@congregationmicah.org
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icah inspires, connects, and challenges. Promoting the values of liberal Judaism, our services are musical and participatory, our educational opportunities are compelling and enriching, and our social gatherings are undeniably enjoyable. Micah’s 35-acre campus includes a nationally recognized sanctuary with a beautiful ark framed by windows which
invite the natural beauty behind us inside, a chapel for intimate worship, social hall space for events, a Tennessee 3Star rated preschool, a religious school wing with multipurpose space, a full kitchen, patios, natural playscape, memorial garden, and cemetery. Shabbat at Micah comes alive through song; services include traditional, contemporary, and original musical settings of liturgy by our nationally known musical team as well as local artists. Saturday mornings offer the chance to “have a BLT with one of our rabbis”— that’s Bagels, Love, & Torah study — followed by services. Our youngest members (Micah MINIS) gather for Tot Shabbat services on Friday mornings, as well as additional services with oneg and playtime throughout the year. Religious school includes Hebrew instruction, services, and creative curricula (pre-k to post-confirmation). Special
9799. You can also find us at facebook.com/CongregationMi cah and twitter.com/micahnashville and on Pinterest and Vimeo. c
Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad
Congregation Micah at sunset. PHOTO: RICK MALKIN
classes include the Micah Kids Choir, music, photography, history, confirmation, Israel trips, and family education and social action programs. Additional youth enrichment is provided through our youth groups (MiTY & Middle MiTY). Micah Midweek takes place on Wednesday afternoons, where pre-b’nai mitzvah students pray, eat, and learn together. Our bar/bat mitzvah-candidates are tutored exclusively by our rabbis and cantorial soloist. Jewish life for adults at Micah includes continuous
adult education, Kol Isha – our women’s group, mah jongg on Tuesdays, and Schmooze and Views on Thursdays for our seniors. Our Micah Book Club meets the first Saturday of every month. We provide volunteer activities and young professional events. An inclusive and diverse community, Micah welcomes you to visit and see all we have to offer. All of our services are open to the public. For the most up-to-date information, please check our website at www.CongregationMicah.org or call the office at (615) 377-
Orthodox 95 Bellevue Road Nashville, TN 37221 (615) 646-5750 Rabbi: Yitzchok Tiechtel rabbi@chabadnashville.com Educator and Rebbetzin: Mrs. Esther Tiechtel etiechtel@yahoo.com President: Michael Simon msimon105@comcast.net
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enowned for warmth and friendliness, Congregation Beit Tefilah offers true Jewish Southern Continued on page 20
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 19
Continued from page 19
hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime Nashville resident or a newcomer, Chabad welcomes you and offers something for everyone. A Place to Call Home Imagine worshipping in an atmosphere of total acceptance, where you are welcome and implored to be as nonjudgmental of your neighbors as they are of you. Services are traditional and conducted primarily in Hebrew, with select readings in English. The language you use or your pace are not of paramount importance. Our pristine new sanctuary, enveloped in a natural environment, is the perfect setting to feel connected to G-d. Shabbat Shalom As the sun sets on Friday, everyone streams in for that magical moment of candle lighting as the spirit of Shabbat sets upon Nashville. Congregants lift their voices in song and prayer. Mystical insights from the rabbi bring in a meditative peace. Each second and fourth Friday, a grand T.G.I.S. (Thank G-d It’s Shabbat) dinner follows services and is open to the entire community, always at 6:30 p.m. Shabbat morning brings the reading of the Torah, as the rabbi tells the story of the weekly Torah portion, and guest cantors lead musaf
prayers. Our educator, Mrs. Esther Tiechtel, leads the CKids weekly Shabbat morning children’s service, which includes story time, edible crafts and prayer. B’nai mitzvah and other lifecycle events take place in our new ballroom. Jewish Women’s Roundtable Shabbat afternoons bring the popular Women’s Roundtable with discussions on values and ethics, led by Rebbetzin Esther. Weekly classes explore Torah and other topics, including Jewish mysticism. Youth Programming At Sunday morning Hebrew school, children study the Treasures curriculum, mark the holidays with family workshops and utilize the Aleph Champ Hebrew reading curriculum. Teens enjoy their first foray into kabbalah, the Jewish mystical tradition, and their chance to wrap tefillin together. Chesed and Caring We extend a welcoming hand to guests, giving all visitors a warm welcome and the feeling of being with mishpacha – family. Our Chicken Soup Squad brings hot foods to the homebound or ill. Congregation Beit Tefilah is a place you want to call home. Come and visit and we are sure you’ll want to stay. L’hitraot! c
Mikvah Mei Chaya was designed to make observing the ancient mitzvah of family purity a moving spiritual experience.
Mikvah Mei Chaya Genesis Campus for Jewish Life 95 Bellevue Road Nashville, TN 37221 Appointment line: (615) 601-1895
M
ikvah Mei Chaya is the first mikvah built in Nashville exclusively for the mitzvah of taharat ha-mispacha – family purity. Experience the beauty of this special mitzvah in the intimate luxury of a decorated mikvah, which is flawlessly maintained, fully equipped with all your spa needs and beautifully appointed to make your visit pleasurable. Nothing was spared in the building of this structure. All materials used – from the travertine stone imported from Turkey to the glass tiles for the mikvah itself, from elegant lighting fixtures to the most exquisite furnishings and paintings, from the limestone vanities and modern plumbing fixtures to the surround sound audio system – all were selected by a team of top interior designers to make it a five-star mikSPA experience. The mikvah was built with
the needs of the local Jewish community in mind. It offers women the opportunity for a deeply moving, spiritual experience – a spa for the body as well as the soul. In addition to the mikvah, the facility boasts a well-appointed reception room and two luxurious preparation rooms. Mikvah means “a gathering of water,” natural water. Unlike an ordinary tub or pool, the construction of a mikvah involves complex laws and specifications. The primary uses of a mikvah involve many elements of Jewish life, but the most significant use today is by brides and married women practicing the Jewish laws of family purity. The mikvah ritual lies at the heart of the beauty and spirituality of the marital relationship, endowing it with a charming dimension of sanctity and love. For thousands of years, it has been Judaism’s secret to harmonious marital living and Jewish survival. The mikvah is available by appointment only. Please call for an appointment 48 hours in advance. To make reservations call the private number (615) 601-1895 or send a text to (615) 480-4225. c
See what’s happening in the community. Go to www.jewishnashville.org 20 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
B’nai Mitzvah 2 0 1 4
West End Synagogue Jake Bengelsdorf Aden Barton Rachel Cohen Jonah Herman Casey Newell Rebecca Mullaney Ascher McDonald Ethan Fish
April 5 April 12 May 3 May 24 May 31 August 23 September 13 November 1
Congregation Micah Joseph Friedman Shoshana Kelner Jacob Solan Anabel Blackford Samara Kirith Ryan Rothholz Jolie Diskin Madeleine Aikin Jared Mittelberg Hailey Mittelberg Olivia Hershey Ava Locknar Benjamin Sutera Brady Myers Isabella Zimberg Simon Harshman-Earley Zoe Light Isabella Robinson Parker Hershkowitz Zachary Fine Zachary Kammer Hayden Teeter
February 1 February 8 February 15 March 1 March 8 March 22 April 5 April 26 May 3 May 3 May 10 May 31 June 7 June 14 June 21 August 16 August 23 August 30 September 6 September 13 November 22 December 6
Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad Moshe Sostrin Benjamin Militello Dillon Hodes Rivka Shuman
January 18 February 22 August 23 November 16
The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom Tess Herzog Ben Robbins Josh Levine Eric Yalowitz Elijah Beyer Rachel Becker Zach Garfinkel Jacob Green Graham Elliot Sylvie Babat Abby Liff Tristan Aaron DeFord Gaby Viner Rebecca Viner
January 25 March 1 March 29 April 5 May 3 May 24 May 31 August 2 September 13 September 20 October 11 November 1 November 15 November 15
Congregation Sherith Israel Shoshana Kelner Anabella Barocas Sam Halbert Ilanit Sedek Rivka Shuman
February 7 February 14 Spring, 2014 September 2014 November 15
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 21
Jewish Family Service President: Sandra Hecklin Executive Director: Pamela Kelner 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 103 Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-4234 Fax: (615) 301-0676 info@jfsnashville.org www.jfsnashville.org
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ewish Family Service supports our community—one child, one adult, one family at a time. Our agency has provided social services to the
Many seniors in assisted living facilities are unable to travel to religious services and programs, so JFS brings the programs to them, including regular Shabbat services at the Gordon Jewish Community Center as well as holiday celebrations on Chanukah and Passover.
Nashville Jewish community for over 160 years. JFS offers a comprehensive range of social services to people of all income levels, ages and backgrounds. Services include:
It's Time to Call
Franklin Pargh
• Adoption • Counseling • Case Management • Family Life Education • Emergency Financial Assistance • Chanukah Gifts for Children Program • Helping Hands Volunteer Program • Information and Referral • Kosher Food Box Program • Rosh Hodesh: It’s a Girl Thing! • School Supply Drive
• Senior Adult Services • Shevet Achim: The Brotherhood • Support Groups Fees are charged for some services. Counseling fees may be covered through private health insurance and Medicare. A sliding-scale fee is available for those who are without insurance or those who choose not to use it. JFS also serves as a professional resource offering consultations and other services to agencies and congregations throughout the community. Professional, affordable and fully confidential counseling services are provided by licensed clinical social workers. Our LCSWs can help you work through a variety of issues including, but not limited to: depression; anxiety; significant life transitions, such as divorce, job loss or illness; relationship conflicts with friends, spouse or partners; loss and grief; domestic violence; issues of aging; and child behavior problems. Helping Hands is a program designed to support senior citizens and people with disabilities in the Nashville
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22 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
In the Fall of 2013, Jewish Family Service launched “Shevet Achim: The Brotherhood,” a fun program that Jewish boys say is a safe place to talk about the challenges they face in adolescence as they grow toward manhood.
Jewish community. Volunteers match their interests and skills with the needs of seniors to create a mutually rewarding experience. Services include friendly visiting, telephone reassurance, transportation to medical appointments and the grocery store, Shabbat observance, holiday gift-basket deliveries, and Jewish programming in assisted-living facilities. In addition, Helping Hands matches musicians with people living with Alzheimer’s and/or other forms of dementia for one-on-one musical visits. The Kosher Food Box Program provides vital assistance to those who are experiencing financial hardship. The Chanukah Gifts for Children Program provides holiday presents for children who would otherwise go without. Jewish Family Service offers many Family Life Education programs throughout the year, often in partnership with the Gordon Jewish Community Center, Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle
Tennessee, congregations or other community organizations. Please support Jewish Family Service by volunteering your time, by making a financial contribution and by attending the annual JFS Chesed Dinner held each spring. c
ADOPTION JOURNEYS: A Program of Jewish Family Service Contact: Teri R. Sogol, LCSW, Casework Director, or Toni L. Jacobsen, Adoption Supervisor 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 103 Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-4234 Fax: (615) 301-0676 E-mail: info@jfsnashville.org www.jfsnashville.org
J
ewish Family Service is a Tennessee-licensed adoption agency. Our adoption program, Adoption Journeys, provides confidential, profes-
sional services to prospective adoptive parents, adoptees and birthparents without regard to race, religion, marital status or sexual orientation. Whether a prospective adoptive parent is seeking a child domestically or internationally, independently or through an agency, JFS can provide the required education, preparation, home studies and post-placement services. We maintain relationships with domestic and international placing agencies across the country. We are partners with two of the largest and most respected international placing agencies in the country, Children’s Home Society and Family Services in St. Paul, MN, and Holt International in Eugene, OR. However, we will work with any licensed international placing agency our clients choose. Our services are available not only during the adoption process but also
throughout the life of the adoptive family. JFS does not provide placement services for expectant parents but does offer counseling to enable them to examine the available options in order to make a decision that is in their and their child’s best interest. Such counseling may also be offered to support them through the placement process and to address issues of grief and loss post-placement. If the expectant parent decides to make an adoption plan, Jewish Family Service will provide referrals to a list of licensed adoption agencies and attorneys within the Middle Tennessee area. Jewish prospective adoptive families may be eligible for adoption loans through the Earl Kirshner Free Loan Program. Contact JFS for additional information about this program. c
Supporting our community one child, one adult, one family at a time
We’re Here for You since 1853
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Adoption - Domestic & International Case Management Counseling & Psychotherapy Emergency Financial Assistance Family Life Education Support Groups Helping Hands Volunteer Program Information and Referral Kosher Food Boxes Hanukkah Gifts for Children Jewish Job Network School Supplies
(615) 356-4234 www.jfsnashville.org 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 103 Nashville, TN 37205
A. Joel Gluck DDS, MS Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics
Green Hills 2002 Richard Jones Road, Suite A200 Nashville, TN 37215 Phone 615.269.5903 www.drgluck.com
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 23
Searching for
“The New
Israeli Cuisine” – in Nashville
By Charles Bernsen
T
he culinary world is all a twitter about something called “the new Israeli cuisine.” It’s been the subject of several recent stories in Tablet, the digital magazine about Jews and Jewish culture. The New York Times created a course for its online Knowledge Network called The New Israeli Cuisine. So what is the new Israeli cuisine? More important, can we get it in
Nashville? To find the answers to those questions, I attended a dinner hosted by Hadar Moskovitz, the Israeli schlicha (emissary) for the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. I visited the kitchen of Kevin Alexandroni, a native Israeli who has run a catering business in Nashville for 14 years. Here’s what I found: Although Nashville has any number of fine local restaurants serving Mediterranean or Jewish deli-style food, there are none that describe their cuisine as Israeli. Nor, said Alexandroni, are there any Israeli chefs working in Nashville restaurants. But there’s good news. It’s not that hard to “cook Israeli” in your own kitchen. The food is typically simple, casual and, like the other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines from which it borrows, healthy. Above all it is fresh, which is one reason it’s gaining attention in the culinary centers outside of Israel. “Everyone talks about farm-to-table,” Alexandroni said, referring to the movement towards fresh, locally grown ingredients that have been minimally processed. “Well,
Hadar Moskovitz, the Israeli shlicha (emissary) for the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, served a typical Israeli fare at a casual dinner for young adult women members of NowGen, a group for young Jewish professionals in their 20s and 30s. “What I like about Israeli food is that it is so fresh and colorful, with lots of spices,” she said.
24 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Watermelon with Bulgarian feta cheese is a popular Israeli snack, especially in the summer. Greek feta will do if you can’t find the denser, saltier Bulgarian cheese. You also can punch this simple dish up by adding sliced red onion and an herb like basil or mint.
The star of this Israeli meal was shakshuka, eggs poached in a spicy tomato and onion sauce garnished with fresh cilantro. The dinner also included tahini, roasted eggplant, pita chips and pita bread, pickles and lots of fresh salad.
Israel has been doing farm-to-table for six decades. In Israel, almost everything is farm-to-table.” You don’t make falafel from a box. You don’t use store-bought hummus and tahini. And that pre-chopped garlic you see in little jars in the supermarket? Don’t you dare. Of course there are many fine ethnic restaurants in Nashville that serve the kind of food popular in Israel. That’s because, like the United States, Israel is a nation of immigrants. As result, its cuisine is an amalgamation of culinary traditions from Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, the Mediterranean and, thanks to Americans who have made aliyah, even the United States. The meal would not have Alexandroni’s been complete without a culinary heritage is a good Israeli wine like this Gilgal merlot from the good example of this Golan Heights.
melting pot effect. His maternal grandmother, a native Russian who immigrated to the United States, prepared typical Ashkenazi dishes like borscht and kugel. When his mother made aliyah to Israel, she opened a small American-style hamburger restaurant in Jerusalem that was wildly popular, particularly with workers from the nearby U.S. consulate. On the other side, his father’s Sephardic family came to Israel from the Balkans, and one of Alexandroni’s most vivid food memories is of pots of hamin, the Sephardic version of a traditional Sabbath stew, simmering on kerosene burners in his paternal aunt’s one-room apartment over the shuk (Jerusalem’s famous open-air market). Moskovitz relates a similarly mixed culinary heritage. Her mother’s family were Sephardic Bulgarians and her father’s Ashkenazi Romanians, so as a child she ate a lot of traditional European fare like moussaka and mamaliga, a Romanian cornmeal porridge. But she grew to love couscous and other Tunisian and Moroccan fare she encountered at the homes of friends of North African Sephardic descent. Because of these many influences, Israeli cuisine is difficult to pigeonhole, although the predominant influences are certainly Mediterranean and Middle Eastern. “The main thing about Israeli
food is that it is so fresh and colorful with lots of spices,” Moskovitz said. Aside from its focus on vegetables, particularly eggplant, tomatoes, cucumber and onions, both Moskovitz and Alexandroni said the typical flavor profile of Israeli cuisine includes pungent Mediterranean spices like cumin and turmeric and leafy herbs like parsley and cilantro. It also relies heavily on lemon juice (fresh, of course), olive oil and garlic. Lots of garlic. When Moskovitz hosted an Israeli dinner for a dozen women members of NowGen Nashville, a group for young Jewish professionals, there was no doubt that it would include a chopped fresh vegetable salad so ubiquitous in her homeland that it is referred to simply as Israeli salad. The star of the meal was shakshuka, a traditional Tunisian concoction of eggs poached in a spicy tomato-and-onion sauce that has become one of Israel’s most popular breakfast dishes, although it is often served for dinner too. Of course, anyone who’s ever had pocket shawarma – a big pita stuffed with grilled meat, vegetables and even fried potatoes, all topped with tahini or hummus – knows that not all Israeli food is light and healthy. That’s why Alexandroni likes to adapt some of the heavier recipes by substituting lighter ingredients or serving smaller portions. For example, when he caters an event in Nashville, he often includes a hummus appetizer in a martini glass. It’s his lighter, fancier take on the fare of a typical Israeli “workers restaurant,” where patrons will get a stack of pita bread slices, a big bowl of hummus topped with beef or chicken and perhaps braised fava beans and cilantro with a side of pickles. c
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 25
RECIPES Shakshuka Shakshuka, a traditional North African dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato-and-onion sauce, is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in Israel, though it’s often served for dinner too. Ingredients • 3 tbsp olive oil • 1 white onion, peeled and diced • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced • 3-4 diced fresh tomatoes
• 3 tbsp tomato paste • 1 tsp chili mild powder • 1 tsp cumin • 1 tsp paprika • Pinch of cayenne pepper (or more to taste) • Pinch of sugar (optional, to taste) • Salt and pepper to taste • 6 eggs • ½ tbsp fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Heat a large deep skillet. Slowly warm olive oil in the pan. Add chopped onion, sauté for a few minutes until the onion begins to soften. Add garlic and continue to sauté till mixture is fragrant. Add tomatoes and tomato paste to pan, stir until blended. Add spices and sugar, stir well, and allow mixture to simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes till it starts to reduce. At this point, taste the mixture and spice it to your preferences. Add salt and pepper to taste, more sugar for a sweeter sauce, or more cayenne pepper for a spicier shakshuka. Crack the eggs, one at a time, directly over the tomato mixture, making sure to space them evenly on the sauce. Cover the pan. Allow mixture to simmer for 1015 minutes or until the eggs are cooked and the sauce has slightly reduced. Keep an eye on the skillet to make sure that the sauce doesn’t reduce too much, which can lead to burning. Garnish with the chopped parsley, if desired. In Israel we serve shakshuka with pita bread that can be dipped into the sauce. Recipe courtesy of Hadar Moskovitz
Israeli Salad Israeli salad, finely diced fresh vegetables with a light dressing of olive oil, lemon juice and salt, is considered a national dish in Israel. Ingredients • 3 tomatoes • 3 cucumbers • ½ white or red onion (optional) • Parsley • 2 tbsp. olive oil • 1 fresh lemon • Salt and pepper to taste Preparation The secret to a really good Israeli salad is to finely chop all the vegetables and herbs. Immediately before serving, 26 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Preparation In a meat grinder or food processor grind soaked and drained beans, parsley, cilantro, garlic and onion and spices. Mix well in bowl and add baking soda. Let set in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Make balls and deep fry until golden brown and cooked all the way through. Test often. Tip If mixture is too wet, add a little bit of all-purpose flour or garbonzo flour. If too dry, add a few tablespoons of water. Recipe courtesy of Kevin Alexandroni
Fig Jam
season them with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. You can add other vegetables like peppers and carrots. Recipe courtesy of Hadar Moskovitz
Tabbouleh
Falafel This vegetarian dish consisting of ground garbanzo beans and spices is a staple throughout the Middle East. The key is to use fresh beans that have been soaked overnight but not cooked ahead of time. Ingredients • 2 cups garbanzo beans soaked in water overnight • ½ head of garlic • 2 tsp baking soda • ½ cup chopped parsley • ½ cup chopped cilantro • 1 onion • 1 tsp salt • ½ tsp pepper
Made from one of the most iconic fruits in Israel, this jam is great with bagels, apple slices or a soft cheese like brie. Ingredients: • 2.2 pounds of figs • 2 ½ cups sugar • 1 cup water • 1 tsp cinnamon Preparation: Rinse figs well, then halve and place in a pot. Add sugar, water and cinnamon and cook for about 45 minutes over a low flame until the liquid reduces. Chill slightly and transfer to clean sterilized jars. Recipe courtesy of Flavors and Delights of Yeruham, 2009, The New Yeruham Foundation
Tabbouleh is another ubiquitous Middle Eastern dish that can be served as a side or used as a topping in a pocket falafel. Think of it as the Middle East’s cole slaw. Ingredients • 2 cups bulghur wheat (#2 grind) • 2 bunches of parsley • 1 bunch of fresh mint • 1 roma tomato, diced • 1 small red onion, diced • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • ½ cup fresh lemon juice • Salt and pepper to taste Preparation Soak bulghur wheat in water for 30 minutes. In the meanwhile, wash and pat dry herbs. Chop with a sharp knife. Drain bulghur and mix with herbs, onion and tomato. Season with salt and pepper. Recipe courtesy of Kevin Alexandroni
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 27
Jewish Education A President, Board of Directors: Uzi Yemin Treasurer: Avigal Soreq Secretary: Michael Rosen Head of School: Alina Gerlovin Spaulding Principal: Daniella Pressner Associate Director of Institutional Advancement: Marci Rosenblum 809 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-1880 Fax (615) 356-1850 www.akivanashville.net
kiva School is a highperforming, K-6 academic institution, a leader among Jewish day schools in the South. Our mission is to pursue excellence, foster critical inquiry and inspire informed Jewish living. Akiva graduates are consistently accepted into the most selective private middle and high schools, as well as public magnet schools, and are recognized as leaders in both character and academics, in their schools and in Nashville. The rigorous curricula in both general studies and Jewish Studies challenge students to analyze, investigate, question and take risks. Classes include mathematics, language arts, sci-
28 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
ence, social studies, Jewish Studies, Hebrew language, music, dance, art and physical education. Our students are praised for their ability to express themselves as well as listen and learn from their
peers. In 2012, over 30 percent of our 5th- and 6th-grade students scored above the 95th percentile on their annual standardized math test, compared with 4 percent of students in independent schools nationally. Many students graduate from Akiva fluent in Hebrew and able to analyze and understand high-level texts in Hebrew and English. An Akiva education moves beyond the classroom, allowing students not only to learn about their Jewish and American identities but also to live them. Students learn about Jewish history, culture, and current events in an environment that promotes love of learning, appreciation of our shared
experience and pride in one’s growing and changing identity. Akiva students participate in extracurricular activities such as after-school clubs and sports teams. Akiva also hosts Nashville’s annual Math Olympics, one of the city’s finest middle school math competitions. Our goal is that all families, regardless of affiliation, feel welcome at Akiva. We take pride in the diversity of our student body and respect each family’s decisions regarding religious observance. We maintain smaller class sizes to provide a nurturing atmosphere that meets individual students’ needs. Teachers create strategies to enhance each child’s learning experience and are committed to ongoing professional development. Akiva is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). For more information, please call Marci Rosenblum at 615432-2552 or email her at mrosenblum@akivanashville.net. c
Gordon Jewish Community Center Early Childhood Learning Center Early Childhood Education Interim Director: Renee Geltzer 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville TN, 37205 (615) 354-1640 Fax: (615) 353-2659 renee@nashvillejcc.org www.nashvillejcc.org
A
t the Gordon Jewish Community Center’s Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC), sounds of fun, laughter and learning echo through the halls. Starting with infants as young as 6 weeks and working up to children who are kindergarten-
eligible, the ECLC embraces families of all backgrounds and cultivates a connection to Jewish values and traditions. With practices rooted in research, our teachers work collaboratively to nurture the gifts of each child, encourage a questioning mind, spark creativity and foster independence. The ECLC holds a threestar rating from the Tennessee Department of Human Services—the highest possible. Here’s why: Location: The ECLC is located in the Gordon Jewish Community Center, a securitycontrolled environment with acres of fields for play space, gardening, and outdoor exploration. The building features beautiful engaging classrooms, two age-appropriate playgrounds, an indoor pool, and a full-size gymnasium for our children’s enjoyment. Education: At the ECLC we believe it’s never too early to start learning. Every day in every classroom we offer art, science, math, pre-reading, language, music and movement. Our pre-kindergarten and junior kindergarten classrooms use Handwriting without Tears and Everyday Math curricula to facilitate kindergarten readiness. In addition, visiting specialists in music, art, swimming, physical education, Jewish enrichment and Hebrew add to the experience of our students. Jewish enrichment: Jewish language and culture are central to our program and are worked into every classroom. Every Friday our preschoolers welcome Shabbat with song and dance during Rockin’ Shabbat celebrations. Each Jewish holiday is also marked with special activities, projects and celebrations. Extracurricular activities: The ECLC also offers several supplemental after-school programs, including Rising Stars Sports Enrichment and private swim lessons. Service and convenience: The ECLC offers year-round scheduling to meet family
needs. Staff members are always available to answer questions and to give and receive feedback. To find out more about the GJCC Early Childhood Learning Center and to schedule a guided tour, contact the interim director, Renee Geltzer, at 354-1640 or renee@nashvillejcc.org. c
Micah Children’s Academy 2001 Old Hickory Blvd. Brentwood, Tennessee 37027 (615) 942-5162 Lynn Heady, Director lheady@micahchildrens academy.org Theresa LePore, Assistant Director tlepore@micahchildrens academy.org www.micahchildrensacademy.org
T
apping into the natural curiosity of preschoolers, the Micah Children’s Academy is a place where students enjoy playing and learning in a secure and nurturing environment. This Tennessee three-star rated preschool opened in 2010 at Congregation Micah and provides a warm, nurturing place where students develop and grow emotionally, intellectually, socially, and spiritually. We offer a custom curriculum centered on monthly schoolwide themes based on Jewish values. These themes are then translated into age-appropriate activities and experiences. For example, the schoolwide unit Hakarat Htov is scheduled during November so students concentrate their learning on thankfulness for our families and community. Students sing, learn prayers, and read books to supplement their activities. Students (depending on age) receive a music lesson Continued on page 30
The Temple Preschool Serving children 6 weeks - Pre-K Corye Nelson . . . . Director Our mission is to nurture your child’s whole development in our stimulating, play-based environment. The emergent curriculum provides hands-on experiences with math concepts, science, language, reading, music, cooking, and art. Our Jewish enrichment allows developmentally appropriate experiences with rituals, symbols, prayers & everyday celebrations of our Jewish heritage. We offer multi-cultural & interactive music experiences, on-site “ eld trips” & multi lingual staff. 3 Star DHS Rating, Small Class Sizes, Low Child to Teacher Ratio, Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum, Jewish Curriculum/Shabbat & Holiday Celebrations with Rabbi, Full & Part-time Programs, Teachers trained in Child Development, CPR & First Aid
5015 Harding Road • 356-8009
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 29
Continued from page 29
taught weekly by our cantorial soloist, a nature class, a fitness program, a Spanish immersion class each week, drama class, and a celebration service every Friday to welcome Shabbat led by our rabbis and our cantorial soloist. Students spend outside time enjoying our natural playscape—an environment that helps develop large motor skills, fosters creativity, and provides a classroom for the weekly nature class. A large stage encourages acting and dance with items from our “dress-up center.” Miniature huts inspire pretend activities, a Plexiglas art wall allows budding artists to create pictures of their world, and a drum and xylophone inspire musical talents. Our planting garden is a spot where students can experi-
ence how food is grown, tended, harvested, and eaten. Lynn Heady, director of the Academy, has a rich background in curriculum and instruction via the Pittsburgh School District and the Williamson County School System. She is committed to developing a team of teachers, activities, and experiences that are high quality and guaranteed to provide students the concepts needed for success. In addition, a strong parent board open to all families is valued and plays an important role in defining quality preschool education. Our hope is that Jewish families will find the right blend of learning and spiritual growth at the Micah Children’s Academy. We welcome new families with open arms. For the most up-to-date
information, please call the office at (615) 942-5162 or check our website at www.MicahChildrensAcademy .org. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter. c
The Temple Preschool Director: Corye Nelson Phone: (615) 356-8009 Fax: (615) 352-9365 E-mail: corye@templenashville.org 5015 Harding Rd. Nashville, TN 37205-8009
T
he Temple Preschool is a Tennessee three-star rated preschool for
infants through pre-kindergarten children. We offer parttime and full-time enrollment, Monday through Friday. Our curriculum is based on hands-on, interactive, developmentally appropriate philosophies. Our mission is to enable, empower, and encourage each child to develop physically, socially, cognitively, and spiritually to his or her fullest potential. The Jewish curriculum includes a weekly Shabbat service with a Temple rabbi and cantor, special holiday events, regular Judaic enrichment classes and familiarity with Hebrew. Related art, cooking, and an introduction to Jewish ethics and values offer opportunities for family participation in our school celebrations. Our goal is to instill a love of learning in each child who
West End Synagogue Religious School
WHERE HEBREW IS A LIVING LANGUAGE
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Contact Sharon Paz, Director of Lifelong Learning (615) 269-4592, ext. 17 www.westendsyn.org West End Synagogue
30 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
See what’s happening in the community. Go to www.jewishnashville.org
SURROUND
your daughter with excellence everyday . . . individualized learning, exceptional faculty, innovative curriculum, supportive and safe environment
The goal of The Temple pre-school is to help children develop to their full potential – and have fun at the same time.
attends The Temple Preschool. In addition to ongoing emergent projects, teachers provoke children’s interest through the presentation of natural and open-ended materials, as well as through books, songs and other experiences. Children may explore and express their creativity through paint, drawing, clay and other media. Through hands-on experiences children build their own knowledge and develop their own theories, giving them ownership and pride in their learning. Each classroom is unique, with curriculum threads and projects pursued each year based on the interests of the children in that group. As interests are followed, teachers carefully integrate and weave in developmental goals, exploring concepts of literacy, science, math, art, and movement through their investigations
with the children. Director Corye Nelson has a B.S. in early childhood administration from Belmont University and many years of experience in early childhood administration. Through a hands-on approach, she works to promote a child-centered and child-directed philosophy in a center that is rich in playbased learning. We are fortunate to have an advisory committee that helps set policies for the preschool and gives advice in all aspects. Our parent committee is an integral part of our program and supports the school by fundraising and planning fun family events. We would like to extend a warm welcome to the Jewish community. We encourage you to come for a tour of our program. We love sharing our enthusiasm for learning. c
COME TO
HARPETH HALL Go Beyond Your Expectations! THE HARPETH HALL SCHOOL s 3801 HOBBS ROAD s NASHVILLE, TN s 615-297-9543 www.harpethhall.org Limited bus service available s Financial aid available
Pet Paintings Carrie Mills 615-210-5044 csmills4@hotmail.com www.carriemillsdesign.com
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 31
Youth Groups BBYO BBYO Connect Sheri Rosenberg Program Associate, Nashville BBYO (615) 354-1659 sherirosenberg@bbyo.org 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205
A
re you a Jewish teen in 9th through 12th grade? Then BBYO is looking for you! (And if you’re not quite in high school, check out BBYO Connect.) BBYO is the nation’s leading pluralistic Jewish teen movement. BBYO reaches tens of thousands of Jewish teens from all over the world, from all types of Jewish backgrounds. Involvement in BBYO is open to any Jewish teen, regardless of current or previous communal and congregational affiliations. BBYO is a teen-led organization in which the teens themselves plan their own pro-
Music City BBG of Nashville won a trophy for Chapter of the Year along with several programming awards in 2013 at the BBYO Cotton States Regional Convention, which was held in Nashville.
grams under the supervision of volunteer adult advisers and BBYO professional staff. For more than 85 years, BBYO has offered unique and exciting opportunities for Jewish teens to connect with one another, building friendships and learning leadership skills that can last a lifetime. The majority of programming occurs on the local and regional levels, but many exciting opportunities for travel exist nationally and internationally. BBYO also has a range of sum-
mer experiences for teens, from leadership development to Jewish learning to Israel travel, entrepreneurship, community service, and more. Most last about two weeks and needbased scholarships are available.
New member intake is in early fall for incoming 9th graders. However, any Jewish 10th-12th grader who has not attended previously is welcome. Jewish teens can also join BBYO at any time during the year. There’s also something for younger teens and tweens. BBYO Connect is for Jewish youth in grades 6 through 8. We offer fun social opportunities for Jewish middle-school students in Nashville to get to know each other. Please let contact Sheri Rosenberg if you have any questions. Nashville BBYO is partially funded by the Gordon Jewish Community Center and the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. c
Athens of the South AZA of Nashville received awards for programming and Best Brotherhood Chapter. Here they perform a dance routine with sweetheart Jamie Kirshner on Spirit Night.
32 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Get Connected! President: Rachel Koch GetConnectedIsraelTeenTour @gmail.com RachelCKoch@gmail.com Telephone: (615) 513-8533 P.O. Box 50418 Nashville, TN 37205
G
et Connected to other Jewish teenagers from Nashville and HaderaEiron, our sister re-gion in Israel. And in the process, get connected to your Jewish soul. Open to Jewish teenagers, Get Connected welcomes Jews from all denominations, backgrounds, and levels of observance. The program has three main components. The first provides students with the introducto-ry tools to understand the experience they will have in Israel. These educational sessions, kallot, help the students to understand the geography, history, culture and language of Israel. The teens connect socially among themselves and are thus better prepared for their journey. The second most transformative and fun part of Get Connected is the two-week trip to Is-rael during the summer. Teens connect not only with the land of Israel but also with Israelis through the hospitality of home stays. The third part of the program is hosting some of the
Get Connected is a program that creates connections between teenagers in the Nashville area and our sister Israeli region, Hadera-Eiron, through education and travel.
same Israeli teens on their trip here in Nashville. These visits reinforce the important connections made in Israel and create relation-ships and connections that last a lifetime. Some comments from Get Connected alumni: “I had never felt closer to Judaism and Israel than I did at our first Shabbat in Jerusalem and it helped me see the similarities and differences between American and Israeli Jews.” Leah C., The Temple “I had the best two weeks of my life. We all began to view the program name a little differently. Getting Connected was exactly what we did in so many ways.” Emma D., Congregation Micah “One of the best parts of the trip was the home stay.” Alex R., West End Synagogue Get Connected activities are subsidized through the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, the Zimmerman Fund, fundraisers and private donations. c Continued on page 34
The Observer is online! You can find the latest issue, past issues, plus streaming news updates and links to Jewish organizations at
www.jewishobservernashville.org Now you have a choice: Read the print edition or read us online.
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 33
Continued from page 33
MiTY Middle MiTY Congregation Micah Office: (615) 377-9799 MiTY Director: micahtemp leyouth@gmail.com
M
iTY (Micah Temple Youth) is for teenagers in grades 9-12. MiTY members enjoy a variety of
social and spiritual activities each year, including attending and hosting national and regional NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth) kallot. Locally, the youth develop social action projects, host lock-ins, and hold fundraisers to support their travel and tzedakah efforts. Students contribute to Jewish Family Services by leading an annual Shabbat worship service for seniors in assisted-
living facilities. During the High Holy Days, MiTY members participate in our youth services, revealing their insights and visions as engaged young Jews. Just as importantly, they also help run programs for our youngest members, Micah MINIS, as well as host the Religious School’s annual Purim Carnival. Middle MiTY is Micah’s Junior Youth Group for 6th-8th graders. Its programs include
Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Weddings Private Parties We meet all your planning needs: Linens, Decorations, Flowers, Custom Cakes & More
similarly fun activities centering on worship, social action, and team-building. Students make and sell their famous “Mensch Munch” to support their activities as well as to fund their annual contributions to Tzedakah Tzunday and the Get Connected program – true philanthropists in the making. Call the Micah office or contact the MiTY director for details and come see what all the fun’s about! c
Creative
Custom
615-383-0777 catering@sovafood.com SOVA Catering features Chef Kevin Alexandroni Trained At The Culinary Institute of America
34 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Kosher
MTUSY is West End Synagogue’s chapter in the Conservative Judaism’s international organization for high-school teenagers.
MTUSY/Kadima Middle Tennessee United Synagogue Youth
which includes Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida and
Mississippi. Ha-Negev is divided into 3 sub-regions; MTUSY falls under the Ein Gedi subregion. MTUSY participates in local, sub-regional, regional and national events including conventions, leadership training at Camp Ramah Darom and Shabbatons with sister chapters. MTUSY plans a wide variety of local events. These have included Friday night dinners, Shabbat service for USY, social action projects such as Room in the Inn and High Holiday food collection, rock climbing, swimming, baking hamantashen, leading services,
laser tag, Ein-Gedi sub-regional conventions, Ha-Negev Conventions, Yom Disney in Orlando, FL and more. MTUSY is open to all Jewish youth in the grades 912. United Synagogue also has Kadima, a youth group for kids in grades 6-8 with lots of social, cultural and religious events. There are also regional conventions and events for this age group. If you are interested in learning more about USY or Kadima, please visit www.hanegevusy.org. You may also contact West End Synagogue at 269-4592. c
Co-Presidents: Hannah E. Stein and Micah Stotsky Youth Commission Chair: Helen Crowley West End Synagogue 3810 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 269-4592 Fax: 269-4695 www.westendsyn.org
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he United Synagogue Youth (USY) is the official youth organization of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ). USY is an international organization with thousands of high school-age members. It provides a comfortable social and educational environment for Jewish teens in Nashville, the Southeast region, the United States and throughout the world. USY strives to build meaningful relationships between its members. MTUSY is West End Synagogue’s chapter of USY and falls under the Ha-Negev region, To access the Community Calendar, go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Every community event is listed for your convenience. The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 35
Young Adult Organizations Chabad Jewish Student Center at Vanderbilt University Rabbi Shlomo & Nechama Rothstein, Co-Directors 111 23rd Avenue North Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 686-3905 www.chabadatvanderbilt.org
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reat things are happening at Chabad at Vanderbilt. We recently purchased a new home at 111 23rd Ave. North just across
West End Avenue from Vanderbilt, an ideal location for our student center. The center is already in use, and we’re planning a full renovation that will make it even better. Activities have grown since the purchase of the house, including an overflow crowd of 200 students for our 2013 Rosh Hashanah event. Attendance at our weekly Shabbat dinners has grown as well as the Shabbat morning “davening” circle. Always available and accessible, Chabad at Vanderbilt opens its doors and hearts to every student. We are dedicated to engaging every
Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance. We provide a place where students can grow as individuals and the resources to help increase their level of Jewish knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment. Chabad’s warm atmosphere makes it every ’Dore’s Jewish “home away from home” on campus. The Vanderbilt Chabad center is one of 130 full-service Chabad Jewish Student Centers on campuses worldwide, with community Chabad organizations providing hundreds of other campuses with Jewish resources.
Under the auspices of Chabad-on-Campus International and Chabad CJA of Nashville, Rabbi Shlomo and Nechama Rothstein opened Chabad Jewish Student Center in December 2007. Since then, hundreds of students have benefited from Chabad’s programs, classes, and the genuine warmth of the Rothsteins. Rabbi Shlomo is a chaplain with Vanderbilt’s Office of Religious Life and offers counseling and guidance. For many students, just having a personal rabbi or rebbetzin in their life is very significant. College students are
ENRICHING JEWISH LIVES AND IDENTITY
801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nahville, TN 37205 615.356.7170 www.nashvillejcc.org 36 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
exposed to new ideas and experiences; Chabad seeks to provide resources to ensure that students graduate as stronger and more empowered Jews than when they entered. There are social events, joyous holiday celebrations, women’s groups and lively Shabbat meals with something for everyone to enjoy and take part in. We encourage students to take ownership of their experience and empower them as Jewish leaders on campus. Through unique classes and discussions taught by the rabbi and rebbetzin, hands-on programming and Jewish awareness tables, there are a variety of opportunities to develop a deeper appreciation of Judaism’s rich heritage. Chabad offers retreats such as Mayanot TaglitBirthright Israel, Israelinks and the National Jewish Student Shabbaton in New York. For more information, please contact Chabad Jewish Student Center at Vanderbilt (615) 686-3905. c
Vanderbilt Hillel and the Ben Schulman Center for Jewish Life Vanderbilt Hillel Executive Board President: Cynthia Morin Executive Director: Ari Dubin 2421 Vanderbilt Place Nashville, TN 37235 Main Line: (615) 322-8376 Fax: (615) 322-7286 ari.dubin@vanderbilt.edu www.vanderbilt.edu/hillel/
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anderbilt Hillel is the center for Jewish life on campus. Our students, staff, and the entire community are dedicated to providing a strong, supportive environment for Jewish students and maintaining a strong Jewish presence at Vanderbilt. Hillel actively seeks to
engage uninvolved Jewish students on their own terms: to provide them with opportunities to do Jewish activities that are meaningful and appealing to them. Students are empowered to take responsibility for their Jewish identity, whether they wish to participate in a community service project, express themselves artistically, participate in a social event, engage in informal Jewish learning or attend religious services. Any Jewish student
may participate in Hillel. The Vanderbilt Jewish community contains a diverse spectrum of Jews, and we strive to provide a home away from home for every student. With the construction of the 10,000square-foot Ben Schulman Center for Jewish Life, the establishment of a Jewish Studies program, the creation of a kosher vegetarian cafe, and the hiring of program staff, we have seen a dramatic increase Continued on page 38
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in the number of Jews attending this school. Since 2008, Vanderbilt’s Jewish student population has topped 1,000 students, approximately 15 percent of the undergraduate population. This is a far cry from the 3 percent just a few years before. In addition to a wide range of social and cultural programs, Hillel offers students a variety of religious activities, including: Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox services on Shabbat; kosher Shabbat dinner; High Holiday services and meals; and Passover seders. Many of our programs are free and open to the community. For further information, please contact Vanderbilt Hillel. c
The better we know you, the better we’re able to serve you. You’ll develop long-term relationships with real people – not voice mailboxes – who understand the context of your tax and financial concerns and help guide you to success.
615.322.1225 • www.cpacg.com
Cathy Werthan, President, CPA/PFS
109 Kenner Avenue • Suite 100 • Nashville, TN 37205 • Email: info@cpacg.com
NowGen Nashville Contact Joel Abramson joel@jewishnashville.org (615) 354-1650 (office) (615) 352-0056 (Fax) 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Suite 102 Nashville, TN 37205 On the Web: Nowgennashville.org Twitter: nowgennashville Facebook: NowGen Nashville
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owGen Nashville is the Jewish group for young professionals in their 20s and 30s. The Nashville Jewish Federation, in partnership with the area’s Jewish community and organizations, has helped established NowGen Nashville so these young professionals can enhance their engagement in the community. With a wide variety of social, networking, philanthropic, community service, and professional development events, we are dedicated to helping make Nashville a meaningful place for you. 38 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Events include the Purim Masquerade, Mitzvah Madness, New 2 Nashville, Kevah Learning Circles, Potluck Shabbats, and Leadership Development Seminars. We are dedicated to supporting the Jewish community both here in Nashville in Israel, and around the world. It is our turn, it is our time. Join us we look to lead the way. c
Jmingle 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102 Nashville, TN 37205 Contact: Joel Abramson joel@jewishnashville.org Telephone: (615) 354-1650 Fax: (615) 352-0056 Facebook Group: Jmingle
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mingle is a partnership between The Temple, Vanderbilt Hillel Graduate Student Organizations, and the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee to welcome and foster community for Jews ages 22-35. We seek to create a strong, active vibrant community of Jewish young adults through a diverse array of social, athletic, religious, philanthropic, educational and professional activities. Join us for our monthly roaming happy hour as we tour the Nashville scene and connect with our friends. Trivia nights are always successful, and we’re not shy about our victories. From comedy clubs, to Nashville’s music underground, Jmingle is on the cusp of the best places to hang out with your friends. We also offer the best holiday parties, including Rosh Bash, our annual Rosh Hashanah party. We’d love to have you join our amazing community. c
Cultural, Community Service and Social Organizations B’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge #46 Treasurer: Michael Gryll (615) 352-7070 nashgryll@comcast.net
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’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge #46 is the oldest chartered Jewish organization in Nashville. Founded
in the fall of 1863 during the Civil War, the Lodge celebrated its 150th anniversary in October of 2013. Gary Saltzman, chairman of the Executive Committee of B’nai B’rith International, spoke at a Shabbat service at Congregation Micah. The lodge hosted and sponsored the Oneg Shabbat that evening. Now, for over 150 years, the lodge continues with an out-
standing record of brotherhood and benevolence. The lodge has committed to assisting the visually impaired children of Nashville and the surrounding area since 1971 by establishing and running for 38 years the Mary and Harry Zimmerman Camp for Visually Impaired Children. It is committed to continuing support to visually impaired children by sponsoring the Braille
Challenge at the Tennessee School for the Blind and partnering with the school’s summer camp program. The lodge also is working with Jewish Family Service by helping to meet the many needs of our local visually impaired with products that will enhance their lives. The lodge also has established a scholarship in its name, and in 2013 for the second year awarded a Continued on page 40
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 39
Continued from page 39
scholarship to help a visually impaired student from the Nashville community pay for continuing educational needs. As part of community outreach, the lodge also sponsors brunches throughout the year that feature interesting speakers. And in 2013, the lodge held its 42nd annual Cohens and Kelleys Night, an interfaith dinner co-sponsored with the Knights of Columbus. Last year’s dinner was at Congregation Ohabai Sholom (The Temple). Maimonides Lodge #46 is very proud of the programs and projects that have stood the test of time. It continues to research and apply methods to recruit and retain membership to meet today’s busy lifestyles. Join the oldest chartered Jewish organization in Nashville, founded in the philosophy of benevolence, brotherly love, and harmony. c
B'nai B'rith Social Unit President: Larry Goldberg (615) 661-5148 lgetal@msn.com
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ur chapter was founded in 1994 as a social group for active adults who are or are about to become empty nesters. We have served as a model for other newer chapters that strive to promote friendship, social awareness and camaraderie while conforming to the values of Judaism and B’nai B’rith. Our membership is highly involved in a wide range of activities, such as delivering Meals on Wheels, unique Jewish education programs, theater nights and monthly social events which have included our annual summer picnic, dinner get-togethers, game days, musical events, din-
ner in the Sukkah and our December 24 theme party. We look forward to welcoming new members to our chapter whether they are newcomers to Nashville or longer-term residents of our community. For further information, please call Joyce Fox, membership vice-president at (615) 661-9499 or Larry Goldberg, president, at (615) 585-5148. c
Genesis Campus for Jewish Life Chabad of Nashville Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel, Executive Director Tommy Bernard, President 95 Bellevue Road, Nashville, TN 37221 (615) 646-5750 rabbi@chabadnashville.com www.chabadnashville.com
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ooking for a connection, for meaning in the everyday, for joy in our tradition? Chabad of Nashville has what you’re seeking. We welcome you regardless of affiliation, perspectives on Judaism or levels of observance, whether you’re just starting your journey for spirituality, or seeking to renew your commit-
ment to Judaism in a judgmentfree environment. Chabad of Nashville is delighted at the completion of the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life in Bellevue, built on nine wooded acres. The facility boasts a Jerusalem-like entrance, the hip new Kosher Thyme Café, state-of-the-art mikvah, sanctuary with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, oak library for Torah study, magnificent ballroom with outdoor patio for lifecycle and communal events, two Shabbat guest suites, child-friendly classrooms for summer camp and Hebrew school, two full commercial kosher kitchens and meditation courtyard. It’s a true Lighthouse of Judaism. Chabad offers services for people of all ages. Our philosophy is based on the work and wisdom of the Rebbe, who taught us to teach and care for every single person, for every individual is important and can have a positive effect on this world. Chabad publishes Nashville’s Jewish art calendar. Holiday programs include the Shofar Factory, Family SukkahFest and Purim celebrations. We ignite Jewish pride with the lighting of public Chanukah menorahs at the State Capitol and around Nashville, and host community Passover seders. With the GJCC, we co-sponsor the Kosherfest Food Show with a
Community Passover seder at Chabad of Nashville in the ballroom of the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life.
40 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
model matzah bakery. Educational programs include the Jewish Learning Institute, Lunch N’ Learn sessions for businesspeople, Atara Women’s Group, and Torah To Go, tailored to level of study and interest in Judaism. Chabad is in the early stages of planning a Jewish pre-school for the arts. There’s also Shabbat-ToGo, Glatt Kosher take-out Shabbat meals by order, and Shabbat Bed and Breakfast getaway suites (the ChallahDay Inn) that include lodging and delicious Shabbat meals. Call our office about these new services. We publish the Jewish Holiday Times and the weekly e-magazine eTorah. We assist Jewish prison inmates and families in the military services. Call, e-mail, join a program and become a link to the future. We look forward to seeing you soon at Chabad of Nashville, where our motto is “Judaism Done Joyfully.” c
Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America Nashville Chapter President: Leslie J. Klein (615) 649-8284 nashvillehadassah@yahoo.com; lesliejklein@gmail.com www.nashville.hadassah.org
Nashville Chapter Of Hadassah Associates Chair: Mike Gryll (615) 352-7070 nashgryll@comcast.net
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n February 14, 1912, seven women including Henrietta Szold
organized the first meeting of what was then called The Daughters of Zion. This became Hadassah, which now includes 300,000 members and is the largest Jewish and volunteer organization in the United States. Hadassah International has groups on five continents, enhances the image of Israel through the work of the Hadassah Medical Organizatin (HMO) and serves as a bridge to the nations through medicine. The hub of Hadassah is in Israel, where the HMO is a world leader in research and health care. The Hadassah College Jerusalem provides educational opportunities for many young Israelis who would normally not have a college education. Hadassah’s Kibbutz Ketura is part of the Green Kibbutz movement and does environmental research. The Hadassah-Neurim Youth Village provides educational opportunities for gifted students from underprivileged homes. In the U.S., Hadassah
assists Young Judaea with its camping and youth educational opportunities, including the well-attended Year Course in Israel. This dynamic organization holds regional and national conferences to highlight the scientific and humanitarian achievements of Hadassah worldwide, to provide leadership training for its members and to recognize the achievements of Jewish women in public life. On the local level, Hadassah provides educational programs to our members and our community and also sponsores get-togethers for fun, sharing and recognition of one another’s talents. We also provide opportunities for our members to further their careers and accomplishments through networking and advancement in the Hadassah regional and national structure. Our auxiliary, Hadassah Associates, began in 1996 to involve men and identify new Continued on page 42
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Continued from page 41
sources of funds to support Hadassah’s initiatives. Our associates are a vital part of Nashville Hadassah. With more than 800 members and 150 associates, our Nashville chapter offers many programming and volunteer opportunities, including: • Action Alert: Women Make the Difference, the Southern regional conference in April • Annual Sukkah Party • Hadassah Annual Donor Event • Monthly Torah Study Group • Holiday Benefit Gift Wrap • Simply Social Gatherings • Hadassah Shabbat Celebration and Dinner • Healthy, Wealthy, Beautiful and Wise Series • Men’s Poker Tournament • Men's Health Initiatives Call or e-mail if you’d like to attend any of our events. Let us know if you are new to our community so we can offer you a ride and an introduction to our friendly, fun group. c
National Council of Jewish Women, Nashville Chapter Acting President: La Quita Martin Treasurer: Mary Jones Recording Secretary: Freya Sachs Corresponding Secretary: Jamie Brook 801 Percy Warner Blvd. (615) 352-7057 info@nashvillencjw.org nashvillencjw.org
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he National Council of Jewish Women is a volunteer organization, inspired by Jewish values, that works through a program of research, education, advocacy and community service, to improve the quality of life for women, children and families and strives to ensure individual
rights and freedoms for all. Nationally, inspired by Jewish values, NCJW courageously takes a progressive stance on issues such as child welfare, women’s rights, and reproductive freedom. The Nashville Chapter is pleased to join in the education and advocacy efforts in support of NCJW’s Plan A – Campaign for Contraceptive Access, which educates and empowers individuals to advocate for women’s universal access to contraceptive information and health services. Please contact one of the local co-presidents if you’re interested in working with us to help secure and protect access to contraceptive information and health services for all. Locally, NCJW’s 600-plus members continue their involvement in service to the community. Members can volunteer in a number of ways, and some of the programs NCJW currently supports are: Buz-A-Bus: Transportation for our community’s seniors CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children Jewish Family Service Kosher Food Box: Food for families in the Jewish community
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Mary Parrish Center: Residence for women victims of domestic violence P.G. 13 Players: A program that combines peer education and theater to help young people deal with teen issues Reach for Survivorship: A program for children and adults with cancer at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Renewal House: Nashville’s first, largest, and most comprehensive long-term recovery community for women with substance-use addictions and their children Scholarship Loan: Nointerest loans for undergraduate and graduate students Senior Friends: Delivery of traditional Rosh Hashanah food items to seniors Snack Box Program: For children attending the Sexual Abuse Clinic Vanderbilt Hillel Shabbat dinner If you are interested in becoming a member of NCJW, please contact one of our officers. c
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Nashville Jewish Film Festival Managing Director: Fran Brumlik Co-directors: Laurie Eskind, Jackie Karr, Cindy Moskovitz and Loretta Saff 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, Tennessee 37205 (615) 356-7170 nashvillejewishfilmfest@ gmail.com nashvillejff.net
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he Nashville Jewish Film Festival is a program of the Gordon Jewish Community Center. In 2014 the NJFF will celebrate its 14th year of making available to the community entertaining, informative and thought-provoking Jewish-themed films from the United States, Israel and the world. The festivals screenings take place during November in theatres and venues such as the historic Belcourt Theatre in Nashville and Franklin Theatre on Main Street in Franklin. A schedule of screenings will be available as details are confirmed. The NJFF aims to create a forum for the wider Middle Tennessee community to understand the complexity of issues surrounding Jewish life in contemporary society and those factors that have created that society. The films chosen each year are meant to demonstrate the breadth and depth of the Jewish cultural, religious, historical, and social conditions of the modern era. Along with special guests, panels, and opening and closing night celebrations, the NJFF is an annual event dedicated to the awareness and celebration of Jewish life. Each year NJFF presents the Annual Kathryn H. Gutow Student Film Competition. Originating in 2005 and named in memory of the co-founder of the festival, the competition
features thematically Jewish films made by students from campuses around the world. Student filmmakers are eligible for a $1,000 cash prize made possible by the Kathryn H. Gutow Fund for Jewish Arts and Culture and Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Student film competition finalists are screened during NJFF. The winning film is then screened the following year during the annual Nashville Film Festival. c
Israel, community outreach, parties, and performances. In Nashville, Israeli dancing means great music and exercise among the friendliest people in town! Weekly dance sessions take place on Thursday nights at the Ben Schulman Center for Jewish Life at Vanderbilt University. The first hour, 7:30-8:30 p.m., is devoted to beginning dance, and from 8:30-10 p.m. we have intermediate/advanced dance instruc-
tion and request dancing. Please contact us if you would like to be on our mailing list to receive notices of upcoming events (including special beginners courses and dance workshops) or if you have any questions about our group. There are special dance workshops featuring dance instructors from Israel. Check our web site or Facebook page for upcoming workshops. c Continued on page 44
The Nashville Israeli Folk Dancers Contacts: Sharon Morrow (615) 662-4881 (615) 312-9019 days smorrow@wswcpasnashville .com Tammy Lasakow (615) 322-3004 (615) 269-5387 tammy.lasakow@vanderbilt.edu www.vanderbilt.edu/israelidance Facebook: Nashville Israeli Folk Dancing
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he Nashville Israeli Folk Dance Group was started in 1993 by a small group of amateur folk dance enthusiasts. It is modeled after groups found in every major city in the world where people of all ages and cultures get together regularly to participate in Israeli folk dancing. Since Israel’s population is the result of an ingathering of many different nationalities, its folk dance repertoire is truly international. Dance styles include: Spanish, Hassidic, Moroccan, Yemenite, Greek, and even disco and rock. The Nashville group has flourished with weekly dance sessions, courses for beginners, workshops with renowned instructors from The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 43
Tennessee Holocaust Commission Chair: Allen Exelbierd Executive Director: Danielle Kahane-Kaminsky 2417 West End Ave. Nashville, TN 37240 (615) 343-2563 danielle.kahanekaminsky@vanderbilt.edu
www.tennesseeholocaustcom mission.org “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” – George Santayana
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ne of the oldest and most recognized commissions of its kind in the United States, the Tennessee Holocaust Commission was formed in 1984 to commemorate the Holocaust and educate the public about it. We provide seminars, educational resources, workshops, traveling
44 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
exhibits and commemorations to school systems and communities statewide. The commission creates awareness of the Holocaust to fight prejudice and to encourage tolerance and understanding among all people. Our programs include: • Educator programs • Teacher workshops and fellowships • Customized classroom resources • Loaned literature
• Educational outreach • Trips to U.S. Holocaust Museum • Trips to primary Holocaust sites in Europe • Belz-Lipman Holocaust Educator of the Year Award • Adult workshops • Speakers bureau • Annual Days of Remembrance commemorations • “Living On” multimedia exhibition featuring Tennessee survivors and liberators • Traveling exhibits c
Political Organizations AIPAC – The American Israel Public Affairs Committee Southeast Regional Office Atlanta, GA (678) 254-2620 www.aipac.org AIPAC regional staff contacts: Elliott Mendes, Southeast Regional Director, emendes@aipac.org Kate Samuels, Southern States Area Director, ksamuels@aipac.org Jeff Stein, Southern States Leadership Management Director, jstein@aipac.org Local contacts: Jeff Jacobs, jjacobs@stradishealthcare.com Jeremy Werthan, jeremy@werthangranite.com Sharon Bell, sharonb@foursquared.com Fred Zimmerman, fredz@foursquared.com
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IPAC, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, is the only American organization whose sole mission is to lobby the U.S. government about legislation that strengthens the relationship between the United States and Israel. AIPAC is not a political action committee and does not rate or endorse candidates. AIPAC is a proIsrael, bipartisan lobbying organization. More than 100,000 citizens from across the country work with AIPAC staff to strengthen the bonds between the United States and Israel. AIPAC members in all 50 states are encouraged to be politically active and develop relationships with their mem-
bers of Congress to help educate them about the importance of U.S.-Israel ties. While building support in Washington is essential, AIPAC is found wherever the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship could be affected. AIPAC has a network of 10 regional offices and seven satellite offices that help pro-Israel activists from Missoula to Miami learn how they can affect Israel’s future and security by promoting strong ties with the United States. Pro-Israel advocacy and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship is a cause that concerns a broad spectrum of Americans. AIPAC professionals work with synagogues and churches to promote pro-Israel advocacy in their congregations. African American and Hispanic leaders work with AIPAC staff and their members of Congress to ensure that America supports our ally in the Middle East. AIPAC also works on hundreds of college and high school campuses, empowering and educating student activists to answer Israel’s detractors and on how to use political involvement to build support for Israel. AIPAC empowers pro-Israel activists across all ages, religions and races to be politically engaged and build relationships with members of Congress from both sides of the aisle to promote the U.S.-Israel relationship. c
J Street Nashville Co-chairs: Ruth and Bill Smith P.O. Box 58525 Nashville, TN 37205 nashville@jstreet.org www.Jstreet.org/nashville
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Street Nashville is the local chapter of J Street, the national political home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans. The organization gives political voice to mainstream American Jews and other supporters of Israel who believe that a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is essential to Israel’s survival as the national home of the Jewish people and a vibrant democracy. J Street's mission is twofold: first, to support American diplomatic leadership in helping to achieve a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians as well as a broader regional peace; second, to ensure open discussion of Israel and the Middle East in national politics and the American Jewish community. J Street Nashville, part of the J Street Educational Foundation, offers a variety of educational activities and opportunities, such as nationally and internationally recognized speakers, and smaller group presentations on various topic relating to American Jewish concerns regarding Israel and the Middle East. To find out more about J Street Nashville or to to join, please go to www.Jstreet.org/nashville. c
National Conference on Jewish Affairs Contacts: Michael Dobrin, Michael Hershey, Daniel Bregman, Harvey Eisen, Alan Koufer, Jill Melody, Tomer Minuskin facebook.com/NashvilleNCJA P.O. Box 210981 Nashville, TN 37221
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he National Conference on Jewish Affairs supports the rights and safety of the Jewish people in America, Israel and around the world by providing strong Jewish leadership to respond to and counter the growing, orchestrated demonizing of Israel, Jewry and America. An umbrella organization uniting active Jewish leaders and groups across America, NCJA was formed to give voice to those who want to express support for and act on behalf of justice for Jews, Israel and Zionism. NCJA asserts the right of the Jewish people to the Land of Israel based on history, religion and international law and demands an end to the funding of the culture of hate, which sabotages the development of a true and lasting peace in the Middle East. NCJA works with Americans who share our commitment to defend our country and our people, recognizing that a strong America means a strong Israel and an America proud of its liberty is a strong example to the world. NCJA supports Jewish students on campus, focusing on defending the rights of students and faculty to study, pursue research, articulate arguments and learn in an open intellectual, environment, free of physical and intellectual intimidation. NCJA works for the security of the United States and to protect the U.S. Constitution and to restore the pride and moral confidence of those Jews proud of their Jewish-American heritage. c Read the Observeronline at www.jewishobserver nashville.org
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 45
Community Resources Gordon Jewish Community Center Library Library Associate: Carrie Mills 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-3242 ext. 1699 Fax: (615) 353-2659 library@jewishnashville.org
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hether you are looking for a recent book of Jewish interest, back issues or current issues of Jewish magazines, a book for your child, or an audiotape of Jewish music, the GJCC Library is the place to start. There you can find children’s books, fiction, biographies, history, and cookbooks, along
with books about Jewish practice and holidays, the Holocaust, Israel, and many other topics related to Jewish life and religion. The library has special collections of largeprint books, and yizkor books compiled by survivors of East European shtetls. The fiction and nonfiction collections can be located by using the Internet station in the library or by accessing the catalog through the Jewish Federation website, www.jewishnashville.org. The library also has audiotapes of Jewish music, Jewish short stories from Eastern Europe, and lectures and commentaries by Dennis Prager, plus a selection of films on videotape. A limited amount of additional material is available on CD.
Library materials may be borrowed for two weeks and renewed by phone. The library is usually open whenever the GJCC main building is open. Please call the library office if you have a reference question or want to know more about its holdings or operation. c
Annette Levy Ratkin Jewish Community Archives Lynn Fleischer, Jewish community archivist 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 Phone: (615) 354-1655 Fax: (615) 352-0056 library@jewishnashville.org www.jewishnashville.org (click on “Resources”)
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S
ince 1979 the Annette Levy Ratkin Jewish Community Archives has collected the records of the families, businesses, and institutions of the Jewish communities of Middle Tennessee, which began in the middle of the nineteenth century. Housed in the Gordon Jewish Community Center, the archives has the records of such local organizations as the Nashville section of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW); Hadassah; B’nai B’rith; the Jewish Community Council, which later became the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee; the synagogues; Jewish Family Service, which celebrated 150 years of service in 2003; and book clubs, such as Magazine Circle, organized in 1898, and their daugh-
ters, the “Junior Magazine Circle,” which soon became Tri Arts, organized in 1925. The archives also has microfilm, hard and digital copies of The Jewish Observer, which began publication in 1935, and its predecessor, The Y.M.H.A. News, first published in 1915. An oral history audiotape collection, sponsored by the NCJW, documents the memories of older adults who grew up in Nashville, and has been transcribed, as has a collection of reminiscences by NCJW past presidents. A DVD/videotape oral history collection, sponsored by the Jewish Federation, records the experiences of Holocaust refugees, survivors and liberators. Tombstones dated before 1900 in the Jewish cemeteries of Nashville have been photographed, preserving their inscriptions. All documents and photographs are stored in acid-free folders and boxes, and are available to researchers from the Jewish and secular community under supervision of the archives staff. “A Caring Community, the History of the Jews of Nashville” is a multimedia program produced by the archives. It traces the development of the Nashville Jewish community from 1851 to the present through source material and photos from the archives. Available in DVD and VHS formats, it can be purchased for $10 plus postage. The archives assisted in the production of “Bagels & Barbeque, the Jewish Experience in Tennessee,” an exhibit prepared with the Tennessee State Museum and other Jewish federations throughout the state for the 2007 General Assembly of the
United Jewish Communities. The exhibition toured the state for two years. The archives seeks to preserve the records of all of the Jews of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, whether they have been here for six generations or six years. Please consider donating your family’s papers to the archives. c
PJ Library® Coordinator: Sara Hanai 801 Percy Warner Blvd. Nashville, TN 37205 PJLibrary@nashvillejcc.org www.pjlibrary.org/communities/ jewish-federationnashville/112
T
here is a library based in Western Massachusetts that you don’t visit; it comes to you. PJ Library is a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation in partnership with local Jewish com-
munities. Its goal is to support the Jewish journeys of families raising young children. Knowing that families read together in the quiet moments before bedtime, when kids are in their PJs and getting ready for sleep, the program’s founders thought, “Why not make those moments Jewish moments?” The PJ Library program mails free, high-quality Jewish children’s books and music to families on a monthly basis, helping them explore the timeless core values of Judaism. All PJ Library families share a desire to give their children a taste of Judaism in the comfort of their own homes. The PJ Library enables each family to do that. Today, more than 70,000 children in more than 136 communities in the United States and Canada receive the gift of The PJ Library experience. By partnering with local Jewish organizations, the Harold Grinspoon Foundation
makes PJ Library not only possible but free as well. In Nashville and Middle Tennessee, PJ Library is open to families that are raising Jewish children ages 6 months to 8 years. This year with the help of our community shlicha, Hadar Moskovitz, we’ve begun Sifriyat Pijama, which is PJ Library in Hebrew. It’s for children with at least one Hebrewspeaking parent. PJ Library and its partners – the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, the Gordon Jewish Community Center and its Early Childhood Learning Center, Micah Children’s Academy and the Temple Preschool – serve hundreds of families and promote Jewish literacy and education for generations to come. For more information, please contact us or visit pjlibrary.org/communities/ Nashville. c
Vanderbilt University Judaica Collection Vanderbilt University Divinity Library 419 21st Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37240-0007 (615) 343-2865 Fax: (615) 343-2918 DIVLIB@library.vanderbilt.edu Not for scholars only!
V
anderbilt’s renowned Harry and Mary Zimmerman Judaica Collection is not limited to university students and faculty. The librarians want Nashville’s Jewish community to know that anyone who wishes to use this extensive collection of religious books, research material and Yiddish and Hebrew literature is Continued on page 48
To access the Community Calendar, go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Every community event is listed for your convenience. The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 47
Vanderbilt University Judaica Collection Continued from page 47
welcome to do so. The Judaica collection, the largest in the South, includes works by Franz Rosenzweig, Gershom Scholem and Martin Buber. There are also 1,600 Yiddish and Hebrew books, many of them poetry and literature. Much of the collection was acquired in 1991 when Vanderbilt purchased Nahum Glatzer’s library of 7,000 items, thanks to a substantial donation from Raymond Zimmerman. The Judaica collection is located in the Divinity Library, on the bottom level of the Jean and Alexander Heard Library. To use the Judaica material, anyone in the Jewish community may apply for a library card at the circulation desk of the Divinity Library. Books may be borrowed for three weeks. c Your neighbor with all the know-how and best brands like Craftsman®, Scotts® and Weber®. So, for the people and brands you can trust, come to Ace, the helpful place.
Hart Ace Hardware-Bellevue 8203 Highway 100 Nashville, Tennessee 37221 (615) 662-6767
Hart ACE Hardware-Belle Meade 5304 Harding Road Nashville, Tennessee 37205 (615) 352-5252
Store Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-7, Sat 8-6, Sun 12-5
Store Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-6, Sat 8-6, Sun 12-5
www.hartacehardware.com
DK Ideas
produces events with personality
DK Ideas
To access the Community Calendar,
Specializing in Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and all your simchas. From party design and décor to coordination of the last detail, DK Ideas will create the perfect atmosphere - a unique, personal expression that brings your celebration to life.
DK Ideas…because life is worth celebrating!
DK Ideas • 615-804-8438 diane@dianekimbrough.com "The first day I met with Diane is the day that all the stress left my body and all the fun began! Diane is AMAZING at organizing, creating, and making it all come together perfectly! My daughter's day was a true joyful celebration." - Victoria Shaw Locknar
go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Every community event is listed for your convenience.
Bobbie Limor Catering Bobbie Limor has unique and varied menus to help you plan your special occasion. Her client-friendly service will help assure the success of your simcha. In addition, Bobbie can help with flowers and linens. Trust your event to Bobbie from a Simple Kiddush, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Luncheon, Wedding or Elegant Multi-course Banquet.
356-4045 The Observer is online! www.jewishobservernashville.org
See what’s happening in the community. Go to www.jewishnashville.org 48 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
two bottles of wine.*
case of wine purchase.*
time of purchase and cannot be combined with any other discounts or offers. Coupon not valid on purchases of gift cards, previous purchases or discounted, sale or clearance items. Limit one coupon per customer, per pires 6/30/2014.
Wine for any wine purchase of 12 750ml bottles or 6 1.5L bottles or be presented at time of purchase and cannot be combined with any other on purchases of gift cards, previous purchases or discounted, sale or clearance items. Limit one coupon per customer, per visit please. No 6/30/2014
high gravity beer purchase of $20.00 or more.* Wine for any high gravity beer purchase exceeding $20.00 before time of purchase and cannot be combined with any other discounts or offers. Coupon not valid on purchases of gift cards, previous purchases or discounted, sale or clearance items. Limit one coupon per customer, per pires 6/30/2014.
615.646.1400 Com e se e ou r ne w ex pan sion !
BARTON HOUSE Memory Care Assisted Living Our philosophy of care is really quite simple: Focus on strengths, rather than weaknesses. Never stop trying to communicate. Be kind, always. 6961 U.S. 70S, Nashville, TN | (615) 673-6922 | bartonnashville.com Specializing in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care since 2000 s Locally Owned & Operated
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 49
MARSHALL-DONNELLY-COMBS FUNERAL HOME
327-1111
Get your word out to our readers by advertising in Observer Special Issues: Simchas & Celebrations Camps Passover Home & Gardening Health & Beauty Coupon Issue Back to School Pets Rosh Hashanah Entertaining & Dining Out Travel & Leisure Chanukah
For Over 150 years, our dedication to service and personal attention has made us the premier choice of families in our community. Our staff is dedicated to compassionately supporting your family before, during and after the loss of your loved one.
201 25th Ave North (at Centennial Park) Nashville, Tennessee 37203
The Observer is online! You can find the latest issue, past issues, plus streaming news updates and links to Jewish organizations at
www.jewishobservernashville.org Now you have a choice: Read the print edition or read us online.
Call Carrie Mills at 354-1699 or carrie@nashvillejcc.org for details.
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50 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee 37205
Green Hills
615.356.3242 EXT. 299
the
Rings Sized, Jewelry Repaired While U Wait Jewish Platinum • 14k • 18k • Watch Batteries & Repair Sterling Silver • Prong Rebuilding • Appraisals Eyeglass Repair • AntiqueCARRIE Restoration MILLS Advertising Scott Isaacs - Owner Manager carrie@nashvillejcc.org Belle Meade Plaza www.jewishnashville.org 4522 Harding Road 615.354.1699 fax 615.352.0056 Bellemeadejewelry.com 615-269-3288
801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee 37205
YOUR GUIDE TO FINE BUSINESSES AND SERVICES AROUND MUSIC CITY. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS, THEY’RE THE BEST!
the
Jewish
bsserver
bsserver CARRIE MILLS Advertising Manager carrie@nashvillejcc.org www.jewishnashville.org 615.354.1699 fax 615.352.0056
A Photo Collage of Jewish Life in Nashville
Rabbis representing all of Nashville religious communities participate in a panel discussion during the 2013 Global Day of Jewish Learning at the Akiva School.
Second graders play in the sukkah at the Akiva School, Nashville’s K-6 Jewish day school.
The Israeli Folks Dancers hold weekly instructional and dance sessions at Vanderbilt’s Schulman Center.
The Tigersharks, the Gordon Jewish Community Center’s champion year-round swim team, has spots for swimmers of every age.
The 2013 Main Event, the GJCC’s annual fundraiser, featured musicians Fred Wilhelm, Georgia Middleman, Dylan Altman, the Stellas and Lennon & Maisy from ABC’s hit “Nashville.”
On the second Friday of each month, Jewish Family Service sponsors a Welcome Shabbat Lunch for seniors at the Gordon Jewish Community Center.
A jewelry making class was one of dozens of programs for adults at the Gordon Jewish Community Center in 2014.
The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 51
“We recently downsized to a smaller home and Patti represented us as a seller of the old and buyer of the new. She heard exactly what we were looking for and directed us to a property that exceeded our expectations. Patti is a thorough, direct and honest communicator and a fearless negotiator.” ~ Bob and Julie of Nashville, TN
“Relocating can be an emotionally draining experience, and we were put at ease from the moment we made contact with Patti Straus. This is our sixth home and we can confidently say that we have never worked with as effective and professional a realtor group as Patti’s team.” ~ Mitch and Kelly of Brentwood, TN
“Patti sold our home in Williamson County in record time...and in the month of February! She was the consummate professional the entire time and the whole selling process was completed without a hitch. We would recommend Patti and her team to any potential home buyer or seller!” ~ Lynne and Chris of Franklin, TN
Realtor, Broker, MBA www.PatriciaStraus.com Re/Max Elite 278 Franklin Rd, Suite 190 Brentwood, TN 37027 M: (615) 305-8465 O: (615) 661-4400 pstraus@realtracs.com
I like to come here, Fran z. As I have for nearly twenty years now.
And the rose bush has turned into a lovely little tree.
Quality and Craftsmanship Since 1928
I never had such a green thumb as you did, Franz. Probably you helped me there a little bit, don’t you think? And if one of the roots reaches down to you,
then that means a little bit of you is in the blossoms and you can see the summer every year.
Our philosophy for 3 generations has been to make each memorial the best way we know how. We find that it still takes the hands of a skilled craftsman to produce a monument that will be everlasting.
The people who run the cemetery said that the rose bush can stay when the lease on the plot runs out.
Hebrew lettering included. Compliments of All Seasons
ALL SEASONS MEMORIALS 6014 Lenox Avenue Nashville, Tennessee 37209 615.356.0738
52 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
Nashville's Only Certified Memorialist and Member of AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF COMMEMORATIVE ART Hunt Memorials, Inc. 4807 Gallatin Rd.
Nashville, TN 37216 262-1313 262-1313
www.huntmemorials.com
The Jewish Observer
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS Cathy Werthan, CPA, PFS CPA Consulting Group, PLLC Providing traditional tax and accounting services in a non-traditional way 109 Kenner Ave., Suite 100 (615) 322-1225 • www.cpacg.com
ADVERTISING The Observer
Carrie Mills
The best use of your advertising dollar. 801 Percy Warner Blvd. 356-3242 x299
APPLIANCES ELECTRONIC EXPRESS now carries a full line of home appliances as well as consumer electronics! We have the brands you know and trust: Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, General Electric, Frigidaire, and LG. Count on Electronic Express to help you make the best choice. Nobody beats our prices. Free basic delivery and pick-up of your old appliances with this ad. Available at any of our 16 stores. Visit us on the web at www.electronicexpress.com for a location near you. HERMITAGE LIGHTING GALLERY Lighting • Appliances • Hardware Custom Cabinetry and Baths We Light Up Your Life! 615-843-3300 www.hermitagelighting.com
ATTORNEY MARTIN SIR, ATTORNEY Family Law / Personal Injury / Probate Fifth Third Center 424 Church Street, Ste. 2250 Nashville, Tennessee 37219 (615) 256-5661 www.martinsirlaw.com
HEARING AID/ AUDIOLOGY SERVICES AUDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES AND HEARING AIDS TODAY Dr. Jina Scherer, Doctor of Audiology Specializes in hearing and hearing aid services. Specializing in the Lyric-extended wear device. 99 White Bridge Road, Ste. 106 615-354-8011 www.hearingaidstoday.com
CARE GIVER FAMILY STAFFING SOLUTIONS, INC Stay Independent*At Home*In Charge® ‘Personal Care Assistance At Its Best” 2000 Richard Jones Road Nashville, TN 37215 615-383-5656 208 Uptown Square Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-848-6774 119 McGrew Street, Suite A Shelbyville, TN 37160 931-680-2771 309 North Jackson St. Tullahoma, TN 37388 931-222-4080 109 Holiday Court, Suite C-8 Franklin, TN 37067 615-472-1563 www.familystaffing.com
HOME COMPUTER REPAIR YOUR PERSONAL COMPUTER TECHNICIAN Brian Coulam 615-266-4155 References Available brian.coulam@gmail.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT YOUR HOME HANDYMAN Rich Adler, Small Job Specialists. Free estimates, Excellent references. 615-646-4900 or 615-972-3093 cell Natcheztrace100@aol.com
INSURANCE FRIDRICH, PINSON & ROTHBERG Jamie Rothberg 3825 Bedford Ave. Suite 203 Ph 327-9105 Dir 277-1483 jrothberg@FPRinsurance.com MANAGED BENEFITS, INC. Rodney Rosenblum CLU - REBC - RHU Ruth Alexander Life Insurance, Health Insurance, Disability and Long Term Care Insurance 2000 Glen Echo Rd., Suite 113 Nashville, TN 37215 Ph. 615-371-2467 x3 • Mobile 615-300-6640 ROBINS INSURANCE Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Tom Loventhal; Marsha Jaffa, CIC; Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business Insurance 30 Burton Hills, Suite 300 Ph. 665-9200 • www.robinsins.com ZANDER INSURANCE GROUP, INC. Julian “Bud” Zander, Jr., CIC Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC Michael Weinberger Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business, Long Term Care 212 Oceola, Nashville, TN 37209 356-1700 www.zanderins.com
MUSICIANS AND DJs BLUE TONE MUSIC Jewish Wedding Ceremonies The Nashville Blue Tones Party Band DJ Services. 615-352-6358 www.BlueToneMusicUSA.com
OPHTHALMOLOGIST HOWARD ROSENBLUM, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon Nashville Eye Center St. Thomas Hospital • Ph. 386-9200
OPTOMETRIST DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Eyecare & Eyewear 2817 West End Ave., Nashville 615-321-4EYE (4393) Continued on next page The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014 • 53
The Jewish Observer
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ORTHODONTISTS
REAL ESTATE con’t
REAL ESTATE con’t
A. JOEL GLUCK, DDS, MS Specialist in Orthodontics Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics Green Hills 269-5903 2002 Richard Jones Road, Ste. A-200 www.drgluck.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GHERTNER & COMPANY Homeowner Association and Condominium Management Full Service and Financial Management Property Management since 1968 255-8531 www.ghertner.com
REAL ESTATE
Franklin Pargh Synergy Realty Network FranklinPargh.com C. 615-351-7333
Patricia Straus, Broker, MBA, CRS, CRS-Divorce, ABR Marketing Real Estate to a Global Clientele RE/MAX Elite www.PatriciaStraus.com pstraus@realtracs.com 615.661.4400 (o) 615.305.8465 (m)
www.ZeitlinRealtors.com
Residential & Relocation Specialists
Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR www.JackieKarr.com JackieKarr@gmail.com Mobile: 615.330.9779 Office: 615.463.3333
JESSICA AVERBUCH Managing Broker, ABR, CRS, ePRO 383-0183 (bus.) • 294-9880 (cell) jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com www.jessicaaverbuch.com LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 371-0185 (bus.) • 351-5343 (cell) lorna.graff@zeitlin.com www.lornagraff.com NAN SPELLER Broker, GRI, ABR 383-0183 (bus.)• 973-1117 (cell) nanspeller2014@gmail.com
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. Phone 615-354-1699 or e-mail carrie@nashvillejcc.org
54 • The Guide to Jewish Nashville 2014
SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY CENTER DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE
Take advantage of a 20% discount by using promo code OBSERVER . Valid on Aegis Sciences Classical Series concerts through DECEMBER 31, 2014.
BUY TICKETS AT NashvilleSymphony.org 615.687.6400
DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT. Here, boutique originality meets the sophistication and affordability of a large hotel, creating a contemporary yet casual experience like none other. From espresso bars on every floor and state-of-the-art technology in every room to top-tier fitness equipment, gracious service and reasonable rates â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we offer everything you could dream of and then some. So whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in town for business or pleasure, let the Hutton Hotel be your host for the evening. 1808 WEST END AVE | NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
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Discover why Carrington Foxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nashville Scene review calls 1808 â&#x20AC;&#x153;a fresh, whimsical approach to high quality cuisine.â&#x20AC;? Maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the blend of classic American fare with a touch of worldly spice. Or perhaps itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the familiar taste of Southern favorites flavored with a delightfully unexpected twist. Either way, 1808 offers a warm, welcoming place to host a business lunch or enjoy a relaxed dinner with family and friends. "//+ 9/52 2%3%26!4)/.3 /.,).% 4/$!9
WEST END AVENUE NASHVILLE TN
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