The Observer Vol. 87 No. 10 – October 2022

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bserver

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Vol. 87 No. 10 • October 2022

www.jewishobservernashville.org

6 Tishrei - 6 Cheshvan 5783

Report From Federation’s Second Mission to Poland

By BARBARA DAB

I

n late August, The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee sent a second group of delegates to Poland. The goal of this mission was, again, to both bear witness to the stories of the refugees fleeing Ukraine following the Russian invasion, and to provide volunteer humanitarian aid. Although the flood of people fleeing Ukraine has slowed since the initial invasion, thousands of mostly women and children remain in Poland anxiously waiting and hoping to be reunited with their family members who must stay behind to fight in the war.

The first stop for the group was Warsaw, where a local hotel has dedicated 150 rooms to house Jewish Ukrainians who wish to emigrate (make Aliyah) to Israel. The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) is on site to process the applica-

To See is to Believe

By NED JACOBSON

T

o read about the Ukrainian refugees in the newspaper or to see them on cable news is one thing, but to experience Ukrainian refugees face to face on Polish soil is gut wrenching.

These Ukrainian refugees had sane and stable lives until a war, not of their own choosing, uprooted their existence. Many are now living in Poland, depending on the kindness of strangers which include the Polish Government, various national and international aid organizations, and individual volunteers from around the world.

Seven volunteers, including myself, from the Nashville Jewish community travelled to Warsaw and Krakow Poland on a Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee mission trip.

We brought clothing, shoes, toys and more important, money to buy badly needed goods on the ground. The majority of our time was spent in Krakow, Poland.

Continued on page 12 A Publication of the

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Delegates to Poland pictured l. to r. Observer editor Barbara Dab, Congregation Micah Rabbi Flip Rice, Federation Board Member Hayley Levy Kupin, Ned Jacobson, Denise Alper, Federation Past President Carol Hyatt, Larry Hyatt

Reflections on Mission to Poland

By DENISE ALPER

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oland has never been on my list of places that I’ve wanted to visit. My reductionist take on Poland was how anti-Semitic the country was before, during and after WWII. The black and white images of the Holocaust have been far too embedded in my psyche to necessitate a desire to see more.

But now Poland has shown the world a remarkable display of compassion and humanity for the millions of people who have flooded their country as a result of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

What I had not known, and was fortunate to witness, is the central role the JCC in Krakow is playing in this humanitarian rescue. The JCC opened in 2008 with financing from then ‘Prince’ Charles to help rebirth and rebuild Jewish life in the city. However, in February when the war began, Continued on page 12

tions and conduct interviews to confirm Jewish heritage. To date, approximately 12,000 people have emigrated to Israel during the war, up from a pre-war count of about 1,000. Ron Shecter is the head of the Consular Department of the Law of Return under the Israeli Prime Minister.

He emigrated to Israel from the former Soviet Union when he was just 20 years old. “I am an only child, and I came to Israel all alone,” he says, “I still can’t believe in 2022 we are witnessing again the fleeing of the Jewish people.” Shecter says his primary goal is to research the heritage of those wishing to emigrate. “My goal is to be as inclusive as possible, not to keep people out of the country,” he says.

Shecter is assisted in his efforts by people who are themselves refugees.

Ksenia Reznichenko was on vacation when the invasion began, leaving her stranded and unable to return home.

Continued on page 12

Leaving it all Behind

The World Rabbi Flip Moves on, Reflections But The War that Continues are called the beneficiaOnestandsof outthemostmemories for us from They ries. We quickly understood

By CAROL AND LARRY HYATT

our trip to Poland is the little girl, about the same age as our granddaughter, who was so grateful for the little stuffed animal we gave her that she insisted someone translate for her. She told us, “You made my dreams come true, since I had to leave all my toys behind.” And we couldn’t help but contrast her situation with that of our granddaughter who has a playroom full of toys at her house as well as at ours.

We were told that many of those who left Ukraine by train had agonized over what to take with them, not knowing what they would find if they are ever able to return. Then, once they arrived at the station, they had to leave even that behind so that more people could fit on the train.

Imagine making those difficult choices, leaving your home and possessions, and setting out on a dangerous journey to face Continued on page 13

Jewish Community Marks Six Months Welcoming Afghan Allies, and the Work Continues, page 2

Health and Wellness Corner, page 30

By RABBI FLIP RICE

By HAYLEY LEVY KUPIN

M

y first time in Poland was in 2013 for March of the Living, an educational program that brings students from around the world to Poland to walk in the history of the Holocaust. For me, it was a deeply personal trip as my ancestors on both sides are from Poland. My maternal grandfather, William Evers, who was one of the only members of his family to survive the Holocaust, was born and grew up in Poland. While March of the Living was about my roots, my most recent trip to Poland was as part of a 5-day mission delegation with the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee.

The goal of this trip was to volunteer with Ukrainian refugees and see firsthand how the war’s refugee crisis was being handled in Poland. When asked if I was Continued on page 13

why. It is a more dignified term than refugee. It’s an appropriate name because by definition they receive assistance…property that originally belonged to someone else: donated clothes, peanuts, coffee and tea, toys, rice… These were some of the basic supplies that the Nashville Team of 7 prepared for giveaway at the JCC in Krakow, Poland.

The beneficiaries are, for the most part, not Jewish. Yet they stand in line in the Jewish quarter of a city anxious to receive the free supplies, in a country that saw its Jewish population decimated by the Nazis. The beneficiaries are, for the most part, largely traumatized by having to leave their homes, and many of them their husbands…and their first world lives in the Ukraine. These are not the type of immigrants we often see here in the states. Most are or were quite wealthy: who Continued on page 13 Entertainment & Dining Out page 25

Jewish Community Marks Six Months Welcoming Afghan Allies, and the Work Continues

By BARBARA DAB

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or the past six months teams of volunteers from Nashville’s Jewish community have been helping newly arrived Afghan allies adjust to life in the United States. From doctor appointments, to enrolling children in school, to shopping for basic items at Walmart or Kroger, and helping with meals, these volunteers have spent countless hours navigating American systems and bureaucracy. The project is a community effort led by the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, joined by The Temple, Nashville International Center for Empowerment (NICE), and local pro bono attorneys.

Using the humanitarian parole process, hundreds of people arrived in Nashville, three of whom were assigned to the Jewish community’s teams. As the formal community-wide program comes to an end, there is still work to be done.

Michal Becker is Director of Community Engagement for The Jewish Federation.

“This was a tremendous six-month effort by all the volunteers who really changed lives,” she says, “But the work is not over.

Big questions remain for these families, about their future.”

Humanitarian parole allows people who provided service to the American government, to obtain a visa to come to the United States. But humanitarian parole visas have an expiration date, typically lasting one or two years. If they are unable to obtain a green card or political asylum, they face the possibility of deportation back to Afghanistan and into the hands of the Taliban. A recent bipartisan bill, The Afghan Adjustment Act, was introduced in the House of Representatives and the Senate just days before the one-year anniversary of the American withdrawal. The bill’s passage will mean Allies who undergo additional security vetting may apply for a permanent pathway to citizenship. Becker says,

“This bill will provide Afghan Allies with the stability and security they need to complete the process of rebuilding their lives.” The bill next goes before the House Judiciary Committee, and Becker says it is time for people to contact their legislators and encourage them to support it.

Meanwhile, life goes on for the families who arrived in Nashville over six months ago. Judy Saks is one of the volunteer leaders. She says her team is committed to continuing their involvement with their family. “I sent emails to the team and so far, six people plan to continue.” She says her family, which consists of parents, a toddler and three older children, continues to face challenges.

“They don’t speak enough English, so it’s hard for Salih when he goes on job interviews,” she says. The father, who was a driver for the American Embassy, took the Tennessee driver’s test close to 20 times before he was able to pass. Saks fears for the future of the family because many of their benefits will end later this fall. “They could lose their food stamps and rent subsidies. I’m worried a financial crisis is coming.”

The team from The Temple, headed

by Ruth Thomas and Renee Kasman, is equally committed to continuing to support their family. “We just love this family, we’re so invested,” says Thomas.

She says despite their difficulties, they have made great progress so far. “Before they came here, they lived for years not knowing if they would be safe. Many have been traumatized all their lives.”

In addition to the security of knowing they are safe, Thomas says the children are enjoying school, particularly the girls.

“They already see so many opportunities for education for the girls, and for women’s rights that they would not have in Afghanistan.” Still, there are many challenges to overcome. Renee Kasman, who is also Chair of The Temple’s Social Action Committee, says the experience has been a real-life example of the work

Three-year-old daughter enjoys time at Cheekwood.

the committee does. “All the social justice issues we talk about are front and center. We are experiencing that with the people who are living it.” Some of the biggest challenges, according to Kasman, include learning about tenant’s rights and affordable housing options and navigating the public-school bureaucracy. “I have great respect for our public schools.

They have been so supportive and so helpful. I was worried they weren’t prepared for the kids, but the school has students who speak over 20 languages,” she says. The biggest challenge, according to both Thomas and Kasman, is the battle to bring one remaining family member to the United States. This person is still in Afghanistan under an immediate and direct threat from the Taliban. The team has engaged a pro bono attorney, but it is a slow process. Kasman says, “It’s so frustrating to know that even with legal help we still can’t get him here.”

There is one other team who diligently worked to assist one of the Ally families. Team leads Evelyn and Mosh Koch report that family is now relocated in Atlanta where they have other family members. “They have someone who has been in this country for eight years and has a successful company,” says Evelyn,

“They were able to make all the arrangements there that we were working on here, including finding an apartment, buying a car, and arranging English lessons.” Still, the Koch’s say it was a good experience for them and their team, and they continue to stay in touch. “It was important that they had those early few months with us because it introduced them to American volunteer culture,” says Mosh. They both say the intense experience was life changing and the connection they made with the family was very personal.

As the Afghan Adjustment Act makes its way to the House Judiciary Committee, life continues for the Allies both in Tennessee and around the country. All the local team leads in the Jewish community say the experience has changed them and they feel familial bonds with the families they have helped.

They all plan to continue to support the Allies’ efforts to acclimate to their new home. They have celebrated Ramadan together, walked each other’s children into school, assisted with finding basic medical and dental care, and over time, each lead reports they are bonded with their new families. Judy Saks says, “I really want to express how grateful I am to have this opportunity to help the family navigate our culture, our medical system and our city and state. It’s not easy for non-English speakers, (or for Americans!) especially those who had to flee their country with only the clothes on their backs.” All of this against the backdrop of rising antisemitism in the United States and around the world. The Federation’s Michal Becker says these relationships provide the best lesson of all, “This is Tikkun Olam in action. This is how we fight antisemitism: by building relationships and becoming friends.”

Contact for Senator Marsha Blackburn: 629-800-6600 Contact for Senator Bill Hagerty: 615-736-5129 •

2022/23 Update on The Belmont University Initiative for Jewish Engagement

By BARBARA DAB

T

he Belmont University Initiative for Jewish Engagement program continues to develop relationships between Nashville’s Jewish and Christian communities. The initiative, now heading into its second year, is offering a full slate of lectures, workshops, book groups, and hands on travel experiences. According to Rabbi Mark Schiftan, who has been a leader in the effort, “When it comes to fostering a deeper understanding of Jewish tradition in the Christian community, there has been a vacuum, and Belmont wants to fill that space with ongoing engagement. This is my passion, and I can think of no higher academic offering from our Jewish community.”

Belmont’s history as a Baptist college makes it an unlikely partner for the Jewish community. In late 2007, it effectively cut ties with the Tennessee Baptist Convention and solidified its identity as a non-denominational Christian university. And while the school admits interfaith students, currently all facul-

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ty must adhere to its Christian beliefs, and the current employment application requires potential faculty to affirm and describe their Christian faith. But there are those at the university and in the Jewish community who want to see a more open approach to the educational offerings. Dr. Jon Roebuck, Executive Director of the Reverend Charlie Curb Center for Faith Leadership, is another of the Belmont University Initiative for Jewish Engagement leaders. He says, “We want Belmont to be a university for all of Nashville, and to engage different communities. Our goal is to foster dialogue, to explore the intersection of different faith traditions.”

The past several years have seen much growth at Belmont, notably the establishment of a Law School, and soon to come, a Medical School. The ground for a more inclusive culture was laid by former university President, Bob Fisher.

According to Steve Riven, who is another leader in the Initiative stated, “Rabbi Schiftan worked with Dr. Fisher for 20 years to develop the relationship we see

October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

First ever gathering of Belmont University Jewish students.

today.” And, says Riven, the arrival of Dr. Fisher’s successor, Dr. Greg Jones, will continue to build on that groundwork. “Dr. Fisher was a great visionary and Dr. Jones is cut from the same cloth.

He is very experienced and very focused.”

All of this begs the question: when will Belmont University begin hiring Jewish faculty? According to Dr. Roebuck, “The accreditation process for professional schools typically requires diversity of faculty, so that may come first.” But Rabbi Schiftan says at a recent fundraising

dinner, “Dr. Jones gave an impassioned speech outlining his priority to hire tenured Jewish faculty and said he shared that with a very receptive Executive Board at a recent meeting.” The current goal is to hire tenured Jewish faculty members by summer 2023.

Despite the challenges, Dr. Jones is committed to following through on his promise to open Belmont to Jewish faculty. “It’s important because of our deepening relationships, especially during this time of rising antisemitism. Relationships like this help to reweave the social fabric.” He says programs like this one that include travel opportunities can cultivate strong bonds among unlikely groups of people. And he points to the relationship between Schiftan and Roebuck as providing a model for the deep ties that can be created. Jones is also hopeful programs like this are just the beginning of broader dialogue. “This can be an incubator for much larger conversations that should happen around the world.”

Meanwhile, the 2022/23 academic Continued on page 4

Community Relations Committee Promoting Pluralism

By DEBORAH OLESHANSKY

T

he Ken Burns documentary, The U.S. and the Holocaust, debuted at the end of September, and the Gordon JCC hosted a preview on September 14. As with all of Mr. Burns’ work, the documentary is meticulously researched, and contextualized within the bigger story of our nation’s complicated history related to immigration, racism, and discrimination.

It begins with historic records and video of notable American public and private sector leaders and the shocking lengths they were willing to go to bar certain immigrant and refugee populations from tarnishing the white protestant ideal they hoped to protect, including open and blatant antisemitic views. These views were ultimately at the heart of decisions to maintain quotas, and the refusal to allow greater numbers of Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Germany be afforded safety in the United States.

Antisemitism is not new, but it has had a resurgence both leading to and after the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville in which it was emboldened and metastasized into our politics.

Views that had become marginalized were brought back into the daylight, using some of the same propaganda and old-fashioned antisemitic tropes and conspiracies theories – the Jews are capitalists and communists, Jews control the media, Jews own the banks, with some modern twists, including Jews are to blame for COVID-19, Jews want open borders and are responsible for failed c

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Publisher Jewish Federation Editor Barbara Dab Advertising Manager Carrie Mills Layout and Production Tim Gregory Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), Teena Cohen, Laura Thompson, Scott Rosenberg, Liz Feinberg Telephone 615/356-3242 Fax 615/352-0056 E-mail barbaradab@jewishnashville.org ‘The Jewish Observer’ (ISSN 23315334) is published monthly for $25 per year by the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009.

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immigration policies. These are simply variations of the themes used against Jews for generations and social media and encouragement from elected officials has only made the situation worse.

This propaganda is partnered with a rise of Christian nationalist groups and the influence they are having on elected officials, much like the power wielded by past nationalistic movements which are dangerous to Jews. Promoting “Christian values” in the public sphere, with laws based on one belief system imposed on all of us, creates the ecosystem necessary to effectively and successfully convince people that Jews are not only part of the problem, but they are also the enemy.

Promoting one religion over another is anathema to what our founding fathers intended when they very intentionally and deliberately enshrined the concept of separation of church and state in the Constitution. Too many of those both holding office and running for office in the upcoming election are loudly and inaccurately using rhetoric of division, trying to convince us that we are a white Christian nation. They are sadly and dangerously mistaken. Our country is greater when we welcome, protect and respect differences of background and faith.

Those who hold office, and those running for office, would be well served to remember this: “We in the United States, above all, must remember that lesson, for we were founded as a nation of openness to people of all beliefs. And so we must

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

Editorial Submissions Policy and Deadlines The Jewish Observer welcomes the submission of information, news items, feature stories and photos about events relevant to the Jewish community of Greater Nashville. We prefer e-mailed submissions, which should be sent as Word documents to Editor Barbara Dab at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org.

Photos must be high resolution (at least 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs to the e-mail with the related news item or story. For material that cannot be e-mailed, submissions should be sent to Barbara Dab, The Jewish Observer, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy sent by regular mail will not be returned unless prior arrangement is made. Publication is at the discretion of The Observer, which reserves the right to edit submissions.

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

remain. Our very unity has been strengthened by our pluralism.

We establish no religion in this country, we command no worship, we mandate no belief, nor will we ever. Church and state are, and must remain, separate.

All are free to believe or not believe, all are free to practice a faith or not, and those who believe are free, and should be free, to speak of and act on their belief.” Ronald Reagan The mission of the Jewish Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee includes the duty, “To promote a just, democratic, and pluralistic society.” It is by embracing pluralism that we as Jews, and all of minority and marginalized communities, can have our full rights at citizens. This has been and will continue to be a foundation of our work.

We have seen the fragility of our democracy, and the serious efforts of some to undermine our faith in elections through propaganda, fear, and political violence. We have an obligation to be engaged and active voters and to protect our democratic ideals. As we prepare to enact our right to vote, we can think about the leadership of President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people putting their lives on the line to maintain these ideals.

When asked how he and his people are finding the strength and courage to maintain this resolve he answered that they do not focus on what they are fighting against, but rather what they are fighting for: “We are fighting for our future, our freedom, our democratic values, our land, and the opportunity for peace.”

For Jewish New Year 5783, may we resolve to remember and learn from our past, celebrate and cherish our present, and amplify our efforts to usher in a future of pluralism, respect and peace. •

Editor’s Note and Voter Information

By BARBARA DAB

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hanah Tova! I hope you all are enjoying a meaningful and satisfying holiday season. As we turn the Jewish calendar to a new year, it is also a time of reflection.

The past couple of years have challenged our community, and ourselves, like none other in my memory. We have all learned to adapt to new ways of living, some of which we might let go of and some we might hang onto. Personally, I plan to hang onto my weekly Zoom visits with dear friends from our hometown of Los Angeles, my newfound love for sourdough baking, and an appreciation of the great outdoors, just to name a few. I hope to let go of an addiction to old sitcoms (maybe), a hyper-focus on my adult children’s lives (right, as if!), and a load of fear and anxiety (absolutely!).

The New Year also brings with it, mid-term elections. According to the League of Women Voters, Tennessee ranks 49th in the MIT Elections Performance Index, and only about half of eligible voters turning out in the 2012 and 2016 presidential elections and the 2017 gubernatorial elections, according to the U.S. Elections Project. We have a chance to turn that tide. The deadline to register for the November 8th State and Federal elections is October 11th.

The deadline to request an Absentee Ballots is November 1st. Early voting begins October 19th and runs through October 24th at the Howard Office Building, 700 President Ronald Reagan Way. All early voting locations open October 25th and run through November 3rd. Visit www.nashville. gov to find voting locations, voter registration forms, and more.

One more thing about elections.

The State of Tennessee recently underwent a decennial redistricting process and several Tennessee districts have changed. For example, Nashville was split into three districts and for the first time, is now combined with parts of other counties. To learn what district represents you, visit: tinyurl.com/ 2s4k4unw Thank you all for helping me to keep our community informed, and for your thoughtful letters and comments. It is my pleasure and an honor to serve as this publication’s Editor. I look forward to another exciting and interesting year.

And remember, it is our constitutional right to vote, something that defines us as Americans, and illuminates our democracy. So, make your voice heard.

Go vote.

Wishing you all a Sweet, Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year! •

Learn more about the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee at www.jewishnashville.org

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

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

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Protecting Assets in Marriage and Divorce

By MINDY HIRT

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t is often said that the best defense is a good offense. No one wants to plan for divorce, and yet, the best way to protect your assets through a divorce is to begin preparing today. Whether you have been blessed with a large inheritance passed down for generations or are in the initial stages of accumulating a few personal items, there is no better time to plan than now.

DIGGING INTO YOUR ASSETS Let’s begin by reviewing a few of the more common assets often divided in a divorce: • Bank accounts/retirement accounts • Real estate/miscellaneous personal property • Life insurance policies/Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) • Mineral interest/partnership agreements Once you have identified assets owned by you and your spouse, dig a little deeper to determine what is truly yours. Verify the names listed on the

bank accounts and determine if you’re a signer or an owner. Are you listed on the deed to your house? Are you part owner in a business? Do you own an HSA? Are you beneficiary to a trust or estate?

VERIFY OWNERSHIP Don’t make the common mistake of presuming you are an owner rather than signer on a bank account. The owner has full authority to limit powers or even remove a signer from the account without notice or consent. Also consider that the signers’ rights cease upon the death of the owner. It is well worth the phone call to verify your authority on the bank accounts in which you are associated.

The deed, not the mortgage, indicates ownership on a property. It is possible to be named on the mortgage of a house or property without being named on the deed. If your name is not on the deed, you are not guaranteed legal rights to the property in divorce or even death of a family member or spouse.

Consider the benefits and limitations of prenuptial and postnuptial agree-

ments and/or asset protection trusts. You may choose to execute one of these contracts to protect assets, provide protection for children or business partners or even to prevent debt transfer. Be aware that while these contracts are generally upheld in court, a judge can nullify them.

Nullifications are most often on grounds of unconscionability (deemed to be grossly unfair to one party), failure to disclose, or duress and coercion.

5 STEPS TO PEACE OF MIND The time to try to make sound financial decisions is not during the storm of a divorce. We highly recommend the following five steps to start your path to financial peace of mind: 1| Understand your current financial situation. Run a credit report and create an inventory of all personal property.

2| Set up a separate bank account to hold any funds that should be segregated from your spouse’s property.

One example would be your personal inherited funds.

3| Sit down with a reputable financial advisor and be prepared to seek advice

in estate planning, asset allocation, tax planning, risk management and retirement.

4| Consider an LLC, trust, prenuptial or postnuptial agreement within your strategy, and keep in mind that different states often require different strategies.

5| Know where your documents are kept and update them annually and more often if circumstances change.

Don’t wait until you need protection to take first steps. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your specific situation, please contact a member of Federation’s Professional Advisory Council. • Mindy Hirt is Senior Vice President and Wealth Advisor at Argent Trust. She serves high net worth families with trust, investment, foundation, estate and family office services. She enjoys helping her clients find holistic solutions to their financial planning needs. She is a member of the Jewish Federation Professional Advisory Council (PAC).

Micah Workshop to Provide Support and Resources to the “Sandwich Generation”

By RABBI LAURIE RICE

W

e have heard about Gen X, the Greatest generation, and Gen Z, but do you know about the Sandwich generation?” The Sandwich Generation is the “caught in the middle,” generation

who have living parents and children.

More specifically, the term often refers to middle-aged people who support both their parents and their children, whether financially, physically, or emotionally.

Is this you? If so, you are far from alone.

Multigenerational needs have become

Call for

Volunteers Assist with Community Programming

Want to help others in our community by giving of your time and talents?

We’re looking for volunteers with the skills and interest to be:

Youth Mentors Handy Helpers Friendly Visitors Shabbat Leaders Tech Savvy Supporters There are both one-time and ongoing opportunities available for both individuals and groups.

Contact Jamie Maresca at

615.354.1686 jamie@jfsnashville.org or visit

jfsnashville.org 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 103 Nashville, TN 37205

Navigating Life’s Transitions.

Together.

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October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

even more pressing during the Covid19 pandemic, with record numbers of adult children moving back home and with elderly parents needing new forms of care. Moms in the Sandwich generation, ages 35-54, feel more stress than any other age group as they balance the demanding, delicate acts of caring for growing children and their aging parents, according to the American Psychological Association’s 2007 Stress in America survey. “It’s not surprising that so many people in that age group are experiencing stress,” says psychologist Katherine Nordal, PhD, executive director for professional practice, American Psychological Association. “The worry of your parents’ health, and your children’s well-being as well as the financial concern of putting kids through college

and saving for your own retirement is a lot to handle.”

To address this cohort in our Nashville community, Congregation Micah is offering a two-part series entitled, “The Aging Parent: A 2-part Workshop for the Sandwich Generation.” In these sessions, we will begin to dive into the emotions of role reversal, navigating family conflict, and communication challenges. Ultimately, it will be a time to build community with and gain support from others going through the same stage of life, to share, and to learn from one another. This mini-series will be offered in person only at Congregation Micah on Thursday, October 27that 6:00 pm and Thursday, November 3rdat 6:00 pm. Registration is required and available on the Micah website (www. congregationmicah.org/events). •

Belmont

has grown beyond our wildest dreams,” she says. There will be a series of events that will include a clergy breakfast, a student-only discussion, and an evening event open to the public, and the author will also be present. Ron Heady created a discussion guide, and there will be pilot discussions in advance of the event. Lynn Heady says, “What is going to make this so special is the act of bringing a diverse group of people together to learn together.”

The Belmont University Initiative for Jewish Engagement is being funded by donors who share Schiftan and Roebuck’s vision. Outreach began with the Jewish community, and according to Schiftan, the initial $1 million goal is within reach.

“It was important to us to first engage the Jewish community, and then go to our Christian partners.” And Steve Riven says he is pleased with the support of Belmont, too. “The development office is very focused on making sure this program continues as long as they need it to,” he says. And, according to everyone involved, the hope is for this program to be an important vehicle for creating a more open, inclusive culture in Nashville. Riven says, “This will change the face of the school. It will change the face of Nashville.” •

Continued from page 2 year is underway, and among the program highlights is a text study of the book, Children Under Fire: An American Crisis, written by Washington Post reporter, John Woodrow Cox. The program was conceived by an interfaith spiritual study group which is a part of the Initiative, called Spiritus. Lynn Heady is a member of the group, and says the idea sprang out of discussions in the group around gun violence, and a desire to engage different faith traditions around the topic. “Our overall mission is to talk about the intersection of events and faith traditions,” she says, “We used the book to guide our discussions, and it grew from there.” The book is a compilation of stories of trauma around gun violence, as experienced by today’s youth. Both Rabbi Schiftan and Dr. Roebuck lead the members of Spiritus, and they agreed an event centered around the book would be a valuable addition to the Belmont University Initiative for Jewish Engagement. According to Heady, the planning of the event is indicative of the value of interfaith study and conversation around a particular topic. “This

G’mar chatima tova and wishes for an easy fast from The Pargh Team.

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The Jewish Observer • October 2022

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Rabbi’s Column The Fog Horn

By RABBI JOSHUA KULLOCK

I

n 1951, the American writer Ray Bradbury published a short story called “The Fog Horn.” It told the story of two guys working at a remote lighthouse in Lonesome Bay. As the night came in and the fog began to thicken, the workers added to the lighthouse the use of a horn to guide the possible ships around.

The first time I read the story, I couldn’t help but to associate the use of the fog horn to the sound of the Shofar.

The Shofar is our spiritual horn trying to call us back home, especially at times when we feel that we are surrounded by the darkness of the night and by the many challenges of life.

However the fog horn, with its deep and piercing sound, isn’t the most important character of Bradbury’s story.

And neither are the two workers spending the night at the lighthouse. The most important character of the plot, to me, is the sea monster that, at the peak of the story, comes from the depths of the ocean, responding to the horn’s call.

Bradbury’s tale is about the monster’s

terrible disappointment when the horn is not what he was expecting it to be, it’s about his pain and it’s about his profound and heartbreaking loneliness.

This story is, for me, a poignant companion in these days that connects Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur and especially, a great read in preparation for Yizkor because Yizkor is that time of the year when we remember how lonely we feel without the presence of those loved one who are no longer physically with us.

During Yizkor, many of us can feel a bit like the monster of the story, alone and in pain, sometimes shutting ourselves from the world, and some other times feeling like nobody can really understand what is going on with us. That is why, at times, we stop trying and we spend more and more time by ourselves. It’s very hard to feel lonely and far away from the rest of the world. And it’s even harder to witness how the people we love become more and more isolated, while nothing we do or say seems to help changing any of that.

Deep down we know that isolating ourselves is not the way to go. Not so long ago, the American Psychological

Association issued a press release saying that, “Loneliness and social isolation represent a greater public health hazard than obesity […] There is robust evidence that social isolation and loneliness significantly increase the risk for premature mortality, and the magnitude of the risk exceeds that of many leading health indicators.”

Isolation breeds frustration, and frustration breeds sorrow and despair. As we become sadder and sadder, we lose our ability to recognize how important we are in the lives of those surrounding us.

We believe that we are disposable and that no one will miss us. But that’s not true, and maybe that’s why we recite the Yizkor during Yom Kippur: The most crowded day of the Jewish calendar is also the one in which we are profoundly alone. More alone than ever.

And yet, in our loneliness we can come together; in our pain, we can join in prayer and remembrance with others, and then we can connect with them, knowing that, even if we all process our sadness in different ways, no one is immune to it. And, as we come closer together, we can finally realize that we all

need each other.

Isolation kills, but community can help us heal. It can be a religious community, and it can be a community of peers. Whoever you trust. Those you really care for. So, as we are preparing for Yom Kippur, I want to invite you to make some time in your schedule to call a friend, to hug a dear one, and to remind the members of your family that you love them. Even if you are in deep pain, remember that you are loved, repel the whispering voices in your mind that tell you otherwise, and transform the sadness of your loss into the fuel pushing you forward.

Yom Kippur ends with the blowing of the Shofar, our spiritual fog horn.

When that time comes, may that piercing sound become not the symbol of our loneliness and pain but the wake-up call to bounce back to life. May the memories of those who we will remember this upcoming Yizkor be a blessing and an inspiration and may their everlasting presences guide us to a life of meaning, to a life of friendships and to a life of love.

Amen. •

A 31 Day Benefit-of-the-Doubt Challenge

By RABBI YITZCHOK TIECHTEL

D

avid and Tamar Sheinberg were engaged during Chanukah of 2019, with plans to marry on March 30th, 2020. But their plans were upended right after Purim that year when the Covid-19 pandemic struck, and the Israeli government started implementing limits on crowds. Taking no chances, the couple quickly moved to hold the wedding as soon as possible while they still could.

They asked their friends to stay home and held a small but beautiful celebration for family only. As they sat down to enjoy the wedding feast, the celebration came to a halt when David’s brother-in-law ran into the hall to tell everyone that the police were outside and were about to come and shut the wedding down.

The bride and groom themselves went outside and tried to explain that the crowd was small, and that all was in accordance with current guidelines.

But the police refused to listen; someone had called to report that guidelines were broken. To everyone’s shock, the police proceed to arrest the bride and groom themselves, detaining them for an hour and a half during their own wedding!

By the time they were released, the wedding was ruined. David had to gather some nearby yeshiva students to make a minyan so they could conclude the Sheva Brachos (Wedding Blessing Ceremony). David and Tamar were utterly devastated. The most special evening of their lives had been turned into a painful trauma.

Half a year passed, David and Tamar recovered and began living their life together. On the Friday before Yom Kippur of 2020, David received a phone call from his father, who told him that he had received a phone call from a certain yeshiva student who with a trembling voice had told him he had a confession to make: He was the one who had called the police that night. He admitted that he hadn’t bothered to find out how many

6

guests were in attendance or whether any guidelines were violated; he had heard music playing and rushed to call the police. Now, he was wracked with guilt.

When David’s father asked why he chose to suddenly confess now, he explained that he is actively trying to get married and ever since that fateful night he hadn’t been offered even a single date. It seemed that there was a heavenly decree against him for what he had done, and now he wanted to apologize for ruining a new couple’s wedding and ask for their forgiveness. He realized that he had made a terrible mistake and desperately wanted to come clean through his heartfelt apology.

David looked at Tamar with his heart pounding. That terrible night came back to them, how they stood for an hour and a half in the cold, surrounded by police as though they had robbed a bank, how all the food was left to cool on the table, without anyone to eat it. His pain and anger overcame him, and he shook his head no. They weren’t prepared to say the words, “We forgive you.”

Would you be willing to forgive the person who ruined your wedding? Do you have the strength to give the benefit of the doubt to someone who really doesn’t deserve it?

We gain a profound perspective on how we view others when we reflect on the fascinating way in which G-d views us. G-d’s judgment of each one of us during the High Holidays is both intense and incredibly insightful: “On Rosh Hashanah will be inscribed and on Yom Kippur will be sealed – how many will pass from the earth and how many will be created; who will live and who will die; who will die after a long life and who before his time; who by water and who by fire, who by sword and who by beast, who by famine and who by thirst, who by upheaval and who by plague, who by strangling and who by stoning. Who will rest and who will wander, who will live in harmony and who will be harried, who will enjoy tranquility

October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

and who will suffer, who will be impoverished and who will be enriched, who will be degraded and who will be exalted.”

We all desperately wish to be signed and sealed in The Book of Life for a “Sweet and Good New Year.” We ask G-d to ‘Inscribe us in the Book of Merits’ and to “list us amongst the righteous.”

But when we think about it for a moment, it seems absurd! Why would G-d judge us favorably simply because we asked Him too? What kind of judge would delete the crime just because the defendant asked him nicely? Beyond absurd, it’s actually a chutzpah! Is justice blind?!

The secret to the perfection of Divine Justice is hinted at in the High Holiday liturgy when we affirm that, “Each person’s verdict is written in their own handwriting.” What this means is that G-d judges us exactly in the same way that we judge others. Whether G-d will be forgiving and magnanimous or strict and petty is entirely dependent upon how we treated others in that exact situation. Thus, the verdict of our own judgment is indeed written in our own handwriting!

Instead of judging people by their past, stand up and help them repair their future. Most people who criticize others haven’t even tried what their victims have failed at. Don’t judge others simply because they sin differently to you.

Our request to G-d to inscribe us in the Book of Merits on the High Holidays is not a cold-call solicitation. We’re asking G-d to endow us with the courage and character to be able rise above our instinct to criticize others and to give them the benefit of the doubt. When we do so for them, the outcome for ourselves will automatically be the same!

Judging others is easy because it distracts us from the need to judge ourselves.

Carl Jung said that “Thinking is difficult, that’s why most people judge.” But if we think that we’re deflecting by shining the light on other people’s shortcomings instead of our own, G-d isn’t so easily

fooled. In His perfect Justice system, G-d sees us through our own eyes: Judging a person doesn’t define who they are.

It defines who you are! You can get to know someone much better by the things they say about others, than by the things others say about them.

Take a look at the inspirational sequel in the rest of the story of the “Ruined Wedding”: That night in Shul was Friday Night, when David read the words of the opening song of Shabbos “Yedid Nefesh Av Harachaman (G-d is the beloved of my soul),” he thought, “G-d is the source of good, and He is only good. If it was destined for our wedding to be ruined in this fashion, it must have been for our benefit.”

That Shabbat, David and Tamar talked it over. When Shabbat ended, David called his father and asked him to pass on the message to that yeshiva student that they forgave him with a full heart.

The day after Yom Kippur, in the evening, David was building their sukkah behind their apartment. Tamar was due home from work any minute, when his sister-in-law came in hysteria and announced that Tamar had been in a car accident. David’s heart started to pound, he was anxious to find out the condition of his wife and, only he knew, the condition of the new fetus in her womb—they had just learned that she was pregnant.

David rushed to the emergency room, where he found Tamar sitting on a chair. Thank G-d, she was okay! The doctor said, “Angels of kindness were watching over you. Seeing this crash, there was no way that Tamar and her fetus would have emerged unscathed as they did.” It was a miracle.

David and Tamar remembered how they forgave that yeshiva student just days earlier, and suddenly they understood: the whole wedding incident had been arranged by Heaven from the beginning, to give them the opportunity to be among those who are “inscribed in Continued on page 7

Heartwarming Signs of Support in Cherokee Park

Letter to the Editor

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e live in Cherokee Park, one of the neighborhoods where the hateful anti-Semitic literature was distributed last month. It was truly shocking that these age-old, false sentiments showed up in our neighborhood. Soon after it happened, we received this amazingly supportive email from Grace Renshaw on our neighborhood listserv: “We were sickened that this would occur in our neighborhood, and my husband, Randy Horick, wants to make a point of showing that we stand with our many Jewish neighbors and that we will not sit idly by while haters try to foment fear.

He designed and plans to order a simple yard sign that says ‘We Stand with Our Jewish Neighbors.’”

After reading this and then seeing the still-growing number of yard signs show up, we felt as if we had been given a huge group hug from our neighbors.

We sent out a thank-you email to all our neighbors. Here are a couple of excerpts from the responses that warmed our hearts: “We support y’all and can’t imagine any hate speech said towards our community and loved ones. We are here for you all️” “We support each other, always.”

And this from Randy Horick, the neighbor who organized the sign campaign: “… We were hurt and angered to learn about the pamphlets -- Grace found one while she was walking our dog. And we just wanted our Jewish neighbors

Antisemitism

By DR. FRANK H. BOEHM

I

Signs of support from neighbors in Cherokee Park

to know that we would not sit back in silence but wanted to send a message that any attack aimed at them was an attack on all of us.

It pleased me to drive through the neighborhood and see so many signs (20 in all so far). I actually thought of the both of you this morning as I drove out of the neighborhood, because I often see you walking to or from the synagogue, and I realized you would pass at least six of those signs as you walked along Lauderdale and Mayfair. We are getting requests for a few more signs as people who didn’t notice the original email see the signs in their neighbors’ yards and ask where they got them. So, I am hoping the number in the neighborhood will continue to grow!” ­— Evelyn & Mosh Koch

Open Letter to Nashville’s Jewish Community…

B

eing part of the Nashville broader community and the Nashville Jewish community for the past 45 years has been insightful and rewarding. Often, we hear that Nashville has a very unique Jewish community, as it is very welcoming and open to new voices and ideas. We have certainly found that to be the case as we have chosen to participate in various aspects of this community over time.

“During the past many months, Dick and I have been very focused as I was dealing with a serious, lengthy health crisis.

When members of our caring Nashville

Jewish community learned of this situation, numerous individuals stepped up to give us support in so many ways! A meal train was put into motion, and we were nurtured with meals frequently, in addition to flowers, reading materials, supportive conversations, phone calls and many texts to check up on my progress with treatment and beyond. There are truly no sufficient words to express our deep appreciation and love for each of you who expressed your caring in so many ways during this difficult time.

— Teena and Dick Cohen

31 Day Challenge

Challenge? This means that each day of this month of October, you make sure to judge at least one person favorably, trying every which way to give them the benefit of the doubt. Doing so will force G-d’s hand over you and your loved ones too, to overlook all your imperfections and focusing exclusively upon your merits!

Don’t judge me by my past. I don’t live there anymore. Every person you meet is fighting a battle that you know nothing about. Be kind to every single person. Let’s take the bull by the horns this year and ensure a year filled with health, happiness and success for us all! •

Continued from page 6 the Book of Merits”—to overlook what that young man had done, to judge him favorably. By forgiving him, they had judged themselves favorably, and opened a heavenly channel of blessing and salvation for Tamar and her baby.

This month we observe the Holy Day of Yom Kippur. We’d like to challenge you to prepare yourself spiritually for Yom Kippur in a way that you’ve never done before: Can you take upon yourself a 31-Day Benefit-of-the-Doubt

Learn more about the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee at www.jewishnashville.org

n August, CNN aired an hour- long program on antisemitism narrated by Dana Bash. The program’s subject interested me and so I looked forward to its showing. Unfortunately, it was quite weak in its content and dealt exclusively with video presentations of Jews being beaten or killed, swastikas painted on Jewish buildings, and verbal abuse hurled at Jewish individuals. The hour was filled with well- known images on the subject with little mention of the root causes of antisemitism or what could be done about it. The show did mention that antisemitism was on the rise in America as well as around the world, however, it did little else to help the viewer understand the basic causes of the problem.

I believe that antisemitism can be divided into two categories. The first is the usual canard that Jews killed Christ, Jews want to take over the world, and Jews control banking, media, and other important aspects of society. This form of antisemitism has been around historically for an exceedingly long time and except for attempts at education is difficult to erase from many people’s opinions of Jews.

The second form of antisemitism revolves around the more recent

Palestinian Israeli conflict which has invaded college campuses and mainstream media. While much of this aspect of antisemitism is camouflaged by anti-Zionism, it has become a predominant form of hatred against Jews since the creation of the modern State of Israel in 1948.

It is in this second aspect of antisemitism that I believe we can make a significant impact by educating our young Jewish adults on the history of this conflict before they go off to college. Our young adults need to be taught about the history of the absolute rejection of peace since 1948, despite numerous attempts

by Israel to make peace, due to the persistent Palestinian goal of destroying all of Israel as well as its Jewish population.

They need to be taught that if Arabs would lay down their weapons, there would be peace, but if Israel laid down its weapons, there would be no Israel.

We as a Jewish society have done a poor job of educating our children to give them the facts they need to counter the arguments they will encounter when they arrive on college campuses. I highly recommend that our Jewish young adults are taught the history of the Palestinian Israeli conflict while in Sunday School and thereafter and the sooner we add this issue to their curriculum the better. •

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Visit The Jewish Observer’s website www.jewishobservernashville.org The Jewish Observer • October 2022

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Newcomer’s Column

By EITAN SNYDER, NEWCOMER ENGAGEMENT ASSOCIATE

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elcome to the Observer’s monthly Newcomer Column! Every month, we will be featuring one of our Nashville Jewish Newcomers so you can get to know them and their dynamic, engaging stories. One of my favorite parts of my job as the Federation’s Newcomer Engagement Associate is connecting with the newcomers and bringing them into Nashville’s Jewish community through our Newcomer Shabbat dinners, Newcomer Welcome Receptions, and connecting them with community members and organizations who can help them feel like they belong here. We hope you enjoy reading these and give every

Meet this month’s newcomers, California transplants Jim and Sherri Holzer.

newcomer you meet a smile and a warm Nashville welcome!

If you would like to be part of the Federation’s work welcoming new Jewish Nashvillians to our community or have an idea of something else we could be

doing, please let me know at eitan@jewishnashville.org or 615-354-1664.

Introducing Jim and Sherri Holzer: 1. Tell us your story. Where are you from? How did you end up in Nashville?

Sherri, her mother Sally, our golden doodle Ziggy, and I moved here from Los Angeles. I am a southern California native, Sherri hails for the Bay area, Sally comes to us by way of Thessaloniki, Greece and Ziggy was born in Calabasas, CA. We have been married for 32 years and lived in the greater LA area almost all that time. We have been restless the past few years and always wanted to make a move but it’s hard to up and leave all you know, so we put it off. Both our children, Lauren , 28 and Branden, 26 moved

2022–23 HOLOCAUST LECTURE SERIES

Like a Reed

Cultural Genocide, Resistance and Resilience

Tuesday, Oct. 25 | 7 p.m.

Goldie Morgentaler Translating the Holocaust: Chava Rosenfarb’s Re-creation of the Lodz Ghetto in her Epic Trilogy, The Tree of Life Student Life Center, Ballroom C Goldie Morgentaler is professor emeritus at the University of Lethbridge where she taught 19th-century British and American literature and Jewish literature. She is the translator from Yiddish to English of much of Chava Rosenfarb’s work, including Rosenfarb’s seminal Holocaust novel, The Tree of Life: A Trilogy of Life in the Lodz Ghetto (2004, 2005, 2006). Her translation of Rosenfarb’s book of short stories, Survivors: Seven Short Stories (2004), won a Canadian Jewish Book Award and the Modern Language Association’s Memorial Prize in Yiddish Studies. Both of her parents were Holocaust survivors.

to New York in 2021. We wanted to be closer to them but did not want to move to NY so our brother-in-law, who’s in the music business here in Nashville, said, why not Nashville! Sherri and I came out to look, found a house in the Nations, sold everything in LA, and were living here 6 weeks later.

2. What has your Jewish story been like up to this point? How did you get involved with Nashville’s Jewish community?

When I closed my business, I decided to go back to my accounting roots. It had been a long time since I was in practice, so I went back and got my master’s degree in accounting. Sherri’s business, I am Simply Sherri (check her section out in every edition of the Observer) is more mobile and with a lot of hard work on her part, she was able to jump right in and establish herself in the community.

As for me, I was put in contact with Pam Kelner at Jewish Family Service. I contacted Pam, sent her my resume and next thing you know, I am interviewing for the Executive Director role at West End Synagogue. The rest is history.

3. How has your experience been in Nashville so far? Any notable memories or experiences?

Our experience so far in Nashville has been amazing. When you hear about “southern hospitality,” you have your doubts until you get here and have an opportunity to really experience it. We say this all the time but for us, it’s the people that make this such a special place. We have felt so welcome that it already seems more like home to us than Los Angeles ever did.

4. What do you love about being Jewish?

We love everything about it. The history, the beauty, the ritual is all so special. Sometimes we forget how lucky we are to be Jewish because of the world we live in. I guess that’s why they say, if it was easy, everyone would do it!

5. What do you love about being Jewish in Nashville?

It is the community itself that makes being Jewish in Nashville so special.

Coming from LA where every shul is in competition with each other, it is so refreshing to be a part of a community that all works together for the betterment of all of Nashville’s Jewish people.

6. What does the next year look like for you? Is there anything that you are still looking to do or experience in Nashville?

The next year is looking great for all of us. Sherri’s business is booming, Sally is loving her job at the JCC, Ziggy is living his best life as a southern dog, and I couldn’t be happier at West End. We still need to spend some time playing tourist here in Nashville but since we have decided that Nashville will always be our home, we have plenty of time to see it all. •

vanderbilt.edu/holocaust 8FhSF 0O :PVS .PWF

www.aginginplaceservices.net 629-999-2477 MRJS@aginginplaceservices.net

8

October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Vanderbilt Hillel on Observer Podcast

V

anderbilt Hillel celebrates its 20th Building Anniversary on October 13, 2022. To commemorate this date, Hillel will host a special small group dinner on October 13 for those who have been deeply involved with Hillel and its mission of engaging the next generation of Jewish leaders. Hillel will also celebrate its anniversary on Friday, October 7th from 2:30-5:30 p.m. with its alumni during Vanderbilt University’s Reunion weekend. There will be a special photo slideshow with pictures commemorating Jewish involvement at Vanderbilt University that will include historical photos from Vanderbilt University’s photo archive. Alumni will also enjoy special “Throwback” stations with vintage materials and flyers from the last 20 years of Hillel’s programming. The last 20th Building Anniversary event will be with the local community at the annual Taste of Hillel Fundraiser on Sunday, February 26th.

Visit www.spotify.com and search for Nashville’s Jewish Observer podcast to download a special podcast with Ari Dubin, Executive Director of Vanderbilt Hillel, as he reflects on the history of Vanderbilt Hillel.

In addition to these special events, Vanderbilt Hillel is calling on its local

Chabad Hebrew School Kicks off with a Blast The Bertram and Beatrice King Chabad Hebrew School started off with a Blast as children got to practice the Art of Shofar sounding, and participated in a Scribe Workshop and learned about the skill of writing a Mezuzah.

Vanderbilt Hillel celebrates Building Anniversary in October.

20th

supporters who have been involved in the formation of Hillel and its building to send quotes, stories, and pictures for its 20th Building Anniversary commemoration booklet. All materials can be emailed to shannon.small@vanderbilt.edu. •

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The Jewish Observer • October 2022

9

In Pursuit of a Better World: Nashville Jewish Days Schools Cultivate Community Mindedness

By ELLY EBIN

T

he importance of good character or being a mensch as we oft beseech our children, is not something easily taught in a theoretical sense. Lessons on goodness and community-mindedness are far more likely to stick with our children if they move beyond the conceptual framework and become lived experiences. The Jewish Day Schools of Nashville are unified in their mission to instill students with social-mindedness and the skills and knowledge to engage with community challenges and be active participants in affecting change.

As the holiday of Sukkot approaches, students at the Jewish Middle School explored the concept of the Sukkah (the temporary dwelling constructed for use during the holiday). Students learned various Talmudic debates about the sukkah and discovered that the sukkah provides two essential comforts to those dwelling within: physical safety and emotional safety. This concept launched a school-wide exploration into understanding the difference between a house and a home and an action plan to help combat homelessness in Nashville.

Partnering with Room at the Inn, a local non-profit committed to sheltering people experiencing homelessness, JMS students will be touring their Campus for Human Development to see first-hand how Nashville serves its un-housed population. JMS students will develop and

implement a community-service project designed to help alleviate the challenges and unmet needs of this population.

Rabbi Daniel Hoffman, Associate Head of School for Judaic Studies at JMS, noted, “When we have the opportunity to both learn and to put that learning into action, we accomplish two things at once: we make a difference in the world, and we also allow the students to see that the text is real, the text matters, and it’s not just something on a page that was written thousands of years ago.”

The idea that students need to put their learning into action and engage in community projects is something that is taught from the moment children begin their Jewish education in Nashville. At Akiva, this year’s Kindergarten Class is already engaged in social action, learning about the different ways they can help their friends, families, and community.

The students will be visiting a local Goodwill to learn first-hand about their mission to change and improve lives across Middle Tennessee, and they will run a drive to collect items from the community on behalf of Goodwill. The Fourth-Grade class has been hard at work clearing up and replanting the Akiva garden, and will open up the crop of vegetables to Akiva families and communities to take and use, as needed. Fifth and Sixth graders at Akiva are participating in a Chesed program that encourages students to commit time in service of school and community needs. Much of Akiva’s

mission is grounded in the idea that volunteering and community service are essential in cultivating students who are responsible and principled members of a global community. Sixth graders Sylvie Mackler and Lyla Banish are constantly looking for ways to help around Akiva.

Sylive says, “I ike that we can show the school that it is easy to help out here and in the community.” Lyla added that, “Everybody needs some help or support with something. Even if people don’t see all you do, it is still having an impact on someone, and it just feels good to be able to help.”

Founders and faculty of Kehilla High School, now in its inaugural year, are committed to this idea, and have developed a curriculum that guides students to be productive citizens grounded in ethics and morality. At Kehilla, which literally means ‘community,’ students are introduced to moral problems and explore Jewish views and varying perspectives of these issues. Students are tasked with

finding different avenues of action and implementing practical solutions. Rabbi Saul Strosberg is the Founder of Kehilla High School. “From day one at Kehilla, we work to engage deeply with our greater communities,” says Rabbi Strosberg, adding, “These students understand that they don’t live in a vacuum and that they have a deep responsibility to learn about and become involved in the world around them.”

The Jewish values of chesed and tikkun olam (repairing the world) are foundational to Jewish education in Nashville. Students from Kindergarten through High School consistently learn about their responsibility to be productive citizens and are given the opportunity to practically apply these lessons every day. Through hands-on community service work students develop social-awareness and empathy, and experience firsthand the positive impact they have on their communities and in the world around them. •

Hadassah Happenings O

n Nov. 3, Hadassah is sponsoring the closing film of the Nashville Jewish Film Festival at 7pm at the Belcourt Theater. The film is a sexy, German romcom titled, “Love & Mazel Tov.” Join

Hadassah members for dinner at 5:30pm before the film. Film Tickets are $10, and dinner is a separate charge. Please rsvp to Mindy Drongowski (615-613-4946) at mandmski@comcast.net •

Hadassah Nashville Holds Fundraiser October 30 to Support Ukraine T

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www.ArgentTrust.com

10 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Hadassah, the Women’s he Nashville Chapter of Zionist Organization of Hadassah is planning an America, Inc., has been helpevening of food and song on ing Ukrainians since the start Sunday, October 30 at West of the conflict. Hadassah End Synagogue and invites HMO (Hadassah Medical all to attend. After a wine, Organization) has to date sent hors d’oeuvres and dessert 15 rotating teams of Hadassah reception beginning at 5 pm, internationally known art- I n t e r n a t i o n a l l y doctors and nurses to the Polish ist, Batsheva, will perform renowned artist, border who work in makeshift her program entitled, ”The Batsheva, will per- clinics to treat the refugees. In Secret Jewish Soul of Leonard form at Hadassah addition, they have been trainfundraiser to sup- ing other medical professionals Cohen.” Originally from port Ukraine. on how to deal with trauma, a Toronto, and now based in subject the Hadassah doctors know only Nashville, Batsheva has a robust followtoo well. ing due to her ability to sing in English, At the start of the conflict, Youth Hebrew, Yiddish, and Ladino. To sample Aliyah Villages in Israel welcomed many her superb voice, place your phone camyoung Ukrainians. Some of the refugees era over the QR code in the ad. have moved on while others remain and Canadian singer, songwriter Leonard are being educated alongside the other Cohen needs no introduction. His song, students who come from a myriad of “Hallelujah,” has been recorded by more countries. artists than any other song in history.

To attend and /or to donate, kindBatsheva has the only authorized translaly go to: www.hadassahsupersouth.org/ tions of two of his songs from English to donorconcert • Hebrew and Yiddish.

Learn more about the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee at www.jewishnashville.org

West End Synagogue Launches New Programming

I

n anticipation of a sweet new year, West End Synagogue launched several new program initiatives with early kickoffs in August and September. Starting in August, the first Friday Night of the month now includes Date Night Shabbat where the month’s anniversaries are celebrated and recognized. Anniversaries are celebrated with a rose and couples are invited to join the rest of the congregation for an oneg following services. The idea of the program is not only to come together to commemorate those special moments in our lives, but also serve as a great way to connect couples who share anniversary dates.

The September date night proved especially memorable for Simon Newman and Lisa Clewner who were not only celebrating their Chai anniversary (18 years married) but also the Friday night celebration of their son, Gabe’s Bar MItzvah weekend. When asked about the program, Simon shared, “We appreciated being recognized on anniversary Shabbat! It was nice for the synagogue to do something to help commemorate a special event from our lives. It also was great to celebrate with others who share our anniversary timing!”

Similarly, the fourth Shabbat morning of the month now includes recognition of “Birthday Blessings” where those celebrating their birthdays in the month receive a sweet treat from the congregation. Rabbi Joshua Kullock was among the first to receive one of these blessings and noted, “I was thrilled to celebrate my birthday during the last Shabbat of the month with everybody else having a birthday in August. Bringing people together is one of the things that a congregation should do and it is an awesome opportunity to reconnect with one another and to be grateful for the good things in life. I certainly hope to see everyone with an October birthday on the 22nd!”

The newly formed programming committee at the synagogue was looking for ways to reconnect after the isolation of covid over the last few years. Being separated for so many milestone events helps one truly appreciate those small moments like birthdays and anniversaries and it is so much more fun to enjoy them when we can be together. But there are many other ways to enjoy being back in person and together in the building again.

Beit Miriam Religious School kicked off the year on Sunday, September 11th and with it another exciting new program was launched. Sunday Schmooze began with “Sips and A Schmear” with WES’s resident mixologist, Jason Sparks teaching more than 30 attendees how to make the perfect Bloody Mary followed by a brunch sponsored by Sisterhood.

The Sunday Schmooze is a social opportunity for parents of Sunday school students and others to get to know one another and enjoy a broad range of program offerings. Events take place on Sunday morning following minyan and will include speakers on topics such as Kids and Nutrition and Internet Safety, self-care programs like guided walks and yoga, and social opportunities. The fourth Sunday of the month will typically include a Sisterhood Sunday Event.

Sunday Schmooze programs are open to everyone, and all are welcome to attend events. In October the programs include a session on the upcoming Israeli elections, led by Ari Dubin on the 23rd and a planning for retirement session sponsored by the Men’s Club on the 30th.

Launching in October is a brandnew Shabbat experience for the Young Professional community. The third Friday night of the month will now include either an oneg or a potluck dairy/vegetarian dinner following services. More information about Shabbat celebrations, the Sunday Schmooze programs and other fun events can be found on the WES website www.westendsyn.org • New Programs 10/2 Sunday Schmooze 9:30 am Program TBA 10/9 Sunday Schmooze 9:30 am Program TBA 10/23 Sunday Schmooze 9:30 am “Once More, For All the Marbles? Exploring the Stakes of Israel’s Next Election” with Ari Dubin 10/30 Sunday Schmooze 9:30 am Men’s Club Retirement Planning Series 10/7 Shabbat Date Night Oneg following

West End Synagogue member, Jason Sparks, shows how to make the perfect Bloody Mary at a recent “Sips and A Schmear,” event.

6 pm services 10/21 Young Professionals Shabbat Oneg following 6 pm services 10/22 Birthday Blessings during Saturday morning services (Services begin at 9:30 am) 10/22 Junior Congregation 10 am 10/2 Alternative Family Tashlich

West End Synagogue members enjoy schmoozing and brunching on Sunday mornings.

Paddleboarding at 1:30 pm 10/9 No Sukkah, No Problem Potluck Dinner following services at 6 pm 10/12 Pizza in the Hut Sukkot Dinner for Families with Young Children and Religious School at 5:30 pm 10/14 Sukkot Dinner following services at 6 pm, reservations required 10/16 Music and Me 10:00-11:30 a.m. led

by Kari Spieler & Adam McHeffey 10/16 USY and Gesher event open to anyone in 5th -12th grades

2022–23 HOLOCAUST LECTURE SERIES

Like a Reed

Cultural Genocide, Resistance and Resilience

Tuesday, Nov. 8 | 7 p.m.

Amelia Glaser Songs in Dark Times: Yiddish Poetry of Struggle Alumni Hall, Memorial Room (202) Amelia Glaser is an associate professor and holder of the Endowed Chair of Judaic Studies at the University of California, San Diego. In 2021–22 she was the Rita E. Hauser Fellow at the Harvard Radcliffe Institute. She also held fellowships at the Ukrainian Research Institute at Harvard University and the Herbert D. Katz Center for Advanced Judaic Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.

Glaser is the author of Songs in Dark Times: Yiddish Poetry of Struggle from Scottsboro to Palestine (2020) and Jews and Ukrainians in Russia’s Literary Borderlands: From the Shtetl Fair to the Petersburg Bookshop (2012).

vanderbilt.edu/holocaust

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

11

Report: Poland Continued from page 1 For the past seven months she has been working in the JAFI offices. “I got a ‘rescue call,’ from the head of the JAFI office here. He said I would be able to help others and receive help myself,” she says. Most of Kseniya’s family was also able to make their way to Poland, except for her elderly grandmother, who wishes to remain in her home. “I worry about her all the time,” says Ksenia “But I talk to her every day and so far, she is still doing alright.” The same is not true for Katya Rabina. She was Director of Informal Education in Ukraine and was on her way to a retreat for youth leaders in Budapest when the invasion began.

She, too, is stranded in Poland and her family remains in Kyiv. She became emotional as she explained that her brother is military age, and her older parents have health issues that make fleeing the country difficult. “I worry about them all the time,” she says, “I don’t know when I will see them again, and it’s very stressful.”

The wait to be processed for Aliyah

and then to board the flight to Israel can take several weeks. The center provides many services for those waiting, including medical care, therapy groups, and childcare. Some rooms have been turned into small stores, providing personal items, clothes, diapers, and food. “Everything is new,” says Ksenia, “These people have

lost everything, and we want to preserve their dignity by making sure they have new items.” In the meantime, families wait and try to deal with the trauma they have experienced. Dimitri and his family, which includes wife Yuliya and daughter Lena, fled from Kharkiv. “We stayed home for a little while,” says Dimitri, “At first there were no missiles being fired, but when they started, we had to stay in the corridors of our apartment where there were no windows.” He sent his wife and daughter to the western part of the country and eventually joined them to make their way to Poland. Yvgeny and Victoria, from Mariupol, spent two weeks under hard attacks. The lived in a single-family house and hid in their basement. Through an interpreter, Yvgeny says, “We eventually ran out of water. There were missile attacks on our street and two of them hit our house. We tried to fell by car but had to turn back.” Also through an interpreter, Victoria says, “The news isn’t showing everything. We saw a lot of dead bodies in the streets, and people were eating pigeons because there was no food.” Victoria’s sister made Aliyah in 2014, so the family is

waiting to join her soon.

When asked what message Dimitri and his family, and Yvgeny and Victoria would like to send to people back home in Nashville, the answer was a mixture of hope and pain. Victoria said, “I want people to think about the tragedy of what happened.” Yuliya wants people to remember, “The war has really been going since 2014*. We couldn’t feel it until it got close to us. It is so frightening to lose everything overnight.” And everyone expressed hope that Ukraine would win the war.

These are but a few of the stories heard on this mission trip. In this issue of The Observer, readers will find reflections from the delegates, which included Rabbi Flip Rice, Federation Board Member, Hayley Levy, Federation Past President Carol Hyatt and her husband, Larry Hyatt, Denise Alper, Ned Jacobson, and Observer Editor, Barbara Dab. The next stop on the mission was Krakow. In the coming months, more stories from the trip will be reported. • *In March, 2014, Russia invaded and annexed Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula.

Violence continues to this day.

Relections Continued from page 1 the JCC transformed itself, with no prior experience, into a crisis center to assist refugees with essential food, housing and other necessities. This heroic effort is for ANY refugee, Jew and non-Jew alike.

Auschwitz is just an hour away and as we know all too well, a symbol of what can happen when the world does nothing. Fast forward to today, a Jewish organization is in the forefront dedicated to meeting the needs of a displaced people; most of whom happen not to be Jewish.

This fills me with enormous pride and belief in the power of decency.

Our time in Poland was short, but I felt our efforts and presence were very much appreciated. Our “heroic contribution” at the JCC was to break larger boxes of sugar, coffee, tea and such, into smaller packets so that it can be stretched and distributed to the mostly mothers and children waiting patiently in line outside the building.

On our last day we visited families in temporary housing which is being leased by the JCC. We created art with the kids and interacted well despite the language barrier. When it was time to leave, we gave each child a small stuffed animal. A beautiful girl, probably age six or seven, went to find someone who

Denise Alper, pictured right, volunteered at the Szafa Dobra warehouse for refugees, along with Hayley Levy, center, and Ned Jacobson, left.

could translate for her. With one hand holding on to the translator and in the other, the stuffed animal, she walked over to us and said, “You made my dream come true. Thank you so much for giving me this toy; I had to leave all my things at home.” Our tears in response required no translation. •

12 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Carol and Larry Hyatt purchase much needed supplies at the Makro Big Box store in Krakow, Poland.

Leaving it Behind Continued from page 1 an uncertain future when so recently you were just going about your life with only everyday concerns.

We were so impressed with the work being done to help the many people who have fled their war-torn country. It made us proud of their efforts and of the generosity and caring of the Jewish people. •a

To See is to Believe

World Moves On

Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1

Volunteering took place at two different locations. One location was at a vacant big box store that serves the refugee community as a clothing center for all ages. The store was set up like any large clothing store. All clothing items were neatly displayed on hangers.

Socks and undergarments were always new items. Shoes were new or lightly used. We were given a crash course on refugee psychology and mental health issues before being allowed on the store floor. Given the language barrier, a smile and a kind gesture went a long way. In a six-hour day, we saw 523 people who left with over 5500 pieces of clothing. The other location, in the heart of old Krakow, was the Jewish Community Center of Krakow. The JCC of Krakow is a small, gated compound with an associated synagogue. Prior to the refugee crisis that began with the war in Ukraine, the JCC of Krakow served the needs of the small Jewish population of Krakow. With the onset of the Ukrainian refugee crisis, the JCC of Krakow has transformed itself into a distribution center for food and clothing for all Ukrainian refugees. No one is turned away! Our time was spent packaging all sorts of food for distribution such as coffee, tea, nuts, and grains.

Although this was a Jewish Federation trip, most refugees are not Jewish. In fact, the CEO of the Krakow JCC told us that 90% of the Ukrainian Refugees who use the services of the JCC

available to go on this mission trip, I immediately said yes! I was honored to travel with seven of my closest, new travel companions.

Our first stop after landing in Warsaw was to visit the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), which was set up in a hotel complex not far from the airport. When the war in Ukraine first started, JAFI had four hotels that served as temporary housing for Ukrainians looking to make aliyah to Israel. Now they operate out of just one hotel, as the refugee surge has slowed. More than 12,000 Jewish Ukrainians have emigrated to Israel since Russia invaded Ukraine, and more than 7,000 of those individuals have come through JAFI’s Warsaw office. We learned that Ukrainian refugees were referred to as ‘beneficiaries,’ not ‘refugees,’ to provide the families and individuals with dignity during this difficult time.

Our guide at JAFI, Kseniya, wanted to know from our group what Americans were saying about the war in Ukraine. At the time, American news had moved on from coverage of the war to midterm elections, flooding in Mississippi, and other issues nationally. The war that was once front-page news when it started was not the main headline in America anymore.

It was heartbreaking to share with Kseniya and her coworkers that, for the most part, America’s attention had shifted.

Many of the aid coordinators that we met, like Kseniya, were Ukrainian them-

Ned Jacobson helps Ukrainian refugees obtain necessary items at the Szafa Dobra warehouse store in Krakow, Poland.

are not Jewish. He said this does not dissuade him and should not dissuade us from this very Jewish mission of repairing the world one person at a time.

The news cycle in the United States is shifting away from the war in Ukraine, but we cannot shift our focus away from the needs of these refugees Jewish or not.

We as Jews present a very Jewish example of not abandoning “the other,” when humankind has so often turned its back on the “other.” I have asked myself many times on this short and most powerful trip, where was the United States and the world 80 years ago when the Jews of Ukraine and Poland needed the worlds help. We must not repeat the mistakes of our past. •

Rabbi Flip Rice Continued from page 1 do you think gets out first? Yet their lives have been uprooted by war. Their children are confused and just want to play.

Their stories are harrowing.

There is Diana. She is as unhappy as she looks. She is in a foreign country.

She has not seen her father in some time.

Her mother is driving her crazy. She does not speak English and yet I determined all of this based on her body language and my interactions with her. It took a while…but your rabbi got her to smile.

I taught her how to play dots…a simple game I used to play with my children on a napkin when they were young and the food at the restaurant was taking too long.

My children needed to be entertained, comforted, and coddled If and when the food we ordered took an extra 10 minutes. Diana has required comforting for months now…By a strong and hurting mother, by contemporaries – other kids, and by professional therapists. She made me something out of paper. It melted my heart. Her mother and I are now Facebook friends, even though we don’t speak the same language.

Diana is one of several children at the Paszkowaka Palace located outside of the city of Krakow.

The Palace has been transformed into a home for several of the beneficiaries. It was supposed to closed in July. Then the plan was to close it by September. They are currently planning on being open beyond the first of the year. Here again the beneficiaries (Diana included) are not Jewish. It is important to mention because part of what drives the employees of the Krakow JCC is history. When they came for the Jews of Poland in 1939 no one did anything. So, it was not an option to do nothing for others in 2022. THEY CANNOT DO EVERYTHING, BUT THEY COULD NOT DO NOTHING! The Jewish community of Poland felt

Rabbi Flip Rice and Diana spend time together in Paszkowaka Palace, a home for Ukrainian beneficiaries.

Rabbi Flip plays with children at the Pszkowaka Palace

compelled to do SOMETHING to help BENEFIT the now 2 million+ people who have made their way from the Ukraine to Poland.

What about the Jewish ones? To answer that question, I must back up. We flew first to Warsaw. Our team included Micah Members Larry & Carol Hyatt, West End Members Ned Jacobson and Federation staff member and Observer Editor, Barbara Dab. Temple Members Denise Alper & Haley Levy. Our mission included spending time there witnessing what the Jewish Agency is doing.

I know we value humility here at Micah, but almost nothing made me prouder to be a Jew. Our first stop was a hotel, not our hotel. At first, we were confused when we arrived. There were several individuals with earpieces…The kind you see on folks who work security. The hotel is serving as a temporary housing unit for the thousands of beneficiaries who are in the process of making Aliyah…moving to Israel.

Here we heard actual…WAR…stories. People who fought tears (and some who did not) describing how they fled

Mariupol by car, Kiev by train…escaping death. Leaving behind their lives. There are many who do not ever plan to return to the Ukraine. As opposed to what happened during the Shoah – the Holocaust, we - the Jewish community- now has a powerful, worldwide network. A way to get our people out…and to safety. If it had only existed, then.

A woman explained her personal journey to Poland from the Ukraine and how she came to work for the Jewish Agency. During our time at this temporary housing center, we also met with a man who oversees immigration for ALL OF ISRAEL. You want to talk power. Sitting in this makeshift office of a hotel in Warsaw he decides the fate of thousands of people. He could have been a member of Micah…and here is why: He wants to help people…ALL people.

His job requires that those wishing to immigrate to Israel, provide any shred of evidence that they have Jewish blood: even a distant grandparent. You don’t have to be empathic to sense the fear in an interview room.

Our goal was to get to Krakow, but

Hayley Levy spent time volunteering at the Szafa Dobra refugee center.

selves. Kseniya got stranded in Warsaw while on vacation when the war first started. She was separated from her family and has not been home since the end of February. She has only the suitcase of belongings from her vacation, probably like the suitcase I was traveling with for just one week.

Kseniya introduced our group to two beneficiary families hoping to make aliyah and translated their stories for us. One family was from Kharkiv, which had been taken over by Russia and only recently regained by Ukraine. The parents shared their struggle to get to Poland and why they wanted to take their little girl to Israel. We also heard from an elderly couple, who was forced to hide in their basement without electricity, food, or water. When they left Continued on page 14 we spent some time in the Jewish museum and bore witness to the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, visiting this wall it was hard not to imagine what had happened behind it. The pain, strength, resilience of those who walked the very same earth before us. Unbeknownst to my fellow travelers, I had arranged a meeting with Marta Kubica.

Marta works for ELNET – The European Leadership Network – an organization that makes connections between European governments and the State of Israel. Conceived of and chaired by Micah Member Larry Hochberg – who happens to also be my father-in-law, ELNET works in 10 countries. Marta was able to answer several questions, not just about the refugee crisis, but about the politics of Poland.

It is as difficult to get an abortion there, as it is now, here. CBD, however, is legal, and available for distribution in kiosks.

We awoke the next morning and took the train to Krakow. A strange feeling encompassed me as a boarded a train in Poland. Most, if not all the buildings in Warsaw are new, because the Nazis leveled the place. Krakow, however, was preserved, as it served the Germans’ purpose.

The Krakow Jewish Community Center could probably fit in this room.

Packed with employees, volunteers, and beneficiaries, the place is tired and yet beautiful; vibrant and yet sad. We spent a few hours packing supplies along with a few Americans and Israelis just traveling through, and gave them the Nashville Federation $17,000 donation. The work that we did for just a few hours on just a few days, has been ongoing for months.

By chance, we spoke with the director Jonathan Orenstein. He had been away and was just back from the states speaking to Jewish communities, raising awareness and money. Helping beneficiaries is not part of the Krakow JCC mission statement, But IT IS part of a Jew’s mission on earth. A New Yorker by birth with Israeli Continued on page 14

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

13

A moment of deep thinking Children at the Revere Jewish Montessori Preschool are taught the skills of how to focus and concentrate and develop their thinking abilities.

World Moves On Continued from page 13 their home, the woman shared that they came across dead bodies in the street as they sought to leave the city.

Our group asked these families what they wanted us to tell our families and friends back in America. The elderly beneficiary broke down crying as she told us that she wants people to know what they have been through. That their lives used to be normal, like ours, until one day everything changed. She told us the death tolls are much higher than what is being reported. She hopes for peace and for Ukraine to win the war.

At the end of our time together, both beneficiary families thanked us for being there, for donating our time and money, and for paying our taxes, through which America has supported Ukraine. I had never been so happy about paying taxes.

Even after talking with Ukrainians who fled their homes, I could still not imagine having to flee my home during a war. What would I bring with me if I could only take what I could carry? How would

I keep my family safe? Where would we go? What would happen if I was separated from my husband? What would we do if we had children to protect, like so many of the families I saw? All questions that are impossible to answer.

Another aid coordinator we met was a Polish man named Roger. When the Russian-Ukrainian War broke out, and beneficiaries started flooding into Poland, he felt compelled to give up his job to work with an NGO (non-governmental organization) offering aid. Since March, he had been volunteering with the Internationaler Bund Polska Foundation. This Foundation operated a warehouse called Szafa Dobra, where beneficiaries can “shop” for clothes and other necessities, all for free. Szafa Dobra was set up in an empty shopping plaza that was about to be demolished.

On Shabbat, part of our group went to volunteer at Szafa Dobra. It was the last day the warehouse would be open. Soon, the building would be demolished, and Szafa Dobra needed to relocate. At the time we volunteered, they did not know where they would move or when they would be able to reopen.

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14 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

That Saturday, my volunteer job was crowd control. I was tasked with counting each person who entered and left the Szafa Dobra warehouse on an app. The most popular item for beneficiary shoppers was underwear – it was heartbreaking to know that people had to flee their homes, leaving the most basic, everyday pieces of clothing behind. Since the day we were volunteering was the last day Szafa Dobra would be open, we were told to expect a higher turnout than normal. Typically, they served around 400-450 people a day.

That day we served 554 beneficiaries – the highest number of beneficiaries served in one day. I counted!

I was amazed to see so many American volunteers everywhere we went. Besides our group, we met an American couple visiting family in Krakow and volunteering for a few days while vacationing.

Then, I met a sociology graduate student, at school in California, spending her summer volunteering at Szafa Dobra while documenting stories of women impacted by the war. There was a Florida retiree, originally from Poland, who spends half the year in Florida and the other half in Krakow, volunteering each Saturday he was in his home country. Another volunteer from Florida, John, helped show us the ropes at Szafa Dobra.

Unlike during the Holocaust, or even with other international crises, Poland

is now doing its very best to support the Ukrainian beneficiaries. Not only have private organizations like the JCC of Krakow and NGOs like Szafa Dobra stepped up to offer aid, but the Polish government is offering direct aid. We did not see refugee camps or tent cities because Polish citizens are housing beneficiaries themselves. Our guide and driver shared that they have been hosting Ukrainians in their homes since the beginning of the war. In fact, the Polish government is providing full access to free health care and public education for Ukrainians, as well as work visas.

It is obvious the war is not ending as soon as everyone had thought or hoped.

The beneficiary population may certainly continue to grow and those who are already displaced will continue to need aid. Some may ask if it was worthwhile to visit and volunteer for only a few days.

In return, I would say definitely! Our Nashville Jewish community needs to do more than simply raise funds to donate, though that is also very much needed.

We cannot forget what is happening in Ukraine, even if it is no longer the headline story here in the United States. As Jewish, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a plea to the American Jewish Committee and the Jews of the world by video on June 12, 2022, “I ask you to redouble your efforts… so that we could end this war sooner.” •

Rabbi Flip Rice

I thought of Cantor Goldberg, Rabbi Laurie, and our Education Director Julie Greenberg and how they would be leading such songs at Micah only hours later on the first day of J-Lab – our religious school.

Concentrate. Isolate. Exterminate.

That was the Nazi’s plan. And it worked.

So now THE Jewish community is concentrating. It’s concentrating its efforts on how best to help, even if we disagree on what the best course of action might be. It is taking the vulnerable, like Diana and her mother and isolating them from the pain. And it is exterminating.

Eliminating the danger and addressing the grief.

We may not be able to do everything, but we refused to do nothing. So, I did what I could.

I sat on that floor of an ancient castle, only kilometers away from death camps, wondering why my government didn’t drop a bomb on those train tracks as I showed a small group of children how to make paper airplanes. Because they are just children, and they deserve to have a childhood. Something that was denied our predecessors in the camps. Truth be told, I am a beneficiary. Not because my “father was wandering Aramean who fled Egypt.”

I am not a refugee. Rather I was blessed to BENEFIT from spending a few days, in a difficult and beautiful place, with Jewish and non-Jewish volunteers, with people who are struggling, vulnerable, and with Diana. •

Continued from page 13 citizenship, Jonathan was actually quite critical of the work of the Jewish Agency.

“Don’t you think that if those people really wanted to make Aliyah to Israel, they would have before the war?” Jonathan said. Revealing the layers of complexity around the matzav – the situation.

On the Sabbath a few of us made the sacred pilgrimage to Auschwitz and Birkenau. Our tour guide – a young woman, had grown up in the city of Auschwitz, probably not far from the McDonald’s. And she told us that she felt compelled to do the work she does, because of it.

With a sincere and gentle knowledge, this non-Jewish woman guided us through the barracks and into the gas chambers. Theological thoughts raced through my mind. Words written by scholars I have studied for decades now.

Eliezer Berkowitz: “Just keep your Christian hands off our Jewish babies.”

Or Richard Rubenstein: “Why did God save us in Egypt but not in Europe?”

Emile Fackenheim: “We now have a 614th commandment, we must not grant Hitler a posthumous victory.”

I comforted myself with the words of Roger Gottlieb: “I do no real justice to the six million, if I do not delight in the singing of Jewish songs by children.”

Announcing the Inaugural Jewish Art & Music Festival in Nashville, TN “NASH JAM FEST”

By LESLIE SAX

J

oin us for a day of spice and music!

For the first time in Nashville history, Music City will host local and national Jewish music artists in a festival open to everybody in conjunction with this year’s Kosher Nashville Hot Chicken Festival.

The music lineup features Moshav, Distant Cousins, Neta, and Shlomo Franklin, musicians from Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville. In addition, Rabbis from each of the local synagogues will be invited to share a short 3–5-minute talk on stage in between acts and Cantors Tracy Fishbein, Josh Goldberg and Dov Rosenblatt will sing together

as a meaningful example of unity. Each Jewish organization is also encouraged to promote a Chesed project at their booth.

In addition to world class Jewish music, there will be art booths featuring Judaica as well as other handmade items for sale. Children’s activities will be offered throughout the day. Held simultaneously with the Kosher Nashville Hot Chicken Fest, JAM FEST will feature Kosher food options – including Kosher Hot Chicken and kid-friendly hamburgers and hot dogs. Local micro-brew beer, hard cider, and non-alcoholic drinks will be available on site.

The event will take place on the Outdoor Field at the J on Sunday,

November 6 from 12 - 5pm during the return of the Kosher Nashville Hot Chicken Fest. Admission is free and food and refreshments will be available to purchase. This year’s annual spicy festival is sure to be the best one yet. Eight teams including Chabad, Vanderbilt Hillel, and local synagogues will be competing for the title of best Kosher Nashville Hot Chicken. Famed spice masters from Hattie B’s and Hurts Chicken will be on site cooking kosher chicken food, along with the JAM FEST vendors. Due to the additional food vendors, we will not be selling mild (non-spicy) chicken at this year’s festival. The Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee is

a sponsor of the Kosher Nashville Hot Chicken Festival.

We are grateful to our JAM sponsors who have helped make this inaugural endeavor possible: Blackstone Brewing Company, Gordon JCC, Kroger, Nashville Brewing Company, Rhizome Productions, Congregation Sherith Israel, The Temple, West End Synagogue, and Zander Insurance, plus numerous private donors. Other sponsorship opportunities are still available.

For more information head to kosherhotchicken.com, and for JAM FEST sponsorship information, please contact us at: NashJamFest@gmail.com. •

Nashville Jewish Book Series Aims to Foster Connection and Conversation with its 2022-2023 Lineup

By MARGARET LITTMAN & FREYA SACHS, GORDON JCC NASHVILLE JEWISH BOOK SERIES CO-CHAIRS

T

he Nashville Jewish Book Series (NJBS) aims to connect the local community with authors from around the globe, fostering conversations that could not happen anywhere else in the world. The 2022-2023 lineup continues this work, connecting the community with authors and helping us better understand our world. The seven-month-long series features works by Jewish authors, some secular, and others featuring Jewish themes and topics.

In its seventh year, the series will host 13 conversations on difficult, entertaining, delicious, and complex topics across the city. This year’s series offers a mix of in-person events–at locations ranging from the Gordon JCC to the Parthenon to a secret location to be announced later–and free virtual events.

An accomplished group of Nashvillians– renowned journalists, novelists, teachers, and others–will lead these discussions with a lens only available in Music City.

A volunteer committee, aided by Gordon JCC staff, evaluates books and authors to select the lineup to create the Nashville-specific perspective on headlines and themes in the world.

Many authors participate in Jewish Book Council programming, while others come to us through committee connections and research. The committee looked at survey results and previous NJBS participants’ feedback to inform this year’s selection process.

Seven in-person, ticketed events offer the opportunity to meet authors, buy autographed copies of books and meet fellow book lovers. The lineup for 2022-2023 includes: • November 13, 2022: Author Nancy Churnin, whose book Dear Mr. Dickens tells the story of a brave young woman who spoke up to the revered Charles Dickens about anti-Semitism in his books, will offer programming for both children and adults. She will be joined by Committee Co-Chair Margaret Littman, author of It’s Her Story: Irena Sendler, and they’ll discuss the complexities of writing about difficult issues for children.

• December 8, 2022: Next, the series continues in full swing at a secret

location in East Nashville with local author Marissa R. Moss. The best-selling author will be in conversation with NPR’s Ann Powers to talk about Her Country, exploring the roles and perceptions of women in country music.

The evening will include a performance by singer-songwriter Katie Schecter, too.

• January 31, 2023: Food memoirist and travel writer Sylvie Bigar weaves memories of the south of France and unforgettable French cuisine in her book, Cassoulet Confessions. The conversation with Committee Member Miriam Leibowitz will take place at Overlord, Nashville’s authentic French cocktail bar, owned by Melvil Arnt, a member of the Nashville Jewish community. Yes, there will be some tasty sampling.

• February 16, 2023: Former member of Congress from Pennsylvania, journalist, women’s rights advocate, and mother, Marjorie Margolies talks about her book And How Are the Children?

Timeless Lessons from the Frontlines of Motherhood at the Gordon JCC. • February 23, 2023: Journalist Rina Raphael, author of The Gospel of Wellness: Gyms, Gurus, Goop, and the False Promise of Self-Care, will be in conversation with Congregation Micah’s Rabbi (and yoga teacher) Laurie Rice and WPLN’s Emily Siner to talk about the wellness industry and the myth of self-care culture in today’s society.

• April 3, 2023: Local scholar and author of Women Writing Jewish Modernity, 1919–1939, Allison Schachter will join Committee Member and acclaimed fiction writer Nancy Reisman to discuss Rewriting the Yiddish World: Translating Women’s Voices, amplifying women’s voices in Yiddish literature.

• May 2, 2023: Journalist Micheline Maynard will join Nashville’s hottest entrepreneurs, including Max and Ben Goldberg of Strategic Hospitality, to discuss Satisfaction Guaranteed, How Zingermans Built a Corner Deli into a Global Food Community, about how to create workplaces that are supportive of employees and customers…And,

the topic should get you excited for the deli-themed Food Fest which is just five days later!

In addition to the in-person events, the NJBS is building on the strength of its virtual events during the pandemic with six additional remote conversations. These are free discussions open to the community; advance registration is required. There will be opportunities for Q&A after the presentations.

• January 11, 2023: Committee Co-Chair Freya Sachs will lead a discussion with Jai Chakrabarti, author of the novel A Play for the End of the World, which won the National Jewish Book Award for debut fiction.

• February 7, 2023: Award-winning newspaper columnist Bill Haltom, Sears Crosstown in Memphis, will talk about the story of Julius Rosenwald and his life as a philanthropist and educator.

• March 2, 2023: Stephen Mills will discuss Chosen, his powerful memoir of childhood trauma and sexual abuse at Jewish summer camp, with Committee Member Natasha Senjanovic, an award-winning international journalist based in Nashville who focuses on issues of sexual assault • March 23, 2023: Benedetta Jasmine Guetta will share recipes from her Jewish Italian cookbook Cooking Alla Giudia with Committee Member and Italian speaker Senjanovic • April 20, 2023: New Yorker cartoonist David Sipress will talk about humor and what makes us laugh, complete with visual aids from his memoir, What’s So Funny.

• May 10, 2023: Closing out this year’s series, we end on a note of how

music inspires love and redemption in Japanese-occupied Shanghai. Weina Dai Randel, author of The Last Rose of Shanghai will be in conversation with Susannah Felts, co-founder of Nashville’s The Porch.

Sponsors for this year’s series include PJ Library of Nashville and Middle TN, The Porch, Vanderbilt University’s Department of Jewish Studies, and 3Sirens. Many locally owned bookshops– who are essential for making Nashville the literary-loving town it is–are supporting our events. Among those bringing books to our in-person events are Parnassus Books, TheBookshop, and The Getalong. Curious Capybara Bookshop, the Nashville Public Library, and others will have the books in stock.

The 2022-2023 NJBS committee members include: Co-Chair Margaret Littman; Co-Chair Freya Sachs; Past Co-Chair Amy Goldstein; Shayna Abrams; Ben Cohen; Lindsay Stillman Cohen; Nancy Reisman; Natasha Senjanovic; Miriam Leibowitz; Amy Kammerman; and Lauren Bufferd. None of their volunteer contributions would be possible without the work of Gordon JCC staff members Sharon Benus and Rachel Clark.

The NJBS runs from November 2022 to May 2023. Find the full schedule, with registration and ticketing information, visit nashvillejcc.org/book. Special events and add-on meet-and-greets with the authors will be available only to members of Chai Y’All, the series’ book supporters society. Become a Chai Y’All member online.

For more information, please visit nashvillejcc.org/book, or contact Adult and Community-Wide Programs Director, Sharon Benus at sharonb@ nashvillejcc.org or 615/354-1697. •

… because your memories matter 479 Myatt Drive, Madison, TN 37115-3024 615-712-9521 • rdschultz@schultzmonument.com

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

15

October in the Gordon JCC Galleries: The work of the Middle Tennessee Region of the Tennessee Watercolor Society and Marilyn Johnson

T

he Janet Levine March Gallery will feature an exhibition by the Middle Tennessee Region of the Tennessee Watercolor Society (TnWS) entitled, “Creativity Flows.” This exhibit features 34 Middle Tennessee TnWS artists representing many styles and techniques using water media on paper. Water mediums include watercolor, acrylics, water-based inks, and gouache. Paper choices are as varied as the many brands available. Each offers different textures and surfaces that meet the preference of the artist. Water based mediums are exciting to work with although they are often characterized as most challenging. When water mediums interact with water, “creativity flows.”

TnWS is an open, non-profit, volunteer organization for water media artists. The society is celebrating its 51th Anniversary this year, and has been impacting the Visual Arts and Culture of Tennessee since 1971 through water media exhibitions, programming, outreach and educational opportunities.

The Sig Held Gallery will feature the work of Native Midwesterner Marilyn Johnson. Marilyn first started painting in the 1960s in a course at Vanderbilt University taught by the late Arthur Orr. Known for his big personality and shaped canvases, Orr gave his beginner students one instruction only: “Paint the essence of something.”

Johnson sold her “essence” brick paint-

Springtime Stroll, by Hal Wright

ing for $5, graduated from Vanderbilt, and exchanged her brushes for a monthly salary. She worked in Washington, D.C. and attended graduate school in journalism and communications at the University of Florida, before returning to Nashville as a business journalist and later a meeting professional. Years later the late Paul Abstein invited Johnson to join the artists of his midtown Atlanta gallery and he became a valued mentor and friend. Johnson continues to work from her home studio and is represented

by York & Friends Fine Art in Nashville.

Her work is in residential and corporate collections throughout the U.S. The Senior Lounge continues to feature the work of Marilynn Derwuskus.

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

The Exhibition Dates are October 1-30th. The Art Reception is

2022 NJFF being hosted

by Nashville Institutions

O

ver the years the Nashville community has joined the Nashville Jewish Film Festival to support the 15 film festival by hosting screenings. We have grown from a handful of groups to a full schedule of hosts, and we are proud to list and thank them for their financial support of the 22nd Annual NJFF. Opening Night Oct 12 Chabad of Nashville hosting the live screning of film 1618 October 13 West End Synagogue hosting the virtual screening of Jews of the Wild West October 15 Argent Trust Company hosting the live screening of Greener Pastures October 19 Vanderbilt University Program in Jewish Studies, Now Gen and Next Dor hosting the live screening of The Man In The Basement October 20 Congregation Sherith Israel hosting the matinee screening of The Levys of Monticello October 20 The Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation hosting the virtual screening of American Birthright

October 25 The Tennessee Holocaust Commission hosting the virtual screening of Betrayed October 26 Vanderbilt University Holocaust Lecture Series hosting the live screening of Song Searcher October 29 The B’nai B’rith Social Club hosting the live screening of iMOrdecai October 30 The Navigation Trust hosting the live screening of Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog October 31 W.E.L.L of The Temple hosting the live screening of The United States of Elie Tahari November 1 The Gordon JCC hosting the virtual screening of Neighbors November 2 The Nastional Council of Jewish Women, Nashville Section hosting the virtual screening of March ‘68 November 3 Hadassah hosting the live screening of Love and Mazel Tov •

16 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Flavors, by Marilyn Johnson

Theatre Antique, by Wendy Leonard

Wednesday, October 19th from 6 -8 pm. Complimentary food and beverage, music by DJ Joseph Harris. It is free and open to the public. All exhibitions are free and open to the public throughout the month. Attendees need to sign in at the front desk. For more information, contact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www.nashvillejcc.org. •

Fireworks, by Patsy Sharpe

Under One Roof Returns October 9-17 at the Gordon JCC

By SHARON BENUS, GORDON JCC ADULT AND COMMUNITY-WIDE PROGRAMS DIRECTOR

T

he Gordon JCC’s Under One Roof, a community art exhibit, opens on Sunday October 9. In its sixth year, this community-based project brings together organizations in Nashville to create artwork around a central theme to be displayed in our sukkah during Sukkot.

This exhibit connects different communities around Nashville. The visual interpretation of the theme creates conversation between community members for us to take a moment and learn from one another’s views.

The theme for this year’s Under One Roof is Kehillah: Community. The Hebrew word Kehillah may be defined as community. A community need not be limited merely by the geographical setting in which people reside, but rather, the concept of Kehillah evokes the value of supporting its members’ physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs by promoting shared values and finding common purpose. We are living through turbulent and trying times and this year’s theme of Kehillah encourages us to find

common purpose to relieve people’s suffering, to fight for social justice and together, build a more resilient Nashville community.

This year’s Under One Roof will feature artwork of forty-two local organizations, including past participating organizations, Akiva School, Jewish Family Service, PENCIL, Sri Ganesha Temple, and Nashville Children’s Theatre, as well as new participating organizations, Friends Life Community, Nashville Opera, Greenways for Nashville, and the Frist Art Museum.

The Under One Roof exhibition is open and free to the public, from October 9-17. A closing reception to honor and acknowledge the support and work of all our partner organizations will take place on Sunday, October 16, 2-4PM, and Nashville Mayor John Cooper will be joining us to share some words.

Learn more and view past years artwork at nashvillejcc.org/underoneroof •

The Film Three Minutes: A Lengthening Explores Precious Moments Before the Holocaust

By BARBARA DAB

T

hree minutes of footage, shot by David Kurtz are the ONLY moving images remaining of the Jewish inhabitants of Nasielsk, Poland before the Holocaust.

At a recent screening, sponsored by the Tennessee Holocaust Commission, approximately 200 people viewed the film, THREE MINUTES: A LENGTHENING, which explores the human stories hidden within the celluloid. The event was spearheaded by Nashville Jewish community member, Marsha Raimi, who discovered a surprising personal connection to the film.

To learn more about her story, listen to the Nashville’s Jewish Observer Podcast on Spotify, or wherever you find your podcasts. •

Bianca Stitger, the film’s Director, answers questions after the film.

Pictured l. to r.: Maureen Germain, TNHC Manager of Support Services, Ken Gluck, TNHC Education Director, Marsha Raimi, Alyssa Trachtman, TNHC Director of Operations

Glen Kurtz, who found his grandfather’s Kodak film wrote the award-winning memoir, “Three Minutes in Poland,” upon which the film is based. He also answered questions after the screening.

Summer at the Gordon JCC

S

ummer at the Gordon JCC came to a close on Labor Day with the closing of the Outdoor Pool for the season. We hope everyone had a wonderful summer enjoying our newly updated space, thanks to the generous donors to the Our Community. Our Future. Capital Campaign. We look forward to many more summers in this wonderful space! •

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GHERUDK#MHZLVKQDVKYLOOH RUJ Judaism • Education • Connection • Spirituality • Friendship Meaning • Ancestors • Religion • Culture • Discovery • Fun The Jewish Observer • October 2022

17

At Our Congregations…

Nashville’s congregations Here are the websites for all five Nashville Jewish congregations, with information on services, upcoming events and more: Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, www.chabadnashville.com Congregation Micah, www.congregationmicah.org Congregation Sherith Israel, www.sherithisrael.com The Temple – Congregation Ohabai Sholom, www.templenashville.org West End Synagogue, www.westendsyn.org

@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad to host “Sukkot in the Cloud” and “Sushi in the Sukkah” Sukkot is known as the Festival of Joy, and as the Holiday celebrating the fall harvest. On the Sukkot the Sages declared it a mitzvah to eat 14 meals in the sukkah, and in keeping with the holiday’s agricultural meaning, gratefulness is expressed to God after the harvest through the eating of autumn fruits and vegetables.

A wonderful way to connect to nature is to cook with what is in season locally.

In Tennessee we are blessed with a bountiful fall harvest. Hearty homemade soups accompanied by an assortment of breads are a wonderful way for your family and guests to warm up during the chilly fall evenings in the sukkah.

Join friends and family as Chabad of Nashville will be welcoming the joyous holiday of Sukkot with a festive holiday socially distant Sukkot celebration at “Sukkot in the Cloud,” on Sunday, October 9, at 12:30 PM, at the Chabad of Nashville Sukkah Plaza. The festivities will include locally grown produce harvested by local farmers, in the spirit of the Festival of Harvest.

On Friday, October 14, 5:30 PM, all are invited for an evening of “Sushi in the Sukkah.” Guests will warm their body and soul, savor the spirit of Sukkot and enjoy Kosher Sushi, as the Festival of joy will be celebrated with a delicious Shabbat Sushi Dinner in the Sukkah.

Participants at these events will have the opportunity to do the Lulav Shake before lighting the Shabbat candles. There is no cost to participate in these two sukkot events.

RSVP appreciated at chabadnashville.com

Simchat Torah Under the Stars Chabad will host Simchat Torah Under the Stars, with an upbeat and joyous Family Friendly Simchat Torah celebration on Monday, October 17, at 7:00 PM. This event will include a festive holiday NY style deli dinner, a Simcha bar for L’chaim’s of joy, dancing with torah, and flags for the kids. The event will take place in the courtyard of Chabad of Nashville, and culminates the ultimate joy of the High Holiday season, and all are invited to participate. Go to chabadnashville.com for more information.

CHS to Offer Scholarships to Every Jewish Child The Bertram and Beatrice King Chabad Hebrew School began with was created with one goal in mind - to offer all Jewish children, even those with little or no background - an education and memories that will inspire them for a lifetime. For boys and girls ages 3-13 Hebrew reading and writing, Jewish holidays, tradition and culture in a fun, interactive atmosphere that will have your kids so captivated that they won’t even realize they’re learning!

The curriculum includes a comprehensive study of our rich heritage, our holidays and festivals, Hebrew Reading, Bar and Bat Mitzvah training, field trips, and interactive workshops.

Whether you can afford it or not, at Chabad, nothing is more important than the education of a child. Please don’t hesitate to ask for scholarships. Your confidentiality is guaranteed!

Chabad Hebrew school takes place on Sunday mornings at 10am-12pm at Chabad of Nashville. For more information and to register visit Chabadnashville.com

Chabad to offer a new course: Biblical Tales of Kings, Warriors and Prophets on the Book of Kings During the winter and spring of 2022 Chabad of Nashville offered a successful course on the Biblical Book of Samuel that was attended by many students from across the spectrum of the Nashville community. Due the great success of this course and by great demand from many participants, Chabad will be presenting a new series of Biblical Tales of Kings, Warriors and Prophets, on the Book of Kings. This will take place over two semesters, fall of 2022 and winter of 2023, on Monday evenings, beginning October 31 at 7:30 PM.

18 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

The Book of Kings from the Tanach (Prophets) records the history of the Israelites and their kings, from David’s passing until the Babylonian exile (837-423 BCE). It is divided into two equal parts, beginning with an account of the end of King David’s reign, Solomon’s succession and reign, and the disruption of the kingdom at his death, and continuing with the parallel histories of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel.

Participants will be immersed in the richness of the Jewish Scriptures and discover the hidden meanings that have been lost over centuries of translations, and delve into the fascinating world of the ancient prophets of Israel. This new learning opportunity explores the dramatic stories and powerful messages contained in the Book of Kings.

The lessons will take place on Monday evenings, starting October 31. For more information or to register go to www.chabadnshville.com or call 615-646-5750

Chabad to Host two TGIS Celebrations in October Start your Shabbat off right with good friends, great conversation, and excellent kosher cuisine, all seasoned with the perfect amount of spirit and joy. TGIS is a Club Med Shabbat: An all-inclusive Shabbat experience. Enjoy a Friday night Shabbat dinner replete with traditional dishes. Blended with spirited singing, a Chasidic tale, and a chance to meet some wonderful new people. TGIS will be held on Friday evening, October 14 and 28, at 6:30 PM at Chabad of Nashville.

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

Meet in Person for Prayer and Cholent Chabad of Nashville is a happening place on Shabbat mornings. Join community and Friends for Shabbat morning services, replete with joyful prayer, kavanah, simcha and great energy.

Join Chabad on Shabbat mornings at 10:00 AM for prayer and Torah reading, inspiring learning and a weekly sermon, followed by a hot cholent, freshly baked Challah, a gourmet buffet lunch, and a weekly farbrengen with some friendly L’Chaim.

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

Weekly Events Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, and the authenticity of our intention, and through the power of music and song. Join us in-person or virtually for services this month that will be as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory. Come early and schmooze with us starting at 5:15! Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served.

Saturday Morning Torah Study: Saturdays at 9 AM on Zoom

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

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

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

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

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

October Events: SUKKOT – PJ’s, Pancakes, & Paper Chains: Sunday, October 9th, 9:30 AM In Person On the Front Patio

Help us get the Sukkah ready for the week. Expressing your artistic side at Micah comes without strict guidelines. Be as creative as you like. We will provide some traditional décor based on the harvest: gourds, fruit, lights, paper chains, a lulav, etrog, etc. all we need you to bring is your children and a good mood on this happy holiday.

Micah Reads: Monday, October 10th, In Person in the Sukkah, and Monday, November 7th, at 7 PM on Zoom

Education Director Julie Greenberg leads the discussion on Goldie Goldbloom’s On Division in October and Vivian Jeanette Kaplan’s Ten Green Bottles in November.

All are welcome.

At Our Congregations…

Sports Trivia: Tuesday, October 11th, at 10:30 AM In-Person

Have you ever wondered who was on 3rd base when Bobby Thompson of the New York Giants hit “the shot heard ‘round the world” to defeat the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1951? Find out the answer to this question and many more when you join Martin Light and other Micah members for an hour of sports trivia on the second Tuesday of every month. Questions? Contact Martin at martylight@aol.com.

ReJEWvenation: What is Judaism All About?: A 7-Week Course Starting Tuesday, October 11th, on Zoom

Rabbi Laurie is offering this introductory class for anyone who is thinking about conversion or who wants to brush up on their Judaism. No charge for members, $100 for non-members. The first two sessions will meet October 11th and October 18th at 6 PM on Zoom.

Micah Minis: Saturday, October 15th, at 9:30 AM In Person

Sing and dance in the Eden Room with Rabbi Laurie and Cantor Josh. This family-friendly Shabbat experience is aimed at children 7 and younger.

Micah-nections: Brunch in the Sukkah on Sunday, October 15th, at 11:30 AM

Cantor Josh Goldberg will lead this inaugural event for our young professionals group Micah-nections. Join us for bagels, mimosas, music, and community in our beautiful Sukkah.

SIMCHAT TORAH - Celebrating the Cycle: Wednesday, October 19th, at 5:15 PM In Person in the Social Hall

You can dance if you want to, but at Micah we leave no friends behind. This musical service includes boogeying with the Bible – the Torah scrolls that is! Cantor Josh Goldberg and Rabbi Flip lead our celebration as we unwrap the Torah and wrap up the season on this magical night.

Women’s Circle: Friday, October 21st, at 12 PM In Person

Rabbi Laurie challenges your intellect through study and conversation on Judaism and other relevant topics. All are welcome. Bring a friend!

The Aging Parent: A 2-part Workshop for the Sandwich Generation: Thursday, October 27th, and Thursday, November 3rd, at 6 PM In Person

Rabbi Laurie and Education Director Julie Greenberg dive into the emotions of role reversal, navigating family conflict, and communication challenges. It will be a time to build community with and gain support from others going through the same stage of life, to share, and to learn from one another. No charge for members, $36 for non-members. Registration is required at www.congregationmicah.org/events.

High Holy Day Schedule 2022

Text Messages from the Sages: A Special Torah Study with Rabbi Laurie: Saturday, October 1st, at 9 AM on Zoom

CEMETERY SERVICE – Remembering: Saturday, October 1st, at 10:30 AM In Person only

Honor those people in our past who inspire us to live more fully in the present and future. Held on the most sacred grounds on our campus, Rabbi Laurie and Cantor Josh Goldberg lead mourners in the rituals of kever avot – visiting the graves of our loved ones.

TASHLICH – Paddleboarding: Sunday, October 2nd, at 1:30 PM See website for details.

KOL NIDRE – THE VOICE OF OUR COMMITMENTS: Tuesday, October 4th, at 7:30 PM In Person, Livestream on Micah Website, Facebook & YouTube

NOURISH YOUR SOUL “ ֖‫שָׁך‬ ְ ‫ֱֹלהיָך ְב ׇּכל־ ְל ָבבְָך֥ ּוב ְׇכל־נַ ְפ‬ ֑ ֶ ‫ו ָ ְ֣א ַהב ְ֔תָ ּ ֵ ֖את י ְה ָ ֹו֣ה א‬ You shall love your God ‫ יהוה‬with all your heart, with all your soul…”

-Deuteronomy 6 A person with a beautiful soul is kind, confident, genuine, and balanced. People with beautiful souls make others feel safe and at peace. You get a physical every year. It is time for your spiritual! Tonight, Jews gather in synagogues and online all over the world to take a reflective look “under the hood” and recalibrate our moral compasses within. On this, the holiest night of the year, be inspired by the warmth of a compassionate community, moved by the majesty of the music, and transformed by the journey of the soul.

YOM KIPPUR - A DAY OF FORGIVENESS: Wednesday, October 5th, at 10:00 AM In-Person and on Livestream on Micah Website, Facebook, YouTube

CONNECT WITH YOUR BODY “‫שׁמָתֹו‬ ְ ִ‫ש ּי ָצְתָ ה נ‬ ׁ ֶ ‫ עַד‬- until his soul left his body” -Berakhot 61b Judaism teaches that the body and soul are separate yet indivisible partners in human life. Rather than imprisoning or corrupting the soul, the body is a God-given tool for doing sacred work in the world. It requires protection, care, and respect because it is holy. At Micah every-BODY is welcome. Link your voices to the collective prayers of our people in-person or virtually in what is certain to be the most moving Monday morning on your calendar this year. Deny your body the food you feed yourself every day and feast instead on feelings of reflection, repentance, and a resolve to do better.

Spend the day praying and reflecting with us and it is sure to go fast! And nothing will improve your character more than the “Coming to Micah Moments” that this holy morning affords.

SPIRITUAL INVENTORY EXERCISE - SOUTHERN WORD: Wednesday, October 5th, at 12:30 PM In person only in the Sanctuary

An interactive Spoken Word Workshop led by artists that will explore themes of forgiveness to help us emerge from the

PANEL: Wednesday, October 5th, at 2:00 PM In Person only in the Sanctuary

As we seek to cleanse our souls personally, we also look to society. a group of specialists on a panel as they address ______ as we seek repentance, how we might better advocate for others, as well.

HEALING SERVICE – Praying Through Pain: Wednesday, October 5th, at 2:00 PM In Person only in the Chapel

Grief, loss, physical and/or spiritual pain. They are all a part of life. Rabbi Laurie & Cantor Josh Goldberg employ the wisdom of the Jewish tradition in leading this intimate circle in a series of healing prayers and therapeutic exercises. Therapy for the theological soul, the music and readings will afford you the chance to emote and the inspiration to restore hope.

SCHMOOZE & VIEWS - Talk Politics: Wednesday, October 5th, at 2 PM In Person only in the Education Wing

We keep our politics off the pulpit, but not out of the building. Dr. Bob Smith lay leads this political conversation that normally takes place weekly in our library. All opinions welcome. Please bring an open mind and a sense of humor.

LEARN ON-LINE – Open the Door for Elijah: Wednesday, October 5th, at 3 PM On Zoom only

Connect Virtually as Kabbalist and Rabbi Ethan Franzel leaves the zoom door open for Elijah the Prophet and all who wish to understand the mystical connections between his role in Judaism and that of Jonah.

LETTER WRITING PROJECT – The Ties that Bind: Wednesday, October 5th, at 3 PM In Person only in the Education Wing

A quarter century ago, Micah congregants, teachers, students, rabbis, and staff wrote letters that were placed in a time capsule to be opened and read by their counterparts in 25 years. A first grader reads a letter from a first grader, a congregant from a congregant, an administrator to an administrator, a teacher to a teacher, a rabbi to a rabbi. The box is open and it is time to write letters of our own to the future.

FAMILY SERVICE – Modeling Forgiveness: Wednesday, October 5th, at 4 PM In-Person in the Sanctuary and on Livestream on Micah Website, Facebook, YouTube

Rabbi Flip and Cantor Josh Goldberg explore the themes of the day for young children and their extended families. Music, stories, Torah, and kid-like confessions!

YOUTH SERVICE – Pray with your “Peeps”: Wednesday, October 5th, at 4 PM In Person only in the Eden Room

Experience Judaism with those your own age as Rabbi Laurie & Guitar Aficionado Aaron Tessis create a safe space for our young people as they journey through the liturgy of the day. Dramatic interpretations, camp-like songs, and peer participation are hallmarks of this “youth group-like” prayer experience for 6th graders and up. Adults are invited to sit this one out.

YIZKOR - Memorial Service: Wednesday, October 5th, at 5 PM In Person in the Sanctuary and on Livestream on Micah Website, Facebook, YouTube

Take off the mask of normalcy and let out the pain of loss. Share space with others in the community who have lost loved ones. Beautiful music, words of inspiration, and support from others - there is rarely a dry eye in the house.

NEILAH - Calling It A Day!: Wednesday, October 5th, Immediately Following Yizkor/Memorial Service In Person in the Sanctuary and on Livestream on Micah Website, Facebook, Youtube

After hours of spiritual work, we lay it all on the line and close the gates on the day that bridges heaven and earth with a short, home stretch service that is a favorite of members. Highlights include Havdalah with us all on the bimah and a final knock your socks off blast of the shofar. So good, you won’t want Yom Kippur to end!

SUKKOT – PJ’s, Pancakes, & Paper Chains: Sunday, October 9th, 9:30 AM In Person On the Front Patio

Help us get the Sukkah ready for the week. Expressing your artistic side at Micah comes without strict guidelines. Be as creative as you like. We will provide some traditional décor based on the harvest: gourds, fruit, lights, paper chains, a lulav, etrog, etc. all we need you to bring is your children and a good mood on this happy holiday.

SIMCHAT TORAH - Celebrating the Cycle: Wednesday, October 19th, at 5:15 PM In Person in the Social Hall

You can dance if you want to, but at Micah we leave no friends behind. This musical service includes booging with the Bible – the Torah scrolls that is! Cantor Josh Goldberg and Rabbi Flip lead our celebration as we unwrap the Torah and wrap up the season on this magical night.

What should I wear?

A suit and tie. Or jeans and a t-shirt. Or something in between. Our services are not about your clothes, they’re about your spirit. We’re happy to have you no matter what you’re wearing – as long as you’re wearing something, please.

Continued on page 20

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

19

At Our Congregations… @ Sherith Israel PINK CHALLAH BAKE SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30th, 1:00-3:30pm at AKIVA SCHOOL (809 Percy Warner Blvd, Nashville, TN, 37205) Please join us for this special Baking Out Breast Cancer event! Learn to bake challah and try new braiding techniques!

THIS PROGRAM IS FREE, WITH A SUGGESTED DONATION OF $36 This community wide challah bake will bring Jewish women together from all corners of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, to make challah and further Breast and Ovarian cancer and BRCA awareness. This is particularly important because so many of us are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. One in 40 Ashkenazi Jewish women have a BRCA mutation.

Knowing your genetics can be scary, but also very powerful. We chose to bring Myriad genetics to the event, as they are the gold standard for genetic testing. A doctor and phlebotomist will be on site for those who wish to have their genetics tested (blood drawn and sent to a lab with results in 2-3 weeks) for all of the known hereditary cancers.

We will also hear from several speakers including: Rabba Daniella Pressner, Dr. Ingrid Mayer, Sara Hanai, Pam Abromowitz, and BRAgroups, a Nashville based breast cancer support group.

And, finally, we will have the opportunity to uphold the long-standing tradition Jewish women have of making challah from scratch, together! We hope you can join us, as this is sure to be an engaging and inspiring event! Please RSVP at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSffYMfQQHcEBBSFlhxOLfynN-NL7ZW-_-p3z4JCBMLHdi3pJg/viewform?usp=sf_link

Shabbat Schedule for October

Shabbat Schedule for October Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. You can also watch via zoom from thetemplehub.org.

Friday, October 7th~ 6:00 PM Friday, October 14th~ 6:00 PM - SUKKOT SERVICE & HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CELEBRATORY SHABBAT Friday, October 21st~6:00 PM-SIMCHAT TORAH FAMILY SHABBAT SERVICE & FESTIVE ONEG Friday, October 28th ~ 6:00 PM –BLUE JEAN SHABBAT

Chevrah Torah Study 9:30AM on Saturdays

Join us for our weekly Torah study on the portion of the week, led by the clergy.

You can join us in person at The Temple or via zoom from thetemplehub.org

Cemetery Service Sunday, October 2

Kever Avot 1:30 PM The Temple Cemetery 2001 15th Avenue North Nashville 37208

Yom Kippur Schedule

Tuesday, October 4 Yom Kippur Evening – Kol Nidre 7:30 PM In-Person & Online Wednesday, October 5 Tot Yom Kippur 8:30 AM In-Person Yom Kippur Family Service 8:30 AM In-Person & Online Yom Kippur Youth Programs (K-6th grade) 10:15 AM RSVP Required ~ In Person Yom Kippur Morning Service 10:15 AM In-Person & Online Congregants’ Hour 12:45 PM In-Person & Online Afternoon Service 2:00 PM In-Person & Online Yom Kippur Afternoon Experiences 3:15 PM In-Person Yizkor Memorial Service & Ne’ilah Concluding Service 4:30 PM In-Person & Online Break the Fast 5:45 PM

Sukkot Service & Habitat For Humanity Celebratory Shabbat Friday, October 14 ~ 6:00 pm

For the 13th consecutive year, The Temple is participating, along with other congregations, in a build for Habitat for Humanity. As part of our commitment, we will be hosting a special kickoff celebration Shabbat service. Clergy from several faiths will be participating in the service, and we are expecting the proud homeowner to attend along with a large, diverse crowd of worshippers. Please join us as we welcome all of them to The Temple.

@ The Temple October 2022 Events All programming can be accessed via thetemplehub.org unless noted to be in person

Pirkei Avot: Jewish Wisdom for Today’s World Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM

Get ready for Shabbat with a little text study! Each week we will study a piece of wisdom from Pirkei Avot, The Ethics of our Ancestors, an ancient Jewish text still relevant in our own times.

Available in person at The Temple and via zoom.

Zoom Room: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81973096738

20 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

On Saturday, October 15, join our clergy for Sukkot Study 9:30 AM Shabbat Morning Service & Yizkor 11:00 AM

Brunch will follow in the Sukkah.

RSVP in person or online at TheTempleHub.org Both the Sukkot Study and Shabbat Service & Yizkor will be in-person and online.

Women’s Torah Study October 6th, 13th*, 20th and 27th 12:00-1:00 PM

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

Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through thetemplehub.org *Starting October 13, the start time will be at 10:30 AM.

At Our Congregations…

Lunch with the Rabbi Thursdays, October 13th, 20th and 27th

Lunch at 11:30AM Program12:00-1:00 PM $15 per person for lunch Engage with Rabbi Danziger and guests in a discussion of current and important issues from a Jewish perspective.

RSVP on thetemplehub.org or by calling the Temple at 615-352-7620 Available in person and via zoom.

Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org

Break the Fast with Your Temple Family

Reservations are required, please rsvp Mark your calendars now for Break the Fast with your Temple community on Wednesday, October 5 immediately following Concluding Services. This has become a Temple tradition and is enjoyed by all who participate.

The cost is $20.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under 12.

Your check is your reservation received by Monday, October 3 and should be mailed to: The Temple, Attn: Break the Fast, 5015 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205 Or RSVP online at TheTempleHub.org

Everyone is welcome to come help decorate the Sukkah Sunday, October 9 from Noon-2:00 PM

Temple Together for Jewish Adults 35-50 Thursday, October 6th at 6:30 at Diskin Cider Bring a Friend and get entered in a raffle for a prize First drink on Temple! Learn from Diskin’s owner about how his idea became a reality for Nashville’s first & only craft cidery!

For more information, please reach out to Sheri Rosenberg

Intro to Judaism-Conversion Conversations Led by Rabbi Shana Mackler Begins Sunday, October 9, 2022 ~ 5:00 PM In the Sukkah

Join us for in-depth look at Jewish history, holidays, traditions, customs, and beliefs. Rabbi & Senior Scholar Shana Mackler leads these thought-provoking conversations about Judaism. There is no expectation of conversion upon completion of this class and syllabus, though many choose to do so. This is a great way to learn together and take the next steps towards living and leading a more meaningful Jewish life. For more information or to join the fall class, contact Doris at doris@templenashville.org

It’s a Knitzvah Crafternoon!

Sunday, October 9 ~ 2:00 - 3:30 pm

The Temple’s W.E.L.L (Women Engaged in Living & Learning) is joining with the Crafternoon crew and invites all knitters, crocheters, and anyone who just wants to learn how to knit a simple scarf to provide for the homeless women who are a part of the Room in the Inn during the cold winter. Or bring a craft project of your own. We will be in the Sukkah at The Temple to the enjoy the company of women engaged in living & learning. Refreshments will be served!

Please RSVP to Rabbi Mackler at rabbisgmackler@templenashville.org For more information, please go to thetemplehub.org or templenashville.org

Join Us for MAH JONGG Mondays!

Starting Monday, October 24, from 10:00 AM - Noon+

Drop in for Mah Jongg. We’ll have coffee and water. Bring your friends, a card, and a set and have some fun. Mah Jongg cards and sets are available for purchase in The Temple Gift Shop. We’ll play in the prefunction area where tables are set up on Friday nights.

Hike & Havdallah at Percy Warner

Presented by The Temple’s Worship and Music Committee Saturday, October 15 Where and When for the Hike?

Meet at the top of the steps at the end of Belle Meade Boulevard at 3:45 PM with the hike of the 2.5 mile white trail to begin at 4:00 PM. If you are not hiking, please meet us for Havdalah at the stone gate entrance to the park at 5:30 PM. Who?All ages! Bring friends and family. For more information or questions, please contact Anne Davenport at adavlaw@comcast.net

@ West End For links to the following services or programs, please email office@westendsyn.org

Shacharit Join us for in-person morning minyan!

Sunday services will be at 9 a.m. and Monday-Friday will be at 7 a.m.

Daily Mincha and Maariv service depending on Daylight savings times Join us for daily Mincha and Maariv, Monday – Friday and Sunday on Zoom only.

Kabbalat Shabbat You are invited to join us for Kabbalat Shabbat on Fridays in person or on the West End Live YouTube Channel at 6:00 p.m.

Morning Shabbat services You are invited to join us Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in person or on the West End Live YouTube Channel.

Join us on the first Friday of the month for our special Anniversary Shabbat where we celebrate all October wedding anniversaries with a special prayer and Oneg.

Join us on the Fourth Saturday of the month for our special Birthday Shabbat where we celebrate all October birthdays.

Wednesday, October 19, Learn and Lunch at 11:00 am with Rabbi Saul from Sherith Israel. Reservations required, catered lunch following presentation.

Sunday, October 30 after minyan. Our Men’s Club will be hosting the second of our Retirement Planning series.

West End Synagogue’s Men’s Club Event and Bagel and Lox Breakfast is Open to the Congregation!

THE TRANSITION MISSION October 30th at 9:30 a.m. with Certified Professional Coach Loretta Saff “Your mission, Jim, should you choose to accept it, is…”

Of course, you recognize the opening quote from the ever-popular Mission: Impossible. And of course, Jim (or Tom Cruise) always accepts the assignment, and we get to go along for the adventure!

Life is full of transitions like Relationships/Marriage/Parenting Changing Jobs/Empty Nesting (Yikes!) Retiring Join Loretta on Sunday, October 30th, at 9:30 a.m. at West End Synagogue for a discussion that can help you more easily accept and deal with whatever comes your way!

Learn secrets to making yours a Mission: Possible!

Dear Esther Dear friends, As I have been doing self-examination to prepare for the holidays, being gentle with each other is on the fore front of my mind. In this era of conflict, war and pandemic, everyone can benefit from a kind and gentle approach. I would encourage you to make it a goal for the next year to find ways to be gentler with each other.

When having a discussion with someone, strive to listen to their point of view and acknowledge their self-worth even during conflict. Even if the other person is acting aggressively, keep your tone of voice low and your body language relaxed.

Often conversations will not escalate if you engage in a gentler manner.

When you are with family and friends, strive to give positive affirmations and encouragement. Everyone benefits from positive strokes, and you just might be a positive role model for someone else.

When in public, strive to smile at others for no reason. Sometimes a simple smile can change the course of someone’s day! I personally am going to try to smile more. We often get involved in our daily task and forget about our facial expressions and especially since coming out of two years of hiding behind the mask.

I was speaking with my granddaugh-

ter about being gentle and she told me about a time at religious school when they were talking about arguing. A peer shared that she used to argue a lot and always had to have the last word. She stated her teacher helped her realize that it is more important for your family and friends to feel loved than it is to always be right and have the last word.

May you and your family have a year filled with health, love, meaningful friendships, and happy adventures. G’mar chatina tova! And may you be sealed in the Book of Life.

– Esther Esther recently migrated to Nashville from New York and will be partnering with JFS on an advice column for The Observer. Esther is a retired Psychologist, veteran grandmother who brings a lifetime of experience including dysfunctional families, raising children, relationships, kosher cooking and even interfaith families. Esther is excited to be in Nashville and promoting her famous matzo ball soup that she believes heals just about anything.

Please submit your questions to esther@jfsnashville.org on anything under the sun and watch for answers in her column. •

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

21

LET’S TALK RETIREMENT! Who will be named WES (…because it’s not just Volunteer of the Year? about the money!)

D

By LORETTA SAFF

W

elcome Back to Part TWO of my 10 Great Tips for a Successful Retirement.

In the last issue of The Observer, I offered Part ONE, and I trust many of you have been practicing and are probably feeling steps ahead of those who didn’t read last month’s column! But, as a welcome to the newbies and as any good two-part episode on your favorite Netflix show does, let me review.

Previously in Part One of the 10 Great Tips: #1 RETIREMENT IS A NEW BEGINNING. So, introduce yourself to who you are now. #2 CULTIVATE FRIENDS BOTH IN AND OUT OF WORK. You will make important connections and feel really popular. #3 CONTROL YOUR EXPECTATIONS. This helps avoid being sidelined by disappointment. #4 STAY MENTALLY STIMULATED. A challenged, stimulated brain can help you find purpose and joy. #5 GET PHYSICALLY FIT NOW. Your possibilities increase if you are ready, willing, and able.

Now let’s get to the other five tips so everyone can move forward. You’re in the driver’s seat, so put on your seatbelt and get started NOW - regardless of where you are in your working journey: Tip #6 – MAKE SURE YOU WILL HAVE ENOUGH MONEY! (Yes, among the non-financial tips there is a tip about money!) Even though there is more to Retirement than making sure you will have enough money, make sure you will have enough money.

If you feel like a financial wizard, go for it, and take care of it all yourself!

There are a lot of DIY tools on the web to help. If you think you need a little help, ask for recommendations (not from me!) for a good financial planner or wealth management firm that you can trust.

Just keep in mind three important things: a) No one cares more about your money than you do. b) If you can’t explain it, you shouldn’t own it. c) Hope and prayer are not effective investment strategies.

Tip #7 – BE POSITIVE Tell yourself that the glass really is half full. If you need a little help tilting that glass in the right direction, try subscribing to www.goodnewsnetwork.org or www.powerofpositivity.com .

That positive attitude will strengthen your resilience when the slimy things come along, and this is especially important in retirement. Research has shown that 50% of your personality is predetermined, 40% is CHOICE, and 10% is random. Make the choice to be positive.

Who knows? You might end up as the pickleball champ of your neighborhood or finally master the ukulele! Start your day with a good outlook and stop watching the news.

Tip #8 – DO SOMETHING EVERY DAY FOR THE GREATER GOOD I’m assuming it would be hard for you to move to a third world country and build a library or teach young children.

So, how about just being kind to people around you every day. Let someone in front of you in traffic or in the line at the grocery store. Say something nice to the hard-working service people at restaurants and supermarkets.

You change the atmosphere by saying something nice. It opens the door for others to pay it forward, and you may even improve your chances for a seat on the condo board!

Tip #9 – DISCUSS RETIREMENT WITH YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER Talk things over with your partner, or anyone else with whom you often interact. Listen to how they view the idea of your retiring, and then compare your thoughts. Hopefully, this will avoid misunderstandings like: HE said: I will play golf three mornings a week and meet with the guys for lunch on Friday.

SHE said: My husband and I will spend mornings fixing up the house, and then we will plant the gorgeous garden we always dreamed of.

HE said: My wife and I will simply relax. Home together in the mornings, and after lunch we’ll each have our separate activities.

SHE said: I married him for better or for worse, but not every day for lunch!

(A great guide to keep handy is The Couple’s Retirement Puzzle, Conversations for Creating an Amazing New Life Together, by Roberta Taylor and Dorian Mintzer.)

Tip #10 – PLAN AHEAD In addition to all the obvious reasons (Tips #1-9!) planning ahead can help you feel in control of your future.

Imagining a brighter future can energize you, boost your mood, and add meaning to your life. And who doesn’t want that?

Stuck on how to get started? Try making a curious list of at least 10 things that have interested you, but you have yet to pursue. Also, over your morning coffee write down a description of your perfect day in retirement. (Yes, morning to night). Once done, detail out your perfect week. I think you’ll find it interesting.

That takes care of all 10 tips.

You’re Welcome!

Stop by next month when I’ll talk about why using technology is so important now and certainly will be in your retirement!

Loretta If you want to share, feel free to send me a note c/o The Observer Editor, Barbara Dab, at barbaradab@jewishnashville.org with some tales from the front lines . You may get published! •

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

22 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

o you know of a West End Synagogue member who has been devoting time and energy by volunteering OUTSIDE the Jewish community?

Nominations are now open for the Michael Mehlman Social Action Committee Volunteer of the Year Award. Past recipients have helped out at the Nashville Food Project, The Nashville Literacy Council, TIRRC (Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition) and The Martha O’Bryan Center, among others.

Nominations are due by Friday, October 21, and must contain the following information: • Name, address and phone number of the nominee • Detailed description of the nominee’s past year volunteer work (including pictures or other supporting information, if available)

• Your name and phone number Submit the information by email to: kcalhoon103@aol.com Or by mail to: Social Action Committee West End Synagogue 3810 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205 The award will be presented on Social Action Shabbat, Saturday, December 3.

The awardee will be able to designate his/her choice of organization to receive the monetary award from the Michael Mehlman Social Action Fund that was created in honor of Mehlman, who spent much of his adult life helping others as a volunteer.

There are so many WES members who are doing good works for Nashville organizations. Let’s give well-earned recognition to one! •

People of the Books The Glass Plates of Lublin: Found Photographs of a Lost Jewish World.

Eds. Piotr Nazaruk, Lisa Newman, and Aaron Lansky. White Goat Press, 2022

By ELYCE RAE HELFORD

P

erhaps not all pictures are worth a thousand words, but when images reach us through the years of a lost world, they speak profoundly. The Yiddish Book Center’s White Goat Press has recently released a beautiful, hard-bound volume featuring photographs that share the daily life of Lublin between the world wars. The photos have reached us via the 2010 discovery,

by Krysztof Janus, a specialist in architectural history and monument conservation, of a collection of glass plates in the attic of a nineteenth-century Lublin tenement house. The plates – dirty and sometimes broken, each just under four by six inches and numbering almost three thousand – were boxed and found in a pile of trash. Despite their poor treatment in humid conditions and being only partially protected from the elements, the vast majority were recoverable through an intensive conservation process. In 2012, they went on display at Lublin’s Grodzka Gate-NN Theatre Center. The remarkable plates have since been the subject of a documentary and inspired a play. Now, in 2022, the Yiddish Book Center shares them with America in a compelling coffee table style volume at an affordable price.

Over the decade since their discovery, the collection has been researched and analyzed. While the volume’s introduction suggests the research is “thorough,” readers will clearly see how much necessarily remains vague or unknown. In 2015, a researcher at the State Museum at Majdanek discovered the likely photographer who made these images and saved these plates: Abram Zylberberg, whose name appears as a signature on at least one of the plates (and would have appeared on the photographs made from them). We learn more about Zylberberg and his studio in a brief but engaging introduction by Grodzka Gate-NN

Theatre Center’s curator, Piotr Nazaruk.

We discover that the plates are mostly “unsuccessful takes” of personal and group photos, with little artistry but a directness that helps us know we are engaging with lived history, from around 1913 to the 1930s. We glimpse some of the diversity of Lublin and its Jewish communities from across the years, a remarkable yet haunting experience.

Within the book’s ample images – often enlarged to fill whole pages of the nine-by-twelve, 136-page book – we see wedding photos and work groups, family outings and celebrations, vehicles, and buildings. Perhaps half of the photographs receive captions, identifying whatever has been discovered about them, from information on gravestones to the Yiddish newspaper in a man’s hands as he sits on a park bench. Upon first reading, I confess I felt frustration with how little we know. I wanted more from the book’s editors: In what village are the men and women raking hay?

Who paid for the photo of the blacksmith’s shop and the roofers with their table saw? What are the three sisters thinking as their portrait is taken amidst local greenery, and why do two smile, while the third does not?

After spending more time poring over the images, however, I stopped looking for explanations and just let myself see and feel. I realized that the strength of this volume is how each and all photographs in this arbitrary if representative trove speak to us with their genuineness.

However posed and framed, these are real men, women, and children, and we see them without their knowledge, from beyond the (mass) graves. Those we are privileged to meet here could have been us, and they remind us of all that would be stolen forever in only a few short years.

At once, these remarkable photographs destroy and revive us as they rehumanize the lost, refusing the Final Solution with astonishing freshness. • Elyce Rae Helford, PhD, (www.elycehelford.com) is professor of English and director of Jewish and Holocaust Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. Her most recent book is What Price Hollywood?: Sex and Gender in the Films of George Cukor. Reach her at elyce.helford@mtsu.edu.

Lifecycles B’rit Mitzvah Seth Hauser

Seth Hauser will become a bar mitzvah of Saturday, October 22, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah.

He is the child of Jared and Laura Hauser, the sibling of Evan Hauser and Rosie Hauser, and the grandchild of Elaine Speicher of Freeport, N.Y. A seventh grader at University School of Nashville, Seth enjoys drawing, solving different types of Rubik’s Cubes, and has even started competing in speed cubing competitions. Seth also plays keyboard in The Immortals, a classic rock band.

Obituaries Bertram Humble Chalfant, Jr.

Condolences to the family of Bertram Humble Chalfant, Jr. who died on August 24. He was the father of Anna-Gene O’Neal (Scott) and grandfather of Ayla and Bates O’Neal.

Donations may be made in Bertram’s memory to Congregation Micah.

Marian “Sis” Sternberger Cohen

Condolences to the family of Marian “Sis” Sternberger Cohen, who died on July 28 at the age of 99. She was preceded in death by her devoted and adoring husband, Paul Samuel Cohn, Jr . Sis was born in Memphis on July 18, 1923 to her late parents Florence Gates Sternberger Marx and Milton Alexander Sternberger, and preceded in death by her brothers and sister-in-laws, Milton Alexander (Peggy) Sternberger Jr. and William Gates (Peggy) Sternberger.

She is survived by her son Charles (Elizabeth) Cohn II of Atlanta and daughter Elizabeth Cohn (Larry) Woods of Nashville; grandchildren, Michelle Woods (Sam) Cayford and Dr. Alexander Charles (Bailey) Woods, Michael Shafer Cohn of Atlanta, and Stephen Gates (Dr. Shannon) Cohn of Austin, Texas; and five great granddaughters.Marian attended Memphis Public Schools and Miller Hawkins Business College. She was a member and president of Sigma Theta Pi sorority. Sis was a Red Cross nurse’s aide and worked for Lovick, Miles and Miles, prominent Memphis attorneys, for three years during World War II. She married Ensign Paul Cohn, Jr in June 1944. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in 2014. After the war they settled in Nashville.

Sis was a Brownie Troop Leader, a Girl Scout Troop Leader and was recognized in 1970 for completing three terms of dedicated service on the Board of Directors of the Cumberland Valley Girl Scout Council. In the late 1950s, she served on the board of the Convalescent Home and 1964-1966, she was president of the Nashville Section of the National Council of Jewish Women. Sis, with several friends, began the “Buz-A-Bus” project which provided transportation for Seniors. In 2012, Sis received the Hannah G. Solomon Award (named for the found-

Eli Sanford Kraemer

Eli Sanford Kraemer will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, October 22, at 11a.m. at The Temple.

He was born on July 26, 2009, in Dallas, Tex. His parents are Janelle and Erik Kraemer. His grandparents are Dr. and Mrs. Howard S. Yager of Atlanta, Ga.; Dr. Elihu Kraemer of Columbia, S.C., and Ms. Hazel Kraemer of Columbia, S.C. A seventh grader at Montgomery Bell Academy. Eli enjoys tennis, baseball, bicycling, basketball, rodeos, Ping Pong, fishing, traveling, snow skiing, watching live sports (especially the Dallas Cowboys), Atlanta Braves, Georgia Bulldogs, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nedal, and reading the Hardy Boys and Harry Potter.

For his mitzvah project, Eli is building a GaGa pit for children to play a popular game in Israel. er in 1893), in honor of her leadership and devotion to the NCJW. She served on the board of St. Mary’s Villa.

A member of the Temple and for 12 years, she was chair of the Senior Templars and on the Temple Board of Trustees.

In 1962, Sis was the Women’s Golf Champion of Woodmont Country Club and was president of the Nashville Women’s Golf Association in 19731974, and again in 1993-1994, and received an “Honorary Life Membership for Exceptional Service.” She was a member of Hillwood Country Club and was chair of the HCC Ladies Golf Association in 1998.

She was a life- member and past president of the Magazine Circle, a 124-year-old book club, and was an avid bridge player.

The family would like to thank Cheryl Phillips for her 30 years of friendship and caring of our mother. Thank you to the wonderful care provided by Cheryl Phillips, Glenda Kernahan, Atu Moala, Derri Breedlove, Nicole Niyindereye, Cutina Ivey, Caregivers by Wholecare, and Alive Hospice.

Donations may be made to Alive Hospice, The Temple or a charity of choice.

Marvin P. Friedman

Condolences to the family of Marvin P. Friedman who died on September 10 at the age of 96. His parents were Nettie and Eli Friedman.

Marvin graduated from Vanderbilt University, majoring in English literature and philosophy and was an avid reader.

He served in World War I as a Navy radar specialist. He was a successful businessman, franchising and building many Holiday Inn hotel properties. As CEO of General Care Corporation he built and developed several nursing homes and hospitals, including West Side Hospital in Nashville.

His accomplishments were great, and he was most loved for the love he gave freely to all his family, including nieces, nephews and cousins. Marvin was a very generous supporter of the ADL and many other charities.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Krupp Friedman, to whom he was married for 20 years. He was predeceased

by Barbara Parker Friedman to whom he was married for 46 years. He is also survived by his children: Judith F. Netherton and Susan and David Berck; grandchildren, Josh F. Buchanan, Evan J. Buchanan, Matthew Berck, Lauren

Henry and Houston Hirt

Henry and Houston Hirt will become b’nai mitzvah on Saturday, October 29, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. They were born on September 28, 2009, in Orlando, Fla. Their parents are Andy Hirt and Laura Hirt.

Their grandparents are Doug and Melanie Hirt of Nashville, John Davis and Dee Shandy of Chattawa, Miss., and Albert and Emily Zimmerman of Murray, Ky. Seventh graders at University School of Nashville. Henry enjoys watching the Tennessee Titans, playing basketball, lacrosse, and video games while Houston enjoys playing basketball, Marvel, Pokemon, and video games.

For their mitzvah project, Henry and Houston worked at the Old School Farm alongside people with disabilities. They

also are donating to the Farm as well.

The Old School Farm donates the food grown to people in need.

Devon and Graham Schwartz

Devon and Graham Schwartz will become b’nai mitzvah on Saturday, November 5, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. They are the children of Daniel and Robin Schwartz and the grandchildren of Stephen and Miriam Schwartz of Warminster, Pa., and Lisa Wertlieb and Alan Deresh of Boca Raton, Fla. Devon is an eighth grader and Graham is a seventh grader at Battle Ground Academy. Both excel in academics, especially math and science. Devon is an accomplished equestrian and Graham enjoys basketball, football, and acting.

For a mitzvah project, Devon is currently using the love of animals to frame a volunteer program with Williamson County Animal Center. Graham’s mitzvah project will be working with the residents of Sunrise Senior Living in Brentwood.

Reeves and Courtney Rosenblum; and great grandchildren.

Donations may be made to Americans United for the Separation of Church and State, 1310 L St., N.W., Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20005 202-466-3234; Trustbridge Care Center of Boca Raton 561-395-5031; or a charity of your choice.

Charles Levine who died on August 27.

He was the husband of Ann Levine; father of Mike Levine (Sherrie); grandfather of Jessica Levine, Rachel Levine, Matthew Levine and Zachary Levine.

Donations may be made in Robert’s memory to Alive Hospice or Congregation Micah.

Steve Geringer

Robert Charles Levine

Martha Helen Unobskey Goldner

Gitta Stein (Gitta Yeta Bat Natan v’Raisa)

Condolences to the family of Steve Geringer who died on September 7.

He was the husband of Linda Geringer; father of Cole Geringer (Miranda); grandfather of Wolff Geringer, Kamila Geringer, Wynne Geringer; and brother of Judy Geringer and Michael Geringer.

Donations may be made in Steve’s memory to AnCan, Gilda’s Club, Alive Hospice or Congregation Micah.

Condolences to the family of Martha Helen Unobskey Goldner who died on August 27. She was born in St Stephen’s, New Brunswick, Canada, and died in Calais, Maine.

Martha loved art, music and saw the world’s problems from a unique view.

Her creative perspective brought energy to many organizations, among them National Storytelling Association, Herb Society, Red Cross, Jewish Federation, Adventure Science Center, Women’s Medical Auxiliary, League of Women Voters, Planned Parenthood and Walnut Hill Alumni Association.

The 1988 death from melanoma of her oldest son Arthur inspired her to be active in skin cancer research and education, including founding the Sun Day News, a national newsletter in partnership with the NIH. She graduated from Wellesley College, received an MSW from Columbia University and at 59 years old, she earned a Master’s in Education from TSU. Martha was predeceased by her parents Arthur Unobskey and Lillian Rudman; brothers, Sidney and Joseph; her son Arthur Lee Goldner, MD and her husband of 67 years of marriage, Fred Goldner Jr, MD. She is survived by her children, Cynthia, Francie (Michael Niederman) and Fredjoseph (Carmen Porras); and grandchildren, Aaron, Natalie, Hannah, Dorian and Julian.

Donations may be made to Adventure Science Center dedicated to Arthur Lee Goldner Exhibition Hall and WPLN. Condolences to the family of Robert

Condolences to the family of Robert Charles Levine who died on August 27.

He was the husband of Ann Levine; father of Micah Member Mike Levine (Sherrie); grandfather of Jessica Levine, Rachel Levine, Matthew Levine, and Zachary Levine.

Donations may be made in Robert’s memory to Alive Hospice or Congregation Micah.

Condolences to the family of Gitta Stein (Gitta Yeta Bat Natan v’Raisa) who died on September 9.

Gitta was the mother of West End Synagogue member Ira E. Stein. She is survived by her brother Norman Hofferman (Peggy); her children Ethan Kind, Alan Stein (Griselda), Stuart Stein, and Ira Stein (Leslie); her grandchildren Leah Brumley (Todd), Noah Stein (Ashley), Hannah Stein, Talia Stein, and Celia Stein; her great grandchildren Alex Brumley, Ari Stein, and Elliot Stein. She is preceded in death by her husband Herbert Stein.

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

23

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

R

emember when you’d return to school, and teachers would have you write a page about your summer vacation?

Although a month overdue, I thought it might be cathartic to put my summer vacation in writing. I’m still trying to make sense of it since it turned out to be the kind of vacation in which I needed a vacation from my vacation when I returned home. Have you ever had one of those?

It’s never been on my bucket list to visit Germany. However, when my son and I were planning a summer trip this past Spring, there were so many Covid travel protocols still in place that when his college classmate and friend invited us to visit and stay with her in Berlin, it turned out to be the easiest travel solu-

tion at the time. Besides, we both loved her and looked forward to spending time with her as she was my son’s close friend and she had taken to calling me her American mom.

If I was to be completely honest, I was not truly looking forward to visiting Germany. Call it collective Jewish trauma, when we landed in Berlin and got on a train to take us into the city, the first thought I had while looking out the window was, “Oh, this was the landscape that the Jews being taken to the death camps saw peering out of the box cars.”

And there I was, off and running.

Not even one day in Berlin. Not even one hour.

At that point I wasn’t sure this vacation was really going to be a vacation after all. Turns out I was right.

Day 2: A Parisian college friend of my son joins the trip and all-of-a-sudden everything turns into planning a weekend of going to a Rave, without me

of course. So here I am in Berlin with three, twenty-something-year-olds and I am being left in an apartment to watch episodes of Ted Lasso on my computer.

While my son promised he wouldn’t be home too late, the young women were planning to stay out from Saturday night until Monday. Going to a rave is not just going out dancing apparently. Suffice it to say, two hours later as I sat there alone in an apartment in Berlin, laptop in hand, I realized this was not the vacation I planned on.

As I sat in bed watching episode 8 of Ted Lasso, my friend Andrea in New York City started texting me asking if I was enjoying Berlin, which of course I was not at that point. When I told her what was going on, she intelligently suggested I pivot and go online and google Meet Ups in Berlin. A great suggestion.

I went into Plan B mode. After all, I didn’t come all the way to Berlin to sit

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and pout.

Day 4. By now, our young Parisian friend returned to Paris and our German hostess was sleeping off the Rave and due to other personal things happening in her life was apparently not available as promised to spend time with us, which quite honestly was the main reason we came to Berlin in the first place. It was a good thing my son and I had each other and other friends passing through Berlin during our time there, which made making alternative plans a bit easier.

Day 5. My efforts to be social at a local café took a turn to middle age hell. When I overheard a table of three adults next to us speaking in English about film, I eagerly made conversation with them, as I love film and told them so. We quickly all got to talking. The Iranian man was a Professor from Brown University, one of the women was a filmmaker from Beirut, and the other woman was an actress from Paris. Within minutes, when I mentioned something political about the USA, the Professor arrogantly stops me in mid-sentence and says, “I’m not interested in what You have to say. YOU”RE OLD. I want to hear what your son has to say.” The other women and I looked at him in disbelief.

It took a lot for me to not let him have it. Internally it took a lot to not let his comment ruin my day. The only good thing that came from that encounter was I ended up befriending the woman filmmaker from Beirut who sent me her film to watch, and we met up for coffee later in the week.

Day 7. My son Garrett had a great idea to contact a modeling agency and see if we could do a shoot since we work together as a fashion photography/styling team. The agency loved our work and set up a shoot for us. At least this gave us a focus and something fun to look forward to during our stay.

Day 8 – 14. We went to museums and other sites. I went out on my own to an English-speaking comedy club and to flea markets. We ate a lot of delicious meals. While we tried our best to make the most of it, ultimately, it was a trying trip, with our hostess out of pocket and being in a city inundated with dark history.

For me, as a Jew, the dark history that permeates Berlin was the hardest thing to get past. Besides the history of The Wall running across the city and policeman stationed in front of Synagogues, the hardest acknowledgments of the country’s dark past lie in the ground at our feet. Throughout the city, embedded in the pavement are brass tiles. The tiles serve as memorials in front of apartment buildings where Jewish families once lived and were taken away by the Nazis and murdered in Auschwitz. I would stop, read the tiles, look up at the apartment building and imagine the innocent people taken from their homes, thinking that could have been me and my family, and/or every single Jewish person I know.

While Berlin is a thriving, bustling, artistic, modern city, its dark history still runs like a vein throughout the cobblestone streets and serves as a profound reminder of the senseless evil and cruelty humans are capable of.

While the city held a meaningful message of Never Forget, I came home exhausted mentally. I came home needing a vacation and yearning for the ocean and some quiet rejuvenating days.

Instead, I got Covid.•

ADVERTORIALS

Advertise in the

Entertainment & Dining Out Issue OCTOBER 2022

The Jewish Observer • October 2022

25

ADVERTORIALS

Adventure Science Center Gear up for Fall & Winter at Adventure Science Center. Immerse yourself in Recycle Rainforest - an interactive exhibit all about conservation & recycling - and experience the endlessness of infinity like never before in Infinium Room. Dive headfirst into the changing season at our FREE outdoor Fall festival, Fall Into Science.

Then, help your k - 3rd grader escape the winter blues at Winter Break Camp.

We can’t wait to see you Thursdays – Mondays from 9 am to 3 pm and Saturdays until 6 pm. Visit adventuresci.org to plan your adventure today and follow us on Instagram at @AdventureSci for real-time updates on everything happening at the science center.

RED Spirits & Wine This Fall, RED Spirits & Wine will be marking our 11-year anniversary of doing business in Nashville. It has been an honor to be located in the Bellevue community and to have been an advertising support partner with the Gordon JCC since officially opening our doors a decade ago. As we reflect back on the many seasons of change that have taken place during this time, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to have

FALL & WINTER at Adventure Science Center

404 Kitchen and Gertie’s Whiskey Bar At 404 Kitchen and Gertie’s Whiskey Bar, the craft begins with curation.

Acclaimed chef Matt Bolus hand selects the highest quality ingredients, suppliers, farms, and distillers, with an emphasis on sustainability and seasonality.

These ingredients come together to create an experience that feels right at home in the vibrant energy of The Gulch. The fresh and local menu draws inspiration from time-honored Southern American cooking, as well as modern European culinary techniques, to create new interpretations of beloved classics that are at once comforting and exciting.

The modern and inviting space encourages guests to settle in, savor and share in the unique flavors before them, whether they’re gathered inside the candle-lit dining room, or overlooking the lights of Nashville on the buzzing seasonal terrace.

Downstairs, Gertie’s Whiskey Bar offers the largest and most impressive selection of limited-edition whiskeys and bourbon in the Southeast, as well as rare wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails. The convivial curved bar is an ideal place to meet with friends over pours of hand-selected whiskey from small local purveyors and legendary distillers alike.

Sperry’s Restaurant

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Fall Into Science Festival - October 23

such wonderful people to serve as a customer base. We look forward to many more opportunities to grow alongside our friends and neighbors at the Gordon JCC and we sincerely extend our appreciation for the support that we have received, and we aspire to continue to provide our highest level of attention and favor to the City of Nashville.

L’Chaim!

Learn more at AdventureSci.org

Winter Break Camp - December 19-23

26 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

“The 48 year tradition of providing Nashville’s best dining experience continues!

Since 1974, Sperry’s Restaurant has been serving guests with top quality steaks, seafood and much more in an old school charm. If you are celebrating a special occasion or an important event, Sperry’s Restaurant in Cool Springs is pleased to offer Nashville’s premier venue for private dining. It’s the perfect atmosphere to celebrate any occasion including wedding rehearsals, graduations, anniversary parties and business meetings.

Go to www.sperrys.com for more information on reserving your private dining room.

And don’t forget, Sperry’s Mercantile offers you gourmet shopping for Nashville’s highest quality meat, seafood, spices, homemade dressings and more and is located behind the Belle Meade location. So visit Sperry’s Restaurant in Belle Meade or Cool Springs and experience Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s best dining tradition. Go to www. sperrys.com for more information on Sperry’s Restaurant and Sperry’s Mercantile. Since 1974, the tradition continues!”

Continued on page 27

ADVERTORIALS

Bagelshop Your license to indulge! Bagelshop is Nashville’s best bagel shop located downtown inside the Fairlane Hotel. This family-owned business is the hotel’s only breakfast and lunch option specializing in hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels that are baked fresh every day. Holey Moley, bagels have never tasted so good. #ThanksALox

Kupin Group There are few cities that rival Nashville’s never-ending options of world-class dining, sports, and entertainment, and living here is only getting more exciting. There is no better way to claim your stake in this incredible city than by buying a home. Let the expert realtors at the Kupin Group help you find a place in the hottest neighborhoods, close to the best new restaurants, concert venues, and arenas so you can be close to all the action! Reach out today to learn more about what is up-and-coming in this fast-paced city so you can be ahead of the curve in locating the next great spot! -Jacob Kupin from the Kupin Group

Carrie and Garrett Mills If you’re one of those who dread having your photo taken, dread no longer! Carrie and Garrett Mills not only will make you look like a star, you will be thoroughly entertained in the process!

Carrie and Garrett Mills, a mother and son styling and photography team will save the day.

If you love having your photo taken and have always wished to look like a model in Italian Vogue, you’ve come to the right place. Or if you just need a straight on pro-fessional photo, look no further! Creative styling and high-end photography combined with fun!

Carrie and Garrett Mills. 615-210-5044.

Continued on page 28

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

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

hand rolled, kettle boiled bagels made fresh daily

ORDER IN-STORE OR ONLINE AT WWW.BAGELSHOPNASHVILLE.COM breakfast, lunch, catering, dine in or pick up at The fairlane hotel The Jewish Observer • October 2022

27

ADVERTORIALS

Portraits Carrie and Garrett Mills Mother / Son Team Stylist / Photographer Portraiture that brings out the beauty of you!

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Porta Via Ristorante Now celebrating our 14th year in Nashville’s Belle Meade neighborhood, Porta Via Ristorante serves Nashville’s finest authentic Italian cuisine; Tennessee’s only VPNcertified, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza (Certificato No. 350); delicious, house-made gelato; and an outstanding selection of fine wines, cocktails, and liqueurs.

Inside Porta Via, guests are instantly drawn to our quaint yet sophisticated Italian surrounds, featuring Florentine plaster walls; a beautiful, cherry pergola; full-service bar; and classic, tiled fountain that accepts coins in exchange for wishes. What’s more, for the safety of our guests and staff, the restaurant features an advanced air filtration system that kills viruses, mold spores and bacteria, resulting in clean, fresh smelling indoor air. Ample seating is available to accommodate a daily crowd of regulars, firsttime visitors, and enthusiastic tourists that placed this local favorite on their Nashville to-do list.

Porta Via’s dining room opens at 4pm daily for dinner service, and at 11am on Saturday and Sunday for our popular Italian Brunch. We do not take reservations, so arrive early for the best seating. For your convenience, we offer an app based loyalty program that allows you to earn cash rewards; easy-to-use online ordering; take out service; and custom catering for social gatherings, parties, corporate events, and more.

Porta Via Ristorante is located at 21 White Bridge Rd, Suite 104. Order online by visiting www.eatatportavia.com or call 615.356.0001 today. For catering inquires, email catering@portavia.net.

Making the Most of the Fall Foliage We’ve all been waiting for it. The daily high has dropped below 90°, and your backyard patio is finally going to get the dinner party it deserves. Underneath a beau- tiful canopy of fall foliage, nestled between azaleas and boxwoods, you and your guests will spend the evening enjoying the cool breeze and each other’s company.

Unfortunately, the winds of summer afternoon thunderstorms have taken a toll on your trees. Your backyard looks more like the set to a spooky movie rather than a potential cover of Better Homes and Gardens. You can’t possibly serve your neighbors that pumpkin inspired cocktail amongst a sea of deadwood and heat-stressed plants.

At Druid Tree Service, this is our specialty. No, not the cocktails. Our business is preserving the health and beauty of your trees by applying natural fertilizers like bene- ficial fungi, bacteria and tree growth hormones to the trees and their soil, and clearing dangerous and unsightly deadwood from your gorgeous trees. Our services will make your backyard more vibrant and inviting than ever before. Your guests will admire the exquisite layering of a properly pruned Japanese Maple. Our dedicated and experienced team excels at hand pruning small topiary form trees, yews and boxwoods, as well as maintaining and illuminating the natural beauty of mature trees.

Don’t let your trees be the scariest Halloween decoration in your yard this fall. Give us a call or text at (615) 3734342 or email us at office@druidtree.com.

We look forward to talking with you about your trees.

Hadassah The Nashville Jewish Community is invited to hear internationally known artist Batsheva. She will present an original program, “The Secret Jewish Soul of Leonard Cohen.” The event will take place on Sunday October 30th, 2022 at 5pm at West End Synagogue. Batsheva holds the only authorized translations of two of Cohen’s most beloved songs in Yiddish and Hebrew. Cohen, a Canadian known for his iconic music and lyrics, was deeply influenced by his Jewish heritage. Event fee is $54 and includes a reception before the concert.

RSVP: www.hadassahsupersouth. org/donorconcert •

28 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

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The Jewish Observer • October 2022

29

Health and Wellness Corner

By SHERRI HOLZER

I

want to share my experience of cooking with Walter. I received an email from a mother in South Florida who wondered if I could spend some time teaching online cooking skills to her 14-year-old son. We spent some time emailing back and forth, discussing her son, his incredible spirit and enthusiastic interest in cooking.

Andrea proudly said, “The kid shines in the kitchen, in fact together we just made his little sister a double chocolate fudge birthday cake!”

She had me at double chocolate fudge cake! We hopped on a phone call and decided to go for it. I have experience coaching and teaching younger kids. I have taught young people in my TEENS LEARN YOUR INGREDIENTS class - Healthy Meals for the Teen Junior League health and wellness day - and my Families Who Cook Together class. I also am blessed with an abundance of enthusiasm and patience. What I didn’t have was any specific background in working

with an autistic child, via Zoom, on the other side of the United States.

I did some research on “how to teach cooking to those with Autism” .

I immersed myself in the numerous literatures, offering guidelines and incredible tips to support working within that community of young people. There are as many valuable teaching tools as there are unique individuals. I understood from his mother that he wasn’t prescribed a particular diet to follow which made my recipe creation easy. Her son expressed an interest in learning to cook for and by himself. Homemade chicken tenders and crispy fries were a priority. I believe in my ability to help everyone gain confidence in the kitchen. I believe that cooking for yourself is empowering. I believe that learning to do anything requires one thing. Making a decision.

During my 2-hour session with this adorable young man, it was apparent that making that DECISION, as he did, to go for it, is something we all need to do.

Being clear on a decision allows us to do and try, just about anything we want. It was very clear during the first 10 minutes of our time together, just how determined Walter was to follow my directions. I was amazed by his uncanny ability to recognize his learning pattern and clearly

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30 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer

understood how to pause when a little frustration with the recipe steps began.

It was remarkable to see the level of self care that was taken. He knew when to step away when it felt overwhelming and come back after a few minutes. To not give up. To adhere to what works for him.

To not be in competition with anyone but to be in creativity with yourself.

The timer rang and Walter grabbed a pair of blue oven mitts. Carefully he took the trays with the finished meal and placed them on the counter. Sure, the food looked delicious, but not as amazing as his smile. From corner to corner, it was filled with pride. In 2 hours, my new hero had made the most gorgeous crispy chicken tenders and crispy garlic fries that would impress the most important person. HIMSELF. RECIPE FOR WALTER’S FAVORITE CHICKEN TENDERS AND GARLIC FRIES Serves 4 Time 25 minutes INGREDIENTS • 1 cup panko bread crumbs • 1 egg • 1 1/2 tbsp avocado oil mayonnaise • 2 tbsp flour • 1 1/2 tbsp dijon mustard • 1/2 tsp sea salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 lb chicken tenderloins or breasts cut into 2/3” thick strips lengthwise • 1 avocado oil spray (any oil spray without propellant as an ingredient) DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. 2. Spread panko on a baking sheet and coat with oil spray.

3. Bake them for 3-5 minutes until light golden.

4. Transfer to a shallow bowl.

5. Place a non-stick cooking rack on a baking tray (you don’t have to but it helps both sides get crunchy).

6. Place the batter ingredients in a bowl and whisk with a fork until combined.

7. Add the chicken to batter and toss to coat.

8. Use tongs and place chicken in the bowl with the panko.

9. Coat the chicken with panko mixture and press down to adhere. Place on a baking sheet and repeat.

10. Coat lightly with oil spray and bake for 15 minutes.

CRISPY BAKED GARLIC FETA FRIES INGREDIENTS • 2 russet potatoes, cut into matchsticks; or use 1 package of frozen french fries • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil • 1 tsp sea salt • 1 tsp black pepper • 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 block (8-10 oz) sheep’s milk feta cheese or try Voila vegan feta • 1 tsp dried parsley • 1 tbsp paprika • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped for garnish DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 450 F and place your sheet pan in the oven while it’s heating. (this is a great tip to get those fries crisping up immediately) 2. Remove the baking sheet from oven and coat with oil spray.

3. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt, pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder.

4. Take the block of feta, place in the middle of the tray.

5. Arrange potatoes around the feta cheese.

6. Sprinkle feta with paprika, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.

7. Bake for 30-40 min until crispy (keep an eye on it!)

8. When done, use a fork to mash feta and toss with french fries.

9. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top.

10. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS

OPTOMETRIST

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CARE GIVER

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GASTROENTEROLOGISTS

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

ORTHODONTISTS

GLUCK ORTHODONTICS Specialists in Orthodontics Dr. Joel Gluck DDS, MS Dr. Jonathan Gluck DDS, MSD 2002 Richard Jones Road A-200 615.269.5903 drgluck.com

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY DR. POINTER & DR. SHARMA Serving Hendersonville & Nashville 615-832-5530 or www.thegidocs.com

INSURANCE

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GIL COHEN / PERSONAL SHOPPER Partnering with Dillards 39 years Clothing / home decor / gifts Call or text 615-568-5187

ROBINS INSURANCE Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Marsha Jaffa, CIC; Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business Insurance 30 Burton Hills, Suite 300 Ph. 615-665-9200 • www.robinsins.com

GHERTNER & COMPANY Homeowner Association and Condominium Management Full Service and Financial Management Property Management since 1968 615-255-8531 www.ghertner.com

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

INSURANCE/MEDICARE

PERSONAL SHOPPER

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELING IRA HELDERMAN, PhD, LPC Psychotherapy for Individuals, Adolescents, Couples and Families nashvillepsychotherapyandcounseling. com Please contact: 615-473-4815 or ira.p.helderman@vanderbilt.edu

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REAL ESTATE

MOVING & STORAGE

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

TRAVEL SERVICES Expredia Cruise Ship Centers A Full Service Travel Agency Alan Cooper: Office: 629-202-8945 www.cruiseshipcenters.com/AlanCooper 7081 B Hwy 70 S / Kroger Shopping Ctr.

TREE SERVICES

Preserving the Natural Beauty of Trees and Shrubs. Specializing in the care of shade and ornamental trees and shrubs for residential and commercial properties. Serving Nashville since 1978.

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The Jewish Observer • October 2022

31

The Observer’s Annual

Travel & Leisure I S S U E

Coming December 2022! s nesse i s u b All te to a l e r that isure e L & l f Trave 0% of 1 e v i ce will re st of the co ad. their

We will be highlighting travel products and services.

We know that you will want to be included in this issue. Advertisers who contract a 1/8 page ad or larger can contact us for inclusion in articles pertaining to your business of up to 250 words.

Deadline for ads is November 15, 2022 Contact: Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager 615-354-1699 e-mail: carrie@nashvillejcc.org fax: 615-352-0056

32 October 2022 • The Jewish Observer