The Observer Vol. 87 No. 3 – March 2022

the

bserver

Jewish

Vol. 87 No. 3 • March 2022

www.jewishobservernashville.org

Jewish Community World’s Fair to Provide Fun and Connection

By BARBARA DAB

A

lthough the past two years have presented many challenges, Nashville’s Jewish community continues to both grow in numbers and to expand its reach. On Sunday, April 3rd, The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee is hosting a Jewish Community World’s Fair.

The special event is designed to showcase the partner agencies, organizations, and local groups that make up Nashville’s unique local Jewish community. Jewish Federation CEO Eric Stillman says, “The Jewish Community World’s Fair will be fun for the entire family, and it will be a great way to introduce how our local Jewish community agencies, congregations, and organizations are connected to our partners around the Jewish world at the same time.”

The event will take place on the Gordon JCC’s campus where attendees can visit booths for the various local agencies and organizations. There will be activities for people of all ages, and families are encouraged to come prepared for fun.

Of course, there will be food offerings and music, too. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to make phone calls on behalf of The Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign. The 2022 Campaign Chair Leslie Kirby says, “This year we wanted to try something new to incorporate a more action-oriented, community-focused way to get to know Federation better.

We will still be making calls, but we’ll also have other hands-on activities as part of that process. We hope that everyone who attends the event will stop by to reach out to a few other people in the community to talk Continued on page 6 A Publication of the

WWW.JEWISHNASHVILLE.ORG

28 Adar I-28 Adar II 5782

Adoption Lawsuit Filed by Tennessee Jewish Couple Alleges Government Funded Discrimination

By BARBARA DAB

L

iz and Gabe Rutan-Ram always planned to build their family through adoption. The Knoxville couple, who is Jewish, say they also decided to work through the foster care system rather than use private channels, and now their dream is being deferred by what they say is a discriminatory state law. The law known as House Bill 836, was signed by Governor Bill Lee in January of 2020.

The law allows taxpayer funded child welfare organizations to deny services, like adoptions, to prospective families who, “violate the agency’s written religious or moral convictions.” The law has been condemned by human rights groups as targeting LGBTQ couples, interfaith couples, single parents, or any other prospective parents with whom an agency has objection. And now, according to Pam Kelner, Executive Director of Jewish Continued on page 12

Liz and Gabe Rutan-Ram, of Knoxville, were denied adoption services because they are Jewish.

Jewish Community’s Neighbors Pledge Solidarity as Antisemitism Continues to Spread

By BARBARA DAB

“D

espite vows of ‘Never Again,’ antisemitism still rears its head.”

Those are the words of Leslie Kirby, Vice President of The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee and Chair of the Task Force on Israel and Domestic Antisemitism. She made them on January 27th, which is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, commemorating the liberation of Auschwitz. This year, The Jewish Federation used the day as a call to action. At a virtual event, “Shine a Light on Antisemitism – No Hate in Our State,” local leaders from Nashville’s academic, business, and political communities called on their constituents to take a pledge to stand against antisemitism in all its forms and in every place it occurs.

Most recently, antisemitism has shown itself in the form of a violent hostage situation in Colleyville, Texas, in The Temple Begins a New Era, Hires Next Senior Rabbi, page 2

the banning of author Art Spiegelman’s graphic Holocaust memoir Maus, and, just days after the event, in the words of celebrity and actor Whoopi Goldberg whose comments about the Holocaust once again raised questions about racism, privilege, and identity. And recent legislation in Tennessee allows taxpayer funded child welfare organizations to deny services to those who they believe violate their religious or moral convictions. This law resulted in a Jewish couple being denied adoption assistance.

Eric Stillman, CEO of The Jewish Federation, referenced the words of Rabbi Angela Buchdahl of Central Synagogue in New York in the wake of the Colleyville, Texas hostage situation, “Our Jewish tradition tells us we are not meant to fight hatred with only Jews.” And so, leaders from Nashville’s greater community pledged solidarity and commitment to help fight antisemitism, hatred, and racism. Governor Bill Lee paid tribute to Sculpture Honoring Children of the Shoah was Inspired by Beloved Local Couple, page 4

Holocaust survivors, and to the six million who were murdered by the Nazis.

“We have a chance to ensure their stories are carried on for generations, all while remaining vigilant against antisemitism and acts of hate today,” he said.

Congressman Jim Cooper, D-TN, addressed the most recent local incidents, “Let me be blunt. Antisemitism is alive and well in Tennessee and in America.”

He said the banning of the Pulitzer Prize winning book Maus by the McMinn County School Board is outrageous, as well as the denial of adoption services to the couple in Knoxville. Cooper referenced another Pulitzer Prize winning book

by Henry Adams that says, “All politics is the systematic organization of hatred.” He called out his colleagues in both parties who he says are, “Playing with fire, hoping it will elevate them to higher office.”

The notion of banning books is nothing new, particularly the banning Continued on page 9

Back To School

Home & Garden Special Section, page 21

Community Relations Committee The Path to Freedom

By DEBORAH OLESHANSKY

N

ashville is becoming home to several hundred Afghan allies, as part of a national effort to resettle thousands of evacuees from Afghanistan. In a Jewish community wide effort, we have funded and are committed to help settle and acculturate three families. Working with the sponsorship organization Nashville International Center for Empowerment, NICE, a cadre of volunteers have been trained and are ready to welcome our new Nashville neighbors. The families arriving from Afghanistan will join an expansive, diverse, and multifaceted immigrant community. In anticipa-

tion, we have been working with local Afghan immigrant groups to learn about their culture and have already engaged in cooking projects to create meals for emergency needs and to assist families as they arrive.

On March 31, we will celebrate the JCRC Social Justice Seder, an award-winning event held each year which uses the framework of a Passover Seder to explore and illuminate social justice themes. This year, we will learn about local immigrant groups, including our Afghan neighbors, to hear personal stories of exodus, resilience, and the eternal human quest for freedom.

This special Seder will be led by

Rabbi Shana Mackler and Cantor Tracy Fishbein of The Temple, and will include both large group celebration and learning, and small group conversation and sharing. By nature Passover is the Festival of Freedom and a perfect time to reflect on how our ancestors fled slavery and how we continue to work towards our own freedom and redemption. The story told in the Passover Haggadah does not only recognize our past, but also our present and future. We recall in the Seder that, “In every generation, we are commanded to view ourselves as if each one of us was personally brought forth out of Egypt.” We do this to remind us that we should personally think about

the feeling of being a slave, and how that experience calls upon us to rise up against tyranny in our own time.

During this program, just as in a traditional Seder, we will ask questions that are very relevant to us in this moment in time. We all want to be free, but what specifically does that mean right now? How does personal freedom impact others and how do we balance personal freedom with communal needs?

What does freedom mean for immigrant populations? How do we protect and defend the ideals of freedom? What are the responsibilities of freedom?

You can register for the Seder at: www.jewishnashville.org/seder22

The Temple Begins a New Era, Hires Next Senior Rabbi

By BARBARA DAB

T

he Temple, Nashville’s oldest and largest Reform congregation, is marching proudly into the future with the hiring of Rabbi Michael Danziger as its next senior rabbi. The 46-yearold Danziger studied Organizational Communications and Business at the University of Texas at Austin. After college, he spent several years working in the Jewish camping business, including at URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Mississippi. He also worked under Rabbi Micah Greenstein at Temple Israel of Memphis as Youth and Family Director and continued to develop professionally working in the field of Real Estate and Property Management. He is married and has three young children. His wife is also a rabbi and will continue working remotely for the Union for Reform Judaism. Search Committee Chair, Judy Lefkovitz, says Rabbi Danziger’s non-traditional path to the pulpit is part of what makes him the right person for this position. “Rabbi Danziger is a seasoned Jewish professional with over 18 years of leadership experience.” She says he was highly thought of by previous employers and congregational leaders, and his references highlighted his kind, thoughtful, authentic personality, and said he is a talented teacher with a natural gift for the rabbinate.

The Search Committee was chaired

by Lefkovitz and Ralph Levy and included 12 other members of the congregation.

Lefkowitz says each of the committee’s

14 members signed a covenant pledging to be open minded and to commit the time necessary to finding the right fit.

According to Levy, “The committee’s search process was exhaustive and comprehensive and followed the guidelines of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, the Reform movement’s rabbinic leadership organization.” Both committee chairs say this was an opportunity to set new goals and determine the next phase in the congregation’s life. Levy says there was broad participation, “There were 11 focus groups that included 100 congregants. There was also an online survey, and we had 450 responses.” What resulted, was a list of desired qualities and attributes, including being a strong educator and pulpit presence, someone good with pastoral care, and a strong vision and leadership ability.

When a longtime leader, like Rabbi Mark Schiftan, retires or leaves, it usually creates a foundational change. According to Rabbi Janet Offel, in an article for the Union for Reform Judaism, the change means congregants must say goodbye to what they know and gradually transition into something new. But she says the change is never the same for everyone.

“For some, the transition will bring about hopeful feelings of welcoming a new rabbi; others will face the sadness of saying goodbye to the previous rabbi; and still others will find themselves uncertain about the whole thing, lingering in a neutral phase between the two.” In the case of The Temple, the change is tempered by the continuing presence of Rabbi

Rabbi Michael Danziger, pictured with his wife and children, will become the next Senior Rabbi of The Temple

Schiftan, who will remain in Nashville as Rabbi Emertius, along with the other long-time members of the congregation’s clergy. All of which will help usher in this new phase in the congregation’s life.

Ralph Levy says the Search Committee was aware they would not make everyone happy with the outcome.

And the ability to help navigate and reunify the congregation was also a high priority in making the choice. “We knew the change would be hard,” says Levy, “But this was the time to think about what people are looking for in the senior

rabbi.” He says the participants in the focus groups also provided some good suggestions to lay leadership for making longer term changes such as enhanced opportunities for adult Jewish learning, and it gave the participants the opportunity to make some new connections and meet some new Temple members.

Despite the challenge of knowing there would be some members upset by whomever was chosen, Rabbi Danziger was the unanimous choice of the Search Committee, the Executive Committee and the officers. He was also the overwhelming choice of the Board of Trustees and the congregation. President Jim Marks says, “I am excited that Rabbi Danziger will be joining The Temple as its next Senior Rabbi. Not only will he be a wonderful leader for The Temple, but I believe he will also be a great addition to the Nashville Jewish community.”

A Transition Committee, chaired by Nancy Shapiro and Lauren Wachsman, is gearing up to welcome the Danziger family and create opportunities for them to meet and get to know the congregation.

As for Rabbi Mark Schiftan, he is very supportive of the new direction the congregation is taking and is looking forward to his next chapter. “I’m excited for the next chapter in the life of the Temple.

Rabbi Danziger will bring a new vision, a new energy, and a new set of ideas for the Temple’s future growth and continued dynamic development. His warmth, wisdom and empathy will add strength to our established strength and communal leadership as a sacred congregation.” •

Disability Inclusion Corner

By ADAM BRONSTONE

E

ach month, the Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee will highlight a program in our community, or with one of our partner organizations in greater Nashville, that is providing a service for those with disability inclusion needs so that everyone in this community can feel that they belong. Programs to be highlighted include, but are not limited to, the inclusion programs at Akiva School and the Gordon Jewish Community Center’s Camp Davis, the resources

2

available at programs such as Saddle Up!, and Our Place, new infrastructure at Congregation Sherith Israel and The

March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Temple, as well as readily available inclusion-accessible materials at Chabad of Nashville and Vanderbilt Hillel.

The big news this month is the new disability inclusion-specific webpage of the Jewish Federation. Visit www.jewishnashville.org/specialneeds and community members can now find resources and grant opportunities for organizations and individuals that are easy to understand, and submit an application for funding. The webpage is being updated frequently with additional information, including a list of areas of expertise by the members of the

Federation’s Inclusion Committee. For more information on the webpage and its resources, and how to become involved in community disability inclusion activities, contact Adam Bronstone, Director of Planning, at adam@jewishnashville.org. •

Correction The February 2022 issue of The Observer published an incorect byline for the column “PROPOSED FEDERAL TAX LAW CHANGES- WHETHER, WHEN AND WHAT IF NONE TAKE PLACE?”. The correct byline should read: Ralph Levy. •

Opinion Building a Flourishing Jewish Community

By ERIC STILLMAN

Y

our Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee is building a flourishing Jewish community in partnership with our agencies, congregations, and Jewish community organizations. By emphasizing strategic engagement and outreach as Nashville and Middle Tennessee grows in terms of both the Jewish and general population, we welcome and involve newcomers, those who are unaffiliated, those who are seeking new ways to connect Jewishly, and Jewish community members who live outside the historical geographic core where most of our congregations and agencies are located.

As we saw during the pandemic, the role of Federation is unique as a convener, drawing together members of our Jewish community, whether virtually and/or in person, to grow participation in activities, volunteerism, and donations.

We run an efficient operation in fulfilling our mission statement to promote the general welfare, viability, and cohesiveness of the Jewish community and to ensure continuity of the Jewish people locally, in Israel, and around the world.

Raising more than $150,000 in donor directed COVID Emergency Response Funds and over $74,000 in Human Service Relief Matching Funds last year, above and beyond donations to the Annual Campaign, our Federation was able to provide vitally needed immediate assistance to local Jewish individuals and families through increased support to c

STAFF c

c

c

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

Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 This newspaper is made possible by funds raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign.

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

While The Jewish Observer makes every possibly effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the Kasruth of their products.

The Jewish Observer Founded in 1934 by J

A

C

Q

U

E

S

B

A

C

K

our agencies and congregations. This only was possible because the Federation infrastructure was in place and organized to respond rapidly in a time of crisis.

Meanwhile, more than $800,000 in Jewish community security funding has protected our congregations and agencies in just the past three years through the leadership of our Federation, both as a direct funder and as a grant-writer for Department of Homeland Security Nonprofit Security Grants. Of that amount, more than $600,000 was secured from sources outside the Annual Campaign. This funding is the direct result of the Federation’s prioritizing and taking the lead on community security.

Additionally, our Federation leads security coordination in Jewish Nashville and Middle Tennessee at the highest levels with local, state, and Federal law enforcement and elected officials.

Likewise, more than 3,500 people in Tennessee were educated about antisemitism through the recent virtual event Shine a Light on Antisemitism – No Place for Hate in our State. Drawing together leaders from government, academia, and business, our Federation was the convener on behalf of all four Jewish Federations in Tennessee (including Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Memphis).

This emphasis on antisemitism is an ongoing and enduring role which we take very seriously, working in partnership with our agencies, congregations, and state and national Jewish organizations.

While some people would advocate for shifting Federation support away from Israel & Overseas to redirect those dollars to local purposes, our Nashville Jewish community members have shown that

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

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

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

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

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

they will respond with increased support to a compelling case for giving. Utilizing this funding, we educate our local youth and young adults through the work of our Israel Emissary (Shlicha), by the return of Get Connected teen travel to Israel, and the Hadera-Eiron Partnership2Gether.

We care for Jews in need in 70 countries around the world, including the poorest Jews on earth such as the frail elderly in Russia and the former Soviet republics.

We literally are the keepers of our Jewish brothers and sisters through the power of our Federation collective action, whether it is the ongoing absorption of Ethiopian Jews in Israel to prevent the formation of a permanent Black Israeli underclass or preparing to rescue Ukrainian Jews in the event of a Russian invasion (as of this writing in mid-February).

In continuing our vital work here in Nashville and Middle Tennessee, we build strong networks within the broader local community where we live. In the May 2021 issue of the Observer, then President of the Federation, Steven Hirsch, wrote an article titled “What We Stand For.” He articulated that, “Perhaps the best way to fight Anti-Semitism in our own community is to build bridges with non-Jewish groups to de-mystify perceived differences in religious practices and customs.” He explained that

Federation is not a political organization and that we are non-partisan. “This is precisely why the Federation does not position itself as a left-leaning or right-leaning organization. We seek to occupy a middle ground where there is room for all opinions to be heard.”

It is exactly in this spirit of a big tent approach that our Federation welcomes people with diverse opinions to join our Jewish Community Relations Committee, which is comprised of people with a broad range of views on many issues. We encourage people to participate and specifically propose program topics and speakers.

Simply put, we are at our best when community members, who are passionate about Jewish concerns from various perspectives, engage in meaningful dialogue to shape the content which we provide for educational purposes.

I invite every member of the Nashville and Middle Tennessee Jewish community to reach out to me directly with your thoughts and opinions. I want to hear from you. Please call me directly at 615-354-1660 or email me at eric@ jewishnashville.org so we can connect.

Thank you. • Eric Stillman is the CEO of The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee

The Federation of The Future

By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN

A

larmingly, Federation donations, in terms of the number of donors, has been in a serious decline for decades. In Nashville, the annual campaign figures have neither significantly increased over the past decade, nor has the level or the amount of giving kept up with the rate of inflation.

Furthermore, the complicated relationship between American Jews and the State of Israel has made some Jews question the funding equation regarding domestic versus overseas allocations.

Currently, our Federation gives Israel 34% of the dollars raised. The increasing number of interfaith households may question the level of giving to uniquely Jewish philanthropies.

Many feel the single most responsible thing we can do to perpetuate Jewish survival, is to redirect the percentage of funds raised to increased support for local Jewish agencies, organizations and religious institutions.

Israel no longer needs the funds as much as local agencies do. Many Israelis feel that the most important thing American Jews can do to support Israel is to protect and promote Jewish life here at home.

With that in mind, I respectfully offer a few thoughts and suggestions for the future: 1) Federations needs to return to a singular focus on raising dollars to support local Jewish causes.

2) In so doing, Federations will disengage from providing direct services and programs. This is the work of the various agencies and institutions it supports.

3) These changes may lead to a significant reduction in staffing levels and

related expenses. Lower personnel costs would allow for hundreds of thousands of freed up dollars to go directly to both existing and emerging institutions in our community.

4) The Federations should evolve to accept and encourage more donor-directed giving, with a significant percentage of individual gifts designated towards specific, targeted choices for those contributions.

5) Federations should continue to recognize the vital role that synagogues play in sustaining vibrant Jewish communal life, and increase the regular, sustained funding for them. The current local figure of five thousand dollars per year is woefully insufficient and will need to grow.

6) Security needs should become a dominant area for funding, in response to increased anti-semitism and anti-Israel rhetoric and threats of violence.

7) The Community Relations Committee needs to be reconfigured, to better respond to the realities of an ever more diversifying Jewish community. It will need to reflect a more balanced approach and perspective, including the valid opinions and concerns of the wider Jewish community.

8) The local Federation, whether through its Community Relations Committee, or perhaps directly through its elected and professional leadership, needs to respond rapidly, decisively, and publicly, to acts of anti-Semitism and to other forms of hatred, bigotry and threats of violence.

9) The local Federation will be called upon to present a courageous, vigorous vision for the future of the community, one that proposes calculated risks and rewards in shaping a bold new direction that will attract new donors. •

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

3

Managing A Parent’s Estate Issues You May Encounter estate plan in question is a good person to contact. Any attorney consulted will need documents governing the estate. e will all most likely encounter the Your parents were most likely advised by news of losing our parents at some their attorney to notify their children of point in our lives. Navigating the location of their docuthe next steps in fulfilling ments. Many times, those their wishes is the first issue documents are located in looming before you. One of a safe place in their home the most concerning issues or protected in a lock box which may arise is finding at their bank. Difficulties out that no plan exists for in locating documents can your parents. So, before arise and can cause delays. anything happens, a gentle If a plan has been question about whether a formalized, there are basiplan has been formalized cally two types: a willwith an attorney will create based plan or a trust-based Kimbra Spann a much smoother process for plan. The first step is to you, and any other heirs or beneficiaries review the documents in conjunction of the estate, later on. with an attorney, and determine the I recommend contacting a trusted person named by your parents to fulattorney to determine how to proceed, fill those wishes, whether a Personal whether a plan is in place or not. Often Representative (for a probated estate) the same attorney who prepared the and/or a Trustee (for a Trust.) What is

By KIM SPANN, PRINCIPAL, 5 STAR TITLE OF TENNESSEE

W

the difference between these two types of fiduciaries?

A Trustee is named for the administration of your parents’ plan through an existing trust. This plan will usually avoid the probate court process unless some assets were not transferred to the trust.

A Personal Representative is appointed if your parents’ plan is a willbased plan, or if the trust used did not hold all your parents’ assets. This process is more streamlined and easier for the Personal Representative if an attorney is hired to assist to ensure compliance with court deadlines and advise on issues as they arise.

Some other issues can create a less than ideal process. You may be displeased with the trustee or personal representative named in the plan documents, which may require that you work with an attorney to get them removed or prevent them serving in their fiduciary role. If you are a beneficiary,

you may need a separate attorney since the attorney representing the Personal Representative or trustee may have a conflict of interest in representing your interests. Bickering among beneficiaries can derail a smooth process. In addition, if you are the named fiduciary, then you may have choices which can affect the taxes owed to the government.

What is the best advice to be given?

Consult with a trusted attorney, regardless of whether your parents had an estate plan formalized, or whether you are navigating the probate process where there is no will. An attorney can make the difference between a smooth process and one fraught with challenges. • Kim Spann is a member of the Jewish Federation of Nashville Professional Advisory Council (PAC). For more information about the PAC members and upcoming seminars, contact Eric Stillman at eric@ jewishnashville.org.

Sculpture Honoring Children of the Shoah was Inspired by Beloved Local Couple

By BARBARA DAB

S

ix million is a number most people know as the number of people who perished in the Holocaust. As the generation of survivors continues to dwindle, what will remain are their memories and their stories. Some of those stories are told through books, some through films, or songs; some of the stories are told through visual art. At Congregation Micah, a sculpture is set to be unveiled as a tribute to the one million children who were murdered, and to those countless others who, against all odds, survived. The project is the brainchild of Frances and George Hahn, both children affected by the Holocaust. As George approached a milestone birthday, the two felt inspired to do something special and lasting. “I was planning a big celebration for my 90th birthday, but we couldn’t go through with it because of Covid,” says George, “Frances had some ideas for a special project, and we took those ideas to Rabbi Laurie Rice at Micah.”

Deciding on the subject for the piece was the easy part. Securing the funding was the bigger challenge. “I knew we should do something to honor the children,” says Frances, “But we aren’t in a position to finance the whole thing.”

They decided to harness the power of the Internet, and created a Go Fund Me campaign to begin to raise the money.

They told their family and friends about the project and asked for donations in lieu of birthday gifts for George. The response was surprising. George says, “It was quite exciting. We were surprised by how much we raised, and how quickly the whole project came together. We thought it would take years.” Rabbi Laurie Rice says she was not surprised with the response to the initial fundraising effort. “Frances and George met through their connection to the congregation and have so many friends in the community. Their whole story is just so much a part of what made this process special,” she says. To raise the remainder of the needed funds, Rabbi Rice reached out to other members of the congregation who happily stepped up.

Once the seed money was raised, the planning began. Rabbi Rice was referred

4

Frances and George Hahn conceived the project honoring Children of the Shoah, to commemorate George’s 90th birthday

Sculptor Theresa Dyer pictured with the finished piece.

to local artist Theresa Dyer who was excited to participate, despite not knowing much about the Holocaust. “I did a lot of research to learn as much as I could about the Holocaust,” she says, “And Frances was very open. She shared articles, photos, and personal items.” Frances says the whole process was a true collaboration. “I knew I wanted it to somehow depict children fleeing, and for their fate to be unknown. But everyone involved contributed to the finished product.” For example, in early renditions of the piece, which shows two children, one obviously older and one younger, the older child was a boy. But George had other ideas. “I thought that was perpetuating an old stereotype of the male as the stronger, more protective one,” he says, “I thought it should be changed so the girl was older.”

And Frances says Rabbi Rice had another idea that ended up in the final version.

“Originally, the little boy was dangling his teddy bear. Rabbi Laurie said her son would have been clutching it tightly, so Theresa changed it.”

According to Dyer, Frances was so detailed in her descriptions, she even shared the small suitcase she saved from

her childhood. “Everything she had in the world was in that suitcase,” says Dyer, “It was important to incorporate it into the finished piece.”

The sculpture unveiling is scheduled for Sunday, April 10th at Congregation Micah. The piece will be installed outside, and is planned to be an educational tool, as well as a memorial. “I really want children to be inspired to write stories, poems, songs, and to create drawings,” says Frances. She also hopes the statue will be visited by children throughout the area and beyond the Jewish community.

In fact, the piece is already achieving the goal of educating. Theresa Dyer says, “I’ve learned more about the Holocaust in the year I worked on this than I ever thought possible.”

Both Frances and George agree this project exceeded their expectations and they look forward to the community enjoying it for years to come. George says, “This is very meaningful project for both of us, but particularly for Frances because as a child, she really suffered during the Holocaust.” Donations to help provide educational materials about the sculpture and the children

March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Closeup of the suitcase inspired by Frances Hahn’s suitcase that accompanied her as a child survivor of the Shoah.

A work in process: clay moquette of the sculpture in Theresa Dyer’s studio.

of the Shoah are still being accepted through the Congregation Micah Rabbi Discretionary Fund for the Shoah statue, link at https://www.congregationmicah. org/micah-donations. For more information about the April 10th unveiling event, contact Rabbi Laurie Rice, lrice@ congregationmicah.org. •

The Pargh Team

One Team, Eight Residential Real Estate Experts 120

Families our team helped find their perfect home or investment property.

$110M+ in sales for 2021 by

our full service team of experts.

Proudly ranked in the top 1% of all Realtors in Tennessee and featured on the 2021 REAL Trends “America’s Best Real Estate Professionals” list as seen in The Wall Street Journal.

9VOsVOo |dt BoO _dd^WbU sd Jt| do pO__Û 2VO +BoUV 2OBa Wp oOBM| sd zdo^ Tdo |dtà 9O KBbĆs zBWs sd VOBo Toda |dtÝ B__ tp sdMB|Ý

@theparghteam

@parghteam

Franklin Pargh M: 615.351.7333 franklin.pargh@compass.com

pargh.com

Lana Pargh M: 615.504.2685 lana.pargh@compass.com

2VO +BoUV 2OBa Wp B sOBa dT oOB_ OpsBsO _WKObpOOp BT _WBsOM zWsV dalBpp . Û B _WKObpOM oOB_ OpsBsO Jod^Oo BbM BJWMOp J| OntB_ VdtpWbU dlldostbWs| _Bzpà 2d oOBKV sVO dalBpp . dT KOÛ KB__ à à

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

5

Perspectives On Effective Leadership

By RABBI JOSHUA KULLOCK

I

n the Talmud, the basic unit of meaningful learning is the chevrutah, or studying with a partner. All throughout the classic Jewish sources we see Rabbis coming together to discuss different topics. The most famous of these rabbinic pairs was the one put together by Hillel and Shammai. They were so important and influential that two different schools were created after them. For years, the students attending those schools continued to disagree with one another. It is out of their many disagreements that we got some of the fundamental contours of Jewish law.

Beit Hillel and Beit Shammai argued pretty much about everything. When one school said that something was pure, the other believed it to be impure. When the first one wanted to be lenient on a specific situation, the other one preferred to be strict. Both of them saw the world from a different perspective and yet, they shared a deep love for the Jewish people and for a life of Torah. That is why the Talmud, in Tractate Eruvin (13b), says: “For three years Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel disagreed. These said: Jewish law is in accordance to our opinions, and these said: Jewish law is in accordance with our opinion. Ultimately, a Divine Voice emerged and proclaimed: Both these and those are the words of the living G-d.”

This is such a puzzling statement, isn’t it? It is beautiful because it recognizes the virtue and the value of both schools, but there is something that doesn’t sound right. We are not used to a situation in which two opposing groups with two opposing views are both right.

Especially in our days, when we are told once and again that we must have a winner and a loser. If somebody is right, then somebody else has to be wrong. The fact that the Talmud recognizes that both Beit Hillel and Beit Shammai represent the words of the living G-d is a blow to our usual zero-sum mindset. At the same time, it is a wonderful opportunity to reconsider whether our current mode of thinking is the only one available to us, or if we can find a reliable alternative in our own sources when, for example, we engage in heated conversations about all sorts of things.

In any case, the Talmudic text doesn’t end there. Right after claiming that both schools are the embodiment of G-d’s voice, we read: “But Jewish law goes in accordance to Beit Hillel.”

Our Sages loved this type of paradoxical twists. So, both of them are right and yet we follow Hillel. Perhaps, the whole idea behind this last sentence is that even if both Beit Hillel and Beit Shammai point

World’s Fair Continued from page 1 about Federation’s work in the community and give people a chance to help facilitate all the incredible work Federation is doing.”

This year’s Jewish Community World’s Fair is an update to the former Tzedakah Tzunday event. Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt, Financial Resource Development Assistant Director and

6

to two equally valid options, even if both of them can be true at the same time, there are times in which we have to make a decision and stand by our choice.

But, then, we can still ask why the law goes according to Hillel and not Shammai. To that, the Talmud responds: “The reason we follow Beit Hillel is that they were agreeable and forbearing, showing restraint when affronted, and when they taught Jewish law, they would teach both their own statements and the statements of Beit Shammai. Moreover, when they formulated their teachings and cited a dispute, they prioritized the statements of Beit Shammai to their own statements, in deference to Beit Shammai.”

The reason we follow Beit Hillel most of the time is not because they were always right and Beit Shammai were always wrong, but because at Beit Hillel they were willing to listen to the teachings of Beit Shammai. The reason for their effective leadership was anchored in the fact that, when facing a differing view, they didn’t shut that opposition down but instead, devoted time to listen to those arguments and, whenever needed, made amendments to their own ideas. In fact, the Talmud records a couple of times when Hillel was confronted

by Shammai and after careful consideration, changed his position and accepted Shammai’s proposal. That is exactly what I read a few days ago, at the beginning of Tractate Chagigah (2a-b). And it was such a breath of fresh air. I don’t know about you, but I still find it very inspiring when people are willing to change their opinion when they understand that they have made a mistake.

In his last book, Think Again, Adam Grant shares a conversation that he had with the Nobel Prize winner Daniel Kahneman. During that conversation, Kahneman recognized that he genuinely enjoys discovering that he is wrong, because that means that now he is less wrong than before. Reflecting on that, Grant writes: “To unlock the joy of being wrong we need to detach. I’ve learned that two kinds of detachment are especially useful: detaching your present from your past and detaching your opinions from your identity.”

I like the idea of an effective leadership that is founded on the premise of fallibility. I agree with Kahneman and Grant, even if I still have a long way to go before I can actually feel joyful when proven wrong. I think that Beit Hillel would have agreed as well, and that’s why most of the time we follow their lead in matter of Jewish law. Even when they were proven wrong, their ability to listen, change and adapt was all they needed in order to get back to the right path. •

Campaign Director, says, “There hasn’t been a big campaign event in two years, and this is an opportunity to create something new and fun, and highlight all the programs and services funded by our Jewish Federation.”

The Jewish Community World’s Fair will be held on April 3rd 11am – 2pm, with phone calling beginning at 9am. For more information, contact Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt at carolynh@ jewishnashville.org. •

March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

My Covid Eulogy, Two Years Later

By RABBI YITZCHOK TIECHTEL

W

ow, who would have ever imagined this, we are just about to mark the second Yahrzeit of Covid19.

(Unfortunately, it is still very much here... but you know what I mean). So, here’s my eulogy, two years later.

Dear Mr. Covid, It is hard to believe that only a year has passed since we met you. You feel so much a part of my life. Wherever I go, I see people thinking and talking about you. Whenever I put on my face mask or have to go on another zoom, I think of you. I remember when you were far away.

You had that exotic sounding name.

They’ve called you Corona. You were almost like a curiosity; we didn’t know what you were going to look like.

A few weeks before you officially arrived in our area, I brought Corona beer to our Chabad in Nashville. At the Shabbat Kiddush, we all enjoyed some beer. “Anyone who drinks Corona beer will not have a Corona virus,” I said, and we all laughed. A few weeks later, no one was laughing anymore. Schools and workplaces were shut. Everyone was home, and there was an endless stream of sad news. Death, illness, overcrowded hospitals. Frankly, wherever you went, you wreaked havoc.

You have changed how people live, travel, work and study. You’ve changed everything.

Now, hopefully, you will be gone soon. Maybe you should take with you some of the “gifts” you brought. Working at home, for example, sounds like an attractive idea on paper. But ask anyone with young kids and a small living space what they think about it. So many of your other “gifts” are not necessary either.

Still, other gifts are ones that we will cherish. You taught us to appreciate the under-appreciated.

You taught us a new perspective of life. And you taught us to once again embrace our homes.

You see, your Yahrzeit is right around when we read in the Torah how G-d told Moses, “They shall make Me a sanctuary and I will dwell in them.” As the sages point out, G-d does not say, “I will dwell in it,” but, “I will dwell in them.” Because while G-d expects us to build a massive, communal sanctuary, he also asked and empowers us to build our own holy place.

For so many years, the “Jewish stuff” was relegated to synagogues and study halls. We prayed in the synagogues, we attended Torah classes, we participated in the communal holiday celebrations.

That’s great, but that’s not how G-d designed it. He wanted us to create our own sanctuary and not to solely rely on the community. To have holiness in our own homes and spaces.

And because of you, we have done exactly that.

A few months after you came and messed up our lives, a fellow Jew told me, “I never knew that I could pray at home with as much devotion as I did in the synagogue. I always relied on the background, on the people next to me, on the singing together. And here I was alone at home, rediscovering G-d in a new way.”

He is not the only one.

This past Rosh Hashanah, I was thinking how instead of the thousands of synagogues around the country, we now have millions of mini-synagogues. In kitchens, living room and dining rooms. People were creating holy spaces.You taught us to embrace the home and realize its holiness.

Mr. Covid, As we say goodbye, I don’t want to say “until we meet again,” because I hope I’ll never meet you again., I do not want to say that I will miss you, because I will not miss you a bit.

I cannot even bring myself to say that your memory will be a blessing.

All I can say is this: may your memory be a lesson and may the lessons we have learned remain with us forever, and let us say, Amen. •

Comedian Avi Liberman to perform at Chabad of Nashville

A

dar is the Jewish month of Comedy Central. Avi can be joy, laughter and comedy. seen regularly on e! as one of It is the month that Jewish their frequent guests on their very teachings guide us to increase popular countdown series. He has in our joy and happiness. also guest starred on Movies at Chabad of Nashville will be Our House, as well as having hosting an evening of laughter shot a pilot titled Through the and great comedy on Saturday Keyhole both on AMC. He has Comedian night, March 12, at 7:30 PM also been heard on radio stations Avi Liberman with comedian Avi Liberman. across the country.

The evening will include good food, and A successful commercial actor, Avi a fun time, all in the spirit of the Holiday has appeared in spots for “Mercedes,” of Purim, that is celebrated that week.

“L.A. cellular,” “Miller Lite” and most Avi Liberman’s quirky style has made recently “Starbucks” and “Net Zero.” him a favorite in comedy clubs from Los he has appeared at the prestigious Angeles to New York. Born in Israel, raised Montreal just for laughs festival. Since in Texas, and now living in Los Angeles, 2001, Avi has successfully arranged his style is a winning combination of life widely acclaimed stand-up comedy tours experiences and topical issues told through in Israel to help boost morale while a varied blend of characters and voices with donating all of the proceeds to charity. worldwide expertise. Avi has performed The successful “Comedy for Koby” tour stand-up comedy on CBS’s Late Late Show is now a bi-annual event, benefitting the with Craig Ferguson on comedy central’s Koby Mandell foundation.

“Premium Blend” and “Make Me Laugh” An Evening of Comedy with Avi as well as NBC’s “Friday Night!” His acting Liberman will take place at Chabad of credits include Dave’s World CBS, Boston Nashville. Tickets can be purchased at Common NBC and Andytown U.S.A. chabadnashville.com. •

Mission Possible 2022 Explored Jewish Life in India, Morocco, and Israel

By BARBARA DAB

T

he Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee once again took flight to showcase the Federation’s work supporting the Jewish communities this year in India, Morocco, and Israel. Approximately 60 passengers participated in the journey, which began with a brief introduction

by Mission Possible Chair Batia Karabel, who said, “Mission Possible is a wonderful opportunity for participants to see the incredible work Federation’s partners do around the world. Through our conversations, we are able to learn about vibrant communities and how our gifts to the annual campaign support these programs.”

Breakout rooms included visits with overseas partners who shared insights about the programs and services provided by the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. According to JDC representative Elisheva Massel, the JDC was established in 1914 to assist Jews around the world who are in need. For example, in India, the aid program started in the 1960s to provide food for Jewish school children.

During the most difficult periods of the pandemic, COVID kits were sent to help Jews and other vulnerable populations cope with the virus, as well as helping them access to vaccines and ambulances. Oxygen concentrators were provided to almost all Jewish organizations, in Mumbai and in other cities, covering most areas where Jews are residing. In addition, JDC deployed concentrators to Indian hospitals and established a telemedicine system so Indian doctors and nurses could aid people in rural areas.

The journey also included highlights of beneficiaries of the various programs funded by The Federation in Israel. Travelers heard from Sara Viturri, 58, a beneficiary of the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Fund for Victims of Terror.

Jewish Agency representative Yael Raz explained that this program was started 20 years ago to assist victims of the second intifada in Israel. For Sara, the attack came in 2018, while she worked in a factory. She was shot in the stomach by another employee, a Palestinian. “I really thought I’d be murdered,” she says of the attack that also killed two of her coworkers. Sara says immediately after the attack, she received a check from the Jewish Agency, along with a letter of support. She says the continuing assistance has helped her heal both physically and emotionally, “The first feeling you have afterwards is loneliness. But with the help I received, I didn’t feel so alone.” In fact, incredibly just two days following the attack, Sara was on a plane to San Francisco for a planned visit with her son. And in the years since, she wrote a book about her experience. “I’ve been working with a therapist to help deal with the trauma,” she says, “The book includes things I could never tell anyone, not even my husband.” She hopes her story will inspire other victims to find hope to return to a normal life.

Other Israel-based programs highlighted were The Jewish Agency’s Pre-Army preparation “Walking the Distance” program, which is exclusively for young women from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Maksam program focuses on immigrant communities in

Elital Clement, a alum of the pre-army program, Walking the Distance.

Israel which, much like those in the United States, face special challenges integrating into the local national culture and The Partnership2Gether (P2G) program Leadership2Gether (L2G) brings together young professional adults from the Hadera-Eiron Region and the communities in the southeastern US, including Nashville. Using current communication technology, the program engages Israelis and Americans, paired for one-on-one sessions that use text

study to share their Jewish heritage and identity, and their responsibilities as Jews to their own community and the worldwide Jewish community.

For more information about any of these programs, contact Adam Bronstone, adam@jewishnashville.org. To learn more about how you can support these programs, as well as information about The Jewish Federation’s annual campaign, contact Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt, carolynh@jewishnashville.org •

Local Author to Share his Story of Struggle and Triumph But I wanted people to see me reach the other side.” ccording to Jewish To get to the other Family Service Clinical side, Long learns that the Director, Toni Jacobsen, woman who raised him was there has been an increase not his biological mother, in anxiety and depresbut rather a distant cousin. sion brought on by the After his mother’s death, he COVID19 pandemic. To spends time in New Jersey address the issue, JFS creatconnecting with her family ed Mental Health Matters, and discovers the challenga series of programs and ser- Author David Wyley es that come with shared vices designed to support Long to speak about his living quarters. He grapples and provide resources to book as part of Jewish with broken trust and loss the community. The latest Family Service’s Mental and learns about personal Health Matters program. offering, scheduled for April responsibility and self-care.

5th, is a lecture by local author and JFS He speeds through romantic relationships client, David Wyley Long, whose book, while exploring his sexuality, eventually Up Against the Wind: Chasing David discovering he has HIV. Ever the optiWiley, details his struggles from his birth mist, he creates several businesses, among in New Jersey, to a troubled childhood them, a dating service catering primarily in Detroit, to finding family in New to gay, black, men.

York City, and finally, to Nashville Long studied to become an addition where his journey continues. Jacobsen counselor, although he is not an addict says, “This is that rare opportunity when or in recovery. “I’m not an addict, but I a client of ours comes forward to share understand how to process trauma,” he his story.” says. He spent several years as a counselor Long’s life story can be described as in New York City, and eventually made a tangled web that blurs the line between his way to Nashville, where he struggled truth and fiction, exploring the nature to adapt to life in the South. Looking for of family, attachment, sexuality, and the help, found his way to JFS and has been search for unconditional love. He says in therapy since 2014. the book was an effort to come to terms Writing the book was itself a compliwith his past, “It took five years to be able cated process that took him to the island to share in print the pain and trauma of of St. Croix in search of some solitude. my life. With the help of Jewish Family What he found there was a beach, plenty Service, I realized my life wasn’t normal. of sunshine, and distraction. Back in

By BARBARA DAB

A

Nashville, he tried to buckle down and then the COVID19 pandemic gave him plenty of the alone time he needed. “I finally ran out of excuses. It was time to stand in my truth and release my pain.”

Toni Jacobsen says she watched Long struggle through and persevere against some tough obstacles. “A lot of people would have abandoned the book. But David is very driven. When he sets out to do something, he finishes it.” As a testament to his drive, Long recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies from Tennessee State University and created yet another small business.

It is clear in reading Long’s book that the challenges with mental health loom large over his life story. The lessons he

would like readers to learn are straightforward. “First of all, therapy works,” he says, “Talk to someone, be willing to be vulnerable with someone you trust.

Second, people should be open to learning from one another. And finally, always lead with love. I have struggled with the conditions of love but it’s important to respect each other, to understand each other, and to be inclusive.”

Long’s appearance is part of Jewish Family Service’s Mental Health Matters programming. This event is scheduled for April 5th, 6:00pm at the Gordon Jewish Community Center, and via livestream. For more information, contact Toni Jacobsen, tonijacobsen@ jfsnashville.org. •

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

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

7

Podcast Brings Micah Teens and Seniors Together

By JULIE GREENBERG

Writers of the Lost Ark is made up of Temple members who love to write poems, prose, songs and stories. The group meets once a month to discuss works in progress and get feedback, creative encouragement and new ideas to write about. Members also share things online during the month and are very interactive with each other between meetings. And yes, Writers of the Lost Ark is a play on “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” only this is The Temple’s version!

Here’s a sample of WOTLA’s musings.

Check back again for more of their creativity in the future!

E

veryone is familiar with the “pandemic puppy” phenomenon by now, but a pandemic podcast?

When considering how best to engage our high school students through a virtual version of our “CHAI Society” program last year, I imagined a way to finally pursue a goal that I have long had of creating an oral archive of our membership. With that in mind and with some grant funding from our generous friends at The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee in place, I reached out to my colleague Batsheva Frankel of New Lens Ed., whose podcast “Overthrowing Education” continues to offer fresh insights and resources for educators both secular and religious. Why not pair Micah’s teens with some of our senior congregants to conduct interviews and then create our own podcast to share their stories with a larger audience?

With intrepid teens on board, we reached out to Micah members Victoria Cohen-Crumpton, Dee Doochin, Jack May, Dr. Bob Smith, and Hope Stringer who all agreed to lend their voices to the inaugural season of the students’ enthusiastically named podcast project, “Getting to Know Jew.” Once we scheduled and conducted the interviews over Zoom, the much more demanding work of editing began. Over many months, students learned how to script and record intros and outros, create cover art, source royalty-free music for transitions, organize episodes by theme, and then edit the five episodes using the cross-platform software Audacity. The

last step was to find and upload all the content to a platform for distributing the podcast. Through Anchor, “Getting to Know Jew” launched last month as a weekly Shabbat gift from these dedicated teens and is now available on Apple Podcasts (under Anchor’s own account), Breaker, Google Podcasts, Overcast, Pocket Casts, and Spotify.

The episodes are 18 minutes or less, and they each contain the wit and wisdom of these colorful Micah menchen.

Beyond all the technical skills that the students learned through this project, listeners will immediately appreciate the range of playful, sincere, and sometimes sobering conversations that are now preserved for posterity. Students are currently working on Season 2, and I share in their pride that the podcast born of a global pandemic will forever remind us that stories shared across generations are educational, entertaining, and vital to the survival of our spirits. So, tune in and savor the lessons of Jewish lives welllived – l’chaim! •

Gourmet Hamantashen available Now in Nashville L eave it to the Jews to have a cookie inspired by cultural annihilation!

Hamantashen are the triangle-shaped filled cookies most associated with Purim, the most joyous of all Jewish holidays. Hamantashen, the classic Purim cookies, are eagerly awaited by everyone young and old. They are versatile and can be made from a good, sweet yeast dough, flaky dough or from a traditional cookie dough. The fillings can be mixed and matched. The Hamantash cookie is eaten on Purim, when we read from the Book of Esther, the Megillah, and celebrate the Megillah, and celebrate the triumph of good (Esther) over evil (Haman, who planned to destroy the

Jewish people.) Purim is the most joyous of all Jewish holidays.

Chabad of Nashville is offering Covid safe, delicious Hamantashen to share with family and friends, while celebrating the joyous holiday of Purim! These gourmet Hamantaschen will be baked by an authentic Hamantash bakery in Brooklyn New York, and will be offered in three different flavors, Raspberry, Poppy Seed and chocolate chip, and will all be dipped in chocolate, to give a rich smooth taste.

Orders can be placed at chabadnashville.com/hamantashen, and need to be placed by March 4th, for on time shipping before Purim. For more information feel free to call 615-646-5750 •

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

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

8

Welcome to Writers of the Lost Ark

March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

T

his month’s submission from members of The Temple’s Writers of the Lost Ark is the result of a writing exercise that

began with two lines that were followed up with each subsequent two lines by a different writer. This is the group’s first venture into doing a shared work.

In order of each two- line contribution are the following writers: Nina Pacent Loretta Saff Frank Boehm Betsy Chernau Rise Tucker Linda Latter Ruth Thomas Rick Forberg Marybeth Stone Becky Warren Martin Sir Rabbi Michael Shulman

I never knew how hard it would be to get my point across The more words I use the more I seem to lose my train of thought So instead of being the engineer, the words become my guide Letting me enjoy the way they weave - what a fantastic ride!

And so with open mind, I hold my breath And only use the words that do not die a timely death.

Therefore, speaking those thoughts so clearly, there’s no doubt that they are heard, I emphasize and dramatize each thought, each phrase, each living word.

For sometimes words can land like birds—weightless and so flighty!

Other times they’re like the sword, inflicting wounds quite deep and mighty It’s hard to know which ones to use, which words will be clear Most of the time I think to myself, aren’t you overreacting, my dear?

And yet I know a word can be a treasure and a gift To soothe, to comfort, to heal a worry, to elevate, to lift Though we may choose to emphasize with cutting words that criticize The softer ones that make us smile are those we find worthwhile.

So then why sometimes is it such a fight, just to get them out While other times I barely try, they flow like they’re from God’s mouth And so I hold my pen each day, to see what will appear Will I be an alchemist, a drudge, an engineer?

May I always receive the muse in deep gratitude For the goodness I seek to express that only comes from truth Alone it may be difficult to get one’s point across.

But with friends and their words inspiring us, we’re never at a loss.

Chabad to Offer Two Seder Options for All Ages C habad of Nashville invites the Nashville Jewish community to its 23rd annual Community Passover Seders, which will take place in the magnificent ballroom of the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life. Participants will experience the freedom of Passover the way our ancestors did when they left Egypt 3,334 years ago. Chabad will host two different types of Seder on the first two nights of Passover.

On Friday, April 15, at 7:00 PM, Chabad will host a A Cliff Notes Family Friendly Seder. It will be an interactive family Seder; a warm, fun, and thoughtprovoking event. It will include a Passover Experience in a Royal setting, handmade Shmurah Matzah for each Seder participant, an abundance of exquisite wines for every palate, an elegant royal dinner, which will include authentic

gefilte fish, Bubby’s Passover Brisket, and an array of salad and side dishes, catered by one of Nashville’s premiere chefs.

On Saturday, April 16, at 8:00 PM, Chabad will host “A Chassidic Seder for the Inquisitive Mind.” This will be a full Chassidic Seder with many insights to the Haggadah and various Chassidic tales and melodies, and an exquisite Seder feast. This Seder will delve into the deeper meaning and dimensions to the Passover Exodus Both seders will take place in the Bernard Ballroom at the Genesis Campus for Jewish Life, 95 Bellevue Road, and will be catered by one of Nashville’s premiere chefs. There will be a limited number of seats due to Covid restrictions, first come first serve. Reservation for each of the seder can be made at www. chabadnashville.com •

Learn more about the Jewish community at www.jewishnashville.org

Solidarity Continued from page 1 of books that tell the stories of Jewish experiences. According to the United Holocaust Memorial Museum, book burnings in Germany began in 1933.

The largest book burning occurred in Berlin where an estimated 40,000 people attended to hear Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels declare, “Jewish intellectualism is dead.” The recent banning of Maus by a local school board as part of its Holocaust education curriculum, has educators considering it a chilling effect on the teaching of this, and possibly other subjects. Dr. Greg Jones, President of Belmont University, said he first learned of the Holocaust from a Jewish friend, whose grandparents perished in the concentration camps. The experience inspired him to learn more, and to commit to educating others. “It’s one thing to say, ‘Never Again,’ it’s another to discipline our habits, our language, our commitment to make sure that we stand against it in all that we are and all that we do.” He said that despite the books and movies dealing with antisemitism, he is concerned to see it continuing.

Dr. Adrienne Battle, Director of Metro Nashville Public Schools, spoke of the importance of recognizing every student’s uniqueness and understanding that certain truths are incontrovertible.

“One’s gender is not a flaw. One’s race is not a flaw. One’s sexual orientation is not a flaw. And one’s religion is certainly not a flaw.” She said that while not everyone has this perspective, it is up to educators to ensure children develop the empathy they need to deal with the world around them. “We continue to see too many of our fellow citizens attacked, sometimes with vicious words, sometimes with violent acts, simply for how they choose to worship…As educators it is our responsibility not only to inform students of the past, but to also to connect their past to the present and to the future.”

When it comes to educating about the Holocaust, as the generation of survivors is shrinking, what is left are the books that tell their stories. Susan Pankowsky is the Librarian of the Edward T. Goldstein Library at West End Synagogue. She says books like Maus, are the most effective for teaching about the Holocaust. “If you ban the words of the people involved, you lose the history. Banning the book amounts to banning the information in the book.” She says that using books like Maus in a curriculum allows for discussions that students would never get any other way. In closing remarks at the No Hate event, Rabbi Joshua Kullock of West End Synagogue, referenced the fears that arise when school districts ban books. “Even though Jews make up only two percent of the U.S. population, we continue to be the number one target of anti-religious hate crimes in America…

We are afraid because a school district here in Tennessee is banning books like this one because they are more worried about rough language than teaching about the Holocaust.”

Just days after the event, viewers and fans of the television show, “The View,” watched host and actor Whoopi Goldberg comment that she believes the Holocaust was not about racism.

Her comments ignited a backlash both within and outside the Jewish community. Discussions about what is racist and what is not, whether Jews are a race, and even whether someone like Whoopi Goldberg should be able to comment on how people choose to identify themselves. During the No Hate event, Dr. Jones of Belmont University, spoke about the power of words. “I’ve been troubled by the bad analogies that have compared dimensions of the pandemic to the Holocaust and recently, even invoking Anne Frank. We need to be careful with our language. Especially in relation to antisemitism and in relation to the Holocaust.”

Rabbi Kullock closed the No Hate program by speaking at length of the fears ignited within the Jewish community.

He described the steps Jews take when

going to synagogue services to identify safe exits and the active shooter trainings that are becoming commonplace.

He talked about the mental, physical, and spiritual toll of dealing with so much constant fear. Nevertheless, he said it is important to continue to work towards a more inclusive, pluralistic society. “Every time we push for the type of uniformity that denies any chance for dissent, we all lose. When everything is painted in only one color, we endanger the spiritual state of our communal soul as we erase the precious diversity that makes for who we truly are… The only way to defeat antisemitism is by investing in this kind of multicolored society. That is why we, as Jews, need to respond to antisemitism not by hiding who we are but by proudly embracing our Jewish identity.”

To view the Shine a Light on Antisemitism – No Hate in Our State event, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=S9UTByd49Lk&t=147s To take the pledge against antisemitism, visit https://www.jewishnashville.org/ stopantisemitism •

MENsch Society Event open to all Jewish Men

The Holocaust, a Basketball Legacy, and an Unprecedented American Dream WITH BY THE GRACE OF THE GAME AUTHOR

Dan Grunfeld Virtual Event: Wednesday, March 2 7:00pm Via Zoom Register: jewishnashville.org/grunfeld No cost to attend this virtual event.

Complimentary copy of By the Grace of the Game will be provided.

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

Dan Grunfeld

JFON-Dan Grunfeld-10x13-Mar22.indd 1

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

9

1/30/22 1:23 PM

Akiva Stages The Big Bad Musical

By ELLY EBIN

E

very year, Akiva’s fifth and sixth grade students put on a musical show for students, friends and family. This year, students performed The Big Bad Musical: A Howling Courtroom Comedy.

Written by Alec Strum, with music and lyrics by Bill Fancoeur, Big Bad hilariously depicts the trial of the notorious Big Bad Wolf, who has been slapped with a class action lawsuit by a cast of quirky fairytale characters including Little Red Riding Hood and her grandmother, the Three Little Pigs, the Boy Who Cried Wolf, and the Shepherdess. Prosecuted by the Fairy Godmother and defended by the Evil Stepmother, the trial is covered by reporter Sydney Grimm and overseen by a nonsensical judge.

Annie Douthit is a second-grade teacher at Akiva and directs the annual musical. Douthit is passionate about staging these musicals, pointing out that, “Putting on these shows helps build teamwork, cooperation, and mutual respect amongst the students.”

Douthit adds that performing in a musical helps to foster important skills like articulation, verbal and nonverbal expressions, and self-confidence. “Most importantly,” says Douthit, “the musical is a really great way to give students an opportunity to engage in the Arts in a really fun and supportive environment.”

Cast as the Evil Stepmother, sixth grader Hannah Mackler says that preparing for the musical is a wonderful experience. “Every year my class looks forward to the musical. Mrs. Douthit

always helps us and encourages us. The musical has been an important part of every school year for me.”

Amy Goldstein is mom to sixth grader Savannah, who played the role of Little Red Riding Hood. Goldstein echoes Douthit’s sentiments and says that while watching the play she was, “uplifted by the passion and commitment with which our amazing students sang, danced, and delivered their humorous lines.” Goldstein remarks that, “As a parent, I can always count on Akiva to help build students’ confidence, nurture their creativity, and teach them how to collaborate and problem solve in fun and unique ways.”

Stay tuned for Akiva’s next musical performance, Winnie the Pooh, to be performed by the first and second graders later this spring! •

Hannah Mackler appears onstage as the Evil Stepmother, defending the Big Bad Wolf

The cast of The Big Bad Musical, pictured with teacher and director, Annie Douthit.

Savannah Goldstein, second from left, appears as Little Red Riding Hood. Also pictured l to r, are: Amalia Strosberg, Sylvie Mackler, Lyla Banish.

JMS Slam Dunks With New Basketball Program

By ELLY EBIN

L

ast month, students from the Jewish Middle School donned their new team uniforms, laced up their sneakers, and stretched their well-practiced muscles before stepping onto the court for their first game as the inaugural JMS Cheetahs Basketball Team.

Creating a basketball program at JMS was the inspiration of JMS Athletic Director Eliza Griffin. Griffin believes that a robust athletics program offers middle schoolers far more than just a chance to play ball. Skills learned on the court, like tenacity, respect, teamwork, and communication, enrich every aspect of a middle schooler’s development. To help foster these principles and train the team, Griffin called on an old college friend, Jack Holloway.

Holloway has been passionate about basketball since his youth in Raleigh, North Carolina. Inspired by his own middle school basketball coach, Holloway played throughout high school and as a college student at Sewanee.

While in college, Holloway began to coach youth basketball and discovered his passion for mentoring and training them. After relocating to Nashville to begin a professional career in healthcare administration, Holloway knew he wanted to find a way to keep coaching basketball and could not have been happier to heed Griffin’s call. Holloway says, “it’s a blessing to have the chance to coach basketball again.” He expresses his amazement at the commitment and perseverance of JMS students, noting that “their infectious enthusiasm and

JMS Cheetahs Basketball coach Jack reviews plays with the team

Team captain Avi Shuman makes a play

dedication to practice is inspiring.”

Holloway and Griffin both emphasize the far-reaching benefits that basketball has on the students, underscoring that students who engage in regular physical activity have improved overall health and wellness, leading to improved performance in school and most importantly, happier children. Griffin is also thrilled to see the camaraderie and school pride that has matured since the start of the basketball program. The entire school has come together in support of the team, creating posters and signs for

10 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

the school, and cheering on the team through practices and games.

For the players, the experience has been both fulfilling and fun. Wyatt Roth, an eighth grader and team member, says that his favorite part of being on the Cheetahs is, “playing alongside my friends.” Wyatt also reflects that he has learned a lot about leadership from his time on the team. As one of the older students on the team, Wyatt says he has learned “how to be a leader and help support the younger and less experienced friends play the game.”

The basketball team continues to train hard and build skills needed to become impactful players, both on the court and off. We look forward to watching the team’s progress over the basketball season. Go Cheetahs, go! •

Aaron Cheng makes his way down the court.

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

11

Adoption Continued from page 1 Family Service of Middle Tennessee, this law is hitting home for the Jewish community. “These organizations are basically, ‘anti-other.’ If you don’t follow their specific religious beliefs, they won’t serve you. And this type of discrimination has been going on a long time, but when the agency is funded by taxpayers, it crosses the line.”

After locating a child in another state that they wanted to adopt, they were informed early last year they needed to complete a state-mandated home study and parenting training. They contacted the only agency in their area that could provide those services for out of state placements, Holston United Methodist Home for Children. The agency is funded by the state of Tennessee to provide foster care and other services on behalf of The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. Liz Rutan-Ram says she asked if the couple’s Jewish faith would be a barrier to receiving the services provided

by Holston but was assured it would not be a problem. The day the couple was to begin the parenting classes, they were told that, in fact, Holston could not serve them because they are Jewish. Liz says, “I felt like I’d been punched in the gut. This is what we were worried about all along.

That we’d become emotionally invested and the adoption would fall through.”

The Rutan-Rams are now embroiled in a legal battle, along with six other taxpayer plaintiffs, against the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. The lawsuit, filed in state court, states that DCS violated the Tennessee State Constitution’s religious freedom and

equal protection provision by contracting with an agency that engages in religious discrimination. The plaintiffs are represented in this case by Americans United for Separation of Church and State, a 75-year-old advocacy organization that works to protect religious freedom. Rachel Laser is the first Jewish President and CEO of the organization.

She says the concept of religious freedom as it is being used today, is not what the country’s founders intended. “Thomas Jefferson first wrote the model for religious freedom, think about how radical that was. He believed it should be used as a shield to protect people rather than a sword to cut off people’s rights,” she says, “Today the idea of religious freedom is being co-opted and turned into religious privilege.”

The question arises as to how House Bill 836 was passed when it appears to violate Tennessee’s State Constitution.

According to attorney-of-record Alex Luchenitser, Associate Vice-President and Associate Legal Director of Americans United, “This happens all the time.

Legislatures hope to move the needle in a certain direction, so they pass a law anyway and figure it will work its way through the courts.” And Rachel Laser says often the impact of a law is not felt until it is put into practice and challenged. “You never know how a policy will play out until it’s tested. In this case, the state is not looking out for the best interest of the child, which should always come first.”

She says 10 other states are also passing similar laws that challenge the idea of religious freedom and really amount to religious discrimination. “American’s have the right to believe, or not, as long as it doesn’t harm others. In this case, it is

Serving the Wealth Management Needs of Nashville For over 30 years, Argent has provided individuals and families with a broad range of wealth management services, including trust administration, estate planning, investment management and oil and gas (mineral) management, as well as a variety of services for businesses and institutions. Today, Argent is responsible for more than $35 billion of our clients’ assets.

We Look Forward To Hearing From You Howard Safer

Mindy S. Hirt, CFP®

Vice Chairman, Argent Trust

SVP, Wealth Advisor

3102 West End Avenue Suite 775, Nashville, TN 37203

harming the interests of a child and the prospective parents who want to give him a loving, permanent, home.”

Included in this lawsuit are six other plaintiffs, all taxpayers in the state of Tennessee. One of those is Nashville minister Rev Denise Gyauch. She says she objects to her tax dollars being used to discriminate, “My tax money should be used for the benefit of all Tennesseans. I don’t have a problem with the state supporting an organization with a religious agenda, but the organization should not be able to discriminate.” She says those being harmed the most are the prospective parents and the children who need a loving home. “Most people of faith hold the care of others as an important value.

To have a law that prevents that care seems against what people of faith say we’re all about.”

The concept of caring for others is also a core Jewish value. Gabe and Liz Rutan-Ram are committed to caring for who they believe are the most vulnerable children, those in foster care. Gabe says, “This goes to the heart of my Jewish belief in Tikkun Olam, repairing the world. As Jews, we’ve faced discrimination in various ways throughout our lives. But you don’t expect to be discriminated against by the state government.”

Bradley Williams, President and CEO of Holston United Methodist Children’s Home, says in a statement: The Bible instructs us that “Faith without works is dead.” We want to exercise our faith to care for children who have been hurt and neglected and do so in the name of Jesus Christ. We ask others who share our faith to partner with us as foster and adoptive families in this critically important calling.

We believe other ministries and religious family service agencies, like the Jewish Children’s Adoption Network, should also be free to provide for children in their care according to their faith and religious traditions. That is what the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Tennessee require.

We love everyone including those who don’t share our faith and so does our Savior. Loving people and partnering in ministry with them to care for children are two different things. A partnership requires a shared vision and foundational goals to be healthy and successful - abused and neglected children deserve that!

When asked to address the use of taxpayer dollars that fund Holston’s work, and the fact that both the United States Constitution and the Tennessee State Constitution prohibit religious discrimination, Williams responded, “Although there can be differences of interpretations of our state and nation’s Constitutions, there is absolutely no antisemitism or hate in the decisions that we have made.” Additionally, he referenced an Op-ed published recently in the Greeneville Sun, that reads, in part: There can be confusion around who our ministry serves and who public funds are intended to support. We serve hurt, neglected, and traumatized children and their biological families.

They do not have to align with our Statement of Faith for us to serve and minister to them. We hold our staff and foster parents to a different standard. They are not our clients and are not the intended recipients of

public funds. Children are the intended recipients.

The public funds that we receive are used for the children, and they are used for non-religious expenses. These include, for instance, the basic needs of children (food, shelter, clothing), educational costs of our school, and the administrative costs without which these services could not be provided, such as accounting, human resources, and maintenance.

Importantly, we supplement these funds with the charitable donations that we raise. In other words, the government could not provide these services to children using only their subsidies-donors save taxpayers significant amounts of money with their generosity. We also use our charitable gifts to pay for our religious activities so that we don’t use public dollars for religious or fundraising purposes.

Although Nashville’s JFS does not provide foster care adoption services, the agency does provide adoption assistance for any prospective parents, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. Executive Director Pam Kelner says her staff and Board of Directors were so upset to learn of this case, they wanted to do something to help. “We believe so strongly in doing what is in the best interest of a child, regardless of the situation or condition. After much discussion, it was decided to offer a donation to Americans United to help show our support.” A letter to Americans United President Rachel Laser, says in part: “America’s child welfare system rests on the principle of placing the best interest of children and youth first.

This principle—placing the best interest of children above all other considerations—is why all prospective adoptive or foster parents must go through training and a home study process required by the state before being approved to adopt or foster.

This is why social service agencies that provide adoption and fostering services perform these trainings and home studies—to safeguard society’s most vulnerable.

In refusing to provide state required training for the Rutan-Ram family, prospective foster parents, the taxpayer-funded Holston United Methodist Home for Children put the welfare of children and youth behind other considerations.”

Meanwhile, Liz and Gabe RutanRam still believe in their dream to adopt a child from foster care and are currently providing a permanent placement for a teenage girl, along with short term placements of younger children. They hope this case will result in a change to the current law and continue to encourage other adoptive parents. Liz says, “This really speaks to our Jewish resiliency and our determination to figure this out.

I’ve been contacted by other prospective parents who have given up because of this law, but I keep telling them to push through. The finish line is out there.” • Jewish Family Service of Nashville is hosting a virtual event with Americans United for Separation of Church and State. The event, “Defending Religious Equality in Tennessee” is scheduled for March 16th at 7pm CST. For more information, visit www.jfsnashville.org.

(615) 385-2718

www.ArgentTrust.com

12 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

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

We are excited to announce that Camp Davis is looking for host families for the Summer 2022 shlicha!

D o you and your family want to spend time with an Israeli and learn more about everyday life in Israel? Do you ever think hosting an exchange student sounds like a great idea, but a year-long commitment sounds like too much? Well, Camp Davis has the perfect option for you; sign up to host a shlicha, Israeli emissary, during our summer camp sessions!.

Each summer, Camp Davis hosts a shlicha, a representative from Israel who works at camp for the summer and helps to strengthen our community’s connection to Israel. At Camp Davis, the shlicha serves as the Israeli Culture specialist and provides incredible perspective and knowledge for our campers and staff. This person, who typically has just completed

military service, comes to camp because he or she enjoys working with children and is looking forward to experiencing what like is life is like in the US. Our shlicha stays in homes for one to two weeks and this can be a memorable, bonding experience for both the family and the Israeli. “Hosting the Camp Davis counselor from Israel last summer was like a mini vacation for our entire familymost of all for our children,” says Caroline Moses Sprouse, who hosted the camp shlicha in 2021. “Learning about Maya’s country, her traditions, and her family helped our son and daughter understand the world beyond the United States and more intimately experience Israel.

They have been begging to visit Maya in

Israel ever since.” During their stay, the shlicha comes to camp each weekday, and enjoys dinner time and evenings with the families. On weekends, our hosts can extend Southern hospitality and include the shlicha in family activities or show them some of the wonderful things Nashville has to offer.

The JCC has been offered the opportunity to bring two shlichim to Camp Davis this summer, but must confirm housing before they make the commitment. All applicants are fully vetted by the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and Camp Davis leadership interviews them as well. “Serving as a host family is not only a mitzvah, but also an amazing opportunity to learn

more about Israel while helping someone else learn about and immerse themselves in the Jewish culture of Nashville,” says Andrew Fishman, Director of Camp Davis. “And for any families with kids at camp, it is an amazing way to build your child’s connection to Camp Davis and Israel even further.”

Are you in?! If so, contact us now to secure your spot as a host family!

If you have questions or would like to host our incredible shlicha this summer, please reach out to Andrew Fishman, Camp Davis Director, at 615.354.1681 or andrew@nashvillejcc.org.

Camp Davis registration and information can be found at campdavisnasville.com •

The Nashville Jewish Book Series

By RACHEL CLARK, MARKETING DIRECTOR

A

fter a very successful first official event in January, the Gordon JCC’s Nashville Jewish Book Series continued with two more events, including our first in-person event of the year.

On February 7, Zibby Owens (Moms Don’t Have Time to Have Kids) and Melissa Gould (Widowish) were joined by local author Claire Gibson (Beyond the Point) for an incredibly moving conversation via Zoom. They covered tough topics of love, loss, and powering through while parenting, filling the space with hope and perseverance, and an overwhelming sense of positivity. The conversation moved fluidly while the three authors shared their stories and answered questions from our 50 engaged viewers. Owens has a memoir slated to come out this summer and we would be honored to have all three women back for an in-person event in the future.

Our first in-person event since February of 2019 took place on February 16. Local author, photographer, and noted speaker Alyssa Rosenheck (The New Southern Style) spoke candidly with our own committee member and journalist Amelia Edelman at the stunning Bobby Hotel. Their conversation covered everything from antisemitism in the South to the creative process, and persevering through trauma. 50+ people enjoyed cocktails and light appetizers while they listened and engaged in a room lit by candlelight and filled with flowers.

Alyssa spoke about her childhood in Oklahoma as one of a handful of Jewish families in her town, and her experience with the KKK and being targeted for her

religion. The evening concluded around the firepit and inside the winter igloos on the Bobby’s rooftop.

March will bring three very different, extremely poignant events. On March 3 the GJCC will be joined virtually by Qian Julie Wang and Beautiful Country, her wonderful memoir about growing up as an immigrant in the US. It’s an “essential American story about a family fracturing under the weight of invisibility, and a girl coming of age in the shadows, who never stops seeking the light.” Ben Tran, Associate Professor of Asian Studies and English at Vanderbilt will moderate, and the West End Sisterhood Book Club is our event partner. This event is free, and tickets can be reserved at nashvillejcc. org/wang.

March 14 features a book that is called both, “Deep reporting, unforgettable characters, great storytelling,” by Katie Couric, and, “Juicy reading,” by Publishers Weekly. And it’s about marijuana. That’s the praise for Heather Cabot’s book The New Chardonnay: The Unlikely Story of How Marijuana Went Mainstream.

Award-winning journalist Cabot tells the unbelievable story of pot’s astonishing rebranding, “Pulling back the curtain to show how a drug that was once the subject of ‘Just Say No’ warnings managed to shed its unsavory image and land at the center of a booming and surprisingly upstanding industry.” Join Heather and moderator Jordan Wellington, expert in cannabis legislation, to discuss her book on March 14 for a free virtual evening in conjunction with the Memphis JCC… goodie bag with (legal!) treats included.

Register at nashvillejcc.org/cabot Alan Zweibel (Laugh Lines) makes his triumphant in-person return with

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

Alyssa Rosenheck (L) and Amelia Edelman (R) discuss Alyssa’s Book The New Southern Style Photo credit by event attendee Karin Sharon

his good friend and fellow comedian Wayne Federman (The History of Standup,) on March 29, in partnership with Third Coast Comedy Nashville.

Throughout the pages of Laugh Lines, Zweibel weaves together his own stories and interviews with his friends and contemporaries including Larry David, Richard Lewis, Eric Idle, Mike Birbiglia, Sarah Silverman, Judd Apatow, Susie Essman, Dave Barry, Rob Reiner, and more. The History of Stand-Up chronicles the evolution of this American art form – from its earliest pre-vaudeville practitioners like Artemus Ward and Mark Twain to present-day comedians of HBO and Netflix. Drawing on his acclaimed podcast and popular university

lectures, veteran comedian and adjunct USC professor Wayne Federman guides us on this fascinating journey. Tickets are $10/person, and books are also available for purchase. Learn more at nashvillejcc. org/zweibelfederman The Nashville Jewish Book Series runs from December 2021 to May 2022. Find the full schedule, and ticketing information at nashvillejcc. org/book. Information on Chai Y’all, the membership book society, is also available online.

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

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

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

To access the Community Calendar, go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.”

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

13

Wild Wild West End Night Features BBQ & Whiskey

By DEBBY WISTON

O

rganizers of the Wild Wild West End are thrilled to announce that the evening will feature an assortment of smoked BBQ meats and fish prepared

by Jason Sparks and his pit crew, as well as tastings of West End Synagogue’s very first private label Whiskey and signature craft cocktails. In planning for the evening, event chairs Helen Crowley and Debby Wiston thought about what brings people into the synagogue and what kinds of experiences distinguish West End from other congregations. The annual BBS (Brisket, Bird, & Salmon) membership event and the popular Kiddush Club immediately came to mind. What better opportunity to highlight both of these fun aspects than at our Wild West themed Casino fundraiser? After more than a year off due to Covid, we know the congregation has missed those delicious smoked offerings.

The crew of volunteers who work with Jason to ensure that perfect smokiness will be back at the smoker to guarantee no one will leave the event unsatisfied. And as for the thirst they

will certainly have after eating the BBQ, the whiskey will not disappoint. In order to present the perfect glass, members of the Kiddush Club went straight to the distillery for a tasting. After sampling several options, they chose a special batch for our very own label. When asked about the process, Rabbi Joshua Kullock shared, “It was great visiting the distillery and sampling what will ultimately become West End Synagogue’s very first private label whiskey. I know for a fact a few of my rabbinic colleagues in the rest of the country who would be willing to not only be here for the tasting, but for the event itself.” Stuart Wiston, Kiddush Club member, is coordinating the process and offered, “On behalf of the Kiddush Club, we are glad and proud to bring our special expertise to bear in order to help with the fundraiser. We can already foresee this becoming an annual West End Kiddush Club Event.”

A limited number of bottles will be available for purchase leading up to the event and High Roller and Jackpot level sponsors will receive a bottle as part of their sponsorship package. Organizers anticipate the bottles will sell out

Jason Sparks will be manning the grill to prepare a delectable assortment of smoked meats and fish for the Wild Wild West End fundraiser.

quickly, so do not miss your opportunity to purchase one while supplies last.

The event is scheduled for May 1st, for information about reserving your very

own bottle, becoming an event sponsor, or purchasing tickets can be found on the West End Synagogue website www. westendsyn.org •

March in the Gordon JCC Galleries: The Work of Kristin Llamas and Daughters, Emily Coleman, and Quentin Eichbaum

T

he Janet Levine March Gallery will feature the work of Kristin Llamas and Daughters. Award-winning and returning artist, Kristin Llamas developed her first solo museum exhibition at age twenty-two in 2005. She has received recognition by the National Society of Arts and Letters as well as three professional development grants.

Her work resides in public and private collections around the U.S. and Europe including collected pieces through the Tennessee State Museum, the Taube Museum of Art, and the Parthenon Museum. Llamas was selected for the Nashville International Airport and has exhibited throughout the U.S., France, Greece, Italy, and Switzerland, presenting at events including a TEDx Talk in Nashville.

The artist’s fine art collections and installations focus on history, culture, environment, and philosophy through both beauty and mindfulness. Her paintings and installation work encourage community interaction inspired by the idea that art helps us understand ourselves, each other, and the world around us. She is most well known for her signature pieced together canvas and addition of three-dimensional elements on two-dimensional work. Her mirror-writing and symbolic imagery add layers and depth to complex themes.

Born in Rochester, NY, Kristin Llamas is now based out of Nashville, with her husband and three daughters.

Her work is represented by The Studio 208 Gallery in Nashville, TN, Art Elevated Gallery in Park City, UT, and DaVallia Art Gallery in Chester, VT. Crimson, Lily, and Fischer Llamas are the daughters of award-winning artist, Kristin Llamas. The three girls grew up in their mother’s studio, playing in her paints underfoot. They were always given free creative reign and while the fine arts were never pushed on them as a career, all three have developed cre-

Radnor Lake – Fall Afternoon, by Quentin Eichbaum

ative passions of their own. Crimson, 13, enjoys creating culinary treats and hopes to travel abroad to study as a chef. Lily, 11, is an award-winning pianist who also dreams of opening a bakery where she builds sculptural cakes. For the youngest of the three, Fischer, 7, fashion is everything. As a toddler, she began using herself as a palette to create unique characters through wardrobe and makeup.

The Llamas girls have been attending their mother’s art shows at the JCC since infancy and this year, they have been invited to add their own flair to the show by introducing some experimental paintings of their own.

The JLMG2 Gallery will feature the work of Emily Coleman. Emily’s interest in human anatomy and capturing bodies in motion, led to her series of dancing women. Becoming a mother inspired her to incorporate flowers in the dancers’ costumes as blooming flowers are symbolically associated with reproduction and new life. This is her first exhibit at the J Galleries.

14 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

A Rose, by Kristin Llamas

Teal Ballerina, by Emily Coleman

The Sig Held Gallery will feature the work of Quentin Eichbaum.

Quentin was born and raised in Namibia and South Africa where the vast landscapes instilled in him a lasting love for

painting both landscapes and abstracts.

His medium is watercolor using big brush strokes to capture impressionistic landscapes and expressionist abstracts.

He has a Master of Fine Art (MFA) in creative writing from Vermont College.

He has exhibited in the US and Southern Africa. He studied science and medicine at Harvard and MIT - sees beauty in science and medicine - and is currently a professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. The Senior Lounge continues to feature the work of Robbie Laskey.

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

The Exhibition Dates are March 1 – 31st.

The exhibitions are free and open to the public. Any attendees will need to wear masks and sign in at the front desk. For more information, contact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www. nashvillejcc.org. •

Israel Diaries

Image by: Finn Crowe

Image by: Finn Crowe

to 7:15 pm with Hebrew and Jewish History in the morning, and General Studies (our regular high school classes) in the afternoon. It’s actually not as bad as it sounds! Depending on the day, I have either two or three free periods.

The kibbutz also has a lot of cats and dogs that I’ve befriended. I have a little cat buddy named Garfield that shows up at my doorstep every day. He’s loud and whiny, but he’s actually quite cute.

Heller High is big on Tiyuls (field trips), and we go on one at least once a week, if not more. These Tiyuls can either be half or whole-day field trips where we explore Israel. Our first Tiyul was to this place called Tel Gezer, built on the ruins of an old Canaanite city.

We learned about how these old cities survived and thrived in Israel and even

saw the first recorded Hebrew calendar!

A few days after going to Tel Gezer, I started feeling like I had a cold. A lot of people on the program were testing positive for Covid-19, so I got a bit paranoid that I might have caught it.

I told myself that it was just a cold, and I didn’t catch it because I’m fully vaccinated and boosted. After enough people were starting to catch Covid, the Madrachim started testing everyone.

To my surprise and utter despair, I had tested positive. I was immediately sent into quarantine, which was a bit rough.

After about three days, my symptoms were all gone, and I had to sit in my room bored out of my mind for another three days. Luckily, I’m out of quarantine and life has resumed.

Today, at the time I’m writing this,

I did Tzedakah (helping others) in a garden in Jerusalem. Along with Tiyuls, Heller High is also big on Tzedakah.

Every Friday, we go and do community service around Israel. Since it’s been rainy for a few days here in Israel, the water eroded the old path in the garden.

Our job was to build a new path out of rocks, twigs, and mud. By the time we were finished, I was basically covered head to toe in mud.

We changed clothes in a nearby bathroom and met outside to eat some pizza. This was probably the first time I have eaten pizza since I arrived in Israel.

After Tzedakah, we spent some time on Ben Yehuda St. in Jerusalem. It is a huge outdoor market place with a bunch of shops and restaurants. I bought a dreidel for my mom (the dreidels actually have different letters on them here!), along with an IDF (Israel Defense Forces) hoodie and some Hamsa earrings for myself. We came back to the kibbutz around 3:30pm and got ready for Shabbat services. Services were nice and we had dinner, then an evening program.

At this time, it’s 10:20pm and I’m getting ready for bed. Being in Israel has been such an amazing experience, and I can’t wait to share more in next month’s newspaper! I hope everyone has had a great Shabbat, and I want to say a big thank you to the Jewish Observer for letting me share my story, and a big thank you to everyone reading this! I’ve been given a great opportunity, and I want to thank everyone who’s along for this wild and exciting ride that was made possible in part with help from The Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee! •

Kristen’s practice, and her classes are designed for everyone from beginners to those with a long-time practice. Her classes promote balance, build strength, and improve range of motion while centering your mind with breath.

Regina Fernandez teaches a very special yoga class – our Silver Sneakers Yoga. She has been teaching this class for 16 years, and her classes are specifically designed to be done while standing or seated, but you will not be on the floor in them. It is so important as we age to focus on balance, stretching, and range of motion.

Janeene Larkin-Horn has been a yoga practitioner for over 20 years, loving it so much that she completed certification just over 3 years ago. Yoga for Janeene is mind, body, breath, and spirit melding together for a healthy life and this

is what she shares in her practice. Her view is that yoga should be a consistent life-long exercise practice to reduce stress and improve endurance while building strength, balance, and flexibility.

Carolyn Rudin is a personal trainer who has also been teaching yoga for 19 years and teaches a very gentle yoga stretch class on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5pm. Carolyn emphasizes proper alignment, safety, and maintaining focus on the breath, as she accepts her participants wherever they are in the moment.

Any of our classes can offer a wonderful beginning to someone wanting to get started with yoga, or to maintain an existing yoga practice and improve their well-being by growing. Our classes are open to all and are appropriate for anyone who wants to try them. Check out our full schedule at nashvillejcc.org/group. •

By FINN CROWE

Editor’s Note: As introduced last month, Finn (previously identified as Bella) is the recipient of a grant from The Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s Mary and Harry Zimmerman Youth Exchange Endowment Fund. The grant is helping to fund her semester in Israel.

H

i! My name is Finn Crowe, and I am spending the spring semester of my sophomore year in high school in Israel.

Here’s my journey so far: On January 23rd, I started my journey. I met up with the Heller High School in Israel group at JFK International Airport, and we all hopped on a plane to Tel Aviv. This was my first time on an international fight; it was so fancy! The ride was a long, boring, and cramped 10 hours. I luckily had music pre downloaded to pass the time.

After what felt like forever, we finally arrived in Israel. I was super excited to say the least. The airport workers were a bit scary, but I made my way out and met up with our Israeli Madrachim (counselors). Fast forward about an hour later, we boarded a bus to go to our new home at the hotel on Kibbutz Tzuba. We met the principal, found our roommates, got our room keys, and finally got to unpack. It was probably one of the longest days I’ve ever had in my life.

For the first day or two, we were placed in quarantine. Israel has a very strict Covid protocol, and the school has to obey it. After quarantine, we started classes on the kibbutz. A normal school day at Heller High is from 8:10am

Why Yoga? Why Now?

By HARRIET SHIRLEY, GORDON JCC FITNESS DIRECTOR

S

pring is coming, but while we’re waiting for the weather to warm up, it’s a GREAT time to try Yoga…why? Yoga is WARM! Warming up your muscles and joints is good for the body. It improves circulation, reduces stiffness and cramping, and helps increase your body temperature. Feeling sluggish? Do some yoga!

It is known to boost energy which can feel low with short days, dark evenings, and drab winter clouds.

But beyond that, Yoga is peace.

The practice promotes mental clarity, a sense of security, grounding, and balance, reduces the cortisol levels in the body, and can boost cognitive and emotional wellness which is especially beneficial in times of stress (can you say pandemic?!?).

The J offers 14 yoga classes a week.

All are led by our certified yoga instructors who are trained and love to share their knowledge, and all are very different! Are you unsure of where to start?

Read on to learn about each of our teachers and what they have to offer.

Gerry Martin’s yoga class is very easy to follow, flowing slowly from pose to pose to work and stretch your muscles. He includes some poses specifically to improve balance and prevent falls, but also to make you stronger and more flexible. No headstands required. This class is for everyone, it is not necessary to know yoga lingo or even be able to touch your toes!

Kristen Bendheim’s classes all feature a holistic approach focusing on the body, the mind, and the breath. These three elements are the foundation of

Hadassah Happenings March 11th 6pm Join us as we celebrate Hadassah Global Shabbat 6pm at Congregation Micah Services may also be streamed.

March 13th 1pm Virtual Intergenerational Hamentaschen Bake Led by Melissa Sostrin Invite your children and grandchildren!

Make your own dough or buy it premade

the morning of the event, details to follow.

Please RSVP to Sarah by March 9th March 21st 7pm Zoom board meeting All members welcome March 27th 4pm Zoom Bookclub Gateway to the Moon

By Mary Morris

Contact Sarah Motis Ruden with any questions at spm5222@gmail.com

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

To access the Community Calendar, go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.”

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!

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

15

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

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

Weekly Events Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah PURIM 2022 with Chabad of Nashville Chabad of Nashville will be hosting a variety of Purim events that will be offered to the Jewish community for people of all ages, including study, ritual, cultural and spiritual.

The following are the programs that will be offered at Chabad of Nashville for Purim 2022:

Purim Gift Distribution

Chabad of Nashville will be distributing several hundred Purim gift packages to Jewish families across Middle Tennessee. If you know of someone that would enjoy receiving a Purim gift, please contact the Chabad of Nashville office.

The Big Megillah Wednesday, March 16, 7:30 PM - Purim Eve

Chabad of Nashville will be celebrating Purim 2022 on Wednesday, March 16, 7:30 PM with the BIG MEGILLAH Reading. Festivities will begin with the Haman Booing, Megillah Reading, and Hamantashen eating contest. All participants will receive a special Purim gift.

Purim In The Roaring 20’s - Feast and Celebration Thursday, March 17, 5:30 PM

On Thursday, March 17, the annual Purim Around the World celebration will take place at Chabad of Nashville with the Purim in the Roaring 20’s Festivities.

The event will include a Purim Themed Speak Easy set, a quartet of smooth Jazz, a taste of the Prohibition days, with Roaring 20’s festivities. Swing over for The Megillah reading, a delectable dinner buffet with dishes from days gone by, musical entertainment, a Southern Hamantashen Bar, country face painting, a Roaring 20’s dress-up photo booth, costume contest and a Purim gift for each participant.

All are invited to attend. There is a nominal fee to cover the cost of the dinner.

RSVP is required by March 7, at www.chabadnashville.com.

BLT – BAGELS, LOX AND TANYA Join friends for a morning of bagels, lox and Tanya (Jewish mysticism) on Sunday, March 6, at 10:30 AM. Partake in a delicious spread of bagels, lox, cream cheese, and freshly brewed coffee as you learn from the Holy Book of the Tanya, and the Gates of Trust. The lesson is taught by lay leadership, starting with Doug Revere who has been a longtime student of these teachings. Nourish your Mind, Body and Soul with BLT at Chabad of Nashville.

Chabad to host two TGIS celebration in March 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, March 13, and on March 25, 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 s know you will be attending at chabadnashville@ gmail.com

Is It Passover Yet? Who can think of Passover today, when it is a while away. Well, Passover begins on April 15, and will be here before you know it. Chabad of Nashville will be offering for purchase Shmurah Matzah handmade Matzah for your Passover Seder from the Holy Land of Israel.

To place your order or for more information, go to chabadnashville.com/matzah

16 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, and the authenticity of our intention through the power of music and song. This spring, we feature Music Director and Cantorial Soloist, Ms. Lisa Silver as she is set to retire this June. 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.

Mah Jongg: Every Tuesday, 12:30 PM- 3:30 PM in the Social Hall

Join our players for an afternoon of mah jongg fun in the Social Hall! For more information, contact Paula at pgkwn@comcast.net.

Schmooze & Views: Every Thursday, 10:30 AM In-Person and on Zoom

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.

Torah Study: Every Saturday, 9 AM on Zoom

Deep conversations centered around the Torah’s wisdom with thoughtful and caring people, led by Rabbi Flip on Zoom.

March Events Purim Carnival: Sunday, March 6, 10 AM- 12 PM

Join the fun at our Encanto-themed Purim Carnival. Come in your favorite costume and meet your favorite Encanto characters. Festivities will include a playful shpiel, a raffle, refreshments, carnival games, a bounce house, and a magic show by Cole Strosberg The Great! Visit www.congregationmicah.org for more information.

Special Shabbat Service featuring Hadassah: Friday, March 11, at 6 PM

Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, will join us for a special service to talk about their mission of bringing healing to the US, Israel, and our world.

Women’s Circle: Mindfulness Through a Jewish Lens, Friday, March 18, 12 PM on Zoom

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

Sports Trivia: Tuesday, March 8, 10:30 AM on Zoom

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. We will be on Zoom in March. Questions? Contact Martin at martylight@aol. com.

Micah Reads: Monday, March 7, and Monday, April 4, 7 PM on Zoom

All are welcome for a Zoom discussion on the book The Last Watchman of Old Cairo by David Lucas in March and The Book of Last Names by Kristin Harmel in April. Education Director Julie Greenberg leads the conversation for this community-wide event.

Silver’s Platinum & Gold: A Tribute to Lisa Silver, Micah Fundraiser, Saturday, March 19, 6:45 PM In-Person

Music at Micah is as important to our spiritual identity as Judaism itself. For decades, Grammy-nominated songwriter Lisa Silver has served as our Musical Director/ Cantorial Soloist. Performing on thousands of recordings, radio and television commercials, live stage shows, and television shows, she has composed and led our community in numerous original settings of Jewish liturgy. As she sets her sights on retirement this summer, we are poised to celebrate her and her many accomplishments. Visit www. congregationmicah.org/silver for more information.

Want to take this relationship to the next level? Apply for membership! For more information, contact Mindy Drongowski at mindy@congregationmicah.org

Continued on page 17

At Our Congregations… @ Sherith Israel a

v

u

@ The Temple t

s

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

b

c

6 CH 1

MAR egillah!

Hey Kids...These heroes could use some help...

r

pm M

7

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

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

Lunch with the Rabbi Thursday, March 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st from 12:00-1:00 PM

1) Which heroes are NOT wearing the right kind of mask for this purim ?

q

d

p

Bring your lunch and engage with Rabbi Schiftan and guests in a discussion of currents and important issues from a Jewish perspective.

Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org

Women’s Torah Study Every Thursday from 12:00-1:00 PM

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

Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org

Shabbat Schedule for March

e

o

f

2) Can you name each hero and their secret identity ?

2) A A-ANT MAN/SCOTT SCOT LANG; B-WONDER ONDE WOMAN/DIANA ANA PRINCE; PR C-S STORMTROOPER/FINN; PER/ D-BLACK CK PA PANTHER/T’CHALLA; ALLA; E E-SPIDER-MAN/PETER /PETER PARKER; F-D DR. DOOM/VICTOR ICTOR VON DOOM; M; G-C G-CATWOMAN/SELINA SELINA KYLE; H--WINTER SOLDIER/BUCKY LDIER BARNES; RNES I-BATMAN/BRUCE /BRUCE WAYNE; J-C -CAPT. MARVEL/CAROL VEL/C DANVERS; VERS; K-BANE/UNKNOWN; NKNOW L-SPIDER-GWEN/GWEN GWEN/ STACY; M--RONIN/CLINT NT BA BARTON; N-RIDDLER/ED RIDDLE NYGMA; MA; O-WASP/HOPE OP PYM; P-M -MANDO/DIN N DJARIN; DJ Q-FLASH/BARRY ASH/ ALLEN; EN; R-STAR RLORD/PETER /PETER QUILL; S--CAPT. AMERICA/STEVE ERICA ROGERS; OGER T-KYLO REN/BEN REN/B SOLO; U-SCOR U-SCORPION/UNKNOWN; WN; V--IRON MAN/TONY /TON STARK.

g

The Megillah reading will be followed by a Celebration with Food, Music, and Entertainment!

1) B, B G, I, J, N, Q, S

h

i

j

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

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

Call for more info! k

Shacharit - 6:30 am Maariv - 7:00 pm

Shabbat Services

Kabbalat Shabat - 5 minutes before sunset Cantor’s Class - 8:00 am Shacharit - 9:00 am Babysitting and Groups - 9:15 am Kiddush Lunch - 11:15 am Kids Cheder - Tuesdays at 4:00 pm Bass Medrish - Wednesday evenings at 8:00 pm Torah Class with Rabbi Saul - Thursday mornings at 9:00 am Visit www.sherithisrael.com for more information

Chevrah Torah Study* 9:30a.m. on Saturdays via thetemplehub.org m

Weekday Minyans

Study Programs

n

Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. Please reserve your spot via thetemplehub.org. You can also watch via zoom from thetemplehub.org.

Friday, March 4th ~ 6:00 PM – Celebration of cantor Fishbein’s 10 years with The Temple Friday, March 11th ~ 6:00 PM Friday, March 18th ~ 6:00 PM- Festive Purim Service with Birthday Blessings Friday, March 25th ~ 6:00 PM

l

Shabbat Service in honor of Cantor Fishbein’ s 10th Anniversary with The Temple Friday, March 4th at 6:00p.m.

A Celebratory Oneg Shabbat Reception to follow a Festive Evening of Tributes, Songs and Surprises!

Join us as we express our gratitude to Cantor Tracy Fishbein and her family for 10 wonderful years of service to our congregation! Patty Marks & Jessica Viner are the Honorary Co-Chairs You can join us in person or via zoom from thetemplehub.org

Are You Looking for a Creative Outlet? Join Writers of the Lost Ark!

“Writers of the Lost Ark” meets the first Wednesday of each month currently via Zoom. This is a safe, supportive, and no pressure environment to share your creative ideas whether they be stories, songs, poems, or prose. The group is open to all regardless of how little or how long you’ve been writing. Those curious to find their creative side are welcome as well.

Wednesday, March 2nd ~ 7:00-8:00 pm For more information, please contact ninapacent@bellsouth.net.

Go to thetemplehub.org for Zoom info.

Next Dor Torah & Federation’s Now Gen Networking and Noshing @ The Temple

(Next Dor is Temple’s young professionals group) Monday, March 7th at 6:00pm Are you looking to learn from some of Nashville’s most respected business leaders?

Join NowGen and NextDor at The Temple for an evening of snacks, questions, and learning! Participants will be able to ask the guest speakers questions, network, and learn!

RSVP to Sheri Rosenberg, The Temple’s Director of Membership and Inclusion, sheri@templenashville.org by March 2nd

Purim @ The Temple For more information about Purim at The Temple, please visit thetemplehub.org or templenashville.org

Purim Carnival on Sunday, March 6th from10:30a.m.-12:30p.m.

in person at The Temple-Games, Treats, Costume Contest and so much more…!

Tot Shabbat –Get Ready for Purim!

Saturday, March 12th @ 10:00a.m.

(for families with children up to age 6) These opportunities offer families the chance to celebrate Shabbat with their young children in a creative way.

For more information and to join in, please visit thetemplehub.org or www. templenashville.org Continued on page 18

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

17

At Our Congregations…

Continued from page 17

Talmud class on Tuesdays

Rabbi Joshua Kullock teaches a Talmud class on Tuesdays at 7:30am.

Temple Purim Service

Let’s celebrate Purim at our Friday night service on Friday, March 18th at 6:00pm with a festive Purim Oneg to follow. Come in your costume and enjoy all the fun!

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

Purim Clergy in the Kitchen Cooking class

Thursday, March 17th at 7:00pm via thetemplehub.org

Jewish Learning on Your Own Schedule

Look for podcasts and videos prepared by musicians, scholars and clergy! 13 Attributes of God, Jewish Cooking Demos, Clergy Chats, Inside Israel and Jewish Music Sessions. Sessions will be posted on thetemplehub.org

@ West End

Torah class for Women:

Join Rabbi Joshua on the first Wednesday of each month at 11am via Zoom (call for details)

Torah class for Men:

Join Rabbi Joshua the second Thursday of each month at 12pm.

Seniors - Lunch & Learn is Back!

March 9 – Learn with Nashville Historian Jean Roseman March 23rd – Learn with Rabbi Saul Strosberg Time: 11:00am - 12:00pm & 12:00pm – 1:00pm for Lunch Lunch by Goldie Shepard Contact Linda Sisselman @ linda@westendsyn.org

Come Celebrate Purim at West End Synagogue

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

Introduction to Judaism Class with Rabbi Kullock is back in person!

Join us every Sunday from January 9th - May 1st, 2022, from 9:30am – 11:00am For more information contact Linda Sisselman @ linda@westendsyn.org Special Guest Speakers: Ed Cheng – Sunday, March 6th - 9:30 a.m.

AJ Levine – Sunday, March 27th – 9:30 a.m.

Shacharit

Join us for in-person morning minyan!

Sunday services will be at 9am and Monday-Friday will be at 7am

Daily Mincha (afternoon service) or Maariv (the evening service) depending on Daylight savings times Join us for daily Mincha/Maariv on Zoom only at 6:00 p.m.

Kabbalat Shabbat

You are invited to join us for Kabbalat Shabbat on Fridays in person or on Zoom at 6:00 p.m.

Morning Shabbat services

You are invited to join us Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in person or by zoom.

Wednesday, Evening, March 16, 2022 Come dressed in your best Purim costume…double masking encouraged (1 for Purim and the other for safety) Schedule of Events: Purim S’Eudah (Dinner) – No Charge 5:45 p.m. – Social Hall RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED! RSVP to Jim Holzer – jholzer@westendsyn.org or (615) 269-4592 x13 Maariv Service 6:30 p.m. – Main Sanctuary Megillah Reading and Costume Contest 6:50 p.m. – Main Sanctuary Costume contest for children and adults!

RSVPs are due by 12 p.m. Thursday, March 10th!

CHAG PURIM SAMEACH!

Great news! Beit Miriam is announcing our 6th Annual Passover Candy Sale!

You don’t want to miss out on shopping for your Passover candy from the convenience of home, while supporting Beit Miriam at West End Synagogue! Place your online order by March 4, 2022 here: https://shop.misschocolate.com/index.asp?PID=72367.

Our school ID number is 706100. Money raised from the candy sale will go towards enrichment opportunities for the students and tenting for our outdoor fenced in eating area. Beit Miriam students will be selling candy. Please support their efforts. Questions?

Contact this year’s Passover Candy Sale chairs, Deena Prichard (deenaprichard@yahoo. com) or Rachel Yazdian Spielman (Rachelyaz@gmail.com).

Roblox, popular kids’ computer game, removes virtual Nazi gas chambers

By SHIRA HANAU

(JTA) — Roblox, a collaborative computer gaming platform for children as young as 7, has faced serious criticism over the years for failing to properly moderate its content — with antisemitism and racism rife, according to multiple reports.

Now the platform says it has removed a virtual Nazi concentration camp featuring gas chambers that users could operate.

In a report published Saturday, the Daily Mail revealed the existence of the concentration camp game, which included tall watchtowers, gas chambers, and train tracks apparently representing the cattle cars that brought Jews to Nazi death camps to be murdered. The game

featured gas chambers which users could operate by pressing a button with the word “execute” or enter to experience death of their avatar, or the computer figure representing the player, by gassing.

Roblox released a statement to the Daily Mail in which it said it had removed the concentration camp game and condemned extremism and antisemitism. “We have zero tolerance for content or behaviours that promote or glorify extremism, including antisemitism.

We have removed the experiences in question and banned the individuals who created them. We work tirelessly to maintain a platform that is safe, civil and inclusive, and use manual and automated detection tools to swiftly remove experiences that do not comply with our com-

Learn more about the Jewish community at www.jewishnashville.org Please support the businesses that advertise in the Observer and help support our community in all ways!

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

18 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

In this photo illustration, the Roblox app seen displayed on a smartphone screen and a Roblox logo in the background. (Thiago Prudêncio/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

munity standards,” the company said.

Roblox experienced a major increase in popularity during the pandemic as more children began playing the game while at home during lockdowns and used the game, which allows players to interact, to stay in touch with friends.

The growth means that more people are present to encounter and participate in illicit content that has plagued the platform for years, in a reflection of the

internet’s well known tendencies.

In recent months, the platform has been plagued with recurring game rooms in which players engage in sexually explicit conversations and in which their avatars engage in sex acts. The company has said it removes the games quickly, but they frequently reappear.

The sexually explicit game rooms have also been reported to include avatars dressed in Nazi uniforms. •

Community Listings East Side Tribe

Young Jewish Nashville

East Side Tribe’s March Shabbat dinner will be on Friday, March 25th from 6-8.

Everyone is welcome and the event will be outside!

March 7 - Young Adult Networking Event - Now Gen and NextDor Collaboration at The Temple, 5015 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205 - RSVP to Sheri (sheri@ templenashville.org) by March 2nd

Israeli Folk Dancing Israeli dance doesn’t require any previous experience or fitness level. It’s a fun and easy way to get exercise, make new friends and it’s free! Please come join us!

Tues evenings - 5:30-6:45 PM at the JCC - Easy to Advanced Sessions held in the gym. Contact Judy Given for more information given223@bellsouth.net Friday mornings - advance session only - 11:15 -12:45 at the JCC in the gym.

Contact Evelyn Koch at kochevelyn@hotmail.com

Jewisic City Jewsic City creates a space for people to come together for Jewish musical experiences outside of traditional synagogues and denominations and in the style of Jewish summer camps. No matter if we gather for Friday night services, Havdalah campfires, song sessions, or other innovative programming, we are a thriving, growing group of young professionals who want to experience their own Judaism in a meaningful way through music, prayer, and community. Our next event will be the evening of Saturday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. The event is in person but also streamed live on Facebook. For details, join our mailing list by emailing jewsiccity@gmail.com or join our Facebook group (search “Jewsic City”).

March 12 - Jewsic City Havdalah - Location provided with RSVP, reach out to jewsiccity@gmail.com to receive the link to RSVP March 26 - NowGen Purim Masquerade - Location provided with RSVP, reach out to Noam Harari and Eitan Snyder at noam@jewishnashville.org and eitan@jewishnashville.org for more information

To access the Community Calendar, go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.”

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

Nashville Jewish Genealogical Society Guy Prall will be the JGS Nashville speaker on Sunday March 20th from 2:00 to 3:30 PM Central Time. Guy was born and raised in England and has spent a number of years tracing his ancestors back to the 1600s. Guy will share his genealogy story and also discuss genealogy resources available in the United Kingdom. Please contact JGS Nashville (nashvillejgs@gmail.com) for more information and a Zoom link.

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

19

Health & Wellness: Spotlight on the Mediterranean Diet

By SHERRI HOLZER

A

s Simply Sherri, the foundation of my health coaching practice and cooking instruction falls into the Mediterranean style of cooking and eating.

My mother was born in Greece, which means I grew up deeply connected to the foods of the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest diets by the world’s leading experts. But here’s the thing, “diet” is such a misnomer. The Mediterranean diet is really a lifestyle. It’s a flexible way of eating that’s filled with whole, fresh produce, lean proteins, heart healthy seafood and nourishing whole grains. Rather than dictating what not to eat, Mediterranean eating principles focus more on what to eat. Eat more fruits, more vegetables, more whole grains, more beans, more nuts and seeds, and more healthy oils. It even includes desserts because what is life without a sweet treat as part of your eating plan.

My favorite part of this way of eating and living is that there’s no calorie counting, no macro counting, no fad dieting. Just a centuries old way of eating

that is proven to work.

Recently my mom stood in our kitchen with a very solemn expression and told me of her regret that she didn’t take better care of herself. She shared her belief that because her health was being managed by a few medications, combined with the fact that she was still walking 5 miles a day, and cooking with me while listening to our Neil Sedaka oldies obsession, she would remain in good health. Mom believed it would be “other” people who ended up with serious issues. And yet, her quality of life was negatively affected by years of maintaining borderline diabetes and high blood pressure. It broke my heart to hear the words that I’ve heard so many times from my health coaching clients, “I wish I had made better choices and taken better care of myself.”

It’s never too late to do better. It’s never too late to change. It’s never too late to improve your health. Thankfully my mother jumped on board and embraced how easy it is to become more plant forward with her meals and to reap the benefits of the Mediterranean way of eating.

In a few short weeks she achieved weight loss and is maintaining a balanced glucose level. After asking her what she thinks about her new approach to eating, Mom gave me a big squeeze and a huge “thank you” for teaching her that feeling good on

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

I

need to clear something up. I’m fine.

Apparently, there was some voiced concern from my last column that I was not doing okay. I was writing my truth last month of traditionally feeling a bit blue during the months of January and February. It seems to have been misinterpreted. I wasn’t feeling particularly funny or kvetchy and I unknowingly threw some readers off.

As a matter of fact, today, when I went downtown to the Antiques & Garden show I ran into someone I happen to know from the community at the door taking tickets. He said he had read the column and felt bad for me, he asked if I was trying to get a date from the column and he had thought about sending me flowers.

Which, by the way, I made a mental note, he did not do. I then realized how easy it is for people to read into things. I told him I’m not writing the column to get a date (although, let’s face it, I wouldn’t turn down some great guy or flowers for that matter), I’m writing the column to invite others into my life journey, which on most days, has a certain amount of kvetching involved and a certain amount of humor.

I certainly didn’t intend for my column to be a pity party. That being said, I’ve got bigger fish to fry this month.

Society is crumbling, housing markets are out of control, young people are fleeing jobs, and I’m holding on by my teeth in a world where being considered, “Old School” is now seen as, “cute” as I’ve been called by millennials. What comes next? Maybe that I’ll actually turn into an Alta Kaker. If you don’t know this Yiddish phrase…you definitely did not grow up in my family. I suggest

Googling and while you’re at it…not calling anyone that. It just rolls off the tongue sounding yick.

And while I’m having my say, I think young people would greatly benefit from some, Old School skills. Like lifting their heads out of their phones and actually using it to call someone, like a real person. Enough with the texting. How about knowing how to use a needle and thread to sew on a button. One young woman, a model that I recently styled for a fashion shoot, literally could not tie a shoelace. How is that even possible? Are Velcro sneakers killing brain cells?

And, yes, while I admit I could definitely up my game with computer skills in order to survive in this Matrix of a world, I can guarantee you, if the Internet went bust, I’ve got a bus load of Old School survival skills up my sleeve and down to a science. Let’s see what the Millenials call me then!

Tonight, while speaking with my son on the phone (yes, I’ve raised him well - he actually calls) he was telling me about several of his twenty-something friends in New York City who are consultants. I asked him, “What the hell kind of job is that for a twenty something year old? What are they consulting about? Don’t you need life experience to be a consultant? Like say, someone who is ‘Old School?’”

I give up. The world is backwards and upside down right now. I feel like Alice in wonderland at the Mad Tea Party.

So…I’m going to take a minute to disconnect, take a deep breath, make myself a cup of chamomile, relish the coming of Spring, not wait for someone to send me flowers, just take a walk outside and pick myself some, listen to the birds in the trees. Kind of Old School… don’t you think?

And yes…I’m doing just fine. •

Learn more about the Jewish community at www.jewishnashville.org

20 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

both the inside and the outside, is a whole lot easier when embracing the eating style of her Mediterranean ancestors.

This recipe for Pistachio Crusted Salmon is one of our family favorites:

INGREDIENTS 1 pound salmon filet (4 wild caught 4oz pieces) 1/3 cup pistachios 1/2 cup basil leaves 2 tbsps extra virgin olive oil 2 tbs lemon juice 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/2 tsp black pepper INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Place salmon skin side down on a nonstick baking sheet or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Add all ingredients from pistachios

through pepper to a blender and blend until it’s almost smooth. You just want to make sure you don’t have any large chunks of pistachio. (You can also finely chop the basil and pistachios by hand if you prefer. Stir in the other ingredients until it forms a paste-like consistency.)

4. Spread your pistachio crust over the top of each salmon filet. You’ll want to use every single drop. (It’s really good!)

5. Bake until salmon is cooked through.

Salmon should flake easily with a fork in about 15 minutes.

6. Enjoy!

Sherri Holzer is a food strategist, cooking instructor, and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She grew up learning to create healthy and elaborate meals with her Greek family as soon as she was old enough to hold a spoon. As the founder of Simply Sherri, she leads culinary and corporate experiences where she shares her knowledge of food, nutrition, and simplifying the cooking process with her students. Sherri’s mission is to show the world how to use food for self-care. When people have a basic understanding of what’s in their food and how to eat what they love more healthfully — those two things alone can transform how they enjoy their lives. www.simplysherri.net @iamsimplysherri

Dear Esther Dear Esther, My 4-year-old daughter is bright, inquisitive, and is forever asking the question why lately. While most days this is not a problem, recently she noticed a stranger in a wheelchair at a restaurant. She walked up to the person and asked why they cannot walk. I felt embarrassed and protective of the person sitting in a wheelchair, so I hurried my child along to avoid a confrontation.

While I might have avoided an uncomfortable conversation, I wish I had handled it differently. Can you help me prepare my response for the next time?

– Linda Dear Linda , Encountering differences with a small child can be challenging! Their young minds want to know and understand everything. When this happens, you not only have a teaching opportunity for the child but an opportunity to sense an affirming message to the person being questioned. But before allowing your child to approach a stranger, I would suggest that you look for subtle clues that the person is willing to be approached.

This might include making eye contact with your child, as well as observing positive facial expressions or body language by the person in the wheelchair that suggests he or she is open to conversation. If it is someone your child can have a brief chat with, monitor the conversation and guide your child to have a positive experience.

Point out similarities, use inclusive language and assist your child in seeing the person before the disability.

There will be times when approaching a person directly is not an option. At those times answer your child’s questions and seize the opportunity to teach them about disabilities. Use inclusive language, nor-

malize differences, and make it value neutral. Make sure not to shame the inquisitive child for asking a question and be honest with what you do or do not know.

You can also have inclusive books and media in your home. A child who is older can begin to learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act and ways to accommodate differences, so everyone has the same opportunities. Start talking to your child as young as possible and keep talking about people with disabilities so they grow up understanding diversity and inclusion.

I also recommend every parent examine their own thoughts and beliefs about disabilities. Parents need to model behavior that demonstrates acceptance and inclusivity. You may want to look at the PJ Library website, https://pjlibrary.org/ search?q=disability, for more information about books for children about differences along with information about creating inclusive activities for children.

I applaud you for reaching out and bringing this topic to a public space.

Parenting is difficult so be gentle with yourself.

– 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. •

ADVERTORIALS

Home & Garden ISSUE MARCH 2022

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

21

(Xyy0ª ‫ ے‬R §§æ R Ǫ ‫ ے‬mÇy!R ‫ ے‬ªÇy!R ‫§ ے‬ªXß À0 (XyXyJ Xy ! m ²§ªXyJ²

ADVERTORIALS

{ 1s G{ (Us1ɫUs ¤1 ÉU"1ɗ

Sperry’s Restaurant

ɂɅ

We’re on YOUR move with Aging in Place Services, LLC

"1i1 ­UsI

Ð1 ¤

0mm0 w0 (0 ‫ ׉׀ׁׅ‬R ª(XyJ §Xj0 ‫׉׀׈׀ٌ׃ׅ׃ فׁׅ׆ـ‬

! m ²§ªXyJ² ‫ ׀ׅ׆‬Iª ðX0ª (ªXß0 ‫׀ׅ ׉ ׉ ٌ ׈ ׇ ׇ ف ׅ ׁ ׆ ـ‬

ÉU¤U­ ÊÊÊɚ¤ 1 Фɚ"{q G{ q{ 1 UsG{ q ­U{s

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. The signature dishes that are so popular for dinner are also available on the lunch and Sunday brunch menus at the Cool Springs location. 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. Visit sperrys.com for more information. 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’s best dining tradition. Go to sperrys.com for more information on Sperry’s Restaurant and Sperry’s Mercantile. Since 1974, the tradition continues!

Our Aging in Place (APS) Team is a team of experts that work with clients and their families to assist with the next steps along the journey. That journey could take place right where you are, relocating to a new home, experience the ultimate in retirement or just a little organizing to make life function more smoothly and with ease. We deliver an individually tailored plan, our A-Z Services, to offer the most personalized customer service available. Our focus has been on the 50+ age group, but the truth is… we help people of ALL ages chart their own path ahead.

Even though change can cause great stress, both mentally and physically, our teams are trained in how to support and meet those needs. Embracing the dynamics is totally key! We even partner to give back with items to donate, recycle or upcycle in keeping the world a better place. This is our area of expertise!

Why not let APS help with your move? Reach out, call, check-in with us…you just never know what the future could truly begin to be. Learn more about 8FhSF 0O :PVS .PWF who we are, about our projects and also enjoy the testimonies at www.aginginplaceservices.net or call 629.999.2477 to see what’s possible. www.aginginplaceservices.net 629-999-2477 MRJS@aginginplaceservices.net

Continued on page 19

For 4 generations, it’s been our family’s mission to protect yours.

Thank you, Middle Tennessee, for allowing us to serve you since 1925.

- Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC and the team at Zander Insurance TERM LIFE | ID THEFT | HOME | AUTO | BUSINESS | EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

800.356.4282 · ZANDER.COM · 6213 CHARLOTTE PIKE, NASHVILLE, TN 37209

22 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

ADVERTORIALS

Helping people realize their dreams!

A rare Nashville native and experienced real estate professional, Jackie Roth Karr is excited to assist you with your relocation, whether it’s across town or across the country. For the past 10 years, Jackie has been a part of RE/MAX Homes and Estates, Lipman Group, a local brokerage with global influence. Jackie will help you navigate through each step of the home buying or selling process, from luxury listings, quiet countryside to first-time home buyers, or even investment properties.

Her stellar reputation as a trusted advisor is something Jackie takes pride in. She knows how busy you are and won’t waste your time, so put her to work for you - she’s a Realtor® who cares about your needs. Give her a call, and together you can visualize the possibilities to make a house your home.

Jackie is recognized as a Top 5% Nashville Real Producers and a member of the Greater Nashville Realtors®

Hunt Memorials Charlie Hunt began working in the family business, Hunt Memorials, in 1982 after graduating from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. “After graduating, I considered several career paths, but I was curious about my family’s monument business,” says Hunt, who earned a degree in history. “My father made me go through an interview for a job. He asked me what my qualifications were…what I could do for the company. After a year in the shop, Dad asked me to do some sketches of monuments, and I quickly found my niche. What started as a temporary foray into the monument business became a permanent career, and my designs became an integral part of the company’s growth.”

What you may not know, Charlie is also a stone carver and sculptor. He has been very active in the Nashville Art Scene. JW Hunt Stoneworks is the name of his sculpture business, in honor of his grandfather, John William Hunt who started Hunt Memorials. Charlie recently had the honor of being featured on Tennessee Crossroads. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFL2SfDi7Eo&t=199s His garden art and sculptures grace many notable Nashville homes and gardens, along with Cheekwood and other commercial venues. Make sure to stop by his booth at Art on the West Side coming up April 9, 2022.

Druid Tree Service Springtime ushers in a time of rejuvenation; a new beginning. A wake up to the certainty that it’s time to again enjoy nature’s bountiful beauty of flowering trees, shrubs and flowers. Breathe in the scent of lilac and viburnum, allow the vibrant, pink cherry blossoms to transport you to, and take solace in the fact that spring, without fail, has sprung again.

At Druid Tree Service, we are specialists in preserving the natural beauty of your

trees and shrubs. We believe your yard should be an oasis, deserving of the utmost care and attention. From specialty hand pruning of boxwoods, yews and ornamentals, to shade tree maintenance, our arborists offer professional care for landscapes of any size.

As you spend more time at home, you may observe that your landscape could use an expert eye on the beautiful space you envision. We can help you through our consulting arborist’s stewardship plans. Alleviate the worry of hazards in your trees, by having our consulting arborist conduct a hazard tree assessment. Spring is an important time to identify pests and nutritional deficiencies in your plants. At Druid, our consulting arborist conducts a plant pathology assessment to identify concerns and make recommendations for pest and fertility issues. Druid has proven experience controlling specific pests and diseases, including the devastating Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), to insure the health and wellbeing of your trees and shrubs. Druid is family owned and has been caring for trees and shrubs in the Nashville area since 1977.

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

Continued on page 20

DUW IRU V

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!

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

23

ADVERTORIALS

Senior Living in Consultation With a Landscape Architect Clarendale at Bellevue Place is a unique senior living community, with a memory care courtyard designed and installed by a nationally recognized landscape architect— Jack Carman.

With more than 20 years of experience, Carman is best known for therapeutic gardens, and his talents are on full display at Clarendale. Designed to appeal to all the senses, plant materials include everything from ornamental Japanese maple and Chinese redbud to catch the eye to English lavender, basil, parsley and pineapple sage for pops of fragrance.

“Listening to birds, watching a sunset, feeling the breeze on our skin…being outside in nature has positive effects on our mood and outlook,” Carman explains.

There are cleverly designed hardscapes, too, including a room-size pergola with rocking chairs and gliders, providing a shady spot for rest and contemplation. Residents and their families also discover a relaxing fountain water feature, bird feeders to tempt feathered friends, and paved meandering paths to stroll and enjoy all the sights, sounds and scents of nature.

According to Carman, “Gardens are an essential component of any residence.

Outdoor rooms and spaces help individuals with dementia stay connected to the world around them.”

This Clarendale garden oasis is just 13 miles southwest of downtown Nashville at the intersection of I-40 and US 70 South in the exciting development of One Bellevue Place. But first, call 615-271-5511 or go to ClarendaleAtBellevuePlace.com to schedule a virtual visit to this independent living, assisted living and memory care community.

Leadership Leads to Peace of Mind Our senior management team has the vision, experience and \og\ik`j\ kf `ejg`i\ ZfeÔ[\eZ\%

The Kupin Group With the weather finally warming up, now is the time to start planning for your dream outdoor space- or for looking for a home that gives you more yard to make it a reality. Whether you are looking for more space to plant the perfect vegetables, finally have a pool to splash around in, or simply have a porch to watch the gorgeous Middle TN sunsets, the Kupin Group can help you find the perfect property for you. Reach out today so we can have you ready to throw the perfect backyard barbeque by summer!Jacob Kupin from The Kupin Group

A Great Place to Live and Work Clarendale residents can be confident they made the right choice, thanks to a well-led staff that makes day-to-day life delicious, rewarding and carefree. In turn, our dedicated team benefits from competitive wages, comprehensive benefits and senior leadership committed to employee growth and advancement.

Special Thanks to Our Director Team Donna Adlington, Executive Director Rachel Claiborne, Director of Health Services Samuel Giammarino, Director of Memory Care Leslie Brown, Director of Sales and Marketing Jordan Uselton, Director of Community Relations Mykah Farren, Business Office Manager Avery Toy, Director of Life Enrichment Russell Ginder, Director of Culinary Services Ryan Bowen, Director of Plant Operations

Call 615-258-6364 or go to ClarendaleAtBellevuePlace.com for more about living or working at Clarendale.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

7632 Highway 70 South Nashville, TN 37221 2-22

24 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

ADVERTORIALS

Shep’s Delicatessen Having an event at home and looking for the perfect caterer?

Shep’s Delicatessen is a traditional NYC-style Jewish deli, located in East Nashville. Open daily for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and bagel happy hour! Expect to see dishes like potato latkes, mac and cheese pancakes, homemade pastrami and corned beef and chopped liver sandwich.

Shep’s offers catering services and event space rental for 25 guests and more .From small get-togethers to large celebrations, let us help make your event special. For information please email us at catering@shepsdeli.com. $ IDPLOLDU DQG IULHQGO\ VSRW IRU WKH KLJKHVW TXDOLW\ SURGXFWV

Visit us with this ad and receive 20% off your purchase!

OUTSIDE STORE

INSIDE STORE

106 Harding Place (615) 356-2201

107 Harding Place (615) 401-9183

www.creekside106.com coupon expires 9/1/202ā

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!

REALTORS® who: • Act fast • Lead with honesty and integrity • Give to the community • Keep your best interests at heart That’s The Kupin Group. We’ve Got Your Back!

615.440.6673

615.279.5310

615.549.5430

Learn more about the Jewish community at www.jewishnashville.org

BEST PASTRAMI SANDWICH IN TOWN CHALLAH@SHEPSDELI.COM | CATERING@SHEPSDELI.COM 1000 MAIN STREET | NASHVILLE, TN | 615.252.5700 The Jewish Observer • March 2022

25

Lifecycles B’nai Mitzvah Beth Barnett

Beth Barnett will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, March 5, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. She was born February

27, 1955, in New Rochelle, N.Y. Her parents are the late Hilda and Sidney Barnett.

Her grandparents are the late Pauline and Louis Perkel and Gussie and Benjamin Barnett.

Beth graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Logan Chiropractic College in 1984.

CRAWFORD SERVICES “The Name You Can Trust” SM

)81(5$/ +20(

She enjoys hiking, biking, organic gardening and traveling. She recently retired and is pursuing her interests and learning Hebrew and pickleball. She hopes to volunteer in The Temple’s Religious Education programs and has enjoyed studying with Cantor Fishbein.

Kasey Pauline Hill

Kasey Pauline Hill will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, March 26, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. She was born April 4, 2006, in Nashville. She is the daughter of Jodi and Mark Hill and granddaughter of Meryl and Keith Kraft, Terry Kornman, and Clara and Gary Hill, all of Nashville.

For Kasey’s mitzvah project, she took an in-depth look at Holocaust remembrance and history in an effort to create awareness and education to her peers.

She toured the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., and held personally interviewed several Holocaust survivors. She documented these interviews with photos and detailed accounts of their experiences.

A tenth grader at Martin Luther King Magnet High School, Kasey enjoys guitar, singing, exercising, chorus, Beta Club, cooking vegetarian and vegan dishes, and BBYO. She has shown maturity and grace since her Bat Mitzvah was the first to be postponed because of COVID in March 2020 and has stayed diligent in her effort to see her it come to fruition two years later.

Sutton Korn Chu C Ch hu h ucckk & H Heid eiide eeid iid de Craw raw ra awfor ffo ord or

Providing Funeral Services Since 1985 (615) 254-8200 www.crawfordservices.com

Sutton Korn will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, March 26 at Congregation Micah. Sutton is the daughter of Stephanie and Stephen Korn and

Obituaries Stewart Paul Cannell

Condolences to the family of Stewart Paul Cannell who died on January 22 in

sister of Sarah and Sydney Korn. She is the granddaughter of Jerry and Carol Korn and Barbara Jo Saler. Sutton is a 7th grader at Ensworth and enjoys reading, writing, and acting. She is an avid soccer player and is also on the travel lacrosse team.

For her mitzvah project, Sutton is collecting school supplies and canned goods for Wright Middle School, as well as accepting donations for their drama program.

Maddie Marshall

Maddie Marshall will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, March 5 at Congregation Micah. Maddie is the daughter of Richard and Ruth Marshall and sister to Benjamin Marshall. She is the granddaughter of Fay-Ellen Lane, Robert Braun, and Karen Marshall. A 7th grader at TPH Center of Excellence, Maddie enjoys figure skating, synchronized skating, and music. She has chosen The Gentle Barn as her mitzvah project.

Eli Eskind Russ

Eli Eskind Russ will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, April 2, at 11a.m. at The Temple.

Eli was born on March 20, 2009, in Nashville.

He is the son of Marisa and Ben Russ and grandson of Melissa and Philip Russ, Marlene Eskind Moses and the late Robert Mansell Moses, and Elaine and Edward Eskind, all of Nashville.

For Eli’s mitzvah project, he worked with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) providing items to young people his age to help pass the time before they are placed in residential facilities, as well as providing hygiene products for them.

A seventh grader at Harding Academy, Eli enjoys golf, baseball, soccer, basketball, reading and playing the guitar.

Memphis. He was predeceased by his parents, Jean and Daniel Cannell.

He is survived by his wife, Dee Cannell, and his siblings, Barry Cannell (Rene Lewis) and Judy Weiss (Stan) and his children, Carey Saunders (Jason) and Laurie Mehlman (Ross), as well as three grandchildren.

While his life was taken much too soon, he was blessed with the riches of a wonderful family, countless friendships and relationships made. The family requests that any memorials be sent to B’nai Brith Youth Delta Region (https:// BBYO,org/donate), Temple Israel, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Steven Alan Cooper

Condolences to the family of Steven Alan Cooper, who died on January 24.

He was the brother of Ronnie Shuster; father of Sean Cooper and Joshua Cooper; father-in-law of Elisa Cooper; grandfather of Chandler Cooper, Symon Cooper, Elias Cooper and Tobias Cooper; uncle of Alexandra Shuster and Jason Shuster (Sarah); and great-uncle of Eli Shuster and Grant Shuster.

Memorials may be made in Steven’s memory to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or to Congregation Micah.

Evelyn R. Richmond

HUNT MEMORIALS, INC 4807 GALLATIN PIKE | NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

26 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer

Condolences to the family of Evelyn R. Richmond who died on February 3. She was predeceased by her husband, Samuel B. Richmond. Survivors include her children, Phyllis (Chris Scotese), Doug (Mary Ellen McDurfee) and Cliff. Memorials may be made in Evelyn’s memory to the Nashville Symphony, Nashville Public Radio, or WNPT.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS

ORTHODONTISTS

CATHY WERTHAN, CPA

401 Commerce Street, Suite 1250 Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 245-4070 • marcumllp.com

APPLIANCES

ELECTRONIC EXPRESS is a leader in top quality, brand-name electronics and appliances at exceptionally low prices. Stocking the latest items, Electronic Express takes pride in providing customers with products at prices to fit any budget. From televisions, appliances, smart devices and cameras to security systems, furniture and mattresses, Electronic Express has everything to take your home to the next level. Electronic Express offers special financing, delivery and installation options. We make it happen! Visit us at any of our 18 locations or online at www. electronicexpress.com

Lighting • Appliances • Hardware Kitchen • Plumbing • Accessories Smart Home Products Low Price Guarantee 615•843•3300 www.gohermitage.com

ATTORNEY MARTIN SIR, ATTORNEY Family Law / Personal Injury / Probate Fifth Third Center 424 Church Street, Ste. 2250 Nashville, Tennessee 37219 (615) 256-5661 www.martinsirlaw.com

CARE GIVER

AROSA (formerly Family Staffing Solutions, Inc.) Integrated Care Management and Home Care Provider 2000 Glen Echo Road, Suite 104 Nashville, TN 37215 615-595-8929 208 Uptown Square Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-848-6774 768 N. Main Street Shelbyville, TN 37160 931-680-2771

Advertise in our Professional Services Directory Reach thousands of readers in the Nashville and Middle Tennessee area by taking advantage of this cost-effective way to reach a loyal repeat audience!

Call Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager, to place your professional listing.

615-354-1699 carrie@nashvillejcc.org

www.zeitlin.com Residential & Relocation Specialists

Custom senior care for active, healthy lifestyles. Affordable/no minimums.

Meals, meds, transportation & outings.

Memory loss and Hospital recovery.

Professional & screened care partners.

Locally owned. Call Moises for Free assessment: 615-678-9223 www.curaforcare.com

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

DENTIST

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

STEVEN R. HECKLIN DMD BRITTANY BURD, DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry www.drhecklin.com 5606 Brookwood Place 615-356-7500

INSURANCE

DR. TODD A. RUBIN, M.D. Specializing in Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics 615-342-6300

PERSONAL SHOPPER

JAMES A. ROTHBERG ADAM ROTHBERG James A. Rothberg & Associates Office: 615-997-1833 Fax: 615-665-1300 2000 Glen Echo, Suite 208 Nashville, TN 37215 Email: jrothberg@jarinsurance.com info@jarinsurance.com

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELING

MOVING & STORAGE Let us exceed your expectations!

Pre/Post Move Organizing • Move Mgrs. Packing • Unpacking • Sr. Downsizing FREE CONSULTATION – 615.415.8920 www.HomeAndOfficeTransitions.com

OPHTHALMOLOGIST HOWARD ROSENBLUM, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon Nashville Eye Center St. Thomas Hospital • Ph. 615-386-9200

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

REAL ESTATE

JESSICA AVERBUCH, CEO 615-383-0183 (bus.)

615-294-9880 (cell) jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.com www.jessicaaverbuch.com LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 615-794-0833 (bus.)

615-351-5343 (cell) lorna.graff@zeitlin.com www.lornagraff.com NAN SPELLER Broker, GRI, ABR 615-383-0183 (bus.)

615-973-1117 (cell) nanspeller2014@gmail.com JENNIE ZAGNOEV Affiliate Broker 615-383-0183 (bus.)

615-838-2048 (cell) jennie.zagnoev@zeitlin.com

Local Expertise...Global Exposure!

Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR® www.JackieKarr.com JackieKarr@gmail.com Mobile: 615.330.9779 Office: 615.463.3333

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 FRANKLIN PARGH 615-351-7333 Franklin.pargh@compass.com LANA PARGH 615-504-2685 Lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com Instagram: @theparghteam

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

615-373-4342 www.druidtree.com

OPTOMETRIST DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Eyecare & Eyewear 2817 West End Ave., Nashville 615-321-4EYE (4393) DR. JAMES W. KIRKCONNELL Bellevue Eye Center 7640 Hwy 70 S, Ste 102 Nashville 615-662-7588 www.bec2020.com

JACOB KUPIN C - 615.440.6673 O - 615.279.5310 Jacob@TheKupinGroup.com We’ve got your back!

LYNCH TREE SERVICE Year Round, Complete Tree Care 615-444-4676 www.LynchTreeService.com

The Jewish Observer • March 2022

27

PASSOVER ISSUE COMING APRIL 2022

A time for the Jewish Community to prepare special foods and celebrate this meaningful time of year.

Be sure to be a part of this annual issue.

Publication date April 1, 2022 Deadline for ads March 15, 2022 Contact Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager 615-354-1699 e-mail carrie@nashvillejcc.org fax 615-352-0056

28 March 2022 • The Jewish Observer