The Observer Vol. 89 No. 8 – August 2024

Jewish OBSERVER

From the Campaign Trail

By JASON SPARKS

No, no, not that kind of campaign. The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville’s 2024 Annual Campaign! So, here we are, halfway through the year, and as it happens, we are halfway to our annual campaign goal. Next year, by this point I’d like to be further ahead in the process, and we will be starting the year with a big kickoff. But one thing that I am learning in my role here at JFed Nashville is that I cannot do it all today – many of these pieces take time.

A few things have been going on behind the scenes to set us up for success for 2025. The first is that we are rebuilding a multi-generational team of lay leaders that will help Federation close out the 2024 Campaign and set us up for success in 2025. My simple ask is that if you would like to participate in that process, which several folks have already volunteered to do so, please don’t hesitate to reach out – the more the merrier. And, if someone reaches out to you to participate, I would simply ask that you answer the call.

Our newly promoted Chief Impact and Strategy Officer, Michal Ezkenazi Becker, has already formed her Grants committee and has begun the process of reviewing grants that will fund all of the great work throughout the community. And to be clear, these grants are only made possible by your generous donations.

And while I don’t want to end on a down note, the events of the last several weeks and months have only underscored just how important the role of Jewish Federation is in our time. The reality is that no country club, museum, or nonprofit is going to come to our aid in the times we are experiencing – we have to work together and support each other. As we experience hate speech in our streets and an unprecedented rise in antisemitism, it is critical for us to support and secure our Jewish

Continued on page 3

Jewish Federation Unites Nashville Community to Combat Antisemitism and Hate

By BARBARA DAB

Approximately 1200 people from all walks of life in Nashville joined together last month to send the message that antisemitism, hate, and intimidation are not welcome in the city. The event was planned in the wake of a spate of demonstrations, marches, and disruptions nationalist groups that had set themselves up in town for several weeks.

During one particularly tense Metro Council meeting, where members of the group attempted to disrupt the public comment portion and were promptly ejected from the meeting, Federation CEO Rabbi Dan Horwitz called on the Council to do more to help Metro Police enforce existing ordinances that could help curtail these types of demonstrations. “We have been warning our local and state elected officials to act, and thus far insufficient

action has been taken to enforce our current laws,” said Horwitz, “We very much appreciate the efforts of law enforcement to disrupt these activities to the extent possible, and we now call on our elected officials to use the full force and effect of our local and state laws.”

The Nashville Together event was immediately organized and despite the punishing heat and threat of thunder-

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Local Scholars Offer Historic New Translation of Maimonides’ Seminal Work

By BARBARA DAB

An unlikely pairing of scholars is at the heart of the groundbreaking new translation of Maimonides’ classic work, The Guide to the Perplexed. Lenn Goodman is a professor of philosophy and Jewish studies at Vanderbilt University and Rabbi Phil Lieberman is also a Vanderbilt professor as well as a Navy chaplain and former Wall Street investment banker. “Lenn and I come from very different places,” says Lieberman, “He is not someone who works on the history of ideas; he is

working on the ideas themselves. So, he is in dialogue with Aristotle and medi-

eval Muslim philosophers or Rambam himself. I’m a historian to the hilt, just figuring out what happened and what the world of the past look[ed] like.”

Nevertheless, the two came together to create what is being hailed as groundbreaking work and one that is accessible to even the lay reader. Rabbi Saul Strosberg of Congregation Sherith Israel says, “I also struggle with philosophy. But when you read the new translation of the Guide to the Guide (a prologue of sorts), it really comes easy. Part of it is their approach to translation which is novel

Continued on page 17

Professor Dr. Lenn Goodman Rabbi Phil Lieberman

Community Relations Committee

By DEBORAH OLESHANSKY

Nashville has been facing a vexing problem, with a revolving door of white nationalist groups coming to call over the past months. There were so many of these groups that it started to receive national and even international attention, including the Jerusalem Post reporting, “Nashville has a Nazi problem: Jews face two weeks of neo-Nazi invasion.” The disturbance and disruption from these groups could not continue to go unabated. It’s hard to know what to do in response, since counter protest and reactions is what these groups hope to provoke, but doing nothing is simply not an option. Nashville Together became the rallying cry and on July 21, close to 1200 people gathered with us at Bicentennial Park to stand up loudly and proudly for the values of civility, decency, diversity, and respectful community, making clear that the work of these hate bias groups is not welcome here.

Lamenting the arrival of these groups demonstrating and marching through our city, spreading vile and vicious antisemitic propaganda, modeled on the sort of imagery used by the Nazis during World War II, lead to a series of statements, meetings, and action plans. Even the most despicable rhetoric, if not directly promoting violence, is protected under the First Amendment and even the most offensive groups have a right to demonstrate and protest, if they follow the rules. And that has been the challenge. Finding effective and productive ways to mitigate the efforts of these groups who often arrive armed with their own lawyers to advise them on how to step

Nashville Together

up to the limit. Federation leadership convened meetings with city officials to implore them to support law enforcement in efforts to give consequences to the actions whenever possible, and to be creative in finding new ways to address new problems. Where does their right to demonstrate and perpetuate dangerous propaganda begin to infringe on our right to feel safe and secure? What can be affected by the city and what needs state action? These efforts are a work in progress and will continue until we find practical solutions. State effort will need to wait until the Tennessee State Assembly reconvenes in January, but we are already working with lawmakers on what is possible and successful.

Even with the concerted effort to address the situation, another such group descended on the city in July, with all their antisemitic Nazi themed regalia, taking things took a new low. After littering our neighborhoods with their disgusting and dangerous lies, including violent images, they began displaying these images along our highways and streets, and in front of our Jewish congregations and Metro Courthouse.

After days of this assault on our sensibility, deliberately designed to provoke and goad reaction, they turned their attention on our Metro Council, attempting to co-opt and disrupt the meeting on

July 16. They were organized and shrewd enough to get to the meeting early, to commandeer the public comment portion of the meeting, but taking all but one of the open speaking slots. Jewish Federation CEO, Rabbi Dan Horwitz, had already signed up for the first space, and this group of self-proclaimed Nazis took all the remaining space.

After being strategic enough to take all the public comment time slots, they could not overcome their own despicable and cruel behavior. While in the gallery waiting for the meeting to stop, members of the group insulted and demeaned women, verbally attacked Jews and immigrants, and deliberately disrespected council members. Their rude and disruptive behavior continued until the meeting was called to order. But they just could not help themselves – as if their twisted world view could not be contained and it spewed out of them. Ultimately, Metro Council President Pro-tem, Zulfat Suara, cleared the gallery to end the disruption and allow the council to conduct business. As a result of being kicked out of the meeting, this group was forced to forfeit the speaking slots they had tried so hard to control.

Social media posts about the goings on spread quickly, and many were sickened by the sights and sounds of their hateful interactions. Soon people were messaging concern, fear and anger. Some shared they were feeling under siege. Enough is enough!

With the help of city and state contacts, and as a collective testament to the strength of our will and resolve to defy this Nazi group, we were able to make Nashville Together event happen in a matter of three days. The barbarians

From the Federation President

By LESLIE KIRBY, FEDERATION PRESIDENT

Like most of us, the aftermath of October 7th has left me struggling. Shock, anger, confusion, fear, anger morphing into outrage, disappointment, frustration. More fear – from external forces and those within. At this point, like many of you, I am raw, ragged, and very worried for our collective future.

I find myself thinking frequently of my maternal grandfather. He taught me one of the most important lessons I’ve ever learned — about the dangers of “othering.” He imparted this lesson to me through his experiences in WWII.

My grandfather enlisted in the Army right after Pearl Harbor. He was 17, lying about his age because he was so determined to join the war effort (this was way before the days of computer databases where such things could be easily verified). His training lasted six weeks.

And then he woke up one morning on an island in the Pacific, with orders to attack. He told me he would never forget that first combat battle, the first time he came across an enemy soldier. Although the encounter likely only spanned a few seconds, it felt to him like time froze. He was expecting a monster — that’s what

his training had taught him. The drill sergeants emphasized over and over again that the Japanese weren’t even human. They were vermin, they were dogs, they were animals at best, sub-human for sure … monsters.

So, my grandfather went to war halfway around the world, and landed on that island thinking he was there to rid the world of monsters. What he found instead was another boy. The boy didn’t look exactly like him, but as they faced off with their newly minted rifles aimed at each other, my grandfather recognized that that other boy was just as surprised, just as confused, just as scared as he was himself. And that boy had also landed on that island looking for a monster, since that’s what his trainers had drilled into him.

I was reminded of this recently, while watching the raw footage from the October 7th attack. Like the attacks themselves, the footage was horrific. But the most disturbing part for me was the glee with which the terrorists were killing. They kept referring to the Israelis they were killing as dogs, saying they weren’t human and deserved what they were getting. They called their friends and family members, bragging about what they had done.

We’ve seen Israeli Cabinet members

were literally at the entrance gate of the event, but their venom only served to make those there to participate even more determined to stand opposed to their bigoted and hateful message. As the band, led by Cantor Josh Goldberg, played the Tom Petty classic, the audience belted out the lyrics, “I Won’t Back Down!” which drowned out the Nazi verbal attacks. Through music, spoken word, and strong words of support and action, we made it clear that there are so many more of us devoted to promoting the values of diversity, kindness, civility, decency and respect, in our city and in our world.

Nashville Together met the moment, providing a respite from the relentless assault from these groups, and an opportunity to enrich our souls and give us the sustenance to continue the work of promoting civil community bringing us together with friends, neighbors, colleagues and all those devoted to bringing the light. The inspiration from the day will serve to fortify, nourish and strengthen our spirit and our resolve to continue the work of building secure Jewish community, and to partner with our friends, neighbors and partners to continue to meet the moment by spreading light, warmth, and hope.

JCRC July Actions:

• Meeting local and state officials to educate about and address antisemitism

• Outreach to public and private school officials to prepare for the upcoming school year

• Participate in Metro Council meetings

• Presentations to two local civic groups about Jewish life and current antisemitism •

and others in the Jewish community using that same type of language when talking about Palestinians. And in this country, we have elected officials — including some of our own elected officials — using that same language to describe their political enemies.

That both sides of conflicts use the same dehumanizing language and tactics should give us all pause. The recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump shows us all too clearly where othering leads. Yet in the immediate aftermath of that attack, before anyone even knew what had actually happened, the finger-pointing and violent rhetoric began again.

Two weekends in a row, Nashville has been subjected to demonstrations by far-right groups who hate us (along with everyone else they view as “other”) just because we are Jewish. Their language is appalling, their tactics of intimidation abhorrent. In multiple instances since October 7,th local children have been threatened at school, being told “Zionists don’t deserve to live.” And within our own local Jewish community, we have individuals using despicable language about other Jews, just because they think differently. We are under attack from all sides, including from within.

Our tradition offers another path.

The Torah tells us all humans are b’tzelem Elohim, made in the image of God, a divine spark within each of us. It is essential that we always remember that, but especially in our current polarized world. In a time when too many groups allow tribalism to triumph over morality and craven self-interest is prioritized over our sacred duty of tikkum olam, it is time for Jews to stand together and say enough. We must band together, take care of one another, and focus on the collective good, putting aside selfish personal agendas.

We at Federation fight every day to give voice to those who can’t find their own, to shine a light on injustice and destroy it at its root, to protect the most vulnerable among us. We fight for others not because of who they are, but because of who we are. There is no other, there is only humanity, all of us together. Individuals can and should be held accountable for their own actions, but we should not blame those attitudes or actions on their membership in a particular group, and we especially must guard against thinking that groups are monoliths. Groups are made up of individuals, and each individual is part of many groups. It is at best not smart to make

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Editor’s Note…

By BARBARA DAB

H

appy August everyone! As promised, included in this issue of The Observer is a column from the August

1934 issue, along with the banner from the very first issue, dated March 1, 1934. This is but a small excerpt of what was published in that historic newspaper, and you can find the full page on our website,

www.jewishobservernashville.org. In the coming months we will be sharing other fun tidbits of our community’s life as told through these pages over the last 90 years. This newspaper is, and has always been, a

labor of love for those who work to bring you information about our beloved community. And so it is for me, the current editor and steward of our stories. Happy reading and enjoy! •

c c c c STAFF

Publisher Jewish Federation

Editor Barbara Dab

Editorial Associate Emma Canter

Advertising Manager Carrie Mills

Layout and Production Tim Gregory

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

Telephone 615/356-3242 Fax 615/352-0056 E-mail barbaradab@jewishnashville.org

The Jewish OBSERVER (ISSN 23315334) is published monthly for $36 per year by the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009.

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While The Jewish OBSERVER makes every possible effort to accept only reputable advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot guarantee the Kashrut of their products.

The Jewish OBSERVER

Founded in 1934 by JACQUES BACK

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.

Letter to the editor

Our Mitzvah Doer, Victoria Cohen-Crumpton

“Hello dear ___, this is Victoria, calling to let you know that your beloved ___‘s Yahrzeit is coming up soon. The minyan days and times are___. Hope you are well. Take good care, ____.”

Victoria Cohen-Crumpton has been keeping the WES community informed of upcoming Yahrzeits for years and is still calling everyone from NC, where she now resides. What a mitzvah doer!

Whether one speaks directly or listens to her message, Victoria sounds

Federation President

Continued from page 2 assumptions about people based solely on their membership in a particular group. At worst, it is downright dangerous.

Jews know this all too well. Throughout our history, we have time and again been made other. The recent Nazi actions in Nashville are a painful reminder that we are now being made other again. It is gratifying to see so many in our community to stand with us to fight this hate. We will continue to remind the community that what starts with us doesn’t end there. We must fight this othering, whether it comes from outside our community or within it. We battle antisemitism through education, collaboration, and advocacy. We call on everyone in our community to assist in these efforts.

And if you’re wondering what happened in that first WWII battle my

Campaign Trail

Continued from page 1 community and institutions, while also advocating for our kehilah as a whole. But as evidenced by the uplifting Nashville Together Rally, we can join together to send the message that

like Dame Judy Dench with her lovely accent. She delivers sensitive information in a sweet, comforting way.

I’m sure others join me in saying, “Thank you, Victoria! We appreciate you volunteering to do this important mitzvah. We think you are awesome and will always be grateful.”

Rae Levine

511 Bellmore Place Nashville TN 37209 615-414-2138 •

grandfather was in? He shot the Japanese soldier — that other boy. It was kill or be killed; they both knew that. He shot (and killed) that other boy, and then he sat down and cried. It was the first and last time he cried during the war — war is an unforgiving environment that doesn’t tolerate “weakness.” My grandfather ended the war with four Purple Hearts and a Silver Star. He spent the rest of his life being very hawkish on foreign policy. But he never once referred to enemies — the ones he fought in WWII or any future enemies of the US — as monsters. Nor did he ever express a desire to treat someone as “other” because they were different than him or thought differently than him. Language matters — he learned that the hard way. Some lessons he couldn’t forget, and neither should we. •

anti-Semitism and hate speech are unacceptable in our community – and that is what we will continue to do while providing opportunities to grow and enrich our rapidly-expanding community. •

Israel Teens Visit Nashville, Create Lifechanging Connections, and Make Memories

By EITAN SNYDER

F

rom July 10-21, the Nashville Jewish community welcomed seven Israeli teens and two adult chaperones to our community as part of our Hadera-Eiron Partnership program. While the teens were in Nashville, they stayed with host families, led activities for the campers at Camp Davis, and got to know some of the participants in the Gordon JCC’s TGIT weekly senior lunch program. They also explored Nashville, visiting places like the National Museum of African American Music, touring of Carnton House with the Battle of Franklin Trust, and taking in a Nashville SC soccer game.

As part of this experience, the teens also explored many of the different synagogues and institutions that make up Jewish Nashville and learned more about what it is like to be a Jew outside of Israel. All of that is what Israelis might call the “tachles” or, to put it another way, the nuts and bolts of what they did.

Having experienced those 10 days with them, I can tell you that they did so much more than what their paper itinerary described.

The group built deep and meaningful relationships with their host families, playing with the younger kids, and getting close to their host parents who did all kinds of fun activities with them during their free time.

The group also was able to have a brief but meaningful respite from the realities of living in Israel after October 7. Our Partnership region is in Central Israel and is fairly safe, but the realities of the hostages still being held in Gaza almost a year later and the soldiers and reservists and their families having their lives upended by war are still very real for them. Even as being in Nashville was a bit of a break from that reality, it was also a meaningful connection point for them

to see how our community is standing with them and their families and how we are feeling the same things they are feeling at home.

Perhaps most important, the group developed a sense of deep connectedness to our Nashville Jewish community. We were lucky to spend two Shabbatot with them and their host families together,

The Gift of Being a Host

By JASON SPARKS

Afew hours ago, we said goodbye to our new family, our guests from the Hadera-Eiron region through the Partnership2Gether (P2G) program, who had spent the last 10 days with us in our homes and in Nashville. But for our family, the honor of being a host was a gift that we received, not a gift we gave.

Seven teens and two chaperones from our partnership region came over after first spending four days in the partnership region of Prague in the Czech Republic. While my wife Abby spent two summers in an exchange program with Sweden and had grown up with au pairs, I had never had the experience of hosting international guests. I was a little intimidated because frankly, my Hebrew is nonexistent, but my concerns were allayed when we heard that the kids had English down solidly. And it turns out that good old-fashioned Southern hospitality is just about universal.

The young person who stayed with us was a 15-year-old young lady named Rotem. When we were paired up, her parents immediately reached out to us to connect, even before we had our official

and even though we all live and come from different parts of the world, we all got to share the same feeling of Shabbat and togetherness as one Jewish family. That is what the Partnership is all about and this is why the Partnership is not like any other Israel program. This isn’t just about being a Zionist or supporting Israel politically or financially or about

P2G Zoom session. Rotem is a really cool kid who loves music, hates sports and shopping, and splits time between living on a moshav with her mother, and with her father in the city. And, like much of my family, she is a vegetarian, so she truly was a perfect fit for our family.

On our first free day, we decided to take her to the Loveless Café, to give her a true taste of Nashville. She remarked that that the portion sizes were ridiculously large, just like she saw in the mov-

ies. Later that day we went on a lovely bike ride in the Warner Parks and decided to visit Game Terminal, a fantastic arcade with over a hundred period arcade cabinets from the 70s through recent times with dozens of pinball cabinets.

On Sunday, we boldly decided to drive to Santa Claus, Indiana to visit Holiday World. And of course, to give Rotem the true American experience, we had a stop off at Buc-ees. That was

Continued on page 16

educating people about Israel. Having these teens visit our community, along with everything else our Partnership does, is about giving our community an opportunity to build deep, personal relationships with Israel and with Israelis. And in doing so, we can develop within our community a dynamic, three-dimensional understanding of what it means to be Jewish in the world today and what we really owe each other as a global, interconnected Jewish community. If you want to know more about what other activities our Partnership does towards these ends, you can read about it on the website at www.jewishnashville.org/partnership2gether. If you have any questions about upcoming programs or would like to get involved, you can email me at eitan@jewishnashville. org or call me at 615-354-1664. •

The Sparks family, pictured l. to r.: Abby, Zoe, Sam, Jason, and Israeli guest Rotem, visit Buc-ees.

The Sparks family riding the coasters at Holiday World.

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Mt. Juliet retiree carries on his parents’ legacy of giving

By ZOE BELL

Richard Barnett’s 98-year-old mother works in Philadelphia as a rabbi’s administrative assistant, a position she has held for 56 years at the temple where Barnett grew up and where she is a leading donor. He credits her giving nature and humility as his inspiration for becoming a donor with the Life & Legacy Foundation.

“She’s given her whole life to the Jewish community in Philadelphia, and I wanted to [give an endowment] to follow her legacy, which she’s given her life to,” Barnett said in an interview with the Jewish Observer Nashville.

Barnett, 68, of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, pledged 100 percent of his assets — including the proceeds from the sale of his house and his retirement savings — to sustaining Jewish Nashville via the Foundation.

He worked as a risk management analyst in Atlanta for 30 years before retiring in 2010 and moving to Tennessee in 2013. Barnett is a member of Congregation Micah and an associate member of West End Synagogue.

Barnett signed a letter of intent with L&L in 2018, according to Norma Shirk, the L&L community coordinator. In 2021, he added gifts for more organizations.

After Barnett passes away, his assets will go to the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville before being distributed relatively evenly between the JFed of Greater Nashville, Congregation Micah, West End Synagogue, Congregation Sherith Israel, The Temple, Chabad of Nashville, the Gordon Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service, National Council of Jewish Women Nashville, Akiva School, BBYO Nashville, Vanderbilt Hillel and the Nashville chapter of Hadassah, where Barnett is a board member and soon-to-be associate chair to focus on expanding male membership and activities.

Despite never having lived in Nashville — he lives 20 miles outside of the city — Barnett said he feels a strong connection to its “tight-knit Jewish community.”

“I don’t have any family or relatives here, so although I don’t participate in a lot of activities — I don’t go to services — but I feel like if I do need something, I can call the rabbi,” Barnett said. “Even if they don’t know me, they would be just as helpful. It gives me a feeling of security and being part of the community is a great feeling.”

He said he pledged a slightly larger gift to the Micah Children’s Academy due to his love for children. The Academy is a learning center for kids aged six weeks through pre-school housed in the education wing of Congregation Micah. Its curriculum is based on Jewish values and a project-based, hands-on approach.

“I was never married. I never had children, but children give me joy,” Barnett said. “So, I designated a bigger share to the Micah Children’s Academy. I think it’s important to get children involved and learning.”

Barnett said giving back to the community is inherent to Judaism: “We’re directed by the Torah to help others.”

He said his father embraced the spirit of generosity through the corner drugstore he owned in Philadelphia.

“Let’s say your child was sick and you didn’t have any money, he would give [the medicine] to you and he usually didn’t even write it down,” Barnett said of his father. “Things were a lot different back then. Our family has always been very giving.”

Barnett added that his mother was a leading donor at her synagogue for decades, and often avoided the spotlight. Although he joked that his mom might not approve of him “being in the limelight” by being featured in the Jewish Observer Nashville, Barnett said his mom would be proud of him for registering to be an L&L donor.

Norma Shirk, L&L community coordinator, said she called Barnett to thank him for his gifts to Nashville’s Jewish community. During their conversation, she said she realized the two shared a lot in common: both Shirk and Barnett are originally from eastern Pennsylvania and have long worked in the insurance industry.

“Rich is one of a number of Life & Legacy donors who did not grow up in Nashville,” Shirk wrote in an emailed statement to the Jewish Observer Nashville. “But like many other transplants, he’s committed to supporting the local community. His generosity is greatly appreciated.”

This generosity is something that Barnett grew up observing, and he continues to carry the torch of his parents’ giving today.

“It’s a great feeling knowing that I can help others,” Barnett said. “I think everyone, when they die, would like to have some legacy to be remembered in some way. We need to help; if it’s not money, it’s with our time.”

Sign up to be a legacy donor at https:// www.jewishnashville.org/life-and-legacy. For more info, contact Norma Shirk at 615354-1678 or norma@jewishnashville.org. • zoe@jewishnashville.org

A Rabbi and a Doctor Discuss: Does God Know Us?

By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN AND DR. FRANK BOEHM

Mark: There is a Jewish blessing which directly acknowledges a close relationship between God and every single human soul:

Blessed are You, God of the universe, the Knower of all secrets.

This short but substantive prayer suggests that belief among many that the Master of the Universe knows each of us on an intimate level, knowing our thoughts and our impulses, our strengths and our weaknesses, our hopes and our dreams, our transgressions, misgivings, and mistakes. To acknowledge that we really believe in a God that is the Knower of All Secrets, to believe that there is a God who can know even those things that no one else does about us, who can recognize the fears we hold and hide within us, who has access to our doubts, our longings, our misgivings and regrets, who can see things that no one else can see within our hearts, our minds and our souls…can that really be true?

Frank, as both a scientist and a man of faith, what do you think of this: Does God know us? Does it matter? And if God knows us, what can we, in turn, know about God?

Frank: Mark, you mention that God knows us on an intimate level, knowing our thoughts and our impulses, our strengths and our weaknesses, our hopes and dreams, our transgressions, misgivings, and our weaknesses. To understand this concept as a scientist and man of faith, I needed once again to turn to science.

There are approximately 36 trillion cells in the human adult with 86 billion of these cells found in the brain. Each cell in our body holds a nucleus which is made up of 46 strands of chromosomes (23 from our mother and 23 from our father) that carry long pieces of DNA. DNA is the material that has genes, which are the building blocks of the human body. These 46 chromosomes have between 20,000 and 25,000 genes with the rest of the genetic material found among three billion base pairs which are found in each of the 46 chromosomes, and which directs the body in an enormous variety of ways.

More than likely, this genetic material contained in each brain cell aids in deciding our personality, interests, likes and dislikes, mood behavior, feelings, choices, mental stability, intelligent quotient, emotional quotient, and an enormous number of countless other aspects of our being. These brain cells, called neurons, are the computer of our body and function in an enormous number of ways to help keep us alive and functioning.

When we feel love, empathy, pain, anger, sadness, happiness, depression, jealousy, or a host of other feelings, they are produced by the interacting cells in our brain and are the result of the DNA that we obtained from our parents and all their ancestors before them. Those feelings are the result of the DNA

contained in our neurons and direct so much of how we feel and what we do. I came to believe that the God I believe in is embedded in my DNA since it was this God that created me through the incredible and complex process of evolution. God’s “voice and hands” direct me through the DNA God created. The God I believed in was within my human form helping direct me on a path of goodness and righteousness speaking to me through a still small voice.

Mark, what do you think of this explanation that the God I believe in is embedded in the DNA of the cells in my brain and speaks to me through a still small voice?

Mark: Frank, you have offered a brilliant approach that offers a rational, logical, and scientific possibility that God knows everything about us and even speaks to us through the intricacies of the human body.

Let me offer a different, if less rational, and more religious, less scientific, yet more spiritual response.

When I contemplate the majesty and order of the universe, the rhythms of the seasons and the years, the complex and complicated ways in which the human body is constructed and continues to exist and evolve, it is certainly possible, I believe, for the Creator of the universe, to know us in some way or another.

I am humble enough to acknowledge the possibility that God knows us, especially given the fact that our earliest Biblical narratives describe each of us as created in the Divine Image. What a noble concept! A part of that creative force, that energy that gives and sustains life, has been implanted within every human soul. If I couple that notion with the prophetic writings that further describe “the still, small voice” within us, we can contemplate the ways in which God offers us a moral compass, accessible to all who seek to use it. It is possible, of course, that both of us are wrong about this, that there is no real proof of any of this. And that may be so. But unlike others, who believe that one’s faith needs to be sure and ironclad, I am comfortable living in the realm of “what if?” What if it is possible, based on your scientific and my spiritual approach, that God could even possibly know us, speak to us, enter dialogue with us, as an internal part of us and our lives? Wouldn’t even that possibility inspire us to better ourselves, to reflect the best within us, as a reflection of that Divine image, as an echo of that Still, Small Voice?

That is the pathway to a richer and more fulfilling life: A life infused with both a greater meaning and with a more sacred purpose. Who would not want that kind of existence? Who would not want that way to add greater worth to our days? •

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

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

Richard Barnett has pledged 100 percent of his assets to Nashville’s Jewish community.

Heart of the Matter

By TONI JACOBSEN

O

ne of the highlights of my job is facilitating the JFS Caregiver Support Group. The group meets twice a month for those caring for a loved one.

Sharing the role of caregiving creates an instant bond between the members. The group is a safe place to share her feelings and to receive support. No one must apologize for negative feelings or hold back tears. All feelings are accepted in this group.

The group began in August of 2014 and was originally held during lunch hour so working people could attend. For several years, it was a brown bag event, but then I noticed that most people did not bring lunch. They were so busy caring for their loved ones that their own needs were often overlooked. A few months later, we decided to provide lunch for the group so they could take a moment for emotional support and have a meal they often missed. JFS has a private donor that has been providing lunches for 10 years now.

When a newcomer joins the group, without fail, the members explain that JFS has a private donor that pays for the lunches. As a facilitator, I often forget to mention this because I am focused on explaining the parameters of the group including confidentiality, but I am always reminded of the importance and appreciation of the meal provided.

Here are a few quotes from a thank

you card they made for the donor recently.

“What a mitzvah you are doing by providing us with a wonderful meal! Thank you for taking care of us as we care for our loved ones.”

“This is the best gift I have received in navigating this end-of-lifetime journey for my parents.”

“This is the first time I have had lunch all week.”

“We care for ourselves last and would have skipped lunch today.”

“You make such a difference for us. Forever grateful.”

The members of this group become family. They support each other in tough times, laugh together and even vent negative emotions at times. As a facilitator, I do have a role to keep track of the time, so everyone has a chance to share, but mostly I sit back and let them support each other. It is truly a beautiful group of people and one that I too learn from. Recently, a group member’s loved one passed away. The funeral was on the day of our group and so many of them wanted to attend to continue their support of the group member. I pushed back the time so anyone who wanted to attend could. At this service, we took up half a row of seats in support of the group member. As a facilitator, I could not have been prouder of the group. It is heartwarming to know and see the bond they share surpasses the hour of our meetings.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a Caregiver Support group, contact Toni Jacobsen at tonijacobsen@ jfsnashville.org or 615-354-1672. •

Community Mission to Israel Planned for the Fall

By BARBARA DAB

Two Nashville area rabbis are spearheading a community-wide mission trip to Israel slated for November 12 to 18. The vision for the trip originated with Rabbi’s Mark Schiftan and Saul Strosberg, both of whom participated in last winter’s mission. “The idea is it will be roughly a year after and it is volunteering, it is seeing some of the sites of October 7th, and then giving people time in Jerusalem too to be in the holy city,” says Schiftan.

Schiftan says most of the local congregations will be sending clergy and the goal is to also have a minimum of 20 participants from across the community. The emphasis on volunteering is one he believes will appeal to a broad number of people. “This is not a ‘shalom Israel,’ type of trip. I think the people who are going to go are the people who really do want to volunteer and witness and stand in solidarity with some of what these Israelis are still feeling,” he says.

The jam-packed itinerary also includes a talk by one of Israel’s top journalists, a visit to a cemetery to honor those killed in the current war, and filling Shabbat gift baskets for bereaved families. Strosberg says this trip is unique. “Our community has shown how much

they care about Israel. Through all the financial support, the gatherings, the advocacy. And I think that setting foot in Israel and seeing all the places affected by October 7th takes it to the next level.”

Both Schiftan and Strosberg say the goal is for the trip to be affordable and accessible for those who can participate. “There has been no more important time in our history to show Israelis we care. We want people to feel what the Israelis are feeling firsthand and to bear witness,” says Strosberg.

The trip will include spending Shabbat in Jerusalem and will conclude once again with a volunteer experience and a visit to Hostage Square before returning to Nashville. Strosberg says the hope is that participants will not only gain an important perspective about the aftermath of October 7th, but that it will provide a bonding experience for the community. “I think our community has one heart towards Israel. It doesn’t mean everyone has the same politics, but there’s one heart. We’re a small community; we have to stick together.”

There will be an informational meeting about the trip on Aug. 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the Gordon JCC. For more, visit https://makorjourneys.com/journey/ nashville-jewish-community-solidaritymission/. •

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

Nashville Jewish Community Solidarity Mission

For More Information or To Register: https://makorjourneys.com/journey/nashville-jewish-community-solidarity-mission/

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aftermath of the attack.

• Lunch in Sderot.

Drive to the site of the Nova Festival, located next to Kibbutz

Reim, where close to 400 people were killed and many were taken

hostage •Continue to the Tekuma Car Cemetery, where many of the destroyed vehicles that belonged to the Nova Festival attendees were brought after October 7 •Return to Jerusalem. Dinner on own and free evening. Overnight: Jerusalem Day 4: Friday, November 15, 2024

JERUSALEM •Breakfast at the hotel.

•Visit the new Memorial to Israel’s fallen and some of the new graves

and Medical Insurance

A Perspective on the Problems of Palestine Revisited

By STEVEN REMER

Editor’s note: The following column is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of the Observer or The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville. The author is revisiting a column he wrote as a college student at the University of Tulsa in February 1976.

I am deeply concerned about the Israel/ Hamas war. This is not the first time Israel has fought for its existence. Over the past 75 years, Israel has distinguished itself many times in clashes with its neighbors and foes. For those who question the Jewish people’s right

to Israel, let me remind you this is not a new problem or an easy solution. Almost 50 years ago, we were addressing the same issues. As a Jewish student, I was asked to defend Israel’s right to exist.

Below is what I wrote:

Intern(al) Reflections: A goodbye and life update

By ZOE BELL

As I bid farewell to my college internship and step into a new role closer to home, I feel reflective, happy, and so, so grateful. This internship with the Jewish Observer Nashville has been anything but ordinary.

First off, I’m a native East Coaster living in D.C. I have received many a question about my Maryland area code when I call Nashville sources from a time zone one hour ahead. Secondly, I don’t come from a Jewish background and have never even been to a bar or bat mitzvah. So I’m way out of my realm.

I was lucky enough to have worked with my editor, Barbara Dab, for the past year and a half. She made the job easy. The best thing about working remotely for Barbara was that I was never bombarded with meetings — I loathe meetings, especially ones that could be an email. She was very understanding of my full course load at American University and was flexible with deadlines.

It was the highlight of my summer getting to meet Barbara in person last month at the American Jewish Press Association’s annual conference in Nashville. I excitedly gave her a huge hug and chatted with my colleagues with no clue that in mere hours, I’d meet my new boss.

I was checking my phone in between conference sessions and felt someone come up to me. I hurriedly put my phone down, thinking someone was coming to chastise me, but it was the CEO of MidAtlantic Media, Craig Burke: “Hey, you’re from D.C., right?”

Surprised that he remembered my brief introduction from earlier, I said yes, I was.

“I want you to come over for a minute and meet the editor of the Washington Jewish Week.”

I was stunned. After 22 job applications had either been ignored or rejected my last semester, I had mentally prepared myself for another summer working in food service. I couldn’t believe my ears. I walked to the next table over, still not fully grasping what was going on.

The three of us had a pleasant conversation — we quickly realized that Craig lives in my hometown and I was in his youngest son’s graduating class in high

school — that ended in an interview offer.

A week after Craig and I flew back on the same flight (yet another small world moment!), my dad drove me to the Columbia, Maryland office for my job interview in mid-June — two or three weeks out of college, I didn’t have a car. Long story short: I got the job. And I only got it thanks to Barbara, who nominated some of my Observer pieces for a Simon Rockower Award and arranged for my stay in Nashville.

I started at the Observer as a junior in college and now I’m post-grad, sitting at my new office desk in business casual attire. That’s a long way from the 10 p.m. writing sessions I did from my bed or the couch for the Observer!

Through this reporting internship, I’ve written a cover story, spoken to Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war, covered how Nashvillians celebrated Pride amid Tennessee’s anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and profiled Ethiopian-Israeli singer-songwriter Aveva.

I will forever cherish the memories of my time reporting in Nashville. Through this small monthly newspaper, I was able to talk to dozens of community members and leaders – I never knew the true meaning of “community” until I became acquainted with Jewish Nashville.

I am now a staff writer for MidAtlantic Media, and my primary duty is to report locally for the Washington Jewish Week. I write about five or six stories a week, which I’ve learned to publish from the back end, and I’ve even picked up a couple stories for a parenting publication! (Mid-Atlantic Media owns 12 publications; some are Jewish local news and others are family- or lifestyle-related.)

Although working for a weekly newspaper requires me to write exponentially more than I’m used to, and interview nine people a week, I’m loving it. The job is not 100% what I had in mind, but it’s a dream come true for this 22-year-old who’s dreamed of being a writer since third grade. Thank you, Barbara, Jewish Nashville, the Observer and anyone who’s reading these words right now. I couldn’t have done this without you.

Keep up with my writing by visiting washingtonjewishweek.com, where I’ll be covering Jewish news in my home state and the nation’s capital. •

Steven Remer as a college student in 1976

Steven Remer today

Mazel Tov to the New Gordon JCC Board Members

By RACHEL CLARK, GORDON JCC MARKETING DIRECTOR

The Gordon JCC’s 121st Annual Meeting took place on Sunday June 23, at the J. Board officers Jeremy Brook, Dara Freiberg, Evan Nahmias, Dick Cohen, and Kelly Unger will continue in their roles for an additional year, and a few new faces were inducted to the board as well.

New board members Kathryn Hayat, Betsy Hoffman, Kim Lapidus, and Tal Pollak were elected to join the board for their first three-year term and installed by past president Cindee Gold. These new Board members are eager to join the JCC Board in this period of continuing changes. “I am thrilled and honored to join the JCC board. Since my family and I moved to Nashville five and a half years ago, the JCC has been the center of our day-to-day lives. From dropping my kids in the ECLC in the morning, to taking a fitness class or using the gym. Having after-school swim lessons, enjoying the

family programs the J has to offer, waiting all year for Camp Davis, and so much more, the JCC has a big part in my life. It is a great place filled with great people, and I am honored to have been trusted with a chance to make it even better.” said Pollack, incoming board member.

We celebrated staff milestones including Anna Bacon, Renee Geltzer,

and Suzi Putnam who have poured their mind, body, and soul into the J for the last 25 years! Mazel tov!

Board President Jeremy Brook presented a slideshow recapping the last year at the J, depicting how the Gordon JCC is for the “mind, body, and soul” of the Nashville Jewish community. He states, “This has been a year of transition at the

Going to Israel On Your Own

By EVELYN KOCH

Mosh (Marvin) and I went to Israel for two weeks in May and would like to share some of our experiences in case something like our trip appeals to you. Although there are many wonderful tour packages available, we wanted to travel at our own pace, meeting with various friends and family, expressing our personal support at this difficult time and hearing their stories and experiences.

If you’ve never been to Israel, you may want to utilize one of the many great touring companies whose packages include travel to museums, monuments, and important historic sites such as the Kotel, the Old City of Jerusalem, Lake Kinneret (also known as the Sea of Galilee) and more. Short missions relating to Oct. 7 are also an option, and personal tour guides are also a good way to see the country. A few years ago, we hired the services of a young lady who’d spent a couple of her younger years at Akiva School in Nashville, and who’s now a professional tour guide who specializes in Jerusalem and the surrounding area.

Meeting Israelis is very easy, particularly if you travel on Israel’s excellent buses or trains. Most people speak English and it’s easy to start a conversation while the kilometers roll by. Since we’ve seen many of the amazing sites in Israel on previous trips, we confined our time on this trip to meeting with people and chatting with all kinds of folks in addition to our friends and family. We spoke with soldiers, young mothers, senior citizens like us, students, and many others. It seems that everyone in Israel has a story to tell – you just have to ask – and they, in turn, usually ask about you.

A couple of experiences stood out on this trip. One was a visit to Hostage Square in Tel Aviv where the families of hostages, keeping cool in open tents, are eager to talk about their loved ones in Gaza. They’re very appreciative of their visitors, particularly those of us who’ve come from far away. The square has a simulation of one of the tunnels in Gaza that you can walk through and experience how confining they are. There are also many artistic creations that express the hopes and dreams, as well as the sadness, of the

hostages and their families. This visit is a must. We did not go down to see the settlements near Gaza that were attacked on Oct. 7, but you can join a group tour to go there, such as from Jerusalem with Colel Chabad.

Another special place we visited was the Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind in Beit Oved. It is a most inspiring and beautiful place. You can arrange a free tour of the facility in English where you will see dogs being trained, mommy dogs feeding a new litter, various outdoor places set up to sensitize both dogs and new clients to smells and the feel of things like herbs, fish in a pond, etc. You get a chance to talk to trainers and to hear why this is such a satisfying job for them. Some dogs are trained for the blind, some for soldiers with PTSD, and some for children with autism. The last thing the tour guide, Lisa, told us was that these dogs do more than

Gordon JCC. It’s an exciting time to be a part of this community as we welcome Jesse Feld to the Executive Director role and begin to shape our next era.”

Executive Assistant and former Teen Director Marilyn Rubin presented the Kehillah Award for teen leadership to community members Max Lapidus and Celia Wiston. Both teens had outstanding recommendations, and the committee members felt they were both deserving of the prestigious award.

Although new Executive Director Jesse Feld was unable to attend, he looks forward to the new year at the J. “It is a great accomplishment to have had our 121st annual meeting. I feel so fortunate to be part of this community and amazing JCC team. I look forward to meeting everyone who makes this community a great place to live and continuing the growth and success of the Gordon JCC.”

A light brunch followed the meeting and attendees enjoyed being able to come together. We cannot wait to see what the rest of the year brings! •

their jobs – they do Mitzvot every day. For more information, check out their website: www.israelguidedog.org.

Since it was already hot in May, we wanted to find volunteer opportunities that weren’t working in agriculture. Mosh’s cousin in Jerusalem, who made Aliyah in November, volunteers in at least three indoor, air-conditioned places every week – all run by Colel Chabad in Jerusalem, so we went with her to two of them. One was Pantry Packers, where we packed packages of different grains—oats, barley, split peas, lentils, etc.—for families in need. We spent about two hours there packing barley. You can register to volunteer on the Colel Chabad website.

The other Jerusalem project we participated in is called Aruchat Esser (the 10:00 lunch at school), also sponsored by Colel Chabad. We made dozens of tuna sandwiches for school kids in need while

two other groups made either hummus or chocolate spread sandwiches. The program is in memory of a young IDF soldier, Liel Gidoni Z”l, who used to bring extra sandwiches to school when he was young for friends who didn’t have any. Liel was killed defending Israel in Gaza in 2014. This is what he always told his troops every morning: “Smile, because a smile is happiness and happiness gives us the strength to continue!”

We spent one Shabbat with my cousin who lives in Jerusalem in the Givat Shmuel neighborhood. From his balcony, you can see Bethlehem. Lag B’Omer started at the end of that late Shabbat, so as soon as Shabbat was over, we heard happy, raucous singing from a Chasidic Shul across the street from their house. It sounded like the band was right in our bedroom! The music didn’t stop until midnight — proof that even in these difficult times, Israelis are celebrating holidays, as well as weddings and b’nei mitzvah.

Among the relatives we visited was one of my cousins who lives on Kibbutz Na’an near Rehovot. She lost one of her sons the first day of the war. He was helping to protect a neighboring kibbutz near Gaza. It is never too late to make a shiva call and to hear about one of our family’s war heroes. It was a bittersweet visit for sure, but an important one for us and for her and her family.

Since we keep Kosher, eating out in Israel is always a treat for us — although you do have to check if a restaurant is Kosher, since not all are. Some food highlights of our trip were eating Kosher Vietnamese food in Netanya; eating yummy Israeli breakfasts every day with fresh bakery bread or rolls, labanah with zatar, salads, and good Turkish coffee; eating at a Moroccan kebab restaurant with so many salads and fresh pita before the meal that we hardly had room for the kebabs; and walking through the Sarona Indoor Market, Tel Aviv’s latest culinary center. This crowded place was buzzing with energy — full of soldiers and people of all ages. At Humus Eliyahu, we had amazing falafel wrapped in huge laffa, filled with eight giant falafel balls, fried eggplant and other salads. It was so big that I never thought I’d be able to finish

Evelyn and Mosh Koch at the Aruchat Esser project

Dog and future owner training at the Guide Dog Dog Center

Tunnel simulation

Golda’s ice cream

Board president Jeremy Brook congratulated new board members Kathryn Hayat, Kim Lapidus, and Tal Pollak.

Suzi Putnam, Anna Bacon, and Renee Geltzer were honored for 25 years of service to the J!

Jewish Federation Unites Nashville Community to Combat Antisemitism and Hate

Continued from page 1

storms, attendees made signs, sang, hugged, and listened as speakers ranging from Mayor Freddie O’Connell to local rabbis, Jeff Yarbro (TN-21), Metro Council Member Sheri Weiner, Pastor Stephen Handy, Poet Sarah Anderson, and Federation president Dr. Leslie Kirby. Even Preds mascot Gnash made an appearance.

Kirby kicked off the gathering by reminding the crowd of the recent intimidation and harassment tactics by various hate groups. “These groups hate us just because we are Jewish, but their hate extends to a number of other groups as well - anyone they define as ‘other.’ They deliberately manufacture hate and fear to further their own despicable aims.”

She also expressed the community’s frustration that more isn’t being done at the legislative level. “And in the face of this, we have elected officials who have thus far not stepped up to do everything they can do to keep us safe. So yes, we are outraged.”

But Kirby also stressed the need to maintain hope in the face of hate, and called for solidarity with the entire Nashville community. “Our goal here today is a straightforward one … to come together - as Nashvillians, as Tennesseans, as human beings – and say an emphatic NO to hate and YES to hope.”

Also taking the podium was Metro Council Member Sheri Weiner who has been a strong voice in expressing outrage and calling for stronger leadership in

denouncing hate. She shared a personal story of growing up in Memphis and being a victim of antisemitic bullying at a young age. “A nine-year-old girl walked to school on a fall day not really paying attention to what was beside or behind her. And then, she wondered what she felt. As she looked down and saw a red spot on her arm, she felt it a second time. And then she heard them. ‘Go home, Jew girl.’ As more rocks were thrown by the neighborhood kids and their parents from their front porch, she ran back home. This was 1964 in Memphis. The little girl was me.” She also recounted the experiences of childhood friends, one a person of color and one an immigrant, who had also been bullied for being different. And closer to home, her own grandson’s religious school was recently canceled due to a bomb threat.

Weiner called the Metro Council a “mosaic,” compiled of people of all colors, nationalities, identities, and from all walks of life. But she said the council is united in calling out hate against anyone. “When one of us is marginalized or targeted, we stand up, we speak out. We act.”

She also urged the city to build stronger coalitions and to press for stronger tools to help in that effort. “Why not reignite our community engagement across ethnicities, religions, political stripes? We cannot sequester into our individual corners and expect that any good comes from that…Why not Identify gaps in our management of expressions of hatred whether those gaps are in our state and local laws, in the interpretation of those laws or are in the tools at our disposal to keep our Nashvillians and visitors safe. And, yes, it’s complicated.”

Weiner’s comments moved many in the crowd. Irwin Venick, a local attorney who also is involved in several interfaith groups, said, “Most memorable moments included Sherri Weiner sharing her antisemitic confrontation when she was growing up in Memphis. Many of us had similar experiences during our lifetime. We need to share those experiences with those who we know to demonstrate that antisemitism is deeply ingrained and needs to be called out whenever it appears.”

Offering words of love and hope was Pastor Stephen Handy of McKendree United Methodist Church. He called the rally a “gathering of co-conspirators and co-laborers of justice,” and said all

of Nashville is a family that must stand together in the face of those who seek to devalue and divide. “We choose to celebrate the gifts and graces of our unity. We choose the hope of democracy. We choose the love of our neighbor. We choose solidarity of our souls. We choose to hold hands of hospitality. We choose to sit together at tables of grace and generosity. We choose to lead by loving each other and by showing constant compassion.”

Attendees to the rally were moved by the show of support from those outside the Jewish community. Judy Saks, a member of West End Synagogue which earlier in the week was the target of one of the antisemitic demonstrations, said, “What was so heartening to me was the number of non-Jewish Nashvillians who came to support our community. The women next to me were Catholics. Another from a Baptist church. I felt surrounded and supported by Nashville neighbors who believe hate has no home here.”

Ellen Levitt, an active member of the local Jewish community, echoed that sentiment and expressed her relief that members of the outside hate groups were made to leave. “Our community was absolutely united in our message that people of all faiths and beliefs are welcome to live openly and free in our city. It was especially gratifying to watch the Nazis leave the event once it was clear that their efforts to disrupt our show of unity were unsuccessful.”

Horwitz wrapped up the event, sharing his family’s history of surviving the Holocaust. He recounted reconnecting with a woman in Nashville whose grandfather helped his grandmother survive and sending the message that Judaism and Jewish values call for unity in the face of hatred and speaking out for justice. “We combat baseless hatred by beaming love and joy. By speaking up and showing up for each other. By recognizing our innate humanity, even when we vehemently disagree with one another. By championing the fact that the loving actions of a single person can change the world. By raising our voices to demand more from our elected leaders, insisting that they pass and enforce laws to combat this hatred. By celebrating life and cherishing sacred moments. By doing all we can to leave this world better than we found it.” •

Community Voices

Nashville Celebrates The Legacy Of Congressman John Lewis And Rev. James Lawson

By IRWIN VENICK

Less than 24 hours after neo-Nazis attempted to disrupt a Metro Council meeting and then intimidated members of West End Synagogue, Council members, Clergy, and more than 200 Nashvillians of all backgrounds gathered on Diane Nash Plaza to remember Congressman John Lewis and Rev. James Lawson.

The commemoration was spearheaded by Councilperson at Large Zulfat Suara who opened the evening’s program by stating clearly and unequivocally that hatred and bigotry have no place in Nashville. She presided over that portion of the Council meeting the night before, when the neo-Nazis began to disrupt the Council’s proceedings, directing that the Council Chamber be cleared. During the program there was an announcement that State Representative Aftyn Behn has initiated a campaign called Nashville Against Nazis. The event presented a positive response from the Nashville community to the disturbing local events of the past few weeks.

Since Lewis’ death in 2020, his life and legacy as a person who advocated for “good trouble” has been celebrated. In 1961, John Lewis was a student at American Baptist College when he came under the mentorship of Rev. James Lawson. Lawson was, at the time, a student at Vanderbilt Divinity School and

a proponent of nonviolence, having been influenced by Mahatma Ghandi. Lewis, Diane Nash and others, Black and white, guided by the teaching of Rev. Lawson boarded buses in Nashville and travelled to Alabama and Mississippi in support of voting rights.

While a student at Vanderbilt, Lawson was expelled for his advocacy of nonviolence and equality for Black Americans. He was later welcomed back to Vanderbilt, given an academic position in the Divinity School and lived in Nashville. Although he eventually moved back to Los Angeles, he maintained close ties with many in the Nashville community, recently appearing on a panel with Diane Nash as part of the dedication of Diane Nash Plaza in Public Square.

John Lewis was an inspirational leader for justice and equality. I had the opportunity to be in his presence at a MLK Day event in Nashville a number of years ago. As a Congressman, in his later years, he remained true to his vision and activism of his student days and a friend to the Jewish community. Rev. Lawson was less widely known outside the civil rights movement. He was the mentor who remained true to his nonviolent approach to the struggle for equality, providing guidance and counsel to those who advocated for change and racial justice. His continued zeal to be engaged was evident at the Diane Nash Plaza dedication a few months ago. •

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

Attendees at celebration of the legacy of Rep. John Lewis and Rev. James Lawson.

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

The Observer provides congregational listings of events and services as a complimentary service to the community. If your congregation is not listed, it is because we did not receive the information in time to meet our publication deadline. Please give your rabbi, executive director, or synagogue volunteer a gentle nudge.

Looking for a Chavrutah study Partner?

Looking for a study partner? Wanted to learn with someone but don’t know where to turn to? Call Chabad of Nashville and we will set you up with your own personal study partner, where you choose the topic and text, and reach great heights in your spiritual journey of life.

Email ChabadNashville@gmail.com, with your name and email address, and include the topics and text that you would like to study, and we will set you up with a study partner, that will add to your purpose and meaning in life.

@ Chabad /Congregation Beit Tefilah @ Micah

Meet in Person for Prayer and Cholent

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

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

Chabad to host two TGIS celebrations in

August

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, August 9 and 23, at 6:30 PM at Chabad of Nashville.

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

Congregation Beit Tefilah to hold Tisha B’Av Memorial Service

The Jewish Memorial Day, The Fast of the Ninth of the Jewish month of Av, Tisha b’Av, marks the end of a three-week period of mourning during which our people remember the series of events that led to the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem and the destruction of our people’s first Temple on that date in the year 586 BCE.

Tisha B’Av is on Tuesday, August 13. The fast starts on sundown on Monday, August 12, 7:40 PM, and lasts until the following nightfall, Tuesday, August 13, 8:07 PM. During this time-period we fast, eschew pleasurable activities, and lament the destruction of the Holy Temple and our nation’s exile.

On the eve of Tisha B’Av, we gather in the synagogue to read the Book of Lamentations. Tallit and Tefillin are not worn during the morning prayers. After the morning prayers we recite Kinot (elegies). We put on the Tallit and Tefillin for the afternoon prayers.

To commemorate this day, Congregation Beit Tefilah will hold a Tisha B’Av Memorial Service with the reading of the Book of Lamentations, known as the Book of Eicha by candlelight. This will take place on Monday night, August 12, 8:10 PM.

On Tuesday, August 13, Congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad will have a Tisha B’Av Mincha Service and Torah reading at 6:45 PM and will be followed by a light break fast after dark. For more information or to learn more about Tisha B’Av go to chabadnashville.com.

Torah and Tea - for Women by Women

Join an all woman’s Torah and Tea leadership study group every Shabbat, following the sit-down lunch, at congregation Beit Tefilah Chabad, at 1:00 PM. The study group is led by Rebetzen Esther Tiechtel, who teaches with wisdom and wit, and embraces each participant with warmth and friendship.

Torah and Tea will bring you this tradition of classical Jewish learning in a series of clear and engaging weekly classes. Probing the ideas and issues related to the modern Jewish woman, these classes will offer timely lessons -from the most timeless of all texts.

Join together with fellow women from the Nashville community, for inspiring Torah study, warm camaraderie, hot tea and delicious refreshments!

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 livestream our service on our website, YouTube, or Facebook. In our tent, there is room for everyone!

Weekly Events

Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM

At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, the authenticity of our intentions, and through the power of music and song. Join us in-person or virtually for services this month that will be as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory. Come early and schmooze with us starting at 5:30 PM! Light refreshments are served.

Saturday Morning Torah Study: 9 AM on Zoom

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

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

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

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

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.

August Events

Micah Minis + Brunch: Saturday, August 3, at 9:30 AM

We will kick off another school year of Micah Minis in STYLE with an interactive, musical, whacky, fun, (and short) Shabbat morning experience! Sing and Dance with Cantor Josh and Rabbi Laurie! This family-friendly Shabbat experience is aimed at ages 7 and younger. Stick around after the service for brunch!

Micah Reads: Sunday, August 4, at 1:30 PM In-Person

Micah Reads group has partnered with our West of 65 social group to bring you this special book talk featuring Micah member Jeff Margolis’ newly published memoir, We’re Live In 5: My Extraordinary Life In Television. In this dazzling Hollywood memoir, Jeff Margolis takes us on the ultimate behind-the-scenes tour of television’s most memorable variety series and specials spanning the past fifty years—from the most iconic variety shows of the 1970s to the Oscars. Jeff shares intimate stories of beloved stars like Barbara Streisand, Julie Andrews, Carol Burnett, Cher, Sammy Davis Jr., Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Dolly Parton, Frank Sinatra, Oprah Winfrey, and more! Jeff will be reading excerpts from the book, and taking questions. Snacks will be provided, and registration is required.

Women’s Circle: Friday, August 16, at 12 PM

Rabbi Laurie engages your intellect and inspires conversation on a variety of Jewish topics. All are welcome. Bring a friend. RSVP on Micah’s event page.

Endless Summer Late Night Shabbat With Micah-Nections: Friday, August 16, at 7:30 PM

Gather round the campfire as we bring in Shabbat, summer camp-style. Wear a shirt representing your childhood summer camp (if you can find it!). Dinner provided by the Jewish Cowboy Food Truck. Singing, s’mores, and other shenanigans will ensue. Open to all Jews (and Jewishly curious) in greater Nashville area between the ages of 21-39. Registration can be found on our website.

Brought to you by Congregation Micah and the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville.

Continued from page 12

Back to Shul Disney Shabbat: Friday, August 23, at 6 PM

Come be Part of our world! Dress up in your favorite Disney costumes and welcome all our JLAB families back to Shul with DISNEY SHABBAT! This service is open to all; the young and the young at heart! We will sing the shabbat liturgy with the most famous and beloved Disney melodies old and new. All are welcome to stay after the service for dinner, but registration is required.

@ The Temple

All programming can be accessed via thetemplehub.org unless noted to be in person only

Pirkei Avot: Jewish Wisdom for Today’s World

Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM

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

Available in person at The Temple and via zoom. Zoom Room: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81973096738

Shabbat Schedule for August

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

Friday, August 2nd ~ 6:00 PM

Friday, August 9th ~ 6:00 PM – CAMP SHABBAT, FAMILY SERVICE WITH BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS

Friday, August 16th ~6:00 PM – SERVICE TO HONOR OUR PRESCHOOL TEACHERS

Friday, August 23rd ~ 6:00 PM –BLUE JEAN SHABBAT

Friday, August 30th ~ 6:00 PM –BLUE JEAN SHABBAT

Summer Camp & Friday Night Family Shabbat

August 9th at 6:00pm

Friday Night Family Shabbat is now 2nd Friday of every month. New prayerbook, lots of music, birthday blessings, and more! On the 9th we will also have Summer Camp Shabbat, a fun service featuring camp songs, treats, and fun! Come in your favorite t-shirt!

You can also watch via zoom from thetemplehub.org.

Spy Kids at Tailgate Brewery

August 8th at 7:00pm

7300 Charlotte Pike

Come watch Spy Kids with the Temple community!

All are welcome!

End of Summer Ice Cream Party

August 11th at 3:00pm in Franklin

All are welcome to cool down with sweet treats!

RSVP to Sheri sheri@templenashville.org

(address provided upon RSVP)

Golden Lunch Bunch

Will meet at Temple from 11:30-1:00pm on August 6th : Russ Davis

August 20th : John England

RSVP to Jamie Maresca at 615-354-1686 or via email at helpinghands@ jfsnashville.org

Chevrah Torah Study

9:30AM on Saturdays

Join us for our weekly Torah study on the portion of the week, led by the clergy. You can join us in person at The Temple or via zoom from thetemplehub.org

Java & Jewish Learning

August 7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th

8:30 AM on Wednesdays

On Running Away & Returning: The Book of Jonah. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through thetemplehub.org

Women’s Torah Study

August 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, & 29th

10:30 AM on Thursdays

Ongoing weekly women’s Torah study led by Patty Marks. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through thetemplehub.org

Lunch with the Rabbi

August 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, & 29th

Lunch at 11:30AM

Program12:00-1:00 PM

$15 per person for lunch

At Our Congregations…

Engage with Rabbi Danziger and guests in a discussion of current and important issues from a Jewish perspective. RSVP on thetemplehub.org or by calling the Temple at 615-352-7620

Available in person and via zoom. Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org

Monday Mah Jongg with Canasta Join Us for MAH JONGG Mondays at The Temple!

August 5th, 12th, 19th, & 26th

1:00pm

Drop in for Mah Jongg. We’ll have coffee and water. Bring your friends, a card, and a set and have some fun. Mah Jongg cards and sets are available for purchase in The Temple Gift Shop.

@ West End

For links to the following online services or programs, please email office@westendsyn.org or visit our website calendar for more information https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/calendar

8/2 – Shabbat Potluck – 6:00 p.m.

Following Kabbalat Shabbat services. Join us for an intimate Shabbat dinner experience with delicious food and fabulous company. RSVP to spaz@westendsyn.org and plan on bringing a pareve or dairy dish to share with friends.

8/4 – Music and Me – 3:30-5:00 p.m.

Inviting all parents of infants and/or toddlers for an afternoon of music and movement with song leader Brett Fromson. RSVP to Sharon Paz at spaz@westendsyn.org.

8/7 – Women’s Torah Group (on Zoom) –11:00 a.m.

Rabbi Joshua leads our Women’s study of the book of Deuteronomy.

8/8 – Men’s Torah Group (in person) –12:00 p.m.

Join us for our Torah class for men. We are currently studying the Second Book of Kings and will be eating pizza.

8/9 – Tot Shabbat – 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Friday night Shabbat services for Families with Young Children led by Nili Friedman & Sharon Paz. RSVP to spaz@westendsyn.org.

8/9 – Ramah Reunion Kabbalat Shabbat –6:00 p.m.

Campers and Madrichim will lead Kabbalat Shabbat services, followed by Shabbat Dinner.

8/10 – Kid’ish Club – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Inviting all 2nd – 7th graders for Kid’ish Club Shabbat morning from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kiddush lunch to follow.

8/13 – Sisterhood Day Trippers: TN State Museum Tour – 12:00 p.m.

Join Sisterhood for lunch and a guided tour of the “Tennessee Women and the Right to Vote” tour at the TN State Museum. Meet at noon at the food hall of the Farmers Market (900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd.) for lunch and walk to the tour at 1:00 p.m. RSVP at bit.ly/MCSAugustVote.

8/14 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for ages 60+ – 11:00 a.m.

Reservations required, catered lunch following the presentation. Speaker: Rabbi Joshua Kullock

Lunch catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP 615-269-4592 ext. 11 or office@westendsyn.org.

8/17 – Sam Workman Bar Mitzvah – 9:30 a.m.

Continued on page 15

At Our Congregations…

Continued from page 12

8/18 – Beit Miriam Teacher Inservice –9:00 a.m.

8/21 – Sisterhood Book Club: Once We Were Home – 7:00 p.m.

Join us via Zoom as we discuss “Once We Were Home” by Jennifer Rosner with host Martha Segal via Zoom. RSVP at MCSAugustBookClub.

8/23 – Williamson County Shabbat – 6:00 p.m.

Further information to come.

8/24 – Kid’ish Club – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Inviting all 2nd – 7th graders for Kid’ish Club Shabbat morning from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kiddush lunch to follow.

8/25 – First Day of Beit Miriam – 9:00 a.m.

8/28 – The Sandi Goldstein Learn & Lunch Program for ages 60+ – 11:00 a.m.

Reservations required, catered lunch following the presentation.

Speaker: Rabbi Saul Strosberg

Lunch catered by Goldie Shepard at 12:00 p.m. Cost: $5.00 RSVP 615-269-4592 ext. 11 or office@westendsyn.org.

8/29 – Opening Ceremony with the Installation of Sisterhood Officers –6:30 p.m.

In the Sukkah at West End.

8/30 – It’s Shabbat – 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Friday night Shabbat Celebration & Oneg for Families with Young Children with Brett Fromson and Sharon Paz. RSVP to spaz@westendsyn.org.

8/31 – Zoe Sparks Bat Mitzvah & Birthday Shabbat – 9:30 a.m.

Learning Opportunities

Talmud on Tuesdays

Rabbi Joshua leads a lively Talmudic discussion at 7:30 a.m. in person and on Zoom every Tuesday, immediately after morning minyan. Come and join us!

Religious Services

Shacharit (in person)

Our minyanaires are always looking for more people to strengthen the only egalitarian minyan in town! Sunday services are at 9:00 a.m. and Monday-Friday at 7:00 a.m. Thursday minyan is followed by breakfast.

Mincha (on Zoom)

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

Kabbalat Shabbat

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

Shabbat Morning services

You are invited to join us every Saturday morning in person or by Zoom at 9:30 a.m. Great davening, insightful learning of the Torah portion and a yummy (and nutritious!) kiddush lunch following services! •

Community Listings

East Side Tribe

Thursday, Aug. 1, 6 p.m.: L’chaim Time at Roy’s Tavern. This is a great way to meet new folks from East Side Tribe, whether you’re a newcomer or longtimer. First drink is on us!

Thursday, Aug. 8, 7:30 p.m.: Purple Martin Bonanza at Nissan Stadium. Come join “Wildlife Walks with East Side Tribe” as we view one of the true natural wonders of Nashville.

Gordon JCC Adult Program Happenings:

TGIT – August 2024

August 1

In the Round – Join us in our very own Bluebird style, in the round with Eitan Snyder from the Jewish Federation, me, and a special guest for some original songs and stories.

Lunch – Quiche, salad, sides, Birthday cake and ice cream

August 8

Jennifer Samareck – We may not have Click and Clack, but we have our very own car expert, Jennifer Samareck back to keep us informed and entertained with everything you never knew you needed to know about car maintenance.

Lunch – Salmon, salad, sides, and dessert.

August 15

Steve Leslie – Hit singer/songwriter Steve Leslie will be here to entertain us with his original music.

Lunch – Lasagna, bread, salad, sides, dessert.

August 22

Frist Art Museum Fashion Exhibit –Join us for a fabulous virtual slide show presentation tour and talk with docent Meryl Kraft as she takes on a fashion journey of the Alexander McQueen and Ann Ray exhibit currently showing at the Frist Art Museum.

Lunch – Chicken, salad, sides, dessert.

August 29

Paulette Licitria – Couldn’t get to Italy this summer? No problem! We have Italian Chef Paulette Licitra demo making focaccia. She will teach us about the different regions/cities in Italy and the foods they are known for. i.e. Liguria/ Riviera- Focaccia, Pesto, Corzetti, Venice - Prosecco, Spritz, Cicchetti, ParmaProsciutto, Parmigiano, Tortellini. Plus, she will bring a handout with the focaccia recipe & and a short outline of info above.Lunch – Pasta, salad, sides, dessert. •

Book Your Appointment Today!

See all our events at eastsidetribe.org. •

LET’S TALK RETIREMENT!

(…because it’s not just about the money!)

By LORETTA SAFF A RETIREMENT TOOLBOX TOOL #2

Last month I offered you Tool #1 for your Retirement Toolbox. (In case you forgot, it included three questions – Who are you now? What do you want? and What are you passionate about?)

Now, let’s look at Tool #2. As I was planning this column, I came across something that easily says it all. I found it at LuluLemon. I had finished shopping and as I approached the check-out area, I saw this slogan in neon: DO IT ON PURPOSE. That’s what I’m calling Tool #2

On Your Own

Continued from page 9 it — though somehow, I did! Our friends bought some exotic flavored vinegars in their favorite boutique that also sells different liqueurs — just one of the mall’s interesting shops and restaurants. And don’t miss the iced coffee in Israel (or ice café), which is a delicious frappuccino-style slushy coffee and is absolutely delicious and refreshing!

Since we didn’t get to Machaneh Yehuda (the big shuk — outdoor market) in Jerusalem this time, another shopping trip found Mosh buying new crocheted kippot in a small, family-owned Judaica store on Rehov Weitzman, the main street of Kfar Saba, north of Tel Aviv. There are many other small shops on this street, including a very modern natural-food store with all kinds of seeds, salads, dried fruits, and nuts. While we were shopping, one of the owners brought us a glass of ice water since it was hot outside. Only in Israel!

Public transport in Israel is excellent and will take you almost anywhere you want to go. If you prefer driving yourself using Waze (an Israeli invention, after all), there are many car rental facilities available. Road signs are in Hebrew, English, and Arabic. The trains between cities are punctual, quiet, roomy, and inexpensive. You can go to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem by train straight from the airport. It is only 11 minutes to Tel Aviv and 26 minutes to Jerusalem.

We went by train from Netanya to Jerusalem, Jerusalem to Beer Sheva, and Beer Sheva back to Tel Aviv and farther north. They have an app that is easy to use, and you can buy tickets at the train station. Although we traveled with just a small carry-on suitcase each, they were packed full and quite heavy. There were always soldiers and others on the trains

Of course, this made me think of the Nike swoosh logo and motto:

JUST DO IT!

Both slogans seem to deliver the same message. However, they really do say two very different things.

“JUST DO IT” insists: Don’t overthink it, and just go for it already.

“DO IT ON PURPOSE” tells you to Make plans so that your decision is intentional and made with confidence.

Nike’s push reminds me of the advice given when taking the SAT. “Go with your first answer – it’s usually the right one. Once you start changing things, you’ll get insecure.” But is that first answer always the right one? (Actually, not only is this not true, but this has been called the first-instinct fallacy! )

And it’s certainly not true when it comes to planning your retirement!

Instead, your transition will be a lot smoother if you take the LuluLemon approach and ‘make plans so that your decision is intentional’ so that you DO IT ON PURPOSE.

Sure, moving to a new state where your adult kids and grandkids live seems like the ideal goal, but do your expectations match theirs? Starting a new business would be a great challenge, but WHY are you thinking about this and what is really involved?

Tool #2 reminds you to clarify the WHY of your goals. It is very important because it will help you find a new PURPOSE that you can focus on in retirement. With no real schedule and no full-time work responsibilities, you must be prepared to accept – and anticipate – that things will be different. How will you spend your time? What will help you feel fulfilled?

Tony Robbins points out the two main obstacles to finding your purpose at any time and especially in retirement are: FEAR - of failure, of rejection, of not being “enough.”

Gift of Being a Host

Continued from page 4

who offered to help us up the few stairs inside the train cars. In cities, buses are plentiful and can get you everywhere.

The Jerusalem main bus station is opposite the train station, so you can take a bus or light rail to anywhere in the city if you arrive by train, but check with the locals about how to use the app or the rechargeable ‘ravkav’ that you can buy at the airport when you arrive. If, however, you are tired or have a lot of luggage, taxis are everywhere. The taxi pre-paid app is called Gett and is used much like Uber and Lyft apps here. It is worth using Gett because otherwise, taxi drivers expect cash.

There are so many wonderful, meaningful things to do in Israel, even with the country at war. We actually didn’t feel the war, except for the signs everywhere with pictures of the hostages. If you haven’t been to Israel since Oct. 7, do consider going. The indomitable spirit of the Israelis is amazing! No one knows how the current situation will end, but they tell you there is nowhere on Earth they would rather live. Even our friend who has 10 grandsons in the army right now said she will never live anywhere else.

On our last night, while shopping with our friends at a beautiful modern mall in Kfar Yona, a town of about 25,000 next to Netanya, we stopped at a gourmet shop called House of Cheeses, where we looked in awe at a wall of fancy Kosher cheeses – one big wheel after another. We continued on down to the last store in the mall: Golda’s, the biggest ice cream chain in Israel with 130 locations. Since we hadn’t had any ice cream yet in Israel, we feasted on decadent ice cream instead of a regular supper! What a delicious way to end our trip! •

LIMITING BELIEFS – listening to the destructive stories we tell ourselves. You know those little voices that whisper in your ear, “you don’t really deserve this,” or “why bother doing that when you know you are going to make a fool of yourself.” Ugh.

With your answers to the Tool #1 questions and the reminder to ask yourself WHY you want what you think you want with Tool #2, you definitely will be successful in making your future plans. (And by the way, in retirement you can always try something and then change your mind and do something else without having to apologize to anyone!) Check in next month for Tool #3, the final tool to aid you on your journey!

Best of luck to you,

Loretta Loretta@coachingwithloretta.com

when she explained that in Israel, when something is abnormal, they refer to it as “special.” She definitely thought Buc-ees was… “special.” We had so much fun at Holiday World together, although I have to admit that Rotem was a bit intimidated after seeing the second-largest wooden roller coaster in the US, but after getting her started on some smaller rides, she was riding the biggest rides with no problems.

On Monday, she had a chance to go to my mom’s house to sample a 10-course feast of Southern cooking classics. Again, Rotem felt that the spread looked like something out of a movie. To be fair, my mother still finds it challenging to cook for under 10 people.

The visit was not without drama, however. On Tuesday, members of a white supremacist group, surrounded West End Synagogue – my shul. That evening, a busload of 70 kids from Camp Ramah Darom were due to arrive on a field trip. To make things even more complicated, the visiting P2G teens were also supposed to be there. I raced to West End as soon as I found out, and a large group of police cleared out those goons with about 45 minutes to spare before the Ramahniks arrived. My son Sammy asked to be picked up to go hang out with his Ramah friends, and the whole group was able to hang out safely in the synagogue, eat dinner, meet some Israeli friends, and have a group line dancing lesson; all blissfully unaware of what was going on.

On our last free day, we got a chance to take Rotem to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Since she is a guitar player, it was so cool to get to show her the instruments used by so many ground-breaking artists and bring the history of our city to life. After that, we took a tour of the Goo Goo Cluster factory and went on a walk on the pedestrian bridge. And then we finished off the day at one of the

P.S. I told all of you DIY-ers that I had your backs! And by the way, if you are not into DIY, just let me know and I can help. • city’s last authentic, non-Disney Honky Tonks, Robert’s Western World, where she got to catch some truly gifted artists. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the amazing job that Federation team member Eitan Snyder did in planning this trip, organizing all the activities, and shuttling all the teens around our fair city. He did such a great job reinvigorating this program and doing such a remarkable job of communicating to everyone involved. I also must give credit to Gordon JCC CEO Jesse Feld and the team at the J for having the P2G teens be involved with Camp Davis. They loved getting to work with the kids and staff on their visit. I also loved meeting all the other host families –truly a group of kind, generous folks with so much extra love to give to some great kids and chaperone.

I think that now, more than ever, it was so crucial to bring this program back after all of the chaos of the COVID era. My daughter Zoe cannot wait to participate in this program, and one of the chaperones, Yifat, almost ended up taking her back with them. It was so important to the residents of our partnership region to know that they have support over here. When we realized that the Israeli teens had discovered that there were white supremacists marching in our streets, Rotem told us that she felt safer with us than she did back home in some ways, and that was sobering. While we may have our problems in the US, and while sometimes they can feel overwhelming, the truth is it is just a very different situation than being in a war, when you are surrounded by your enemies. It truly was a reality check on the privilege we enjoy every day in our country. And another reason we should take every opportunity to support our fellow Jews in that part of the world and everywhere. We are family. •

Vanderbilt Hillel Celebrates the Conclusion of Building Renovations

By SHANNON SMALL

T wo years ago, Vanderbilt Hillel celebrated its 20th building anniversary and launched the 20th Anniversary Campaign to enlarge the meat kitchen, upgrade security, renovate its program spaces, expand its staff, invest in largescale programs, and engage in strategic planning efforts. At the end of February, Vanderbilt Hillel hosted a groundbreaking event to celebrate the start of the renovation and will commemorate its conclusion with a Ribbon Cutting Event on Aug. 11 at 1 p.m. at the Ben

Local Scholars

Continued from page 1 and unique. It’s translated in a way that is simple for the reader to understand and loyal to the sentiment of the author.”

The notion that studying Maimonides is easy is relative, though. Goodman himself says, “The Guide to the Perplexed is very, very rich. It’s designed in such a way that a casual reader won’t get much out of it. Maimonides does not really want to invite people to get into those deep waters over their heads. But if you read it carefully, and ideally more than once, you learn from so much.”

Goodman says he learned something new every day he worked on the book.

Schulman Center for Jewish Life.

A large amount of local support to renovate the small meat kitchen was given to the Kitchen Naming Campaign in honor of Sylvia Shepard and Goldie Shepard. The campaign committee is being chaired by Cindee Gold and Alyssa Hassenfeld. Attendees will have an opportunity to see the enlarged meat kitchen with a new walk-in freezer/ refrigerator and new kitchen equipment. Attendees will also get to enjoy the renovated back patio, which has been transitioned into an outdoor program space. Other renovations include a new

working on his PhD in philosophy at Vanderbilt and has been studying with Goodman for four years. He believes this work is a major event in Jewish philosophy largely due to its content. “What attracted me to Dr. Goodman’s work was the synthetic philosophy. By that I mean he synthesizes; he combines the elements of multiple but competing philosophical traditions into a compelling synthesis.”

The work, according to both Goodman and Lieberman, was a true collaboration and one that began with Lieberman’s arrival at Vanderbilt. Goodman says, “A few years ago when we hired Phil, I was very excited about his arrival because he knows Arabic very well, and Hebrew and Aramaic.” The two began translating some texts and the next logical step became obvious. “There was a rumor going around that somebody’s got to do something about the Guide. And we became active and started working on translating it together. We would sit together at my desk, and I had the keyboard, but we discussed every word of Judeo Arabic in that work,” he says.

In fact, he likens Goodman’s work to that of Maimonides himself. He says the combining of various traditions is the reason why Maimonides wrote the Guide to the Perplexed. “In my view, it is the task of a giant to show the elements of wisdom in multiple traditions and to ultimately combine those elements.”

For those who wish to study the Guide, Kurun says to keep a few things in mind. “In my mind, the way to be the most rewarded is to read the book by thinking and considering the challenges to Judaism in the 12th century, in Maimonides’ time.”

When it comes to real world applications of the lessons in the Guide, Kurun mentions a couple of key takeaways. “One of the nuggets I like most in the book was Maimonides’ discussion of moral and intellectual virtues, which means that only a morally virtuous person can attain the truth.”

security vestibule, office furniture, paint, and flooring.

“We are excited to celebrate the end of our building renovations and are so appreciative of our 20th anniversary and kitchen naming donors for making this dream a reality,” says Ari Dubin, Executive Director of Vanderbilt Hillel.

For those interested in joining the Ribbon Cutting Event, you can RSVP at tinyurl.com/hillelribboncutting2024.

For any questions regarding the event, contact Shannon Small, development director, at shannon.small@ vanderbilt.edu. •

is one of the most important medieval works. But the reason that it is important to us today is because in our world, we drive a wedge between religion and science.” He says that traditionally to be religious means to turn your back on science, but for Maimonides and in the Guide, the focus is seeing the links between the two. “For the Rambam, there’s physics and there’s metaphysics, theology.”

Lieberman says he believes the differences between him and Goodman are what helps to make this work relevant to the modern reader. “Lenn helps open up this whole world of Medieval Jewish philosophy. I hope what I brought to the project was my unique historical perspective.” He says despite the long tradition of scholars working solo, it

is in the collaboration where the real progress lies. “Scholarship is a dialogue. It’s very important for our work to be in dialogue with other scholars, and there is no more intimate an experience than sitting in the room with someone and hammering out how you’re going to translate something.”

Both Goodman and Lieberman are working individually on their next books. Strosberg says it is this “embarrassment of riches” in the academic world that elevates Nashville’s Jewish community. “Just to see the amount of time that Lenn poured into this project. Anybody can say 10 years and it’s just a number. But if [only] you knew how many hours he was living and breathing this project while writing other books and teaching other students for over a decade.” •

After a few years working on the Guide together, Lieberman needed to move onto other projects. Goodman completed the project and then went on to write The Guide to the Guide for the Perplexed. This work is designed as both an introduction to the Guide as well as providing context by way of biography of Maimonides’ life. Strosberg says this is a perfect companion for those who want to approach the Guide. “I had the privilege of reading Lenn’s rough draft of the Guide to the Guide on a trip to Israel and it took a lot of the plane ride, but it is the single best biography of Maimonides I’ve ever read.”

Although Strosberg urges the average reader to dive into both books, it is a work that scholars believe is historic. Ismail Kurun, a native of Turkey, is

Kurun offers up another practical lesson. “Understanding traditions should be how we pursue truth in our lives. Truth should not be pursued within one single tradition because one single tradition cannot claim the entirety of truth itself.”

Strosberg looks at the Guide as offering up alternative perspectives to traditional Bible stories. “There are a lot of people who have questions about the purpose of life and what we are supposed to do in this world, and this could be a go-to book for people who are serious.” He says people have been studying the Guide for hundreds of years, and the text and the accompanying notes offer something for everyone, both the lay person and the scholar. “It forces you to have a second look at stories in the Torah.”

Lieberman sees yet another application for the modern reader. “The Guide

Cindee Gold, Kitchen Naming Chair and Former President of Vanderbilt Hillel Board of Directors and Goldie Shepard, Caterer for Vanderbilt Hillel. PHOTO CREDIT: EMILY APRIL ALLEN

Lifecycles

B’rit Mitzvah

Rachel Sonnenberg

spending time with friends and traveling with family.

Even Mayor Ed Koch declared that week “Al Jolson Week” in New York City.

Rachel Sonnenberg will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 10, at Congregation Micah. She is the child of Carla and Roy Sonnenberg, the sister of Rebekah Sonnenberg, and grandchild of Els and Rudi Sonnenberg of New Jersey.

A rising eighth grader at Mill Creek Middle School, Rachel has a passion for both theater and singing, and has thrived in her school’s Broadway Jr. musicals. She also finds joy performing alongside Cantor Josh Goldberg. Broadway holds a special place in Rachel’s heart, and she dreams of one day gracing its stages.

For her Bat Mitzvah project, Rachel is dedicating herself to Harmony & Healing, an organization that brings the comfort of music to patients and families in hospitals and hospices. Rachel will raise awareness and funds for their cause, as well as volunteer her time and talents.

Ben Horwitz

Ben Horwitz will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at 10:20 a.m. of Saturday, August 17, at Congregation Micah. He is the child of Shawn and Lacey Horwitz.

A rising eighth grader at Ironside Academy, Ben is a fan of music, soccer, and tennis.

Ben’s Bar Mitzvah project is to work with Teen Line, a support hotline dedicated to providing listening resources to teenagers who may be struggling.

Their Mitzvah Project is involvement in Kids Join The Fight, an organization focused on empowering kids to join the fight against pediatric cancers.

Charlotte Calise

Charlotte Calise will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, at Congregation Micah. She is the child of Ashley and Timothy Calise, the sister of Olivia and Eli Calise, and grandchild of Cheryl and Bob Canning of Cape Cod, Mass., and Madelaine and Ron Calise of Amelia Island, Fla.

A rising eighth grader at Brentwood Middle School, Charlotte plays lacrosse on the Brentwood Middle School team. Her favorite subject is currently math.

For her mitzvah project, Charlotte is assisting the younger Religious School classes at Congregation Micah.

Madison Rhodes

Raised an Orthodox Jew in Brooklyn, New York, Tany attended Yeshiva Elementary School and continued to Midwood High School so he could continue his Hebrew studies. After graduating high school in 1963, Tany enrolled in the Fashion Institute of Technology where he earned a two-year degree in textile design.

Two years to the day after President Kennedy was assassinated (11-22-65), Tany was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1965 where he served as an assistant chaplain after basic training. He served in Vietnam from July 1966 through June 1967, where Tany was in charge of weekly services, including making sure that everything stayed kosher, and helping in the preparation of the fallen Jewish soldiers’ bodies in accordance with Jewish law. As a last act before leaving Vietnam, Tany conducted the Passover Seder on June 8, 1967.

After his honorable discharge, Tany continued his Jewish studies and traveled to different synagogues stateside as a cantor on high holy days.

mother, Hilda Berman. He is survived his son, Dale (Samantha Berman) of Portland Tenn., daughter, Lindsey Berman (Jason Waller) of Louisville Ky, and son, Alexander Berman of Hendersonville; grandchildren, Megan Sacco, Dalton Berman, Christopher Peppers, Kayleigh Peppers, and Trae Waller.

Louis Lipschutz

Condolences to the family of Louis Lipschutz.

Anne Schreiber

Condolences to the family of Anne Schreiber.

Stephen Ross Shulman, D.D.S

Condolences to the family of Stephen Ross Shulman, D.D.S. (Shopsi Rachmiel) who did on June 21.He is survived by his wife, Marie C. Shulman; sons, Jason R. Shulman (Nicole J.) and Jonathan D. Shulman (Katherine F.); daughter, Rebekah L. Shulman; sister, Phyllis S. Shulman; grandchildren, Eva B. Shulman, River J. Shulman, Everett R. Shulman and Vivian F. Shulman.

Richard Marvin Stolman

Madison Rhodes will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 31, at Congregation Micah. She is the child of Tom and Kim Rhodes, the sister of JJ Rhodes, and grandchild to Glynis and Marin Sandler of Nashville, Teresa Rhodes of Nashville, and Jeff Rhodes of Nashville.

A rising eighth grader at the University School of Nashville, Madison enjoys playing volleyball, math, and writing.

In the 1970s he worked in fashion design and wholesale clothing. It was during this time that Tany’s love and admiration for Al Jolson culminated in him becoming heavily involved with The International Al Jolson Society (IAJS). Tany’s substantial involvement with the IAJS resulted in two huge Jolson Conventions: One in New York and the other in Los Angeles. Heeven produced an Al Jolson record called “Al Jolson On Glass.”

Condolences to the family of Richard Marvin Stolman, 73, who died on July 4 at his home in Oceanside, Calif., surrounded by his loved ones.

A native of Nasvhille, “Rick” was born on September 14, 1950. He attended Peabody Demonstration School through high school. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a bachelors degree in business. He pursued graduate studies in architecture at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Ruth Schoen Boehler and Abraham Gideon Boehler Twins, Ruth Schoen Boehler and Abraham Gideon Boehler will be called to the Torah as B’nai Mitzvah at 11 a.m. on Saturday. August 24, at The Temple. They were born on August 5, 2011, in New York City to Shira and Adam Boehler. Their grandparents are Nancy and Jeffrey Kupperman of Santa Barbara, Calif., Jill and Richard Boehler of Saratoga, N.Y., and great grandmother Dorothy of Los Angeles, Calif.

Ruth and Abe are eighth graders at University School of Nashville. They are active in all kinds of sports including soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, basketball, pickle ball and bike riding. They also love

Madison has been volunteering for Love Helps, inc. This Nashville-based organization works in Middle Tennessee public schools to promote literacy, student achievement and positive character through multiple school-based programs. Madison designed and sold bracelets and held a bake sale at her school to raise money ($500 donated thus far). She also assembled charms that were distributed to students to recognize their achievements.

Obituaries

Nathaniel (Tany) Paul Berman

Condolences to the family of Nathaniel (Tany) Paul Berman, 78, who died on July 1 after a 14-month bout with cancer. He is perhaps best remembered as the man who spearheaded the prestigious 100th anniversary Manhattan tribute to Al Jolson in May 1985. The tribute included celebrity historians, a celebrity Master of Ceremonies and tributes far and wide.

Later in life, Tany continued working for himself most of the time as a traveling salesman in clothing and eventually changed over to home decor. He retired in 2009.

Tany involved himself with Chabad Nashville around this time with helping lead prayer services and helping in with the physical construction of the new synagogue. After retiring he worked for a short time driving a school bus, then worked for Gallatin Tennessee Head Start preschool. He loved having the opportunity to be a positive role model for the kids there as much as they loved being around “Mr. Tany.”

During the summer, he worked at the YMCA Camp Widjiwagan. That was cut short in 2011 when his wife of then 12 years was diagnosed with cancer. He then spent his time taking care of her and working at Panera Bread in Hendersonville, Tenn., where they lived. Following her recovery, they made multiple trips to Englewood, Fla. Their final trip together with the entire family was in 2021. Tashia passed in September 2022.

Tany was also preceded in death by his father, Alexander Berman, and his

In 1974, Rick married Linda Goodman Stolman. They lived in Houston, where Rick worked as an architect and they welcomed their daughter Whitney in 1982. In 1983, Rick and his family moved back to Nashville to begin an exciting career in commercial development with his father. He welcomed a second daughter, Erica, in 1986. Over the next 25 years, Rick went on to have many successful careers ventures with Dovebar ice cream, Big Chill Distributors, and M & M Mars.

Rick retired in 2010, and enjoyed his life on the West Coast, between California and Nevada. He enjoyed warm weather, the excitement of Vegas, and his beloved dog Riley. He enjoyed blackjack, playing pool, a good spicy Bloody Mary, and being with his adoring family. He is survived by his daughter, Whitney Stolman and her partner, Robert Vogeler; daughter, Erica Stolen Dowdy (Zack); grandsons, Grayson Vogeler and Cody Vogeler,; his beloved ex-wife, Linda Stolman; and his brother, Doug Stolman. He is predeceased by his parents, Edward Stolman and Luas Olshine Stolman. •

ACCOUNTANTS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY

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

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

Custom senior care for active, healthy lifestyles. Affordable/no minimums. Meals, meds, transp., outings, dementia care & assist with hospital discharge. Professional trusted care partners. Locally owned. Call Moises for Free Assessment: 615-678-9223 www.curaforcare.com

In-Home Care & Engagement | Respite

Dementia Day & Early-Stage Programs

Independent & Assisted Living Memory Support | Caregiver Resources

615.434.2160 | services@abesgarden.org

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

143 Uptown Square Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-848-6774

768 N. Main Street Shelbyville, TN 37160 931-680-2771

Elite Caregiving Services

Compassionate Care In Your Home

We offer aftercare from surgical procedures, part-time assistance, and 24 hour elderly care. 615-881-6528 Hannah@EliteCaregivingServices.com EliteCaregivingServices.com

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

DR. BRADLEY KROCK D.C.  Discover relief with Dr. Krock, DCExpert chiropractic care for pain, wellness, and injury recovery. Book your appointment today!   615-771-7720 www.krockchiropractic.com

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS COUNSELING

MICHELLE ROSEN, M.ED. Comprehensive College Planning Support 615-497-5198 nashvillecollegecounselor.com

CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN

Proudly serving your community in kitchen, bath, and turn-key remodeling. Find us at www.DesignsByHermitage.com or call 615-988-5988

DENTIST

STEVEN R. HECKLIN, DMD

DAVID M. SMILEY, DMD ABBY DILUZIO, DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry www.drhecklin.com 5606 Brookwood Place 615-356-7500

INSURANCE

BILTMORE INSURANCE SERVICES

Greg Zagnoev, Agent 615-746-RISK (7475) Home, Auto, Business, and Life

JAMES A. ROTHBERG

ADAM ROTHBERG

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

ROBINS INSURANCE

Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business Insurance 11 Music Circle S Ph. 615-665-9200 • www.robinsins.com

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

M JAFFA HEALTH INSURANCE Marsha Ross Jaffa, CIC, LUTCF 615-482-3860 Medicare, Health, Dental, and Life

OPTOMETRIST

DR. MICHELE SONSINO Optique Franklin 436 Main Street, Franklin 615-591-4191

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

ORTHODONTISTS

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

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY

& COUNSELING

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

REAL ESTATE

FRANKLIN PARGH 615-351-7333

franklin.pargh@compass.com

LANA PARGH 615-504-2685

lana.pargh@compass.com www.pargh.com

Instagram: @theparghteam

JACOB KUPIN, REALTOR

HAYLEY LEVY KUPIN, REALTOR 615-281-9035

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

www.zeitlin.com

Residential & Relocation Specialists

JESSICA AVERBUCH Broker/ Owner Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty c: 615.294.9880 o: 615.383.0183 jessica.averbuch@zeitlin.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

Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR® ABR, CRS JackieKarr@gmail.com JackieKarr.com Mobile: 615-330-9779 Office: 615-463-3333

SPORTING GOODS

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

TRAVEL SERVICES

Expedia Cruise Ship Centers A Full Service Travel Agency Alan Cooper: Office: 615-454-6439 www.expediacruises.com/AlanCooper 7081 B Hwy 70 S / Kroger Shopping Ctr.

TREE SERVICES

Preserving the Natural Beauty of Trees and Shrubs. Specializing in the care of shade and ornamental trees and shrubs for residential and commercial properties. Serving Nashville since 1978. 615-373-4342 www.druidtree.com

Seniors and Post Hospital Care

August in the Gordon JCC Galleries: Featuring the work of the Nashville Artist Guild and a Yart sale

The Janet Levine March Gallery and JLMG2 gallery will feature the work of the Nashville Artist Guild, which has been exhibiting at the Gordon JCC for several years.

Prior to the inception of the Nashville Artist Guild in 1950, there was no cohesive arts organization in the city to promote art or art education. Nevertheless, since its founding, the Nashville Artist Guild has maintained an active exhibition history. The collaboration and commitment among the professional artists that are and have been part of the Guild has been focused and outstanding.

This professional art group continues to honor its commitment to excellence in art, to ethnic diversity, to art education, and to raising the awareness of fine art. Current members work in many mediums including oil, enamel, glass, encaustic, wood, marble, clay, photography and digital media.

The Sig Held Gallery will feature a Yart sale. Great prices on an eclectic mix of art.

The Senior Lounge will continue to feature the work of Robbie Lasky.

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

The Exhibition Dates are Aug. 1-31.

The Artist reception will be held on Aug. 14 from 6-8 pm and feature music by DJ Joseph Harris and Henna by Seemi

along with a pop-up jewelry shop by Chandler’s Dezigns.

The exhibitions are free and open to the public. For more information, con-

24th Nashville Jewish Film Festival to open

Laurie Eskind and Loretta Saff, co-directors of the NJFF, have announced an entertaining educational and ambitious 24th season of community favorite activity, the Nashville Jewish Film Festival.

Opening with a gala cocktail supper on Oct. 15, catered by Corner Market at AB, 2111 Belcourt, the first film of the series will be a warm and loving look at everyone’s favorite — Gene Wilder in Remembering Gene Wilder. Born Jerome Silverman in Milwaukee, his roles as Dr. Frankenstein, Leopold Bloom, The Waco Kid and Willy Wonka remain audience favorites. The film will be hosted by Gilda’s Club of Middle Tennessee and introduced by CEO Harriet Schiftan.

Two films will be shown over a 48-hour period virtually on the Eventive platform. “Shoshana,” Oct. 21 to 23, is set in British Mandate Palestine and follows Shoshana, a young Israeli woman who is romantically involved with a British policeman charged with subduing conflict with the British. As Avraham Sterns’ Irgun becomes more violent, the conflict for Shoshana grows. “Home,” Nov. 4 to 6, is the story of a young observant Israeli man who ends up bucking the religious organizations that control his neighborhood when he opens a computer store.

Other films will include:

“Yaniv” on Oct. 19 at the JCC. Yaniv is a popular Israeli card game and we

Kvetch in the City

By CARRIE MILLS

Verklempt.

Word of the day.

Week. Month. Year.

My dating life. Verklempt.

My home life. Verklempt.

My work life. Verklempt.

The world. Totally Verklempt. Let’s start with my dating life. Verklempt. At this point, it’s a vicious cycle of downloading dating apps. Deleting dating apps. They say insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. And yet… Somewhat like the lottery. You’ve got to be in it to win it. Right? And like the lottery, what are the chances of winning? Not great. Yet, someone does win eventually. Right?

At this moment in time, my dating life is feeling more like a lottery scratch-off card, with the win, if any, being another ticket. Oy. Still, what’s the option?

This past trip to NYC, I went on four dates with four different men. I dressed nicely, I showed up interested, with my

best listening skills and an optimistic attitude. However, none of that seemed to make any difference. Not the pretty dress, not my best possible self, not even the Botox. I ended up finding myself wishing I was young and naïve again. I certainly seemed to have an easier time back in the day. Naturally, without dating apps. Just living my life. It’s all a fond memory. Would a facelift even matter at this point?

Bachelor #1 was an artist. I should have stopped right there. I didn’t listen to my therapist when she suggested maybe not date artists. I’m not sure if she said musicians too. However, I know that one since I married two. Not at the same time, mind you. But let’s just say, I’ve been down that road. I think I learned my lesson there. Anyway, it wouldn’t have mattered because I could tell Bachelor #1 wasn’t even that into me. Ouch. It goes both ways, so I’ve learned to not take it personally, (even though I still do.)

Bachelor #2, another artist. I know, I know. I’m just going to leave that on the table.

Bachelor #3, I’m not quite sure exactly what he did. I think I was beginning to lose my listening skills by then, maybe something in the lawyer/consulting world working for a start-up company trying to save the climate, which I’m all

will turn the GJCC into Club Yaniv. The film’s director, Amon Carmi, and star Benjamin Ducoff will join us to teach us how to play the game and entertain us with stories of the making of the film. Broadway veteran Stephen Lang will star in “Avenue of the Giants” on Oct. 22 at the Belcourt. “Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Montara” will be shown on Oct. 29. “Running On Sand,” a delightful comedy from Israel, will be held at the Bellevue AMC on Nov. 2. Because “Running on Sand” is so special, it will be proceeded by pizza, wine, beer and drinks dinner at The Well. “Running On Sand” will be hosted by the B’nai B’rith Social Club.

The special closing night film is

on Oct. 15

the nostalgic and heartwarming “The Catskills.” Through interviews with former employees and guests of the great Jewish resorts in the Catskill Mountains (think Grossingers, The Concord, and Kutshers) we will visit the great hotels, meet the entertainers who got their start “tummeling” for guests and ogle at all the food served. Since it is closing night come to the Belcourt early and have some Catskills noshes — babka, rugelach, etc. For more information, visit www. nashvillejff.org. If you or your organization or business would like to host a screening, email fran@nashvillejcc.org. Watch for the 2024 Festival Guide in the October Observer. •

for, though I’m also all for someone not getting up abruptly and saying they need to go home to eat dinner while I’m practically mid-sentence. I’m guessing he did me a favor in the long run.

And finally, Bachelor #4, with the most potential of them all. A consultant who helps businesses stay out of trouble before they get into trouble. His method is teaching them his three rules of learning when to shut up. The first rule was obvious, when you don’t know the answer. I forgot the second and third rule, just like he forgot to follow up after the second date.

By then, I had exhausted all my beautiful outfits and positive energy. Frustrated, disappointed, Verklempt.

Oh…and then there is my home life. Verklempt. Eighteen years ago, I purchased a condo. Maybe not the best idea in the world. Hindsight is 20/20 x 100. I guess, like my dating life in my younger years, I haven’t always made the best decisions, skipping over the fine print in the excitement of it all. Now myriad in all the insane condo rules and regulations which play out like Who’s on First? I’m starting to think maybe it’s time to sell. However, even if I did sell, I’d need a GoFundMe (anyone?) to afford my dream Park Ave

apartment with a doorman. As of today, condo living in Nashville…one big Verklempt. My work life. Verklempt-ish. I have too many jobs. In a weird way, it’s like a compliment. Oh…you can do this? Here’s a job. Oh, you’re good at that? Oh, here’s another job. And so, I keep saying yes. Juggling like five jobs now for 22 years…Verklempt. Nobody to blame here but my overly ambitious self.

Oh…and lest I forget for one minute…the state of the world. Do I even need to say it? Verklempt on steroids. I mean seriously, what the heck is going on out there? I used to feel hopeful, now I’m just downright scared.

Which is why I seriously need that doorman apartment on Park Ave. If it’s all going down, I want to do it in style. With a doorman. Seriously, all I’ve ever wanted was a doorman. I don’t know what it is about a doorman. They just make the world feel so cordial, so charming, so simple, so civil, so safe.

One timeless gesture, opening a door, a gesture at once chivalrous and full of imagined hope, that somehow, for a moment, I can walk through it all, leaving behind all the anguish and Verklempt in the world.

Wouldn’t that be nice. •

Birds at the Park, by Jenna Felts

The Light’s Right, by Rita Maggarts

Blue Ribbon Hat, by Glenna Cook tact the GJCC at 615.354-1699, Curator Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org, or go to www.nashvillejcc.org. •

All Things Seniors

Dr. Hecklin & Associates Specialize in Various Denture Types for Your Personal Needs

People of all ages due to varying reasons may require some form of dentures to replace missing teeth. At Dr. Hecklin & Associates, we provide multiple options to help you achieve your new smile.

Conventional dentures are removable dentures that replace all missing teeth. These dentures rely on suction and soft tissue support to stay in place.

Implant supported overdentures are removable dentures that snap onto implants. These dentures offer more stability than conventional dentures.

If you are only missing a few teeth, then partial dentures might be the right option for you. Dr. Hecklin & Associates offer a few different options for partial dentures, and can help you make an informed decision based on your individual treatment goals.

Dr. Hecklin, Dr. DiLuzio and Dr. Smiley have over 50 years of combined experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry services and can create the right set of dentures to give you a great smile that gets noticed. As one patient recently told us, “Dr. Hecklin and his staff are awesome. I have had them take care of my dental needs

for over 20 years. My husband is also a long-time patient and loves them too. They are the best in Nashville.”

To learn more about each of our dentures options, visit drhecklin.com/services/ dentures or call us at (615) 356-7500 to schedule your dentures consultation today.

Jewish Family Service: Sustaining Older Adults In Our Community

Jewish Family Service provides a myriad of continuously evolving programs to assist older adults in our community.

The Helping Hands Program serves Jewish older adults who live alone or in assisted/nursing communities. This program utilizes volunteers to provide services such as friendly visits, telephone reassurance, pen pals, Shabbat services at local assisted living facilities, and an annual Passover Seder. Jewish Family Service also facilitates the Temple’s Golden Lunch Bunch Program on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month for a nutritious lunch, entertainment, and socialization.

Under the Helping Hands umbrella are two programs specifically designed for people living with Alzheimer’s and/or dementia. Musical Helping Hands utilizes trained professional musicians and the Helping Hands Art/OMA Program utilizes a trained art facilitator to provide one-on-one music and art visits for people with Alzheimer’s and/or dementia living in homes, assisted living communities, or nursing facilities. In offering music and art options, JFS recognizes that for some individuals’ meaningful engagement and positive interaction may be better supported through an artistic medium.

Cyber Seniors matches computer savvy volunteers with older adults needing basic tech assistance. Especially critical during the pandemic, this program continues to be available for increasing confidence with such things as Zoom meetings, online grocery shopping, and staying in touch virtually with family and friends.

The Jacob’s Ladder Program pairs volunteers with seniors who might need assistance with small tasks requiring the use of a ladder such as replacing batteries in smoke detectors, changing light bulbs, and setting clocks.

The Low-vision Aid Program, in partnership with B’nai Brith Maimonides Lodge #46, serves those who find it difficult to engage in basic daily activities such as cooking, locating appropriate clothing, continuing hobbies, or reading the newspaper due to vision difficulties.

To learn more about any of these programs or to volunteer, please contact the Helping Hands Program Coordinator, at Jewish Family Service at 615-354-1686 or helpinghands@jfsnashville.org.

In addition to offering extensive services for seniors in our community, Jewish Family Service also provides professional counseling services with our highly experienced social workers.

Continued on page 23

Continued from page 22

Our social workers provide information and referral services to help individuals identify services that are available in the community, and may even facilitate access to these services when necessary. The most common request for seniors is evaluating different living options such as– aging in place and evaluating independent/assisted living options.

JFS provides various ongoing support groups including Caregiver and Grief Groups.

JFS social workers also provide counseling -- professional assessment and treatment for individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages. A sliding fee scale is available for those unable to pay full fee, ensuring access to mental health for all.

To learn more about any of these programs, please contact Jewish Family Service 615-356-4234.

jfsnashville.org

The Medical System Is Changing

The medical system in Nashville is changing, posing dangerous conditions to unsuspecting residents. Many assume each care sector is working in coordination, from hospital, to rehab, to physician. Unfortunately, this is no longer a given.

Our home care agency received a call. The woman said, “My husband was discharged today, and I can’t get him out of the car.” This, not to mention other necessary arrangements, had not been managed when the facility declared it was time for him to go home.

The situation extends beyond lack of mobility. Medication mistakes are dangerous, especially when medications prescribed by your doctor are changed by hospitals and then again by rehab centers without appropriate coordination between the three & the pharmacy. Frequently there’s a lack of necessary supplies and equipment to facilitate a safe and smooth transition home.

If you or your loved one heads to the hospital, it is important to assign an advocate to oversee discharge proceedings. This person will confirm every appointment, make sure needed equipment is ordered, and ensure you receive all eligible Medicare payments and benefits before you leave. They should also confirm your medication list is reviewed by your pharmacist to ensure any updated medications won’t introduce contraindications.

Hospitalization and rehab are expensive enough without a bungled discharge process, mismanaged medications, disorientation, and a preventable fall restarting the whole process.

To learn how we can help seniors live healthy, happy and safe at home, call 615522-5265.

Blakeford at Green Hills

It’s never too early to plan for your future. Blakeford at Green Hills is a Continuing Care Retirement Community that offers a vibrant lifestyle and peace of mind for the future. It is where residents can engage in various activities and build lasting relationships. One of the key benefits of living at Blakeford is the strong sense of community and belonging it fosters.

With a variety of social, cultural, and recreational activities, residents have ample opportunities to engage, connect, and thrive. Maintenance free living affords you the opportunity to plan your day the way you want, without regard to household obligations. A professional and compassionate staff are dedicated to providing personalized care and support, ensuring that each resident’s physical, emotional, and social needs are met. Additionally, the on-site wellness programs, coupled with top-notch healthcare services, provide peace of mind for yourself and your family, knowing that assistance is readily available when needed.

Joining Blakeford at Green Hills’ waitlist is a strategic move to reserve a future apartment in this desirable community, even if you’re not planning an immediate move. The waitlist exists because Blakeford consistently operates at full capacity. The waitlist allows prospective residents to be proactive about their future living arrangements, ensuring they have access to the high-quality services and vibrant lifestyle Blakeford offers when the time is right. This way individuals can plan ahead, ensuring that they, or their loved ones, will enjoy a seamless transition to a place where they can thrive and enjoy life to the fullest.

Call today to schedule your visit 615-665-2522 or visit www.blakeford.com.

AIPS - Move Management

Serving the senior population is one of my favorite things to focus on. Partnering with the best peers in the industry and certainly the BEST clients a girl could wish for. What is that focus, you might ask? Move Management.

Move Management is a full-circle, service concept. Including: Downsize/Right size/ Simplify,

Sort/Organize, Pack/Unpack, Move/Relocate, Layout/Design Solutions, Setup/ Staging, Cleanup/Cleanout, Estate Sale Assistance

Our systems are personalized to meet your needs. Our teams are kind & compassionate. Our service is about lifestyle!

We are also focused on life transitions and the continuing changes at any age. Creating memories in each new moment and experiencing JOY in the JOurneY!

Remember, it’s always the right move when it’s about YOU!

Angie Durr, Owner

PH: 629.999.2477 | www.aginginplaceservices.net

Continued on page 24

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Seniors,

Are You Getting Ready To Downsize?

If you don’t know how to get started, expert professional help is available. Donít know where to begin to get organized? Are you wondering how to make the key decisions that will simplify your upcoming move? Is your home simply overflowing with stuff and you canít figure out what to do with it all?

Perhaps itís time to ask Jane R. Snyder to work with you to meet your objectives. From Bellevue to Goodlettsville and Belle Meade to Franklin, in recent months, she has helped busy clients declutter, organize, and even empty drawers, closets, file cabinets, garages, and storage lockers.

Victoria Harris, EdD, in Nashville says, ìI thought my job was impossible, thus putting it off for years. †It not only turned out to be possible, but I could not have done it without Jane Snyder! †Most honest, hard-working woman I know!î

If you donít know where to startóor you are simply overwhelmed by a lifetime of wonderful memoriesóJane can create an effective plan to get you ready for your move. Downsizing is an exhausting process for everyone, so reach out. She can help you decide what will go with you, what needs to get tossed, and what can get donated to a good home or charity to benefit others.

Continued on page 25

Ta ke your independence to a new level with Independent Living Plus

Are you most ly independent but need a helping hand ever y now and then? We completely understand, and that’s why at Clarenda le at Bellev ue Place, we offer Independent Living Plus.

This unique program, provided by our pa rtners at Preferred Choice, allows residents to ma intain an independent lifest yle with personalized, backup health care services in place, including dressing, companionship, transportation, hospitalization care, light housekeeping, meal assistance, and more convenient offerings.

To learn more about Independent Living Plus and how our communit y put s the dignit y, safety, and happiness of residents above all else, call 615 -258-6364 or visit ClarendaleAtBellevuePlace.com.

New clients receive a 20% discount on their first 10 hours with a four-hour minimum. Jane offers a FREE one-hour consultation for large-scale projects. For more information or to book an appointment, you can contact Jane at: calljane@comcast. net or 615-557-6277.

Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s

Did you know it is estimated that more than 6,400 people in Middle Tennessee are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement.

Symptoms usually develop slowly over the years, and the progression of these symptoms can vary significantly from one person to another due to the diverse nature of the disease. We still don’t know exactly what causes Parkinson’s. While there is no cure, treatment options, including medications and surgery, can help manage symptoms. Although PD itself is not fatal, complications from the disease can be serious.

The first step to living well with Parkinson’s disease is to understand the disease and its progression. It is possible to maintain quality of life with PD by working closely with your doctor and following recommended therapies, including medications.

Finding the right combination of medications, complementary therapies, support, and strategies to maintain independence can greatly enhance your quality of life with Parkinson’s disease.

The Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support, educational information, and programs for people affected by Parkinson’s. We understand that a Parkinson’s diagnosis impacts the entire family and offers support not only for individuals living with Parkinson’s but to their care partners, spouses, and family members.

Contact PFP and how you can participate in our support groups. All group meetings and events are listed on our website at www.petersonforparkinsons.org or call 615-269-5312.

M Jaffa Health Insurance, LLC

Marsha Ross Jaffa

Medicare open enrollment will begin October 15th and end December 7th. This is a time for insureds over 65 to review their coverage and determine if they would like to make any changes to their current insurance. Most Advantage plans and Drug plans may be shopped at this time. Please remember that Supplement plans are usually medically underwritten unless you are turning 65 or have a qualifying event, i.e. moved to another city or you are being dropped from group coverage. If you choose to drop a Supplement plan and enroll in an Advantage Plan you will be medically underwritten if you choose to go back to a Supplement Plan.

Open Enrollment for people under 65 is known as “Affordable Care Act” ACA. Open enrollment begins November 1 and goes to December 15 if you want coverage for January 1. The deductible and premium are very high unless you have a low income. It’s best to sit down with an agent to review coverage as doctors and hospitals vary with the insurance companies they want to be affiliated with.

Your phone will be ringing a lot during Open Enrollment. If you have any questions, it is best to talk to a local insurance agent.

Need Health Insurance?

M Jaffa Health Insurance, LLC

Marsha Ross

Navigating the Parkinson's Path

Join Us For TheseFeatured Presentations:

Advancing Parkinson’s Care: How Gocovri can Help Dr. Laxman Bhagwan Bahroo, DO Department of Neurology, Georgetown UNiversity

Parkinson's Disease Research Update

Thomas Davis, MD, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Focused Ultrasound coming to Vanderbilt

Travis J. Hassell, MD, PhD, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Refining your Diet to Improve Medication Effectiveness

Faye Elahi, MS, MA: Special Parkinson’s Disease Nutritionist Glutenfreenutritionforlife.com

Date: Saturday, August10

Check-in: 8:00 AM

Location:

BrentwoodBaptist Church

This event is presented to the community at no charge thanks to the following:

Premier Sponsor

7777 ConcordRdBrentwood, TN

Register usingthe QR codeor bit.ly/PFPEXPO2024

Additional Sponsors

Argent

Trust can help you with your estate planning “to do” list

When it comes to estate planning, there is a well-known adage that families and individuals should heed: By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. For most people,

estate planning and preparation do not rank high on a “to do” list but having an action plan can help.

Create a Will or Trust: Outline how assets should be distributed among heirs and specify guardianship for minor children if applicable.

Establish Healthcare Directives: Prepare a living will and designate a healthcare power of attorney to make medical decisions if unable to do so.

Review and Update Regularly: Ensure documents reflect current circumstances, especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of grandchildren. Consider Implications of Tax Changes Likely Coming Soon: Utilize strategies like trusts or gifting to minimize estate taxes and maximize the value left to beneficiaries.

Organize Important Documents: Compile and securely store essential documents like deeds, insurance policies, and financial account information.

Consult Legal and Financial Advisors: Seek guidance from professionals to navigate complex legal and financial aspects of estate planning.

Communicate with Family: Discuss plans with loved ones to avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone understands your wishes.

Estate planning not only provides peace of mind but also ensures a smooth transition for loved ones during a challenging time. Taking proactive steps now can alleviate future stress and protect your legacy. Your friends at Argent Trust are here to assist and can be reached at mhirt@argenttrust.com, hsafer@argenttrust.com or (615) 385-2718

Hunt Memorials...Serving the Jewish Community since 1928. We consider this a privilege and just want to take a moment to thank you for putting your faith in us. Our company was founded in 1928 by Jack Hunt. His son, Bill, was our second generation, followed by Charlie who has now turned over the reins to Trent. Each generation has made their mark on the company and brought their own unique gifts to grow the company and make it what it is today...a fourth generation, family business ready and willing to craft the finest memorials for your loved ones. Charlie Hunt continues to show his stone and wood sculpture at Art on the Westside and several other prominent

Whether you are matching an existing marker, looking to create a custom memorial or looking for a piece of art, we are here for you.

Again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the opportunity to commem-

Trent, Kaylee, Charlie and Joy Hunt

The Perfect Companion: Elevating In-Home Care, Delivering Unmatched

Ed Kelley, the owner of The Perfect Companion, and his siblings dedicated over twenty years to overseeing their parents’ 24/7 in-home care. Their journey, marked by the heartbreak of losing their mother due to an oversight by an untrained caregiver, exposed critical flaws in the caregiving industry. This personal experience ignited a determination in Ed to create a better caregiving solution for the Nashville area, leading to the opening of The Perfect Companion of Tennessee in 2024, as part of The Perfect Companion Family, which has been operating since 2008 and multi-year

The Perfect Companion is built on three core principles:

1. Comprehensive Caregiver Training: In-depth, in-person instruction with hands-on skills and client-specific training.

2. Enhanced Safety Measures: Rigorous background checks and routine drug screenings to ensure peace of mind.

3. Fair Compensation: Competitive living wages to foster a dedicated and skilled workforce.

Our foremost mission at TPC is to provide clients and their families with peace of mind, ensuring the care we provide mirrors the devotion we would extend to our own loved ones. We are committed to lifting the caregiving burden, fostering enriching experiences for our clients, and enhancing the quality moments families spend together.

The Perfect Companion: Elevating In-Home Care in Middle Tennessee with Tailored Concierge Services for Your Loved One. •

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