The Observer Vol. 77 No. 2 – January 20, 2012 and Simchas & Celebrations Issue

the bserver inside: Jewish

Families tell how Nashville came to be their home at Our Word’s Fair

Gesher Fund to provide emergency assistance

By Kathy Carlson

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GJCC announces ‘Nourish Your Mind’ lineup 4 Akiva wins Challenge Award

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New programs for elders, Federation’s 2012 grants 6 Sections Lifecycles Letters Around the town

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Simchas & Celebrations issue

www.jewishobservernashville.org

A Publication of

www.jewishnashville.org VOL.77 NO. 2 January 20, 2012 25 Tevet 5772

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hen the curtain goes up on Jon Adam Ross’s solo theater performance at Our World’s Fair on Sun., Jan. 29, several Nashville families will be watching with special interest, because he’ll be highlighting their stories of becoming part of Nashville.

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With Jack Lew’s appointment, Jewish community again has a connection in the White House

By Ron Kampeas WASHINGTON (JTA) — @JewishWhiteHouse is back.

President Obama on Jan. 16 announced that Jack Lew, his director of the Office of Budget and Management — a Cabinet-level position — would replace William Daley as White House chief of staff.

Lew, 56, was chosen for his long years in government and his reputation as a skilled multitasker — he was top- budget cruncher for Bill Clinton before reprising the job for Obama — but Jewish officials were offering a sigh of relief for a subsidiary reason: Their who-we-gonnacall pleas were answered.

Since Dennis Ross, Obama’s top Iran adviser, announced his departure late last year, community officials wondered who was left to call in a White House that has hemorrhaged top Jews over the last year or so. Lew, an Orthodox Jew, is close to the community and is a go-to person for Jewish events in the capital.

“The reports that there’s no one to talk to have always been exaggerated,” said Malcolm Hoenlein, the executive vice president of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Hoenlein pointed to Peter Rouse, a counselor to Obama who has served as acting chief of staff, as someone who has always been accessible.

Still, Hoenlein added, “Jack being there will be beneficial, it will foster communication.”

Obama launched his administration with a strong contingent of Jewish advisers: In addition to Ross, David Axelrod was his top political adviser, Rahm Emanuel was his chief of staff and Daniel Shapiro handled Continued on page 5

At the Orthodox Union’s June 2011 leadership mission to Washington, OU Washington director Nathan Diament, left, presents Jack Lew with a token of appreciation after Lew, then the Obama administration's budget director, addressed the OU’s leaders at the White House, June 2011. (Courtesy OU)

There's time to sign up for Tzedakah Tzunday

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ven shy folks can do what needs to be done at this year’s Tzedakah Tzunday, the Jewish Federation of Nashville’s annual fundraising phone-a-thon. Each two-and-a-halfhour shift includes 30 minutes of training, so callers are well prepared to talk with friends and community members about our Jewish community and how Federation serves us in Middle Tennessee and our fellow Jews around the world and in Israel.

It’s the community’s largest fundraiser, providing the means to assure that kids receive Jewishthemed books from the PJ Library, seniors can get around town on Buz a Bus, and young adults can get together and make a difference in Mitzvah Madness next month.

Through our Tzedakah Tzunday gifts to Federation, we provide crucial foods to elderly Jews in the

Former Soviet Union and teach skills to young immigrant children in Israel, plus much more.

Tzedakah Tzunday will take place on Sun., Feb. 12, at the Gordon Jewish Community Center.

There are four shifts on Sunday between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., plus two two-hour follow-up shifts on the evenings of Mon., Feb. 20, and Thurs., Feb. 23. These shifts run from 7-9 p.m. at the GJCC. There will be refreshments and babysitting is available with advance registration only.

To sign up, you can fax information to Susan Pankowsky at 3520056, email her at susan@jewishnashville.org, or call her at 3541676. Sign up for babysitting by contacting Barbara Schwarcz, Barbara@jewishnashville.org or 354-1630. Check the Federation website, www.jewishnashville.org, for more information. c

Families tell how Nashville came to be their home at Our Word’s Fair Continued from page 1 Our World’s Fair kicks off the Jewish Federation of Nashville’s 2012 Annual Campaign, supporting the Jewish community of Nashville and Middle Tennessee and our fellow Jewish communities around the world and in Israel.

The event, from 4-6 p.m. at the Gordon Jewish Community Center, focuses on Jewish communities from around the world. It includes exhibits, food tastings, children’s activities and Ross’s specially commissioned performance.

Ross blends together short video vignettes from Metro Councilman Fabian Bedne (Argentina), Helen Yazdian Hanai (Iran), Dr. Vlada Melekhin (Ukraine), Amanda and David Schwartz (Nashville), Lana Sorin Pargh and Dora Sorin (Belarus), in which they talk about their lives in Jewish communities around the world and how they became part of Nashville’s own vibrant Jewish community.

“I will also be surprised when I see the final product,” Bedne said. “Every time you tell your story … you’re always feeling you’re putting yourself out there. … I trusted the people that asked me to do this.”

He didn’t necessarily think his own story would be that interesting, but Our World’s Fair co-chair Karen Yazdian “insisted that it would make a difference,” he said.

Being interviewed on video was a new experience for some. “I was surprised by how nervous I was during the videotaping,” Melekhin said. “For an introvert, talking about herself is not very easy or natural.”

“It was not easy to relive the story and tell it on camera,” David Schwartz said in an e-mail. “…Being able to share with the community that reached out to us, it felt like the least we could do to give thanks for being there when we needed support.”

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“When I came here we didn't know anyone in the community,” said Helen Hanai. “I am glad that my kids now are so involved in community and help people adapt to a new city like what happened when we came to Nashville.”

Dora Sorin appears in a video with her daughter, Lana Sorin Pargh.

Federation Campaign Director Naomi Limor Sedek asked questions, but, Sorin said, “For me it was easier just to give the speech – how I studied, who helped me, and how.” She, husband Gregory and daughters, Natasha and Lana, came to Nashville from Minsk, Belarus, by way of Italy some 22 years ago.

Bedne, an architect, came to United States from Argentina in March 1990, living first in Columbus, Ohio, where he worked on affordable housing. The Jewish community there was larger than Nashville’s, he said. “It was a really nice community but I was so involved with my work that I really didn’t do much in relationship with the Jewish community.” In his 16 years in Nashville, he’s watched the city grow and embrace people from around the world.

Bedne’s sister, cousin and their families live along with his family in Nashville. Sorin estimated that perhaps 400 people from the former Soviet Union now live in Nashville, including several families from Belarus.

Melekhin, a physician, came to Nashville from Ukraine. “I felt compelled to share my story to give a small glimpse into what it was like growing up in Ukraine where being Jewish had to be suppressed out of self-preservation,” she said in an email. “I want to make others aware that all of us have our own paths to realizing our Jewish identities. For some the path has been laid out by

January 20, 2012 The Observer

their parents and grandparents; for others it was a path of self-discovery.”

“It’s hard when you come to a different part of the globe and you don’t speak English and you don’t drive a car and you have two kids,” Sorin said.

“If you come to Russia you won’t survive; nobody will help you,” Sorin said. “Without the help of the Jewish Federation and Jewish volunteers we couldn’t make it.” These days, she works for the state of Tennessee as an accountant, her career in Belarus. Her husband has his own business and her daughters are college graduates with careers and families of their own.

Lana Sorin Pargh appears in the video with her mother. “I was honored to be able to tell my story as a young kid growing up as an immigrant,” she said. About a week before making the video, she and her mother spoke – in Russian – about what it was like for the family to leave for Nashville in 1989. “I was five years old,” she said. “I didn’t know a lot of it.”

The video revealed her mother’s and her family’s feelings about coming to America and how they decided to leave the Former Soviet Union. “I can’t wait to take the video and show it to my

grandkids some day,” she said. “It’s a way to freeze the story.”

“What’s cool about Nashville is that we have a lot of new Jewish people who have moved to town,” Bedne said. He may be from farther away, but many – possibly most – Nashvillians today hail from somewhere other than Music City, he said. “I think it’s an important thing to talk about.

People want to find a way to belong and be part of the community. …

“Just be aware there are new people in Nashville” that have their own stories to tell, Bedne added. “Welcome them, get to know them. Let’s work on reinvigorating our community, building bridges, making sure we’re a good strong community for the next 100 years. Unless you take the time to get to know the newcomers, you won’t know what’s going on.”

To RSVP for Our World’s Fair or for more information, email Barbara Schwarcz, Federation events coordinator, barbara@jewishnashville.org or call her at 354-1630.

Child care for young children and special programs for kids ages 5-12 also are being offered. To reserve a space for your child, email barbara@jewishnashville.org. c

Calling all kids for World’s Fair fun

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here will be a child-friendly version of Our World’s Fair, thanks to a group of students who participate in Hillel at Vanderbilt.

“We want to be able to give kids something they can learn from but not feel like they’re in school,” said Jessie Stellini, Jewish student life coordinator at Hillel.

Activities for children ages 5-12 will include an art project, games and stories –

all relating to different parts of the world.

The program starts at 4 p.m. in the board room/senior lounge area at the Gordon Jewish Community Center.

“We want there to be something age-appropriate for all,” she said. “We’re trying to make sure there’s enough for every and any kid (to) find something they’ll enjoy.”

For more information, contact Stellini at jessica.r.stellini@vanderbilt. edu. c

Gesher Fund extended to provide emergency economic assistance

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any of us never believed that financial troubles would find their way to our doors. But the past few years – an economic downturn, a tentative recovery, a slide in the markets, Europe’s economic crisis – have shown us a new reality.

There are many people in our community who have difficulty making ends meet.

The Gesher Fund (gesher is the Hebrew word for bridge) was created by the Jewish Federation of Nashville through the generosity of Raymond and Etta Zimmerman. Jewish Family Service administers the fund. It was launched in June of 2009, at the height of the economic downturn, with an intended end date of January 2012.

“The goal of the fund is to provide economic assistance to members of the Jewish community who are experiencing financial distress as a direct result of the economic downturn. Unfortunately, as we all know, the economic picture hasn’t improved for many in our community. As a result, the Zimmermans have generously agreed to make the funds available for another 18 months,” said Mark S. Freedman, Jewish Federation executive director.

The Gesher Fund is an extension of the emergency financial assistance pro-

Scholar explores evolution of Hebrew and Arabic culture, language in Israel

By Kathy Carlson

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r. David Mendelsohn grew up in Montreal surrounded by Yiddish, English and French, so his choice of sociolinguistics as a professional field seems fitting.

He now lives in Israel and studies the interplay of language and culture – Hebrew and Arabic – over the 63 years that Israel has been a nation.

Mendelsohn was to speak to the Nashville chapter of J Street on Jan. 19 on the topic of “Arab Citizens of Israel: Dr. David Search for Identity and Mendelsohn Equality in a Jewish Homeland.” He has recently completed a book on the sociolinguistic impact of the Hebrew language on Arabic in Israel.

“The whole issue of language and culture for me is very important,” he said. When he shifted from religious to secular schools in Canada, he learned to adapt through language. “I learned very quickly wherever people said one thing but meant something very different.”

Mendelsohn has strong Nashville ties.

His grandmother, Eva Mendelsohn, owned and operated the Murdock Mendelsohn store in Nashville and still lives here. After his family moved to Montreal, Mendelsohn returned to Nashville each summer to connect with his grandparents and attend the JCC camp.

In his Nashville talk, he wants to Continued on page 8

gram that JFS has run for years, making it possible for the agency to help meet the increased need for assistance in a more significant way. The assistance can be used for food, shelter (includes rent, mortgage assistance, or transition to suitable housing), utilities or other emergency needs. Like the traditional JFS emergency financial assistance program, the Gesher Fund cannot be used to cover medical bills, legal bills, credit card debt, car repairs or other non-emergency needs.

“People are still having a lot of difficulty and are running out of resources,” said Pam Kelner, JFS executive director. “Many are reaching the end of their unemployment eligibility.

JFS and the Federation Gesher Fund help make ends meet while they put their financial picture back together.

This need for help may be the result of a job loss or lack of income from a business. The goal of the fund is to bridge a gap that will hopefully no longer exist

once they find new employment and become financially stable again.”

Seeking, qualifying for and obtaining assistance through the Gesher Fund is completely confidential. To begin the process of applying, a community member should call Jewish Family Service.

Applicants will be asked to meet with a licensed clinical social worker, provide necessary documentation, and participate in a plan that will lead to self-sufficiency.

In addition to financial assistance, the clients will have the opportunity to avail themselves of other services offered

by Jewish Family Service. These include counseling on a sliding-scale fee schedule, Kosher Food Box, and the Jewish Job Network which puts resumes of those seeking jobs directly into the hands of community business leaders who have agreed to review them.

To contact Jewish Family Service regarding any of these services, call 356-4234. c

Jewish Federation staff helps assemble Kosher Food Boxes, a program of Jewish Family Service. From left: Mark Freedman, Federation executive director; Susan Pankowsky; Pam Kelner, JFS executive director; Heath Hinson; Barbara Schwarcz; Toni Jacobsen, JFS social worker; Naomi Limor Sedek. Kosher Food Boxes are funded in part by NCJW, The Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle TN and individual foundations and donors.

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Mom’s made new friends, and the chef-prepared meals are delicious. Best of all, with Belmont’s well-trained staff to meet her daily needs, I don’t worry anymore. For once, our resolution was easy to keep!”

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The Community Built for Life ® greenhills.belmontvillage.com The Observer January 20, 2012

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GJCC announces popular ‘Nourish Your Mind’ lineup

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he Gordon Jewish Community Center (GJCC) has announced its Winter/ Spring Catalog of adult classes otherwise dubbed “Nourish Your Mind.”

This series of classes has long been touted as one of the most comprehensive and diverse schedules of adult offerings anywhere in the city and among JCC’s nationally. Classes and events are open to adults of all ages and faiths.

Fashion Design & Illustration might appeal to young adults; cooking classes and min-spa days to women in their 30s and moms looking for some quality down-time; outings for art enthusiasts of any age are scheduled throughout the spring; special guests like Bill A. Jones

from the award winning series “Glee” will take the stage; Cold Cases, a study of Nashville’s homicides, is popular; classes that focus on local issues such as Archaeology of the Mid Cumberland investigates what has happened since the flood; and the always in demand “Thank Goodness It’s Thursday” program has been specifically designed for seniors.

“Nourish Your Mind” kicks off every January and runs through May. To view a full schedule of events and to register online, go to the GJCC website www.nashvillejcc.org. Classes tend to fill up quickly so RSVP’s are required.

GJCC member and non-member rates may apply. Contact Carrie Mills at carrie@nashvillejcc.org for further questions or information/ c

Demetria Kalodimos, News Channel 4 anchor, was the featured speaker for the Jan. 16 kickoff luncheon for the GJCC’s Nourish Your Mind series of classes. She spoke about her job and the changing world of broadcast news. Photo: Judy Saks

Akiva School wins $25,000 Challenge Award, plans Bar Mitzvah events

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n the first day of Chanukah, Akiva School received a unique gift from PEJE, (the Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education), a $25,000 Challenge Award. The awards were designed to drive increased revenue through innovation. Akiva’s innovation was the introduction of the Akiva Ladder, which as a formal donor recognition system inspires a culture of philanthropy where every gift counts.

In January of 2011, PEJE challenged schools throughout North America to creatively respond to the growing sustainability issues facing Jewish Day Schools. This initiative offered schools that found innovative ways to address sustainability by increasing key revenue streams of tuition,

annual campaign, or endowment and legacy. In all, 127 day schools submitted a total of 141 applications.

Akiva was selected as one of the 25 winning schools.

Akiva’s application reflected the celebration of the Bar Mitzvah of the building as the introduction to the Akiva Ladder as a donor recognition system that engages, appreciates, and encourages donors to climb the ladder and reach for the next level of giving.

Since 1960 Akiva’s primary means of fundraising was the annual Torah Dinner. In the late 1990s, the school underwent a dramatic shift and moved its physical location to its current facility on the campus of the Gordon Jewish Community Center.

Over the last year Akiva recognized that there were some significant chal-

The Jewish Foundation of Nashville thanks the late D.H. Hirsberg for his bequest to create the

D.H. Hirsberg Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment Due to his generosity and vision, Jews in Nashville, in Israel and around the world will benefit for years to come.

For information on how you can include the Jewish Foundation in your estate plans, please contact Risa Klein Herzog, Director of Foundation Development at 354-1651, risa@jewishnashville.org.

lenges facing the annual Torah Dinner.

Although the Torah Dinner was always a wonderful event, since so much of the development efforts were dependent on the dinner there was no true consistency in the annual campaign.

The 2011-2012 school year marks 13 years since the groundbreaking. The Bar Mitzvah celebration allows Akiva to smoothly transition from one annual fundraising dinner to the Akiva Ladder.

There are three events planned to celebrate the Bar Mitzvah year, A “Denim and Diamonds” cocktail party, a “L’Chaim Luncheon” and “The Hora Hoedown, a Southern Style Bar Mitzvah Party.”

The “Denim and Diamonds” event chairs, Yaara Yemin and Elizabeth Roseman planned a spectacular evening on Jan. 21 at the Noah Liff Opera Center. Music, dancing and kosher food will set the stage for the evening.

The “L’Chaim Luncheon” chaired

by Lynne and Rodney Rosenblum will take place on Fri., March 30. Attendees will spend the afternoon in the school c

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January 20, 2012 The Observer

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with the Akiva students and experience the magic that happens daily. After the luncheon, tours will be available that will feature how the building and the school have grown over the last 13 years.

There will be student presentations during the luncheon and displays throughout the hallways including science fair projects and student artwork. Tickets are available from the school.

The culmination of the Bar Mitzvah celebration is the “Hora Hoedown.” On Sun., May 13, Akiva invites Akiva alumni, families and the entire Nashville community to celebrate southern style with BBQ, Jewish music and dancing.

The Nashville Jewish community is invited to help celebrate both the Bar Mitzvah year of the building as well as the $25,000 Challenge award by participating in one or all three celebratory events.

Anyone unable to attend one of these events who would like to experience the magic of Akiva, can join Akiva at a Friday afternoon Kabbalat Shabbat celebration.

They take place once a month on Friday afternoons from 2-2:30 p.m. in the Hassenfeld Chapel. Kabbalat Shabbat is a way to join together as a community to welcome the Sabbath through music. The next date is Feb. 17.

For more information about any of these events, the PEJE award or about Akiva School, call 615/356-1880 or go to www.akivanashville.net. c

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With appointment, Jewish community again has a White House address Continued from page 1 the Levant desk at the National Security Council.

Emanuel quit in late 2010 to run for Chicago mayor, Axelrod left soon after to help run Obama’s re-election campaign and Shapiro is now in Tel Aviv as ambassador.

That left a perceived gap in the White House — one that Lew would fill, although Jewish officials stressed that they did not expect the attention from a chief of staff that they received from mid-level staffers.

“That’s not the role he’s going to play,” said Abraham Foxman, the national director of the AntiDefamation League, referring to the regular conference calls that Ross and Shapiro had with Jewish community leaders. “He will be an adviser to the president on all things and a gatekeeper, but to the extent the president will turn to him for his view, he has an understanding of the community and of its views.”

The Obama administration clearly wanted to push across the Jewish message; Shapiro Tweeted the news in Hebrew to his followers. Israeli ambassadors don’t usually make a big deal of the appointment of a White House chief of staff.

Obama stressed Lew’s management savvy in announcing the appointment.

“Jack’s economic advice has been invaluable and he has my complete trust, both because of his mastery of the numbers, but because of the values behind those numbers,” he said.

Lew has become something of a goto Obama administration speaker and guest for the organized Jewish community, particularly among Orthodox Jews.

Most recently, he lit the “national menorah,” the giant chanukiyah that graces the National Mall and is organized by American Friends of Lubavitch.

“As an American Jew, I can’t think of anyone who has a deeper commitment to the United States as well as his own Jewish identity at the same time,” said Rabbi Levi Shemtov, who heads the Chabad group and noted that Lew occasionally stops by for Shabbat services.

“His appointment obviously gives the White House an envoy to the Jewish community who is eloquent, respected, even beloved across the Jewish spectrum.

That’s probably an added bonus rather than the core qualification.”

Lew maintains a reliable shtick in his interaction with Jewish audiences: How he balances the 24/7 demands of being a top government official with the 24/6 Sabbath-observant lifestyle.

One incident involves a Shabbat call he received from President Clinton.

He came home from synagogue and the phone rang. As was his practice, he waited until the answering machine clicked

on to see if it was urgent enough to pick up. As it happened, it was a White House staffer telling him to ignore the earlier message from Clinton, who had been phoning from overseas and had forgotten that in Washington it was still Shabbat. The matter was not urgent enough to interrupt Lew’s observance, Clinton told the staffer to tell Lew. Going out of his way to keep Lew from breaking the Sabbath was a sign of the respect the president has for his observance, Lew tells people.

Another favorite line during his 1990s stint, when he lived in

Washington — his family is now based in New York — was an exchange with clergy at Beth Sholom, a synagogue in Potomac, Md. Nathan Diament, who directs the Orthodox Union’s Washington office, recalled that a rabbi would suggest jokingly that Lew might want to run for shul treasurer. Lew would rejoin that directing the OMB was complex enough, thank you very much.

It’s a shtick that suggests a corny, old-fashioned sense of humor, but friends say it’s also one that is emblematic of his humility and cordiality.

“Everyone would recognize that

Jack’s management style and personality is noticeably different from that of the previous Jewish White House chief of staff,” Diament said, a reference to Emanuel’s abrasiveness.

An open question is how much harder it will be for Lew to balance family and Shabbat observance in his new role. He stays close to his daughter, Shoshana, who works at the Obama administration’s Interior Department, but his wife and married son remain in Riverdale, N.Y., where they are active in the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale, in the Bronx borough of the city. c

Correction In the Jan. 6 issue of the Observer in the article on the Middle Tennessee Interagency Adoption Coalition, the two meeting topics were reversed. The one on “Telling the Truth to Your Adopted or Foster Child” is for post adoptive families. The one on “Building Trauma Competent Healing Parents” is for professionals. The event takes place on Feb. 26 and 27. For information, call Teri Sogol at Jewish Family Service, 354-1662. c

The Observer January 20, 2012

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New programs for elders top list of Federation’s 2012 grants

By Kathy Carlson

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usic, meals and wheels are on the 2012 agenda for community seniors, among the programs created for this year through grants from the Jewish Federation of Nashville’s New Initiatives Fund.

There are five new or extended programs for seniors: twice-monthly Learn and Lunch sessions created by West End Synagogue and Congregation Sherith Israel; Shabbat Calling, organized by West End in collaboration with all of Nashville’s synagogues; Musical Helping Hands, a new part of Jewish Family Services’ Helping Hands program to engage those living with dementias; Congregation Micah’s Supporting Our Seniors program that includes webstreamed Shabbat services for homebound seniors throughout the community; and the addition of evening and weekend transportation services through the National Council of Jewish Women’s Buz a Bus program.

Most of the grants support programs in which several community organizations collaborate or share expertise.

“Everyone is offering to the entire community the things they do best,” Federation Planning Director Harriet Schiftan said.

The programs took shape after those who work with elders – congregation members, clergy and professionals; Federation and Jewish Family Service staff members and others – met in November to review existing services and identify gaps, she said. “In that

room these grants were born.”

The grants reflect community goals and priorities set through the Federation’s 2010 Best Jewish Nashville project, which identified three focus areas for programming: services for seniors, Israel advocacy, and projects to engage the next generation of community leaders.

Following those priorities, Federation’s New Initiatives fund made 11 grants to various projects in 2011, including three to serve older community members. Of those three, two were one-time programs from Jewish Family Service: a directory of senior services and a day of educational programs. The Gordon Jewish Community Center’s successful TGI Thursday lunch program for seniors was funded in 2011 and will continue this year.

Next Generation programs initially funded in 2011 will continue this year, including Shabbat potluck dinners targeting outlying areas and new neighborhoods in which community members live; the PJ Library of monthly Jewishthemed books for young children; Vanderbilt Hillel’s leadership program for graduating seniors; and funding for a community young adult engagement associate to develop and manage engagement programs.

Grants also will be available through the Local/Global Committee for young adults to participate in the Jewish Federations of North America’s National Young Leadership summer mission to Israel and in a summer camp service mission to Beltsy, Moldova, with the Jewish Federation of Greensboro, N.C. The Jewish Federation of Nashville

Community Relations Committee’s “Increase Your Israel IQ” series will continue in 2012, as will the community shlicha education initiative.

Here are more details on the new programs for seniors: More ways to get around town The National Council of Jewish Women’s Buz a Bus program will expand to provide transportation to specifically identified events on nights and weekends.

Events could include synagogue Shabbat services and special events at congregations or at the Gordon Jewish Community Center. A minimum number of riders will be needed to tap the bus service.

Synagogues collaborate on Learn and Lunch West End and Congregation Sherith Israel are teaming up to create Learn and Lunch, which will provide a communitywide, twice-monthly, Wednesday educational program for seniors age 62 and over. A speaker hour featuring local clergy and/or Jewish educators will be followed by a kosher lunch. The speakers will address a wide range of Judaic topics of interest to our guests, said Marcia Stewart, West End’s executive director.

Topics might include rabbinic texts, Jewish arts and culture, and Israel learning. The program will begin on Wed., Jan. 25.

With the addition of Learn and Lunch, seniors will be able to enjoy two lunch programs each week: the GJCC’s weekly senior lunch on Thursdays, and on alternating weeks, the Temple’s current Golden Lunch Bunch on the first and third Tuesdays of each month or the West End/Sherith Learn and Lunch collaboration on the second and fourth Wednesdays.

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Shabbat Calling, organized through West End Synagogue, grew out of the experience of its new cantor, Marcia Lane, with a group called DOROT, the Hebrew word for generations. The New York-based organization, www.dorotusa.org, brings volunteers of all generations together to work with elders.

Shabbat Calling is actually a conference call in which homebound adults of all ages can participate on a long- or short-term basis, Schiftan said.

Participating in Shabbat Calling will be easy. “We call them,” Lane said.

The conference call will go out on Friday mornings, bringing together that week’s volunteer caller or callers – rabbis, cantors, possibly children – and participants.

“It will be an opportunity to share memories, sing together, share prayers for Shabbat and for the coming week,” Lane said. “Each person who leads the call will give it her own tongue and flow.”

DOROT began providing similar phone calls in the 1980s, she added.

Musical Helping Hands nurtures memories Jewish Family Service of Nashville will offer a new program, Musical Helping Hands, for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. One of the most effective ways to tap memory is music, especially the music of youth, Schiftan said, adding that music has a positive effect on mood and memory. Musical Helping Hands builds on JFS’s successful Helping Hands program, which serves Jewish elders, to reach a group of elderly persons that has not until now participated in Helping Hands.

Jewish professional musicians will be matched with senior adults living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias for monthly one-on-one visits that would involve playing of music and other interactions as appropriate. The goal is to “strengthen the connections in the Jewish community for our seniors living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias through the healing power of live music,” JFS Board President Daniella Pressner and Executive Director Pam Kelner wrote in applying for the grant.

Musicians will receive training through the Music for Seniors program of Fifty Forward, a nonprofit that focuses on services for those age 50 and older in Davidson and Williamson counties.

Helping Hands volunteer coordinator Anna Sir will attend the first meeting of each family and musician and will continue to work with them to ensure program goals are met.

Supporting Our Seniors aims for engagement Congregation Micah’s Supporting Our Seniors program will provide a live video stream of its Friday night service to anyone who is homebound or mobility challenged and wishes to participate. To do this, Micah is partnering with Jewish Family Service and will upgrade equipment and increase web-hosting capacity to accommodate up to 30 participants per month.

“We have enjoyed such enthusiastic responses from our own homebound congregants who are able to stay connected in worship and thus retain the rhythm of their spiritual lives as a result of our web streaming program,” Micah Education Director Julie Greenberg said. “We are truly grateful to the Federation for their generosity that will enable us to provide meaningful Shabbat and holiday worship experiences to more homebound seniors through Jewish Family Service.”

Micah also invites the entire community to its monthly Schmooze and Views lunch program and to three upcoming seminars on healthy aging, prescription/Medicare assistance and creating living and ethical wills.

Finally, Micah is increasing its supply of sensory-support materials for seniors attending services, including largeprint siddurim, book lights and reading glasses. c

The Observer is now online!

You can find the latest issue, past issues, plus streaming news updates and links to Jewish organizations at

www.jewishobservernashville.org Now you have a choice: Read the print edition or read us online.

6

January 20, 2012 The Observer

Chevra Kadisha members perform ritual burial mitzvah for community’s deceased

M

embers of Nashville’s Chevra Kadisha, a voluntary, inter-congregational group of 30-35 men and women who prepare the deceased for burial according to Jewish custom, will be honored at an annual dinner on Feb. 29, at 6:15 p.m. at Congregation Sherith Israel.

The dinner celebrates the work of the Chevra Kadisha, which for decades has been comprised of members of Sherith Israel and West End Synagogue working together in a cooperative effort.

Organizers hope the dinner will stimulate interest in the organization’s work and provide an opportunity to learn, reflect and build community. It is scheduled every year to coincide with the seventh of Adar, the Yarzeit of Moses.

“In the past, it has been largely members of West End Synagogue and Sherith Israel who have requested the services of the Chevra Kadisha,” said Rabbi Saul Strosberg, “but in the last few years, we have had more and more requests from other families to provide the tahara and traditional shrouds for the deceased.”

“Ethically, preparing the deceased for burial is the highest form of lovingkindness, since the person can never repay the favor,” said Strosberg.

“Members of the Chevra exhibit discretion, maturity and experience.

Many of them feel that it is a spiritually uplifting act.”

One person describes her feelings this way: “Working with the Chevra Kadisha has been a privilege for me.

Being able to do a mitzvah for someone who cannot return the favor or say “thank you” is a very humbling experience. The other women with whom I work never hesitate to answer the call, no matter what is going on in their own lives, no matter how inconvenient the timing may be.

“I feel a profound sense of kinship with the other Chevra Kadisha members,” she added. “I have been given an opportunity to do a mitzvah, to participate with a special group of women who

share of themselves so selflessly. We are always cognizant of the awesome obligation that has been entrusted to us: to do this mitzvah, exactly as it has been done by and for our people for millennia. My participation has been a part of my own spiritual journey: putting myself in touch with my own mortality, but also, feeling a sense of rightness in performing the rituals that are held sacred by the Jewish people.

“There is no such thing as postponing this mitzvah to a time of our own choosing. The opportunity comes only in G-d’s time, not ours. It is a time of

reflection and introspection. Someone, whom we may have known personally, has died. There is sadness and sometimes significant grief. We have lost a valued member of the Jewish community: someone's mother, wife, sister, or daughter. This woman has begun her eternal journey. We honor her and ask that G-d speed her journey and provide support for her family. We ask her forgiveness for any indignity that we may have caused her. We are respectful of her and the mitzvah that we perform, as we go about our duties quietly.

“It is a very special time for

me...emotionally and spiritually. I feel changed in very real ways every time I participate in a taharah (ritual bathing and dressing). I am part of an ongoing chain of Jewish women who participate in the Chevra Kadisha. It is an honor for me to participate and I hope that my contribution has made some small difference. When I leave, I feel hopeful and at peace.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the Chevra Kadisha may contact Congregation Sherith Israel at 615/2926614 or West End Synagogue at 615/269-4592 for more information. c

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The Observer January 20, 2012

7

letters To the Editor: As a social worker at Jewish Family Service, I want to express my gratitude to the Jewish community. One of the programs I coordinate is the Hanukah Gift program. This year we served 24 children and two seniors. In my experience, the Jewish community has always been very generous when it comes to helping families in need. A non-Jewish friend of mine who heard me talk about the Hanukah Gift program offered to contribute money. My response to her was, “If I identify a need in the Jewish community, all I have to do is ask and the community will provide what I need.”

In addition to the eight groups and over 80 individuals that contributed gifts, some of the highlights of this year’s program were the family who chose to not give gifts to each other and instead bought $700 worth of Kroger gift cards for the families in need. The parents were given the Kroger Gift Cards for food when they picked up the gifts for their children. Several of the parents were brought to tears.

Another family spent time taking a donated American Girl doll to the doll hospital in Atlanta so Rebecca (the Jewish American Girl doll) would look beautiful for the child who received it.

Preparing the gift turned into a meaningful mitzvah project for the family.

Another family purchased a grocery utility cart to enable a senior to safely transport groceries from car to home.

The generosity of the Jewish community may be the norm to many. As a non-Jewish individual and social worker, I can say that this Jewish community is special in the way they care about each

other and always rise to the occasion of someone in need. The generosity of the community makes my job much easier and I feel blessed to be a part of it. I want to thank each and every person who supports the Hanukah Gift Program and Jewish Family Service throughout the year.

Toni Jacobson, LCSW • To the Editor: I was pleased that “The Observer Editorial Policy” (page 3 of The Jan. 6 Observer) included statements that “the Federation works to promote the general cohesiveness of the Jewish community…” and that “letters to the Editor should be free of personal attacks, maintain a civil tone, and respect…the diversity of opinions in the Jewish community.”

But then I turned to page 5 and found Mike Dobrin’s letter asserting that “Jeremy Ben-Ami is to the pro-Israel movement what Neville Chamberlain was to the Allies prior to World War II.” Where, in this assertion, is the civil tone, respect and promotion of communal cohesiveness?

We all know that Neville Chamberlain, in a misguided attempt at peace, returned from Munich saying that he had “brought peace in our time,” when, in fact, he had merely appeased the Nazis for the moment by handing them additional territory not part of their homeland. So where is the comparison? Is Dobrin claiming that the settlements are now part of Israel and NOT territory taken from the Palestinians?

Furthermore, who exactly, in his comparison, is being appeased?

Additionally, Dobrin misconstrues Ben-Ami’s answer to his question of whether there is any Palestinian leader who would recognize Israel as a Jewish state. Ben-Ami did not answer, “No.” Instead he explained that negotiations

The

Passover Issue Coming March 2, 2012 A time for the Jewish Community to prepare special foods and celebrate this meaningful time of year.

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8

January 20, 2012 The Observer

should be based on Palestinian recognition of Israel as a state like any other state, not as a Jewish state. He stressed that it is up to the people of Israel (both Jewish and non-Jewish) to determine just what kind of state it is.

Sally M. Levine • To the Editor: This is a note of appreciation for Shlicha Inbar Shaked’s outstanding oped (Observer, Jan. 6, “Does Israel Need a Rosa Parks?”). Inbar articulately and compassionately described her concern about the denigration of women emanating from some in the UltraOrthodox Haredi community in Israel (as recently illustrated by several unfortunate well-publicized events). In truth, the view of the role of women by the ultra-Orthodox is just one of several justice issues with which Israel is faced and with which many of us living here are deeply concerned … issues we too often hesitate to talk about in fear of being labeled anti- Israel.

These are tough times for Israel.

While struggling around the clock to protect itself against the continual and seemingly non-ending existential threat of vio-

lence and destruction from its enemies, Israel is simultaneously faced with enormous internal social dilemmas that beg to be addressed - e.g. the equitable treatment of the Israeli Arabs, the growing divide between the rich and poor, the civil response to the rapidly rising number of non-Jewish immigrants, etc. How Israel addresses these and other social challenges with which it is faced today will potentially define its moral and social character for generations to come.

I, for one, remain optimistic. Still a relatively new and developing democracy, I have great confidence that the underlying tenets of a just Zionist society envisioned by its founders will ultimately guide Israel, over time, to equitably address these and other social issues with both reason and understanding.

Just as I abhor the denigration of women in the Muslim world or elsewhere, so am I equally disturbed when the same occurs in Israel.

Thank you, Inbar, for helping us better understand, through the eyes of an Israeli, just how difficult a challenge religiously driven social dilemmas like this pose for Israel, and how great the need is for an immediate and reasoned response.

Avi Poster

Scholar explores Continued from page 3 “try to explain … why do Arabs and Israelis feel as they do. What is (Arab Israelis’) identity versus that of Palestinians and also (in contrast to) Israeli Jews.”

Arab Israelis make up 20 percent of Israel’s population, a “huge minority,” he said. All Arab Israelis speak Hebrew, he continued. “Their Hebrew is starting to replace much of the Arabic” they speak, some 300 Hebrew words so far. Israeli society as a whole has benefited from the contributions of Arab Israelis, he said, mentioning poets and screenwriters, but incorporating bits of Hebrew into Arabic creates identity questions for Arab Israelis.

Mendelsohn said he doesn’t aim to persuade anyone to a particular point of view but to describe the lives of Arab Israelis from their own perspective – how they grew up, how they see and perceive things. Mendelsohn is academic director at Givat Haviva Institute in Israel, an organization founded in 1949 by a kibbutz federation to educate for peace, democracy, coexistence and social solidarity, according to information the website of Givat Haviva Educational Foundation, a New York-based group that supports Givat Haviva Institute.

Givat Haviva’s programs aim to promote greater understanding between Jews and Arabs. “Only in this manner can the moral foundation for achieving

peace with the Palestinians and the Arab states be achieved,” the website states.

One such program has worked toward building bridges between Pardes HannaKarkur in Nashville’s Partnership2Gether region of Hadera-Eiron and the nearby Arab town of Kfar Kara.

Some projects aim to bring people together through photography, enabling them almost literally to see through others’ eyes. In one such project, children are invited into each other’s homes and allowed to photograph what they see.

“There are very few differences,” Mendelsohn said. The children “see the same football hero hanging on the wall.”

Most peace initiatives bring kids together outside the home, and once they go back home, their extended families may douse the budding friendships, he said.

“Ahmed’s a wonderful boy,” a Jewish uncle might tell a boy, “but wait till he gets older and radicalized.” Along the same lines, the stereotypical Arab uncle might caution, “Shlomo’s a great kid, but wait till he joins the IDF,” Mendelsohn explained. With the Givat Haviva program, the uncles and aunts can meet Shlomo and Ahmed and get to know them as real people.

In another project, women are getting to know one another through cooking. Before these programs, he said, “you’d never see a Jew going to Kfar Kara,” or vice versa. c

lifecycles B’nai Mitzvah Amber Steigelfest will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on Sat., Feb. 4, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. Amber was born on Aug. 5, 1999.

Her parents are Jill and Eli Steigelfest. Her grandparents are Nina Amber and Steve Steigelfest of Steigelfest Brooklyn, N.Y., and Beth and Michael Gordon of Plantation, Fla. Her great grandmother is Luba Wengersky of Brooklyn.

A seventh grader at Harpeth Hall, Amber’s special interests include acting, writing, martial arts, rock climbing, reading, debating, traveling and hanging out with family and friends.

For her mitzvah project, Amber chose to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Austin Jack Malow Pert will be called to the Torah on Sat., Feb. 11, at 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Micah. He is the son of Stephen Pert and Beth Malow, and the brother of Daniel Pert. He is the grandson of Teresa and Monroe Malow of Austin Jack Delray Beach, Fla., and Malow Pert the late Joan and Donald Pert of Covington, La. A seventh grader at Woodland Middle School in Brentwood, Austin’s favorite school subject is social studies, and he is interested in all varieties of sports. He is an avid tennis player and serves as manager of the Woodland basketball team. For his service project, Austin is volunteering with the Special Olympics.

Lillie Yalowitz will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on Sat., Feb. 11, at 11 a.m. at The Temple. Lillie was born on Feb. 11, 1999, in Chicago, Ill. Her parents are Julie and Jay Yalowitz. Her grandparents are Elizabeth and Larry Linkon of St. Louis, Mo., and Nancy Yalowitz of Evanston, Ill.

A seventh grader at the University School of Nashville, Lilllie’s special interests include horseback riding, Chippewa Ranch Summer Camp and spending time with her Lillie Yalowitz friends.

For her mitzvah project, Lillie has been baking weekly for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House as well as buying supplies for the home. She will also be a S.O.S. sponsor which means for a month, she will be making a donation of supplies and snacks to the Family Room at the hospital.

Professional notes Miriam Leibowitz has been asked to be on the opening panel for the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group Conference in Little Rock, Ark., Jan. 20-21, and to lead a workshop on Community Organizing for Food System Change. In December, Leibowitz’s piece, “From Shul Garden to Kitchen,” was published on The Jew and the Carrot blog (http://blogs.forward.com/the-jew-and-the-carrot/ 14717/). She is also working with the Tennessee State Health Department on the Food, Faith and Health Summit Steering Committee. The Summit is anticipated to take place Spring 2012.

Miriam began working with Kevin Alexandroni at SOVA Catering in October 2011 as the new director of sales and marketing.

Sara Lubow Fried, owner and principal planner of Fête Nashville, was awarded the 2012 “Best of” Wedding Planners

by TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com.

She was the only winner chosen in this category from the state of Tennessee. Fried specializes in upscale wed- Sara Lubow Fried dings and is widely known for transforming a couple’s vision into their dream day.

Paul Sternberg, M.D., chair of opthalmology and visual sciences at Vanderbilt and director of the Vanderbilt Eye Institute, has been elected president-elect of the 30,000-member

National Conference on Jewish Affairs-Nashville The National Conference on Jewish Affairs is dedicated to supporting the rights and safety of the Jewish people in America, in Israel and around the world under the Rule of Law by providing strong Jewish leadership, advocacy and education to respond to and counter the growing, orchestrated demonizing of Israel, Jewry, and America.

American Academy of Opthalmology.

He becomes president after one year.

Patricia Straus has joined the RE/MAX Elite top agent roster. She spent the last four years at Fridrich and Clark, a small boutique-style real estate firm where she maintained a multi-million dollar production level, year after year.

Sympathy . . . to the family of Jack W. Kuhn Jr., 62, who died suddenly on Jan. 13 in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. He was born Aug. 10, 1949, in Nashville, Tenn. Mr. Kuhn is preceded in death by parents, Lois H. Kuhn and Jack W. Kuhn Sr. Survived by sister, Carol Silver (Steve); brothers, Jeffrey Kuhn (Pam) and Walter Kuhn (Beth); niece, Karen Lerman (Josh); nephews, Josh Kuhn, Zack Kuhn and Jake Kuhn; great niece, Alexa Lerman.

Mr. Kuhn spent much of his life in the mental health industry. He was in case management for Henderson Mental

Health Center, Nova Southeastern University and South Florida State Hospital all in Ft. Lauderdale. Mr. Kuhn was the owner of The Greenery Garden Center and personnel director of Kuhn's Big K. Stores in Nashville. He was also a rehabilitation therapist for South Florida State Hospital and Simple Dreams, Inc. Mr. Kuhn had many professional accomplishments including: board member, Henderson Mental Health; NAACP Award for Effective Leadership in Case Management; Case Manager of the Year, 2001 City of Fort Lauderdale; Case Manager of the Year 1998; National Association of Case Management Award for Heroism; Department of Health and Rehabilitation Services, 1993; Certificates of Recognition South Florida State Hospital, 1991, 1992 and 1993; member of the Association of Case Management. Memorial contributions may be made to Henderson Behavioral Health, 4740 North State Road 7 #201, Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33319 or the charity of your choice.

Top-notch college grads forgo U.S. job search to teach in Israel

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ollowing a successful pilot year that placed 68 Jewish North American young adults as volunteer teachers’ aids in Israeli public schools, Masa Israel Journey has opened 200 spots for next year’s Israel Teaching Fellows (ITF) program. Launched by Israel’s Ministry of Education and Masa Israel Journey, ITF was created to address the widespread underperformance of youth in low-income communities. Masa Israel Journey is a joint project of the Jewish Agency for Israel and the Government of Israel, which runs service, internship and academic programs in Israel.

With the lingering economic challenges in the U.S., ITF has seen a surge in applications from high caliber recent college graduates who are forgoing the job search for meaningful service opportunities abroad.

Following a two-year stint in healthcare, Harvard graduate Julia Kingsdale left Boston to teach in Israel’s periphery.

“There’s something sort of spontaneous, albeit chaotic, about Israel,” said Kingsdale. “Teaching in Israel requires a mindset shift where you can’t intensely plan every detail; you need to focus on the situation at hand, which is something I find really refreshing.”

For Teach for America alumnus Chris Harty, who taught in Southern Louisiana, the Israeli classroom experi-

ence has expanded his professional insights. “I came to Israel because I wanted to see how a different education system works,” said Harty. “I’ve learned that in Israel, students can run through the hallways and still show up to class on time and ready to learn.”

In addition to teaching for 20 hours a week, Teaching Fellows receive ongoing pedagogical support, enroll in Hebrew courses, live alongside peers in their communities, and develop secondary volunteer programs.

After teaching John Lennon’s “Imagine” to his class, Emory-graduate Brian Levenson volunteered to prepare a few of his students to sing it at their school-wide talent show. Kingsdale, who now wants to pursue a career in teaching, is launching an after-school reading program.

“Today one of my students, who could barely identify English letters at the beginning of the year, matched colors with their English words,” said Levenson. “It feels good to make a difference.”

For more information about Israel Teaching Fellows, visit: www.israelteachingfellows.org . To speak with an Israel Teaching Fellow from your community, contact Masa Israel’s North American Director of Public Relations Rachel Trager Sales at 212/339-6048, 917/3715569 or racheltr@masaisrael.org. c

join us by sending your name and email to ncjanashville@gmail.com http://nationalconferenceonjewishaffairs.org/ http://www.ncjanashville.org/ Chazak Achsav!-Strength Now!

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

Every community event is listed for your convenience.

The Observer January 20, 2012

9

Schlock Rock returns to Nashville for concert at Akiva

S The Herzog family, Risa, Drew, Tess and Vivian, proudly display the newest leaves to be added to The Tree of Life. “For 16 years working at the Federation, I’ve passed The Tree of Life with the dream of one day being able to add our own children’s names,” Risa said.

“This is a wonderful milestone in our lives and we are very proud to be able to contribute to our Jewish Foundation in such a meaningful way.” For information on the Jewish Foundation Tree of Life, contact Risa Klein Herzog at 354-1651.

around the town Breavement Support group

group for those who have lost a spouse or parent within the past two years. The group will meet once a week for eight weeks and is anticipated to begin in February if there is sufficient interest.

Please contact Teri Sogol at 354-1662.

Jewish Family Service is in the process of forming a bereavement support

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hlock Rock, one of America’s most exciting Jewish music groups, is coming for a return engagement to Nashville on Thurs., Feb. 23, from 6:307:30 p.m. at Akiva School. The concert, which will be preceded by a spaghetti dinner at 5:30, is co-sponsored by all of Nashville’s synagogue Sunday Schools along with Akiva School, and is underwritten by the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. The tickets for the concert are available at Akiva.

Featuring the musical genius of Lenny Solomon, Shlock Rock’s message is always about Jewish pride and is served up with a generous helping of contemporary music — rock ‘n’ roll, R&B, rap and more. The concert is an event for families with young and teenage children.

Sharon Paz, director of lifelong learning at West End Synagogue, said, “Shlock Rock is truly family entertainment. Lenny Solomon has a talent for

Applications being accepted for dissertation research grants

T

argum Shlishi is awarding four grants of $2,500 each during 2012 for dissertation research on Jewish Studies topics for students based either in the U.S. or Israel. The foundation is now accepting applications for the award. The deadline to receive applications has been extended to Feb. 16, 2012.

January 20, 2012 The Observer

For an application and detailed information, contact Judith Dach,Ph.D., at judy@targumshlishi.org.

For information about the previous grants for dissertation support, visit the press releases page on Targum Shlishi’s website, http://www.targumshlishi.org/press .html to read about past award winners. c

Buy Israel!

T

hroughout the United States and in many parts of the world, there is a concerted effort to delegitimze the State of Israel. One of the tactics being used is a boycott of Israeli products. This action has been seen in several locations in our country.

In an effort to counter that boycott and support Israel, many Jewish communities and organizations have urged Americans to buy Israeli products. The Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and The Observer want to make it easier for Nashvillians to find Israeli-made goods by publishing a list of the products and where to find them, locally.

We need your help. If you know of available products and the stores that carry them, email that information to judy@jewishnashville.org. Food, clothing, jewelry, wine, etc., whatever you have found, please share it with our community.

See the updated list, below and send your additions to judy@jewishnashville.org or call 354-1637.

Israeli silver jewelry area TJMaxx stores Geffen Pickles – Belle Meade Kroger Sabra Hummus and dips – area grocery stores and Costco

10

taking secular music and making it Jewish and fun…kids can connect to Judaism through music that they know…and come away feeling proud to be Jewish.”

“I’m happy to hear that Shlock Rock is coming back to Nashville,” said Evelyn Koch, a long-time Akiva teacher, now retired. “We attended Lenny’s previous concert here some years ago and have always found his music to be an upbeat way of instilling Jewish pride in our youth. The kids at Akiva have always liked his music. I used to use it in my classroom.”

Solomon creates parodies of popular music with a Jewish theme, ranging from Little Richard and BB King, to Bruce Springsteen, Madonna and many others.

His music is enthusiastically received by audiences across America and around the world. Solomon has been touring for the last 25 years.

For more information, contact Akiva School at 356-1880. c

Eden Feta Cheese – Trader Joe’s Dorot frozen garlic and herbs – Trader Joe’s Telma products – Publix Moroccan Hair Oil treatment – Cosmetics Market Sweet Clementines (oranges) – Costco Cedars Halva – Whole Foods refrigerated section Streit’s Quinoa and Israeli Couscous – Harris Teeter Jaffa Oranges – Publix Muscato wine by Golan Wineries – Bud’s Wine and Liquor, Green Hills Carries musical instruments made in Israel – Gymboree Play & Music, Cool Springs Yehuda Yahrzeit candles – Whole Foods Yehuda matzos – Kroger Yehuda and Aviv matzo products – Whole Foods Cosmetics found at Target: Equate 3 Micro Remodeling Cream Daily Regenerating Serum Eye Lifting Serum My Time Firming Cream Naot shoes and sandals – Cute and Comfy Shoes, Green Hills

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ORTHODONTISTS A. JOEL GLUCK, D.D.S., M.S. Specialist in Orthodontics Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics Green Hills 2002 Richard Jones Road, Ste. A-200 Nashville, TN 37215 • Ph. 269-5903

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

REAL ESTATE FRANKLIN PARGH (ABR) Synergy Realty Network C. 615.351.7333 FranklinPargh.com

JESSICA AVERBUCH Broker, ABR, CRS, ePRO 383-0183 (bus.) • 294-9880 (cell) jessica.averbuch@zeitlinrealtors.com www.jessicaaverbuch.com LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR 371-0185 (bus.) • 351-5343 (cell) lorna.graff@zeitlinrealtors.com www.lornagraff.com NAN SPELLER Broker, GRI, ABR 383-0183 (bus.)• 973-1117 (cell) nspeller@bellsouth.net

SECURITY SYSTEM MONITORU.COM, INC. Security Systems / CCTV / PERS Low Voltage, Data and Sound Wiring Alan Sissel 646-4668

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

TRAINING & CERTIFICATION PHASE ONE CONSULTANTS EPA RRP Lead Certification For Contractors, Renovators, Remodelers Contact @ 615-942-5110

VETERINARIANS PATRICIA STRAUS, Broker, MBA, CRS, ABR 2009 SALES EXCELLENCE AWARD TOP SALES PERSON RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE, THE CITY PAPER Fridrich & Clark Realty www.PatriciaStraus.com 615.263.4800 (o) 615.305.8465 (m) pstraus@realtracs.com

MURPHY ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL, P.C. Compassionate Medical Care for Your Pet Professional Pet Grooming & Boarding Puppy and Kitten Adoption Center 4408 Murphy Road 615-383-4241 www.murphyroadvet.com

WEIGHT LOSS NASHVILLE WEIGHT LOSS CENTER Lose 3-7 pounds of FAT per week!

Mention this ad for 1 week free.

Suriva Fischer 615-499-4222

CARE GIVER FAMILY STAFFING SOLUTIONS, INC Stay Independent*At Home*In Charge® ‘Personal Care Assistance At Its Best” 2000 Richard Jones Road Nashville, TN 37215 615-383-5656 208 Uptown Square Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-848-6774 119 McGrew Street, Suite A Shelbyville, TN 37160 931-680-2771 www.familystaffing.com NEW & RENEWING ADS ARE SHADED

The Observer January 20, 2012

11

BBYO happenings

Nashville BBYO teens make hometown proud at Regional Convention

By Devo Hanai

C BBYO

otton States BBYO Regional Convention 2011 was held in Birmingham, Ala., in December, bringing together nearly 250 Jewish teens from Nashville, Knoxville, Huntsville, Memphis, Birmingham and New Orleans. The theme was “Harry Potter and the Region of Cotton.”

Everyone was excited to see their friends from other cities and celebrate the year’s accomplishments.

To kick things off, Convention started with a spirit competition with

One day to come together.

One day to touch the world.

dances and songs. Later that night we had States in which the outgoing regional N’siah and Godol (the girls’ and boys’ regional presidents)—this year, Whitney Perlen from Nashville, and Yitzi Peetluk from Birmingham— reflect and share their thoughts about the past year in Cotton States.

The next day was Sports Day, where chapters competed against other cities in basketball and volleyball.

Nashville’s girls’ chapter, Music City BBG, won first place in volleyball for the eleventh year in a row.

Nashville teens also made our city proud at regional board elections later that night. Nashville’s Ariel Yazdian was elected Regional N’siah (president), Barry Goldsmith was elected Regional Mazkir/Gizbor (secretary/treasurer), and Sam Perlen was elected Regional Shaliach (vice president of Judaism and social action).

At the Awards Banquet the next day, Nashville continued to shine. Music City BBG and Athens of the South AZA both placed third for their chapter scrapbook designs. Music City also won Most Spirited Chapter, first place for one of its chapter sisterhood programs, second place for a community service program and a Jewish heritage program, and the Rachel Shankman award.

Athens of the South AZA, Nashville’s boys chapter, won second place for one of its AZA Judaic programs, first place for a five-fold program, the Ronnie Weiss Maximum Credentials award, and, most exciting, Chapter of the Year. c

BBYO: Music City BBG Update

By Abby Biesman

M Tzedakah Tzunday is February 12 One day. One call. One community.

On Sunday, February 12, 2012 we will come together in spirit and in action as one community to make the world a better place. Please answer our phone call, and make a generous donation to the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign so that thousands of needy Jews in our community, in Israel and around the world can get the help they need.

Your support of Federation helps us fight poverty, rescue and resettle Jewish immigrants, and strengthen Jewish life.

P.S. If you miss our call, please donate online at www.jewishnashville.org

12

January 20, 2012 The Observer

usic City BBG has had a great year. We recently went to our Regional Convention and came back with the Most Spirited Chapter Award, which was exciting.

Throughout 2011, we had strong programming from co-ed Shabbats to “Mind Body Attitude” programs. We hope to continue having strong programs over the next year.

We also send many girls to regional and international programs. These are strong programs uniting teenagers from around the South, as well as from around the world. We always try to increase attendance to these programs.

A large part of our funds go to providing scholarships for girls to attend these programs.

This year, we are having a brunch fundraiser from 1-3 p.m. on Sun., April 22, to raise money for these scholarships. There will be music and lunch and a great time. Look for more information coming out soon. c

The Observer is now online!

You can find the latest issue, past issues, plus streaming news updates and links to Jewish organizations at

www.jewishobservernashville.org Now you have a choice: Read the print edition or read us online.

3HUIHFW PDWFK You’ve found the person who completes you. Now find the cake that completes your wedding. Our gi ed cake decorators will create a masterpiece that exceeds your expectations. Choose from our portfolio of styles, and we’ll work with you to customize every detail. Whether it’s textures and shapes inspired by your dress, or flowers and icings to complement your reception. Go traditional, modern, or uniquely you. And, no ma er the flavor, it will taste just dreamy.

“Dreams of You & Me” cake design.

Schedule a private tasting at your Publix Bakery or visit publix.com/wedding for more details.

2

SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

Welcome to the Observer’s 2012 Simchas & Celebrations Guide Whether you are planning a special event this year or contemplating one in the future, we have some great suggestions to make it match your dreams.

Everything from food, wine, décor, entertainment and location can be found on the pages of this guide. We hope to make it easy on your time and your budget in arranging for a wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, anniversary, special birthday or any celebration for you and your family and friends.

And don’t forget the personal touches to make that event truly your own.

When contacting our advertisers to help with your simcha celebration, please let them know you found them through their ad in the Observer’s Simchas and Celebrations Guide.

And remember to send information about the simcha to the Observer for publication in our Lifecycles section: judy@jewishnashville.org.

Now it’s time to have fun. Enjoy!

Judith A. Saks, Editor Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager Kathy Carlson, Staff Writer Tim Gregory, Graphic Designer

These fine businesses are waiting to help you with Your Celebration Event Planners DK Ideas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Fête Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Party Perfections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Food/Catering Bobbie Limor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Bud’s Liquors & Wines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Fleming’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Noshville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Publix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Gifts Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Belle Meade Premium Cigar & Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Cindi Earl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Ibiza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Katy’s Hallmark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 The Paper Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 The Temple Gift Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Health Gold Skin Care Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Optique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Venues/Hotels Hampton Inn & Suites, Green Hills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Hutton Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 The Pargh Auditorium at the GJCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Music - Entertainment Dor L’Dor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 PartyTime Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Picture This Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Party Supplies Interiors by Zev - Custom Huppa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Realtors The Lipman Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

A Publication of

SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

3

Planning a celebration?

Help is at hand Here are some suggestions from our advertisers to help make your celebrations special.

PARTY PLANNERS Party Perfections Party Perfections is a full-service event planning company run by event concierges Barbara Davis and Leslie Freedman. We focus on specialized events and destination management.

Our innovative approach to planning memorable events, creativity and atten-

tion to detail, set us apart from other companies. Always putting the client first, we work as a team, collaborating on all facts of each event. We are always striving for excellent customer service.

We really try to anticipate our clients’ needs, hopefully exceeding their expectations.

We provide a fair price for our services, with complete transparency.

No event is too small. We offer different levels of planning. We will work with you on an as-needed basis or take care of every aspect of the planning and

LESLIE E. FREEDMAN EVENT CONCIERGE TEL

615-207-6389

Leslie_freedman@yahoo.com

BARBARA DAVIS EVENT CONCIERGE

PARTY PERFECTIONS

TEL

615-668-9463

Thomas.Davis@comcast.net

Nashville, Tennessee

execution process. Every project is exciting to us!

DK Ideas DK Ideas is known for producing events with personality. For several years, we have been quietly creating inspired events and our many happy clients have insisted we make our presence visible so we can bring our experience, knowledge and creativity to meet the needs of the broader community.

We specialize in Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and all your life cycle events. When you are blessed with a simcha to celebrate, DK Ideas is there to assist you in creating an event that reflects your vision.

From party design and décor to coordination of the last detail, DK Ideas will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy, while we create the perfect atmosphere - a unique, personal expression that brings your celebration to life.

Our clients say it best: “There is no way I can possibly express my appreciation and deep gratitude for all you did for me, our daughter and my entire family. Every last detail was an amazing tribute to Eleanor’s uniqueness and love for nature. You captured her very essence over and over again.

“Thank you!”

-Rachel Koch, Congregation Micah “Thanks for doing such a great job

for Meagan’s Bat Mitzvah. Everything was so much more fantastic because of your involvement. You were an absolute delight to work with.”

- Liz Broder, Congregation Micah “You always make it look so effortless, and yet I know it just does not happen overnight.”

- Loretta Saff, Nashville Jewish Film Festival Contact DK Ideas because we believe life is worth celebrating!

Contact DK Ideas Phone: 615-804-8438 email: diane@dianekimbrough.com

Party Time Nashville Weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and celebrations are such an important part of our lives. Party Time Nashville has been serving the Jewish community of Nashville for 20+ years. We understand that such important life events only take place once. Your event deserves an enthusiastic professional creative team to bring your visions to life. Party Time Nashville has spent the last two decades entertaining and creating beautiful memories. Music, lighting and event design are what we do best.

We would love to show you how much we have grown and become a truly one-stop event design team. We

JUDAICA GIFTS

Custom Huppa - Designed and Built

Mezuzahs, Seder Plates, Rosh Hashanah Plates, Shabbat Trays, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Birth, Anniversaries and Weddings

by local artist

(located in the former American Artisan Location.)

for more information contact Interiors by Zev 615-498-2083

A Place of Discovery 4231 Harding Road in Stanford Square www.ibizafinegifts.com / 615.279.8000

4

SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

www.interiorsbyzev.com

info@interiorsbyzev.com

love what we do and are honored every time your friends and family trust their most precious life events with us.

Thank you, and we look forward to another 20+ years.

Rick Sykes (Owner) Party Time Nashville LLC. P.O. Box 1591 Smyrna, TN 37167 www.partytimenashville.com 615-867-2739

Fete Nashville You deserve the BEST! Fête Nashville is an award-winning event planning and design boutique specializing in upscale weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and corporate event planning.

We even do creative proposals!

Sara Lubow Fried, owner and principal planner, is widely known for transforming a couple’s vision into their dream wedding. This year, Fête Nashville received the “Best of” Wedding Planners from TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com. Fête Nashville was the only winner in this category chosen from the state of Tennessee. The Knot Wedding Network, which includes The Knot and Wedding Channel, reaches 8 in 10 US brides every year.

As your wedding/event planner, it is

my job to make the planning process as fun and stress-free as possible. I will guide you through the process and introduce you to the most respected and professional vendors in the industry. Since my background is in graphic design, I will ensure your vision is reflected in all of the details. I will provide you with an inspiration board, detailed timeline, event production schedule and keep us on task regarding the budget and timeline.

Check out www.fetenashville.com for our blog, inspiration, portfolio pictures and fabulous referrals from past clients like this one: “Everyone is glowing from the wedding, and it was because of you…you exceeded all our expectations. You are the best!” ~ Ellen Levitt, Mother of the Bride Contact Sara for a complimentary consultation: 615/482-4555 or sara@fetenashville.com

Hampton Inn & Suites – Green Hills Complete confidence that out of town guests will feel “right at home” is a primary concern for every host or hostess, no matter what the social event that draws your visitors. Hampton Inn & Suites - Green Hills specializes in just that; making our home, their home away from home, while attending your

special event.

We are a boutique style select service hotel right in the heart of Green Hills’ fantastic shopping, dining and entertainment district. We can offer both comfortable standard rooms and spacious residential king suites with fully furnished kitchens. We provide your guests with complimentary cost-saving services and amenities often added to the bill at other hotels. Our rate includes: free parking, wireless high speed internet access, local calls, and our highly praised breakfast buffet with hot items daily. The facility offers a computer center, fitness facility, and laundry services for their convenience during their visit.

The atrium style sixth floor Belle Meade room offers a dynamic view of the Green Hills area, perfect for bridesmaid luncheons, rehearsal dinners, receptions, and birthday parties. To keep your visitors entertained during those free times Continued on page 7

VENUES The Pargh Auditorium at the GJCC The GJCC offers the lovely and versatile Pargh Auditorium to meet your special event needs. The space seats 440 comfortably, offers kosher dairy and

DK Ideas

produces events with personality

DK Ideas

kosher meat kitchens, a built-in dance floor, theatre stage, lighting, and dynamic sound quality for any music type.

The Pargh’s unique design lends itself to open creativity making your aesthetic possibilities endless. Whether it be a small affair or a huge bash, the Pargh Auditorium is a perfect canvas for any kind of soiree.

If you are interested in viewing the space or learning more, contact Kurt Meyer at 615/356-7170 or via email at kurt@nashvillejcc.org.

Specializing in Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and all your simchas.

From party design and décor to coordination of the last detail, DK Ideas will create the perfect atmosphere - a unique, personal expression that brings your celebration to life.

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SSARA LUBOW FRIED Call for FREE consultation: weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs & more!

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WeddingChannel.com

®

20 Winner of "Best of" Wedding Planners from The Knot and 2012: Wedding Channel. The ONLY planner chosen from the state of TN. We

At DK Ideas, we believe life is worth celebrating!

DK Ideas • 615-804-8438 diane@dianekimbrough.com “Every last detail was an amazing tribute to Eleanor’s uniqueness and love for nature.You captured her very essence over an over again.”

Thank you!, -Rachel Koch, Congregation Micah

SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

5

THE PERFECT INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR NEXT CELEBRATION

Prime Steak & 100 Wines by the Glass Our Private Dining menus feature prime steak, the freshest seafood, chops and chicken, complemented with tantalizing appetizers, innovative side dishes and decadent desserts. To plan your event, please contact our Private Dining Director.

• Bar & Bat Mitzvahs • Holiday Celebrations • Baby & Bridal Showers • Rehearsal Dinners

• Births • Anniversaries • Birthdays • Retirement Parties

2525 West End Avenue, Nashville 615-342-0131 www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com/Nashville

6

SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

Planning a celebration?

Help is at hand Continued from page 5 of your special event, we are in walking distance of the Mall at Green Hills, 15 restaurants, and a 16-screen cinema.

Contact our most capable sales department to learn how we can help relieve some of the responsibilities so you can better enjoy your next social event.

Hutton Hotel Happy Third Birthday to The Hutton Hotel! The Hutton has quickly become a staple in the market for firstclass accommodations, ideal for weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and any other celebration. The hotel’s amenities and customer service, combined with a commitment to the environment and to the community, sets them apart from other venues. Jane Bubis, of JB Events, states, “I have coordinated many Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations at The Hutton Hotel. My clients are always happy and their guests have a great time in a lovely event space that can be transformed into any theme.�

National publications such as Conde Nast Traveler, New York Times Style Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal praise the Hutton Hotel.

Located in the heart of Midtown, the Hutton Hotel is a perfect spot for the guest of honor and those attending the special occasion. The Vista Ballroom has 14-foot windows overlooking the Nashville Skyline and, with the toprated amenities the Hutton Hotel offers, you are guaranteed to have a memorable event.

Noshville At Noshville Delicatessen, our goal is simple: to prepare and serve the highest quality food in a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. Noshville is not only a delicious place to visit for breakfast, lunch and dinner (Midtown only), but is also great for catering.

Whether you are getting together at the office or entertaining at home we will customize your menu to meet your individual needs, offering a wide variety of assorted trays, platters and box lunches.

Noshville also has three locations that can be reserved for private parties: Cool Springs, Green Hills and Midtown.

Anything from wedding rehearsal dinners and receptions to Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, we do it all! Noshville is committed to providing our clients with courteous service and dedication.

Whether it is a bridal shower, formal dinner or company party, Noshville Delicatessen can make your next private event a memorable one.

Come see why Noshville has been voted Best Delicatessen every year since 1997 and remember Noshville is an eating experience, not just a place to eat!

So, “Make Your Mother Happy‌Eat and Enjoy!â€? Visit our website at www.noshville.com for more details.

ENTERTAINMENT

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Dor L’Dor Klezmer Band So you’re planning a wedding. Are you looking for a klezmer band that can get all your guests on the dance floor and keep them there for nearly an hour of frenzied dancing? Do you also want slow dancing and waltzes? What about a jazz trio for cocktails and dinner?

We’ve got you covered for beautiful traditional music before the ceremony, for the ceremony itself, and for whatever happens afterwards.

Maybe you’re planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, or a joyous synagogue or temple event — Simchat Torah, Chanukah, Purim — and you want the energy that only live music can provide. We’ve got you covered.

Or maybe you’re planning an international festival or congregational fundraiser. You want traditional klezmer music for all those people who can’t even spell klezmer and for all those who still remember the stories from the shtetl— but you also want a band that can surprise and delight audiences with a klezmerized version of “Stars and Stripes Forever� or play “Tsena� with a Professor Longhair New Orleans groove.

You came to the right place. Dor L’Dor is a multi-generational klezmer band based in Knoxville, Tenn., that international city famous for its yiddishkeit. While we’re deeply rooted in the klezmer tradition, we have branched into other traditions as well. Your father Continued on page 8

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SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

7

Planning a celebration?

Help is at hand Continued from page 7 would love us. But we’re not your father’s klezmer band.

Dor L’Dor has recorded two CDs: “Dance for Your Life” and “Not Your Father’s Klezmer Band.” (www.dorldorklezmerband.com) Contact Ken Brown: 865/ 693-7566.

Picture this Nashville Like traditional photo booths but soooo much cooler. The Picture This Nashville touchscreen kiosk is modern, low-profile and feature rich. It’s a Photo Booth, Photo Guestbook, Photo Share and Photo Gallery all in one. ... and you thought it was just a computer.

CATERER Bobbie Limor Bobbie Limor is known for her delicious meals, excellent service and attention to detail, whether the event is a private interlude with friends or a grand venue for a large family celebration.

Bobbie acts as the caterer and the party planner for all her clients. She has a great eye for color and helps to make each event a complete and very special occasion.

Bobbie has been catering for 20 plus years and has taken many courses throughout her career to keep her dishes

8

SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

on the cutting edge of Jewish cooking and beautiful food. There is a great deal of pride and hard work that goes into every event that she caters. Her staff is professional, reliable and customer friendly.

Every occasion gets her utmost attention and the end result is a superior product with very happy clients. Bobbie loves to work hand in hand with her clients to plan a memorable event. She gets many compliments on both her presentation and delicious food.

REAL ESTATE Lipman group Jackie Karr is an experienced real estate agent affiliated with Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty® and poised to assist you with your relocation, whether it's across town or around the globe. A native Nashvillian, her local expertise combined with the global reach of Sotheby’s International Realty® network of offices provides clients with unmatched service and vast resources.

No one knows a home like Jackie Karr. Jackie knows finding a home is only the beginning. She’s got an eye for detail that will help you see the potential in an empty house. When relocating to a new area, you’ll need someone you can trust to help you find schools, activities, Continued on page 9

Continued from page 8 and even a grocery store! Jackie can help, and HAS helped many others in your shoes. Many of you may know Jackie from her lifetime of growing up in Nashville. Others may have met her during her professional career.

Jackie’s career has included many good years at Harvey’s department stores as a buyer and later, marketing for REN Corporation, Realtor with both Zeitlin Realtors and Karr Realty, all along an active community volunteer and event coordinator. Having raised two sons in Nashville who have now graduated college and are working in their chosen careers, Jackie transitioned her career to real estate to combines the three things she enjoys most: PEOPLE, MARKETING & HOUSES. Jackie will provide you with the facts you need to know and the easiest way to owning your new home, offering a fun and memorable experience!

EYE CARE Optique Eyecare and Eyewear Over 30 million Americans wear contact lenses. Contact lenses are a safe and effective means of correction for nearsightedness, farsightedness and the over-40 problem of needing reading glasses. However, in recent studies, the majority of contact lens wearers did not follow recommended practices. “Safety with contact lenses is highly dependent on the wearer’s habits,” says Dr. Michele Sonsino, owner and optometrist at Optique Eyecare and Eyewear. Contact lenses are medical devices that contact the surface of the eye. So germs, dust, or

foreign matter that contaminates contact lenses will be in contact with the eye. Some of the most devastating problems occur with bacteria and other germs. Dr. Sonsino says, “For example, we know that sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of developing a sight threatening infection by six-fold.”

The best ways to stay safe when wearing contact lenses are: • Rinse and rub the lenses after removing them every night • Always wash hands before handling lenses • Store lenses in proper storage cases, replacing every month • Replace lenses according to the recommended replacement schedule • Use products recommended by your optometrist to clean and disinfect lenses • Remove lenses before swimming or entering a hot tub • See your optometrist for regularly scheduled contact lens and eye examinations Dr. Sonsino says that a good relationship with an optometrist that you trust and know is a vital. “Because when you have that problem at 5 p..m on a Friday afternoon, you need to know who to call.”

can fix that. Want to reveal a smooth, youthful skin tone? A quick Blue Radiance facial will have you looking refreshed and glowing. Need to zap a few scars or tighten sagging skin? Ematrix laser treatment will have you confident again.

As Nashville’s first medical spa led by world-renowned Dr. Michael H.

Gold, our expert skin care specialists can solve any skin issue. Acne, wrinkles, skin tone, dark spots, crow’s feet, spider veins, unwanted hair, sagging skin and discoloration are all a thing of the past.

Gold Skin Care Center is the premiere skin care destination where Beautiful Skin Is Our Only Business. c

BEAUTY TIPS Gold Skin Care We know how important it is to look good on your big day. How can you ensure you look your absolute best? Gold Skin Care Center has everything you need to radiate a youthful glow.

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SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

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Mazel Tov, you’re engaged…

Don’t become a statistic!

By Sara Lubow Fried

N

inety percent of the brides I talk to say they wish they had hired a wedding planner sooner. Couples can save a lot of money and countless hours of research by hiring an experienced planner to guide them every step of the way.

Here are some tips to get you started: Set your budget. On-line calculators divide your budget into categories while suggesting appropriate percentages — planning.theknot.com/wedding-budget/ has a free, customizable calculator.

Pick a date. Consider local events; which inevitably means higher hotel rates and extra traffic – like CMA Music Fest, CMA Awards, and Vanderbilt Homecoming, Parents Weekend and commencement. Be mindful of religious and cultural holidays.

Determine the atmosphere.

Nashville has amazing hidden gems whether your vision is a downtown rooftop, a vintage affair at an historic home, traditional southern charm at a

private farm, or a glamorous fête under sparkling chandeliers.

Research the venues. Many will hold a date without a contract until another client is willing to make a deposit. Be flexible. Many brides are opting for Sunday evening weddings, which can cut costs considerably.

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SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

Envision the style and tone. Formal?

Modern? Classic? Rustic? Elegant themes can be monochromatic, seasonal colors, based on a wedding logo, neutral colors or metallic with lots of bling! Show off your style as a couple.

Earth-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing on style. Use florists and caterers

who buy local and/or organic. Donate leftover food. Donate to a charity in lieu of favors. Smock.com prints gorgeous letterpress invitations on luxury bamboo paper.

Have fun registering.

MyRegistry.com adds items from any website into one universal registry.

Guests give towards your honeymoon with spa packages, diving with dolphins, etc. at honeyfund.com. Support your favorite cause at idofoundation.org.

Start your (free) website. weddingwire.com, theknot.com, mywedding.com… an easy way to keep guests updated about festivities, accommodations, RSVPs, registry, etc.

Get inspired. www.weddingblogs100.com, www.stylemepretty.com, www.weddingchicks.com, www.snippetandink.com, ruffledblog.com and pinterest.com, of course!

Hire a professional: Let someone else do the organizing, negotiating, planning, and last minute re-arranging so you can focus on your fiancé and enjoying your special day! c Sara Lubow Fried, is owner and principal designer of Fête Nashville.

ADVERTISE IN THE OBSERVER!

Call Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager at 615-354-1699 or e-mail carrie@nashvillejcc.org

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SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

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How to plan a budget-friendly Bar or Bat Mitzvah in a down economy Janie Haas/JointMedia News Service

A

Bar or Bat Mitzvah is a beautiful and powerful time in a family’s life. A child has reached adulthood, and it’s one of the few occasions when family and friends come from across the country (or world) to celebrate together.

This time can also bump up against the stress of party planning.

If you have always envisioned a beautiful Bar or Bat Mitzvah for your son or daughter, but have been dealt a blow by the current economy, there are still ways to achieve your vision.

There are many components that

who are on a limited budget to do a couple of “wow items” and not get caught up in minutiae that will not pack a punch.

Many clients tell me that their child is a typical 13-year-old with many interests, but no particular passion. In that case, color is a great tool. You can get a lot of play by taking a room and using color strategically. Lighting works well to change the ambiance of a room in an inexpensive way. A white wall instantly becomes hot pink, a stark room becomes a winter wonderland in ice blue.

There are also some clever ways to decorate a room by “doing it yourself,” thereby saving money on a decorator. If I’m looking for a little pop, I’ll cover a table with shiny black linen and throw silver Hershey kisses down the center of

make up a bar/bat mitzvah party, but only a few that are really crucial: décor, music, venue and food. I’ll go through each to discuss some great money-saving techniques. The main thing to remember is that if you are planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah on a budget, be prepared to be significantly involved.

Décor

You first need to find a specific piece to work around, something thematic. If your child has a particular passion (music, sports, etc.), that may inform your theme. I personally subscribe to the mantra that “bigger is better.” A few larger pieces that have great height, color, and dimension fill space better than lots of little things. So I usually tell people

One Fine Day

it. Simple, and it looks great.

A lot of people are interested in giving back, and you might organize your centerpieces around the theme of tzedakah. For example, throw a burlap fabric, or otherwise very textural linen on the tables. Go apple picking with your family, and fill your bushels to the brim with different kinds of shiny apples.

This makes a beautiful centerpiece, and you can attach a note to the effect of, “In honor of my Bat Mitzvah I will be donating these apples to the local food pantry.”

I also once had a mother and daughter bake cakes together. Each table was then topped by a cake as the centerpiece. It was adorable, and a great way for the family to infuse the event with its personal touch.

The bottom line: People tend to make the mistake of spending a lot of money on smaller items, then see their bill and are forced to backpedal. First identify a theme, and then think of the one or two items that will be your “wow factor.” You can then use the smaller items to illustrate that and drive the theme home.

Music

A really talented DJ is of paramount importance. A DJ who keeps the kids engaged and dancing all night long is going to give them a really fun evening.

You don’t need much else if the DJ is talented and experienced. He will do games and contests, or teach the kids a dance.

So if you don’t have the extra money to add kids’ activities, make sure you choose a wonderful DJ. Local talent is always less expensive than bringing in people from other locations, so look for DJs or bands in your area. If you are really on a bare bones budget, have a friend put together a great playlist on a solid iPod system, or do it yourself, but you’ll have to arrange for a player and speakers.

Venue/Food

I

T’S THE BIG DAY! GO AHEAD; REJOICE, RELAX AND CUT LOOSE!

The Hutton Hotel has got you covered. Be confident you are supported by a well-versed team of wedding specialists who anticipate the unexpected and make every detail a personal mission. You’ve got the freedom to be fully in the moment.

1 8 0 8 W E S T E N D AV E | N A S H V I L L E , T E N N E S S E E

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615.712.2320 FOR APPOINTMENTS

Photos courtesy of Waldorf Photographic Art

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SIMCHAS & CELEBRATIONS 2012 • THE OBSERVER • JANUARY 20, 2012

Each venue comes with its own quirks and deals. When looking for a venue make sure to find out if it has a food and beverage minimum, and what that buys you.

Sometimes it’s not a great package, and it would be wiser to bring in a caterer.

Many temples have function spaces and charge very little. On the other hand, don’t rule out hotels. If it’s off-season and a hotel has an empty ballroom, you may be able to negotiate a low-cost package.

When it comes to food, you should be realistic about the format for a party.

Think luncheons, food stations, or buffet—not a four-course meal. There are many interesting ways to present food. You can get a lot of mileage out of fun street food—pizzas, a noodle bar, burgers. The kids will love it, and it will cost you less.

Finding a venue that is closer to home—school gym, town hall, or college—as well as a local vendor, will always save you some money. c Janie Haas, the founder and president of Janie Haas Events, has been in the event planning business for over 35 years. She specializes in events that do not follow a cookie cutter formula, and has worked with a variety of clients, including the high profile.