the Jewish bserver 2012 Federation World’s Fair shows how nside: to think globally while acting locally i By Kathy Carlson Averbuch credits Karen Yazdian with The World’s Fair is building on Nashville recalls Rabin the world’s fair idea. “We do a world the success of last year’s Girls Night o matter which is of good all over the world and here Out: Jeans for Genes event for women at memorial event 2 your favorite – the and in Israel,” she recalls Yazdian say- and branching out to encompass the 1964-65 New York ing. “It would be great if we could do entire Jewish community, Averbuch J Street founder outlines World’s Fair, the a world’s fair.” Yazdian and Brad said. It wasn’t possible to hold two vision for Israel, peace 3 1982 Knoxville Fishel are World’s Fair co-chairs. The Continued on page 4 energy-themed fair, event has grown to include foods from orN maybe last year’s event in Shanghai eight countries plus Nashville; Women’s event with Israeli – you’ll love the Jewish Federation’s exhibits on Jewish life in those social entrepreneur 3 2012 World’s Fair, set for Sun., Jan. countries, and a presentation by 29, in the Gordon Jewish Community actor Jon Adam Ross that WES brings new music Center auditorium. recounts five Jewish journeys in the New Year 5 The World’s Fair is open to the and their Nashville connec- entire Nashville and Middle Tennessee tion through Federation. Sections Jewish community. As with all world’s “One of our goals is to fairs, there will be food from around show those in the Nashville Letter 5 the globe, exhibits, activities for chil- Jewish community just how Lifecycles 9 dren and special entertainment. It’s our Jewish Federation’s glob- designed to kick off the 2012 Annual al network helps those in Around the town 10 Campaign of the Jewish Federation of need. The World’s Fair hope- Nashville through real-life stories of fully will prove to be a fun, edu- Federation doing a world of good. cational and entertaining after- Enjoy “Noodle,” an Annual Campaign Chair Sandy noon for all,” Fishel said. Israeli family-friendly film on Jan. 15 Amid tensions with allies abroad, he Gordon Jewish Community Center and Inbar Shaked, the Jewish Federation’s Israeli Netanyahu shoring up power at home shlicha, are presenting Israeli By Matthew Wagner Movie Night, Sun., Jan. 15, 2012, featuring the family film, JERUSALEM (JTA) — He may T“Noodle.” be a lightning rod for criticism Miri's life has been crumbling around abroad, but Israeli Prime Minister her for years. She wants nothing more than Benjamin Netanyahu is consolidat- to be left alone, but things change when her ing power at home. Chinese housekeeper asks Miri to watch her On Dec. 5, Netanyahu son for an hour and never comes back. announced that elections for leader- Despite the language barrier, Miri tries to ship of his Likud Party would be held reunite the boy she dubs “Noodle” with his Jan. 31. The decision came as some- mother. “Noodle” is a touching, light-heart- thing of a surprise; primaries in Israel ed story about the importance of family and were expected to be held closer to the emotional healing. next general elections, which are set Along with the film, enjoy sweet treats for October 2013. from Israel. The film screens from 6:30-8:30 Leading Likud ministers — p.m. in the GJCC auditorium. The event is except for Regional Development free. For more information or to RSVP, con- Minister Silvan Shalom, who had Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks on Dec. 12 at the Israeli Business Conference held at the David Intercontinental Hotel in Tel Aviv. (Flash 90/Marc Israel/JTA) tact Inbar Shaked at 615/354-1632 or harbored unrealistic hopes of chal- [email protected]. c lenging Netanyahu — strongly sup- if parliamentary elections had been including the United States. ported Netanyahu’s decision, timed to held in November, Likud and Yisrael Earlier this month, Secretary of take advantage of the prime minister’s Beiteinu, the second-largest coalition Defense Leon Panetta and Secretary of relative popularity. party, each would have gained two State Hillary Rodham Clinton made www.jewishobservernashville.org “A strong prime minister makes Knesset seats. The poll predicted that separate remarks that were taken by for a strong Likud,” said Education leading opposition parties Kadima and some as implicit rebukes of the current Minister Gideon Sa’ar. Labor would not be able to seriously Israeli government, though others A Publication of In an opinion poll based on 505 challenge the right’s dominance. have suggested that their remarks were respondents published in the Israeli Indeed, Netanyahu and his coali- not intended in that spirit. daily Haaretz at the beginning of tion — buoyed by a solid base of hare- In an address to the Saban Forum December, Netanyahu’s approval rate di Orthodox Jews, immigrants from in Washington, Panetta suggested that stood at 49 percent. It has bounced the former Soviet Union, religious Israel needed to “mend fences” with back from 32 percent in a July Haaretz Zionists and secular right-wingers — its neighbors. And in response to a poll, when demonstrations were rag- enjoy impressive political stability. question about what Israel should do www.jewishnashville.org ing against socioeconomic inequali- However, for all his strength at to advance peace, Panetta said “just ties and the cost of living. home, Netanyahu has had rocky rela- get to the damn table.” VOL.76 NO. 23 According to the December poll, tions with some of Israel’s allies, Continued on page 12 December 16, 2011 20 Kislev 5772 Nashville recalls Rabin slaying at memorial event By Kathy Carlson process was over, Shaked said. In the United States on Nov. 4, habbat had ended on Nov. 1995, Jewish Federation of Nashville 4, 1995, and three genera- Executive Director Mark Freedman was tions of Inbar Shaked’s fam- at the Guadalupe River Ranch in the ily gathered at her grandpar- Texas hill country. He was talking with ents’ home to watch TV San Antonio Federation leaders about coverage of a peace rally the peace process and Rabin; there was Sunfolding that night in Tel Aviv. talk at the time about a peace deal be- Thousands had thronged the square and tween Israel and Syria. joined Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin to Freedman recalled saying he sing “Shir LaShalom,” the song of believed Rabin was the right person at peace. the right time in history to attain peace “We really felt that the peace was with the Palestinians, that no one else about to come,” she remembered 16 in the world could pull off an accord. years later here in Nashville, where she Then he learned Rabin had been mur- brings her perspective on Israel to dered. The event made him realize the Americans as the Jewish Federation of power of one person to change the Nashville’s community shlicha. course of history – for good or for evil. But then, three bullets from an “I hope there’s another Yitzhak Rabin assassin’s gun pierced not only Rabin’s out there to fulfill the dream of peace,” heart, but also the heart of an entire Freedman said. c nation, she said. And even though her Inbar Shaked describes her childhood bedroom, which sported posters of teen bands, mother pulled her away from the tele- American TV stars and the signing of the Oslo peace accords. vision screen, Shaked wondered what Einstein’s song “Shalom Chaver,” writ- it was like to be there on the square ten one year after Rabin’s slaying. that night, she told a group of Community member Yaara Yemin Nashville community members at a told about her life in 1995 as a recent special Nov. 29 presentation on college graduate living in Tel Aviv. Rabin’s assassination. She had gone to the rally with her She and other speakers wanted to mother and her boyfriend (now hus- help American Jews understand a key band) Uzi Yemin. historical event that shaped the outlook “We felt that our dream of peace … of Israelis in much the same way that was about to come true,” she said, and the assassination of John F. Kennedy the three walked home with hope. and the September 11 attacks molded Then someone phoned her to say Rabin the lives of many Americans. The Nov. had been shot. “It felt like a whole 29 event included an Akiva School country was crying.” group, Sababa, singing “Shir Israel and its friends around the LaShalom,” plus video footage of Rabin world mourned, and the Jewish nation and of Israeli singer-songwriter Arik grappled with the sense that the peace Akiva School students in the group Sababa sing “Shir LaShalom.”

2011 AIPAC Nashville Reception & Briefing Israel’s Place in an Unstable Middle East

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee invites you to a special program featuring Brigadier General Ronen Dan Air Force Attache at the Embassy of Israel

Tuesday, January 10, 2012 7:00 p.m. ~ AIPAC Nashville Dessert Reception 7:30 p.m. ~ AIPAC Nashville Program

Hosted by Gail and Jeff Jacobs

Advanced Reservations Preferred ~ Please call or e-mail to RSVP Please RSVP by Friday, January 6, 2012 For additional information and RSVP’s, please contact Kate Sommers at AIPAC at (770) 541-7610 or [email protected] This program is reserved for those AIPAC Nashville members who generously contribute to AIPAC’s annual campaign

2 December 16, 2011 The Observer J Street founder outlines vision for Israel, peace By Kathy Carlson United States to help mediate an end the size of the pro-Israel tent and deter- to hostilities with the Palestinians mining who should be in or out, “I sug- eremy Ben-Ami, founder of the that results in separate states of Israel gest we focus more on trying to save the political organization J Street, and Palestine. tent itself, which is burning down,” he called on Nashvillians to work His book develops three themes of said to scattered applause. He said he toward ending the conflict challenges facing Israel and American wrote the book to inspire readers to work among Israel, Palestinians, and politicians. First, Ben-Ami argues that toward a two-state peace accord while other neighbors in order to assure Israel’s current political path is not sus- there’s still time to do so. Jthe future of the Jewish state. tainable. Israel, in his view, can achieve In questions and answers after his Ben-Ami was in Nashville to speak only two of three goals, namely retaining 20-minute talk, Ben-Ami said he does with the local chapter of J Street about control of the land it currently holds, not support a right of return for Israel, Middle East politics and his remaining a democracy, and remaining a Jeremy Ben-Ami signs a copy of his book, A Palestinians within Israel’s boundaries recently published book, A New Voice for New Voice for Israel, and talks a little baseball strong, majority-Jewish state. with Gerry Hausman. Photo: Kathy Carlson before the 1967 war. He also supports Israel. About 140 people attended his “I’m very, very afraid we are watch- trying to work toward a two-state solu- talk at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel on Dec. ing Israel sacrifice democratic and Jewish from a belief that it’s how all American tion in the face of arguments that Israel 12. Many shared Ben-Ami’s political values to keep the land won in 1967,” he Jews view Israel. Ben-Ami cited polling lacks a Palestinian partner committed to views, but the audience included persons said. This isn’t acceptable to Israel’s that indicates 7 to 10 percent of negotiate such an accord, and acknowl- with views across the political spectrum. neighbors and to the rest of the world, he American Jews vote solely on a candi- edged that there is no Palestinian leader J Street, founded in 2008, describes said, and he fears that Israel’s current date’s position on Israel. A majority of that will specifically recognize Israel as a itself as the political home for pro-Israel, political course will lead to greater isola- American Jews believe a two-state solu- Jewish state. pro-peace Americans. The J Street fami- tion internationally. tion to conflict with the Palestinians is As to what a peace accord would ly includes J Street, a 501(c)(4) nonprof- “I recognize that Israeli citizens in Israel’s interest, that Jewish settle- look like, Ben-Ami outlined two states it corporation and registered lobby; must make their own choices” since ments outside Israel’s 1967 boundaries for two peoples, with borders along the JStreetPAC, a political action commit- Israel is a democracy, he continued. are detrimental to peace and that the 1967 lines, with land swaps to ensure tee that endorses candidates for federal But, he said, in his work and his book he United States must play an active role to that Jewish settlements on contested office; and J Street Education Fund Inc., tries “to make the case that it isn’t sim- bring about peace. lands stay part of Israel while ceding described online as a legally independent ply the right but the duty for Jewish The third challenge is to “rewrite other lands to the Palestinians. Israel’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Americans to do what we can to help the rules surrounding conversations on capital would be the Jewish neighbor- Ben-Ami gave a broad overview of our cousins in Israel recognize the need Israel in the Jewish community,” he hoods of Jerusalem, with Palestine’s cap- his 200-plus page book, which he said to change course themselves before it is said. “It continues to astound me that ital in East Jerusalem. The Temple took him six months of waking at 4 too late.” in a community so defined by a pen- Mount and other areas of religious signif- a.m. to write. It is subtitled “Fighting The second major challenge chant for debate … we act at times (as icance would be neither Israeli nor for the Survival of the Jewish Nation,” involves what Ben-Ami called a rule if) only one point of view should be per- Palestinian but rather would come under and Ben-Ami said he believes it’s in book of American politicians of support- mitted” on Israel. multinational oversight to assure access Israel’s “existential interest” for the ing Israel right or wrong, which comes Rather than spending time debating to people of all religions. c Women’s event features conversation with Israeli social entrepreneur By Kathy Carlson Jerusalem and has A future event for Lions of Judah is University. Kanter holds fine arts a hub in New York being organized for March 9, featuring a degrees in ceramics, her website, sraeli social entrepreneur and City. It engages hands-on program with New York textile http://rachelkanter.com, states. After political activist Nurit Tsur will young adults with artist Rachel Kanter. Kanter’s brother is the birth of her second child, she turned talk with Nashville women in a their Jewish com- Shaul Kelner, associate professor of soci- to fiber and quilting techniques to create special event set for Wed., Jan. 11, munities through ology and Jewish studies at Vanderbilt Jewish ritual objects such as tallitot. c and organized by the Women’s yearlong programs Division of the Jewish Federation called Community Iof Nashville’s Annual Campaign. Entrepreneurship Tsur will speak via Skype with Partnerships. The Nashville women who participate in Nurit Tsur PresenTense web Federation’s Lion of Judah and site describes Tsur as a social entrepreneur Pomegranate women’s philanthropy pro- and political activist who applies her skills grams. Her topics will include women’s in technology and business to the organi- issues in Israel and her current work with zation, along with experience in advocat- PresenTense Israel, which develops next- ing for civil, human and women’s rights. generation leaders and initiatives for the Before joining PresenTense, she was exec- Jew-ish community through offices in utive director of the Israel Women’s Jerusalem and New York. Tsur is Network (IWN), an Israeli women’s PresenTense Israel’s chief executive offi- rights organization. For six years, Tsur cer, having joined the organization after served as a political advisor and spokes- serving as executive director of the Israel woman for Knesset members Avraham Women’s Network. (Baiga) Shochat and Danny Yatom. “I think she is very, very charismat- She earned a master’s degree in pol- ic,” said Inbar Shaked, the Jewish itics and government of the European Federation of Nashville’s community Union from The London School of shlicha. Shaked wanted Nashville Economics, as well as a master’s degree in women to get to know Tsur because she public administration and a bachelor’s believes she’ll take leadership roles in degree in political science from the Israeli politics in the future. The Lions University of Haifa. Tsur served as a and Pomegranates event represents “a medic in the Israeli Air Force and chance to meet someone before that hap- achieved the rank of sergeant. pens and make her want to know more The Jan. 11 Jewish Federation Lion about the women in Nashville and their of Judah and Pomegranate event will be opinions on certain topics in Israel.” from 8:30 – 10 a.m. in the Gordon Susan Limor, the Jewish Federation Jewish Community Center Board and women’s division chair, said she was Meeting Rooms. excited about the program and Tsur, who The Lion of Judah program recog- will speak about her experience in lobby- nizes community women who have made ing for women's rights in Israel. Talking an annual financial commitment to with Tsur via Skype will provide “anoth- Federation of $5,000 or more; the er way for us to connect with Israel in Pomegranate program recognizes women real time,” Limor said. “By looking at who have committed to giving between women’s rights issues in Israel we have $1,800 and $4,999. All community the opportunity to gain a deeper under- women are invited to participate. More standing of our commonality,” she said. than 16,000 women worldwide are Lions The organization Tsur currently of Judah, the Jewish Federations of leads, PresenTense, is headquartered in North America website states.

The Observer December 16, 2011 3 JFS and B’nai B’rith partner on low vision aids program

FS and B’nai B’rith have part- her independence as her vision fails. nered to address the needs of sen- B’nai B’rith has a long history of iors in our community living supporting services for the blind. Thirty- with low vision. The program eight years ago it started a camp for blind will serve seniors who find it dif- children, which is still in existence. ficult to engage in basic daily Parker is coordinating the program for Jactivities such as cooking, locating B’nai B’rith along with Toni Jacobsen, a appropriate clothing, continuing clinical social worker, at Jewish Family hobbies or reading the newspaper due to Service. Parker was the first person to vision difficulties. receive her Masters Degree in Education The goal of the program is to provide for the Blind from Harvard Graduate low vision aids to the seniors so that they School. can maintain their independence. There Parker has worked for over 60 years is a variety of aids available to assist the supporting programs for the blind that individual with cooking, telling time, include: starting the B’nai B’rith camp for recreational games and personal care. blind children, serving as the president of JFS social workers will identify and the Tennessee workers for the blind, refer seniors with low vision to a com- obtaining funding for literacy programs, mittee that consists of trained volunteers serving as Tennessee state chairman for supervised by Elaine Parker, representa- the handicapped, and serving as the state tive of B’nai B’rith. The volunteer will director for Blind Services. In addition, meet with the senior to determine which she has published books on the subject. low vision aids would be helpful and The Low Vision Program has very fortunate to be one of the recipients If you or someone you know could train the senior on how to use the aid. already served four seniors in the Jewish of this life-saving effort.” She was able to benefit from this program, contact The funding for these aids is provided by community. A senior who benefitted work with Parker to determine which Toni Jacobsen, Jewish Family Service B’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge #46. from the program commented, “I feel low vision aids would help her maintain at 354-1672. c

2012 Federation World’s Fair shows how to think globally while acting locally

Continued from page 1 “The culture of each country will major events to kick off the annual cam- come through the food,” Yazdian said. paign, she said, and last year’s GNO: There will be exhibits at each table with Jeans for Genes co-chairs Jamie Hirsch information on each country, along with Brook and Sara Hanai are working on artifacts from each country. the World’s Fair. Then, at 5 p.m., actor Jon Adam The World’s Fair begins at 4 p.m. Ross will present the special commis- with tastings of foods from five conti- sioned show that includes the stories of nents. People can sample the flavors of local community members Metro Argentina, the Czech Republic, Ethiopia, Councilman Fabian Bedne, Helen the Former Soviet Union, Iran, Israel, Yazdian Hanai, Dr. Vlada Melekhin, Moldova and Turkey, plus Nashville, said Amanda and David Schwartz, Lana Yazdian. There will also be coffees and Sorin Pargh and Dora Sorin. Several teas from around the world, she said, and talk about how they came to Nashville the community’s kosher caterers -Bobbie from other countries, and one couple Limor, Goldie Shepard, and Kevin talks about their experience in the 2010 Alexandroni – are contributing. Nashville flood. Ross, the nephew of community c c c c member Marsha Jaffa and grandson of STAFF the late Irwin and Ellen Ross, has worked extensively in Jewish theater. At Actor Jon Adam Ross has built a career in Jewish theater and will appear in Nashville at the Publisher Mark S. Freedman the Nashville event, he will provide the Federation World’s Fair. Editor Judith A. Saks voice that places the community mem- will attend the event. The presentation Jewish community, those from school- Advertising Manager Carrie Mills bers’ stories in context and weaves the lasts about an hour, Averbuch said. age children to older adults, on just how Staff Writer Kathy Carlson role of Federation in their lives. The “This program is designed to impress much their time and financial contribu- Layout and Production Tim Gregory community members’ stories have been our community about the breadth of tions are needed to continue to service taped as individual vignettes, and they their support and its impact both locally the needs of Jews in Nashville, Israel, and on Jewish communities worldwide,” and around the world,” Fishel added. Telephone 615/356-3242 said Federation Campaign Director For parents of younger children, Fax 615/352-0056 Naomi Limor Sedek. It tells personal members of Hillel at Vanderbilt E-mail [email protected] stories and answers questions about University will be on hand for the entire Federation in an impactful and emotion- event with activities for children, and ‘The Observer’ (ISSN 8750-5290) is DEADLINES al way, she said. there will be care for infants as well, published bi-monthly except July for $25 EDITORIAL DEADLINES The presentation is suitable for chil- Averbuch said. per year by the Jewish Federation of dren from grade-school age on up, It’s important to make reservations Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 801 Percy The Observer’s Yazdian said. “We are trying to encour- for the World’s Fair, including reserva- Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. next two issues are: age families to be together to learn about tions for children to participate in the Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. other Jews around the world and how the activities the Hillel students are offering, POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Federation helps. … There’s a lot of feel- Averbuch said. The event will include a THE OBSERVER, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Copy 12/30 for publication 1/6 ing and emotion coming from these solicitation for participants to make their Nashville, TN 37205 Copy 1/13 for publication 1/20 vignettes, I think each of them have a 2012 pledge to Federation, she contin- This newspaper is made possible by funds wonderful story to tell,” she said. ued, and attendees will be given their raised in the Jewish Federation Annual “I would hope that our World’s Fair pledge cards to sign. Campaign. All material must be typed. program can help further educate our “Federation is one-stop shopping because it goes to so many projects,” The Observer is a member of the Averbuch said. “I give my main gift to American Jewish Press Association and the FOR ADVERTISING Federation because it cuts across a Jewish Telegraphic Agency. panorama of giving that I’m not able to DEADLINES do on my own.” While The Observer makes every contact Carrie Mills, For more information contact possibly effort to accept only reputable Naomi Limor Sedek at naomi@jewish- advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot Advertising Manager guarantee the Kasruth of their products. nashville.org or 615-354-1642 or to 356-3242, ext. 299 make reservations, contact Barbara The Jewish Observer Schwarcz, Federation events coordina- Founded in 1934 by c c c c tor, [email protected] or JACQUES BACK (615) 354-1630. c 4 December 16, 2011 The Observer West End Synagogue brings new music in the New Year

nnovation, inspiration, tradition: positions as well as those of her father, song all of the spirituality and emotion regular headliner at Jewish festivals three ideas that capture the spirit famed Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach. But of our heritage.” around the country. of West End Synagogue’s 2012 while her father’s music touched off a Neshama’s album “Higher and West End Synagogue has plans to Concert and Cultural Series. musical movement in the Higher” was an official expand its concert series with more Launching in January, the series Jewish world, Neshama’s entrant in the 2011 offerings next year. “Our mission is was created as a way to share the music has wider appeal. Grammy Awards and this create something meaningful and Irichness and diversity of Jewish music And, her pairing with the is her first time on a Music lasting for our local Jewish communi- with the greater community by bringing Baptist Choir brings a pow- City stage. ty and for the community at large,” world-class performers to Nashville. erful counterpoint to her The inaugural concert said West End’s President Steve The inaugural event’s premier con- soft folk style. is the first in a varied Hecklin. “This signature event also cert stars the renowned, Grammy nomi- “We are so excited to series for the community. marks the beginning of a new period nated entertainer Neshama Carlebach, bring Neshama Carlebach to In May, West End of growth and leadership at West End in collaboration with the Green Nashville,” said West End Synagogue will host the and we are thrilled to share it with Pastures Baptist Church Choir. Synagogue Rabbi Kliel Rose, second concert starring everyone,” he added. Neshama sings inspiring original com- “She has managed to contin- Rick Recht. Recht is West End Synagogue’s 2012 ue her father's tremendous known to teens around Concert and Cultural Series’ inaugural legacy. At the same time, the country for his inter- Neshama Carlebach concert is on Sat., she has created her own active performances at Jan. 14, 2012, at 7 p.m. at 3rd & path, offering a unique prod- Neshama Carlebach such places as Camp Lindsley. For more information and to uct that has touched a multi- Ramah, BBYO and USY purchase tickets, contact Marcia letter faith, contemporary and culturally International Conventions and NFTY Stewart at 615/269-4592, or email sophisticated audience. She embodies in National Conventions. Recht is also a [email protected]. c To the Editor: When my roommate approached me at the onset of the semester about attending a five-week course hosted by Vanderbilt’s Chabad Jewish Student Center, I admit to having initially har- bored a certain degree of skepticism. At the time, I was not an active member in The Simchas many, if any, of Vanderbilt’s various stu- dent organizations; and when I found out the course was titled “Relationships: Attraction, Love, Hate, Like” (a subject, & Celebrations Issue! I can assure you, I am generally reticent about), I even figured my participation might be limited to just this one, five- week session. January 20, 2012 What I could not have anticipated, however, was what the course would eventually become to me: an enlighten- ing discourse on Jewish philosophy, an introduction to the wonderful aspects of Jewish life at Vanderbilt, and a funda- mental testament to the value of partici- pation — on campus and elsewhere. The courses are collectively offered We will be highlighting lifecycle as a part of the jLearn program, which is, “aimed at exploring new realms of Jewish events including Weddings, thought and philosophy,” and are greatly Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, aided by the admirable leadership of Rabbi Shlomo Rothstein. Engaging and Anniversaries and Births. charismatic, Rabbi Shlomo is, above all, well versed in the finer (and even more We know that you will want to be technical) aspects of Jewish philosophy included in this issue. For advertisers and literature. Although the course I took operated under the title who contract a 1/8 page ad or Relationships, conversation was free flowing and open to tangential discourse. larger we will be happy to contact By participation in the jLearn pro- you for articles pertaining to grams, one also experiences the embrac- ing atmosphere cultivated by the your business. Vanderbilt Chabad Center. I have expe- rienced nothing but the warmest greet- ings, and I continue to look forward to spending time each Wednesday with Rabbi Shlomo and company discussing Deadline for ads the more enthralling aspects of Jewish philosophy. is January 13, 2012 The jLearn program reaffirms the familiar aphorism that you get out of life what you put into it. While some may be hesitant to take that first step in signing up for a program at the Chabad Center, Contact: Carrie Mills, or even participating in any other Vanderbilt organization, my experiences Advertising Manager with Rabbi Shlomo and jLearn have 615-354-1699 taught me that such action can only be wholeheartedly encouraged. It seems to e-mail: [email protected] me that the goal of organizations like the Chabad Center, at least in part, is to out- fax: 615-352-0056 last the ephemera of our all-too-hectic lives, and this seems to have been admirably accomplished at Vanderbilt.

Oliver Sall The Observer December 16, 2011 5 Dough Boy: Noah Wildman wants to make knishes popular again

By Jeffrey Yoskowitz But the arrival of a new knish maker knish, a staple of the working class, into cheap, were also popular fare, often in town might be cause to reconsider the haute cuisine. “Part of Jewish character is paired with hotdogs, at the beaches (Tablet Magazine) — When I was lament that the golden days of the knish to see through the silliness,” he said. “To around New York City. 13 and my father deemed me ready for are over. This fall a quixotic 40-year-old go for substance.” And few Jewish foods Back then, Manhattan’s famous the kind of education only to be found Lower East Sider named Noah Wildman are as packed with substance as the knish. Second Avenue, home to the Yiddish within the bloated knishes of Brighton launched Knishery NYC, with the hopes The baked dumpling came to the United theater, was known as Knish Alley. In Beach, we drove from New Jersey to of restoring the food’s glory. “The knish States at the end of the 19th century by 1910, Yonah Schimmel opened a knish Brooklyn for the day so he could intro- chose me,” Wildman told me. He has way of Eastern Europe, with competing store on Houston Street on Manhattan’s duce me to his beloved Mrs. Stahl’s, the begun delivering knishes to customers in accounts tracing the pastry’s origin to Lower East Side. Six years later, the New crème de la crème of the knish world, New York City by bicycle, and his push- either the Polish town of Knyszyn or to a York Times reported on a “knish war,” nearly a decade before it closed its doors cart start-up will soon be vending at village in Slovakia. The knish fillings when rival bakeries on Rivington Street for good in the fall of 2005. street fairs around the city this coming offered a terrific way to add variety to a slashed prices and introduced cabaret The knishes there came hot, right spring. (An early snowfall in late Octo- monotonous diet heavy on potatoes, cab- sideshows to attract customers. off the warming block, and we took them ber scuttled Wildman’s plans to debut bage, and buckwheat. There were also Now a new generation of Jewish to eat on the go. I savored my potato seven types of his knishes at the annual knish varieties tied to the Jewish holi- chefs and bakers around the country are spinach knish, blowing on it before each Hester Street Fair.) days, according to Joan Nathan, such as making their claim on such classic dishes. bite rather than waiting for it to cool The revisiting of so simple a food as kasha for Hannukah and chicken liver Kenny and Zuke’s, in Portland, Ore., down, too eager to eat the dense, moist the knish — a doughy shell usually stuffed for Rosh Hashanah. offers a potato-and-onion variety with yet flaky-crusted dumpling as we wan- with potato, kasha, or cheese — has been At the turn of the 20th century, layers of flaky dough, topped with dered under the train tracks to the Co- a long time coming. Great knishes can be Jewish immigrants in the United States caramelized onions. Wise Sons Jewish ney Island freak shows nearby. Though elusive, while adequate and sometimes would bring knishes — a portable and Delicatessen, in San Francisco, has its Mrs. Stahl’s demise didn’t mean the end disappointing ones, like those available at filling pocket food — to lunch with own occasional potato-onion knish itera- of the knish in New York City, it did Yonah Schimmel in Manhattan and them at their factory jobs. As the food tion, with the onions cooked down in mean, for many of the food’s devotees, Knish Nosh in Queens, generally prevail. writer Arthur Schwartz notes in Jewish schmaltz; the deli also offers potato with the end of a knish worth traveling for. Wildman has no plans to remake the Home Cooking, knishes, which were mushroom and kale, and potato with cubes of house-cured corned beef. “People go crazy for them,” Leo Beckerman, one of Wise Sons’ proprietors, said. And then there’s Wildman. Raised in a Reform household on Staten Island, The 2012 Wildman, who now lives just blocks away from Rivington Street on the Lower East Side, grew up eating frozen knishes but never imagined that he Guide would one day be baking them. He had studied sociology at SUNY Albany but ended up working in the recording industry as the manager of a record label, after which his efforts pub- to Jewish lishing the zine The People’s Ska Annual led him to a job as a graphic designer for MTV. When he was laid off in 2008, Wildman enrolled in culinary school. Nashville After a few years making pizza at the much-loved Franny’s and Amorina in Brooklyn, and then working at Ignazio’s also in Brooklyn, he left last summer to to hit the pursue a project of his own. A series of serendipitous encounters led him to the knish. Wildman visited Williamsburg’s weekly food festival, stands Smorgasburg, and was inspired by the new approaches to classic ethnic fare that he found there. Danny Macaroon, January 2012 for example, had breathed new life into the coconut pastry associated with Passo- ver, and various kimchi makers had suc- cessfully re-branded the Korean ferment- Be sure to be a part ed vegetable staple for the average New Yorker. At the same time, Wildman stumbled into a well-timed lecture series of this annual issue. on the knish taught by one of food’s greatest contemporary champions, Laura Silver, a writer in New York City. DeadlineDeadline for for adsads isis Reawakened by Silver’s enthusiasm, December 30, 2011 Wildman tried out four different recipes November 30, 2011 to find a dough that balanced crisp and elastic textures with chewy and crumbly consistencies. “The dough is a vehicle for filling, but you need the vehicle first,” he said. He uses two kinds of dough — one for Contact Carrie Mills, savory knishes and one for sweet ones, “a kind of Bubbe’s pâte sucrée.” Keeping the Advertising Manager right proportion of dough to filling is one 615-354-1699 of the most critical elements of a perfect knish, Wildman said. His fillings range e-mail from high-quality versions of the stan- dards to savory pumpkin, apple-cheese, [email protected] and chocolate hazelnut. In addition, he plans future fillings of curry sweet potato, fax 615-352-0056 the crispy chicken fat known as gribenes, and mushroom-quinoa. c Jeffrey Yoskowitz is a freelance writer in New York and the editor of the website Pork Memoirs. This article originally appeared on Tablet Magazine, tabletmag.com. 6 December 16, 2011 The Observer Israeli screenwriter discusses his film at Vanderbilt anderbilt students and screening in conjunction with the community members Consulate of Israel to the Southeast in came together to view the Atlanta. Deputy Consul Sharon Kaba- Israeli film, “Walk on Wa- lo introduced the film. Following the ter,” on the university film, Gal Uchovsky, the Israeli screen- campus on Dec. 7. The writer and producer, spoke about the VJewish Federation’s Community Relations making of film and answered questions. Committee, Vanderbilt Hillel, the LGBT He also sat down with students after association at Vanderbilt and the Jewish the dessert reception for an in-depth Studies Department sponsored the discussion. c

From left: Lital Swissa, Israel fellow at Vanderbilt Hillel; Gal Uchovsky; Inbar Shaked, Jewish Federation shlicha; and Sharon Kabalo, deputy Israeli consul from Atlanta Photos: Judy Saks

Gal Uchovsky answers questions from Frances Hahn. Gal Uchovsky talks with students after the screening.

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 The Observer December 16, 2011 7 In U.S., Israeli art isn’t just for the JCC anymore

By Dan Klein of Art; brought the Alon Yavnai jazz tions, as well as manpower help from tial,” Young told JTA. “It gave us confi- quintet to Severance Hall, the home of the federation. Among the components dence to move forward with the project.” NEW YORK (JTA) — Cleveland the Cleveland Orchestra; supported a of the program is a part-time Israeli She said performances like these are has gained an unlikely new patron of the sold-out performance of “My Name is scout for talent who comes to a great way for non-Jews to learn about arts: the local Jewish Federation. Asher Lev” at the Cleveland Play House; Cleveland every couple of months to Israel. As part of a new project to help and sponsored talks from Israeli novelist suggest collaborations with particular “The arts transcend a lot of things: showcase Israeli artists, the Jewish Amos Oz at Oberlin College and Case artists or groups. They transcend age, race, they transcend Federation of Cleveland is helping to Western Reserve University. Meanwhile, non-Jewish venues in stereotypes,” Young said. “Israeli artists facilitate Israeli performances at some In March, the Cleveland Cleveland are turning to the committee aren’t always making art about Israeli of the city’s major museums, concert International Film Festival will feature for help. experiences or Jewish experiences, but halls and theaters. The program films from Israel. Pam Young, the executive director they’re making work, interesting work.” launched earlier this fall aims not just The program to boost Israel is of DANCECleveland, said she had Attempts to bring Israeli culture to to boost Israel but the Israeli arts with unusual both for its partnerships with wanted to bring the Israeli Inbal Pinto & secular venues haven’t always gone the message that Israeli culture isn’t just non-Jewish institutions and its ambition Avshalom Pollak Dance Company to the smoothly. In 2009, the Toronto for the JCC anymore. to bring Israeli culture to a city with a city a few years ago to perform its new International Film Festival came under “The mission is to project Israel as a relatively modest Jewish population of work at the time, “Oyster,” but to do so fire for including Israeli movies. But in source of world-class art and culture,” about 80,000 and few Israelis. would have been cost prohibitive. Cleveland, organizers say they haven’t said Erica Hartman-Horovitz, an art “You don’t need to do this in New When Young heard recently that encountered such opposition. appraiser who co-chairs the program, the York because New York — and probably the dance company would be reprising Young said bringing Israeli artists to Cleveland Israel Arts Connection. L.A., Washington and Miami — has reg- “Oyster” during a U.S. tour, she turned town may be heartwarming for Jews, but “When most people think of Israel ular presentations, and because you have to the federation and the shidduch was it also gives non-Jews an opportunity to they’re thinking of the conflict, maybe a large Jewish and Israeli population and made. In late January, the Israeli compa- enjoy great art — it just happens to be the incredible efforts that Israel goes these things can play there successfully ny will perform for two days at from Israel. through to survive. We want to illustrate even competing against other cultural PlayhouseSquare, the country’s second- “There are going to be non-Jews in the Israel arts and culture world as some- options,” said Stephen Hoffman, CEO of largest performing arts center after New the audience,” she said of the upcoming thing that is more than that for those the Cleveland Jewish Federation. “But York’s Lincoln Center. dance performance. “They’ll be the first who might not be interested in Israel for once you leave the largest Jewish popula- “Federation leadership was essen- ones on their feet.” c other reasons.” tion centers, you have to work at it. Made up of volunteers from the Some of these performers might come to Cleveland arts, performance, music and Cleveland anyway, some might not, but JCRS camp scholarship deadline Feb. 1 literary communities, the program’s com- some need more help.” ll families interested in over 1,300 Jewish youth in 2011. mittee has helped bring Ladino singer The help includes funding of “needs-based” scholar- For more information on how to Yasmin Levy to the Cleveland Museum $50,000 in corporate and private dona- ships for their children apply for assistance or provide financial to attend a nonprofit, support to the oldest Jewish Children’s Jewish, overnight camp agency in the United States, visit the for the summer of 2012 website at www.jcrs.org; write JCRS at Ashould submit applications to the Jewish PO Box 7368, Metairie, LA 70010, or The Observer Children’s Regional Service before the call 1/800.729-5277. c Feb. 1, 2012, deadline. Applications received after the deadline date will be considered for funds, but applicants will not receive the same award considera- is now online! tion as those received by the deadline. Families who live in the seven-state Yo u can find the latest issue, past issues, plus streaming region of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, news updates and links to Jewish organizations at Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas are eligible to apply. Families are required to apply online through the www.jewishobservernashville.org JCRS agency website: www.jcrs.org. During the summer of summer of 2011, JCRS assisted 300 Jewish youth Now you have a choice: from the region to attend over 30 differ- Read the print edition or read us online. ent camps. Over the last 15 years, JCRS has enabled its young clients to attend 90 such camps. Yo u can also access the Observer from the The JCRS camp scholarship pro- Jewish Federation website: www.jewishnashville.org gram is just one of six JCRS programs that provided financial assistance to Business Card Directory Works by Mildred Jarrett and Lauren McCall are on exhibit through the end of YOUR GUIDE TO FINE BUSINESSES December in the GJCC’s Janet Levine March Gallery. McCall’s Exotic Portrait is AND SERVICES AROUND MUSIC CITY. one of the works on display. In addition, staff working in the building are showing PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS, 615.356.3242 EXT. 299 their works in the newly dedicated Sig Held Gallery. For more information on THEY’RE THE BEST! this and other exhibits, call Carrie Mills at the GJCC, 356-7170, or email her at [email protected]. Green Hills Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair Your Real Estate Resource Rings Sized, Jewelry Repaired While U Wait Platinum • 14k • 18k • Watch Batteries & Repair David Roberts LISA SPILLER-BLAUSTONELISA SPILLER Sterling Silver • Prong Rebuilding • Appraisals Cell: 615-430-1598 Director of Sales and Marketing Eyeglass Repair • Antique Restoration Office: 615-383-6600 2324 Crestmoor Road, Nashville, TN 37215 Scott Isaacs - Owner [email protected] (615) 777-0001 • fax (615) 986-5200 email: [email protected] Belle Meade Plaza www.hamptoninn.com/hi/nash-greenhills 4522 Harding Road A Rochford Hotel Group Property Bellemeadejewelry.com 615-269-3288 2319 Crestmoor Rd. Nashville, TN 37215 8 December 16, 2011 The Observer a devoted wife, and a very loving mother nieces and nephews. A lifelong resident for her family, friends, fun, and of course and grandmother to her children and of Williamson County, James was pre- fashion, never wavered, despite illness grandchildren, a very devoted sister and ceded in death by parents, Myra and and advanced age. She leaves behind a loyal friend. She is survived by her hus- Clifton McCanless. Mr. McCanless was a loving, devoted son, Steve, and his wife lifecycles band of 32 years, Lawrence (Larry) longtime contributor the the Jewish Lynn, along with her nieces, Betsi Fillmore Ficks; daughters and sons-in- Federation. The family asks that contri- Tunnell of Nashville and Barbara Mizes Birth law, Robin and Robert Schletter of New butions be made to Williamson County of Santa Barbara, Calif. Barbara had the York City, and Randi and Allen Lesnick 4H; Red Cross; Bridges of Williamson ability to leave her mark on people and Corinne and Leonard Bickman are of Franklin; grandchildren, Michael and County or the Nashville Rescue Mission. made numerous friends during her 94 happy to announce the birth of their Dana Schletter of New York City, Jason plus years of living. Her passing will granddaughter, Lillian Eleanor and Jonathan Lesnick of Franklin; step- . . . to the family of Barbara leave a void in the hearts of many. Bickman, daughter of Joshua and Paula daughter and stepson-in-law, Georgia Salomon Waterman Meyer, who died Donations may be given to Alive Bickman of Miami Beach, Fla. Lillian is and Al Haase of Phoenix, Ariz.; sister Nov. 28. Born March 5, 1917, in Hospice, or The St. Thomas Dan Rudy the sister of Maxwell Phillip, and is also and brother-in-law, Joan and Sanford Louisville, Ky., Barbara, along with her Cancer Center. the granddaughter of Margo and Edward Camp of Brentwood, Tenn.; and Coco, husband Jack, were the proprietors of a Glab of Miami Beach. her toy poodle, who was the love of her group of women's specialty shops, . . . to the family of Mozelle life. Memorials may be made to one’s including The Village Store (1960 to Mosesman, 93, who died Dec. 2. She is favorite charity. 1977), a Nashville ladies clothing store survived by her son, Denny Mosesman B’nai Mitzvah where many of Nashville's most fashion- (Connie Baer), and grandchildren, . . . to the family of Julian Paul able ladies shopped. Due to the death of Taylor and Kelsey Mosesman. A memo- Jonah Hoffman will be called to Kanter, 85, of Nashville, who died Dec. Barbara's second husband, Theo Meyer, rial service was held in Dallas, Texas, Torah as a Bar Mitzvah 5. He was a devoted member of the entire chain closed in 1987. Former where her deceased husband, Ben on Sat., Jan. 14, at 11 Congregation Micah and its “Schmooze Village Store patrons still speak of a Mosesman is buried. Contributions can a.m. at The Temple. Group.” Loving husband of the late Lois favorite item of clothing they purchased, be made to Alive Hospice and Jonah is the son of W. Kanter; father of Rabbi Kenneth accompanying Barbara on buying trips to Congregation Micah. Betsy and Seth Kanter (the late Wendy Kanter), Lynn New York, the whimsical store décor, or Hoffman and the broth- Kanter (Janet Coleman) and Karen the “Coffee Club,” where regular patrons . . . to the family of Alan Sterling, er of Gracie. His grand- Kanter, and loving partner of Sally had their names painted on their own who died Dec. 14. He is survived by his parents are: Raye Ann Jonah Hoffman Kaplan. A veteran of WWII, he spent 21 coffee cups, which hung on the Village wife, Linda Sterling, and his son, and Ralph Greenbaum years in television broadcasting, ulti- Store wall. Barbara was a fun loving, Gabriel (Julie). Donations may be of Nashville, Arlyne Dondis of mately serving as general manager in beautiful lady with a joyful spirit and made to Congregation Micah’s Jacksonville, Fla., and the late Ed Miami, Fla., and Albany, N.Y. Julian had unlimited sense of humor. Her passions Matching Gift Fund. Hoffman of Rockland, Maine. a passion for politics. He volunteered for A seventh grader at University Democratic Party causes, managing cam- School of Nashville, Jonah enjoys spend- paigns and serving as a presidential con- ing his summers at Camp Timberlane, vention delegate (1960) and a member of snowboarding, playing basketball and the Electoral College (1964). One of the climbing as well as surfing the web. first to collect political television com- For his Mitzvah Project, Jonah is mercials from all levels of local and raising awareness and funds for a primate national campaigns, he built the largest sanctuary. collection in the world, which is now the Julian P. Kanter Political Commercial Memorial service Archive at the University of Oklahoma, where he taught from 1985 to 1995. Peter Katz was memorialized at a Julian is survived by siblings, Joan Kanter service at The Temple - Ohabai Sholom Elman (Barry) and Alan E. Kanter, as on Dec. 12. Peter will be missed by well as Michael H. Weinberg, Jr. (Joan) Marion, his sons and his grandchildren. and Donna Levy Weinberg, and numer- Peter's creativity was expressed in his ous nieces and nephews. Memorial con- engineering. His passion was consumed tributions may be made to Congregation by his tennis. His devotion was exhibited Micah, or the Wendy Kanter Student in his caring for Marion. Donations may Fund at Hebrew Union College, 3101 be made to The Temple - Ohabai Sholom Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH. or the Maccabiah Games. Donor infor- mation can be found at www.temple . . . to the family of James Caldwell Jewish Federation Executive Director Mark S. Freedman and Federation President Martin Ted nashville.org/ and www.maccabiah.com/. McCanless Sr., 83, of Nolensville, Mayden hold a Chanukiah presented to the Jewish Federation of Nashville by the Jewish Tenn., who died on Dec. 7 from conges- Federations of North America (JFNA). The gift was presented at the JFNA General Assembly in Denver last month in recognition of the Nashville Federation’s 75th anniversary. Others in tive heart failure. He is survived by his Nashville’s seven-member delegation to the GA were 2012 Annual Campaign Chair Sandra Sympathy wife, Barbara; sister, Tommie Siesky; Averbuch, Federation Board member Steve Hirsch, Grants Committee Co-Chair Carol children, Jim (Peggy), Robin Carol and Hyatt, Federation Campaign Director Naomi Limor Sedek and Federation Past President . . . to the family of Shola Lewis Jonathan (Lee); grandchildren, Jay Fred Zimmerman. Ficks, 81, of Franklin, Tenn., who died (Colleen), Todd Thomas, Allison on Dec. 6. Shola moved to Franklin 10 (David) Aront, Brad (Misty) Thomas, years ago to live near her daughter, Phillip, Hope (Brett) Whaley, Vance, Randi Lesnick. She was born and raised Luke and Trey; great grandchildren, in Hillside, N.J., where she raised two Hayden and Reed Thomas, Katie Anne daughters to whom she was devoted. and Nancy McCanless, Katie June and ClassifiedClassified Ads Ads Shola was a remarkable woman. She was Griffin Lee Thomas; many cousins, MAKE LIFE EASIER

You know you need me. We just haven’t met yet. “AN EXTRA PAIR OF HANDS” Companion, shopping, MD ADVERTISE TODAY visits, patient & family e-mail Carrie Mills advocacy, home safety evalua- [email protected] tions, re-organize, de-clutter, estate, and special projects. Senior Discounts. Client references available. Whatever you need I’ve probably done it before. Jane R. Snyder 615-557- 6277 [email protected]

The Observer December 16, 2011 9 Give the gift of blood at local blood drives hink outside the box this in high demand because it can be trans- holiday season. The per- fused to patients with any blood type, fect gift is at your nearest especially in emergency situations. American Red Cross Locally, you may give blood on the blood drive or blood dona- following dates: tion center. And, unlike • Wed., Dec. 21, from 8:30 a.m. Tthe latest fashion trend, video game or to 12:30 p.m. at Bellevue YMCA and golf club, it costs nothing but an hour of Fifty Forward J.L. Turner Center located your time. By taking time to donate this at 8101 Highway 100 in Bellevue. winter, you can help the Red Cross • Thurs., Dec. 22, from 3 to 7 ensure a stable blood supply for all p.m. at Colonial Grand at Bellevue patients who need blood products. located at 2828 Old Hickory Blvd. in All blood types are needed to help Nashville. maintain a sufficient blood supply, espe- • Fri., Dec. 23, from 3 to 7 p.m. at cially type O negative. Type O negative Boost FitClub located at 7062 Highway blood, the universal blood type, is always 70 South in Bellevue. c

On Nov. 13, 120 Jewish community members were entertained by a piano and trumpet duet around the town persormed by Sam Glaser and Congregation Sherith Israel Rabbi Saul Strosberg. The event, chaired by Marisa Mayhan and Lorna Graff, was the 2011 Nashville Chapter of Hadassah Donor SI Latke Supper Israeli dancing event. Along with the entertainment, there was a multi-media presentation about the work of Sherith Israel Sisterhood will hold The Nashville Israeli Folk Dancers Hadassah amd a dessert reception. Dana Waxler, Southern Region president of Hadassah its annual Latke Supper on Sun., Dec. meet every Monday evening at the attended the event. Pictured from left, Mark 25. It’s the oldest community Chanukah Schulman Center for Jewish Life (across Freedman, Jewish Federation executive director; event in town. It begins at 5:30 p.m. from Memorial Gym) at Vanderbilt Jill Melody Pankowsky, Hadassah chapter presi- with the kindling of the giant menorah University. Warm-up and beginners dent; and Pam Kelner, Jewish Family Service on the front lawn and the singing of dances are from 7:30-8:30. Intermediate- executive director. Sam Glaser performs. Chanukah songs. A latke supper will be advanced dancing and requests are from served at 6. Pricing this year is cheaper 8:30-10. Stay for all or part of the time, with advance reservations, so call the and attend any or all of the sessions. No Shul office at 292-6614 for reservations previous dance experience is required. Look for the Observer online at to ensure there will be enough latkes for Everyone is welcome to participate. For everyone. more information, contact: Carol Rubin www.jewishobservernashville.org at 352-9447 (Carol.Rubin@vanderbilt. edu) or Sharon Morrow at 662-4881 See what’s happening in the community. ([email protected]) or Go to www.jewishnashville.org visit the website at www.vanderbilt.edu/ israelidance/. Buy MARSHALL DONNELLY & COMBS FUNERAL HOME Israel! 201 25th Ave., North Nashville, Tennessee 37203 hroughout the United States Eden Feta Cheese – Trader Joe’s and in many parts of the world, Dorot frozen garlic and herbs – 327-1111 Tthere is a concerted effort to Trader Joe’s Capturing, Sharing and Preserving the Memories of Life. delegitimze the State of Israel. One of Telma products – Publix the tactics being used is a boycott of Moroccan Hair Oil treatment – Israeli products. This action has been Cosmetics Market seen in several locations in our country. Sweet Clementines (oranges) – In an effort to counter that boycott Costco and support Israel, many Jewish com- Cedars Halva – Whole Foods munities and organizations have urged refrigerated section Americans to buy Israeli products. The Streit’s Quinoa and Israeli Community Relations Committee of Couscous – Harris Teeter the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Jaffa Oranges – Publix The Observer want to make it easier for Muscato wine by Golan Wineries – Nashvillians to find Israeli-made goods Bud’s Wine and Liquor, by publishing a list of the products and Green Hills where to find them, locally. Carries musical instruments made We need your help. If you know of in Israel – Gymboree Play & available products and the stores that Music, Cool Springs carry them, email that information to Yehuda Yahrzeit candles – Whole [email protected]. Food, cloth- Foods ing, jewelry, wine, etc., whatever you Yehuda matzos – Kroger have found, please share it with our Yehuda and Aviv matzo products – community. Whole Foods See the updated list, below and Cosmetics found at Target: send your additions to judy@jewish- Equate 3 Micro Remodeling nashville.org or call 354-1637. Cream Daily Regenerating Serum Israeli silver jewelry - Eye Lifting Serum area TJMaxx stores My Time Firming Cream To access the Community Calendar, Geffen Pickles – Belle Meade Naot shoes and sandals – Cute and Kroger Comfy Shoes, Green Hills go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Sabra Hummus and dips – area Every community event is listed for your convenience. grocery stores and Costco 10 December 16, 2011 The Observer PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS ELECTRICIAN MUSICIANS AND DJs REAL ESTATE con’t Cathy Werthan, CPA, PFS BOB’S ELECTRIC CO. 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The Observer December 16, 2011 11 Amid tensions with allies abroad, Netanyahu shoring up power at home Continued from page 1 ry by President Obama. tions between the Israeli government Central Committee election was last Responding to a question in an off- According to the theory, Netanyahu and the Obama administration have held a decade ago and many will not the-record session at the same confer- is afraid that Obama in a second term deteriorated. want to miss the chance to choose a ence, Clinton reportedly expressed some will renew pressure on Israel to freeze Still Shoval, who recently returned new committee. concerns over the state of Israeli democ- building in the West Bank, dismantle to Israel from a trip to the U.S., where he A large turnout not only will give racy. She was said to have criticized gen- outposts or take other proactive steps to met with senior White House officials, more legitimacy to Netanyahu’s victory, der-segregated buses serving the haredi jump-start negotiations — steps that, if said the recent comments by Panetta and it also might help him to further sideline Orthodox community and a proposed implemented, could endanger the stabil- Clinton should be taken “with a grain of far-right party activist Moshe Feiglin, Knesset measure aimed at constricting ity of Netanyahu’s coalition and turn salt.” Shoval said he was told that the Netanyahu’s only competition, who gar- left-wing NGOs. hawkish Likud Knesset members against comments were made “off the cuff.” nered 23 percent of the vote in the last After the comments by Clinton and the prime minister. “I’ve never felt such strong support primaries, held in 2007, thanks in part to Panetta were made public, influential Some have suggested that a second for Israel in Washington,” he added. the mobilization of a highly motivated Haaretz columnist Ari Shavit accused Obama administration may even Shoval also dismissed the idea put minority against a more complacent pro- Netanyahu of sacrificing the support of attempt to send out signals of dissatisfac- forward by Shavit that the Netanyahu Netanyahu camp. the democratic West — which he said tion with the Netanyahu government government is moving away from the Netanyahu also has taken steps to over the years has supported Israel polit- ahead of the 2013 Israeli elections in an values of Western democracies. “Unlike partially roll back affirmative action ically, militarily and economically — to attempt to influence the outcome. in the U.S., we have no death penalty for measures that have encouraged West maintain his base of “nationalists,” There are precedents: Bill Clinton, criminals, openly gay soldiers have long Bank settlers to participate in the Likud’s “national-religious” and “haredim.” fed up with Netanyahu’s settlement poli- enjoyed full rights in the IDF, we have no Central Committee by giving them pro- Shavit and other centrists would cies, used the tactic to help Ehud Barak problem with abortions and there is no portionally more representatives relative have preferred to see Netanyahu form a defeat Netanyahu in the 1999 Israeli political intervention in the appoint- to their size. coalition with Kadima and Labor follow- elections, and George H.W. Bush, ment of justices to the Supreme Court,” While solid, the stability of the cur- ing the 2009 elections. If he had, some angered by Yitzhak Shamir’s intransi- Shoval said. rent Israeli government is not unshak- argue, Israel may have made more head- gence on peace talks with the Yisrael Beiteinu’s David Rotem, able. A possible corruption indictment way in peace talks with the Palestinians Palestinians, did the same in 1992 to chairman of the Knesset Constitution, against Foreign Minister Avigdor and been on better terms with the help Yitzhak Rabin to victory, according Law and Justice Committee, also dis- Lieberman, upon whom Yisrael Obama administration and with to Zalman Shoval, who was Israel’s missed claims that Israel was drifting Beiteinu’s other largely unknown Western European countries. ambassador to the U.S. in Likud-led gov- away from the West. Knesset members rely for political cur- But if Netanyahu had formed such a ernments during both periods and now “Israel has its own form of democra- rency, could devastate the party. coalition, it is not at all clear that his heads the prime minister’s advisory cy, a Jewish democracy,” Rotem said. The Sephardic haredi Orthodox position within the Likud would have forum on U.S.-Israel relations. “And this Jewish democracy is no differ- party Shas, another key coalition part- been as strong as it is today. Nor is it Holding the Likud leadership race ent from Western democracies — it ner, would be vulnerable in the event of clear that Netanyahu would have in January would enable Netanyahu to defends itself when it is attacked.” a number of possible developments, enjoyed the sort of political stability he advance the general elections to as early Though he is widely seen as hawk- including the sudden death of its spiritu- has with his current partners. as July 2012 if he sees Obama doing well ish, Netanyahu has taken steps to posi- al leader, nonagenarian Rabbi Ovadia The apparent tensions between in the polls, though the scenario seems tion Likud as a more centrist party. He Yosef, or a challenge from its charismat- Jerusalem and Washington have fueled far-fetched. Also, moving up the vote called the snap leadership race to coin- ic former political leader Aryeh Deri. speculation that Netanyahu’s call for an would depend on Netanyahu’s ability to cide with a previously planned Likud These potential dangers to his coali- early leadership vote was connected in muster a majority in the Knesset for early Central Committee election. Doing so tion’s stability, which might lead to early part to the U.S. presidential elections in elections — no easy task. is expected to increase the chances of a elections, may have provided additional November. Some commentators have Nevertheless, such speculation large turnout from about 100,000 eligi- impetus for Netanyahu to consolidate his speculated that Netanyahu fears a victo- reflects the perception in Israel that rela- ble party members, since the last power now. c

12 December 16, 2011 The Observer