the Jewish bserver www.jewishobservernashville.org Vol. 80 No. 9 • September 2015 17 Elul 5775-17 Tishrei 5776

New Year Shana Tova 5776 Greetings, page 12 2016 annual campaign begins; aims to raise $2.5 million to sustain Jewish communities here and around the globe By CHARLES BERNSEN

here were plenty of stalwart veterans among the volun- teers who gathered last month for the launch of the Jewish Federation of the meeting room of the Gordon Jewish Nashville and Middle Community Center for an initial hour- TTennessee’s 2016 annual campaign. But long workshop. there also were some eager young rookies. This marks the fourth year in which Andrea and Kevin Falik, both 29, are campaign volunteers have been divided co-captains of a team of volunteers who into teams for a friendly competition will focus on engaging young adults in the called the Kehillah Cup Challenge. For annual campaign, which is seeking to the 2016 campaign there are eight teams, raise $2.5 million that will be distributed each with a captain and between five and to 77 institutions and programs in eleven members who have been assigned Nashville, Israel and Jewish communities to solicit up to half a dozen members of around the world. Andrea and Kevin Falik (on right) are co-captains of a team that will focus on engaging young the Bonim Society, whose previous annu- “Andrea and I look at this as an adults in the 2016 annual campaign of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Here they are talking with Batia and Aron Karabel, co-chairs of the philanthropic arm of al gifts range from $1,000 to $100,000. opportunity to help build a community of NowGen Nashville. The “players” score points not just for young Jewish adults who are involved and the donations they secure but also for committed,” said Kevin, the senior direc- campaign, both are continuing long fam- “We’re here together as a team with arranging face-to-face conversations with tor of BBYO’s Cotton States Region, ily traditions of involvement in their the goal of having Jewish conversations prospective donors and taking photos which includes Nashville. Jewish communities. In fact, Andrea’s and building the commitment that will with them. The team with the most Andrea is a native of Nashville and aunt is Federation Campaign Chairman continue to sustain our Jewish communi- points wins the opportunity to assign an Kevin of Houston, TX. While new to the Lisa Perlen. ty,” Perlen told the volunteers gathered in Continued on page 3 Meryl Kraft grew up at JCC and The Deli Man has “always kept coming back” Sept. 24 tribute planned for retiring adult programming director

By CHARLES BERNSEN

eryl Kraft’s first job at the Jewish Community Center was as coun- selor in training for the summer camp program. That was David “Ziggy Gruber,” owner of Kenny and Mback in 1967 when she was 13 – and Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen Restaurant in she’s been working there in some capaci- Houston, Texas, will be on hand for the screening of Deli Man at the Nashville Jewish ty pretty much ever since. Film Festival, which begins next month. Kraft will retire at the end of this Gruber is the central figure in director Erik month after holding a remarkable variety Greenberg’s documentary on kosher Jewish of positions at the center, including stints delicatessens, the final installment of his tril- ogy on American Jewish culture. A full story as public relations director, summer camp Meryl Kraft makes announcements at a recent TGIT luncheon for seniors. “Meryl is like the is on Page 10 and schedule is on Page 11. Continued on page 3 den mother of the seniors,” says Joel Mazor, a TGIT regular. (Photo courtesy of Cohen Media Group)

A Publication of the Pardes scholar Federation Partnership to be in Board opposes 2Gether Nashville for Iran nuclear projects will Global Day of deal; readers pair visual Jewish Learning and columnists artists, on Nov. 15. express their young adults. page 4 views, pro page 9 and con. WWW.JEWISHNASHVILLE.ORG pages 29 and 30 Have a sweet year. And share what Rosh Hashanah means to you. #RoshHashanahPublix

2 September 2015 The Observer Campaign Continued from page 1 additional $10,000 to an area of service of its choice. As an added incentive this year, the player with the most points also will get to direct an additional $2,500 to an area of service of his or her choice. Though she acknowledged the team format is “a little kitschy,” Federation Campaign Director Naomi Sedek told the volunteers it has been quite effective. First, it helps build both camaraderie Dianne Berry (right) is captain of a team among the volunteers and enthusiasm that includes Rae and Bruce Hirsch. among donors, who like being part of a friendly competition – especially for a Federation can help fulfill them. cause they find meaningful. (At least These kinds of one-on-one Jewish three other federations have adopted conversations are exactly the approach some form of the team competition for philanthropic organizations like the their own annual campaigns, Sedek said.) Federation must undertake if they are to Just as important, it has helped the be successful in the 21st century, said Federation achieve its goal of transform- fundraising expert David Saginaw, the Fundraising expert David Saginaw told volunteers to translate their interest in donors into a Jewish conversations that are “both an expression of your commitment and their passion.” ing the annual solicitations for donations featured speaker at the kickoff workshop. of Bonim Society members into “Jewish Fundraising used to be mostly about with so many more options for charitable “This makes a huge difference in conversations” in which the solicitor and the institution, its goals and effective- giving, the focus is explaining to donors terms of the Jewish conversations you potential donor meet face to face, make ness, said Saginaw, who has been both a how the institution fits their philan- will have,” he said. “They should reflect a or deepen a friendship by sharing their volunteer and professional with Jewish thropic goals. That means solicitors genuine interest in the donor … and be Jewish stories, and discuss their visions philanthropic organizations and runs a “need to know the interest of prospective both an expression of your commitment for the Jewish community and how the philanthropy consulting business. Today, donors,” Saginaw said. and their passion.” •

ety of special courses, events and presen- – whether for summer camp, BBYO or “We have an excellent director and a Kraft tations on arts and crafts, cooking, gar- attending other clubs with her family on great staff. The center is on an upswing, so Continued from page 1 dening, home photography, music, trav- Sundays. As an adult, the center is where it’s a good time to make a change.” director, after school programming coor- el, current events, Jewish history and she has always come to work out and But just because she’s retiring does- dinator and, for the past 20 years, pro- culture, health and personal improve- play racquetball. n’t mean Kraft won’t remain a presence gramming coordinator for seniors and ment – not to mention regular outings to “The GJCC is like home. When you at the GJCC. She and her husband, adults. Oh, and for almost 19 years she places like an archeological site at walk through the door, you enter a warm Keith, are both Nashville natives with also sold ads for The Jewish Observer of Harpeth River State Park or a perform- and welcoming environment with top- large extended families here. Nashville and helped former editor Judy ance at TPAC. notch programs and activities for every- “I’m definitely not going anywhere,” Saks lay out the newspaper. But senior adults are perhaps the one from birth to 101,” said Kraft. “The Kraft said. “I want to do more art classes. Even during her career as an educator biggest beneficiaries of Kraft’s program- GJCC ties the Jewish community In fact, I want to participate in a lot of – first as a public school art teacher in ming innovations. The Prime Time together and welcomes every faith and the activities we offer at the center. I Nashville and Franklin and then as reli- group for seniors hosts regular dinner every family or individual.” may be retiring, but it’s still my Jewish gious school director at The Temple – programs, parties, overnight trips, casino Kraft said “the time is right” to retire. Community Center.” • Kraft often held a second job at the center. outings and cultural excursions. TGIT – “I grew up at the JCC,” Kraft said, the centerpiece of senior programming at “and I’ve always kept coming back.” the GJCC – is a weekly luncheon where To celebrate her contributions, the 35-40 seniors regularly show up for light Gordon Jewish Community Center has exercise, a blood pressure check, and a designated Thursday, Sept. 24 as Meryl program that can be educational (a pres- Kraft Day. It will include a tribute to entation on how to protect themselves Kraft at the weekly Thank Goodness It’s from fraud, for example) or just fun and Thursday luncheon for seniors – TGIT is entertaining (musician Sheldon Kahan one of her many programming innova- is a favorite). tions – as well as a cocktail reception “Meryl is like the den mother of the from 5-7 p.m. seniors. She does a remarkable job of “Meryl has done a tremendous job taking care of us,” said Joel Mazor, who building an adult program that is truly a recalls that it was Kraft who showed model for other JCC'S nationwide,” said him around the GJCC for the first time Leslie Sax, executive director of the when he moved to Nashville 10 years GJCC. “We are sad to see her retire, but ago. A TGIT regular, Mazor says the we feel fortunate to have such a great program is “a very important part of my base upon which to continue to grow.” life in Nashville.” In addition to ongoing offerings like Likewise, the Jewish Community the GJCC book club, bridge lessons, mah Center has always been an important jongg and oil painting classes, that pro- part of Kraft’s life. As a youth, she recalls, gramming includes an astonishing vari- it seemed she was there almost every day

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The Observer September 2015 3 Rabbi Alex Israel from Pardes Institute will be in Nashville for Global Day of Jewish Learning on Nov. 15 Congregation Micah will host event

ashville will hold its Economics; the Institute of Education, at www.jewishnashville.org beginning fourth annual Global London, and Bar Ilan University. Born Oct. 1. Day of Jewish Learning and raised in London, he was an active Local Global Day events are funded from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. leader in religious Zionist youth move- by the Jewish Federation and Foundation Sunday, Nov. 15 at ment B’nei Akiva, an experience he of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Congregation Micah, says “set me on the path of my educa- Local partners includes Akiva School, andN for the fourth year it will feature a tional career… We built a creative the Gordon Jewish Community Center, visiting scholar from the Pardes Institute and vibrant educational enterprise and Jewish Family Service, NowGen of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem. a community that sought to live out its Nashville, Get Connected, PJ Library, Rabbi Alex Israel, ideology – Torah, aliya and an active Vanderbilt Hillel, Congregation Beit the Pardes Institute’s contribution to the building of the Tefilah Chabad, Congregation Micah, director of community webcast 24 local plenary sessions through- State of Israel.” Congregation Sherith Israel, The education and its sum- out the day, one each hour. The Nashville As in previous year’s, the Pardes Temple, West End Synagogue, B’nai mer program, will lead a session led by Rabbi Israel will be one of Institute faculty member’s visit to B’rith Youth Organization (BBYO), morning plenary session those seen by Jews around the world. Nashville is made possible through the Chabad Jewish Student Center at on this year’s theme – Rabbi Israel, a popular lecturer at generosity of Libby and Moshe Werthan. Vanderbilt University, Hadassah “Love: Devotion, Desire campuses and communities on three Look for more details and registra- Nashville Chapter, National Council of and Deception.” That Rabbi Alex continents who also teaches at tion information about Global Day in Jewish Women Nashville Chapter, B’nai will be followed by a Israel Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, holds degree the October issue of The Observer. B’rith Social Unit and B’nai B’rith kosher lunch and panel discussion by from the London School of Online registration will also be available Maimonides Lodge #46. • local rabbis and then seven afternoon breakout sessions focusing on the Global Day theme, each led by a local Jewish clergy member or educator. Following the breakout sessions, From the Rabbi Israel will conduct a special in- service session for the community’s Campaign Trail Jewish educators. Another program will feature a session for PJ Library toddlers and their parents. Giving is a privilege Initiated by the Aleph Society in 2010, the annual Global Day of Jewish By LISA PERLEN Sternberg and Irwin Venick. They and tiple points of alignment to our donors’ Learning is aimed at fostering Jewish the other team captains, Ben Doochin goals. Each program supported by unity and knowledge by bringing together ast month we kicked off the and Janet Weismark, have assembled Federation dollars is reviewed every year hundreds of communities around the Jewish Federation of teams of dedicated members of the com- in light of how its objectives and out- world to study the same sacred texts on Nashville and Middle munity who will be reaching out to con- comes fulfill its mission and the priorities the same day. To make the event truly Tennessee’s 2016 annual tact each of you to talk about the annual established by the community. global in nature, organizers will again campaign. We are fortunate campaign and how you can help. Since stewardship of donor funds is to have a broad spectrum of David Saginaw from Philanthropic very important, I am happy to report that Lthe community with us, Strategies, LLC addressed the group and the Federation’s annual campaign dis- c c c c including members of spoke about the evolving community tributes 91 percent of the funds it raises STAFF NowGen Nashville, led and donor needs. He told us that the to support valuable programs both here by Batia and Aron most important factors a donor considers and overseas. This community has expe- Publisher Mark S. Freedman Karabel, and team cap- in making a contribution is whether rienced exponential growth in the num- Editor Charles Bernsen tains Dianne Berry, their philanthropic goals align with the ber and quality of services provided in Advertising Manager Carrie Mills Andrea and Kevin mission of the organization and whether our community with Federation as a Layout and Production Tim Gregory Falik, Lori Fishel, Lisa Perlen the donor can trust the organization to driving force and funding partner. Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), Arthur Perlen, Gloria use the funds appropriately. The Federation makes a real differ- Barbara Dab, Greg Goldberg, So what is the mission of the ence in the Hadera-Eiron, our Scott Rosenberg, Liz Foster Nashville Federation? Our mission Partnership2Gether region in Israel, and Editorial Submissions Policy statement says Federation is the central has been able to provide meaningful and Deadlines voluntary communal organization of assistance to 146,322 at-risk Jews in the Telephone 615/356-3242 the Jewish community. Through its former Soviet Union. Most members of Fax 615/352-0056 The Jewish Observer welcomes the sub- fund-raising, planning and community our community aren’t aware of the needs E-mail [email protected] mission of information, news items, fea- relations efforts, either independently in our community because we quietly ture stories and photos about events rel- or in partnership with other Jewish meet those needs with the funds raised evant to the Jewish community of organizations, the Federation works to every year. Without an annual cam- ‘The Jewish Observer’ (ISSN Greater Nashville. We prefer e-mailed 8750-5290) is published monthly for $25 promote the general welfare, viability paign, these programs and services can- submissions, which should be sent as and cohesiveness of the local Jewish not continue at current levels and cer- per year by the Jewish Federation of Word documents to Editor Charles Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 801 Percy Bernsen at [email protected]. community as well as ensuring the con- tainly cannot grow to meet new chal- Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. Photos must be high resolution (at least tinuity of the Jewish people in Israel lenges and needs. Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs and around the world. John D. Rockefeller once said, POSTMASTER: Send address changes to to the e-mail with the related news item Together, the Jewish Federation of “Think of giving not only as a duty but as THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy or story. For material that cannot be e- Nashville and its service partners strive a privilege.” Please join us in the privi- Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 mailed, submissions should be sent to to realize our core values: lege of being part of a giving community. Charles Bernsen, The Jewish Observer, • Chesed: Care and compassion When you get the call from one of our This newspaper is made possible by funds 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, • Torah: Jewish learning campaign volunteers, take the call and raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy Campaign. • Tikkun Olam: Repair of the world make the gift. With your gift, you can Do sent by regular mail will not be returned • Tzedakah: Philanthropy that insures All Everywhere, From Anywhere. unless prior arrangement is made. The Jewish Observer is a member Publication is at the discretion of The that Jews everywhere are living safe, Thank you, one and all, for being of the American Jewish Press Association Observer, which reserves the right to secure and meaningful Jewish lives part of our strong, giving community. • and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. edit submissions. In bringing together Jewish Nashville and mobilizing its resources to Lisa Perlen is chairman of the 2016 While The Jewish Observer To ensure publication, submissions must strengthen our own Jewish community annual campaign of the Jewish Federation of makes every possibly effort to accept only arrive by the 15th of the month prior to and others, the Federation provides mul- Nashville and Middle Tennessee. reputable advertisers of the highest quality, the intended month of publication. we cannot guarantee the Kasruth of their products. For advertising deadlines, contact Carrie Mills, advertising manager, at See what’s happening in the community. The Jewish Observer 615-354-1699, or by email at Founded in 1934 by Go to www.jewishnashville.org JACQUES BACK [email protected].

4 September 2015 The Observer Community Relations Communiqué Fighting the BDS effort to demonize Israel By ABBIE WOLF supporters reject a two-state solution witnessing the rapid demise of Zionism, Community Impact Partnership (CIP) and deny the Jewish right to self-deter- and nothing can be done to save it, for sites. This program provides the com- any of us in the mination and statehood in favor of sup- Zionism is intent on killing itself. I, for munities with free training and person- Jewish community porting the right of return for one, support euthanasia.” alized, strategic guidance in how to are aware of the Palestinian refugees and their descen- Just as Israel belongs to all of us, combat anti-Israel activities in their Boycott, Divestment dants. In fact, the BDS movement’s offi- so does the responsibility to fight this communities. Though we’re still in the and Sanctions (BDS) cial platform calling for “right of return” movement that seeks to eliminate planning stages, I’m excited about what movement against for all Palestinian refugees and their Jews from their homeland. What can this will bring to our community as we MIsrael. But even if you descendants would result in Jews being you do? What can we, as a communi- join together to fight attacks on Israel’s follow the news closely, the minority and would be the end of ty, do? Through its Community legitimacy. you may want to know Israel as a Jewish state. Relations Committee (CRC), the Please contact me at abbie@jewish- more. Don’t worry – The goals are chilling, and so are Jewish Federation of Nashville and nashville.org if you would like to learn you’re not alone. their words. Notorious BDS activist Middle Tennessee is hard at work on more about the CIP program. • The BDS campaign Omar Barghouti has said, “The current this issue. is a global effort to iso- phase has all the emblematic properties The CRC applied for and has Abbie Wolf is community relations late, punish and ulti- Abbie Wolf of what may be considered the final received a grant through the Israel director for the Jewish Federation of mately delegitimize the chapter of the Zionist project. We are Action Network to become one of 10 Nashville and Middle Tennessee. State of Israel because of its policies toward the Palestinians. While support- ers of the BDS movement claim to embrace the tactic as a nonviolent way to pressure Israel into negotiations, the campaign is a biased effort to demonize Israel and place all responsibility for the conflict on one side: the Israelis. Some elements of BDS are not only anti-Israel but anti-Semitic as well. The BDS movement is a three-ten- West End Synagogue High Holiday Services tacled creature employing a number of strategies. First, there is the boycott. BDS advocates pressure consumers to Our Doors are Open to All refrain from buying goods made in Israel and to avoid any companies that Join us for Services led by Rabbi Joshua Kullock, buy or sell Israeli products. Rabbi Joshua Barton and our guest from Argentina, Additionally, actors, performers, writ- ers, major musicians and scholars are Cantor Alberto Mirchuk pressured into avoiding performing or speaking in Israel, with anti-Israel Erev Rosh Hashanah Sukkot advocates like musicians Harry Sunday, September 13, 2015 September 28–October 3, 2015 Belafonte and Roger Waters and author Service begins at 6:00 p.m. Services are at 9:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Alice Walker leading the effort. September 28, 29 and October 3. Sukkot Happily, many artists don’t bow to pres- First Day of Rosh Hashanah sure and do come to Israel, such as Bob intermediate days’ services are at 6:30 a.m. and Monday, September 14, 2015 6:00 p.m. Dylan, Paul McCartney, Madonna, the Service begins at 9:00 a.m. Rolling Stones, Rhianna, Elton John, Lady Gaga, and Justin Timberlake. Blessing of Babies born in Shemini Atzeret Divestment is the second tentacle. the past year at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 5, 2015 Campaigns have been launched *Family and Student Services at 11:00 a.m. Service at 9:30 a.m.—Yizkor will be recited. demanding that universities, cities, Tashlich —Meet at WES at 4:45 p.m. Evening of Simchat Torah unions and other groups disinvest from Second Day of Rosh Hashanah Tuesday, October 6, 2015 companies that do business with Israel. Simchat Torah Dinner & Service 5:30–7:30 p.m. Religious entities are involved in this Tuesday, September 15, 2015 effort as well. Recently, for example, Service begins at 9:00 a.m. Simchat Torah the Presbyterian Church (USA) *Family and Student Services at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2015 General Assembly voted to divest from Services 9:30 a.m. three companies (Caterpillar, Hewlett- Kol Nidre Packard and Motorola) they believe Tuesday, September 22, 2015 are helping to violate the rights of Service begins at 6:00 p.m. Palestinians. Yom Kippur, Wednesday, September 23, 2015 Thirdly, there are sanctions. Proponents of BDS call for pressure on Service begins at 9:30 a.m. governments to impose embargoes and *Family and Student Services at 11:00 a.m. sanctions against Israel. The record of Learners’ Service Following Rabbi’s D’var Torah the United Nations Human Rights Havdallah—Ramah Style— Following the Council (UNHRC) in this arena is both Blowing of the Shofar at 7:21 p.m. dismal and infuriating: Since its cre- ation in 2006, the UNHRC has lobbed more condemnations at Israel than the For the complete service schedule, visit our website at www.westendsyn.org rest of the world combined. It has passed 62 resolutions against Israel and just 55 * Separate services for Families With Young Children (preschool–1st grade), against all other countries. So out of 117 for children in grades 2–7, and for teens total resolutions, more than half have been levied against Israel. Meanwhile, many of the world’s worst human rights We hope to see you all then! violators – Syria, China, Russia, Iran, Sudan and Nigeria to name a few – bru- talize their own citizens with far less West End Synagogue (615) 269-4592 [email protected] condemnation. 3810 West End Avenue The predominant motivation of Nashville, TN 37205 @WestEndSyn /WestEndSyn www.WestEndSyn.org the BDS campaign and its leadership is not criticism of Israel’s policies; it is to demonize and delegitimize Israel. BDS The Observer September 2015 5 New Year. New Prayerbook. New Spirit. Welcome Home to The Temple.

TThhisis Jewe issh NeN w YYearr, trry soomething new:w a new pllace forr grorowtwth and rerennewal.

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High Holy Day Schedule Saturday, September 5, 2015 Tuesday, September 22, 2015 7:30 PM Selichot Service 7:30 PM Kol Nidre Service Sunday, September 13, 2015 Wednesday, September 23, 2015 7:30 PM Erev Rosh Hashanah Service 9:00 AM Family Service Monday, September 14, 2015 9:00 AM Tot Yom Tov 9:00 AM Family Service 10:30 AM Morning Service 9:00 AM Tot Yom Tov 12:45 PM Congregant’s Hour 10:30 AM Morning Service 2:00 PM Afternoon Service 12:45 PM President’s Reception 3:15 PM Study Hour 1:00 PM Tashlich at the Creek 4:15 PM Yizkor & Concluding Service

Friday, September 18, 2015 *Break Fast will follow at The Temple 6:00 PM Shabbat Shuvah *Young Adult Break Fast will follow at Rabbi Shulman’s home Sunday, September 20, 2015 *(reservations required) 2:00 PM Memorial Service at The Temple Cemetery The Temple is located at 5015 Harding Road, Nashville. For additional information contact The Temple (615-352-7620) or [email protected]

6 September 2015 The Observer May this New Year be filled with Health and Happiness, and Sweetness for you and your family. L' Shanah Tova! Jackie Roth Karr www.JackieKarr.com | 615.330.9779 | [email protected]

S ounds of the shofar

H oney and apples A new beginning Lots of smiles Opening a door to the New Year Memories of past and happy moments to come!

Carolyn Hecklin Hyatt, the Federation’s new community engagement associate, leads a plan- ning session for the RoshBash. Federation’s new community L’Shanah Tovah from your friends at engagement associate eager Micah Children’s to see old friends, make new Academy connections at Rosh Bash

By CHARLES BERNSEN Hyatt, 31, a graduate of Boston University, is the daughter of Steve and arolyn Hecklin Hyatt’s Sandra Hecklin. (Despite the coinci- first task as the new com- dence of their names, she is not related to munity engagement asso- Federation President Carol Hyatt.) She ciate for the Jewish succeeds Lauren Mielziner Bubis, who Have a sweet New Year! Federation of Nashville moved to Florida earlier this summer. and Middle Tennessee Though a Nashville native and Chas been to plan this month’s sixth graduate of University School of annual Jewish new year celebration for Nashville, Hyatt had lived in Boston its young Jewish professionals group, and New York for more than a decade NowGen Nashville. before moving back last year with her “Rosh Bash is an opportunity for husband, Adam, and their 16-month- young professionals familiar with old son, Dylan. Nashville to renew friendships and for “We are looking to find our path in those who are recent arrivals to make the Jewish community, so this position at new ones,” said Hyatt. the Federation was perfect me,” Hyatt Rosh Bash – whose co-sponsors said. “And it’s nice that Rosh Bash is my include Reliant Bank, the Vanderbilt first big event because it gives me the Hillel graduate student program, XMI opportunity to get in touch with people I Holdings and the Dog Spot – will be from grew up with and many I’m meeting for 9 p.m.-midnight on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the first time. That’s what the event and Harding House at Belle Mead Plantation. NowGen are all about – helping people It will feature appetizers, cocktails and make connections and find their place in music. (Kosher food will be available.) the Jewish community.” Advance tickets, which include a Naomi Sedek, the Federation’s free drink, are $20 ($15 for Vanderbilt annual campaign director, said that students). For more information or to NowGen will benefit from both Hyatt’s buy tickets visit http://www.nowgen- knowledge of the Nashville Jewish com- nashville.org/2015/07/2015roshbash/ or munity as well as her experience in pub- email Hyatt at carolynh@jewish- lic relations, sales and event planning nashville.org. from her career in the fashion industry. • Those not selected in demographic survey can still give feedback

f you were not randomly selected confidential, will be used in a supplemen- to participate in the Federation tal analysis. All feedback will be consid- sponsored demographic survey of ered, and this open link will not in any way the Nashville area Jewish commu- impact the scientific validity of our survey, nity, you can still offer feedback which is being conducted by Brandeis through the following link: University. If you have questions, please Ihttp://www.sdrg.org/njcs/opn. contact Harriet Schiftan at harriet@jew- Your answers, which are completely ishnashville.org or (615) 354-1687. •

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

The Observer September 2015 7 The excitHment of the first shofar blast

The sweet taste of an apple dipped in honey

The blessing of a New Year

What will you pass down to future generations? What will you pass down to future generations?

For the New Year, you can inspire future generations of Jews with your legacy gift. Planning now will secure the education of our children, make certain our elderly will always be cared for, and assure that the Jewish traditions and culture we hold dear will live on and flourish. Shana Tova and may your legacy be a blessing.

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8 September 2015 The Observer P2G Pairings Artists from Israel and Southeast U.S. will join in project focusing on the Psalms

lanning is underway for a joint exhibition next year that will include the work of Jewish visual artists from Israel and 10 Southeastern U.S. cities, including PNashville. With a theme based broadly on the Book of Psalms, the 2016 exhibition will be the third such collaboration sponsored Prospective participants will be by Partnership2Gether, an initiative of asked to submit a CV and electronic the Jewish Agency for Israel and the images of up to four pieces of their cur- Jewish Federations of North America that rent work, making sure to include pieces builds connections between Israel and showing the materials they intend to use Jewish communities around the world. for the project. The deadline for submis- Nashville is among the Jewish sion is September 8. Those in the cities in the P2G Southeast consortium, Nashville area interested in taking part, which is paired with Israel’s Hadera- receiving the full call to artists, or sub- Eiron. Jewish artists from those commu- mitting their work should contact nities are invited to submit proposals for Schiftan at [email protected] the exhibition, which will debut next or (615) 354-1687. • spring in Israel during the P2G 20th anniversary cele- bration and then travel for about 18 months. Young Nashville and Similar collaborations resulted in exhibitions of Israeli professionals artwork in 2012 and 2014 focusing on Jewish identity will study Jewish and the theme of water and Jewish culture. There will be a new wrinkle to this peoplehood in pilot third artistic collaboration, however: Each American online program artist will be paired with an Israeli artist. Together, each pair will participate in an he Jewish Federation of Nashville online educational program and Middle Tennessee is seeking about the Psalms aimed at applicants for a Partnership2Gether both inspiring them and pilot program that will pair young establishing a personal con- Jewish professionals in the United nection between them. The States and Israel for a three-month pair will then select a par- Tcourse exploring Jewish identity and culminate in a ticular Psalm and, working seminar next spring in Israel. in partnership, produce Project Zug will include up to 18 U.S. Jewish pro- either a single piece or two fessionals ages 30-45 – three each from Nashville and related pieces. five other communities in the P2G Southeast consor- “This new project for- tium – and an equal number from the Hadera-Eiron mat will create deeper rela- region of Israel. Each U.S. participant will take part in tionships among the artists weekly online chavruta (one-on-one) study sessions before they begin to create with a partner from Israel as well as monthly webina- their work,” said Harriet rs involving the entire group. Schiftan, planning and P2G The P2G pilot program is an outgrowth of director for the Jewish Project Zug (Hebrew for “pair”), a 3-year-old ini- Federation of Nashville and tiative under the auspices of a team of American Middle Tennessee. “We and Israeli Jewish educators aimed at strengthening have had so many wonder- relationships among Jewish communities around ful Nashville artists partici- the globe. pate in the first two proj- The online course for the P2G pilot program is ects; we hope new and vet- being developed with the help of Rabbi Ethan Tucker eran artists will want to of Mechon Hadar and will focus broadly on the topics take this very unique oppor- of Jewish identity, pluralism, peoplehood and leader- tunity to learn, to create, to ship. It will run from Nov. 8 through Feb. 7, including travel, and to celebrate the three group webinars led by Rabbis Elie Kaunfer with Israeli artists.” and Jason Rubenstein of Mechon Hadar. The con- The project is open to cluding seminar is planned for March 27-27 in Israel, all forms of visual art – draw- where the U.S. participants will stay in the homes of ings, paintings, sculpture, their Israeli counterparts. photography, print creations, Nashville area residents who wish to apply should integrative art, glass, metal, contact Harriet Schiftan, the Federation’s planning ceramics, papier-mâché and and P2G director, at [email protected] or the like – though there are (615) 354-1687. The cost of the online course is size and weight limitations. $36. •

The Observer September 2015 9 Star of documentary Deli Man will be in Nashville for 15th annual Jewish Film Festival By CHARLES BERNSEN kreplach and fat pastrami sandwiches. uals dedicated to keeping it alive. Aside Still better: The screening at the from Gruber and other “deli men,” the iven the importance of Gordon Jewish Community Center will film also features celebrities like Jerry food in Jewish culture, it include a kosher deli dinner by SOVA Stiller, Larry King and Fyvush Finkel seems fitting that the catering. expounding on the joys of real deli- 15th annual Nashville Deli Man is part of a smorgasbord of As usual, the Belcourt Theatre in catessen fare.) Jewish Film Festival will 15 films in the NJFF lineup that includes Hillsboro Village will be the main Before studying at the Cordon Bleu conclude with a docu- comedies, dramas and documentaries venue with nine screenings. There will in London and then opening his own Gmentary about that iconic Jewish institu- from the United States, Israel, England, also be two screenings at the Franklin delicatessen in Houston, Texas, Gruber tion, the deli. France and Canada. The festival kicks Theatre as well as a free matinee for learned the basics of East European Even better, the guest of honor at the off on Oct. 13 with a cocktail dinner at seniors at the GJCC and a special free Jewish cooking in New York delis run by screening of Deli Man will be David the Nashville Children’s Theatre fol- Sunday morning screening at The his grandfather, father and uncles. But “Ziggy” Gruber, a third-generation deli lowed by a screening of Dough, a 2014 Temple of a film especially for the com- for him, being a deli man is more than owner who is the central figure in director comedy-drama by the British director munity’s religious schools. making a living or even continuing a Erik Greenberg Anjou’s paean to knishes, John Goldschmidt about the crusty In addition to Gruber, the festival family tradition. It’s also a matter of pre- Jewish owner of a failing kosher bakery will host Israeli television personality serving a quintessential element of whose young Muslim apprentice acci- Assi Azar for the Oct. 27 screening of American Jewish heritage. dentally drops a stash of marijuana into Mom and Dad: I Have Something to Tell “Many of the early Jewish immi- a batch of challah dough. You, a Hebrew-language documentary grants to America were men who came The NJFF, a program of the that explores the journey of Israeli par- over without their wives and families,” GJCC and underwritten by the Jewish ents after their children tell them they Gruber said. “Delis started out as a place Federation of Nashville and Middle are gay. Azar narrates Mom and Dad and where they could find familiar food, and Tennessee, is making a significant will take part in a question and answer they became important meeting places change in its screening schedule this session after the screening. that provided a sense of home and com- year. Instead of an 11-day run that often Gruber will attend the festival’s munity.” included two screenings a day, the festi- closing to discuss Deli Man (2015), the As Jewish families assimilated, the val will stretch 15 screenings over the final installment in Anjou’s cinematic deli’s role as a communal institution has course of 25 days, with no more than one trilogy on American Jewish culture. The all but disappeared. According to Deli screening per day. (As usual, no screen- first two films – A Cantor’s Tale (2005) Man, there are only about 150 kosher ings are scheduled on the Sabbath.) and The Klezmatics: On Holy Ground delis in all of North America today, less Fran Brumlik, NJFF managing (2010) – explored respectively Jewish than 10 percent of the 1,550 that existed director, said the change is a response to liturgical music and the Ashkenazi pop- in New York City alone in 1931. a market survey of more than 2,900 peo- ular musical genre known as klezmer. Explaining why he’s so passionate ple that indicated the longer scheduled Like those documentaries, Deli Man about preserving this aspect of the would both ease “film fatigue” and be celebrates the past, present and American Jewish experience, Gruber less disruptive to patrons’ normal rou- prospective future of a Jewish cultural cited an adage: “You can’t know where tines, making it easier for them to attend phenomenon – in this case, the deli- you’re going unless you know where you more screenings. catessen – through the prism of individ- come from.” •

Hermitage From our Family to Yours...Happy Rosh Hashanah Lighting and May You Be Sealed in The Book of Life! Gallery 531 Lafayette Street • 615-843-3300 • Mon. - Fri. 8 - 5 • Sat. 9 - 5 • www.hermitagelighting.com

10 September 2015 The Observer 15th Annual Nashville Jewish Film Festival

Tickets are $10 ($8 for group sales of Orthodox woman who, seeking freedom 10 or more) and can be purchased online from her overbearing father, takes a through the Belcourt Theatre and Franklin dance class, meets a handsome young Theatre box offices or by contacting Fran man and moves to a kibbutz. Brumlik, NJFF managing director, at (615) 356-7170 or [email protected]. Nov. 1, The Temple, 9 a.m. (special screening for all religious schools) Opening Night, Oct. 13, Children’s Once in a Lifetime, is a French film Theatre, 6:30 p.m. cocktail dinner inspired by a real-life French teacher catered by Chef’s Market, screening at who helps her working-class students, 7:30 p.m. many of them Muslims, overcome their Dough, starring Jonathan Pryce. prejudice by doing a project about chil- What happens when a failing kosher Wolchok is a behind-the-pages story of math of World War II to recovery art dren under the Nazi regime. bakery hires a kid from Darfur who acci- the cartoons that appear in The New stolen from her parents. dentally drops his marijuana into the Yorker and the cartoonist who produce Hill Start, is a lively new comedy Nov. 2, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. challah? them. from Israel about families, plastic surgery, 24 Days, is a feature film based on a mismatched couples, love and romance. true story about the 2006 kidnapping of Oct. 14, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. Oct. 22, Gordon Jewish Community (For mature audiences) Ilan Halimi in France by a gang whose Joachim Prinz: I Shall not be Silent, is Center, noon, (free for senior GJCC members were sure his family was rich a documentary about the man who spoke members) Oct. 25, Franklin Theatre, 7 p.m. because they were Jewish. out against Hitler in the 1930s as a The Outrageous Sophie Tucker, is Chagall-Malevich, a fictionalized young rabbi in Germany and decades William Gazecki’s documentary looks at account of the Jewish artist Marc Nov. 5, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. later helped organize the March on the 60-year vaudeville, television and Chagall’s days in Paris and Vitebsk in the My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Washington, speaking right before Dr. film career of a woman who was never early 19th century, includes lots of beau- Heroes, a documentary written and Martin Luther King. afraid to be bawdy. tiful, color-saturated scenes reminiscent directed by Warren Jacoby, recounts the of the artist’s modern style. bravery and creativity of ordinary Oct. 19, Belcourt Theatre, box lunch Oct. 22, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. Italians who tried to save their Jewish at 11:30 a.m., screening at 12:15 p.m. Felix et Meira, a Canadian film by Oct. 27, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. neighbors from the Nazis. Look at Us Now, Mother! Filmmaker Maxime Giroux, tells the lovely and Mom and Dad: I Have Something to Gayle Kirschenbaum and her mother quiet love story of a young married Tell You, is a Hebrew documentary Nov. 7, Gordon Jewish Community never got along, with Mildred being very Hasidic woman who is unhappy with the directed by Yair Qaedar and narrated by Center, deli dinner catered by SOVA at hard on her only daughter. It takes a long her life and a secular man struggling to Assi Azar that explores the journey of 6 p.m, screening at 7 p.m. time for them to reconnect in this auto- find a way to live and love in the wake of parents whose children tell them they Deli Man, the third documentary in biographical film that is funny, painful his estranged father’s death. are gay. (Co-sponsored by Vanderbilt Erik Greenberg Anjou’s trilogy about and ultimately poignant. Hillel) Jewish culture, tells the story of the great Oct. 24, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. and delis and takes a good look at one of the Oct. 20, Franklin Theatre, 7 p.m. 9:15 p.m. (double feature) Oct. 29, Belcourt Theatre, 7 p.m. best, Kenny and Ziggy’s Deli in Houston. Very Semi-Serious: A Partially The Art Dealer, is a French film noir Apples from the Desert, is an Israeli Owner Ziggy Gruber will be on hand for Thorough Portrait of New Yorker by the director Francois that looks at film based on a story by writer Savyon the film, which will be preceded by a deli Cartoonists. This documentary by Leah young French woman’s quest in the after- Liebrich. It tells the story of a young dinner. •

HAPPY ROSH HASHANAH

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The Observer September 2015 11 HAPPY NEW YEAR

As long as our Jewish heart beats and we sing, read, speak, The Rice Family wishes Wishing you a year and act on our mission of Tikkan O’lam our HOPE is not lost. the entire Nashville of health, blessings The Obligation to be alert and informed can not take a holiday! Jewish Community a and peace. Waiting for the calendar reminder of the New Year Shanah Tovah! May it Shanah Tovah u’Metukah! is not the only time we recognize the joys of our lives be a sweet and good and what we can do to create change. Rabbi Shana & James Mackler year for all! Hannah & Sylvie Dr. Fred and Martha Goldner

Wishing the entire Nashville Jewish Rabbi Saul Strosberg and From Our Family To Yours community a wonderful new year, Daniella Pressner, Rabbi Aaron FOR THE 5776th TIME filled with blessing, inspiration, joy Finkelstein & Cantor George Le-Shanah and growth. May we be inscribed for Lieberman, extend warmest Wishing you a Sweet Tovah Tikkatevu a sweet and healthy year ahead. wishes for the New Year, in the and Blessed New Year. Shana Tova and spiritual and material senses, to Rabbi Yitzchok and Esther, Barbara & Ted Ketiva V'Chatima Tova, our entire community, to all Berel & Tzivi (Namdar), Julie Sugar and Rabbi Aaron Israel and mankind, for a year Bassie, Levi, Chana Mayden Finkelstein of blessings - 5776 and Sarah Tiechtel

May the New Year bring peace, Our best wishes for a prosperity and a world filled New Year filled with Shana with laughter and love. Tova May you be inscribed for blessings and joy. a sweet and good year! Rabbi Joshua, Jessica, Iara, Your friends at Abi & Meital Kullock Gene and Congregation Beit Tefilah and Chabad of Nashville Reva Heller

Rabbi Mark and Rosh Hashanah Have a HAPPY NEW YEAR! Harriet Schiftan, and our Greetings Healthy, Happy Chuck and Alison, children Ari, Sarah Rose, Andrea and Kevin, and Jacob Schiftan from the Herzogs, New Year! Jamie, Leslie wish each and every one of Drew, Risa, and Howard you a happy, healthy, and MERYL AND KEITH Kirshner Vivian and Tess KRAFT peaceful New Year.

"May G-d who makes peace in the L’Shana Wishing our Nashville heavens, grant peace to us and to Jewish community a Happy New Year! all of Israel, and let us say Amen" Tovah- (oseh shalom) happy, sweet and Wishing you and your families a Tikkatevu peaceful 5776. Sara Cohan Happy , Healthy and Peaceful Jackie and L’shana tova u’metuka! & Eric Newell year- 5776. Liron Finkelstein, Howard Tepper Cantor Tracy Fishbein your Community Shlicha and Glenn Turtel

A Happy & Healthy ROSH HASHANAH New Year 5776! GREETINGS Leon Tonelson Jill and Dan Eisenstein

12 September 2015 The Observer Wishing all our B'nai B'rith Social Unit Shana Tova Friends in the wishes you and your family Community a Happy a year of peace, health Umetukah and Healthy New Year and happiness. Bobbie & Alex Steven, Esther, Evan Limor and Family and Jordan Remer

Have a Happy Warmest and wishes for Healthy New Year! a healthy Marcia & Lee Stewart New Year! Have a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Gwen and Frank Gordon and Family

West End Synagogue L’Shana Tova to all of our Wishes You A Very Happy dear friends in Nashville… New Year We are so proud to call this May your name be written in the wonderful Jewish community Book of Life our home. May the year of 5776 be a good and healthy one for all of you. 3810 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205 615-269-4592 Mark S. Freedman www.westendsyn.org and Leslie J. Klein All are welcome to attend services.

The Observer September 2015 13 Continued wishes for a Healthy and Prosperous New Year for all! Leslie M. Sax

HAVE A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR! “May G-d who makes peace in the ! "   $  %  #  !          heavens, grant peace to us and to all        ! ! " ! ' # $& our people; and let us say, Amen.” -Oseh Shalom The Community Relations Committee (CRC) wishes you a Shanah Tovah Tikkatevu.

From our Family to Arthur Perlen Abbie Wolf Have a Happy CRC Chair Director of Community Relations Yours, L’Shana and Healthy Tova New Year Carla, Mark & Ben Rosenthal The Ducklo Family

We wish the Nashville Community a Very Happy and Healthy New Year. May we all keep working together for a continued strong and vibrant Jewish community life in Nashville.

The Amsels The Hanais The Kogans

14 September 2015 The Observer On behalf of the Officers, the Board of Directors and the Staff of the Jewish Federation we wish you, your family and friends a happy, healthy and sweet New Year.

Carol Hyatt, President Mark S. Freedman, Executive Director

The Observer September 2015 15 Nashville Jewish Buying, Selling, or Investing Film Festival Residential Real Estate is What I do! 2015 Happy OCTOBER 13-NOVEMBER 7> WISHES YOU A HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR! Rosh 9LVLWXVDWQDVKYLOOHMƪRUJIRUWLFNHWV VKRZWLPHV Hashanah!! Shanah Tovah from Hadassah! Join us in making a difference … in Israel, the USA and the world!

For information and events, please contact Leslie Klein at 615-649-8284 or [email protected].

With gratitude for the many years of love and support Have a Happy from our Nashville and Healthy Jewish Community! New Year! Happy New Year to All! Charles Bernsen Carrie and Garrett Mills FRANKLIN PARGH REALTOR Cell: 615-351-7333 Office: 615-371-2424 Fax: 615-371-2429 1585 Mallory Lane Suite 103 email: [email protected] franklinpargh.com Brentwood, TN 37027

L’SHANAH TOVAH Have a Happy & Healthy New Year

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16 September 2015 The Observer High Holy Days – 5776 Congregational Schedules

Congregation Sherith Israel Wednesday, Sept. 23 (Yom Kippur) Friday, Sept. 18 (Shabbat Shuvah) 3800 West End Ave. Service...... 9:30 a.m. Evening service ...... 6 p.m. *Family and student services...... 11:00 a.m. (Modern Orthodox) Sunday, Sept. 20 (Learners’ service follows the Rabbi’s d’var Memorial Service2 p.m. (at Temple cemetery) Torah) Saturday, Sept. 5 Blowing of the Shofar ...... 7:21 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 (Erev Yom Kippur) Selichot ...... 12:30 p.m. (Havdallah – Ramah style – follows Shofar Kol Nidre service...... 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6 blowing) Wednesday, Sept. 23 Memorial service (Lucas Chapel ...... Noon Family service...... 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 (Erev Rosh Hashanah) *For families with young children Tot Yom Tov ...... 9:00 a.m. Candle lighting ...... 6:40 p.m. (preschool–1st grade), children in grades Morning service ...... 10:30 a.m. Evening service...... 6:45 p.m. 2–7 and teens. Congregants’ hour...... 12:45 p.m. Afternoon service...... 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14 (First day of Rosh Study hour...... 3:15 p.m. Hashanah) Yizkor and concluding service ...... 4:15 p.m. Preliminary services...... 8 a.m. Congregation Micah Break Fast follows concluding service Torah reading...... 9:30 a.m. 2001 Old Hickory Blvd. (reservations required) Rabbi’s address/shofar ...... 10:15 a.m. (Reform) Musaf ...... 10:40 a.m. Lunch (reservations required) ...... 12:45 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5 Tashlich (Richland Creek) ...... 2:30 p.m. High Holy Days text study...... 9:00 a.m. Congregation Beit Mincha/Ma’ariv ...... 6:40 p.m. Shabbat morning service...... 10:30 a.m. Tefilah/Chabad of Nashville Earliest candle lighting...... 7:35 p.m. Selichot service followed by oneg...... 9 p.m. 95 Bellevue Road Tuesday, Sept. 15 (Second day of Rosh Sunday, Sept. 13 (Erev Rosh Hashanah) (Orthodox) Hashanah) Erev Rosh Hashanah service*...... 7:30 p.m. Preliminary services...... 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 14 (Rosh Hashanah) Saturday, Sept. 5 Torah reading...... 9:30 a.m. Morning service with shofar*...... 10:00 a.m. Selichot...... 11:30 p.m. Rabbi’s address/shofar...... 10:20 a.m. Youth service (grades 4-7) ...... 3 p.m. (Hosted jointly with Congregation Sherith Musaf ...... 10:40 a.m. Parent Mixer...... 3 p.m. Israel and open to the entire community) Mincha ...... 6:40 p.m. Young family service (birth to grad 3)...... Sunday, Sept. 13 (Erev Rosh Hashanah) Ma’ariv/havdallah ...... 7:34 p.m. 3:15 p.m. Candle lighting and service...... 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16 (Fast of Gedalia) (The afternoon services will be followed by New year’s eve dinner...... 7:30 p.m. Shacharit ...... 6:30 a.m. Tashlich and a birthday party for the (Dinner reservations required. For more Mincha...... 6:30 p.m. World!) information, please visit www.chabad- Fast ends ...... 7:20 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 (Shabbat Shuvah) nashville.com) Tuesday, Sept. 22 (Erev Yom Kippur) Cemetery memorial service...... 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 14 (First day of Rosh Shacharit ...... 6:30 a.m. Contemplative Shabbat service...... 6 p.m. Hashanah) Mincha ...... 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 (Kol Nidrei) Morning service...... 9 a.m. Late Mincha...... 6:00 p.m. Kol Nidrei service* ...... 7:30 p.m. Children’s service...... 10:45–11:30 a.m. Candle lighting ...... 6:27 p.m. Shofar sounding ...... 11:45 a.m. Kol Nidre...... 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23 (Yom Kippur) Mussaf...... 12:30 p.m. Morning service* ...... 10 a.m. Tashlich at Percy Warner Park ...... 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23 (Yom Kippur) Young family service (birth-grade 3)...... 1 p.m. Candle lighting after...... 7:36 p.m. Shacharit ...... 8:30 a.m. Youth service (grades 4-7) ...... 1 p.m. Torah reading...... 10:30 a.m. Study session...... 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. (Second day of Rosh Rabbi’s address...... 11:15 a.m. Healing service ...... 2 p.m. Hashanah) Yizkor...... 11:30 a.m. Study session ...... 2 p.m. Morning service...... 9 a.m. Musaf...... 11:40 a.m. Afternoon service...... 3:30 p.m. Children’s service...... 10:45–11:30 a.m. Reading of the names ...... 4 p.m. Yizkor followed by Neilah ...... 5 p.m. Shofar sounding ...... 11:45 a.m. Mincha...... 4:45 p.m. Mussaf...... 12:30 p.m. Neilah...... 6:10 p.m. *Babysitting available Holiday ends...... 7:34 p.m. Shofar/break fast...... 7:21 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 (Erev Yom Kippur) Candle lighting...... 6:28 p.m. The Temple Kol Nidrei service...... 6:30 p.m. West End Synagogue 5015 Harding Road Wednesday, Sept. 23 (Yom Kippur) 3810 West End Ave. (Reform) Morning service ...... 9:30 a.m. (Conservative) Children’s service...... 10:45–11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5 Yizkor (memorial service)...... 11:45 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 (Erev Rosh Hashanah) Selichot service...... 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Mussaf ...... 12:15 p.m. Evening service ...... 6 p.m. (Includes Havdallah, screening of the film The Inner Circle ...... 3:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14 (First day of Rosh From Swastika to Jim Crow, discussion, Mincha...... 5 p.m. Hashanah) dessert reception and Selichot services. Ne’ilah (closing service) ...... 6 p.m. Service ...... 9 a.m. Participants are invited to continue with Havdalah service and break fast...... 7:22 p.m. Blessing of babies born in previous year...... Selichot prayers at 11:30 p.m. service at 10:30 a.m. Chabad of Nashville.) (To RSVP or for more information please *Family and student service...... 11 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 (Erev Rosh Hashanah) call (615) 646-5750, email rabbi@chabad- Tashlich (meet at WES)...... 4:45 p.m. Erev Rosh Hashanah service...... 7:30 p.m. nashville.com or visit www.chabad- nashville.com) Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015 (Second day of Rosh Monday, Sept. 14 (Rosh Hashanah) Hashanah) Family service...... 9 a.m. Service ...... 9 a.m. Tot Yom Tov ...... 9 a.m. *Family and student services...... 1 a.m. Morning service ...... 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 (Erev Yom Kippur) President’s reception ...... 12:45 p.m. Kol Nidre service...... 6 p.m. Tashlich at the creek ...... 1 p.m.

The Observer September 2015 17 Pomegranate and honey-glazed chicken makes for a tasty and symbolic Rosh Hashanah meal

By LIZ RUEVEN This ancient fruit, prized for its juice stew called fesenjan, often served at cel- and seeds (called arils), is mentioned in ebrations. The chicken is cooked with omegranates, rimonim in the Bible as one the seven most bounti- beets and thickened with coarsely Hebrew, are one of the most ful agriculture products of ancient Israel. ground walnuts and pomegranate recognizable and highly sym- It is associated with fertility and sensual- molasses. As in many Persian dishes, bolic fruits in Jewish culture. ity and is mentioned six times in the pomegranate seeds are used as a glisten- Originating in Persia, these “Song of Songs.” ing, jewel-like garnish. reddish, thick skinned fruit In biblical times, pomegranates were She illustrates removing the seeds a P(technically a berry) begin to appear in used to add tart flavors to ancient dishes few different ways but I like the “water markets at end of summer and are typi- before lemons and tomatoes were discov- method” best. Simply slice off the two cally available for Rosh Hashanah. ered. Since then, pomegranates have ends and quarter the fruit with a knife. According to Gil Marks in The been used to add unique and complex Courtesy of myjewishlearning.com Submerge the quarters in a bowl of cold Encyclopedia of Jewish Food, the abun- dimensions to Sephardic and central water and pull out the seeds with your dance of seeds nestled in the fruits white Asian soups, stews, sauces, chutneys and intestinal disorders. The fruit’s juice and fingers. The pith and skin float to the membrane and encased in a protective desserts. They may be juiced, dried, arils are used in a wide range of applica- surface as the arils sink to the bottom. and leathery skin is associated with the reduced, ground or pressed into pome- tions including cocktails, glazes, syrups, Scoop out everything but the seeds and 613 commandments in the Torah. They granate oil. simmer sauces and glistening toppings pour water and seeds through a mesh serve as symbols of righteousness and fruit- Today, pomegranates are prized for for green salads and vegetable dishes. colander to collect them. fulness as expressed in the Rosh Hashanah their antioxidant and potent nutritional In The New Persian Kitchen, author This Rosh Hashanah chicken is expression, “May we be full of merits like value, just as they were in ancient Egypt Louisa Shafia offers numerous pome- potent with pomegranates goodness as the pomegranate (is full of seeds).” when the seeds were believed to heal granate dishes including a classic Iranian the symbolic fruit is used in 3 ways: juice, molasses and arils (seeds). The flavors are bold, tangy and slightly sweet — a Middle Eastern influenced sweet and CALL FOR ARTISTS sour! from (Note: the simmer sauce may be pre- pared 2-3 days ahead and refrigerated SOUTHEAST CONSORTIUM and HADERA-EIRON PARTNERSHIP REGION until ready to prepare the chicken.) Ingredients 1 4-lb chicken cut into pieces 4 Tbsp canola oil (separated: 2 Tbsp for simmer sauce and 2 Tbsp for browning the chicken) In each of 2012 and 2013, the Southeast Consortium and Hadera-Eiron t

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3 cloves garlic, minced to generate creative, long-term partnerships between Israeli and American strongly encourage that the Artist works will be sold upon the conclusion ½ cup pomegranate molasses artist; and encourage artistic expression from a Jewish perspective, the Part- of the exhibition. When you submit your Interest to Participate you will be ½ cup sweetened pomegranate juice nership is expanding the exhibition concept. We are planning this exhibit asked: if you will be willing to donate your finished art work to the Part- ½ cup honey to coincide with the P2G Celebration in Israel in April 2016, with the intent nership with the understanding that it will be sold to benefit additional 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth that the artwork would be available to travel for approximately 18 months. programs. 1 tsp cumin To start this project, the Partnership hereby issues this Call for Artists who ½ tsp powdered ginger reside in the Hadera-Eiron Region and the Southeast U.S. Consortium and Requirements for size of final submissions for exhibition: ⅛ tsp allspice invites them to present their artistic works in a joint exhibition. Size limitations for two dimensional pieces 50X50 cm / 19X19 inches ½ tsp turmeric Size limitations for three dimensional pieces 40X40X40cm /15X15X15 inches salt and pepper to taste Eligibility: Total weight of no more than 8kg / 17pounds Artists living and/or working in the Partnership region in Israel: Hadera, Information needed to submit: For the garnish: Pardes Hanna-Karkur, the Menashe Regional Council and the Alona Regional CV and electronic images up to four pieces of your current work. Please select 2 Tbsp parsley Council. Artists from the cities of the Southeast Consortium Partnership: pieces showing the materials you are proposing to use for this project. 2 Tbsp pomegranate arils (seeds) In Tennessee - Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga; in Florida - Pinellas, All sorts of works will be accepted - visual, drawing/painting, sculpture, Fort Myers, Daytona and Jacksonville; in North Carolina - Charlotte; in South photography, print creations, integrative art, glass, metal, ceramics, Directions Carolina - Charleston; in Virgina - Richmond. papier-mâché and so forth. Heat 2 Tbsp canola oil in a large All artistic creations must be original. pan. Sauté chopped onion until soft and General information translucent. Add minced garlic and saute The theme of the exhibit, Psalms, will serve as a source of artistic growth Timeline: for 2-3 minutes (do not brown). Add and breakthrough, inspiration and empowerment-irrespective of limits, September 8, 2015 ...... Deadline for registration through your local pomegranate molasses, juice, honey, location or language. The motif of this exhibit opens a portal to a broad va- Federation riety of possibilities; the Book of Psalms addresses all life areas as well as September 10, 2015 ...... Decision on your participation broth and spices. Stir and bring to boil. relations between people among themselves, with their G-d, and with their 0DUPCFS

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 ...... Begin Psalms Course uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until Each Israeli artist will be paired with a U.S artist via the exhibition’s lead November 15, 2015 ...... Final decision on work sauce is reduced by about ½ the volume team not necessarily by similar media. Artists will be asked to participate, November 22, 2015 ...... End of Course and slightly thickened. Taste sauce and as partners, in an educational on-line program about the Psalms which will February 8, 2016 ...... Finished work at your local Federation adjust seasoning. (Too tart? Add 1-2 take place over five sessions or more at their chosen and has been tailor- February 12, 2016 ...... Work leaves the US for Israel Tbsp honey. Want more kick? Crack made for this project. The joint course will establish a personal connection March 6, 2016 ...... Work in Israel more black pepper.) Remove sauce from between the pairs and will make it easier to find an original topic to inspire March 30, 2016 ...... &YIJCJUJPO
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This recipe first appeared in The Nosher blog on myjewishlearning.com.

18 September 2015 The Observer Challah for the Holidays Chabad offering round challah, honey cakes and “High Holiday dinner-in-a-box”

habad of Nashville wants provide gluten-free challah, which Rabbi communal organizations as well as many to help the metro Yitzchok Tiechtel of Chabad of b’nei mitzvah celebrations and weddings Nashville Jewish commu- Nashville said is kosher for ha-motzi (the and Shabbat tables across Nashville. nity prepare for a happy, traditional blessing for bread). “Melissa’s challah is the best I have healthy new yeaer with This year, Chabad Challah is also ever had, and the foundation by which I kosher food, including offering “High Holiday Dinner In A can’t help but measure all others,” said Csweet round challah, and important Box,” which will include an entire Crystal Gimesh, a regular customer. High Holiday culinary tradition that homemade New Year’s dinner for a fami- For more information, or to place symbolizes the cycle of life and provides ly of two to 20. The “High Holidays In- your order, please call 615.752.0639 or a reminder of the ruler in heaven. A-Box” will include freshly baked round email [email protected] • At chabadchallah.com, professional challah, gefilte fish, chicken soup with baker Melissa Sostrin will be making her matzah balls, honey roasted chicken, signature delicious round challahs, apple tzimmes, farfalle, and Melisa’s signature cakes and honey cakes for the High honey cake. Holidays and will offer challah and other Over the past year Melissa’s signature kosher baked goods every Friday challah has been featured at almost every throughout the year. Melissa will also one of Nashville’s congregations and Panima offering High Holiday challah

hen Erika Shuman • Cinnamon swirl challah loaf ($7) opened Panima in • Chocolate swirl challah loaf ($7) 2013, she never • Challah rolls (8/bag, $6) imagined that she Those who want to order can stop would be baking by the front desk of the Gordon Jewish almost 1,000 loaves Community Center, fill out a form and Wof challah for the High Holidays alone. leave it with the receptionist along “From day one, we resolved to make with payment. Orders can also be only the finest products using only the placed by contacting Panima directly at finest ingredients,” Shuman says. “ It is [email protected] or (615) so rewarding to have so many happy cus- 585-7496. tomers come back week after week, year Rosh Hashanah challah orders will after year.” be available for pick-up in the lobby of Shuman is offering a variety of the GJCC on Thursday, Sept. 10. options for the High Holidays this year: Alternative delivery/pick-up arrange- • Round challah ($6) ments can also be made by contacting • Round Challah with raisins ($7) Erika at [email protected] or • Round whole wheat challah ($7) (615) 585-7496. • Have a Happy and Healthy New Year

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Speakers include: The Herb Ralph Null, international floral designer, will demonstrate the use of herbs and other Southern landscape plants in floral designs. Society of Todd Breyer, landscape architect and designer, will share his expertise in landscaping outdoor patios and garden rooms. Nashville Emily Frith, celebrated chef and caterer, will demonstrate the is having use of culinary herbs in food and libations served at lunch. Celebrating the Golden Age Vendors include: Distinctive Residential Settings | Premier Programs for Health and Wellness Roy Overcast - pottery collection a Party! Kathy Edwards - fairy houses and jewelry Chef-Prepared Dining and Bistro | Award-Winning Memory Care Everyone is Invited! Susie Ries -botanical watercolorist Professionally Supervised Therapy and Rehabilitation Services and many more! September 19, 2015 Music all day long by The Boomerangs - a popular local Open for tours seven days a week — call today! Cheekwood Botanical band playing music from the 60’s and 70’s! Garden and Museum of Art Sign-in at 8:30 a.m. 615.279.9100 1200 Forrest Park Drive 9:00 am - Delicious breakfast foods prepared by the Herb Society 4206 Stammer Place Nashville, TN 37205. of Nashville members. Nashville, TN 37215 3:00 p.m. - The educational program will conclude with a live auction of floral arrangements of Ralph Null. belmontvillage.com For more information, visit herbsocietynashville.org or contact Rhonda Galligan at [email protected] or by phone, 931-224-8947. ACLF License 59 © 2015 Belmont Village, L.P. Please visit our Facebook for updates! Accepting Early Registration! Early Bird Registration is $42.00 and September Registration is $47 HAPPY NEW YEAR! per person to cover expenses of speakers, entertainment and lunch.

The Observer September 2015 19 Sukkot – 5776 Congregational Schedules

Congregation Sherith Israel Sept. 29, Oct. 1, Oct. 2 (Sukkot intermediate Friday, Oct. 2 (Erev Shabbat Sukkot) 3800 West End Ave. days) Candle lighting ...... 6:12 p.m. Morning services ...... 6:30 a.m. Shabbat service...... 6:30 p.m. (Modern Orthodox) Evening services...... 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 (Shabbat Sukkot) Sunday, Sept. 27 (Erev Sukkot) Monday, Oct. 5 (Shemini Atzeret) Morning service ...... 9:30 a.m. Candle lighting...... 6:20 p.m. Service (including Yiskor)...... 9:30 a.m. Torah reading...... 10:30 a.m. Mincha ...... 6:25 p.m. Lunch in the sukkah ...... 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6 (Erev Simchat Torah) Monday, Sept. 28 (first day of Sukkot) Simchat Torah dinner and service...... Sunday, Oct. 4 (Erev Shmini Atzeret) Shacharit...... 9 a.m...... 5:30–7:30 p.m. Candle lighting...... 6:09 p.m. Mincha ...... 6:20 p. m. Chassidic hakafot ...... 6:30 p.m. Candle lighting...... 7:14 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 (Simchat Torah) Service...... 9:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5 (Shmini Atzeret) Tuesday, Sept. 29 (second day of Sukkot) Morning service ...... 9:30 a.m. Shacharit...... 9 a.m. Yizkor (memorial service)...... 11:15 a.m. Mincha...... 6:20 a. m. Priestly blessings ...... 11:45 a.m. Candle lighting ...... 7:13 p.m. Congregation Micah Simchat Torah dinner and hakafot...... 7 p.m. (Candle lighting after 7:04 p.m.) Friday, Oct. 2 (Chol Hamoed) 2001 Old Hickory Blvd. Shabbat candle lighting...... 6:12 p.m. (Reform) Tuesday, Oct. 6 (Simchat Torah Service) Mincha ...... 6:15 p.m. Morning service ...... 9:30 a.m. Dinner in the Sukkah Friday, Oct. 2 (Simchat Torah Celebration Read concluding portion of Torah....10:30 a.m. (open to the community)...... 7 p.m. and Sukkot Sleepover) Campsite opens...... 2p.m. Holiday ends...... 7:03 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 (Hoshanah Rabbah) Pre-Neg libations and snacks...... 5:30 p.m. Shacharit ...... 5:45 a.m. Shabbat service and Torah dancing .6:00 p.m. Candle lighting ...... 6:09 p.m. Dinner followed by crafts, movie, overnight Mincha ...... 6:15 p.m. camping...... 7p.m. The Temple 5015 Harding Road Monday, Oct. 5 (Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor) (Reform) Shacharit...... 9 a.m. Yizkor...... 10:45 a.m. Congregation Beit Sunday, Sept. 27 (Erev Sukkot) Mincha...... 6:10 p.m. Conversion Conversations Dinner in the Hakafot ...... 7 p.m. Tefilah/Chabad of Nashville Sukkah ...... 5 p.m. Candle lighting...... 7:04 p.m. 95 Bellevue Road (Orthodox) Wednesday, Sept. 30 Tuesday, Oct. 6 (Simchat Torah) Renew dinner in the Sukkah...... 6 p.m. Shacharit...... 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 27 (Erev Sukkot) Hakafot...... 9:45 a.m. Candle lighting ...... 6:20 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 (Erev Shabbat Sukkot) Lunch...... noon Service ...... 6:30 p.m. Simchat Torah celebration and oneg ...... 6 p.m. Mincha...... 6:10 p.m. Community dinner under the stars ...... 7 p.m. Ma’ariv/Havdalah ...... 7:03 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 Monday, Sept. 28 (first day of Sukkot) Next Dor Sukkot under the Stars...... 6 p.m. Morning service ...... 9:30 a.m. Lulav shake ...... 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 West End Synagogue Priestly blessings...... 11:45 a.m. WELL “It’s a Knitzvah” in the Sukkah...... 1 p.m. Candle lighting after...... 7:14 p.m. 3810 West End Ave. (Conservative) Tuesday, Sept. 29 (second day of Sukkot) Morning service ...... 9:30 a.m. Sept. 28, Sept. 29 and Oct. 3 (Sukkot) Lulav shake...... 10:30 a.m. Morning services ...... 9:30 a.m. Priestly blessings...... 11:45 a.m. Evening services...... 6 p.m. Holiday ends...... 7:13 p.m.

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20 September 2015 The Observer 14 years after her mother’s death, writer finds a way to recite Unetaneh Tokef By JENNIFER RICHLER feelings. I look for ways I can evoke my mother’s memory, whether by telling my ike most Jews, I used to recite children about her, or using one of her the prayer Unetaneh Tokef favorite recipes. I smile to myself when I every year on the High notice ways I resemble her. Holidays. This is the prayer This year, taking my rabbi’s words to that states: heart, I’ve decided to break my 14-year streak and recite the Unetaneh Tokef. LOn Rosh Hashanah it is written, and on I’ve found a way to understand the words Yom Kippur it is sealed. so that they reflect my beliefs. I’m still How many will pass and how many will not sure about other prayers. Many have be created? words that are hard for me to endorse, Who will live and who will die? but I can’t imagine not saying them. The prayer goes on to enumerate var- Maybe that doesn’t make me a fraud. ious ways a person might die: by fire, water, Maybe that makes me human. sword, beast, hunger, thirst, earthquake, drowning, strangling, stoning. It ends by Jennifer Richler, a freelance writer liv- reminding us that teshuvah and tefillah and ing in Bloomington, Indiana, wrote this tzedakah—repentance and prayer and piece before the High Holidays last year for righteous acts—“avert the evil decree.” Tablet, a daily online magazine of Jewish Fourteen years ago, while she was on news, ideas and culture at tabletmag.com. a hike with my father off the coast of By Andrea Tsurimi courtesy of Tablet New Brunswick, my mother slipped and not supposed to do, he said, is “throw up fell to her death about a hundred feet our hands” in apathy. from the edge of a precipice. One way of dealing with my strug- Beit Tefilah and Sherith Although the Unetaneh Tokef had gle, I realized, is to embrace it rather long made me uneasy with its stark than try to resolve it. But why pray if I imagery and invocation of a supernatural don’t believe the words I’m saying? Israel to host Selichot service God I didn’t believe in, after my mother Because, said Besser, rituals like prayer o kickoff the upcoming The service will include the died the prayer took on a very personal satisfy deep emotional needs that defy High Holiday season, musical talents of Rabbi Saul meaning: that God had taken my moth- logic. When it comes to the realm of the Congregation Beit Tefilah Strosburg of Sherith Israel and er’s life because she hadn’t sufficiently emotional, it’s OK not to be consistent. Chabad will host a com- insights into the Selichot by Rabbi repented, prayed, and/or performed I understand the emotional pull of munal Selichot Service Yitzchok Tiechtel of Congregation righteous acts. I couldn’t accept that. ritual. After my mother died, I recited with Congregation Beit Tefilah. The evening will begin And I haven’t said the prayer since. the Mourner’s Kaddish every Sabbath for Sherith Israel. with a Chasidic Farberengen led by Of course, the Unetaneh Tokef is but a year, as is traditionally required of T Selichot, the service of repentance, Rabbi Shlomo Rothstein of Chabad one extreme example of a prayer that mourners, even though the actual words, in preparation for the Jewish New Year, of Vanderbilt in which he will portrays God as punishing and all-pow- which sanctify God’s name, didn’t res- will take place at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, explore how Jewish wisdom and the erful. This notion of God has never onate with me. There was something Sept. 5, at the Genesis Campus for art of gratitude can help people find made sense to me. If I believe in God at powerful about standing up in the sanc- Jewish Life, 95 Bellevue Road. life’s deepest meaning, joy and inner all, it’s on a much more abstract level: tuary with other mourners and uttering Selichot is an opportunity to exam- peace. According to Rabbi Yitzchok God as transcendence, God as goodness. the same words, the same ones that have ine one’s deeds of the past year, direct Tiechtel, gratitude does not simply Shouldn’t I reject all prayers to a super- been uttered by Jewish mourners all over one’s heart and mind to the process of elevate the soul but also inspires us to natural God, I’ve wondered, instead of the world for many centuries. teshuvah (repentance) and seek forgive- act for the good and the right. picking on just one prayer? Privileging the emotional over the ness. Some of the prayers and music This event is being held in prepara- Despite my misgivings, on the High rational is hard for me. I care about con- found in the Selichot service are taken tion for celebrating the High Holy Days Holidays and at other times during the sistency, especially when it comes to my from the High Holy Day liturgy, thus and is free and open to the public. For year when I find myself at services, some- words and ideas. I’m a writer, after all; if providing a transition between “old year” more information call (615) 646-5750 or thing pulls me to continue saying other the specific words I use don’t matter, and the new year. go to chabadnashville.com. • prayers: the familiarity of the melodies and what does? So, perhaps it’s not surprising even the connection to my mother, who that the idea that resonated with me was once president of our congregation most from my discussion with Rabbi and a regular at services. But since she Besser involved looking closely at the died, whenever I pray, I feel like a fraud. words of a prayer. He pointed that the To work through this dilemma, I Unetaneh Tokef, when properly translat- sought guidance from someone who I fig- ed, says that repentance has the power ured had given these issues some thought: not to “avert the evil decree” but to my rabbi, Brian Besser. He helped me see “cause the evilness of decree to pass my struggles in a different light. away.” The prayer doesn’t say that bad First he pointed out that skepticism things won’t happen if we repent, but is a kind of prayer; when I sat silent in instead that the harshness of what hap- the sanctuary during the Unetaneh Tokef, pens will dissolve if we do. arms folded in protest, I was praying. The In the aftermath of my mother’s word “Israel,” he reminded me, means death, I certainly felt bitterness, self-pity, “one who struggles with God.” As Jews, and despair. Sometimes, I still do. But we’re supposed to struggle. What we’re whenever I can, I try to transcend those SHANA TOVA UMETUKAH Bobbie Limor Catering Bobbie Limor has unique and varied menus to help you plan your special occasion. Her client-friendly service will help assure the success of your simcha. In addition, Bobbie can help with flowers and linens. Trust your event to Bobbie from a Simple Kiddush, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Luncheon, Wedding or Elegant Multi-course Banquet. 356-4045

The Observer September 2015 21 Five ways to focus your spiritual 7 Estate Planning Mistakes awareness for the High Holidays

By TAMARA COHEN Shofar You Should Avoid In 2015 Tradition: The shofar (ram’s horn) is The Jewish month of Elul is tradi- blown at the conclusion of every week- tionally a time for personal reflection day morning prayer service during Elul. How Rabalais Law Is Introducing A New Kind Of Estate and spiritual preparation for the New Suggestion: Use this month to listen Year. It offers a structured opportunity to for the shofar’s rousing call. Carve out Planning Program Exclusively For Tennessee Residents examine what is holding us back from some time to think through the kinds of being who we really want to be. If we use changes you want to make in the coming Attend A FREE Event And Discover How To: the period of Elul to take concrete steps year. What’s holding you back? · Avoid costs and delays of a Tennessee Probate; towards becoming advocates for change, together we can make a difference! Psalm 27 · Avoid losing your life savings to nursing home costs; Tradition: Psalm 27 — which · Create a fast and simple estate plan for your family; Relationship with God begins with the words “God is my light · Avoid the NEW 40% estate tax; Tradition: The word Elul can be and my helper, whom shall I fear?” — is understood as an acronym for the recited every day from Rosh Hodesh Elul · Determine whether you need a Will or Trust (or both!); Hebrew verse Ani L’dodi V’dodi Li – “I am (the beginning of the month) through · Keep the government out of your estate settlement; for my beloved and my beloved is for the middle of Sukkot (the Festival of me.” Booths). · Start the five-year look back period for nursing homes; Suggestion: Think about your rela- Suggestion: Honor the fact that · Enrich your family relationships! tionship with whatever you conceive of change can involve fear. Think about as the Divine Presence. Try to imagine a keeping an Elul journal to help revive About Your Speaker. Daniel resides in Franklin, more intimate relationship, as if God your internal dialogue. You may want to Tennessee with his wife Catherine and their son were your beloved. You might want to use some or all of Psalm 27 as a departure William. He graduated from the University of write a letter addressed to this Beloved in point for meditation and/or writing. which you speak as you would to a close Books like The Artist’s Way by Julia Dayton School of Law in Dayton, Ohio, and friend. You may want to honor yourself Cameron may also be useful tools. received his Bachelors degree from Purdue as “created in God’s image” by treating University and his Associates Degree from Holy yourself as you would treat a beloved. Kol Nidre Cross College in South Bend, Indiana. Daniel Tradition: Kol Nidre (the first prayer serves as an Estate Planning Attorney with Raba- Human Relationships recited on the eve of Yom Kippur) serves Tradition: The teshuvah [repen- to annul all existing vows and prepare us Dan Perry lais Law that services the greater Nashville area tance] process operates on two levels, to begin the New Year with a clean slate. Estate Planning Attorney with its office located in the West End. one involving human relationships and The Al Chet prayer enumerates the specif- the other involving our relationship with ic ways we have missed the mark. Brentwood Franklin Brentwood God. According to tradition, we resolve Suggestion: Take some time to re- Thursday September 3rd Friday September 4th Wednesday September 9th human relationships during Elul by ask- evaluate your participation in the com- Amerigo The Egg & I Amerigo ing forgiveness for wrongdoings. If we munity. Try to be more conscious of how 1656 West Gate Circle 1000 Meridian Blvd., #118 1656 West Gate Circle earnestly asks three times, the obligation you spend your time and money. Do your is fulfilled. calendar and checkbook reflect your val- 11:30am-12:30pm 11:00am-12:00pm 11:30am-12:30pm Suggestion: As part of your teshuvah ues and priorities? Lunch Provided! Lunch Provided! Lunch Provided! process, try to sort out difficult relation- ships (with people, organizations) that Reprinted with permission from Murfreesboro Murfreesboro Murfreesboro drain you of your creative energy. Think Journey, A Journal of Jewish Feminism, Tuesday September 15th Tuesday September 15th Wednesday September 16th about what kind of closure you need in published by Ma’yan: The Jewish order to move forward into the next year. The Egg and I Parthenon Grille Parthenon Grille Women’s Project. 19720 Medical Center Pkwy. 1962 S. Church St. 1962 S. Church St. 11:30am-12:30pm 6:00-7:00pm 6:00-7:00pm Lunch Provided! Dinner Provided! Dinner Provided!

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22 September 2015 The Observer New Reform prayer book aims to make High Holidays more gender inclusive

By GABE FRIEDMAN at the Central Conference of American said. “We have been studying it, learning Rabbis’ annual convention in March, about all the innovations, returns to tra- (JTA) – When some Reform syna- 180 synagogues had already ordered it. dition and new, thoughtful prayers gogue-goers, including those at The That number has risen to approximately included.” Temple in Nashville, open up their 300 as the holidays approach. Person said there hasn’t been much prayer books this High Holiday season, Among them is The Temple, negative backlash among Reform rabbis. they will be greeted with snippets of which has been using it during Shabbat The book had been in the pipeline for poems by the likes of Walt Whitman and services to familiarize the congregation seven years, four of which involved test- Pablo Neruda. Feminist and LGBTQ- with it before the holidays, said Rabbi ing the book in services at select congre- friendly terms and phrases will be subtly Shana Mackler. gations across the country, so those in incorporated into the prayers; scattered Some of artist Joel Shapiro’s original wood- “We are looking forward to using the know have been expecting the among those prayers will be original cuts appear in print form in the new Reform the new prayer book,” Rabbi Mackler changes for some time. • woodcut prints inspired by the holidays. holiday prayer book. (Joel Shapiro (C) 2015 by Artists The Central Conference of Rights Society (ARS), New York) American Rabbis, the principal organi- Happy New Year zation of North American Reform rab- Nefesh, also features what Person calls bis, has revamped its High Holidays counter texts, which accompany tradi- prayer book for the first time since 1978. tional prayers and challenge their asser- The new prayer book, or machzor, tions. For example, the important reflects an effort to be more inclusive of Unetaneh Tokef prayer is followed by a women and LGBTQ Jews. In some cases, philosophical Carl Sandburg poem and God is referred to as a woman. One pas- then by the new sentence: “I speak these sage substitutes the words “bride” and words, but I don’t believe them … clear- New and Improved Shalom Taxi! “groom” with the gender-neutral “cou- ly there’s no scientific foundation …” ple.” In a blessing that calls congregants In addition to textual changes, the We’ve made it easier for you to use! to the Torah, mention of gender is left new two-volume book contains original Monday - Saturday • NEW certified MTA access driver! out as a gesture to transgender people. artwork for the first time: 11 commis- Extra riders going to the same destination will not need a “There’s no way to give you a per- sioned woodcuts by the renowned artist centage [of what has changed] — it’s a Joel Shapiro. voucher and will only pay $1 per extra rider. totally new book,” said Rabbi Hara The goal, Person says, is to make all Six riders maximum per same destination. Person, the rabbinical group’s director of Jews, no matter how religious they are, publications. “Of course, it’s based on the feel more comfortable during High To purchase $5 vouchers structure of any machzor … but it’s not Holiday services, even if they only contact Carrie Mills at the Gordon Jewish Community Center just a sort of tweaked version.” attend due to family pressure. The new prayer book, Mishkan ha- at 615-354-1680 or email: When the prayer book was unveiled [email protected] The Observer’s Annual Travel & Leisure ISSUE is Coming November 2015! We will be highlighting travel products and services.

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

Deadline for ads is October 15, 2015

Contact: Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager 615-354-1699 e-mail: [email protected] fax: 615-352-0056

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The Observer September 2015 23 Advertise In Entertainment & Dining Out Issue October 2015

Reach the Entire Jewish Community of Middle Tennessee

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

Publication Date: October 1, 2015 Ad Deadline: September 15, 2015 Contact Carrie Mills 615.354.1699 or e-mail [email protected]

24 September 2015 The Observer French Jews made 5775 the year of “aliyah by choice”

CNAAN LIPHSHIZ tailored to particular olim groups, like to the United States or Canada or Western country willing to take them in. pensioners or families. Australia, but they chose Israel, not only In parallel, immigration from Russia (JTA) — In their central Jerusalem Unlike North American Jews, who for emotional reasons, but also because it is also increasing due to the depreciation apartment, Natan and Avital Sharansky immigrate to Israel at a steady rate of competes well against all these other of the Russian ruble and the erosion of can hear their new upstairs neighbors approximately 3,500 people each year, options economically, culturally and in civil liberties under the government of chatting in French on their patio. French immigrants to Israel can also be terms of quality of life.” Vladimir Putin, Sharansky said. In the The young family moved into the seen as olim of necessity because many Meanwhile, aliyah of necessity is first six months of 2015, a total of 2,958 penthouse earlier this month, shortly are fleeing anti-Semitism, Sharansky also making a comeback, with nearly Russian Jews – mostly from affluent cities after immigrating to Israel with help of conceded. He last visited Paris in 10,000 people leaving war-torn Ukraine like Moscow and St. Petersburg – made the Jewish Agency for Israel — the semi- January, just two days after an armed for Israel over the past 18 months. aliyah, compared to 1,944 in the corre- official organization for Jewish immigra- Islamist gunned down four Jews at the During that period, more Ukrainians sponding period last year. tion to Israel, or aliyah, which Natan city’s Hyper Cacher kosher shop. He moved to Israel than during the preced- “They don’t want to be locked in if Sharansky has headed since 2009. spoke there to French Jews who were too ing five years. the doors close again,” Sharansky said. The family is part of a major fearful to wear their kippahs on the Since the eruption last year of a civil The Jewish Agency is well versed in increase in aliyah from France amid ris- street, who told him they would immi- conflict in the country’s east, aliyah fig- handling immigration of that sort. As ing levels of anti-Semitism and econom- grate to Israel because they feel they’re ures from Ukraine increased dramatically, recently as 2013, aliyah from the former ic stagnation in that country. In 2014, being chased out of their homeland. reaching 5,840 emigres in 2014 — a 190 Soviet Union, Ethiopia and developing 6,668 French people made aliyah — a Yet, Sharansky pointed out, nobody percent increase over 2013. In the first nations accounted for 50 percent of the record number of newcomers in a single is forcing these emigres to Israel. half of 2015, Israel saw the arrival of 3,450 total of 19,558 newcomers. But last year, year from France — making that country “Their arrival in such numbers is an Ukrainians compared to 2,592 French aliyah from those countries accounted the largest provider of Jewish immigrants achievement for Israel because the olim Jews. Unlike French citizens, Ukrainians for 45 percent of the 26,627 total, with to Israel for the first time in a given year. from France could have gone anywhere need visas to live in — or even visit — Western countries — France, especially But the Sharanskys and others don’t in Europe — to Britain, for example,” European Union member states. For – providing the difference that tipped need data to confirm the influx of French Sharansky said. “Many could have gone Ukrainian Jews, Israel is often the only the scale in favor of aliyah of choice. • arrivals. They are in plain sight from Ashdod, where shop signs assure prospec- tive customers that they have French- speaking staff, to Netanya, where some taxi drivers use broken, newly acquired French to communicate with tens of thousands of Francophones now living in the city. Their presence is evident in Jerusalem, too. “You used to be able to get by in our As you and your loved ones gather together, neighborhood with either English or may the high holidays prepare your hearts Hebrew,” Sharansky told JTA of Old XJUI
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MPWF the aliyah of choice,” according to Sharansky, who spent years in Soviet jails for his endeavors to make aliyah L’shana tova, from his native Donetsk in present-day Laurie Cardoza-Moore & The PJTN Team Ukraine. This wave of olim from France — a Western and relatively affluent democracy — is a major achievement for Israel and reward for Sharansky’s efforts to reshape the Jewish Agency after it had been defined by decades of “aliyahs of necessity” from war zones as well as failed or dictatorial regimes. Increasing aliyah of choice was one of Sharansky’s major goals from his first day in office. Under his chairmanship, the Jewish Agency transformed from a bureaucratic, almost militaristic appara- Proclaiming Justice to the Nations tus to a service provider and facilitator. PO Box 682711, Franklin TN 37068-2711 The organization now employs consult- 

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The Observer September 2015 25 Akiva welcomes students – new and returning – as school year begins

By CHARLES BERNSEN

s they were contemplat- ing a move from Los Angeles, Joel and Heidi Roberts took the advice of a friend and visited Nashville, where they Adropped their daughter Rebecca off at Akiva School before touring the city with a real estate agent. When the couple returned a couple hours later, their daughter announced emphatically, “I want to go here,” Joel recalls. “She just fell in love with the school.” And sure enough, as Akiva held its annual back-to-school picnic last month, Rebecca was among the dozens Children’s band The Happy Racers plays to an auditorium packed with kids, parents and guests of children scampering through the at Akiva’s back-to-school picnic last month. lunchroom, hallways and classrooms in anticipation of the start of classes the New Akiva School second grader Rebecca Angeles, and the couple wanted her to year is kindergarten teacher Jennifer next day. Roberts and her parents, Joel and Heidi. continue at one in their new city. Hosey, though it might be more accurate When they visited last spring, “She just fell “We had a friend who moved to to describe her as “new again.” Hosey Rebecca, an 8-year-old second grad- in love with the school,” Joel says. er, is among 75 students enrolled at Nashville and sent us rhapsodic emails taught at Akiva several years ago and is Akiva, which represents a 34 percent laptops to all fifth and sixth grade stu- about the area,” says Joel. “We just didn’t returning after a stint at the Gordon increase over last year, according to Lynn dents, she said. think it was possible that Nashville Jewish Community Center’s Early Heady, who is beginning her second year Akiva was an important factor in would have a Jewish day school. So as a Childhood Learning Center. as head of school. the decision of the Roberts family to joke I googled it, and up popped Akiva.” Posey says she’s excited about “the “I’m just really excited about the relocate to Nashville. Joel and Heidi, a The fact that Akiva has “a strong incredible program we have here” and new year,” Heady says – and not just former radio talk show host and televi- pluralistic aspect” – and that Rebecca encouraged by the big enrollment jump. because enrollment us up. The school sion producer respectively, own a media seemed to take to it immediately – “When I was here in 2000, we had got a generous donation that will make it consulting business and could have helped them decide to make Nashville almost 100 students,” she says, “And I possible to expand its technology pro- moved anywhere. But Rebecca had their home, he says. think we’re well on the way back to gram this year, including distributing attended a Jewish day school in Los Among the new faces at Akiva this that.” •

26 September 2015 The Observer Toni Heller among 4 to be honored with Council on Aging’s Sage Award

n nominating Toni senior centers. served include United Way, Fifty Heller for the • In 2008, Heller conceived, chaired Forward, Our Kids, The Temple, United Council on Aging’s and implemented the JFS Free to Way and the Vanderbilt Divinity School Sage Award, Read initiative in which various Board of Visitors. Jewish Family Jewish organizations collected 600 “Each of us at some time has some- Service Executive books and distributed them to immi- thing – skills, talents or time – to con- IDirector Pam Kelner grant children with the twin goals of tribute to give back to the community,” described her as “the type promoting literacy and building Heller said. “What I did with communal of person who sees a need bridges between the Jewish and agencies or groups was rewarding to me in the community and Latino communities. at the same time…I am growing as a per- builds something to Other organizations Heller has son by remaining involved.” • address it.” The council appar- ently agreed. Heller is one Rosh Hashanah MAKE YOUR MOTHER HAPPY… of four recipients of the 2015 Sage Award, which The 2015 Sage Award winners are Ida K. Martin (from left), September 13—15 EAT AND ENJOY!!! is given annually by the Sophia Beamon, Emmie Jackson McDonald and Toni Heller. council’s Middle Tennessee chapter to professionals or vol- Council of Jewish Women, Heller unteers age 50 or older who have demon- helped found the local CASA strated a lifelong commitment to improv- (Court Appointed Special ing the quality life in their community. Advocate) program, which for more Heller and the other recipients – Ida than 30 years has recruited and Holiday K. Martin, Sophia Beamon and Emmie trained volunteers to represent the Jackson McDonald – will be honored at a interests of abused and neglected Yom Kippur luncheon from noon-1:30 p.m. on Friday, children in the court system. Menu Oct. 23 at the Omni Nashville Hotel. To • She helped develop and served as September 22—23 reserve seats or find out more about the coordinator for Camp Anytown and luncheon, visit the council’s website at Camp MiniTown, programs pio- http://www.coamidtn.org/sage-awards/. neered by the National Conference - - - CARRY—OUT - - - “It was instilled in me to be a mensch of Christians and Jew and now of (Midtown & Green Hills) – to value family and community,” Heller the auspices of the Oasis Center said, “so it is humbling to be singled out that help reduce prejudice by bring- ROSH HASHANAH MENU for recognition and to be among others ing teenagers together to explore Matzah Ball Soup 5.99 Qt 19.99 Gallon who are today and in the past recipients of their identities and biases. Extra Matzah Ball 1.19 Each this honor.” • She was the major force behind the Chicken Noodle Soup 5.59 Qt 16.99 Gallon The fruits of her efforts as a profes- creation of a guide for Jewish Family Sliced Brisket 6.99 Per Lb sional nurse and community volunteer Service to help seniors prepare a Sliced Turkey Breast 7.49 Per Lb can be found throughout both the Jewish comprehensive plan for emergencies Chopped Liver 8.99 Per Lb community and the larger Nashville – and then took the lead in promot- Gefilte Fish 1.79 Each community. ing and distributing it at houses of Potato Latkes 4.99 (3) • As a member of the National worship, community centers and Challah (w/without raisins) 6.99 Each

Jewish Middle School of Nashville holds first classes - - - BREAK—FAST - - - ashville’s newest Jewish funding structure that will make JMS Yom Kippur Dinner Special—NO BUFFET day school began its more accessible than typical private In addition to our regular menu first school year last schools.” Served at Midtown/Broadway Location ONLY month with five sev- JMS, which holds classes at Akiva enth through ninth School, has an innovative educational 1918 Broadway 615-329-6674 grade students. format and curriculum that combines Wednesday, September 23 5:00 pm—8:00pm NThough it is starting small, the online coursework with collaborative,

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The Observer September 2015 27 Local Jewish leaders participating in Gov. 6th Annual Haslam’s Israel mission

ark S. Freedman, Rosh Bash executive director of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, is 2015 | 5776 among a 35-member Mdelegation traveling with Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam on the state’s first busi- ness mission to Israel. The premier New Year’s Eve The weeklong mission, which departed on Aug. 28, was organized by the Tennessee Department of Economic event for young adults. and Community Development and Conexx, an Atlanta based organization THE HARDING HOUSE that promotes business ties between AT BELLE MEADE PLANTATION Israel and companies in the Southeastern United States. Gov. Bill Haslam 5025 HARDING PIKE | NASHVILLE, TN | 37205 The goal of the mission is to strengthen relationships between Israeli Saturday, September 12th, 2015 and Tennessee businesses and encourage bilateral trade and investment opportu- 9pm-12am nities focused specifically on high tech, biotech and healthcare firms. Tickets: $20 (includes free drink ticket) “I am particularly gratified that Get yours now at nowgennashville.org! Governor Haslam has made trade with Israel an economic priority for the State of Tennessee,” said Freedman before his Sponsored by: departure. “This is of particular signifi- cance following the state legislature

NowGen a Division of Commerce Union Bank adopting and the governor signing a res- Nashville olution last April condemning the Boycott, Sanctions and Divestment (BDS) movement targeted against Israel. “The best response to insidious movements such as BDS is to make a Mark Freedman

commitment to investment in Israel. Governor Haslam is making an emphat- ic statement that is the direction the State of Tennessee will take and it is sure to pay great dividends for business inter- ests in Israel and across our State.” In addition to Freedman, the local delegation traveling with the governor and First Lady Crissy Haslam include philanthropist and private investor Bernard A. Pargh and his wife Maria, Jewish Federation Community Relations Chair and real estate executive Arthur Perlen, and Mark A. Cohen, the Justin Potter Professor of American Competitive Enterprise and professor of law at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management. The group’s itinerary includes visits to Hadassah Hospital, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Nazareth Industrial Park, Ramban Medical Center and Technion. A visit is also planned to the Jewish Federation’s Partnership2Gether city of Hadera, where the delegation will have an inter- active session at Haklai High School, the base for many of the P2G teacher and student exchange programs. • Classical Piano Entertainment by Gabrielle Add a Tasteful Touch to any occasion. The perfect ambiance for dinner parties or any social event. Jewish traditional music Shana Tova 5776 available upon request. Piano must be provided. 

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28 September 2015 The Observer OPINION Federation board votes to oppose Iran deal

he Board of Directors of in the future. This deal, as proposed, the Jewish Federation of gives Iran full nuclear threshold status Nashville and Middle in just 15 years or less. Unfortunately Tennessee approved a this deal does not meet key objectives statement on Aug. 25 that we are comfortable with, including: opposing the nuclear 1) shutting down Iran's uranium enrich- Tagreement with Iran and urging ment pathway to a nuclear weapon 2) Congress to reject it. tracking Iran's nuclear activities with The board’s overwhelming vote in unprecedented transparency and 3) favor of the statement came a day after robust inspections throughout its the Federation held an open, 90-minute nuclear supply chain, including suspect- community discussion of the issue at the ed nuclear sites. Gordon Jewish Community Center We believed that phased sanctions attended by about 100 people. relief should commence only after Iran Moderator Mark S. Freedman, the complies with all of its commitments Federation’s executive director, outlined under the new accord, including calling Federation Executive Director Mark S. Freedman moderates an open community discussion of the parameters of the agreement, sum- the Iran deal on Aug. 24. The Federation board voted the next night to oppose the agreement. on Iran to account for its past marized arguments for and against it, weaponization efforts. We now urge reviewed the congressional approval members of Congress to disapprove of process expected to take place this the deal because we lack the confidence month, and then took more than a dozen that Iran will meet its obligations speci- questions and comments from both sup- fied in the agreement, including unfet- porters and opponents of the deal. tered and unimpeded access to suspect nuclear sites. We also remain concerned and STATEMENT ON troubled by Iran’s support for Hezbollah, THE IRAN AGREEMENT for its propping up of the despotic It is with regret and deep concern regime in Syria, for its support of that the Board of Directors of the Jewish Houthi rebels in Yemen, for its tacit Federation of Nashville and Middle backing of Hamas, and for its human Tennessee urges the U.S. Congress to rights violations and its aggressive reject the Iran nuclear deal, which threats toward neighboring countries threatens to further destabilize the including Israel. The specter of a Middle East and will impact short and nuclear armed, or an enhanced conven- long-term security concerns in America, From left to right: European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy tionally armed Iran, is untenable. As Federica Mogherini; Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif; British Foreign Secretary in Israel and throughout the world. of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Philip Hammond; and U.S. Secretary of State long as Iran continues to call for Israel’s This statement represents the views John Kerry pose for a photo after the last working session in negotiations in Vienna, Austria on destruction and to pursue its terrorist of a majority of the Board of Directors of July 14. (Photo by Thomas Imo/Photothek/Getty Images) activities and ambitions, Iran must be the Jewish Federation of Nashville and treated as the dangerous pariah state it Middle Tennessee. We recognize, of the Federation in assisting the most arms embargoes, Iran will have access to has time and again proven itself to be. acknowledge and appreciate that there vulnerable in our community, in Israel conventional and ballistic weapons after This is a defining moment for are members of the board and in the and wherever Jews are in need. five and eight years respectively if the America, for Israel and for the entire wider Jewish community whose view- After years of negotiations that current agreement is implemented. This world. This is not a partisan issue – it is a points differ from those reflected in this began with the specific intent of disman- troubling concession to Iran underscores moral issue which will have implications statement. We hope that those holding tling Iran’s nuclear infrastructure so it the inherent weaknesses in the agree- for our generation and for the genera- differing viewpoints will respect the would have no path to a nuclear weapon, ment now before Congress. tions that will follow us. For those who thoughtful process we undertook in the current agreement does not provide We had hoped that the diplomatic join with us in opposing this agreement, arriving at this position and that all this ultimate goal. The deal will only efforts of the Obama Administration we urge you to contact your member of members of our Jewish community will manage and contain Iran’s nuclear capa- and the P5+1 would prevent Iran from Congress and your senators and request continue to support the important work bilities. In addition, with the lifting of developing nuclear weapons, now and that they vote against this deal. • The Iran deal is a An imperfect deal can still “surrender to tyranny” serve American interests

By DAVID BROOKS to force Iran to come clean on all past By THOMAS FRIEDMAN material to break out with a nuclear The New York Times nuclear activities by the Iranian military. The New York Times weapon for 15 years and creates a con- Sixth, to shut down Iran’s ballistic mis- text that could empower the more prag- he purpose of war, military sile program. Seventh, to have “any- rom the minute Iran detected matic forces inside Iran over time — at or economic, is to get your where, anytime 24/7” access to any that the U.S. was unwilling to the price of constraining, but not elimi- enemy to do something it nuclear facilities Iran retains. Eighth, as use its overwhelming military nating, Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and would rather not do. Over Kerry put it, to not phase down sanctions force to curtail Tehran’s sanctions relief that will strengthen the past several years the until after Iran ends its nuclear bomb- nuclear program — and that Tehran as a regional power. United States and other making capabilities. dates back to the George W. Supporting this deal doesn’t make TWestern powers have engaged in an eco- As a report from the Foreign Policy FBush administration, which would nei- you Neville Chamberlain; opposing it nomic, clandestine and political war Initiative exhaustively details, the U.S. ther accept Iran’s right to a nuclear fuel doesn’t make you Dr. Strangelove. Both against Iran to force it to give up its has not fully achieved any of these objec- cycle nor structure a military or diplo- sides have legitimate arguments. But nuclear program. tives. The agreement delays but does not matic option to stop it — no perfect deal having studied them, I believe America’s Over the course of this siege, end Iran’s nuclear program. It legitimizes overwhelmingly favorable to America interests are best served now by focusing American policy makers have been very Iran’s status as a nuclear state. Iran will and its allies was ever going to emerge on how to get the best out of this deal explicit about their goals. Foremost, to mothball some of its centrifuges, but it from negotiations with Iran. The bal- and cushion the worst, rather than scut- prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear will not dismantle or close any of its ance of power became too equal. tling it. That would be a mistake that power. Second, as John Kerry has said, to nuclear facilities. Nuclear research and But there are degrees of imperfect, would isolate us, not Iran, and limit our force it to dismantle a large part of its development will continue. and the diplomatic option structured by choices to going to war or tolerating an nuclear infrastructure. Third, to take Iran wins the right to enrich urani- the Obama team — if properly imple- Iran much closer to nuclear breakout, away its power to enrich uranium. um. The agreement does not include mented and augmented by muscular without any observers or curbs on the Fourth, as President Obama has “anywhere, anytime” inspections; some diplomacy — serves core American ground, and with crumbling sanctions. said, to close the Fordo enrichment facil- inspections would require a 24-day wait- interests better than any options I hear “The nuclear agreement is a deal, ity. Fifth, as the chief American negotia- ing period, giving the Iranians plenty of coming from the deal’s critics: It pre- not a grand bargain,” argued the Wilson tor, Wendy Sherman, recently testified, Continued on page 32 vents Iran from producing the fissile Continued on page 32

The Observer September 2015 29 OPINION Readers’ views on the Iran deal I totally agree with Carol Hyatt and we need to press Iran on but we should- be ruled out. They must be stopped now! If the United States does not sign the Mark Freedman on the seriousness of the n’t throw this win out. Jerome S. Klein agreement, the intrusive inspections and current agreement with Iran. Congress the constraints now in place will go away. Steve Entman **** should hear from the Jewish community The expectation is that within a year Iran **** We strongly support the Iran to vote against this agreement, which will have a nuclear bomb. Other nations The nuclear deal with Iran is moral- nuclear agreement. should be amended to include safe guards in the Middle East, many not having cor- ly corrupt and ill-conceived. While our After three years of intense negotia- to ensure that Iran will not be allowed by dial relations with Iran, could well feel diplomats are negotiating a deal with tions with the United States and five the international community to develop that they must have a bomb as well. Israel Iran, their citizens take to the streets world powers, Iran has agreed to curb its nuclear weapons for decades. could be much less safe. yelling, “Death to America!” nuclear capability and has accepted the It is never a bad idea to let your Their government is not to be trust- most stringent inspections ever agreed to Bernard Werthan elected representatives know how ed to honor the terms of any agreement. regarding non-proliferation of nuclear important this issue is to the Jewish com- **** They have proven this time and time arms. It is also the first time a country munities in the United States, Israel and We support the agreement with Iran. again. If they can dig tunnels under Israel agreed to ban research on nuclear worldwide. However, what was not said Opponents of the agreement have without detection, they will surely find a weapons, not only their manufacture. in the Federation statement is that the not offered any realistic alternative. The way to hide their contraband. They tried This goes beyond the limits imposed by time is NOW for all Jews who have sup- hope that another agreement can be to destroy us many times since 1975. the 1968 Non-Proliferation Treaty, the ported the Democratic Party with both renegotiated with better terms (whatev- They jail, torture and kill their own landmark arms control agreement of the donations and votes to re-access what is er those are) is unrealistic. Many high- people. Is it a stretch of the imagination nuclear age. of the greatest importance to them, to profile Israeli security experts outside the to think they would do worse to Israelis Nuclear experts as well as top securi- the Jewish community and the security government, retired U.S. generals and or Americans? ty, scientific and military figures in both and the very existence of Israel. U.S. nuclear physicists agree. They will build their bomb sooner Israel and the United States broadly sup- All of us who know Jews and non- Vigilant supervision over the terms rather than later because of the billions port the agreement, and indeed warn Jews in states represented by Democratic of the agreement is required. Should of dollars they will reap due to dropped against the consequences of rejecting it. senators need to make calls or send Iran violate the agreement the United sanctions. Once they have annihilated Among them: Ami Ayalon, former head emails to encourage them to let those States and its negotiating partners will Israel or as they call it; “The Little of the Shin Bet as well as Israel’s Peace and elected officials know of the critical have the tools and the political position Satan,” they will surely want to elimi- Security Association, representing hun- importance of voting against this agree- of enforcement, something that the nate “The Big Satan.” dreds of security experts, IDF veterans, ment, not only for Israel , but also in the United States has been lacking since we For the first time in my 73 years I am Mossad, Shin Bet and police. best interest of the long term security of invaded Iraq. frightened, not so much for myself but In addition, 29 top U.S. scientists, the United States. Fortunately, our elect- Opponents say that releasing Iran’s for our children and grandchildren. I including five Nobel Prize winners, have ed representatives in Tennessee will vote restricted assets will give Iran additional want our grandchildren to continue to written to President Obama, praising the against this horrendous agreement. funds to escalate its terrorist activities. have the freedoms we enjoy in America. agreement and arguing that it should be If the Jewish communities and The existing sanctions have not ham- Free speech, freedom of religion and the a model for future agreements limiting Jewish organizations all over the United pered Iran in its support of terrorism in right to assemble are important to me nuclear arms. States will make a concerted and well- the Middle East. Anti-terrorism sanc- and why millions risk their lives to immi- Rejection of this agreement by the coordinated effort to defeat this agree- tions will remain in effect. In the long grate to America. Congress would both undermine our ment, it is possible to have the votes run, Iran can only be restrained through Stop this insanity! Kill the deal before standing in the world as well as cause the needed in the Senate to override a presi- continued international restrictions on they kill us and destroy our way of life. sanctions instituted by this coalition to dential veto and safeguard Israel from its terrorism and nuclear proliferation Remember the words of Edmund evaporate. Without the agreement Iran greatest threat. If the agreement is rejected, the intru- Burke, “The only thing necessary for the is free to develop its nuclear weapons sive inspections and the constraints now James Fishel triumph of evil is for good men to do and its economy as well. in place will evaporate. Without an agree- **** nothing.” Without any restrictions on Iran’s ment, the expectation is that Iran could Intense opposition to this Iran Rusty Groffman nuclear aspirations, Israel, the United have a nuclear bomb within a few months. nuclear deal is driven by the fundamen- States and the world are much less secure. **** (Remember Prime Minister Netanyahu’s tally flawed premise that the United In the United States most people Ruth and Bill Smith time bomb at the United Nations?) States had the capacity to create an received the news of the agreement with Co-Chairs, J Street Nashville President Kennedy negotiated a environment of crushing financial sanc- hope and reserved doubt. On the streets nuclear deal with the Soviet Union in tions to bring Iran to the table. **** of Tehran, most people received the 1963 during the height of the Cold War. Without the participation of our It’s terrible! And embarrassing! We news with boisterous joy and wild frenzy The United States should conclude a negotiation coalition and the willingness are aiding and abetting our enemy and shouting, Death to Israel and down with comparable deal with Iran in 2015. This of many other countries to sacrifice their turning our back on our only ally in that America!” agreement is in the best interests of the own economic interests, that pressure part of the world. How foolish we look This must not be ignored. For years United States and its allies, including would never have developed. To achieve and are. Iran has dedicated itself to creating a “new Israel, and should be approved. that, there was a negotiation among the world order” – a caliphate based on Islamic LeAnne Péters coalition partners, some of whom have Irwin Kuhn law as decreed by Muhammad in the sev- **** strategic interests that conflict with ours. Avi Poster enth century. In order for this to happen I support the agreement with Iran. Assembling a critical mass of political and Irwin Venick there would have to be a world calamity, Those opposed say that we should economic power to force Iran to the table **** like an Armageddon, and then a world reject the current agreement and return (and agreement) meant focusing on the Given that Iran has been chanting peace when all non-believers and infidels to the bargaining table. I think the hope nuclear weapons program. Other obvious “Death to America! Death to Israel!” submit to Allah or are put to death. For that we can get a better deal is unrealis- issues, like Hezbollah and Hamas, were since 1979 and was still doing so this July, Iran and its dedicated leaders, to fulfill this tic. No country in the world other than wedges between us and nations we need- to claim that the recent agreement to free terrible obsession, Iran and all its hell-bent Israel appears to oppose the agreement. ed as partners. up millions of dollars for Iran to use in cohorts will gladly make promises to abide Even in Israel many high-profile security Although the United States con- fomenting Muslim terrorism in Latin by the flimsy rules of the nuclear agree- experts support the agreement. And can trols a substantial portion of the embar- America while, at best, merely delaying ment. But even under strict surveillance, Iran gain support in their country for a goed Iranian assets, many other nations, Iran's nuclear bomb by a decade “avoids they will circumvent the rules. more restrictive deal? They were strain- both among the negotiating partners and war” is to live in an alternate reality. Iran’s leaders are extremely patient. ing to make the concessions they did. outside, control hundreds of millions of Secretary of State John Kerry, the guy They will continue to pursue the cre- Some say the United States is so power- dollars and have sacrificed their own who failed to join 1.6 million marchers ation of nuclear weapons in order to ful- ful that Iran cannot afford to oppose us economies to participate in the sanc- against genocidal Islam in Paris but com- fill their goal – the creation of a global even though they have done so for tions. If the United States reneges, they pensated later by bringing James Taylor caliphate – with the destruction of Israel decades. The United States will still will not be obligated to abide by earlier tossing Kumbaya over the corpses that our and America – and world domination. have in place extensive sanctions that terms. Iran will get money and its president ethnically denigrated as “ran- In 1981 Israel destroyed Iraq’s have been in place for years and not cov- nuclear program. dom folks in a deli,” mewls that he is not nuclear reactor, which stopped Sadaam ered by the agreement. Politics is the art of the possible. personally informed of any explicit plans Hussein’s potential to create a bomb and Opponents say that releasing the Without Russia and China, other by Iran to attack the United States. helped thwart his grandiose intentions to assets now tied up will give Iran money nations would not have participated; My great-grandparents, who died in a seize power in the Middle East. Now Iran to escalate its terrorist activities. I think Iran never would have conceded. boxcar, probably heard Neville Chamberlain could be on a path to becoming a nuclear it would be hard to argue, based on the Remarkably, if they appear to be unreli- make much the same comment. power, especially with the signing of this years the assets have been tied up, that able, all parties agreed that snapback Giving aid and comfort to the bad deal. Firm and active measures must Iran has let financial restraints imposed options are available through a process enemy is treason. Obama and Kerry be taken, stricter sanctions, stronger polit- on them keep them from supporting ter- that bypasses the Security Council. should be arrested. ical pressure, even military force cannot rorism in the Middle East and elsewhere. There are many other important issues David Altschul 30 September 2015 The Observer majored in marketing, entrepreneurship McDonald House, sorting food at Joshua and Daniel of Memphis. Services and music business at Northeastern Second Harvest, rebuilding trails at were conducted by Rabbi Joshua Kullock University in Boston. After graduating, Radnor Lake, and working on the garden at West End Synagogue on July 27 and she attended Loyola University College of at the Gordon Jewish Community burial was at K.K.A.I. Cemetery. lifecycles Law in New Orleans. Center with BBYO. Donations may be made to West End When she decided she wanted to Synagogue, Hadassah or the Chordoma B’nai Mitzvah pursue entertainment law full time, she Foundation, P.O. Box 2127, Durham, knew there was no better place than Sympathy NC 27702. Alexa Claire Honigsblum will be Nashville. In 2011, she launched … to the family of Lee Notowitz called to the Torah as a Schaffer Law Firm PLLC. Rachel loves … Jean Dell Smith, who died Gryll, who died on July 26 after a coura- bat mitzvah at 10:30 a.m. helping local entrepreneurs succeed in peacefully on July 30. She is survived by geous fight of more than four years with on Saturday, Sept. 5, their business ventures and delights in her daughter, Simone; son-in-law, Colin, chordoma, an extremely rare cancer. 2015 at Congregation seeing her clients open their doors for and grandchildren, Jenna and Daniel. A Lee was born August 14, 1957 in Micah. Alexa is the business for the very first time. graveside service was at Congregation Memphis. She graduated from daughter of Jennifer When she’s not striving to help Micah. In lieu of flowers, donations may Vanderbilt University with a degree in Abel Ferguson of business owners succeed, you can find be made to Alive Hospice. mathematics and chose to make Nashville and Abel Rachel training for marathons, trail run- Nashville her home. She was employed Honigsblum of Alexa Claire ning, power lifting at her favorite … the family of Bertram King, 94, Honigsblum at Metro Water Services as a systems Woodstock, Ga. She is CrossFit box, cuddling one of her five who died on on July 31. He lived a long analyst and worked there for over 30 the younger sister of Makale “fur babies,” and enjoying a local craft and prosperous life. He was born in New years until her recent retirement. Honigsblum, granddaughter of Elliot and brew with her husband, Tyler. York City, served in WW II and was a Lee is survived by her husband, Sandra Abel of Memphis and the late Matthew is a native Tennessean retired optometrist. He was preceded in Michael; son, Andrew (Shira), and her Aron Honigsblum of Brownsville, TX. who grew up in Gainesboro and graduat- death by his wife, Beatrice, and his son, four precious grandchildren, Chava, Alexa is in eighth grade at DuPont- ed from The University of Tennessee in Harvey. He is survived by his son and Yisroel, Yocheved and Temima of Hadley Middle Prep in Old Hickory. She Knoxville. When he isn't enjoying daughter-in-law, Lloyd and Laura King; Baltimore. She is also survived by her is a strong all-around student and looks Friday night service at Micah, he may be his daughter-in-law, Andrea King, and his parents, Max and Fannie Notowitz of forward to starting high school. where found seeing films at The Belcourt or four grandchildren, Michael, Stephanie, Memphis, sister, Ida (Terry) Eleazer of she hopes to enter the pre-nursing acad- one of the other local cinemas, or listen- Philip and Ian. A graveside service was Hickory Valley, TN, and brothers, emy in Metro Nashville Public Schools. ing to cherished records at a coffee shop. held on Aug, 2 at K.K.S.I. cemetery. In her spare time, Alexa dances at As a relative of big band era singer Jo Bellevue Dance Center, she also enjoys Stafford, Matthew grew up loving the spending time with friends, shopping records of vocalists, and he greatly enjoys and being creative through her love of singing along during services. Matthew Pinterest. converted to Judaism at Congregation Alexa’s Mitzvah Project has been Micah in 2013, and he is thrilled to letters to the editor devoted to the care of adults living with finally become a bar mitzvah. dementia and Alzheimer’s. She has given To the wonderful Jewish community BBYO, where I was a member as a teen. her time to The Barton House in Benjamin Miller will be called to the of Nashville, THANK YOU! In I want to thank you all for being so Bellevue, a memory care assisted living Torah as a bar mitzvah at September 2014 I packed up my bags and welcoming when I arrived in Nashville. center. She enjoys reading, baking and 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, moved to Nashville, a place to which I This is an amazing community with doing arts n crafts projects with the resi- Sept. 19, 2015 at had never been and where I didn’t know unique qualities, and I will not forget my dents. Alexa is excited to share her bat Congregation Micah. a single person. Upon my arrival, I was wonderful experiences there. Nashville mitzvah with so many family and friends Ben is the son of Ian welcomed with open arms. is a booming city with a growing Jewish who have traveled to support her on this Miller and Kathy I was fortunate enough to spend a population, and I will always be keeping wonderful journey. Miller, older brother of year as the Nashville BBYO city director an eye on its progress. I know it is only Brooke Miller, the as well as the Gordon Jewish going to continue to get better. Janyce Cutler, Rachel Schaffer grandson of Alan and Benjamin Community Center’s teen director and Once again, thank you all for being Lawson, and Matthew Barbara Miller and Miller Camp Davis assistant director. On Aug. so welcoming to me during my time in Stafford will be called Helen and Harold McDermott, and the 19 I moved back to my hometown of Nashville. Please never hesitate to reach to the Torah as adult great-grandson of Elsie Miller. Ben was Pittsburgh, PA. I have been given the out to me at [email protected]. b’nai mitzvah at 10:30 born in Plantation, FL but moved to opportunity to see my career come full a.m. on Saturday, Sept. beautiful Franklin with his family when circle by becoming the regional director Sincerely, 12, 2015 at he was 2. of Keystone Mountain Region (KMR) Andrew T. Exler Congregation Micah. Ben is a seventh grader at Page Janyce Cutler and Middle School. He is a straight-A stu- Janyce Cutler Submisson Policy her husband Joel have dent who has a passion for math and sci- The Observer accepts original opinion pieces and letters from Nashville area resi- been a part of the ence and plays the trumpet in the school dents on topics of interest to the Jewish community as long as they have not been Congregation Micah band. Outside of school he plays tennis published or submitted for publication elsewhere. Submissions should be sent by family for 17 years. In and is a blue belt in Isshinryu karate. In the 15th of the month prior to publication to Editor Charles Bernsen at 2014 Janyce enrolled in his spare time he enjoys traveling, [email protected] or 801 Percy Warner, Suite 102, Nashville 37205. The the Hebrew course for movies, video games, and hanging out Observer reserves the right edit all submissions for clarity, length and style. adults out of a strong with his friends and family. desire to learn to read For his mitzvah project, Ben is put- ting his love of animals to good use by Hebrew. Rachel Schaffer Having grown up in Lawson organizing a fundraiser for Happy Tales Happy New Year an orthodox family, she Humane and will be volunteering at the was excluded from the veterinary office his family frequents. opportunity of a bat mitzvah. Her newly Abigail (Abby) Fay Moschel will acquired knowledge of be called to the Torah Hebrew and a desire to as a bat mitzvah at 10:30 more profoundly a.m. on Saturday, Sept. express her spiritual 26, 2015 at connection to her Matthew Congregation Micah. Jewish heritage and Stafford Abby is the daughter of community culminated in her decision Michael and Lisa to be a bat mitzvah. Moschel, granddaugh- ter of Rich and Lynn Abigail (Abby) Janyce and her husband, both Fay Moschel retired, are enjoying their travel oppor- Moschel of Cincinnati tunities. Most prominent in her activi- and the late Richard and Gail Jennissen ties is her renewed pursuit of her art as of Carlton, MN. both artist and student. She also contin- Abby is an honor roll student in the ues to pursue her quilting and knitting seventh grade at Harding Academy. She and is a voracious reader. plays middle school volleyball and is on Rachel grew up in an entrepreneurial the cheerleading squad. Abby enjoys family — both her mother and grandfa- spending time with her friends, family, ther owned their own businesses — so it and listening to music. seemed quite natural that she found the Abby enjoys volunteering, includ- study of business alluring. Rachel triple ing making meals at the Ronald

The Observer September 2015 31 Brooks much in economic sanctions. “Nothing filled regime. If you think its radicalism the nuclear delay comes into view, the we know about the Iranian government is going to be softened by a few global 45th or 46th president will decide that Continued from page 29 suggests that it would simply capitulate trade opportunities, you really haven’t action must be taken. time to clean things up. After eight under that kind of pressure,” he argued. been paying attention to the Middle East Economic and political defeats can years, all restrictions on ballistic missiles The president concluded early on over the past four decades. be as bad as military ones. Sometimes are lifted. Sanctions are lifted once Iran that Iran would simply not budge on fun- Iran will use its $150 billion windfall when you surrender to a tyranny you lay has taken its initial actions. damental things. As he argued in his high- to spread terror around the region and the groundwork for a more cataclysmic Wars, military or economic, are handed and counterproductive earlier this exert its power. It will incrementally but conflict to come. • measured by whether you achieved your month, Iran was never going to compro- dangerously cheat on the accord. Armed stated objectives. By this standard the mise its sovereignty (which is the whole with money, ballistic weapons and an David Brooks is a columnist for The U.S. and its allies lost the war against point of military or economic warfare). eventual nuclear breakout, it will New York Times, where this piece first Iran, but we were able to negotiate terms The president hoped that a deal become more aggressive. As the end of appeared. that gave only our partial surrender, would change the moral nature of the which forces Iran to at least delay its vic- regime, so he had an extra incentive to tory. There have now been three big reach a deal. And the Western, Russian U.S. strategic defeats over the past sever- and Chinese sanctions regime was fragile Friedman Carnegie Endowment. We should reach al decades: Vietnam, Iraq and now Iran. while the Iranians were able to hang out to them in every way — visas, The big question is, Why did we together. Continued from page 29 exchanges and scholarships — to lose? Why did the combined powers of This administration has given us a Center’s Robert Litwak, author of “Iran’s strengthen their voices. Visiting Iran the Western world lose to a ragtag choice between two terrible options: Nuclear Chess.” “Obama and Iran’s taught me that Iranians have had regime with a crippled economy and accept the partial-surrender agreement supreme leader Khamenei are each mak- enough Islamic fundamentalism to know without much popular support? that was negotiated or reject it and slide ing a tacit bet. Obama is defending the they want less of it and they’ve had The first big answer is that the immediately into what is in effect our deal in transactional terms (that it enough democracy to know they want Iranians just wanted victory more than total surrender — a collapsed sanctions addresses a discrete urgent challenge), more of it. (Iran’s hard-line we did. They were willing to withstand regime and a booming Iranian nuclear but betting that it will empower Iran’s Revolutionary Guards know this well, the kind of punishment we were pre- program. moderate faction and put the country on which is why they are still trying to per- pared to mete out. Many members of Congress will be a more favorable societal trajectory. suade Iran’s supreme leader to reject this Further, the Iranians were confident tempted to accept the terms of our par- Khamenei is making the opposite bet — deal and its opening to the world.) in their power, while the Obama admin- tial surrender as the least bad option in that the regime can benefit from the 4. Avoid a black-and-white view of istration emphasized the limits of the wake of our defeat. I get that. But in transactional nature of the agreement the Middle East. The idea that Iran is America’s ability to influence other voting for this deal they may be affixing (sanctions relief) and forestall the deal’s everywhere our enemy and the Sunni nations. It’s striking how little President their names to an arrangement that will potentially transformational implica- Arabs our allies is a mistake. Saudi Obama thought of the tools at his dis- increase the chance of more comprehen- tions to preserve Iran’s revolutionary Arabia’s leadership has been a steadfast posal. He effectively took the military sive war further down the road. deep state.” U.S. ally in the Cold War; many Saudis option off the table. He didn’t believe Iran is a fanatical, hegemonic, hate- We can, though, do things to are pro-American. But the Saudi leader- increase the odds that the bet goes our ship’s ruling bargain is toxic: It says to the way: Saudi people that the al-Saud tribe gets to 1. Don’t let this deal become the rule and in return the Saudi Wahhabi Obamacare of arms control, where all religious establishment gets billions of the energy goes into the negotiation but dollars to transform the face of Sunni then the implementing tools — in this Islam from an open and modernizing faith ClassifiedClassified Ads Ads case the verification technologies — to a puritanical, anti-women, anti-Shiite, don’t work. President Obama should anti-pluralistic one. The Saudis have lost appoint a respected military figure to control of this puritanical-Salafist trans- PIANO LESSONS oversee every aspect of implementing formation of Islam, and it has mutated this deal. into the ideology that inspired the 9/11 Study the art of piano playing with 2. Congress should pass a resolution hijackers — 15 of 19 of whom were Gabrielle. Classically trained and authorizing this and future presidents to Saudis — and the Islamic State. use force to prevent Iran from ever graduate of The University of Iran aided the U.S. in toppling the becoming a nuclear weapons state. Iran Taliban regime in Afghanistan, and, at Michigan School of Music, Theatre & must know now that the U.S. president the same time, Tehran, and its cat’s paw, Dance. Instruction for all ages and ADVERTISE TODAY is authorized to destroy — without warn- Hezbollah, have propped up the Syrian levels (including beginners). e-mail Carrie Mills ing or negotiation — any attempt by regime while it has perpetrated a geno- [email protected] For additional information, please Tehran to build a bomb. cide against its own people, mostly call or email (727) 773-7560 3. Focus on the Iranian people. The Syrian Sunnis. We need to confront celebrations of this deal in Iran tell us Iran’s regional behavior when it contra- [email protected] that “the Iranian people want to be dicts our interests, but align with it when South Korea, not North Korea,” notes it comports with our interests. We want Karim Sadjadpour, Iran expert at the to balance the autocratic Sunnis and Shiites, not promote either. Neither share our values. Finally, when it comes to the Middle East broadly, we need to contain, ampli- fy and innovate: Contain the most aggressive forces there, amplify any lead- Business Card Directory ers or people building decency there, and innovate on energy like crazy to keep YOUR GUIDE TO FINE BUSINESSES prices low, reduce oil money to bad actors and reduce our exposure to a AND SERVICES AROUND MUSIC CITY. region that is going to be in turmoil for a PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS, 615.356.3242 EXT. 299 long, long, long time. • THEY’RE THE BEST! Thomas Friedman is a columnist for The New York Times, where this piece first appeared. Tim Gregory Graphic Designer

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32 September 2015 The Observer Maccabi Medals for GJCC around the town Hadassah plans Youth, a loose network of young Jews who gravitate toward illegal West Bank “Sukkah Hop” settlement outposts and, according to the Shin Bet security agency, espouse vio- progressive dinner lence against non-Jews. The Nashville chapter of Hadassah The church, which is operated by will hold its annual “Sukkah Hop” pro- Catholic Benedictine Order, was built 33 gressive dinner on Thursday, Oct 1. years ago on the same site of the first one The event will begin at 7 p.m. with erected 1,600 years ago to mark the spot wine and cheese in the sukkah at the where, according to the Gospels, Jesus is home of Jessica Kullock. From there, said to have fed more than 5,000 people groups will travel by car to several more with just five loaves of bread and two fish. sukkot before returning to the Kullock Rabbi Strosberg said the donation home for dessert. The dinner should end was made in the name of the entire by 9 p.m. Nashville Jewish community, which will The cost is $15. RSVP by Sept. 21 at be recognized with a plaque at the church. More information about the [email protected]. The Gordon Jewish Community Center sent For more information, call Nili Friedman fund can be found at 11 competitors to the Maccabi Games in at (615) 498-4564. https://www.mimoona.co.il/Projects/274 Milwaukee last month, all of whom brought 8&ChangeLang=English. home medals. The boys flag football team, shown here with coach Andrew Exler, lost a heartbreaking semifinal game 34-32 but Local rabbis aid Christian clergy will came back to win the bronze medal in the effort to restore consolation game. Ilanit Sedek, pictured share reflections of here shortly after being presented one of Galilee church her two bronze medals by two-time recent mission to Olympic gold medalist Garrett Weber, com- damaged by peted in 10 swimming events and beating Israel at The Temple her original times in over half of them. She Jewish extremists also won a Midot Medal for being such a Rabbi Mark Schiftan and local great sport and competitor. And Jonathan Reilly caught three games and pitched Though it happened half a world Christian clergy who participated in a another while playing with a softball team away, several members of Nashville’s recent fact-finding mission to Israel will from San Diego that won the silver medal. Board of Rabbis have taken a stand share their reflections on the Israeli- Photos by Andrew Schulman against Jewish extremism by donating Palestinian situation at 7 p.m on Sept. 1 $1,500 to a fund helping to restore a at The Temple. Galilean church that was heavily dam- The entire Jewish community along aged in an arson fire in July. with members of the churches served by In an email to his rabbinic colleagues, the clergy are invited to attend. A recep- Rabbi Saul Strosberg said the contribu- tion will follow. tion to the fund, Restoring Friendship, The mission, funded by the Jewish would serve as “a statement that we will Federation of Nashville and Middle tolerate hatred and that our love and Tennessee, included nine pastors from respect for other human beings and their local mainline Christian churches. It was HAPPY NEW YEAR! faiths is greater than any act of violence.” led by Rabbi Schiftan and Mark S. The fund was established in the Freedman, executive director of the wake of an arson fire that damaged part of Federation. the Church of the Multiplication of the I like to come here, Franz. As I have for nearly twenty years now. Loaves and Fishes in Tabgha, on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Five Israeli youths indicted for the crime in July are And the rose bush has turned into a lovely little tree. described as members of the Hilltop

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36 September 2015 The Observer