the Jewish bserver Federation event aims to produce inside: big IMPACT on community solidarity Sherith Israel getting By CHARLES BERNSEN Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennesse. Like the Our first new Torah scroll ou can find Avraham World’s Fair events of previous years, in 50 years 14 Infeld on Facebook, IMPACT aims to inspire Nashville Twitter and YouTube, area Jews to connect with each other The Rabbis’ Corner, new where he likes to refer to and find fulfilling venues for express- himself as a “Judaic car- ing their Jewish identities. monthly opinion column 17 penter” and describes IMPACT is hosted by NowGen YJewish peoplehood as resting on a “5- Nashville, the young professionals Two examples of legged table” -- memory, family, division of the Nashville Jewish olives and Jewish covenant, the land of Israel and the Federation. The event is scheduled community- Hebrew language. Jews must preserve outspoken advocate of pluralistic for 7 p.m. on Feb. 5 at the Gordon as many of the table’s legs as possible, understandings of Jewish identity, Jewish Community Center. Free and building 19 he says, or their sense of peoplehood will be the featured guest at open to the entire community, the will fray and the table will topple over. IMPACT, a community-building event will include a desert reception. Israeli author creates Infeld, a Jewish educator and event on Feb. 5 sponsored by the Continued on page 4 comic book hero for kids with cancer 24 Tzedakah Tzunday volunteers needed Regular features he Jewish Federation of Federation funds also go to support The easiest way to volunteer is via Lifecycles 21 Nashville and Middle dozens of programs and services for the online form on the Nashville Around the town 22 Tennessee is looking for Jews in Israel and around the globe. Federation’s website at http://tinyurl.com/ a few good volunteers – Tzedakah Tzunday is on Feb. 9 at 2014tztzvolunteer. You can also con- well, actually, more the Gordon Jewish Community tact Susan Pankowsky (call 615-354- than 100 volunteers – Center. Volunteers are needed to staff 1676 or email her at susan@jewish- Tto staff the phones next month for three 2-and-a-half-hour shifts between nashville.org) or Naomi Limor Sedek SIMCHAS & Tzedakah Tzunday, the local commu- 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., plus a 2-hour (call 615-354-1642 or email her at CELEBRATIONS SECTION nity’s largest fundraising event. follow- up shift from 7-9 p.m. on [email protected]). PAGE 7 The daylong annual phone-a- Tuesday, Feb. 18. Each shift includes There will be refreshments for thon typically reaches about 1,000 30 minutes of training to prepare vol- volunteers as well as babysitting for people and accounts for about 22 per- unteer callers to speak with family those who register in advance by con- cent of the individual gifts that help and friends about the Nashville tacting Barbara Schwarcz at 615-354- the Nashville Federation fund more Federation and the programs it funds. 1630 or [email protected]. than 67 unique projects including There are other ways to help on By volunteering a few hours of scholarships for Jewish day school stu- Tzedakah Tzunday as well – provid- time, you can make a big difference dents, the Buz a Bus service for seniors, ing food for volunteers, and or serv- in the Jewish community locally and counseling and adopting services ing in limited clerical spots sorting globally. c through Jewish Family Service, pro- pledge cards, updating phone num- gramming at local synagogues and the bers and writing letters and thank See CampaignTrail on page 3 Gordon Jewish Community Center. you notes to donors. Nashville artist gathers “virtual choir” to record new candle blessing melody By CHARLES BERNSEN

hree years ago Stacy Beyer composed a new melody for the traditional Shabbat candle www.jewishobservernashville.org blessing. As she was preparing to record it, the Nashville Jewish recording and touring artist had a thought: Why not recruit some of her A Publication of colleagues in the contemporary Jewish music Tscene to participate in the recording? So she asked, and they responded – in a very big way. The result is the Candle Blessing Project, a recording of Beyer’s melody by a “virtual choir” of 66 voices, including many luminaries of contemporary Jewish music. Released last month, the recording is for sale digitally for $2.99 at www.jewishnashville.org www.urjbooksandmusic.com. All proceeds from both digital down loads and the sale of sheet music benefit the Stacy Beyer has dedicated the Candle Blessing Project to her VOL.79 NO. 1 Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. mother-in-law, Evelyn Beyer, whom she calls “a true light in the January 2014 Continued on page 3 world.” 29 Tevet - 30 Sh’vat 5774 off

as Rabbi of West End Synagogue

2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 2, 2014

Special Guest: Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson Dean of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, American Jewish University

The West End Synagogue Community welcomes you to a reception immediately following the installation. For information: email [email protected]@westendsyn or call 615 269-4592

Westst EndEnd SynagogueSSynagoguynago 3810 West Endd AAve.ve. - Nashville,Nashvill TN 37205

2 January 2014 The Observer From the Financial aid available for Campaign Trail overnight Jewish summer camp hat was it about An Easy New Year’s Resolution those weeks spent at summer camp By STEVE HIRSCH Wednesday, Feb. 5 at the Gordon Jewish year after year that Federation Campaign Chairman Community Center. This event, organ- inspired your con- ized and hosted by NowGen Nashville, nection to t looks like we have survived one features inspirational speaker Avraham WJudaism? Was it the spirited singing after and Middle Tennessee realizes the impor- more holiday season, with its non- Infeld, president emeritus of Hillel. Infeld dinner or havdalah on the edge of the tance of building Jewish life and makes stop barrage of holiday shopping, will discuss the topic, “What does being lake at sunset? The Jewish summer camp financial assistance available on a need special sales, Jewish mean to you?” This talk will experience creates community for life, basis for students to attend Jewish sum- greeting cards inform and challenge us at the same time not just for a summer. mer camps. If you know someone who and all of those to make an impact on our Jewish commu- Year after year our children return could benefit from this information, Iimportant bowl nity. Admission to this event is free and home from camp filled with stories, mem- please share it. To request information on games. Imagine the all members of our community are invited ories, and friendships. For many children summer camp opportunities or for a schol- joy of the Vanderbilt by the NowGen group to attend. it could be the first time they’re surround- arship application, please call Michelle players having had Step two in this plan is to volunteer ed by all things Jewish. Overnight Jewish Faulkner at the Jewish Federation office, the once-in-a-life- for two-and-a-half hours at the Nashville camping is wonderful way to introduce 354-1624, or email her at michelle@jew- time experience of Steve Hirsch Federation’s Tzedakah Tzunday phone- children to the joy and celebration of the ishnashville.org. All inquiries are confi- participating in the a-thon. A key part of our annual cam- Jewish traditions. dential. The deadline for submitting BBVA Compass Bowl in Birmingham. paign, Tzedakah Tzunday is the day that The Jewish Federation of Nashville applications is Feb. 28. c So we turn the page on 2013 and we reach out to our neighbors in the face the new year with renewed hope community and ask for their support for and expectations. This is the time of our campaign. This once-a-year appeal year when people usually establish reso- will support a wide variety of grants for YOU CAN DO IT... LET US HELP lutions and goals for the new year. local and national agencies who work Unfortunately, the idea of New Year’s with children, young adults, families, resolutions has become a punch line for seniors in our Nashville Jewish commu- Stay Independent, At Home, In Charge® promises that we know we will fail to nity and in the global Jewish community keep. This year I will lose those 20 of which we are a part. Quality Attendants, Companions And Sitters pounds, or this is the year I will quit Every year we rely on over 100 vol- Bonded & Insured, State Licensed smoking or eat healthier and exercise unteers to make certain that we reach Excellent References more. These resolutions have a way of every member of the Nashville and disappearing before too much time has Middle Tennessee Jewish Community Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence elapsed in the new year. and give them the opportunity of the Personal Care Assistance At Its Best Well, being the generous, communi- mitzvah associated with helping the Thinking about your parents...We can be there when you cannot. ty-minded fellow that I have resolved to most vulnerable and those in need be this year, I am going to help you with a among our extended Jewish family. 2000 Richard Jones Road 119 McGrew Street 109 Holiday Court, Suite C-8 resolution that you will able to “knock Tzedakah Tzunday is on Feb. 9, and Nashville, TN 37215 Shelbyville, TN 37160 Franklin, TN 37067 615-383-5656 931-680-2771 615-472-1563 out of the park.” This very simple resolu- we are looking for people to be involved tion is to be more involved with the 208 Uptown Square 309 N. Jackson Street in our daylong telephone campaign. If Murfreesboro, TN 37129 Tullahoma, TN 37388 Jewish community this year. While there you would like to pitch in, contact Susan 615-848-6774 931-222-4080 are lots of ways to accomplish this goal, Pankowsky (352-1676 or susan@jewish- the easy way that I have in mind is a two- nashville.org) or Naomi Limor Sedek step plan that you can complete within (352-1642 or email her at naomi@jew- the span of a single week in February. ishnashville.org). Step one is to plan to attend our commu- You can do a mitzvah and knock out nity-wide IMPACT event at 7 p.m. a new year’s resolution at the same time. c Nashville artist gathers Jewish voices Continued from page 1 have come to know The musicians, cantors, cantorial through that music.” soloists and rabbis who participated in Among the the project didn’t actually gather in per- voices on the record- son to make the recording. Instead, ing are those of con- Beyer and her co-producer, longtime temporary Jewish Nashville recording engineer Gary music artists such as Dales, made a master backing track and Julie Silver, Rick sent it to each participant, who then Recht, Dan Nichols, recorded his or her part individually. Beth Schafer, Josh Beyer and Dales spent months editing Nelson and Craig and mixing the parts into the virtual choir Taubman. Also par- Stacy Beyer heard on the recording. ticipating were sever- Beyer moved to Nashville 23 years al Nashvillians, including Cantor Tracy ago to pursue a career in country music Fishbein, Rabbi Mark Schiftan and Rabbi but eventually shifted her focus to con- Shana Goldstein Mackler from The temporary Jewish music. She has recorded Temple and cantorial soloist Lisa Silver three CDs and tours the country perform- from Congregation Micah. ing at synagogues and Jewish camps and The project has been especially grat- communal organizations. Time magazine ifying to Cantor Fishbein, who counts just named her one of its “10 stars of new Beyer as a close friend as well as a congre- Jewish music.” gant. She recorded her part for the project The Candle Blessing Project is special in the basement studio at Beyer’s home to Beyer for two reasons. First, it fulfills her “with Stacy sitting right there, listening goal of “giving something long term for and commenting.” the future of Jewish social action. That “It’s such an honor for me because was very important to me.” Just as impor- Stacy is such an important figure in tant, it has allowed her to pay tribute to Jewish music. I hear her name all the time the genre in which she has found musical when I leave Nashville to perform at a fulfillment and to many of the artists and concert or attend a conference,” said performers who have inspired her. Cantor Fishbein, who led the Temple in “I feel like I found my true self when I singing the new melody for the first time began doing Jewish music,” she said. “And during evening services of the last it’s such an honor to work on this project Shabbat in November, which fell during with so many of the wonderful people I Chanukah. c The Observer January 2014 3 Federation event aims to produce big IMPACT on community solidarity

Continued from page 1 widely recognized as a passionate, enter- founded Melitz, a non-profit educational solidarity and peoplehood in a thought- "The Federation has heavily supported taining and thought-provoking speaker services institution aimed at fostering provoking way and has inspired genera- the Jewish young adult community, and we whose vision of Jewish peoplehood tran- connections among Jews based on support tions of Jews to reach deeper and look for feel it is important to show our gratitude,” scends religious, political and cultural for Israel and pluralistic approaches to the ways to engage with their Jewish commu- said Erin Coleman, co-chair of IMPACT. boundaries. (See his full explanation of question of Jewish identity. nities,” said Naomi Limor Sedek, the “We understand the importance of person- the five-legged table metaphor at More recently he has been consult- Nashville Federation’s campaign director. ally investing in our community and hope http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbeeC ing with the Reut Institute of Tel Aviv In sponsoring IMPACT and bring- others will be inspired to do the same." _QP8Ng. ) and its American partner, the Alliance ing Infeld to Nashville, the Jewish It is quite fitting that Infeld will be Infeld is a native of South Africa who for Global Good, on their effort to Federation hopes to replicate the enthu- the featured speaker at an event hosted by made Aliyah to Israel in 1959, graduating launch a sustained, worldwide Jewish siasm generated by the Our World’s Fair NowGen: Not only is he the president from The Hebrew University, where he initiative called 21st Century Tikkun events of previous years by focusing on emeritus of Hillel International, he was studied Bible and Jewish History. He got a Olam. The initiative’s goal is twofold: local community-building efforts, said involved in planning the Taglit-Birthright law degree from Tel Aviv University, but To effect social good and unite Jewish campaign Chairman Steve Hirsch. Israel program, which has sent hundreds of his career has been as a Jewish educator. communities around the world behind a Those who attend IMPACT will also thousands of young Jewish adults on iden- He began promoting his vision of Jewish core Jewish principle. have an opportunity to make their gifts tity-building trips to Israel. Infeld also is culture and peoplehood 40 ago when he “Avraham Infeld speaks about Jewish to the annual campaign. c Avraham Infeld: Project to “repair the world’ will also build Jewish solidarity By AVRAHAM INFELD a common set of val- parallel, Jewish participation in volun- making a significant, and distinctly ues does underlie a teer service projects continues to rise. In Jewish and Israeli, contribution to solv- n his recent speech to the sense — shared by my years as president of Hillel, I wit- ing humanity’s most pressing problems. American Israel Public Affairs both the Jewish state nessed firsthand the excitement with Understanding that, in an increas- Committee (AIPAC), President and the Jewish people which young people react to tikkun olam. ingly interconnected world, the moral Barack Obama spoke of his per- — of a right and obli- At the same time, Israel has estab- imperative to contribute gains urgency, sonal connection to the bond gation to work lished itself as a “start-up nation,” capa- a joint tikkun olam mission can be a way between the U.S. and Israel, towards addressing ble of contending with the top end of the to strengthen the common bonds of the Ievoking “the concept of tikkun olam that humanity’s needs. challenges facing humanity in the fields Jewish people in a time of growing gaps has enriched and guided my life.” This is why Obama’s of medicine, technology, communica- between Israel and world Jewry com- Ironically, the term tikkun olam (lit- Avraham Infeld comment exposed tions, and software. It also has world- munities. erally “repairing the world”) is probably something much class expertise innovating to address Now, more than ever, an unprece- better known to American non-Jews deeper than a linguistic gap between challenges critical to disadvantaged pop- dented opportunity stands before us to than it is to Jewish Israelis. Israeli society and Jewish communities. ulations including food, water, and ener- make a global humanitarian impact, and Influenced by his exposure to tikkun It exposed a missed opportunity to join gy scarcity, security threats, large-scale in doing so to help shape the character, olam as increasingly used in Jewish com- together for a common purpose. immigration, and society building. and perhaps the destiny, of the Jewish munities, primarily in North America, to Today Jewish social and business Imagine now the powerful potential people – a destiny embodied in the express Jewish service values, Obama entrepreneurs, visionaries and philan- comprised in the power of a state and the Biblical story of God’s promise to instinctively associated the term with thropists, public servants and innovators spirit, know-how, and resources of a Abraham that his seed will bring a bless- Israel’s tradition of humanitarian service. are disproportionately present at the globally dispersed people, together mobi- ing to all families of the earth (“v‘nivrichu Indeed, despite the language barrier, frontier of many global challenges. In lized in pursuit of a common vision of b’cha kol mispachot ha’adama”). c

c c c c Educator Avraham Infeld will be the STAFF guest speaker at IMPACT, a Feb. 5 com- munity-building event sponsored by the Publisher Mark S. Freedman Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Editor Charles Bernsen Tennessee. This opinion piece first appeared Advertising Manager Carrie Mills on March 10, 2012 in the Ops & Blogs sec- Layout and Production Tim Gregory tion of the Times of Israel Website. Editorial Board Frank Boehm, Chair; Barbara Dab, Greg Goldberg, Scott Rosenberg, Bill Snyder Editorial Submissions Policy and Deadlines Telephone 615/356-3242 Fax 615/352-0056 The Jewish Observer welcomes the sub- mission of information, news items, fea- E-mail [email protected] ture stories and photos about events rel- evant to the Jewish community of ‘The Jewish Observer’ (ISSN Greater Nashville. We prefer e-mailed 8750-5290) is published monthly for $25 submissions, which should be sent as per year by the Jewish Federation of Word documents to Editor Charles Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 801 Percy Bernsen at [email protected]. Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. Photos must be high resolution (at least Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs POSTMASTER: Send address changes to to the e-mail with the related news item THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy or story. For material that cannot be e- Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 mailed, submissions should be sent to Charles Bernsen, The Jewish Observer, This newspaper is made possible by funds 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy Campaign. sent by regular mail will not be returned unless prior arrangement is made. The Jewish Observer is a member Publication is at the discretion of The of the American Jewish Press Association Observer, which reserves the right to and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. edit submissions.

While The Jewish Observer To ensure publication, submissions must makes every possibly effort to accept only arrive by the 15th of the month prior to 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 The Jewish Observer 615-354-1699, or by email at Founded in 1934 by JACQUES BACK [email protected].

4 January 2014 The Observer Teens respond to powerful personal testimonies in JFS program on danger of distracted driving

Editor’s note: Jewish Family Service, lyzed from a little above her navel I found this program to be informa- driver hit her car. She was left para- with support from the Jewish Foundation down. Yet she has taken her experience tive and inspiring. Blake and Phaedra lyzed from the belly button down. She of Nashville and Mid-dle Tennessee, spon- and rolled with the punches. She trav- both shared important life lessons they had to learn how to do everything sored an event for teens in November as els as a representative for MADD wish to pass on to us, the next generation over again. Her son Josh served as her part of Global Day of Jewish Learning. telling teens that “the decisions you of drivers. I know as I take on the new caretaker. The Observer invited teens who attended make do affect your life.” chal-lenges of driving I will do my part to The next speaker used to be a to report on the event and their thoughts Blake McMeans, of the Blake try and keep their messages of safety and world class tennis player. One night he about the topic: The danger of drunk and McMeans Foundation, travels and good sense in mind as I turn the page went out drinking with his soon-to-be distracted driving. speaks to thousands of teens about his into the world of teen driving. c fraternity brothers, and he decided to experience in the hope of inspiring drive home drunk. He turned into a By STEPHANIE BLUMENTHAL them to learn from his mistakes. He was Stephanie is in the 9th grade at the forest, and he woke up in a hospital a 17-year-old tennis star with a life’s University School of Nashville. not knowing why he was there. He n Sunday, Nov. 17, I plan set out in front of him. He was on said he could recall trying to get out of gathered with fellow his way to becoming a world class tennis bed and falling on his face. He told us teen members of player, with a tennis scholarship in the By CALEB LICHTENSTRAHL about his struggle to be able to do all Nashville’s synagogues works to University of Tennessee. of the common things we take for at the Gordon Jewish However, he began taking liquor from hen it comes to granted. While he will never be able Community Center to his parent’s liquor cabinet at age 12 and drinking and driv- to play tennis professionally, he coach- Ohear from Phaedra Marriott-Olsen and soon became addicted. One night after ing, there has es an up-and-coming star who went Blake McMeans about the importance of drinking about 10 beers, he made the always been a cor- from being one of his team's worst not drinking and driving. life-altering decision to drive himself rect answer: players to their ace. Phaedra, a representative of home. He has since worked hard to “Don't.” Their stories reinforced my views Mothers Against Drunk Driving, was a achieve what he has today. Although he WThe recent seminar on distracted on drunk driving, because you nor- single mother and preschool teacher in can no longer play tennis, he has trans- driving for Jewish teens in Nashville mally hear about how it can mess up 1996 when she was in a head-on colli- ferred his love for the game and his reinforced my understanding on this your life. No one really thinks about sion with car driven by a drunk driver. hard-working spirit into a mission of subject. The first speaker was a victim the people in the other car -- how She’s in a wheel chair but seemed to showing teens that when it comes to of drunk driving. She told her story one bad decision can affect their have such an incredibly upbeat outlook drinking, there are no good outcomes. with jokes and funny anecdotes that lives and the lives of their family on her life. I now understand that when As a teen who is just beginning my make her sad story a little more up- members. Listening to these people an accident of this caliber takes place, career as a driver, I currently have my beat. She said that she felt the real tell about their experiences made an the ricochet effect is enormous. learner’s permit. It seems obvious that, of victims were her friends and her fami- impact. c Phaedra says her family members were course, I should not drink. This program ly, especially her son Josh, who was the true victims. Her son, who was a not only reinforced that message, which only a youngster when she was hit by Caleb is in the 8th grade at Thurgood youngster at the time, practically my parents have always instilled in me, a drunk driver on the way home from Marshall Middle School switched roles with her, becoming a but also has given me valid examples to a concert. She was within 10 miles of caregiver for his mother. She’s para- back it up. her front step when an intoxicated

Lunch and Program Celebrating Martin Luther King Day

Monday, January 20, 2014 12 – 1:30 pm at the GJCC $10 per person Open to the Public Reservations due 1/15/14 RSVP to [email protected] or 615-354-1623 Co-sponsored by the Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee and the Gordon Jewish Community Center’s Meryl Kraft Discretionary Fund and the Sol Stern and Rose Stern Adult Fund

The Observer January 2014 5 Bonim donors hear inspiring remarks from Pardes scholar onim Society members at the Pardes Insititute for Jewish Studies gathered on Nov. 18 at the in Jerusalem, was brought to town Gordon Jewish Community through a generous gift from Moshe and Center for the second annu- Libby Werthan. al Bonim Dinner, where Also, addressing the crowd were two keynote speaker Rabbi recent Vanderbilt University interns BDavid Levin-Kruss encouraged them to who spent time volunteering with the take pride in their Jewish identity, look Ethiopian National Project, a benefici- THEY SEE for the positive in all situations and ary agency of the Jewish Federation of respect each and every Jew. Nashville. They were able to provide LAUGHTER. Bonim society members support the insight into the impact the project is annual campaign of the Jewish having in assisting the Ethiopian com- Federation with a minimum individual munity in its integration into greater YOU SEE commitment of $1000 or a household Israeli society. c commitment of at least $2000. Rabbi See more photos from this event at LEADERSHIP. Levin-Kruss, director of special programs www.jewishobservernashville.org WE SEE ONE HAPPY CAMPER.

Start your child’s “summer of a lifetime” at Jewish overnight camp. From ziplines to waterskiing to singing under the stars, at camp your child can discover who they are while having a total blast. Find your perfect Jewish camp today and you might be eligible for $1000 off when you enroll. Mark Goldfarb, Lottie Strupp, Sandra The Jewish Federation and Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee is Frank Boehm, Annette Eskind Hecklin pleased to offer One Happy Camper incentive grants for qualified campers through the generosity of the Foundation for Jewish Camp and local donors Shelly and Trish Krizelman. For more information and to register go to www.onehappycamper.org. Questions? Call Harriet Schiftan at 615-354-1687 or [email protected] OneHappyCamper.org

Judy Lefkovitz, Steve Lefkovitz, Arthur Perlen and Lisa Perlen

Deadline for Registration:

January 31st, 2014

Thanks to our generous volunteers and donors, wwee were able to provide Chanukah gifts to 21 children in our community.

June 10th - 24th, 2014

Since Get Connected’s inception in 2008, we have sent over 125 teens to Israel for an incredible life- changing experience! BrighteningBrightening If you are a Jewish teen in the 11th grade and would thethe liveslives ofof like to register or get more information regarding this summer’s highly subsidized trip, please contact us at: JewishJewish [email protected] familiesfamilies forfor or (615) 513-8533 160160 years.years. 1st Kallah session: Overnight Retreat 1/4/14 - 1/5/14

6 January 2014 The Observer JANUARY 2014 Simchas & Celebrations ISSUE

The Observer January 2014 7 Institute of America Alumni Association, and a third generation in the jewelry indus- Ibiza Fine Gifts: Make gift-giving easy try. Bryana has been in the jewelry business as a salesperson, buyer, designer and appraiser for the past seven years, and has a broad knowledge of contemporary jewelry, Ibiza Fine Gifts is located conveniently in Belle Meade on Highway 100 in the West diamonds and colored gemstones with a specialty in Antique Jewelry in period from the Gate Shopping Center with easy access and great parking. Ibiza has a wide selection of gifts 1800s through the 1940s. for every occasion: birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, hostess gifts, bar mitzvah, bat mitz- vah. We offer a wide variety of price ranges from $5 up to your imagination. Our focus today, however, is all about the bride. With a wonderful bridal registry, Ibiza's staff can assist a bride in selecting her every day dinnerware and flatware, as well Sperry’s Belle Meade turns 40 in March as her fine china, crystal and sterling. We also offer a wide selection of serving pieces The original Sperry’s in Belle Meade was opened by brothers Houston and Dick to complement every bride's taste from traditional to contemporary. Brides and their Thomas in 1974. The iconic restaurant was purchased by Al and Trish Thomas in grooms will also be able to select from many home décor items as well as unique bar 2000. A second Sperry’s was opened in Cool springs several years later and features ware to start their new lives together from Ibiza's fun and creative store. multiple private dining rooms that serve the areas needs for weddings as well as busi- We strive to make shopping easy for family and friends of the couple by offer- ness meeting and other private events. ing not only bridal registry but also online shopping, free delivery to registered couples Sperry’s has developed a reputation over the years for consistent high quality food and beautiful gift wrapping. and impeccable service in a warm, comfortable English steakhouse atmosphere. A tes- tament to that success will be the celebration of 40 years in business at the Belle Meade location next March. An additional testament is the excellent staff with many employ- Gems and Jewels Appraisal Services: ees that have worked there for over 25 years, not to overlook the number of second- and third-generation guests who frequent the iconic landmark. Helping protect your assets As part of the 40 year birthday celebration, Sperry’s will be offering specials and “Why do I need to get my jewelry appraised or my appraisal updated?" incentives at both locations during the month of March. These unadvertised specials The value of your jewelry changes every day. Like the stocks, diamonds, gem- will be available to Sperry’s Facebook and Internet friends. Diners who would like to stones, gold and platinum, have a market, which fluctuates daily. While the value of be notified about the specials can either “friend” Sperry’s on the Sperry’s Facebook site your jewelry may change only a few cents from day to day, over the years those small or go to sperrys.com to sign up to receive email alerts. changes can add up. In addition to being one of the best steakhouses in Nashville, Sperry’s boasts an Over the past 10 years, the value of an ounce of gold has skyrocketed. In 2002, one extensive wine list with more than 188 selections and a weekly happy hour that fea- ounce was worth $300. Today, that same ounce of gold is worth $1,300. Think about tures unbeatable deals on martinis, wines and spirits and small-plate food options, fond- what that could mean for the value of your engagement ring that you've had for those ly called Burton’s Bites after owner Al Thomas’ great-grandfather Burton Sperry. 10 years. It may be worth up to 5 times more than it was when you bought it! Insurance Must-try menu items at Sperry’s include the slow roasted prime rib, Sperry’s famous companies suggest updating your appraisals every 2-3 years so you have full coverage in salad bar complete with home made green goddess dressing and the bananas foster the event of damage, loss or theft. dessert flamed table side. That's where Gems and Jewels Appraisal Services comes in. Sperry’s Restaurants are located in Belle Meade at 5109 Harding Road just west of Bryana Lavery is a GIA Graduate Gemologist, a member of the Gemological the Belle Meade Plantation and in Cool Springs at 650 Frazier Drive next to Thomasville Furniture. CONSIDERING A MOVE? DK Ideas: Bringing excitement Allow me to guide you through the process. With your enthusiasm and my expertise, we can accomplish your goals! to your simcha Diane Kimbrough is known for producing events with personality. From the initial LORNA M. GRAFF free consult to coordination of the last detail, DK Ideas will bring excitement to all Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI your life cycle events. Lifetime Member, Gold Award of Excellence Specializing in bar/bat mitzvah events, Diane understands that some clients like to be very involved in the creative development of their event, while others enjoy the Office: 615.794.0833 freedom of having an expert on board who will manage everything. Diane moves easi- Cell: 615.351.5343 E-mail: [email protected] ly and confidently among them all, creating the perfect atmosphere and tailoring each Web: Lornagraff.com event to the individual’s tastes and needs. When you are blessed with a simcha to celebrate, Diane is there to assist you in cre- ating a unique, personal expression that brings your celebration to life. “The greatest service I can give my clients is the confidence to completely relax and enjoy this once- in-a-lifetime experience.” DK Ideas clients say it best: “Thank you, Diane, for your creativity and calm efficiency with Vivian's Bat Mitzvah. Your talents allowed us to enjoy without worry. You have great ideas and your special touches truly put you in a class by yourself. I absolutely loved working with you.”  Risa Herzog DK Ideas “You were extremely resourceful, creative and offered options that we would not have thought about. You worked with our budget and even saved us money. You were produces events a blessing and I can't even imagine how frazzled I would have been without you. Everyone should use an event coordinator and a creative mind like you.” with personality  Wendy Kiepek “The first day I met with Diane is the day that all the stress left my body and all Specializing in Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and all your simchas. the fun began! Diane is AMAZING at organizing, creating, and making it all come From party design and décor to coordination of together perfectly!" DK Ideas the last detail, DK Ideas will create the perfect  Victoria Shaw Locknar atmosphere - a unique, personal expression that Call DK Ideas at 615-804-8438 or email [email protected] because life brings your celebration to life. is worth celebrating! DK Ideas…because life is worth celebrating! DK Ideas • 615-804-8438 [email protected]

"The first day I met with Diane is the day that all the stress left my body and all the fun began! Diane is AMAZING at organizing, creating, and making it all come together perfectly! My daughter's day was a true joyful celebration." - Victoria Shaw Locknar Gems and Jewels Appraisal Services Antique and Fine Jewelry Appraisals

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8 January 2014 The Observer Call RED at 615-646-1400, or visit www.redspirits.com for the monthly list of tast- Optique welcomes Dr. Jeffrey ings, in-store live music or tasting events at Nashville's finest restaurants. RED Spirits and Wine is in Bellevue at 7066 Highway 70S and Old Hickory Blvd. It is, indeed, Sonsino into its professional “family” “closer than you think.” The simcha edition of The Observer is the perfect place for Optique to celebrate the addition of Dr. Jeffrey Sonsino to its optomestry practice. He is the husband of Dr. Michele Sonsino, the founder of the practice. “We are so excited to have my husband Realtor Lorna Graff: Plan your joining the ‘family,’” she said. Jeffrey Sonsino is entering private practice after 11 years as faculty at Vanderbilt wedding and your future Medical Center. He specializes in complicated contact lenses and is building the What could be more exciting than being in love and planning the “perfect wed- region’s most comprehensive contact lens center. ding?” It is an event which people dream about for years. But, have you considered all “Complicated contact lenses include those that correct for both distance and near the ramifications of those decisions? In addition to the details of that special day, per- for over age 40 eyes. Until now, there have been very few good options for patients. haps you should think about some long range goals. However with emerging technologies, multifocal lenses have become viable for the It is possible to plan a beautiful and memorable wedding experience AND make majority of patients,” Jeffrey Sonsino said. some financial decisions that will be a great advantage in the future. We Realtors are His positions with national organizations such as the American Academy of always delighted to help young people buy their first home. All too often, we find their Optometry and American Optometric Association have led to special partnerships enthusiasm is dampened when they realize that they do not have enough money to pur- with contact lens manufacturers. He evaluates new contact lenses before they come chase the home they want. We frequently hear, “If only we had spent less money on to market, is an investigator in clinical studies of new technologies and has access to the wedding and saved some for a home.” new lenses prior to national launches. Sonsino sees patients for general eye care as We build our families and our financial security. It all starts with that lovely wed- well as those with severe dry eyes, corneal diseases, history of trauma, and post-sur- ding and a serious life plan. These are some of the important building blocks to con- gical complications. sider for a successful future. It would be my pleasure to help you find the perfect home for your budget. Call me RED Spirits and Wine: 27 months at 351-5343 or email me at [email protected]. old and growing fast The Temple Gift Shop: Thanks Nashville has certainly embraced RED Spirits and Wine since it opened just over 27 months ago in Bellevue. for supporting our “new” shop The 10,000-square-foot wine, spirits and beer store has developed into the fastest The Temple Gift Shop would like to thank all who came out to support our new growing beverage retailer in Tennessee in decades. One trip into RED quickly proves shop launch! It has been a wonderful beginning season, and all because of you. that the store is unique, easy to shop and well stocked with over 5,000 different selec- If you have not had a moment to visit the “new” Temple Gift Shop, we would suggest tions. RED hosts weekly complimentary sampling sessions on Friday and Saturday you put that on your immediate to-do list. We promise you will not be disappointed. afternoons, at the “Taste of RED” center in the central part of the showroom. At The Temple Gift Shop, you will find distinctive items carefully chosen for your The store is proud to feature an enticing array of exclusive, hand-selected single Jewish life, whether it be for your everyday enjoyment or an upcoming lifecycle event. barrel bourbons and whiskeys -- most carefully chosen by spirits manager Mark We always offer gift certificates, free gift wrapping for any occasion, and we are espe- Williams and general manager Ed Fryer. Browse through RED's Reserve and discover cially excited about our new gift registry. If you have an upcoming life cycle event, the world's most exclusive collectable wines. RED also carries thousands of unique, whether it be a bat/bar mitzvah, conversion, wedding -- or if you just want a wish list wonderful wines costing under $20 from unique and remote growing areas. for yourself. Stop by and see us and well get you all set. The RED team loves to introduce customers to the latest fun and fantastic new bev- We are located inside The Temple, Ohabai Shalom, 5015 Harding Road. We erage finds, be it a 100-point rarity or a $10 superstar. The store constantly adds the lat- are open Monday through Friday, 10am - 5pm, immediately after 6 p.m. services on est craft or high gravity beers, offers an increasing selection of bourbon, whiskey, moon- Friday evening, and on Sundays 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. during Sunday School. shine, single malt scotch, blended scotch, gin, run, tequila, vodka, cordials and more. Gary Rosenthal, Badash Crystal, Michael Aram, RINjuel Jewelry, Becca Belz Jewelry, Michael Golan, Tamara Baskin, Sandi Katz – these are just a few of our excit- ing designers. We hope to see you soon. Continued on page 10

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The Observer January 2014 9 Continued from page 9 Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair: Making your jewelry look like new Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair is a unique concept because we’re engaged in the repair end of the jewelry business. Services include antique restoration of platinum, gold and sil- Mezuzahs ver; ring sizing; appraisals; watch repair and batteries; re-tipping of prongs; stone tightening and replacement; custom jewelry designs and even eyeglass repair. Making jewelry wearable Seder Plates again, restoring it to its original beauty is our mission. We also provide a nice selection of distinctive jewelry pieces ranging from handmade necklaces to vintage estate jewelry. We specialize in repairs that other jewelry stores turn down. If we cannot fix it, it can’t be fixed. Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah Very few jewelry shops specialize only in repairs. Often people are hesitant to leave their valuable pieces in fear of having them sent out to a third party. We offer Judaica Paintings while-you-wait repairs and since we are located next to a Starbucks, we can size a ring or repair a chain in the amount of time it takes to drink a latte. Our goal is always to treat your jewelry with respect and make every effort to restore Judaica Jewelry each piece to its original condition. The mark of an expert repair is when a customer can- not tell where the item has been mended. When this is done properly you haven’t changed Bridal Registry the piece, you’ve just made it functional again. We understand that oftentimes jewelry has been handed down from a loved one and may have a great deal of sentimental value. Turn to Hutton Hotel to celebrate life’s milestones Happy fourth anniversary to The Hutton Hotel, which has has become a staple in the market for first-class accommodations. The Hutton is ideal for weddings, bar/ bat mitzvah celebrations and or any other simcha. The hotel’s amenities and customer service, along with a commitment to the environment and to the community, sets it apart from other venues. “I have coordinated many bar and bat mitzvah celebrations at the Hutton Hotel,” says Jane Bubis, of JB Events. “My clients are always happy, and their guests have a great time in a lovely event space that can be transformed into any theme.” National publications such as Conde Nast Traveler, New York Times Style Magazine and The Wall Street Journal praise the Hutton Hotel. Located in the heart of Midtown, the Hutton Hotel is a perfect spot for the guest of honor and those attending the spe- cial occasion. The Vista Ballroom has 14-foot windows overlooking the Nashville sky- line and, with the top-rated amenities the Hutton Hotel offers, you are guaranteed to A Place of Discovery have a memorable event. 6025 Highway 100 www.ibizafinegifts.com / 615.279.8000 Jam with Jamie: Keeping the whole family entertained New York's top children's entertainment is now in Nashville! Jam with Jamie has been featured in Time Out NY Kids, Daily Candy Kids, Big City Moms and was nom- inated best children's entertainment by Nickelodeon Parents Connect. With birthday parties and playgroups for ages 0-6, we strive to provide music that will keep the whole family entertained. Guitar, piano, and voice lessons are also available for all ages. After years of teaching music at various Jewish preschools and daycares in New York (Kaplan Nursery School, Central Place Synagogue), Jamie Kolnick started Jam with Jamie to bring interactive music and play to you, whether it be your child's next party or just a fun play date with friends. Jamie also has extensive experience as an actress in children's theater, most recently performing in the new Off-Broadway Laurie Berkner musical, "Wanda's Monster." Jam with Jamie launched in Nashville this summer and we are very excited to offer our services to Music City USA. Our team of young, enthusiastic and talented musi- cians will travel to your location of choice and bring all materials, instruments, para- chute, bubbles and more. Have a favorite song? We can’t wait to sing it. Like to dance along? We sure hope you do. Learn more about our services and promotions at www.jamwithjamie.com or email us at [email protected] to set up your next party, playgroup, or lesson. Mention "JamObserver" in your inquiry for 20% off your booking. We look forward to jamming with you soon! Continued on page 12

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10 January 2014 The Observer  

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The Observer January 2014 11 Continued from page 10 Green Hills Hampton Inn: Making your out of town guests feel at home Complete confidence that out of town guests will feel “right at home” is a primary concern for every host or hostess, no matter what the social event that draws your vis- itors. Hampton Inn & Suites - Green Hills specializes in just that -- making our home your guests’ home away from home while they are in town for your special event. We are a boutique style select service hotel in the heart of Green Hills fantastic shopping, dining and entertainment district. We can offer both comfortable standard rooms and spacious residential king suites with fully furnished kitchens. We provide your guests with complimentary cost saving services and amenities often added to the bill at other hotels. Our rate includes free parking, internet access, local calls and our highly praised breakfast buffet with hot items daily. The facility offers a computer cen- ter, fitness facility, and laundry services for their convenience during their visit. The atrium style sixth floor Belle Meade room offers a dynamic view of the Green Hills area, perfect for bar and bat mitzvah celebrations, bridesmaid luncheons, rehears- al dinners, receptions, and birthday parties. To keep your visitors entertained during those free times of your special event, we are in walking distance of the Mall at Green Hills, fifteen restaurants, and a sixteen screen cinema. Contact our most capable sales department to learn how we can help relieve some of the responsibilities so you can better enjoy your next social event. CPA Consulting Group PLLC: A Proactive Philosophy The nature of tax and accounting services has long been to account for what hap- pened in the past and prepare financial statements and tax returns for evaluation and compliance purposes. Tax and banking deadlines drive the whole process, and the quantifiable purpose for financial analysis is vanished to the world of deadlines. Meanwhile, forward thinking and planning is left to chance. The goal of CPA Consulting Group PLLC has long been to eliminate the reflec- tions we’ve encountered time after time in our careers: “If only you had called me first.” We prefer to collaborate, research, budget, project, analyze, and make plans. And as life happens, plans are measured against actual results so that they can be adjusted to evolve around reality. Proactive and critical thinking is crucial to making informed decisions. Having a trusted advisor with a proactive philosophy will eliminate the second guessing that comes from making unguided choices and help answer the questions that often keep us up at night: How will I pay for life cycle events for my family? What is the best way to save for college? Am I saving enough to retire? How can I teach my children about money? These and many more decisions can be worked out through proper planning. Engaging an advisor with a proactive philosophy will shift reactive behavior into thoughtful behavior. Compliance with tax laws and meeting deadlines is important, but setting personal deadlines to meet personal goals is invaluable. c

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12 January 2014 The Observer WISHING YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR

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The Observer January 2014 13 Sherith Israel invites entire community to participate in dedication and celebration of new Torah scroll

By MARVIN KOCH said Rabbi Saul Strosberg. Sherith Israel spring. Shelly said Sherith Israel is plan- is raising additional funds through the ning a community-wide celebration for he Jewish community of Torah Project, co-chaired by past con- June 1, just before Shavuot, the holiday Nashville will soon be gregational presidents Roberta celebrating the giving of the original spiritually enriched by a Goodman and Shelly Lutz. Torah Mount Sinai. new Torah scroll at Goodman said the entire communi- “The Torah is eternal, but individ- Congregation Sherith ty is invited to memorialize loved ones or ual scrolls don’t last forever. Through the Israel. commemorate important milestones by years, it’s become clear that we need a T“This is the first time in a half cen- dedicating particular passages in the new one,” said Rabbi Strosberg. “In tury that we’ve had a new Torah written scroll -- entire books of the Torah, week- Deuteronomy 31:19, each Jew is com- for our congregation,” said Evelyn Koch, ly portions, well known blessings and manded to write a Torah scroll. While president of Sherith Israel. “Some of the sayings, days of the week as described in most Jews lack the skills and resources to old scrolls were beyond repair, and, in Genesis, famous names and, for children do so, this is an opportunity for everyone fact, we buried one of them with our only, individual words in the scroll. in our community to participate in the good friend and faithful member, Morris Likewise memorials can be made by ded- sacred completion of this Torah scroll.” Kraft, of blessed memory,” she said. icating Torah scroll accoutrements such The congregation sent Cantor The new Torah scroll is being as crowns, breastplates, etc. Cantor George Lieberman and Rabbi Saul George Lieberman to New York recently acquired with the help of a generous gift The scroll is about half-written and Strosberg examine one of Sherith Israel’s to pick a scroll. “The first one they Torah scrolls. The congregation is getting its from the Sol Stern and Rose Stern Trust, should be completed sometime in the first new scroll in 50 years. showed me was too heavy, but the sec- ond one had clearer calligraphy, and due to a new finishing process for the parch- ment, was lighter in weight. That makes it easier for congregants to raise the Torah ceremonially at the conclusion of a reading,” he said. One Fine Day The cantor spoke about his trip to New York during a Friday night congre- gational dinner at the synagogue, describ- ing the preparation of the ink, quills and parchment involved in a new Torah scroll. Then he talked about the personal preparation that the sofer (a specially- trained scribe) must complete daily while inscribing a scroll. “The letters must be very carefully drawn,” he said, “and the scribe works very slowly and deliberately to avoid making the inscription a routine or mindless task. Each letter, word, and sentence is slowly and carefully drawn with the sofer’s complete attention and dedication. It’s very holy and deliberate work,” the cantor said. For more details about the new Torah project, please contact Rabbi Strosberg, Cantor Lieberman, Roberta Goodman, Shelly Lutz or Evelyn Koch, or call the Sherith Israel office at (615) 292-6614. c

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14 January 2014 The Observer Visiting scholar and friend will install new WES rabbi in weekend of study and celebration he weekend of Jan. 1-Feb. “Almighty? No Way! Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies and is depth to this formal 2 will be a big one at West Embracing the God We vice president at the American Jewish installation.” End Synagogue as the Actually Love.” University, Los Angeles. He is the Rabbi Kullock, a congregation welcomes The weekend will author of eight books, including his most native of Buenos Aries, Rabbi Bradley Shavit culminate at 2 p.m. recent, God of Becoming and Relationships: Argentina, spent seven Artson as its 2014 scholar Sunday with a “Super The Dynamic Nature of Process Theology, years as the rabbi of Tin residence and celebrates the formal Celebration” in which and also is a columnist for Huffington Communidad Hebrea de installation of its new rabbi, Joshua Rabbi Artson will offi- Post. He served as a congregational rabbi Guadalajara in Mexico Kullock. ciate at the installation Rabbi Bradley in Southern California for 10 years. before coming to Rabbi Joshua Shavit Artson Kullock The weekend of teaching, learning of his longtime friend, “We are honored to welcome Rabbi Nashville in September and celebration begins Friday evening Rabbi Kullock. “I am pleased to welcome Artson to Nashville,” said West End to serve West End. with services and dinner at the synagogue my dear friend, Rabbi Artson, and am Synagogue President Susan Schwartz, For more information about the followed by Rabbi Artson’s lecture “Self honored he will be here to celebrate with “His insights and perspectives are sure to weekend events and to RSVP for Friday Identity and Choice.” Saturday morning all of us,” Rabbi Kullock said. enlighten and engage our community. night dinner and Sunday afternoon, he will speak during services and then, Rabbi Artson holds the Abner and The personal friendship between our vis- please call 615-269-4592, ext. 11, or visit after lunch, lead a session entitled, Rosalyn Goldstine Dean's Chair at the iting and new rabbi will add warmth and www.westendsyn.org. c WES offering learning and cultural events during January long with the arrival of heritage and her musical parents. During Adult education series focuses year. He received his Ph.D. in 2008 from a visiting scholar and her 40-year career, she has written hit on Israeli political dissent Bar-Ilan’s University’s Department of preparations of their songs such as “Through the Eyes of History, where his research dealt with new rabbi’s installation Love” and “Don’t Cry Out Loud” and Dr. Adi Portughies, a visiting Israeli trends in Israeli politics and public opin- on Feb. 2, West End collaborated with Marvin Hamlisch, professor at Vanderbilt University, will ion. Each presentation is from 10:45 a.m. Synagogue is offering a Carole Bayer Sager, Peter Allen and present a series of four lectures at West to noon. Anumber of learning and cultural events Kenny Loggins. Her music has been End entitled “Dissent and Dissenters in during January that are open to the recorded by, among others, Barbra Israel.” The lectures are scheduled for Introduction to Judaism entire community. Streisand, Allison Krauss, Roberta Flack, four successive Sundays as part of West course begins Dusty Springfield and Mel Torme. She End’s 2014 Winter Adult Education Concert and Cultural Series has also acted on stage continues to com- Series. The dates and topics of the lec- Registration is still open for a four- features Melissa Manchester pose music for film and theater. tures are: month introductory course on Judaism The Concert and Cultural Series  Jan. 12: Israeli Memorial Day that will be taught beginning next West End’s 2014 Concert and was created by West End Synagogue to and the exclusion of right-wing, pre- month by Rabbi Joshua Kullock. Cultural Series features a multi-media share the richness and diversity of Jewish state combatants until 1977. Sessions for Introduction to performance next month by Grammy music with the greater Nashville com-  Jan. 19: The initial exclusion of Judaism begin on Jan. 12 and continue winner Melissa Manchester. munity. “This will be our third annual the Warsaw Ghetto uprising from through the end of May. Classes will The Jan. 18 concert will be at 3rd concert of the series, and we are looking Holocaust memory in Israel and the role meet on Sundays from 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. and Lindsley, 818 3rd Ave. South. Doors forward to another amazing night of of the socialist kibbutz movement in The course, which is open to the entire open at 7 p.m. and the concert begins at world-class entertainment that will shaping an independent commemoration. community, is offered in partnership 8 p.m. Seating is limited. For more infor- blend Jewish influence with American  Jan. 26: The lingering tensions with the Miller Introduction to Judaism mation and to purchase tickets online go music,” says Susan Schwartz, West End between Ashkenazi and Sephardi in Program of the American Jewish to www.westendsyn.org or contact Synagogue president, "Melissa Israeli society. University. The cost for WES members Marcia Stewart at 615-269-4592 or Manchester certainly epitomizes this,  Feb. 2: The impact on Israeli is $36 (couples $50); for non-members [email protected]. and we are thrilled to bring her to politics of fringe groups such as the it is $72 (couples $120). Manchester grew up in New York Nashville to share her artistry." Communist Party, Matzpen, the new left Registration is available online at City and was influenced by her Jewish and Shalom Achshav). [email protected] or by calling Portughies is the Shusterman visit- (615) 269-4592, extension 11. ing Israeli professor at Vanderbilt Information about the course is available University for the 2013-2014 school at the AJU website, intro.aju.edu. c GJCC begins 30th birthday celebration in January with membership deal, open house

he Gordon Jewish of resolutions are made and new endeav- Community Center will ors begin, and there is no better place to celebrate its 30th birthday get your mind and body into shape. on its Westmeade campus this year and with special Open House and Membership events and promotions Appreciation Day: January 12, 2014 Tbeginning January 1. The GJCC also will host an Open House and Membership Appreciation 3 Months for $99 event from noon to 5 p.m. on January 12. For the first time the GJCC is offering On that day, the first 25 prospective a 3-month membership for individuals – members to sign-up for the year get $100 January through March – for just $99. A off. For current members, there will be couple’s membership is just $129 for the drawings and goodie bags just for you. three months and a family’s is $149. These memberships provide complete Special celebrations will continue access to the facility and member rates on throughout 2014 to mark the GJCC’s all of the GJCC’s diverse and dynamic 30th year at 801 Percy Warner Blvd. The programming, including a state-of-the-art GJCC is open to all residents of the fitness center, 45 group exercise classes a Nashville area and its surrounding com- week, a 25-meter indoor saltwater pool munities. To find out more, email and over 50 arts and culture programs. [email protected] or go to January is the time of year where a lot www.nashvillejcc.org. c

The Observer January 2014 15 Chabad to celebrate 15 years in Nashville with Community Awards Dinner and Silent Auction habad of Nashville will the community. mark its 15th year in  Jim Schmitz, president of Middle Tennessee on Regions Bank of Middle Tennesse, will Tuesday, March 4 with receive the Leadership Award in recog- the Community Awards nition of Regions support to the local Dinner and Silent community. CAuction.  Tommy Bernard will receive the Los Angeles comedian Elon Gold Jewish Leadership Award. will serve as emcee and provide enter-  Seth Yazdian will receive the tainment for the gala, which will take Young Leadership Award. place in the Bernard Ballroom in the  Michael and Linda Doochin Genesis Campus for Jewish Life. will receive the Baal Shem Tov Award. Aside from celebrating Chabad’s  Dan and Eva Marx will receive 15 years of service to the Nashville the Gemilut Chesed Award. . Jewish Community, a number of The gala celebration is chaired by Nashvillians will receive awards for Dianne Berry while the dinner is chaired their leadership and contributions to by Karen Yazdian. c

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16 January 2014 The Observer OPINION The Rabbis’ Corner Actions speak louder By RABBI SAUL STROSBERG 1:17 that states, “Lo ha- After greeting the family and singing a attention in their sensational nature -- a midrash hu haikar, elah prayer for ‘mom,’ I inquired whether child who raises $1 million for a cause they had seen my friend, Z. Z., who dear to his heart, a woman who saves her המעשה ”few months ago, I ha-ma-aseh comes by once a week, every week, to dog from a fire, a college student who is הוא העיקר, אלא served on a panel of bring donuts to the nurses on the hospice brave enough to stand up against a ולא המדרש community rabbis at the Global Day of Loosely translated, floor because they had been so kind to professor’s inequality. While these acts Jewish Learning. One this means that his father when he was in hospice. certainly keep the world in motion, of the questions Mark Rabbi Saul expounding on the law is No, Z.Z. had not come by that day, these are not the acts that most impress AFreedman, the moderator, asked seemed Strosberg not the main thing but but at the mention of the word donut, me or even motivate me to keep going. simple and straightforward: “What keeps rather doing it. This ‘mom’ opened her eyes for the first time Chesed projects don’t often impress you going?” The panel came up with a passage is sometimes used when there is in several days and smiled. “Mother, me. The sustained acts of devotion and variety of answers, including the congre- debate in the Talmud about the precise would you like a donut?” commitment that members of our gations, the greater Nashville communi- manner in which an act is to be After having given up food and community quietly and consistently take ty, a desire to learn and grow with the performed. When the Talmud cannot fluids, this woman ate her Krispy Kreme to support our institutions -- these “keep Jewish people, etc… Since then, I have decide which decision to take, a story is delight, and a few days later, was me going.” The individuals who notice spent more time thinking about this presented. On the one hand, we have discharged from hospice at St. Thomas a void in another’s life and make it their question. What keeps you going? What the practical argument for why and sent to a long term care facility. business to attend to another’s need keeps all of us going? something should happen one way. On Soon she was sent back to her nursing weekly for no reason other than that Yesterday, on my way to a funeral, I the other hand, we have a story or an home, and there she graced our presence they hope to share a little love in ran into a community member who had example of a time when it happened for another two years. another’s life. just pulled into our parking lot to pick up another way. In these instances, the On the one hand, this story is I believe that true chesed should be sensational! A donut, for the first and modest and sustained as opposed to short המדרש הוא העיקר an item he had left behind. When he Talmud will state to teach us that, although people only time in history actually helped and sensational. In their very humble … ולא found out where I was going, he decided to skip work to attend this funeral of an indi- can say and think many things, bring life and the desire to live on at a and modest ways, these individuals live vidual he didn’t even know, thinking that ultimately those who act -- the “on the moment everyone thought life was about very Jewish lives every day not because his presence might uplift the bereaved. ground” examples -- are the ones who to end. of their words, or their hype, or their Simple kindness. will win in these cases. Actions are more I often think of this story for another dress, or even their synagogue affiliation Last Friday, I met with a woman powerful than even the strongest reason. Simple sustained acts of loving- but through their simple, yet sustained who calls another community member intellectual arguments. kindness need not be sensational. and righteous acts of kindness and הוא העיקר, אלא המעשה .each week to ensure that she hears from Sustained simple kindness. (What’s so sensational about bringing generosity c .לא המדרש someone regularly. When I asked A few years back, I received a call treats to a team of the same nurses each whether she really calls every week, the from an individual I had met only once. week?) But their simplicity and sustained woman replied, “Of course… She does He said, “Mom is in hospice and is not nature penetrates deep into the hearts of The Rabbis’ Corner is a regular not have friends or family and no one expected to make it much longer. Can those whom they impact. monthly commentary on current events and should feel alone.” you please come be with our family?” I In many ways, our culture teaches us Jewish values that rotates among the There is a passage in Pirkei Avot rushed over to Saint Thomas Hospital. to go for the big projects that will call Nashville area’s congregational rabbis. letters to the editor To the Editor, work Ms. Cardoza Moore has done getting Christian voice in support of the state of Earlier, the center hosted Council on Upon reading the December issue of anti-Semitic references removed from Israel as well as confronting human rights American Islamic Relations (CAIR) The Jewish Observer, I was surprised to see a textbooks in our local school systems. abuses against Jews, Christians and Muslim director Nihad Awad, who has publicly scathing letter to the editor about Laurie I appreciate the support her organi- women and children in the Middle East. supported Hamas, the designated terror- Cardoza Moore and proclaiming Justice to zation, Proclaiming Justice to the For more information see wcicc.org. ist group whose focus is the destruction The Nations (PJTN), the Christian Nations, has provided for Israel as well as Closer to home I serve as the presi- of the State of Israel. Zionist group she leads. Over the years, I their support for the Federation and The dent and producer for Proclaiming CAIR, (founded by Hamas support- have witnessed firsthand the work that Ms. Observer. I have attended several of their Justice to The Nations (PJTN). We edu- ers), was also named an unindicted co- Cardoza Moore and PJTN have done on pro-Israel events and will be attending cate Christians about their biblical conspirator in the HLF trial. In 2009, a behalf of the State of Israel and the Jewish the one they are hosting in February. responsibility to our Jewish brethren. We federal judge held that there was “ample people. As I see it, most Jews could take When the mosque hosts a pro-Israel work to mobilize people of conscience evidence tying CAIR to Hamas.” lessons from Ms. Cardoza Moore and PJTN event, I will attend that as well. against the resurgence of anti-semitism There is much more documented on how to support the Jewish State and the Michael Dobrin and the increasing efforts to delegitimize, information to support the concerns Jewish people. It is with the support of • boycott and sanction the state of Israel. raised by PJTN about the Murfreesboro friends like Ms. Cardoza Moore and her To the editor, PJTN’s work has taken many forms center and other Islamist extremism in group that we can dispel the lies and prop- Regarding Matthew Stafford’s letter, I over the years. This year, for example, we our area, though none has been reported aganda put out by the enemies of our peo- suggest he consider what earthly “hotspots” have helped expose school textbook by the mainstream media. In keeping ple which are so often accepted as fact in a do not involve Muslims. What if peaceful material that distorts information about with the mission of PJTN, I support world hostile to Jews and our homeland. Muslims took Islam back and found out the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Three making this information public. How are we to make peace with our that “normal” Islam was not peaceful? years ago, PJTN helped expose an Reliable, factual information justi- enemies if we can't even make peace with In the 1930s western leaders were Islamic Center of Murfreesboro board fied raising questions when the center our friends? Ms. Cardoza Moore has been unable to believe what Hitler said and member’s MySpace page, which included sought approval to build the mosque. a true friend to Israel and her people. We did. Today our leaders do not accept the a pledge for members to support violent During the initial hearings of the law- should return the favor not by tearing her reality we live in. jihad against Israelis and also raised ques- suit, Chancellor Corlew agreed that the down but by standing shoulder to shoul- I am very grateful that Laura Cardoza tions about his support for Hamas. plaintiffs had legitimate concerns of the der and thanking her for all she has done. Moore and PJTN enjoy good health. May This discovery was especially concern- potential threat the mosque posed. Judge Sincerely, all her successes continue onward and ing after also learning that the center was dis- Corlew ruled that based on the evidence, Bradley Shuman upward in geometric progression. tributing material prepared by the Muslim plaintiffs had not been adequately noti- • Reva Heller American Society (MAS). In 2012, convict- fied on the hearings of the County To the editor, • ed terrorist Abdurrahman Alamoudi told Commission approval process. I hope Laurie Cardoza Moore knows To the editor, federal investigators that “everyone knows PJTN is committed to credibly that Matthew Stafford does not speak for This is in response to Mr. Stafford’s that MAS is the Muslim Brotherhood.” achieving its mission by ensuring that the entire Jewish community in his letter letter in the December issue of The A recent interfaith program at the information it disburses to the public is to the editor in the December issue of Jewish Observer. center hosted Dr. Jamal Badawi, a found- supported with documented facts. The Observer (“Ad dismays reader”). Since 2011 I have served as special ing member of MAS and a named unin- Respectfully, As the writer acknowledged, there envoy to the United Nations for the World dicted co-conspirator in the Holy Land Laurie Cardoza Moore, was no mention of the mosque in the ad. Council of Independent Christian Foundation (HLF) trial, the biggest ter- President & Producer There was also no mention of the tireless Churches (WCICC), which provides a rorism financing prosecution in the U.S. www.pjtn.org The Observer January 2014 17 "O
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18 January 2014 The Observer Federation Schlicha shows Nashville friends her home in “beautiful Israel” By HADAR MOSKOVITZ hard to make their dreams come true. I must tell you about one unforget- n Nov. 26, Aric table personal experience for me. On Einstein, one of greatest Shabbat, we had some free time on the musicians in Israel's his- itinerary and members of the delegation tory, passed away at the could choose to do whatever they want- age 74. For many of us, ed. I did some thinking with my dad and Einstein was a symbol of we decided to offer the group a “trip” to OEretz Yisrael hayafa -- beautiful Israel. He my uncle and aunt’s farm near Moshav was known and loved by everyone, Tal Shahar, a 30-minute drive from young and old; his music was the sound Jerusalem. November is the olive harvest track of life for many Israelis. I can name (masik in Hebrew). Every year family and songs of Einstein that remind me of the friends gather at the farm to help with moments of my own life -- from child- the olives. It’s a big celebration with food, hood to high school, from entering the music and real Hebrews working the army to having my first boyfriend to land, like the old times. More than half of traveling the world. His death is a great the group joined me that day. I was loss, but his music will live forever. Their visit to the family farm of schlicha Hadar Moskovitz wasn’t all work. Members of amazed to see how everybody worked One of his most famous songs is “Ani Nashville’s Community Mission to Israel also enjoyed a sumptuous meal that was part of the hard and interacted in a beautiful way Ve’ata” (You and I). annual celebration of the harvest harvest. with me family. My aunt Sharon took us “You and I will change the world/You August of 21012 to bring some Israeli During our trip, I was amazed by the on a tour and shared stories about Israeli and I/By then all will follow/Others have spirit with me from across the sea. On Israelis we met -- people who care, who farm life that very few people live. said it before me/ But doesn't matter/ you this trip, I had a chance to bring want to see a better future in Israel, who It’s just shows how easy it is to feel and I will change the world…” Nashville spirit to Israel! It was a full cir- want “to change the world” (like in connected, American and Israelis, one That song inspires me. It reminds cle for me and a meaningful experience Einstein’s song). It’s a characteristic of people. My aunt told me that my 10- me that each of us in his or her life has a to be able to be in Israel with members Israelis that I love. One of the places we year-old cousin is still wearing a hat he responsibility to take action, to do some- from our community that I’m so attached visited was Yeruham -- a development got that day and he doesn’t take it off! I thing for the other, to compromise, to to. It’s much easier to speak about Israel town in the Negev desert. For many years miss Israel already, and I’m grateful to be think positively. There is always hope for when you’re in Israel. Yeruham was economically depressed and part of this wonderful community. a change, for something good to happen. We visited places and programs that suffered from image problems. It still strug- If you want to meet or talk more, con- Last November I was privileged to the Nashville Jewish Federation funds gles. But the people we’ve met there have tact me to [email protected] c join the Community Mission to Israel. and helps grow and develop. We saw the made it their home, and they are working Twenty-one people from our community beauty of Israel -- the strong, successful to improve the city and its image, creating Hadar Moskovitz has been the Jewish ( and one from Chattanooga), spent 10 and innovative society. But we also saw more opportunities for young people and Agency community schlicha (emissary) for intensive days, exploring and learning some of the problems and the challenges keeping the desert in bloom. It’s an exam- the Jewish Federation of Nashville and about Israel. I came to Nashville in that we as Israelis deal every day. ple of the many inspiring Israelis working Middle Tennessee since August of 2012. West End project shows that producing olive oil like the Maccabees isn’t so easy By JOANNA BRICHETTO

est End Synagogue Religious School tried something new this year for Chanukah, or rather, something Wvery, very old. Instead of a Chanukah carnival, we tried producing olive oil —shemen zayit— just like the Maccabees, with a life-size, Abby Landa (from left), Steve Potash, Rachel working replica of a Hellenistic-era olive Cohen, Josh Crowley at a replica of a crushing installation: crushing wheel, Maccabean-era olive crush, the centerpiece of pivot pole (power shaft) and basin. West End Synagogues’ Chanukah celebration. Students from pre-K to seventh 20 pounds of California olives result in grade took turns pushing the pole to first press, shemen zayit pure enough for rotate the crushing wheel over fresh the Temple Menorah? Well, no. In fact, olives straight from the tree. Volunteer we didn’t make enough “kosher” oil for olive crushers wearing ancient Israelite chanukiyah fuel. For this very reason, kids got a sense that it was no easy feat garb, guided students through a poster Tasting samples at the olive oil bar are (from left) West End Synagogue 4th graders Joe Potash, Maia display showing a 5-step progression of Prichard (Dusty Averbuch behind), Abby Landa, Sydney Emeson, Abby Cohen and Jonah Hoffman for Maccabees to make the massive olives from tree to Temple, and helped amount of oil — of any quality — need- them participate in the actual olive families: Participants practiced Chanukah ago, when I saw kids operating an olive ed in a short time. Our oil feature was crushing process. They scooped the blessings and reviewed how to light a crusher as part of an historical reenact- not a "demonstration;" it was experimen- olive mash into sacks and into the olive chanukiyah, mixed and baked oil-based ment. I researched ancient olive oil pro- tation, with the students at the core. press to demonstrate this ancient process. treats for our “Room in the Inn” guests, duction, but found nothing about how to This program was funded by the Our goal was to give students a took a “kosher” menorah quiz (which construct working replicas of the equip- West End Religious School Enrichment hands-on reference point to the “miracle included a DIY chanukiyot made from ment. (Apparently, DIY second century Fund and a grant from the Jewish of the oil” and deepen their understand- LEGO, a ceramic turkey and a V-8 dis- BCE technology is not in hot demand.) Federation of Nashville and Middle ing of a holiday most of us observe with tributor cap), made and ate latkes, deco- When I mentioned the machine to Tennessee. It couldn’t have happened chanukiyot that use wax candles instead rated chanukiyot to take home, bobbed for Sharon Paz, she commissioned congre- without the support of our staff, our of the original oil. sufganiyot, sampled olive oil varieties gant Bruce Brand to build the crusher for teachers and an army of committed vol- The limestone-look crushing instal- (with kosher wine for the adults) from the school. Bruce fabricated a crushing unteers, brimming over (like a good jar of lation was the centerpiece of the Olive Israel and other countries and collected unit that not only looks realistic but also oil) with parents, alumni parents, grand- Oil Crush and Menorah Make and Take $250 for our “oil-based” tzedakah project can be taken apart for storage and is light parents and friends of the school. c Program. There were eight complemen- to help local seniors with their winter enough to be carried by two people. tary oil-themed activities that Sharon heating bills. Even the metal shaft was covered and Joanna Brichetto is an experiential Paz, WES Director of Lifelong Learning The idea for the oil crush came from textured to mimic a wooden pole. Jewish educator at the West End Synagogue Students, and I created for students and a visit to a friend’s church seven years Did an hour-and-a-half program and Religious School The Observer January 2014 19 New consortium hopes to improve Hebrew literacy among U.S. Jews

By JULIE WIENER But in the fourth week, the talking Jewish day camp 25 miles north of numbers are scarcely better, with only started — in Israeli-accented Hebrew. By Manhattan. And if leaders of a new one-third saying they can converse in NEW YORK (JTA) — For the first the end of the summer, evaluations group promoting Hebrew literacy have Hebrew. The number rises to 64 percent 3 1/2 weeks of the summer, one group of revealed that most of the 20 children — their way, those campers will soon be for those with at least 10 years of day 5-year-olds at Ramah Day Camp in all of whom had started out as Hebrew joined by many others. school education. Nyack, N.Y., was “very quiet” as the chil- novices — “had gone up multiple levels” The Hebrew Language Council of Experts variously attribute the low dren went about the typical camp activi- in their Hebrew proficiency, Cooper said. North America, which held its inaugural numbers to poor teaching, lack of clarity ties, according to Amy Skopp Cooper, The campers were participants in a conference last fall in New Jersey, aims about why learning Hebrew is important the camp’s director. pilot Hebrew immersion program at the to make Hebrew a more central part of and the few opportunities to speak American Jewish culture. The establish- Hebrew in American Jewish life. ment of the council by groups such as the “We know many if not most day World Zionist Organization and the schools claim to be interested in [con- Israeli Ministry of Education comes as versational] Hebrew proficiency, but the Jewish educational programs are consid- reality is they face limited time, and ering how respond to low Hebrew litera- unless you’re really committed, it’s not cy among American Jews. easy,” said Jonathan Woocher, president “Judaism is not just a religion; it’s a of the Lippman Kanfer Foundation for people,” said Arnee Winshall, CEO of Living Torah and a longtime CEO of the Hebrew at the Center, one of the groups now-shuttered Jewish Education Service involved in starting the council. “We of North America. talk a lot about ‘am Yisrael’ [the people Day school directors face a “dilem- of Israel], and a language is part of what ma about where to put the emphasis and distinguishes a people.” resources and how to deal with the fact The council is planning to spon- that except for Israelis, there isn’t a com- sor an annual three-day Hebrew lan- munity of active Hebrew speakers in guage and Israeli culture conference, America,” Woocher said. form a professional association for The emergence in the past six years Hebrew teachers in North America, of publicly funded Hebrew charter convene an online forum for sharing schools may help change the equation. information about various Hebrew There are now 10 such schools in the programs, and raise money for Hebrew United States teaching Hebrew language education initiatives. and Jewish culture, but like all public While Winshall knows of no stud- schools they are prohibited from teach- ies showing the impact of Hebrew liter- ing Jewish religion. acy on Jewish identity, she said there is The schools are “forcing us to up our significant research on how language game,” said Rabbi Andrew Davids, head of mastery influences a sense of connec- Beit Rabban, a small, nondenominational tion to the culture in which that lan- Jewish day school in Manhattan that is guage is spoken. now revamping its Hebrew curriculum. “When I spent a year-and-a-half in Davids said four Beit Rabban fami- Israel, I had a different experience than lies transferred their children to a new my other American friends there who Hebrew charter school in New York couldn’t speak Hebrew or could only City’s Harlem neighborhood this year. function at the lowest level,” Winshall And while he recognizes his school can said. “I was invited to different things never compete with the free tuition of a because people said they didn’t want to charter school, Davids said he wants to always worry about speaking English.” make sure his school can offer a Hebrew According to the Pew Research program as good as the charter school. Center’s recent study of American Jewry, “We don’t want Hebrew to be the just 52 percent of American Jews know reason they leave,” he said. the Hebrew alphabet and only 10 per- The new council joins a number of cent can carry on a conversation in Hebrew teaching efforts that have been Hebrew. Even among those who attend- percolating for the past decade. ed yeshiva or Jewish day school, the In addition to Ramah Nyack, sever- al other Jewish camps have experiment- ed with Hebrew immersion. In Chicago, a program called Moadon Kol Chadash (New Voice Lounge) offers Hebrew- immersion Jewish preschool. And seven Business Card Directory suburban public high schools, with sup- port from the Jewish nonprofit organiza- tion, Shorashim, are offering Hebrew- YOUR GUIDE TO FINE BUSINESSES language courses. 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801 Percy Warner Blvd., 801 Percy Warner Belle Meade Plaza www.hamptoninn.com/hi/nash-greenhills www.jewishnashville.org in the community. Nashville, Tennessee 37205 Tennessee Nashville, 4522 Harding Road A Rochford Hotel Group Property 615.354.1699 fax 615.352.0056 Go to Bellemeadejewelry.com 615-269-3288 www.jewishnashville.org 20 January 2014 The Observer her love of seniors, Tess also loves ani- Miller was born in Montreal, Canada. mals. Through Heifer International, Tess As a youth he overcame health chal- . . . to the family of Jerry Karr, who has donated farm animals to help poor lenges to participate in the Zionist died last month. Born in 1928, Jerry was communities thrive. Tess has also creat- organization Hashomer Hatsair and a lifelong Nashvillian who graduated lifecycles ed a B’nai Tzedek Fund with the Jewish made aliyah in 1950 to help build the from West End High School and attend- Foundation of Nashville. new State of Israel as a kibbutz member. ed Peabody College. Jerry was a proud Tess’s interests include basketball, He attended Baron Byng High School member of the Cumberland Masonic B’nai Mitzvah volleyball, softball, music, animals and and Sir George Williams College in Lodge and a 32nd degree Mason. He was spending time (especially holidays!) Montreal, earned his Ph.D. from the a member of Congregation Sherith Tess Fiona Klein Herzog will be with family and friends. University of Rochester and continued Israel and the Temple. He was also a called to the Torah as a to be a lifelong learner. He was a found- member of the B'nai B'rith's bat mitzvah on Jan. 25 at Mazel Tov ing faculty member of the Vanderbilt Maimonidies Lodge for over 50 years. The Temple. Born on Graduate School of Management in He is preceded in death by his parents, 1969 and a long-time professor at TSU Sam and Fannie Karr; sister, Rose Jan. 29, 2001 in . . . to the family of Matilda Quinn College of Business as well as a well- Saperstein Schwartz, and brother, Nashville, Tess is the Henderson, who was born on Nov. 16 known management consultant. Shirley "Jack" Karr. He is survived by his daughter of Risa Klein to Rachel Bohn Henderson and Jesse Beloved by his family and the communi- loving wife of 61 years, Bernice; son Herzog and Drew Henderson. Proud grandparents are ty, he will be remembered for his great Stephan (Carol) Karr, and daughter, Herzog. Her grandpar- Karen Daniel (David Cohen- intellect and generous nature. He is sur- Beth (Tommy) Ducklo. He is also sur- ents are Dr. and Mrs. Tess Fiona Klein Crumpton) of Nashville and Bobby Herzog vived by wife of 60 years, Queenie vived by his three grandchildren, T.J. Jerome S. Klein (Mimi) Bohn (Wendy) of Marietta, GA, and Miller; his brother, Harry (Shirley) and Kayla Ducklo and Stanley Karr. of Nashville, Mrs. Rhoda Weinstein Deborah McGraw (Dennis) of Oakland, Miller, children, Karen (David Cohen- His family would like to thank his Herzog of Daphne, AL, and the late TN. Proud great-grandmothers are Crumpton) Daniel, Joyce Keller, caregivers at Richland Health Center, Albert Walter Herzog of Meridian, MS. Queenie Miller of Nashville, Shirley Jonathan (Laura Timbrook) Miller; West Meade Place and especially his Tess is in the seventh grade at John Bohn of Atlanta, GA and Marlys grandchildren, Rachel (Jesse) caregivers and friends at Park Manor. Trotwood Moore Middle School. For her Lungren (Ed) of Collierville, TN. mitzvah project, she has been volunteer- Henderson, Benjamin Keller, Nathan Graveside service were Nov. 25 at ing with The Cumberland at Green Hills Daniel, a great-grandchild, Matilda K.K.S.I. Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Assisted Living Community, where she Sympathy Henderson. Graveside services were held donations can be made to Abe's participates in activities and visits with on Nov. 21 at K.K.S.I. Cemetery. Garden, c/o Park Manor, 115 the residents, enjoying their company . . . to the family of Dr. Louis Memorial contributions may be made to Woodmont Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 and making new friends. In addition to Miller, 85, who died on Nov. 19. Dr. Congregation Sherith Israel. or the charity of the donor’s choice. 6 DEGREES (NO BACON) Celebrity Jews in the news Douglas, Marguilies, Schreiber checks — we’re talking over $15 million “King David,” a drama series its cre- greatest warrior-king and patriarch of the and Samburg lead Jewish a pop. This disparity has landed him the ator, eOne, is calling an “epic mafia show Bible — a man who must make mon- Golden Globe nominees number one spot on Forbes’ 2013 list of in biblical clothing,” is in development, strous choices that betray his personal Hollywood’s most overpaid actors. The Wrap reports. ideals and turn his family against him.” It was an early yet very exciting Sandler leads a pack of other talent- Having trouble envisioning the Okay, that helps -- a little. c morning over on the shiny and bright ed, disproportionately compensated good old Holy Land monarch as some Planet of Celebrity today, what with the stars, including Reese Witherspoon, kind of Tony Soprano figure? Absorb 6 Degrees (No Bacon) is a regular announcement of the Hollywood Steve Carell and Matt Damon. this: The show aims to bring to life the roundup of news about Jewish celebrities by Foreign Press Association’s nominations “full, contradictory character of the the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. for the 2014 Golden Globe Awards, hon- oring work in film and television. Folman to direct animated Jewish representation wasn’t too feature on Anne Frank shabby — at least not on the smaller of Israeli director Ari Folman has the two screens. Here are some of the committed to writing and directing an nominees we can look forward to seeing animated feature based on the life of decked out in fancy outfits this January Anne Frank, according to The 12 at 8 p.m. on NBC: Hollywood Reporter. Folman’s animat- Julianna Margulies (Best Actress in ed film “Waltz With Bashir,” about the a TV seriea drama for her role in “The 1982 invasion of Lebanon, was nomi- Camps Issue! Good Wife”), Liv Schreiber (Best Actor nated for an Oscar. in a TV series drama for her role in “Ray Donovan”), Lena Dunham (Best Story of Masada coming to CBS February 2014 Actress in TV series comedy for her role in 2015 in “Girls”), Andy Samberg (Best Actor Alice Hoffman’s bestselling histori- in a TV series comedy for his role in cal novel The Dovekeepers will be turned “Brooklyn Nine-Nine), Michael into a four-hour miniseries for CBS air- Douglas (Best Actor in a mini-series or ing in 2015, according to The TV movie for his role as Liberace in Hollywood Reporter. “Behind the Candelabra”), Josh Charles The story, set in ancient Israel, (Best Supporting Actor in a TV series, follows four women who fight to save mini-series or move for his role in “The 900 Jews under siege by Romans at Good Wife”) and Corey Stoll (also for Masada. The producers behind the Best Supporting Actor in a TV series, project are Roma Downey and Mark mini-series or move for his role in Burnett, the couple responsible for “House of Cards”). another religion-based epic, The History Channel’s The Bible. Sandler funny but overpaid, Forbes says King David as Mafia don? If you haven’t rushed out to see With the rise in popularity of reli- Adam Sandler’s most recent films, you’re gion-based entertainment (see the item not alone. above), it was only a matter of time We will be highlighting CAMPS. The thing is, while Sandler vehicles before we were treated to a Bible-Mafia We know that you will want to be included in this issue. like Jack & Jill and That’s My Boy have mashup. fallen flat at the box office, the comic Okay, so maybe not, but it looks like For advertisers who contract a 1/8 page ad or larger we will be actor still commands mega-high pay- it’s happening anyway. happy to contact you for articles pertaining to your business.

Deadline for ads is January 15, 2014 The Observer is online! Contact: Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager 615-354-1699 or e-mail: [email protected] www.jewishobservernashville.org fax: 615-352-0056

The Observer January 2014 21 around the town GJCC sponsors new Girl Scouts troop Seigenthaler will BBYO teens pack headline MLK “Hunger Games” celebration at the screening to fight GJCC hunger

Renowned Nashville journalist and About 145 area teenagers did their First Amendment defender John part to fight hunger in November at a pre- Seigenthaler will be release screening of the film “The Hunger the featured speaker Games: Catching Fire” at the Green Hills at a civil rights pro- Regal Cinema. gram celebrating The local “food-raiser” was one of 30 Martin Luther King similar events held simultaneously across Day this month at the North America, said Sheri Rosenberg, Gordon Jewish Nashville BBYO director and organizer of Community Center. the local event. Each individual attend- Julie Shavit, who leads a new Girl Scouts troop at the Gordon Jewish Community Center, is pic- “Civil Rights in ing the Green Hills screening brought tured here with members (from left) Iris Hanai, Eden Shavit, Maya Shavit and Grace Cleveland. the 50 Years since two or three cans of food or other non- Adena Rosenbloom and Chana Tiechtel are also members of Troop 1392, which held its initial induction ceremony in October. The troop has done projects already – they baked donuts for John Fitzgerald perishable food items, which were donat- the GJCC Chanukah Carnival and are currently conducting a holiday toy drive. Several girls Kennedy’s Death” John Seigenthaler ed to the local Jewish Family Services. In have already earned merit badges. Their next meeting is on Jan. 5. Girls in grades 4-6 who are will be from noon to all, the event produced about 200 pounds interested in joining can email Shavit at [email protected]. “Get ready,” Shavit said. 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 20. The cel- of food for the Nashville community. “Cookie season is coming soon.” ebration is co-sponsored by the BBYO, a pluralistic Jewish youth cheerleading/dance. Community Relations Committee of the movement aspiring to involve more Levine adult-ed “One Happy Camper” grants up to Jewish Federation of Nashville and teens in meaningful Jewish experiences, series begins this $1,000 are available for first-time Middle Tennessee and the GJCC Meryl has focused its programming this year on campers. For more information call 561- Kraft Discretionary Fund. The event, raising awareness about hunger. As many month at The Temple 208-1650 or visit our web site at open to the public, requires reservations as 50 million Americans live in food www.6pointsacademy.org. as lunch is included at $10 per person. insecure households, including 16.7 mil- Dr. A-J Levine, professor of the New Reservation requests may be directed to lion children. Testament and Jewish Studies at [email protected] and are due by “Our Hunger Games pre-screening Vanderbilt University will start conduct a GJCC Gold Open January 15. The GJCC is located in was incredible! It was very cool to see an three-part adult education series at The Westmeade at 801 Percy Warner Blvd. entire theater filled with Nashville Jewish Temple beginning on Tuesday, Jan 21. set for April 7 Her theme is sibling rivalry and shared Seigenthaler spent 43 years as teens, who want to give back our commu- The Gordon Jewish Community responsibility from a biblical perspective. an award-winning journalist for The nity -- and who love the Hunger Games Center Golf Open will be 8 a.m. to 4 Her series will continue on Tuesday, Jan Tennessean before founding the First series,” said Gracie Hoffman, a 16-year-old p.m. on April 7 at Temple Hills Country 28 and Feb. 4. All sessions begin at 7 p.m. Amendment Center in 1991. He also junior at University School of Nashville. Club. Those interested in playing served in the early 1960s as an adminis- “It was such a fun event! I think everyone should contact Blayne Lipman at trative assistant to Atty. Gen. Robert F. enjoyed the opportunity and I am proud of [email protected]. Kennedy and was intimately involved in the amount of food we raised to donate to Local informational civil rights events of that era, at one the Nashville food bank.” meeting set for 6 point serving as chief negotiator between The event was hosted by a partner- Points Sports GJCC to hold “Art the federal government and the governor ship of West End Synagogue, The Temple on the West Side” of Alabama during the tumultuous peri- Congregation Sherith Israel, Academy od of the Freedom Riders. He himself Congregation Micah, Vanderbilt Hillel, show in March was attacked and injured by Ku Klux the Gordon Jewish Community Center URJ 6 Points Sports Academy will Klan members in Montgomery, AL while and the Jewish Federation of Nashville hold an informational meeting at 7 p.m. The Gordon Jewish Community trying to aid Freedom Riders. and Middle Tennessee. Jan. 17 at the home of Ramin and Sara Center will hold “Art on the West Side: Hanai. Fine Art and Craft Show” in March. The URJ 6 Points is a sports specialty even will celebrate artist Martha Nemer To access the camp for young Jewish athletes entering and feature the work of 41 of Nashville’s grades 4-11. Located in Greensboro, NC, most renowned artists. Community Calendar, it is housed on the 100 acre athletic and The weekend begins with a $10-a-per- camp facilities of the American Hebrew son cocktail reception from 7-10 p.m. on go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Academy. At 6 Points, campers receive Saturday, March 29. The exhibition will be sports training and all the traditions of free and open to the public from 10 a.m.-4 Every community event is listed for your convenience. Reform Jewish camping. The 2-week ses- p.m. on March 30. Proceeds will directly sions include intensive training in bas- benefit visual, musical and theatre art pro- ketball, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, ten- gramming for youth and adults and make nis, boys baseball, girls softball, and girls scholarships available for those in need. MARSHALL-DONNELLY-COMBS FUNERAL HOME 327-1111

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The Observer December 2013 23 Israeli mom’s comic book adventure novel empowers kids with cancer

By SHARON KANON lost stone that disappeared into a dark Israel21c world, he challenges the villain who rules there, and returns to the light. The hira Frimer poured 10 years book is illustrated by Josef Rubinstein of into the publication of Nistar, Marvel and DC comic book fame. her debut graphic adventure Michael Uslan, executive producer novel for kids with cancer. of the Batman movie franchise, wrote in The book is based on her own his introduction to the book that for any- experience with the disease, one experiencing childhood cancer, “it’s Sher knowledge of Jewish mysticism and clear that what is NOT needed is a texts, and her love of comic books. depressing story of illness and treatment. “Children affected by cancer are What IS needed is an uplifting adventure forced to contend with a noxious villain. that can inspire the fight to come, rally They need relief from the emotional dis- the on-going noble battle, and point the tress that comes with illness,” the 37- Shira Firmer, second from right, at the way to the light at the end of the tunnel. year-old art therapist said in an interview launch of Nistar at the Ronald McDonald And that’s where Nistar shines.” House in New York City at her clinic in Rehovot, Israel, where she In a recent podcast, Paul Castiglia, has lived since 1995. “I try to empower When her young husband died at an Archie comics creator and book them, to encourage them to visualize the age of 24, Frimer found two ways to writer, said: “JJ is now one of my favorite themselves as heroes, to emphasize the escape from her grief. superheroes, and Shira Frimer is also.” part of their lives they can control. The “I studied Jewish philosophy and Frimer hopes there will be more one thing cancer can’t touch is their learned some of the legends and ideas of requests and that contributions will imagination, the freedom to create.” mysticism. I also became an avid reader of enable a second printing to reach more Frimer raised money to print an ini- comic books and high-level graphic nov- children with cancer. Translation into tial 5,000 copies of the book through a The hero of Nistar, Dr. JJ Barak, is based on els.” She completed a master’s degree in other languages, a sequel and a film are Yaakov Frimer, Shira Frimer’s late husband, campaign on the crowd-funding plat- who died at the age of 24 of pediatric bone expressive arts therapies at an Israeli branch also part of her “dream” agenda. She’s form Indiegogo. In conjuction with cancer. of Lesley University in Massachusetts. also hoping to launch a website and cre- Children’s Cancer Awareness Month last She was influenced by Art ate an online “community for children Sepember, KidsComicCon hosted a fes- pediatric bone cancer. Spiegelman, who graphic novel Maus battling disease and life’s challenges — a tive launch of Nistar at the Ronald The 19-year-olds decided to go on about the Holocaust won the Pulitzer place where they can share their stories McDonald House and copies from the with wedding plans, and two years later Prize in 1992. “ If he could use the comic and creative ideas with others, a place to initial printing were distributed free to Frimer gave birth to twins. During treat- book medium to depict the Holocaust, learn, and for parents to get tips on how child cancer patients. ment at Schneider Children’s Medical then I could address childhood cancer in to use creative expression to help chil- The story Frimer tells in Nistar, Center in Ramat Gan, her husband the same way,” she said. dren, and siblings cope.” c which means “hidden” in Hebrew, pulls managed to finish a year of law school. In the 116-page fantasy suspense scenes from her own life. Only a couple He also reached out to the children in story, Yaakov’s charismatic personality is ISRAEL21c is an online news maga- of months after she and her childhood the ward. Gifted with natural charm, he reflected in the story’s hero, Dr. JJ Barak, zine and service offering news and informa- sweetheart, Yaakov, became engaged, he became their “big brother,” using humor once a cancer patient himself. Driven by tion about 21st century Israel. Its Website is was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a to diminish their fears. a desire to find the cure for cancer in a http://israel21c.org.

24 January 2014 The Observer