the Jewish bserver Volunteers urged to engage in Shana Tova “Jewish conversations” as Federation’s 5775 2015 annual campaign gets underway By CHARLES BERNSEN

hat’s your Jewish story?” Linda A. Hurwitz asked the 70 or so vol- unteers who had Wassembled last month at the Gordon Jewish Community for the kickoff of the 2015 annual campaign of the Complete congregational Jewish Federation of Nashville and High Holy Day schedules 17 Middle Tennessee. For Hurwitz, it was that moment some 40 years ago when she saw a young Russian girl who looked remarkably like her arriving in New Jersey, one of the thousands of Jews who, through the efforts of other Jews An animated Linda Hurwitz makes a point to Federation board member Janet around the world, were allowed to Weismark, captain of team Sabada. PHOTOS BY CHARLES BERNSEN emigrate from the old Soviet Union to the United States and Israel. nside: “I was 15, and I realized that if Soi long Hadar; my grandparents had stayed in Russia welcome Liron 3 and hers had not, it could have been her watching me step off that plane,” Matisyahu to play she said. That realization implanted a seed that grew into a decades-long Vanderbilt on Sept. 9 8 commitment to the worldwide Jewish community. Nashville “lone solider” Hurwitz, who is now national blogging about her IDF campaign chairman for the Jewish Federations of North America, was in experiences 11 Nashville to run a workshop for a corps of volunteers who will play a GJCC’s Blue J Café crucial role in the local Federation’s returns on Sept. 13 12 effort to reach its campaign goal of Campaign Chair Ted Mayden and Campaign Director Naomi Sedek meet briefly with $2.5 million. Their job is to make the team captains before Hurwitz’s workshop. Regular features personal, face-to-face appeals to about 440 donors whose annual gifts “She was so excited. We jumped ly from a mission to Israel, where Campaign Trail 4 range from $1,000 to more than up and hugged each other and did a Hurwitz had engaged him in just such Opinion 26 $100,000 and who are expected to little dance right there in the coffee a conversation and helped him clari- The Rabbis’ Corner 27 account for about 80 percent of the shop,” Hurwitz said. “A year later, she fy his own “Jewish story.” total contributions. sent me an invitation to her daugh- “Everyone here has a great Letter to the Editor 27 The key, she told them, is to ter’s wedding … She said, ‘You were Jewish story to tell,” said Mayden. Lifecycles 29 think of these appeals not as solicita- part of one milestone in my life, and “And conveying that story for the Around the town 30 tions – a word she doesn’t like to use I want you to be at the others.’” benefit of the Jewish people here and – but rather as “Jewish conversations” Hurwitz told the group that a around the world is a great honor.” in which both they and the potential Jewish conversation is successful if This marks the third year in donor can make a new friend, share the prospective donor feels good which volunteers, or ambassadors, their Jewish stories and learn more about what the Federation does, have been divided into teams of 10 www.jewishobservernashville.org about themselves and the Jewish understands the importance of the with names like Iron Dome, Nash community. annual campaign and, most impor- Mitzvah and Sababa (Hebrew for A Publication of “We’re not just raising money,” tant, feels good about his or her gift – “cool”) for a friendly competition she said. “We’re also building rela- regardless of what it is. For that to dubbed The Kehilah Cup Challenge. tionships and raising Jews.” happen, the each conversation must Each ambassador has been assigned She recounted her Jewish con- be not only personal but also unique four or five prospective donors. The versation with an acquaintance who, and genuine. teams score points for getting in-per- noticing Hurwitz’s Lion of Judah pin, “Our mission does not have to be son conversations with donors, per- revealed her longtime desire to awkward; it can be a joyous opportu- suading donors to increase their sup- www.jewishnashville.org become a Lion of Judah and then nity,” she said. port, taking photos of donors for the decided spontaneously to make the In his remarks to the volunteers, Federation Hall of Fame and securing financial commitment to the annual VOL.79 NO. 9 Nashville Campaign Chair Ted new gifts of $1,000 or more. The campaign to do so. Mayden said he had returned recent- Continued on page 6 September 2014 6 Elul 5774 - 6 Tishrei 5775 SWEEMAYYOURNEWYEARBEGOODAND

2 September 2014 The Observer New shlicha aims to be a “living bridge” between Israel and Nashville’s Jewish community

By CHARLES BERNSEN and Nashville’s Jewish community. “I sincerely believe in the impor- t was natural that Liron tance of strengthening the relationship Liron Finkelstein Finkelstein would be interested in between Israel and Jewish communities Age: 30 the Jewish Agency for Israel’s pro- around the world – and our accountabil- gram that sends shlichim – Israeli ity and responsibility for one another – Hometown: Kiryat Ata (near Haifa) emissaries – to serve in Jewish through education, personal experience communities around the world. and personal relationships.” Family: Parents (Aharon and Batsheva) made IAfter all, the program dovetails quite Finkelstein has some experience in Aliyah from Rumania in the early 1960s. He’s a neatly with her own aspirations as young fostering such personal relationships watchmaker and she’s a teacher. Older sister is a Israeli adult – serving her country and its between Israelis and U.S. Jews. During manager in a bank, younger sister is a teacher. citizens, promoting its culture, and her five-year stint in the Israeli Defense Occupation: Lawyer strengthening its ties to Jewish commu- Forces, she volunteered in an IDF dele- nities outside Israel. gation that met with young American Education: Haifa Univeristy (law degree and mas- “I strongly believe in the Jewish adults visiting Israel through the Taglit- ter’s in international relations) Agency’s goals and work,” said Birthright program. Later she was the Finkelstein, who in August began a two- officer in charge of a four-member dele- Community service experience: Administrator for year stint as the shlicha in Nashville. “I gation from her IDF unit that visited Liron Finkelstein Haifa University’s Perach Tutorial Program, vol- also want to continue serving my coun- Gainesville, FL as part of the Parallel unteer in Halev program providing legal services try as I have been doing for most of my Lives program that establishes relation- for the poor, worked with teenage dropouts at day center run by ELEM – Youth adult life with a great sense of responsi- ships among young American Jews and in Distress in Israel and with intellectually and developmentally disabled adults bility, commitment and a deep connec- their counterparts serving in the Israeli and children at the Akim Association, tutored children 3-6 years old taken from tion to its culture, history and existence. military. homes under court order. Finkelstein, 30, is a lawyer from In Nashville, her goal is quite sim- In her spare time: “I have always appreciated a good book or a movie, spending Kiryat Ata who recently completed an ple: “To bring my true self and to share time with my family and friends over a cup of coffee, traveling and listening to internship with the criminal department my life experiences from Israel. I would concerts.” of the Haifa District Attorney’s Office. like for more people to know even more As shlicha, she will be working for about Israel, but first I would like to lis- the Jewish Federation of Nashville and ten carefully and learn. I would like to volunteers when they visited Israel and flicted that she won’t be available for Middle Tennessee. get to know the kind and warm people has talked with others on the phone. reserve service – she is a casualty notifi- “I’m thrilled Liron has joined our who are the mosaic stones of this “After meeting some of the cation officer – if need be. community,” said Abbie Wolf, the [Nashville] community I am fortunate to wonderful people I will be working with “It’s not supposed to be easy to Federations’s community relations work with.” and with everything I have heard and leave my family, friends and country,” director. “She is bright, accomplished, Aside from her trip to Florida with read, I can definitely say I am very excit- she said. “On the other hand . . . these and eager to bring her love of Israel to the IDF delegation, Finkelstein has been ed,” she said. “I feel I can do great work circumstances make me remember why I all of us. to the United States once before – on a here and also enjoy the culture and life chose this path in the first place. I leave I know everyone will join me in wel- cross-country vacation tour with three of in Nashville. Israel on my way to Nashville with a coming her.” her best friends that took her to places Although Hamas rockets were great sense of excitement. I think of the In taking over from Hadar like New York City, Washington D.C. no longer falling on Israel and the fight- importance of this shlichut . . . and I know Moskovitz, who returned to Israel last and Las Vegas. ing in Gaza had ended before her depar- that wherever I go, I take Israel with me. month following two years as communi- Though she had never been to ture, Finkelstein admitted that it was dif- That’s why, no matter how hard it was to ty shlicha, Finkelstein said she hopes to Nashville, Finkelstein did meet some ficult to leave during a time of crisis. pack my bags during these difficult days, become “a living bridge” between Israel Nashville Federation staff members and Security is still unsure, and she feels con- I am hopeful.” c Community’s message to departing shlicha: Hadar, Nashville will always be your home

By CHARLES BERNSEN Chanukkah party upon Chanukkah party, Purim masquerades, Tu Bishvat ashville loves seders and more,” said Harriett Schiftan, Hadar,” proclaimed director of planning for the Jewish “ Rachel Koch, and it Federation of Nashville and Middle must be true because Tennessee and Moskovitz’s supervisor. there was a whole “All of these came from personal lot of hugging going invitations from friends and families who on Nat the farewell gathering for Hadar considered you as family,” said Schiftan. Moskovitz, whose two-year term as “You will always be part of this Nashville shlicha (Israeli emissary) ends next week. community. Our hearts and homes are Moskovitz got hugs from Koch always open to you and your family.” and the other 20 so people who spoke When she finally got her turn to about her during the two-hour gathering address the gathering, Moskovitz Thursday, Aug. 7 in the Gordon Jewish described her time in Nashville as “the Community Center auditorium. In fact, best two years of my life.” before the night was over, Moskovitz had Recalling the homesickness and probably hugged most of the 150 people second thoughts that swept over her in attendance. upon arriving in the United States two “Nashville was truly blessed to have years ago (she actually cried), she said you,” said Koch who, as chairman of her trepidation melted away when Partnership2Gether and president of the Schiftan greeted her at the Nashville Get Connected teen exchange program airport. The community’s warmth has with Israel, worked with Moskovitz on a been especially comforting during the number of projects. emotional and difficult last few weeks In recounting how Moskovitz’s tire- when her family was under rocket Hadar Moskovitz had a long group hug with Yuval, Maya and Gal Crouvi, daughters of Yifat and less efforts to promote an understanding Shachar Crouvi. The Crouvis, along with Yaara and Uzi Yemin and their children, were attack and fellow Israelis, including a of Israel had reached all age groups and Moskovitz’s official host families during her stay in Nashville. PHOTO BY JACK KOCH friend, were dying in Gaza. virtually every Jewish institution in “I did not feel alone for a moment,” Nashville, the speakers invariably had endeared Moskovitz to so many. brations, Shabbat dinners, Sukkot she said. “I know you will be with Israel, returned to a common theme: Her “You have attended baby namings, meals, Rosh Hashana meals and Rosh and your love is something that I will enthusiastic, personable manner, which b'nai mitzvah, weddings, birthday cele- Bashes, Yom Kippur break fasts, carry with me for the rest of my life.” c The Observer September 2014 3 From the Campaign Trail Why Federation matters By TED MAYDEN person encounters with other Jews who school programs. attainment, health, social skills and self- Campaign Chair depend on our support. In Israel, we met Yuval, an IDF vet- regard. The staff and volunteers at Ben A few examples may explain why. eran who lost his hands in a bomb squad Yakir struggle mightily to assist the chil- am writing while en route from Zanet, is the executive director of the training exercise a decade ago. It has been dren find ways toward a productive role Tel Aviv to Nashville, having Jewish Day School in Athens with respon- a long and hard road back for Yuval, and in Israeli society upon reaching young spent two weeks on Federation sibility for 140 students. Her life parallels his account of the physical and mental adulthood while repairing and restoring missions in Greece (briefly) and that of the Jewish community in Greece. anguish he experienced and the fits and family ties. The work is hard and Israel. The crisis in Gaza and the Her family was among the mere 10 percent starts of recovery quickly turned my progress is not always smooth, but for the safety of Israel's soldiers and citi- of Greece’s Jewish population that survived attention away from his remarkable facil- sake of a humane society and the perpet- Izens is top of mind. As always, Nazi concentration camps and, miraculous- ity with his prosthetic hands. Today, with uation of Jewish values it must be done. Federation, through ly, returned to continue a Jewish presence the assistance of JDC Turning Point, These needs cannot be met by just the Stop the Sirens in Greece that goes back nearly 2,300 years. which provides seed money to programs your support of Federation or, for that campaign, is striving Zanet is part of a proud, resourceful addressing unmet needs, Yuval is a leader matter, by the entire Nashville to lend support as and determined Jewish community that at the Center for Independent Living, Federation alone. Yet each of us, and our needed during partic- has rebuilt and sustained itself over the training and assisting others recovering Federation, have the opportunity ularly difficult times. past seven decades. Unfortunately, the from devastating setbacks. through our annual campaign gifts to Yet regardless of Greek financial crisis of 2009 was devas- At our sister city of Hadera, we visit- “scale up” our own generosity by partner- how quickly the cur- tating, nearly bankrupting the communi- ed the Ben Yakir Youth Village, which is ing among ourselves and globally with rent situation is Ted Mayden ty and its Jewish institutions. Soon supported by our Federation and partners the American Jewish Joint Distribution “resolved,” the trying thereafter, Federation was there to assist in the Southeast Region Consortium. Committee, the Jewish Agency for Israel, circumstances of so many Jewish people this proud, heretofore independent but That support is needed to supplement and World Ort to address and overcome we encountered will continue, crisis or now desperate community. With this funding from the Israel Ministry of Health “big” unmet needs, each with a Jewish no crisis, along with our responsibility to assistance, the community and the in order to provide residential treatment face, for now and in the years to come. c them. I am returning to Nashville a bet- school was able to attain stability. Today care to children from severely dysfunc- ter informed and more strongly commit- the 140 students sing the same songs and tional families and homes. Ted Mayden is chairman of the 2015 ted proponent of the Federation’s annual study the same subjects as our children Children arrive at Ben Yakir signifi- annual campaign of the Jewish Federation of campaign largely because of person-to- do at Akiva and in synagogue after cantly lagging their peers in educational Nashville and Middle Tennesse. Global Day of Jewish Learning set for Nov. 16 at Vanderbilt; Maccabeats will perform afterwards ark your calendars for annual Global Day of Jewish sessions with local Sunday, November Vanderbilt Hillel. Jewish clergy and 16 from 10:30 a.m. to The theme for this year is “Heroes other Jewish educa- 4:00 p.m. when the and Villains, Saints and Fools: The tors focusing on var- Nashville communi- People in the Book,” and the program ious aspects of the ty will hold its third kick offs with a special presentation by Global Day theme. M Global Day Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi For adult partici- Learning information may also be c c c c Zvi Hirschfield, a faculty member of the pants breakout sessions accessed by visiting the Jewish Federation STAFF Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in include: “Abraham: Journey of Nashville and Middle Tennessee web- Jerusalem. into the Unknown,” “Balaam: To Bless site at www.jewishnashville.org beginning Publisher Mark S. Freedman Following the opening session and or To Curse,” “Deborah: Victory in the in late September. Editor Charles Bernsen lunch program, which will feature table Hands of a Woman,” “Eve: Separation The Global Day of Jewish Learning Advertising Manager Carrie Mills discussions facilitated by Vanderbilt stu- and Wholeness in the Garden of Eden,” is funded by the Jewish Federation and Layout and Production Tim Gregory dents, there will two hour-long breakout “Moses: The Birth of a Leader,” and Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Editorial Board Frank Boehm (chair), “The People of Sodom: The Making of Middle Tennessee. The appearance of Barbara Dab, Greg Goldberg, an Evil Society.” Rabbi Hirschfield is made possible Scott Rosenberg, Liz Foster Programming will also be available through the generosity of Libby and Editorial Submissions Policy infants, toddlers and their parents under Moshe Werthan. and Deadlines the auspices of Nashville’s PJ Library The Global Day of Jewish Learning Telephone 615/356-3242 program. Look for more details in the community partners include: Akiva Fax 615/352-0056 The Jewish Observer welcomes the sub- October issue of The Observer. School, Gordon Jewish Community mission of information, news items, fea- E-mail [email protected] And a special treat is in store for Center, Jewish Family Service, NowGen ture stories and photos about events rel- Global Day participants, teachers and Nashville, Get Connected, PJ Library, evant to the Jewish community of volunteers. Immediately following the ‘The Jewish Observer’ (ISSN Greater Nashville. We prefer e-mailed Vanderbilt Hillel, Congregation Beit 8750-5290) is published monthly for $25 submissions, which should be sent as Global Day program, the famed A capel- Tefilah Chabad, Congregation Micah, per year by the Jewish Federation of Word documents to Editor Charles la group, the Maccabeats, will perform at Congregation Sherith Israel, The Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 801 Percy Bernsen at [email protected]. Langford Auditorium on the Vanderbilt Temple, West End Synagogue, B’nai Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. Photos must be high resolution (at least campus. All Global Day attends will B’rith Youth Organization (BBYO), Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. 300 dpi) and should be attached as jpegs receive complimentary priority seating Chabad Jewish Student Center at POSTMASTER: Send address changes to to the e-mail with the related news item for the concert. Vanderbilt University, Hadassah THE JEWISH OBSERVER, 801 Percy or story. For material that cannot be e- Check back at the Observer website Nashville Chapter, National Council of Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205 mailed, submissions should be sent to in late September for more information Jewish Women Nashville Chapter, B’nai Charles Bernsen, The Jewish Observer, and to register for the Global Day of B’rith Social Unit and B’nai B’rith This newspaper is made possible by funds 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 102, Jewish Learning. Global Day of Jewish c raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Nashville TN 37205. Photos and copy Maimonides Lodge #46. 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 Please of the American Jewish Press Association Observer, which reserves the right to and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. edit submissions. support

While The Jewish Observer To ensure publication, submissions must The Jewish Observer of Nashville is the only comprehensive source of informa- makes every possibly effort to accept only arrive by the 15th of the month prior to tion about the Jewish community of Middle Tennessee. To continue delivering the reputable advertisers of the highest quality, the intended month of publication. news and information you have come to expect, we need your support. we cannot guarantee the Kasruth of their In this issue you will find an envelope with which you can make a tax products. For advertising deadlines, contact deductible contribution to the annual Observer Patron Campaign. A $25 dona- Carrie Mills, advertising manager, at tion covers the annual cost of printing and mailing The Observer to a single read- The Jewish Observer 615-354-1699, or by email at er, but we hope you will consider donating at one of the higher levels: Reporter Founded in 1934 by [email protected]. JACQUES BACK ($50), Editor ($100) or Publisher ($150). c 4 September 2014 The Observer The Observer September 2014 5 Jeweler Scott Isaacs uses special laser technology to update pins and support Lion of Judah program

By CHARLES BERNSEN paign of the Jewish Federation of Nashville eweler Scott Isaacs has created a and Middle Tennessee. niche for himself in the “The Lion of Nashville market by employing a Judah pin is a symbol of sophisticated laser technology to commitment to the set stones and repair jewelry. Jewish community, and Now he’s using his expertise to I am honored and Jsupport one of the Jewish com- proud to help in the munity’s most successful develop- recognition of those ment initiatives – the Lion of Judah program. who have made this Isaacs, a native of Nashville and a commitment,” said third-generation jeweler, has agreed to Isaacs, who owns Belle donate his services to upgrade the iconic Meade Jewelry & pins awarded to women who make gifts Repair in Belle Meade of at least $5,000 to the annual cam- Plaza. The Lion of Judah pin Isaac said he’s especially gratified karat gold Lion of Judah pins and update because, as members of it with a diamond inset with each subse- the Gordon Jewish quent annual gift. Those who make larg- Community Center er contributions can incorporate special whose children have stones – a ruby, sapphire, emerald or yel- attended its Early low, brown or black diamond – in the Childhood Learning Lion’s eye. Center, he and his Linda Kartoz-Doochin (left) and Patti Steine look on as Scott Isaacs updates a Lion of Judah pin. Isaacs is donating his expertise Isaacs will be donating his stone-set- wife, Katie, directly to upgrade the iconic pins, which recognize extraordinary chari- ting expertise to help Lions update their benefit from some of table commitments to the Jewish community by women. pins for the current year’s gifts. In doing the programs supported so, he succeeds Bill Davis and Jay Yontef, by the Federation’s annual campaign. The Lion of Judah program began in who both generously provide the service “It is so inspiring to witness good 1972 by the Jewish Federation in Miami in previous years. deeds that encourage other good deeds,” as a way of recognizing extraordinary Among the first Lions to have her said Risa Klein Herzog, development charitable commitments of women. pin updated by Isaacs was Linda Kartoz- director for the Jewish Foundation of Today the Jewish Federations of North Doochin. Nashville and Middle Tennessee. “Due America recognizes about 17,000 Lions “Not only did he amaze me with his to our Lions' stalwart giving, Scott is of Judah worldwide, including about 80 precision based technology, but he did a inspired to donate his services in addi- in Nashville. great job on the pin,” said Kartoz- tion to his own annual gift and we are Any woman making a personal Doochin, who had been using a New very appreciative.” commitment of at least $5,000 to a York jeweler to update her pin. “Through JFNA campaign in a given year is eligi- the Lion program, I have been intro- ble to purchase and wear one of the 14- duced to my new local jeweler.” c

2015 annual campaign gets underway

Continued from page 1 One interesting change this year is team with the most points wins the that one of the 10 teams is comprised of opportunity to assign additional grant members of NowGen Nashville, the dollars to an area of service of its choice Federation’s outreach program for young to the tune of $10,000. Jewish adults. As designated “pinch hit- The team concept builds cama- ters,” members of team Kehilah will raderie among the solicitors and also accompany other ambassadors in their per- helps create enthusiasm among donors sonal meetings with prospective donors. who like being part of a friendly competi- Kehilah team captain Jennifer Kahn tion for a good cause. The Jewish said the NowGen team has a double ben- Federation is sending letters signed by the efit: Not only is it a way to get more ambassadors, team captains and Mayden young professionals involved in the to all donors being solicited by the teams annual campaign but it will also be a announcing the start of the 2015 cam- resource for conveying their “Jewish sto- paign and explaining the team approach. ries” to prospective donors. c

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6 September 2014 The Observer Israel under fire: So many to thank, but help is still needed

By MARK S. FREEDMAN Sen. Steven Dickerson all joined us for this important event. The rally also fea- hen I returned tured remarks by our good friend Mike from Israel on July McNally of Christians United for Israel. 22, I fully expected I also want to thank all of the sup- that relentless porters of our Stop the Sirens Campaign. Hamas rocket Through Aug. 15, the Federation has attacks received nearly $140,000 in Wagainst Israel would soon end. contributions. Collectively the Sadly, the terrorist violence continuing effort among all emanating from the Gaza Strip 153 North American Donations to the Stop the Sirens campaign can be made at continued well into August. Federations has raised more http://nashville.ujcfedweb.org/servertransfer.html?targetURL As I write a fragile cease fire is than $36 million. This vitally =/ft2/form.html?__id=9306. All proceeds are used to improve holding, but it is hard to pre- important financial support dict if calm will be restored to was used to provide immediate shelters for vulnerable populations and provide services such Israel and its citizens. relief from the line of fire for as trauma counseling and respites for children. I was overwhelmed by our more than 45,000 children community’s response to the (most from towns and cities in Stand with Israel Rally that Mark S. Freedman southern Israel); to extend an recovery needs in Southern Israel. This enterprise. I cannot think of any other the Jewish Federation of extra helping hand to 20,000 of will include trauma support and psycho- people who are prepared to respond so Nashville and Middle Tennessee organ- Israel’s most vulnerable citizens, many of logical counseling for those most impact- quickly and generously as is the case ized and sponsored at the GJCC hours them Holocaust survivors; to expand ed by the constant red alert sirens by when Israel’s safety and security is after I returned from Israel. I can’t thank trauma support for more than 15,000 restoring hope, optimism and a sense of threatened by its hostile neighbors. It everyone enough for your outpouring of Israelis,and to strengthen assistance to normalcy; providing respite for first-line is a testimony to the strength and support and caring for our brethren in the dozens of communities hit hardest by responders, and providing grants and vitality of the Federation system and Israel through your attendance. the conflict. loans for economic recovery with an its legion of dedicated and loyal sup- I am so appreciative of my incredi- These services are provided by a emphasis on small business that were porters. And that includes every one ble Federation staff, in particular coalition of our Federation’s key overseas particularly vulnerable in the wake of of you reading this message. Again, I Director of Community Relations Abbie beneficiary agencies including the the conflict. can’t begin to thank you enough for all Wolf, who orchestrated the logistics and Jewish Agency for Israel, the American Longer term efforts of the Stop the you continue to do for Israel and the attracted our standing-room attendance Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, Sirens Campaign will focus on ongoing Jewish people. and coverage of the rally by every major World ORT, the Ethiopian National trauma support, community resilience, If you wish to support the Stop the media outlet in the Nashville area. We Project, the Israel Movement for Reform enhanced training for first-line respon- Sirens Campaign or want more informa- were joined at the rally by representa- and Progressive Judaism and the Masorti ders and continuing activities that tion about the programs and services tives of every local Jewish agency and (Conservative) Movement. increase emergency preparedness at com- that are being funded by the proceeds of clergy from all five of our congregations. Even if quiet does prevail in Israel in munal and organization levels. the campaign please visit our Federation I am also deeply appreciative that the coming weeks and months, the Stop Federations will also continue to support webpage at www.jewishnashville.org. c key that staff members representing U.S. the Sirens Campaign will continue to the Fund for the Victims of Terror. Reps. Jim Cooper and Marsha provide support on a short and long term I must observe that the partner- Mark S. Freedman is executive director Blackburn, Sens. Bob Corker and Lamar basis. Through ongoing allocations short ship that exists between the people of of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Alexander, Mayor Karl Dean and State term programs will focus on immediate Israel and Diaspora Jewry is a unique Middle Tennessee.

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ACLF License 59 © 2014 Belmont Village, L.P. The Observer September 2014 7 Matisyahu concert at Vanderbilt will celebrate Project Dialogue’s 25th anniversary

Council and Vanderbilt Hillel. and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, atisyahu – the Matisyahu (“gift of God”) is the philosopher and activist Cornel West American musician Hebrew stage name for Matthew Paul and historian and social critic Arthur who sets Orthodox Miller, a secular-turned-Hasidic Jew Schlesinger, Jr., neurologist Oliver Jewish themes to an whose music is infused with religious Sacks and artist Adrienne Outlaw, eclectic beat of alter- themes. He has toured extensively in Nobel Peace Laureate Elie Wiesel and native rock, reggae the United States, Canada, Europe and politician John Ashcroft. Mand hip hop – will play an outdoor Israel, where he performed once with To mark the program’s 25th acoustic concert on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at Sting. He also has collaborated with the anniversary, however, the committee Vanderbilt University. Muslim performers Kenny Muhammad that oversees it decided to celebrate But his 7:30 p.m. performance on and Akon. In 2006 he was named as with a concert by a performer whose the university’s big Commons Lawn is Top Reggae Artist by Billboard. The music embodies the idea of cultural being billed as more than a concert. same year he won an Esky Music Award interchange and understanding. The event is being staged to mark the from Esquire magazine, which called “This very special event . . . will 25th anniversary of Project Dialogue, a him “the most intriguing reggae artist in surely be a night of music, dialogue program of the Vanderbilt Chaplain’s the world.” and energy,” the Project Dialogue Office aimed at initiating discussions of Bringing Matisyahu to Vanderbilt website says. critical topics outside the classroom. is a departure for Project Dialogue, Tickets are available at The event is co-sponsored by Project The eclectic musician Matisyahu will play an which over the years has invited speak- Vanderbilt’s Sarratt Student Center Dialogue, the university’s Interfaith outdoor concert at Vanderbilt in September ers as diverse actress Sandra Bernhard Box Office and are free for students, staff, and faculty with a university ID and $10 for the general public. Concertgoers are invited to bring a blanket to sit on, and something to eat and drink. Bags will be checked at the gate when tickets are presented. No alcohol will be permitted. c West End Synagogue High Holiday Services Our Doors are Open to All Join us for Services and meet… Cantor Alberto Mirchuk, our guest cantor from Argentina Erev Rosh Hashanah Yom Kippur, Saturday, October 4, 2014 Wednesday, September 24, 2014 Service begins at 9:30 a.m. Service begins at 6:00 p.m. *Family and Student Services at 11:00 a.m. Learners’ Service Following Rabbi’s D’var First Day of Rosh Hashanah Torah Thursday, September 25, 2014 Study Session with Miriam Halachmi at 3:00 Service begins at 8:30 a.m. p.m. Blessing of Babies born in Havdallah—Ramah Style— Following the the past year at 10:30 a.m. Blowing of the Shovar at 7:04 p.m. *Family and Student Services at 11:00 a.m. Sukkot (October 8-10, 2014) and Shemini Atzeret (October 15-16, 2014) Second Day of Rosh Hashanah Services are at 9:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Friday, September 26, 2014 Service begin at 8:30 a.m. Shemini Atzerit *Family and Student Services at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 16, 2014 Service 9:30 a.m.—Yizkor will be recited To access the Kol Nidre Friday, October 3, 2014 Evening of Simchat Torah Community Thursday, October 16, 2014 Service begins at 5:45 p.m. Simchat Torah Dinner & Service 5:30–7:30 p.m. Calendar, Simchat Torah go to Friday, October 17, 2014 www.jewishnashville.org Services 9:30 a.m. and click on For the complete service schedule, visit our website at www.westendsyn.org “Calendar.” * Separate services for Families With Young Children (preschool–1st grade), Every community for children in grades 2–7, and for teens event is We hope to see you all then! listed for your convenience.

West End Synagogue (615) 269-4592 [email protected] 3810 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205 @WestEndSyn /WestEndSyn www.WestEndSyn.org

8 September 2014 The Observer Get ready for the fifth annual May this New Year be filled with Health and Happiness, and Sweetness for you and your family. Rosh Bash on Sept. 27 L' Shanah Tova! Jackie Roth Karr “This year’s venue is one-of-a-kind fter the Rosh Hashanah www.JackieKarr.com | 615.330.9779 | [email protected] services and family din- and we cannot wait for a great turnout!” ners are over, you can said Rosh Bash co-chair Batia Karabel. continue the New “The event is a great way for Jewish S ounds of the shofar Year’s celebration at young professionals in Nashville to gath- NowGen Nashville’s er and celebrate the Jewish New Year in H oney and apples Afifth annual Rosh Bash on Saturday, a relaxed and fun atmosphere,” added Sept. 27. the other co-chair, Matthew Segal. More A new beginning The party is scheduled from 9 p.m. than 140 people showed up for last year’s to midnight at POP Nashville, a new Rosh Bash. space for pop-up dining and events at This year’s festivities will include Lots of smiles 604 Gallatin Ave. in East Nashville. free appetizers (dairy) and a cash bar fea- NowGen is the outreach program of turing a special Rosh Hashanah cocktail. Opening a door to the New Year the Jewish Federation of Nashville and There is free parking at the site, and a Middle Tennessee that provides social, discount code for Uber will be provided Memories of past and happy moments to come! philanthropic, service and networking for those who don’t want to drive. opportunities for young Jewish profes- For tickets and information visit sionals. Vanderbilt Hillel is co-sponsor- www.NowGenNashville.org or email ing the event. Lauren Mielziner at lauren@jewish HAPPY NEW YEAR! nashville.org. c Have a Happy and Healthy New Year

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The Observer September 2014 9 CSI’s new assistant rabbi and wife happy to be part of Nashville’s collaborative Jewish community

By CHARLES BERNSEN He grew up in a small, collaborative “I really like it,” she said. remotely for the interactive website that Jewish community in Berkeley, CA and Sugar is continuing her job as a uses short, animated movies to teach ulie Sugar describes her husband, more recently started a congregation in script writer for YiddishPOP, working Yiddish. c Rabbi Aaron Finkelstein, as a Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, where con- “fantastic cook and baker,” the gregations often co-sponsor events and son of a restaurateur who loves to interdenominational activities are com- host visitors to his home. He mon. So they were hoping to settle in a describes her as outgoing with a similarly open, collaborative Jewish Jstrong communal sensitivity and community. commitment, a natural rebbetzin. “Nashville is fantastic in that So it was no wonder that both regard,” Rabbi Finkelstein said. The seemed quite at ease greeting dozens of city’s Jewish clergy is “collegial and visitors last month during a two-hour friendly . . . There’s a lot of collabora- communal reception at the Gordon tion here and a chance to build real Jewish Community Center welcoming relationships.” them as Congregation Sherith Israel’s It’s a bonus that the Finkelsteins new assistant rabbi and rebbitzen. love country music and Nashville’s other To say the past three months have cultural amenities. “We’ve already been been a whirlwind doesn’t begin to to the Station Inn,” said Julie. describe the couple’s summer. They At Sherith Israel Rabbi Finkelstein got married in May, hunted for a house will assist with life cycle events, sermons, in June, then packed up their Sunday school, teen programs, and Brooklyn apartment and moved to Shabbat programming for young families Nashville in July. Oh, and somewhere and couples. He also is the Judaic studies in there was a trip to Hungary to visit teacher at Akiva School. her family. His class got an excellent review And now that they have settled into from Iris Hanai, who attended the recep- something of a routine in Nashville? tion for the Finkelstein’s with her par- “We love it,” said Rabbi Finkelstein. ents, Sara and Ramin Hanai.

FromCONSIDERING my family Ato MOVE? yours – mayAllow you me haveto guide a youpeaceful through and the process.sweet WithNew your Year enthusiasm and my expertise, we can accomplish your goals! Julie Sugar and Aaron Finkelstein talk with a member of the community at the reception in their honor. LORNA M. GRAFF Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI Lifetime Member, Gold Award of Excellence Office: 615.794.0833 Cell: 615.351.5343 E-mail: [email protected] Web: Lornagraff.com 5775

10 September 2014 The Observer Nashville native blogs about her move to Israel and IDF training By CHARLES BERNSEN

hortly after she decided last year to make aliyah to Israel and join the Israeli Defense Forces, Nashville native Shirit Pankowsky started a blog, hoping to avoid having Sto answer the same questions multiple times. That didn’t work, of course. The questions from family and friends kept coming. But when she actually moved to Israel last October, the 20-year-old Pankowsky found blogging a useful way to keep everyone back home up to date on “everything that’s happening with me.” The blog was especially useful for letting everyone know she was safe after Hamas rockets began raining down on Israel this summer and Israel Shirit Pankowsky in her Aleph responded by launching a military (dress) uniform. incursion in Gaza. “Once they read it, it gives them an And now she looks at her blog – insight into my journey and the journey Shirit’s Awesome Adventure – as a of the typical Israeli immigrant.” kind of primer for anyone who might be Pankowsky began her combat train- contemplating immigrating to Israel ing last month – she’s a private in IDF and becoming a so-called “lone soldier” Battalion 611, an artillery combat unit – like her. so she has had less time to blog and has “Everywhere that people hear that I to be more careful about what she posts. have a blog – mostly just English speak- “But I still love sharing my story,” ers, but Google lets me see that I also she said. “I keep a notepad with me so I have had people in over 20 countries can take notes during the day about dif- read posts – I usually get something like, ferent stories to tell and accomplish- ‘Oh, that's cool.’ ments achieved” c Excerpt from Shirit’s Awesome Adventure This is a recent entry from Shirit bunch of introductory lectures about on- Pankowsky’s blog. If you want to read base healthcare and general stuff like more, you can find it at http://shirit- that this week with the boys, and it was shenanigans.blogspot.com/ funny to see all of them. All of us Michve (Michve Alon, an Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014 education base near Safed where non- On our way back to base (let’s call it Israelis took a Hebrew course) girls are S) on Sunday, we visited a couple of allowed to sit next to each other during totchanim (artillery) bases to learn about lectures and classes so we can translate battalions in which we could be placed for each other. So we sit and speak for our service. It was cool to meet English, and then boys would try to talk totchanim soldiers in their active service, to us upon hearing the foreign language, especially female combat soldiers doing and we would immediately switch to the same things as all the boys, which is flawless Hebrew to tell them, “We’re not what all of us want and why we chose allowed to speak to you,” and then this service track. switch back to English. We’re with most- Speaking of whom, the boys were ly Israelis – and one girl who is French- drafted on Monday. There are so many of British and made aliyah several years ago them! At the start of our tironut (basic – but almost everyone at least under- training), us girls will make up only 8% stands English. We end up having a lot of of the draft, which is a little intimidating. conversations where us foreigners will They told us a bunch of people will fall speak Hebrew and the Israelis will prac- from tironut, so by the end we’ll see what tice their English on us, which is really the stats are like. Anyway, we had a funny to listen to! c HAPPY NEW YEAR

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The Observer September 2014 11 The Blue J Cafe is back for a reprise on Sept. 13 By ERIN WILDE includes a private reception with the artists and premier seating. Visit fter creating such a buzz www.nashvillejcc.org to purchase your last year, The Blue J tickets. The doors open at 7:15 p.m. for Cafe is back by popular drinks and appetizers with the dinner demand for another and show starting at 8 p.m. unforgettable night. “It’s just like the Bluebird Café, The annual but without the stress of having to get Afundraiser for the Gordon Jewish tickets at 8 a.m. on a Monday morn- Community Center will feature a song- ing,” said Dara Freiberg, who co- writers circle that will be led by Fred chaired last year’s event. Wilhelm and will include several of his Co-chairs this year are Nancy and talented friends: the Stellas, Matthew Raymond Jacobs, Sara and Dan Perryman Jones, and Ryan Kinder. Melamed, Lana and Franklin Pargh, Tickets for the Sept. 13 event, and Lindsay Kee and Fred Wilhelm. which will include the intimate per- The event is sponsored by Embassy formance, dinner, and unlimited drinks, Dental and proceeds provide support The songwriters circle at last year’s Blue J Café included Georgia Middleman, Dylan are $75 per person. A VIP pass for $150 to the Gordon Jewish Community Altman, Marylynne Stella, Brad Stella and Fred Wilhelm.

Center as well as families and individ- uals in need. Wilhelm is a well-known Nashville figure who has had five sin- gles on the Canadian and U.S. country charts. His songs have been recorded by numerous stars including Faith Hill, Rascal Flatts, Trace Adkins, Little Big WAKE UP TO A Town, Randy Travis, Kellie Pickler, and The Oak Ridge Boys. The popular husband and wife duo of Brad and Marylynne Stella were the Canadian Country Music Association’s SOUND THAT CAN 2013 Group of the Year and winners of the 2012 CCMA Video of the Year. Following their rise to fame on CMT’s “Can You Duet,” The Stellas took part in Zac Brown's sold-out Southern Ground Festival tour and visited the CHANGE LIVES. White House at the request of the President and Mrs. Obama. They are This New Year, bring hope to people in despair. Nurture and the parents of Lennon and Maisy, who wowed everyone at last year’s Blue J sustain our Jewish community. Your gift to Federation makes it Cafe with their cover of the Lumineers’ possible, all year long. Donate at www.jewishnashville.org. “Ho Hey” and are perhaps best known for playing Rayna James’ daughters on the ABC hit series “Nashville.” Matthew Perryman Jones has been lauded for his collaboration with the Nashville Ballet on a series of perform- ances choreographed to his original work and live accompaniment. Jones has released three EPs as well as five full-length albums, the most recent of which has had heavy rotation on Lightning 100 and other alternative rock stations. You’ll most likely recog- nize his work from many films and tele- vision programs, including “Gray's Anatomy,” “Vampire Diaries,” “Witches of East End,” “Kyle XY,” and “Pretty Little Liars.” Frequently compared to John Mayer, Dave Matthews, and Chris Robinson of the Black Crowes, Ryan Kinder is an accomplished guitar player and soulful singer. His debut single “Kiss Me When I'm Down” is a top ten hit on Sirius Radio's The Highway and climb- ing up the country charts. He recently signed a new record deal with Warner Music in Nashville. Constantly touring, you will also find him opening for Tim McGraw on various dates this fall. c

www.jewishnashville.org & Jewish Foundation jewishnashville @jewishnashville OF NASHVILLE AND MIDDLE TENNESSEE

12 September 2014 The Observer HAPPY NEW YEAR

A New Year. How new is it going to be? The Rice Family wishes Wishing you a year Are we up to thinking of making each day the entire Nashville of health, blessings a treasure or will we do and think the same Jewish Community a and peace. old, same old? Put aside “It could have been,” Shanah Tovah! May it Shanah Tovah u’Metukah! and better yet to “Renew Ourselves this New Year.” be a sweet and good Rabbi Shana & James Mackler Dr. Fred & Martha Goldner year for all! Hannah & Sylvie

Dear Reader, This year may the Thank you all for your warm Rabbi Saul Strosberg and From Our Family To sound of the Shofar clear your welcome and for making us feel Daniella Pressner & Yours FOR THE life of trouble, lift you up to so at home in Nashville. Cantor George Lieberman, 5775th TIME Wishing you and your families a extend warmest wishes for the great success and connect you sweet new year filled with learning Wishing you a Sweet to all that you hold dear. New Year, in the spiritual and and Blessed New Year. and growth, happiness and joy. material senses, to our entire With blessings for a happy, Shana Tova U'Metuka Rabbi Yitzchok and Esther, healthy sweet new year, - A Good and Sweet Year! community, to all Israel and mankind, for a year Tzivi, Bassie, Levi, Chana R' Shlomo and Nechama Rothstein, Julie Sugar and Rabbi Aaron and Sarah Tiechtel Chabad at Vanderbilt Finkelstein of blessings - 5775

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

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

L’Shana Wishing our Nashville Wishing you and your family a Tovah- Jewish community a Happy & Healthy New Year Tikkatevu happy, sweet and Jackie and peaceful 5775 The Temple Cantor Tracy Fishbein a congregation of the heart, a community of the spirit. Howard Tepper and Glenn Turtel

A Happy & Healthy ROSH HASHANAH New Year 5775! GREETINGS Leon Tonelson Jill and Dan Eisenstein

The Observer September 2014 13 Shanah Tovah from Hadassah! From Our Family Join us in making a difference … Shana Tova in Israel, the USA and the world! to Yours!

® Umetukah L’Shana Tovah For information and events, please Bobbie & Alex Sy, Diane, Michelle and contact Leslie Klein at 615-649-8284 Alyssa Trachtman or [email protected]. Limor and Family Have a Happy and Warmest Healthy New Year! wishes for Gwen and Frank Gordon and Family

a healthy Thank you for a wonderful first year! Continued wishes for a Healthy and Prosperous New Year for all! New Year! Leslie M. Sax Have a Happy and Healthy New Year! West End Marcia & Lee Stewart Synagogue Wishes You With Love and Gratitude HAPPY ROSH to a Caring,Supportive, and A Very Happy HASHANAH Spirited Jewish Community. New Year Sylvan Park Shell and Full of Wishes for a Year International Deli of Peace and Happiness. Carrie and Garrett Mills May your name be Alex Torban written in the Have a Happy and Healthy Book of Life New Year! Carolyn, Larry, & Mark Levine Sammy & Tzipi March 3810 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205 615-269-4592 Have a Happy and Healthy New Year! www.westendsyn.org Charles Bernsen 14 September 2014 The Observer L’Shana Tova to all of our dear friends in Nashville…

We are so proud to call this wonderful Jewish community our home. “May G-d who makes peace in the May the year of 5775 be a good heavens, grant peace to us and to all and healthy one for all of you. our people; and let us say, Amen.” Mark S. Freedman -Oseh Shalom and Leslie J. Klein The Community Relations Committee (CRC) wishes you a Shanah Tovah Tikkatevu. Wishing all our Have a Happy Arthur Perlen Abbie Wolf Friends in the CRC Chair Director of Community Relations Community a Happy and Healthy and Healthy New Year New Year Steven and Esther Remer The Ducklo Family

We wish the Nashville Community a Very Happy and Healthy New Year. We welcome and wish the best of luck to Rabbi Joshua Kullock and Jessica, Rabbi Aaron Finkelstein and Julie, and Rabbi Michael Shulman. May we all keep working together for a continued strong and vibrant Jewish community life in Nashville.

The Amsels The Hanais The Kogans

The Observer September 2014 15 On behalf of the Officers, the Board of Directors and the Staff of the Jewish Federation we wish you, your family and friends a happy, healthy and sweet New Year.

Carol Hyatt, President Mark S. Freedman, Executive Director

16 September 2014 The Observer High Holy Days – 5775 (2014) CONGREGATION Friday, Sept. 26: Erev Shabbat Shuvah Yizkor...... 11:10 a.m. BEIT TEFILAH CHABAD Contemplative Shabbat Shuvah Musaf ...... 11:20 a.m. service...... 6 p.m. Reading of the names ...... 4 p.m. Orthodox Mincha...... 4:30 p.m. 95 Bellevue Road Saturday, Sept. 27: Shabbat Shuvah Neilah ...... 6 p.m. Nashville, TN 37221 Special High Holy Days BLT (Bagels, Shofar followed by break fast ...... 7:06 p.m. Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel Love and Torah) with the rabbi...... 9 a.m. Cemetery Memorial Service ...... 10:30 a.m. (615) 646-5750 THE TEMPLE – CONGREGATION www.chabadnashville.com Friday, Oct. 3: Erev Yom Kippur Kol Nidrei service* ...... 7:30 p.m. OHABAI SHOLOM Saturday, Sept. 20: Selichot Saturday, Oct. 4: Yom Kippur Reform 5015 Harding Road Selichot Service...... 11:59 p.m. Morning service* ...... 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept 24: Erev Ros Hashanah Young family service Nashville, TN 37205 Candle lighting/service ...... 6:25 p.m. (birth to 4th grade)...... 1 p.m. Rabbi Mark Schiftan New Year’s Eve dinner ...... 7:30 p.m. Youth service Rabbi Shana Mackler (Dinner reservations required. Visit (5th grade to high school)...... 1 p.m. Rabbi Michael Shulman www.chabadnashville.com or call at Study session...... 1 p.m. (615) 352-7620 615-646-5750.) Healing Service...... 2 p.m. www.templenashville.org Thursday, Sept 25: First Day of Rosh Study session ...... 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20: Selichot Hashanah Afternoon service...... 3:30 p.m. Selichot program and service ...... 7:30 p.m. Morning service...... 9 a.m. Yizkor service with guest speaker, Isabel Wednesday, Sept. 24: Erev Rosh Hashanah Children’s service ...... 10:30–11:30 a.m. Yuriko Stenzel Byrnes, ...... 5 p.m. Shofar sounding ...... 11:45 a.m. (Neilah, concluding service will follow) Service ...... 7:30 p.m. Mussaf...... 12:30 p.m. Following Yom Kippur services, we will Thursday, Sept. 25: Rosh Hashanah Tashlich at Percy Warner Park ...... 5:45 p.m. provide a juice and fruit bar. Family Service (ages 6 and older)...... 9 a.m. Candle lighting ...... 7:19 p.m. Babysitting available at starred services. Tot yom tov (ages 5 and younger)...... 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 26: Second Day of Rosh The price per child increases at the door. Morning service ...... 10:30 a.m. Hashanah President’s reception...... 12:45 p.m. Morning service...... 9 a.m. CONGREGATION SHERITH Tashlich at the Creek ...... 1 p.m. Children’s service ...... 10:30–11:30 a.m. ISRAEL Sunday, Sept. 28 Shofar sounding ...... 11:45 a.m. Orthodox Memorial Service at The Temple Cemetery...... 2 p.m. Mussaf ...... 12:30 a.m. 3600 West End Ave. Friday, Sept. 26: Erev Shabbat Shuva Nashville, TN 37205 Friday, Oct. 3: Erev Yom Kippur Candle lighting ...... 6:22 p.m. Rabbi Saul Strosberg Kol Nidre service...... 7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat...... 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Aaron Finkelstein Saturday, Oct. 4: Yom Kippur Saturday, Sept. 27: Shabbat Shuva (615) 292-6614 Family service (ages 6 and older) ...... 9 a.m. Morning Service ...... 9:30 a.m. www.sherithisrael.com Tot yom tov (ages 5 and younger)...... 9 a.m. Kiddush and Cholent...... noon Morning service ...... 10:30 a.m. Shabbat ends...... 7:16 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 Congregant’s hour ...... 12:45 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3: Erev Yom Kippur Selichot service ...... 11:45 p.m. Afternoon service...... 2 p.m. Candle lighting ...... 6:12 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 Study hour...... 3:15 p.m. Kol Nidrei service ...... 6:15 p.m. Memorial service (Lucas Chapel)...... 12:30 p.m. Yizkor and concluding service ...... 4:15 p.m. Break Fast following concluding service Saturday, Oct. 4: Yom Kippur Wednesday, Sept. 24: Erev Rosh Hashanah (reservations required) Morning Service...... 9:30 a.m. Candle lighting...... 6:23 p.m. Children’s Service ...... 10:30-11:30 a.m. Evening service...... 6:25 p.m. Yizkor Memorial Service...... 11:45 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 25: First day of Rosh WEST END SYNAGOGUE Mussaf...... 12:15 a.m. Hashanah Conservative The Inner Circle...... 3:30 a.m. Preliminary services...... 8 a.m. 3810 West End Ave. Mincha ...... 4:45 a.m. Torah reading...... 9:30 a.m. Nashville, TN 37205 Ne’ilah Closing Service...... 5:45 a.m. Rabbi’s Address/Shofar...... 10:15 a.m. Rabbi Joshua Kullock Havdalah Service and break fast...... 7:06 a.m. Musaf ...... 10:40 a.m. (615) 269-4592 Lunch (reservations required)...... 12:45 p.m. www.westendsyn.org CONGREGATION MICAH Tashlich at Richland Creek ...... 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept 24: Erev Rosh Hashanah Mincha/Maariv...... 6:25 p.m. Reform Evening service ...... 6 p.m. Earliest candle lighting...... 7:18 p.m. 2001 Old Hickory Blvd. Thursday, Sept 25: First Day of Rosh Hashanah Brentwood, TN 37207 Friday, Sept. 26: Second Day of Rosh Hashanah First day service ...... 8:30 a.m. Rabbi Laurie Rice Blessing of babies born in Preliminary services...... 8 a.m. Rabbi Flip Rice past year...... 10:30 a.m. Torah reading...... 9:30 a.m. (615) 377-9799 Family and student services* ...... 11 a.m. Rabbi’s address/shofar...... 10:20 a.m. www.congregationmicah.org Friday, Sept. 26: Second Day of Rosh Musaf ...... 10:40 a.m. Hashanah Saturday, Sept. 20: Selichot Shabbat Candle-lighting...... 6:22 p.m. BLT (Bagels, Love and Torah) with Mincha/Maariv...... 6:25 p.m. Second day service...... 8:30 a.m. the rabbi...... 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 28: Fast of Gedalia Family and student services*...... 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3: Erev Yom Kippur Shabbat morning service...... 10:30a.m. Shacharit...... 8 a.m. Selichot service followed by an oneg .....8 p.m. Mincha ...... 6:10 p.m. Kol Nidre service...... 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24: Erev Rosh Hashanah Fast ends ...... 7:02 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4: Yom Kippur Service*...... 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3: Erev Yom Kippur Morning service...... 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 25: Rosh Hashanah Shacharit ...... 6:30 a.m. Family and student service*...... 11 a.m. Morning service with shofar followed Mincha...... 2:30 p.m. Learner’s service ...... Following Rabbi’s by a Tashlich service* ...... 10 a.m. Late Mincha ...... 5:45 p.m. d’var torah Youth service Candle lighting...... 6:10 p.m. Study session with Miriam Halachmi...... 3 p.m. (5th grade to high school) ...... 3 p.m. Kol Nidre service ...... 6:15 p.m. Havdalah (Ramah style)...... 7:04 p.m. Young family service Saturday, Oct. 4: Yom Kippur (following blowing of the shofar) (birth to 4th grade)...... 3:15 p.m. Shacharit ...... 8:30 a.m. *Separate services for families with young Afternoon services followed by a Tashlich Torah reading...... 10:30 a.m. children (preschool- 1st grade), for children in grades 2-7 and for teens. For full service and a birthday party for the world. Rabbi’s address ...... 11 a.m. schedule visit www.westendsyn.org.

The Observer September 2014 17 Dancing with “the enemy” Documentary recounts how ballroom dancing helps Jewish and Arab Israeli kids get beyond suspicions

By KARIN KLOOSTERMAN Nine years ago, Shahaf-Levi traipsed He does know of the incongruities classes. “Dancing in Jaffa” is now screen- Israel 21c to New York City with the mission of of living in Israel firsthand and told ing across the United States. Its Israel bringing Dulaine, now retired, to Israel. Shahaf Levi he’d go there under one premiere was in May when Dulaine came hether it’s the cha- She knocked on his studio door and was condition: “If you will find me Jewish a second time. cha, tango, or a met with an exclamatory “Alain, and Arab children who can dance The movie, which has won several simple twirl wa’asalam!” an Arabic expression equiv- together.” international awards, shows kids once around the school alent to “shalom” that’s often heard in Shahaf-Levi, who worked for the deeply suspicious of one another trans- gym, Arab and Tel Aviv-Jaffa. government’s Culture Ministry and also as forming into good friends and dance Jewish kids in It turns out that Dulaine was born in an adviser for the Israel Prize committee, partners in hardscrabble Jaffa, where WIsrael are connecting through dance. Jaffa in British Mandatory Palestine, let the idea percolate over the next sever- Jews, Muslims and Christians rarely The idea to bring together fifth- before Israel became a state, to a Catholic al years. About four years ago, she interact beyond the grocery store. graders from opposite poles came from Palestinian mother and a Protestant father arranged Dulaine’s visit to Israel. “I called The film documents Dulaine teach- Miri Shahaf-Levi, a former dancer, after from Ireland. When he was four, they him and told him that I’ve opened the ing rhumba, merengue and the tango to she saw the movie Mad Hot Ballroom moved to Jordan, and later to England. window. Now it’s your turn to come over 11-year-olds, with a finale where Jews about former ballroom dancing world Dulaine speaks Arabic, French and and open the door,” Shahaf-Levi said. and Arab kids dance together in a com- champion Pierre Dulaine, 70, and his English, but knows only a few words in Dulaine brought a film crew and petition. He uses techniques from his work with inner-city kids in New York. Hebrew. they made a documentary about his international program called Dancing Classrooms. “The documentary came about when I mentioned the idea of fulfilling my lifelong dream of returning to Jaffa, where I was born, to teach my Dancing Classrooms program to Jewish and Palestinian Israeli children. To bring them together face-to-face to dance with each other,” Dulaine said. Shahaf-Levi found five schools in Jaffa that were willing to work with Dulaine: the Arab schools Al Achouweh/Achva and Ajjayal; two Jewish schools, The Open Democratic School and Hashmonaeem; and one mixed school of Jews, Muslims and Christians called Weizmann. In certain instances, Shahaf-Levi had to produce a letter to be signed by the Muslim kids’ parents that it would be okay, on religious grounds, for them to dance ballroom with the opposite sex. The letter was written in English by Dulaine and translated into Arabic and Hebrew. “We have two sheiks who signed on their sons. Everybody was dancing,” he said. Dulaine admits he almost gave up part way through when the kids weren’t cooperating. But he trusts in the power of dance. “I believe just in believing and real- ly see that when you touch someone with respect, something really does change.” He has stayed in touch with some of the participants. “I saw four of the chil- dren — Noor, Alaa and Lois in Paris, and in New York (Lois’s brother David came as well) a few months ago for the premieres there. They were now grown up but all very, very friendly with each other,” he reports. The film was by no means the end goal for Shahaf-Levi. Now she is the executive director of Dancing Classrooms in Israel, actively building bridges by directing a countrywide pro- gram that has trained more than 2,000 kids in the art of ballroom dance in the past four years. Three-month sessions twice a week take place in cities including Haifa, Tel Aviv, Holon, Carmiel and Herzliya. A new sponsor from the United States will make it easy to expand and develop the program, she notes. There are four dance instructors who help run the sessions, which have been an overwhelming hit among kids deemed “special needs.” In some cases, lives have been transformed, says Shahaf Levi. “It’s about confidence building,” she sums up. “And looking each other in the eye.” c

18 September 2014 The Observer Chabad to offer sweet challah and honey cakes for the High Holy Days

another way to symbolically express ore than Jews have ly Shabbat table. For more information, their wishes for a sweet new year. kept the Sabbath,” or to place your order, call A variety of round challahs, cakes, wrote Ahad Ha'am, 615.752.0639 or email chabadchal- cookies and more are available to order “the Sabbath has [email protected] or go to www.chabad- for the High Holy Days and your week- kept the Jews.” And challah.com. c one way the Sabbath Mmeal is elevated is by blessing two loaves of challah. Busy families often can’t bake their own challah, but at Chabad of Chabad kicks off the holiday Nashville, professional baker Melissa Sostrin will be baking her signature Challah for the High Holy Days is tradi- season with a weekend of delicious round Challahs, apple cakes tionally round, signifying the cycle of the and honey cakes for the High Holy new year. music by Cantor Aryeh Hurwitz Days and will continue offering challah and other kosher baked goods every only artistic, they are delicious as well. ongregation Beit Tefilah [email protected]. Friday, throughout the upcoming Jewish They have completely spoiled my fami- will be hosting a High “We eagerly anticipate the unique year. Chabad Challah is also offering ly, and my kids will not taste the store Holy Days warmup with opportunity to hear Cantor Hurwitz per- Shabbat-To-Go, including gefilte fish, bought concoctions.” a weekend of music and form in our acoustically tuned sanctuary,” matzah balls, chicken and an entire Michael Simon, who looks forward inspiration featuring said Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel. “This will Shabbat menu, for busy families who do weekly to his challah order said, “The world renowned Cantor be a weekend filled with songs and not have time to cook or for visiting challah is delivered early on Friday CAryeh Hurwitz. melodies to set the tone for the High business travelers. morning, so you can sneak a taste before Cantor Hurwitz will lead the Friday Holidays.” Over the past year Melissa’s signa- Shabbat, if you are so inclined. I like it night Shabbat service on Sept. 12 and Cantor Hurwitz, who studied chaz- ture challah has been featured at almost best toasted. Just make sure you leave also will sing various pieces of cantorial zanut and voice at the Yeshiva University every one of Nashville’s congregations some over for Shabbat.” music during the community TGIS Belz School for Jewish Music, has been and communal organizations. In addi- Tradition tells us that on Rosh Shabbat dinner that will follow. On leading High Holiday services since the tion to being a part of many b’nai mitz- Hashanah we eat round challah bread Shabbat morning, Sept. 13, Cantor age of 20 and has traveled the world vah events and weddings, it has become to symbolize the circle of the life and Hurwitz will lead the shacharit and mussaf singing and inspiring thousands of people part of the Shabbat table for many fam- the cycle of a new year. According to prayer services and will include melodies with his melodic voice. For the past four ilies across Nashville. kabbalah, the Jewish mystical tradition, from Broadway and beyond. years he has been the lead cantor at the Crystal Gimesh, a regular cus- the challah is also in the shape of a The event is open to the entire annual High Holiday service at the Dix tomer, said, “Melissa’s challah is the crown because we refer to God as royal- Nashville community, and there is no Hills Jewish Center in Long Island. best I have ever had, and the founda- ty several times during the holidays. cost to attend the Friday night Shabbat For more information, call (615) tion by which I can’t help but measure Many Jewish households include honey dinner. Those who do plan to attend the 646-5750 or go to www.chabad- all others. Her custom cakes are not cakes on their Rosh Hashanah menu as dinner are asked to RSVP to nashville.com. c

L’SHANAH TOVAH Have a Happy & Healthy New Year

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The Observer September 2014 19 Give up the guilt: Begin the new year by focusing on love

By RABBI RUTH ABUSCH already know where our faults lie and, if not accidental that the month leading world. The more concrete the better. MAGDER we were able to change them with ease, up to the New Year is one that takes love Knowing they are appreciated and we would have already done so. as a main theme. Love can be a powerful truly seen for who they are will help SAN FRANCISCO – Here is a rad- This is not to say that we should force for change, easier to embrace and them start the year in a better place and ical proposal for the New Year: Forget forgo striving to be our best selves. On more satisfying than guilt. strengthen your relationship. If there is the guilt and instead lean into what you the Jewish calendar, the month leading There are many ways to use love as repairing to be done, spelling out the love in order to become the best possible up to Rosh Hashanah is called Elul. One a means of encouraging yourself to its love first will set the stage for positive version of yourself. rabbinic interpretation of this name is best self. engagement. The liturgy for the Jewish New Year that it is an acronym for the Hebrew Ani Love exists on many planes; elevat- Finally, think about what do you has us taking a long hard look at all the L’Dodi v’Dodi Li, “I am for my beloved ing any one of them improves the world. love to do and then lean into your tal- mistakes we have made over the previous and my beloved is for me.” It’s a lovely Here are three concrete suggestions that ents to make a difference in the commu- 12 months. Soul searching is good, but romantic notion, and the rabbis also take focus on love of self, love in relationships nity around you. Volunteering can be for the most part if we are honest, we it to be a tribute to God’s love for us. It is and love as an element of community. about need, but it can also be about shar- The first is to make a list of what you ing a passion and capacity. love about yourself. The list should con- Play sports? Then offer to coach tain no less than five significant things. Little League. Bake? Then bring cookies Take time to think about each of these to firefighters, bread to shut-ins. Sing? attributes. Why do you love this about Take your talent to the local hospital. yourself? Generosity? Creativity? Sure, these things take time, but if Silliness? Ambition? Consider how each you volunteer to do what you love, you of these qualities helps you be a positive will get a great bang for your buck. The presence in the world. parts of you that you love will have a Think back to a time in your life chance to shine and your passion will when those elements of your self inspire others. Studies show those who were being fully expressed. Are you give feel great. And the world will be a making the most of these gifts right better place. now? Ask yourself what you might do When love takes center stage, we to expand the impact of that poise ourselves for success. When we feel strength in the world. strong about ourselves, we are more If you are struggling to make a list, capable of hearing the criticism that will then ask for help from those around you. undoubtedly come. When we know we Part of the process of preparing for are loveable, loved and capable of shar- the New Year is repairing relationships. ing love, then we can work toward mak- While I believe that apologies are impor- ing the new year that Rosh Hashanah tant, taking time to focus on what works ushers in one of light, goodness and in relationships is important as well. change. c So my second suggestion is to set aside time with those with whom you are Rabbi Ruth Abusch-Magder PhD. is close. Tell them what you love and the rabbi-in-residence at Be'chol Lashon and appreciate about them. Give them the editor of the blog Jewish&. This story examples of how this strength inspires originally appeared on the Rabbis Without you or affirms something about the Borders blog on MyJewishLearning.com.

20 September 2014 The Observer In letter, 32 nations ask U.N. to recognize Yom Kippur as a holiday

JEWISH TELEGRAPHIC Christian holidays of Christmas and AGENCY Good Friday and the Muslim holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. ome 32 countries wrote a let- Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Ron ter to a committee of the Prosor said in May, when Israel launched United Nations General its campaign to include Yom Kippur on Assembly in support of the calendar of official holidays, that the Israel’s bid to have the inter- exclusion of one of the most widely national body recognize Yom observed Jewish holidays amounts to dis- SKippur as an official holiday. crimination. “There are three monothe- The letter to the General istic religions, yet only two are recog- Assembly’s Committee on Conferences nized by the U.N. calendar. Such dis- calls for Yom Kippur to be recognized crimination at the U.N. must end,” beginning in 2015.The U.N. “recognizes Prosor said. the major festivals of many of the world’s The ambassadors of 32 countries main religions, the letter says, yet signed the letter: U.S., Albania, Judaism is not represented,” according to Andorra, Argentina, Bahamas, Canada, the AP. Costa Rica, Cyprus, Dominica, El The United Nations, which is based Salvador, Ethiopia, Grenada, in New York, recognizes 10 official hol- Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Ivory idays, most of them national holidays in Coast, Malawi, Micronesia, Monaco, the United States: New Year’s Day, Nauru, Nigeria, Palau, Panama, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Philippines, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Independence Day, Labor Day and South Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Uruguay Thanksgiving. The list also includes the and Vanuatu. c

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The Observer September 2014 21 Dinner before the Yom Kippur fast: Hosting an important, difficult meal By ROBERT SCHEINBERG den while fasting, bland foods are recom- fruits of all kinds are a pre-fast tradition remains. (Recipe can be prepared to this mended to prevent undue discomfort the world over. Poached pears and rasp- point and warmed when serving.) Place NEW YORK, July 7 (JTA) — during prayers. Unaware of the conse- berries end the meal on a light note, one chicken on a rimmed platter, covering While preparing for Yom Kippur, many quences, a Manhattan special education that is both nutritious and thirst quench- with mushrooms and sauce. Sprinkle people focus on buying break-the-fast teacher once served The Silver Palate ing. Whether you are serving your imme- with seeds. foods, not realizing that partaking in the Cookbook’s famed Chicken Marbella diate family or a larger crowd, it is possi- meal preceding the holiday is a mitzvah. before the holiday. Although it’s the ble to slow down the pre-fast rush. With COUSCOUS Yet anyone who has hosted this book’s most popular recipe, the chicken some advance planning, you can create a Follow package instructions. occasion, squeezed between workday and is marinated in garlic, oregano, olives peaceful segue into the year’s most holiday, knows it is fraught with logistical and capers. important holiday, a blessing to everyone ARUGULA SALAD problems. Known as the seudah mafseket, “Such a spicy, salty dish created a at your table. or closing meal, this dinner by daylight nightmarish fast for my guests,” she says, Ingredients: 2 bunches arugula, 1 pint must be concluded in time for people to still guilty for what she served. SAUTEED PORCINI CHICKEN cherry tomatoes, 2 green apples, ¼ cup arrive at their synagogue for the Kol Nidre Respecting the holiday’s significance (Can be made two days ahead) olive oil, 1 tsp. lemon juice service, which begins at sundown. and its special needs, the balanced, Because the timing is tricky, hosts refined main course below combines hol- Ingredients: 1 cup dried porcini mush- Directions: One day ahead, wash arugu- face menu-planning challenges. iday traditions with today’s food trends. rooms (about 1 ounce), 2 cups hot water, la, removing stems, then wrap in paper Although scheduling tempts throwing Easily assembled during crunch time, it is 2 tsp. sesame seeds, 5 tbsp. olive oil, 24 towels and refrigerate in a plastic bag. together a meal in haste, Yom Kippur is as dignified as the occasion. The menu white mushrooms, sliced, 3 boneless split Clean and store tomatoes. Right before hardly an occasion for fast food. features a succulent chicken dish that is chicken breasts (six halves), 1/3 cup serving, peel, core and slice apples.Whisk The eve prior to the fast should have bursting with mushrooms. The entree of white wine, salt to taste oil and lemon juice. Gently toss all ingre- a festive character, advises rabbi and chef choice on the Sabbath, when families dients together in a bowl. Gil Marks in his cookbook The World of enjoy the best meal of the week, chicken Directions: Place porcinis in a medium Jewish Entertaining. The table should be is also a Yom Kippur tradition, dating bowl, adding water. Soak until soft, POACHED PEARS set as nicely as it is for the Sabbath. In back to the medieval custom of kaparot. about 30 minutes. Place seeds on alu- & RASPBERRIES other words, the evening should have an Not often practiced today, the ritual minum foil. Broil in toaster oven until (Can be made a day ahead) elegant tone, another issue for busy hosts entails swinging a fowl over a person’s brown, about two minutes. Reserve. On to consider. head, transferring his sins to the chicken. a low flame, heat 3 tbsp. of oil in 4-quart Ingredients: 3 pears (halved, peeled and While seeking a menu more exalted Although chicken is a good choice pot. Adding sliced mushrooms, saute and cored), 2 tsp. sugar, 2 cups water, 1 cup than everyday fare, hosts must steer clear because it is low in fat and high in protein, stir for three minutes. Using a slotted raspberries of rich foods, which undermine the many people wonder what to serve with it. spoon, add porcinis, reserving soaking solemnity of the holiday and can cause Although rice is the starch of choice on liquid. Stir three minutes. Remove all Directions: Place pears in a pot. Mix indigestion. For health reasons, the Yom Kippur eve, couscous, a staple of mushrooms from pot. Reserve. Saute water and sugar, pouring over top of menu should be plentiful and sustaining. Moroccan Jews, is a less labor-intensive chicken in pan juices and remaining oil, pears. Simmer covered on medium According to the sages, just as Jews must choice that cooks up in minutes. turning until browned. Add wine, one- flame until pears soften, about 10 min- fast on Yom Kippur, they should also eat The arugula salad below, brimming third of a cup of soaking liquid and salt. utes. Sprinkle raspberries on pears and heartily before sunset in order to partici- with apples and tomatoes, can be tossed Simmer on medium flame for about 20 simmer covered another minute. Gently pate fully the next day. together quickly. While extravagant minutes, until chicken cooks through move fruit and liquid to a flat-bottomed Because quenching thirst is forbid- desserts are discouraged on Yom Kippur, and plenty of mushroom-wine sauce bowl and chill. c HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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Place Many people stress for weeks before soup is heated through and flavors have mixture in a food processor fitted with a Rosh Hashana and break out their most blended, around 20-30 minutes, add blade attachment and pulse until smooth. complicated recipes to impress guests. coconut milk. Remove the chili peppers After the challah is done rising, cut But when I entertain around the holi- before serving. (The longer you let the the dough in half. To be as precise as pos- days, I prefer to rely on a few go-to dish- chili peppers sit in the soup, the spicier sible, use a scale to weigh. Roll out the es that are simple to prepare, pack a deli- the soup will be.) first ball using a rolling pin into a rec- cious punch and still impress my friends tangle. Spread around half, perhaps and family. If you are making this soup dairy, you can Balsamic apple date challah slightly less, of the apple-date mixture in Forget the chicken soup and start serve with a dollop of creme fraiche or sour an even layer, leaving 1/2 inch all the New Year on a sweet note with this cream. If you are serving this soup pareve, ¼ cup water, ¼ cup red wine, 2 tbsp. bal- around without filling. Working quickly, sweet and spicy sweet potato soup. Made drizzle with good quality olive oil and samic vinegar, 1 tbsp. sugar. start rolling up the dough toward you. with dried peppers, coconut milk and some chopped candied pecans or walnuts. Try and keep the roll relatively tight as roasted sweet potatoes, it doesn’t require Ingredients for topping: 1 egg, 1 tsp. water, you go. Pinch the end when you finish. lots of time, and people will be asking for Yield: 6-8 servings 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp sanding sugar, 1 tbsp Create a pinwheel shaped-challah the recipe as soon as they taste it. thick sea salt, 2 tsps. ground cinnamon. by snaking the dough around and around A perfect roasted chicken marinated SHANNON’S PERFECT in a circle around itself. When finished, for at least several hours with citrus and ROAST CHICKEN Preparation: In a small bowl, place tuck the end under the challah neatly herbs is wonderful counterpoint to a rich yeast, 1 tsp. sugar and lukewarm water. and pinch lightly. This doesn't have to brisket on the table. And while challah Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (rinsed), 1 Allow to sit around 10 minutes, until it be perfect – remember, as long as it tastes should be served to start the meal, bal- orange and 1 lemon (both zested and becomes foamy on top. In a large bowl or good, almost no one will care what it samic apple date stuffed challah is so sliced), 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rose- stand mixer fitted with whisk attach- looks like. delicious you may want to serve it as the mary, 6 cloves garlic, ½ tbsp. fresh ment, mix together 1½ cups flour, salt, grand finale. chopped thyme, 3 tbsp. olive oil, ¼ cup sugar, honey, vanilla, cinnamon and nut- Repeat with other half of dough. Rosh Hoshanah has a late start this white wine, salt and pepper to taste. meg. After the water-yeast mixture has year, so enjoy those last few weeks of late become foamy, add to flour mixture Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. summer, don’t stress about menu plan- Preparation: In a small mixing bowl, along with oil. Mix thoroughly. ning and instead make a menu of simple, whisk together rosemary, thyme, olive Add another cup of flour and eggs Allow challahs to rise another 30-60 delicious delights that people will think oil, wine, orange zest, lemon zest and the until smooth. Switch to the dough hook minutes, or until you can see the size has consumed your entire September. salt and pepper. Add the chicken to a attachment if you are using a stand grown. large plastic bag that seals, and pour the mixer. Add another 1½ cups flour and SWEET ‘N’ SPICY SWEET wet mixture of the chicken. Add the then remove from bowl and place on a Beat 1 egg with 1 teaspoon water and 1 POTATO SOUP orange and lemon slices, as well as the floured surface. Knead remaining flour tsp of honey. Brush liberally over each whole garlic cloves. After you seal the into dough, continuing to knead for challah. Combine sea salt, sanding sugar Ingredients: 10 medium sweet potatoes, bag, make sure the entire chicken is cov- around 10 minutes. Place dough in a and cinnamon, and sprinkle over challah. 3 tablespoons olive oil plus extra, 1 ered with the marinade. Refrigerate for 2 greased bowl and cover with damp towel. medium onion (diced), 2 carrots (diced), to 24 hours before roasting. Preheat the Allow to rise 3-4 hours. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until middle 2 quarts chicken or vegetable stock, 1 oven to 400 degrees. If you like, you can To make the filling, place apples, looks like it has just set, and the color is 14-ounce can coconut milk, ¼ cut brown stuff some of the garlic cloves and citrus dates, salt, cinnamon stick, water, red golden. sugar, 1 tsp. cayenne pepper, 1 tsp. papri- slices under the skin or in the cavity of wine and sugar in a medium saucepan and ka, 2 tsp coarse sea salt, 2-3 dried chili the chicken. Roast the chicken for 45-55 bring to a boil. Continue to simmer on Yield: 2 medium loaves c peppers, crème fraiche (optional), can- minutes, or until a meat thermometer medium heat until the mixture is reduced. died pecans or walnuts (optional) reads 165 degrees. Add the balsamic vinegar and simmer Shannon Sarna is editor of The another 2-3 minutes. The mixture will Nosher blog on MyJewishLearning.com, Preparation: Pre-heat oven to 400 Yield: 4-6 servings cook around 10-15 minutes in total. where these recipes originally appeared. degrees. Mix brown sugar, cayenne pep- per, paprika and salt in a small bowl. Cut BALSAMIC APPLE DATE sweet potatoes in half and place on foil- CHALLAH lined baking sheet. Spread brown sugar spice mixture all over sweet potatoes and Ingredients for dough: 5 cups flour, ½ drizzle with olive oil. Roast sweet pota- cup sugar, 2 tbsp. honey, ½ tbsp. salt, 2 toes for 35-45 minutes or until complete- tsp. vanilla, 1 tsp. cinnamon, ¼ tsp. nut- ly soft. Set aside and let cool. In a medi- meg, ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1½ tbsp. yeast, um to large pot, heat 3 tablespoons olive 1 tsp. sugar, 1 ¼ cups lukewarm water, 2 oil and saute onions and carrots until whole eggs, 1 egg yolk. translucent and soft, around 4-6 minutes. Add 2-3 cups of stock and simmer for 5 Ingredients for filling: 3 gala apples minutes. Add sweet potato flesh and (peeled and diced), 1 cut pitted dates using an immersion blender, blend all (chopped), ½ tsp. salt, a cinnamon stick,

HAPPY ROSH HASHANAH

Shannon’s perfect roast chicken The Observer September 2014 23 The maverick general behind Israel’s Iron Dome Daniel Gold says goal was “saving lives”

By ABIGAIL KLEIN wasn’t sure I could get the LEICHMAN funds to go ahead, and I had a Israel 21c private investor lined up just in case, but I didn’t need him he Israeli defense estab- in the end,” said Gold, who lishment thought Brig. won the Israel Defense Prize Gen. Daniel Gold was in 2012 for spearheading the absolutely crazy nine years Iron Dome project. ago when he broached the idea for the missile- Tilting at windmills Tdefense system that came to be known as Nevertheless, it took two Iron Dome, or kippat barzel in Hebrew. years to persuade the skepti- Several years later, Iron Dome cal powers-that-be to fund turned out to be the surprise hero of the the project and assign it to 2012 Gaza war. When Operation Rafael Advanced Defense Protective Edge began in July 2014, it Systems. Other companies gained superstar status for shooting down worked on aspects of Iron a large proportion of the rockets fired Dome, including mPrest from Gaza at Israeli population centers. Systems (software) and Elta Brig. Gen. Daniel Gold The Iron Dome in action – missiles intercepting other missiles while flying. ISRAEL21c asked Gold where he got Systems (radar). said he felt like Don PHOTO BY FLASHGO the nerve to persist with the project in the “We picked the best in Quixote when he pro- face of strong criticism back in 2005, the entire country,” Gold told posed the Iron Dome of Tel Aviv project. nation’s gratitude is manifested in a mul- missile defense sys- when he headed research and develop- Yisrael Hayom (Israel Today) tem to superiors. “If you believe in some- titude of apparel, songs and videos pro- ment at the Israeli Ministry of Defense in 2012. “We had 70-year-old thing, find the resilience in you claiming, “I Love Iron Dome.” and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). missile experts working alongside 25- to make it happen — even fight wind- Gold said he sees the salutary effect “My incentive was saving human year-old engineers fresh out of college, mills if you have to. Sometimes it’s worth of Iron Dome on Israel’s collective spirit. lives,” he replied. “I saw what was going working shoulder to shoulder without being Don Quixote.” “People feel that someone or some- on, and I said to myself, with all the tech- any hierarchy. It was like running 15 thing is protecting them. They gain con- nology that exists in Israel we must use it serious start-up companies at the same ‘I Love Iron Dome’ fidence because they see [Iron Dome] to protect human life. We will find a way. time, all of which have to work in har- Nine Iron Dome batteries are now working so nicely. Of course, they still It always takes the political and military mony with one another and be successful in place in Israel, with more to come. have to go to shelters because it’s not 100 echelons a long time to think about what in record time.” The system’s radar identifies incoming percent effective, but people are feeling they want to do, and in the meantime we Gold said that because the project projectiles and determines which mis- safer and feeling proud of this Israeli started to create a solution.” had zero margin for error, he and his staff siles are most likely to hit populated achievement.” Gold had already convened a com- developed a special methodology to man- areas or strategic assets. It then fires a He points out that since the first mittee in 2004 to study anti-missile tech- age the diverse team. “Others are now Tamir interceptor missile at the chosen Iron Dome battery became operational nology options. In August 2005, Israel interested in copying this model,” says target to destroy it. Iron Dome differs in in 2011, the system has successfully unilaterally withdrew its citizens from Gold, who has doctorates in electrical many ways from the US-built Patriot sur- made more than 1,000 intercepts. “This the Gaza Strip and many experts correct- engineering and business management. face-to-air missile system. It is smaller, makes me feel very good,” he says. ly predicted that, instead of bringing His huge risk paid off big time. less costly per use and tailored to specific Today, Gold runs his own interna- peace, the move would invite further “When I started this endeavor, the circumstances. tional consultancy, Gold R&D aggression from Gaza against Israeli scientific community was skeptical. The Israeli business daily Globes Technology and Innovation, and is vol- towns near the border. Gold forged When you think about it, it sounds like estimates that $1.3 billion in Israeli and untary head of the Israel National ahead with Iron Dome in blatant disre- science fiction, the idea that missiles can U.S. funds have been spent on develop- Committee for Commercial/Civilian gard of a Defense Ministry directive. intercept other missiles while flying. … ing, building and utilizing Iron Dome. Cyber R&D. He’s also on the board of He refused to allow the project to But I am happy to say science fiction But its cost is irrelevant to the millions Israel Brain Technologies (IBT), a non- get stuck in the wheels of bureaucracy. “I became a reality,” he he told the Humans of Israelis protected by the system. The profit dedicated to advancing Israel’s brain technology industry for the benefit of patients. In a recent IBT interview, Gold said that the Iron Dome developers imple- mented algorithms based on Israeli human brain research. “How do you approach a complex problem and solve it? We do this in the Israeli Defense Forces every day,” he said. “Many of the people involved in these types of projects, like the Iron Dome then take their skills to industry. What they learned about putting together complex multidisciplinary solutions serves them well in fields such as high- tech and brain-tech.” c The Observer is online! You can find the latest issue, past issues, plus streaming news updates and links to Jewish organizations at www.jewishobserver nashville.org

24 September 2014 The Observer New Israel wound-closure Happy Rosh Hashanah technique benefitting soldiers hurt in Operation Protective Edge By ABIGAIL KLEIN physicians. Topaz is teaching orthopedic LEICHMAN and hand surgeons how to use it. Israel 21c “The most important thing about TopClosure is its simplicity,” said Topaz. ome of the soldiers wounded “Doctors commonly say, ‘Why didn’t we in Operation Protective Edge think of this earlier?’ My wish is that it are benefiting from a new would be exposed to every doctor and Customized Fashion Art Israeli technology to close every patient as an emerging technology by Carrie Mills open wounds quickly and that can be applied anywhere in the temporarily prior to further world without sophisticated plastic sur- 615-210-5044 Sevaluation and treatment. gery procedures.” c [email protected] www.carriemillsdesign.com Just on the cusp of the market, the TopClosure 3S Trauma Management Israel 21c is an online magazine that System is approved by regulatory agen- provides news and features about 21st cies in Israel, the United States and Century Israel. The Observer is online! www.jewishobservernashville.org Europe for mass-casualty situations such as combat and natural disasters. Soroka University Medical Center in Beersheva is using TopClosure for incoming injuries from the Gaza conflict, according to the technology’s inventor, Dr. Moris Topaz. “We’ve been using it clinically already for a few years, collecting a lot of data to show the scope of applications,” said Topaz, chief of plastic surgery at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in Hadera. “It’s changing the way we’ve been han- dling the closure of wounds to avoid fur- ther damage and contamination to the injured tissues.” Until now emergency protocol for a large open wound involved cleaning and suturing, then applying a skin graft. TopClosure instead enables stretching the edges of the skin over the wound with adhesive attachment plates placed on either side and secured with an approximation strap inserted into the first and then the second plate. This fast procedure also simplifies healing sub- stantially, Topaz said.. “When trying to close a wound with sutures, we apply high tension to the skin,” he said. “With TopClosure we can spread the tension on the skin about 100,000 times higher than we could do before.” The device can be “zipped” open after the emergency situation has passed so the wound can be further evaluated and treated. This temporary wound clo- sure system is meant to be used by medics, paramedics, surgeons and other

5775 The Observer September 2014 25 OPINION A physician’s answer to the question: Is there life after death?

By FRANK H. BOEHM M.D. dent, however, that my spiritual and reli- months during that first semester in in turn, received their spiritual DNA gious questions began to find answers. medical school and after considerable from their parents and friends who s I approached my 16th The first answer I found was to the ques- discussions with fellow students, I came received theirs in similar fashion. In birthday some 58 years tion: Is there life after death? to believe that life after death consisted essence, I am in so many ways the prod- ago, I did what so many As first year students, our class of 54 primarily of the memories and deeds that uct of relatives and others who were others my age did; I was divided into groups of four and my life created and that I would eventu- passed down to me over the multitude of began to question all assigned a cadaver to dissect and study in ally leave those deeds and memories to generations in quite subtle ways and that I had been taught order to understand the very foundation- my loved ones and friends in an everlast- would help explain a doctrine of living Aabout religion in general and God in par- al and anatomical aspects of the human ing fashion. long after we are no longer alive or ticular. These questions would remain body. I memorized every part of the It has been said that when we die, remembered by anyone alive. with me for many years as I attempted to human body and could demonstrate to we die twice. First when we take our last That belief is also consistent with a understand the true meaning of life. our anatomy professor where each struc- breath and then again when the last per- Jewish view of life after death. While Because answers to all my questions and ture was located, but I also began a jour- son who remembers us dies. But during traditional Judaism firmly believes that doubts did not come easily, I began to ney of a spiritual understanding of the those early medical school years it death is not an end of human exis- reject all that I had been taught. Despite human body. seemed to me that this view of life after tence, Judaism also focused on life here my rejections of a conventional belief The most significant aspect of my death should be extended and not end and now and on actions and deeds system, however, I did recognize a desire spiritual education while dissecting our merely when the last person who remem- rather than on what happens after we for spiritual feelings and often found male cadaver was the realization that bers us dies. die. Judaism does not have much doc- them especially in the beauty of nature when we died, our physical life was over, I eventually came to believe that trine concerning life after death and that surrounded me. and that if there was life after death, it the words of wisdom I spoke during my leaves considerable room for personal This all seemed to satisfy an inner did not involve the physical body. The lifetime and the values I lived by would opinion. The belief of certain spiritual hunger in my life as I attended next question needing answering was all be passed on not merely to those I Orthodox Jews is often significantly college and began my studies at reduced to: If there is life after death, loved and knew but that these individ- different from that of certain Reform Vanderbilt University Medical School. how exactly is that defined? uals would in turn pass some aspect of Jews, yet both are considered consistent It was in my first year as a medical stu- Over a relatively short span of a few my life’s wisdom and deeds to those with a Jewish view. they knew and loved. Although this The belief in life after death that I inheritance might initially include came to embrace while in medical school vivid memories, over generations it was quite comforting to me as a young would be only an echo of who I was and man of only 25 years and remains with much more subtle and difficult to trace me some 50 years later. c or understand. It seemed to me that I am who I am Dr. Frank H. Boehm is professor and much because my father and mother left vice chair of the Department of Obstetrics me with not only genetic traits and char- and Gynecology at Vanderbilt University acteristics but also a moral and ethical Medical Center and chairs The Observer’s code of behavior in the form of what editorial board. He can be reached at could be viewed as spiritual DNA. They, [email protected].

HAPPY NEW YEAR

26 September 2014 The Observer OPINION The Rabbis’ Corner The 7 questions to enter heaven By RABBI MARK SCHIFTAN our hearts, our minds celebrities he interviews, “If heaven and serve as a moral barometer whether and our efforts on this exists, what would you want God to say Heaven exists or not: oes heaven exist? And if world, on making this to you at the Pearly Gates?” 1) Were you honest in business and in it does, what would it world a better place for Whether we believe in heaven or life? look like? others, and of leaving not –individually, personally or commu- 2) Did you leave a legacy, one worthy of Jewish theologians, this world more gentle, nally – this question is worthy of our others? philosophers and schol- more kind, more just reflection and response as well. 3) Did you set a time for study and ars have pondered this Rabbi Mark and more sweet for In fact, it is at this time of year, as reflection? Dquestion for centuries. Collectively, they Schiftan those we love and leave we approach the High Holy Days, that 4) Did you live with hope in your heart? have offered a variety of theories and behind. Unlike others, this line of inquiry might serve us well: 5) Did you get your priorities straight? beliefs, most of which have found their we do not believe that we transcend to We use the imagery of a God who sits in 6) Did you enjoy this world fully and way into Jewish tradition and folklore. “a better place” or that we are called judgment of us; the Book of Life lies appreciatively? Some faiths offer a single, clear “heavenward” – regardless of our age – open before Him, and us; and we use the 7) Were you the best you could be, and answer to the question of whether heav- because “God wanted us close by, or opportunity to reflect on our lives, on did you give your very best to others? en, or hell, exists; some even draw upon more near to him”. our strengths and successes, our flaws At this season, we return to our specific images that leave little room for As the late Dr. Martin Luther King and our failures. roots, to our tradition, to our synagogues questioning or doubt. used to say: “The arc of history is slow We use the image of a God who ... and, perhaps, to our highest selves. At While these answers might be moving, yet it ultimately bends towards does not weigh the balance of our lives this season, we turn to our God, and we comforting to some who search for a justice.” So, too, we believe and take as we stand before Him in heaven but turn to one another, seeking forgiveness definitive answer to this age-old ques- comfort in this belief for our lives and rather who judges us as we judge our- and offering it in return. And at this sea- tion, Judaism has always felt more the length of our days: We leave the selves – while we still live, while we son, we reflect on these questions, on secure in offering a range of possibili- world a better place – we hope and pray can still change and evolve, while we how we might answer them ... and if we ties of what might exist in the afterlife. – because of our small moment in it. can still improve upon ourselves and choose, how to improve our responses, Judaism offers the honest, if more vague And yet ... many of us still imagine our relationships with others, in this even as we seek to improve ourselves, response that we simply do not know what heaven would look like – what it world, in this life, and in the lives of and our souls, while we still live. what happens after the grave. We may would feel like – if it were to exist. those we love and cherish and who are May the New Year bring forth the talk about the eternality of the soul, we Would we see people we once knew in still with us. best within us, each of us, and all of us. may find enduring strength and com- life? We might take great comfort in Here our Jewish tradition is not c fort in the loving memory of our dear that thought. Would we look back at our vague at all: The professor and author ones, but we place our emphasis on the lives with fondness for the blessings we Dr. Ron Wolfson writes about this self- Mark Schiftan is the senior rabbi at celebration of life, on its meaning and received? Would God judge us favorably, assessment we might make of our lives, The Temple-Congregation Ohabai Sholom. purpose while we are alive, and on the compassionately and with forgiveness in his book, The Seven Questions You’re The Rabbis’ Corner is a monthly column legacy we might leave behind for others for our shortcomings? Asked in Heaven. In it, he lists the fol- on current events and Jewish values that after our day is done. As James Lipton, the host of “The lowing questions, which in our collec- rotates among Nashville’s congregational As a sacred community, we focus Actor’s Studio,” always asks of the tive folk tradition might guide our lives rabbis.

Advertise In letter to the editor Local imams and rabbis: We may be opponents; we need not be enemies Entertaining To the editor We, the undersigned, do not share a common vision for the Middle East. We do not agree politically, religiously, theologically or philosophically. We are on different sides of a many-sided conflict that threatens the physical, emotional, and spiritual well- being of all of us. What we do share, however, is a deep concern that our differences & Dining Out not alienate us one from the other. When dealing with the complexities and competing narratives surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it is all too easy for us to demonize “the other,” whether Issue 2014 that “other” be Muslim, Christian or Jew. When that happens, a Middle East conflict between Israelis and Palestinians becomes a global struggle between competing civi- lizations dividing us into an endless and fear-fueled war between “us” and “them” that yields to neither truth nor compromise nor reason. We are writing not to propose a solution to our differences but rather to stand Reach the Entire together against the demonization of those who propose solutions to which we are Jewish Community opposed. Passion for one view is no excuse for lack of compassion for those who hold of Middle Tennessee very different views. We may never agree, but we can disagree without dehumanizing one another. We We know that you will want to be can stand in solidarity with our respective peoples and their cause, and not hate those included in this issue. Advertisers who who stand against us. We can decry the rhetoric and actions of one side or the other contract an 1/8 page ad or larger without demonizing all Jews, Muslims, Christians, Arabs, Israelis or Palestinians. We can contact us for inclusion in may never find common ground, but we can stand together against the tendency with- articles pertaining to your business. in ourselves and our respective communities to deny the humanity of the other, and in so doing, lose our own humanity as well. Publication Date: October 1, 2014 Ad Deadline: September 15, 2014 Imam Ossama Bahloul Rabbi Mark Schiftan Imam Salah Osman Rabbi Shana Goldstein Mackler Contact Imam Yusuf Abdullah Rabbi Michael Shulman Carrie Mills Imam Ahmedulhadi Sharif Cantor Tracy Fishbein 615.354.1699 Imam Abdu Alrahman Rabbi Laurie Rice Rabbi Phillip Rice or e-mail Rabbi Joshua Kullock [email protected] Rabbi Rami Shapiro The Observer September 2014 27 HAPPY ROSH HASHANAH

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28 September 2014 The Observer ests. Ilanit’s sense of humor serves her Graham Louis Elliot will be called . . . to the family of Eric Lee Raefsky, well as she enjoys going to Camp Sabra, to the Torah as a bar M.D., 59 of Hermitage, hanging out with friends from the mitzvah on Saturday, TN, who died Aug. 5 in Gordon Jewish Community Center’s Sept. 13 at The Temple. a car accident. Eric was lifecycles Tigersharks swim team and acting. His parents are Loren born in Philadelphia, and John Elliot. His PA to the late Leonard Parker Hershkowitz will be called grandparents are and Eleanor Potash B’nai Mitzvah to the Torah as a bar Sharon and Alan Raefsky. He was a man mitzvah on Saturday, Lipworth and Greta and of many accomplish- Sept. 6 at Congregation Michael Elliot of Graham Louis ments, but none greater Eric Lee Ilanit Noa Sedek will be called to Elliot Raefsky, M.D. the Torah as a bat mitz- Micah. Parker is the son Scarsdale, NY. than his life of service, vah on Monday, Sept. of Kory and Dena Graham is in the 7th grade at the compassion and love of others. 1st during a women's Hershkowitz and broth- University School of Nashville. His Eric graduated from M.I.T., where he tefillah service at er to Maya. He is the interests include baseball, basketball, was a member of the Beta Theta Pi frater- Congregation Sherith grandson of Edra and tennis, golf, reading, watching sports and nity, and went on to graduate first in his Israel at 9:30 a.m. Michael Silverstein of Parker spending time with friends and family. class at Temple University School of Ilanit is the daugh- Mount Dora, FL and Hershkowitz For his mitzvah project, Graham Medicine. He performed his internship ter of Naomi and Simon Nancy and Paul Hershkowitz of raised funds for Camp for All Kids, an and a fellowship at Barnes Hospital in St. Sedek and the sister of Ilanit Noa Nashville. organization which sends kids from Louis, followed by a fellowship at the Tali and Itzik Sedek. Sedek Parker is a 7th grader at Brentwood under-serviced communities to National Institutes of Health. Eric was She is the granddaughter of Susan and Middle School. He is an avid Florida overnight summer camp. board certified in hematology and med- the late Victor Limor z"l of Nashville Gator fan and enjoys playing both bas- ical oncology and was a member of the and Behie and Yitzchok Sedek of ketball and football. Parker is on the ten- American College of Physicians, the Paramus, N.J., and the great-grand- nis team at his middle school and is also Mazel Tov American Society of Clinical Oncology on the crew team and rows competitively. and the American Lymphoma Society. daughter of David Rosenblum and Anna Hessa, daughter of Sam and He excels at math, science, and history. He was a physician at Tennessee Mohtaram Yazdian, both of Nashville. Robbin Hessa of For his mitzvah project, Parker has Oncology, PLLC for 25 years, serving on An Akiva graduate, Ilanit is now in Nashville, has received been volunteering at the Williamson the board of directors, and most recently, the 7th grade at Harpeth Hall. She is a master’s degree in County Animal Shelter. He has been as medical director. Among his many participating in the Bnai Tzedek Program Visual Arts hands on with the dogs – walking them honors are the Frist Humanitarian Award with the Jewish Foundation Nashville Administration from and helping train them. He also partici- and the Leukemia and Lymphoma and Middle Tennessee in order to be able New York University. pates in the Schwab Clothing Drive. Society's Man of the Year. to perpetuate her philanthropic inter- Miss Hessa is now Eric gave generously of his time and development and expertise to many organizations in events associate at the Anna Hessa Nashville and beyond. This incredible American Folk Art soul touched countless people throughout Museum in New York City. Prior to join- his support for the arts, animal rescue and ing the Folk Art Museum she worked in young people in their pursuit of higher development at the Eldridge Street education. Eric loved world travel, dogs, Museum, a restored historic synagogue the Phillies, Predators hockey and the on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Grateful Dead. Eric was married for 31 years to his Sympathy best friend and lifelong love, Victoria "Tori" Heil. He is also survived by his sis- . . . to the family of Beatrice Ruth ter, Cindy (Howard) Estrin; nephews, King, 89, who died on June 20 after a Matthew and Scott Estrin; the beloved long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Raefsky/Yates family; his much-loved She was born in Winthrop, MA but "daughter", Stacy (James) Maciuk; spent most of her life in New York and "grandchildren", Savannah and Mia Florida. She was preceded in death by Maciuk; the entire Heil family; his many her son, Harvey. She is survived by her four-legged furry friends, the Big Chill husband, Bertram; son and daughter-in- Gang and the BFDDs. A Memorial serv- law, Lloyd and Laura; daughter-in-law, ice was held on Aug 16 at the Members of the GJCC softball team pose with their championship trophy. Front row: Jarad Andrea, and her four grandchildren, Schermerhorn Symphony Center. To Garshnick. Second row: Chip Weinstein (from left), Blake Hammons, T.J. Thompson. Third row: honor Eric’s life, please consider a dona- Andy Neuman (from left), Jonah Neuman, Nate Nicholson, Chad Hornick. Back row: Joseph Michael, Stephanie, Ian and Philip. A Levy (from left), Billy Jacobs, Richard “The Berks” Berkman, Ryan Small, Brad Paxton, Dave graveside service was held at at K.K.S.I. tion to Alive Hospice, Gilda's Club, Kellman. Not pictured: Dylan Phipps, Joel Abramson Cemetery led by Rabbi Yitzchok Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue, Pearl Tiechtel. In lieu of flowers, donations Point Cancer Support (Sarah Cannon can be made to The Chabad Center of Cancer Foundation), The Community GJCC team wins Warner Jewish Awareness, 95 Bellevue Rd, Foundation of Middle Tennessee (Heil- Nashville, TN 37221. Raefsky Fund) or Belmont University Park softball championship (Raefsky/Heil) Scholarship Fund. for 2nd year in a row Belle Meade Premium Cigar & Gifts By ANDY NEUMAN Small. Meanwhile, the team finally found Nashville, Tennessee its offense, scoring three runs in the sixth he Gordon Jewish inning and losing a chance at even more Davidoff Happy Community Center softball when Richard “the Berks” Berkman was Padron New Year team defeated Redeemer called out for violating a safety run when Zino Lutheran Church 17 to 16 he hit a ball too close to the pitcher. In on July 31 to win the its final at bat, the team rattled off six Litto Gomez Warner Park Softball straight two-out hits, including a three- CAO TLeague for the second year in a row. run homer by Dave Kellman and a walk- Tatuaje The team, one of two from the off single by Nate Nicholson. Fuente GJCC competing in the Warner Park The Warner Park league season ran Cohiba league, finished with an 11-2 record, from late April through July. The league & winning its third title in the past five had nine teams from seven organiza- more... years and its sixth since 2001. It marked tions: The GJCC and St Henry’s the 14th consecutive season that the Catholic Church had two teams each, team has won 10 or more games. while Redeemer, Woodmont Baptist 4518 Harding Road The JCC team typically starts slow, Church, Bellevue Presbyterian Church, 615-297-7963 • Open 7 days a week and the championship game was no St. Matthews Catholic Church and Mon.-Sat.: 9 am - 8:30 pm • Sun.: 12 pm - 6 pm exception. With the score tied 2-2 after Calvary United Methodist Church each Belle Meade Plaza Shopping Center the first inning, Redeemer outscored fielded one team. Belle Meade Plaza Shopping Center GJCC by eight runs in the next two Anyone interested in playing next innings, taking a 12-4 lead. year can contact either Andy Neuman at But the GJCC held its opponent to 516-9540 or [email protected]. If The Observer is online! just four runs over the final four innings there is enough interest, the GJCC will thanks to a great pitching effort by Ryan create a third team. c www.jewishobservernashville.org The Observer September 2014 29 World War II planes and discarded Nazi Inspired by actual events, it has sparked flight suits. The film was directed by controversy in Poland for its unflinching Roberta Grossman and produced by examination of ordinary Poles and their Nancy Spielberg, Steven Spielberg’s historical memory of the nation’s dark around the town youngest sister, Nancy Spielberg will be involvement in the Holocaust. in Nashville for question-and-answer The Nashville Film Festival is Sherith Israel plans nity might not even be sure about where sessions after the screenings of the film. scheduled for Nov. 5-15. The full lineup it’s located. The festival will also screen a and schedule will be announced next Israel trip But on Wednesday, Sept. 10, JFS French feature “The Jewish Cardinal” month. will open its doors for an open house about Jean-Marie Lustiger, the son of Congregation Sherith Israel is plan- from 2-5:30 p.m. so that everyone can Polish Jewish immigrants who main- ning its fourth solidarity trip to Israel for see where the staff works and learn tained his cultural identity as a Jew even Hadassah holding this coming winter break. The dates are more about the 17 programs and servic- after converting to Catholicism as a social on Sept. 10 Dec. 24 – Jan, 5, and the group will be es it offers that change lives for the bet- child and becoming a priest. Even after spending the entire journey in and ter. Whether that is by counseling a he was appointed archbishop of Paris by The Nashville chapter of Hadassah around Jerusalem. divorcing family, building a family Pope John Paul II, Lustiger celebrated will hold a social on Wednesday, Sept. The 5-star trip, put together by through adoption, assisting a family his self-proclaimed dual identity as 10 at the hom of Jackie Harrison at 533 KESHET, will be co-led by Rabbi Saul through a tough economic time, or sup- Catholic Jew. Directed by Ilan Duran Summit Oaks Court. Strosberg and tour guide David Bratspis. porting a senior adult with programs Cohen, the film is in French with The theme is “Holy Guacomole!” It will feature a range of experiences and resources, JFS is always here for the English subtitles. The event begins at 6 p.m. and the cost focusing on the history, culture, and spir- community. Another feature film – “Aftermath” is $10. Checks payable to Hadassah ituality of Jerusalem and beyond. Refreshments will be served. For – is a thriller directed by the Polish film- should be sent to Jackie Harrison at the Special highlights include: the more information, call JFS Executive maker Wladyslaw Pasikowski that won Summit Oaks Court address. For further Begin Institute, an insider’s view of Director Pam Kelner at (615) 354-1644. the Yad Vashem Chairman’s Award at information, call Karen Weissman at Jerusalem's Christian Quarter, sifting this year’s Jerusalem Film Festival. (615) 419-1040. through earth and artifacts illegally removed from the Temple Mount, an encounter with members of Jerusalem's Nancy Spielberg Ultra-Orthodox community, Shabbat at will be on hand for the Kotel, a culinary tour of the Machane Yehudah market and cooking Nashville Jewish in print workshop with a professional chef, and Film Festival’s dinner and a show at the famous Na LaGa'at Center in Tel Aviv. screening of ormer Nashville resident Lena has settled with her impover- For more information, please call “Above and Beyond” Ronna Wineberg’s first ished family and must traverse the the shul at 292-6614 or email novel, On Bittersweet Place, early years of adolescence while [email protected]. is being published this adjusting to a world full of promise The Nashville Jewish Film Festival month by Relegation and danger. More information is avail- has announced three movies – a docu- Books. It’s the coming-of- able at www.ronnawineberg.com or JFS to hold open mentary and two features films based on Fage story of Lena Czernitski, a young www.relegationbooks.com. Wineberg house on Sept. 10 or inspired by real events – that will be Russian Jew whose family flees their lived in Nashville for 11 years before screened during its 10-day run in homeland in the Ukraine after the moving to New York City in 2000. She November. Because much of its work is confi- 1917 revolution. The story unfolds is also the author of Second Language, a The documentary “Above and during the 1920’s in Chicago where collection of short stories. c dential, Jewish Family Service has a sep- Beyond” tells the story of the adventur- arate entrance at the Gordon Jewish ous and brave American pilots who vol- Community Center to ensure the priva- unteered to fly for Israel during its 1948 cy of its clients. So many in the commu- War of Independence using junked To access the Community Calendar, I like to come here, Franz. As I have for nearly twenty years now. go to www.jewishnashville.org and click on “Calendar.” Every community event is listed for your convenience. And the rose bush has turned into a lovely little tree.

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30 September 2014 The Observer PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS CARE GIVER MUSICIANS AND DJs REAL ESTATE con’t Cathy Werthan, CPA, PFS FAMILY STAFFING SOLUTIONS, INC BLUE TONE MUSIC CPA Consulting Group, PLLC Stay Independent*At Home*In Charge® Jewish Wedding Ceremonies Providing traditional tax and accounting ‘Personal Care Assistance At Its Best” The Nashville Blue Tones Party Band services in a non-traditional way 2000 Richard Jones Road DJ Services. 615-352-6358 109 Kenner Ave., Suite 100 Nashville, TN 37215 www.BlueToneMusicUSA.com www.Zeitlin.com (615) 322-1225 • www.cpacg.com 615-383-5656 Residential & Relocation Specialists 208 Uptown Square OPHTHALMOLOGIST ADVERTISING Murfreesboro, TN 37129 JESSICA AVERBUCH 615-848-6774 HOWARD ROSENBLUM, M.D. Managing Broker, ABR, CRS, ePRO The Observer Carrie Mills 119 McGrew Street, Suite A Eye Physician & Surgeon 383-0183 (bus.) • 294-9880 (cell) The best use of your advertising dollar. Shelbyville, TN 37160 Nashville Eye Center [email protected] 801 Percy Warner Blvd. 356-3242 x299 931-680-2771 St. Thomas Hospital • Ph. 386-9200 www.jessicaaverbuch.com 309 North Jackson St. APPLIANCES Tullahoma, TN 37388 OPTOMETRIST LORNA M. GRAFF 931-222-4080 Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR ELECTRONIC EXPRESS now 109 Holiday Court, Suite C-8 DR. MICHELE SONSINO 371-0185 (bus.) • 351-5343 (cell) carries a full line of home appliances as Franklin, TN 37067 Optique Eyecare & Eyewear [email protected] well as consumer electronics! We have 615-472-1563 2817 West End Ave., Nashville www.lornagraff.com the brands you know and trust: www.familystaffing.com 615-321-4EYE (4393) Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, NAN SPELLER General Electric, Frigidaire, and LG. HOME COMPUTER Broker, GRI, ABR Count on Electronic Express to help ORTHODONTISTS 383-0183 (bus.)• 973-1117 (cell) REPAIR [email protected] you make the best choice. Nobody beats A. JOEL GLUCK, DDS, MS our prices. Free basic delivery and YOUR PERSONAL COMPUTER Specialist in Orthodontics pick-up of your old appliances with TECHNICIAN Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics this ad. Available at any of our 16 Brian Coulam 615-266-4155 Green Hills 269-5903 stores. Visit us on the web at References Available 2002 Richard Jones Road, Ste. A-200 www.electronicexpress.com [email protected] www.drgluck.com for a location near you. PROPERTY HERMITAGE LIGHTING GALLERY HOME IMPROVEMENT Lighting • Appliances • Hardware MANAGEMENT YOUR HOME HANDYMAN Franklin Pargh Custom Cabinetry and Baths Rich Adler, Small Job Specialists. GHERTNER & COMPANY We Light Up Your Life! Synergy Realty Network Free estimates, Excellent references. Homeowner Association and FranklinPargh.com 615-843-3300 615-646-4900 or 615-972-3093 cell Condominium Management C. 615-351-7333 www.hermitagelighting.com [email protected] Full Service and Financial Management Property Management since 1968 ATTORNEY INSURANCE 255-8531 www.ghertner.com SPORTING GOODS MARTIN SIR, ATTORNEY FRIDRICH, PINSON & ROTHBERG Family Law / Personal Injury / Probate Jamie Rothberg TEAM NASHVILLE REAL ESTATE Your Running/Walking Fifth Third Center 3825 Bedford Ave. Suite 203 424 Church Street, Ste. 2250 Swimming Headquarters Ph 327-9105 Dir 277-1483 3205 West End Ave. Nashville, Tennessee 37219 [email protected] Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 256-5661 ROBINS INSURANCE (615) 383-0098 www.martinsirlaw.com Bruce Robins, CPCU, CIC, ARM; Tom Loventhal; Marsha Jaffa, CIC; TUTORING BALLOON DECOR Van Robins, CIC Auto, Home, Life, Health, OMEGA LEARNING BELLE MEADE PARTY ANIMALS Business Insurance K – 12 Tutoring and Test prep Balloon Decor & Entertainment 30 Burton Hills, Suite 300 Email: [email protected] 615-941-3177 Ph. 665-9200 • www.robinsins.com Phone: 615-678-1927 www.PartyAnimalsTN.com Jackie Roth Karr, REALTOR ZANDER INSURANCE GROUP, INC. www.JackieKarr.com Julian “Bud” Zander, Jr., CIC [email protected] Jeffrey J. Zander, CIC Mobile: 615.330.9779 Michael Weinberger Auto, Home, Life, Health, Business, Office: 615.463.3333 Long Term Care, Identity Theft Protection 212 Oceola, Nashville, TN 37209 356-1700 www.zanderins.com

Advertise in our Professional Services Directory

Reach thousands of readers in the Nashville and Middle Patricia Straus, Broker, MBA, CRS RE/MAX Elite Tennessee area by taking advantage of this cost-effective way Platinum Club Award Recipient Marketing Real Estate to a Global Clientele to reach a loyal repeat audience! www.PatriciaStraus.com O: 615.661.4400 Call Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager M: 615.305.9465 to Place YourProfessional Listing. Phone 615-354-1699 or e-mail [email protected] NEW & RENEWING ADS ARE SHADED

The Observer September 2014 31 Gala, Granny Smith, Red or 3 ¢ Gold Delicious for 99 Apples Lunchbox Size With Card

Kedem Kroger Grape Juice Honey Bear Select Varieties, 12 oz 64 fl oz Romaine, ¢ 49 99 Lipton Kosher 29 Yehuda 99 Manischewitz 99 Red Leaf & Soup Mix Gefilte Fish Noodles 99 3 6 Select Varieties, 2 Select Varieties, 5 1 Green Leaf ea Select Varieties, Lettuce With Card With Card With Card 1.9-4.09 oz With Card 24 oz With Card 12 oz With Card

Yehuda Holyland Memorial Candle 3 oz Sweet ¢ Manischewitz 2$ Kineret 99 Seasons 99 Streits 99 ¢ Potatoes Matzo Ball for Challah Dough Sardines Matzo 89 5 Select Varieties, 4 2 2 99 lb & Soup Mix Boneless, Skinless, Select Varieties, With Card Select Varieties With Card 14-15 oz With Card 4.38 oz With Card 11 oz With Card With Card

Copyright ©2014 – Kroger. None sold to dealers. We reserve the right to limit quantities and to correct printing errors. Items and prices available at your 4560 Harding Road and 2131 Abbot Martin Road, Nashville, TN Kroger stores September 1 through September 30, 2014

32 September 2014 The Observer