the Jewish bserver inside: How to recognize bullying and what to do about it 2 Are we prepared? 4 Congregations celebrate Purim 5 Lions to work with fiber artist 6

Sections Commentary & opinion 4 Letters 4 An Israeli’s view 5 Lifecycles 12 Around the town 13 On Tzedakah Tzunday, Coby Hanai, left, and Stan Schklar took to the phones to raise money for Jews here and around the world. Photo: Rick Malkin Tzedakah Tzunday volunteers step up to raise funds for whole community By Kathy Carlson “It was one of the most energiz- powered the Federation’s 2012 annual ing telethon days I have ever had the fundraising campaign over the mil- or Gail Seibold and daugh- privilege in which to participate and lion-dollar mark, nearly seven percent ter Amy, volunteering for I can assure you I’ve done lots of ahead of last year, he said. So far in Tzedakah Tzunday “is just them over the past 30 years,” the 2012 Annual Campaign, 131 new in our genes,” as Gail put it. Federation Executive Director Mark donors have pledged gifts to They joined scores of vol- Freedman said. “It was especially Federation, said Campaign Director unteers at the Feb. 12 gratifying and uplifting to see the Naomi Limor Sedek. Ffundraiser for the Jewish Federation of great turnout of young adults and “The biggest shot in the arm was Nashville, traditionally held each year teens at our last session.” from the young people coming in for on the Sunday after the Super Bowl. This year’s Tzedakah Tzunday Continued on page 7 Rabbis call for mutual respect in Conversations on Community, Israel By Kathy Carlson Guided group conversations will take Rabbi Kliel Rose of West End place in April, after the survey, and all Synagogue. “We have an obligation he rabbis of Nashville’s opinions are welcome. Detailed infor- as Diaspora Jews to be in conversa- five congregations have mation will be forthcoming in the tions about her and her well-being. endorsed the Jewish March 2 Observer and on the Jewish We have an obligation to care and Federation of Federation Website, www.jewish- support and dialogue seriously about Nashville’s initiative to nashville.org, after March 2. what is taking place in Israel; every www.jewishobservernashville.org develop a consensus “Generally, it’s a good idea in any Jew has that obligation.” Tand ground rules for how we talk society to have an exchange of view- “We as Jewish people who live in A Publication of about Israel. points that helps people grow, and the Diaspora, especially leaders of the The initiative, Conversations certainly regarding Israel, we would Jewish community, are always looking about Community and Israel, is love to grow together as a communi- for ways to engage people, and so we designed so every member of the com- ty,” Rabbi Saul Strosberg of Sherith support the effort of Federation to munity age 16 and above has the Israel said. “… I hope we can charac- reach beyond or outside and to host unprecedented opportunity to share terize as little as possible, judge as lit- these dialogues,” said Rabbi Philip their thoughts on goals for the com- tle as possible. At the end of the day Rice of Congregation Micah. www.jewishnashville.org munity when people disagree strongly to really come together as a communi- “Participating in the conversations about Israel. ty (we) need to put politics aside.” will allow people to engage and con- VOL.77 NO. 4 The program begins in late March “Israel is an essential part of our nect. … Hopefully (everyone) will be February 17, 2012 with a quick online or paper survey. identity as Jewish people,” said Continued on page 2 24 Shvat 5772 How to recognize bullying and what to do about it he tragic results of bully- consultation services to schools and ing, including cyberbully- school systems throughout the United ing, continue to be reflect- States. He is the co-author of the training ed in headlines across the seminar Anger, Violence, and You and country. In the past few has been providing Respect & Protect months, two Tennessee and No-Bullying training for Hazelden Tteens have taken their lives after suffering since 1995. He is a certified trainer and Join the relentless torment by peers. Jewish Family Olweus technical assistance consultant Service seeks to provide parents the tools for the Olweus Bullying Prevention they need to distinguish between normal Program, and Safe Dates Program, and Conversations! and bullying/victim forms of conflict that serves as the Tennessee State Olweus lead to violence as well as to identify coordinator in partnership with the Our community has strong views about Israel proven strategies for reducing Tennessee Department of Education. bullying/cyberbullying and harassment. Dinwiddie currently provides con- and they are not always in agreement. Parents are invited to “Bullying sultation to the Tennessee Department Exposed: Harrassment, Bullying and of Education in the areas of best prac- Normal Conflict—Recognizing the tices in bullying prevention and inter- You have a unique opportunity to participate in Differences and What to Do about It,” a vention, school climate improvement presentation by Rodger Dinwiddie, CEO of and the development of social emotion- Students Taking a Right Stand (STARS- al competencies. In addition, he has Nashville). The program will take place on been providing Policy to Practice Conversations Mon., April 9, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bullying Prevention training and consul- Gordon Jewish Community Center. tation for school administrators for the During his tenure at STARS Tennessee Department of Education. Dinwiddie has provided numerous school There is no charge to attend the about Community and community based prevention and program. Contact Teri Sogol at 354- intervention trainings, keynotes, and 1662 to register. c and Israel. Rabbis call for mutual respect in Conversations on Community, Israel Everyone in the community, Continued from page 1 exact right opinion about Israel,” he ages 16 and over, will be invited to go to able to contribute something and open continued. “It’s all something that we’re their minds as well.” wrestling and struggling with – hugging a special Website beginning in late In Nashville, as in many communi- and wrestling and trying to figure out our ties, “there’s a wide range of opinions that relationship to Israel.” March to answer a quick survey. people carry regarding their own rela- Schiftan pointed to “our own com- In April, everyone who participated tionship to the state of Israel and the munal values and our ability to disagree, Jewish nature of the state to debate passionately in the survey will be asked to come to one of Israel and the way in ‘We have to find a those heated opinions in of five guided group conversations in which which Israel should a way that is done so respond to the realities of common denominator with honesty and with ALL opinions are welcome. the neighborhood in on how to be a unified mutual respect between The goal is finding common ground on which it lives,” said Senior people … to respect the parties. I think the Rabbi Mark Schiftan of who we are and where past year has proven to how we talk about Israel in our community. The Temple. “The real us – there are those in challenge (is) – can you we come from.’ our community that voice criticism, can I voice would choose to shout These Conversations are sponsored by the concern even including concern and crit- out or drown out the voices or opinions icism that is sincere and genuine, and do they would not wish to hear, but that has Jewish Federation of Nashville’s Community so in a forum where you’re not labeled as never been the Jewish way,” Shiftan con- treasonous or heretical to the ideals of tinued. Relations Committee as part of its series, the Jewish community.” “If you look back as far as the Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel of Chabad Talmud,” he said, “the rabbis are seen as of Nashville said, “In a nutshell, there openly, purposefully debating, disagree- “Increasing Your Israel IQ: are always going to be two Jews with ing and deliberating on every possible three opinions. It’s important to find issue of Jewish life. And so our ancestors From Argument to Advocacy” areas we agree on, especially on con- saw tremendous value in that the entire tentious issues” regarding Israel. community is made better because of “Sometimes the topic divides more that vigorous discussion and that the and made possible by a grant from the than unites,” he said. “Mutual respect is finest truths emerge. The hope would be Jewish Federation’s New Initiatives Fund. needed, to have trust in each other and to use that as our model so that creating then try to build on the sense of commu- these forums not only for discussion, but The Conversations have been endorsed by all of nity. The conversations are a great idea how we speak to one another and listen as long as we remember we all are the to one another go directly to the health Nashville’s Rabbis and Agency Directors. people of G-d and we have to speak with of the community.” respect to one another. “We have to find a common denom- “At the same time,” he continued, inator on how to be a unified people … LOOK FOR DETAILS “we have to be honest with ourselves. to respect who we are and where we IN THE MARCH 2 OBSERVER. The non-Jewish world respects Jews who come from,” Tiechtel said. “That can be respect Judaism. … (We should) not try the road map to where we’re going.” c to appease world opinion in order to be part of the (larger group of) people. The These Conversations about secular world respects Jews who respect Community and Israel are sponsored Judaism and respect themselves.” by the Jewish Federation of Nashville’s “The conversation seems to me to Community Relations Council as a way be a wonderful way of engaging with dif- to foster open conversations on issues ferent segments of this Jewish population concerning Israel within the Nashville of Nashville about Israel,” Rose said. “… Jewish community. They have been Everyone is welcome at the table regard- funded through the New Initiatives less of where they come from,” whether Grants created through the 2010 Best they offer criticism or are staunch sup- Jewish Nashville process. For continu- porters of the Israeli government. ing information on the initiative, go to “No one individual Jew owns the jewishnashville.org.) 2 February 17, 2012 The Observer View film on ‘Forgotten Refugees’ and discuss it with producer Nashville Hadassah Presents By Kathy Carlson Renowned Author Maggie Anton earn about a little-known chapter in Jewish history $(4462@EA@6D(0A9B2886@4DB2(72C7@AH@ when the film “The HAC81H6123AC52CBABF8(CEC68A4I Forgotten Refugees” is shown at the Gordon Jewish     Community Center on LMon., Feb. 27, from 7- 9 p.m. The doc- umentary tells the story of the million Jewish refugees from Arab countries after the birth of the state of Israel, and its executive producer will be on hand for discussion after the showing. “We were fortunate to find some amazing people,” Executive Producer Avi Goldwasser said. “Their stories reflect an important part of Jewish history, yet these stories and history were mostly ignored. The stories tell of a non-European Jewish life, but with some of the same struggles Executive Producer Avi Goldwasser of being a minority that tries to deal with discrimination and adversity yet thrives dents were used to seeing Jews from on a spiritual and sometimes on an eco- Europe, and now they were seeing Jews nomic basis as well.” from Muslim lands like Egypt, Libya, Iraq  '21@2D1(I$(C05B!9! The National Conference on Jewish and Yemen,” Goldwasser said. Affairs-Nashville is presenting the film. Middle Eastern Muslims attended !A@4C24(E6A@%52C6E5"DC(28 NCJA was started in September 2011 as Abdul Wahid’s talk, he said. They too   %!1A@(E6A@6@08F12D12DD2CE “an umbrella organization uniting active weren’t well informed about Jews in the Jewish leaders and groups across America Middle East. “They thought Jews left at  B(I(EE521AAC … to give voice to those who want to the time of Exodus,” he said. When the   @(D5G68825(1(DD(5I(5AA!0A9   express support for and act on behalf of Muslim students heard Abdel-Wahed justice for Jews, Israel and Zionism,” its talk about living as a humiliated minori-  AC** mission statement reads. The event is ty in Egypt, some were ashamed, free and open to the community. Goldwasser said. The film event is co-sponsored Goldwasser began to see that bring- !A96@46@F4FDE    by B’nai B’rith Maimonides Lodge ing speakers to campus from San -#AG2&(89F1(@1%AC02CI6@C1!2@EFCI ()I8A@6(2 #46, the Community Relations Francisco was costly so he began to con- Committee of the Jewish Federation sider creating a video. He found a young of Nashville, the Nashville chapter Israeli filmmaker, Michael Grynspan, of Hadassah, Congregation Sherith and the two set out to create a short film. Israel, the Chabad Jewish Student “All I wanted to do (was a) 15-minute 6:30 p.m. at the GJCC Center at Vanderbilt University, and video, but I fell in love with the people Chabad of Nashville. and their important and unknown story.” Goldwasser has no background in The finished work runs for 50 minutes. film and was working as a financial exec- “Every country has its own story,” he utive in Boston when he became con- said. “The film is a bit of a survey” of the cerned about the hostility toward Israel lives of Jews in Egypt, Iraq, Yemen, Libya he had seen on area college campuses. and Morocco. “I realized that some of the hostility “An important element of the film was due to false assumptions about the is a kind of small tribute to the lost nature of the conflict and Israel,” he said Jewish civilization and communities, and in a telephone interview. “Many stu- the thousands of refugees,” he said. “The dents on campuses think of Israel as a passage of time made it imperative to colonial enterprise that oppresses the record these witnesses.” People like indigenous people. People think most Abdel-Wahed, who spoke about their Jews in Israel come from Europe.” lost communities in the film, felt com- But half of the population of Israel pelled to finally share their experiences Come and learn how to speak conversational Hebrew. comes from the Middle East and North with their families, he added. Africa, he continued. “These Jews are “It’s important to urge people to rec- No previous knowledge required. indigenous to the Middle East. Jews were ognize the complexity of the Middle East in the land of Israel, Iraq, Egypt, Syria conflict, and to reject false and vicious First meeting before the Arabs, who came from Arabia analogies that tend to demonize the Thursday, March 1 and conquered the Middle East and Jewish state,” Goldwasser said. “It’s also North Africa in the 7th century.” important that viewers recognize and Second meeting To educate Boston-area college stu- convey the need by American Jewry to dents, Goldwasser and a group he co- embrace the diversity of the Jewish com- Thursday, March 15 founded – the David Project – brought munity and the importance of the histo- Further dates to be announced Jewish Mizrahi speakers to campus, peo- ry of non European Jews.” ple like Joseph Abdel-Wahed, originally For more information, contact 6:30 p.m. at the GJCC from Egypt, and Regina Bublil Waldman, [email protected] or go to from originally from Libya. “The stu- www.ncjanashville.org. c

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The Observer February 17, 2012 3 commentary & opinion Are We Prepared? By Mark S. Freedman and his kerosene from the front patio of the Iraqi scuds struck Tel Aviv and the as soon as we can get there. his home down into his basement. Jewish heartland in 1991, we rose up to And whether Israel’s house is par- et us suppose for a second Seems we’ve got a problem here. How help Israel after the bloody hotel bomb- tially damaged, or if, G-d forbid it burns that your neighbor two doors much longer can Mr. Goldberg wait until ing during Passover in 2002 and we stood to the ground, we will be with them to down the block (we’ll call Mr. Doe has enough flammables to torch by Israel in 2006 as rockets rained down repair and rebuild. him Mr. Doe) announces to Goldberg’s little house? Can Goldberg on Northern Israel from Lebanon. That is why we have a Jewish com- everyone at the community really depend on all his well-intentioned Israel’s house is our house. If it burns munity and a Jewish Federation to stand pool that he doesn’t like you neighbors, including the neighborhood big we are diminished. We cannot let this with them. L(we’ll call you Mr. Goldberg), doesn’t shot, Uncle Sam, to keep Mr. Doe from happen. We will not let it happen. We will be prepared. think you should live in the neighbor- running amok? “Hey, can’t we bring in the Should scenarios play out from bad Am Yisrael Chai! c hood in your small and modest home and fire department to inspect Doe’s house and to worse over the next several months, that he plans to burn remove all this dangerous stuff?” we will be prepared. If Israel is attacked Mark S. Freedman is executive director down your house. Okay, have I made my point yet? It we will go and stand with them, in Israel, of the Jewish Federation of Nashville. Furthermore, to has become pretty clear that Israel might demonstrate that he’s soon be burning while a lot of fiddling is serious, he has begun still going on elsewhere. Every sensible collecting large num- person — you, me — would do everything bers of matchboxes and we could to protect our property, our loved letters a robust supply of Mark S. ones and ourselves. Patience has its limits. kerosene and when Freedman Iran has stretched Israel’s patience, and your neighbor, Mr. Doe, has enough of a whether we agree or not, Israel may strike To the Editor: include the recognition by the stockpile to set your house ablaze he’ll Iran before Iran sets Israel’s house ablaze. In her response to my letter published Palestinians of the legitimacy of the State probably do it, even though he claims If Israel does strike pre-emptively in the Jan. 6 Observer regarding the recent of Israel. It is so tragic that a country that the collection of matches and the fuel there will be recriminations, condemna- visit by Jeremy Ben-Ami, Sally Levine in began with such hopes is now mired down are only intended to ignite the pilot light tions and much more from the interna- the Jan. 20 Observer objects to my char- by decades of failure to reach a way of on his furnace to keep his house warm. tional community and from some voices acterization of Ben-Ami as a Neville allowing Israelis and Palestinians to live So, many of your other neighbors, here at home. We will find out soon Chamberlain of the pro-Israel movement. peacefully side-by-side in a two-state solu- all of them “close friends” intervene and enough which of Israel’s friends will Here is why I drew that analogy. As tion, which J Street advocates. tell you that they really, really want to stand by her. Will we stand with her? stated by Benjamin Netanyahu in a 1993 J Street seeks is to have a fair, open, help. Really, they do. Honestly, they do! Will the Nashville Jewish community book, “Like Czechoslovakia, Israel is a small and intelligent discussion of the issues Your neighbors have a good solid stand as one and support Israel even if democracy with a powerful army much and the options, as peace is sought. The plan. They decide they will call to all the the choice Israel is forced to make runs aided by defensive terrain. Like the belief of Mr. Minuskin that any person or stores in town that sell matches and the risk of a regional or wider scale war? Sudeten district, the West Bank is moun- entity who criticizes Israel for its non- kerosene and demand that these stores Even if it means that by striking tainous territory, a formidable military bar- productive policies is an enemy of Israel not sell any more combustibles to Mr. Iran, Israel will be showered with mis- rier that guards the slender and densely is not true. There must be another, more Doe. But somehow Mr. Doe still manages siles from its Northern and Southern populated Israeli shoreline and Israel’s capi- reasonable and humane approach to solv- to get more of both. And, to ensure that borders by Hezbollah and Hamas? tal city… As in the case of Czechoslovakia, ing the differences between Israelis and no one will try to remove his growing Even if it means that hundreds of Israel’s insistence on not parting with terri- the Palestinians. It is far past time for the stockpile he schleps all his matchboxes thousands of Israelis will be displaced and tories strategically vital for its defenses is government to begin listening to the bomb shelters will be filled to capacity presented as the obstacle to peace…” moderate voices of loyal supporters of “Echoing Munich, the Arabs repeat- Israel who advocate for honesty, decency, c c STAFF c c across Israel for countless days or months? Even if it means that a now fragile edly advocate ‘active’ American and justice in solving these so-far domestic and world economy might fall involvement, in the hope that an intractable problems. We all want Israel Publisher Mark S. Freedman into a new recession or worse? American Chamberlain can be found to to survive and flourish in peace and har- Editor Judith A. Saks This Jewish community has stood by force ‘the intransigent party’ to capitu- mony, we pray, with its neighbors. Advertising Manager Carrie Mills Israel when confronted with the very same late where it is otherwise unwilling to Staff Writer Kathy Carlson kinds of existential challenges it faces compromise its own security.” Gerry Hausman Layout and Production Tim Gregory today. We didn’t help build the house of Israel's enemies have found an • Editorial Board Frank Boehm, Chair; Israel to watch it burn to the ground. “American Chamberlain” in Jeremy Ben- To the Editor: Ami. I support Israel’s pursuit of peace I am writing to express my thanks Barbara Dab, Greg Goldberg, We stood with Israel in 1967 through strength not appeasement. and hope that the new Editorial Policy Scott Rosenberg, Bill Snyder and 1973. We stood by Israel through the chal- will create a broader discussion on Jewish lenging days of two intifadas and when Michael Dobrin issues of interest to the Nashville Jewish Telephone 615/356-3242 • Community. There certainly is never a Fax 615/352-0056 To the Editor: limit on opinions within our community, The letter from Tomer Minuskin and I look forward to seeing views from E-mail [email protected] that appeared in the 2/3/12 edition of across the spectrum. DEADLINES the Observer condemns the J Street I am, however, concerned that there ‘The Observer’ (ISSN 8750-5290) is EDITORIAL DEADLINES Organization as an enemy of Israel and may be those in our community who published bi-monthly except July for $25 approves the language of a critic who has per year by the Jewish Federation of might use the Civility Policy as a gag on Nashville and Middle Tennessee, 801 Percy The Observer’s called the organization so open-minded this robust exchange of ideas. We should Warner Blvd., Nashville, TN 37205-4009. next two issues are: it has spilled out all its brains. Serving all agree that ideas which one finds dis- Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. honorably in the Israeli military does not agreeable do not transcend into the POSTMASTER: Send address changes to necessarily make one an expert in how to realm of incivility. Equally, tolerance THE OBSERVER, 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Copy 2/24 for publication 3/2 bring peace to Israel and its neighbors. does not equate to agreement. Nashville, TN 37205 Copy 3/16 for publication 3/23 The solutions, ultimately, are political We would all be wise to remember and not military. the words of our second president, John This newspaper is made possible by funds I am a proud member and supporter of Adams, who defended the British troops raised in the Jewish Federation Annual J Street and the work of its leader, Jeremy accused of the Boston Massacre. He Campaign. All material must be typed. Ben Ami, a very reasonable and articulate wrote, “Facts are stubborn things; and The Observer is a member of the person who is in no way an “enemy” of whatever may be our wishes, our inclina- American Jewish Press Association and the FOR ADVERTISING Israel. Rather, he loves Israel and wants to tions, or the dictates of our passion, they Jewish Telegraphic Agency. see it survive and live up to its democratic cannot alter the state of facts and evi- DEADLINES ideals. He speaks for those who believe dence.” Adams understood the need to While The Observer makes every contact Carrie Mills, that Israel needs to alter its course and deal seek the truth – regardless of his person- possibly effort to accept only reputable fairly with Palestinians, so as to reach a al feeling towards the British rule. advertisers of the highest quality, we cannot Advertising Manager peaceful agreement fair to both sides. Let us all strive to seek the truth guarantee the Kasruth of their products. 356-3242, ext. 299 Fairness includes security for Israel, and an together – in good faith and with a will- The Jewish Observer independent state for the Palestinians. ingness to evaluate facts and evidence. Founded in 1934 by c c c c The essence of a peace treaty can JACQUES BACK only be negotiated by both sides and must Michael Hershey 4 February 17, 2012 The Observer an Israeli’s view New Israeli political candidates: Popularity vs. substance?

By Inbar Shaked been hosting “Ulpan Shishi,” the main painful to Israelis and attacking the gov- I must admit that even thought I primetime newscast of the week on ernment was discussed for weeks after he don’t identify myself with any party yet, f you ask Israelis what they think Israel’s channel 2. Over the years, many left his position. I believe he was suc- Yechimovich seems like a politician who about a politician, they will never journalists have complained that Lapid is cessful in creating a groundswell of pub- says what she thinks and acts according- be completely satisfied, will always not as objective as a primetime journalist lic support for his political ambitions ly, whether you like it or not. Noam want the government to do more, should be and that he was using his job even before we knew his position about Shalit, Gilad Shalit’s father, must feel and will be confident that the next to promote himself until the time he security, economics, education, etc. the same way I do about Yechimovich, as government will be much better. decided to run for elected office. The fact that Lapid achieved this public he announced a couple of weeks ago that II think it’s not just This criticism is not unwarranted, as popularity so quickly and before voters he will join her and run for a Knesset an Israeli mindset, I Yair Lapid’s father, Tomi Lapid, both knew his views on the issues shows his seat for the Labor party. think it’s called being established and became the chairman of strength, but reveals a weakness about No one can predict what is going to human. The desire for The SHINUY (“the Change”) Party the Israeli public. happen in the next election in Israel or perfection is what after many years he working as a televi- Lapid isn’t the only journalist who when the next election will occur. But drives our life. The sion journalist. Tomi Lapid received a lot moved from journalism to politics. it will certainly be very interesting. For need to complain is a of support from Israeli citizens (especial- Shelly Yechimovich, currently the most Israelis Lapid’s and Shalit’s deci- need to vent. The Inbar Shaked ly from the younger generation) and was chairman of the Labor Party, did the sions to enter politics and run for office question is: Which of known for his strict beliefs that the ultra- same thing in 2005. In Yechimoivich’s is the beginning of new hope. For me, these should we focus on: the desire for Orthodox should serve in the army and case everyone knew her political views that’s not enough to get me hopeful. perfection or the need to complain? Is hold paying jobs in order to receive gov- while she was a journalist. Yechimovich But if you add to their candidacies the there any difference between them? ernment benefits. However, in the case who started as a radio journalist then current leadership of Shelley And how is it that on the day Yair Lapid of Tomi’s son, Yair, no one is sure what hosted her own TV show (“Meet the Yechimovich, Labor Party, and Tzipi stepped down from his position as a his ideology is. Press” on channel 2) always claimed Livni, chair of the Kadima party, then I leading journalist and announced that This question of whether Yair Lapid that “there is no such a thing an objec- too, can be hopeful. c he would run for elected office, 40 per- used his role as a journalist to manipu- tive journalist.” Though both Lapid and cent of those Israeli’s polled said they late the Israeli viewers and gain their Yechimovich were journalists at the Inbar Shaked is the shlicha with the would vote for him? support by using subconscious “signals” same channel, in my opinion this is all Jewish Federation, bringing a personal view For the last four years Lapid has discussing issues that are inherently they have in common. of Israel to our community. Congregations celebrate Purim with food, fun, costumes reak out the aprons and dust Congregation Sherith Israel will ance of an Israeli dance by the k-3rd Casino (for Tzedakah). There is a cost off the rolling pins – it’s get- hold the traditional Megillah reading at graders. At 7:30 p.m dinner for the for the dinner and caberet. Call the ting close to Purim, time for 6:30 p.m. on Wed., March 7, with dessert congregation, catered by Bobbi Limor, synagogue office for information and reading the Megillah and to follow. On Thurs., March 8, the will be in the Social Hall along with reservation, 269-4592 or go to making hamantaschen. Megillah will be read at 4 p.m., followed the WES Cabaret & USY Shushan www.westendsyn.org. c Each of Nashville’s five by the Sisterhood’s Purim Festival. Bcongregations has a host of activities on Reservations are required for the Purim tap for this festive holiday. Here’s what’s festival; call the shul office for reserva- in store, but check with your congrega- tions. Adults are encouraged to wear tion for information on reservations and costumes and vie for cash prizes. Buy any fees. The Temple – Congregation Chabad of Nashville holds the tra- Ohabai Sholom begins its Purim celebra- ditional reading of the Megillah – com- tions on Fri., March 9, with a pre-service plete with Haman booing and haman- oneg with Mordechai martinis and Israel! taschen for all – at 6:30 p.m. on Wed., Purim punch. A service and congrega- March 7. The next day, Thurs., March tional dinner will follow, along with hroughout the United States Eden Feta Cheese – Trader Joe’s 8, people can celebrate Purim under the strolling magician and balloon animals. and in many parts of the world, Dorot frozen garlic and herbs – big top, a circus-themed festival includ- An adults-only party is set for Sat., there is a concerted effort to Trader Joe’s March 10, with drinks, desserts, silent T ing magician, food and gifts that starts delegitimze the State of Israel. One of Telma products – Publix at 5 p.m. auction and magic and hypnosis. the tactics being used is a boycott of Moroccan Hair Oil treatment – Congregation Micah begins Purim There’s a Purim Carnival on Sun., Israeli products. This action has been Cosmetics Market celebrations on Wed., March 7, with the March 11, featuring a magician, pony seen in several locations in our country. Sweet Clementines (oranges) – reading of the Megillah at 6 p.m. rides, a climbing wall, food trucks, In an effort to counter that boycott Costco Shushan Purim will be marked at booths, games and silent auction. and support Israel, many Jewish com- Cedars Halva – Whole Foods evening services at 7:30 p.m. on Fri., There’s a charge for the carnival. munities and organizations have urged refrigerated section March 9. There’s a special study session Temple preschoolers will enjoy a Americans to buy Israeli products. The Streit’s Quinoa and Israeli on the Secret Scroll of Esther on the Purim carnival on Mon., March 12. Community Relations Committee of Couscous – Harris Teeter morning of Sat., March 10, with Micah’s West End Synagogue holds a Purim the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Jaffa Oranges – Publix Bagels, Love, and Torah study group. At Celebration for families with young chil- The Observer want to make it easier for Muscato wine by Golan Wineries – 9:30 a.m. on Sun., March 11, there will dren on Wed., March 7, at 5:30 p.m. Nashvillians to find Israeli-made goods Bud’s Wine and Liquor, be religious school and Purim Shpiel, fol- A Purim celebration for all will by publishing a list of the products and Green Hills lowed at 11:30 a.m. by Micah’s annual begin at 6:30 p.m, in the Main where to find them, locally. Carries musical instruments made Purim Carnival hosted by the temple’s Sanctuary, which includes the We need your help. If you know of in Israel – Gymboree Play & teen youth group, MiTY. Megillah reading and also a perform- available products and the stores that Music, Cool Springs carry them, email that information to Yehuda Yahrzeit candles – Whole [email protected]. Food, cloth- Foods Moving? Need Help Packing? ing, jewelry, wine, etc., whatever you Yehuda matzos – Kroger have found, please share it with our Yehuda and Aviv matzo products – community. Whole Foods See the updated list, below and Cosmetics found at Target: Packing Express send your additions to judy@jewish- Equate 3 Micro Remodeling nashville.org or call 354-1637. Cream Custom Packing / Unpacking Services Daily Regenerating Serum Free Estimates Great Referrals Israeli silver jewelry - Eye Lifting Serum Ken & Annette Lewis -owners 615-594-1960 area TJMaxx stores My Time Firming Cream est. 1989 Geffen Pickles – Belle Meade Naot shoes and sandals – Cute and Kroger Comfy Shoes, Green Hills See what’s happening in the community. Sabra Hummus and dips – area Osem Israel Couscous, large bags – grocery stores and Costco Costco Go to www.jewishnashville.org The Observer February 17, 2012 5 Lion of Judah event offers chance to create with fiber artist

By Kathy Carlson roughly 100-foot wimpel-in-progress is worked in clay for 10 years but after the itself a scroll that goes from community birth of her second child, she turned to ashville’s Lion of Judah to community, where women add their fiber and quilting techniques to further participants will add stories to a continuing collection of sto- her exploration of Jewish ritual objects. their personal stamp to ries. It has been to Philadelphia and to She has shown her work at The an ever-evolving com- a Jewish conference, Limmud NY, Jewish Museum in New York, the munal artwork when Kanter said. Contemporary Jewish Museum in San noted fiber artist Invitations to the event will be Francisco, American Jewish RachelN Kanter comes here next month. mailed to Nashville’s Lions of Judah. University, Hebrew Union College, Kanter will participate in a Jewish Other community women who are inter- the Society for the Advancement of Federation Lions of Judah luncheon and ested in making the philanthropic com- Judaism and Temple Emanu-El in New workshop set for 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on mitment to become a Lion of Judah are York, among other places. Her piece Fri., March 9, in the Gordon Jewish encouraged to contact Naomi Limor “Fringed Garment” is in The Jewish Community Center. In addition, her Sedek, Federation Campaign director, at Museum’s permanent collection, and work will be displayed at the GJCC [email protected] or 615/354- her work can be viewed online at throughout March. The national Lion 1642. All Lions – current and new par- www.rachelkanter.com. of Judah designation recognizes women ticipants – will receive an invitation. “I am very interested in taking these who have given $5,000 or more annual- Kanter is the sister-in-law of Pam traditional Jewish ritual objects and not ly to the Jewish Federation of Nashville’s Kelner, executive director of Jewish changing the essence of them, but Annual Campaign. Family Service, and Shaul Kelner, assis- changing them a bit so they work with “We are going to be creating a com- tant professor of sociology and Jewish my vision and what I want to do today,” munity wimpel,” Kanter said in a tele- Studies at Vanderbilt University. Kanter she said. “I study Jewish texts a lot – I phone interview. A wimpel is a tradi- grew up sewing, knitting and creating look at the text and all these commen- ‘Immersion: Rebirth,’ Hand dyed silk, cotton, tional Torah binder, wrapped like a belt glass beads, by Rachel Kanter other craft works, then earned bachelor’s taries,” she said. “I feel my work is along around a Torah scroll to hold it in place and master’s degrees in ceramics. She those lines.” c before the Torah is dressed. “Instead of holding the Torah In a German Jewish tradition that together, (this wimpel) will conceptu- largely disappeared after the Holocaust, a ally hold the community together,” wimpel was fashioned from the swad- Kanter said. Participants will use Jacob’s Ladder: A JFS initiative dling cloth used at a baby boy’s bris and acrylic paint and permanent markers to then given to the child, she said. On it illustrate their own stories, sense of and a moment to reflect were embroidered the child’s name, birth community and family life, she said. By Daniella Pressner The goal is for the volunteer to have a date and family lineage. Parents also Kanter will also talk about her work, in social exchange with the senior while would embroider depictions of what they which she explores the Jewish experi- n Sun., March 11, when changing the lightbulr or battery. hoped and dreamed for the child. The ence through women’s eyes. daylight savings begins, Anna Sir, senior volunteer coordi- family presented the wimpel to their syn- “I think it’s a very interesting con- Jewish Family Service nator, noted, “Projects such as this seem agogue when their son turned three, a cept and program to bind everyone (JFS) will launch so small in terms of the time involved, birthday that marked the first time to cut together,” said Lion of Judah Karen Jacob’s Ladder, a pro- but the impact is far greater. It’s a great the boy’s hair and the age at which he Yazdian, donor acquisitions chair for the gram geared towards opportunity to strengthen the connec- could begin to study. The wimpel would Federation’s 2012 Annual Campaign. Oimproving and enriching the lives of tion between our Jewish seniors and the continue to be used to bind the Torah on All Lions will have an opportunity Nashville’s Jewish seniors and volun- entire community. “ the child’s birthday, bar mitzvah, wed- to contribute to the project and it’s not teers. On this day, volunteers will be The name Jacob’s Ladder comes ding and throughout his life, she said. necessary to be a professional artist. The paired with seniors interested in replac- from Genesis 28: 11-14, where Jacob lies ing the batteries in their smoke detec- down to rest only to have a dream about tors, changing light bulbs, and setting angels ascending and descending a lad- clocks in their homes that are unreach- der. The ladder, planted firmly on the able without a ladder. ground, reaches up to the heavens. The “With its unusual combination of medieval French commentator, Rashi, information, resources, and flexibility, observes that angels both ascend and JFS is uniquely poised to respond to our descend the ladder and ultimately seniors’ needs in a significant and time- explains that they are not the same ly manner,” said Pam Kelner, JFS execu- angels but different ones. Rashi argues tive director. This happens through the that the angels that accompany Jacob Golden Lunch Bunch at the Temple from the Holy Land cannot leave the every other week, but also happens Holy Land and therefore must ascend to through events that occur once yearly, the Heavens. As such, other angels such as the Senior Seder, the from outside the Holy Land must Alzheimer’s Symposium and JFS’ descend to accompany Jacob on his way. Services for Seniors Directory. Thus, to navigate foreign soil, Jacob Kelner said that this newest initia- needed different guardians from those tive was born out of a short discussion a that protected him in his birthplace. But gentleman had with one of JFS’ social throughout his travels, Jacob is always workers. He explained that he had just provided with guardians. paid someone $25 to change his light As our seniors move from being the bulb and although this gentleman did “angels” who have served others to not expect anything in return, his sim- those in need of help, they, too, enter ple words served as the impetus for new and unfamiliar territory and will Jacob’s Ladder. need new “angels” to help them navi- “There are many instances of this gate this journey. happening,” said Kelner, “or even worse, As scholar David Ariel writes, NOT happening. Many seniors don’t “When we help another person to change the batteries in smoke alarms, ascend the ladder, we finish the work of putting them at great risk. Some don’t creation….” change their light bulbs because they are Interested seniors should call too high to reach or the seniors do not Anna Sir, senior volunteer coordina- feel steady on their feet. We saw this as tor, at 615/354-1686, to schedule a simple way for Jewish Family Service their appointments. Those interested to help not only our seniors, but to pro- in volunteering should call Sir for vide an easy volunteer opportunity assignments, directions and a brief twice a year,” when daylight savings training. For more information on begins and ends. JFS or upcoming opportunities, con- Although the program will begin, tact Pam Kelner. c only with changing light bulbs and smoke alarm batteries, JFS will seek Daniella Pressner is president of Jewish other tasks to help seniors twice a year. Family Service

6 February 17, 2012 The Observer Tzedakah Tzunday volunteers step up to raise funds Continued from page 1 the last shift,” said Annual Campaign Chair Sandy Averbuch. “…They just got right down to work and started call- ing.” One major donor added $5,000 to a previously pledged gift in honor of the young people, she added. Amy Seibold was part of the younger crowd at the Jewish Federation fundraiser, held in the Gordon Jewish Community Center for Tzedakah Tzunday. She said she volunteers because of Get Connected, the Nashville Jewish community’s subsidized trips to Israel for rising high school sen- iors. Her favorite part of the trip to Israel was making friends with teens in Hadera, Israel, which is paired with Nashville and other southeastern cities through the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Partnership2Gether program. At least 20 rising high school sen- iors will see Israel with Get Connected this summer, said Andy Neuman, who chairs the Get Connected board. “They’re supporting Israel and becoming part of the community by making calls.” “I just think it’s so important. Federation does so much for our commu- nity, (we want to) take the opportunity to give back,” said Akiva School teacher Tzedakah Tzunday “central” was filled with phoners, paperwork sorters, letter writers and others who all contributed their time to “do a Daniel Hoffman, who will chaperone world of good.” this year’s get Connected Trip along with Congregation Micah Membership continued. “Making a donation to Fellow Jewish agency leaders also More Photos Director Mindy Drongowski. “It’s great Federation is not a prerequisite to being worked the phones, including Gordon to see so many participants here today.” connected to the community.” Jewish Community Center Executive on pages 8-9 “I am here because I’m going to Israel Freedman added, “Steven’s leader- Director Eric Goldstein and Jewish Family do. There are Jews that need help when with the Get Connected trip,” said Aron ship was critical to the success of Service Director Pamela Kelner, joining things get bad.” Rosing, a junior at Hume Fogg Academic Tzedakah Tzunday. We are blessed with with the Federation’s Executive Director The Seibold mother-and-daughter High School. The phone-a-thon was fabulous campaign volunteers and Steven Mark Freedman. spoke while sorting Tzedakah Tzunday nothing new for him, since he has worked went the extra mile to ensure we’d have “It makes me feel like I’m doing paperwork. Gail said she and Amy have the phones for a political campaign. plenty of callers throughout the day.” something active on behalf of Israel and volunteered for the past three or four Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High “I think (Tzedakah Tzunday) ran very that’s very important to me,” Steve years, “but I always did before, usually senior Gabriel Bedne participated in Get smoothly,” Averbuch said. “Steven Remer Hirsch said between calls. He serves on with my mom,” the late Federation librar- Connected last summer. “I really wanted had a plan in mind and I think we execut- the campaign cabinet and Federation ian and archivist Annette Levy Ratkin, to come back to show my appreciation ed it to the best of our ability. … We board of directors. who died late last year. “I just truthfully for the trip. … Anything I can do to help played by the plan and ended up (at) more “I have a daughter at Akiva (Davi, like to give back,” Gail said. “Federation people fund the trip,” he said at the start than last year. … We’re not through yet.” age 6) and another at the JCC Early has helped me in the past.” c of his Tzedakah Tzunday shift. He also Ryan Goodstadt and six of his Childhood Learning Center (Emmie, 4) Even if you missed an awesome especially enjoyed the time meeting Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity brothers at and I just feel like we have such a per- Tzedakah Tzunday, there’s time to teens in Hadera. Vanderbilt University joined Hillel sonal investment in the Jewish commu- make a gift to the Federation’s 2012 Tzedakah Tzunday Chair Steven executive director Ari Dubin to phone nity, in building its future,” said Abby Annual Campaign. You’ll make a world Remer said he was pleased with the community members. “This is one of our Wolf. “We just want to give back.” of difference here in Nashville, in Israel results, citing greater participation from community service projects for the fra- Adam Faragalli participated in a and around the world. You’ll be chang- volunteers and increased gifts. “I’m proud ternity,” the freshman said. Federation-funded service trip to the ing lives in places such as Moldova, of the hard work of the volunteers,” he Patricia Schwartz, Akiva’s head of Jewish community of Beltsy, Moldova, where Federation dollars help Jews not said. “We worked hard to let people know school, said, “We’re very grateful for the last summer. “It’s pretty well organized; only with food and necessities but also we want to connect with them. Whether scholarship dollars that Federation sup- it’s just challenging,” he said as he per- with maintaining ties to our Jewish they give or not is their responsibility. It’s plies. They make it possible for students sisted with calls, even though he seemed world through Camp Delet in Beltsy, our responsibility to reach out to them. to attend Akiva on scholarship who to be reaching only voice mail. for example. To make your pledge or “We want people to feel like couldn’t otherwise afford to attend. I Volunteer Victoria Cohen for more information, contact Naomi they’re part of the community, whether believe in Federation. When people are Crumpton said, “I feel very privileged to Limor Sedek, at naomi@jewish- they’re attending a senior lunch or in need, Federation is there. It’s targeted be able to do this. … Although financial nashville.org or at (615) 354-1642. playing basketball” at the GJCC, he and focused; I appreciate that.” times are tough it’s an important thing to

National Conference on Jewish Affairs-Nashville SENIOR

The National Conference on Jewish Affairs is dedicated to supporting the rights and safety of the Jewish people in America, SEDER in Israel and around the world under the Rule of Law by providing Jewish Family Service strong Jewish leadership, advocacy and education to respond to Senior Seder In Memory of Hannah Kayser Palmer and counter the growing, orchestrated demonizing of Israel, Jewry, Thursday, March 29, 2012 and America. 11:30 am at the Gordon JCC Seder led by Rabbi Saul Strosberg join us by sending your name and email to and Cantor Lieberman [email protected] $10 per person by March 23, 2012 Send reservations to Jewish Family Service Attn: Anna Sir http://nationalconferenceonjewishaffairs.org/ 801 Percy Warner Blvd., Suite 103 http://www.ncjanashville.org/ Nashville, TN 37205 This event is open to seniors of all ages in the Nashville Jewish community. Chazak Achsav!-Strength Now! Questions: Call Anna Sir at 354-1686. The Observer February 17, 2012 7 Tzedakah Tzunday volunteers step up

Vanderbilt Hillel members, Get Connected alumni and new participants, and Vanderbilt Alpha Epsilon Pi members joined together in a spirited phoning session. Photos: Rick Malkin

Mark Freedman, Federation executive director; David Hanchrow, Federation Board member; Sara Hanai (in white), Tzedakah Tzunday trainer, helps Mindy Hirt, right, while Michael Rosen Sandy Averbuch, chair of the Annual Campaign; Ted Mayden, Federation president; Fred and Laurie Fishel make phone calls to community members. Zimmerman, 2012 beneficiary agency liaison vice chair.

Dianne Berry, Lynne Fleischer, Karen Yazdian Joel Abramson, Federation community engagement associate; Abbie Wolf; Blair Davis

8 February 17, 2012 The Observer p to raise funds for whole community

Jewish Federation Annual Campaign Tzedakah Tzunday2012

Steven Remer, Tzedakah Tzunday chair, points out information on a pledge card to Steve and Marsha Jaffa, left, and Kassie Bateman share a little levity between phone calls. Ellen Potash.

It’s not FULLY SUBSIDIZED just about YOUNG ADULT MISSION OPPORTUNITIES the numbers. FOR THE SUMMERHands-On OF Mission2012 to Beltsy, Moldova with Greensboro, N.C. Federation June 27 - July 8, 2012 Relationships are everything. National Young Leadership (For college students, grad students, Summer Mission to Israel and those ages 22 - 35) July 1 - 10, 2012 We are thrilled, for a second year, to partner The better we know you, the better (Young Professionals, ages 25 - 45) with the Greensboro, N.C. Federation in their 12-year relationship with the Jewish we’re able to serve you. You’ll You’ll get an insider’s look at the most Community of Beltsy, Moldova, in the cre- develop long-term relationships fascinating country in the world as you ation of Camp Delet, a week long camp for explore Israel from the North to the Negev children and families. On this trip you will with real people—not voice getting to know its spirit, people, geography, learn about the history of our Jewish people and history. Your Israeli peers and leaders in the Former Soviet Union (FSU) and be- mailboxes—who understand the from the political, cultural, and business come an active contributor to the lives of context of your business and help worlds will introduce you to their country in those still living there. Trip participants will be a new way. And as you deepen your facilitators and will be expected to lead pro- guide you to success. connection with Israel and its people, you’ll grams and teach a skill (art, sports, dance, develop a personal understanding of Judaic-themed, etc.). Camp is a rich immer- how Federation, the most effective Jewish sion experience and one should be prepared fund-raising and community-building to participate fully. In addition to the camp organization, unites and cares for Jews experience, there are group sightseeing out- in Israel and worldwide. ings. This is a unique travel and immersion group trip for young adults who are adven- APPLICATIONS FOR BOTH TRIPS turous, enthusiastic, hard-working and look- DUE APRIL 11, 2012 ing to have an incredible experience. The Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee has launched a new initiative to send Cathy Werthan, President, CPA/PFS and fully subsidize promising young adults to the areas of the world where our help and attention is needed most. In addition, we want to encourage those connected with Israel to deepen their connection and share that enthusiasm with our local community. 615.322.1225 • www.cpacg.com Application available online If you have questions please contact Harriet Schiftan, 1720 West End Avenue • Suite 403 • Nashville, TN 37203 • Email: [email protected] Planning Director at [email protected] at www.jewishnashville.org or call 615-354-1687.

The Observer February 17, 2012 9 PassoverThe Issue

Coming March 2, 2012

A time for the Jewish Community to prepare special foods and celebrate this meaningful time of year. Be sure to be a part of this annual issue. Publication date is March 2, 2012 Deadline for ads is February 24, 2012 Contact Carrie Mills, Advertising Manager 615-354-1699 e-mail [email protected] fax 615-352-0056

10 February 17, 2012 The Observer The Temple donates $15,000 to 12 Nashville charities n a time of need, when children, ed among 12 local charities: Alive Fund, Memorial Tablet Fund and addi- The Temple’s Social Action men and women are hungry, with- Hospice, Better Decisions, Court tional funds generated through direct Committee was founded by past board out shelter, troubled or without Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), donations by members in honor of vari- member Fred Goldner, M.D. and Rabbi hope, and many have lost their Homework Hotline, Jewish Family ous life cycle events. Emeritus Randall M. Falk in 1960, and jobs or homes, The Temple – Service of Nashville, Nashville Adult Reaching out to those in need is was inspired by the establishment of the Congregation Ohabai Sholom Literacy Council (NALC), Nashville central to the Jewish faith, notes Senior Reform Judaism Movement’s first social Irenewed its pledge to help others, giving Cares, Opportunities Industrialization Rabbi Mark Schiftan of The Temple. “In action center in Washington D.C. in a financial boost to 12 local charities in Center (OIC), Planned Parenthood of Judaism, charity giving is viewed as an October 1959, called the Religious the Greater Nashville area. Middle & East Tennessee, The Temple’s obligation in Jewish law and tradition. Action Center (RAC) for Reform The Social Action Committee of Room in the Inn, Tennessee Justice Jews have a mandate within our Torah Judaism. The Temple has been making donations Center, and Youth Villages. and Talmud to improve the world in In addition to supporting its local through its permanent Social Action In the past 12 years, The Temple has which we live, called ‘tikkun olam’. community in a monetary way, The Funds to area charities since 1971, and donated over $260,000 to local charities Tikkun olam is achieved through the Temple’s Social Action Committee also this year is no exception, says Chair from its Social Action Funds. Those performance of good deeds; our Social educates and mobilizes its Temple mem- Carol Fradkin. funds include the Lee & Theresa Kuhn Action Committee was founded on bers on social concerns within the Gifts totaling $15,000 were allocat- Social Action Fund, Calvin A. Buchman those principles.” Nashville community. c WES visiting scholar Sager fosters conversation with Jewish texts By Kathy Carlson half years. Jewish life and culture has always moved way of explaining the conversation” peo- Sager, a congregational rabbi for 32 forward at the intersection of tradition ple have when they engage with Jewish hen West End years, said he developed in his rabbinate and imagination.” texts. “This is ultimately about serving Synagogue marks a community culture of self-empowered Ancient texts are records of conver- my congregation in a way that is highly its 15th annual learning by engaging in meaningful con- sations on timely and timeless issues, he beneficial to them as lifelong learners.” Total Shabbat this versations with ancient Jewish texts. continued. These sources ask questions In addition to the scholar-in-resi- month, partici- These days, he said, people general- that we are asking today. dence, synagogue attendees will be treat- pants will be able ly approach important decisions – moral, Engaging with ancient texts is not a ed to a wide array of choices throughout Wto experience a way of learning built ethical, political – “by dipping into the question-and-answer proposition, but a the day for adults, families and children around conversations that started cen- well of secular, democratic society.” But give-and-take conversation that frees the of all ages. There will also be a Shabbat turies ago among fellow Jews - scholars as Jews we also have another world to imagination to come up with new ques- dinner Friday night, and a Kiddush and students alike. draw on, the richness of Jewish texts and tions that lead to new paths of learning lunch Saturday. Total Shabbat wraps up The weekend begins on the evening traditions. Sager wants to better and action, Sager said. “The purpose of with a Seudah Shlishit and Havdalah led of Fri., Feb. 24, and continues through acquaint Jews with that world – the sicha is to develop conversations by students in the Religious School. And Havdalah on Sat., Feb. 25. Scholar in world of Talmud, Mishnah, and other between lived experience and Jewish for families with young children, there is Residence Rabbi Steven Sager will teach classical texts. texts.” even a “Pajama Havdalah.” on “The Ark, the Sanctuary and the “It is common in the American Rose said his study with Sager has For more information, or to make Traveler: Carrying The Torah Then and Jewish community that people do not helped him to focus on his role as con- reservations for Shabbat meals, email Now.” Sager will join reflections on the feel like worthy conversation partners gregational educator and to “keep sight [email protected] or call 269-4592 weekly Torah reading with the theme of with traditional texts,” Sager said. “But (of the fact) that as rabbi I have unique and RSVP to Danielle. c social justice. Sager, rabbi emeritus of Beth El Synagogue in Durham, N.C., leads the organization Sicha, which promotes the Bargains for shalach manot abound, ongoing conversation between classical Jewish tradition and modern life. West you just have to know where to look End Synagogue Rabbi Kliel Rose has par- ticipated with Sager for more than a year By Edmon J. Rodman the Easter baskets, the pickings are easi- he was a rabbi. I felt so relieved. in a Sicha program called Sichat er — I saw a kippah-wearing man also The rabbi was right. Walking the Rabbanim, or conversation among rabbis. LOS ANGELES (JTA) — Falling eyeing the stuff. aisles, I easily found packages of nuts, Rose said that Sichat Rabbanim between the giving season of Chanukah “Do you ever shop in here for cookies, candies and pretzels, all certified starts with two questions: What are the and the getting season of tax refunds, Purim?” I finally asked, desperately want- kosher. But that wasn’t enough; I also sacred conversations that will be mean- Purim time finds households like mine ing a co-conspirator. wanted a theme. The best Purim baskets ingful to my members? In what ways do I searching for ways to keep holiday “Yes, for shalach manot they have have some clever connecting idea, like participate and serve as guide making expenses down to earth without losing all kinds of stuff, sometimes even close- “A night at the movies,” the theme of a sure these conversations are rooted in a the mirth. out Jewish things,” he replied. plastic movie popcorn box filled with Jewish context? What with the cost of fancy, profes- “There’s kosher apple juice, food, candy and popping corn that my syna- For Rose and his congregation, those sionally made kosher shalach manot and you get so much more here. You gogue sent me one year. sacred conversations involved social jus- (from “mishloach manot,” “sending of found the right meshuginah,” he I brainstormed for a minute, and tice and its connection to Jewish tradition portions”) baskets going for 50 bucks and added, pointing me toward a red plastic after tossing aside a theme of Shushan and Jewish texts. “It’s something that real- up, I wanted to find a less expensive way container that he claimed was “holi- nightlife (I didn’t want to give a basket ly transcends time, Jewishly speaking,” to share the joy with more people. day” looking. of 99-cent booze), I settled on a more Rose said. “There is an ethical imperative I wanted to make my own basket of As he gave me his phone number, in sober theme (or so I thought) of the which demands that we think through goodies, but what were the basic require- case I needed more details, I discovered Megillah’s four main characters. c these issues and then respond with certain ments? I mean very basic. On Purim, actions as Jews. according to Jewish law, you should send “For me as a congregational rabbi, I at least two food items to at least one find that that I do not get enough time – person, both to ensure that they have or perhaps have not carved out enough food for a Purim feast and to promote time – to really cultivate” the skill of friendship between Jews. teaching, he said. “Being able to sit with So what kind of friendship could I someone who is intellectually stimulat- promote for, let’s say, 10 bucks or less? I ing, wise and more steeped in ancient wanted variety, abundance, novelty and rabbinic texts than I am is just an kosher. I wondered, could I fill my basket absolute honor.” at that purple island of bargains, the 99 Rose has studied Jewish texts related Cents Only Store? to social justice with Sager over the past I really didn’t want to give a basket year. The study “gives me and the sub- filled with clearance cookies, weird ject more credibility,” Rose said. candy and obscure snacks. Yet since This year, Sager said, he and Rose these stores promote themselves by say- have been examining how Rose can ing “Shop us first ... for everything,” with share what he has learned. perfect Purim logic I reasoned why not Sager “takes seriously not only his shalach manot? relationship with me but my relationship Admittedly I had my doubts. That is with this congregation,” Rose said, until while searching the Valentine’s adding that Sager has visited West End Day chazerai for some kind of box to Synagogue three times over two and a hold my discoveries — once they put out The Observer February 17, 2012 11 unteering for Room in the Inn, as the Lauren was born on April 27, 1999 died peacefully on Feb. 5. She was pre- guests are hosted at the Temple and West in Nashville. She is the daughter of Ellen ceded in death by her husband, Willard End Synagogue. He helps cook and and Michael Rosen. Her maternal R. Perlen; parents, Myrtle and Joe serve, and sits to talk with the homeless grandparents are Ann and Gene Shavlan Shimlock, and her brother, Sol lifecycles men and women, getting to know them of Houston, Texas. Lauren is the younger Shimlock. She is survived by her two as people. In addition, he has purchased sister of Lindseyand Aaron Rosen. sons, Joe (Maxine) Perlen and Arthur Births extra items like hats and gloves to help For her Mitzvah Project, Lauren is (Lisa) Perlen, and three grandchildren, keep them warm throughout the winter collecting school supplies for children in Whitney, Will and Sam Perlen. Born in Lori and Dan Lubetkin announce months. He will be taking part in the South Africa. Milan, Tenn., she moved to Nashville in the birth of their second child, Tova Jewish Foundation of Nashville’s B’nai A seventh grader at Currey Ingram 1935 and graduated from Hume-Fogg Faith Lubetkin, on Jan. 4 in Woodlands Tzedek teen philanthropy program. Academy, Lauren’s special interests High School. Margaret worked in the Hills, Calif. She is named in honor of her include photography and computer family business, Willard Jewelry Store, great-grandparents, the late Fannie Lauren Rachel Rosen became a Bat graphics, music, dance, cheerleading, until she retired. She was an active vol- Zeitlin and Daniel Tucker Zeitlin of Mitzvah in Israel on soccer, summers at Camp Barney unteer and member of Hadassah, B’nai Nashville, Sylvia Frankel Lubetkin and Dec. 26, 2011. She trav- Medintz, traveling and spending time B’rith, Jewish Family Service, West End Tillie Oberman. Tova is the granddaugh- eled with her grandpar- with her family and friends. Synagogue Sisterhood, Akiva School, ter of Shirley and Phil Lubetkin of ents, Betty Lee and and the Kidney Foundation of Middle Nashville and Lila and Larry Oberman of Howard Rosen, and Tennessee, where she was a regular Agoura Hills, Calif., and the sister of spent 1 1/2 weeks trav- Sympathy recipient of volunteer of the year Elijah Samuel Lubetkin. eling throughout Israel. awards, including the Mary Strobel Her Bat Mitzvah took Lauren Rachel . . . to the family of Margaret Award. Donations may be made to West Andy and Shira Gryll of Baltimore place on Masada. Rosen Shimlock Perlen, 89, of Nashville, who End Synagogue. announce the arrival of their daughter, Yocheved Devorah, who was born on Jan. 28. She is the sister of Chava and Yisroel. Yocheved is the granddaughter JFS and B’nai B’rith Low-vision program of Lee and Michael Gryll of Nashville and Cheryl and Philip Rosenfeld of kickoff event features Dr. Jeffrey Sonsino Baltimore. She is also the great-grand- daughter of Fannie and Max Notowitz of et’s face it, as we age reading is pendence. Examples of a variety of low- Memphis, Joyce and Marvin Rosenfeld just one of those things that vision aids will be available to view at of Baltimore, and Glenda and Paul become more and more chal- the event. Beller of Westhampton, N.J. lenging. Please join Jewish The event is part of the Thank Family Service and B’nai Goodness It’s Thursday (TGIT) pro- B’nai Mitzvah Brith Maimonides Lodge at gram at the Gordon Jewish Community Lthe kick-off event for their Low-vision Center. To RSVP, contact Carrie Mills aids program on Thurs., March 15, begin- at [email protected] or 615/356- Boaz Kelner will be called to the ning with lunch at 11:30 a.m. and the 7170. If you are unable to attend the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah program at 12:45 p.m. Dr. Jeffrey Sonsino kick-off event, but would like to find on the weekend of will be speaking about “Reading with out more about the program, contact March 9, at Vision Impairment,” something that Toni Jacobsen, Jewish Family Service at Congregation Micah affects everyone with age. 354-1672. and Congregation The Low-vision aids program serves Sonsino, O.D., F.A.A.O., is an Sherith Israel. He is the seniors who find it difficult to engage in assistant professor and director of the son of Pam and Shaul basic daily activities such as cooking, Scleral Lens Clinic at Vanderbilt Eye Kelner, the brother of Boaz Kelner locating appropriate clothing, continu- Institute. Additionally, he is the presi- Shoshana and grandson ing hobbies, or reading the newspaper dent of LVR Technology, LLC, a com- of Joan and Gerry Ely, of Loveladies, due to vision difficulties. The goal is to pany that is commercializing technolo- N.J., and Rhoda and Mort Schulman of provide low-vision aids, free of charge, to gy he invented to help those with Tamarac, Fla. seniors so they can maintain their inde- vision impairment. c Dr. Jeffrey Sonsino A seventh grader at Montgomery Bell Academy, and a graduate of Akiva School, Boaz is a sports enthusiast who enjoys all types of athletics from basket- Saying ‘I love you’ with Israeli flowers ball to ping-pong. He loves acting, and will perform on stage this winter in the sraeli farmers sent millions of flow- Not surprisingly, Flower Growers to roses, gerberas, anemones and butter- MBA junior school production of ers to Europe, North America and Association Secretary General Haim cups were also in high demand. The “Johnny Tremain.” Boaz keeps up with Asia for Valentine’s Day, reported Hadad reported a jump of 40-70 percent Flower Growers Association reported his Akiva School friends and is continu- the Flower Growers Association. in demand for Israeli flowers in the run- that in the run-up to Valentine's Day ing his Jewish education through the It's a tradition for people around up to the holiday of love. Red was the flower sales would bring in some $10 Tichon Akiva alumni program. the world to show their love with most popular color of flowers this year, million - with 90 percent of sales com- For his Mitzvah project, Boaz is vol- Iflowers on Valentine's Day. said Hadad. He added that in addition ing from export. c – Israel21c.org

Your Real Estate Resource David Roberts Cell: 615-430-1598 Business Card Directory Office: 615-383-6600 [email protected] YOUR GUIDE TO FINE BUSINESSES AND SERVICES AROUND MUSIC CITY.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS, 615.356.3242 EXT. 299 2319 Crestmoor Rd. Nashville, TN 37215 THEY’RE THE BEST! ADVERTISE Green Hills Belle Meade Jewelry & Repair TimRings Sized,Gregory Jewelry Repaired While U Wait IN THE Platinum • 14k • 18k • WatchGraphic Batteries Designer & Repair OBSERVER! LISA SPILLER-BLAUSTONELISA SPILLER Sterling Silver • Prong Rebuilding • Appraisals Director of Sales and Marketing Eyeglass Repair • Antique Restoration Call Carrie Mills, Phone and Fax 615.646.7765 Advertising Manager 2324 Crestmoor Road, Nashville, TN 37215 Scott Isaacs - Owner (615) 777-0001 • fax (615) 986-5200 [email protected] at 615-354-1699 email: [email protected] Belle Meade Plaza www.hamptoninn.com/hi/nash-greenhills 4522 Harding Road or e-mail A Rochford Hotel Group Property Bellemeadejewelry.com 615-269-3288 [email protected] 12 February 17, 2012 The Observer GJCC Focuses on Community and Urban Gardens he Gordon Jewish insights into the Food Policy Council, a A “community” of consumers sup- how do to it. There is no charge for Community Center group of Metro Council members, lead- ports a local farm by purchasing, in GJCC members. (GJCC) recently unveiled ers of the Nashville food systems, chefs, advance, shares of that farm’s next sea- The last class for this series will be its latest addition to its 52- and metro government and health pro- son’s harvest. The farmer grows organ- led by world-renowned mosaic tile artist acre campus, the Stacy fessionals. The focus was on community ic produce and divides the harvest Sherri Warner Hunter on Sun., April Leigh Kraft Community gardening and food access policies, out- among the shareholders. 29, from 12:30 – 4:30 pm. Participants TGarden. The garden, planted in memory reach, organization and advocacy to A representative from Delvin will produce a mosaic masterpieces. The of Nashville Jewish Community member help those who are hungry. Brian Farms CSA will lead a discussion class will include her expert instruction Stacy Leigh Kraft, was dedicated in the Zralek, program director from with a brief cooking demonstration and all materials. There is a fee. spring and is open to all who are interest- Community Food Advocates, led the using seasonal vegetables. Class All classes take place at the Stacy ed in this eco-friendly communal project. conversation. begins at 12:30. There is no charge Leigh Kraft Community Garden located For its “Nourish Your Mind” adult The next garden-centric class to be for GJCC members. on the GJCC grounds. RSVP’s are class series, the GJCC incorporated four held on Tues., Feb. 28, will focus on On March 27, from 1-2 p.m. hear required and can be directed to Adult events to bring attention to its beautiful CSA’s and Cooking with Fresh Foods. about the intergenerational community Director Meryl Kraft at garden on the hill. CSA’s are the pairing of local consumers garden movement in Nashville. Get [email protected]. The first class, “Community who want fresh organic produce with together with friends and neighbors and The GJCC summer series will focus Gardening, Urban Agriculture and local growers who want a stable and plant a garden this year. This session on cooking with fresh foods from your Food, Deserts,” held on Feb. 7 included appreciative market for their produce. will explain the concept and tell you garden. c GJCC art exhibit features works by Nash, Potts and Gilmore around the town he GJCC’s February Art Birmingham, Ala., Levite Jewish Exhibit includes the work Community Center. He does many forms Temple CPR class ducted by Nashville Fire Department of Brian Nash, Garth Potts of artwork, including caricatures, illus- Capt. Will Swann, will cover CPR, use and Lori Gilmore. The trations, paintings, charcoal portraits Instead of standing there helpless of an AED defibrillator, and first aid for exhibit opening will be and calligraphy. not being able to take charge and save a four major emergencies, including real held on Thurs., Feb. 9, Lori Gilmore has been experiment- life, you can now be prepared to help by world experiences. There is a fee for Tfrom 7-9 p.m. and will feature a Valentine ing primarily with water color paint attending the next upcoming CPR train- materials and supplies. Deadline for jewelry sale by Cindy David Jewelry as since college at University of California, ing session at The Temple, Congregation reservations in Feb. 27. For complete well as live music by Tom Shinness. Santa Barbara. In 2004, she began stu- Ohabai Sholom on Sun., March 4, at information, contact Lottie Strupp at Brian Nash has had four exhibits dio art classes with well known artist 9:30 a.m. to noon. The session, con- 615/783-0190. and many more lined up; he was repre- Charles Brindley, as a therapeutic sented by art galleries in Nashville, method and emotional outlet. Inspired Louisville, Memphis and in several other by the beautiful tree studies her teacher cities; had pieces on permanent display was well known for, she gravitated at high-end retail stores in Nashville and toward expressionistic acrylic paintings New York City; and decorated an entire of the beauty she found in nature upon ClassifiedClassified Ads Ads waiting room with his paintings at La her hikes. She than sought out more Bonheur Children’s Hospital in technique and took drawing classes in Memphis. He is currently writing and addition to the studio painting at illustrating a children’s book. Watkins College of Art and Design and CAREGIVERS HOUSE AND PET Garth Potts works on display are a began using an oil medium. series called “Scenes of the Lower East For more information on this and SITTER Side”. The media tool for these works is other exhibits, call Carrie Mills at the Caregiver, private duty brush marker. Since 1991, he has been GJCC, 356-7170, or contact her via 10 years experience Expirienced house and pet the Executive Director of the email at [email protected]. c providing with total care sitter, available evenings and meal prep, light housekeeping weekends.615-440-1633 references provided To access the Clora Hathaway 615-495-2073 Community Calendar, Caregiver, private duty 10 years experience go to www.jewishnashville.org providing with total care meal prep, light housekeeping and click on “Calendar.” Worked in the community ADVERTISE TODAY e-mail Carrie Mills Every community event is listed for your convenience. references provided [email protected] Leslie Bracey 615-424-4879

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14 February 17, 2012 The Observer NEW & RENEWING ADS ARE SHADED

The Observer February 17, 2012 15 A divided town, where the pursuit of bargains draws Israelis and Palestinians By Linda Gradstein But there’s no physical barrier between the two sides, and East Barta’a has devel- BARTA’A, West Bank (JTA) — In oped a thriving market of hundreds of these days of frozen peace negotiations, small stores selling everything from cof- most Israelis and Palestinians have little fee sets to sheets to food to special teddy contact. Palestinians need a special per- bears for Valentines Day. mit to enter Israel, and Israelis need “They have a good selection, and the army permission to enter the parts of prices are much cheaper,” said Sharon the West Bank controlled by the Ben Harosh, a 43-year-old Israeli Jew who Palestinian Authority. frequently makes the four-hour trip from In fact, just a mile north of this Eilat to buy textiles for his shop. small West Bank town, a large yellow “There’s a feeling of authenticity sign reminds drivers that “it is illegal to here. I buy everything here — rugs, fur- hand over cars for repair to the niture, dishes, curtains,” he said. “I really Palestinian Authority or to enter feel at home here.” Palestinian areas.” Palestinian store owner Ali But in Barta’a, Israelis and Hamarshi, 48, grins and nods his head. “I Palestinians mix freely. The town is bring things from many countries — legally divided, with West Barta’a inside Zidan Badran, mayor of the Israeli portion of the Arab town of Barta’a, stands on the seam China, Turkey, Italy, the Philipines, Israel and East Barta’a in the West Bank. that separates the Israeli part of town from its West Bank portion. (Linda Gradstein) Vietnam,” Hamarshi said. “India and China make the best kitchen goods, and many Israelis come here to buy.” His words are echoed by Yusuf Zahar- Din, 52, who came to Barta’a from the Israeli Druze village of Usfiyya with his wife Hediye. “We changed the tires on our car, bought some gifts and had a great meal of lamb,” Zahar-Din said smiling. “The people here are so nice. I love coming here.” He added that prices are 50-60 per- cent less than inside Israel. But not everyone benefits equally from the throngs of Israelis driving into Barta’a, says Zidran Badran, the mayor of the Israeli section of Barta’a. “The com- merce is all over there, not here,” he said. “We just get all of the dust.” Prices are higher in the Israeli sec- tion of Barta’a because store owners there have to pay higher taxes. The shops line a narrow twisty road, and there is no designated parking lot. Badran says an estimated 80 percent of the shoppers are Arab citizens of Israel and 20 percent are Jewish Israelis. “Before I knew about this place, I was really afraid to come,” said Ben Harosh. “Now that I know about it, I don’t want to leave. I don’t know any- thing about politics, but this is the way things should be.” Most of the citizens of Barta’a are from one large clan, the Kabaha clan. On the Israeli side, there are almost 4,000 residents; on the Palestinian side, about 6,000. From 1948 to 1967, East Barta’a was part of Jordan, and families here were divided. In 1967, when Israel took over the West Bank, families were reunited; many families are mixed, with one spouse from Israeli Barta’a and the other from the Palestinian side. Rafat Kabaha, the head of town schools on the Israeli side, says about one-third of the students come from the Palestinian side. If one parent is an Israeli citizen, the children can study in the local Israeli school even if they live on the Palestinian side. Kabaha says 62 percent of the high school students receive a matriculation certificate, which enables them to attend university. That figure is almost double the overall rate of other Arab citizens of Israel. “Both our teachers and our students live here in the village, and our teachers are very committed,” Kabaha says. Barta’a is easy to reach — it is just a few minutes away from a major Israeli highway. Badran hopes that Israelis will From farm-focused, eco-Israel experiences to Birthright and MASA pro- continue to come but that Israeli Barta’a grams, Jewish Federation is actively supporting innovative new projects will develop as well. that inspire a deep love of Israel and Jewish life. It’s a successful strat- “I have a dream,” he said. “I’d like to see people from all nations over the egy we apply to every issue we tackle. From feeding the hungry and JewishFederations.org/AnnualCampaign facebook.com/jfederations @jfederations world coming here. In China they’ve helping the unemployed to supporting local Jewish education, together To learn more about doing a world of good, visit already heard about Barta’a because we we do a world of good. Donate. Volunteer. Make a difference today. www.jewishnashville.org buy so many Chinese goods. We could even build a hotel here.” c 16 February 17, 2012 The Observer